bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequency Selective Hollow-core Negative Curvature Fiber Design via Nest-clad Poling
Authors: Gamble Jacob , Marn Allison M. , Ordu Mustafa , Akosman Ahmet E.
Published: November 2022

A frequency selective negative curvature fiber design is proposed for potential optical sensing applications. Loss modulation depth of 11.78 dB and differential loss ratio of 51 between the baseline and filtered wavelengths were achieved.
Mid-Infrared Supercontinuum Generation and Self-Cleaning Dynamics in a Graded-Index Multimode Tellurite Fiber
Authors: Krutova Ekaterina , Eslami Zahra , Karpate Tanvi , Klimczak Mariusz , Buczynski Ryszard , Genty Goëry
Published: November 2022

We demonstrate the generation of a broadband supercontinuum spanning from 950 nm to 2900 nm with signatures of self-cleaning dynamics in a specially designed tellurite graded-index multimode fiber. Our results are the first to report such a large bandwidth and a quasi-Gaussian transverse intensity distribution in the mid-infrared regime.
Nonlinear Effects in Bent Large-Mode-Area Multimode Fibres
Authors: Vukovic Natasha , Chan Jaclyn S. , Codemard Christophe A. , Zervas Michalis N.
Published: November 2022

We study the generation of SRS and FWM in bent LMA MM fibres with core diameters in the 25µm-50µm range. In contrast to SRS generation, the FWM power decreases with the bend radius.
200 μm Diameter Ultra-Low-Loss Optical Fiber for High-Density Submarine and Terrestrial Applications
Authors: Downie J. D. , Liang X. , Hurley J. , Prater J. , Robbins D. , Stainer D. , Synowiec K.
Published: November 2022

We study a 200 μm diameter ultra-low-loss optical fiber for application in high-density submarine and terrestrial cable systems. Transmission tests confirm performance identical to standard diameter fiber and system experiments demonstrate likely use cases.
Transmission over Coupled-Core Multicore Fibers
Authors: Ryf R. , Mazur M. , Fontaine N. K. , Dallachiesa L. , Chen H. , Marotta A. , Mecozzi A. , Antonelli C.
Published: November 2022

We report transmission results in cabled coupled-core multicore fibers (CC-MCFs), investigated by using off-line digital signal processing techniques and long term real-time measurements in an urban environment. The results confirm that transmission over coupled-core multicore fibers is a technically viable approach.
Modelling of propagation effects in SDM fibers
Authors: Antonelli C. , Lasagni C. , Mecozzi A. , Shtaif M. , Serena P. , Bononi A. , Fontaine N. , Chen H. , Mazur M. , Ryf R.
Published: November 2022

This presentation reviews the modelling of some of the main propagation effects in coupled-core multi-core fibers for space-division multiplexed transmission. The focus is on the characterization of modal dispersion, its control through fiber design, and its interplay with fiber nonlinearities.
Achievable Rates of Coupled SDM Systems Utilizing Successive Interference Cancellation
Authors: Chou Elaine S. , Kahn Joseph M.
Published: November 2022

In simulated 15,000 km seven-core coupled-core multi-core fiber links with 0.3 dB mode-dependent gain per amplifier, successive interference cancellation with linear equalizers approaches optimal performance when coding across modes; otherwise, a 38% capacity loss is incurred.
FPGA-based Optical Kerr Effect Emulator
Authors: Liu Keren , Börjeson Erik , Häger Christian , Larsson-Edefors Per
Published: November 2022

We propose a digital emulator of the optical Kerr effect, suitable for FPGA implementation. In addition, we study a combined PMD and Kerr emulator implementation with respect to DSP hardware aspects such as fixed-point performance.
Improvement in Convergence Rate and Power Penalty with an Error-Controlled Iterative Algorithm in IMDD Systems
Authors: Jin X.Q. , Jin W. , Zhong Z.Q. , Jiang S. , Rajbhandari S. , Hong Y.H. , Giddings R.P. , Tang J.M.
Published: November 2022

An error-controlled iterative algorithm (ECIA) with extra two thresholds to reduce decision errors is proposed for linearization of SMF-based intensity-modulation/direct-detection systems. The convergence rate and power penalty are improved by a factor of 2~3 (80km-SMF).
Unleashing the Optical Fiber Transmission Bandwidth: From Theory to Experiments
Authors: Buglia H. , Galdino L.
Published: November 2022

Ultra-wideband transmission leads to non-negligible inter-channel stimulated Raman scattering (ISRS) effect degrading the system quality of transmission (QoT). In this study, it is shown that the transceiver noise mitigates the ISRS effect for short and metro networks.
Can Analog Mobile Fronthaul Achieve Higher Spectral Efficiency than its Digital Rival at the Same SNR Target?
Authors: Che Di
Published: November 2022

Analog mobile fronthaul is commonly believed to have higher spectral efficiency than its digital rival. We propose an SNR-related metric universally applied to analog and digital fronthaul, and find the analog advantage reduces or even vanishes at the same SNR target.
Net 4.12 Gb/s UOWC system over 2 m using a single-pixel blue mini-LED and a simplified third-order Volterra equalizer
Authors: Cheng Chen , Li Xueyang , Yang Yanfu
Published: November 2022

We demonstrate a high-speed underwater optical wireless communication system operating at a record net data rate of 4.12 Gb/s over 2-m using a single-pixel GaN-based blue mini-LED and a simplified third-order Volterra equalizer.
Spiking Neural Network Equalization for IM/DD Optical Communication
Authors: Arnold Elias , Böcherer Georg , Müller Eric , Spilger Philipp , Schemmel Johannes , Calabrò Stefano , Kuschnerov Maxim
Published: November 2022

A spiking neural network (SNN) equalizer model suitable for electronic neuromorphic hardware is designed for an IM/DD link. The SNN achieves the same bit-error-rate as an artificial neural network, outperforming linear equalization.
Turbulence Characterisation for Free Space Optical Communication Using Off-Axis Digital Holography
Authors: van Vliet Vincent , van der Heide Sjoerd , van den Hout Menno , Okonkwo Chigo
Published: November 2022

An optical turbulence generator is characterised using digital holography, measuring the amplitude and phase of the perturbed optical field and enabling analysis of turbulence effects and development of mitigation techniques.
All-digital Compensation of Doppler Shift in LEO-LEO Optical Inter-satellite Links
Authors: Pita Thiago C. , Vieira Igor P. , Mello Darli A. A.
Published: November 2022

We evaluate the all-digital Doppler shift compensation in LEO-LEO coherent optical inter-satellite links. Doppler shift figures are assessed by the simulation of commercial orbits. The results indicate a two-stage compensation method as a viable solution.
10 km Retro-reflected Coherent Atmospheric FSOC at 128 Gbps 16-QAM
Authors: Balasiano Ohad , Wohlgemuth Eyal , Attia Ido , Roizman Ariel , Falk Tzvi , Faig Rachel , Shapira Avisar , Yoffe Yaron , Cohen Roi Jacob , Vered Ran , Sadot Dan
Published: November 2022

We present a novel 128 Gbps SP-16QAM FSOC experiment, conducted in a retro-reflected setup over 10 km through the atmosphere. The optical setup is presented, and results are further discussed along with the limiting factors.
Non-mechanical Beam Steering and Divergence Control Based on Variable Focus Lenses for Free-Space Optical Communication Systems
Authors: Mai Vuong , Kim Hoon
Published: November 2022

We present our recent progress on the non-mechanical beam steering and divergence control technique implemented by variable focus lenses for free-space optical communications.
High-Bandwidth Signal Reception with Improved ENOB by Frequency-Time Coherence Photonics Sampling
Authors: Mandalawi Younus , Meier Janosch , Singh Karanveer , Hosni Mohamed I. , De Souvaraj , Preußler Stefan , Schneider Thomas
Published: November 2022

We present an ENOB improvement of 2.54 for the measurement of a 62.5 GHz signal by parallelization based on photonics sampling.
Bandwidth-enhanced LFM waveform generation by dynamic control of an optically injected semiconductor laser
Authors: Zhu Jian , Zhou Pei , Zhang Renheng , Li Nianqiang
Published: November 2022

A bandwidth-enhanced linear frequency-modulated (LFM) waveform generation scheme is proposed and demonstrated based on dynamic control of an optically injected semiconductor laser. LFM waveforms with bandwidths as large as 8 GHz are successfully generated.
Securing Communication with Quantum Key Distribution: Implications and Impact on Network Performance
Authors: Stan Catalina , Garcia Carlos Rubio , Cimoli Bruno , Olmos Juan José Vegas , Monroy Idelfonso Tafur , Rommel Simon
Published: November 2022

With a fully functional point-to-point quantum key distribution link, we demonstrate secret key retrieval by a pair of encryptors and investigate how their addition impacts key network performance indicators on a 10 Gbit/s data channel.
Entanglement Assisted Bistatic Radars Outperforming Coherent States-based Quantum Radars
Authors: Djordjevic Ivan B.
Published: November 2022

We propose an entanglement assisted bistatic radar employing the optical phase conjugation on transmitter side and classical coherent detection on receiver side, which significantly outperforms corresponding classical and coherent states-based quantum radars.
BIPS—A code base for designing and coding of a Phage ImmunoPrecipitation Oligo Library
Authors: Leviatan Sigal , Kalka Iris N. , Vogl Thomas , Klompas Shelley , Weinberger Adina , Segal Eran
Published: November 2022

BIPS (Build Phage ImmunoPrecipitation Sequencing library) is a software that converts a list of proteins into a custom DNA oligonucleotide library for the PhIP-Seq system. The tool creates constant-length oligonucleotides with internal barcodes, while maintaining the original length of the peptide. This allows using large libraries, of hundreds of thousands of oligonucleotides, while saving on the costs of sequencing and maintaining the accuracy of oligonucleotide reads identification. BIPS is available under GNU public license from: https://github.com/kalkairis/BuildPhIPSeqLibrary.
Non-communicable disease policy implementation in Libya: A mixed methods assessment
Authors: Allen Luke N. , Wild Cervantée E. K. , Loffreda Giulia , Kak Mohini , Aghilla Mohamed , Emahbes Taher , Bonyani Atousa , Hatefi Arian , Herbst Christopher , El Saeh Haider M.
Published: November 2022

The Libyan Ministry of Health is keen to understand how it can introduce policies to protect its population from non-communicable diseases (NCDs). We aimed to perform an implementation research assessment of the current situation, including challenges and opportunities. We used an explanatory sequential mixed methods design. We started with a quantitative assessment of NCD policy performance based on review of the WHO NCD Progress Monitor Reports. Once we had identified Libya’s NCD policy gaps we performed a systematic review to identify international lessons around barriers and successful strategies for the policies Libya has not yet implemented. Finally, we performed a series of key stakeholder interviews with senior policymakers to explore their perspectives around promising policy actions. We used a realist paradigm, methods triangulation, and a joint display to synthesise the interpretation of our findings and develop recommendations. Libya has not fully implemented any of the recommended policies for diet, physical activity, primary care guidelines & therapeutics, or data collection, targets & surveillance. It does not have robust tobacco policies in place. Evidence from the international literature and policymaker interviews emphasised the centrality of according strong political leadership, governance structures, multisectoral engagement, and adequate financing to policy development activities. Libya’s complex political and security situation are major barriers for policy implementation. Whilst some policies will be very challenging to develop and deploy, there are a number of simple policy actions that could be implemented with minimum effort; from inviting WHO to conduct a second STEPS survey, to signing the international code on breast-milk substitutes. Like many other fragile and conflict-affected states, Libya has not accorded NCDs the policy attention they demand. Whilst strong high-level leadership is the ultimate key to providing adequate protections, there are a range of simple measures that can be implemented with relative ease.
DArTSeq SNP-based genetic diversity and population structure studies among taro [(Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott] accessions sourced from Nigeria and Vanuatu
Authors: Fufa Tilahun Wondimu , Abtew Wosene Gebreselassie , Amadi Charles Okechukwu , Oselebe Happiness Ogba
Published: November 2022

Taro is a valuable staple food crop among resource-poor rural people in countries such as Nigeria and Ghana, among others. Characterization of genetic diversity is a prerequisite for proper management of breeding programs and conservation of genetic resources. Two hundred seventy one taro accessions obtained from Nigeria and Vanuatu were genotyped using DArTseq-based SNP markers with the objectives of investigating the genetic diversity and population structure. In the analysis, 10,391 SNP markers were filtered from the sequence and used. The analysis revealed higher transition than transversion types of SNPs in the ratio of 1.43:1. The polymorphism ranged from 0.26 to 0.29 for the markers, indicating moderate genetic diversity. A model-based Bayesian clustering analysis of taro accessions yielded five subgroups and revealed the admixture situation in 19.19% of all accessions in the study. Vanuatu taro accessions exhibited more genetic diversity than Nigerian taro accessions. The population diversity estimate (PhiPt) was relatively higher (0.52) for accessions originating from Vanuatu than for Nigerian accessions. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed that most variation existed among individuals within a population at 52%. Nei’s genetic distance showed that relatedness is based on geographical proximity. Collection of taro genetic resources should give more emphasis to within regions to utilize diversity in taro breeding program. This study also demonstrated the efficiency of DArTseq-based SNP genotyping for large-scale genome analysis in taro. The genotypic markers provided in this study are useful for association mapping studies.
Multimorbidity and depressive symptoms in older adults and the role of social support: Evidence using Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) data
Authors: Zhang Lixia , Shooshtari Shahin , St. John Philip , Menec Verena H.
Published: November 2022

Background

The rising prevalence of multimorbidity poses challenges to health systems globally. The objectives of this study were to investigate: 1) the association between multimorbidity and depressive symptoms; and 2) whether social support plays a protective role in this association.

Methods

A prospective population-based cohort study was conducted to analyze baseline and 3-year follow-up data of 16,729 community dwelling participants aged 65 and above in the Canadian Longitudinal Study of Aging (CLSA). Multimorbidity was defined as having three or more chronic conditions. The 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CESD-10) was used to measure depressive symptoms. The 19-item Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Social Support Survey was employed to assess perceived social support. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to examine the association between multimorbidity, social support and depressive symptoms.

Results

Multimorbidity was very common among participants with a prevalence of 70.6%. Fifteen percent of participants had depressive symptoms at baseline. Multimorbidity was associated with increased odds of having depressive symptoms at 3-year follow-up (adjusted odds ratio, aOR = 1.51, 95% CI 1.33, 1.71), and developing depressive symptoms by follow-up among those with no depressive symptoms at baseline (aOR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.42, 1.92). Social support was consistently associated with decreased odds of depressive symptoms, regardless of level of multimorbidity.

Conclusion

Multimorbidity was positively associated with depressive symptoms over time, but social support served as a protective factor. As a modifiable, protective factor, emphasis should be placed in clinical practice to assess social support and refer patients to appropriate services, such as support groups. Similarly, health policy should focus on ensuring that older adults have access to social support opportunities as a way to promote mental health among older adults. Community organizations that offer social activities or support groups play a key role in this respect and should be adequately supported (e.g., with funding).
Impact of prothrombin and factor V Leiden mutations on the progression of fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Naguib Mary , Abdel-Razek Wael , Estaphan Suzanne , Abdelsameea Eman , Abdel-Samiee Mohamed , Shafik Nevine F.
Published: November 2022

Background

The role of thrombotic factors in the pathogenesis and progression of liver fibrosis remains obscure. We aimed to study the relationship between prothrombin G20210A (PT20210) and factor V Leiden (FVL) mutations and the progression of fibrosis and liver function in chronic HCV patients.

Methods

The study included 100 subjects, 88 patients with HCV-related cirrhosis (compensated: 38, decompensated: 50), and 12 controls. Patients with other viral hepatitis or coinfection, inherited metabolic disease, autoimmune hepatitis, hepatic or extrahepatic malignancy, in addition to patients with causes of hypoalbuminemia, elevated bilirubin or prolonged INR not related to cirrhosis were excluded from the study. Relevant clinical data were collected and basic laboratory tests were performed. Liver fibrosis was assessed using APRI and FIB-4 scores. FVL and PT20210 mutations were analyzed.

Results

FVL and PT20210 mutations were significantly higher in decompensated vs. compensated patients (32% vs. 5.3%, P = 0.001; 20% vs. 5.3%, 0.043, respectively) and absent in controls. Both mutations significantly correlated to the duration of infection, platelet count and fibrosis scores. PT20210 mutation significantly correlated to serum albumin and INR. Both mutations significantly predicted fibrosis scores, especially PT20210 (AUROC: 0.833 for APRI and 0.895 for FIB-4).

Conclusions

Both mutations are significantly correlated to fibrosis progression and liver profile and could be considered as markers predicting the need for early and different intervention.
A robot for overground physical human-robot interaction experiments
Authors: Regmi Sambad , Burns Devin , Song Yun Seong
Published: November 2022

Many anticipated physical human-robot interaction (pHRI) applications in the near future are overground tasks such as walking assistance. For investigating the biomechanics of human movement during pHRI, this work presents Ophrie, a novel interactive robot dedicated for physical interaction tasks with a human in overground settings. Unique design requirements for pHRI were considered in implementing the one-arm mobile robot, such as the low output impedance and the ability to apply small interaction forces. The robot can measure the human arm stiffness, an important physical quantity that can reveal human biomechanics during overground pHRI, while the human walks alongside the robot. This robot is anticipated to enable novel pHRI experiments and advance our understanding of intuitive and effective overground pHRI.
Application of machine learning for multi-community COVID-19 outbreak predictions with wastewater surveillance
Authors: Ai Yuehan , He Fan , Lancaster Emma , Lee Jiyoung
Published: November 2022

The potential of wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) as a surveillance and early warning tool for the COVID-19 outbreak has been demonstrated. For areas with limited testing capacity, wastewater surveillance can provide information on the disease dynamic at a community level. A predictive model is a key to generating quantitative estimates of the infected population. Modeling longitudinal wastewater data can be challenging as biomarkers in wastewater are susceptible to variations caused by multiple factors associated with the wastewater matrix and the sewersheds characteristics. As WBE is an emerging trend, the model should be able to address the uncertainties of wastewater from different sewersheds. We proposed exploiting machine learning and deep learning techniques, which are supported by the growing WBE data. In this article, we reviewed the existing predictive models, among which the emerging machine learning/deep learning models showed great potential. However, most models are built for individual sewersheds with few features extracted from the wastewater. To fulfill the research gap, we compared different time-series and non-time-series models for their short-term predictive performance of COVID-19 cases in 9 diverse sewersheds. The time-series models, long short-term memory (LSTM) and Prophet, outcompeted the non-time-series models. Besides viral (SARS-CoV-2) loads and location identity, domain-specific features like biochemical parameters of wastewater, geographical parameters of the sewersheds, and some socioeconomic parameters of the communities can contribute to the models. With proper feature engineering and hyperparameter tuning, we believe machine learning models like LSTM can be a feasible solution for the COVID-19 trend prediction via WBE. Overall, this is a proof-of-concept study on the application of machine learning in COVID-19 WBE. Future studies are needed to deploy and maintain the model in more real-world applications.
Tetraspanin Cd9b plays a role in fertility in zebrafish
Authors: Greaves Sarah , Marsay Katherine S. , Monk Peter N. , Roehl Henry , Partridge Lynda J.
Published: November 2022

In mice, CD9 expression on the egg is required for efficient sperm-egg fusion and no effects on ovulation or male fertility are observed in CD9 null animals. Here we show that cd9b knockout zebrafish also appear to have fertility defects. In contrast to mice, fewer eggs were laid by cd9b knockout zebrafish pairs and, of the eggs laid, a lower percentage were fertilised. These effects could not be linked to primordial germ cell numbers or migration as these were not altered in the cd9b mutants. The decrease in egg numbers could be rescued by exchanging either cd9b knockout partner, male or female, for a wildtype partner. However, the fertilisation defect was only rescued by crossing a cd9b knockout female with a wildtype male. To exclude effects of mating behaviour we analysed clutch size and fertilisation using in vitro fertilisation techniques. Number of eggs and fertilisation rates were significantly reduced in the cd9b mutants suggesting the fertility defects are not solely due to courtship behaviours. Our results indicate that CD9 plays a more complex role in fish fertility than in mammals, with effects in both males and females.
Maternal haploid waxy maize, environmental effects on grain yield, and quality parameters
Authors: Cengiz Rahime
Published: November 2022

Waxy maize (Zea mays L. var. ceratina Kulesh) is used in the food and textile sectors, amylopectin has an important place in the adhesive and paper sectors as well. These sectors have to buy waxy maize from abroad because there is no waxy maize variety registered yet in Turkey. In vivo maternal haploid technique was applied to obtain doubled haploid (DH) waxy lines in a short time. RWS, RWK-76, and their hybrid RWS × RWK-76 maternal haploid inducers were used as male parents in vivo maternal haploid. SSRs markers were used to identify the genetic similarity between the number of 17 DH waxy lines. Similarity ratio ranged from 12% to 68% between DH waxy lines. DH waxy lines were used in crossbreeding and created 24 hybrids. Iodine tests were made on DH waxy lines and their hybrids and analyzed some quality parameters of hybrids. Candidate waxy hybrids were selected from the progeny nursery trial. Several 16 waxy and 3 check hybrids were experimented within three locations and the average grain yield of waxy and check hybrids ranged from 8.4–12.7 t/ha and 12.7–16.2 t/ha respectively. PCA biplot analysis using the data of the average of three locations and genotype × environment interaction was determined. PC1 and PC2 variation percentages were found to be 18.32% and 75.22%, respectively. ADAX-14, ADAX-13R, ADAX-13, and ADAX-19 waxy varieties are more stable in terms of yield than other hybrids. The difference between varieties was found statistically significant for protein, oil, starch, hectoliter, and 1000 grain weight.
The effect of COVID-19 vaccination on the menstrual pattern and mental health of the medical students: A mixed-methods study from a low and middle-income country
Authors: Kareem Rabia , Sethi Mifrah Rauf , Inayat Sumaira , Irfan Muhammad
Published: November 2022

Objective

To assess the effect of COVID-19 vaccination on menstrual patterns and mental health of medical students and to explore the students’ perspective regarding this effect.

Materials and methods

This mixed-method study was conducted on the medical and dental students of the private and public sector institutions of Peshawar from September 2021 to March 2022. A Menstrual symptom questionnaire (MSQ) and hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) were used. This was followed by qualitative interviews with the students who faced problems in their menstruation after the COVID-19 vaccination.

Results

A total of 953 students were included, with a mean age of 20.67±1. 56 years. More than half (n = 512, 53.7%) experienced menstrual cycle abnormalities post-vaccination. The majority having disturbances in their menstrual cycle had significantly higher levels of anxiety (p = 0.000). Results on the menstrual symptom questionnaire, anxiety, and depression subtype of HADS showed a negative and statistically significant relationship with changes after COVID-19 vaccination (p<0.05). In the qualitative interviews, 10 (58.8%) students each had problems with frequency and flow, followed by 7 (41.2%) students, who had dysmenorrhea. Seven (41.2%) consulted a gynecologist for management. The majority (n = 14, 82.4%) stated that these issues had an adverse impact on their mental health and almost half (n = 8, 47.1%) suggested consulting a gynecologist while facing such situations.

Conclusion

This study showed the impact of the COVID-19 vaccine on women`s menstrual patterns and subsequent mental health status. Although the majority of the students experienced menstrual cycle abnormalities and subsequent mental health adversities post COVID-19 vaccination but these were temporary and self-limiting and were attributed to the psychological impact of the vaccination. Therefore, it is imperative to alert health care professionals about possible side effects and prior counseling is expected to play an important role in this context.
Household fuel use and its association with potential respiratory pathogens among healthy mothers and children in Ethiopia
Authors: Tamire Mulugeta , Addissie Adamu , Gizaw Solomon , Abebe Tamrat , Geravandi Shadi , Nilsson Staffan , Gonzales-Siles Lucia , Nordén Rickard , Andersson Rune , Skovbjerg Susann
Published: November 2022

Background

Over 90% of Ethiopians still rely on solid fuels for cooking food. The pollution from the burning process causes adverse respiratory outcomes including respiratory infections. This study aimed to assess the association of the pollution with nasopharyngeal occurrence of potential pathogens.

Methods

We conducted a comparative cross-sectional study in urban and rural settings in Ethiopia in 2016. Questionnaire-based data were collected from 168 mothers and 175 children aged below two years. Multiplex real-time PCR assays were performed on nasopharyngeal secretions for detection of bacteria and viruses and for the identification of pneumococcal serotypes/groups.

Results

High rates of bacteria and viruses in the nasopharynx were detected by PCR among both the children and the mothers. Among the detected viruses, enterovirus was more commonly detected among rural children than among children from urban areas.Streptococcus pneumoniaeandHaemophilus influenzaewere both more prevalent among children and mothers from rural areas compared with urban groups and among those using solid fuels compared with cleaner fuel users. Children from rural households using solid fuels and children whose mothers had educational status below high school had four times higher odds for detection ofS.pneumoniaecompared with those households using cleaner energy or those children having mothers with a higher educational status, respectively. One or more serotype/serogroup was identified in about 40% of the samples that were positive for pneumococci. Out of all identified serotypes/serogroups, 43% in the children and 45% in the mothers belonged to PCV13, indicating the larger majority of detected pneumococci being non-PCV13 serotypes.

Conclusion

This study presented a high carriage rate ofS.pneumoniaeandH.influenzaeamong both children and their mothers, especially in rural areas and among solid fuel users. Thus, interventions should target cleaner energy sources to the public and promote maternal education.
The effects of normobaric and hypobaric hypoxia on cognitive performance and physiological responses: A crossover study
Authors: Hohenauer Erich , Freitag Livia , Costello Joseph T. , Williams Thomas B. , Küng Thomas , Taube Wolfgang , Herten Miriam , Clijsen Ron
Published: November 2022

This partially randomised controlled, crossover study sought to investigate the effects of normobaric hypoxia (NH) and hypobaric hypoxia (HH) on cognitive performance, the physiological response at rest and after a 3-min step-test. Twenty healthy participants (10 females and 10 males, 27.6±6.2yrs, 73.6±13.7kg, 175.3±8.9cm) completed a cognitive performance test, followed by the modified Harvard-step protocol, in four environments: normobaric normoxia (NN; PiO2: 146.0±1.5mmHg), NH (PiO2: 100.9±1.3mmHg), HH at the first day of ascent (HH1: PiO2= 105.6±0.4mmHg) and HH after an overnight stay (HH2: PiO2= 106.0±0.5mmHg). At rest and/or exercise, SpO2, NIRS, and cardiovascular and perceptual data were collected. The cerebral tissue oxygenation index and the cognitive performance (throughput, accuracy, and reaction time) were not different between the hypoxic conditions (all p>0.05). In NH, SpO2was higher compared to HH1 (ΔSpO2NH vs HH1: 1.7±0.5%, p = 0.003) whilst heart rate (ΔHR NH vs HH2: 5.8±2.6 bpm, p = 0.03) and sympathetic activation (ΔSNSi NH vs HH2: 0.8±0.4, p = 0.03) were lower in NH compared to HH2. Heart rate (ΔHR HH1 vs HH2: 6.9±2.6 bpm, p = 0.01) and sympathetic action (ΔSNSi HH1 vs HH2: 0.9±0.4, p = 0.02) were both lower in HH1 compared to HH2. In conclusion, cognitive performance and cerebral oxygenation didn’t differ between the hypoxic conditions. SpO2was only higher in NH compared to HH1. In HH2, heart rate and sympathetic activation were higher compared to both NH and HH1. These conclusions account for a PiO2between 100–106 mmHg.
Impossibility results about inheritance and order of death
Authors: Wang Yue
Published: November 2022

If several relatives died with no will, the order of their deaths could affect the inheritance result. When the order of death is unknown, there are three approaches to determine the inheritance result in this simultaneous death situation: apply an inheritance method that is not affected by the order of death; artificially assign the order of death; stipulate that persons with unknown orders do not inherit each other. The last approach is adopted by the current French Civil Code (denoted as the French Approach). We prove that under some basic requirements, the French Approach is the only valid solution to the order of death problem. Therefore, the inheritance law of a country that does not adopt the French Approach either has unsolvable inheritance problems or violates basic requirements. In the appendix, we study the existence and uniqueness of inheritance methods that are invariant for different orders of death and only violate one requirement, such as gender equality.
Lack of relationship between 25-hydoxyvitamin D concentration and a titer of antibodies to hepatitis B surface antigen in children under 12 years of age
Authors: Dabrowska-Leonik Nel , Sawicka-Powierza Jolanta , Bernatowska Ewa , Pac Malgorzata , Bernat-Sitarz Katarzyna , Heropolitanska-Pliszka Edyta , Pietrucha Barbara , WolskaKusnierz Beata , Lewandowicz-Uszynska Aleksandra , Mikoluc Bozena
Published: November 2022

The effect of vitamin D levels on the response to the hepatitis B vaccine in childhood and the induced levels of antibodies against the hepatitis B surface antigen (anti-HBs) is not yet well understood. The study aimed to investigate the relationship between age, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration and anti-HBs titer among children under 12 years old. Serum 25(OH)D concentration and anti-HBs titer were determined in 352 healthy Caucasian children with the average age of 4.2 (2.5; 6.3) years. All children were vaccinated with 3 doses of hepatitis B vaccine (Engerix-B, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited) in infancy according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations. Only 14.5% of children had an optimal concentration of 25(OH)D ≥ 30 ng/mL and 71.9% children had a seroprotective anti-HBs titer ≥ 10 mIU/mL. Significant negative correlations were found between 25(OH)D, anti-HBs titer and age (r = –0.420, p = 0.000; r = –0.425, p = 0.000, respectively), and a weak positive correlation between 25(OH)D concentration and anti-HBs titer (r = 0.243, p = 0.000). Analysis of six clusters of children demonstrated that age is the main factor affecting anti-HBs titer. One third of children under 12 years of age had nonprotective anti-HBs titer < 10 mIU/mL and around 40% had vitamin D deficiency. We conclude that vitamin D status has no impact on anti-HBs titer in children vaccinated against hepatitis B virus in infancy. Age, so time since the receipt of the last dose of hepatitis B vaccine, is the main factor influencing a decline in anti-HBs titer.
Knowledge, attitudes and preventive practices towards COVID-19 among workers at two points of entry in South-Eastern Botswana: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Siamisang Keatlaretse , Mokgethi Naledi , Lesetedi Onalethata , Selemogo Mpho
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Adherence to control measures and provision of appropriate information at international borders and points of entry (POE) are key to limiting the importation of COVID-19. This study aimed to describe the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) of POE staff towards COVID-19 in Botswana.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study of the COVID-19 KAPs among workers at Tlokweng border and Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (SSKIA) using a self-administered questionnaire. The tool incorporated the participants’ demographics and selected questions on COVID-19 KAPs. Analysis was descriptive. Categorical data were summarized with frequencies while numeric data were summarized with medians and interquartile ranges (IQR). The total knowledge and practice scores of each individual were computed by adding their individual scores for each question. The scores were then categorized according to Bloom’s cutoffs of good (80–100%), moderate (60–79%) and poor (<60%).

Results

A total of 276 individuals participated in the study. Of these, 70 were from Tlokweng border and 206 were from SSKIA. The participants performed worst on questions on the frequency of severe disease and asymptomatic transmission of COVID-19. The attitudes were mainly positive. However, 54.6% of participants thought that the COVID-19 burden is exaggerated. For practice, the worst performance was on social distancing, sanitizing shared surfaces, and going to work while symptomatic. Overall, good and moderate knowledge was observed in 47.8% and 38.0% of participants, respectively. Similarly, good and moderate performance on practices was observed in 63.6% and 24.4% of participants respectively.

Conclusion

The knowledge, attitudes, and practices were generally good at the 2 points of entry. More than 85% of respondents had moderate or good performance on knowledge and practice questions. However, the respondents performed poorly in some key questions. Targeted health information and promotion must address the identified gaps.
Effects of plant density on the aboveground dry matter and radiation-use efficiency of field corn
Authors: Li Yi-Chin , Dai Hung-Yu , Chen Hungyen
Published: November 2022

The amount of solar radiation intercepted by the plant canopy drives crop plant photosynthesis and the formation and development of plant organs. Radiation-use efficiency (RUE) is an index used to quantify the relationship between solar radiation and biomass, and crop yield can be increased by increasing RUE. The main goals of this study were to initially investigate the effects of plant densities on the aboveground dry matter of corn, and subsequently examine the effects of plant densities on RUE and leaf area index (LAI), and the effects of LAI on RUE. Finally, we provide a comparative assessment of the approaches used to determine RUE. Analyses were conducted using growth and meteorological data obtained for two field corn varieties (TNG1 and TNG7) grown under four different plant density conditions in central Taiwan in 2017. The RUE values obtained in this study were primarily estimated from the slope of the linear relationship between aboveground dry matter measured at periodic harvests and the corresponding cumulative intercepted photosynthetically active radiation up to the time of harvest. TNG1 and TNG7 with a row spacing of 37.5 cm × 20 cm had the largest amounts of aboveground dry matter and highest RUE values of 4.41 and 4.55 g MJ-1, respectively. We established that the higher the plant density, the higher were the values obtained for RUE and LAI. We also compared the different methods of estimating RUE and make recommendations in this regard. Our findings in this study will enable farmers to gain information on the dynamics of crop yield variation at an early stage of growth, and also provide reference values that can be incorporated in future crop yield models.
Gelatin coating enhances therapeutic cell adhesion to the infarcted myocardium via ECM binding
Authors: Davis Kara A. , Gottipatti Anuhya , Peng Hsuan , Donahue Renee , Chelvarajan Lakshman , Cahall Calvin , Tripathi Himi , Al-Darraji Ahmed , Ye Shaojing , Abdel-Latif Ahmed , Berron Brad J.
Published: November 2022

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) results in weakening of the heart muscle and an increased risk for chronic heart failure. Therapeutic stem cells have been shown to reduce inflammatory signaling and scar tissue expansion, despite most of these studies being limited by poor retention of cells. Gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) coatings have been shown to increase the retention of these therapeutic cells near the infarct. In this work, we evaluate two different potential binding partners for GelMA-coated bone marrow cells (BMCs) and myocardial tissue: the extracellular matrix (ECM) and interstitial non-cardiomyocytes. While cells containing β1 integrins mediate cell-ECM adhesion in vivo, these cells do not promote binding to our collagen-degraded, GelMA coating. Specifically, microscopic imagining shows that even with high integrin expression, GelMA-coated BMCs do not bind to cells within the myocardium. Alternatively, BMC incubation with decellularized heart tissue results in higher adhesion of coated cells versus uncoated cells supporting our GelMA-ECM binding mode. To further evaluate the ECM binding mode, cells were incubated on slides modified with one of three different major heart ECM components: collagen, laminin, or fibronectin. While all three components promoted higher adhesion than unmodified glass, collagen-coated slides resulted in a significantly higher adhesion of GelMA-coated BMCs over laminin and fibronectin. Incubation with unmodified BMCs confirmed that without a GelMA coating minimal adhesion of BMCs occurred. We conclude that GelMA cellular coatings significantly increase the binding of cells to collagen within the ECM. Our results provide progress towards a biocompatible and easily translatable method to enhance the retention of transplanted cells in human studies.
ROTEIRO PARA ANÁLISE DE DADOS QUALITATIVOS EM PESQUISAS SOBRE TURISMO E DESENVOLVIMENTO SUSTENTÁVEL
Authors: Busarello Mônica Tatiana Bunese , Reis Clóvis , Barrios Yanet María Reimondo , Silva Rodrigo Borsatto Sommer da
Published: November 2022

O desenvolvimento sustentável é um fenômeno complexo, cuja interpretação demanda uma perspectiva multidimensional, a qual leve em conta diferentes âmbitos relacionados a questões ambiental, política, econômica, social e cultural. Não obstante, as pesquisas sobre turismo e desenvolvimento sustentável, em geral, não articulam um debate teórico sobre as dimensões da sustentabilidade e não seguem um roteiro sistematizado para análise dos dados empíricos, o que fragiliza as conclusões dos estudos. O presente trabalho busca suprir tal lacuna. O artigo propõe uma matriz de análise de dados qualitativos para pesquisas sobre turismo e desenvolvimento sustentável. Trata-se de uma proposta desenvolvida ao longo dos últimos anos e validada em trabalhos que abordam diferentes casos de estudo. O roteiro demonstrou-se operacional na análise de informações provenientes de diferentes procedimentos metodológicos e proporcionou robustez teórica à análise da realidade.
Developments in the History of Arbitration
Authors: Boorman Francis Calvert
Published: November 2022

It is not always easy to see the relevance of history to current practice, a complaint that might be levelled at the history of arbitration. Yet the uses made of history in work about the present state of arbitration show that some fascinating interventions have been made by both eminent academics and practitioners, with some important differences emerging in their interpretations. This article gives a brief overview of the history of legislation relating to arbitration, which predominantly relates to the relationship of arbitration with commerce and the courts. It also suggests that recent developments in studies of the history of arbitration challenge some of the assumptions made by those using it to illuminate the present. One particular difficulty with the way history has been used is the tendency to focus exclusively on commercial arbitration. Two detailed examples are given of areas that have received less attention; arbitration in the early railway industry and its use settling disputes for working-class friendly societies. These point the way to exploring a more diverse history, that looks beyond London, lawyers and commerce.

Keywords: arbitration; dispute resolution; history; Georgian; Victorian; railways; friendly societies; legislation.
Case Transcript - Bates v Post Office Limited, TLQ 17 4055 Day 6 19 March 2019
Authors: Case Transcript England & Wales
Published: November 2022

Case Transcript - Bates v Post Office Limited, TLQ 17 4055

Day 6 19 March 2019

England & Wales; theft; electronic evidence; Post Office Horizon System; ‘reliability’ of computers
Case Transcript - Bates v Post Office Limited, TLQ 17 4055 Day 17 7 June 2019
Authors: Case Transcript England & Wales
Published: November 2022

Case Transcript - Bates v Post Office Limited, TLQ 17 4055

Day 17 7 June 2019

England & Wales; theft; electronic evidence; Post Office Horizon System; ‘reliability’ of computers
Revising the Saudi Electronic Transactions Law on E-Signatures
Authors: Kinsara Oways
Published: November 2022

Acknowledging the ever-increasing significance of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the global e-commerce market, this article critically examines the e-signature regime of the 2007 Saudi Electronic Transactions Law and its implementing regulation. In doing so, it considers the evolution of the European regime on e-signatures, from Directive 1999/93/EC to Regulation (EU) No 910/2014 (the eIDAS Regulation). The article primarily concludes that the Saudi legislature’s approach to e-signatures has been overly restrictive and calls for different, permissive and careful consideration.

 

Index words: Electronic signature, e-commerce, e-transactions, Saudi Arabia, European Union, eIDAS Regulation, comparative analysis.
Electronic Execution of Documents Interim Report
Authors: King Mark
Published: November 2022

An Industry Working Group set up by a public appointments competition has recently produced Electronic Execution of Documents Interim Report via the Ministry of Justice. The Law Commission dealt with this issue in 2019 in Electronic execution of documents (Law Com No 386, HC2624) and it was suggested that uncertainties may have influenced the degree of confidence of users. The aim of this article is to provide a critical analysis of the Interim Report and its uncritical acceptance of the suggestion.

Index words: Ministry of Justice; England & Wales; electronic execution; electronic documents; electronic signatures; recommendations
Practitioner Note
Authors: Geréd Árpád , Prodan Alexandra
Published: November 2022

Árpád Geréd and Alexandra Prodan discuss a recent case regarding the use of electronic signatures in procurement between jurisdictions. The failure to understand such details when tendering between jurisdictions almost caused a public tender worth € 3 billion to fail. 

Index words: Austria; Switzerland; signature procurement requirements; qualified electronic signature
Electronic signature law update
Authors: Özgür Eralp Avukat
Published: November 2022

Avukat Özgür Eralp provides an up-date to the electronic signature laws of Turkey, setting out the full history of electronic signature legislation and recent legislative developments. 

Index words: Turkey; electronic signatures; legislation; update
PhD Research in process
Authors: Mason Stephen
Published: November 2022

PhD Research in process
PhD Completed
Authors: Mason Stephen
Published: November 2022

PhD Completed
Welcome to the IALS Student Law Review
Authors: Yalcin Tugce
Published: November 2022

In this Editorial, Tugçe Yalçin (Editor-in-Chief of ISLRev, Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, University of London) welcomes you to the Autumn 2021 issue of the IALS Student Law Review (ISLRev) and introduces the articles featured in this issue of the journal.
Does the French law restricting the religious practice of the Islamic full-face veil amount to persecution within the remit of International Refugee Law, or is it a legitimate distinction under International Human Rights Law?
Authors: Talha Eeman
Published: November 2022

This article intends to prove that the general blanket ban restricting the public wearing of a full-face veil in France is a law that illegitimately discriminates against Muslim women who choose to cover their face with a Niqab and Burqa. The Niqab and Burqa are both full Islamic veils, which cover the whole body including the face, leaving just a narrow slit for the eyes (Niqab) or covering the eyes too (Burqa).[1] Muslim women who wear an Islamic veil, do so as a badge of honour—one that is liberating, empowering, and brings solace because it is worn solely as a religious act of compliance to God. Such face coverings are a valid form of manifestation of freedom of religion; a freedom enshrined as a non-derogable right under International Human Rights Law.[2] Yet, Muslim women have been severely deprived of such a right since the enforcement of Loi 2010-1192 du 11 Octobre 2010 interdisant la dissimulation du visage dans l'espace public - Law 2010-1192 of 11 October 2010 on the Prohibition of Concealing the Face in Public Space.[3] This law has allowed for the nationwide marginalisation of a group of women simply trying to live in the comfort of their faith. I will contend that such a profane law is not only a clear form of indirect discrimination under International Human Rights Law through the State’s illegitimate justifications; but also, that the law amounts to persecution on cumulative grounds under the Refugee Convention 1951.
Editorial Board and Associate Editors
Authors: Harave Narayana
Published: November 2022

Editorial Board and Associate Editors