bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electricity generation and pollutants removal of landfill leachate by osmotic microbial fuel cells with different forward osmosis membranes
Authors: Jiang Nan , Huang Li , Huang Manhong , Cai Teng , Song Jialing , Zheng Shengyang , Guo Jili , Kong Zhuang , Chen Liang
Published: June 2021

In this study, thin-film composite with embedded polyester screen, cellulose triacetate with a cast nonwoven and cellulose triacetate with embedded polyester screen (CTA-ES) was examined as the intermediate membranes in osmotic microbial fuel cells (OsMFCs). The reactors were fed with actual landfill leachate and the performance was studied in two operation modes: active layer facing draw solution and active layer facing feed solution (AL-FS). The OsMFC with CTA-ES exhibited the best energy generation (maximum power density: 0.44 W m− 2) and pollutant removal efficiency (ammonia nitrogen: 70%, total nitrogen: 74%) in the AL-FS mode, which could be ascribed to the lowest internal resistance (237 Ω) and highest microbial richness. Pseudomonas was the highest proportion of microbial in OsMFCs. The result of this study has demonstrated the potential of OsMFCs for landfill leachate treatment.
Safety and efficacy of direct-acting antiviral drugs in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus infection in patients with thalassemia: a prospective study
Authors: Ghoneem Elsayed , Saleh Ahmed , El-Etreby Shahira Aly , Mortada Metwaly Ibrahim , Ghannam Mayada A. , El-Ashwah Shaimaa , Eisa Noha
Published: June 2021

Background

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality among thalassemic patients. Direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) are highly effective and well-tolerated by chronic HCV patients.

Results

The mean age of our patients was 29 years. Sustained virologic response (SVR) at 12 and 24 weeks was achieved in all patients (100%). The most common side effects were fatigue (18%), anemia (13.63%), and headache (4.5%). There was no statistically significant difference in the hemoglobin level before and after treatment (p = 0.48). There was a significant improvement in serum bilirubin and mean ALT levels after treatment compared to baseline data (p < 0.0005 each).

Conclusions

DAAs, namely, sofosbuvir plus daclatasvir or sofosbuvir plus ledipasvir, are effective and well-tolerated regimens in thalassemic patients with chronic HCV.
Cocrystallization of gliclazide with improved physicochemical properties
Authors: Eesam Shivarani , Bhandaru Jaswanth S. , Akkinepally Raghuram Rao , Bobbala Ravi Kumar
Published: June 2021

Background

Cocrystallization is one of the crystal engineering strategies used to alter the physicochemical properties of drugs that are poorly water-soluble. Gliclazide (GLZ), an antidiabetic drug, belongs to Biopharmaceutical Classification System class-II (low solubility and high permeability) and has low bioavailability, resulting in poor therapeutic effects in patients. Therefore, to impart better solubility and bioavailability of GLZ, the study was carried out by preparing GLZ cocrystals using liquid-assisted grinding method with three coformers [3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid (DNS), 2,6-pyridine dicarboxylic acid (PDA), and L-proline (LPN)], and these were characterized using Differential Scanning Colorimetry (DSC), Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier Transform Infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), and Raman spectral studies. Further, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, accelerated stability, solubility, in vitro dissolution studies, and in vivo pharmacokinetic studies were performed in male Wistar rats.

Results

DSC and PXRD analysis confirmed the formation of the GLZ cocrystals. Hydrogen bonding between pure GLZ and its coformers was demonstrated based on FTIR and Raman analysis. SEM data showed morphological images for GLZ cocrystals differed from those of pure GLZ. In comparison with pure GLZ, these GLZ cocrystals have greatly improved solubility, in vitro dissolution, and in vivo profiles. Among the three, GLZ–DNS cocrystals outperformed the pure drug in terms of solubility (6.3 times), degradation (1.5 times), and relative bioavailability (1.8 times).

Conclusion

Hence, cocrystallization of GLZ leads to improved physicochemical properties of poorly soluble drug gliclazide.
Cosmological horizons radiate
Authors: Leonhardt Ulf
Published: June 2021

Gibbons and Hawking (Phys. Rev. D, 15 (1977) 2738) have shown that the horizon of de Sitter space emits radiation in the same way as the event horizon of the black hole. But actual cosmological horizons are not event horizons, except in de Sitter space. Nevertheless, this paper proves Gibbons' and Hawking's radiation formula as an exact result for any flat space expanding with strictly positive Hubble parameter. The paper gives visual and intuitive insight into why this is the case. The paper also indicates how cosmological horizons are related to the dynamical Casimir effect, which makes experimental tests with laboratory analogues possible.
The FOS/AP-1 Regulates Metabolic Changes and Cholesterol Synthesis in Human Periovulatory Granulosa Cells
Authors: Choi Yohan , Jeon Hayce , Akin James W , Curry Thomas E , Jo Misung
Published: June 2021

FOS, a subunit of the activator protein-1 (AP-1) transcription factor, has been implicated in various cellular changes. In the human ovary, the expression of FOS and its heterodimeric binding partners JUN, JUNB, and JUND increases in periovulatory follicles. However, the specific role of the FOS/AP-1 remains elusive. The present study determined the regulatory mechanisms driving the expression of FOS and its partners and functions of FOS using primary human granulosa/lutein cells (hGLCs). Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) induced a biphasic increase in the expression of FOS, peaking at 1 to 3 hours and 12 hours. The levels of JUN proteins were also increased by hCG, with varying expression patterns. Coimmunoprecipitation analyses revealed that FOS is present as heterodimers with all JUN proteins. hCG immediately activated protein kinase A and p42/44MAPK signaling pathways, and inhibitors for these pathways abolished hCG-induced increases in the levels of FOS, JUN, and JUNB. To identify the genes regulated by FOS, high-throughput RNA sequencing was performed using hGLC treated with hCG ± T-5224 (FOS inhibitor). Sequencing data analysis revealed that FOS inhibition affects the expression of numerous genes, including a cluster of genes involved in the periovulatory process such as matrix remodeling, prostaglandin synthesis, glycolysis, and cholesterol biosynthesis. Quantitative PCR analysis verified hCG-induced, T-5224-regulated expression of a selection of genes involved in these processes. Consistently, hCG-induced increases in metabolic activities and cholesterol levels were suppressed by T-5224. This study unveiled potential downstream target genes of and a role for the FOS/AP-1 complex in metabolic changes and cholesterol biosynthesis in granulosa/lutein cells of human periovulatory follicles.
Integrated Analysis of Transcriptome and Histone Modifications in Granulosa Cells During Ovulation in Female Mice
Authors: Shirafuta Yuichiro , Tamura Isao , Ohkawa Yasuyuki , Maekawa Ryo , Doi-Tanaka Yumiko , Takagi Haruka , Mihara Yumiko , Shinagawa Masahiro , Taketani Toshiaki , Sato Shun , Tamura Hiroshi , Sugino Norihiro
Published: June 2021

The ovulatory luteinizing hormone (LH) surge induces rapid changes of gene expression and cellular functions in granulosa cells (GCs) undergoing luteinization. However, it remains unclear how the changes in genome-wide gene expression are regulated. H3K4me3 histone modifications are involved in the rapid alteration of gene expression. In this study, we investigated genome-wide changes of transcriptome and H3K4me3 status in mouse GCs undergoing luteinization. GCs were obtained from mice treated with equine chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) before, 4 hours, and 12 hours after human chorionic gonadotropin injection. RNA-sequencing identified a number of upregulated and downregulated genes, which could be classified into 8 patterns according to the time-course changes of gene expression. Many genes were transiently upregulated or downregulated at 4 hours after hCG stimulation. Gene Ontology terms associated with these genes included steroidogenesis, ovulation, cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) expansion, angiogenesis, immune system, reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism, inflammatory response, metabolism, and autophagy. The cellular functions of DNA repair and cell growth were newly identified as being activated during ovulation. Chromatin immunoprecipitation–sequencing revealed a genome-wide and rapid change in H3K4me3 during ovulation. Integration of transcriptome and H3K4me3 data identified many H3K4me3-associated genes that are involved in steroidogenesis, ovulation, COC expansion, angiogenesis, inflammatory response, immune system, ROS metabolism, lipid and glucose metabolism, autophagy, and regulation of cell size. The present results suggest that genome-wide changes in H3K4me3 after the LH surge are associated with rapid changes in gene expression in GCs, which enables GCs to acquire a lot of cellular functions within a short time that are required for ovulation and luteinization.
A Metabolomic Signature of Glucagon Action in Healthy Individuals With Overweight/Obesity
Authors: Vega Rick B , Whytock Katie L , Gassenhuber Johan , Goebel Britta , Tillner Joachim , Agueusop Inoncent , Truax Agnieszka D , Yu Gongxin , Carnero Elvis , Kapoor Nidhi , Gardell Stephen , Sparks Lauren M , Smith Steven R
Published: June 2021

Context

Glucagon is produced and released from the pancreatic alpha-cell to regulate glucose levels during periods of fasting. The main target for glucagon action is the liver, where it activates gluconeogenesis and glycogen breakdown; however, glucagon is postulated to have other roles within the body.

Objective

We sought to identify the circulating metabolites that would serve as markers of glucagon action in humans.

Methods

In this study (NCT03139305), we performed a continuous 72-hour glucagon infusion in healthy individuals with overweight/obesity. Participants were randomized to receive glucagon 12.5 ng/kg/min (GCG 12.5), glucagon 25 ng/kg/min (GCG 25), or a placebo control. A comprehensive metabolomics analysis was then performed from plasma isolated at several time points during the infusion to identify markers of glucagon activity.

Results

Glucagon (GCG 12.5 and GCG 25) resulted in significant changes in the plasma metabolome as soon as 4 hours following infusion. Pathways involved in amino acid metabolism were among the most affected. Rapid and sustained reduction of a broad panel of amino acids was observed. Additionally, time-dependent changes in free fatty acids and diacylglycerol and triglyceride species were observed.

Conclusion

These results define a distinct signature of glucagon action that is broader than the known changes in glucose levels. In particular, the robust changes in amino acid levels may prove useful to monitor changes induced by glucagon in the context of additional glucagon-like peptide-1 or gastric inhibitory polypeptide treatment, as these agents also elicit changes in glucose levels.
Organometallic Iridium Complexes of (Z)-1-Phenyl-2-(4′,4′-dimethyl-2′-oxazolin-2′-yl)-eth-1-en-1-ate: Structural Aspects, Reactivity and Applications in the Catalytic Dehydrogenation of Alkanes
Authors: May Kathleen L , Clément Roxanne , Lough Alan J , Gossage Robert A
Published: June 2021

The treatment of [IrCl(cod)]2 with (Z)-1-phenyl-2-(4′,4′-dimethyl-2′-oxazolin-2′-yl)-eth-1-en-1-ol (HL) in the presence of base yields the first Ir complex of this ligand class: Ir(κ2-N,O-L)(cod) (3). Complex 3 is reactive with MeI or HSnPh3 to yield the oxidative addition products 4 (trans-Ir(Me)I(κ2-N,O-L)(cod)) and 5 (cis-IrH(SnPh3)(κ2-N,O-L)(cod)), respectively. All three of these derivatives have been fully characterised including via single crystal X-ray diffraction data. Complex 3 is generally resistant to cod ligand substitution but shown to be reactive with CO (g) to give Ir(κ2-N,O-L)(CO)2 (6). In addition, 3 is demonstrated to be a dehydrogenation catalyst for the conversion of C8H16 into cyclooctene and H2 under acceptor-free conditions.
Photoluminescent Ionic Solids of S-Bridged Gold(I)-Gallium(III) and Gold(I)-Indium(III) Hexanuclear Complexes
Authors: Itai Takuma , Kuwamura Naoto , Kojima Tatsuhiro , Yoshinari Nobuto , Rujiwatra Apinpus , Konno Takumi
Published: June 2021

Reactions of [Au2(dppe)(d-Hpen)2] (dppe = 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane, d-H2pen = d-penicillamine) with M(NO3)3 (M = GaIII, InIII) afforded charge-separation-type ionic solids, [Au4M2(dppe)2(d-pen)4](NO3)2, in which each M center is surrounded by two d-pen ligands to form an N2O2S2 octahedral geometry. The ionic solids exhibited blue emission originating from the LLCT excited state in the solid state.
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome kyphoscoliotic type 2 caused by mutations in the FKBP14 gene: an analysis of five cases
Authors: Semyachkina Alla Nikolaevna , Nikolaeva Ekaterina Alexandrovna , Galeeva Nailya Mansurovna , Polyakov Alexander Vladimirovich , Kurnikova Maria Andreevna , Belova Vera Аlexandrovna , Shulyakova Irina Valerievna , Dantsev Ilya Sergeevich , Dzhivanshiryan Goar Vladimirovna
Published: June 2021

Background. This study deals with a rare (orphan) monogenic connective tissue disorder - Ehlers-Danlos syndrome kyphoscoliotic type 2 (EDSKS2). Kyphoscoliotic type 2 Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the FKBP14 gene (7p14.3), which encodes the FKBP22 protein. According to the 2017 classification, this type is in group seven - collagen spatial structure and cross-linking defects. We present results of clinical examination and molecular genetic analysis for five patients with age varying from two to fifteen years. 

Methods. Five patients were examined using clinical and laboratory methods. DNA samples used for the analysis were extracted from whole blood samples using a Wizard® Genomic DNA Purification Kit (Promega, USA) according to the manufacturer's protocol. 

Results. The major clinical findings were kyphoscoliosis, early motor development delay, muscular weakness, hypotonia and hearing loss. Molecular genetic analysis detected a homozygous c.362dupC duplication in exon 3 of the FKBP14 gene in all five patients. This mutation is common in various countries. Differential diagnostics were carried out to exclude other Ehlers-Danlos syndrome types and myopathies. 

Conclusions. Literature analysis and examination of five EDSKS2 patients demonstrated the involvement of major organs and systems, such as joints, spine, muscles, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, hearing, and vision, into the pathological process. Kidney mobility increases and nephroptosis seems to be secondary caused by muscular weakness. During molecular genetic analysis, to verify EDSKS2 it is recommended to initially search for the c.362dupC duplication, which appears to be common in European countries, including Russia.
Simple and robust method for determination of laser fluence thresholds for material modifications: an extension of Liu’s approach to imperfect beams
Authors: Garcia-Lechuga Mario , Grojo David
Published: June 2021

The so-called D-squared or Liu’s method is an extensively applied approach to determine the irradiation fluence thresholds for laser-induced damage or modification of materials. However, one of the assumptions behind the method is the use of an ideal spatial Gaussian beam that can lead in practice to significant errors depending on beam imperfections. In this work, we rigorously calculate the bias corrections required when applying the same method to Airy-disk like profiles. Those profiles are readily produced from any beam by insertion of an aperture in the optical path. Thus, the correction method gives a robust solution for exact threshold determination without any added technical complications as for instance advanced control or metrology of the beam. Illustrated by two case-studies, the approach holds potential to solve the strong discrepancies existing between the laser-induced damage thresholds reported in the literature.  It provides also an appropriate tool for new studies with the most extreme laser radiations.
Design of financial incentive interventions to improve lifestyle behaviors and health outcomes: A systematic review
Authors: Miranda J. Jaime , Pesantes M. Amalia , Lazo-Porras María , Portocarrero Jill , Diez-Canseco Francisco , Carrillo-Larco Rodrigo M. , Bernabe-Ortiz Antonio , Trujillo Antonio J. , Aldridge Robert W.
Published: June 2021

Background: Financial incentives may improve the initiation and engagement of behaviour change that reduce the negative outcomes associated with non-communicable diseases. There is still a paucity in guidelines or recommendations that help define key aspects of incentive-oriented interventions, including the type of incentive (e.g. cash rewards, vouchers), the frequency and magnitude of the incentive, and its mode of delivery.  We aimed to systematically review the literature on financial incentives that promote healthy lifestyle behaviours or improve health profiles, and focused on the methodological approach to define the incentive intervention and its delivery. The protocol was registered at PROSPERO on 26 July 2018 (CRD42018102556).

Methods: We sought studies in which a financial incentive was delivered to improve a health-related lifestyle behaviour (e.g., physical activity) or a health profile (e.g., HbA1c in people with diabetes). The search (which took place on March 3rd 2018) was conducted using OVID (MEDLINE and Embase), CINAHL and Scopus.

Results: The search yielded 7,575 results and 37 were included for synthesis. Of the total, 83.8% (31/37) of the studies were conducted in the US, and 40.5% (15/37) were randomised controlled trials. Only one study reported the background and rationale followed to develop the incentive and conducted a focus group to understand what sort of incentives would be acceptable for their study population. There was a degree of consistency across the studies in terms of the direction, form, certainty, and recipient of the financial incentives used, but the magnitude and immediacy of the incentives were heterogeneous.

Conclusions: The available literature on financial incentives to improve health-related lifestyles rarely reports on the rationale or background that defines the incentive approach, the magnitude of the incentive and other relevant details of the intervention, and the reporting of this information is essential to foster its use as potential effective interventions.
Religious Toleration as a Subject for World Education? Past and Present Perspectives for Students the World Over Based on Literary-Historical Material
Authors: Classen Albrecht
Published: June 2021

This study reexamines the meaning of education in global terms as the foundation of all open and democratic societies both in the past and the present. Literary studies create useful mirrors taking the learner into the past where parallel cases of human problems and conflicts existed. The learning experience then allows the individual to carry the new insights back to the own presence and to apply them to current situations. This process can and must be applied particularly to the principle of tolerance, one of the highest ideals in all of education. In order to illustrate this concept, this study examines Boccaccio’s Decameron and Gotthold Ephraim Lessing’s Nathan the Wise as model cases for global education leading to a more peaceful and mutually respectful world. With all due respect for religion, hating and murdering other people for religious reasons betrays the very principles of that religion whatever denomination or creed it might be. Ignorance and lack of education make it possible for fanatics or zelots to whip the masses into violent actions against those who adhere to another faith. One of the major tasks by educators is to introduce rationality, mutual respect, honor, and dignity, which is all possible through an intensive study of well-chosen literary texts for class discussions addressing world religions.
JiStar: Reconciliando Código Java com Modelagem Orientada a Metas
Authors: Moura Ana Maria da Mota , Sampaio do Prado Leite Julio Cesar Sampaio do Prado
Published: June 2021

Uma vez que um software tenha sido construído sem a perspectiva da engenharia de requisitos orientada a metas, como compreender suas metas para fins de evolução? Este trabalho é uma extensão da nossa proposta de modelo de rastreabilidade para trás entre código Java e o modelo de metas i* através do uso de metadados de código. Na evolução do framework JiStar, revisamos o conjunto de anotações de código Java para elementos do i*; adicionamos a exportação no formato iStarML, e; possibilitamos a geração automática ou semiautomática de modelos de metas. Avaliamos a viabilidade do nosso framework sobre um sistema real chamado RioBus e os resultados indicam a adequação dessa rastreabilidade para fins de evolução.
An exploratory study into the teaching of clinical examination skills in advanced practice
Authors: Mallinson Tom
Published: June 2021

Clinical examination skills are vital for the accurate assessment and diagnosis of patients. These skills also allow clinicians to differentiate between pathology requiring investigation or treatment and normal anatomy or physiology. This allows clinicians to avoid unnecessary tests and to be able to reassure a patient that their symptoms do not require treatment. However, an incomplete or faulty clinical examination can lead to missed diagnoses and patient harm. Although comprehensive clinical examination skills training is provided in the undergraduate curriculum of medical schools in the UK, little is known in relation to the teaching provided for nurses and allied health professions working in advanced practice roles. This survey sought to explore this phenomenon and uncover clinicians' experiences with regard to being taught a selection of specific clinical examination skills in theory and in practice, those skills being the core system examinations (respiratory, cardiovascular and peripheral vascular, abdominal, central and peripheral nervous systems) and a number of focused examinations (digital rectal and examination, thyroid, breast and genital examination for males and females). The findings demonstrate a concerning variability of educational experiences and a lack of educational coverage of some of the basic clinical examination skills in both theoretical and practical terms. These findings provide an insight into areas of future higher education curricula development as well as workplace mentoring and learning.
Giving essential content to the National Patient Safety Syllabus and curricula
Authors: Tingle John
Published: June 2021

John Tingle, Lecturer in Law, Birmingham Law School, University of Birmingham, discusses several publications from NHS Resolution that should provide essential educational content for enhanced training on patient safety.
Providing mental health support for children and young people in schools
Authors: Glasper Alan
Published: June 2021

Emeritus Professor Alan Glasper, from the University of Southampton, discusses a new initiative from NHS England/NHS Improvement to improve mental health support for children and young people in schools
Three genes associated with anterior and posterior cruciate ligament injury
Authors: Kim Stuart K. , Nguyen Condor , Avins Andrew L. , Abrams Geoffrey D.
Published: June 2021

Aims

The aim of this study was to screen the entire genome for genetic markers associated with risk for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury.

Methods

Genome-wide association (GWA) analyses were performed using data from the Kaiser Permanente Research Board (KPRB) and the UK Biobank. ACL and PCL injury cases were identified based on electronic health records from KPRB and the UK Biobank. GWA analyses from both cohorts were tested for ACL and PCL injury using a logistic regression model adjusting for sex, height, weight, age at enrolment, and race/ethnicity using allele counts for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The data from the two GWA studies were combined in a meta-analysis. Candidate genes previously reported to show an association with ACL injury in athletes were also tested for association from the meta-analysis data from the KPRB and the UK Biobank GWA studies.

Results

There was a total of 2,214 cases of ACL and PCL injury and 519,869 controls within the two cohorts, with three loci demonstrating a genome-wide significant association in the meta-analysis: INHBA, AEBP2, and LOC101927869. Of the eight candidate genes previously studied in the literature, six were present in the current dataset, and only COL3A1 (rs1800255) showed a significant association (p = 0.006).

Conclusion

Genetic markers in three novel loci in this study and one previously-studied candidate gene were identified as potential risk factors for ACL and PCL injury and deserve further validation and investigation of molecular mechanisms. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2021;2(6):414–421.
Application of tilt correlation statistics to anisoplanatic optical turbulence modeling and mitigation
Authors: Hardie Russell C. , Rucci Michael A. , Bose-Pillai Santasri , Van Hook Richard
Published: June 2021

Atmospheric optical turbulence can be a significant source of image
degradation, particularly in long range imaging applications. Many
turbulence mitigation algorithms rely on an optical transfer function
(OTF) model that includes the Fried parameter. We present
anisoplanatic tilt statistics for spherical wave propagation. We
transform these into 2D autocorrelation functions that can inform
turbulence modeling and mitigation algorithms. Using these, we
construct an OTF model that accounts for image registration. We also
propose a spectral ratio Fried parameter estimation algorithm that is
robust to camera motion and requires no specialized scene content or
sources. We employ the Fried parameter estimation and OTF model for
turbulence mitigation. A numerical wave-propagation turbulence
simulator is used to generate data to quantitatively validate the
proposed methods. Results with real camera data are also
presented.
Line-scan Raman scattering image and multivariate analysis for rapid
and noninvasive detection of restructured beef
Authors: Li Xuecheng , Liu Zhenfang , Huang Min , Zhu Qibing
Published: June 2021

The mean spectral (MS) features were extracted from Raman scattering images (RSI) of beef samples over the region of interest covering the spectral range of

789

−

1710

c
m

−
1

and the spatial offset range of 0–5 mm (for two sides of the incident laser). The RSI monitored the main change in the protein, amide bands, lipids, and amino acid residues. The classification model performance based on MS features compared the conventional Raman spectral features and confirmed the usefulness of RSI. Finally, the results showed that RSI technology is a reliable tool for rapid and noninvasive detection of restructured beef.
Estimation of nominal ocular hazard distance and nominal ocular dazzle distance for multibeam laser radiation
Authors: Mlynczak Jaroslaw , Kopczynski Krzysztof , Kaliszewski Miron , Wlodarski Maksymilian
Published: June 2021

This paper presents a method of estimation of the nominal ocular hazard
distance (NOHD) and the nominal ocular dazzle distance (NODD) for
multibeam laser radiation. For the analysis, laser beams propagating
in the same optical path (overlapping) but with different wavelength,
power, and divergences in two perpendicular planes were assumed. To
the authors’ best knowledge, such a comprehensive analysis of multiple
beams, considering the above parameters, is being presented for the
first time. The dazzling possibilities described thus far assumed a
single beam of radiation with a circular cross-section. This article
also presents the calculation results of the NOHD and the NODD values
for three laser beams with wavelengths in the red, green, and blue
radiation spectrum with assumed parameters. Similar calculations were
also made for a commercial laser source with potential use for laser
dazzling. The presented analysis did not take into account the
attenuation of radiation by the atmosphere. Moreover, the study
provides recommendations on how to design effective, but safe,
multiwavelength laser dazzlers.
Comparisons between an on-axis three-mirror anastigmat telescope and an off-axis one: polarization aberrations
Authors: Luo Jing , You Chenxu , He Xu , Zhang Xiaohui
Published: June 2021

Due to the ability to achieve a wide-diffraction-limited field of view, three-mirror anastigmat (TMA) telescopes are widely used in many applications that demand high imaging quality and detection accuracy, in which polarization aberrations play increasingly important roles. In this paper, polarization properties of on-axis elements and those of off-axis elements are analyzed and compared via polarization aberration theory. Then, an on-axis TMA (OTMA) telescope and an off-axis TMA (FTMA) telescope are designed and optimized to be diffraction-limited systems in parallel. Their constructional parameters and first-order parameters are set to be identical. Via polarization ray tracing, polarization aberrations of the 2 telescopes are obtained and compared in terms of diattenuation map, retardance map, Jones pupil, Pauli pupil, and amplitude response matrix. Results demonstrate that polarization aberrations are closely related to the structural features of mirrors and telescopes. The diattenuation and retardance maps of power mirrors in the OTMA telescope are rotationally symmetric, while those in the FTMA telescope are not. A Maltese cross appears in off-diagonal elements of the Jones pupil of the OTMA telescope and disappears in the FTMA telescope. Amplitude response matrices of polarization crosstalk components in the OTMA telescope are with a four-peak structure, while those in the FTMA telescope are with a two-peak structure. After quantitative comparisons, it is found that diattenuation in the OTMA telescope is smaller than that in the FTMA telescope as well as in the cases of retardance and polarization crosstalk. There are also similarities between the 2 TMA telescopes. Polarization aberrations of secondary mirrors (SM) are greater than those of both primary mirrors (PM) and tertiary mirrors (TM). What is more, polarization aberrations of TM are so small that they can be ignored safely. The numerical sum of Pauli coefficients of PM, SM, and TM is nearly identical to the cumulative Pauli coefficients. Hence, the TMA telescopes can be treated as weak polarization elements. This work compares polarization aberration performance of on- and off-axis TMA telescopes and can provide important references for designing and optimizing telescopes in which polarization aberrations matter.
Numerical simulation of noise in pulsed Brillouin scattering
Authors: Nieves Oscar A. , Arnold Matthew D. , Steel Michael J. , Schmidt Mikołaj K. , Poulton Christopher G.
Published: June 2021

We present a numerical method for modeling noise in stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS). The model applies to dynamic cases such as optical pulses and accounts for both thermal noise and phase noise from the input lasers. Using this model, we compute the statistical properties of the optical and acoustic power in the pulsed spontaneous and stimulated Brillouin cases, and investigate the effects of gain and pulse width on noise levels. We find that thermal noise plays an important role in the statistical properties of the fields and that laser phase noise impacts the SBS interaction when the laser coherence time is close to the time scale of the optical pulses. This algorithm is applicable to arbitrary waveguide geometries and material properties and, thus, presents a versatile way of performing noise-based SBS numerical simulations, which are important in signal processing, sensing, microwave photonics, and opto-acoustic memory storage.
Comparative numerical analysis between the multipole expansion of optical force up to quadrupole terms and the generalized Lorenz–Mie theory
Authors: De Angelis V. S. , Ambrosio L. A. , Gouesbet G.
Published: June 2021

We explore graphical comparisons of the radiation forces calculated via the multipole expansion of optical force up to electric and magnetic quadrupole terms with the rigorous and exact generalized Lorenz–Mie theory (GLMT) on a homogeneous spherical particle. Examples are presented for a Gaussian beam in its fundamental mode and for a higher-order ideal Bessel beam. We also compute forces for a nondiffracting structured beam composed of a discrete superposition of copropagating Bessel beams with the same order and frequency, known in the literature as frozen waves. The results show a great agreement for moderately sized Mie particles, up to radius of about one-fifth the wavelength, thus suggesting an intrinsic connection between both methods and the possibility to extend recent theoretical works related to the identification between the Rayleigh limit of the GLMT and the dipole theory of forces.
PAM4 rolling-shutter demodulation using a pixel-per-symbol labeling neural network for optical camera communications
Authors: Lin Yun-Shen , Chow Chi-Wai , Liu Yang , Chang Yun-Han , Lin Kun-Hsien , Wang Yi-Chang , Chen Yi-Yuan
Published: June 2021

The typical optical camera communication (OCC) modulation scheme is based on binary intensity modulation. To increase the transmission data rate, multi-level modulation format is highly desirable. In this work, we bring forward and demonstrate a rolling shutter 4-level pulse amplitude modulation (PAM4) demodulation scheme for OCC systems using pixel-per-symbol labeling neural network (PPSL-NN) for the first time up to the authors’ knowledge. A bit-rate distance product of 28.8 kbit/s • m per color is achieved. The proposed scheme is to calculate and re-sample the pixel-per-symbol (PPS) to make sure the same number of pixels in each PAM4 symbol is corresponding to a label for the neural network. Experiment results reveal that the proposed scheme can efficiently demodulate high speed PAM4 signal in the rolling shutter OCC pattern.
Yb:GdScO3 crystal for efficient ultrashort pulse lasers
Authors: Zhang Yuhang , Li Shanming , Du Xiao , Guo Jie , Gong Qiaorui , Tao Siliang , Zhang Peixiong , Fang Qiannan , Pan Shilie , Zhao Chengchun , Liang Xiaoyan , Hang Yin
Published: June 2021

We present, to the best of our knowledge, the first demonstration of thermal, optical, and laser properties of

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G
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3

for potentially efficient ultrashort pulse lasers. The stimulated emission cross section at 1025 nm (E//c) is

0.46

×

10

−
20

c
m

2

with the emission band width of 85 nm, even broader than the well-known

Y
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C
a
G
d
A
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. It has quite a high thermal conductivity of

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at 50°C, comparable with Yb:YAG. In the continuous-wave regime, the maximum output power of 13.45 W at 1063.9 nm was generated with the optical-to-optical efficiency of 63.3%. These results suggest that the

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d
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crystal is a promising candidate for ultrashort pulse lasers.
Space-time-domain observation of high-speed optical beam scanning in a thermo-optic Si photonic crystal slow-light beam scanner
Authors: Gondo Jun , Ito Hiroyuki , Tamanuki Takemasa , Baba Toshihiko
Published: June 2021

We developed a thermo-optically controlled nonmechanical optical beam scanner using a Si photonic crystal slow-light waveguide with a diffraction grating to achieve on-chip light detection and ranging (LIDAR). This Letter applies pre-emphasis signals to the thermo-optic control, and the cutoff frequency increases to 500 kHz. Observing the beam scanning in the space-time domain showed that the turn-on and turn-off times of the scanner for a rectangular drive voltage were 10 µs and reduced to 2.7 µs when the pre-emphasis signals were optimized. This new, to the best of our knowledge, result enables a frame rate of 29 fps for 12,800 resolution points in LIDAR.
Temperature-dependent characteristics of GeSn/Ge multiple-quantum-well photoconductors on silicon
Authors: Lin Kuan-Chih , Huang Po-Rei , Li Hui , Cheng H. H. , Chang Guo-En
Published: June 2021

Temperature-dependent characteristics of GeSn/Ge multiple-quantum-well (MQW) photoconductors (PCs) on silicon substrate were investigated. The high quality GeSn/Ge MQW epitaxial structure was grown on a silicon substrate using low temperature molecular beam epitaxy techniques with atomically precise thickness control. Surface-illuminated GeSn/Ge MQW PCs were fabricated using complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor-compatible processing and characterized in a wide temperature range of 55–320 K. The photodetection range was extended toλ=2235nmatT=320Kdue to bandgap shrinkage with Sn alloying. Measured spectral responsivity was enhanced at reduced temperatures. These results provide better understanding of GeSn/Ge MQW structures for efficient short-wave infrared photodetection.
Uncertainty evaluation method of the scattering matrix measurements for the polarized scanning nephelometer
Authors: Chen Minwang , Qiu Zhenwei , Hu Qiang , Hong Jin
Published: June 2021

The polarized scanning nephelometer (PSN) is an instrument for measuring the multiangle scattering matrix of aerosol particles. Prior to being used, its measurement accuracy should be first verified. However, due to the complexity of the errors involved, it is very difficult to evaluate the measurement accuracy of the instrument reasonably, which limits the application of the PSN. In this work, taking di-ethyl-hexyl-sebacate droplets as an example, an uncertainty evaluation method of the scattering matrix measurements for the PSN is proposed. According to the measurement characteristics, the sources of uncertainty are divided into systematic effects and random effects. The corresponding evaluation method is then proposed for these two uncertainty categories, and the uncertainty introduced by systematic effects is investigated in depth via the Monte Carlo method. The evaluation results clearly show the variation trend of each uncertainty component as a function of the scattering angle in different matrix elements. The combined uncertainty is calculated and analyzed, and the result shows that the measurement uncertainty of the instrument is less than 0.0185, which verifies the accuracy of the instrument. This method can provide a reference for the accuracy evaluation of similar instruments.
AmotL2, IQGAP1, and FKBP51 Scaffold Proteins in Glioblastoma Stem Cell Niches
Authors: Rotoli Deborah , Díaz-Flores Lucio , Gutiérrez Ricardo , Morales Manuel , Ávila Julio , Martín-Vasallo Pablo
Published: June 2021

Glioma stem cells (GSCs) live in a continuous process of stemness reprogramming to achieve specific cell commitment within the so-called GSC niches, specifically located in periarteriolar regions. In this review, we analyze the expression levels, cellular and subcellular location, and role of three scaffold proteins (IQGAP1, FKBP51, and AmotL2) in GSC niches. Scaffold proteins contribute to cell differentiation, migration, and angiogenesis in glioblastoma. It could be of diagnostic interest for establishing stages, for therapeutic targets, and for improving glioblastoma prognosis, which is still at the experimental level.
The Role of the Renin–Angiotensin System in the Cancer Stem Cell Niche
Authors: Kilmister Ethan J. , Tan Swee T.
Published: June 2021

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) drive metastasis, treatment resistance, and tumor recurrence. CSCs reside within a niche, an anatomically distinct site within the tumor microenvironment (TME) that consists of malignant and non-malignant cells, including immune cells. The renin–angiotensin system (RAS), a critical regulator of stem cells and key developmental processes, plays a vital role in the TME. Non-malignant cells within the CSC niche and stem cell signaling pathways such as the Wnt, Hedgehog, and Notch pathways influence CSCs. Components of the RAS and cathepsins B and D that constitute bypass loops of the RAS are expressed on CSCs in many cancer types. There is extensive in vitro and in vivo evidence showing that RAS inhibition reduces tumor growth, cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. However, there is inconsistent epidemiological data on the effect of RAS inhibitors on cancer incidence and survival outcomes, attributed to different patient characteristics and methodologies used between studies. Further mechanistic studies are warranted to investigate the precise effects of the RAS on CSCs directly and/or the CSC niche. Targeting the RAS, its bypass loops, and convergent signaling pathways participating in the TME and other key stem cell pathways that regulate CSCs may be a novel approach to cancer treatment:
Similar sensorimotor transformations control balance during standing and walking
Authors: Afschrift Maarten , De Groote Friedl , Jonkers Ilse
Published: June 2021

Standing and walking balance control in humans relies on the transformation of sensory information to motor commands that drive muscles. Here, we evaluated whether sensorimotor transformations underlying walking balance control can be described by task-level center of mass kinematics feedback similar to standing balance control. We found that delayed linear feedback of center of mass position and velocity, but not delayed linear feedback from ankle angles and angular velocities, can explain reactive ankle muscle activity and joint moments in response to perturbations of walking across protocols (discrete and continuous platform translations and discrete pelvis pushes). Feedback gains were modulated during the gait cycle and decreased with walking speed. Our results thus suggest that similar task-level variables, i.e. center of mass position and velocity, are controlled across standing and walking but that feedback gains are modulated during gait to accommodate changes in body configuration during the gait cycle and in stability with walking speed. These findings have important implications for modelling the neuromechanics of human balance control and for biomimetic control of wearable robotic devices. The feedback mechanisms we identified can be used to extend the current neuromechanical models that lack balance control mechanisms for the ankle joint. When using these models in the control of wearable robotic devices, we believe that this will facilitate shared control of balance between the user and the robotic device.
Risk perceptions and preventive practices of COVID-19 among healthcare professionals in public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Deressa Wakgari , Worku Alemayehu , Abebe Workeabeba , Gizaw Muluken , Amogne Wondwossen
Published: June 2021

Healthcare professionals are at higher risk of contracting the new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Although appropriate preventive measures are the most important interventions to prevent coronavirus infection among healthcare workers, they are also highly concerned about the consequences of the pandemic. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess preventive practices, perceived risk and worry about COVID-19 crisis among healthcare professionals at six public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select 1,134 respondents (52.6% females). Data were collected between 9th and 20th June 2020 using self-administered questionnaires. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. A multiple linear regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with worry about COVID-19 crisis. The highest percentage of respondents were nurses (39.3%) and physicians (22.2%), followed by interns (10.8%) and midwives (10.3%). Wearing facemask (93%) and frequent hand washing (93%) were the commonly reported preventive practices. Perceived risk of becoming infected with coronavirus (88%) and the potential risk of infection to their family (91%) were very high. The mean (median) worry score about COVID-19 crisis was 2.37 (3.0), on 1 to 3 scale, with 1 (not worried) and 3 (highly worried). The majority worried a lot about the health system being overwhelmed by COVID-19 patients (92%), the health of their loved ones (90%) and losing someone due to COVID-19 (89%). Respondents who had previously provided clinical care to Ebola, SARS and cholera patients had significantly lower levels of worry about COVID-19 crisis than participants who had not (β = -1.38, P<0.001). Our findings reveal respondents’ widespread practice of preventive measures, highest levels of perceived risk and worry about the COVID-19 crisis. Increased perceived risk and worry about COVID-19 might enable healthcare workers to adopt appropriate preventive measures more effectively against the disease.
Sex ratios at birth in Australia according to mother’s country of birth: A national study of all 5 614 847 reported live births 1997–2016
Authors: Edvardsson Kristina , Davey Mary-Ann , Powell Rhonda , Axmon Anna
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Son preference and sex selective practices have resulted in a deficit of girls in several countries, primarily across Asia. Emerging evidence indicates that son preference survives migration to Western high-income countries. The objective of this study was to assess male-to-female (M/F) ratios at birth per mother’s country of birth in Australia 1997–2016, in total and by parity, and by states/territories and over time.

Methods

Data for this national population-based cross-sectional study were obtained from the National Perinatal Data Collection (NPDC) and included all live births in Australia 1997–2016 (N = 5 614 847). M/F ratios with 95% Confidence Intervals were estimated.

Results

The M/F ratio for births to Australian-born mothers was within the expected range (1.03–1.07) regardless of parity and time period. M/F ratios were elevated above the expected range for births to mothers born in China in the total sample (M/F ratio 1.084, 95% confidence interval 1.071–1.097) and at parity 2 (1.175, 1.120–1.231), and for births to mothers born in India at parity 2 (1.146, 1.090–1.204). Parity 2 births were the most consistently male-biased across time. Across states, elevated M/F ratios were identified for both groups in New South Wales (China parity 2: 1.182, 1.108–1.260; India parity 2: 1.182, 1.088–1.285), for births to Chinese-born mothers in Victoria (total births: 1.097, 1.072–1.123; parity 1: 1.115, 1.072–1.159) and Australian Capital Territory (total births: 1.189, 1.085–1.302) and births to Indian-born mothers Western Australia (parity 2: 1.307, 1.122–1.523).

Conclusions

Son preference persists in some immigrant communities after migration to Australia. The consistent pattern of elevated M/F ratios across the larger states indicates that sex imbalances at birth are largely independent of restrictiveness of local abortion laws. Drivers and consequences of son preference in Western high-income settings should be explored to further promote gender equality, and to strengthen support for women who may be vulnerable to reproductive coercion.