bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case Report: Prostate adenocarcinoma presented with inguinal lymph node metastasis
Authors: Lamture Yeshwant , Lamture Prajwal , Lamture Varsha , Gharde Pankaj
Published: October 2023

Prostate cancer has the highest chance of spreading to the bones. After pelvic and bone involvement, pulmonary metastases and extensive lymphadenopathy are expected consequences. Some men with prostate cancer develop symptomatic metastatic lung lesions and lymphadenopathy despite the absence of other signs of distant spread. Prostate cancer is exceedingly common and the leading cause of cancer in males. Prostate cancer patients with metastases account for half of all cases. In some cases, it occurs in the peritoneum but can also invade the surrounding structures, the bladder, seminal vesicles, and urinary sphincters. For example, we report the case of a 62-year-old man who presented to our hospital with inguinal swelling as his primary symptom. The patient has a history of constipation, burning micturition, and weight loss. The patient was advised of ultrasonography (U.S.G.) abdominonopelvic, which revealed enlarged, irregular, heterogeneous prostate and cystitis and multiple hepatic metastases. Also, there was a lobulated mass lesion in the inguinal canal. 

The most common spread occurs in bone and lymph nodes. It's uncommon to witness inguinal lymph node metastasis without pelvic lymphadenopathy or other metastasis. The spread occurs usually through a hematogenous, lymphatic, or direct route. Hence this one is a rare presentation. One possible explanation might be abnormal or aberrant lymphatic drainage of the prostate to the inguinal lymph node.
Effect of Nigella sativa on general health and immune system in young healthy volunteers; a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded clinical trial
Authors: Salem Ayad , Bamosa Abdullah , Alam Mohammed , Alshuraim Saleh , Alyalak Hamad , Alagga Abdulrahman , Tarabzouni Faisal , Alisa Omar , Sabit Hussein , Mohsin Ashfaq , Shaikh Mohammad , Farea Abdulaziz , Alshammari Thamer , Obeid Obeid
Published: October 2023

Nigella sativa (N. sativa) is traditionally used as an immune enhancer in different communities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of N. sativa on immunity related parameters in young healthy subjects. This study was a double blind, randomized, placebo controlled clinical trial. Fifty-two healthy subjects (48 male and 4 female) 18-25 years old were enrolled in the study. They were randomly divided into four groups; the first received charcoal capsules and served as controls and the other three received 0.5, 1 g, and 2 g of powdered N. sativa capsules, respectively. Two blood samples were obtained from all participant, before initiation of the trial and at the end of the four weeks intervention. One sample was used for routine health screening by evaluating liver and renal functions as well as complete blood count and differential. The second sample was used to measure certain cytokines including; IL-1, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF. A third and fourth samples were obtained from the last cohort of subjects before and after treatment; the third was used for measuring immunoglobulins and CD profile and the fourth for evaluating certain gene expressions (INF-γ, NF-κ-B, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-13, IL-8, and IL-6). Only 1 g dose of N. sativa produced a significant elevation in total lymphocyte count, CD3+ and CD4+ counts. One gram N. sativa increased the absolute lymphocyte count from 1850±0.24 to 2170±0.26 (p=0.008), CD3+ from 1184.4±75.60 to 1424±114.51 (p=0.009), and CD4+ from 665.6±141.66 to 841±143.36 (p=0.002).  This elevation in T cells was lost by increasing the dose of N. sativa to 2g. The rest of the parameters were not changed significantly in all doses. The results show a promising immunopotentiation effect of N. sativa by elevating helper T cells and the optimum dose for young age group seems to be 1 g.
Characteristics of participants in the first fully online National Diabetes Prevention Programme: A quantitative survey
Authors: Haseldine Clair , O'Donoghue Gráinne , Kearney Patricia M , Riordan Fiona , Humphreys Margaret , Kirby Liz , McHugh Sheena M.
Published: October 2023

Background Diabetes prevention programmes (DPPs) are being implemented around the world to tackle the rise in type 2 diabetes. In 2021/22, the Health Service Executive(HSE) in Ireland piloted a fully online national diabetes prevention programme(NDPP). Characteristics and factors affecting participation may be different among people attending online DPPs compared to face-to-face programmes. The aim of this study was to describe the demographic, psychosocial and health characteristics of participants in the pilot of the online NDPP in Ireland. Methods A survey from the evaluation of the English NDPP was adapted for the Irish context with Patient and Public Involvement(PPI) input. The survey was sent (between April and June 2022) to all individuals who attended the initial assessment of the pilot NDPP (n=73). It contained questions on health status, co-morbidities, motivation to improve health, quality of life, self-efficacy, beliefs about the risk of diabetes, participation(e.g. recollection and understanding of invite, number of sessions attended), as well as demographic information. Results Response rate was 30.5% (n=22). Mean age of responders was 62 years (range 36–82 years) and over half were men (57.1%, n=12). The majority (81%, n=17) had attended 6 or more of the 14 sessions. Most (90.5% n=19) reported having family members or acquaintances with diabetes, had positive views of their current health status and high quality of life scores (71.4%, n= 15). Mental health scores were slightly higher than the national average. Over half (57.2%, n=12) were confident or very confident about participating in an online DPP. Almost all (95.2%, n=20) believed it was important to manage their risk of type 2 diabetes. Conclusions Participants in the online pilot NDPP had positive views of their general health and positive psychosocial characteristics affecting their decision to participate. These beliefs may be modifiable intervention targets to encourage participation among non-attenders in future programmes.
Electric vehicle fire risk assessment framework using Fault Tree Analysis
Authors: Mohd Tohir Mohd Zahirasri , Martín-Gómez César
Published: October 2023

Background In the near future, the rapid adoption of electric vehicles is inevitable, driven by environmental concerns and climate change awareness. However, this progressive trend also brings forth safety concerns and hazards, notably regarding the risk of EV fires, which have garnered significant media attention. This necessitates the need to study for comprehensive fire risk assessment strategies aimed at preventing and mitigating such incidents. Methods This study presents a framework for assessing fire risks in EVs using Fault Tree Analysis (FTA). By integrating disparate data sources into a unified dataset, the proposed methodology offers a holistic approach to understanding potential hazards. The study embarked on a comprehensive exploration of EV fire causes through qualitative FTA. Results Through this approach, the work discerned five major causes: human factors, vehicle factors, management factors, external factors, and unknown factors. Using a meticulous weighted average approach, the annual EV fire frequency for each country was deduced, revealing an average annual EV fire rate of 2.44 × 10-4 fires per registered EV. This metric provides a significant benchmark, reflecting both the probability and inherent risk of such incidents. However, uncertainties in data quality and reporting discrepancies highlight the imperative of continued research. Conclusions As EV adoption surges, this study underscores the importance of comprehensive, data-driven insights for proactive risk management, emphasizing the necessity for vigilant and adaptive strategies. The findings emphasize the pivotal role of this assessment in shaping response strategies, particularly for first responders dealing with EV fires. In essence, this research not only elevates the understanding of EV fire risks but also offer a foundation for future safety measures and policies in the domain.
Scoping review and evidence mapping of interventions aimed at improving reproducible and replicable science: Protocol
Authors: Dudda Leonie A. , Kozula Magdalena , Ross-Hellauer Tony , Kormann Eva , Spijker René , DeVito Nicholas , Gopalakrishna Gowri , Van den Eynden Veerle , Onghena Patrick , Naudet Florian , Banzi Rita , Fratelli Maddalena , Varga Monika , Gelsleichter Yuri Andrei , Stegeman Inge , Leeflang Mariska M.
Published: October 2023

Background Many interventions, especially those linked to open science, have been proposed to combat the reproducibility crisis. To what extent these propositions are based on scientific evidence from empirical evaluations is not clear. Aims The primary objective is to identify interventions that have been formally investigated regarding their influence on reproducibility and replicability. A secondary objective is to list any facilitators or barriers reported and to identify gaps in the evidence. Methods We will search broadly by using electronic bibliographic databases, broad internet search, and contacting experts in the field of reproducibility, replicability, and open science. Any study investigating interventions for their influence on the reproducibility and replicability of research will be selected, including those studies additionally investigating drivers and barriers to the implementation and effectiveness of interventions. Studies will first be selected by title and abstract (if available), semi-automated, and then by reading the full text by at least two independent reviewers. We will analyze existing scientific evidence using scoping review and evidence gap mapping methodologies. Results The results will be presented in interactive evidence maps, summarized in a narrative synthesis, and serve as input for subsequent research. Review registration This protocol has been pre-registered on OSF under doi https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/D65YS
Exploring attitudes to research involving human subjects among Vietnamese university students: establishing a prospective longitudinal mixed-methods student cohort at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City
Authors: Pham -Tram Vy , Nguyen Nguyet Minh , Heatherley Susan , Vu Duy Kien , Vu Bao Hung , Pham Thi Huong Giang , Nguyen Thi Thu Hang , Huynh Thuy Phuong Hong , Thi Tuyet Thanh Truong , Le Phuong Chi , Nguyen Thi Van Thuy , Dinh The Trung , Thi Hoai Tam Dong , Chambers Mary , Lawson Katrina , Ilo Van Nuil Jennifer , Do Van Dung , Diep Tran Tuan , Kestelyn Evelyne , Wills Bridget
Published: October 2023

Research capacity is increasing in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with progressive development in the range and complexity of studies being undertaken, often in collaboration with high-income country partners. Although senior local stakeholders are typically involved in ensuring that research is conducted according to accepted standards for ethical and scientific quality, to date there has been little exploration of the views of younger generations around the ethics of research involving human subjects.

We present our protocol to establish a longitudinal mixed-methods student cohort at the University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, that is investigating students’ views around the ethics of clinical and public-health oriented research. We use a synergistic approach involving initial deliberative engagement activities (e.g. science cafes, debates) to inform participants about complex concepts, prior to formal quantitative and qualitative methods (surveys, focus group discussions and in-depth interviews) that are designed to explore the students’ views in detail. We focus in particular on dengue, as an example of a locally relevant disease, and probe students’ thoughts on such themes as appropriate remuneration for research participants, involvement of vulnerable groups, use of human challenge trials in LMICs etc.

A snapshot of the cohort and its activities after one year is also presented; among 429 active students, primarily from the Faculty of Medicine, the proportions of male and female students were similar, the majority were from southern or central Vietnam where dengue is endemic, and available data indicates the cohort to be representative of the expected spectrum of socioeconomic groups.

The cohort provides a unique resource to investigate the views of young people on medical ethics, an important but hitherto underrepresented group in such discussions. Feedback indicates a clear interest in contributing thoughts and ideas to the development of clinical research in Vietnam.
The genome sequence of the Fruity Milkcap, Lactarius evosmus (Kühner & Romagn., 1954)
Authors: Cullington Penny , Douglas Brian , Woof Kieran , Gaya Ester ,   Royal Botanic Gardens Kew Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: October 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual Lactarius evosmus (Fruity Milkcap; Basidiomycota; Agaricomycetes; Russulales; Russulaceae). The genome sequence is 57.2 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 11 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 61.51 kilobases in length.
The genome sequence of a soldier beetle, Cantharis rufa (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Sivell Olga , Sivell Duncan , Geiser Michael ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: October 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Cantharis rufa (soldier beetle; Arthropoda; Insecta; Coleoptera; Cantharidae). The genome sequence is 355.3 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 7 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 17.34 kilobases in length.
The genome sequence of the Light Emerald, Campaea margaritaria (Linnaeus, 1761)
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Eagles Marianne ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: October 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Campaea margaritaria (the Light Emerald; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Geometridae). The genome sequence is 335.2 megabases in span. The whole assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.9 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 16,403 protein coding genes.
Performance Analysis of DoA Estimation for FDD Cell Free Systems Based on Compressive Sensing Technique
Authors: Almosa Hayder , J. Harbi Yahya , Al-Dulaimi Mohammed , Burr Alister
Published: October 2023

The concept of cell free (CF) massive MIMO systems is a prospective fifth generation communication technology that effort with base stations for the privilege of user-centric coverage. Most studies on the CF massive MIMO system in the past imply that systems that use time division duplexing (TDD), even despite the systems using frequency division duplex (FDD) predominate in today’s wireless communications. When the number of antennas increases in FDD systems, channel state information (CSI) collection and feedback overhead become major issues. In order to mitigate these issues, we make use of the condition that the so-called uplink and downlink multipath components are comparable. Base station takes use of the angle reciprocity may immediately obtain information on channel parameters from the uplink training signal. In this paper, for CF massive MIMO system based on FDD, we provide compressive sensing (CS) of directions of arrival (DoAs) estimation approach of access point cooperation based on the channel parameters. The suggested estimation approach outperforms the established subspace-based technique, according to simulation findings. Additionally, we showed that the results of our compressive sensing estimator against the conventional estimation method. The former demonstrates way far better outcome and performance accordingly than the latter.
A Consensus-Based Alternating Direction Method for Mixed-Integer and PDE-Constrained Gas Transport Problems
Authors: Krug Richard , Leugering Günter , Martin Alexander , Schmidt Martin , Weninger Dieter
Published: October 2023

We consider dynamic gas transport optimization problems, which lead to large-scale and nonconvex mixed-integer nonlinear optimization problems (MINLPs) on graphs. Usually, the resulting instances are too challenging to be solved by state-of-the-art MINLP solvers. In this paper, we use graph decompositions to obtain multiple optimization problems on smaller blocks, which can be solved in parallel and may result in simpler classes of optimization problems because not every block necessarily contains mixed-integer or nonlinear aspects. For achieving feasibility at the interfaces of the several blocks, we employ a tailored consensus-based penalty alternating direction method. Our numerical results show that such decomposition techniques can outperform the baseline approach of just solving the overall MINLP from scratch. However, a complete answer to the question of how to decompose MINLPs on graphs in dependence of the given model is still an open topic for future research.

History: Accepted by Andrea Lodi, Area Editor for Design & Analysis of Algorithms–Discrete.

Funding: This work was supported by Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft [Grant TRR 154].
GLOBALIZACIÓN, COOPERACIÓN INTERNACIONAL Y SISTEMA DE CUIDADOS: UN ANÁLISIS A PROPÓSITO DEL COVID-19
Authors: Riobóo-Lois. Breogán
Published: October 2023

Con el presente artículo queremos presentar un análisis sobre la globalización, el sistema de cooperación internacional y el sistema de cuidados, así como algunas de sus intersecciones a propósito de la aparición del virus Covid-19. Partimos, por lo tanto, de la presentación de los conceptos clínicos básicos para la correcta identificación del Covid-19 ante la ingente cantidad de información y desinformación existente. A partir de aquí, analizamos los vínculos entre la globalización, las relaciones en torno al eje Norte-Sur y la expansión de la pandemia en relación con determinados aspectos socioeconómicos. Seguidamente nos adentramos en las consecuencias para el sistema de cuidados, además de presentar posibles alternativas para tener en cuenta frente a la globalización actual como por ejemplo el feminismo. Finalmente, extraemos una serie de conclusiones con las que nos gustaría contribuir al debate sobre los conceptos abordados.
El Trabajo Social durante la crisis sanitaria, COVID-19, en la Unidad de Hospitalización breve del Hospital Dr. Rodríguez Lafora
Authors: Sanz de la Fuente Ana , García Sierra José Miguel
Published: October 2023

La situación de emergencia sanitaria por Covid-19, ha originado una crisis sanitaria, social y económica de características imprevisibles. Ha puesto de manifiesto la vulnerabilidad de nuestro sistema sociosanitario. Este estudio es una iniciativa de los dos trabajadores sociales de la Unidad de Hospitalización Breve, que hemos querido estudiar la repercusión de la Pandemia, durante la primera fase comprendida entre el 15 de marzo hasta el 15 de mayo, en nuestro ámbito laboral, analizar sus efectos y reflexionar desde un punto de vista constructivo.
Parenteral nutrition overview: the role of the nurse and equipment
Authors: Harris Gemma
Published: October 2023

Parenteral nutrition is the intravenous provision of nutrition, made up of a mixture of components. It is for patients where conditions, such as intestinal failure, short bowel syndrome or bowel obstruction, are present and necessiate additional nutrition to meet patients’ needs and avoid malnutrition. Parenteral nutrition can be life-preserving for patients. There are four main types of central intravenous catheters that deliver these nutrients: an implantable port device, a tunnelled central venous catheter, a non-tunnelled central venous catheter and a peripherally-inserted central catheter. The three main bag types that contain of bags that contain these nutrients: pre-made, multi-chamber and bespoke. This article outlines the importance and involvement of nurses in the parenteral nutrition process, including the selection and administration of parenteral equipment, as well as presenting a summary of parenteral catheters and bags, their safety and evidence-based efficacy.
Study scope
Authors: Karim Fozia , Khalil Halimah , Pearman Kate , Mckay Lauren , Abbasi Abdullah , Menon Shyam
Published: October 2023

A brief overview of recently published articles on endoscopy
Learning to love the Joint Advisory Group
Authors: Chapman Warren
Published: October 2023

Warren Chapman takes a look at the benefits of the Joint Advisory Group and how to best embrace accreditation
Nexus Evaluation Primary Trident II UNcemented shEll (NEPTUNE)
Authors: Hamilton David F. , Gaston Paul , Macpherson Gavin J. , Simpson Philip , Clement Nick D.
Published: October 2023

Aims

The primary aim of this study is to assess the survival of the uncemented hydroxyapatite (HA) coated Trident II acetabular component as part of a hybrid total hip arthroplasty (THA) using a cemented Exeter stem. The secondary aims are to assess the complications, joint-specific function, health-related quality of life, and radiological signs of loosening of the acetabular component.

Methods

A single-centre, prospective cohort study of 125 implants will be undertaken. Patients undergoing hybrid THA at the study centre will be recruited. Inclusion criteria are patients suitable for the use of the uncemented acetabular component, aged 18 to 75 years, willing and able to comply with the study protocol, and provide informed consent. Exclusion criteria includes patients not meeting study inclusion criteria, inadequate bone stock to support fixation of the prosthesis, a BMI > 40 kg/m2, or THA performed for pain relief in those with severely restricted mobility.

Results

Implant survival, complications, functional outcomes and radiological assessment up to ten years following index THA (one, two, five, seven, and ten years) will be performed. Functional assessment will include the Oxford Hip Score, Forgotten Joint Score, 12-Item Short Form Health Survey, EuroQol five-dimension health questionnaire, and pain and patient satisfaction. Radiological assessment with assess for acetabula lucent lines, lysis, and loosening according to DeLee and Charnley zones.

Conclusion

This study is part of a stepwise introduction of a new device to orthopaedic practice, and careful monitoring of implants should be carried out as part of the Beyond Compliance principles. The results of this study will provide functional, radiological, and survival data to either support the ongoing use of the HA acetabulum or highlight potential limitations of this new implant before wide adoption.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(10):782–790.
Vetenskapen som försvann? Svensk rasforskning efter 1935
Authors: Ericsson Martin
Published: October 2023

In his book Vetenskapen som försvann? (“The science that disappeared?”), Swedish historian Martin Ericsson conducts the first systematic survey of research on race in Sweden from the mid-1930s to the early 1970s. It is a story of a scientific racism that survived the horrors of World War II and endured longer than we might like to believe as criticism grew in the post-war period.
Preserving polarization maintaining photons for enhanced contrast imaging of the retina
Authors: Rossi Alfa , Rahimi Mojtaba , Son Taeyoon , Chan R. V. Paul , Heiferman Michael J. , Yao Xincheng
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the feasibility of using polarization maintaining photons for enhanced contrast imaging of the retina. Orthogonal-polarization control has been frequently used in conventional fundus imaging systems to minimize reflection artifacts. However, the orthogonal-polarization configuration also rejects the directly reflected photons, which preserve the polarization condition of incident light, from the superficial layer of the fundus, i.e., the retina, and thus reduce the contrast of retinal imaging. We report here a portable fundus camera which can simultaneously perform orthogonal-polarization control to reject back-reflected light from the ophthalmic lens and parallel-polarization control to preserve the backscattered light from the retina which partially maintains the polarization state of the incoming light. This portable device utilizes miniaturized indirect ophthalmoscopy illumination to achieve non-mydriatic imaging, with a snapshot field of view of 101° eye-angle (67° visual-angle). Comparative analysis of retinal images acquired with a traditional orthogonal-polarization fundus camera from both normal and diseased eyes was conducted to validate the usefulness of the proposed design. The parallel-polarization control for enhanced contrast in high dynamic range imaging has also been validated.
Introduction to the JOCN Special Issue on Advances in Multi-Band Optical Networks
Authors: Velasco L. , Cugini F. , Casellas R. , Nakagawa M. , Wellbrock G. , Chen X.
Published: October 2023

This special issue contains a collection of five research articles on the advances in multi-band optical networks, including the vision of vendors and telecom operators, the migration from single-band to multi-band, methods for quality of transmission, and the control of multi-band optical networks.
Anti-resonant fiber with high-resistivity silicon for THz wave transmission
Authors: Liu Qiang , Sun Guangrong , Sun Yudan , Liu Wei , Ma Chao , Li Wenjing , Wang Kaiyu , Lv Jingwei , Chu Paul K. , Liu Chao
Published: October 2023

A novel anti-resonant fiber for low-loss terahertz waveguides is proposed and analyzed. The terahertz fiber uses high-resistivity silicon as the bulk material and nine nested double-layer concentric circular tubes in the cladding to reduce propagation losses. The effects of the geometric parameters on the propagation characteristics are analyzed by the finite element method. The result indicates that an ultra-low total loss of 4.9×10−4dB/m is achieved at f=1THz. The low-loss propagation window is 0.48 THz ranging from 0.6 to 1.4 THz. In addition, the influence of mechanical bending on the propagation loss is investigated and the bending loss can be maintained at less than 7.3×10−3dB/m at f=1THz even if the bending radius is larger than 60 cm. The properties of this anti-resonant fiber are significantly superior to those of previously reported structures and the fiber thus has large commercial potential.
Caustics and wavefronts produced by multiple refraction-reflections through plane-parallel plates
Authors: Avendaño-Alejo Maximino , DelOlmo-Márquez Jesús , Velázquez-Gómez Ismael , Ponce-Hernández Osvaldo , Jiménez-Rodríguez Martín , Huerta-Carranza Oliver , Castillo-Santiago Gabriel , Castañeda Luis
Published: October 2023

We study the formation of caustics and wavefronts produced by multiple refraction-reflections through a plane-parallel transparent plate, assuming a point source placed at an arbitrary position along the optical axis. The caustic surfaces are obtained by using the envelope’s method. Subsequently, the wavefronts are directly related to the involutes, which are associated with the envelopes for all the rays. Hence by using the Malus–Dupin theorem, we obtain their respective wavefronts produced by multiple refraction-reflections through a plane-parallel transparent plate. On the other hand, we implement Huygens’ principle to obtain the wavefronts leaving the plate after undergoing multiple reflections inside the plate, which we have called zero-distance phase wavefronts. Finally, we establish the correspondence between the wavefronts obtained by Huygens’ principle and the involutes associated with caustic surfaces; they are brought in coincidence assuming parallel curves from each other.
Inverse design of metasurfaces with customized transmission characteristics of frequency band based on generative adversarial networks
Authors: Wang Hai Peng , Cao Du Ming , Pang Xiao Yu , Zhang Xiao Hong , Wang Shi Yu , Hou Wen Ying , Nie Chen Chen , Li Yun Bo
Published: October 2023

In recent years, deep learning (DL) has demonstrated significant potential in the inverse design of metasurfaces, and the generation of metasurfaces with customized transmission characteristics of frequency band remains a challenging and underexplored area. In this study, we propose a DL-assisted method for the inverse design of transmissive metasurfaces. The method consists of a generative adversarial network (GAN)-based graph generator, an electromagnetic response predictor, and a genetic algorithm optimizer. By integrating these components, we can obtain customized metasurfaces with desired transmission characteristics of frequency band. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method through examples of inverse-designed three-layer cascaded transmissive metasurfaces with wideband, dual-band, and stopband responses in the 8∼12 GHz frequency range. Specifically, we realize three different types of dual-band metasurfaces, namely double-wide, front-wide and rear-narrow, and front-narrow and rear-wide configurations. Additionally, we analyze the accuracy and reliability of the inverse design method by employing data from the training dataset, self-defined objectives, and bandwidth-reduced target responses scaled from the wideband type as design inputs. Quantitative evaluation is performed using metrics such as mean absolute error and average precision. The proposed method successfully achieves the desired effect as intended.
High-spatial-resolution distributed acoustic sensor based on the time-frequency-multiplexing OFDR
Authors: Zhong Zixuan , Liu Tao , Wu Haoting , Qiu Junjie , Du Boyang , Yin Guolu , Zhu Tao
Published: October 2023

We proposed and experimentally demonstrated a high-spatial-resolution distributed acoustic sensor based on time-frequency-multiplexing (TFM) optical frequency domain reflectometry (OFDR). The TFM technique enhances the frequency response of OFDR by multiplexing the time-frequency channels and suppresses the crosstalk in the meantime. Phase demodulation is employed to achieve high sensitivity, and the impact of end effect in OFDR is studied and suppressed by a dedicated linear interpolation. In the results, a 10.5 kHz vibration is measured with 22 cm spatial resolution and 20 dB signal-to-noise ratio on a 1 km fiber. By adjusting the parameters, the system also shows a good DAS performance on a 33 kHz vibration with up to 200 kHz sampling rate.
Mid-infrared spectroscopy with a broadly tunable thin-film lithium niobate optical parametric oscillator
Authors: Hwang Alexander Y. , Stokowski Hubert S. , Park Taewon , Jankowski Marc , McKenna Timothy P. , Langrock Carsten , Mishra Jatadhari , Ansari Vahid , Fejer Martin M. , Safavi-Naeini Amir H.
Published: October 2023

Mid-infrared spectroscopy, an important technique for sensing molecules, has encountered barriers from sources either limited in tuning range or excessively bulky for widespread use. We present a compact, efficient, and broadly tunable optical parametric oscillator surmounting these challenges. Leveraging dispersion-engineered thin-film lithium niobate-on-sapphire photonics and a singly resonant cavity allows broad, controlled tuning over an octave from 1.5–3.3 µm. The device generates >25mW of mid-infrared light at 3.2 µm with 15% conversion efficiency. The ability to precisely control the device’s mid-infrared emission enables spectroscopy of methane and ammonia, demonstrating our approach’s relevance for sensing. Our work signifies an important advance in nonlinear photonics miniaturization, bringing practical field applications of high-speed, broadband mid-infrared spectroscopy closer to reality.
Controlling the target pattern of projected LED arrays for smart lighting
Authors: Cerpentier Jeroen , Meuret Youri , Acuña Paula
Published: October 2023

High-resolution, pixelated LED arrays allow flexible illumination. By addressing certain areas of the LED matrix and projecting the emitted light, selective illumination can be achieved. When combined with computer vision, smart, autonomous lighting systems are within reach. However, limitations of the used projection optics, in combination with the fact that the LED array and camera can be at a different position, severely complicates the problem of calculating which LED pixels to address in order to achieve a desired target pattern. This work proposes a least-squares deconvolution-based calculation method to solve this problem. The method relies on an initial calibration step that characterizes the complete point-spread-function of the LED array for the considered illumination configuration. This allows using the system for various settings. The method is experimentally validated for an off-axis illumination configuration that demonstrates the accuracy and flexibility of the approach. Because the proposed algorithm is fast and guarantees a global optimum, it opens new avenues towards accurate, smart and adaptive illumination.
Light in quantum computing and simulation: perspective
Authors: Walmsley Ian
Published: October 2023

A summary is given of recent progress in photonic quantum simulation and computation. Non-error-corrected machines performing specialised tasks have already demonstrated a quantum advantage over the best algorithms running on conventional computers, and practical applications for such machines are being explored. Meanwhile, designs for error-corrected fault-tolerant quantum computers based on light are reducing the performance requirements for individual components and systems, although the engineering challenges are severe. Light also plays a central role in other platforms for quantum computing and simulation, from control of individual atomic qubits to remote entanglement of separate processing nodes, along with an important role in communications and other long-distance networks.
Integration of BCH Encoder in SiGe Driver System
Authors: Wang Xu , Mowlavi Siavash , Svensson Lars , Larsson-Edefors Per
Published: October 2023

We implement a 56-Gbps BCH encoder in a 130-nm SiGe technology suitable for VCSEL drivers for short-reach optical communication. We show that encoder-driver integration can reduce total power consumption in addition to reducing manufacturing cost.
Wall shear stress and pressure patterns in aortic stenosis patients with and without aortic dilation captured by high-performance image-based computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Zolfaghari Hadi , Andiapen Mervyn , Baumbach Andreas , Mathur Anthony , Kerswell Rich R.
Published: October 2023

Spatial patterns of elevated wall shear stress and pressure due to blood flow past aortic stenosis (AS) are studied using GPU-accelerated patient-specific computational fluid dynamics. Three cases of moderate to severe AS, one with a dilated ascending aorta and two within the normal range (root diameter less than 4cm) are simulated for physiological waveforms obtained from echocardiography. The computational framework is built based on sharp-interface Immersed Boundary Method, where aortic geometries segmented from CT angiograms are integrated into a high-order incompressible Navier–Stokes solver. The key question addressed here is, given the presence of turbulence due to AS which increases wall shear stress (WSS) levels, why some AS patients undergo much less aortic dilation. Recent case studies of AS have linked the existence of an elevated WSS hotspot (due to impingement of AS on the aortic wall) to the dilation process. Herein we further investigate the WSS distribution for cases with and without dilation to understand the possible hemodynamics which may impact the dilation process. We show that the spatial distribution of elevated WSS is significantly more focused for the case with dilation than those without dilation. We further show that this focal area accommodates a persistent pocket of high pressure, which may have contributed to the dilation process through an increased wall-normal forcing. The cases without dilation, on the contrary, showed a rather oscillatory pressure behaviour, with no persistent pressure “buildup” effect. We further argue that a more proximal branching of the aortic arch could explain the lack of a focal area of elevated WSS and pressure, because it interferes with the impingement process due to fluid suction effects. These phenomena are further illustrated using an idealized aortic geometry. We finally show that a restored inflow eliminates the focal area of elevated WSS and pressure zone from the ascending aorta.
Baseline and acquired resistance to bedaquiline, linezolid and pretomanid, and impact on treatment outcomes in four tuberculosis clinical trials containing pretomanid
Authors: Timm Juliano , Bateson Anna , Solanki Priya , Paleckyte Ana , Witney Adam A. , Rofael Sylvia A. D. , Fabiane Stella , Olugbosi Morounfolu , McHugh Timothy D. , Sun Eugene
Published: October 2023

Bedaquiline (B), pretomanid (Pa) and linezolid (L) are key components of new regimens for treating rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (TB). However, there is limited information on the global prevalence of resistance to these drugs and the impact of resistance on treatment outcomes. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) phenotypic drug susceptibility and whole-genome sequence (WGS) data, as well as patient profiles from 4 pretomanid-containing trials–STAND, Nix-TB, ZeNix and SimpliciTB–were used to investigate the rates of baseline resistance (BR) and acquired resistance (AR) to BPaL drugs, as well as their genetic basis, risk factors and impact on treatment outcomes. Data from >1,000 TB patients enrolled from 2015 to 2020 in 12 countries was assessed. We identified 2 (0.3%) participants with linezolid BR. Pretomanid BR was also rare, with similar rates across TB drug resistance types (0–2.1%). In contrast, bedaquiline BR was more prevalent among participants with highly resistant TB or longer prior treatment histories than those with newly diagnosed disease (5.2–6.3% vs. 0–0.3%). Bedaquiline BR was a risk factor for bacteriological failure or relapse in Nix-TB/ZeNix; 3/12 (25%, 95% CI 5–57%) participants with vs. 6/185 (3.2%, 1.2–6.9%) without bedaquiline BR. Across trials, we observed no linezolid AR, and only 3 cases of bedaquiline AR, including 2 participants with poor adherence. Overall, pretomanid AR was also rare, except in ZeNix patients with bedaquiline BR. WGS analyses revealed novel mutations in canonical resistant genes and, in 7 MTB isolates, the genetic determinants could not be identified. The overall low rates of BR to linezolid and pretomanid, and to a lesser extent to bedaquiline, observed in the pretomanid trials are in support of the worldwide implementation of BPaL-based regimens. Similarly, the overall low AR rates observed suggest BPaL drugs are better protected in the regimens trialed here than in other regimens combining bedaquiline with more, but less effective drugs.
Prevalence and determinants of food insecurity among pregnant women in Nigeria: A multilevel mixed effects analysis
Authors: Ujah Otobo I. , Olaore Pelumi , Ogbu Chukwuemeka E. , Okopi Joseph-Anejo , Kirby Russell S.
Published: October 2023

Food insecurity (FI) remains a key priority for sustainable development. Despite the well-known consequences of food insecurity on health and well-being, evidence regarding the burden and determinants of FI among pregnant women in Nigeria is limited. Framed by the social-ecological model, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of FI, and its associations with individual-/household-level and contextual-level factors among pregnant women in Nigeria. A cross-sectional study based on the Nigerian Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (2021 Nigerian MICS6) was conducted among a sample of 3519 pregnant women aged 15–49 years. Several weighted multilevel multinomial logistic regression models were fitted to assess the association between individual-/household-s level and community-level characteristics with FI. We estimated and reported both fixed effects and random effects to measure the associations and variations, respectively. Results: The prevalence of FI among pregnant women in Nigeria was high, with nearly 75% of the participants reporting moderate to severe FI in the past 12 months (95% CI = 71.3%-75.8%) in 2021. There were also significant differences in all the experiences of food insecurity due to lack of money or resources, as measured by the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES), except for feeling hungry but not eating because of lack of money or resources (p < 0.0001). Multivariate analysis revealed that higher parity, households with 5 or more members, household wealth index, urban residence, and community-level poverty were significantly associated with FI. Our study demonstrates a significantly high prevalence of FI among pregnant women in Nigeria in 2021. Given the negative consequences of FI on maternal and child health, implementing interventions to address FI during pregnancy remains critical to improving pregnancy outcomes.
Public economic gains from tax-financed investments in childhood immunization in the United States
Authors: Connolly Mark P. , Kotsopoulos Nikolaos , Roberts Craig , Kotlikoff Laurence , Bloom David E. , Hu Tianyan , Nyaku Mawuli
Published: October 2023

The emergence of COVID-19 has displayed the importance of immunization and the need for continued public investment in vaccination programs. Globally, national vaccination programs rely heavily on tax-financed expenditure, requiring upfront investments and ongoing financial commitments. To evaluate annual public investments, we conducted a fiscal analysis that quantifies the public economic consequences to government in the United States attributable to childhood vaccination. To estimate the change in net government revenue, we developed a decision-analytic model that quantifies lifetime tax revenues and transfers based on changes in morbidity and mortality arising from vaccination of the 2017 U.S. birth cohort. Reductions in deaths and comorbid conditions attributed to pediatric vaccines were used to derive gross lifetime earnings gains, tax revenue gains attributed to averted morbidity and mortality avoided, disability transfer cost savings, and averted special education costs associated with each vaccine. Our analysis indicates a fiscal dividend of $41.7 billion from vaccinating this cohort. The bulk of this gain for government reflects avoiding the loss of $30.6 billion in present-value tax revenues. All pediatric vaccines raise tax revenues by reducing vaccine-preventable morbidity and mortality in amounts ranging from $7.3 million (hepatitis A) to $20.3 billion (diphtheria) over the life course. Based on public investments in pediatric vaccines, a benefit-cost ratio of 17.8 was calculated for each dollar invested in childhood immunization. The public economic yield attributed to childhood vaccination in the U.S. is significant from a government perspective, providing fiscal justification for ongoing investment.
Global regulatory reforms to promote equitable vaccine access in the next pandemic
Authors: Mahoney Richard , Hotez Peter J. , Bottazzi Maria Elena
Published: October 2023

There is broad consensus that the global response to the Covid-19 pandemic was inadequate, leading to unacceptable levels of avoidable morbidity and mortality. Three strategic missteps led to the lack of equitable vaccine access: The heavy reliance on commercial vaccine manufacturers in high-income countries (HICs) versus low- and middle-income countries (LMICs); the emergence of vaccine nationalism restricting and delaying the supply of vaccines to LMICs; and an inadequate support or recognition for LMIC national regulatory authorities. To avoid these inequities in a future pandemic, we focus on three successful vaccine development and technology transfer case studies–the Hepatitis B vaccine produced in South Korea in the 1980s; the Meningitis A vaccine for Africa led by Program for Appropriate Technologies in Health (PATH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in the 2000s; and a recombinant SARS CoV-2 protein-based vaccine technology from the Texas Children’s Hospital transferred to India and to Indonesia. In addition to expanding support for academic or non-profit product development partnerships, our analysis finds that an essential step is the strengthening of selected LMIC regulatory systems to become Stringent Regulatory Authorities (SRAs), together with a re-prioritization of the WHO Prequalification (PQ) system to ensure early vaccine availability in LMICs especially during pandemics. Advancing LMIC National Regulatory Authorities (NRAs) to Stringent Regulatory Authorities (SRAs) status will require substantial resources, but the benefits for future pandemic control and for health in LMIC would be immense. We call on the WHO, United Nation (UN) agencies and SRAs, to collaborate and implement a comprehensive roadmap to support LMIC regulators to achieve stringent status by 2030.
Direct, carryover, and maternal effects of ocean acidification on snow crab embryos and larvae
Authors: Long William Christopher , Swiney Katherine M. , Foy Robert J.
Published: October 2023

Ocean acidification, a decrease in ocean pH with increasing anthropogenic CO2 concentrations, is expected to affect many marine animals. To examine the effects of decreased pH on snow crab (Chionoecetes opilio), a commercial species in Alaska, we reared ovigerous females in one of three treatments: Ambient pH (~8.1), pH 7.8, and pH 7.5, through two annual reproductive cycles. Morphometric changes during development and hatching success were measured for embryos both years and calcification was measured for the adult females at the end of the 2-year experiment. Embryos and larvae analyzed in year one were from oocytes developed, fertilized, and extruded in situ, whereas embryos and larvae in year two were from oocytes developed, fertilized, and extruded under acidified conditions in the laboratory. In both years, larvae were exposed to the same pH treatments in a fully crossed experimental design. Starvation-survival, morphology, condition, and calcium/magnesium content were assessed for larvae. Embryo morphology during development, hatching success, and fecundity were unaffected by pH during both years. Percent calcium in adult females’ carapaces did not differ among treatments at the end of the experiment. In the first year, starvation-survival of larvae reared at Ambient pH but hatched from embryos reared at reduced pH was lowered; however, the negative effect was eliminated when the larvae were reared at reduced pH. In the second year, there was no direct effect of either embryo or larval pH treatment, but larvae reared as embryos at reduced pH survived longer if reared at reduced pH. Treatment either did not affect other measured larval parameters, or effect sizes were small. The results from this two-year study suggest that snow crabs are well adapted to projected ocean pH levels within the next two centuries, although other life-history stages still need to be examined for sensitivity and potential interactive effects with increasing temperatures should be investigated.