bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water pollution: causes, impacts and current efforts to address the issues of water pollution along river Meizimera-kihihi, Kanugu District,Uganda.
Authors: Ariho Abraham , Aja Lucy , Muhammad Tukur , Mohammad Lubega
Published: October 2024

Pollution refers to the addition of harmful substances to that level where they cause an effect on the environment, it has three major categories such as water, soil, and air pollution but this report is on water pollution. It occurs when harmful substances contaminate water bodies such as, groundwater, rivers, lakes, and oceans rendering them unfavorable for various purposes for example drinking, recreation, and support to aquatic life. Globally, over 80% of wastewater worldwide is discharged into the water bodies without adequate treatment. In Africa, lack of clean water and sanitation is a significant challenge in many countries, affecting approximately 319 million people. Thus, water pollution is one of the types of pollution that has been threatening the lives of living organisms. Implementing effective policies and strategies can have a profound impact on the environment and local communities. By reducing pollution levels and improving water quality, we can create a healthier environment and decrease the incidence of waterborne diseases, leading to improved health and well-being for residents. The research on water pollution in the River Meizimera Kihihi has important implications for future research, policy and governance, human health, the environment, and communities and society. In conclusion, effective policies can foster community involvement, raise awareness, and promote collective action to address water pollution. By achieving clean water and sanitation (SDG 6), we can contribute to the broader sustainable development goals. This research has important ramifications for future research, policy and governance, human health, the environment, communities, and society. This study investigated the problems of water pollution, its causes, its impact, and the current effort to address the issues along the river of Meizimera-kihihi, Kanugu district, Uganda. Recommendations were made, which included encouraging the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, industrial processes, and waste management strategies to minimize pollution.
Young Adults Journey with Digital Fitness Tools-A Qualitative Study on Use of Fitness Tracking Device
Authors: Gulati Asees Kaur , Lobo Rachel Edna , N Nihala , Bhat Vishweshwara , Bora Neha , K Vaishali , Sinha Mukesh Kumar
Published: October 2024

Background Physical activity trackers possess the potential to encourage increased physical activity. However, users often exhibit poor long-term adherence to these devices, which may stem from a lack of understanding of the factors influencing their use, as well as changes in health behavior. This study aims to provide new insights into the types of health-related apps and devices that young people discover, select, and utilize, along with the underlying reasons for their choices. Methods Young adults aged between 18-25 years reporting the use and nonuse of health apps and wearables were recruited and participated in focus group discussions about app choice, features, their perceptions towards the physical activity trackers, and reasons for continued use and for not using one. A total of Nine FGDS were conducted among users, nonusers, and former users of physical activity tracker usage. Data was recorded, transcribed, and analyzed for themes in an iterative approach. Results The physical activity tracker users group stated that they had a sense of achievement, validation, and other motivational feedback, which helped with adherence. All three groups (user, non-user, and former user) had similar concerns about cost, reliability, accuracy, and dependency. Former users also reported that the idea of accomplishing the goals would create anxiety and, in turn, harm the body. Former users and nonusers expressed their concerns regarding lack of time and loss of motivation to track their physical activity. Nonusers had issues with the functionality of the device (ease of use, battery, notifications, apps hang) and were also aware of all the health benefits of using wearables. Conclusion Physical activity users group, former users group, and nonusers group shared concerns about accuracy, cost, and battery.
A study to explore the role of a low threshold, fitness focussed physical rehabilitation intervention with protein supplementation to target physical function and frailty in people with problematic substance use and homelessness: protocol for a single-arm pre-post intervention study.
Authors: Kennedy Fiona , Ní Cheallaigh Clíona , Romero-Ortuno Roman , Doyle Suzanne , Broderick Julie
Published: October 2024

Background People who are homeless are more likely to experience poor mental health and addiction as well as suffering from non-communicable diseases. There is evidence of frailty and accelerated physical ageing among people experiencing homelessness. Appropriate physical rehabilitation and nutritional supplementation strategies can stabilise or reverse frailty and general physical decline, but it is not known how this type of intervention would work in practice in this population. Aim To evaluate the feasibility and pre-post intervention impact of a low threshold physical rehabilitation intervention with protein supplementation to target physical functioning and frailty in people with problematic substance use who are experiencing homelessness. Methods The intervention will consist of a 12-week low threshold rehabilitation programme with protein supplementation. Participants will be service users of the Ballyfermot Advance Project, a day services centre for people with addiction issues and experiencing homelessness. Primary outcomes will be feasibility including numbers recruited, retention of participants and adherence to the exercise intervention and protein supplement. Any adverse events will be recorded. Secondary outcomes will be strength and muscular mass, physical performance and lower extremity physical function, pain, frailty and nutritional status. Discussion An immediate impact may be simply a distraction from difficult circumstances and potentially an improvement of physical health of participants, which can be a conduit for the emergence of other positive behaviours and recovery. Longer term, this study will generate preliminary data on which to inform the design of a definitive randomised controlled trial of physical rehabilitation and protein supplementation, if indicated. Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval was granted by the Faculty of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee in TCD. Study findings will be disseminated through publication into an international peer-reviewed journal and presented at national and international conferences.
Burnout in Infection Control Practitioners During Public Health Crisis Events: A Mixed Methods Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Creedon Sinead , Trace Anna , Arensman Ella , Smiddy Maura P
Published: October 2024

Background Infection prevention and control work environments are highly complex in nature and have long been associated with crisis events including serious infectious disease outbreaks. The role of infection control practitioners shifted exponentially during the COVID-19 pandemic and with this rapid and nebulous change came anxiety, emotional exhaustion and ultimately burnout. Burnout at work generally occurs as a response to chronic and prolonged exposure to emotionally challenging events, causing emotional exhaustion, feelings of cynicism, and lack of accomplishment at work. This systematic review aims to investigate burnout in infection control practitioners during public health crisis events (major outbreaks, epidemics, and pandemics) in upper-middle and high-income countries on a global scale. Methods A mixed-methods systematic review will be carried out and will include qualitative, quantitative and primary mixed-methods studies that investigate the different elements of burnout, during public health crisis events. After an initial scoping literature search, up to six databases will be searched for studies on burnout in relation to infection prevention practitioners. Study quality will be checked using standardised JBI critical appraisal tools. The proposed review will follow the JBI convergent integrated approach for mixed methods systematic reviews. Following data extraction, quantitative data will then be converted into ‘qualitized data’ in the form of textual descriptions. Discussion It is well documented that adverse conditions during public health crisis events can lead to burnout. This systematic review will investigate of burnout in infection control practitioners in upper-middle and high-income countries during public health crisis events. The findings will inform healthcare professionals, senior policy makers and researchers and will help contribute to a richer understanding of burnout and associated factors in infection control practitioners. Protocol registration number PROSPERO 2024 CRD42024508996.
Preterm infant attachment is independent of breast milk intake during neonatal care
Authors: Jiménez-Sánchez Lorena , Vaher Kadi , Ginnell Lorna , Corrigan Amy , McKinnon Katie , Sullivan Gemma , Boardman James P. , Fletcher-Watson Sue
Published: October 2024

Background Following preterm birth, breast milk feeding is recommended because it confers broad health benefits to preterm infants. Breast milk has been suggested to promote secure attachment in infancy, but this is uncertain. Elucidating the relationship between breast milk intake and infant attachment is crucial for supporting parents of preterm infants to make feeding choices and providing accurate counselling when breast milk is not available. We aimed to investigate if breast milk exposure during neonatal care associates with attachment outcomes derived from infants’ responses to the Still-Face Paradigm (SFP) at nine months of age. Methods We studied 77 preterm (< 33 weeks’ gestation) and 71 term infants. Preterm infant feeding data were collected from birth until hospital discharge. Infant responses to the SFP were videocoded at nine months corrected age. Infants’ distress, fretfulness, attentiveness to caregivers and attachment classification were compared between preterm infants who received exclusive breast milk for ≥ 75% of inpatient days, those who received exclusive breast milk for < 75% of inpatient days, and term infants. Milk intake thresholds were chosen based on our previous work demonstrating positive associations between breast milk intake and MRI markers of brain maturation. Results There were no significant differences in infant distress, fretfulness, attentiveness to caregivers (p-values > 0.19), or in the odds of secure versus insecure attachment classification (relative risk ratio = 0.57–0.89, p-values = 1.00) between preterm infants with high or low breast milk exposure, or term comparators. Conclusions Attachment outcomes at nine months were similar between term and preterm infants, and breast milk exposure did not associate with attachment in the preterm group. Although breast milk feeding has clear benefits, these findings may alleviate some of the pressures experienced by parents who are unable to provide breast milk for infants cared for in the neonatal unit.
Using vignette methodology to raise awareness of climate change
Authors: Laius Anne , Saarna Rolf , Teessar Janari
Published: October 2024

Selle artikli eesmärk on anda ülevaade gümnaasiumiõpilaste kliimateadlikkusest energiatarbimise kontekstis ning vinjettide metoodika kasutamise sobivusest kliimateadlikkuse kujundamisel üldhariduskoolis. Selleks koostati õppematerjal "Energia, kliimamuutused ja elustiilid", milles kasutatakse viit erinevat elustiili kirjeldavat vinjetti, mis võimaldavad õpilaste arusaamu, hoiakuid ja väärtushinnanguid uurida ja kujundada. Uuringu valim koosnes 21-st gümnaasiumi 11. klassi vabatahtlikust õpilasest ning 12-st gümnaasiumi erineva õppeaine õpetajast, kes andsid koostatud õppematerjalile oma hinnangu. Andmeid analüüsiti nii kvantitatiivselt kui ka kvalitatiivse sisuanalüüsi meetodiga. Uuringu tulemused näitavad, et eesmärgipäraselt sõnastatud vinjettide kasutamine kliimamuutustealases hariduses on tõhus vahend, mis võimaldab saada teavet uuritava valdkonna arusaamade kohta ning saavutada märkimisväärseid muutusi õpilaste kliimamuutuste-alases teadlikkuses.
Summary
A Model of Information Security and Competition
Authors: de Cornière Alexandre , Taylor Greg
Published: October 2024

We study platforms’ incentives to invest in cybersecurity under ad-funded and subscription-funded business models.
Avoiding sliding doors: small changes, big difference in multiple sclerosis and neurogenic bladder and bowel
Authors: Barker Noreen , Brugaletta Concetta , Coutts Mhairi , Dock Julie , Emmanuel Anton , Haslam Collette , Huseyin Huseyin , Panicker Jalesh , Rice Liam , Stross Ruth , Thomas Sue , Hogan-Tricks Michelle
Published: October 2024

The aim of this article is to illustrate the experienced and optimal patient journeys of people with multiple sclerosis. A review of research published in the British Journal of Neuroscience Nursing in 2024 was conducted to build on the insights and provide guidance around each part of the patient journey, from diagnosis to care. A composite patient journey was created based on the experiences of the MS patients interviewed as part of the ALERT study. Many people with multiple sclerosis experience delayed diagnosis and management of bladder and bowel dysfunction, leading to significant physical and psychosocial consequences. The composite patient journey showed common clinical touchpoints where care was sub-optimal. There was a lack of early discussions about bladder and bowel issues, insufficient patient education and missed opportunities for intervention. Early diagnosis, patient education and integrated care pathways are essential for managing neurogenic bladder and bowel dysfunction in people with multiple sclerosis. By addressing these issues proactively, healthcare providers can improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Policy initiatives should focus on increasing awareness, education and developing clinical guidelines to support effective bladder and bowel management. Integration of care services reduces inequities and improves wellbeing.
Security enhancement for NOMA-PON with 2D cellular automata and Turing pattern cascading scramble aided fixed-point extended logistic chaotic encryption
Authors: Wang Yun , Zhang Qi , Xin Xiangjun , Sun Meng , Gao Ran , Yao Haipeng , Tian Feng , Tian Qinghua , Wang Yongjun , Wang Fu , Zhou Sitong , Li Zuolin , Li Zhipei
Published: October 2024

The non-orthogonal multiple access-passive optical network (NOMA-PON) is facing the dual security threats of primary user interference and unauthorized third-party user eavesdropping, so efficient data security enhancement techniques are crucial. To solve these problems, we propose a fixed-point extended (FE)-logistic chaotic mapping to reduce the computational complexity while employing a two-dimensional (2D) cellular automata (CA) and Turing pattern (TP) cascading scramble (CA-TPCS) encryption algorithm to further improve the sensitivity of the NOMA-PON system. The CA-TPCS consists of 2D-CA dynamic bit encryption and Turing symbol substitution (TSS). By using FE chaos to construct 2D-CA and adopting index sort to extract the TSS matrix, dynamic diffusion of bits and scrambling of a 2D symbol matrix are achieved. To ensure the key privacy, we employ a dual key mechanism, and uplink data is introduced as the private key. To verify the feasibility of the proposed method, a simulation validation is built on a 17.6 Gb/s power division multiplexing-orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (PDM-OFDM) NOMA-PON system transmitted over 25 km standard single mode fiber (SSMF). The results show that the proposed scheme has no effect on the optimal power allocation rate (PAR) values and the values are all 3. Meanwhile, the receiver sensitivity gains of 0.2 and 0.3 dB are obtained for high-power and low-power users after encryption. The ciphertext has good diffusion and statistical properties, and the key space is flexibly controlled by the FE precision f, the length l of the transmitted bit, and the size T of the TP, with the value of 22f+l+T×T. The results show that the proposed scheme is not only very compatible with PDM technology but also can realize the dual defense of internal aggression and external aggression. It has a good application prospect in the future NOMA-PON.
Introduction to the JOCN Special Issue on Spatial Parallelism for Next-Generation High-Capacity Transport Networks
Authors: Pointurier Yvan , Hasegawa Hiroshi , Benzaoui Nihel , Simsarian Jesse
Published: October 2024

This special issue on Spatial Parallelism for Next-Generation High-Capacity Transport Networks tackles challenging questions of how optical networks will continue to scale in capacity now that the Shannon limit has been reached for single mode fiber systems using the C and L amplifier bands.
Orbital angular momentum carrying mid-infrared Bessel beam generation at room temperature
Authors: Mallick Nawaz Sarif
Published: October 2024

We explore the generation of orbital angular momentum (OAM) carrying mid-infrared Bessel-Gaussian beams through nonlinear interactions within a non-uniformly broadened 85Rb atomic ensemble. Utilizing an efficient four-wave mixing (FWM) scheme driven by two strong control fields and a weak probe field, we achieve coherent emission at a wavelength of 5.23 µm. By employing the density matrix approach, we obtain an analytical expression for the nonlinear atomic coherence involved in the four-wave mixing process, elucidating how the Bessel-Gaussian profile of the probe field is transferred into the mid-infrared signal. Numerical simulations of Maxwell’s wave equation ensure the generation of phase-matched, non-diffracting Bessel-Gaussian beams, which can be precisely controlled by manipulating the spatial susceptibility of the atomic medium. Furthermore, this study demonstrates the potential of higher-order Bessel-Gaussian beams with OAM to significantly advance applications in high-speed communication, biomedical imaging, and optical manipulation, owing to their robust beam integrity and enhanced data transmission capabilities in the mid-infrared spectrum.
All-optical switch based on two-dimensional asymmetric electromagnetically induced grating in nanohybrid systems
Authors: Naseri Tayebeh , Maleki Zeynab
Published: October 2024

This study investigates (EIG) in a nanohybrid configuration involving a semiconductor quantum dot (SQD) and a core-shell bimetallic nanoparticle coated with graphene. The goal is to optimize interactions between plasmons and excitons. This is achieved by utilizing nanoparticles covered with graphene, which enhances control over surface plasmons. These interactions decrease light absorption by quantum dots. At the same time, they enhance the presence of coherent states and quantum interference. The innovative aspect of this model lies in its ability to produce a two-dimensional asymmetric diffraction grating. This is accomplished by modulating the phase within a closed-loop structure and utilizing the nonlinear multi-wave mixing phenomenon, without needing to adjust other system parameters. More specifically, altering the phase of the incident fields produces an asymmetric diffraction grating with an efficiency exceeding 50%. Similarly, varying the frequency of the probing field results in an asymmetric diffraction grating with efficiencies exceeding 40%. This technology has the potential to enhance optical systems, such as all-optical switches in communications, by simplifying the alteration of laser beam phases and probe field frequencies.
Limits on the sensitivity of a cold atom interferometry gyroscope
Authors: Xu Wen-Jie , Chen Le-le , Nie Ming-Jie , Zhou Minkang , Hu Zhongkun
Published: October 2024

We present a precision atom interferometry gyroscope with a Sagnac area of 6.0 cm2. To drive the cold atom interferometry gyroscope, we utilize two sets of Raman beams with a pulse sequence of π/2-π-π-π/2. We present a procedure for aligning the two sets of Raman beams at the microradian level by making use of the atom interferometer itself in different configurations. Additionally, we measured the atomic cloud trajectory and implemented a spatial symmetry alignment for the atom interferometer. With these improvements, we construct a sensitive atom gyroscope with a stability of 1 nrad/s at an integration time of 10000 s. We analyzed the influence of Raman beams and the limitations of the system, and present the technical limits to the sensitivity and long-term stability. Finally, we point out the primary sources of noise in the atom interferometry gyroscope, clearing the way for the construction of further large-area atom gyroscopes.
Low‐frequency noise and deep‐level transient spectroscopy in LWIR Auger‐suppressed Hg1-xCdxTe heterostructure detector
Authors: Achtenberg Krzysztof , Majkowycz Kinga , Martyniuk Piotr , Bielecki Zbigniew
Published: October 2024

Low-frequency noise spectroscopy (LFNS) along with deep-level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) are complementary and effective tools to study and characterize the carrier traps in semiconductors. These traps caused, e.g., by contamination by foreign atoms or various types of dislocations, can significantly affect quantum efficiency, dark current, responsivity, and noise generated by devices especially when operating under bias. Since DLTS is difficult to apply in high leakage current devices, LFNS can be used to overcome this limitation, so the use of both methods gives very effective and reliable results during research on various devices. In this paper, we reported a study of defects activation energies in HgCdTe Auger-suppressed long-wavelength infrared (LWIR) heterostructure-based detector using these two experimental methods. By proper structure design, the examined detector was optimized for high operating temperature (HOT) conditions ≥ 200 K. The results obtained showed that in such detectors, grown by the metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) technique, a few traps can be extracted. The found trap levels and activation energies were located below and above the absorber bandgap, so they can be identified in both absorber and other heterostructure layers. Due to specific multilayer architecture, a precise interpretation of the results is difficult. Nevertheless, the most probable trap locations based on the current state of knowledge were discussed and proposed.
Real-time spectral transient dynamics measurement of mode-locked semiconductor disk lasers with DFT
Authors: Mao Lin , Zhang Pengxiang , Liu Haiyan , Zhang Zexin , Liu Huimin , Tian Jinrong , Song Yanrong
Published: October 2024

The real-time measurement of transient dynamics of a semiconductor disk laser (SDL) was demonstrated using the dispersive Fourier transform (DFT) technology. Operating in a stable mode-locking state with a repetition rate of 425 MHz and a pulse width of 2.18 ps, the SDL exhibits significant changes in both spectral shape and pulse profile in the process of the establishment and extinction of mode locking. The pulse-resolved spectral evolution was captured, which includes relaxation oscillation, Q-switched oscillation and mode-locking states. Notably, we observed a progressive shift in the central wavelength—from 983.8 nm during initial mode-locking to 982.5 nm in the stabilization phase, and finally to 980 nm at extinction. The shift of mode locked wavelength can be attributed to thermal effect. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time to observe the mode-locked dynamics in SDLs using a DFT technology.
On the theory of spectral compression-assisted optical temporal differentiation
Authors: Mei Chao , Zhang Yijian , Zhou Xian , Duan Hong-Guang
Published: October 2024

Bandwidth limitation represents a significant factor that degrades the performance of optical devices. The dimensions, composition and configuration of optical devices impose intrinsic constraints on processing broadband optical pulse signals. The enhancement of the response bandwidth of optical devices represents a significant challenge. In this study, we put forward the theory of self-similar spectral compression (SSSC), which involves solving the nonlinear Schrödinger equation with variable coefficients by using the Taylor expansion and residual theorem. The spectral waveform can be precisely preserved in the process of SSSC, leading to a predictable compression factor without pedestals. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed SSSC, we present a case study by designing an on-chip optical time-domain differentiator (OTD) system including a silicon-based tapered spiral waveguide. A 200-fs chirped pulse is well differentiated at multiple orders in the OTD system. Although the linear loss of spiral waveguide has a detrimental impact on SSSC, the broadband spectrum can still be self-similarly compressed, leading to a reduction of differentiation deviation of 22.5 times. The proposed SSSC theory offers valuable guidance for designing all-optical signal processing systems with high spectral resolution and low signal error.
Polarization division multiplexing link using a high-speed lithium niobate automatic polarization demultiplexer
Authors: Tan Heyun , Lin Yanmei , Zhang Junwei , Wang Jingyi , Ke Wei , Lin Zhongjin , Cai Xinlun
Published: October 2024

We propose and experimentally demonstrate a polarization division multiplexing (PDM) link employing an integrated dual-polarization thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) modulator and an on-chip automatic polarization demultiplexer. The tracking speed of an 80-Gb/s PDM link achieves a maximum of 600 rad/s with a bit error rate (BER) below 2.4 × 10−2. Furthermore, at a polarization scrambling rate (SR) of 100 rad/s, BERs maintain around 1.7 × 10−3 over a period of half an hour. This configuration takes advantage of the TFLN platform, which includes high-speed modulation, fast polarization control, and a compact footprint, effectively doubling capacity per wavelength using simple direct detection. The demonstration highlights the effectiveness of on-chip polarization multiplexing and demultiplexing, particularly in scenarios involving polarization fluctuations, offering promising prospects for applications in commercial short-reach data centers.
Investigation of silver gallium sulfide and silver gallium selenide for upconversion beyond 10 µm
Authors: Tidemand-Lichtenberg Peter , Pedersen Rasmus Lyngbye , Appignani Ludovica , Pedersen Christian
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates silver gallium selenide (AGSe) as a promising alternative to silver gallium sulfide (AGS) for upconversion detection beyond 10 µm. AGSe offers a wide transparency range extending to ∼20 µm, making it a candidate for upconversion detection in the challenging 10 to 20 µm range. Beyond 12 µm, AGS is not an option due to high absorption. An experimental setup is implemented for crystal comparison in the 10 to 12 µm range, based on a tunable quantum cascade laser (QCL). Phase matching constraints in AGSe required an 1880 nm mixing laser, whereas AGS was conveniently implemented with a 1064 nm mixing laser. Detection of the upconverted signal is consequently based on InGaAs (for AGSe) and Si detectors (for AGS), respectively. Results show that AGSe offers higher upconversion efficiency and superior phase matching properties, making it a promising crystal for long-wavelength infrared (IR) detection.
Continuous focus field strength adjustment in a scattered field based on the third-order correlation of light fields
Authors: Huangfu Haolan , Zhao Ying , Deng Xin , Yang Zuogang , Duan Meigang , Zuo Haoyi
Published: October 2024

A scheme for adjusting focus field strength in a scattered field is reported. By using the third-order correlation of light field (TCLF), we can obtain focal points at different positions in the scattered field. By superimposing the incident patterns (TCLF-patterns) corresponding to these focal points with suitable weights, the ratio of the field strength of the focal points can be adjusted. If the resolution of the incident modulation is high enough, this ratio will be strictly proportional to the weights assigned to the TCLF-pattern in superposition. This research potentially broadens the scope of scattering field control research.
Dual-wavelength sub-Nyquist sampling scheme for clipping-avoidance photonic ADC
Authors: Li Qiuyan , Qiu Jifang , Wu Yuepeng , Zhang Bowen , Li Yan , Wu Jian
Published: October 2024

We propose a dual-wavelength scheme for a clipping-avoidance photonic analog-to-digital converter (PADC) operating at the sub-Nyquist sampling rate. The scheme utilizes two characteristics, the phase-wrapping feature of a PADC and the wavelength-sensitive feature of a phase modulator, equivalently performing a dual-modulus (DM) modulo operation to avoid clipping. Coupled with an unwrapping algorithm based on the Chinese remainder theorem (CRT), the proposed scheme enables signal reconstruction from the processed signals independent of the sampling rate. We demonstrated proof-of-concept experiments on a PADC chip fabricated on an LNOI platform. Experimental results show that 1G/2G/4G-baud 10-level pulse amplitude modulation (PAM-10) waveforms were successfully reconstructed at the sub-Nyquist sampling rate of 1/2/4Gs/s, respectively. Our work provides a potential solution to achieve on-chip clipping-avoidance PADCs operating at the sub-Nyquist sampling.
Degenerate merging BICs in resonant metasurfaces
Authors: Gao Yixiao , Ge Junyang , Gu Zhaofeng , Xu Lei , Shen Xiang , Huang Lujun
Published: October 2024

Resonant metasurfaces driven by bound states in the continuum (BIC) offer an intriguing approach to engineering high-Q resonances. Merging multiple BICs in the momentum space could further enhance the Q-factor as well as its robustness to fabrication imperfections. Here, we report the doubly degenerate guided mode resonances (GMR) in a resonant metasurface, whose radiation losses could be totally suppressed due to merging BICs. We show that the GMRs and their associated accidental BICs can evolve into degenerate merging BICs by parametric tuning of the metasurface. Significantly, these two GMRs share the same critical parameter (i.e., lattice constants or thickness) that the merging BICs occur. Interestingly, thanks to the degenerate property of two GMRs, a larger (smaller) period will split one of the merging BICs into eight accidental BICs at an off-Γ point but annihilate the other. Such an exotic phenomenon can be explained by the interaction of GMRs and background Fabry–Perot resonances. Our result provides new, to the best of our knowledge, strategies for engineering high-Q resonances in resonant metasurfaces for light–matter interaction.
Broadband spectral tuning and multi-molecular detection in a BaGa4Se7 optical parametric amplifier
Authors: Fu Zhizhuo , Hu Bo , He Linzhen , Yang Xuemei , Li Chunxiao , Yao Jiyong , Wu Han , Liang Houkun
Published: October 2024

Broadband spectral tuning of long-wavelength infrared (LWIR) femtosecond lasers without rotating nonlinear crystals has special usefulness in applications of nonlinear integrated photonics and microscopic ultrafast dynamics studies with stringent requirements on beam pointing. Here, we demonstrate, for the first time to the best of our knowledge, a temperature-tuning LWIR femtosecond optical parametric amplifier (OPA), based on a BaGa4Se7 (BGSe) crystal. Broadband spectral tunability from 8.4 to 17.1 µm over a crystal temperature range of 20–140°C at three fixed phase-matching (PM) angles is achieved with mini-watts output power. As a proof of concept, multiple trace gas detections are demonstrated on sulfur hexafluoride, ethane, and acetylene through only temperature variation. Our results validate the feasibility of achieving an ultra-broadband LWIR spectral tuning through temperature variation in a BGSe OPA, which is beneficial for unique applications such as on-chip spectroscopy and microscopic pump-and-probe experiments.
On-chip topological transport of integrated optical frequency combs
Authors: Jiang Zhen , Wang Hongwei , Xie Peng , Yang Yuechen , Shen Yang , Ji Bo , Chen Yanghe , Zhang Yong , Sun Lu , Wang Zheng , Jiang Chun , Su Yikai , He Guangqiang
Published: October 2024

Optical frequency combs in integrated photonics have widespread applications in high-dimensional optical computing, high-capacity communications, high-speed interconnects, and other paradigm-shifting technologies. However, quantum frequency combs with high-dimensional quantum states are vulnerable to decoherence, particularly in the presence of perturbations such as sharp bends. Here we experimentally demonstrate the robust on-chip topological transport of quantum frequency combs in valley photonic crystal waveguides. By measuring the time correlations and joint spectral intensity of the quantum frequency combs, we show that both quantum correlations and frequency entanglement remain robust against sharp bends, owing to the topological nature of the quantum valley Hall effect. We also demonstrate that dissipative Kerr soliton combs with a bandwidth of 20 THz maintain their spectral envelope and low-noise properties even in the presence of structure perturbations. These topologically protected optical frequency combs offer robust, complex, highly controllable, and scalable light sources, promising significant advances in high-dimensional photonic information processing.
Inferring gender from first names: Comparing the accuracy of Genderize, Gender API, and the gender R package on authors of diverse nationality
Authors: VanHelene Alexander D. , Khatri Ishaani , Hilton C. Beau , Mishra Sanjay , Gamsiz Uzun Ece D. , Warner Jeremy L.
Published: October 2024

Meta-researchers commonly leverage tools that infer gender from first names, especially when studying gender disparities. However, tools vary in their accuracy, ease of use, and cost. The objective of this study was to compare the accuracy and cost of the commercial software Genderize and Gender API, and the open-source gender R package. Differences in binary gender prediction accuracy between the three services were evaluated. Gender prediction accuracy was tested on a multi-national dataset of 32,968 gender-labeled clinical trial authors. Additionally, two datasets from previous studies with 5779 and 6131 names, respectively, were re-evaluated with modern implementations of Genderize and Gender API. The gender inference accuracy of Genderize and Gender API were compared, both with and without supplying trialists’ country of origin in the API call. The accuracy of the gender R package was only evaluated without supplying countries of origin. The accuracy of Genderize, Gender API, and the gender R package were defined as the percentage of correct gender predictions. Accuracy differences between methods were evaluated using McNemar’s test. Genderize and Gender API demonstrated 96.6% and 96.1% accuracy, respectively, when countries of origin were not supplied in the API calls. Genderize and Gender API achieved the highest accuracy when predicting the gender of German authors with accuracies greater than 98%. Genderize and Gender API were least accurate with South Korean, Chinese, Singaporean, and Taiwanese authors, demonstrating below 82% accuracy. Genderize can provide similar accuracy to Gender API while being 4.85x less expensive. The gender R package achieved below 86% accuracy on the full dataset. In the replication studies, Genderize and gender API demonstrated better performance than in the original publications. Our results indicate that Genderize and Gender API achieve similar accuracy on a multinational dataset. The gender R package is uniformly less accurate than Genderize and Gender API.
Occurrence and diversity of Campylobacter species in diarrheic children and their exposure environments in Ethiopia
Authors: Belina Dinaol , Gobena Tesfaye , Kebede Ameha , Chimdessa Meseret , Mummed Bahar , Thystrup Cecilie Amalie Neijendam , Hald Tine
Published: October 2024

Campylobacter is a major zoonotic foodborne pathogen that poses a significant public health threat, particularly among children and immunocompromised individuals. However, data on the occurrence and sources of Campylobacter infection remain scarce in Ethiopia. This study assessed the occurrence, diversity, and relationships between Campylobacter from diarrheic children and potential exposure sources using whole-genome sequencing. Through case-based tracing, animal, food, and environmental samples were collected from Harar town and Kersa district between November 2021 and January 2023. Campylobacter was identified using selective media, and DNA was extracted and sequenced with the Illumina NextSeq 550 instrument. Sequence reads were analysed using bioinformatics tools. The overall Campylobacter prevalence in the exposure sources was 5.5%, with 6.0% in urban and 5.0% in rural settings. Campylobacter detection was 1.8 times more likely in household samples (8.7%; OR = 1.8; 95% CI: 0.7–4.5) than in samples from marketplaces. The occurrence of Campylobacter in food was 4.2%, with no significant differences across the meat, milk, and other food categories. The likelihood of Campylobacter contamination in the environment was 5.8 times higher in the presence of poultry (17.7%; OR = 5.8; CI: 1.1–30.6) compared to shoats. Sequence analysis identified a low Campylobacter spp. diversity comprising only C. jejuni and C. coli, which were characterized by 8 distinct sequence types (STs). Phylogenetically, the majority of the sequenced case isolates were clustered with isolates from either caretakers, environmental exposures, or both. In conclusion, Campylobacter was detected in various exposure sources of diarrheic children, and its occurrence did not differ significantly between Kersa and Harar or among food items. The majority of isolates shared MLST profiles and clustered together, demonstrating the involvement of multiple vectors in the transmission of the pathogen. Genome-based integrated studies supported by an attribution model are recommended to determine the relative contribution of each source.
Wavelet and time-based cerebral autoregulation analysis using diffuse correlation spectroscopy on adults undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy
Authors: Dar Irfaan A. , Khan Imad R. , Johnson Thomas W. , Helmy Samantha Marie , Cardona Jeronimo I. , Escobar Samantha , Selioutski Olga , Marinescu Mark A. , Zhang Chloe T. , Proctor Ashley R. , AbdAllah Noura , Busch David R. , Maddox Ross K. , Choe Regine
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Adult patients who have suffered acute cardiac or pulmonary failure are increasingly being treated using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), a cardiopulmonary bypass technique. While ECMO has improved the long-term outcomes of these patients, neurological injuries can occur from underlying illness or ECMO itself. Cerebral autoregulation (CA) allows the brain to maintain steady perfusion during changes in systemic blood pressure. Dysfunctional CA is a marker of acute brain injury and can worsen neurologic damage. Monitoring CA using invasive modalities can be risky in ECMO patients due to the necessity of anticoagulation therapy. Diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) measures cerebral blood flow continuously, noninvasively, at the bedside, and can monitor CA. In this study, we compare DCS-based markers of CA in veno-arterial ECMO patients with and without acute brain injury.

Methods

Adults undergoing ECMO were prospectively enrolled at a single tertiary hospital and underwent DCS and arterial blood pressure monitoring during ECMO. Neurologic injuries were identified using brain computerized tomography (CT) scans obtained in all patients. CA was calculated over a twenty-minute window via wavelet coherence analysis (WCA) over 0.05 Hz to 0.1 Hz and a Pearson correlation (DCSx) between cerebral blood flow measured by DCS and mean arterial pressure.

Results

Eleven ECMO patients who received CT neuroimaging were recruited. 5 (45%) patients were found to have neurologic injury. CA indices WCOH, the area under the curve of the WCA, were significantly higher for patients with neurological injuries compared to those without neurological injuries (right hemisphere p = 0.041, left hemisphere p = 0.041). %DCSx, percentage of time DCSx was above a threshold 0.4, were not significantly higher (right hemisphere p = 0.268, left hemisphere p = 0.073).

Conclusion

DCS can be used to detect differences in CA for ECMO patients with neurological injuries compared to uninjured patients using WCA.
DCS-YOLO: Defect detection model for new energy vehicle battery current collector
Authors: Tang Hai , Yuan Lei , Chen Yanrong , Gao Ren , Wu Wenhuan
Published: October 2024

The future trend in global automobile development is electrification, and the current collector is an essential component of the battery in new energy vehicles. Aiming at the misjudgment and omission caused by the confusing distribution, a wide range of sizes and types, and ambiguity of target defects in current collectors, an improved target detection model DCS-YOLO (DC-SoftCBAM YOLO) based on YOLOv5 is proposed. Firstly, the detection rate of defects with different scales is improved by adding detection layers; Secondly, we use the designed DC module as the backbone network to help the model capture the global information and semantic dependencies of the target, and effectively improve the generalization ability and detection performance of the model. Finally, in the neck part, we integrate our designed Convolutional Block Attention Module (SoftPool Convolutional Block Attention Module, SoftCBAM), which can adaptively learn the importance of channels, enhance feature representation, and enable the model to better deal with target details. Experimental results show that the mAP50 of the proposed DCS-YOLO model is 92.2%, which is 5.1% higher than the baseline model. The FPS reaches 147.1, and the detection accuracy of various defect categories is improved, especially Severely bad and No cover, and the detection recall rate reaches 100%. This method has high target detection model efficiency and meets the requirements of real-time detection of battery collector defects.
Profiling of five urinary exosomal miRNAs for the differential diagnosis of patients with diabetic kidney disease and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
Authors: Trabulus Sinan , Zor Mehmet Seyit , Alagoz Selma , Dincer Mevlut Tamer , Meşe Meral , Yilmaz Erkan , Tahir Turanli Eda , Seyahi Nurhan
Published: October 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to investigate the diagnostic utility of microRNAs (miRNAs) for distinguishing between urine samples from patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD) and those with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).

Methods

In this multicentric, cross-sectional investigation, we enrolled patients diagnosed with DKD, individuals with primary biopsy-proven FSGS, and healthy controls. The top 5 miRNAs (hsa-mir-21, hsa-mir-30a, hsa-mir-193a, hsa-mir-196a, hsa-mir-200a) were selected to quantify miRNAs in urine samples. Isolation of targeted miRNAs was performed from urinary exosomes, and the quantitative profile of the isolated miRNAs was measured by RT-qPCR. The ΔΔCt method was implemented to calculate the fold differences between disease and control samples.

Results

Thirteen DKD patients, 11 FSGS patients, and 14 healthy controls were included in this study. Hsa-mir-21 and hsa-mir-30a exhibited distinct regulation in both groups, with upregulation observed in FSGS and downregulation in DKD (hsa-mir-21 in DKD (0.668 ± 0.25, p < 0.0005) and FSGS (2.267 ± 1.138, p < 0.0077); hsa-mir-30a in DKD (0.874 ± 0.254, p = 0.079) and FSGS (1.378 ± 0.312, p < 0.0006)). Hsa-mir-193a exhibited significant dysregulation in DKD (1.017 ± 0.413, p < 0.029) but not in FSGS (4.18 ± 1.528, p = 0.058). Hsa-mir-196a and hsa-mir-200a showed upregulation in patient groups (hsa-mir-196a in DKD (1.278 ± 0.527, p = 0.074) and FSGS (2.47 ± 0.911, p < 0.0003); hsa-mir-200a in DKD (1.909 ± 0.825, p = 0.082) and FSGS (1.301 ± 0.358, p < 0.008)).

Conclusion

Specific miRNAs, particularly miR-21, miR-30a, miR-196a, and miR-200a, might play a role in the pathogenesis of kidney diseases and could potentially serve as biomarkers to distinguish between FSGS and DKD patients.
Seismic response of a mid-story isolated stilted structure in mountainous areas
Authors: Li Jianhua , Liu Dewen
Published: October 2024

Research on the SSI effect on flat sites has yielded many valuable conclusions. However, current research on the impacts of various special local terrains on structural dynamics remains limited. For mountainous areas, it is common to construct houses in a multi-step, climbing, and laterally staggered architectural form that follows the mountain terrain. Only through the analysis of the combined action of the upper and lower parts can the seismic performance of this type of structural form be better revealed; considering the influence of SSI effects will be closer to the actual seismic effects. Therefore, to identify the damage factors of the mid-story isolated stilted structures under earthquakes and provide optimized design plans for the structures, six models are established considering three slopes and two types of foundations based on the engineering case in Chongqing, China. Through the elastic-plastic time-history analysis under earthquakes in the down and transverse-slope directions, concludes, compared with not considering SSI, the seismic response of the mid-story isolated stilted structures considering SSI in mountainous areas is amplified. With the increase of the mountain slope, the seismic response of the structures considering SSI increases, and the amplification coefficients are between 1–1.8. The amplification coefficients of the structures without SSI are concentrated around 1, which is less influenced by the slope. The damage to the stilted isolated layer is mainly concentrated in the column and the beam end, and the maximum seismic response appears in the short columns. The foundation soil stress increases with the increase of the mountain slope.
Time course of visual attention in rats by atomic magnetometer
Authors: Liu Fan , Xiang Zhao , Chen Yuhai , Lu Guanzhong , Wang Jiahao , Yao Jia , Zhang Ying , Ma Xuejiao , Lin Qiang , Ruan Yi
Published: October 2024

Atomic magnetometer (AM) is utilized to non-invasively detect event-related magnetic fields (ERMFs) evoked by visual stimuli in rats. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between N2-like amplitude and visual attention. To achieve this, we combined the AM with a visual stimulation system and employed the passive single-stimulus paradigm. By measuring the ERMFs at various inter-stimulus intervals (ISIs) with a sensitivity of 20 fT/Hz, we analyzed the effects of the ISI and the ‘habituation’ resulting from repeated stimuli on the N2-like amplitude. Our method serves as a valuable reference for studying the passive single-stimulus paradigm and the time course of mammalian attention.