bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Botanical extracts control the fungal pathogen Colletotrichum boninense in smallholder production of common bean
Authors: Kushaha Tamia M. , Mkindi Angela G. , Mbega Ernest R. , Stevenson Philip C. , Belmain Steven R.
Published: April 2024

Anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum spp. remains an intractable problem in the most common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) production areas worldwide and can cause total yield loss. Many smallholder farmers are familiar with using botanical extracts to control insect pests; however, there is less familiarity with their use to control fungal diseases due to a lack of evidence. Here, we demonstrate that anthracnose could be controlled effectively by pesticidal plant species that are used for insect control. In laboratory trials, water extracts from 11 plant species could inhibit fungal growth (100%) and spore germination (75–100%) equally well to two commercially available fungicides, the synthetic Mancolaxyl and biofungicide Bioderma. In screenhouse trials, anthracnose disease was reduced by the extracts of three plant species. Moreover, bean crop growth in these botanical treatments did not differ significantly from that observed in the commercial fungicide treated plants. Field trials in a smallholder community reporting severe problems with anthracnose showed an effect similar to the screenhouse results. Field trials resulted in bean seed yields approximately 350 kg/ha higher in bean plants treated with Azadirachta indica and Lippia javanica at 10% w/v compared to the negative control untreated plants. In all trials, botanical extracts were as effective as commercially available fungicides, suggesting that these botanical extracts could provide dual-purpose pest and disease management for anthracnose and crop pest insects. The outcomes of this research show that prospects for using locally available resources to control anthracnose on common bean are credible and can be combined with controlling insect pests.
Dosage effects of psychodynamic and schema therapy in people with comorbid depression and personality disorder: four-arm pragmatic randomised controlled trial
Authors: Kool Marit , Van Henricus , Arntz Arnoud , Bartak Anna , Peen Jaap , Dil Linda , de Boer Katinka , Dekker Jack
Published: April 2024

Background

Higher intensity of psychotherapy might improve treatment outcome in depression, especially in those with comorbid personality disorder.

Aims

To compare the effects of 25 individual sessions (weekly) of two forms of psychotherapy – short-term psychoanalytic supportive psychotherapy (SPSP) and schema therapy – with the same treatments given for 50 sessions (twice weekly) in people with depression and personality disorder. Trial registration: NTR5941.

Method

We conducted a pragmatic, double-randomised clinical trial and, over 37 months, recruited 246 adult out-patients with comorbid depression/dysthymia and personality disorder. A 2 × 2 factorial design randomised participants to 25 or 50 sessions of SPSP or schema therapy. The primary outcome was change in depression severity over 1 year on the Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II). Secondary outcomes were remission both of depression and personality disorder.

Results

Compared with 25 sessions, participants who received 50 sessions showed a significantly greater decrease in depressive symptoms over time (time × session dosage, P < 0.001), with a mean difference of 5.6 BDI points after 1 year (d = −0.53, 95% CI −0.18 to 0.882, P = 0.003). Remission from depression was also greater in the 50-session group (74% v. 58%, P = 0.025), as was remission of personality disorder (74% v. 56%, P = 0.010).

Conclusions

Greater intensity of psychotherapy leads to better outcomes of both depression and personality status in people with comorbid depression and personality disorder.
PsiOvi Staging Model for Schizophrenia (PsiOvi SMS): A New Internet Tool for Staging Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Martínez-Cao Clara , Sánchez-Lasheras Fernando , García-Fernández Ainoa , González-Blanco Leticia , Zurrón-Madera Paula , Sáiz Pilar A. , Bobes Julio , García-Portilla María Paz
Published: April 2024

Background

One of the challenges of psychiatry is the staging of patients, especially those with severe mental disorders. Therefore, we aim to develop an empirical staging model for schizophrenia.

Methods

Data were obtained from 212 stable outpatients with schizophrenia: demographic, clinical, psychometric (PANSS, CAINS, CDSS, OSQ, CGI-S, PSP, MATRICS), inflammatory peripheral blood markers (C-reactive protein, interleukins-1RA and 6, and platelet/lymphocyte [PLR], neutrophil/lymphocyte [NLR], and monocyte/lymphocyte [MLR] ratios). We used machine learning techniques to develop the model (genetic algorithms, support vector machines) and applied a fitness function to measure the model’s accuracy (% agreement between patient classification of our model and the CGI-S).

Results

Our model includes 12 variables from 5 dimensions: 1) psychopathology: positive, negative, depressive, general psychopathology symptoms; 2) clinical features: number of hospitalizations; 3) cognition: processing speed, visual learning, social cognition; 4) biomarkers: PLR, NLR, MLR; and 5) functioning: PSP total score. Accuracy was 62% (SD = 5.3), and sensitivity values were appropriate for mild, moderate, and marked severity (from 0.62106 to 0.6728).

Discussion

We present a multidimensional, accessible, and easy-to-apply model that goes beyond simply categorizing patients according to CGI-S score. It provides clinicians with a multifaceted patient profile that facilitates the design of personalized intervention plans.
Financial Hardship Among Women With Breast Cancer in Addis Ababa Ethiopia: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gebremariam Alem , Gufue Zenawi Hagos , Dereje Nebiyu , Demeke Tamiru , Addissie Adamu , Assefa Mathewos , Jemal Ahmedin
Published: April 2024

PURPOSE

Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer morbidity and mortality in Ethiopia, yet financial hardship is often overlooked. Herein, we examined the financial hardship of BC among women newly diagnosed with the disease in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a comparative cross-sectional study of financial hardship between 353 women diagnosed with BC from 2017 to 2018 in Addis Ababa and 618 women without a history of the disease but with medical expenses selected by multistaging sampling from the city's general population. Financial hardship measures, coded as binary variables (yes, no), included selling assets to pay for medical expenses, borrowing money to meet medical expenses, and worrying about family's financial security. The associations between BC diagnoses and each of the financial hardship measures were evaluated using the multivariable logistic regression model.

RESULTS

Women with BC compared with those without a history of the disease were more likely to report out-of-pocket costs (98% v 38.9%), sell properties (10.2% v 4.2%), and worry about families' financial security (53.8% v 41.8%), but they were equally likely to report borrowing money (19.8% v 17.8%). In the multivariable-adjusted model, women with BC compared with those without the disease were three times as likely to sell their property to cover medical expenses (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 2.94 [95% CI, 1.49 to 5.83]) and 1.4 more likely to worry about their family's financial security (AOR, 1.42 [95% CI, 1.02 to 1.96]).

CONCLUSION

The material and psychological burden of BC is considerably high among women in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, suggesting the need for discussion of cost as part of delivering high-quality care and expanding health care coverage.
Apical expansion of calvarial osteoblasts and suture patency is dependent on fibronectin cues
Authors: Feng Xiaotian , Molteni Helen , Gregory Megan , Lanza Jennifer , Polsani Nikaya , Gupta Isha , Wyetzner Rachel , Hawkins M. Brent , Holmes Greg , Hopyan Sevan , Harris Matthew P. , Atit Radhika P.
Published: April 2024

The skull roof, or calvaria, is comprised of interlocking plates of bones that encase the brain. Separating these bones are fibrous sutures that permit growth. Currently, we do not understand the instructions for directional growth of the calvaria, a process which is error-prone and can lead to skeletal deficiencies or premature suture fusion (craniosynostosis, CS). Here, we identify graded expression of fibronectin (FN1) in the mouse embryonic cranial mesenchyme (CM) that precedes the apical expansion of calvaria. Conditional deletion of Fn1 or Wasl leads to diminished frontal bone expansion by altering cell shape and focal actin enrichment, respectively, suggesting defective migration of calvarial progenitors. Interestingly, Fn1 mutants have premature fusion of coronal sutures. Consistently, syndromic forms of CS in humans exhibit dysregulated FN1 expression, and we also find FN1 expression altered in a mouse CS model of Apert syndrome. These data support a model of FN1 as a directional substrate for calvarial osteoblast migration that may be a common mechanism underlying many cranial disorders of disparate genetic etiologies.
CFAP58 is involved in the sperm head shaping and flagellogenesis of cattle and mice
Authors: Wei Xiaochao , Wang Xiuge , Yang Chunhong , Gao Yaping , Zhang Yaran , Xiao Yao , Ju Zhihua , Jiang Qiang , Wang Jinpeng , Liu Wenhao , Li Yanqin , Gao Yundong , Huang Jinming
Published: April 2024

CFAP58 is a testis-enriched gene that plays an important role in the sperm flagellogenesis of humans and mice. However, the effect of CFAP58 on bull semen quality and the underlying molecular mechanisms involved in spermatogenesis remain unknown. Here, we identified two single-nucleotide polymorphisms (rs110610797, A>G and rs133760846, G>T) and one indel (g.-1811_ g.-1810 ins147bp) in the promoter of CFAP58 that were significantly associated with semen quality of bulls, including sperm deformity rate and ejaculate volume. Moreover, by generating gene knockout mice, we found for the first time that the loss of Cfap58 not only causes severe defects in the sperm tail, but also affects the manchette structure, resulting in abnormal sperm head shaping. Cfap58 deficiency causes an increase in spermatozoa apoptosis. Further experiments confirmed that CFAP58 interacts with IFT88 and CCDC42. Moreover, it may be a transported cargo protein that plays a role in stabilizing other cargo proteins, such as CCDC42, in the intra-manchette transport/intra-flagellar transport pathway. Collectively, our findings reveal that CFAP58 is required for spermatogenesis and provide genetic markers for evaluating semen quality in cattle.
Identification of a myofibroblast differentiation program during neonatal lung development
Authors: Yin Yongjun , Koenitzer Jeffrey R. , Patra Debabrata , Dietmann Sabine , Bayguinov Peter , Hagan Andrew S. , Ornitz David M.
Published: April 2024

Alveologenesis is the final stage of lung development in which the internal surface area of the lung is increased to facilitate efficient gas exchange in the mature organism. The first phase of alveologenesis involves the formation of septal ridges (secondary septae) and the second phase involves thinning of the alveolar septa. Within secondary septa, mesenchymal cells include a transient population of alveolar myofibroblasts (MyoFBs) and a stable but poorly described population of lipid-rich cells that have been referred to as lipofibroblasts or matrix fibroblasts (MatFBs). Using a unique Fgf18CreER lineage trace mouse line, cell sorting, single-cell RNA sequencing and primary cell culture, we have identified multiple subtypes of mesenchymal cells in the neonatal lung, including an immature progenitor cell that gives rise to mature MyoFB. We also show that the endogenous and targeted ROSA26 locus serves as a sensitive reporter for MyoFB maturation. These studies identify a MyoFB differentiation program that is distinct from other mesenchymal cell types and increases the known repertoire of mesenchymal cell types in the neonatal lung.
Promoting mitochondrial dynamics by inhibiting the PINK1–PRKN pathway to relieve diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Zhu Jun-yi , van de Leemput Joyce , Han Zhe
Published: April 2024

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels and is a leading cause of kidney disease. Diabetic nephropathy has been attributed to dysfunctional mitochondria. However, many questions remain about the exact mechanism. The structure, function and molecular pathways are highly conserved between mammalian podocytes and Drosophila nephrocytes; therefore, we used flies on a high-sucrose diet to model type 2 diabetic nephropathy. The nephrocytes from flies on a high-sucrose diet showed a significant functional decline and decreased cell size, associated with a shortened lifespan. Structurally, the nephrocyte filtration structure, known as the slit diaphragm, was disorganized. At the cellular level, we found altered mitochondrial dynamics and dysfunctional mitochondria. Regulating mitochondrial dynamics by either genetic modification of the Pink1–Park (mammalian PINK1–PRKN) pathway or treatment with BGP-15, mitigated the mitochondrial defects and nephrocyte functional decline. These findings support a role for Pink1–Park-mediated mitophagy and associated control of mitochondrial dynamics in diabetic nephropathy, and demonstrate that targeting this pathway might provide therapeutic benefits for type 2 diabetic nephropathy.
Menstrual Cycle Phase Has No Influence on Performance-Determining Variables in Endurance-Trained Athletes: The FENDURA Project
Authors: TAYLOR MADISON Y. , OSBORNE JOHN O. , TOPRANIN VIRGINIA DE MARTIN , ENGSETH TINA P. , SOLLI GURO S. , VALSDOTTIR DITTA , ANDERSSON ERIK , ØISTUEN GINA F. , FLATBY INGRID , WELDE BOYE , MORSETH BENTE , HAUGEN THOMAS , SANDBAKK ØYVIND , NOORDHOF DIONNE A.
Published: April 2024

Female athletes frequently perceive performance changes throughout the menstrual cycle (MC). However, if and how the MC influences performance-determining variables remain unclear.

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the effect of the MC and endogenous sex hormone concentrations on performance-determining variables in three distinct MC phases in endurance-trained females.

Methods

Twenty-one eumenorrheic trained/highly trained endurance athletes completed a standardized test battery during the early follicular phase (EFP), ovulatory phase (OP), and midluteal phase (MLP) for either one (n = 7) or two test cycles (n = 14). MC phases were determined using calendar-based counting, urinary ovulation testing, and verified with serum hormone analysis. MCs were retrospectively classified as eumenorrheic or disturbed. Disturbed MCs were excluded from analysis. The test battery consisted of 4–6 × 5-min submaximal stages with stepwise speed increases, a 30-s all-out double-poling ski ergometer test, and a maximal incremental treadmill running test.

Results

At a group level, there was no effect of MC phase or the serum concentrations of estrogen and progesterone on peak oxygen uptake (V̇O2peak), oxygen uptake at 4 mmol·L−1 blood lactate concentration, time to exhaustion, running economy, or mean 30-s power output (MPO30s). Serum testosterone concentration was positively associated with MPO30s (P = 0.016). Changes in V̇O2peak from EFP to MLP were inconsistent between individuals and across cycles.

Conclusions

None of the measured performance-determining variables were influenced by MC phase or serum estrogen or progesterone concentrations. Although some individual patterns could be observed, there was no indication that any single MC phase is consistently associated with improved or impaired V̇O2peak on a group level.
Critical Thinking and Clinical Reasoning in Undergraduate Medical Course: A Mixed-Methods Study in a Medical College in Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Dipta Kanti , Choudhari Sonali G.
Published: April 2024

Critical thinking is considered as the essential set of skills for medical practice, particularly during emergencies. However, there is lack of conceptual clarity around it and it was not explicitly included in the undergraduate medical curriculum in India. The present study has been planned to assess the critical thinking disposition and clinical reasoning skills among medical undergraduate students in a medical college in West Bengal, India. The perceived definition and attributes of critical thinking in medical education will be explored and the contexts where application of critical thinking skills may be crucial for medical practice will be identified. The content validity index, test-retest agreement; internal consistency and construct validity of the Critical Thinking Disposition Assessment Questionnaire (CTDAQ) will be assessed through step-by-step procedure. CTDAQ and the case-based objective-type questions for the clinical reasoning skills will be applied to around 200 medical undergraduate students. Their perception and experience on critical thinking in medical education will be assessed with structured open-ended questions. In-depth interviews with medical teachers of the second and third phases of undergraduate medical curriculum will be conducted to assess their perception and experiences on critical thinking. The quantitative analysis will be conducted with MS excel and R software using the relevant packages. The qualitative data will be transcribed and translated in English, close to the participants’ verbatim. The thematic analysis will be conducted with inductive coding and memoing. The study will be conducted maintaining ethical standards for epidemiological studies. The present study, one of the first a few studies in India, will help to meet the conceptual gap in understanding the attributes of critical thinking, its association with clinical reasoning and the contexts of preferred application in medical practice.
Southeast Asia initiative to combat SARS-CoV-2 variants (SEACOVARIANTS) consortium
Authors: Nhu Le Nguyen Truc , Chambers Mary , Chantratita Narisara , Cheah Phaik Yeong , Day Nicholas P.J. , Dejnirattisai Wanwisa , Dunachie Susanna J. , Grifoni Alba , Hamers Raph L. , Hill Jennifer , Jones E. Yvonne , Klenerman Paul , Mongkolsapaya Juthathip , Screaton Gavin , Sette Alessandro , Stuart David I. , Tan Chee Wah , Thwaites Guy , Thanh Vu Duy , Wang Lin-Fa , Tan Le Van ,   SEACOVARIANTS Consortium
Published: April 2024

A strong and effective COVID-19 and future pandemic responses rely on global efforts to carry out surveillance of infections and emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants and to act accordingly in real time. Many countries in Southeast Asia lack capacity to determine the potential threat of new variants, or other emerging infections. Funded by Wellcome, the Southeast Asia initiative to combat SARS-CoV-2 variants (SEACOVARIANTS) consortium aims to develop and apply a multidisciplinary research platform in Southeast Asia (SEA) for rapid assessment of the biological significance of SARS-CoV-2 variants, thereby informing coordinated local, regional and global responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our proposal is delivered by the Vietnam and Thailand Wellcome Africa Asia Programmes, bringing together a multidisciplinary team in Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam with partners in Singapore, the UK and the USA. Herein we outline five work packages to deliver strengthened regional scientific capacity that can be rapidly deployed for future outbreak responses.
La informalidad es la regla de oro para la extracción aurífera artesanal y de subsistencia
Authors: Castro Torres Héctor Javier
Published: April 2024

La producción de oro puede darse a gran escala en lugares donde se haya invertido gran capital y donde se presente tecnología avanzada y alta productividad. Este tipo de producción genera trabajo típicamente formal. Por su parte, los casos en los cuales la extracción de oro se hace de manera artesanal y como subsistencia, con condiciones precarias, con un trabajo intensivo en mano de obra y con escaso capital e inversiones hacen que su producción sea una actividad generadora de trabajo típicamente informal. Este capítulo solo establece algunas consideraciones respecto a las llamadas barreras para la formalización laboral en las actividades de extracción aurífera, y contribuye al entendimiento conceptual acerca de la informalidad en el campo minero, ya que el Estado, a través de la ley, reconoce la existencia de mineros informales, llamados berequeros, pero que a la luz de la norma son catalogados como ilegales, informales y delincuente
Improvement in community wound management: why simple changes in clinical practice matter
Authors: Nilsson Monica , Hughes Jacqui , Styche Tim , Knudsen Jane Thinggaard
Published: April 2024

Background/Aims

Wounds continue to be an increasing burden to society, healthcare systems and patients. Wound care is an urgent challenge that requires new management strategies to help facilitate wound healing. This study aimed to evaluate an early intervention wound project facilitated by the COMPASS programme in a Swedish community setting in terms of treatment outcomes and health economic benefits.

Methods

An evaluation of wound care practice was completed using data collected on all wounds treated in 1 week in March 2021 (n=97). Single-use negative pressure wound therapy (sNPWT) was then introduced, alongside specialist education for all nurses. A post-intervention evaluation was carried out the following year with data on all wounds treated in 1 week in October 2022 (n=36). The samples were compared in terms of proportion of static and deteriorating wounds, wound characteristics, average number of dressing changes per wound and proportion of wounds requiring the patient to be admitted to hospital or referred to a specialist. Costs of care were calculated and compared for the two samples.

Results

Wounds in the post-intervention dataset were in a better overall condition (size and depth), with a lower proportion being classified as static or deteriorating (58.8% vs 44.4%). There was a non-significant difference in the average number of dressing changes required per week, with post-intervention wounds requiring fewer changes. A significantly lower proportion of patients required a referral to a specialist in the post-intervention sample compared to the pre-intervention sample (43.3% vs 16.7%; P<0.01).

Conclusions

Implementing a sNPWT pathway, alongside nurse education and increased involvement of nurses with specialist knowledge, can help to improve wound care outcomes and reduce the burden of wounds on nursing time and healthcare resources.
30-day and one-year readmission rate in 11,270 patients with surgical treatment for proximal femoral fractures across Austria
Authors: Smolle Maria A. , Fischerauer Stefan F. , Vukic Ines , Leitner Lukas , Puchwein Paul , Widhalm Harald , Leithner Andreas , Sadoghi Patrick
Published: April 2024

Aims

Patients with proximal femoral fractures (PFFs) are often multimorbid, thus unplanned readmissions following surgery are common. We therefore aimed to analyze 30-day and one-year readmission rates, reasons for, and factors associated with, readmission risk in a cohort of patients with surgically treated PFFs across Austria.

Methods

Data from 11,270 patients with PFFs, treated surgically (osteosyntheses, n = 6,435; endoprostheses, n = 4,835) at Austrian hospitals within a one-year period (January to December 2021) was retrieved from the Leistungsorientierte Krankenanstaltenfinanzierung (Achievement-Oriented Hospital Financing). The 30-day and one-year readmission rates were reported. Readmission risk for any complication, as well as general medicine-, internal medicine-, and surgery/injury-associated complications, and factors associated with readmissions, were investigated.

Results

The 30-day and one-year readmission rates due to any complication were 15% and 47%, respectively. The 30-day readmission rate (p = 0.001) was higher in endoprosthesis than osteosynthesis patients; this was not the case for the one-year readmission rate (p = 0.138). Internal medicine- (n = 2,273 (20%)) and surgery/injury-associated complications (n = 1,612 (14%)) were the most common reason for one-year readmission. Regardless of the surgical procedure, male sex was significantly associated with higher readmission risk due to any, as well as internal medicine-associated, complication. Advanced age was significantly associated with higher readmission risk after osteosynthesis. In both cohorts, treatment at mid-sized hospitals was significantly associated with lower readmission risk due to any complication, while prolonged length of stay was associated with higher one-year readmission risks due to any complication, as well as internal-medicine associated complications.

Conclusion

Future health policy decisions in Austria should focus on optimization of perioperative and post-discharge management of this vulnerable patient population.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(4):294–303.
Design and Laboratory Experiments of A Pneumatic Disc-Type Garlic Precision Seed-Metering Device
Authors: Feng Dinghao , Li Hua , Qi Xindan , Sun Xinping , Wang Yongjian , Nyambura Samuel Mbugua
Published: April 2024

Highlights

A novel pneumatic disc-type garlic precision seed-metering device was designed.

Numerical simulations of the airflow field inside the seed-metering device were carried out with FLUENT Software.

The diameter of the suction hole, the rotational speed of the seed plate, and negative pressure were used to evaluate the performance of the seed-metering device.

The reasonableness of the optimal combination of parameters was verified by a bench experiment.

Abstract. To solve the problem of high seed damage rate and low transplanting efficiency on traditional mechanical garlic seed-metering devices, this article designed and experimented with a novel pneumatic disc-type garlic precision seed-metering device by using theoretical calculations and orthogonal experiments. The overall structure of the device and the basic principles of each working stage were described. Numerical simulations of the airflow field inside the seed-metering device were conducted with FLUENT software to determine the optimal location of the negative pressure outlet and the number of suction holes. A three-factor, three-level Box-Behnken quadratic rotation orthogonal combination experiment was carried out to evaluate the performance of the seed-metering device in terms of the qualified index, miss index, and multiple index. The results showed that the optimal combination of parameters was a suction hole diameter of 10.03 mm, a rotational speed of 11.70 rpm, and a negative pressure of 7.02 kPa. With the optimal combination of parameters, the seeding qualified index was 88.04%, the miss index was 8.65%, and the multiple index was 3.31%, which met the design requirements. The results of the bench experiment were basically consistent with the results under the optimal combination of parameters. This design can provide a theoretical basis for garlic’s precision transplanting. Keywords: Airflow field, FLUENT, Garlic’s precision transplanting, Orthogonal combination experiment, Seed-metering device.
A Violinist's Viewpoint: Performing J. S. Bach's Chaconne in Bobbi Jene Smith's Broken Theater
Authors: GoGwilt Keir
Published: April 2024

Abstract: This article brings together my personal reflections on performing J. S. Bach's Chaconne from the Violin Partita No. 2 in D Minor BWV 1004 in the work of choreographer Bobbi Jene Smith, with critical discussions of the Chaconne's nineteenth- and twentieth-century pedagogical and reception history. While my performance of Bach's movement has over the last decade favored a modern, historically informed style, witnessing the emotional and narrative potentials of this choreographed Chaconne prompted me to revisit nineteenth- and twentieth-century editions, recordings, and commentary on the work. I make connections between the physicality of the dancers (Or Schraiber, Yaya Logothetis, and Mouna Soualem), Smith's choreographic establishment of personal psychology and interpersonal relationships, and Romantic-violinistic ideals of tone as a marker of subjective interiority. In contexts of both dance and violin practice, I point to the ways in which the idealistic potentials of Bach's music—so lauded in nineteenth- and twentieth-century accounts—are in fact carefully cultivated effects generated by corporeal means. By connecting these pedagogical ideals to my own experiences as a violin student and professional performer, I draw attention to the enduring relevance of these material and pedagogical histories. And, in drawing together Smith's choreography with contexts of the Chaconne's generic prehistory, composition, and performances, I advocate for imaginative and interdisciplinary interpretations of Bach's Chaconne, which nonetheless maintain critical perspectives on the work's spiritualization and canonization.
Spatial and spectral beam characteristics in a terahertz broadband sub-wavelength imaging system using a solid immersion lens
Authors: Choi Da-Hye
Published: April 2024

This study focuses on the spatial and spectral beam characteristics in a terahertz (THz) broadband sub-wavelength imaging system using a solid immersion lens (SIL). Previously, we demonstrated a broadband sub-wavelength THz imaging system by integrating a SIL with a THz time-domain spectrometer (TDS). Key parameters that influence beam characteristics and, consequently, imaging performance, such as SIL misalignment tolerances and beam propagation from the SIL, constitute the primary focus of this investigation. Numerical simulations demonstrate that the system can tolerate millimeter-level transverse and longitudinal SIL position displacements, underscoring its robustness for sub-wavelength imaging in a wide frequency range. Additionally, numerical simulations of beam propagation characteristics reveal that the system achieves sub-wavelength imaging resolution up to 1 mm from the SIL at 0.5 THz, highlighting its potential for non-destructive testing of subsurface structures. These findings gain experimental validation through imaging stacked utility knife blades with sub-wavelength structures ranging from 0.2 to 2 THz.
Selective activation of photoactivatable fluorescent protein based on binary holography
Authors: Wang Yintao , Bi Zhenyu , Song Yutong , Duan Liting , Chen Shih-Chi
Published: April 2024

The ability to deliver laser doses to different target locations with high spatial and temporal resolution has been a long-sought goal in photo-stimulation and optogenetics research via, for example, photoactivatable proteins. These light-sensitive proteins undergo conformational changes upon photoactivation, serving functions such as triggering fluorescence, modulating ion channel activities, or initiating biochemical reactions within cells. Conventionally, photo-stimulation on light-sensitive proteins is performed by serially scanning a laser focus or via 2D projection, which is limited by relatively low spatiotemporal resolution. In this work, we present a programmable two-photon stimulation method based on a digital micromirror device (DMD) and binary holography to perform the activation of photoactivatable green fluorescent protein (PAGFP) in live cells. This method achieved grayscale and 3D selective PAGFP activation with subcellular resolution. In the experiments, we demonstrated the 3D activation capability and investigated the diffusion dynamics of activated PAGFP on the cell membrane. A regional difference in cell membrane diffusivity was observed, indicating the great potential of our approach in interrogating the spatiotemporal dynamics of cellular processes inside living cells.
Automated fiber switch with path verification enabled by an AI-powered multi-task mobile robot
Authors: Xu Xiaonan , Chen Haoshuo , Scheutzow Michael , Simsarian Jesse E. , Ryf Roland , Qua Gin , Hande Amey , Dinoff Rob , Szczerban Mijail , Mazur Mikael , Dallachiesa Lauren , Fontaine Nicolas K. , Sandoz Jim , Coss Mike , Neilson David T.
Published: April 2024

As the capacity of optical transport networks undergoes significant growth, there is an ongoing discussion on how to effectively leverage both spectral and spatial degrees of freedom to scale future network capacity. This paper presents an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered multi-task robot comprising a collaborative robotic arm and a mobile robotic base designed for optical network automation. The robot demonstrates the capability of direct fiber switching, establishing static fiber links that consume zero power and have minimal insertion loss from fiber connectors. As a precautionary measure before physically switching fiber cables, the robot performs path verification by detecting robot-driven events using real-time coherent receivers, aiming to avoid accidental unplugging. Additionally, the robot showcases its mobility by efficiently navigating between different network racks and rooms while executing various tasks. Implementing the automation of network operations using robots has the potential to reduce both capital and operational expenditures.
Imaging extended single crystal lattice distortion fields with multi-peak Bragg ptychography
Authors: Kandel Saugat , Maddali Sidharth , Huang Xiaojing , Nashed Youssef S. G. , Jacobsen Chris , Allain Marc , Hruszkewycz Stephan O.
Published: April 2024

Recent advances in phase-retrieval-based x-ray imaging methods have demonstrated the ability to reconstruct 3D distortion vector fields within a nanocrystal by using coherent diffraction information from multiple crystal Bragg reflections. However, these works do not provide a solution to the challenges encountered in imaging lattice distortions in crystals with significant defect content that result in phase wrapping. Moreover, these methods only apply to isolated crystals smaller than the x-ray illumination, and therefore cannot be used for imaging of distortions in extended crystals. We introduce multi-peak Bragg ptychography which addresses both challenges via an optimization framework that combines stochastic gradient descent and phase unwrapping methods for robust image reconstruction of lattice distortions and defects in extended crystals. Our work uses modern automatic differentiation toolsets so that the method is easy to extend to other settings and easy to implement in high-performance computers. This work is particularly timely given the broad interest in using the increased coherent flux in fourth-generation synchrotrons for innovative material research.
Sub-pixel target fine spatial feature extraction method based on aperture coding and micro-scanning imaging mechanism
Authors: Zhang Chao , yuan Ying , Wang Xiaorui , Ning Yang , Li Yue , Li Yangyang
Published: April 2024

The small imaging size of targets over long distances results in the loss of geometry and spatial features. Current methods are subject to sampling limitations and cannot accurately capture the spatial features of sub-pixel targets. This paper proposes a method to accurately locate and extract the fine spatial features of sub-pixel targets through aperture coding and micro-scanning imaging. First, the formation mechanism of imaging features for sub-pixel targets is analyzed. Second, the optical aperture is anisotropically coded in different directions to modulate the spreading spots of the target. The primary spreading direction and the center of the anisotropic spreading spots are extracted. The contour and the location of the target are determined from the spreading length and the intersections of the primary spreading directions. Then, the target is sampled by different detector units through various micro-scanning offsets. The pixel units containing different sub-pixel components of the target after offset are determined based on the location results. The fine spatial distribution of the sub-pixel target is reconstructed based on the intensity variations in the pixel units containing the target. Finally, the accuracy of the sub-pixel target fine spatial feature extraction method is validated. The results show a sub-pixel localization error of less than 0.02 and an effective improvement of the sub-pixel target spatial resolution. This paper provides significant potential for improving the ability to capture spatial features of targets over long distances.
Linear-space-variant model for Fourier ptychographic microscopy
Authors: Feng Tianci , Wang Aiye , Wang Zhiping , Liao Yizheng , Pan An
Published: April 2024

Fourier ptychographic microscopy (FPM) needs to realize well-accepted reconstruction by image segmentation and discarding problematic data due to artifacts caused by vignetting. However, the imaging results have long suffered from uneven color blocks and the consequent digital stitching artifacts, failing to bring satisfying experiences to researchers and users over the past decade since the invention of FPM. In fact, the fundamental reason for vignetting artifacts lies in that the acquired data does not match the adopted linear-space-invariant (LSI) forward model, i.e., the actual object function is modulated by a quadratic phase factor during data acquisition, which has been neglected in the advancement of FPM. In this Letter, we rederive a linear-space-variant (LSV) model for FPM and design the corresponding loss function for FPM, termed LSV-FPM. Utilizing LSV-FPM for optimization enables the efficient removal of wrinkle artifacts caused by vignetting in the reconstruction results, without the need of segmenting or discarding images. The effectiveness of LSV-FPM is validated through data acquired in both 4f and finite conjugate single-lens systems.
Local oscillators-free chip-enabled W-band wireless IM-DD PAM-4 data transmission with simultaneous dual-laser modulation and envelope detection
Authors: Jia Shi , Lo Mu-Chieh , Kong Deming , Carpintero Guillermo , Hu Hao
Published: April 2024

Wireless data traffic is expected to exponentially increase in the future, and meeting this demand will require high data rate photonic-wireless links operating in the W-band (75–110 GHz). For this purpose, pulse-amplitude-modulation with four levels (PAM-4)-based intensity modulation and direct detection (IM-DD) photonic-wireless systems are preferred due to their simplified configuration. In this Letter, we present an experimental demonstration of an IM-DD PAM-4 photonic-wireless link in the W-band, leveraging a monolithic dual-laser photonic chip to enhance integration. Through injection-locking by an optical comb, the chip generates a W-band wireless signal via photo-mixing with a photodiode. This comb injection approach facilitates the phase correlation of the chip’s two modes, resulting in a stabilized beat note. Additionally, the on-chip integration of the dual lasers enables the modulation of the two modes with a single modulator, improving the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) while eliminating the need for extra splitters or combiners. Meanwhile, the envelope detector (ED) plays a crucial role in the simplified configuration, contributing to the overall decrease in size, weight, power, and complexity of the system. The integration of the chip-based phase-locked light source and the utilization of the ED thus signify noteworthy features of our experimental setup, which functions without the necessity of both optical and electrical local oscillators. PAM-4 signal modulation is simultaneously applied to the two coherent optical carriers. Our experiments have effectively transmitted 5 and 10 Gbaud PAM-4 W-band wireless signals in a cost-effective, lightweight, and straightforward configuration, achieving a line data rate of up to 20 Gbit/s economically. These experimental results demonstrate the practical potential of implementing fully integrated photonic-wireless transmitters.
Compact on-chip power splitter based on topological photonic crystal
Authors: Zhang Puhui , Zhang Jiachen , Gu Linpeng , Fang Liang , Zhang Yanyan , Zhao Jianlin , Gan Xuetao
Published: April 2024

We propose and demonstrate an on-chip 1×N power splitter based on topological photonic crystal (TPC) on a monolithic silicon photonic platform. Benefiting from the valley-locked propagation mode at the interface of TPCs with different topological phases, the proposed power splitter has negligible backscattering around the sharp bendings and good robustness to fabrication defects, which therefore enable lower insertion loss, better uniformity, and more compact footprint than the conventional designs. For the fabricated 1 × 2 (8) power splitter, the uniformity among the output ports is below 0.35 (0.65) dB and the maximum insertion loss is 0.38 (0.58) dB with compact footprint of 5 × 5 µm2 (10 × 12 µm2) within a bandwidth of 70 nm. In addition, the topological power splitter only requires simple configurations of TPCs with different topological phases, which is more reliable in design and fabrication compared with the conventional designs.
Dynamically reconfigurable all-optical neural network based on a hybrid graphene metasurface array
Authors: Peng Jingyang , Fang Li , Gu Min , Zhang Qiming
Published: April 2024

In recent years, optical neural networks (ONNs) have received considerable attention for their intrinsic parallelism and low energy consumption, making them a vital area of research. However, the current passive diffractive ONNs lack dynamic tunability after fabrication for specific tasks. Here, we propose a dynamically reconfigurable diffractive deep neural network based on a hybrid graphene metasurface array, wherein the transmission and refractive index of each pixel can be finely adjusted via gate voltage. This capability enables the tailored modulation of the incident light’s amplitude and phase at each pixel, aligning with specific task requirements. The simulation results show the attainability of a dynamic modulation range of 7.97dB (ranging from −8.56dB to −0.591dB). Additionally, this proposed diffractive neural network platform incorporates an ultrathin structure comprising a one-atom-thick graphene layer and nanoscale metallic metastructures, rendering it compatible with complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor technology. Notably, a classification accuracy of 92.14% for a single-layer neural network operating in the terahertz spectrum is achieved based on the calculation result. This proposed platform presents compelling prospects for constructing various artificial neural network architectures with applications ranging from drug screening to automotive driving and vision sensing.
Ten simple rules for leading a successful undergraduate-intensive research lab
Authors: Hickman KJE , Zahn Geoffrey
Published: April 2024

Participating in mentored research is an enormous benefit to undergraduate students. These immersive experiences can dramatically improve retention and completion rates, especially for students from traditionally underserved populations in STEM disciplines. Scientists typically do not receive any formal training in management or group dynamics before taking on the role of a lab head. Thus, peer forums and shared wisdom are crucial for developing the vision and skills involved with mentorship and leading a successful research lab. Faculty at any institution can help improve student outcomes and the success of their labs by thoughtfully including undergraduates in their research programs. Moreover, faculty at primarily undergraduate institutions have special challenges that are not often acknowledged or addressed in public discussions about best practices for running a lab. Here, we present 10 simple rules for fostering a successful undergraduate research lab. While much of the advice herein is applicable to mentoring undergraduates in any setting, it is especially tailored to the special circumstances found at primarily undergraduate institutions.
Predicting stress in first-year college students using sleep data from wearable devices
Authors: Bloomfield Laura S. P. , Fudolig Mikaela I. , Kim Julia , Llorin Jordan , Lovato Juniper L. , McGinnis Ellen W. , McGinnis Ryan S. , Price Matt , Ricketts Taylor H. , Dodds Peter Sheridan , Stanton Kathryn , Danforth Christopher M.
Published: April 2024

Consumer wearables have been successful at measuring sleep and may be useful in predicting changes in mental health measures such as stress. A key challenge remains in quantifying the relationship between sleep measures associated with physiologic stress and a user’s experience of stress. Students from a public university enrolled in the Lived Experiences Measured Using Rings Study (LEMURS) provided continuous biometric data and answered weekly surveys during their first semester of college between October-December 2022. We analyzed weekly associations between estimated sleep measures and perceived stress for participants (N = 525). Through mixed-effects regression models, we identified consistent associations between perceived stress scores and average nightly total sleep time (TST), resting heart rate (RHR), heart rate variability (HRV), and respiratory rate (ARR). These effects persisted after controlling for gender and week of the semester. Specifically, for every additional hour of TST, the odds of experiencing moderate-to-high stress decreased by 0.617 or by 38.3% (p<0.01). For each 1 beat per minute increase in RHR, the odds of experiencing moderate-to-high stress increased by 1.036 or by 3.6% (p<0.01). For each 1 millisecond increase in HRV, the odds of experiencing moderate-to-high stress decreased by 0.988 or by 1.2% (p<0.05). For each additional breath per minute increase in ARR, the odds of experiencing moderate-to-high stress increased by 1.230 or by 23.0% (p<0.01). Consistent with previous research, participants who did not identify as male (i.e., female, nonbinary, and transgender participants) had significantly higher self-reported stress throughout the study. The week of the semester was also a significant predictor of stress. Sleep data from wearable devices may help us understand and to better predict stress, a strong signal of the ongoing mental health epidemic among college students.
Inhibitory control mediates the association between body mass index and math performance in children: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Cordeiro Felipe Barradas , Moura-Silva Marcos Guilherme , Domingues Mauro Roberto de Souza , de Souza Mizael Carvalho , Rocha Renan , Esteban-Cornejo Irene , Bento-Torres Natáli Valim Oliver , Erickson Kirk I. , Bento-Torres João
Published: April 2024

Background

Overweight and obesity affect more than 18% of children and adolescents in the world. Obesity-related associations with brain morphology might be associated with reduced efficiency of inhibitory control. This association highlights a possible mechanism by which obesity impacts intelligence and academic achievement. Prior work indicates a mediating effect of inhibitory control on the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and intelligence and academic achievement. However, although obesity is associated with impaired math performance, we do not know whether inhibitory control also mediates the relationship between BMI and math performance. This study tests the hypothesis that inhibitory control statistically mediates the relationship between BMI and math performance.

Methods

161 children (9 to 13 years old, 80 female) participated in the present study. We evaluated BMI; math performance, in a test composed of 20 arithmetic equations of the typex= (a×b) −c; and inhibitory control through the Flanker test. We carried out Spearman correlation tests, hierarchical multiple linear regression, and tested the confidence of the model where inhibitory control statistically mediates the indirect association between BMI and math performance. Mediation analysis in this cross-sectional study aimed to improve understanding of indirect relationships and offer insights into possible causal connections.

Results

Better math performance and lower BMI were associated with greater accuracy on the inhibitory control test and greater accuracy on the inhibitory control test was associated with better performance on math test. We found an indirect association between higher BMI in children and impairments in math performance, that was mediated by inhibitory control (a: -0.008, p = 0.025; b: 7.10, p = 0.0004; c: 0.05, p = 0.592; c’: 0.11, p = 0.238; Indirect Effect: -0.0599, 95% CI: -0.13, -0.005).

Conclusions

An indirect association between higher body mass indices in children and impairments in math performance was detected, through the impact that BMI has on inhibitory control.