bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep metric attention learning for skin lesion classification in dermoscopy images
Authors: He Xiaoyu , Wang Yong , Zhao Shuang , Yao Chunli
Published: January 2022

Currently, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have made remarkable achievements in skin lesion classification because of their end-to-end feature representation abilities. However, precise skin lesion classification is still challenging because of the following three issues: (1) insufficient training samples, (2) inter-class similarities and intra-class variations, and (3) lack of the ability to focus on discriminative skin lesion parts. To address these issues, we propose a deep metric attention learning CNN (DeMAL-CNN) for skin lesion classification. In DeMAL-CNN, a triplet-based network (TPN) is first designed based on deep metric learning, which consists of three weight-shared embedding extraction networks. TPN adopts a triplet of samples as input and uses the triplet loss to optimize the embeddings, which can not only increase the number of training samples, but also learn the embeddings robust to inter-class similarities and intra-class variations. In addition, a mixed attention mechanism considering both the spatial-wise and channel-wise attention information is designed and integrated into the construction of each embedding extraction network, which can further strengthen the skin lesion localization ability of DeMAL-CNN. After extracting the embeddings, three weight-shared classification layers are used to generate the final predictions. In the training procedure, we combine the triplet loss with the classification loss as a hybrid loss to train DeMAL-CNN. We compare DeMAL-CNN with the baseline method, attention methods, advanced challenge methods, and state-of-the-art skin lesion classification methods on the ISIC 2016 and ISIC 2017 datasets, and test its generalization ability on the PH2 dataset. The results demonstrate its effectiveness.
ETHOS: a multi-label hate speech detection dataset
Authors: Mollas Ioannis , Chrysopoulou Zoe , Karlos Stamatis , Tsoumakas Grigorios
Published: January 2022

Online hate speech is a recent problem in our society that is rising at a steady pace by leveraging the vulnerabilities of the corresponding regimes that characterise most social media platforms. This phenomenon is primarily fostered by offensive comments, either during user interaction or in the form of a posted multimedia context. Nowadays, giant corporations own platforms where millions of users log in every day, and protection from exposure to similar phenomena appears to be necessary to comply with the corresponding legislation and maintain a high level of service quality. A robust and reliable system for detecting and preventing the uploading of relevant content will have a significant impact on our digitally interconnected society. Several aspects of our daily lives are undeniably linked to our social profiles, making us vulnerable to abusive behaviours. As a result, the lack of accurate hate speech detection mechanisms would severely degrade the overall user experience, although its erroneous operation would pose many ethical concerns. In this paper, we present ‘ETHOS’ (multi-labEl haTe speecH detectiOn dataSet), a textual dataset with two variants: binary and multi-label, based on YouTube and Reddit comments validated using the Figure-Eight crowdsourcing platform. Furthermore, we present the annotation protocol used to create this dataset: an active sampling procedure for balancing our data in relation to the various aspects defined. Our key assumption is that, even gaining a small amount of labelled data from such a time-consuming process, we can guarantee hate speech occurrences in the examined material.
Chaos coordinated neural key synchronization for enhancing security of IoT
Authors: Alahmadi Ahmed h.
Published: January 2022

The key exchange mechanism in this paper is built utilizing neural network coordination and a hyperchaotic (or chaotic) nonlinear dynamic complex system. This approach is used to send and receive sensitive data between Internet-of-Things (IoT) nodes across a public network. Using phishing, Man-In-The-Middle (MITM), or spoofing attacks, an attacker can easily target sensitive information during the exchange process. Furthermore, minimal research has been made on the exchange of input seed values for creating identical input at both ends of neural networks. The proposed method uses a 5D hyperchaotic or chaotic nonlinear complex structure to ensure the sharing of input seed value across two neural networks, resulting in the identical input on both ends. This study discusses two ways for sharing seed values for neural coordination. The first is a chaotic system with all real variables, whereas the second is a hyperchaotic system with at least one complex variable. Each neural network has its own random weight vector, and the outputs are exchanged. It achieves full coordination in some stages by altering the neuronal weights according to the mutual learning law. The coordinated weights are utilized as a key after the neural coordination technique. The network’s core structure is made up of triple concealed layers. So, determining the inner configuration will be tough for the intruder. The efficiency of the suggested model is validated by simulations, and the findings reveal that the suggested strategy outperforms current equivalent techniques.
High-pressure compacted recycled polymeric composite waste materials for marine applications
Authors: Clark Edward , Bleszynski Monika , Gordon Matt
Published: January 2022

Options for recycling fiber composite polymer (FCP) materials are scarce, as these materials cannot be normally recycled and are toxic when improperly disposed. Additionally, reducing water usage is an increasing concern, as the concrete industry currently uses 10% of the world’s industrial water. Therefore, building upon our previous work, this research explores the use of polymer hybrid carbon and glass composite waste products as reinforcements in high-pressure compacted cement. Our material used nearly 70% less water during manufacturing and exhibited improved durability and salt corrosion resistance. Compression strength tests were performed on high-pressure compacted materials containing 6.0 wt% recycled admixtures before and after saltwater aging, and the results showed that the material retained 90% of its original compression strength after aging, as it contained fewer pores and cavities. Our experimental work was supplemented by molecular dynamics. Simulations, which indicated that the synergetic effects of compaction and FCP admixture addition slowed the diffusion of corrosive salt ions by an average of 84%. Thus, our high-pressure compacted cement material may be suitable for extended use in marine environments, while also reducing the amount of commercial fiber composite polymer waste material that is sent to the landfill.

Article Highlights

Fiber composite waste was successfully recycled into denser, high-pressure compacted ordinary Portland cement materials.

High-pressure compacted cement samples containing 6% recycled admixtures retained 90% of their compression strength after salt aging.

The high-pressure compaction method utilized 70% less water during specimen fabrication.
Wave propagation analysis of magnetic nanotubes conveying nanoflow
Authors: Bahaadini Reza , Saidi Ali Reza
Published: January 2022

According to the nonlocal strain gradient theory, wave propagation in magnetic nanotubes conveying magnetic nanoflow under longitudinal magnetic field is inspected. The nonlocal strain gradient Timoshenko beam model is coupled with magnetic nanoflow considering slip boundary condition to model fluid structure interaction. By applying Hamilton’s principle, the size-dependent governing equations of motion have been obtained. Calculation of the wave frequency as well as phase velocity has been carried out based on the harmonic solution. The influences of strain gradient length scale, nonlocal parameter, Knudsen number, longitudinal magnetic field and magnetic nanoflow on nanotubes’ wave propagation behavior have been examined. According to analytical results, the magnetic intensity related to the longitudinal magnetic field contributes significantly to increasing nanotubes’ wave frequency as well as phase velocity. Besides, the magnetic nanotubes conveying magnetic nanoflow predict the highest phase velocity and wave frequency. Also, the wave frequency decrease when the nonlocal parameter increases or the strain gradient length scale decreases. Moreover, an increase in fluid velocity reduces the wave frequency and phase velocity.

Article highlights

The nonlocal strain gradient Timoshenko beam model is considered.

Wave propagation in magnetic nanotubes conveying magnetic nanoflow is studied.

Longitudinal magnetic field and magnetic nanoflow with considering slip boundary condition is inspected.

Wave frequency decrease when the nonlocal parameter increases or the strain gradient length scale decreases.

Increase in fluid velocity reduces the wave frequency and phase velocity.
Interface topology and evolution of particle patterns on deformable drops in turbulence
Authors: Hajisharifi Arash , Marchioli Cristian , Soldati Alfredo
Published: January 2022

The capture of neutrally buoyant, sub-Kolmogorov particles at the interface of deformable drops in turbulent flow and the subsequent evolution of particle surface distribution are investigated. Direct numerical simulation of turbulence, phase-field modelling of the drop interface dynamics and Lagrangian particle tracking are used. Particle distribution is obtained considering excluded-volume interactions, i.e. by enforcing particle collisions. Particles are initially dispersed in the carrier flow and are driven in time towards the surface of the drops by jet-like turbulent fluid motions. Once captured by the interfacial forces, particles disperse on the surface. Excluded-volume interactions bring particles into long-term trapping regions where the average surface velocity divergence sampled by the particles is zero. These regions correlate well with portions of the interface characterized by higher-than-mean curvature, indicating that modifications of the surface tension induced by the presence of very small particles will be stronger in the highly convex regions of the interface.
Interactions of stimulus quality and semantic context on N400 in visual word recognition
Authors: Zhang Yong , Xie Min , Chen Youguo , Xiong Rongmin , Yue Change , Wu Shuqiong , Ji Feng , Wang Quanhong
Published: January 2022

The joint effects of stimulus quality and semantic context in visual word recognition were examined with event-related potential (ERP) recordings. In one-character Chinese word recognition, we manipulated stimulus quality at two degradation levels (highly vs. slightly degraded) and semantic context at two priming levels (semantically related vs. unrelated). In a prime–target–probe trial flow, ERPs were recorded to the target character which was presented in either high or slight degradation and which was preceded by either a semantically related or unrelated prime character. The target character was then followed by a probe character which was either identical to or different from the target character. Subjects were instructed to make target–probe matching judgments. The ERP results demonstrated a degradation by priming interaction, with larger N400 semantic priming effects for slightly degraded targets. Moreover, the degradation effects were observed on the P200, N250, and N400. These findings provided evidence for the cascaded model of visual word recognition such that the visual processing cascaded into the semantic stage and thus interacted on the N400 amplitude. The results were compared to an earlier study with a null ERP degradation by priming interaction. The ramifications of these results for models of visual word recognition are discussed.
Method of calculating the coherent scattering power of crystals with unknown atomic arrangements and its application in the quantitative phase analysis
Authors: Li Hui , He Meng , Zhang Ze
Published: January 2022

Quantitative phase analysis is one of the major applications of X-ray powder diffraction. The essential principle of quantitative phase analysis is that the diffraction intensity of a component phase in a mixture is proportional to its abundance. Nevertheless, the diffraction intensities of the component phases cannot be compared with each other directly since the coherent scattering power per unit cell (or chemical formula) of each component phase is usually different. The coherent scattering power per unit cell of a crystal is well represented by the sum of the squared structure factors, which cannot be calculated directly when the crystal structure data is unavailable. Presented here is a way to approximate the coherent scattering power per unit cell based solely on the unit cell parameters and the chemical contents. This approximation is useful when the atomic coordinates for one or more of the phases in a sample are unavailable. An assessment of the accuracy of the approximation is presented. This assessment indicates that the approximation will likely be within 10% when X-ray powder diffraction data is collected over a sufficient portion of the measurable pattern.
A multivariate modeling framework to quantify immune checkpoint context-dependent stimulation on T cells
Authors: Karpf Léa , Trichot Coline , Faucheux Lilith , Legbre Iris , Grandclaudon Maximilien , Lahoute Charlotte , Mattoo Hamid , Pasquier Benoit , Soumelis Vassili
Published: January 2022

Cells receive, and adjust to, various stimuli, which function as part of complex microenvironments forming their “context”. The possibility that a given context impacts the response to a given stimulus defines “context-dependency” and it explains large parts of the functional variability of physiopathological and pharmacological stimuli. Currently, there is no framework to analyze and quantify context-dependency over multiple contexts and cellular response outputs. We established an experimental system including a stimulus of interest, applied to an immune cell type in several contexts. We studied the function of OX40 ligand (OX40L) on T helper (Th) cell differentiation, in 4 molecular (Th0, Th1, Th2, and Th17) and 11 dendritic cell (DC) contexts (monocyte-derived DC and cDC2 conditions). We measured 17 Th output cytokines in 302 observations, and developed a statistical modeling strategy to quantify OX40L context-dependency. This revealed highly variable context-dependency, depending on the output cytokine and context type itself. Among molecular contexts, Th2 was the most influential on OX40L function. Among DC contexts, the DC type rather than the activating stimuli was dominant in controlling OX40L context-dependency. This work mathematically formalizes the complex determinants of OX40L functionality, and provides a unique framework to decipher and quantify the context-dependent variability of any biomolecule or drug function.
A tool for translating polygenic scores onto the absolute scale using summary statistics
Authors: Pain Oliver , Gillett Alexandra C. , Austin Jehannine C. , Folkersen Lasse , Lewis Cathryn M.
Published: January 2022

There is growing interest in the clinical application of polygenic scores as their predictive utility increases for a range of health-related phenotypes. However, providing polygenic score predictions on the absolute scale is an important step for their safe interpretation. We have developed a method to convert polygenic scores to the absolute scale for binary and normally distributed phenotypes. This method uses summary statistics, requiring only the area-under-the-ROC curve (AUC) or variance explained (R2) by the polygenic score, and the prevalence of binary phenotypes, or mean and standard deviation of normally distributed phenotypes. Polygenic scores are converted using normal distribution theory. We also evaluate methods for estimating polygenic score AUC/R2from genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics alone. We validate the absolute risk conversion and AUC/R2estimation using data for eight binary and three continuous phenotypes in the UK Biobank sample. When the AUC/R2of the polygenic score is known, the observed and estimated absolute values were highly concordant. Estimates of AUC/R2from the lassosum pseudovalidation method were most similar to the observed AUC/R2values, though estimated values deviated substantially from the observed for autoimmune disorders. This study enables accurate interpretation of polygenic scores using only summary statistics, providing a useful tool for educational and clinical purposes. Furthermore, we have created interactive webtools implementing the conversion to the absolute (https://opain.github.io/GenoPred/PRS_to_Abs_tool.html). Several further barriers must be addressed before clinical implementation of polygenic scores, such as ensuring target individuals are well represented by the GWAS sample.
Phosphorylated resveratrol as a protein aggregation suppressor in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Mehringer Johannes , Navarro Juan Antonio , Touraud Didier , Schneuwly Stephan , Kunz Werner
Published: January 2022

Phosphorylated resveratrol can prevent the aggregation of globular and intrinsically disordered proteins in vitro and in vivo.
Osmium(vi) nitride triggers mitochondria-induced oncosis and apoptosis
Authors: Ye Meng , Huang Wan-Qiong , Li Zi-Xin , Wang Chuan-Xian , Liu Tao , Chen YunZhou , Hor Catherine Hong-Huan , Man Wai-Lun , Ni Wen-Xiu
Published: January 2022

A new octahedral osmium(vi) nitrido complex with no labile ligand trans to the nitride was reported. This complex causes liver cancer cell mitochondrial damage, and induces oncosis and apoptosis.
Sterically crowded 1,4-diiodobenzene as a precursor to difunctional hypervalent iodine compounds
Authors: Li Guobi , Smith Rhett , Gembicky Milan , Rheingold Arnold L. , Protasiewicz John D.
Published: January 2022

Oxidation of a 1,4-di-iodobenzene having four adjacent p-tBu-C6H4 group (Ar′) substituents (1) yields the hypervalent iodine compound 1,4-[I(OAc)2]2-2,3,5,6-Ar′4-C6 (2), that undergoes cyclization to produce dicyclic di-iodonium salt (3).
Four Keggin-type polyoxometalate-based complexes derived from bis(pyrazine)–bis(amide) ligands for electrochemical sensing of multiple analytes and adsorbing dye molecules
Authors: Cui Zi-Wei , Lu Jun-Jun , Lin Hong-Yan , Luan Jian , Chang Zhi-Han , Li Xiao-Hui , Wang Xiu-Li
Published: January 2022

Four new Keggin-based complexes derived from bis(pyrazine)–bis(amide) ligands are used to detect multiple analytes (BrO3− NO2−, Cr(vi) and Fe(iii) ions) and adsorb organic dye molecules from aqueous solution.
POM-based compounds modified by mono- and bis-triazole derivatives: photocatalytic, electrochemical, and supercapacitor properties
Authors: Xu Xi , Zhang Yanping , Ying Jun , Jin Liang , Tian Aixiang , Wang Xiuli
Published: January 2022

Using triazole derivatives 5 POM-based compounds with electrocatalytic and capacitive properties were obtained under hydrothermal conditions. The compounds have good photocatalytic activity for the degradation of organic dyes and the reduction of Cr(vi).
Anion–cation contrast of small molecule solvation in salt solutions
Authors: Hervø-Hansen Stefan , Heyda Jan , Lund Mikael , Matubayasi Nobuyuki
Published: January 2022

Dissected contributions from anion, cation, and water in ion-specific effects on caffeine solvation.
An evaluation of the capacitive behavior of supercapacitors as a function of the radius of cations using simulations with a constant potential method
Authors: Paulista Neto Antenor J. , da Silva Débora A. C. , Gonçalves Vanessa A. , Zanin Hudson , Freitas Renato G. , Fileti Eudes E.
Published: January 2022

Charge fluctuations on electrodes for all solutions with an electrode potential of 1.2 V.
Examination of the Brønsted–Evans–Polanyi relationship for the hydrogen evolution reaction on transition metals based on constant electrode potential density functional theory
Authors: Cheng Yao-Lin , Hsieh Chi-Tien , Ho Yeu-Shiuan , Shen Min-Hsiu , Chao Tzu-Hsuan , Cheng Mu-Jeng
Published: January 2022

In this work, we validated the Brønsted−Evans−Polanyi relationship in the hydrogen evolution reaction catalysed by transition metals using DFT calculations combined with a constant electrode potential model.
In situ synthesis of a GO/COFs composite with enhanced adsorption performance for organic pollutants in water
Authors: Liang Li , Chen Jia , Chen Xuwei , Wang Jianhua , Qiu Hongdeng
Published: January 2022

An in situ synthesis strategy was used to prepare a GO/COFs composite for the effective adsorption of organic pollutants from environmental water.
Bio-based chitosan and cellulose ionic liquid gels: polymeric soft materials for the desulfurization of fuel
Authors: Rizzo Carla , Misia Giuseppe , Marullo Salvatore , Billeci Floriana , D'Anna Francesca
Published: January 2022

Bio-based ionic liquid gels are new efficient soft materials, exhibiting convenient mechanical properties, that can be applied in the desulfurization of fuel to prevent air pollution.
Ruthenium(ii) complex containing cinnamic acid derivative inhibits cell cycle progression at G0/G1 and induces apoptosis in melanoma cells
Authors: Negreti Amanda Alvim , Ferreira-Silva Guilherme Álvaro , Pressete Carolina Girotto , Fonseca Rafael , Candido Caio C. , Graminha Angelica E. , Doriguetto Antonio Carlos , Caixeta Ester Siqueira , Hanemann João Adolfo Costa , Castro-Gamero Angel Mauricio , Barbosa Marilia I. F. , Miyazawa Marta , Ionta Marisa
Published: January 2022

Melanoma is a highly aggressive skin cancer with a limited targeted therapy arsenal.
Reduced graphene oxide (RGO)-supported Pd–CeO2 nanocomposites as highly active electrocatalysts for facile formic acid oxidation
Authors: Chandra Sekhar Yellatur , Raghavendra Padmasale , Thulasiramaiah Gondi , Sravani Bathinapatla , Sri Chandana Panchangam , Maiyalagan Thandavarayan , Sarma Loka Subramanyam
Published: January 2022

Reduced graphene oxide (RGO)-supported Pd–CeO2 nanoparticles prepared by a chemical reduction method were shown to exhibit superior electrocatalytic activity towards formic acid compared to the commercial Pd/C catalyst.
Lattice solvent controlled photochromism of tripyridyl-triazine-based zinc bromide complexes
Authors: Hao Pengfei , Liu Xing , Guo Chunyu , Zhao Guozheng , Li Gaopeng , Shen Junju , Fu Yunlong
Published: January 2022

Two tripyridyl-triazine-based zinc complexes exhibit lattice solvent controlled and solvent-induced photochromic properties.
Porous FeP supported on 3D nitrogen-doped carbon fibers as efficient electrocatalysts for wide-pH hydrogen evolution
Authors: Gao Meilian , Gao Pingping , Lei Ting , Ouyang Chun , Wu Xiaobo , Wu Anru
Published: January 2022

A novel porous iron phosphide loading on nitrogen-doped carbon fiber/carbon paper (p-FeP/NCF/CP) as highly effective self-supporting catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction is synthesized by a three-step approach.
Investigation of changes in the activity and function of dry eye-associated brain regions using the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations method
Authors: Sun Tie , Shu Hui-Ye , Wu Jie-Li , Su Ting , Liu Yu-Ji , Zhang Li-Juan , Li Qiu-Yu , Pan Yi-Cong , Ge Qian-Min , Shao Yi
Published: January 2022

Objective: The local characteristics of spontaneous brain activity in patients with dry eye (DE) and its relationship with clinical characteristics were evaluated using the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF) method.

Methods: A total of 27 patients with DE (10 males and 17 females) and 28 healthy controls (HCs) (10 males and 18 females) were recruited, matched according to sex, age, weight and height, classified into the DE and HC groups, and examined using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans. Spontaneous brain activity changes were recorded using ALFF technology. Data were recorded and plotted on the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, reflecting changes in activity in different brain areas. Finally, Pearson correlation analysis was used to calculate the potential relationship between spontaneous brain activity abnormalities in multiple brain regions and clinical features in patients with DE. GraphPad Prism 8 (GraphPad Software, Inc.) was used to analyze the linear correlation between the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and ALFF value.

Results: Compared with HCs, the ALFF values of patients with DE were decreased in the right middle frontal gyrus (MFG)/right inferior orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), left triangle inferior frontal gyrus, left MFG, and right superior frontal gyrus. In contrast, the ALFF value of patients with DE was increased in the left calcarine.

Conclusion: There are significant fluctuations in the ALFF value of specific brain regions in patients with DE versus HCs. This corroborates previous evidence showing that the symptoms of ocular surface damage in patients with DE are related to dysfunction in specific brain areas.
Star formation in outer rings of S0 galaxies
Authors: Katkov Ivan Yu. , Kniazev Alexei Yu. , Sil’chenko Olga K. , Gasymov Damir
Published: January 2022

Aims. Although S0 galaxies are usually considered “red and dead”, they often demonstrate star formation organized into ring structures. We aim to clarify the nature of this phenomenon and how it differs from star formation in spiral galaxies.

Methods. We investigated the nearby, moderate-luminosity S0 galaxy NGC 254 using long-slit spectroscopy taken with the South African Large Telescope and publicly available imaging data. Applying a full spectral fitting, we analyzed gaseous and stellar kinematics as well as ionized gas excitation and metallicity and stellar population properties resolved by radius. An advanced approach of simultaneously fitting spectra and photometric data allowed us to quantify the fraction of hidden counter-rotating stars in this galaxy.

Results. We find that the ionized gas is counter-rotating with respect to the stars throughout NGC 254 disk, indicating an external origin of the gas. We argue the gas-rich galaxy merger from retrograde orbit as a main source of counter-rotating material. The star formation fed by this counter-rotating gas occurs within two rings: an outer ring at R = 55″ − 70″ and an inner ring at R = 18″. The star formation rate is weak, 0.02 solar mass per year in total, and the gas metallicity is slightly subsolar. We estimated that the accretion of the gas occurred about 1 Gyr ago, and about 1% of all stars have formed in situ from counter-rotating gas.
MUSE crowded field 3D spectroscopy in NGC 300
Authors: González-Torà G. , Urbaneja M. A. , Przybilla N. , Dreizler S. , Roth M. M. , Kamann S. , Castro N.
Published: January 2022

Aims.A quantitative spectral analysis of BA-type supergiants and bright giants in an inner spiral arm region of the nearby spiral galaxy NGC 300 is presented, based on observations with the Multi Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE) on the European Southern Obsevatory, Very Large Telescope. The flux-weighted gravity–luminosity relationship (FGLR), a stellar spectroscopic distance determination method for galaxies, is extended towards stars at lower luminosities.

Methods.Point spread function fitting 3D spectroscopy was performed with PampelMUSE on the datacube. The 16 stars with the highest signal-to-noise ratios are classified with regard to their spectral type and luminosity class using Galactic templates. They were analysed using hybrid non-local thermodynamic equilibrium model spectra to fit the strongest observed hydrogen, helium, and metal lines in the intermediate-resolution spectra. Supplemented by photometric data, this facilitates fundamental stellar parameters and interstellar reddening which have yet to be determined.

Results.Effective temperatures, surface gravities, reddeningE(B−V), bolometric magnitudes and luminosities, as well as radii and masses are presented for the sample stars. The majority of the objects follow the FGLR as established from more luminous BA-type supergiants in NGC 300. An increase in the scatter in the flux-weighted gravity–luminosity plane is observed at these lower luminosities, which is in line with predictions from population synthesis models.
Lipid-based nanocarriers for oral delivery of peptides
Authors: Dumont Camille
Published: January 2022

Therapeutic peptides can treat a wide variety of diseases with selective and potent action. Their oral bioavailability is strongly limited by an important proteolytic activity in the intestinal lumen and poor permeation across the intestinal border. We have evaluated the capacity of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) to overcome both oral bioavailability limiting aspects, using leuprolide (LEU) as model peptide. Lipidization of LEU by formation of a hydrophobic ion pair (HIP) with sodium docusate enables a significant increase of peptide encapsulation efficiency in both SLN and NLC. The nanocarriers, obtained by high-pressure homogenization, measured 120 nm and were platelet shaped. Regarding the protective effect towards proteolytic degradation, only NLC maintained LEU integrity in presence of trypsin. Intestinal transport, evaluated on Caco-2 (enterocyte-like model) and Caco-2/HT29-MTX (mucin-secreting model) monolayers, showed nanocarriers internalization by enterocytes but no improvement of LEU permeability. Indeed, the combination of nanoparticles platelet-shape with the poor stability of the HIP in the transport medium induces a high burst release of the peptide, limiting nanoparticles capacity to transport LEU across the intestinal border. Stability of peptide lipidization needs to be improved to withstand biorelevant medium to benefit from the advantages of encapsulation in solid lipid nanocarriers and consequently improve their oral bioavailability.
Phytoconstituents in the Management of Covid-19: Demystifying the
Fact
Authors: Barkat Md. Abul , Kaushik Pawan , Barkat Harshita Abul , Khan Mohammad Idreesh , Hadi Hazrina Ab
Published: January 2022

The 2019-nCoV (COVID-19; novel coronavirus disease-2019) outbreak is caused by
the coronavirus, and its continued spread is responsible for increasing deaths,
social and economic burden. COVID-19 created a chaotic situation worldwide and
claimed the lives of over 5,027,183 and 248,467,363 confirmed cases have been
reported so far as per the data published by WHO (World Health Organization)
till 5th November 2021. Scientific communities all over the world are
toiling to find a suitable therapeutic drug for this deadly disease. Although
till date no promising drug has been discovered for this COVID-19. However, as
per the WHO, over 102 COVID-19 vaccines are in clinical development and 185 in
pre-clinical development. Naturally occurring phytoconstituents possess
considerable chemical richness in the form of anti-viral and anti-parasitic
potential and have been extensively exploited for the same globally. Still,
phytomedicine-based therapies are considered as the best available treatment
option to minimize and treat the symptoms of COVID-19 because of the least
possible side effects compared to synthetic drugs recommended by the
physicians/clinicians. In this review, the use of plant chemicals as a
possible therapeutic agent for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2
(SARS CoV2) is highlighted with their proposed mechanism of action, which will
prove fruitful and effective in finding a cure for this deadly disease.
Trifluoroacetic Acid Promoted Ring Contraction in 2,3-Di-O-silylated O-Galactopyranosides and Hemiacetals
Authors: Abronina Polina I. , Kononov Leonid O. , Malysheva Nelly N. , Zinin Alexander I. , Karpenko Maxim Y. , Kolotyrkina Natalya G.
Published: January 2022

A pyranose ring contraction of 2,3-di-O-silylated O-galactopyranosides with retention of aglycone promoted by anhydrous trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in CH2Cl2 was demonstrated for the first time. In addition, TFA-promoted pyranose ring contraction of 2,3-bis-O-(triisopropylsilyl)-d-galactopyranose with formation of the corresponding anomeric triols in furanose form was successfully performed. A representative series of β-d-galactopyranosides with Me, Bn, allyl, or 3-(trifluoroacetamido)propyl aglycones has been investigated. TBDPS protective groups were found to be more stable than TIPS groups under conditions of TFA-promoted pyranose ring contraction. An easy access to 2,3-di-O-TBDPS-substituted allyl and benzyl galactofuranosides and 2,3-bis-O-(triisopropylsilyl)-β-d-galactofuranose may present an advantage in synthesis of selectively protected monosacharide building blocks, useful for the synthesis of biologically important oligosaccharides.
N-Iodosuccinimide-Promoted Selective Construction of Cyclopropyl and Dihydrofuranyl Spirooxindoles from Alkylidene Oxindoles and Annular β-Dicarbonyl Compounds
Authors: Xu Hui , Jin Ying , Zhang Ze , Chen Hong , He Zeng-Yang , Zou Peng , Huang Fei-Hong
Published: January 2022

An efficient N-iodosuccinimide-promoted cyclization of readily available alkylidene oxindoles with annular β-dicarbonyl compounds has been demonstrated. With five-membered cyclic β-dicarbonyl compounds as the starting materials, a series of cyclopropyl oxindoles can be obtained in good to excellent yields, whereas the method affords dihydrofuranyl spirooxindoles almost quantitatively when six- or seven-membered cyclic β-dicarbonyl compounds are employed. This protocol provides a new alternative to the practical synthesis of structurally diverse spirooxindoles.
A Mild Heteroatom (O-, N-, and S-) Methylation Protocol Using Trimethyl Phosphate (TMP)–Ca(OH)2Combination
Authors: Tang Yu , Yu Biao
Published: January 2022

A mild heteroatom methylation protocol using trimethyl phosphate (TMP)–Ca(OH)2 combination has been developed, which proceeds in DMF, or water, or under neat conditions, at 80 °C or at room temperature. A series of O-, N-, and S-nucleophiles, including phenols, sulfonamides, N-heterocycles, such as 9H-carbazole, indole derivatives, and 1,8-naphthalimide, and aryl/alkyl thiols, are suitable substrates for this protocol. The high efficiency, operational simplicity, scalability, cost-efficiency, and environmentally friendly nature of this protocol make it an attractive alternative to the conventional base-promoted heteroatom methylation procedures.
Has the COVID-19 Pandemic Impacted Interest in Cosmetic Facial Plastic Surgery? A Google Trends Analysis
Authors: Trinh Lily N. , Safeek Rachel , Herrera Daniel , Gupta Amar
Published: January 2022

Facial cosmetic surgery trends are evolving in the current climate of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The aim of this study was to evaluate public interest in elective facial plastic surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic including the period of the COVID-19 vaccine distribution using Google Trends. A Google Trends analysis was completed using popular terms related to facial cosmetic surgery and procedures from March 2017 to August 2021. Three stages were identified (baseline, pre-COVID-19 vaccine distribution, and post-COVID-19 vaccine distribution). Descriptive statistics were calculated and two-tailed t-tests were performed between the pre-vaccine and the post-vaccine phases. Linear regression analysis was also performed to determine percent deflection of search terms. There was significantly greater interest in facial aesthetic procedure search terms, except for tear trough filler, during the post-COVID-19 vaccine phase compared with the pre-COVID-19 vaccine phase. There was greater interest in lower facial procedure interest during this phase compared with upper facial procedures (p-value = 0.0011). The search terms with the greatest deflection percentage during the post-vaccine phase were lip filler, brow lift, and lip flip. There continues to be high demands of facial plastic surgery and procedures despite COVID-19 pandemic.
An Anatomically Placed Tibial Tunnel does not Completely Surround a Simulated PCL Reconstruction Graft in the Proximal Tibia
Authors: Kim Christopher , Baker Dustin , Albers Brian , Kaar Scott G.
Published: January 2022

Introduction It is hypothesized that anatomic tunnel placement will create tunnels with violation of the posterior cortex and subsequently an oblique aperture that is not circumferentially surrounded by bone. In this article, we aimed to characterize posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tibial tunnel using a three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) model.

Methods Ten normal knee CTs with the patella, femur, and fibula removed were used. Simulated 11 mm PCL tibial tunnels were created at 55, 50, 45, and 40 degrees. The morphology of the posterior proximal tibial exit was examined with 3D modeling software. The length of tunnel not circumferentially covered (cortex violation) was measured to where the tibial tunnel became circumferential. The surface area and volume of the cylinder both in contact with the tibial bone and that not in contact with the tibia were determined. The percentages of the stick-out length surface area and volume not in contact with bone were calculated.

Results The mean stick-out length of uncovered graft at 55, 50, 45, and 40 degrees were 26.3, 20.5, 17.3, and 12.7 mm, respectively. The mean volume of exposed graft at 55, 50, 45, and 40 degrees were 840.8, 596.2, 425.6, and 302.9 mm3, respectively. The mean percent of volume of exposed graft at 55, 50, 45, and 40 degrees were 32, 29, 25, and 24%, respectively. The mean surface of exposed graft at 55, 50, 45, and 40 degrees were 372.2, 280.4, 208.8, and 153.3 mm2, respectively. The mean percent of surface area of exposed graft at 55, 50, 45, and 40 degrees were 40, 39, 34, and 34%, respectively.

Conclusion Anatomic tibial tunnel creation using standard transtibial PCL reconstruction techniques consistently risks posterior tibial cortex violation and creation of an oblique aperture posteriorly. This risk is decreased with decreasing the angle of the tibial tunnel, though the posterior cortex is still compromised with angles as low as 40 degrees. With posterior cortex violation, a surgeon should be aware that a graft within the tunnel or socket posteriorly may not be fully in contact with bone. This is especially relevant with inlay and socket techniques.
Immune Response to Locoregional Therapy
Authors: Smolock Amanda R. , White Sarah B.
Published: January 2022

The immune response to cancer is an ongoing area of interest and is the focus of newer systemic agents. Liver-directed therapy has been the standard treatment for primary and metastatic disease limited to the liver. It is increasingly being recognized that these therapies may influence a broader systemic response and immune activation. The clinical and translational data supporting this phenomenon are reviewed herein. The findings and potential impact of the immune response to liver-directed therapies are summarized in this article.
A New Look at Spin Transport: Spinning a Negative into a Strength
Authors: Thompson Avery
Published: January 2022

Approaching the finite lifetimes of spin carriers as an advantage to modulate their lifetimes and transmit information
A non-destructive dielectric based approach for the rapid determination of tributyl phosphate in dodecane
Authors: Ananthanarayanan R. , Malathi N. , Sivaramakrishna M.
Published: January 2022

Reliable determination of tributyl phosphate (TBP) in suitable diluents is indispensable in studies related to nuclear fuel reprocessing. Herein, we present a rapid and non-destructive dielectric based approach to determine TBP in mixtures of TBP and n-dodecane in the quality control as well as research laboratories associated with nuclear fuel reprocessing. The measurement is based on an in-house developed new class of sensors called pulsating sensors. The heart of the instrument consists of a three gate oscillator circuit that generates the first electronic response directly in the digital domain. With a single capacitive type probe and using a standalone embedded unit, two different ranges of measurement are covered. A detailed investigation on the various factors affecting the probe output is carried out to achieve maximum sensitivity and precision in analysis. It takes less than a minute to take a measurement. The precision in analysis in the reported range of measurement (0.7–35% v/v TBP) lies between 0.15% and 11.4% relative standard deviation, while the absolute error in measurement lies between ±0.02 and ±0.43% (v/v). The response time and limit of quantification are 4.5 s and 0.1% (v/v), respectively. The measurements made with the proposed technique are compared with the well-established gas chromatographic technique.
Laser energy absorption and x-ray generation in nanowire arrays irradiated by relativistically intense ultra-high contrast femtosecond laser pulses
Authors: Eftekhari-Zadeh E. , Blümcke M. S. , Samsonova Z. , Loetzsch R. , Uschmann I. , Zapf M. , Ronning C. , Rosmej O. N. , Kartashov D. , Spielmann C.
Published: January 2022

We report here on the results of comparative experimental measurements of laser energy absorption in a bulk and different morphology nanowire arrays interacting with relativistically intense, ultra-high temporal contrast femtosecond laser pulses. We compare polished, flat bulk samples with vertically and randomly oriented nanowires made of ZnO semiconductor material. The optical absorption of the 45° incident laser pulses of ∼40 fs duration with a central wavelength of 400 nm at intensities above 1019Wcm2 was determined using an integrating Ulbricht sphere. We demonstrate an almost twofold enhancement of absorption in both nanowire morphologies with an average of (79.6±1.9)% in comparison to the flat bulk sample of (45.8±1.9)%. The observed substantially enhanced absorption in nanowire arrays is also confirmed by high-resolution x-ray emission spectroscopy. The spectral analysis of the K-shell x-ray emission lines revealed that the He-like resonance line emission from highly ionized Zn (Zn28+) is only present in the case of nanowire arrays, whereas, for the flat bulk samples, only neutral and low charge states were observed. Our numerical simulations, based on radiative-collisional kinetic code FLYCHK, well reproduce the measured He-like emission spectrum and suggest that high charge state observed in nanowire arrays is due to substantially higher plasma temperature. Our results, which were measured for the first time with femtosecond laser pulses, can be used to benchmark theoretical models and numerical codes for the relativistic interaction of ultrashort laser pulses with nanowires.
Ambarzumyan-type theorem for third order linear measure differential equations
Authors: Liu Yixuan , Shi Guoliang , Yan Jun
Published: January 2022

This paper deals with the Ambarzumyan-type theorem for a complex third order linear measure differential equation idy′•+2iqxy′dx+yidqx+dpx=λydx on [0, 1] with boundary conditions y1=0, y′1=y′0, and hy(0)+y′•0=0, where p∈M(I,R), q∈M0(I,R), and h=−h̄. More precisely, we prove that if the eigenvalues of this boundary value problem are (2nπ)3, n = 0, ±1, ±2, …, then h = 0 and the measure coefficients p(x) = p(0), q(x) = 0 for x ∈ [0, 1).
Argon metastable density and temperature of a 43 GHz microplasma
Authors: Navarro Rafael , Hopwood Jeffrey
Published: January 2022

Argon (1s5) metastable density and translational gas temperature are experimentally measured using laser diode absorption spectroscopy within a 43 GHz microplasma. The plasma is initiated and sustained within a photonic crystal constructed from a rectangular array of alumina rods, each 1 mm in diameter. This configuration generates stable microplasma from 10 to 600 Torr using millimeter wave power from 100 to 1200 mW. The metastable density is in the order of 1018 m−3 at low pressure. However, Ar(1s5) density decreases to undetectable levels with increasing pressure and wave power. The gas temperature is extracted from the Lorentzian line shape of the absorption profile at 811.53 nm. The gas temperature increases from approximately 400 K at low pressure to 2000 K at 320 Torr (427 mbar, 4.27 × 104 Pa). These data are compared with previous results and suggest that the microplasma has a dense core of electrons that depletes the metastable density at high gas pressure and wave power.
Multifunctional roles of hairs and spines in old man of the Andes cactus: Droplet distant coalescence and mechanical strength
Authors: Kundanati Lakshminath , Di Novo Nicolò G. , Greco Gabriele , Siboni Stefano , Della Volpe Claudio , Bagolini Alvise , Pugno Nicola M.
Published: January 2022

Cactaceae have adapted to harsh environments by resisting intense solar radiation, retaining and collecting water. Some cacti species have hairs on them along with distinctive spines to serve different functions. In this study, we characterized the Old Man of Andes cactus (Oreocereus trolli). We examined the surface morphology and estimated roughness and adhesion force of both spines and hairs. They both consist of longitudinal microgrooves. The condensation experiments carried out on spines showed that there is a particular phenomenon of distant coalescence (DC): smaller droplets flow totally or partially into larger ones through the microgrooves with consequent accumulation of water in a few large drops. An earlier study (Bintein et al., 2019) has shown that artificial micro-grooved surfaces that exhibit DC are more efficient than flat ones at collecting and sliding dew, and thus cactus spines could act as soil dew conveyors. The agreement between our analytical model and experimental data verifies that the flow is driven by the Laplace pressure difference between the drops. This allowed us to obtain a general criterion for predicting the total or partial emptying of the smaller drops as a function of the dynamic contact angles of a surface. With the Wilhelmy method, we determined that hairs are less hydrophilic than spines. We also estimated the mechanical properties of both the spines and hairs to evaluate their possible role in physical defense. This study aids in better understanding the physical attributes and the condensation interaction with microstructures, and suggests some functional roles.
Total pressure in thermionic orificed hollow cathodes: Controlling mechanisms and their relative importance
Authors: Taunay Pierre-Yves C. R. , Wordingham Christopher J. , Choueiri Edgar Y.
Published: January 2022

A statistical analysis is conducted to identify which physically relevant non-dimensional parameters influence the total (neutral, ion, and electron) static pressure inside thermionic orificed hollow cathodes. It is critical to uncover and order the importance of the physical mechanisms that affect the pressure inside hollow cathodes because it influences the plasma attachment length, the electron temperature, and the sheath potential. These plasma parameters, in turn, affect the emitter lifetime. A principal component analysis of total pressure data obtained from the literature reveals that four non-dimensional variables can account for most of the variation in the total-to-magnetic pressure ratio over five orders of magnitude. The relevant variables are identified with a backward stepwise selection process and an exhaustive grid search and include, by order of importance: the gasdynamic-to-magnetic pressure ratio, the ratio of the mass flow rate to the discharge current, the orifice-to-insert diameter ratio, and the orifice Reynolds number. It is also shown, using various models and regression analyses, that empirical, Poiseuille, or isentropic flow models should not be used for predictive cathode design work. The data-driven study suggests that, while viscous effects may be important, the variation in those effects between cathodes is negligible compared to the effects of the modification of the gas constant due to the plasma, the transitional flow, the flux of heavy species on the orifice plate, and the Lorentz force.