bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional composition of gedi (Abelmoschus manihot) leaves powder in comparison to common natural galactagogue plants in Indonesia
Authors: WINATA GRACE MARLINA , HARDINSYAH HARDINSYAH , MARLIYATI SRI ANNA , RIMBAWAN RIMBAWAN , ANDRIANTO DIMAS
Published: November 2024

Abstract. Winata GM, Hardinsyah H, Marliyati SA, Rimbawan R, Andrianto D. 2024. Nutritional composition of gedi (Abelmoschus manihot) leaves powder in comparison to common natural galactagogue plants in Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 2583-2589. Galactagogue is a substance believed to help initiate, maintain, and increase breast milk production. Low or no breast milk production and perceived insufficient milk are the most common reasons that cause a mother to stop breastfeeding earlier. To help this problem, natural galactagogue consumption is highly recommended. Gedi (Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medik) plant is locally used in Indonesia as food ingredient and medicinal plant. The leaves have been believed for generations to increase breast milk production. This study aimed to evaluate the macro- and micronutrient content of gedi leaves powder, compared to torbangun (Coleus amboinicus) and katuk (Sauropus androgynous) leaves powder as common natural galactagogue plants in Indonesia. Clean fresh leaves were oven-dried and ground. Carbohydrates, crude fiber, protein, fat, ash, energy, water, vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B9, C, E, and K, mineral calcium, iron, magnesium, sodium, zinc, phosphorus, and potassium were analyzed using standard methods. The analysis result showed that gedi leaves powder contained highest carbohydrate (51%), crude fiber (10.3%), vitamin K (1,110 µg/100 g), mineral magnesium (700 mg/100 g), sodium (89.6 mg/100 g), and calcium (2,671 mg/100 g) content, which were significantly different compared to torbangun and katuk leaves powder (P<0.05). Total energy (344 kcal/100 g), protein (25%), ash (13.6%), zinc (4.8 mg/100 g), potassium (2,314 mg/100 g), and iron (8.9 mg/100 g) content of gedi leaves powder were between torbangun and katuk leaves powder. This study showed that gedi leaves powder had a high carbohydrate, crude fiber, vitamin K, and mineral, especially calcium and magnesium, and sufficient protein and energy content, compared to torbangun and katuk leaves powder as common natural galactagogue plants in Indonesia. Further research in the extraction, bioactive compound, and in vivo study has to be carried out to scientifically prove the galactagogue effects of gedi leaf powder.
Molecular screening and allele identification of Thai banana genotypes for resistance to Fusarium wilt using validated SCAR markers
Authors: BOONSRANGSOM THANITA , CHANSONGKRAM WERAPAT , SAENGJANCHAY JUTAMAS , JUMPATHONG JUANGJUN , PONGCHAROEN PONGSANAT , PATHAICHINDACHOTE WANWARANG , Ratanasut Kumrop , SUJIPULI KAWEE
Published: November 2024

Abstract. Boonsrangsom T, Chansongkram W, Saengjanchay J, Jumpathong J, Pongcharoen P, Pathaichindachote W, Ratanasut K, Sujipuli K. 2024. Molecular screening and allele identification of Thai banana genotypes for resistance to Fusarium wilt using validated SCAR markers. Biodiversitas 25: 2590-2601. Fusarium wilt (FW) caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc), significantly damages commercial banana (Musa spp.) cultivation worldwide, including in Thailand. Cultivating resistant banana genotypes is crucial for managing FW. However, the unique biology of banana plants makes this process challenging and time-consuming. Genetic markers can enhance the efficiency and precision of traditional breeding methods for developing resistant cultivars. This study aimed to screen and identify Fusarium wilt-resistant alleles across six Thai banana genomes. Established sequence-characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers, strongly linked to loci associated with Foc susceptibility or resistance, were used in this investigation. The results revealed significant genetic differences in FW resistance loci among 106 Thai banana genotypes, comprising AA, AAA, AAB, ABB, ABBB, and BB genomes. All genotypes carried at least one FW resistance locus except Musa (AAA) 'Kluai Khieo Pakchong'. Cluster analysis divided the 106 genotypes into two FocR1-resistant and four FocTR4-resistant clusters. No allelic variation was found among M. balbisiana with the BB genomes. Further research is needed to understand the interaction between banana genotypes and Foc strains. These validated SCAR markers will assist in genotype selection for field and greenhouse assessments as part of the Thai banana genetic improvement program.
The spread and fauna of orthopterans (Insecta: Orthoptera) in Namangan Region, Uzbekistan
Authors: NURJANOV A. A. , MEDETOV M. J. , BEGJANOV M. Q. , KHOLMATOV B. R. , KHALILLAYEV S. A. , GAPPAROV F. A. , NURJONOV F. A. , TUFLIYEV N. K. , RADJAFOV M. Y.
Published: November 2024

Abstract. Nurjanov AA, Medetov MJ, Begjanov MQ, Kholmatov BR, Khalillayev SA, Gapparov FA, Nurjonov FA, Tufliyev NK, Radjafov MY. 2024. The spread and fauna of orthopterans (Insecta: Orthoptera) in Namangan Region, Uzbekistan. Biodiversitas 25: 2619-2628. The Namangan Region, which makes up one-third of the Fergana Valley, is separated from other regions of Uzbekistan by the Kurama and Chatkal mountain ranges. Because of this, the region's fauna differs from the central, northern, and southern areas. During the research (2018-2023), data on the biological diversity, features of inter-landscape distribution, density, and number of orthopterans identified from natural and agrolandscapes of Namangan Region has been analyzed. Samples were collected from 48 coordinates. The results recorded 65 species and subspecies belonging to 8 families, 12 subfamilies, and 46 genera. Furthermore, 38 species (59.4%) of orthopterans found in the territories of Namangan Region are distributed in different agro landscapes, 29 species (45.3%) in hills, and 44 species (68.7%) in mountains. Based on a comparison of species diversity between landscapes using the Jaccard method, it was discovered that there was a 70% difference between species of agrolandscapes (wheat and cotton field) and mountain, a 65% difference between species of mountain and hills, and a 64% difference between species of hills and agrocenosis. In the analysis of species distribution based on density, the following species ranges were found to exist: 8 species are classified as extremely rare, 38 species are classified as constantly distributed, 16 species are classified as common, and 3 species are classified as swarming species. Based on the information obtained from the experiments, it is recommended to add the extremely rare species to the list of unique species and to carry out the control measures against swarming species.
Nucleic Acid-based Identification of Major Honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) Viruses in the Jammu Region of India
Authors: Ram Ram Narayan Sharma , Sharma Devinder , Brahma Biswajit , Kumawat Pradeep Kumar , Meena Sharad Kumar
Published: November 2024

The present investigation was conducted from 2019 to 2020 to study the incidence pattern and molecular diagnosis of major honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) viral diseases in different areas of Jammu region of Jammu and Kashmir (UT). Using the RT-PCR technology, research was done to confirm that A. mellifera is infected by the Israeli acute paralysis virus (IAPV), the Thai sacbrood virus (TSBV), the Kashmir bee virus (KBV), and sacbrood virus (SBV). Particular primers for distinct viruses verified the existence of the virus in chosen samples from various areas, including Jammu, Samba, Ramban, and Udhampur. The samples taken from all four districts were found to contain illness. Clear and distinct bands with molecular sizes of roughly 110, 122, and 119 bp for IAPV, KBV, and SBV were formed by primer pairs of various viruses. The four districts’ samples contained no evidence of the Thai sacbrood virus. The incidence range of Israeli acute paralysis disease was 8.33 to 21.42 %. The incidence range for Kashmir bee disease was 5.71 to 28.33 %. The incidence range for sacbrood disease was 8.0–18.55%. In the apiary at SKUAST-J, Chatha, the incidence ranges for IAPV, KBV, and SBV diseases were 0 to 6.25, 0 to 4.16, and 0 to 9.43 %, respectively.
Buzzing Guardians: Protecting Pollinators in Agricultural Landscapes
Authors: Venu Hunasikote Shamappa , Udayakumar Amala , Shylesha A.N. , Shivalingaswamy Timalapur M.
Published: November 2024

In agriculture crop ecosystem, pollination is the foremost fundamental activity performed by fascinating creatures like bees, butterflies, hoverflies, birds and bats that ensures reproductive success in angiosperms. Currently, most of the pollinators are appearing in red data book as their population and abundance depleting in the ecosystem. Their extinction was driven by threats like habitat loss, climate change, urbanization, use of chemical pesticides, pest and diseases. Decline in pollinator population may pose a considerable decrease in global food production and productivity. Effective and efficient conservation strategies are the key elements to mitigate the threats faced by pollinators in the promotion of pollinator resilience. Here we explored a wide range of conservation strategies, which restores the pollinator habitat by following the sustainable agricultural practices, and some policy interventions. Public awareness and collaborative efforts among governments, NGOs, and the private sector are crucial for the successful implementation and adaptation of these conservation strategies. By acclimatizing an integrated, collaborative and convincing approach for pollinator conservation, we can assure and predict the sustainability and productivity of ecosystem, that eventually supports biodiversity and food security.
Regional integration in Latin America: critical perspectives in the time of populism
Authors: Cáceres Juan Zahir Naranjo , Brincat Shannon
Published: November 2024

This introduction explores the paradox of Latin America’s weak regional integration despite its shared linguistic, historical, and cultural ties, alongside strong public support for cooperation. It situates this regional challenge within broader global trends, contrasting Latin America’s fluctuating and fragile integration efforts with the more institutionalised and sustained regionalism observed in other regions around the world. The discussion focuses on the role of populism, examining how it influences integration by fostering collective action but, at times, prioritising national sovereignty over supranational commitments. The introduction also considers the historical legacies of colonialism, socio-economic inequalities, and competing ideologies – such as Pan-Americanism and Latin Americanism – that shape these dynamics. By addressing key questions regarding the influence of populism on integration processes and examining case studies across different contexts, this special issue provides a timely intervention into debates about the relationship between populism and regional integration. It offers new perspectives on how ideologies, power structures, social forces, and historical legacies have shaped integration processes in Latin America while connecting these developments to global patterns of regional cooperation.
Through the Looking Glass: A Data Lens on Health of People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Krahn Gloria L. , Havercamp Susan M. , Bonardi Alexandra
Published: November 2024

Population level data on health of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are sorely needed to identify their health status, health disparities, and health needs. Key considerations to inform programs and policies need to address prevalence, problem identification, and progress assessment. Recent advances have been made in health data about people with disabilities generally that identify strategies for improving health data for people with IDD, including critical need for a standardized operational definition and survey identifiers of IDD. Past and current actions by federal agencies’ to improve health data for health equity are summarized. Emerging developments in IDD health data are identified, including increasing use of self-report, data linking and harmonizing, intersectionality, and recognition of ableism.
Racial/Ethnicity Disparities in COVID-19 Worry for Caregivers of Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Asif Laiba , Staggers Kristen A. , Kemere K. Jordan , Davis Ambrielle , Fremion Ellen
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the racial/ethnic differences in COVID-19-related worry amongst family caregivers of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) living in Texas using the COVID-Related Thoughts and Behavioral Symptoms-Adult Version (COV-TaBS-A) questionnaire. Two hundred and six caregivers completed the survey. Compared to White caregivers, Latino caregivers were more likely to be very concerned about having enough food and supplies (adj OR 3.41, 95% CI [1.50, 7.74]) when adjusting for being that sole caregiver and using provider services. In free text questions, caregivers described feeling overwhelmed by additional responsibilities, disruptions in home health services, and concerns about their loved ones’ wellness. Study findings can be used to strategize support for caregivers of adults with IDD during pandemic/emergency situations.
“You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know”: Parent Perspectives on Navigating Disability-Related Information and Resources
Authors: Lanchak Emily R. , Carter Erik W. , McMillan Elise D.
Published: November 2024

We examined the priorities parents hold for their children with disabilities and the pathways through which parents access needed information and resources related to these valued areas. Our sample included 405 parents of children (ages 12 and under) who experienced a diversity of disabilities and varied support needs. Although each of the parents wanted their children to experience an array of formative experiences, the extent to which parents were familiar with local resources related to these important areas was uneven and often low. A constellation of barriers was said to stand in the way of connecting to the information and help they needed. When searching for disability-related information, parents often turned to a combination of sources, including professionals and technology.
Elimination of hand-induced parasitic vibration in self-mixing displacement measurement based on FFT
Authors: Kim Chol-Hyon , Kim Myong-Il , Kim Hyok-Chol , Hong Hui-Song , Ju Won-Song , Ko Gun-Jong
Published: November 2024

A method of removing hand-induced parasitic vibration is presented based on FFT for a handheld self-mixing (SM) displacement sensor measuring mechanical vibration. Parasitic vibration has been measured by and large with solid-state accelerometers (SSAs) and, in doing so, removed. Such methods increase the complexity of the device and the cost since they need additional hardware and a complicated algorithm for elimination of parasitic vibration. The proposed method can be applied to all cases where the frequency of a measurement object is different by only a few hertz from the main frequency of the parasitic vibration as well as the case of hand-induced parasitic vibration. The error of displacement retrieval of the method was found to be less than 30 nm. This method will be a great help to the development of handheld portable SM displacement sensors.
Quadrupole interaction of Tricomi–Gaussian beams with atoms
Authors: Ren Shuaishuai , Han Mengyuan , Cao Xinyi , Liu Lanbo , Cui Zhiwei
Published: November 2024

The interaction of light beams with atoms is one of the most important fields in physics, and the quadrupole transitions play an important role in such an interaction. In this work, we focus on the quadrupole interaction of Tricomi–Gaussian beams with atoms. The analytical expression of the paraxial Tricomi–Gaussian beams is derived using the angular spectrum representation. The formulas for describing the quadrupole interaction of Tricomi–Gaussian beams with two-level atoms are presented. The Cs atom is taken as an example, and the spatial distributions of the quadrupole Rabi frequency for such a two-level atom in Tricomi–Gaussian beams with different parameters are simulated and analyzed. It is revealed that the Rabi frequency of an atom in Tricomi–Gaussian beams can be flexibly controlled by choosing the asymmetric constants and order of the beams, which provides a pathway for tuning the repulsive potential and trapping potential acting on the atoms. This study is expected to provide useful insights into the interactions of Tricomi–Gaussian beams with atoms and their further applications.
Low-depth, compact, and error-tolerant photonic matrix-vector multiplication beyond the unitary group
Authors: Fldzhyan Suren A. , Saygin Mikhail Yu. , Straupe Stanislav S.
Published: November 2024

Large-scale programmable photonic circuits are opening up new possibilities for information processing providing fast and energy-efficient means for matrix-vector multiplication. Here, we introduce what we believe to be a novel architecture of photonic circuits capable of implementing non-unitary transfer matrices, usually required by photonic neural networks, iterative equation solvers, or quantum samplers. Our architecture exploits compact low-depth beam-splitter meshes rather than bulky fully connected mixing blocks used in previous designs, making it more compatible with planar integrated photonics technology. We have shown that photonic circuits designed with our architecture have lower depth than their standard counterparts and are extremely tolerant of hardware errors.
Single-pixel imaging of a moving target using only Hadamard patterns for simultaneous localization and reconstruction
Authors: Ji Peng-Cheng , Wu Qing-Fan , Shi Yang-Yang , Yang Zhao-Hua , Yu Yuan-Jin
Published: November 2024

Relative motion degrades the image quality of single-pixel imaging (SPI) while imaging the moving targets. Motion compensation strategies are effective in improving the imaging quality. However, the existing methods often require the use of additional patterns for target localization, which increases the sampling time. What we believe is a novel motion compensation method for SPI with Hadamard geometric moments is proposed based on the sparsity of geometric moment patterns in the Hadamard domain. Parts of Hadamard patterns are used for localization and reconstruction, simultaneously, thus target localization does not require additional patterns. In addition, our method effectively improves the localization accuracy in large-scale scenes due to the absence of binarization error while enhancing the quality of the reconstructed images. Many simulations and experiments are performed to verify the accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed method and the results show that the proposed SPI system improves the imaging quality (with lower MSE and higher PSNR) while imaging moving targets in 512 × 512-sized scenes.
Lithium niobate photonic topological insulator-based multi-wavelength optical demultiplexer with piezoelectric switch-off
Authors: Mahmud Prithu , Supti Kaniz Fatema , Choudhury Sajid Muhaimin
Published: November 2024

Photonic topological insulators provide unidirectional, robust, wavelength-selective transport of light at an interface while keeping it insulated at the bulk of the material. The non-trivial topology results in an immunity to backscattering, sharp turns, and fabrication defects. This work leverages these unique properties to design a 2-channel optical demultiplexer based on a lithium niobate photonic topological insulator with piezoelectric switch-off capabilities. A photonic topological insulator design for the demultiplexer allows for good wavelength selectivity, crosstalk as low as −54 dB, and better isolation between output channels. The primary operating wavelengths presented are the telecommunication wavelengths of 1310 nm and 1550 nm, but the use of the lithium niobate material allows operation at multiple operating wavelengths. Furthermore, we propose a post-fabrication method to switch off the topological protection and, thus, optical transmittance via an applied voltage utilizing the inverse piezoelectric effect of lithium niobate. This work will contribute to advancing lithium niobate integrated photonics and developing efficient, multi-wavelength, electrically controlled optical communication systems and integrated photonic circuits.
High-sensitivity terahertz chiroptical sensing enabled by multi-dimensionally tunable all-dielectric metasurface with dual quasi-bound states in the continuum
Authors: Xie Suxia , Sun Siyi , Guan Xin , Chen Jianghao , Zeng Zhaoyou , Sun Miaowenhao , Shen Weiwei
Published: November 2024

Chiral all-dielectric metasurfaces serve as an ideal platform for achieving high-Q chiral optical resonances and narrowband circular dichroism (CD), significantly enhancing sensing capabilities. We propose a single-layer metasurface that realizes dual q-BICs by introducing a single asymmetric parameter, which allows for greater selectivity in chiral responses without increasing structural complexity or requiring external stimuli. Moreover, the method of inducing dual-band chiral q-BICs to achieve CD is highly applicable to sensing, providing not only a broader spectral range for chiral sensing but also outstanding environmental and trace sensing capabilities. The sensitivity reaches up to 372.8 GHz/RIU and 23.6 GHz/µm, with figures of merit (FOM) of 297 RIU−1. This offers a multifunctional approach for multi-band spin-selective transmission and chiral biosensing.
Spectral broadening of µJ-level pulses around 8 µm in a Germanium-based multi-pass scheme
Authors: Gucci Francesco , Baserga Alessandro , Moretti Luca , Gatti Davide , Corti Matteo , Manzoni Cristian , Cerullo Giulio , Marangoni Marco , Vesco Guglielmo
Published: November 2024

A 2.6-fold spectral broadening of mid-infrared femtosecond µJ-level pulses has been achieved using an unfolded multi-pass configuration of germanium plates and zinc selenide lenses. This method maintains a throughput higher than 60% while preserving the spatial quality and the temporal duration of the input beam. Numerical simulations match the experimental results and show the potential to tailor the parameters of the cell to obtain different spectra.
High efficiency continuous wave and Q-switched laser based on an orthorhombic Yb:GdScO3 crystal in the (112) direction with a broad emission bandwidth of 93 nm
Authors: Ma Weiwei , Hou Jingxuan , Ma Shihui , Wang Jiajia , Liu Wenyu , Yu Hongwei , Yu Yonggui , Ye Ning
Published: November 2024

Herein, we demonstrate a broad emission bandwidth of 93 nm with the orthorhombic Yb:GdScO3 crystal along the (112) direction, which is about 3.7–7.8 times wider than that of cubic sesquioxide crystals. By investigating the distorted RE2Ox ligands and their association with lattice vibrations, the inhomogeneous broadening was found to be dependent on local crystal polarization and electron-phonon interaction. Moreover, the (112) direction sample has a small emission cross-section of 0.42 × 10−20 cm2 and better thermal symmetry, which allow it to achieve a continuous wave (CW) laser with a slope efficiency of 62%, a passively PdSe2 Q-switched laser with an average output power of 1.69 W, a slope efficiency of 43%, and a pulse width of 272.9 ns. We believe this to be the first investigation of the effective spectral broadening and Q-switch operations based on the orthorhombic Yb:GdScO3 crystal in the (112) direction.
Direct generation of 10-mJ ultrafast vortex pulses from a thin-disk regenerative amplifier
Authors: Cui Qingzhe , Hu Xijie , Zheng Lin , Liu Heyan , Wang Qing , Dai Kunjian , Zhang Jinwei
Published: November 2024

While ultrafast vortex laser technology progresses towards achieving higher peak powers, the generation of high-energy ultrafast vortex pulses remains a significant challenge. Here, we present a vortex regenerative amplifier that directly produces high-energy ultrafast vortex pulses with energies of more than 10 mJ at a repetition rate of 1 kHz for both the HG0,1 and LG0,1 modes. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the highest vortex pulse energy generated directly from an intracavity setup to date. Our approach is based on the integration of a defect mirror into a thin-disk regenerative amplifier. This compact and stable system demonstrates the potential for direct intracavity generation of high-energy ultrafast vortex pulses, serving as a foundation for the development of systems capable of producing hundred-millijoule-level femtosecond vortex pulses.
Highly Er3+ doped chalcogenide glass with enhanced mid-infrared emission and superior mechanical property
Authors: Yu Qingquan , Wang Shengpeng , Fu Yanqing , Tan Linling , Gao Chengwei , Lin Changgui , Kang Shiliang
Published: November 2024

Mid-infrared (MIR) lasers, owing to their high beam quality and super robustness, are widely used in fields from surgery, environmental monitoring, and material processing to eye-safe laser radar. However, their development is greatly limited by the lack of optical gain materials with both high rare earth doping content and excellent mechanical resistibility. Here, highly Er3+-doped Ga2S3-La2S3-La2O3 chalcogenide glasses (ChGs) up to ≈2.1 × 1021 cm-3 in Er3+ concentration are obtained. The resulting glass shows high glass transition temperature (547.2 °C) and large Vickers hardness (4.82 Gpa), which is substantially greater than those of other ChGs. The intensity of 2.7 µm emission drastically increases with increasing Er2S3 content and reaches a maximum at 10 mol% Er2S3. Moreover, the emission cross-section and the gain bandwidth at 2.7 µm are as large as 13.79 × 10−21 cm2 and 1.34 × 10−25 cm3 at 10 mol% Er2S3, respectively. Our results provide a facile and general strategy for developing high-gain rare earth-doped MIR laser materials.
Hybrid optical feedback architecture for improved performance of QDash comb laser
Authors: Driouche Youcef , Benkelfat Badr-Eddine , Ramdane Abderrahim , Merghem Kamel
Published: November 2024

We propose and demonstrate a technique based on self-injection locking to significantly enhance the performance of a quantum-dash comb laser, implemented via a hybrid architecture that combines fiber-based and free-space elements. Packaged in a standard butterfly module, the laser was thoroughly examined in both free-running and hybrid optical feedback configurations. Resonant optical feedback resulted in a simultaneous and remarkable improvement in phase noise, optical linewidth, and long-term stability in a passive manner. Specifically, we successfully narrowed the RF linewidth of the comb modes down to 600 Hz, reduced the optical linewidth across all modes to between 430 kHz and 14 kHz, and effectively improved long-term operation by limiting the excursions in both frequency drift and RF linewidth over time by factors of 3 and 6, respectively. In contrast to previous works, which were constrained by methods that produced results separately, our novel architecture combines all performance goals simultaneously in one unified system. Our findings demonstrate that this hybrid feedback architecture could set a new benchmark for future developments in photonic integrated circuits, paving the way for these comb sources for diverse range of applications including precision spectroscopy, frequency metrology, optical clocks, LiDAR, and communications.
Polarization-independent twist liquid crystal phase modulators
Authors: Yang Jianxin , Zhang Yumeng , Lu Jiangang
Published: November 2024

A polarization-independent phase modulator based on single-layer twist liquid crystal (LC) with a large number of helical periods is demonstrated. When the number of helical periods of the LC layer is higher than 7, a phase modulator with polarization dependence of less than 5% within most of the phase depth can be obtained. When the number of helical periods increases to 20, the phase depth with polarization dependence of less than 5% is up to 3.36π. The LC phase modulator shows a great prospect for application in display, optical communication, and optical sensing devices.
Fourier spectral shaper assisted feedback for wavelength and linewidth control of cascaded Raman fiber lasers
Authors: Dash Sarthak , Deheri Rashmita , Choudhury Vishal , Supradeepa V. R.
Published: November 2024

Cascaded Raman fiber lasers (CRFLs) with wavelength-independent feedback can provide power at any wavelength in near-IR regions. However, broad feedback leads to a broad output spectrum, decreasing spectral power density at a desired wavelength. The output characteristics of CRFLs can be controlled by controlling the feedback. We propose using a reflective Fourier spectral shaper with a spatial mask for arbitrary spectral control of the feedback. We achieved coarse wavelength tuning of ∼140 nm using three Raman shifts with a fine wavelength tuning of >13 nm within each Raman band while using a fixed wavelength pump. We achieved ∼3× linewidth reduction with a multi-watt output power and high spectral purity of >94%.
Real-time spectroscopic tracking of efficient intersystem crossing triggered by the heavy-atom effect in di-heteroatomic organic phosphorescent molecules
Authors: Jiang Zhinan , Liu Yang , Yang Yonggang , Guan Tiantian , Qin Chaochao , Liu Yufang
Published: November 2024

The development of efficient and long-lived halogen-free organic phosphorescent molecules remains a challenge. For the single-heteroatomic 9,10-dihydroacridine (AcH2), the evolution of singlet and triplet excited state absorption signals reveals an intersystem crossing (ISC) lifetime of 8.2 ns and a triplet state lifetime of 0.52 µs. In contrast, the ISC lifetimes of di-heteroatomic phenoxazine (PXZ) and phenothiazine (PTZ) are significantly accelerated to 1.7 ns and 1.1 ns, respectively, while the triplet state lifetimes are extended to 0.72 µs and 4 µs. These results confirm that the introduction of di-heteroatomic synergistic effects enhances ISC efficiency while simultaneously prolonging the triplet state lifetimes. Notably, these two critical factors are further improved in PTZ due to the heavy-atom effect of sulfur atom. The work emphasizes the di-heteroatomic synergistic effect, particularly the role of heteroatoms with large atomic numbers, which is crucial for the design of halogen-free organic phosphorescent materials.
Design of an optically transparent ultrawideband absorber with high angular stability using ITO films: publisher’s note
Authors: Han Jian , Yang Rui , Sun Shiyong
Published: November 2024

This publisher’s note contains a correction to Opt. Lett. 49, 6549 (2024)10.1364/OL.540053.
Spectral broadening of μJ-level pulses around 8 μm in a Germanium-based multi-pass scheme
Authors: Gucci Francesco , Baserga Alessandro , Moretti Luca , Gatti Davide , Corti Matteo , Manzoni Cristian , Cerullo Giulio , Marangoni Marco , Vesco Guglielmo
Published: November 2024

A 2.6-fold spectral broadening of mid-infrared femtosecond μJ-level pulses has been achieved using an unfolded multi-pass configuration of germanium plates and zinc selenide lenses. This method maintains a throughput higher than 60% while preserving the spatial quality and the temporal duration of the input beam. Numerical simulations match the experimental results and show the potential to tailor the parameters of the cell to obtain different spectra.
Born’s rule and Planck’s energy from quantum interferometry
Authors: Duarte Francisco
Published: November 2024

Born’s rule and Planck’s quantum energy equation are derived from quantum
interferometry principles. The derivation of Born’s rule is transparent, brief,
and is based on the Dirac-Feynman interferometric principle. The derivation
of Planck’s equation relies on N-slit interferometric experimental observations
and a heuristic approach.
Integrated photonics incorporating 2D materials for practical applications
Authors: Moss David
Published: November 2024

On-chip integration of 2D materials with exceptional optical properties provides an attractive solution for next-generation photonic integrated circuits to address the limitations of conventional bulk integrated platforms. Over the past two decades, significant advancements have been made in the interdisciplinary field of 2D material integrated photonics, greatly narrowing the gap between laboratory research and industrial applications. In this paper, we provide a perspective on the developments of this field towards industrial manufacturing and commercialization. First, we review recent progress towards commercialization. Next, we provide an overview of cutting-edge fabrication techniques, which are categorized into large-scale integration, precise patterning, dynamic tuning, and device packaging. Both the advantages and limitations of these techniques are discussed in relation to industrial manufacturing. Finally, we
highlight some important issues related to commercialization, including fabrication standards, recycling, service life, and environmental implications.
An inductive bias for slowly changing features in human reinforcement learning
Authors: Hedrich Noa L. , Schulz Eric , Hall-McMaster Sam , Schuck Nicolas W.
Published: November 2024

Identifying goal-relevant features in novel environments is a central challenge for efficient behaviour. We asked whether humans address this challenge by relying on prior knowledge about common properties of reward-predicting features. One such property is the rate of change of features, given that behaviourally relevant processes tend to change on a slower timescale than noise. Hence, we asked whether humans are biased to learn more when task-relevant features are slow rather than fast. To test this idea, 295 human participants were asked to learn the rewards of two-dimensional bandits when either a slowly or quickly changing feature of the bandit predicted reward. Across two experiments and one preregistered replication, participants accrued more reward when a bandit’s relevant feature changed slowly, and its irrelevant feature quickly, as compared to the opposite. We did not find a difference in the ability to generalise to unseen feature values between conditions. Testing how feature speed could affect learning with a set of four function approximation Kalman filter models revealed that participants had a higher learning rate for the slow feature, and adjusted their learning to both the relevance and the speed of feature changes. The larger the improvement in participants’ performance for slow compared to fast bandits, the more strongly they adjusted their learning rates. These results provide evidence that human reinforcement learning favours slower features, suggesting a bias in how humans approach reward learning.
The impact of COVID-19 mobility restrictions on dengue transmission in urban areas
Authors: Araújo Jorge L. B. , Bomfim Rafael , Sampaio Filho Cesar I. N. , Cavalcanti Luciano P. G. , Lima Neto Antonio S. , Andrade José S. , Furtado Vasco
Published: November 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, governments have been forced to implement mobility restrictions to slow down the spread of SARS-CoV-2. These restrictions have also played a significant role in controlling the spread of other diseases, including those that do not require direct contact between individuals for transmission, such as dengue. In this study, we investigate the impact of human mobility on the dynamics of dengue transmission in a large metropolis. We compare data on the spread of the disease over a nine-year period with data from 2020 when strict mobility restrictions were in place. This comparison enables us to accurately assess how mobility restrictions have influenced the rate of dengue propagation and their potential for preventing an epidemic year. We observed a delay in the onset of the disease in some neighborhoods and a decrease in cases in the initially infected areas. Using a predictive model based on neural networks capable of estimating the potential spread of the disease in the absence of mobility restrictions for each neighborhood, we quantified the change in the number of cases associated with social distancing measures. Our findings with this model indicate a substantial reduction of approximately 72% in dengue cases in the city of Fortaleza throughout the year 2020. Additionally, using an Interrupted Time Series (ITS) model, we obtained results showing a strong correlation between the prevention of dengue and low human mobility, corresponding to a reduction of approximately 45% of cases. Despite the differences, both models point in the same direction, suggesting that urban mobility is a factor strongly associated with the pattern of dengue spread.
Forecasting the relative abundance of Aedes vector populations to enhance situational awareness for mosquito control operations
Authors: Ventura Paulo C. , Kummer Allisandra G. , Wilke André B. B. , Chitturi Jagadeesh , Hill Megan D. , Vasquez Chalmers , Unlu Isik , Mutebi John-Paul , Kluh Susanne , Vetrone Steve , Damian Dan , Townsend John , Litvinova Maria , Ajelli Marco
Published: November 2024

Aedes-borne diseases represent a major public health threat and mosquito control operations represent a key line of defense. Improving the real-time awareness of mosquito control authorities by providing reliable forecasts of the relative abundance of mosquito vectors could greatly enhance control efforts. To this aim, we developed an analytical tool that forecasts Aedes aegypti relative abundance 1 to 4 weeks ahead. Forecasts were validated against mosquito surveillance data (2,760 data points) collected over multiple years in four jurisdictions in the US. The symmetric absolute percentage error was in the range 0.43–0.69, and the 90% interquantile range of the forecasts had a coverage of 83–92%. Our forecasts consistently outperformed a reference “naïve” model for all analyzed study sites, forecasting horizon, and for periods with medium/high Ae. aegypti activity. The developed tool can be instrumental to address the need for evidence-based decision making.
Determinants of glycemic control among persons living with type 2 diabetes mellitus attending a district hospital in Ghana
Authors: Adjei Alexander , Brightson Kennedy Tettey Coffie , Mensah Michael Matey , Osei Jemima , Drah Moses , Narh Clement Tetteh , Asare Kwabena , Anto Francis
Published: November 2024

Background

Diabetes mellitus is a growing public health emergency with prevalence in sub-Sahara Africa expected to experience the highest increase by 2045. Glycemic control is central to diabetes management, but it is influenced by various factors. This study determines the level of glycemic control and the associated individual factors among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients.

Methods

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the Shai-Osudoku District Hospital from 9th November to 15th December 2022. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle modifications, co-morbidities, adherence to medication and diet regimens and duration of diabetes. Anthropometric and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) measurements were taken. Chi-squared and multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out to determine factors associated with glycemic control at 95% confidence levels.

Results

A total of 227 patients participated in this study. The majority of the participants were females (77.97%) and the mean (+SD) age was 60.76 + 12.12 years. Good glycemic control (HbA1c < 7%) among the participants was 38.77% (n = 88) and the median HbA1c was 7.5% (IQR: 6.5% to 9.4%). Significant factors associated with good glycemic control were eating healthy meals (AOR: 4.78, 95% CI: 1.65, 13.88: p = 0.004), oral hypoglycemic agents alone (AOR: 15.71, 95% CI: 1.90, 129.44: p = 0.010) and those with previously good glycemic control (AOR: 4.27, 95% CI: 2.16, 8.43: <0.001).

Conclusion

This study showed low levels of good glycemic control among T2DM patients at the primary care level in Ghana. Healthy eating, oral hypoglycemic agents and those with previously normal HbA1c were associated with glycemic control.
Construction of a CNN-SK weld penetration recognition model based on the Mel spectrum of a CMT arc sound signal
Authors: Zheng Wenlong , Yang Kai , Chen Jiadui , Huang Haisong , Yang Jingwei
Published: November 2024

Arc sound signals are considered appropriate for detecting penetration states in cold metal transfer (CMT) welding because of their noninvasive nature and immunity to interference from splatter and arc light. Nevertheless, the stability of arc sound signals is suboptimal, the conventional feature extraction methods are inefficient, and the significance of arc sound attributes for determining penetration statuses is often overlooked. In this study, a compact convolutional neural network (CNN) model is proposed for the adaptive extraction of features from arc sound signals. The model uses the Mel spectrum diagram of an arc sound signal obtained through a short-time Fourier transform (STFT) and a Mel filter bank conversion step as its input. To improve the recognition capabilities of the model, a novel CNN-selective kernel (SK) model for weld penetration recognition is introduced, which integrates the dynamic selection kernel network (SKNet) into the CNN architecture. The experimental results indicate that the CNN-SK model outperforms the traditional models, achieving an accuracy of 98.83% on the validation dataset. This model holds promise for assessing weld penetration in CMT welding applications. The project is available at https://github.com/ZWL58/data/tree/master.
Hypoperfusion states could increase the risk of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy
Authors: Gabbay Jasmin , Walter Eyal , Kerman Tomer , Amitai Nir , Gabay Ohad , Hazan Itai , Abuhasira Ran , Tsumi Erez
Published: November 2024

Background

Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is a leading cause of acute optic nerve damage. While cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and obstructive sleep apnea are well-established, the association between NAION and states of hypoperfusion is underexplored. This study investigated this potential association.

Methods

This retrospective case-control study analyzed all electronic medical records of Clalit Health Services’ patients from 2001 to 2022. Patients diagnosed with NAION were matched in a 1:4 ratio by year of birth and sex, using propensity score analysis to adjust for various comorbidities. Events of hypoperfusion occurring in the month prior to the diagnosis of NAION were categorized into two physiological mechanisms: a decrease in SVR and a decrease in cardiac output due to cardiac dysfunction or diminished preload (attributed to hypovolemia). Conditional logistic regression was used to explore differences between the groups.

Results

A total of 1,374 patients diagnosed with NAION and 5,496 matched controls were included in the study. We found a nearly 6.5-fold increase in the likelihood of NAION in association with events of hypoperfusion that occurred in the month period preceding the diagnosis of NAION (odds ratio [OR] 6.48; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.05–8.32). In particular, the group of patients with cardiac dysfunction (OR 6.47; 95% CI: 4.63–9.04) and the group with hypovolemia (OR 6.1; 95% CI: 4.08–9.13) emerged as having the most substantial risk factors. The group with decreased Systemic Vascular Resistance (SVR) (OR 4.64; 95% CI: 2.84–7.59) was also strongly related with NAION. Cerebrovascular accident emerged as an independent significant risk factor for NAION (OR 16.1; 95% CI: 10.8–24).

Conclusion

Hypoperfusion states are significant, independent risk factors for NAION.
Human development and entrepreneurship: A cross-country analysis of early-stage, intention, and discontinuation
Authors: Rojas Cristian A. , Chávez-Bustamante Felipe , Rubilar-Torrealba Rolando
Published: November 2024

Entrepreneurship is widely recognized as a vital driver of economic growth, yet its relationship through different stages with broader, non-purely monetary dimensions still needs to be explored. This research seeks to fill this gap by investigating the association between human development and entrepreneurship, recognizing the crucial role of environmental conditions in shaping entrepreneurial activity. Our cross-country Bayesian analysis shows strong evidence that a nation’s level of human development is associated with entrepreneurial activity in three stages: early entrepreneurship, intention for future engagement, and discontinuation of ventures. Our findings expand the intricate relationship between entrepreneurship and economic variables, highlighting the importance of environmental conditions in shaping entrepreneurial behavior. This article emphasizes that promoting robust entrepreneurial ecosystems requires considering integral dimensions such as human development. Policymakers and researchers should broaden their perspectives to encompass these holistic dimensions to create an environment conducive to entrepreneurial growth.
Effects of wood density on mechanical properties of mangrove wood from the Amazon coast
Authors: Galvão Madson Lucas , Bessa-Silva Adam , Batista Alessandra Silva , Balboni Bruno Monteiro , Santos Iedo Souza , Fernandes Marcus Emanuel Barroncas
Published: November 2024

Mangrove forests are essential on the Amazon coast, as local communities widely use their wood. However, it is still necessary to understand the mechanical properties of wood typical of mangroves. Our main objective was to understand the influence of density on mechanical properties. Then, we tested the hypothesis that wood density has a stronger influence on the mechanical properties of R. mangle trees. Five trees of each dominant mangrove species were cut, and the mechanical properties of wood from these species were analyzed according to ASTM D143-14. Rhizophora mangle wood presented the highest average values compared to other mangrove species for mechanical properties (ρ12% = 1031.6 kg m-3; fv0 = 21.8 Mpa; fc0 = 79.6 Mpa; fM = 190.0 Mpa; EM0 = 18.8 Gpa), as well as for resistance and rigidity. Wood from mangrove trees on the Amazon coast has the same trend of mechanical properties as trees from Asian mangroves. Avicennia germinans and Laguncularia racemosa have a moderate rating. Rhizophora mangle stands out for presenting the highest values of these properties, with the species of Rhizophoraceae being considered the most resistant wood among mangrove species worldwide.
N6-methyladenosine RNA modification promotes Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Virus infection
Authors: Chen Zhiqiang , Zhang Jinyu , Wang Jun , Tong Hao , Pan Wen , Ma Feng , Wu Qihan , Dai Jianfeng
Published: November 2024

Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Virus (SFTSV), a novel bunyavirus primarily transmitted by Haemaphysalis longicornis, induces severe disease with a high mortality rate. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a prevalent internal chemical modification in eukaryotic mRNA that has been reported to regulate viral infection. However, the role of m6A modification during SFTSV infection remains elusive. We here reported that SFTSV RNAs bear m6A modification during infection. Manipulating the expressions or activities of host m6A regulators significantly impacted SFTSV infection. Mechanistically, SFTSV recruited m6A regulators through the nucleoprotein to modulate the m6A modification of viral RNA, eventually resulting in enhanced infection by promoting viral mRNA translation efficiency and/or genome RNA stability. m6A mutations in the S genome diminished virus particle production, while m6A mutations in the G transcript impaired the replication of recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (rVSV) expressing G protein in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly, m6A modification was evolutionarily conserved and facilitated SFTSV infection in primary tick cells. These findings may open an avenue for the development of m6A-targeted anti-SFTSV vaccines, drugs, and innovative strategies for the prevention and control of tick-borne disease.