bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monolithic integration of waveguide amplifiers and passive polymer photonic devices using photolithography
Authors: Tao Siliang , Wang Shuangshuang , Li Changlong , Liu Tingting , Zhao Dan , Yin Yuexin , Qin Guanshi , Wang Fei , Zhang Daming
Published: September 2024

The monolithic integration of rare-earth-doped waveguide amplifiers with passive photonic devices has long been a subject of extensive research. Herein, we propose a method for active-passive monolithic integration based on polymer photonic integrated devices. The monolithic integration of passive devices with active waveguide amplifiers is achieved by spin-coating an active layer atop a passive polymer waveguide and subjecting specific regions of the active layer to selective photolithography. To validate the proposed monolithic integration scheme's impact on the performance of passive devices, performance tests were conducted on both passive and active-passive integrated 8-channel arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) devices. The crosstalk (CT) of the AWG devices before and after adding the active layer ranged from −12.04 dB to −14.72 dB and from −10.02 dB to −14.88 dB, respectively, with channel spacings of 9.29 nm and 8.80 nm, indicating consistent performance of the passive devices with the addition of the active layer. In a 0.5 cm-long active waveguide, internal net gain was achieved across all eight channels of the AWG, with a gain bandwidth ranging from 1518 nm to 1580 nm. Notably, an internal net gain of 9.5 dB was attained at 1527 nm. The successful integration of rare-earth-doped waveguide amplifiers with passive components on a monolithic chip has been achieved for the first time, requiring only two straightforward photolithography steps. This milestone not only preserves the inherent functionality of passive components but also enables effective signal amplification. This technological innovation holds the promise of fully harnessing the potential of rare-earth-doped waveguide amplifiers in the realm of photonic integrated circuits, thereby catalyzing significant breakthroughs and advancements in the field of optoelectronics.
Reprogrammable metasurface holographic image encryption technology based on a three-dimensional discrete hyperchaotic system
Authors: Bi Kaiyun , Zhang Guanmao , Zhang Jilong , Diao Guangchao , Xing Bochuan , Cui Mengjie , Ge Zhilin , Du Yuze
Published: September 2024

The emergence of metasurfaces provides a secure and efficient platform for optical encryption technology as they have broad prospects in the field of information security. However, the limited number of channels available on metasurfaces and the insufficient security of keys make them vulnerable to attacks by eavesdroppers. In this work, a reprogrammable metasurface optical encryption scheme based on a three-dimensional hyperchaotic system is proposed. The three-dimensional discrete hyperchaotic system has strong ergodicity, initial value sensitivity, and pseudorandomness compared to previous chaotic systems that can pass NIST randomness testing well. Additionally, based on this hyperchaotic property, we designed a metasurface encryption structure based on the geometric phase. The research results show that the introduction of the hyperchaotic system greatly improves the randomness and flexibility of key generation. This scheme can encrypt multiple images with high security. Decryption is only possible when the attacker steals the complete chaotic system and parameters, as well as over 70% of the correct incident light phase information. Our research results have great potential applications in the field of metasurface optical encryption.
Gated InAs quantum dots embedded in surface acoustic wave cavities for low-noise optomechanics
Authors: Wang Zixuan , DeCrescent Ryan A. , Imany Poolad , Bush Joey T. , Reddy Dileep V. , Woo Nam Sae , Mirin Richard P. , Silverman Kevin L.
Published: September 2024

Self-assembled InAs quantum dots (QDs) are promising optomechanical elements due to their excellent photonic properties and sensitivity to local strain fields. Microwave-frequency modulation of photons scattered from these efficient quantum emitters has been recently demonstrated using surface acoustic wave (SAW) cavities. However, for optimal performance, a gate structure is required to deterministically control the charge state and reduce the charge noise of the QDs. Here, we integrate gated QDs and SAW cavities using molecular beam epitaxy and nanofabrication. We demonstrate that with careful design of the substrate layer structure, integration of the two systems can be accomplished while retaining the optimal performance of each subsystem. These results mark a critical step toward efficient and low-noise optomechanical systems that truly leverage the excellent properties of semiconductor QDs.
Deep learning and genetic algorithm driven accelerated design for frequency-multiplexed complex-amplitude coding meta-hologram
Authors: Zhang Ming , Dong Peng , Wang Zhe , Hou Weimin , Wang Baozhu , Yang Lin , Li Kang , Melikyan Vazgen
Published: September 2024

Frequency-multiplexed metasurfaces represent a significant innovation in breaking the functional limitations of traditional metasurfaces, showing immense potential in multi-channel communication. However, existing frequency-multiplexed metasurfaces primarily focus on pure phase and linear polarization modulation, neglecting the modulation for complex amplitude and circularly polarized waves. Additionally, crosstalk suppression between dual-frequency channels often requires meticulous tuning of the meta-atom structure. Therefore, manually designing a set of meta-atoms that satisfies both complex amplitude modulation and low crosstalk at dual frequencies is extremely challenging and time-consuming. Here, we utilize the method of deep learning and genetic algorithm to design a kind of meta-atom capable of bi-spectral 2-bit amplitude and arbitrary phase modulation, which greatly reduces the design difficulty and achieves excellent low-crosstalk performance. This method can be easily generalized to the design of other complex meta-atoms to improve the design efficiency. Furthermore, we propose a frequency-multiplexed complex-amplitude coding meta-hologram for modulating left-handed circularly polarized (LCP) waves. When illuminated with LCP light, it can reconstruct two distinct holographic images at two different frequencies in the near field with high quality. The independent modulation capability of the metasurface for multiple degrees of freedom of frequency, amplitude and phase gives it broad application prospects in multi-channel communication, data storage and perfect holography.
Overview and recent applications of the miniaturized HiPoLas ignition system
Authors: Kroupa Gerhard , Tabakaev Dmitry , Börner Michael , Rackemann Nico , Soller Sebastian
Published: September 2024

The requirements of the space industry for reusable, low cost or clustered engines have triggered high interest in a laser ignition system capable of multi-point ignition. The miniaturized SAL HiPoLas laser ignition system developed for single-point direct-plasma ignition has recently been enhanced towards a fiber coupling, multiplexing, and distribution system. A brief history of the HiPoLas development with an overview of the latest, highly miniaturized generation V ignition system is shown. Applications of the miniaturized ignition system, summarizing more than 10 years of development in the field of rocket engine laser ignition, as well as the first results of a recently developed prototype of a fiber distribution system, based on diffractive optical elements, are presented.
Direct extraction of optical constants of organic semiconductors in ultrastrongly coupled microcavities and their application in antireflection design for polariton devices
Authors: Chang Jui-Fen , Zhuang Zheng-Feng , Lin Sung-Jung , Li Yu-Ming , Jaing Cheng-Chung
Published: September 2024

The strongly bound Frenkel excitons in organic semiconductors enable strong or even ultrastrong exciton-photon coupling in room-temperature cavities, with the resulting polariton states typically resolved through reflectance measurements. This paper demonstrates that the distinct features of exciton and polariton modes in the reflectance spectra of strongly/ultrastrongly coupled organic microcavities can be effectively utilized to extract the optical constants and physical thickness of the embedded organic semiconductor. We investigate metal-clad microcavities based on two prototype conjugated polymers, poly[2-methoxy-5-(3,7-dimethyloctyloxy)-1,4-phenylenevinylene] (MDMO-PPV) and poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT), both exhibiting ultrastrong coupling characteristics. The (n,k) spectra and thickness of these polymer films are determined by fitting the normal incidence reflectance spectra of organic microcavities, using Kramers-Kronig transformation and transfer-matrix calculations with varying optical and thickness parameters. We also examine the individual effects of the main fitting parameters on the spectrum, establishing a close correlation with the underlying polariton properties. Moreover, we analyze the optical admittance at exciton and polariton modes to understand reflectance variations with different parameters, which facilitates precise control of optical properties at specific modes through cavity design. Finally, using the extracted optical constants of MDMO-PPV and P3HT, we propose optimized microcavity designs that exhibit antireflection at the lower polariton mode for potential luminescence and photodetection device applications.
Flame temperature and emissivity distribution measurement of solid propellant based on clustering analysis of multispectral radiation images
Authors: Ni Hu , Qiang Kejie , Wang Wensong , Yang Bin , Tao Jinxin , Yang Yang , Shi Zhiquan
Published: September 2024

To measure the combustion parameters of a solid propellant, this Letter researches the fitting method for flame temperature and emissivity based on multispectral images and proposes the particle swarm optimization–K-means (PSO–K-means) clustering optimization algorithm of a flame multispectral image. Considering the difference in flame radiation characteristics in different regions, the flame multispectral image is clustered, and spectra in different regions are analyzed and selected in different fitting bands to inverse temperature and emissivity. On this basis, the method is applied to measure solid propellant combustion parameters with different formulations. The measurement shows that the flame temperature is between 1700 and 2100 K, and the emissivity is concentrated in 0.1–0.5. Compared with temperature measurements obtained from tungsten–rhenium thermocouples, the relative deviation of multispectral imaging thermometry is less than 5%. The distribution characteristics of solid propellant combustion parameters with different formulations were analyzed, which provided important data support for evaluating combustion conditions and optimizing solid propellant formulations.
Nonadiabatic dynamical simulations to the radiative recombination of nonfullerene acceptor molecular excited states
Authors: Mu Xinyu , Yang Xue , Wang Dongrui , Ji Yiwen , Wang Wenjing , Gao Kun
Published: September 2024

Improving the radiative recombination rate of nonfullerene acceptor (NFA) molecular excited states can help to promote their photoluminescence quantum yield and thus reduce the nonradiative energy loss in NFA-based organic solar cells. In this Letter, by developing a nonadiabatic dynamical simulation method, we clarify quantitative correlations of some typical characteristics of NFA molecules with their radiative recombination rates. For a single NFA molecule, the weakening of electron−phonon coupling and the strengthening of electron-push−pull potential can each improve the radiative recombination rate. For different NFA molecular aggregates, their radiative recombination rates are all reduced compared with a single molecule, where the A-to-A and A-to-D type J-aggregates have higher rates than D-to-D type H-aggregate. To further improve the radiative recombination rate of NFA molecular J-aggregates, we should increase the intermolecular distance, such as extending the side chain length.
Mode conversion in graded-index few-mode fiber via hollow cylindrical long-period fiber gratings
Authors: Ma Yuehui , Zhou Kaiming , Kamarudin Lukman , Jiang Chen , Chen Siyu , Li Jiaxuan , Huang Qiushi , Sun Wei , Wang Xutao , Yang Zhiqun , Liu Yaping , Zhang Lin , Mou Chengbo , Liu Yunqi
Published: September 2024

We demonstrate the realization of mode conversion using hollow cylindrical long-period fiber gratings (LPFGs) inscribed in graded-index few-mode fibers (FMFs) by a femtosecond laser. By precisely shaping the refractive index modulation into a hollow cylindrical structure, we enable efficient coupling from the fundamental mode to high-order modes (LP11, LP02, LP21, LP12, LP31, LP03, and LP22 modes). The method achieves high-efficiency and low-loss mode conversion across various mode groups, marking a first for graded-index FMFs with different grating periods. The influence of the hollow cylindrical LPFG radius on mode conversion efficiency and spectral characteristics is thoroughly investigated. Additionally, incorporating a linear polarizer allowed for distinguishing between LP modes within a mode group, enhancing the tunability of the mode converter. These mode conversion devices have significant potential for applications in mode gain equalization and mode scrambling for mode division multiplexing (MDM) systems.
Rod-shaped LuAG:Ce transparent ceramic enabling ultrahigh forward efficiency for laser lighting in a transmissive mode
Authors: Kang Jian , Liu Xuanchu , Liu Zitong , Sun Bingheng , Li Yang , Strekand Wieslaw , Tomala Robert Andrzej , Stefanski Mariusz , Zhang Le , Chen Hao
Published: September 2024

Ceramic phosphors have high thermal conductivity and high thermal stability, showing great potential for use in laser lighting. However, it is difficult to further improve the forward efficiency in transmissive mode because of the arbitrarily emitting ceramic phosphors and light loss by secondary optical components. Here, an effective design of rod-shaped LuAG:Ce transparent ceramics was proposed, and the silicone encapsulated ceramic-based devices could operate stably under 3.5 W laser excitation, possessing a luminous efficiency of 150–180 lm/W, far exceeding the level of existing commercial transmissive mode. Besides, because of the gradual absorption of blue light and the gradient distribution of heat, the rod-shaped LuAG:Ce transparent ceramics could bear a power density of 46 W/mm2 without luminous saturation, and the thermal-induced luminous degradation only accounted for 7% under a 15 min operation. The ceramic-based laser lighting sources with low divergence angle (∼4°) and uniform spatial distribution were obtained. Our optimized transparent ceramic rod and encapsulation scheme provided a solution to improve the efficiency of a transmissive mode for laser lighting.
Bias-controlled modulation for monolithic III-nitride optoelectronic integration
Authors: Ye Ziqi , Zhang Hao , Yan Jiabin , Piao Jinlong , Zhu Hongbo , Wang Yongjin
Published: September 2024

III-nitride multi-quantum well (MQW) diodes can modulate the light emitted by another diode with the same MQW structure by varying the bias voltage owing to the spectral overlap between the electroluminescence spectrum and spectral responsivity curve of the MQW diodes. Here, we investigate bias-controlled modulation by monolithically integrating an optical transmitter, waveguide, electro-absorption modulator (EAM), and slot grating coupler on a silicon-based III-nitride platform using compatible fabrication processes. The modulated light is coupled into a fiber, which is direct to a photodiode for characterization. The bandwidths of forward-biased emission modulation and reverse-biased absorption modulation are of the same order of magnitude, with the latter exhibiting significant performance improvements. In addition, real-time video signal transmission was achieved using an EAM, which provides a meaningful reference for modulation applications of silicon-based GaN optoelectronic integrated systems.
Multiqubit quantum state preparation enabled by topology optimization
Authors: Miguel-Torcal A. , González-Tudela A. , García-Vidal F. J. , Fernández-Domínguez A. I.
Published: September 2024

Using topology optimization, we inverse-design nanophotonic cavities enabling the preparation of pure states of pairs and triples of quantum emitters. Our devices involve moderate values of the dielectric constant, operate under continuous laser driving, and yield fidelities to the target (Bell and W) states approaching unity for distant qubits (several natural wavelengths apart). In the fidelity optimization procedure, our algorithm generates entanglement by maximizing the dissipative coupling between the emitters, which allows the formation of multipartite pure steady states in the driven-dissipative dynamics of the system. Our findings open the way toward the efficient and fast preparation of multiqubit quantum states with engineered features, with potential applications for nonclassical light generation, and quantum sensing and metrology.
Prioritizing disease-related rare variants by integrating gene expression data
Authors: Guo Hanmin , Urban Alexander Eckehart , Wong Wing Hung
Published: September 2024

Rare variants, comprising the vast majority of human genetic variations, are likely to have more deleterious impact in the context of human diseases compared to common variants. Here we present carrier statistic, a statistical framework to prioritize disease-related rare variants by integrating gene expression data. By quantifying the impact of rare variants on gene expression, carrier statistic can prioritize those rare variants that have large functional consequence in the patients. Through simulation studies and analyzing real multi-omics dataset, we demonstrated that carrier statistic is applicable in studies with limited sample size (a few hundreds) and achieves substantially higher sensitivity than existing rare variants association methods. Application to Alzheimer’s disease reveals 16 rare variants within 15 genes with extreme carrier statistics. We also found strong excess of rare variants among the top prioritized genes in patients compared to that in healthy individuals. The carrier statistic method can be applied to various rare variant types and is adaptable to other omics data modalities, offering a powerful tool for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying complex diseases.
Molecular detection of Rickettsia species in ectoparasites collected from two southern provinces of Cambodia
Authors: Prasetyo Didot Budi , Fiorenzano Jodi M. , Nop Daliya , Noch Nin , Huot Boren , Mom Sokly , Prum Sitha , Chhe Visal , Dul Sokha , Heang Vireak , Prom Satharath , Jiang Ju , Richards Allen L. , Farris Christina M. , Hertz Jeffrey C.
Published: September 2024

Arthropod-borne rickettsioses comprise a wide variety of subtypes that are endemic in Cambodia, but there remains very little data on the geographic distribution of the pathogens or their vectors. Surveys were conducted in Koh Kong and Preah Sihanouk Provinces between September 2017 and June 2018 to collect ectoparasites from peridomestic animals and the environment using dragging and flagging methods. Collected ectoparasites were sorted and identified morphologically, then pooled by species, host, and location for molecular detection using Rickettsia genus- and species-specific qPCR and/or multilocus sequence typing (MLST) assays. A total of 14,254 ectoparasites were collected including seven new locality records. Rickettsia species were detected in 35.5% (174/505) of the pools screened representing 3,149 randomly selected ectoparasites from the total collected. Rickettsia asembonensis was detected in 89.6% (147/164) of Rickettsia-positive flea pools and 3.6% (6/164) of the flea pools were positive for both R. asembonensis and Rickettsia felis. Candidatus Rickettsia senegalensis from Ctenocephalides orientis fleas and Rickettsia sp. close to Rickettsia japonica and Rickettsia heilongjiangensis from Haemaphysalis ticks were identified by MLST. This appears to be the first report of these new ectoparasite records and rickettsial species in southern Cambodia, suggesting a potential health risk to military and civilians in this region.
HuR (ELAVL1) regulates the CCHFV minigenome and HAZV replication by associating with viral genomic RNA
Authors: Ikegawa Moe , Kano Norisuke , Ori Daisuke , Fukuta Mizuki , Hirano Minato , Hewson Roger , Yoshii Kentaro , Kawai Taro , Kawasaki Takumi
Published: September 2024

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever virus (CCHFV) is a tick-borne pathogen that causes severe acute fever disease in humans and requires a biosafety level 4 laboratory for handling. Hazara virus (HAZV), belonging to the same virus genus as CCHFV, does not exhibit pathogenesis in humans. To investigate host RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) that regulate CCHFV replication, we generated a series of mutant RAW264.7 cells by CRISPR/Cas9 system and these cells were infected with HAZV. The viral titers in the supernatant of these cells was investigated, and HuR (ELAVL1) was identified. HuR KO RAW264.7 cells reduced HAZV replication. HuR is an RBP that enhances mRNA stability by binding to adenyl-uridine (AU)-rich regions in their 3′ non-coding region (NCR). HuR regulates innate immune response by binding to host mRNAs of signaling molecules. The expression of cytokine genes such as Ifnb, Il6, and Tnf was reduced in HuR KO cells after HAZV infection. Although HuR supports the innate immune response during HAZV infection, we found that innate immune activation by HAZV infection did not affect its replication. We then investigated whether HuR regulates HAZV genome RNA stability. HAZV RNA genome was precipitated with an anti-HuR antibody, and HAZV genome RNA stability was lowered in HuR KO cells. We found that HuR associated with HAZV RNA and stabilized it to enhance HAZV replication. Furthermore, HuR-deficiency reduced CCHFV minigenome replication. CCHFV is a negative-strand RNA virus and positive-strand RNA is produced during replication. HuR was associated with positive-strand RNA rather than negative-strand RNA, and AU-rich region in 3’-NCR of S segment was responsible for immunoprecipitation with anti-HuR antibody and minigenome replication. Additionally, HuR inhibitor treatment reduced CCHFV minigenome replication. Our results indicate that HuR aids replication of the CCHFV minigenome by associating with the AU-rich region in the 3′-NCR.
Efficacy of silver diamine fluoride (SDF) in arresting dentin caries against inter-kingdom biofilms of Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans
Authors: Kaewkamchai Suphanida , Thanyasrisung Panida , Sukarawan Waleerat , Samaranayake Lakshman , Tuygunov Nozimjon , Songsiripradubboon Siriporn
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To compare, in vitro, the efficacy of three proprietary silver diamine fluoride (SDF) products in mitigating progression of dentinal caries induced by an inter-kingdom, dual-species, bacterial-yeast biofilm.

Methods

Human dentin blocks were demineralized to create artificial caries lesions and randomized into three SDF test groups: Saforide, Topamine, T-SDF, and an aqueous control (n = 26 per group). After application of foregoing SDF variants, the blocks were incubated with Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans for 24 h for biofilm development, and subsequently subjected to a microbe-induced, pH-cycling process for 7 days, to mimic the oral eco-system. The biofilm cell viability and surface topography were assessed by colony-forming units (CFUs) and scanning electron microscopy respectively. The lesion depth and mineral density were evaluated by micro-computer tomography. SDF precipitate and matrix-to-mineral ratio were evaluated by X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, respectively. Standard, accepted methodology was used for all these evaluations and procedures.

Results

After pH cycling, the SDF groups demonstrated comparable inhibition of the biofilm relative to the control. the log CFU of S. mutans for Saforide, Topamine, T-SDF, and control were 6.69±0.73, 6.48±0.56, 6.63±0.66, and 8.01±0.45, respectively. For C. albicans, the log CFU were 4.86±0.44, 4.72±0.53, 4.92±0.29, and 5.60±0.27, respectively. The log CFU of S. mutans and C. albicans in the SDF groups were significantly lower than the control group (p<0.001). Further, the lesion depth decreased by approximately 14.79±7.00% in the SDF groups, while it increased by 11.07±8.61% in the control (p<0.001), and the mineral density increased by 16.36±4.58% in the SDF group, as opposed to a 5.59±2.64% reduction in the control (p<0.001) implying their caries mitigating effect. These findings were corroborated by SEM images of the lesions.

Conclusion

SDF significantly mitigated dentin caries due to an assault by a polymicrobial plaque biofilm whilst arresting mineral loss and lesion growth. There was no difference in the caries-arresting efficacy of the compared SDF variants.
N4-Hydroxycytidine/molnupiravir inhibits RNA virus-induced encephalitis by producing less fit mutated viruses
Authors: Ojha Durbadal , Hill Collin S. , Zhou Shuntai , Evans Alyssa , Leung Jacqueline M. , Schneider Christine A. , Amblard Franck , Woods Tyson A. , Schinazi Raymond F. , Baric Ralph S. , Peterson Karin E. , Swanstrom Ronald
Published: September 2024

A diverse group of RNA viruses have the ability to gain access to the central nervous system (CNS) and cause severe neurological disease. Current treatment for people with this type of infection is generally limited to supportive care. To address the need for reliable antivirals, we utilized a strategy of lethal mutagenesis to limit virus replication. We evaluated ribavirin (RBV), favipiravir (FAV) and N4-hydroxycytidine (NHC) against La Crosse virus (LACV), which is one of the most common causes of pediatric arboviral encephalitis cases in North America and serves as a model for viral CNS invasion during acute infection. NHC was approximately 3 to 170 times more potent than RBV or FAV in neuronal cells. Oral administration of molnupiravir (MOV), the prodrug of NHC, decreased neurological disease development (assessed as limb paralysis, ataxia and weakness, repeated seizures, or death) by 31% (4 mice survived out of 13) when treatment was started on the day of infection. MOV also reduced disease by 23% when virus was administered intranasally (IN). NHC and MOV produced less fit viruses by incorporating predominantly G to A or C to U mutations. Furthermore, NHC also inhibited virus production of two other orthobunyaviruses, Jamestown Canyon virus and Cache Valley virus. Collectively, these studies indicate that NHC/MOV has therapeutic potential to inhibit viral replication and subsequent neurological disease caused by orthobunyaviruses and potentially as a generalizable strategy for treating acute viral encephalitis.
Phytophthora zoospores display klinokinetic behaviour in response to a chemoattractant
Authors: Kasteel Michiel , Rajamuthu Tharun P. , Sprakel Joris , Ketelaar Tijs , Govers Francine
Published: September 2024

Microswimmers are single-celled bodies powered by flagella. Typical examples are zoospores, dispersal agents of oomycete plant pathogens that are used to track down hosts and infect. Being motile, zoospores presumably identify infection sites using chemical cues such as sugars, alcohols and amino acids. With high-speed cameras we traced swimming trajectories of Phytophthora zoospores over time and quantified key trajectory parameters to investigate chemotactic responses. Zoospores adapt their native run-and-tumble swimming patterns in response to the amino acid glutamic acid by increasing the rate at which they turn. Simulations predict that tuneable tumble frequencies are sufficient to explain zoospore aggregation, implying positive klinokinesis. Zoospores thus exploit a retention strategy to remain at the plant surface once arriving there. Interference of G-protein mediated signalling affects swimming behaviour. Zoospores of a Phytophthora infestans G⍺-deficient mutant show higher tumbling frequencies but still respond and adapt to glutamic acid, suggesting chemoreception to be intact.
Rhesus rotavirus NSP1 mediates extra-intestinal infection and is a contributing factor for biliary obstruction
Authors: Li Enkai , Feng Ningguo , Zeng Qiru , Sanchez-Tacuba Liliana , Kawagishi Takahiro , Branham Grace , Hou Gaopeng , Wang Zemin , Greenberg Harry B. , Ding Siyuan
Published: September 2024

We previously demonstrated that in Ifnar1-/-Ifngr1-/- or Stat1-/- suckling mice lacking intact type I and type II interferon (IFN) signaling, rhesus rotavirus (RRV) infection causes a lethal disease with clinical manifestations similar to biliary atresia, including acholic stools, oily fur, growth retardation, and excess mortality. Elevated levels of viral RNA are detected in the bile ducts and liver of diseased pups together with severe inflammatory responses in these tissues. However, the viral determinants and the molecular mechanisms driving this process remain incompletely understood. Using an optimized rotavirus (RV) reverse genetics system, we generated a panel of recombinant RVs that encode non-structural protein 1 (NSP1) derived from different RV strains. We found that compared to the parental simian SA11 strain that is less biliary pathogenic, SA11 containing an RRV-derived NSP1 resulted in severe biliary obstructive disease comparable to that associated with RRV infection, reflected by high levels of viral RNA and inflammation in the biliary tract, liver, and pancreas. In contrast, RRV containing an SA11-originated NSP1 showed only mild biliary obstruction comparable to what was observed during SA11 infection. Infection with a monoreassortant RRV virus carrying NSP1 from the bovine RV UK strain also showed substantially reduced viral replication in extra-intestinal organs and did not develop clinical biliary diseases. Mechanistically, RRV NSP1 seemed to promote active viral replication in hepatocytes and this expanded tropism led to enhanced infiltration of CD4 and CD8 T cells, causing immunopathology and damage in the hepatobiliary system. These results highlight an unexpectedly important role of RV NSP1 in viral replication and disease progression in extra-intestinal tissues.
O itinerário tutelar do património em Portugal
Authors: Ginja António
Published: September 2024

O final do ano de 2023 testemunhou o início de uma nova tutela do património cultural em Portugal, o Património Cultural, I.P. Desde a perspetiva da arqueologia da arquitetura, enquanto condicionante imposta pela tutela a projetos com afetação ao património arquitetónico, a nova orgânica herda uma longa história, pautada por momentos de aproximação e de afastamento entre as administrações dos patrimónios arqueológico e arquitetónico. Convocando a legislação destas especialidades, este artigo procura compreender o itinerário da(s) tutela(s) da arqueologia e da arquitetura em Portugal, para cumprimento de dois objetivos. Em primeiro lugar, conhecer o modo como o património arquitetónico passou a ser percecionado como documento arqueológico, para discernir as condições que têm conduzido a(s) tutela(s) a exigir trabalhos de arqueologia da arquitetura. Em segundo lugar, perspetivar as distintas posturas tutelares face à aplicação da arqueologia ao património arquitetónico ao longo dos tempos, para, num momento em que se inaugura uma nova tutela, tentar desvendar as possibilidades que se apresentam ao futuro da arqueologia da arquitetura no país.
O Comércio do Porto as a cross-border space between Portugal and Spain
Authors: De las Heras Beatriz
Published: September 2024

A Guerra Civil de Espanha é considerada o primeiro conflito moderno a ser fotografado, dia após dia, por fotógrafos espanhóis e estrangeiros. Esses instantâneos tirados entre 1936 e 1939 são hoje suportes de memória para recuperar a história do conflito espanhol. No entanto, no seu contexto, tornaram-se mais uma ferramenta para ganhar a guerra no domínio da propaganda. O objetivo deste artigo é refletir sobre o papel desempenhado por um jornal português, O Comércio de Porto, na cobertura da guerra. O jornal fez uma extraordinária cobertura fotográfica dos acontecimentos em Espanha. E fê-lo como porta-voz oficial de Franco em Portugal. Começaremos por traçar o perfil das 1099 fotografias publicadas entre julho de 1936 e abril de 1939 e depois analisaremos a forma como essas imagens foram utilizadas para manter o moral dos Aliados, criticar o inimigo e convencer os estrangeiros da necessidade de colaborar com a causa política comum.
Tetrabutylammonium Hydrogen Sulfate (TBAHS) Catalyzed Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of 3,4,5,6,7,9-Hexahydro-1H-xanthene-1,8-(2H)-dione Derivatives and its Biological Study
Authors: Rakhe Shruthika D. , Mahurkar Shreyas S. , More Rahul A. , Kamale Baliram D. , Munde Manisha P. , Khatke Tukaram E. , Angulwar Jaman A.
Published: September 2024

In this study, a facile and eco-friendly synthesis of novel 3,4,5,6,7,9-hexahydro-1H-xanthene-1,8(2H)-dione derivatives using tetrabutylammonium hydrogen sulfate (TBAHS) as a catalyst in the microwave reactor is presented. The reaction involved the condensation of aromatic aldehydes with 1,3-cyclohexanedione in ethanol as solvent, offering significant advantages in terms of reaction rate, yield and purity. The use of TBAHS as catalyst in conjunction with microwave irradiation facilitated the formation of the target xanthene derivatives in remarkably short reaction times. Moreover, Monowave 50 microwave reactor provided precise control over reaction parameters, enabling rapid optimization of reaction conditions. Further these synthesized compounds were systematically evaluated for their antibacterial, antituberculosis and antioxidant activities.
Molecular Docking and ADME Profiles of Hyrtiosulawesine Derivatives Targeting pfLDH: Exploring Potential as Antimalarial Agents
Authors: Zulkifli Siti Zafirah , Abdul Aziz Ahmad Amzar , Saaidin Aimi Suhaily , Hamzah Nurasyikin , Pungot Noor Hidayah
Published: September 2024

The relentless rise in Plasmodium falciparum’s resistance to existing antimalarial drugs has sparked an urgent quest for novel therapeutic agents. For centuries, natural resources have been the bedrock of medicinal remedies, with β-carboline emerging as a beacon of hope in antimalarial research. In this study, we delve into the potential of hyrtiosulawesine derivatives as revolutionary antimalarial compounds, utilizing hyrtiosulawesine as the crucial scaffold. Employing a sophisticated amalgamation of molecular docking and ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion) profiling, we meticulously screened an extensive library of hyrtiosulawesine’s derivatives against P. falciparum. Based on advanced computational techniques, the binding affinities and interaction profiles were assessed and culminating in the selection of the most promising candidates based on their exceptional binding interactions. Moreover, the comprehensive ADME analyses were performed to assess the pharmacokinetic properties of these derivatives, ensuring their suitability as drug candidates. The results showed that most of the analogues exhibited strong binding affinities (-7.2 to -9.8 kcal/mol) to the Plasmodium falciparum lactate dehydrogenase (pfLDH) protein, surpassing that of hyrtiosulawesine itself. Among these, compounds 2t and 1w demonstrated the strongest binding, likely due to hydrogen bonding with Arg171 and Asn197. ADME profiling revealed that all hyrtiosulawesine derivatives displayed favourable drug-likeness properties and adhered to the Lipinski Rule of 5 (Ro5) indicating their potential efficacy as antimalarial agents. This investigation provides a foundation for further in vitro and in vivo investigations paving the way for the development of effective treatments against malaria.
Synthesis of Copper-Doped Metal Nanoferrites for Efficient Removal of Pharmaceutical Wastewater Pollutants in Membrane Bioreactor System
Authors: Nithya V. , Chirsabesan B.
Published: September 2024

Pharmaceuticals present in the aquatic environment can poison aquatic species and humans through drinking water and cause harmful bacteria to become resistant. The role of transition metal doped metal nanoferrites for the enhanced efficiency of degradation process is widely achieved. In this work, copper doped magnesium ferrite (Cu-MgFe2O4) and copper doped zinc ferrite (Cu-ZnFe2O4) nanoparticles were synthesized using a sol-gel method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the formation of the spinel structure for both samples, with crystal sizes of 16.72 nm and 59.05 nm, respectively. The magnetic properties of the samples were studied using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), which revealed that the addition of Cu2+ ions has a significant impact on the magnetic properties of the nanoparticles. The saturation magnetisation (Ms), retentivity (Mr) and coercivity value (Hc) for the Cu-MgFe2O4 sample were found to be 0.18453 emu, 39.584 × 10-3 emu and 139.61 Oe, respectively, while for the Cu-ZnFe2O4 sample, the values were 0.21271 emu, 71.022 × 10-3 emu and 285.91 Oe, respectively. The impact of copper doped nanoferrites on pollutant removal from pharmaceutical wastewater using the membrane Bioreactor (MBR) system has also been accomplished. The results demonstrated the effectiveness of ferrites in reducing concentrations of heavy metals, including lead and cadmium, within acceptable ranges for inland surface water and public sewers. Furthermore, the MBR system with ferrites exhibited efficient removal of fluoride, sulphide and radioactivity, ensuring compliance with the specified standards. Although the study exhibited the potential of ferrites in pollutants removal, further optimization is necessary to achieve complete compliance with water quality standards.
Flexible PVP/PEO/MnO2 Polymer Nanocomposites based Cathode Material for Asymmetric Supercapacitor
Authors: Ramya W. Maria Therease , Venkatachalam K. , Murugan A. , Jothi M. Anandha , Thangarasu S.
Published: September 2024

The solution casting method has been used to design a polymer nanocomposite (PNC) based on polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), polyethylene oxide (PEO) and manganese dioxide nanoparticles (MnO2 NPs) at different concentrations. The effective integration of MnO2 NPs in the PVP/PEO blend matrix has been characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD). An XRD study has demonstrated that adding MnO2 nanoparticles up to 1 wt.% of MnO2 increases the crystallinity of polymer nanocomposites. As the wt.% MnO2 NPs grew from 0.25 to 1 at room temperature, the values of ε' increased from 12.5 to 112.5 at 42 Hz and the value of ε″ increased to 1656 at ambient temperature and then to 20752 at 373 K for 1 wt.% MnO2. Asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) has been fabricated and its electrochemical performance has been evaluated. All CV curves exhibited a non-rectangle shape even at a high scan rate of 100 mV s–1 for all ASC devices, suggesting the good capacitive behaviours of PNC electrodes.
Developing Digital-Based Islamic Religious Education Teaching Modules on the Subject Matter of Duha Prayer in Elementary Schools
Authors: Hamdi  , Setria Utama Rizal  , Nurul Hikmah  , Muhammad Syabrina  , Sulistyowati  , Mualimin
Published: September 2024

Purpose –  The purposes of this study are to produce digital-based Islamic religious education teaching module products developed using the eXe-Learning application and to find out whether digital-based Islamic Religious Education teaching module products are feasible to use in learning.
Design/methods/approach – This study used development research (Research and Development) with the 4D development model (Define, Design, Development, and Dissemination). At the design validation stage, the digital-based Islamic Religious Education teaching module was validated by material experts and media experts. Data collection techniques used questionnaire instruments
Findings – The assessment by the material experts, consisting of 16 aspects, was 90% categorized as very feasible. The evaluation by the first media expert, consisting of 20 aspects, was 82% categorized as very feasible. The second media expert validation, as a whole, was 96% categorized as “very feasible.” The average value of material and media experts was 89.33% (Very Feasible). Meanwhile, the student response to the digital-based Islamic Religious Education teaching module, consisting of 12 aspects, obtained 67.2%, including the “feasible” category. Moreover, in terms of the module's effectiveness in learning, it had an effect in the form of increasing student skills in performing the Duha prayer.
Research implications/limitations – The implications of this development research practically have contributed to producing digital-based PAI teaching module products on the Duha prayer material used in learning. The main field trial was limited to Class IV of SDIT Al-Furqon Palangka Raya.
Originality/value –  This development research supports the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in fulfilling the learning tools for the Merdeka Curriculum teaching modules, allowing it to contribute to the world of education
Edutainment in Qur'an Publishing: Integrating Learning Theories and Entertainment in Indonesian Mushaf
Authors: Fatchiatuzahro Fatchiatuzahro , Imronudin Imronudin , Reza Riza Muhammad
Published: September 2024

The publication of Qur'an in Indonesia reflects the direction of the publishing industry, which emphasizes products that are not only informative but also interesting and entertaining for readers. This phenomenon was triggered by a response to society's need for access to additional, more complete information. However, innovations like color tajwid have sparked controversy. Further research into the publication of the Qur'an in Indonesia is necessary to fully understand its impact. This study, employing the concept of edutainment, examines how Al-Qur'an manuscripts in Indonesia integrate learning theories and edutainment approaches. Utilizing analytical descriptive methods alongside philosophical-speculative and phenomenological approaches, fifteen manuscripts were analyzed. These manuscripts effectively meet readers' needs while incorporating educational theories and edutainment strategies. Additionally, there is an emphasis on technological innovation, particularly in visual learning methods that utilize both technological and non-technological features. Despite these advancements, the teacher's role remains crucial in promoting independent learning, especially within the context of Qur'an study.
GREEN BOND INDEX PRICE FORECASTING: COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF MACHINE LEARNING MODELS
Authors: İşgüzar Seda , Fendoğlu Eda , Şimşek Ahmed İhsan , Türkoğlu Muammer
Published: September 2024

Today, green financial products have garnered recognition and are consequently regarded as alternative assets. Green bonds exclusively allocate their funds to environmentally sustainable initiatives. Green bonds facilitate companies in enhancing both their financial and environmental performance by promoting innovations stemming from green initiatives and long-term green investments. This study focused on predicting the price of the green bond index in Japan. The input factors for price prediction in Japan include Nikkei225, USD/JPY, and crude oil price assets, which are seen as alternative investment options for Japanese investors. The study utilized a dataset spanning 693 days, from 06.05.2021 to 02.05.2024. The acquired data is partitioned into two distinct sets: one for training and one for testing. 80% of the data was allocated for training purposes, while the remaining 20% was designated for testing. The study utilized various prediction approaches including RF, MLP, GBR, XGBoost, LSTM, SVR, Catboost, and Linear Regression. The performance of these models was compared using evaluation metrics such as MSE, RMSE, MAE, MAPE, and R2 values. The research revealed that the GBR model exhibited the highest performance on the training data set, whereas the XGBoost and RF models yielded superior prediction results on the test data set.
BELEDİYELERDE ÇALIŞAN MEMNUNİYETİNİ ETKİLEYEN KURUMSAL FAKTÖRLER: BAĞCILAR BELEDİYESİ ÖRNEĞİ
Authors: Güçlü Mehmet Sıddık , Çaycı Sabri
Published: September 2024

Bu araştırmada belediye hizmetlerinin kalitesini etkileyen unsurlardan biri olan belediye personelinin iş memnuniyetinin kurumsal değişkenlerden nasıl etkilendiği ele alınmıştır. Araştırma İstanbul, Bağcılar Belediyesi personeline yönelik bir alan çalışması olup, veriler 450 katılımcıdan kolayda anket yöntemi ile toplanmıştır. Yapılan regresyon analizi sonucunda elde edilen sonuçlar göstermektedir ki kurumsal bağlılık, çalışma koşulları, çalışanları takdir etme ve ödüllendirme ve örgütsel iletişimin çalışan memnuniyeti üzerinde pozitif yönde istatistiksel olarak anlamlı etkileri vardır. Bu konuda belediyelerde yapılan az sayıda çalışmadan biri olması yönüyle literatürdeki bu boşluğun doldurulmasına katkı sağlayan önemli bir çalışmadır. Ayrıca bu çalışma, elde edilen sonuçlar personelinin iş memnuniyetini arttırmak isteyen belediye yöneticilerine önemli ipuçları vermektedir.
Anti-melanoma cancer activity and chemical profile of the essential oil of Seseli yunnanense Franch
Authors: Chen Lili , Ju Xiaoling , Wu Xuemei , Zuo Zongbao
Published: September 2024

Seseli yunnanense appertains to the Apiaceae family. S. yunnanense is known as an herbal remedy to treat several illnesses in Chinese traditional medicine. In this research, the essential oil (EO) of the aerial part of S. yunnanense (SYEO) was isolated by hydro-distillation apparatus. The chemical composition of the volatile oil was recognized using Gas chromatography (GC)/flame ionization detector and GC-Mass spectrometry methods. 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl and MTT assays were carried out to investigate the antioxidant and anti-melanoma cancer activity of the oil. The chromatography results showed SYEO was dominated by sesquiterpenes of α-bisabolol 40.19%, β-eudesmol 13.12%, and the phenolic compound eugenol 12.06%. SYEO scavenged the free radical of DPPH by IC50 of 454.66 ± 7.25 μg/mL. In the MTT assay, SYEO showed a dose depending on the viability of the melanoma cell lines of HMV-II, SK-ML-2, G-361, and HT144. The highest activity was obtained against the HMV-II cell line with IC50 of 116.82 ± 2.34 μg/mL. The cytotoxicity of SYEO was examined against HUVEC cell lines. The results exhibited the safety of EO for the human normal cells. The results showed the EO of S. yunnanense is a potent agent for treating melanoma cancer.
Effect of random variation in input parameter on cracked orthotropic plate using extended isogeometric analysis (XIGA) under thermomechanical loading
Authors: Kulkarni Nikhil M. , Lal Achchhe
Published: September 2024

This research introduces the Stochastic Extended Isogeometric Analysis (XIGA) method to investigate fracture behavior of isotropic and orthotropic materials under mechanical, thermal, and thermomechanical loads. Employing knot spans from Isogeometric Analysis (IGA) for domain discretization, the study utilizes identical basis functions for geometry construction and solution discretization. Utilizing Extended Finite Element Method (XFEM) enrichment functions, accurate crack face displacement discontinuity and tip singularity within the stress field are characterized. Additionally, employing a second-order perturbation technique within XIGA framework, the research derives mean and coefficient of variance values for mixed-mode Stress Intensity Factors (SIF). Stochastic variations in material elastic properties, crack length, and crack angle are considered in this computation. Credibility and robustness of the study are confirmed through comparative analyses against available literatures and Monte Carlo Simulations (MCS). The observed exceptional agreement validates the precision and reliability of the proposed stochastic XIGA method for fracture analysis in orthotropic material systems under thermomechanical loading conditions.