bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards Large-Scale High-Precision Time Synchronization Networks: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Hua Nan , Han Liuyan , Zheng Xiaoping
Published: February 2021

We focus on the major challenges of building large-scale high-precision time synchronization networks for 5G, PNT services and high-dynamic network cooperation. The latest solutions and results will be presented and discussed.
Quantum optics on Si chips
Authors: Ren Xifeng
Published: February 2021

Here, we demonstrate a super-compact integrated quantum CNOT gate on a silicon chip by using the idea of symmetry breaking of a 6-channel waveguide superlattice. It implemented with a footprint of 4.8 × 4.45 μm2.
Optical single-sideband modulation based on a silicon dual-parallel Mach-Zehnder modulator
Authors: Shi Panpan , Lu Liangjun , Zhou Gangqiang , Chen Shuhuang , Chen Jianping , Zhou Linjie
Published: February 2021

We experimentally demonstrate optical single-sideband modulation with a variable RF frequency. The sideband suppression ratio for the carrier-remained and carrier-suppressed modulation is more than 38 dB and 13 dB from 1 to 24 GHz, respectively.
80 Gbit/s NRZ Lateral PIN Germanium Photodetector with 4-Directional Light Input Silicon Waveguides
Authors: Hu Xiao , Wu Dingyi , Zhang Hongguang , Chen Daigao , Wang Lei , Xiao Xi
Published: February 2021

A 4-directional light input lateral germanium photodetector is reported with responsivity 1.23 A/W at 1550 nm and dark current 4 nA at -1V bias voltage. The 80 Gbit/s NRZ clear eye diagram is achieved.
Low relative intensity noise InAs/GaAs quantum dot laser emitted at 1.3 μm
Authors: Zhang Xinzhong , Yang Zhuohui , Zhong Hancheng , Cao Sheng , Yu Ying , Yu Siyuan
Published: February 2021

An ultra-low relative intensity noise of less than −155 dB/Hz in the frequency range of 5–20 GHz is demonstrated in single transverse mode 1.3 μm InAs/GaAs quantum dot Fabry–Perot lasers. Their different performance in the excited-state and the ground-state are also theoretically exposed.
High performance topological bulk lasers
Authors: Shao Zeng-Kai , Chen Hua-Zhou , Wang Suo , Mao Xin-Rui , Yang Zhen-Qian , Wang Shao-Lei , Wang Xing-Xiang , Hu Xiao , Ma Ren-Min
Published: February 2021

We report on a topological bulk laser based on band-inversion-induced reflection constructed by trivial and topological photonic crystal arrays. It provides a novel lasing mode selection mechanism and renders high-performance laser devices.
High performance DAS-based optical fiber hydrophone
Authors: Guan Hongjian , Han Bing , Han Zewen , Wang Wenyu , Ran Zengling , Yan Guofeng , Gong Yuan , Rao Yun-Jiang
Published: February 2021

A DAS-based optical fiber hydrophone is reported with greatly enhanced sensitivity and infrasonic frequency response. The average acoustic pressure sensitivity is -131.0 dB re rad/μPa in 1 Hz - 1024 Hz.
Curvature Measurement for Flexible Sphere Surface via FBG Shape Sensor
Authors: Zhang Jun , Zhu Han , Lou Weilong , Qin Yajie , Zhan Yiqiang , Gao Kan , Chen Guanghui
Published: February 2021

An FBG shape sensor is demonstrated. The sensitivity, response time, and the temperature dependency of the sensor are determined. Moreover, the curvature monitoring of the charging and venting process of the flexible sphere is realized.
Low-noise high-order Raman fiber laser with common-cavity pump of random lasing
Authors: Han Bing , Rao Yunjiang , Yao Jiazhen , Guan Hongjian , Ma Rui , Wang Zinan , Wu Han
Published: February 2021

A novel low-noise high-order Raman fiber laser (RFL) common-cavity pumped by a random fiber laser is reported with relative intensity noise (RIN) of -120 dB/Hz, which is 20 dB lower than that of commercial RFL.
Optimization Design for 1.55 μm InAs/InGaAs quantum dot Square Microcavity Lasers on Silicon with Edge Midpoint Output Waveguide Structures
Authors: Yang Yuanqing , Wang Jun , Zhu Lina , Chen Weirong , Wu Guofeng , Jia Yanxing , Wang Haijing , Huang Yongqing , Ren Xiaomin , Luo Shuai , Ji Haiming
Published: February 2021

We demonstrate an optimized structure design and analyze the optical mode characteristics of 1.55 μm Si-based III-V square microcavity laser with InAs/InGaAs quantum-dot active region and directional midpoint output waveguide.
Partially spatially coherent light source for imaging through opacity
Authors: Wang Zhao , Ma Rui , Wang Wen Yu , Wu Xiao Yu , Cui Ze Wen , Zhu Hong Yang , Liu Jun , Zhang Wei Li
Published: February 2021

Imaging through opacity using a partially spatially coherent light source is enabled by using the proposed wavelength dependent speckle multiplexing, which broadens the scope of effective candidate light sources for the speckle-correlated imaging.
Ultrafast laser inscription of fiber Bragg gratings with low polarization dependent loss
Authors: Xu Xizhen , He Jun , Liao Changrui , Wang Yiping
Published: February 2021

We proposed FBGs with a low polarization dependent loss inscribed using three methods based on a femtosecond laser, i.e., a phase mask, a point-by-point (PbP) technology, and a PbP technology with a slit beam shaping method.
A Correlation OTDR Based In-Service Fiber Links Monitoring Using Flexible Frame Switching and EMD Denoising
Authors: Shangguan Yangguang , Du Jinhao , Yang Tao , Shi Sheping , Fan Xintao
Published: February 2021

A Correlation OTDR based in-service fiber links monitoring scheme with flexible switching between service signal frames, detection signal frames and idle frames is proposed, where the EMD denoising is applied to improve the dynamic range.
Intra-LP-mode Dispersion Measurement for Weakly-coupled FMF Based on Sagnac Interferometer
Authors: Ge Dawei , Zuo Mingqing , Shen Lei , Zhang Dechao , Li Yunbo , He Yongqi , Chen Zhangyuan , Li Juhao , Li Han
Published: February 2021

An Intra-LP-mode dispersion measurement based on Sagnac interferometer for weakly-coupled FMF is proposed for the first time. Based on it, intra-LP-mode dispersion of each LP mode in a previous reported FMF has been successfully measured.
Pencil-beam scanning catheter for intravascular optical coherence tomography
Authors: Kang Jiqiang , Zhu Rui , Sun Yunxu , Li Jianan , Wong Kenneth K. Y.
Published: February 2021

A structure-simplified pencil-beam scanning probe is demonstrated for intravascular optical coherence tomography catheters. In vivo imaging capability of this catheter is verified by a clinical system with a stent-implanted beating porcine heart as the sample.
Modulation Format Conversion From QPSK to 16QAM Using Phase-Sensitive Amplification and IQ Modulation
Authors: Kuroda Ryotaro , Kishikawa Hiroki , Goto Nobuo
Published: February 2021

We propose a modulation format conversion method from two QPSK signals to a 16QAM signal by using phase-sensitive amplification and IQ modulation. Numerical simulation reveals that error-free conversion can be achieved.
Optimization of 2D-BM3D Denoising for Long-range Brillouin Optical Time Domain Analysis
Authors: Yang Guijiang , Wang Biwei , Wang Liang , Cheng Zhenzhou , Yu Changyuan , Chan Calvin Chun-Kit , Li Litong , Tang Ming , Liu Deming
Published: February 2021

Impact of 2D-BM3D parameters on the denoising performance has been fully analyzed for denoising optimization in 100.8km BOTDA. 12.2dB SNR improvement has been achieved without much loss of temperature accuracy and spatial resolution.
Supercontinuum Generation in Silicon-Organic Hybrid Slot Waveguide Assisted by a Weak CW Trigger
Authors: Zhou Kangzhu , Li Qian
Published: February 2021

We numerically demonstrate supercontinuum generation in the silicon-organic hybrid waveguide can be improved significantly by a weak CW trigger. The CW-triggered supercontinuum exhibits a broader spectrum with a higher degree of temporal coherence.
Inverse Design of a CMOS-compatible Mode Exchange Device Based on Adjoint and Level Set Methods
Authors: Yang Shanglin , Jia Hao , Zhou Ting , Zhang Lei , Fu Xin , Yang Lin
Published: February 2021

We have designed a CMOS-compatible TE0 and TE1 mode exchange device based on adjoint and level set inverse design method. The mode conversion efficiencies are both above 93% for TE0-TE1 and TE1-TE0 process.
Broadband Silicon Arbitrary Ratio Power Splitters based on Directional Couplers with Subwavelength Structure
Authors: Zhao Shi , Shi Yaocheng
Published: February 2021

We propose an 1×2 power splitter enabling arbitrary splitting ratios based on a directional coupler with subwavelength structure. The simulation results show that arbitrary power splitting can be achieved over a broad bandwidth ~120 nm.
A SiN-Si Dual-layer Directional Coupler
Authors: Ma Jianbin , Luo Guangzhen , Wang Pengfei , Wang Ruiting , Yang Zhengxia , Zhou Xuliang , Zhang Yejin , Pan Jiaoqing
Published: February 2021

We proposed a SiN-Si dual-layer directional coupler, the coupler ratio achieved from 0% to 97%. It can be used to improve the performance of optical phased array (OPA) chip.
High-Speed InGaAs/InAlAs Avalanche Photodiode with Low Dark Current
Authors: Wang Rui , Yang Xiaohong , Wang Hui , He Tingting
Published: February 2021

We report an InGaAs/InAlAs avalanche photodiode with a bandwidth of 18GHz at M=10 and a low dark current of 6.3nA at 0.9 breakdown voltage which can be applied in 25Gbit/s optical fiber communication systems.
Silicon Photonic Vertical Few-mode Fiber Interface Designed by Adjoint Optimization
Authors: Cheng Lirong , Mao Simei , Mu Xin , Li Qian , Fu H. Y.
Published: February 2021

We propose a vertical few-mode fiber interface on silicon photonics. Compact mode-size converter and non-uniform grating coupler supporting both LP11a and LP21a modes are demonstrated using adjoint optimization.
Two-photon Absorption in C-band Commercial FP Laser Diode for the Detection at 2-μm Wavelengths
Authors: Qu Yuanzhe , Ji Di , Xu Yan , Li Yuwen , Ye Nan , Pang Fufei , Song Yingxiong
Published: February 2021

We have realized the 2-μm wavelength detection based on the two-photon absorption from a commercial C-band FP laser at the -1 V bias. The 0.2 μA photocurrent can be observed benefiting from the cavity resonance.
A Low-Loss High-Directionality Grating Coupler for Integration of An Injection-Locked VCSEL on Silicon Photonics
Authors: Yang Yisu , Lei Hao , Huang Yongqing
Published: February 2021

We propose an injection-locked VCSEL on silicon photonics through a grating coupler to enhance the injection directionality. The measured coupling efficiency of the coupler is -2.5 dB at 1546.8 nm under 10o incidence.
Ultra-Compact Bandwidth Tunable Filter via Subwavelength Grating-Assisted Contra-Directional Coupler Employing Double Grating Arrays Perturbations
Authors: Wang Yuan , Zhao Yaotian , Wang Kangnian , Guo Xuhan , Su Yikai
Published: February 2021

An ultra-compact tunable filter based on subwavelength grating and taper waveguides with double grating arrays perturbations has been proposed. The bandwidth tunability of ~7.6 nm is achieved with a coupling length of only 60 μm.
Modeling Filtering Impairments towards Enhanced Monitoring via QKD Performance Metrics
Authors: Giannoulis G. , Zavitsanos D. , Toumasis P. , Kanta K. , Avramopoulos H.
Published: February 2021

Addressing spectrum related parameters of filtering nodes can assist in enhanced monitoring of WDM-enabled networking. We introduce methods to assess the impact of LCoS-based WSS node impairments based on the QBER/SKR metrics from QKD stations.
High-Q chalcogenide Ge28Sb12Se60 photonic crystal nanobeam cavities
Authors: Zhao Mingyue , Yang Zhen , Zhang Rizhen , Xu Peipeng
Published: February 2021

We design and fabricate a photonic crystal (PhC) nanobeam cavity on the chalcogenide glass Ge28Sb12Se60 platform. A high quality (Q) factor of 1.2×104 in the fabricated devices is achieved.
Research on High-speed and Saturation Characteristics of Low-bias Cascade Uni-traveling Carrier Photodiode Array
Authors: Du Jiawei , Huang Yongqing , Yang Dan , Wu Doudou , Duan Xiaofeng , Liu Kai , Yang Yisu , Ren Xiaomin
Published: February 2021

The performance of a low-bias cascade uni-traveling carrier photodiode (UTC-PD) array was studied. Compared with the single UTC-PD, the cascade UTC-PD array can increase the 3-dB bandwidth by 47.5% and has better DC saturation performance.
Optimization of Tunable Semiconductor V-cavity Laser for Analog Application
Authors: Zhu Dandi , He Jian-Jun
Published: February 2021

We report a tunable semiconductor V-cavity laser with optimized modulation section length for analog application. The input third order intermodulation intercept of the optimized laser has been improved by 3.2dB.
Lorentzian linewidth of electro-optically tuned multi-channel interference widely tunable laser
Authors: Wang Kuankuan , Zhang Miao , Chen Quanan , Jiang Chun , Lu Qianyin , Guo Weihua
Published: February 2021

Lorentzian linewidth of electro-optically tuned multi-channel interference widely tunable laser has been demonstrated to be less than 350 kHz in the entire tuning range.
Four-channel Optical Add-drop Multiplexer Based on Traveling Wave-like Fabry–Perot Nanocavities
Authors: Liu Qiang , Mei Chenyang , Zhang Ying , Zeng Desheng , Li Wenfei , Huang Qingzhong , Zhang Xinliang
Published: February 2021

We have demonstrated a four-channel OADM based on traveling wave-like Fabry– Perot resonators with a uniform channel spacing of ~4.35±0.3 nm via thermal tuning. The drop loss and crosstalk between channels are lower than 0.8dB and -11dB, respectively.
Curvature Model and Transmission Characteristics of a Micro-Bottle Resonator
Authors: Zhao Shuaichang , Hou Fengyu , Wang Zijie , Yang Yong , Zhang Xiaobei , Wang Tingyun
Published: February 2021

We demonstrate the curvature model of the micro-bottle resonator and study the influence of curvature on its transmission characteristics, which reveals that the quality factor can be further enhanced by increasing the curvature.
Photonic Generation of Linearly Chirped Microwave Waveform Based on an Integrated mutually Coupled Distributed Feedback Lasers
Authors: Li Yaobin , Zhao Wu , wang Huan , Mao Yuanfeng , Lu Dan , Kan Qiang
Published: February 2021

A simple method for photonic generation of linearly chirped microwave waveforms using an integrated mutually coupled laser has been demonstrated with the bandwidth of 4.8 GHz and time-bandwidth product of 4.8 × 103.
Multi-Channel WDM (De)Multiplexer Based on Multimode Contra-Directional Coupling Using Dielectric Etches
Authors: Zhao Yaotian , Guo Xuhan , Su Yikai
Published: February 2021

we present a four-channel flat-top coarse wavelength-division multiplexing (CWDM) (de)multiplexer employing contra-directional coupling between multiple modes simultaneously with shallow-etched dielectric etches in a single multimode waveguide.
Modeling of turn-key soliton microcomb generation with transient loss fluctuations
Authors: Chen Yuanyuan , Liu Tuo , Guo Hairun
Published: February 2021

We present a numerical model that masters the dynamics of cavity dissipative solitons in associated with the saturable absorption (SA) effect, and demonstrate turn-key soliton microcomb generation with SA-induced transient loss fluctuations.
The influence of fabrication imperfections in an optomechanical crystal nanobeam cavity
Authors: Lv Xiaomin , Fan Boyu , Tang Jindao , Xu Nan , Chen Hui , Zhang Yanning , Wang You , Song Hai-Zhi , Deng Guangwei , Zhou Qiang
Published: February 2021

We present the analysis of the influence of fabrication imperfections on the optical, mechanical and optomechanical coupling characteristics in an optomechanical crystal nanobeam cavity.
Modulation Format Identification and Transmission Quality Monitoring for Link Establishment in Optical Network Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Hong Jie , Chen Long , Zhu Jiao , Zhou Wenhai , Li Bo , Fu Yongfeng , Wang Long
Published: February 2021

We propose and experimentally demonstrate a novel cost-effective and distributed optical performance monitor by employing Gaussian process regression for OSNR monitoring and support vector machine for modulation format identification simultaneously in optical network link establishment.
A Dynamic Planning Algorithm based on Q-Learning Routing in SDON
Authors: Shang Jingkun , Li Hui , Man Xiangkun , Wu Fang , Zhao JiaWei , Ma Xiaomei
Published: February 2021

This paper introduces an adaptive routing algorithm based on Q-learning in the SDON controller, which effectively realizes dynamic load balancing and reduces the risk of congestion in the optical transmission network.
All-optical Pattern Recognition of QPSK Signals for High Speed Optoelectronic Firewalls
Authors: Zhang Qihan , Gong Xiaoxue , Guo Lei
Published: February 2021

We propose and simulate a pattern recognition system of QPSK signals for all-optical high speed optoelectronic firewalls. Arbitrary target pattern can be recognized and a baud rate of 200 GBaud can be achieved.
A Physical Layer Authentication Method Based on Optical Channel Dynamic Feature SNR
Authors: Wang Xiangqing , Zhang Jie
Published: February 2021

This paper proposes a physical layer authentication method based on the dynamic characteristics of optical channel. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) can accurately reflect the dynamic characteristics of the channel and authenticate users.
Noise Analysis and MIMO Equalization for a Spatial-Division Multiplexing (SDM) Transmission System
Authors: Zhao Tianfeng , Wen Feng , Zhang Peng , Wu Baojian , Qiu Kun
Published: February 2021

The noise analysis through impulse response and the optimizing MIMO-equalization were thoughtfully investigated for a spatial-division multiplexing system over 6-mode 7-core fibers, achieving the worst EVM of only 1.24% across the whole 42 spatial channels.
Research and Implementation of Frequency Offset Adjustment in Real-Time IMDD OOFDM System
Authors: Song Xinyu , Zhang Huibin , Yang Chenguang , Zhang Jie
Published: February 2021

We propose a real-time phase offset calculation method capable of compensating for SCO in IMDD OOFDM system. The system is experimentally demonstrated that the frequency offset is stable within ±0.64ppm and no EVM degradation.
Secure Key Distribution based on Chaos Synchronization of VCSELs and Optical Spectrum Spreading
Authors: Sun Ruiqi , Jiang Ning , Luo Fan , Chang Congcong , Peng Jiafa , Zhang Yiqun
Published: February 2021

We propose a physical secure key distribution scheme based on private chaos synchronization of vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers and achieve 6Gbps key distribution by introducing spread-spectrum modules to enhance the bandwidths of synchronous chaotic entropies.
Secure QAM Transmission using Private Synchronous Chaotic Phase Scrambling/Descrambling
Authors: Chang Congcong , Jiang Ning , Sun Ruiqi , Luo Fan
Published: February 2021

We propose a physical-layer secure optical communication scheme by applying private synchronous chaotic phase scrambling/descrambling into QAM messages, and numerically demonstrate an exemplary 40Gbit/s 16QAM secure transmission over 80km for the feasibility confirmation.
An Optimized Lifting Method Based on PMP for LDPC in PON System
Authors: Hu Jiazhe , Qin Xin , Yang Chuanchuan
Published: February 2021

We propose a new lifting method based on parallel vector message passing (PMP) called LPMP to generate quasi-cyclic LDPC codes, which can derive a (BER) performance improvement up to 0.4dB.
A Low Complexity Frequency Domain Adaptive Equalizer for Coherent Optical Receivers
Authors: Zhang Qi , Li Xue , Zhang Nannan , Hu Leiya , Cui Nan , Zhang Xiaoguang , Xi Lixia
Published: February 2021

A novel FD-MIMO adaptive equalizer is proposed to solve impairments of ultra-fast RSOP and PMD together with RCD. The proposed scheme owns lower complexity and larger robustness compared with the conventional time domain CMA-MMA.
A Probabilistic Shaping Method Based on Bit-level Mapping and Constellation Geometry Optimization for Optical System
Authors: Qiu Ling , Ma Jianxin
Published: February 2021

A novel probabilistically shaped star-10QAM-OOFDM modulation based on bit-level mapping with new geometric constellation structure is proposed, which outperforms the uniformly-distributed star-10QAM-OOFDM by 1.36 dB in OSNR.
Low Loss, High Extinction Ratio Plasmonic Spot Size Converter
Authors: Zhu Kejian , Xu Pengfei , Sun Pengfei , Liu Xingpeng , Li Haiou , Zhou Zhiping
Published: February 2021

Spot size conversion from the Si waveguide core (400×220 nm2) to a plasmonic waveguide core (20×40 nm2) is studied with insert loss (IL) 1.29 dB and extinction ratio (ER) 29.3 dB.
Rubik’s cube rotation encryption based on chaos in 3D-CAP-PON
Authors: Chen Shuaidong , Liu Bo , Mao Yaya , Ren Jianxin , Song Xiumin , Jiang Lei , Ullah Rahat , Han Shun , Zhao Jianye , Zhang Jingyi , Zhao Delin , Li Minye , Liu Xueyang
Published: February 2021

A Rubik’s cube rotation encryption based on chaos in three-dimensional carrier-free amplitude and phase modulation passive optical network (3D-CAP-PON) is proposed. Experiment verifies that the proposed scheme has good transmission performance and extremely high security.
Carrier Phase Recovery Exploiting Recursive Blind Phase Search Algorithm for Probabilistic Shaping 64QAM Systems
Authors: Hu Jin , Sun Zhongliang , Xu Xuekai , Lu Yueming , Qiao Yaojun
Published: February 2021

Conventional BPS algorithm fails on probabilistic shaping signals when using practical length of noise rejection filters. The recursive BPS algorithm is implemented and verified to achieve a gain of more than 1 dB.
A Reconfigurable Microwave Photonic Filter Based on Multicore Fibers Incorporating a TOAD Switch
Authors: Huo Liang , Zhao Can , Wu Hao , Tang Ming
Published: February 2021

We propose a new scheme of reconfigurable microwave photonic filter based on multicore fibers and a terahertz optical asymmetric demultiplexer switch, with a switching rise/fall time of 3.4/3 ns.
All-Fiberized 2.7–4.2 μm Mid-Infrared Supercontinuum Source Based on Er-doped ZBLAN Fiber Amplifier
Authors: Deng Kaixin , Yang Linyong , Zhang Bin , Yao Jinmei , Hou Jing
Published: February 2021

An all-fiberized supercontinuum (SC) source based on Er-doped ZBLAN fiber amplifier is demonstrated for the first time, and a SC spanning from 2.7 to 4.2 μm is obtained with a record power of 2.32 W.
Egg and cholesterol consumption and mortality from cardiovascular and different causes in the United States: A population-based cohort study
Authors: Zhuang Pan , Wu Fei , Mao Lei , Zhu Fanghuan , Zhang Yiju , Chen Xiaoqian , Jiao Jingjing , Zhang Yu
Published: February 2021

Background

Whether consumption of egg and cholesterol is detrimental to cardiovascular health and longevity is highly debated. Data from large-scale cohort studies are scarce. This study aimed to examine the associations of egg and cholesterol intakes with mortality from all causes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and other causes in a US population.

Methods and findings

Overall, 521,120 participants (aged 50–71 years, mean age = 62.2 years, 41.2% women, and 91.8% non-Hispanic white) were recruited from 6 states and 2 additional cities in the US between 1995 and 1996 and prospectively followed up until the end of 2011. Intakes of whole eggs, egg whites/substitutes, and cholesterol were assessed by a validated food frequency questionnaire. Cause-specific hazard models considering competing risks were used, with the lowest quintile of energy-adjusted intake (per 2,000 kcal per day) as the reference. There were 129,328 deaths including 38,747 deaths from CVD during a median follow-up of 16 years. Whole egg and cholesterol intakes were both positively associated with all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality. In multivariable-adjusted models, the hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) associated with each intake of an additional half of a whole egg per day were 1.07 (1.06–1.08) for all-cause mortality, 1.07 (1.06–1.09) for CVD mortality, and 1.07 (1.06–1.09) for cancer mortality. Each intake of an additional 300 mg of dietary cholesterol per day was associated with 19%, 16%, and 24% higher all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality, respectively. Mediation models estimated that cholesterol intake contributed to 63.2% (95% CI 49.6%–75.0%), 62.3% (95% CI 39.5%–80.7%), and 49.6% (95% CI 31.9%–67.4%) of all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality associated with whole egg consumption, respectively. Egg white/substitute consumers had lower all-cause mortality and mortality from stroke, cancer, respiratory disease, and Alzheimer disease compared with non-consumers. Hypothetically, replacing half a whole egg with equivalent amounts of egg whites/substitutes, poultry, fish, dairy products, or nuts/legumes was related to lower all-cause, CVD, cancer, and respiratory disease mortality. Study limitations include its observational nature, reliance on participant self-report, and residual confounding despite extensive adjustment for acknowledged dietary and lifestyle risk factors.

Conclusions

In this study, intakes of eggs and cholesterol were associated with higher all-cause, CVD, and cancer mortality. The increased mortality associated with egg consumption was largely influenced by cholesterol intake. Our findings suggest limiting cholesterol intake and replacing whole eggs with egg whites/substitutes or other alternative protein sources for facilitating cardiovascular health and long-term survival.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00340015.
The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on AIDS-related mycoses and fungal neglected tropical diseases: Why should we worry?
Authors: Nargesi Sanaz , Bongomin Felix , Hedayati Mohammad T.
Published: February 2021

The World Health Organization (WHO) considers mycetoma, chromoblastomycosis, and paracoccidioidomycosis to be fungal neglected tropical diseases (FNTDs). Depending on climatic, cultural, and economic contexts, these diseases have a similar geographical distribution as many other diseases, particularly tuberculosis (TB) and malaria, but are often less targeted by the national and many international healthcare systems. Another subgroup of fungal infections, such as candidiasis, cryptococcosis, pneumocystosis, histoplasmosis, and to a lesser extent, aspergillosis, are known as AIDS-related mycoses. Although antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been able to decrease the mortality rate of these diseases, particularly cryptococcosis, the disproportionately low distribution of funds to their diagnosis and treatment remains an obstacle in saving and improving the lives of patients affected. A new wave of viral diseases dubbed the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) hit the world at the end of 2019. Due to progressive symptoms and high mortality rates of COVID-19 compared to fungal infections, particularly the FNTDs, funding is currently allocated predominantly for diagnostic and therapeutic research on COVID-19. As a result, advances in FNTDs and AIDS-related mycosis care are considerably reduced. This paper explores the association between COVID-19, FNTDs, and AIDS-related mycoses with a predictive perspective.
Willingness to work during initial lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic: Study based on an online survey among physicians of Bangladesh
Authors: Rafi Md. Abdur , Hasan M. Tasdik , Azad Dewan Tasnia , Alam Syeda Fatema , Podder Vivek , Hossain Sahadat , Akther S. M. Quamrul , Ashraf Fatema , Hossain Md. Golam
Published: February 2021

Background

During the catastrophic situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of the health care workers (HCWs) is the most crucial, and their absenteeism, whether due to inability or unwillingness, becomes a major concern for the national health system. Hence, the present study aimed to determine the willingness and its associated factors to work during the COVID-19 pandemic among the physicians of Bangladesh.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study conducted from April 21 to May 10, 2020, using an online survey among the Bangladeshi physicians living in the country. Both univariate and multivariable binary logistic regression models were used to determine the predictors of the willingness of the physicians to work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

More than 69% physicians reported that they were willing to work during the COVID-19 pandemic, 8.9% reported that they were not willing, while 21.4% of participants were not sure about their willingness. Younger age, having experience of treating patients during previous pandemics, working in the emergency departments and high self-reported compliance to the recommended PPE were important predictors of being willing to work during COVID-19 pandemic. Concern for family and risk of transmitting the infection to family members were most commonly reported as major barriers of working during the pandemic (30%) followed by having comorbidities (25%), lack of adequate safety measures (25%), fear of being infected (12.2%), not involved in clinical practice (12.5%) etc.

Conclusions

Though the majority of the physicians were willing to work during the COVID-19 pandemic, sufficient supply of PPE, support to maintain recommended quarantine and isolation policy after risky hospital duty along with adequate and effective training can increase their willingness to continue their sacred duty during this crucial pandemic.
Tourist willingness to pay for local green hotel certification
Authors: Nelson Katherine M. , Partelow Stefan , Stäbler Moritz , Graci Sonya , Fujitani Marie
Published: February 2021

This study aims to understand tourists’ willingness to pay a price premium for a local green hotel certification, and is one of only a few in the literature for small-island tourism destinations in emerging economies with their unique and pressing sustainability challenges. In a survey of 535 tourists visiting Gili Trawangan, Indonesia, facing numerous waste management and coral reef conservation issues, the willingness to pay extra for sustainable hotel services was elicited. There were five discrete pricing levels across the surveys that ranged from $0.75 USD to $7.50 USD extra per night. We examined the relationship of the respondents’ payment choice to their socio-demographic attributes and attitudes regarding environmental issues such as climate change. The main findings and practical implications of the study are: (1) to demonstrate the broad willingness to pay for sustainable hotel services. Findings indicate at all price levels (between $0.75 USD and $7.50 USD), more than 50% of tourists are willing to pay. (2) To estimate a lower bound mean willingness to pay per night for a local green hotel certificate of $1.55USD and 1.34€ EUR, and (3) To identify individual attributes that influence willingness to pay. Findings indicate environmental knowledge and preferences play a role. These results can be used generally to incorporate evidence-based practices into the development of a green hotel marketing strategy, and to help define the target market for small-scale green hotel certification. Additionally, we propose a finance strategy for funding local and sustainable initiatives that support the hotel industry and the island’s infrastructure through the premiums collected from the ’Gili Green Award’ certificate.
Implementation of pre-exposure prophylaxis programme in Spain. Feasibility of four different delivery models
Authors: Iniesta Carlos , Coll Pep , Barberá María Jesús , García Deltoro Miguel , Camino Xabier , Fagúndez Gabriela , Díaz Asunción , Polo Rosa ,   Spanish Working Group for PrEP
Published: February 2021

Background

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an effective and cost-effective strategy for HIV prevention. Spain carried out an implementation study in order to assess the feasibility of implementing PrEP programmes within its heterogeneous health system.

Methods

Observational longitudinal study conducted on four different types of health-care setting: a community centre (CC), a sexually transmitted infections clinic (STIC), a hospital-based HIV unit (HBHIVU) and a hospital-based STI unit (HBSTIU). We recruited gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBSM) and transgender women at risk of HIV infections, gave them PrEP and monitored clinical, behavioural PrEP-related and satisfaction information for 52 weeks. We collected perceptions on PrEP implementation feasibility from health-care professionals participating in the study.

Results

A total of 321 participants were recruited, with 99.1% being GBMSM. Overall retention was 87.2% and it was highest at the CC (92.6%). Condom use decreased during the study period, while STIs did not increase consistently. The percentage of people who did not miss any doses of PrEP during the previous week remained at over 93%. No HIV seroconversions occurred. We observed overall decreases in GHB (32.5% to 21.8%), cocaine (27.5% to 21.4%), MDMA (25.7% to 14.3%), speed (11.4% to 5.7%) and mephedrone use (10.7% to 5.0%). The overall participant satisfaction with PrEP was 98.6%. Health-care professionals’ perceptions of PrEP feasibility were positive, except for the lack of personnel.

Conclusions

PrEP implementation is feasible in four types of health-care settings. Local specificities have to be taken into consideration while implementing PrEP.
Factors affecting outcome of longer regimen multidrug-resistant tuberculosis treatment in West Java Indonesia: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Soeroto Arto Yuwono , Pratiwi Chica , Santoso Prayudi , Lestari Bony Wiem
Published: February 2021

Background

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis had high treatment failure and mortality. Success rate of treatment currently 56% at global level, 48% in Indonesia and 36% in West Java province, the most populated province and surround Jakarta, the capitol of Indonesia.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate factors affecting success of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis treatment in patients using longer treatment regimen in West Java Indonesia.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis patients treated with longer regimen at Hasan Sadikin General Hospital from January 2015 to December 2017. Potential risk factors associated with the treatment outcome were analyzed using multiple logistic regression.

Results

A total of 492 patients were enrolled during the study period. Fifty percents multidrug-resistant tuberculosis patients had successful treatment outcome. Age ≤45 years, male, normal body mass index, no previous tuberculosis treatment, culture conversion ≤2 months, acid fast bacilli sputum smear ≤+1 were independent factors associated with increased treatment success. Sputum culture conversion ≤2 months was the major factor affecting successful outcome (RR 2.79; 95% CI: 1.61–4.84; p-value<0.001). Human Immunodeficiency Virus infection, chronic kidney disease, and cavitary lesion were independent risk factors for unfavourable outcome.

Conclusion

Age, gender, body mass index, tuberculosis treatment history, time of sputum conversion, acid fast bacilli sputum smear, HIV infection, chronic kidney disease, and cavitary lesion can be used as predictors for longer multidrug-resistant tuberculosis treatment regimen outcome.
Ambulatory anal self-sampling in MSM living with HIV, an acceptable and reliable screening method
Authors: Heid-Picard Benoît , Cochand-Priollet Béatrix , Rozenberg Flore , Giang-Phang David , Viard Jean-Paul , La Torre Valentina , Ghosn Jade
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Anal cancer, usually driven by an oncogenic Human Papillomavirus, remains a leading cause of morbidity in men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV, despite combined antiretroviral therapy. Various recommendations advocate to perform regular examination and proctologist-performed samples to anticipate this risk and treat locally before cancer occurrence, an efficient strategy which has the drawback of requiring the proctologist’s availability. This study evaluates the acceptability, feasibility, and efficiency of self-performed samples to screen for HPV-infection and HPV-related anal dysplasia among MSM living with HIV followed in Hôtel-Dieu Hospital.

Methods

Between February 2015 and June 2015, MSM living with HIV and referred to the day-care hospital were offered to perform an anal self-sampling for cytologic and virologic evaluation. A self-sampling kit was provided, and a tutorial video was shown. A subset of participants had a proctology appointment after they did the self-sampling, and thus had a clinical examination and an anal swab sampling performed by the proctologist, using the same sampling material.

Results

Anal self-sampling was offered to 103 patients, and 100 accepted. Sixty-three samples were interpretable, of which 36 (57%) were normal and 27 (43%) showed abnormal results. Virologic analysis was performed for 60 (95%) interpretable samples: 50/60 (83%) of them were positive for HPV. Among HPV-carrier patients, 42/50 (84%) were infected with at least one HR-HPV. Twenty patients had a proctologist consultation. All clinician-performed samples were interpretable and 14 (70%) self-samples were interpretable.

Conclusions

This study highlights the acceptable accuracy of self-sampling screening method among MSM living with HIV and try out its acceptability and feasibility as a secondary prevention device. Although it cannot replace a proctologist consultation for high risk patients, self-sampling should be studied further as one of the ways of screening for anal cancer among low-risk outpatients.
Comparative efficacy and safety of statin and fibrate monotherapy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of head-to-head randomized controlled trials
Authors: Blais Joseph E. , Tong Gloria Kin Yi , Pathadka Swathi , Mok Michael , Wong Ian C. K. , Chan Esther W.
Published: February 2021

Objective

To assess whether in adults with dyslipidemia, statins reduce cardiovascular events, mortality, and adverse effects when compared to fibrates.

Methods

Systematic review and meta-analysis of head-to-head randomized trials of statin and fibrate monotherapy. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, WHO International Controlled Trials Registry Platform, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched through October 30, 2019. Trials that had a follow-up of at least 28 days, and reported mortality or a cardiovascular outcome of interest were eligible for inclusion. Efficacy outcomes were cardiovascular mortality and major cardiovascular events. Safety outcomes included myalgia, serious adverse effects, elevated serum creatinine, and elevated serum alanine aminotransferase. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using the Mantel-Haenszel fixed-effect model, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic.

Results

We included 19 eligible trials that directly compared statin and fibrate monotherapy and reported mortality or a cardiovascular event. Studies had a limited duration of follow-up (range 10 weeks to 2 years). We did not find any evidence of a difference between statins and fibrates for cardiovascular mortality (OR 2.35, 95% CI 0.94–5.86, I2 = 0%; ten studies, n = 2657; low certainty), major cardiovascular events (OR 1.15, 95% CI 0.80–1.65, I2 = 13%; 19 studies, n = 7619; low certainty), and myalgia (OR 1.32, 95% CI 0.95–1.83, I2 = 0%; ten studies, n = 6090; low certainty). Statins had less serious adverse effects (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.36–0.91, I2 = 0%; nine studies, n = 3749; moderate certainty), less elevations in serum creatinine (OR 0.17, 95% CI 0.08–0.36, I2 = 0%; six studies, n = 2553; high certainty), and more elevations in alanine aminotransferase (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.03–1.99, I2 = 44%; seven studies, n = 5225; low certainty).

Conclusions

The eligible randomized trials of statins versus fibrates were designed to assess short-term lipid outcomes, making it difficult to have certainty about the direct comparative effect on cardiovascular outcomes and mortality. With the exception of myalgia, use of a statin appeared to have a lower incidence of adverse effects compared to use of a fibrate.
The art of billboards in urbanized China
Authors: Mirra Federica
Published: February 2021

In our globalized era, cities compete against each other by feeding our imagination, hopes and dreams through their aestheticized representations. Memorable skylines, iconic buildings and ambitious infrastructure showcase the nation’s achievements and pave the ground for even brighter futures. Maintaining that cities are not only geographical locations, but can and should be understood through several mediated representations, this interdisciplinary article investigates and amplifies the re-imaginings of China’s urban space through the visual analysis of real-estate billboards and the selected works by contemporary artists Wang Wei, Miao Xiaochun, Ni Weihua and Xing Danwen. Although billboards display systematically positive, promotional and state-sanctioned urban imaginaries, artists provide more diverse and critical ways to understand how the urban space is designed, imagined and produced. Together, they complement and challenge each other’s visions, offering several competing lenses and means to interpret and untangle the complexity of the urban space by way of imagining futures. Although my focus is on visual arts and creative practices, this article is highly indebted to urban studies and inevitably touches upon social and economic theories. Through this interdisciplinary approach, this article allows for multiple and comprehensive understandings of cities, which can lead to developing creative solutions for urban space in the future.
From social art practice to environmental aesthetic awakening and civil engagement: The case study of Cijin Kitchen
Authors: Tung Wei Hsiu
Published: February 2021

This article focuses on the nature of socially engaged art as environmental aesthetics in a particular project that has spanned several years from 2014 onwards: the ‘Cijin Kitchen’ project initiated and curated by artist, curator, art educator and activist Wu Mali (b. 1957). The project is set in an underdeveloped seaside community on the outskirts of Kaohsiung with a sizeable population of fishermen, labour workers and diverse immigrants. Importantly, the place has a historical significance due to its rich maritime memories. The Cijin Kitchen project has involved various artists, designers, urban planners, scholars as well as local communities and it has allowed such a marginalized area to be empowered and renewed for its future development. The communities at stake have, indeed, developed an awareness of their cultural uniqueness, their local colours and flavours. The transformative power of art no longer solely lies in its ability to be displayed in museums or alternative spaces within the confines of the ‘art world’. Its power extends to the ‘real world’ whereby artistic or curatorial concepts become genuine platforms for urban change and community reconstruction.
Utilizing static and dynamic software analysis to aid cost estimation, software visualization, and test quality management
Authors: Balogh Gergő
Published: February 2021

E dolgozat fő eredményei kapcsolódnak a részben vagy egészben automatizált program elemzéshez és a fejlesztési folyamatokhoz. A célom az volt, hogy hasznos eszközökkel, módszerekkel és technológiákkal segítsem a különböző szoftverfejlesztéssel foglalkozó szakemberek munkáját. A téziseimet három nagy csoportra osztottam: "A szoftverfejlesztői csapatok produktivitásának mérése és előrejelzése"; "Izgalmas és magával ragadó szoftver és teszt vizualizációs technikák biztosítása"; és "Figyelmet érdemlő helyek azonosítása a csomaghierarchiában lefedettségi adatok alapján"
Távmunka, home office. Hogyan érinti a távolról dolgozás a szervezet intern kommunikációját?
Authors: Venczel-Szakó Tímea , Balogh Gábor , Borgulya Isvtánné
Published: February 2021

A cikk a távmunkában, „home office” formában foglalkoztatottak szervezeti kommunikációba integrálódásával foglalkozik. A tanulmány egy 2019-ben indított kutatás első fázisának eredményeire épül. A szerzők azt vizsgálják, hogy azok a munkavállalók, akik munkaidejüknek kevesebb, mint 50%-át töltik az őket foglalkoztató vállalat telephelyén, hogyan és milyen mértékben kapcsolódnak be a vállalat formális és informális intern kommunikációjába. A 24 munkavállalói és vezetői interjú értékelése ennek – a jövőben Magyarországon is várhatóan egyre inkább terjedő – foglalkoztatási módnak hazai jellemzőire irányítja a munkáltatók és a munkavállalók figyelmét. Fény derül az infokommunikációs eszközök szerepére, a közvetlen személyközi kommunikáció átalakulására, a munkavállalók részvételére a vállalat eseményeiben és munkahelyi kapcsolataik alakulására.
Positive Fecal Immunochemical Test Strongly Predicts Adenomas in Younger Adults With Fatty Liver and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Yeh Jen-Hao , Lin Chih-Wen , Wang Wen-Lun , Lee Ching-Tai , Chen Jen-Chieh , Hsu Chia-Chang , Wang Jaw-Yuan
Published: February 2021

INTRODUCTION:

The incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer is increasing. This study explored the feasibility of fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and risk factors for predicting colorectal neoplasm in younger adults.

METHODS:

This single-center study included 6,457 participants who underwent health examination from 2013 to 2016 including index colonoscopy (3,307 individuals aged 30–49 years as the younger adult group and 3,150 aged ≥50 years as the average-risk group). Primary outcomes were adenoma detection rate (ADR) and advanced ADR (AADR). Findings of younger participants were stratified by the results of FIT and clinical risk factors and were compared with those of the average-risk group.

RESULTS:

Among participants aged 30–49 years, a positive FIT was associated with significantly higher ADR (28.5% vs 15.5, P < 0.001) and AADR (14.5% vs 3.7%, P < 0.001) than a negative FIT. Moreover, a positive FIT was associated with higher AADR in younger participants than in average-risk counterparts (14.5% vs 9.8%, P = 0.028). Although no single risk factor predicted FIT positivity in younger participants, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease was independently associated with higher ADR (odds ratio = 2.60, 95% confidence interval = 1.27–5.34, P = 0.001), and metabolic syndrome was independently predictive of higher AADR in younger participants than in average-risk participants (odds ratio = 3.46, 95% confidence interval = 1.66–7.21, P = 0.001).

DISCUSSION:

A positive FIT in people aged 30–49 years implies a higher risk of colorectal neoplasm, particularly among patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and metabolic syndrome.
Passive Shallow Water Automated Target Recognition using Deep Convolutional Bi directional Long Short Term Memory
Authors: Kamal Suraj , Chandran C. Satheesh , Supriya H.M.
Published: February 2021

The extremely challenging nature of passive acoustic surveillance makes it a key area of research in NavalNon-Co-operative Target Recognition especially in Anti-Submarine Warfare systems. In shallow waters, thecomplex acoustics due to the highly varying ambient background noise as well as the multi-modal propagation in the surface-bottom bounded channel makes surveillance even difficult. In this work, an ensemble of Convolutional Neural Networks and Bidirectional Long Short Term Memory stages employing soft attention is used to effectively capture the spectro-temporal dynamics of the target signature. In order to alleviate the overall computational cost associated with the optimal model search in the extensive hyperparameter space, a recursive model elimination scheme, making frugal use of the available resources, is also proposed. Experimental analysis on acoustic target records, collected from the shallows of Arabian Sea, has yielded encouraging results in terms of model accuracy, precision and recall.