bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virus-based vaccine vectors with distinct replication mechanisms differentially infect and activate dendritic cells
Authors: Chiale Carolina , Marchese Anthony M. , Furuya Yoichi , Robek Michael D.
Published: November 2021

The precise mechanism by which many virus-based vectors activate immune responses remains unknown. Dendritic cells (DCs) play key roles in priming T cell responses and controlling virus replication, but their functions in generating protective immunity following vaccination with viral vectors are not always well understood. We hypothesized that highly immunogenic viral vectors with identical cell entry pathways but unique replication mechanisms differentially infect and activate DCs to promote antigen presentation and activation of distinctive antigen-specific T cell responses. To evaluate differences in replication mechanisms, we utilized a rhabdovirus vector (vesicular stomatitis virus; VSV) and an alphavirus-rhabdovirus hybrid vector (virus-like vesicles; VLV), which replicates like an alphavirus but enters the cell via the VSV glycoprotein. We found that while virus replication promotes CD8+ T cell activation by VLV, replication is absolutely required for VSV-induced responses. DC subtypes were differentially infected in vitro with VSV and VLV, and displayed differences in activation following infection that were dependent on vector replication but were independent of interferon receptor signaling. Additionally, the ability of the alphavirus-based vector to generate functional CD8+ T cells in the absence of replication relied on cDC1 cells. These results highlight the differential activation of DCs following infection with unique viral vectors and indicate potentially discrete roles of DC subtypes in activating the immune response following immunization with vectors that have distinct replication mechanisms.
Dual-comb hyperspectral digital holography
Authors: Vicentini Edoardo , Wang Zhenhai , Van Gasse Kasper , Hänsch Theodor W. , Picqué Nathalie
Published: November 2021

Holography1 has always held special appeal as it is able to record and display spatial information in three dimensions2–10. Here we show how to augment the capabilities of digital holography11,12 by using a large number of narrow laser lines at precisely defined optical frequencies simultaneously. Using an interferometer based on two frequency combs13–15 of slightly different repetition frequencies and a lensless camera sensor, we record time-varying spatial interference patterns that generate spectral hypercubes of complex holograms, revealing the amplitudes and phases of scattered wave-fields for each comb line frequency. Advancing beyond multicolour holography and low-coherence holography (including with a frequency comb16), the synergy of broad spectral bandwidth and high temporal coherence in dual-comb holography opens up novel optical diagnostics, such as precise dimensional metrology over large distances without interferometric phase ambiguity, or hyperspectral three-dimensional imaging with high spectral resolving power, as we demonstrate with molecule-selective imaging of an absorbing gas.
Convolution model for COVID-19 rate predictions and health effort levels computation for Saudi Arabia, France, and Canada
Authors: Al-Hadeethi Yas , Ramley Intesar F El , Sayyed M. I.
Published: November 2021

Many published infection prediction models, such as the extended SEIR (E-SEIR) model, are used as a study and report tool to aid health authorities to manage the epidemic plans successfully. These models face many challenges, mainly the reliability of the infection rate predictions related to the initial boundary conditions, formulation complexity, lengthy computations, and the limited result scope. We attribute these challenges to the absence of a solution framework that encapsulates the interacted activities that manage: the infection growth process, the infection spread process and the health effort process. In response to these challenges, we formulated such a framework first as the basis of our new convolution prediction model (CPM). CPM links through convolution integration, three temporal profile levels: input (infected and active cases), transformational (health efforts), and output functions (recovered, quarantine, and death cases). COVID-19 data defines the input and output temporal profiles; hence it is possible to deduce the cumulative efforts temporal response (CETR) function for the health effort level. The new CETR function determines the health effort level over a period. Also, CETR plays a role in predicting the evolution of the underlying infection and active cases profiles without a system of differential equations. This work covers three countries: Saudi Arabia, France, and Canada.
Activity-based epidemic propagation and contact network scaling in auto-dependent metropolitan areas
Authors: Kumar Nishant , Oke Jimi , Nahmias-Biran Bat-hen
Published: November 2021

We build on recent work to develop a fully mechanistic, activity-based and highly spatio-temporally resolved epidemiological model which leverages person-trajectories obtained from an activity-based model calibrated for two full-scale prototype cities, consisting of representative synthetic populations and mobility networks for two contrasting auto-dependent city typologies. We simulate the propagation of the COVID-19 epidemic in both cities to analyze spreading patterns in urban networks across various activity types. Investigating the impact of the transit network, we find that its removal dampens disease propagation significantly, suggesting that transit restriction is more critical for mitigating post-peak disease spreading in transit dense cities. In the latter stages of disease spread, we find that the greatest share of infections occur at work locations. A statistical analysis of the resulting activity-based contact networks indicates that transit contacts are scale-free, work contacts are Weibull distributed, and shopping or leisure contacts are exponentially distributed. We validate our simulation results against existing case and mortality data across multiple cities in their respective typologies. Our framework demonstrates the potential for tracking epidemic propagation in urban networks, analyzing socio-demographic impacts and assessing activity- and mobility-specific implications of both non-pharmaceutical and pharmaceutical intervention strategies.
The (a)typical burden of COVID-19 pandemic scenario in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Fumagalli Lucia , Nicoli Monica , Villa Laura , Riva Valentina , Vicovaro Michele , Casartelli Luca
Published: November 2021

Psychological and mental health consequences of large-scale anti-contagion policies are assuming strong relevance in the COVID-19 pandemic. We proposed a specific focus on a large sample of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), developing an ad hoc instrument to investigate changes occurred in specific (sub-)domains during a period of national lockdown (Italy). Our questionnaire, named AutiStress, is both context-specific (being set in the COVID-19 pandemic scenario) and condition-specific (being structured taking into account the autistic functioning peculiarities in the paediatric age). An age- and gender-matched group of neurotypical (TD) controls was also provided. As expected, the severe lockdown policies had a general negative impact both on ASD and TD children, reflecting the obvious burden of the pandemic situation. However, our findings also indicate that children with ASD experienced more positive changes than TD ones. Noteworthy, we report a thought-provoking double dissociation in the context-specific predictor (i.e., accessibility to private outdoor spaces), indicating that it impacts differently on the two groups. Focusing on the ASD group, results suggest a condition-specific impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on core autistic (sub-)domains. Taken together, our data call for a multi-layered, context- and condition-specific analysis of the pandemic burden beyond any oversimplification.
Association of tear fluid amyloid and tau levels with disease severity and neurodegeneration
Authors: Gijs Marlies , Ramakers Inez H. G. B. , Visser Pieter Jelle , Verhey Frans R. J. , van de Waarenburg Marjo P. H. , Schalkwijk Casper G. , Nuijts Rudy M. M. A. , Webers Carroll A. B.
Published: November 2021

There has been increasing interest in finding non-invasive biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This observational study investigated AD-specific biomarkers in tear fluid. Tear fluid was collected from a total of 65 subjects, including 23 patients with subjective cognitive decline (SCD), 22 patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), 11 dementia patients and 9 healthy controls (HC). Levels of amyloid-beta peptides (AB38, AB40, AB42), total-tau (t-tau) and phosphorylated-tau (p-tau) were determined using multiplex immunoassays. Levels of AB40 and t-tau were detectable in the vast majority (> 94%) of tear fluid samples. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was available from a subset of patients. In this group, tear t-tau levels were significantly higher in people with dementia compared to SCD patients. Tear t-tau levels were elevated in patients with neurodegeneration (classified according to the A/T/N system) compared to patients without neurodegeneration. Negative correlations were found between CSF AB42 and CSF t-tau, and between CSF AB42 and tear t-tau. In summary, this study shows the potential of tau proteins in tear fluid to be associated with disease severity and neurodegeneration.
Development of a chemical-free floatation technology for the purification of vein graphite and characterization of the products
Authors: Kumara Gamaralalage R. A. , Pitawala Herath Mudiyanselage G. T. A. , Karunarathne Buddika , Mantilaka Mantilaka Mudiyanselage M. G. P. G. , Rajapakse Rajapakse Mudiyanselage G. , Huang Hsin-Hui , De Silva K. Kanishka H. , Yoshimura Masamichi
Published: November 2021

A novel and simple flotation technique has been developed to prepare high-purity graphite from impure graphite. In this method, a suspension of pristine powdered graphite (PG) is dispersed and stirred in water without adding froth formers or supportive chemicals. This makes fine particles of graphite move upwards and float on water. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis reveals that the floated graphite (FG) has a lower c-axis parameter, indicating the removal of interlayer impurities. A notable increase in the intensity ratio of the D band to G band in the Raman spectra indicates that the FG has more edge defects due to their smaller crystallite sizes. Transmission electron microscopic (TEM) analysis shows the number of layers in FG has been reduced to 16 from 68 in PG. The absence of C=O vibration of Fourier Transformed Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy in treated and untreated samples suggests that their layers are not significantly oxidized. However, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS) analysis shows the presence of C–O–C ether functionalities, possibly on edge planes. Further, the product has higher purity with increased carbon content. Therefore, the technique is helpful for the value enhancement of graphite, the reduction of the chemical cost of the conventional techniques, environmental friendliness, and improvement of its applications.
Prescription pattern analysis for antibiotics in working-age workers diagnosed with common cold
Authors: Araki Yasuhiro , Momo Kenji , Yasu Takeo , Ono Kohtaro , Uchikura Takeshi , Koinuma Masayoshi , Sasaki Tadanori
Published: November 2021

Antimicrobial resistance is a major health concern. A primary cause is the inappropriate use of antimicrobials, particularly by patients with upper respiratory tract infection. However, baseline information for antibiotic use for common cold before being applied the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance in Japan is lacking. Here, we analyzed the inappropriate use of antibiotics in the working-age workers. We used large claims data from an annual health check-up for at least 5 consecutive years. Among 201,223 participants, we included 18,659 working-age workers who were diagnosed with common cold at a clinic/hospital. We calculated the proportion of patients with common cold who were prescribed antibiotics and analyzed predictive factors associated with antibiotics prescription. Antibiotics were prescribed to 49.2% (n = 9180) of patients diagnosed with common cold. In the logistic regression analysis, the group taking antibiotics was predominantly younger, male, without chronic diseases, and diagnosed at a small hospital/clinic (where the number of beds was 0–19). Cephems accounted for the highest proportion of prescribed antibiotics, with 40–45% of patients being prescribed antibiotics. Our data may be applied to prioritize resources such as medical staff-intervention or education of working-age people without chronic diseases who visit clinics for common cold to avoid the potential inappropriate use of antibiotics and prevent antimicrobial resistance acceleration.
Incrimination of shrews as a reservoir for Powassan virus
Authors: Goethert Heidi K. , Mather Thomas N. , Johnson Richard W. , Telford Sam R.
Published: November 2021

Powassan virus lineage 2 (deer tick virus) is an emergent threat to American public health, causing severe neurologic disease. Its life cycle in nature remains poorly understood. We use a host-specific retrotransposon-targeted real time PCR assay to test the hypothesis that white-footed mice, considered the main eastern U.S. reservoir of the coinfecting agent of Lyme disease, is the reservoir for deer tick virus. Of 20 virus-infected host-seeking nymphal black-legged ticks 65% fed on shrews and none on mice. The proportion of ticks feeding on shrews at a site is positively associated with prevalence of viral infection, but not the Lyme disease agent. Viral RNA is detected in the brain of one shrew. We conclude that shrews are a likely reservoir host for deer tick virus and that host bloodmeal analysis can provide direct evidence to incriminate reservoir hosts, thereby promoting our understanding of the ecology of tick-borne infections.
Modeling galvanostatic charge–discharge of nanoporous supercapacitors
Authors: Zeng Liang , Wu Taizheng , Ye Ting , Mo Tangming , Qiao Rui , Feng Guang
Published: November 2021

Molecular modeling has been considered indispensable in studying the energy storage of supercapacitors at the atomistic level. The constant potential method (CPM) allows the electric potential to be kept uniform in the electrode, which is essential for a realistic description of the charge repartition and dynamics process in supercapacitors. However, previous CPM studies have been limited to the potentiostatic mode. Although widely adopted in experiments, the galvanostatic mode has rarely been investigated in CPM simulations because of a lack of effective methods. Here we develop a modeling approach to simulating the galvanostatic charge–discharge process of supercapacitors under constant potential. We show that, for nanoporous electrodes, this modeling approach can capture experimentally consistent dynamics in supercapacitors. It can also delineate, at the molecular scale, the hysteresis in ion adsorption–desorption dynamics during charging and discharging. This approach thus enables the further accurate modeling of the physics and electrochemistry in supercapacitor dynamics.
A labeling strategy with effective preservation of fluorophores for expansion single-molecule localization microscopy (Ex-SMLM)
Authors: Kuang Weibing , Xin Bo , Huang Zhen-Li , Shi Bing
Published: November 2021

We introduce a simplified labeling strategy based on biotin–streptavidin interactions for expansion single-molecule localization microscopy (Ex-SMLM) is proposed, which can effectively preserve fluorophores and improve the resolution of SMLM 2.6 times.
Self-crystallisation, an unexpected property of 45S5 Bioglass®
Authors: Vukajlovic Djurdja , Novakovic Katarina , Bretcanu Oana
Published: November 2021

Self-crystallisation of 45S5 Bioglass® was observed at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, without further processing, one year after fabrication.
Reversal of regioselectivity in reactions of donor–acceptor cyclopropanes with electrophilic olefins
Authors: Turkowska Joanna , Durka Jakub , Ociepa Michał , Gryko Dorota
Published: November 2021

Nucleophilicity of Co(i) allows generation of C-radicals from D–A cyclopropanes in a regioselective manner and engaging them in reactions with electrophilic olefins, leading to otherwise difficult to synthesize molecular scaffolds.
Direct imaging of lattice planes in atomically precise noble metal cluster crystals using a conventional transmission electron microscope
Authors: Mahendranath Ananthu , Mondal Biswajit , Sugi Korath Shivan , Pradeep Thalappil
Published: November 2021

A methodology to image finer structural details of atomically precise nanocluster crystals using a conventional TEM.
Rh(iii)-catalyzed diastereoselective cascade annulation of enone-tethered cyclohexadienones via C(sp2)–H bond activation
Authors: Jadhav Sandip B. , Maurya Sundaram , Navaneetha N. , Chegondi Rambabu
Published: November 2021

Herein, we report highly diastereoselective arylative cyclization of enone-tethered cyclohexadienones via Rh(iii)-catalyzed C–H activation of N-methoxybenzamides.
A cooperative Pd/Co catalysis system for the asymmetric (4+2) cycloaddition of vinyl benzoxazinones with N-acylpyrazoles
Authors: Xiong Wei , Jiang Xuan , Zhang Mao-Mao , Xiao Wen-Jing , Lu Liang-Qiu
Published: November 2021

An asymmetric [4+2] cycloaddition was developed by exploiting a new cooperative Pd/Co catalysis system. This protocol provides a new access to chiral tetrahydroquinolines with unprecedented cis-configuration in high yields and enantioselectivity.
Synthesis, surface activities and aggregation properties of asymmetric Gemini surfactants
Authors: Xie Yangchun , Yang Tao , Ma Junjun , He Xiaohua
Published: November 2021

Gemini surfactants with an asymmetric structure (PKO 15-3(OH)-n) synthesized through a ring-opening reaction followed by a quaternization reaction exhibited higher surface activity and could assemble into vesicles or micelles with changing the asymmetry.
Salt-in-water and water-in-salt electrolytes: the effects of the asymmetry in cation and anion valence on their properties
Authors: Messias Andresa , C. da Silva Débora A. , Fileti Eudes E.
Published: November 2021

We investigated the structural, dynamic, energetic, and electrostatic properties of electrolytes based on the ion pairs LiCl and Li2SO4.
Spin-state control of cobalt(ii) and iron(ii) complexes with click-derived tripodal ligands through non-covalent and fluorine-specific interactions
Authors: Nößler Maite , Hunger David , Reichert Felix , Winkler Mario , Reimann Marc , Klein Johannes , Suhr Simon , Suntrup Lisa , Beerhues Julia , Kaupp Martin , van Slageren Joris , Sarkar Biprajit
Published: November 2021

Fluorine-specific interactions in the secondary coordination sphere of iron(ii) and cobalt(ii) complexes with click-derived fluorinated tripodal ligands are shown to control the spin states of the metal centers.
High-performance Li-ion battery driven by a hybrid Li storage mechanism in a three-dimensional architectured ZnTiO3–CeO2 microsphere anode
Authors: Li Xue-Zhong , Ji Yu-Rui , Chai Wu-Yi , Huo Zhenxing , Yi Ting-Feng , Xie Ying
Published: November 2021

A promising ZnTiO3/CeO2 composite displays enhanced Li+ storage performance benefiting from the CeO2 modification.
Straightforward synthesis of [Cu(NHC)(alkynyl)] and [Cu(NHC)(thiolato)] complexes (NHC = N-heterocyclic carbene)
Authors: Ibni Hashim Ishfaq , Scattolin Thomas , Tzouras Nikolaos V. , Bourda Laurens , Van Hecke Kristof , Ritacco Ida , Caporaso Lucia , Cavallo Luigi , Nolan Steven P. , Cazin Catherine S. J.
Published: November 2021

Synthetic access to monomeric copper-alkynyl and copper-thiolato complexes of the type [(NHC)Cu(R)] (R = alkynyl or thiolato) using a weak base approach is reported. Computational studies and reactivity tests are also presented.
Surface functionalisation-dependent adverse effects of metal nanoparticles and nanoplastics in zebrafish embryos
Authors: Hansjosten Iris , Takamiya Masanari , Rapp Juliane , Reiner Luisa , Fritsch-Decker Susanne , Mattern Dorit , Andraschko Silvia , Anders Chantal , Pace Giuseppina , Dickmeis Thomas , Peravali Ravindra , Rastegar Sepand , Strähle Uwe , Hsiao I.-Lun , Gilliland Douglas , Ojea-Jimenez Isaac , Ambrose Selina V. Y. , Belinga-Desaunay-Nault Marie-France A. , Khan Abdullah O. , Lynch Iseult , Valsami-Jones Eugenia , Diabaté Silvia , Weiss Carsten
Published: November 2021

High throughput imaging is used to assess hatching, lethality and malformations in zebrafish embryos and is suitable for hazard ranking of different nanomaterials.
TOF mass spectra of zircon M257 measured by VUV laser desorption ionization
Authors: Liu Feng , Shi Haoyu , Liang Kui , Wang Jia , Long Tao , Li Zhanping , Mo Yuxiang
Published: November 2021

The time-of-flight mass spectrum of zircon M257 was measured using a VUV laser desorption/ionization method. The VUV laser scanned an area of 10 × 10 μm2 with a step of 0.5 μm, in total 30 layers and 6000 laser pulses, resulting in a depth of ∼20 nm.
Eu(iii), Tb(iii) activated/co-activated K2NaAlF6 host array: simultaneous approach for improving photovoltaic efficiency and tricolour emission
Authors: Kadam Abhijeet R. , Kamble Ramkumar B. , Joshi Meenal , Deshmukh Abhay D. , Dhoble S. J.
Published: November 2021

Rare earth-activated fluoride phosphors have generated attention in recent years in the field of solid-state lighting and solar cell efficiency enhancement.
Visible light mediated synthesis of 6H-benzo[c]chromenes: transition-metal-free intramolecular direct C–H arylation
Authors: Heredia Micaela D. , Puiatti Marcelo , Rossi Roberto A. , Budén María E.
Published: November 2021

A synthetic approach towards the 6H-benzo[c]chromene ring under visible light and transition-metal-free conditions has been developed. A theoretical analysis was performed using DFT methods in order to study the ET mechanism.
Reduction of N2 to NH3 catalyzed by a Keggin-type polyoxometalate-supported dual-atom catalyst
Authors: Wang Yu , Qin Rui-Cheng , Wang Dan , Liu Chun-Guang
Published: November 2021

In the present paper, a polyoxometalate-supported dual-atom catalyst has been designed for the nitrogen reduction reaction based on our density functional theory calculations.
Chitosan hydrogel for topical delivery of ebastine loaded solid lipid nanoparticles for alleviation of allergic contact dermatitis
Authors: Kazim Tasbiha , Tariq Abeer , Usman Muhammad , Ayoob Muhammad Faisal , Khan Ahmad
Published: November 2021

Ebastine exerts its effect upon oral administration in humans for the treatment of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), but it has some systemic side effects. Hence, ebastine-SLNs loaded hydrogel was prepared to increase topical efficacy of ebastine.
Ionic liquid-based liposome for selective SERS detection
Authors: Wang Huiting , Zhang Hairan , Zhang Ling , Zhao Shibo , Chen Yaxian , Wan Yu , Zhang Qian , Xia Lixin
Published: November 2021

SERS platform of IL-based liposome@Au NPs for selective recognition of anionic probes located in hot-spot regions.
Accelerated optimization of pure metal and ligand compositions for light-driven hydrogen production
Authors: Bhat Maya , Lopato Eric M. , Simon Zoe C. , Millstone Jill E. , Bernhard Stefan , Kitchin John R.
Published: November 2021

Data-driven optimization of hydrogen production.
Selective conversion of hydroxymethylfurfural to diformylfuran using copper hydroxide nitrate with various nano-structures: a comparative study
Authors: Li Bing-Cheng , Lee Jechan , Kwon Eilhann , Thanh Bui Xuan , Lisak Grzegorz , Lin Chia-Hua , Lin Kun-Yi Andrew
Published: November 2021

Selective conversion of hydroxymethylfurfural to diformylfuran using copper hydroxide nitrate.
A high-throughput, solvent free method for dispersing metal atoms directly onto supports
Authors: Kohlrausch Emerson C. , Centurion Higor Andrade , Lodge Rhys W. , Luo Xuanli , Slater Thomas , Santos Marcos J. L. , Ling Sanliang , Mastelaro Valmor R. , Cliffe Matthew J. , Goncalves Renato Vitalino , Alves Fernandes Jesum
Published: November 2021

Atomically-dispersed metal catalysts (ADMCs) on surfaces have demonstrated high activity and selectivity in many catalytic reactions.
The gorgeous transformation of paper: from cellulose paper to inorganic paper to 2D paper materials with multifunctional properties
Authors: Dai Xin , Guo Zhiguang
Published: November 2021

A novel perspective is proposed to display the diversified development of 2D paper-like materials in the environment and energy fields.
In situ cadmium surface passivation of perovskite nanocrystals for blue LEDs
Authors: Jeong Woo Hyeon , Yu Zhongkai , Gregori Luca , Yang Jonghee , Ha Su Ryong , Jang Ji Won , Song Hochan , Park Jong Hyun , Jung Eui Dae , Song Myoung Hoon , Park Sung Heum , Snaith Henry J. , Boretti Alberto , De Angelis Filippo , Meggiolaro Daniele , Lee Jeongjae , Choi Hyosung , Lee Bo Ram
Published: November 2021

The surface passivating and defect suppressing nature of Cd dopants and DDAB ligands in PNCs provides remarkable photoluminescence quantum yield and emission stability, leading to enhanced device efficiencies in blue PeLEDs.
Arginine induces protein self-assembly into nanofibers for triggering osteogenic differentiation of stem cells
Authors: Lei Fang , Zhou Guanshan , Chen Yuping , Cai Jiangfeng , Wang Jie , Shuai Yajun , Xu Zongpu , Wang Zhangfu , Mao Chuanbin , Yang Mingying
Published: November 2021

Arginine could induce sericin nanoparticles to self-assemble into nanofibrous scaffolds for triggering osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells.
A thorough review of models, evaluation metrics, and datasets on image captioning
Authors: Luo Gaifang , Cheng Lijun , Jing Chao , Zhao Can , Song Guozhu
Published: November 2021

Image captioning means generate descriptive sentences from a query image automatically. It has recently received widespread attention from the computer vision and natural language processing communities as an emerging visual task. Currently, both components have evolved considerably by exploiting object regions, attributes, attention mechanism methods, entity recognition with novelties, and training strategies. However, despite the impressive results, the research has not yet come to a conclusive answer. This survey aims to provide a comprehensive overview of image captioning methods, from technical architectures to benchmark datasets, evaluation metrics, and comparison of state‐of‐the‐art methods. In particular, image captioning methods are divided into different categories based on the technique adopted. Representative methods in each class are summarized, and their advantages and limitations are discussed. Moreover, many related state‐of‐the‐art studies were quantitatively compared to determine the recent trends and future directions in image captioning. The ultimate goal of this work is to serve as a tool for understanding the existing literature and highlighting future directions in the area of image captioning for Computer Vision and Natural Language Processing communities may benefit from.
Optimisation of the routing protocol for quantum wireless Ad Hoc network
Authors: Zhang Ling , Liu Qin
Published: November 2021

This study addresses the optimisation of on‐demand routing protocols for quantum wireless Ad Hoc network. The study improves the route discovery protocol by proposing a ‘reverse synchronisation method’, which means after the route request is completed, the quantum channel establishment process can be carried out simultaneously with the route reply process. This method is better than the general method which builds quantum channels after the forward path establishment, reduces the time and the number of messages for quantum channel establishment, thus improving the efficiency. Accordingly, this study elaborates the specific methods, procedures and related upgrading message formats involved in quantum route discovery, quantum channel establishment and qubit information transmission of on‐demand routing protocol for quantum wireless Ad Hoc network.
Moderately misaligned orbit of the warm sub-Saturn HD 332231 b
Authors: Sedaghati E. , Sánchez-López A. , Czesla S. , López-Puertas M. , Amado P. J. , Palle E. , Molaverdikhani K. , Caballero J. A. , Nortmann L. , Quirrenbach A. , Reiners A. , Ribas I.
Published: November 2021

Measurements of exoplanetary orbital obliquity angles for different classes of planets are an essential tool in testing various planet formation theories. Measurements for those transiting planets on relatively large orbital periods (P > 10 d) present a rather difficult observational challenge. Here we present the obliquity measurement for the warm sub-Saturn planet HD 332231 b, which was discovered through Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite photometry of sectors 14 and 15, on a relatively large orbital period (18.7 d). Through a joint analysis of previously obtained spectroscopic data and our newly obtained CARMENES transit observations, we estimated the spin-orbit misalignment angle, λ, to be −42.0−10.6+11.3 deg, which challenges Laplacian ideals of planet formation. Through the addition of these new radial velocity data points obtained with CARMENES, we also derived marginal improvements on other orbital and bulk parameters for the planet, as compared to previously published values. We showed the robustness of the obliquity measurement through model comparison with an aligned orbit. Finally, we demonstrated the inability of the obtained data to probe any possible extended atmosphere of the planet, due to a lack of precision, and place the atmosphere in the context of a parameter detection space.
Retraction Note: Mathematical Model of Hybrid and Electric Cars Control System
Authors: Kozlovsky Vladimir
Published: November 2021

This paper has been formally retracted from publication by the author on ethical grounds. Actually, a misunderstanding occurred between a few authors, including Vladimir Kozlovsky, with the result that they mistakenly sent the same article simultaneously to two different conferences. The author is responsible for this mistake and apologise for it. Request approved by the proceedings Editor and the Publisher on November 17, 2021.
Comparative technical and economic analysis of innovative methods for waste heat recovery from flue gases for boiler type BKZ 220-100
Authors: Beloev Hristo , Iliev Iliya , Terziev Angel , Kibarin Andrey , Aliyarova Madina
Published: November 2021

Two alternative schemes for waste heat recovery from flue gases of boiler type BKZ 220-100 in the Stepnogorsk TPP (Kazakhstan) are presented. The technical solutions are innovative because they create conditions for deep heat recovery even when using battery emulsifiers to purify the gas flow. A characteristic feature of the schemes is the purification of a small part (10-15%) of the stream by means of a bag filter and the mixing of the stream with the main gas flow consisting of moist gases after a battery emulsifier. An analysis and assessment of the technical and economic feasibility of the implementation of the two alternatives has been carried out.
Optimization of the distance between the rows in solar collectors’ arrays
Authors: Zlateva Merima
Published: November 2021

The article presents some results of the analysis of the influence of the distance between the collectors’ rows in thermal solar systems on the degree of self-shading. For the purposes of the study, the dimensionless ratio Ks between the required minimum distance between the rows, guaranteeing the absence of self-shading, and the height of the collectors, was used. A simulation study was performed for specific climatic conditions and the annual solar radiation incident on the collectors’ array at different degrees of self-shading was determined. Its annual financial equivalent for various alternative heat sources (electricity, natural gas, wood pellets, district heating and gas oil) was assessed, as well as the necessary investment costs for construction of the solar system. A regression relationship between the coefficient of net present value NPVQ and Ks was derived and its optimal values were established, which ensure the achievement of maximum economic efficiency of the system operation for the considered replaced heat sources.
Application of ICT in the Online Education of Apparel Design and Production within the framework of ICT-TEX project
Authors: Saeed Hassan , Kyosev Yordan , Atanasova Radka , Terziev Angel , Hertleer Carla
Published: November 2021

One of the key lessons learned during the pandemic of COVID-19 is that the digital education and adaptation of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) should not be viewed as an island on its own but should be considered as an integral part of all education and training. The ICT-TEX project is an EU-funded project which aims to integrate ICT in online education of textile and clothing. Within the framework of this project, deficiency areas have been identified with a comprehensive survey conducted across the project partner countries. A new course curriculum has been developed based on desk research, field research, surveys, and Gap Analysis. Eight modules (around 16 courses) according to the needs of the textile and clothing industry (TCI) will be developed within the framework of the project. This paper discusses the methodology of applying ICT in new course content for Apparel Design and Production which is a pilot course and serves as a benchmark for further development of other courses.
Cycloaddition Initiated by Ynolates: High-Energy Dianion Equivalents as a Molecular Glue
Authors: Shindo Mitsuru , Iwata Takayuki
Published: November 2021

In this paper, ynolate-initiated cycloaddition (annulation) to form a range of carbocycles and heterocycles is described. Ynolates consist of a ketene anion equivalent, which contains both nucleophilic and electrophilic moieties, and a carbodianion equivalent that achieves double addition. Hence, in addition to the usual [n+2] cycloaddition, ynolates can perform formal [n+1]-type annulations. Their high-energy performance has been demonstrated by their triple addition to arynes to generate triptycenes, in which the C–C triple bond of ynolates is cleaved. The synthetic applications of these methods, including natural products synthesis, are also described.

1 Introduction

2 Preparation of Ynolates

2.1 Double Lithiation

2.2 Flow Synthesis

2.3 Double Deprotonation

3 [2+2] Cycloaddition to C=O Bond

3.1 To Aldehydes and Ketones

3.2 Sequential Cycloaddition

4 [2+2] Cycloaddition to Imino Groups
A “20/20” Match: ACC/AHA 2017 versus ESC/ESH 2018 Guidelines for Management of Hypertension
Authors: Pradhan Akshyaya , Vohra Shweta , Sethi Rishi
Published: November 2021

Hypertension, the commonest noncommunicable disease globally, is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease and renal failure. Theoretically, while it is easy to diagnose and manage by simple measures, practically it has been observed that not only treatment but also diagnosis and its preventive measures are inadequate in developing as well as developed nations. Several guidelines by various international organizations are available to guide clinicians for hypertension management. Though the basic principles of hypertension management are similar in all the guidelines, subtle differences are there. In this article, we compare the two most widely accepted guidelines for hypertension, that is, American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association 2017 Hypertension Guidelines and 2018 European Society of Cardiology and European Society of Hypertension Guidelines on Hypertension. Both the differences and similarities between these two widely followed guidelines are presented.
Impact of Left Atrial Appendage Amputation on Left Atrial Morphology and Rhythm after Off-Pump CABG
Authors: Gerçek Muhammed , Ghabrial Mina , Glaubitz Lina , Kuss Oliver , Aboud Anas , Paluszkiewicz Lech , Gummert Jan , Börgermann Jochen , Gerçek Mustafa
Published: November 2021

Objectives Left atrial appendage (LAA) amputation concomitant to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) has become an increasingly performed technique in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) or with sinus rhythm and a CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥2. However, LAA amputation has come under suspicion to cause postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) due to left atrial (LA) dilation. This study aims to assess this assumption in patients undergoing CABG in off-pump technique with and without amputation of the LAA.

Methods Patients who underwent isolated CABG in off-pump technique without history of AF were retrospectively examined. Cohorts were divided according to the concomitant execution of LAA amputation. LA volume was measured by transthoracic echocardiography and rhythm was analyzed by electrocardiography, medication protocol, and visit documentation. Propensity score (PS) matching was performed based on 20 preoperative risk variables to correct for selection bias.

Results A total of 1,522 patients were enrolled, with 1,267 in the control group and 255 in the LAA amputation group. Occurrence of POAF was compared in 243 PS-matched patient pairs. Neither the unmatched cohort (odds ratio [OR] 0.82; 95% confidence interval or CI [0.61; 1.11], p = 0.19) nor the PS-matched cohort (OR 0.94; 95% CI [0.62; 1.41], p = 0.75) showed significant differences in POAF occurrence. Subgroup analysis of sex, use of β-blockers, pulmonary disease, ejection fraction, and CHA2DS2-VASc-Score also showed no tendencies. LA volume did not change significantly (p = 0.18, 95% CI [−0.29; 1.51]).

Conclusion Surgical amputation of the LAA concomitant to CABG did not lead to LA dilation and has no significant impact on the occurrence of POAF.
Kolumne: Gutes Stammdatenmanagement spart Zeit und Geld
Authors: Pietzuch Thomas
Published: November 2021

Wenn sie sich auf gemeinsame Systeme für den Austausch von Produktinformationen verständigen würden, könnten Krankenhäuser und Industrie gemeinsam Potenziale heben.
Bedeutung des Einkaufscontrollings: Dashboards im Einkauf – Anwendungsfelder und Potenziale für das Krankenhaus
Authors: Köhler Mathias , Schlüchtermann Jörg
Published: November 2021

Dashboards können im Rahmen des Controllings in Kliniken eine wichtige Rolle einnehmen. Durch die visuelle Darstellung von Key Performance Indicators ermöglichen sie eine effektivere Messung der Unternehmensleistung.
Vielfalt in der OP-Logistik: Viele Wege führen zu mehr OP-Kapazität
Authors: Otten Hubert
Published: November 2021

Im Jahr 2020 wurden in Deutschland 15,82 Millionen vollstationäre Operationen durchgeführt. Hinzu kommen rund 2 Millionen ambulante Operationen. Mit sinkender Verweildauer wird die Bedeutung der Operationssäle im Leistungsprozess eines Krankenhauses weiter zunehmen.
Exploiting context-dependent preferences to protect borrowers
Authors: Dezső Linda , Bakó Barna , Neszveda Gábor
Published: November 2021

Focusing bias is one of the key contributors to over-borrowing. It describes how people, when making choices, give disproportionate attention and weight to attributes in which their options differ more. In a loan decision, a consumer excessively focuses on the eye-catching difference between getting the loan and not getting it, while ignoring the smaller differences between making and not making repayments. Here, we show a simple trick that nudges the consumer to increase attention on the repayment dimension. In two experimental studies involving one hypothetical loan decision, we demonstrate that the salience of getting the loan can be decreased if one offered plan includes high initial installments. This steeply decreasing installment plan (i.e., with initially high installments that decrease over time) offered alongside the usual flat installments plan (i.e., with equally sized repayments through the whole term) increases consumers’ attention to making repayments, and consequently, they attend less to obtaining the loan. When the choice set includes the steeply decreasing plan, we observe a decreased preference for the flat installment plan and a shift toward not borrowing. Additionally, making repayments on the loan is perceived as a greater burden, and more attention is given to making repayments when the steep plan is present. Policy may combat harmful loan consumption by prescribing the presentation of loan offers such that at least one option includes high initial repayments, which increases attention on making repayments.
How to make noncoherent problems more productive: Towards an AMR management plan for low resource livestock sectors
Authors: Butcher Andrea , Cañada Jose A. , Sariola Salla
Published: November 2021

Global policy for managing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is underpinned by a standardised and coherent global framework for reducing antibiotic use in clinical health, veterinary health, and food production sectors. Within the framework, problematic antibiotic use (a significant driver of AMR) is treated as a knowledge deficit on the part of users and prescribers, which can be remedied by educating them to make better informed treatment decisions. This narrow approach to AMR management conceals the socioeconomic and material drivers of antibiotic decision-making, creating challenges for low resource regions that rely on antibiotic therapies to manage uncertainty and precarity. Thus, there is a need for a global AMR policy that acknowledges the diversity of sociomaterial arrangements and practices that antibiotics form part of, if their use is to be reduced without undermining productivity or the attainment of poverty reduction indicators. Drawing upon research of antibiotic use in West Africa’s livestock sector, this article analyses the interrelation of antibiotics, AMR action plans, and production management strategies in ecologies of livestock breeding practices. We apply the STS-influenced perspective of noncoherence to analyse how seemingly contradictory practices and institutional logics productively coalesce. We argue that observing noncoherent practices increases our understanding of antibiotic use in relation to local breeding conditions that are frequently not of the producers’ making, whilst drawing attention to context-specific possibilities for improving livestock management capacities and reducing reliance on antibiotic therapies in low-resource settings. The article concludes by calling for an AMR global policy that is more responsive to local specificity rather than enforcing universal standardisation.
On the attraction–repulsion chemotaxis system with volume-filling effect
Authors: Peng Hongyun
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we consider the attraction–repulsion Keller–Segel system with volume-filling effect under homogeneous Neumann boundary conditions in a smooth boundary bounded domain with n ≥ 2. We study the global existence and asymptotic behavior of the classical solution to the system in various ranges of parameter values.
Controllable fast and slow light in the hybrid quantum dot–nanomechanical resonator system mediated by another nanomechanical resonator with Coulomb interaction
Authors: Chen Hua-Jun
Published: November 2021

We theoretically propose a hybrid nanomechanical resonator (NR) system, where a doubly clamped suspended NR with an embedded quantum dot driven by two-tone fields is coupled to another NR via the Coulomb interaction, and we investigate the absorption spectra of the probe field under different exciton-pump field detuning. In the condition of pump on-resonance, the absorption spectrum gives a method to determine the coupling strength of the two NRs. In the pump off resonance, the absorption spectra exhibit double-Fano resonance, which is determined by the interaction of the two NRs, the frequencies of the two NRs, as well as the pump detuning. Furthermore, the double-Fano resonances are accompanied by the rapid normal phase dispersion, which indicates the slow- and fast-light effect. The results show that the group velocity index is tunable by the interaction of the two NRs, the detuning, and the different resonator frequencies, which can achieve the conversion from fast light to slow light.
Quantum Chemistry Common Driver and Databases (QCDB) and Quantum Chemistry Engine (QCEngine): Automation and interoperability among computational chemistry programs
Authors: Smith Daniel G. A. , Lolinco Annabelle T. , Glick Zachary L. , Lee Jiyoung , Alenaizan Asem , Barnes Taylor A. , Borca Carlos H. , Di Remigio Roberto , Dotson David L. , Ehlert Sebastian , Heide Alexander G. , Herbst Michael F. , Hermann Jan , Hicks Colton B. , Horton Joshua T. , Hurtado Adrian G. , Kraus Peter , Kruse Holger , Lee Sebastian J. R. , Misiewicz Jonathon P. , Naden Levi N. , Ramezanghorbani Farhad , Scheurer Maximilian , Schriber Jeffrey B. , Simmonett Andrew C. , Steinmetzer Johannes , Wagner Jeffrey R. , Ward Logan , Welborn Matthew , Altarawy Doaa , Anwar Jamshed , Chodera John D. , Dreuw Andreas , Kulik Heather J. , Liu Fang , Martínez Todd J. , Matthews Devin A. , Schaefer Henry F. , Šponer Jiří , Turney Justin M. , Wang Lee-Ping , De Silva Nuwan , King Rollin A. , Stanton John F. , Gordon Mark S. , Windus Theresa L. , Sherrill C. David , Burns Lori A.
Published: November 2021

Community efforts in the computational molecular sciences (CMS) are evolving toward modular, open, and interoperable interfaces that work with existing community codes to provide more functionality and composability than could be achieved with a single program. The Quantum Chemistry Common Driver and Databases (QCDB) project provides such capability through an application programming interface (API) that facilitates interoperability across multiple quantum chemistry software packages. In tandem with the Molecular Sciences Software Institute and their Quantum Chemistry Archive ecosystem, the unique functionalities of several CMS programs are integrated, including CFOUR, GAMESS, NWChem, OpenMM, Psi4, Qcore, TeraChem, and Turbomole, to provide common computational functions, i.e., energy, gradient, and Hessian computations as well as molecular properties such as atomic charges and vibrational frequency analysis. Both standard users and power users benefit from adopting these APIs as they lower the language barrier of input styles and enable a standard layout of variables and data. These designs allow end-to-end interoperable programming of complex computations and provide best practices options by default.
Nucleation kinetics of calcium oxalate monohydrate as a function of pH, magnesium, and osteopontin concentration quantified with droplet microfluidics
Authors: Ibis Fatma , Yu Tsun Wang , Penha Frederico Marques , Ganguly Debadrita , Nuhu Manzoor Alhaji , van der Heijden Antoine E. D. M. , Kramer Herman J. M. , Eral Huseyin Burak
Published: November 2021

A droplet-based microfluidic platform is presented to study the nucleation kinetics of calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM), the most common constituent of kidney stones, while carefully monitoring the pseudo-polymorphic transitions. The precipitation kinetics of COM is studied as a function of supersaturation and pH as well as in the presence of inhibitors of stone formation, magnesium ions (Mg2+), and osteopontin (OPN). We rationalize the trends observed in the measured nucleation rates leveraging a solution chemistry model validated using isothermal solubility measurements. In equimolar calcium and oxalate ion concentrations with different buffer solutions, dramatically slower kinetics is observed at pH 6.0 compared to pHs 3.6 and 8.6. The addition of both Mg2+ and OPN to the solution slows down kinetics appreciably. Interestingly, complete nucleation inhibition is observed at significantly lower OPN, namely, 3.2 × 10−8 M, than Mg2+ concentrations, 0.875 × 10−4 M. The observed inhibition effect of OPN emphasizes the often-overlooked role of macromolecules on COM nucleation due to their low concentration presence in urine. Moreover, analysis of growth rates calculated from observed lag times suggests that inhibition in the presence of Mg2+ cannot be explained solely on altered supersaturation. The presented study highlights the potential of microfluidics in overcoming a major challenge in nephrolithiasis research, the overwhelming physiochemical complexity of urine.