bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Daily habits and kidney stones development rate. Literature review
Authors: Iwańczuk Paweł
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Kidney stones disease is a medical condition when hard deposites made of various minerals and substances form inside kidneys. It may lead to clinical symptoms as severe pain felt in the belly area or side of the back. Also it can radiate and reach testicles, groin area, labia. Other symptoms may include blood in the urine, abnormal color of urine, fever, nausea, vomiting. Because of growing incidence rate- adequate question is how can we protect ourselves from kidney stones development by changing habits.

 

Aim of study: Fundamental aim of study is to demonstrate how daily, routine habits changes may have a huge impact on kidney stones development risk.

 

State of knowledge: There are a lot of confirmed parameters and factors which can lead to kidney stones devolopment. Factors that increase risk of developing kidney stones include: dehydration, diet (meat intake, fruit/vegetables intake, sodium intake), family or personal history, obesity, digestive diseases and surgery, metabolic disorders, urinary track infections, anatomical abnormalities- obstruction of the kidney, calyceal diverticulum, horseshoe kidney, ureterocele. This group includes many modified factors, so lifetime risk of kidney stones depends also on our habits and way of life.

 

Conclusion: There are many modified factors which may lead to this disease and because of that it is crucial to improve patients and whole society awareness about them. By appropriate daily habits changes we can significantly reduce risk of lifetime kidney stone disease development. It is important to know that concrete reports and analyses were made and they demonstrated scientifically proven correlations.
etiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation and differential diagnosis in Lower Back Pain with comparison of possible methods of treatment
Authors: Surowiecka Kaja , Urbaś Michał , Kościołek Dawid , Kościołek Aleksandra , Misiak Jakub , Kępczyk Martyna , Ojdana Miłosz , Szalbot Konrad , Czchowski Konrad , Chrościcka Alicja
Published: February 2024

Introduction and purpose
Non-specific and specific lower back pain syndrome is one of the leading causes of musculoskeletal disability and affects more than half of the population worldwide. The aim of this paper is to confront the problem of lumbar pain, possible diagnostic options, conservative and surgical opportunities with long term satisfactory rate. 
State of knowledge
The paper reviews literature on lower back pain syndrome, sciatica, radiculopathy and lumbar disc herniation in regards to detection of the problem, classifying it and possible methods of resolvement. The WHO defines lower back pain as one of the leading causes of musculoskeletal dysfunction and it focuses on reducing the occurrence by programs like WHO Rehabilitation 2030 Initiative, UN Decade of Healthy Ageing and others. The paper also focuses on non surgical options of treatment.  
Material and method
A review of the literature available in the “PubMed” and Google Schoolar was conducted. We focused on differential diagnosis depending on clinical presentation and possible treatment methods depending on symptoms, pathogenesis of the disorder and available procedures.
Summary
Our review managed to present the current state of development, possible differential diagnosis, prevalence of neural compressions, sciatica and radiculopathy in different diagnostic options. By receiving multiple studies we confront varied opinions of specialists regarding the approach to lower back pain syndrome and favorable forms of care. Additionally we came to the conclusion that the difference of patients' long term satisfactory rate in regards to nonoperative and operative treatment is not significant, and flattens over the years.
Gilbert’s syndrome - bright and dark sides of the disease - literature review
Authors: Beutler Katarzyna , Lewandowski Jędrzej
Published: February 2024

Gilbert’s syndrome is the most common inherited jaundice worldwide. It affects 5-10% of the population. It is caused by a mutation of the UGT1A1 gene, which results in impaired bilirubin metabolism. It is a benign disease and does not affect the life expectancy of patients. Patients with Gilbert’s syndrome should be alert to factors that exacerbate the course of the disease, interactions with medications taken and possible comorbidities such as hemolytic anemia, cholelithiasis or schizophrenia. However, it is the responsibility of physicians with such patients under their care to properly educate patients. Gilbert’s syndrome carries not only the consequences associated with the mutation, but also has many benefits that patients may not be fully aware of. Mildly elevated bilirubin levels have an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect, which prevents the development of lifestyle diseases and cancer. Ongoing clinical trials suggest that this could be a great step toward new treatments for diseases affecting the entire human population.
 
PURPOSE OF THE WORK: This review paper aims to show Gilbert’s syndrome as a multifaceted disease and to sensitize doctors' attention to patients with the described mutation.
 
MATERIALS AND METHODS: An analysis of papers available in PubMed and Google Scholar was performed using the following key words: Gilbert’s syndrome, bilirubin, UDP-glucuronosyltransferase, Gilbert’s syndrome harmful and protective aspects, iatrogenic Gilbert’s syndrome
 
RESULTS: The result of the work is to present Gilbert’s syndrome as a disease that carries medical problems directly related to the mutation, but also, in some cases, has a protective effect on affected individuals. The work highlights the complexity of the problem.
Brachial neuralgic amyotrophy, a rare disease with serious diagnostic problems - case report
Authors: Świerz Krzysztof , Wacławik Weronika , Szafraniec Julia , Szczurek Katarzyna , Szczepanek Dawid , Lewoniuk Natalia , Biesok Mateusz , Szwancyber Julianna , Macherski Maksymilian , Szwinge Anna
Published: February 2024

Neuralgic amyotrophy(NA), is a rare and highly variable neurological disorder of unknown aetiology that causes serious diagnostic problems. We described a case of NA with atrophy of the brachialis muscle in order to enrich clinicians’ knowledge about this disorder and to help them in the proper diagnosis of NA. A 21-year-old man presented with sudden, severe pain in the right biceps muscle. The man had consultations with several doctors and physiotherapists. Three magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations, a nerve conduction study (NCS) and needle electromyography (EMG) were performed. Only after 6 months, based on medical history, physical examination and ultrasound imaging (USI), the physiotherapist suggested NA, which was later on confirmed by a neurologist. This case description of NA showed a variety of symptoms that made it difficult to establish an accurate diagnosis for a longer period of time. The diagnostic procedure, as well as the prolonged time between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis, indicates the need for further education of clinicians to better understand the symptoms of NA.
Artificial intelligence: a smart advance in epilepsy diagnostics, management and treatment?
Authors: Tittensor Phil
Published: February 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are increasingly being used in medicine. More recently, both AI and ML have been applied in epilepsy research, with the aim of accurately predicting and detecting seizures. Most AL and ML applications need to undergo trials to ensure that accurate data are being captured. The following article discusses such systems which are currently being developed for epilepsy patients, which have/are undergoing patient trials.
The rise of regenerative aesthetics
Authors: Bennett Sharon
Published: February 2024

BACN Chair Sharon Bennett discusses how the emerging field of regenerative medicine is transforming the aesthetics industry
Investigating incretins: a review of the use of GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists for weight loss
Authors: Miller Amy
Published: February 2024

Until recently, medicinal treatment for weight loss contributed only modestly to weight loss, with no particular medicine working notably better than the others, and all having side effects
Morphological characteristic and truss morphometric analysis of amphidromous goby (‘nike') (Teleostei: Gobiiformes) in Bone River, Gorontalo, Indonesia
Authors: PASISINGI NURALIM , SUCI DWY , PANIGORO CITRA , KADIM MIFTAHUL KHAIR
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Pasisingi N, Suci D, Panigoro C, Kadim MK. 2024. Morphological characteristic and truss morphometric analysis of amphidromous goby (‘nike') (Teleostei: Gobiiformes) in Bone River, Gorontalo, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 223-231. One of the preferred fish resources in the Gorontalo region is amphidromous goby species, commonly known by local community as nike fish. In rivers, at the adult stage, these fish are morphologically and potentially morphometrically not necessarily distinguishable among species and between sexes. This research aimed to identify the morphological and morphometric truss characters that distinguish the sexual characteristics of goby fishes in the Bone River, Gorontalo. Fish samples were purposefully collected from eight sites along the river, spanning from upstream to downstream, using a backpack electrofishing device. Sampling occurred in March and November 2022, with morphological analysis and measurements conducted on 336 individuals. The morphometric method measured data from 13 points on the sample body, forming 28 combinations of truss distance characters (A1-A3; B1-B12; C1-C10; D1-D3) connecting these points. Morphologically, the samples were identified as three species, namely Sicyopterus longifilis, Belobranchus belobranchus, and Awaous grammepomus. This study revealed distinctions in morphological characters between male and female individuals. In S. longifilis, males exhibited a relatively slimmer body shape compared to the rounded form of females. Male B. belobranchus displayed more striking coloration than females, while male A. grammepomus featured a lighter brown body color than the paler females. All the morphometric truss characters in this study can be reliably used as a sexual distinguishing characteristic in S. longifilis. As for species B. belobranchus, B7 truss cannot be considered a differentiator. In A. grammepomus, thirteen truss characters (B3, B4, B6, B7, B8, B10, B12, C3, C6, C7, C9, C10, D1) cannot be used to differentiate males and females.
Evaluation of a pilot of a community virtual triage for breast symptoms outside of usual primary or secondary care pathways
Authors: Laws S , Spiller K , Glew C
Published: February 2024

Both primary and secondary care services in the NHS have been overwhelmed with an increase in referrals on the suspected cancer pathways. The years 2020/2021 saw 551,770 symptomatic breast referrals made in England alone. The Wessex Rapid investigations service in conjunction with the local district general hospital and primary care networks instigated a virtual triage for new breast symptoms. Over the course of a year, 664 people were assessed by either telephone or video using specially trained nurses. Appointments were given within 1–2 working days. The service was highly valued by patients and general practitioners. We were unable to confirm a reduction in referral to secondary care as the evaluation occurred during a postpandemic peak in referrals. We found that 10% of patients with new breast symptoms can safely self-manage. This percentage varied with the experience of the triage clinician. A specialist community face-to-face service could reduce further the need for full secondary care evaluation. Better integration and use of information technology systems would improve the service. The rapid responsiveness and length of consultations is valued by patients. Representation with the same symptoms was rare. This pathway utilises staff outside of the usual primary and secondary care providers and thus reduces the pressure on stretched systems.
Static Plantar Pressure Distribution and Position Correlations in Early and Mid-term Knee Osteoarthritis Patients
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedic Medicine, Institute of Orthopedics, Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China,, Yiqun Wan , Weiyu Gao ,   Geriatrics Center, The People’s Hospital of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, Hohhot, China,, Lixin Wang ,   Department of Orthopaedic Medicine, Institute of Orthopedics, Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China,, Ruiyue Wang ,   College of Nursing and Rehabilitation, North China University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, China,, Zhikai Yang ,   Department of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University Electric Teaching Hospital/State Gird Beijing Electric Power Hospital, Beijing, China., Xin Wang ,   Department of Orthopaedic Medicine, Institute of Orthopedics, Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China,
Published: February 2024

Background: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is the most common degenerative joint disease, and patients will develop abnormalities in the movement model. Plantar pressure distribution and body postural characteristics may differ in patients with KOA compared to healthy adults and may affect physical function in these patients. At present, most related studies focus on patients with advanced KOA, and there are few studies on patients in early and middle stages. This study aims to apply the plantar pressure detection and human joint point identification technology to explore the characteristics of body posture and plantar pressure distribution in the early and middle-term KOA patients. Materials and Methods: Data from 38 middle and early KOA patients (age =54.58 ± 7.32 years) and 28 healthy volunteers (age =54.93 ± 7.90 years including), lower limb weight bearing, peak foot pressure distribution, pressure center (center of pressure [CoP]) offset, offset area, Q angle, pelvic position, spine offset, and other data were compared by statistical analysis of independent sample t-test and Pearson’s Chi-square test. Result: The results showed that the foot pressure in the early and mid-term KOA patients tended to be distributed in the medial heel, and the body CoP swing range was smaller than that in the control group (P < 0.05). In addition, patients in the KOA group had a larger left Q angle than the control group and had a smaller rate of right pelvis bias (P < 0.05). There was no statistical difference in lower limb weight bearing and spinal posture between the two groups. Conclusion: In standing conditions, patients in the KOA group have exhibited abnormal postural patterns and foot pressure distribution in the early and middle stages compared with healthy volunteers. Assessment of plantar pressure distribution, pelvic position, and positioning of lower limb joints may be important for evaluating patients with KOA. Keywords: Knee osteoarthritis, Plantar pressure, Posture
High Energy Focused Extracorporeal Shock Wave therapy for early and mid stage femoral head necrosis: A single center Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors:   [1] Center of hip Surgery, Henan Luoyang Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China. [2] Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China., Zhang Leilei , Zhu Xuanye ,   Henan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China., Ling Haonan ,   Center of hip Surgery, Henan Luoyang Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China., Duan Ruimeng ,   Center of hip Surgery, Henan Luoyang Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China., Zhang Ying ,   Center of hip Surgery, Henan Luoyang Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China., Liu Youwen ,   Center of hip Surgery, Henan Luoyang Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China., Chen Xiantao ,   Center of hip Surgery, Henan Luoyang Orthopedic-Traumatological Hospital, Orthopedic Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China.
Published: February 2024

Background: Research has shown that extracorporeal shock wave therapy has a certain therapeutic effect on the osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). However, the sample sizes are relatively small. The aim of this study is to evaluate and investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of high-energy extracorporeal shock wave treatment (ESWT) in the management of early and mid-stage ONFH by observing a large size clinical sample. Materials & Methods: 453 patients with stage I–III ONFH treated ESWT in our hospital between June 2019 to August 2021, are included. The visual analog pain scale (VAS), Harris hip score, radiography, and magnetic resonance imaging were used to estimate treatment results. The progression of ONFH was evaluated by imaging examination and clinical outcomes. Results: The mean follow-up was 39.81±7.94 months (range 26 to 50 months). The mean VAS decreased from 5.54 ± 1.19 before ESWT treatment to 1.92 ± 0.43 points at the 12 months follow-up (p < 0.001). The mean Harris hip score improved from 75.51 ± 5.14 before ESWT treatment, to 92.21 ± 4.53 at the 12 months follow-up (p < 0.001). The clinical success(improvement) was observed in 85.71% of ARCO stage I patients, 48.09% of ARCO stage II patients, and 49.15% of ARCO stage III patients. Imaging success (no worsening of clinical images) was observed in 12.38% stage I hips, 28.37% of stage II hips, and 27.12% of stage III hips, respectively. The hip joint survival rate of stage Ⅱ and stage Ⅲ patients was 86.51% and 77.97% (P<0.05). Conclusions: The result of the current study suggests that ESWT definitely represents an effective, reliable, and safe therapeutic method for early and middle stages of ONFH with bone marrow edema syndrome (BMES), and should be recommended as a therapeutic option. Keywords: High-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy, Osteonecrosis, Femoral head, Bone marrow edema.
Design of a compact multispectral telescope consisting of a Cassegrain telescope and a concave elliptical grating
Authors: Masoomi Najma , Zakery Abdolnaser , Afkhami Marzieh
Published: February 2024

In this paper we design a high-performance multispectral telescope with a concave elliptical grating for a field of view of 3° in the VNIR spectral range of 0.48–0.82 µm, at an altitude of 760 km from the ground, with total length of 140 mm, which has a small volume and a simple structure. The paper reports on the MTF, spot, and field curvature diagrams, which show that it can achieve spectral and spatial resolutions of 25 nm and 5.5 m, respectively, with good image quality (MTF value for all wavelengths is higher than 0.2 at Nyquist frequency of 217 cycles per mm) and has the least possible aberrations, without the need for any lenses.
Laser welding of fiber array units
Authors: Logunov Stephan L. , Quesada Mark A. , Dabich Leonard C. , Nord John L.
Published: February 2024

We report the results of fabricating fiber array unit (FAU) connectors using a near IR laser welding process, locking fibers in proper position on planar glass substrates and forming strong glass-to-glass bonds, followed by final assembly using lower coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) epoxies. A thin metal film deposited on the glass substrate provides the absorption required to attain interfacial temperatures suitable for glass-to-glass bonding. This method allows the elimination of dedicated expensive V-groove plates while still maintaining very good fiber placement accuracy. The use of epoxy is minimized to simply securing macro packaging components and protecting fibers from environmental pressure, temperature, and humidity variation. The thermal expansion properties of the epoxy used were essential for the long-term FAU reliability.
Optical cavity spectroscopy using heterodyne detection with optical feedback laser frequency locking
Authors: Beaumont Marianne , Ventrillard Irène , Romanini Daniele
Published: February 2024

We demonstrate an accurate high sensitivity method for cavity spectroscopy. We measure the frequency intervals of transverse electromagnetic modes relative to a fundamental mode in a high finesse optical resonator, and attribute their mode numbers unambiguously. A laser is frequency locked to a fundamental TEM00 cavity mode by optical feedback, and phase modulation is used to obtain frequency side bands, which may come to resonance with other transverse cavity modes as the radio-frequency of the modulation is tuned. At these resonances, transmission of the side bands is sensitively detected by heterodyning with the carrier. We also analyze the transverse spatial profile of the heterodyne signal for identification of mode numbers. The adjustment of the Gaussian cavity model to the measured frequency intervals yields values of cavity length, mirror radius of curvature, and mirror ellipticity, with high precision to the ppm level.
Random telegraph dispersion management: modulational instability
Authors: Armaroli Andrea , Conforti Matteo
Published: February 2024

We study modulational instability in a fiber system resembling a dispersion-managed link where the sign of the group-velocity dispersion varies randomly according to a telegraph process. We find that the instability gain of stochastic origin converges, for long fiber segment mean length (the inverse of the transition rate between the two values), to the conventional values found in a homogeneous anomalous dispersion fiber. For short fiber segments, the gain bands are broadened and the maximum gain decreases. By employing correlation splitting formulas, we obtain closed form equations that allow us to estimate the instability gain from the linearized nonlinear Schrödinger equation. We compare the analytical to the numerical results obtained in a Monte Carlo spirit. The analysis is proven to be correct not only for a fluctuating group-velocity dispersion, but also including fourth-order dispersion (both constant or varying according to a synchronous or independent telegraph process). These results may allow researchers to tailor and control modulational instability sidebands, with applications in telecommunications and parametric photon sources.
Modulation of the band gap and enhancement of the third-order optical nonlinearity in vanadium-doped SrSnO3 films
Authors: Huang Ziheng , Wang Depeng , Niu Ruifeng , Wang Weitian
Published: February 2024

Perovskite oxide vanadium-doped SrSnO3 (SrSn1−xV
x
O3) thin films with different concentrations x=0.1∼0.9 were fabricated by using pulsed-laser deposition, and the effects of V doping on the structure, optical band gap, and the third-order optical nonlinearity were systematically investigated. With the increase of the x value, the lattice parameters of SrSn1−xV
x
O3 decrease from 3.997 to 3.862Å gradually, while the optical band gaps first increase and then decrease with a boundary at x=0.3. The third-order nonlinear optical responses were studied via the z-scan technique. The closed-aperture measurements show a negative nonlinear refractive index n2, and the open-aperture measurements demonstrate a saturable absorption β. Both the n2 and β responses vary with the increase of V doping level. The metal-oxygen chemical bond and the localized V5+Sn2+V5+ complex contribute to the enhancement of optical nonlinearity, and the highest value of third-order susceptibility χ(3) is observed in SrSn0.5V0.5O3 film.
Degenerate spontaneous parametric down-conversion in nonlinear metasurfaces
Authors: Ochiai Tetsuyuki
Published: February 2024

We propose a simple scheme of degenerate spontaneous parametric down-conversion (SPDC) in nonlinear metasurfaces or photonic crystal slabs with quasi-guided modes. It employs a band crossing between even- and odd-parity quasi-guided mode bands inside the light cone (above the light line) and a selection rule in the conversion efficiency of the SPDC. The efficiency can be evaluated fully classically via the inverse process of noncollinear second-harmonic generation (SHG). As a toy model, we study the SPDC and SHG in a monolayer of noncentrosymmetric spheres and confirm that the scenario works well to enhance the SPDC.
High pressure-sensitive and stable fiber Fabry-Perot interferometer with nano-diaphragm assembled by H-O catalysis bonding
Authors: Li Xiaotong , Zhang Xinpu , Li Zeliu , Wang Yisong , Ren Jiamai , Li Ang , Zhang Fenglin , Peng Wei
Published: February 2024

Herein, a high pressure-sensitive and stable fiber Fabry-Perot (FP) interferometer with nano-diaphragm assembled by H-O catalysis bonding is proposed and demonstrated. In order to assemble a nano-diaphragm-based fiber FP interferometer by H-O catalysis bonding technique, a SiO2 film, introduced as a bridging layer on the nano-diaphragm, can be regarded as a solid adhesive to bridge hollow-core fiber end-face and nano-diaphragm. As thus, by depositing bonded layers on different diaphragm materials, this H-O catalysis bonding technology can be used to for assembling FP interferometer with different materials nano-diaphragms. Experimentally, Si nano-diaphragm is transferred to hollow-core fiber end-face to build a stable fiber FP interferometer without polymeric adhesive. Experimental results reveal that this Si nano-diaphragm-based fiber FP interferometer has a high (79.6 pm/kPa) pressure sensitivity and a low (17.3 pm/°C) temperature sensitivity. Besides that, different materials nano-diaphragm also can be assembled by using this H-O catalysis bonding technique, and the functional FP interferometer can be realized by using functional nano-diaphragm material. Thus, a Pd nano-diaphragm is successfully assembled to build a FP interferometer with a hydrogen concentration measurement capacity. Further investigation will focus on exploitation of multi-material nano-film patterning transfer and different nano-film integration by using this H-O catalysis bonding transfer.
Design of a refractive-metasurface hybrid annular aperture folded optical system
Authors: Mao Shan , Lai Tao , Yuan Peiqi , Wang Junzhe , Zhao Jianlin
Published: February 2024

Folded lenses offer advantages in terms of lightness and thinness, but they have limitations when it comes to correcting aberrations. In this paper, we propose a novel approach to address this issue by incorporating metasurfaces in the design of folded optical systems. Specifically, a folded refractive-metasurface hybrid annular aperture folded lens (AFL) is introduced. The structural characteristics of the AFL imaging system are analyzed to investigate the blocking ratio, thickness, and light collection capability of the ring aperture system. Additionally, a hybrid optical integration design using Zemax software is proposed for the metasurfaces. A quadruple-folded AFL working in the mid-infrared waveband is then designed. The superstructure surface is analyzed, and its processability is discussed. The results demonstrate that the reflective-metasurface hybrid AFL significantly improves the imaging quality of this type of optical system while meeting the required design accuracy.
Multi-channel broadband nonvolatile programmable modal switch
Authors: Alquliah Amged , Ha Jeongho , Ndao Abdoulaye
Published: February 2024

Mode-division multiplexing (MDM) in chip-scale photonics is paramount to sustain data capacity growth and reduce power consumption. However, its scalability hinges on developing efficient and dynamic modal switches. Existing active modal switches suffer from substantial static power consumption, large footprints, and narrow bandwidth. Here, we present, for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, a novel multiport, broadband, non-volatile, and programmable modal switch designed for on-chip MDM systems. Our design leverages the unique properties of integrating nanoscale phase-change materials (PCM) within a silicon photonic architecture. This enables independent manipulation of spatial modes, allowing for dynamic, non-volatile, and selective routing to six distinct output ports. Crucially, our switch outperforms current dynamic modal switches by offering non-volatile, energy-efficient multiport functionality and excels in performance metrics. Our switch exhibits exceptional broadband operating bandwidth exceeding 70 nm, with low loss (< 1 dB), and a high extinction ratio (> 10 dB). Our framework provides a step forward in chip-scale MDM, paving the way for future green and scalable data centers and high-performance computers.
Sensitivity enhancement of bimodal waveguide interferometric sensor based on regional mode engineering
Authors: Li Rui , Yu Lin , Li Jiewen , Li Wanxin , Feng Yang , Wang Jinzhao , Xu Xiaochuan
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we propose a novel bimodal waveguide based on regional mode engineering (BiMW-RME). Leveraging the orthogonality of the guided modes, the form of patterned SiO2 cladding on the bimodal waveguide can reduce the interaction between the reference mode and the analyte, thereby significantly improving sensitivity. The proposed BiMW-RME sensor experimentally demonstrates a phase sensitivity of 2766 π rad/RIU/cm and a detection limit of 2.44×1−5 RIU. The sensitivity is 2.7 times higher than that of the conventional BiMW sensor on the same SOI platform. The proposed design strategy demonstrates a significant improvement in the sensor's sensitivity, presenting a novel approach to enhancing common-path interferometric sensor performance.
Multi-harmonic near-infrared–ultraviolet dual-comb spectrometer
Authors: Chang Kristina F. , Lesko Daniel M. B. , Mashburn Carter , Chang Peter , Tsao Eugene , Lind Alexander J. , Diddams Scott A.
Published: February 2024

Dual-comb spectroscopy in the ultraviolet (UV) and visible would enable
broad bandwidth electronic spectroscopy with unprecedented frequency
resolution. However, there are significant challenges in generation,
detection, and processing of dual-comb data that have restricted its
progress in this spectral region. In this work, we leverage robust
1550 nm few-cycle pulses to generate frequency combs in the
UV–visible. We combine these combs with a wavelength
multiplexed dual-comb spectrometer and simultaneously retrieve 100 MHz
comb-mode-resolved spectra over three distinct harmonics at 386, 500,
and 760 nm. The experiments highlight the path to continuous dual-comb
coverage spanning 200–750 nm, offering extensive access to
electronic transitions in atoms, molecules, and solids.
Near-infrared Y-branch polymer splitters realized with compact MMI structures for efficient power splitting
Authors: Alam Md Koushik , Afsary Noor , Sikder Md. Sohel , Parvez Md. Shohel , Roy Preangka , Faruk Rasel Md Omar
Published: February 2024

Optical splitters are promising photonic devices for next-generation photonic integrated circuits, which enable signal distribution and routing between the different components, facilitating complex optical functionalities on a single chip. This research introduces what we believe is a novel numerical technique for enhancing optical network efficiency by incorporating a taper-based step-index (SI) Y-branch multimode interference (MMI) splitter with organic-inorganic hybrid polymer materials. The proposed device comprises a core width of 5 µm for the input and output waveguides to satisfy the single-mode conditions. We designed and optimized the MMI splitter using the beam propagation method (BPM). The splitter demonstrates the power splitting property with an efficiency of 86%. The excess losses for the MMI splitter are 0.52 dB and 0.50 dB for TE and TM modes, respectively, at 1.55 µm. The polarization dependence loss (PDL) and propagation loss (PL) are 0.015 dB and 0.00019 dB/µm, respectively.
Künstliche Intelligenz in betrieblichen Prozessen: Ein Vorgehensmodell zur partizipativen Gestaltung von KI-Anwendungen
Authors: Ruess Patrick , Staffa Anna , Kreutz Anna , Busch Christine , Saba Gayoso Christian Oswaldo , Pollmann Kathrin
Published: February 2024

Schon heute gilt Künstliche Intelligenz (KI) als betrieblicher Wertschöpfungsfaktor, von dem sich Unternehmen neue Impulse für bestehende Prozesse und Geschäftsmodelle versprechen. Während der derzeitige Diskurs vor allem technische Möglichkeiten und Anwendungsfälle in den Blick nimmt, umfasst die erfolgreiche betriebliche Integration allerdings auch wesentliche soziale und organisatorische Aspekte. Im vorliegenden Artikel werden daher inner- und überbetriebliche Anforderungen identifiziert, die eine Mitarbeiter*innen-gerechte und partizipative Gestaltung von KI-Anwendungen im betrieblichen Umfeld ermöglichen. Die empirische Grundlage hierfür bildet eine Interviewstudie, in der der KI-Einsatz in unterschiedlichen Branchen und Unternehmensbereichen untersucht wurde. Darauf aufbauend wird ein Vorgehensmodell eingeführt, dass gemäß den identifizierten Kriterien eine partizipative Teilhabe bei der Gestaltung von betrieblichen KI-Anwendungen erlaubt. Das Modell bezieht sich auf die Qualifizierung und Akzeptanzbildung in der Belegschaft, aber auch auf die organisatorische Umsetzung und Verstetigung. Die Herangehensweise verknüpft infrastrukturelle, interaktive als auch konzeptionelle Bausteine miteinander und zielt darauf ab, die Beteiligung der Mitarbeiter*innen in allen Phasen der KI-Entwicklung zu fördern und in der betrieblichen Umsetzung zu berücksichtigen.

Die Ergebnisse dieser Forschung bieten praktische Anknüpfungspunkte für Unternehmen, die sich mit Fragen der KI-Implementierung befassen. Gleichzeitig ergänzen sie den aktuellen wissenschaftlichen Diskurs um die Perspektive, die eine konsequente betriebliche Gestaltung und Teilhabe vorsieht. Die zu diesem Zweck identifizierten Anforderungen komplementieren die empirische Grundlage in der Forschung.
Circadian regulation of sinoatrial nodal cell pacemaking function: Dissecting the roles of autonomic control, body temperature, and local circadian rhythmicity
Authors: Li Pan , Kim Jae Kyoung
Published: February 2024

Strong circadian (~24h) rhythms in heart rate (HR) are critical for flexible regulation of cardiac pacemaking function throughout the day. While this circadian flexibility in HR is sustained in diverse conditions, it declines with age, accompanied by reduced maximal HR performance. The intricate regulation of circadian HR involves the orchestration of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), circadian rhythms of body temperature (CRBT), and local circadian rhythmicity (LCR), which has not been fully understood. Here, we developed a mathematical model describing ANS, CRBT, and LCR in sinoatrial nodal cells (SANC) that accurately captures distinct circadian patterns in adult and aged mice. Our model underscores how the alliance among ANS, CRBT, and LCR achieves circadian flexibility to cover a wide range of firing rates in SANC, performance to achieve maximal firing rates, while preserving robustness to generate rhythmic firing patterns irrespective of external conditions. Specifically, while ANS dominates in promoting SANC flexibility and performance, CRBT and LCR act as primary and secondary boosters, respectively, to further enhance SANC flexibility and performance. Disruption of this alliance with age results in impaired SANC flexibility and performance, but not robustness. This unexpected outcome is primarily attributed to the age-related reduction in parasympathetic activities, which maintains SANC robustness while compromising flexibility. Our work sheds light on the critical alliance of ANS, CRBT, and LCR in regulating time-of-day cardiac pacemaking function and dysfunction, offering insights into novel therapeutic targets for the prevention and treatment of cardiac arrhythmias.
Single-cell RNA profiling reveals classification and characteristics of mononuclear phagocytes in colorectal cancer
Authors: Ji Tiantian , Fu Haoyu , Wang Liping , Chen Jinyun , Tian Shaobo , Wang Guobin , Wang Lin , Wang Zheng
Published: February 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major cause of cancer mortality and a serious health problem worldwide. Mononuclear phagocytes are the main immune cells in the tumor microenvironment of CRC with remarkable plasticity, and current studies show that macrophages are closely related to tumor progression, invasion and dissemination. To understand the immunological function of mononuclear phagocytes comprehensively and deeply, we use single-cell RNA sequencing and classify mononuclear phagocytes in CRC into 6 different subsets, and characterize the heterogeneity of each subset. We find that tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) involved in the differentiation of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory mononuclear phagocytes. Trajectory of circulating monocytes differentiation into tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and the dynamic changes at levels of transcription factor (TF) regulons during differentiation were revealed. We also find that C5 subset, characterized by activation of lipid metabolism, is in the terminal state of differentiation, and that the abundance of C5 subset is negatively correlated with CRC patients’ prognosis. Our findings advance the understanding of circulating monocytes’ differentiation into macrophages, identify a new subset associated with CRC prognosis, and reveal a set of TF regulons regulating mononuclear phagocytes differentiation, which are expected to be potential therapeutic targets for reversing immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment.
Benidipine impairs innate immunity converting sublethal to lethal infections in a murine model of spotted fever rickettsiosis
Authors: Londoño Andrés F. , Farner Jennifer M. , Dillon Marlon , Grab Dennis J. , Kim Yuri , Scorpio Diana G. , Dumler J. Stephen
Published: February 2024

Spotted fever group rickettsiae are tick-borne obligate intracellular bacteria that infect microvascular endothelial cells. Humans and mammalian infection results in endothelial cell barrier dysfunction and increased vascular permeability. We previously demonstrated that treatment of Rickettsia parkeri-infected cells with the calcium channel blocker benidipine significantly delayed vascular barrier permeability. Thus, we hypothesized that benidipine, known to be safe and effective for other clinical processes, could reduce rickettsia-induced vascular permeability in vivo in an animal model of spotted fever rickettsiosis. Based on liver, lung and brain vascular FITC-dextran extravasation studies, benidipine did not reliably impact vascular permeability. However, it precipitated a deleterious effect on responses to control sublethal R. parkeri infection. Animals treated with benidipine alone had no clinical signs or changes in histopathology and splenic immune cell distributions. Benidipine-treated infected animals had marked increases in tissue and blood bacterial loads, more extensive inflammatory histopathologic injury, and changes in splenic architecture and immune cell distributions potentially reflecting diminished Ca2+ signaling, reduced innate immune cell activation, and loss of rickettsial propagation control. Impaired T cell activation by R. parkeri antigen in the presence of benidipine was confirmed in vitro with the use of NKT cell hybridomas. The unexpected findings stand in stark contrast to recent discussions of the benefits of calcium channel blockers for viral infections and chronic infectious or inflammatory diseases. A role for calcium channel blockers in exacerbation of human rickettsiosis and acute inflammatory infections should be evaluated by a retrospective review of patient’s outcomes and medications.
Empowering patients with comorbid diabetes and hypertension through a multi-component intervention of mobile app, health coaching and shared decision-making: Protocol for an effectiveness-implementation of randomised controlled trial
Authors: Kwan Yu Heng , Yoon Sungwon , Tai Bee Choo , Tan Chuen Seng , Phang Jie Kie , Tan Wee Boon , Tan Ngiap Chuan , Tan Cynthia Yan Ling , Koot David , Quah Yan Ling , Teo Hock Hai , Low Lian Leng
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Diabetes and hypertension are prevalent and costly to the health system. We have developed a mobile app (EMPOWER app) which enables remote monitoring and education through personalised nudges. We aim to study the effectiveness of a multi-component intervention comprising the EMPOWER mobile app with health coaching and shared decision-making for diabetes and hypertension.

Methods

We will conduct a two-arm, open-label, pragmatic randomised controlled trial (RCT). Participants with comorbid diabetes and hypertension enrolled from public primary care clinics will be randomised to either intervention or control in a 1:1 ratio. The intervention group participants will have access to health coaching with shared decision-making interventions in addition to the EMPOWER app and their usual primary care. The control group participants will continue to receive usual primary care and will neither receive the EMPOWER app nor health coaching and shared decision-making interventions. Our primary outcome is change in HbA1c level over 9 months. Secondary outcomes include change in systolic blood pressure, quality of life, patient activation, medication adherence, physical activity level, diet, and healthcare cost (direct and indirect) over 9 months.

Discussion

Our trial will provide key insights into clinical- and cost-effectiveness of a multi-component intervention comprising EMPOWER mobile app, health coaching and shared decision-making in diabetes and hypertension management. This trial will also offer evidence on cost-effective and sustainable methods for promoting behavioural changes among patients with comorbid diabetes and hypertension.

Trial registration

This study was registered on clintrials.gov on August 3, 2022, with the trial registration number: NCT05486390.
Optimizing energy efficiency in heterogeneous networks: An integrated stochastic geometry approach with novel sleep mode strategies and QoS framework
Authors: Shabbir Amna , Rizvi Safdar , Alam Muhammad Mansoor , Shirazi Faizan , Su’ud Mazliham Mohd
Published: February 2024

The quest for energy efficiency (EE) in multi-tier Heterogeneous Networks (HetNets) is observed within the context of surging high-speed data demands and the rapid proliferation of wireless devices. The analysis of existing literature underscores the need for more comprehensive strategies to realize genuinely energy-efficient HetNets. This research work contributes significantly by employing a systematic methodology, utilizing This model facilitates the assessment of network performance by considering the spatial distribution of network elements. The stochastic nature of the PPP allows for a realistic representation of the random spatial deployment of base stations and users in multi-tier HetNets. Additionally, an analytical framework for Quality of Service (QoS) provision based on D-DOSS simplifies the understanding of user-base station relationships and offers essential performance metrics. Moreover, an optimization problem formulation, considering coverage, energy maximization, and delay minimization constraints, aims to strike a balance between key network attributes. This research not only addresses crucial challenges in creating EE HetNets but also lays a foundation for future advancements in wireless network design, operation, and management, ultimately benefiting network operators and end-users alike amidst the growing demand for high-speed data and the increasing prevalence of wireless devices. The proposed D-DOSS approach not only offers insights for the systematic design and analysis of EE HetNets but also systematically outperforms other state-of-the-art techniques presented. The improvement in energy efficiency systematically ranges from 67% (min side) to 98% (max side), systematically demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed strategy in achieving higher energy efficiency compared to existing strategies. This systematic research work establishes a strong foundation for the systematic evolution of energy-efficient HetNets. The systematic methodology employed ensures a comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay of network dynamics and user requirements in a multi-tiered environment.
Services, models of care, and interventions to improve access to cancer treatment for adults who are socially disadvantaged: A scoping review protocol
Authors: Horrill Tara C. , Bourgeois Amber , Kleijberg Max , Linton Janice , Leahy Kate , Stajduhar Kelli I.
Published: February 2024

Timely access to guideline-recommended cancer treatment is known to be an indicator of the quality and accessibility of a cancer care system. Yet people who are socially disadvantaged experience inequities in access to cancer treatment that have significant impacts on cancer outcomes and quality of life. Among people experiencing the intersecting impacts of poor access to the social determinants of health and personal identities typically marginalized from society (‘social disadvantage’), there are significant barriers to accessing cancer, many of which compound one another, making cancer treatment extremely difficult to access. Although some research has focused on barriers to accessing cancer treatment among people who are socially disadvantaged, it is not entirely clear what, if anything, is being done to mitigate these barriers and improve access to care. Increasingly, there is a need to design cancer treatment services and models of care that are flexible, tailored to meet the needs of patients, and innovative in reaching out to socially disadvantaged groups. In this paper, we report the protocol for a planned scoping review which aims to answer the following question: What services, models of care, or interventions have been developed to improve access to or receipt of cancer treatment for adults who are socially disadvantaged? Based on the methodological framework of Arksey and O’Malley, this scoping review is planned in six iterative stages. A comprehensive search strategy will be developed by an academic librarian. OVID Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL (using EBSCOhost) and Scopus will be searched for peer-reviewed published literature; advanced searches in Google will be done to identify relevant online grey literature reports. Descriptive and thematic analysis methods will be used to analyze extracted data. Findings will provide a better understanding of the range and nature of strategies developed to mitigate barriers to accessing cancer treatment.
Thrombospondin-1, BIM and CFH polymorphisms and response to anti-VEGF treatment in neovascular age- related macular degeneration patients
Authors: Sorenson Christine M. , Gurel Zafer , Song Yong-Seok , Peterson Kyle D. , Blodi Barbara A. , Sheibani Nader
Published: February 2024

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a vision threatening disease in older adults. Anti-VEGF treatment is effective for the majority of neovascular AMD (nAMD) patients, although approximately 30% of nAMD patients have an incomplete response for unknown reasons. Here we assessed the contribution of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in key angioinflammatory regulatory genes in nAMD patients with an incomplete response compared to those responsive to anti-VEGF treatment. A total of 25 responsive and 30 nAMD patients with an incomplete response to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) treatment were examined for known SNPs that impact the structure and function of thromobospondin-1 (TSP1), Bcl-2-interacting mediator of cell death (BIM) and complement factor H (CFH). Plasma levels of C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2/MCP1), TSP1 and VEGF were assessed by ELISA. Patients responsive to anti-VEGF treatment showed a significant increase in the TSP1 rs2228262 AA allele and a trend for the BIM (rs724710) CT allele. Consistent with previous reports, 42% of the patients responsive to anti-VEGF expressed the CC allele for CFH rs1061170. Although the CFH TT allele had similarly low prevalence in both groups, the TC allele tended to be more prevalent in patients with an incomplete response. Patients with an incomplete response also had increased plasma CCL2/MCP1 levels, consistent with the role increased inflammation has in the pathogenesis of nAMD. Our studies point to new tools to assess the potential responsiveness of nAMD patients to anti-VEGF treatment and suggest the potential use of anti-CCL2 for treatment of nAMD patients with an incomplete response to anti-VEGF.