bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasmonic colorimetric sensor using Ag-NHoM structures
Authors: Maeda S. , Matsuda K. , Niguma R. , Matsuyama T. , Wada K. , Okamoto K.
Published: July 2023

We demonstrated that random structures formed by heat-treatment on mirrored substrates through spacers layer can control the plasmonic color in the visible wavelength range and can be applied to highly sensitive colorimetric sensors.
Near-field spectral properties and ultrafast dynamics of coupled plasmonic nanostructures
Authors: Takeuchi Hiroki , Yue Junfeng , Imaeda Keisuke , Ueno Kosei
Published: July 2023

We are studying the effects of localization of electromagnetic field and extension of plasmon lifetime on the near-field enhancement. In particular, the plasmon lifetime can be controlled by coupling with long-lived optical modes or excitons. In this study, we elucidated the near-field spectral characteristics and phase relaxation dynamics of coupled plasmonic nanostructures and the effect of plasmon dephasing dynamics on near-field enhancement.
Photonic Generation of Multi-Carrier Chirped Waveform using a Dual-Drive Mach Zehnder Modulator
Authors: Dhawan Rajveer , Parihar Reena , Choudhary Amol
Published: July 2023

Frequency multiplication of the RF frequency of linear frequency modulated waveforms by 4X using a dual-drive Mach Zehnder modulator is demonstrated. A chirp bandwidth of 1GHz, time-bandwidth product of 10000, range-resolution of 0.15m is achieved.
Optical Filter-less Photonic Dechirping of a Frequency- Modulated Continuous-Wave Radar
Authors: Moyal Kartik , Dhawan Rajveer , Choudhary Amol
Published: July 2023

Optical filter-less photonic dechirping of signals from a Frequency-Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar using a dual-drive Mach Zehnder modulator is demonstrated for three different targets at 300m, 450m, and 750m with an error of <1.4m.
Broadband phase-sensitive CARS spectroscopy by using a combination of edge filters
Authors: Suzuki Talayuki , Kubota Akimasa , Tanaka Kei
Published: July 2023

Vibrational Raman spectrum is useful for identification molecules without labeling. In previous study, we developed CARS spectroscopy in which Raman spectra were obtained with high frequency resolution by using a single broadband light source. In this spectroscopy, the probe beam was produced by an optical bandpass filter which has a limit of blocking range. This restricts bandwidth of light source and obtained Raman spectra. In this study, we use a combination of edge filters instead of a bandpass filter. By tilting the filters, we select bandwidth and intensity of the probe beam. Variable nature of spectral resolution and intensity are shown by using chloroform molecules as a test sample.
The optical nonlinearity evolution of the graphene/Bi2Te3 heterostructure and application for pulsed laser therein
Authors: Tsai Mu-Hsuan , Yang Chan-Shan , Chen Chun-Hu , Cheng Cheng-Maw , Lan Jia-Chi , Lee Chao-Kuei
Published: July 2023

The intensity-dependent of the optical nonlinearity of a graphene/Bi2Te3 heterostructure at 800 nm over 10 orders of magnitude were investigated by z-scan technique. The versatile nonlinear absorption behavior was discussed and applied to interpret the reported evolution of pulsed solid-state laser.
Excited State Dynamics and Nonlinear Optical Responses of Metalated Porphyrin - Napthalimide Based Donor-Acceptor Systems
Authors: Ahmed Md Soif , Biswas Chinmoy , Bhavani Botta , Giribabu Lingamallu , Soma Venugopal Rao , Raavi Sai Santosh Kumar
Published: July 2023

Femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy (fs-TAS) of two porphyrin- napthalimide molecular systems have been measured to study the excited state properties. Also the second hyperpolarizability value of ~10-31 esu described their usefulness as a nonlinear material.
Design, Fabrication, and Properties of a Terahertz Linear Polarizer made of an Organic Single Crystal
Authors: Tanno Takenori , Sasaki Wataru , Yamada Manabu , Adachi Emi , Yodokawa Shinichi , Kurabayashi Toru
Published: July 2023

A terahertz polarizer was developed using a single crystal of methyl 4-nitrobenzoate. The molecules are arranged in parallel in the crystal, allowing high anisotropy. A high degree of polarization, 76%, was achieved at 2.74 THz.
laser diode with delayed optical feedback in THz time-domain spectroscopy: Optimal optical feedback conditions for a multimode
Authors: Kitagawa T. , Matsuyma T. , Wada K. , Okamoto K. , Kuwashima F.
Published: July 2023

Optimal optical feedback conditions for a multimode laser diode with delayed optical feedback in THz time-domain spectroscopy were found in the chaotic intermittent oscillation conditions by numerical simulations using the multimode laser diode rate equations.
Optical Wireless HDMI with Uncooled Violet-Blue Laser Diode
Authors: Cheng Chih-Hsien , Lee Yi-Ze , Wu Yi-Chien , Wang Wei-Chun , Wang Huai-Yung , Lin Gong-Ru
Published: July 2023

Optical wireless HDMI transceiver using uncooled 12-mW violet laser diode as Tx with f-3dB=4GHz and p-i-n photodiode as Rx with f-3dB=7GHz is demonstrated to enable 26.4-Gbit/s 64-QAM OFDM data and 2K×1K HDMI (1080P@60fps) video transmission.
Physical Layer Encryption Based on a Cascading Method of Inter-domain Scrambling and Phase Perturbance in CO-OFDM System
Authors: Xu Zeyu , Su Tianyu , Tu Miao , Rong Yankai , Ye Yifeng , Xiao Yang , Liu Le , Tang Xianfeng
Published: July 2023

A physical layer encryption scheme using Arnold transform and discrete fractional Fourier transform is proposed to realize inter-domain scrambling and phase perturbance. Simulations show that security performance is enhanced with key space of 1096.
Stable noise-like pulse generation from a NALM-based all-PM Tm-doped fiber laser
Authors: Ren Bo , Li Can , Wang Tao , Guo Kun , Zhou Pu
Published: July 2023

An all-polarization maintaining (PM) noise-like pulse (NLP) mode-locked Tm-doped fiber oscillator based on nonlinear amplifying loop mirror (NALM) was experimentally demonstrated. Through series of analysis, the achieved pulse shows a good stability.
Evaluation of Thermal Resistance of Direct-Bonded Yb:YAG Ceramic
Authors: Kamba Yasuhiro , Qu Chen , Miura Taisuke , Uomoto Miyuki , Shimatsu Takehito
Published: July 2023

We report a measurement of thermal resistance between Yb:YAG and aluminum plate contacted via atomic diffusion bonding (ADB). The thermal resistance of Yb:YAG/Al layer via ADB was 3 times lower than that via indium foil.
Development of high average power ns-pulse laser using an Yb:YAG thin-rod
Authors: Hirao Shotaro , Kaneda Ryosuke , Ogawa Juri , Kurihara Ryo , Inoue Yukihiro , Higashiguchi Takeshi
Published: July 2023

We demonstrated the 5-ns, 1030-nm amplification by a 30-mm long Yb:YAG thin rod. At an excitation power of 45 W at 940 nm, a maximum average power of 1.3 W was obtained for forward excitation.
Comparing Thermally-Induced Beam Degradation for High-Power Lissajous Modes by a Diode-End-Pumped YVO4 Laser with Different Nd-Dopant Concentration
Authors: Tsai Wan-Chen , Cheng Kuang-Ting , Tuan Pi-Hui
Published: July 2023

Beam degradation of Lissajous structured modes induced by thermal effects was explored by a high-power diode-pumped YVO4 laser. Experimental results reveal that the generated Lissajous patterns will deform significantly during power scaling when using a higher Nd-doping level gain crystal due to stronger thermal loading. By further performing astigmatic mode conversion, the corresponding trochoidal beams are confirmed to be greatly influenced by the thermal aberration of the gain medium.
High-Repetition-Rate Structured Oval Pulsed Fields with Controllable Mode Order by an Nd:YVO4/Cr4+:YAG Laser in a Near-Hemispherical Resonator
Authors: Tuan Pi-Hui , Tsai Wan-Chen , Cheng Yu-Zhe
Published: July 2023

Generation of high-transverse-order structured pulsed fields with oval-shaped morphologies is explored by an Nd:YVO4/Cr4+:YAG passively Q-switched (PQS) laser in a tightly-focusing pumped near-hemispherical cavity. By increasing the input pump power, the mode order of the generated structured oval beams can be directly controlled with good beam stability. At a pump level of 8 W, the average output power of the oval structured PQS field can reach up to 2.27 W with the pulse repetition rate and the peak power respectively beyond 125 kHz and 400 W while maintaining quite regular PQS performance.
Supercontinuum beam generation by two-color pumping using the Yb:YAG thin-disk regenerative amplifier
Authors: Ogawa Juri , Kaneda Ryosuke , Kurihara Ryo , Hirao Shotaro , Inoue Yukihiro , Higashiguchi Takeshi
Published: July 2023

We demonstrated the supercontinuum (SC) beam generation by two-color pumping in order to extend shorter wavelength spectral region using a 10-m long photonic crystal fiber (PCF). The bandwidth of SC beam was achieved to be 480-1050 nm.
Terahertz-wave Beamline Using Coherent Edge Radiation at Nihon University
Authors: Sei Norihiro , Ogawa Hiroshi , Sakai Takeshi. , Sumitomo Yoske , Hayakawa Yasushi. , Takahashi Yumiko , Nogami Kyoko , Tanaka Toshinari , Hayakawa Ken
Published: July 2023

A terahertz (THz) beamline in which intense broad-band THz waves are available has been developed at Laboratory for Electron Beam Research and Application of Nihon University. A coherent edge radiation beam generated at a downstream bending magnet in the parametric X-ray straight section is transported to an experimental room by the THz beamline, and THz waves with the energy of 0.2 mJ per 4.5 µs macropulse can be used for spectroscopy and/or imaging measurements in the frequency region of 0.3-3 THz. It is expected that this THz beamline, in which anyone can use high-intensity THz waves, will contribute to developments of THz science.
Droplet-Based Multi-Material Two-Photon Lithography for Heterogeneous 3D Structures
Authors: Togashi Kanata , Hirata Hotaka , Furukawa Taichi , Mukai Masaru , Maruo Shoji
Published: July 2023

We propose a multi-material two-photon lithography system by remotely manipulating droplets using far-infrared heating. After 3D printing of multi-polymer models, heterogeneous 3D structures composed of polymer and metal were also fabricated by using electroless plating.
A novel scheme for narrow-linewidth measurement based on a delayed self-heterodyne interferometer
Authors: Zhao Zhongan , Bai Zhenxu , Jin Duo , Mildren Richard P. , Wang Yulei , Lu Zhiwei
Published: July 2023

In this work we examine the beat note envelope spectrum generated by a short fiber-based, delayed self-heterodyne structure and we present a novel linewidth measurement scheme suitable for characterizing narrow-linewidth lasers.
Effect of Polariton Non-adiabatic Transition on Efficiency of Optomechanical Quantum Engine
Authors: Kishi T. , Ishihara H. , Yokoshi N.
Published: July 2023

We consider optomechanical heat engine with feedback-controlled light which realizes Otto cycle and calculate effect upon its efficiency of the quantum superposition of upper and lower hybridized polariton excitations, and non-adiabatic Landau-Zener transition between them.
Higher-order Bloch sphere: geometric representation of Larmor precession of the higher-order spin states
Authors: Sato Sota , Matsumoto Toshiki , Iba Satoshi , Miyamoto Katsuhiko , Omatsu Takashige , Morita Ken
Published: July 2023

We propose an analogous sphere, herein referred a higher-order Bloch sphere (HOBS), to visualize the Larmor precession of higher-order spin. Our proposed HOBS is potentially applied to advanced quantum information processing.
Mode-division (de)multiplexing combining Stark-Chirped Rapid-Adiabatic-Passage and Supersymmetry
Authors: Viedma David , Mompart Jordi , Ahufinger Verònica
Published: July 2023

We achieve efficient (de)multiplexing for two multimode waveguides by combining Stark-Chirped Rapid-Adiabatic-Passage and Supersymmetry. The method allows to pump the excited modes of waveguides and can be extended to higher order systems.
New Image Recognition Approach by Using Image Senser and Machine-Learning for Grating Coupler Alignment
Authors: Yu Hongli , Yoshimoto Naoto
Published: July 2023

New image recognition approach are proposed for common grating coupler alignment issues. This proposal visualizes the grating coupler by observing the diffraction of visible light on grating surface when it is blocked by fiber/fiber array. Then use machine learning to achieve current position prediction. In this paper, we successfully verified that visible light can be used for grating coupler alignment. And use GoogLeNet as a learning network for machine learning. The results show that the learned network can successfully predict the distance range between the current position and the optimal coupling point position with accuracy of 85%.
Study of Displacement Measurement using Self-coupling Signal of Quantum Dot Laser
Authors: Imai Shunnosuke , Sato Daiki , Iwamoto Ryoya , Tsuda Norio , Yamada Jun
Published: July 2023

Quantum-dot lasers use quantum dots to oscillate at high temperatures. Moreover, they have a single wavelength. However, because it is difficult to make the quantum dots the same size, the half-width of the laser beam becomes wider. As the half-width of the laser beam widens, the self-coupling signal also becomes wider. Therefore, we proposed a new signal processing method for self-coupling signals and conducted basic research on displacement measurements.
Mid-IR Fiber Optic Sensing System Based on Fluoride Fiber Waveguide
Authors: Goya Kenji , Nishijima Yoshiaki , Tokita Shigeki , Yasuhara Ryo , Uehara Hiyori
Published: July 2023

A side-polished sensor structures were embedded in a fluoride glass fiber for mid-infrared (IR) fiber evanescent wave spectroscopy, produced by means of a mechanical polishing process. Spectroscopic analyses of liquid and gas samples were successfully performed. Qualitative/quantitative measurements were demonstrated for glycerin as a liquid sample and for CH4 as a gas sample.
Near-infrared Phase-detection Auto-focusing with Plasmonic Nanostructures
Authors: Seok Godeun , Kim Yunkyung
Published: July 2023

For near-infrared phase-detection autofocusing, a plasmonic structure having metal-insulator-metal (MIM) stack arrays is suggested. The wavelength selectivity and dependency of incident angle of the MIM stack arrays is used for the auto-focusing performance and confirmed.
Forming Aerial Grid Points with AIRR by Use of Faced Half Mirrors
Authors: Kishinami Kohei , Chiba Kazunari , Fujii Kengo , Yasugi Masaki , Suyama Shiro , Yamamoto Hirotsugu
Published: July 2023

We propose a novel optical system to form aerial images of 4 × 4 grid points from four light sources, by introducing faced mirrors to aerial imaging by retro-reflection (AIRR). We have confirmed possibility of forming 2D multiple aerial imaging by ray-tracing simulations.
A Study on Pulse Measurement of Self-Coupled Laser Terminal Voltage Type Sensor Using Suction Modulation Method
Authors: Iwata Yusuke , Sato Daiki , Higuchi Yuto , Tsuda Norio , Yamada Jun
Published: July 2023

Distance measurement using the self-coupled effect of semiconductor lasers requires a linear change in oscillation wavelength. We proposed a novel modulation method for semiconductor lasers and performed measurements with a single pulse.
Investigation on Power Scalability of Yb:KREW Thin- Disk Lasers by Anisotropic Thermo-Mechanical Analysis
Authors: Kitajima Shotaro , Nishizawa Norihiko
Published: July 2023

Thermally induced optical pass difference of the thin-disk laser with anisotropic Yb:KRE(WO4)2 crystal, which is promising broadband gain media, was calculated. The results show that the OPD is sufficiently small even at 9.6 kW/cm2 pumping.
Dark-pulse Microcombs in Integrated Chalcogenide Microresonators
Authors: Xia Di , Wu Jiayue , Wang Zifu , Li Yufei , Zhao Jiaxin , Luo Liyang , Liu Dong , Yang Shuixian , Zhang Bin , Li Zhaohui
Published: July 2023

We demonstrate dark-pulse microcombs generated in an integrated GeSbS microresonator with low pumping power of the ten-milliwatt level. Benefiting from both the high Q-factor and nonlinearity of the microresonator, high-efficiency microcombs are achieved.
Photonic Crystal-Based Higher Order Mode Pass Filter
Authors: Nawwar O. , Kuse N.
Published: July 2023

We propose a higher-order-mode pass filter with the simulated insertion loss of < 1 dB and extinction ratio of > 25 dB, which consists of a 1D photonic crystal with periodic elliptical holes.
Silicon photonic crystal slow-light waveguide in a lattice-shifted perturbed kagome lattice
Authors: Li Deji , Takahata Kiyoto
Published: July 2023

Si photonic crystal slow-light waveguide with lattice-shifted structure in the perturbed kagome lattice is proposed. A group index of 60 with low-dispersion bandwidth of 5.5 nm is achieved with numerical calculation.
Polarization Characteristics of Polaritonic BCS in CsPbBr3 Microcavity
Authors: Moriyama Yuta , Ueda Yusuke , Hirao Tsukasa , Tagami Tomoya , Takahashi Shun , Yamashita Kenichi
Published: July 2023

Room temperature polariton state in microcavity of lead-halide perovskite gathers much attention to study their fundamental quantum physics. In this study, we investigate the polarization characteristics of polaritonic Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer (BCS) state in CsPbBr3 microcavities. The polariton mode shows a large birefringence due to the crystallographic anisotropy. At a high excitation density, we observed condensation switching phenomenon between the two polarized polariton modes.
MXene (Ti3C2TX) Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) in the Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) wavelength
Authors: Kim Han-Na , Song Da In , Jin Young-Ho , Park Changhoon , Kwon Jisung , Koo Chong Min , Kim Myung-Ki
Published: July 2023

MXene SPR, which is more sensitive than the conventional gold SPR at SWIR regime, is advantageous for measuring the refractive index of thin materials, was theoretically and experimentally confirmed.
Optical manipulation of nanoparticles in tapered capillaries: application to the optical sorting of nanodiamonds
Authors: Pin Christophe , Suzuki O , Sasaki Keiji
Published: July 2023

Liquid-filled tapered glass capillaries with few square-micrometer-large cross-sections are fabricated and used to enhance light-matter interactions between a guided laser beam and dispersed nanoparticles. Optical manipulation and sorting of nanodiamonds is demonstrated.
Multifunctional Reflective Metalens in Broadband Visible Light Band
Authors: Yu Aran , Song Da In , Kim Moohyuk , Kim Myung-Ki
Published: July 2023

We demonstrate reflective metalens using silver and PMMA patterned nanoholes and experimentally confirmed that broadband metalenses efficiently focus with each focal length in the RGB wavelength. We expect compact-optics and meta-filter by combining those.
III-V gain-block implanted continuous-wave hybrid silicon nanolaser with enhanced heat dissipation
Authors: Park Byoung Jun , Kim Min-Woo , Park Kyong-Tae , No You-Shin , Kim Myung-Ki
Published: July 2023

We demonstrate a silicon nanolaser operated as a continuous-wave at room temperature with very low threshold power through direct and efficient integration of a silicon photonic crystal nanocavity and a judiciously designed III-V gain block.
Sidelobe-Suppressed Bessel Beam using Hologram
Authors: George Jerin Geogy , Guruvaiah Yerragadda , Bhattacharya Shanti
Published: July 2023

We present the generation of a sidelobe suppressed Bessel beam (SBB) using a holographic technique. The peak intensity of the sidelobes of the generated SBB is about 70% less compared to a standard Bessel beam.
All in a spin: rotational levitated optomechanics
Authors: Dholakia Kishan
Published: July 2023

Optically levitated micro and nanoparticles in vacuum offer new approaches for precision measurement and fundamental physics. We will discuss the use of rotational degree of freedom for achieving high Q values and studying limit cycles.
Robust traffic grooming and infrastructure placement in OTN-over-DWDM networks
Authors: Manias Dimitrios Michael , Naoum-Sawaya Joe , Shami Abdallah , Javadtalab Abbas , Hemmati Mahdi , You Yuren
Published: July 2023

The advent of next-generation networks has revolutionized modern networking practices through its improved service capability as well as its numerous emerging use cases. Coupled with the increasing number of connected devices, 5G and beyond (5G+) network traffic is expected to be increasingly diverse and high in volume. To address the large amount of data exchanged between the 5G+ core and external data networks, optical transport networks (OTNs) with dense wavelength-division multiplexing (DWDM) will be leveraged. In order to prepare for this increase in traffic, network operators (NOs) must develop and expand their existing backbone networks, requiring significant levels of capital expenditures. To this end, the traffic grooming and infrastructure placement problem is critical to supporting NO decisions. The work presented in this paper considers the traffic grooming and infrastructure placement problem for OTN-over-DWDM networks. The dynamicity and diversity of 5G+ network traffic are addressed through the use of robust optimization, allowing for increasing levels of solution conservativeness to protect against various levels of demand uncertainty. Furthermore, a robust traffic grooming and infrastructure placement heuristic (RGIP-H) solution capable of addressing the scalability concerns of the optimization problem formulation is presented. The results presented in this work demonstrate how the tuning of the robust parameters affects the cost of the objective function. Additionally, the ability of the robust solution to protect the solution under demand uncertainty is highlighted when the robust and deterministic solutions are compared during parameter deviation trials. Finally, the performance of the RGIP-H is compared to the optimization models when applied to larger network sizes.
Threshold behavior and tunability of a diffusive random laser
Authors: Ni Dongqin , Späth Moritz , Klämpfl Florian , Schmidt Michael , Hohmann Martin
Published: July 2023

In this study, it is shown that the dynamics of the lasing threshold and the intensity saturation of a diffusive random laser can be visualized by one spectral feature: the peak wavelength shift (tunability). The varied ink concentration and pump energy were utilized to experimentally induce the peak shift and the lasing threshold dynamics. It was found that the peak wavelength progressively turns from blueshift to redshift upon crossing the lasing threshold. A unique random laser threshold regime instead of a threshold point is revealed. This threshold regime was also compared with those deduced from the replica symmetry breaking and the Lévy statistics, both are the state-of-the-art methods to predict the behavior of a complex system. All three results show the high agreement in terms of unveiling the lasing nature of the random lasers.
Multispectral silicon-based photodetector with stacked PN junctions
Authors: Wang Chenguang , Zhao Jiangting , Cao Huiliang , Shen Chong , Tang Jun , Liu Jun
Published: July 2023

A multispectral silicon-based photodetector structure with stacked PN junctions is proposed in this study. The substrate layer of the proposed photodetector consists of four vertically stacked PN junction structures that contain four photodiodes. The designed structure achieves quantum efficiency of up to 70% and a response time of 5.1 × 10−8 s. The proposed photodetector has a simple structure, and the vertically stacked PN junction structure not only reduces the phenomenon of color aliasing, but also achieves multispectral absorption over the range from ultraviolet to visible light with high response speeds, which provides an effective way to perform high-quality imaging.
Transient light shift register mechanism of bi-chromatic pulse generation
Authors: Nyushkov Boris , Ivanenko Aleksey , Smirnov Sergey , Turitsyn Sergey
Published: July 2023

Primary methods for generating short pulses in lasers require intracavity elements or physical mechanisms for modulation or the saturable absorption of radiation. This often complicates laser design and limits capabilities, particularly beyond single-wavelength operation. We propose and explore a method for the synchronous generation of bicolor, high-repetition-rate pulses that combines stimulated emission from Yb rare-earth ions and Raman scattering in a shared all-fiber laser cavity, without employing saturable absorbers or modulators. The proposed mechanism for pulsed lasing is analogous to an optical shift register, with two pulse trains shifting relative to each other by one period after every round trip. This naturally solves the critical problem of compensating for the dispersion-induced differential delay of bi-chromatic pulses during an intracavity round trip. The shift register inherently enables stationary generation of bi-chromatic pulses with a common relatively high repetition rate that is inversely proportional to the differential delay. We have demonstrated the feasibility of the proposed technique through the stable generation of sub-nanosecond bi-chromatic (1066 and 1241 nm) pulses with a repetition rate exceeding 166 MHz. The proposed approach is rather general, and we anticipate that it can facilitate more affordable bi-chromatic pulse generation in a variety of laser systems.
Differing taxonomic responses of mosquito vectors to anthropogenic land-use change in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Fletcher Isabel K. , Gibb Rory , Lowe Rachel , Jones Kate E.
Published: July 2023

Anthropogenic land-use change, such as deforestation and urban development, can affect the emergence and re-emergence of mosquito-borne diseases, e.g., dengue and malaria, by creating more favourable vector habitats. There has been a limited assessment of how mosquito vectors respond to land-use changes, including differential species responses, and the dynamic nature of these responses. Improved understanding could help design effective disease control strategies. We compiled an extensive dataset of 10,244 Aedes and Anopheles mosquito abundance records across multiple land-use types at 632 sites in Latin America and the Caribbean. Using a Bayesian mixed effects modelling framework to account for between-study differences, we compared spatial differences in the abundance and species richness of mosquitoes across multiple land-use types, including agricultural and urban areas. Overall, we found that mosquito responses to anthropogenic land-use change were highly inconsistent, with pronounced responses observed at the genus- and species levels. There were strong declines in Aedes (-26%) and Anopheles (-35%) species richness in urban areas, however certain species such as Aedes aegypti, thrived in response to anthropogenic disturbance. When abundance records were coupled with remotely sensed forest loss data, we detected a strong positive response of dominant and secondary malaria vectors to recent deforestation. This highlights the importance of the temporal dynamics of land-use change in driving disease risk and the value of large synthetic datasets for understanding changing disease risk with environmental change.
Dengue seroprevalence study in Bali
Authors: Masyeni Sri , Fatawy Rois Muqsith , Paramasatiari A. A. A. L. , Maheraditya Ananda , Dewi Ratna Kartika , Winianti N. W. , Santosa Agus , Setiabudy Marta , Sumadewi Nyoman Trisna , Herawati Sianny
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Dengue infection poses significant public health problems in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. The clinical manifestations of dengue vary from asymptomatic to severe dengue manifestations. This serological survey highlighted the high incidence of asymptomatic cases. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of dengue in healthy and ill adults in Bali.

Methods

Cross-sectional seroprevalence surveys were performed between July 2020 and June 2021 among healthy and ill adults in Denpasar Bali. Blood samples were collected from 539 randomly selected urban sites in Denpasar. Immunoglobulin G antibodies against the dengue virus were detected in serum using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit.

Results

Overall, the dengue seroprevalence rate among the 539 clinically healthy and ill adults was high (85.5%). The median age was 34.1 (18–86.1). Most of the participants in the study were younger than 40 years (61.2%). Men were the dominant sex (54.5%). The study found a significant association between dengue seropositivity among people aged > 40 years and healthy status (p = 0.005; odds ratio [OR] = 0.459 and p < 0.001; OR = 0.336, respectively). The study reported that as many as 60% of the subjects had a history of previously suspected dengue infection. This study reflected the proportion of asymptomatic dengue patients requiring better assessment with a serological test.

Conclusion

The current study highlighted that real cases of dengue infection may be higher than reported, with a high prevalence of dengue seropositivity and a relatively dominant proportion of asymptomatic cases. The study guides physicians to be aware of every dengue infection in tropical countries and prevent the spread of the disease.
Projected cancer burden, challenges, and barriers to cancer prevention and control activities in the state of Telangana
Authors: Mahajan Hemant , Reddy Neha , Devi N. G. Marina , Poli Usha Rani , Jayaram M , Tetali Shailaja , Murthy G. V. S. ,   on behalf of the Telangana Cancer Control Study Group
Published: July 2023

Background and aim

The Telangana cancer care program is a proactive, comprehensive initiative encompassing infrastructure development, human resource skilling and ensuring financial protection to those below poverty line. The broad aim of this exercise was to identify modalities to augment the Telangana State Cancer Control Plan to implement a sustainable comprehensive cancer care model for Telangana.

Methods

We conducted in-depth interviews of stakeholders (17 patients and 25 health care providers) to identify barriers and challenges to access existing cancer care system in Telangana; calculated the magnitude of cancer and commensurate workload (in terms of visits to tertiary cancer care system for cancer management and human and equipment requirement) for the next 15 years (from 2022 to 2037). Using the anecdotal evidence and information from stakeholders’ interviews, we developed patient-journey funnels for oral, breast, and cervical cancer patients to highlight patient leakages at various levels of cancer care.

Results

We estimated a 13%, 28%, and 44.7% increase in the number of new cancer cases and the resultant workload (number of visits to health care centre, chemotherapy sessions, radiotherapy sessions, surgeries, specialized human resources and equipment), for the year 2027, 2032, and 2037, respectively, compared to the year 2022. The stakeholders mentioned ‘delayed access’ to healthcare system as the main reason for the poor prognosis of patients. The common reasons cited for ‘delayed access’ were: poor cancer-literacy including prevailing myths and misconception, financial barriers, and rural residence. The patient journey funnel for cancer care revealed a major leakage from ‘screened-positive’ to ‘diagnosis confirmation’ step. The estimated patient leakage varied from ~70% to 90% from ‘screened-positive’ till ‘treatment completion’.

Conclusion

In this study, we anticipated a steady increase in the number of new cancers cases and resultant workload for the state of Telangana from the year 2022 to 2037. This may further be accompanied with limited access or utilization of cancer care system. To manage this public health issue, government should take appropriate measures to improve cancer literacy at the community level as well as increase human resources and necessary equipment.
Identifying multivariate disease trajectories and potential phenotypes of early knee osteoarthritis in the CHECK cohort
Authors: Altamirano Sara , Jansen Mylène P. , Oberski Daniel L. , Eijkemans Marinus J. C. , Mastbergen Simon C. , Lafeber Floris P. J. G. , van Spil Willem E. , Welsing Paco M. J.
Published: July 2023

Objective

To gain better understanding of osteoarthritis (OA) heterogeneity and its predictors for distinguishing OA phenotypes. This could provide the opportunity to tailor prevention and treatment strategies and thus improve care.

Design

Ten year follow-up data from CHECK (1002 early-OA subjects with first general practitioner visit for complaints ≤6 months before inclusion) was used. Data were collected on WOMAC (pain, function, stiffness), quantitative radiographic tibiofemoral (TF) OA characteristics, and semi-quantitative radiographic patellofemoral (PF) OA characteristics. Using functional data analysis, distinctive sets of trajectories were identified for WOMAC, TF and PF characteristics, based on model fit and clinical interpretation. The probabilities of knee membership to each trajectory were used in hierarchical cluster analyses to derive knee OA phenotypes. The number and composition of potential phenotypes was selected again based on model fit (silhouette score) and clinical interpretation.

Results

Five trajectories representing different constant levels or changing WOMAC scores were identified. For TF and PF OA, eight and six trajectories respectively were identified based on (changes in) joint space narrowing, osteophytes and sclerosis. Combining the probabilities of knees belonging to these different trajectories resulted in six clusters (‘phenotypes’) of knees with different degrees of functional (WOMAC) and radiographic (PF) parameters; TF parameters were found not to significantly contribute to clustering. Including baseline characteristics as well resulted in eight clusters of knees, dominated by sex, menopausal status and WOMAC scores, with only limited contribution of PF features.

Conclusions

Several stable and progressive trajectories of OA symptoms and radiographic features were identified, resulting in phenotypes with relatively independent symptomatic and radiographic features. Sex and menopausal status may be especially important when phenotyping knee OA patients, while radiographic features contributed less. Possible phenotypes were identified that, after validation, could aid personalized treatments and patients selection.
Large hydropower projects increase stress despite compensation efforts: Evidence from the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Mayer Adam , Cavallini Johansen Igor , Lopez Maria Claudia , Paes de Souza Mariluce , Moran Emilio F.
Published: July 2023

Large hydropower projects continue to be built in developing nations, despite their known negative impacts. Large-scale energy projects strain local infrastructure and reduce access to infrastructure for households that live near them. Here we investigate the link between large-scale hydropower projects and stress. Our results suggest that these projects create stress through two mechanisms: strains on community resources and through the process of displacement. We also ask how compensation and resettlement programs condition these relationships. Using data from the Madeira river basin in the Brazilian Amazon, we find that hydropower projects increase stress by reducing access to energy, water, sanitation and land. Compensation provided was not sufficient to moderate this effect.
Human nucleolar protein SURF6/RRP14 participates in early steps of pre-rRNA processing
Authors: Moraleva Anastasiia , Deryabin Alexander , Kordyukova Maria , Polzikov Mikhail , Shishova Kseniya , Dobrochaeva Kira , Rubtsov Yury , Rubtsova Maria , Dontsova Olga , Zatsepina Olga
Published: July 2023

The biogenesis of ribosomes requires tightly controlled transcription and processing of pre-rRNA which comprises ribosomal RNAs forming the core of large and small ribosomal subunits. Early steps of the pre-rRNA processing and assembly of the ribosomal subunits require a large set of proteins that perform folding and nucleolytic cleavage of pre-rRNAs in the nucleoli. Structure and functions of proteins involved in the pre-rRNA processing have been extensively studied in the budding yeast S. cerevisiae. Functional characterization of their human homologues is complicated by the complexity of mammalian ribosomes and increased number of protein factors involved in the ribosomal biogenesis. Homologues of human nucleolar protein SURF6 from yeast and mouse, Rrp14 and Surf6, respectively, had been shown to be involved in the early steps of pre-rRNA processing. Rrp14 works as RNA chaperone in complex with proteins Ssf1 and Rrp15. Human SURF6 knockdown and overexpression were used to clarify a role of SURF6 in the early steps of pre-rRNA processing in human cell lines HeLa and HTC116. By analyzing the abundance of the rRNA precursors in cells with decreased level or overexpression of SURF6, we demonstrated that human SURF6 is involved in the maturation of rRNAs from both small and large ribosomal subunits. Changes in the SURF6 level caused by knockdown or overexpression of the protein do not result in the death of HeLa cells in contrast to murine embryonic fibroblasts, but significantly alter the distribution of cells among the phases of the cell cycle. SURF6 knockdown in both p53 sufficient and p53 deficient HCT116 human cancer cells results in elongation of G0/G1 and shortening of G2/M phase. This surprising result suggests p53 independence of SURF6 effects on the cell cycle and possible multiple functions of SURF6. Our data point to the shift from pathway 1 to pathway 2 of the rRNA biogenesis caused by the SURF6 knockdown and its likely association with p53 pathway.
Rapid and sensitive detection of waterfowl mycoplasmas using TaqMan assays
Authors: Nemesházi Edina , Wehmann Enikő , Grózner Dénes , Nagy Dorottya Sára , Kovács Áron Botond , Földi Dorottya , Kreizinger Zsuzsa , Gyuranecz Miklós
Published: July 2023

Waterfowl-specific mycoplasmas cause significant economic losses worldwide. However, only limited resources are available for the specific detection of three such bacteria, Mycoplasma anatis, M. anseris and M. cloacale. We developed species-specific TaqMan assays and tested their reliability across 20 strains of the respective target species as well as 84 non-target avian bacterial strains. Furthermore, we analysed 32 clinical DNA samples and compared the results with those of previously published conventional PCRs. The TaqMan assays showed 100% specificity and very high sensitivity, enabling the detection of target DNA as low as either 10 or 100 copies/μl concentration, depending on the assay. Importantly, we found that while the here developed TaqMan assays are reliable for species-specific detection of M. anatis, the previously published conventional PCR assay may give false positive results. In conclusion, the new assays are reliable, sensitive and suitable for clinical diagnostics of the target species.
Which method is optimal for estimating variance components and their variability in generalizability theory? evidence form a set of unified rules for bootstrap method
Authors: Li Guangming
Published: July 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study is to compare the performance of the four estimation methods (traditional method, jackknife method, bootstrap method, and MCMC method), find the optimal one, and make a set of unified rules for Bootstrap.

Methods

Based on four types of simulated data (normal, dichotomous, polytomous, and skewed data), this study estimates and compares the estimated variance components and their variability of the four estimation methods when using ap×idesign in generalizability theory. The estimated variance components are vc.p, vc.i and vc.pi and the variability of estimated variance components are their estimated standard errors (SE(vc.p), SE(vc.i) and SE(vc.pi)) and confidence intervals (CI(vc.p), CI(vc.i) and CI(vc.pi)).

Results

For the normal data, all the four methods can accurately estimate the variance components and their variability. For the dichotomous data, the |RPB| of SE (vc.i) of traditional method is 128.5714, the |RPB| of SE (vc.i), SE (vc.pi) and CI (vc.i) of jackknife method are 42.8571, 43.6893 and 40.5000, which are larger than 25 and not accurate. For the polytomous data, the |RPB| of SE (vc.i) and CI (vc.i) of MCMC method are 59.6612 and 45.2500, which are larger than 25 and not accurate. For the skewed data, the |RPB| of SE (vc.p), SE (vc.i) and SE (vc. pi) of traditional method and MCMC method are over 25, which are not accurate. Only the bootstrap method can estimate variance components and their variability accurately across different data distribution. Nonetheless, the divide-and-conquer strategy must be used when adopting the bootstrap method.

Conclusions

The bootstrap method is optimal among the four methods and shows the cross-distribution superiority over the other three methods. However, a set of unified rules for the divide-and-conquer strategy need to be recommended for the bootstrap method, which is optimal when boot-p forp(person), boot-pi fori(item), and boot-i forpi(person × item).
Home bias and local equity portfolio decisions of Chinese insurance institutional investors
Authors: Yang Shanshan , He Na , Yu Haizong
Published: July 2023

Our paper explores whether Chinese insurance companies exhibit a local preference in deciding their equity portfolios and the incentive of this preference. Our research finds that Chinese insurance institutional investors significantly tilt to invest in local firms geographically close to them, and local investments do not significantly outperform non-local investments. The results indicate that the behavioral aspect of home bias, rather than information advantage, play a more significant role in deciding equity holdings of China’s insurance companies. Additionally, local equity preference is more pronounced in dialect-segmented areas and life insurance firms. This paper incorporates hometown identification into the analysis framework of insurance companies’ portfolio decision-making and enriches the research of their investing strategies from the perspective of behavioral finance.
Metabolic and inflammatory profiles, gut microbiota and lifestyle factors in overweight and normal weight young thai adults
Authors: Somnuk Surasawadee , Komindr Surat , Monkhai Sudjai , Poolsawat Thitirat , Nakphaichit Massalin , Wanikorn Bandhita
Published: July 2023

Obesity among young adults, especially those living in developing countries is increasing. A high body mass index (BMI) is one of the major causes of several diseases worldwide, constituting an important risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Investigations describing the relationship between BMI, clinical and gut microbiota characteristics and lifestyle factors of overweight young adults, especially from Southeast Asian countries are limited. Metabolic and inflammatory biomarkers, fecal microbiota profiles and lifestyle factors were compared between overweight Thai young adults (n = 30, mean age 33 ± 9.48) and those with normal weight (n = 30, mean age 27 ±7.50). This study was registered with the Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR20220204007). Health status including body composition, fasting glucose and insulin, lipid profiles, liver and kidney function, inflammatory biomarkers, blood pressure and fecal microbiota using 16S rRNA gene sequencing data was determined. Dietary intake was assessed using a 3-day dietary record and a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), with physical activity levels compared using the international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ). The overweight group had significantly higher BMI, waist-hip ratio, body fat mass, % body fat, skeletal mass, triglyceride level, C-reactive protein, insulin and blood pressure, with lower levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and blood urea nitrogen compared to the normal weight group. Significant differences in fecal microbiota composition at the family and genus levels were observed between the two groups. In our clinical setting, we also observed that unhealthy diets with high consumption of food rich in fat and sugar, processed meat and alcohol, and physical inactivity were associated with an increased prevalence of overweight in Thai young adults. Results provided the big picture of health and lifestyle characteristics of overweight young Thai people. Young adults should be encouraged to engage in health-promoting activities that maintain healthy bodyweight.
Short communication: Antibacterial effects of essential oils from Cinnamomum cassia bark and Eucalyptus globulus leaves–The involvements of major constituents
Authors: Nguyen Ha Thi Thanh , Miyamoto Atsushi , Nguyen Hai Thanh , Pham Huong Thi , Hoang Hong Thi , Tong Ngoc Thi My , Truong Linh Thi Ngoc , Nguyen Ha Thi Thu
Published: July 2023

Essential oils from Cinnamomum cassia bark and Eucalyptus globulus leaves have been traditionally applied for bacterial infections, through both of aromatherapy and oral application. (E)-cinnamaldehyde and 1,8 cineole have been identified as their major secondary metabolites, and are also generally considered as the main active ingredients responsible for their medicinal applications. However, ethnobotanical doctors still prefer to use whole essentials oils over purified compounds in bacterial infections. We therefore hypothesized that multi-compound extracts might exert better effects than isolated ingredients. In order to verify the hypothesis about advantages of whole materials, we examined antibacterial properties of the 2 plant essential oils in the comparison with their isolated major compounds, such as (E)-cinnamaldehyde and 1,8 cineole. Effects of liquid- and vapor-phase were examined on a set of 6 gram-positive and -negative bacteria, applying broth dilution, agar well diffusion and disc volatilization methods. In all 3 investigations, we observed that whole cinnamon and eucalyptus oils, with the lower concentrations of (E)-cinnamaldehyde (89.1%) and 1,8 cineole (61.2%), were able to induce better effects than the purified active compounds (≥ 99%). These results partly explain the advantages of using whole essential oils over isolated ingredients, and therefore support the application of traditional dosage forms for bacterial infections in ethnomedicine.
The VUCA-nature of modern protest communication
Authors: Fedoniuk Serhii
Published: July 2023

This study introduces several political revolutions from the past and the present for a deeper understanding of the nature of protest communication. Previously, the protests’ success was ensured by the use of printing, telegraph and media innovations, which allowed the protest organizers to evade government control. Today, such technologies provide information and allow participants to communicate proactively in social networks, self-organizing into structures that strengthen and spread protest communication. Social networks enable the realization of the communication potential of each participant based on the organizational model of mass collaboration. This model is not characterized by a system-structural organization, which confounds predictions of the processes of social interaction. Each subsequent event depends on the previous one, complicating the establishment of a trend. This organizational model creates difficulties for the authorities in controlling protests, as it is prone to the stochastic formation of centres of activity, which can be explained from the perspective of field theory, provided in this study. Therefore, from the point of view of the authorities, the situation with the development of the protest acquires the characteristics of VUCA, moving beyond possible control.