bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rydberg-atom-based multiband frequency-hopping communication receiver using five-level atomic system
Authors: Wen Wen , Yan Shaochen , Wang Ruiqiong , Li Xinyao , Tan Jiajun , Pang Xiaoyan , Zhai Weile , Cui Wanzhao , Gao Yongsheng
Published: October 2024

A frequency-hopping communication receiver based on Rydberg atoms, whose carrier frequency changes in accordance with a predetermined sequence, is proposed for what we believe to be the first time and experimentally verified. Based on the coherent population trapping (CPT) effect of atoms, a five-level system is built under the assumption of a constant laser wavelength, where the carrier is the resonance band corresponding to different separated quantum states. Pseudo-random binary sequence (PRBS) and complex image signals undergo keying modulation to achieve frequency-domain hopping reception. In the experiment, a dynamic range of 62 dB is demonstrated. The digital transmission with a data rate of 1 Mbps is performed reliably, within a tunable bandwidth of 50 MHz, an instantaneous bandwidth of 700 kHz and a max hopping rate of 20000 hop/s. The proposed atom-based frequency-hopping receiver is suitable for secure communications, satellite uplinks, quantum cryptography, and high-precision scientific research.
>100 m fiber-coupled microchip laser–induced breakdown spectroscopy for remote elemental analysis applications
Authors: Batsaikhan Munkhbat , Ohba Hironori , Wakaida Ikuo
Published: October 2024

This study aims to develop ultralong fiber-optic cable (FOC) coupled microchip laser – induced breakdown spectroscopy (mLIBS) to reveal the elemental distribution and local composition of nuclear fuel debris in an accident-damaged reactors at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (FDNPS). Currently at FDNPS, the distance between the area where humans can safely work in a sufficient space and the nuclear fuel debris is expected to be >100 m. Therefore, it becomes crucial to analyze the light transmittance performance of FOC-coupled mLIBS systems over such long distances in a high-radiation environment. Therefore, this study focuses on the influence of gamma radiation dose and FOC length on the transmittance of the visible and near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths through FOCs. Compared with an FOC with low-OH groups, that with high-OH groups exhibits better light transmittance performance in both wavelength regions in a high-radiation environment. Furthermore, the light transmittance performance of the high-OH FOC extended up to 500 m in length is tested in a radiation-free environment. From the measurement results, the maximum FOC length for microchip crystal oscillation is estimated to be >800 m, although attenuation is observed with the increase in FOC length. Finally, we analyze the ultralong FOC–coupled mLIBS system through the detection of gadolinium (Gd) in mixed oxide samples. The strong emission lines of Gd were only available in the visible wavelength region. Therefore, quantitative analysis of Gd is successfully performed in the visible region using the mLIBS system coupled with up to 300-m-long FOCs, with the limits of detection being between 0.1% and 0.2%.
Design of an optically transparent ultrawideband absorber with high angular stability using ITO films
Authors: Jian Han , Yang Rui , Sun Shiyong
Published: October 2024

In this paper, an optically transparency ultrawideband absorber with high angular stability is designed. The proposed absorber is composed of two different materials with indium thin oxide (ITO) conductive films and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates. With the aid of a stacked structure design, the absorber has a 90% absorption band from 5 to 43.5 GHz and the fractional bandwidth reaches 158.7%. Also, for the TE mode, the absorption remains stable with the oblique incident angles reaching 50°. And similar angular stability can be observed for the TM mode from 0° to 70°. Besides, the thickness of the absorber is only 0.092 wavelength and transmittance within the visible band is 57.3%. For further verification, a prototype is fabricated and measured. Good agreements between the simulated and the measured results can be observed.
Velocity-map imaging with counter-propagating laser pulses
Authors: Heldt Tobias , Oelmann Jan-Hendrik , Guth Lennart , Lackmann Nick , Pfeifer Thomas , Crespo López-Urrutia José R.
Published: October 2024

Velocity-map imaging (VMI) is a key tool for studying outgoing electrons or ions following optical strong-field interactions of atoms and molecules and provides good momentum resolution even if the source volume of the fragments extends along a laser beam path. Here, we demonstrate within an enhancement cavity how, independently of the focal Rayleigh length, counter-propagating pulses longitudinally compress the ionization volume down to few tens of micrometers. We observe nonlinear above-threshold ionization (ATI) processes confined to the spatial overlap of femtosecond pulses, whereas the shortened ionization volume makes an electrostatic lens unnecessary for VMI.
Self-powered Sb2S3 photodetectors with efficient carrier transport enabled by compact vertical TiO2 nanorods
Authors: Kang Yubin , Deng Hui , Wu Kefei , Wang Guidong , Hong Jinwei , Wang Weihuang , Wu Jionghua , Zhou Haifang , Xia Yong , Cheng Shuying
Published: October 2024

Antimony sulfide (Sb2S3) photodetectors (PDs) possess extensive application prospects. Efficient carrier transport of a PD significantly affects the detectivity and response speed. Herein, we propose an all-inorganic self-powered Sb2S3 PD based on vertical TiO2 nanorods (NRs). The spray-coated 15-nm TiO2 thin film as a seed layer ensures the growth of compact vertical TiO2 nanorod arrays by the hydrothermal method. One-dimensional TiO2 nanorods facilitate photocarrier separation and transport to enhance device performance. Ultimately, the Sb2S3 PD achieves a responsivity of 0.29 A/W, a specific detectivity of 3.37 × 1012 Jones, and a response time of 7.8 µs, showing great potential in commercial applications.
Controllable dual-layer twisted array source
Authors: Zhang Shaohua , Zhou Zhenglan , Zhou Yuan , Qu Jun
Published: October 2024

The use of array structures in optical communication and trapping significantly enhances information capacity and trapping efficiency, while twisted beams present promising applications in both fields. However, it remains a considerable technical challenge to control and stabilize large-scale twisted beam arrays while ensuring both beam stability and multi-structural integrity. In this study, we constructed a twisted array of Schell-model sources and introduced an array twist parameter to characterize the global rotational characteristics of these randomly fluctuating optical fields. The results show that optimizing parameter settings allows for effective control of the rotational structure of beam arrays, enabling reverse rotation of the dual-layer beam structure. Additionally, the stability of the twisted array structure is effectively maintained through the dual-layer twist characteristics. Precise control of the dual-layer twisted beams enables the creation of complex optical field structures, thereby enhancing the flexibility of optical manipulation and further improving the trapping efficiency of particles and the bandwidth of optical communication.
414.9 W in-band pumped Er/Yb co-doped fiber amplifier seeded by a random fiber laser
Authors: Li Guanzhong , Li Dan , Xiao Qirong , Cai Yuexuan , Fu Guohao , Qi Tiancheng , Yu Weilong , Li Pei , Gong Mali , Yan Ping
Published: October 2024

We demonstrated a 414.9 W large-mode-area Er/Yb co-doped fiber amplifier with a good time-domain stability, seeded by a 1568 nm random fiber laser (RFL) seed with a half-open cavity. We believe this to be the highest output power of the RFL in a 1.5 µm band to date. At the maximum output power, the optical efficiency was 36.9% and the 3 dB linewidth was 0.69 nm. The 1535 nm fiber lasers were used as the pumping source of the main amplifier to avoid the parasitic lasing of Yb ions. The spectral linewidth broadening was suppressed during the amplification process due to the stable temporal output of the RFL seed. The M2 factor increased from 2.28 at 145.7 W to 2.83 at 280.8 W. Our research provides a robust approach for achieving high-power and high-spectral-purity RFLs in the 1.5 µm band.
Suspended nanophotonic waveguide for isotope-specific CO2 detection
Authors: Salaj Jehona , Vlk Marek , Zakoldaev Roman , Seton Ragnar , Čtyroký Jiří , Alberti Sebastián , Aksnes Astrid , Jágerská Jana
Published: October 2024

The spectroscopic detection of gases and their stable isotopes holds
significant value in bio-sciences and climate studies. However,
achieving high precision has long been confined to bulky and costly
equipment. In this work, we introduce a nanophotonic waveguide that is
capable of detecting CO2 gas down to 20 parts per billion, and
for the first time perform accurate stable isotope ratio measurements.
The waveguide leverages a suspended membrane design with
microstructured cladding, providing a high evanescent field
confinement factor of 102%, moderate loss of 3.4 dB/cm, and
effective suppression of etalons. The δ13C isotope ratio precision of 0.2‰ was
achieved, replicating the performance of high-end laser absorption
spectrometers. This marks the inaugural instance of on-chip,
isotope-specific gas detection with a compact and cost-efficient
system scalable to sensor networks.
High-speed three-dimensional random access scanning with a linear SLM
Authors: Berlage Caroline , Böhm Urs L. , Sanchez Moreno Ana , Ledderose Julia , Gidon Albert , Larkum Matthew E. , Plested Andrew , Judkewitz Benjamin
Published: October 2024

High-speed volumetric imaging is crucial for observing fast and
distributed processes such as neuronal activity. Multiphoton
microscopy helps to mitigate scattering effects inside tissue, but the
standard raster scanning approach limits achievable volume rates.
Random access point scanning can lead to a considerable speed-up by
sampling only pre-selected locations, but existing techniques based on
acousto-optic deflectors are still limited to a point rate of up to . This limits the number of parallel
targets at the high acquisition rates necessary, for example, in
voltage imaging or imaging of fast synaptic events. Here, we introduce
SPARCLS, a method for 3D random access point scanning at up to
340 kHz using a single 1D phase modulator. We show the
potential of this method by imaging synaptic events with fluorescent
glutamate sensors in mammalian organotypic slices as well as in
zebrafish larvae.
Strong coupling between a quasi-two-dimensional perovskite and a honeycomb plasmonic nanocone array
Authors: Song Zixuan , Huang Xuexuan , Li Lingyao , Zhao Leyi , Xiao Jiamin , Yuan Jiazhi , Wang Zhihang , Bi Chenghao , Wang Wenxin
Published: October 2024

Recently organic-inorganic perovskite has been established as a promising platform for achieving room temperature exciton-polaritons, attributable to its superior optical coherence and robust exciton binding energies. However, when interfaced with metallic surfaces, the rapid degradation and quenching effect in perovskite have presented significant challenges, which critically hinders the exploration of light-matter interactions within metallic plasmonic structures. In this study, we report a quasi-two-dimensional lead halide perovskite that demonstrates a pronounced strong coupling phenomenon within an array of aluminum nanocones. The investigated quasi-two-dimensional perovskite structure exhibits high photoluminescence quantum efficiency and improved stability against metallic-induced degradation. Interestingly, the periodical arraying in honeycomb formation of plasmonic structure has advantages in angle-dependent dispersions and the loss neutralizing effectively. Besides, the plasmonic cone lattice characterized by its collective surface lattice resonance, features an exceptionally small mode volume and high quality, enhancing its interaction with the perovskite. A significant Rabi splitting of 243 meV is observed at an incident angle of 30°. The dynamics of the Rabi oscillation is revealed by transient absorption spectra and theoretically analyzed by cavity quantum electrodynamics. This advancement in polariton research paves the way for novel applications, including quantum sources, enhanced photon-electron conversion efficiencies, and low-threshold lasing.
Learning probability distributions of sensory inputs with Monte Carlo predictive coding
Authors: Oliviers Gaspard , Bogacz Rafal , Meulemans Alexander
Published: October 2024

It has been suggested that the brain employs probabilistic generative models to optimally interpret sensory information. This hypothesis has been formalised in distinct frameworks, focusing on explaining separate phenomena. On one hand, classic predictive coding theory proposed how the probabilistic models can be learned by networks of neurons employing local synaptic plasticity. On the other hand, neural sampling theories have demonstrated how stochastic dynamics enable neural circuits to represent the posterior distributions of latent states of the environment. These frameworks were brought together by variational filtering that introduced neural sampling to predictive coding. Here, we consider a variant of variational filtering for static inputs, to which we refer as Monte Carlo predictive coding (MCPC). We demonstrate that the integration of predictive coding with neural sampling results in a neural network that learns precise generative models using local computation and plasticity. The neural dynamics of MCPC infer the posterior distributions of the latent states in the presence of sensory inputs, and can generate likely inputs in their absence. Furthermore, MCPC captures the experimental observations on the variability of neural activity during perceptual tasks. By combining predictive coding and neural sampling, MCPC can account for both sets of neural data that previously had been explained by these individual frameworks.
Racial differences in laboratory testing as a potential mechanism for bias in AI: A matched cohort analysis in emergency department visits
Authors: Chang Trenton , Nuppnau Mark , He Ying , Kocher Keith E. , Valley Thomas S. , Sjoding Michael W. , Wiens Jenna
Published: October 2024

AI models are often trained using available laboratory test results. Racial differences in laboratory testing may bias AI models for clinical decision support, amplifying existing inequities. This study aims to measure the extent of racial differences in laboratory testing in adult emergency department (ED) visits. We conducted a retrospective 1:1 exact-matched cohort study of Black and White adult patients seen in the ED, matching on age, biological sex, chief complaint, and ED triage score, using ED visits at two U.S. teaching hospitals: Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI (U-M, 2015–2022), and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA (BIDMC, 2011–2019). Post-matching, White patients had significantly higher testing rates than Black patients for complete blood count (BIDMC difference: 1.7%, 95% CI: 1.1% to 2.4%, U-M difference: 2.0%, 95% CI: 1.6% to 2.5%), metabolic panel (BIDMC: 1.5%, 95% CI: 0.9% to 2.1%, U-M: 1.9%, 95% CI: 1.4% to 2.4%), and blood culture (BIDMC: 0.9%, 95% CI: 0.5% to 1.2%, U-M: 0.7%, 95% CI: 0.4% to 1.1%). Black patients had significantly higher testing rates for troponin than White patients (BIDMC: -2.1%, 95% CI: -2.6% to -1.6%, U-M: -2.2%, 95% CI: -2.7% to -1.8%). The observed racial testing differences may impact AI models trained using available laboratory results. The findings also motivate further study of how such differences arise and how to mitigate potential impacts on AI models.
Factors influencing the implementation of a guideline for re-engagement in HIV care in primary care settings in Johannesburg, South Africa: A qualitative study
Authors: Makina-Zimalirana Ndinda , Wilkinson Lynne Susan , Grimsrud Anna , Davies Natasha , Mutyambizi Chipo , Jiyane Anele , Buthelezi Fezile , Rees Kate
Published: October 2024

Re-engagement, which involves bringing individuals who have fallen out of HIV care back into treatment, is important in the ongoing care of individuals with HIV, especially in regions with high prevalence and resource limitations. Despite extensive treatment programs, a significant number of people living with HIV in South Africa disengage from care due to different barriers. To address this, the South African Department of Health (DoH) introduced guidelines to support re-engagement. However, while there is a lot of research on factors leading to disengagement, there is a gap in understanding effective strategies for retaining those who re-engage. The objective of this study is to understand the barriers and facilitators influencing the adoption and scalability of strategies for re-engagement in HIV care. Anova Health Institute, in collaboration with the Johannesburg district DoH, launched the Re-engagement Initiative. This initiative aimed to help healthcare providers better understand and implement re-engagement guidelines through capacity-building, clinical decision support tools, mentorship, and data collection. We conducted a qualitative study across nine primary care facilities in Johannesburg to investigate the perspectives of implementing providers. Data collection involved in-depth interviews using semi-structured guides. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) was used to analyse factors influencing implementation. Our study identified several factors affecting the implementation of intervention supporting re-engagement guidelines. Leadership was important for driving organizational change, creating the necessary tension for change, and prioritizing the intervention. Knowledge and beliefs about the intervention were also significant; while most providers understood the initiative’s objectives and tools, negative attitudes among some hindered adoption. Empathy for client disengagement motivated some providers, while others did not share this understanding. The belief that job aides and re-engagement forms promoted standardized care and improved documentation was a factor in supporting the initiative. Additionally, the alignment of the intervention with existing guidelines, facility plans, and goals influenced its success and sustainability. Our findings offer valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges of implementing intervention to support re-engagement guidelines. They emphasize the need to address negative provider attitudes, foster engaged leadership, and integrate initiatives with broader HIV care program and facility workflows. These insights are important for the adoption and implementation of similar guidelines in similar settings.
Polarization toward Tfh2 cell involved in development of MBC and antibody responses against Plasmodium vivax infection
Authors: Thawornpan Pongsakorn , Salsabila Zulfa Zahra , Kochayoo Piyawan , Khunsri Tipanan , Malee Chayapat , Wangriatisak Kittikorn , Leepiyasakulchai Chaniya , Ntumngia Francis Babila , Adams John H. , Chootong Patchanee
Published: October 2024

Background

Plasmodium vivax is the dominant Plasmodium spp. causing malaria throughout tropical and sub-tropical countries. Humoral immunity is induced during P. vivax infection. However, data on longevity of antibody and memory B cell (MBC) responses is lacking. Follicular helper T cells (Tfh) are drivers of high-affinity and long-lived antibody responses. Understanding of Tfh-mediated immunity against malaria is valuable for vaccine development.

Methodology/Principal findings

We enrolled 31 acutely infected P. vivax patients in low malaria transmission areas of Thailand to detect frequencies, phenotypes and kinetics of different subsets of circulating Tfh (cTfh) and MBCs, and to evaluate their association with humoral immunity following natural P. vivax infection. Expansion of cTfh2 cells, activated and atypical MBCs were shown during acute malaria. To relate increased cTfh2 cells to humoral immunity, P. vivax-specific MBCs and antibodies were assessed. High anti-PvCSP and -PvDBPII seropositivity was detected and most subjects produced MBCs specific to these antigens. The increased cTfh2 cells were positively related to atypical MBCs, plasmablasts/plasma cells, and anti-PvDBPII IgM and IgG levels. Distributions of memory cTfh cell subsets were altered from central memory (CM) to effector memory (EM) during infection. The highest ratios of cTfh-EM/cTfh-CM were represented in cTfh2 cells. Positive correlation of cTfh17-EM with activated and atypical MBCs was observed, while cTfh2-CM and cTfh17-CM cells were positively related to PvDBPII-specific MBCs and IgM levels.

Conclusions/Significance

Present study demonstrated that P. vivax infection induced cTfh polarization into cTfh2 subset, and alteration of memory cTfh2 phenotype from CM to EM phase. These P. vivax-induced cTfh responses significantly associated with generation of MBCs and antibody responses. Therefore, cTfh2 cells might possibly influence humoral immunity by inducing expansion of activated and atypical MBCs, and by generating P. vivax-specific MBCs and antibody responses following natural infection.
Human monocyte subtype expression of neuroinflammation- and regeneration-related genes is linked to age and sex
Authors: Tampé Juliane F. , Monni Emanuela , Palma-Tortosa Sara , Brogårdh Emil , Böiers Charlotta , Lindgren Arne G. , Kokaia Zaal
Published: October 2024

Aging profoundly affects the immune system leading to an increased propensity for inflammation. Age-related dysregulation of immune cells is implicated in the development and progression of numerous age-related diseases such as: cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic syndromes. Monocytes and monocyte-derived macrophages, being important players in the inflammatory response, significantly influence the aging process and the associated increase in inflammatory disease risk. Ischemic stroke is among age-related diseases where inflammation, particularly monocyte-derived macrophages, plays an important deteriorating role but could also strongly promote post-stroke recovery. Also, biological sex influences the incidence, presentation, and outcomes of ischemic stroke, reflecting both biological differences between men and women. Here, we studied whether human peripheral blood monocyte subtype (classical, intermediate, and non-classical) expression of genes implicated in stroke-related inflammation and post-stroke tissue regeneration depends on age and sex. A flow cytometry analysis of blood samples from 44 healthy volunteers (male and female, aged 28 to 98) showed that in contrast to other immune cells, the proportion of NK-cells increased in females. The proportion of B-cells decreased in both sexes with age. Gene expression analysis by qPCR identified several genes differentially correlating with age and sex within different monocyte subtypes. Interestingly, ANXA1 and CD36 showed a consistent increase with aging in all monocytes, specifically in intermediate (CD36) and intermediate and non-classical (ANXA1) subtypes. Other genes (IL-1β, S100A8, TNFα, CD64, CD33, TGFβ1, TLR8, CD91) were differentially changed in monocyte subtypes with increasing age. Most age-dependent gene changes were differentially expressed in female monocytes. Our data shed light on the nuanced interplay of age and sex in shaping the expression of inflammation- and regeneration-related genes within distinct monocyte subtypes. Understanding these dynamics could pave the way for targeted interventions and personalized approaches in post-stroke care, particularly for the aging population and individuals of different sexes.
Modeling the distribution of jet fuel price returns based on fat-tail stable Paretian distribution
Authors: Lin Shuang , Zhang Shengda , Wang Chaofeng , He Fan , Xu Zhizhen , Zhang Yuchen
Published: October 2024

Jet fuel plays a crucial role as an essential energy source in aerospace and aviation operations. The recent increase in fuel prices has presented airlines with the new challenge of managing jet fuel costs to ensure consistent cash flow and minimize operational uncertainties. The conventional risk prediction models used by airlines often assume that risks are normally distributed according to the classical Central Limit Theorem, which can lead to under-hedging. This paper proposes an innovative approach using the stable Paretian model to analyze the price return of jet fuel in large samples. It comprehensively compares the fitting effect of the stable Paretian distribution with that of the normal distribution based on specific criteria and non-parametric significance tests. Furthermore, it investigates the accuracy of risk measures such as Value at Risk (VaR) and Conditional Value at Risk (CVaR) predicted by both models. In addition to comparing differences in VaR between predicted values and actual values, this paper provides a more comprehensive comparison of risk measures under rolling window forecast situation. Results suggest that despite indistinguishable results in VaR backtest, the stable Paretian distribution has a overall better fitting effect as well as a less biased predicted CVaR based on the AIC of -14099.46, BIC of -14110.98, p = 0.58 in Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and p = 0.46(0.92) in the 0.01(0.05) significance level of Expected Shortfall Regression Test. This might be explained by its ability to capture asset return dynamics while maintaining shape stability with few parameters. This research can provide valuable insights for guiding airlines’ risk management decisions. its ability to capture asset return dynamics while maintaining shape stability with few parameters. This research can provide valuable insights for guiding airlines’ risk management decisions.
A 2000-year record of fecal biomarkers reveals past herbivore presence and impacts in a catchment in northern Yellowstone National Park, USA
Authors: Wendt John A. F. , Argiriadis Elena , Whitlock Cathy , Bortolini Mara , Battistel Dario , McWethy David B.
Published: October 2024

Molecular biomarkers preserved in lake sediments are increasingly used to develop records of past organism occurrence. When linked with traditional paleoecological methods, analysis of molecular biomarkers can yield new insights into the roles of herbivores and other animals in long-term ecosystem dynamics. We sought to determine whether fecal steroids in lake sediments could be used to reconstruct past ungulate use and dominant taxa in a small catchment in northern Yellowstone National Park. To do so, we characterized the fecal steroid profiles of a selection of North American ungulates historically present in the Yellowstone region (bison, elk, moose, mule deer, and pronghorn) and compared them with those of sediments from a small lake in the Yellowstone Northern Range. Analysis of a set of fecal steroids from herbivore dung (Δ5-sterols, 5α-stanols, 5β-stanols, epi5β-stanols, stanones, and bile acids) differentiated moose, pronghorn, and mule deer, whereas bison and elk were partially differentiated. Our results show that bison and/or elk were the primary ungulates in the watershed over the past c. 2300 years. Fecal steroid influxes reached historically unprecedented levels during the early and middle 20th century, possibly indicating high local use by ungulates. Comparison of fecal steroid influxes with pollen and diatom data suggests that elevated ungulate presence may have contributed to decreased forage taxa (Poaceae, Artemisia, and Salix), relative to long-term averages, and possibly increased lake production. Our results reflect past change within a single watershed, and extending this approach to a network of sites could provide much-needed information on past herbivore communities, use, and environmental influences in Yellowstone National Park and elsewhere.
Exploring common biomarkers of ischemic stroke and obstructive sleep apnea through bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Wu Zhe , Qian Yutong , Shang Yaxin , Zhang Yu , Wang Meilin , Jiao Mingyuan
Published: October 2024

Background

Clinical observations have shown that many patients with ischemic stroke (IS) have a history of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) both before and after the stroke’s onset, suggesting potential underlying connections and shared comorbid mechanisms between the two conditions. The aim of this study is to identify the genetic characteristics of OSA patients who develop IS and to establish a reliable disease diagnostic model to assess the risk of IS in OSA patients.

Methods

We selected IS and OSA datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database as training sets. Core genes were identified using the Limma package, Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), and machine learning algorithms. Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA) was conducted for pathway enrichment analysis, while single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) was employed for immune infiltration analysis. Finally, a diagnostic model was developed using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression, with its diagnostic efficacy validated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves across two independent validation sets.

Results

The results revealed that differential analysis and machine learning identified two common genes, TM9SF2 and CCL8, shared between IS and OSA. Additionally, seven signaling pathways were found to be commonly upregulated in both conditions. Immune infiltration analysis demonstrated a significant decrease in monocyte levels, with TM9SF2 showing a negative correlation and CCL8 showing a positive correlation with monocytes. The diagnostic model we developed exhibited excellent predictive value in the validation set.

Conclusions

In summary, two immune-related core genes, TM9SF2 and CCL8, were identified as common to both IS and OSA. The diagnostic model developed based on these genes may be used to predict the risk of IS in OSA patients.
Older and younger job seekers’ attention towards metastereotypes in job ads
Authors: Koçak Aylin , Dirix Nicolas , Duyck Wouter , Schellaert Maaike , Derous Eva
Published: October 2024

Building on social identity theory and cognitive models on information processing, the present paper considered whether and how stereotyped information in job ads impairs older/younger job seekers’ job attraction. Two eye-tracking experiments with older (Study 1) and younger job seekers (Study 2) investigated effects of negatively metastereotyped personality requirements (i.e., traits) on job attraction and whether attention to and memory for negative information mediated these effects. Within-participants analyses showed for both older and younger job seekers that job attraction was lower when ads included negative metastereotypes and that more attention was allocated towards these negative metastereotypes. Older, but not younger job seekers, also better recalled these negative metastereotypes compared to not negative metastereotypes. The effect of metastereotypes on job attraction was not mediated by attention or recall of information. Organizations should therefore avoid negative metastereotypes in job ads that may capture older/younger job seekers’ attention and lower job attraction.
Phonology facilitates deeply opaque logographic writing
Authors: Yokoi Mio , Takano Kouji , Nakamura Kimihiro
Published: October 2024

Phonological knowledge plays a pivotal role in many aspects of language processing, but it remains controversial whether it is required for writing. In the present study, we examined the issue by focusing on written production in an opaque logographic script (kanji) with highly irregular pronunciation rules, which allowed for a rigorous test of whether or not phonology contributes to writing. Using a phonological priming paradigm in two experiments, we measured response latency while participants orally named target pictures or wrote down their names in kanji. Each target was preceded by a phonographic character (kana) which represented the same sound (mora) as the beginning of the target name or a different mora. By manipulating the degree of phonological overlap between primes and target names (i.e., morae, consonants and vowels), we found that only the moraic overlap could speed up word production in logographic writing (Experiment 1). In contrast, naming response was facilitated by mora-overlap as well as vowel-overlap. This between-task difference in phonological encoding suggests that phonological codes for spoken production do not necessarily precede orthographic access during logographic writing. In Experiment 2, we further found that the facilitatory effects of moraic information did not differ in magnitude between writing and naming when primes were masked and presented more briefly, suggesting a net component of bottom-up phonological activation which contributes to logographic writing. Collectively, we propose that orthographic codes of kanji are accessed directly from semantics, whereas phonology plays a non-specific modulatory role to enhance neurocognitive systems involved in writing.
Using intrahost single nucleotide variant data to predict SARS-CoV-2 detection cycle threshold values
Authors: Duesterwald Lea , Nguyen Marcus , Christensen Paul , Long S. Wesley , Olsen Randall J. , Musser James M. , Davis James J.
Published: October 2024

Over the last four years, each successive wave of the COVID-19 pandemic has been caused by variants with mutations that improve the transmissibility of the virus. Despite this, we still lack tools for predicting clinically important features of the virus. In this study, we show that it is possible to predict the PCR cycle threshold (Ct) values from clinical detection assays using sequence data. Ct values often correspond with patient viral load and the epidemiological trajectory of the pandemic. Using a collection of 36,335 high quality genomes, we built models from SARS-CoV-2 intrahost single nucleotide variant (iSNV) data, computing XGBoost models from the frequencies of A, T, G, C, insertions, and deletions at each position relative to the Wuhan-Hu-1 reference genome. Our best model had an R2 of 0.604 [0.593–0.616, 95% confidence interval] and a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 5.247 [5.156–5.337], demonstrating modest predictive power. Overall, we show that the results are stable relative to an external holdout set of genomes selected from SRA and are robust to patient status and the detection instruments that were used. This study highlights the importance of developing modeling strategies that can be applied to publicly available genome sequence data for use in disease prevention and control.
Developing an implementation blueprint: Lessons learned from integrating electronic patient-reported outcomes in HIV clinics in Alabama
Authors: Gagnon Kelly W. , Burgan Kaylee , Mulrain Morgan , Baral Stefan , Cropsey Karen , Mugavero Michael , Eaton Ellen
Published: October 2024

People living with HIV are disproportionately affected by depression, anxiety, and substance use which impede engagement with HIV treatment services and can increase risks of HIV-related morbidity and mortality. Capturing timely, accurate patient data at point of care is recommended to inform clinical decision-making and retain patients on the HIV care continuum. Currently, there is limited use of validated screening tools for substance use and mental health at the point of care in HIV clinics, even though people with HIV (PWH) have a high prevalence of these comorbidities. Even fewer clinics screen in a manner that encourages disclosure of stigmatized substance use, depression, and anxiety. Electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePROs) are an evidence-based modality to overcome such limitations by eliciting responses directly from patients via tablet, smartphone, or computer. To date, there is limited consensus on how to implement ePROs into non-academic settings and enhance uptake. Our team sought to address this gap by examining the implementation of ePROs, previously implemented in an academic clinic, to enhance screening and treatment of mental health (MH) and substance use at five Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program-funded clinics in Alabama. The ePROs were delivered through a multi-component intervention titled HIV + Service delivery and Telemedicine through Effective Patient Reported Outcomes (+STEP), which also provides targeted training to frontline clinicians, and resources for MH and substance use treatment for PWH without access to care. The objective of this study is to provide an implementation blueprint that can be tested and utilized in other HIV clinics to integrate ePROs and increase evidence-based screening for depression, anxiety, and substance use among PWH, as well as outline lessons learned from implementation to date. The findings from this study provide practical steps and advice based on our experience in implementing electronic patient-reported outcomes in HIV clinics in the US Deep South.
Characterizing the gut microbiome of diarrheal mink under farmed conditions: A metagenomic analysis
Authors: Liu Shuo , Ren Jianwei , Li Jiyuan , Yu Detao , Xu Hang , He Fang , Li Nianfeng , Zou Ling , Cao Zhi , Wen Jianxin
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to comprehensively characterize the gut microbiota in diarrheal mink. We conducted Shotgun metagenomic sequencing on samples from five groups of diarrheal mink and five groups of healthy mink. The microbiota α-diversity and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) orthology did not show significant differences between the groups. However, significant differences were observed in microbiota β-diversity and the function of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) between diarrheal and healthy mink. Specifically, The relative abundance of Firmicutes was lower, whereas that of Bacteroidetes was higher in diarrheal mink. Fusobacteria were enriched as invasive bacteria in the gut of diarrheal mink compared with healthy mink. In addition, Escherichia albertii was identified as a new bacterium in diarrheal mink. Regarding functions, nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism and glycoside hydrolases 2 (GH2) family were the enhanced KEGG orthology and CAZymes in diarrheal mink. Furthermore, the diversity and number of antibiotic-resistant genes were significantly higher in the diarrheal mink group than in the healthy group. These findings enhance our understanding of the gut microbiota of adult mink and may lead to new approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of mink diarrhea.
The credibility cocktail on Instagram: Assessing the impact of source, verification label and image manipulation on news message credibility
Authors: D’haeseleer Stephanie , Damme Kristin Van , Pearce Hayley , Evens Tom
Published: October 2024

In the current disinformation era, where both people and generative AI systems can easily create content, concerns about the credibility of online content have come to the fore in public and policy debates. Audiences are faced with the challenge of determining which news messages are credible and which are not. It remains however unclear how audiences evaluate the credibility of social media posts. This study evaluates three key ingredients of the credibility cocktail on Instagram: the source, the presence of a verification label and the use of images. Using two between-subject designs (N = 963), participants were exposed to an Instagram message regarding climate change. The findings demonstrate that audiences primarily assess the credibility of messages based on the source, i.e. the person or organization sharing the information. Messages sent by both a news outlet and non-governmental organization are considered to be more credible than messages shared by dubious sources. Remarkably, a verification label next to this source has no impact. Hence, audiences do not trust so-called ‘blue check accounts’ more than accounts without a verification label. Moreover, AI-generated images are perceived as more credible than photoshopped ones.
An Anthropocene ecofeminist reading of D. H. Lawrence’s The Prussian Officer and Other Stories
Authors: Gifford Terry
Published: October 2024

This article explores what might be revealed by a reading of D. H. Lawrence’s earliest short story collection from our present perspective of the Anthropocene. What signs might there be of his later expression of his anxieties about human relationship with the cosmos? Is his later articulation of the tensions that are the source of those anxieties to be found in his earliest short fiction? How successful is his earliest mode of the short story in raising questions that might trouble his readers today? Do stories written by Lawrence around the First World War offer any clues to the causes of our present environmental crisis? How does the relationship between nature and gender that would guide an ecofeminist reading contribute to and problematize all these foregoing questions?
Raftland
Authors: Bullen-Cutting Ashley
Published: October 2024

‘Raftland’ floats at the spot between short story and prose poem, blurring and bridging the two to encompass an evocative work that addresses and explores plastic pollution in the world’s oceans as well as the far-reaching costs of rising and heating waters. It is a work of assemblages, a poetic piecemeal raft of the comings and goings of a newly flooded society whose degradation of language and livelihoods traces its way back to our current wanton anthropocentrism and consumer capitalism. A dystopic, speculative tale centring on a community forced to inhabit ever-moving raftworlds and continually prove their worth, it is a work that stresses humanity’s catastrophic engagements with the ocean in an effort to prompt renewed vigour towards greater awareness and respectful ontologies to both the planet and its greatest life-giving substance. It is a warning.
Glimpse: An Anthology of Black British Speculative Fiction, Leone Ross (ed.) (2022)
Authors: March-Russell Paul
Published: October 2024

Review of: Glimpse: An Anthology of Black British Speculative Fiction, Leone Ross (ed.) (2022)

Leeds: Peepal Tree Press, 247 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-84523-542-0, p/bk, £10.99
Efficient Degradation of Methyl Violet 10B Dye by Different Light Sources using Boron-doped TiO2-ZnO Photocatalyst
Authors: Jenisha J. Mary Juli , Raj G. Allen Gnana
Published: October 2024

Boron-doped TiO2-ZnO nanocomposite was prepared by sonochemically using boron trichloride, tetra n-butyl orthotitanate and zinc acetate in appropriate proportion. The as-prepared nanocomposite was successfully characterized by XRD, EDX, SEM and BET techniques The operational factors that affect the rate of photocatalytic degradation of methyl violet 10B present in wastewater were optimized, which include initial dye concentration, catalyst amount, pH level and different light intensities such as incandescent light bulb, UV lamp and sunlight. During sonication under sunlight, it was found that the most effective removal rate achieved was 95% when using 0.02 g of B doped TiO2-ZnO per 100 mL of methyl violet 10B solution. The impact of different dye concentrations on the photocatalytic degradation demonstrated the threshold at which concentrations may be readily eliminated. The most effective pollutant degradation was achieved at 5 ppm. The introduction of oxygen using sonophotocatalysis process into the polluted stream enhanced the photocatalytic breakdown of the pollutants. The photocatalyst can be recycled for four cycles without loss the catalyst stability and the degradation rate obeys first-order kinetics.
Green Synthesis and Characterization of Hydroxyapatite Nanorods with Enhanced Antibacterial and Anticancer Properties
Authors: Suresh Munusamy , Karthikeyan Palanisamy , Vadivel Pullar
Published: October 2024

This study reports the microwave synthesis of hydroxyapatite nanorods using Lantana camara L. flower extract (LCF-HA) and characterized by FTIR, XRD, TEM and SEM-EDX techniques. The extract coating on the hydroxyapatite nanorods improves the antibacterial efficacy against Gram-positive bacteria. The study also evaluates the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and capacity to induce apoptosis of LCF-HA. It shows that LCF-HA efficiently inhibits the growth of osteosarcoma cells (MG-63) in a dose-dependent manner. The efficacy of LCF-HA in inducing apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells is established by dual acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) fluorescence labelling. Additionally, LCF-HA induces an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and a reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) levels. The findings indicate that derived LCF-HA has significant anticancer efficacy by inducing apoptosis in osteosarcoma cells through enhanced ROS generation, suggesting that derived LCF-HA may serve as a promising therapeutic target for bone cancer cell lines. Furthermore, the study demostrates excellent compatibility with osteoblast cells, highlighting its potential for bone regeneration applications.
Charge Transfer Interaction Dynamics between 2-Methyl-8-hydroxyquinoline and 2,4-Dinitrophenol: Synthesis, Spectroscopic Characterization, DNA Binding and DFT Studies
Authors: Sundarpal V. , Srinu J. , Sailaja G. , Shashi Kanth B. , Kumar V. Kiran , Manohar B. , Someshwar P. , Rajitha N. , Yadagiri B.
Published: October 2024

A novel charge transfer (CT) complex was formed by combining the electron-acceptor 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP) with the electron-donor 2-methyl-8-hydroxyquinoline (MHQ). The complex obtained was further characterized using both experimental and theoretical methods. The Benesi-Hildebrand equation can be utilized to determine various spectroscopic physical measurements such as the molar absorptivity (εCT) and formation constant (KCT). The CT complex has a stoichiometry of 1:1. Multiple spectroscopic methods were employed to investigate the resultant solid compound. The existence of charge and proton transfer in the resultant complex was confirmed by FT-IR, 1H NMR, SEM-EDX and powder-XRD studies. An electron absorption spectroscopy examination was done to analyze the complex DNA binding capability. The resulting complex was determined to have an intercalative binding mechanism, with an intrinsic binding constant (Kb) value of 4.2 × 106 M-1. The experimental results were corroborated by performing theoretical calculations using DFT using a CAM-B3LYP/6-31G(d,p) basis set. The geometrical parameters, electrostatic potential maps (MEPs) and Mullikan charges were computed and examined in agreement with the experimental observations. In addition to electron transmission, the stability of the complex is influenced by the presence of a hydrogen bond.
Machine Learning and New-Generation Spaceborne Hyperspectral Data Advance Crop Type Mapping
Authors: Aneece Itiya , Thenkabail Prasad S. , McCormick Richard , Alifu Haireti , Foley Daniel , Oliphant Adam J. , Teluguntla Pardhasaradhi
Published: October 2024

Hyperspectral sensors provide near-continuous spectral data that can facilitate advancements in agricultural crop classification and characterization, which are important for addressing global food and water security issues. We investigated two new-generation hyperspectral sensors,
Germany’s Deutsches Zentrum für Luft‐ und Raumfahrt Earth Sensing Imaging Spectrometer (DESIS) and Italy’s PRecursore IperSpettrale della Missione Applicativa (PRISMA), within California's Central Valley in August 2021 focusing on five irrigated agricultural crops
(alfalfa, almonds, corn, grapes, and pistachios). With reference data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Cropland Data Layer, we developed a spectral library of the crops and classified them using three machine learning algorithms (support vector machines [SVM], random forest [RF], and
spectral angle mapper [SAM]) and two philosophies: 1. Full spectral analysis (FSA) and 2. Optimal hyperspectral narrowband (OHNB) analysis. For FSA, we used 59 DESIS four-bin product bands and 207 of 238 PRISMA bands. For OHNB analysis, 9 DESIS and 16 PRISMA nonredundant OHNBs for studying
crops were selected. FSA achieved only 1% to 3% higher accuracies relative to OHNB analysis in most cases. SVM provided the best results, closely followed by RF. Using both DESIS and PRISMA image OHNBs in SVM for classification led to higher accuracy than using either image alone,
with an overall accuracy of 99%, producer’s accuracies of 94% to 100%, and user???s accuracies of 95% to 100%.