bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploration of a neural-network-based joint method of mapping and wavelength assignment in optical network-on-chip
Authors: Li Hui , Niu Yuxiang , Liu Feiyang
Published: July 2023

Optical network-on-chip (ONoC) is promising to provide higher bandwidth and lower latency, compared with the traditional electrical interconnects at either chip-scale or wafer-scale. There is research on the impact of mapping or wavelength assignment on reliability in ONoC. However, mapping and wavelength assignment have an interactive influence on each other, pushing a necessity of research on the joint method. In addition, there are various ways to realize the joint method, which have an influence on the reliability and thus the power efficiency. In this paper, we propose a neural-network-based iterative joint method of mapping and wavelength assignment. Compared to the methods without considering the interactive influence, the proposed iterative joint method based on the continuous Hopfield neural network provides a worst-case optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNRWC) improvement of at least 61% under the considered applications. Compared to the simultaneous joint method and two-step joint method, the proposed iterative joint method obtains an OSNRWCimprovement of at least 17.9% and 64.6%, respectively, under the considered applications. Thanks to the improvement of OSNR, the laser power is reduced by 87.9% by using our method of wavelength assignment, compared to the random method of wavelength assignment.
Evolution of local surface roughness in 193  nm ArF excimer laser ablation of ground Yb:YAG crystal
Authors: Shao Jingzhen , Liang Xu , Lin Ying , Shen Qihui , Ren Jiacheng , Zhang Qingli
Published: July 2023

The surface quality of YAG crystals plays a decisive role in the output performance of the device. In this investigation, it was found that the surface quality of Yb:YAG crystal was improved by 193 nm ArF excimer laser ablation. The influence of laser energy density and pulse numbers on the surface roughness of Yb:YAG crystal was obtained. The possible laser ablation mechanism of YAG crystal was analyzed by thermal conduction and photodissociation theory. Surface profile analyses reveal that photochemical ablation was the dominant mechanism of material removal.
Alterable interferential fineness for high temperature sensing calibration based on Bragg hollow core fiber
Authors: Ran Sixiang , Ni Wenjun , Yang Chunyong , Zhao Zhongke , Wang Shun , Shum Perry Ping
Published: July 2023

We propose, what we believe to be, a novel method for high temperature sensing calibration based on the mechanism of alterable interferential fineness in Bragg hollow core fiber (BHCF). To verify the proof-of-concept, the fabricated sensing structure is sandwiched by two sections with different length of BHCF. Two interferential fineness fringes dominate the transmission spectrum, where the high-fineness fringes formed by anti-resonant reflecting optical waveguide (ARROW) plays the role for high temperature measurement. Meanwhile, the low-fineness fringes induced by short Fabry-Perot (F-P) cavity are exploited as temperature calibration. The experimental results show that the ARROW mechanism-based temperature sensitivity can reach 26.03 pm/°C, and the intrinsic temperature sensitivity of BHCF is 1.02 pm/°C. Here, the relatively lower magnitude of the temperature sensitivity is considered as the standard value since it merely relies on the material properties of silicon. Additionally, a large dynamic temperature range from 100 °C to 800 °C presents linear response of the proposed sensing structure, which may shine the light on the sensing applications in the harsh environment.
High power mid-infrared fiber amplifier at 3.1 µm by acetylene-filled hollow-core fibers
Authors: Huang Wei , Zhang Xin , Zhou Zhiyue , Li Zhixian , Cui Yulong , Li Xuanxi , Chen Jinbao , Wang Pu , Wang Zefeng
Published: July 2023

We characterized high-power continuous-wave (CW) and pulsed mid-infrared (mid-IR) fiber amplifiers at a wavelength of 3.1 µm in acetylene-filled hollow-core fibers (HCFs) with a homemade seed laser. A maximum CW power of 7.9 W was achieved in a 4.2-m HCF filled with 4-mbar acetylene, which was 11% higher than the power without the seed. The maximum average power of the pulsed laser was 8.6 W (pulse energy of 0.86 µJ) at 7-mbar acetylene pressure, a 16% increase over the power without the seed. To the best of our knowledge, backward characteristics are reported for the first time for fiber gas lasers, and the backward power accounted for less than 5% of the forward power. The optimum acetylene pressure and HCF length for the highest mid-IR output are discussed based on theoretical simulations. This study provides significant guidance for high-power mid-infrared (mid-IR) output in gas-filled HCFs.
Identifying photoelectron releasing order in strong-field dissociative ionization of H2
Authors: Tong Jihong , Pan Shengzhe , Jiang Wenyu , Han Lulu , Xu Yidan , Zuo Zitan , Lu Peifen , Gong Xiaochun , Wu Jian
Published: July 2023

Driven by intense laser fields, the outgoing photoelectrons in molecules possess a quiver motion, resulting in the rise of the effective ionization potential. The coupling of the field-dressed ionization potential with abundant molecular dynamics complicates the laser-molecule interactions. Here, we demonstrate an approach to resolve photoelectron releasing order in the dissociative and non-dissociative channels of multiphoton ionization driven by an orthogonally polarized two-color femtosecond laser pulse. The photoelectron kinetic energy releases and the regular nodes in the photoelectron angular distributions due to the participation of different continuum partial waves allow us to deduce the field-dressed ionization potential of various channels. It returns the ponderomotive energy experienced by the outgoing electron and reveals the corresponding photoionization instants within the laser pulse. Our results provide a route to explore the complex strong-field ionization dynamics of molecules using two-dimensional photoelectron momentum spectroscopy.
Co-multiplexing spectral and temporal dimensions based on luminescent materials
Authors: Sheng Yuhang , Zhang Yi , Xing Fangjian , Liu Cihui , Di Yunsong , Yang Xifeng , Wei Shibiao , Zhang Xiaowei , Liu Yushen , Gan Zhixing
Published: July 2023

Optical multiplexing is a pivotal technique for augmenting the capacity of optical data storage (ODS) and increasing the security of anti-counterfeiting. However, due to the dearth of appropriate storage media, optical multiplexing is generally restricted to a single dimension, thus curtailing the encoding capacity. Herein, the co-multiplexing spectral and temporal dimensions are proposed for optical encoding based on photoluminescence (PL) and persistent-luminescence (PersL) at four different wavelengths. Each emission color comprises four luminescence modes. The further multiplexing of four wavelengths leads to the maximum encoding capacity of 8 bits at each pixel. The wavelength difference between adjacent peaks is larger than 50 nm. The well-separated emission wavelengths significantly lower the requirements for high-resolution spectrometers. Moreover, the information is unable to be decoded until both PL and PersL spectra are collected, suggesting a substantial improvement in information security and the security level of anti-counterfeiting.
Time-bin phase-encoding quantum key distribution using Sagnac-based optics and compatible electronics
Authors: Tang Yan-Lin , Zhou Chun , Li Dong-Dong , Xie Zhi-Lin , Xu Mu-Lan , Sun Jian , Zhang Ze-Xu , Jiang Lian-Jun , Wang Li-Wei , Liu Guo-Qing , Wu Kun , Ma Yan , Zheng Bo-Ran , Jiang Mu-Sheng , Wang Yang , Zhao Yu-Kang , Ma Qing-Li , Zhang Dexiang , Zhao Mei-Sheng , Bao Wan-Su , Tang Shi-Biao
Published: July 2023

In this work, we present a new time-bin phase-encoding quantum key distribution (QKD), where the transmitter utilizes an inherently stable Sagnac-type interferometer, and has comparable electrical requirements to existing polarization or phase encoding schemes. This approach does not require intensity calibration and is insensitive to environmental disturbances, making it both flexible and high-performing. We conducted experiments with a compact QKD system to demonstrate the stability and secure key rate performance of the presented scheme. The results show a typical secure key rate of 6.2 kbps@20 dB and 0.4 kbps@30 dB with channel loss emulated by variable optical attenuators. A continuous test of 120-km fiber spool shows a stable quantum bit error rate of the time-bin basis within 0.4%∼0.6% over a consecutive 9-day period without any adjustment. This intrinsically stable and compatible scheme of time-bin phase encoding is extensively applicable in various QKD experiments, including BB84 and measurement-device-independent QKD.
Mid-infrared plasmonic filter arrays using nanoholes in gold and silver films
Authors: Wenger Tobias , Muller Richard E. , Wilson Daniel W. , Soibel Alexander
Published: July 2023

Plasmonic filters based on subwavelength nanohole arrays are an attractive solution for creating arrays of filters with varying passbands in a single lithography step. In this work, we have developed a fabrication method which allows fabrication of nanohole arrays in silver by use of a thin layer of aluminum oxide, which serves the dual purpose of both capping layer and hardmask for metal patterning. We demonstrate arrays of gold and silver mid-infrared plasmonic filters, fabricated on silicon, intended for use in optical filter blocks or for future integration with infrared imagers. The filter arrays are designed for the wavelength range 2–7 µm, and exhibit peak filter transmission efficiencies around 70%.
Dual-modality imaging system for monitoring human heart organoids beating in vitro
Authors: Hao Senyue , Ren Chao , Wang Fei , Park Kibeom , Volmert Brett D. , Aguirre Aitor , Zhou Chao
Published: July 2023

To reveal the three-dimensional microstructure and calcium dynamics of human heart organoids (hHOs), we developed a dual-modality imaging system combining the advantages of optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescence microscopy. OCT provides high-resolution volumetric structural information, while fluorescence imaging indicates the electrophysiology of the hHOs’ beating behavior. We verified that concurrent OCT motion mode (M-mode) and calcium imaging retrieved the same beating pattern from the heart organoids. We further applied dynamic contrast OCT (DyC-OCT) analysis to strengthen the verification and localize the beating clusters inside the hHOs. This imaging platform provides a powerful tool for studying and assessing hHOs in vitro, with potential applications in disease modeling and drug screening.
A simple polarimetric measurement based on a computational algorithm
Authors: Wang Xiaoqian , Zhu Kean , Zhu Kaihua , Li Boyuan , Shen Dong , Zheng Zhi-gang
Published: July 2023

A simple and compact polarimeter comprising two electrically controlled liquid-crystal variable retarders (LCVRs) and a linear polarizer is demonstrated, which is enabled by analyzing the intensity variation of the modulated output light based on a computational algorithm. A proof-of-concept prototype is presented, which is mounted onto a power meter or a CMOS camera for the intensity data collection. The polarimetric measurement for the spatial variant polarization states of light is also verified, indicating the possibility of achieving a resolution-lossless polarimeter. Thus, our proposed method shows a cost-effective way to realize a compact polarimeter in polarization optics.
Medium-adaptive Compressive Diffuse Optical Tomography
Authors: Nunez Miguel Adrian Mireles , Xu Edward , Ragunathan Rahul , Fang Qianqian
Published: July 2023

The low spatial resolution of diffuse optical tomography (DOT) has motivated the development of high-density DOT systems utilizing spatially-encoded illumination and detection strategies. To limit the size of the inverse problem in these systems, data compression methods, such as applying Fourier or Hadamard patterns, have been explored for both illumination and detection, but were largely limited to pre-determined patterns regardless of imaging targets. Here, we show that target-optimized detection patterns can yield significantly improved DOT reconstructions. Applying reciprocity, we can further iteratively optimize both illumination and detection patterns, and show that these simultaneously optimized source/detection patterns outperform pre-determined patterns in both simulations and phantom data. In addition, we report a target-adaptive wide-field DOT imaging system and test such system with phantom measurements.
The transcription factor HBP1 promotes ferroptosis in tumor cells by regulating the UHRF1-CDO1 axis
Authors: Yang Ruixiang , Zhou Yue , Zhang Tongjia , Wang Shujie , Wang Jiyin , Cheng Yuning , Li Hui , Jiang Wei , Yang Zhe , Zhang Xiaowei
Published: July 2023

The induction of ferroptosis in tumor cells is one of the most important mechanisms by which tumor progression can be inhibited; however, the specific regulatory mechanism underlying ferroptosis remains unclear. In this study, we found that transcription factor HBP1 has a novel function of reducing the antioxidant capacity of tumor cells. We investigated the important role of HBP1 in ferroptosis. HBP1 down-regulates the protein levels of UHRF1 by inhibiting the expression of the UHRF1 gene at the transcriptional level. Reduced levels of UHRF1 have been shown to regulate the ferroptosis-related gene CDO1 by epigenetic mechanisms, thus up-regulating the level of CDO1 and increasing the sensitivity of hepatocellular carcinoma and cervical cancer cells to ferroptosis. On this basis, we constructed metal-polyphenol-network coated HBP1 nanoparticles by combining biological and nanotechnological. MPN-HBP1 nanoparticles entered tumor cells efficiently and innocuously, induced ferroptosis, and inhibited the malignant proliferation of tumors by regulating the HBP1-UHRF1-CDO1 axis. This study provides a new perspective for further research on the regulatory mechanism underlying ferroptosis and its potential role in tumor therapy.
Optimal evaluation of energy yield and driving force in microbial metabolic pathway variants
Authors: Taha Ahmed , Patón Mauricio , Penas David R. , Banga Julio R. , Rodríguez Jorge
Published: July 2023

This work presents a methodology to evaluate the bioenergetic feasibility of alternative metabolic pathways for a given microbial conversion, optimising their energy yield and driving forces as a function of the concentration of metabolic intermediates. The tool, based on thermodynamic principles and multi-objective optimisation, accounts for pathway variants in terms of different electron carriers, as well as energy conservation (proton translocating) reactions within the pathway. The method also accommodates other constraints, some of them non-linear, such as the balance of conserved moieties. The approach involves the transformation of the maximum energy yield problem into a multi-objective mixed-integer linear optimisation problem which is then subsequently solved using the epsilon-constraint method, highlighting the trade-off between yield and rate in metabolic reactions. The methodology is applied to analyse several pathway alternatives occurring during propionate oxidation in anaerobic fermentation processes, as well as to the reverse TCA cycle pathway occurring during autotrophic microbial CO2 fixation. The results obtained using the developed methodology match previously reported literature and bring about insights into the studied pathways.
Enhancing the land use efficiency of low-land rice (Oryza sativa L.)—Grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) additive series relay intercropping in North-Western Ethiopia: A farmer’s indigenous knowledge
Authors: Assefa Endeshew , Bitew Yayeh
Published: July 2023

In Ethiopia, the facts of farmers’ indigenous knowledge-based cropping systems have rarely been investigated through research. A field experiment was conducted during 2021/2022 main cropping season at Fogera Plain with the objective of examining the effect of additive series relay intercropping of grass pea with lowland rice on the grain yield of the component crops and the production efficiency of the cropping system. The experiment consisted of a factorial combination of four seed proportions of grass pea (SPGP) (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of the recommended seed rate of sole grass pea) relay intercropped with full seed rates of rice in four rice: grass pea spatial arrangements (SA) (1:1, 2:1, 3:1, and their mixed relay intercropping system). The treatments were arranged in a randomised complete block design with three replications. Data on grain yields of the component crops were collected and analysed using SAS-JMP-16 software. Results revealed that SPGP and SA had no significant effect on rice. The highest grain yield of grass pea was obtained when 25% SPGP was relay intercropped with rice in 1:3 SA (5.10 t ha-1). Maximum production efficiency in terms of total land output yield (9.89 t ha-1) and land use efficiency (ATER = 1.33), net benefit (33, 5176.79 Birr ha-1), marginal rate of return (21,428%), and positive monetary advantage index with lower competitive ratio was obtained when 50% SPGP was relay intercropped with rice in 1:3 SA. Thus, this mixture seems to contribute to the development of sustainable crop production with a limited use of external inputs. Rice intercropping with other staple legume crops under residual soil moisture needs to be tested across locations and years to intensify the production efficiency and profitability of the cropping system.
Multivariate regression modelling for gender prediction using volatile organic compounds from hand odor profiles via HS-SPME-GC-MS
Authors: Frazier Chantrell J. G. , Gokool Vidia A. , Holness Howard K. , Mills DeEtta K. , Furton Kenneth G.
Published: July 2023

The efficacy of using human volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as a form of forensic evidence has been well demonstrated with canines for crime scene response, suspect identification, and location checking. Although the use of human scent evidence in the field is well established, the laboratory evaluation of human VOC profiles has been limited. This study used Headspace-Solid Phase Microextraction-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) to analyze human hand odor samples collected from 60 individuals (30 Females and 30 Males). The human volatiles collected from the palm surfaces of each subject were interpreted for classification and prediction of gender. The volatile organic compound (VOC) signatures from subjects’ hand odor profiles were evaluated with supervised dimensional reduction techniques: Partial Least Squares-Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA), Orthogonal-Projections to Latent Structures Discriminant Analysis (OPLS-DA), and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA). The PLS-DA 2D model demonstrated clustering amongst male and female subjects. The addition of a third component to the PLS-DA model revealed clustering and minimal separation of male and female subjects in the 3D PLS-DA model. The OPLS-DA model displayed discrimination and clustering amongst gender groups with leave one out cross validation (LOOCV) and 95% confidence regions surrounding clustered groups without overlap. The LDA had a 96.67% accuracy rate for female and male subjects. The culminating knowledge establishes a working model for the prediction of donor class characteristics using human scent hand odor profiles.
Ex-ante impact of pest des petits ruminant control on micro and macro socioeconomic indicators in Senegal: A system dynamics modelling approach
Authors: Aboah Joshua , Apolloni Andrea , Duboz Raphaël , Wieland Barbara , Kotchofa Pacem , Okoth Edward , Dione Michel
Published: July 2023

Vaccination is considered as the main tool for the Global Control and Eradication Strategy for peste des petits ruminants (PPR), and the efficacity of the PPR-vaccine in conferring long-life immunity has been established. Despite this, previous studies asserted that vaccination can be expensive and consequently, the effectiveness of disease control may not necessarily translate to overall profit for farmers. Also, the consequences of PPR control on socioeconomic indicators like food and nutrition security at a macro-national level have not been explored thoroughly. Therefore, this study seeks to assess ex-ante the impact of PPR control strategies on farm-level profitability and the socioeconomic consequences concerning food and nutrition security at a national level in Senegal. A bi-level system dynamics model, compartmentalised into five modules consisting of integrated production-epidemiological, economics, disease control, marketing, and policy modules, was developed with the STELLA Architect software, validated, and simulated for 30 years at a weekly timestep. The model was parameterised with data from household surveys from pastoral areas in Northern Senegal and relevant existing data. Nine vaccination scenarios were examined considering different vaccination parameters (vaccination coverage, vaccine wastage, and the provision of government subsidies). The findings indicate that compared to a no-vaccination scenario, all the vaccination scenarios for both 26.5% (actual vaccination coverage) and 70% (expected vaccination coverage) resulted in statistically significant differences in the gross margin earnings and the potential per capita consumption for the supply of mutton and goat meat. At the prevailing vaccination coverage (with or without the provision of government subsidies), farm households will earn an average gross margin of $69.43 (annually) more than without vaccination, and the average per capita consumption for mutton and goat meat will increase by 1.13kg/person/year. When the vaccination coverage is increased to the prescribed threshold for PPR eradication (i.e., 70%), with or without the provision of government subsidies, the average gross margin earnings would be $72.23 annually and the per capita consumption will increase by 1.23kg/person/year compared to the baseline (without vaccination). This study’s findings offer an empirical justification for a sustainable approach to PPR eradication. The information on the socioeconomic benefits of vaccination can be promoted via sensitization campaigns to stimulate farmers’ uptake of the practice. This study can inform investment in PPR control.
Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Galapagos birds: Inference of risk factors associated with diet
Authors: Mosquera Juan D. , Valle Carlos A. , Nieto-Claudin Ainoa , Fessl Birgit , Lewbart Gregory A. , Deresienski Diane , Bouazzi Leïla , Zapata Sonia , Villena Isabelle , Poulle Marie-Lazarine
Published: July 2023

Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic intracellular parasite of particular concern in the conservation of wildlife due to its ability to infect all homeotherms and potentially cause acute fatal disease in naive species. In the Galapagos (Ecuador), an archipelago composed of more than a hundred islets and islands, the presence of T. gondii can be attributed to human-introduced domestic cats, but little is known about its transmission in wildlife populations. We compared the prevalence of antibodies against T. gondii in sympatric Galapagos wild bird species that differ in diet and contact with oocyst-contaminated soil to determine the relative importance of trophic habits as an exposure factor. Plasma samples were obtained from 163 land birds inhabiting Santa Cruz, one of the cat-inhabited islands, and from 187 seabirds breeding in cat-free surrounding islands (Daphne Major, North Seymour, and South Plaza). These samples were tested for the presence of T. gondii antibodies using the modified agglutination test (MAT ≥ 1:10). All seven species of land birds and 4/6 species of seabirds presented seropositive results. All great frigatebirds (Fregata minor) (N = 25) and swallow-tailed gulls (Creagrus furcatus) (N = 23) were seronegative. Prevalence ranged from 13% in Nazca boobies (Sula granti) to 100% in Galapagos mockingbirds (Mimus parvulus). It decreased from occasional carnivores (63.43%) to granivores-insectivores (26.22%), and strict piscivores (14.62%). These results indicate that the consumption of tissue cysts poses the highest risk of exposure to T. gondii for Galapagos birds, followed by the ingestion of plants and insects contaminated by oocysts as important transmission pathways.
A different method of fault feature extraction under noise disturbance and degradation trend estimation with system resilience for rolling bearings
Authors: Zhang Baoshan , Guo Jilian , Zhou Feng , Wang Xuan , Wei Shengjun
Published: July 2023

Due to the effects of noise disturbances and system resilience, the current methods for rolling bearing fault feature extraction and degradation trend estimation can hardly achieve more satisfactory results. To address the above issues, we propose a different method for fault feature extraction and degradation trend estimation. Firstly, we preset the Bayesian inference criterion to evaluate the complexity of the denoised vibration signal. When its complexity reaches a minimum, the noise disturbances are exactly removed. Secondly, we define the system resilience obtained by the Bayesian network as the intrinsic index of the system, which is used to correct the equipment degradation trend obtained by the multivariate status estimation technique. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by the completeness of the extracted fault features and the accuracy of the degradation trend estimation over the whole life cycle of the bearing degradation data.
A nationwide survey of public COPD knowledge and awareness in Saudi Arabia: A population-based survey of 15,000 adults
Authors: Alqahtani Jaber S. , Aldhahir Abdulelah M. , Siraj Rayan A. , Alqarni Abdullah A. , AlDraiwiesh Ibrahim A. , AlAnazi Afrah F. , Alamri Areej H. , Bajahlan Roaa S. , Hakami Asalah A. , Alghamdi Saeed M. , Aldabayan Yousef S. , Alsulayyim Abdullah S. , Al Rajeh Ahmed M. , AlRabeeah Saad M. , Naser Abdallah Y. , Alwafi Hassan , Alqahtani Saeed , Hjazi Ahmed M. , Oyelade Tope , AlAhmari Mohammed D.
Published: July 2023

Background

There is a concerning lack of representative data on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) awareness in Saudi Arabia, and a significant proportion of the population is vulnerable to developing a smoking habit, which is a major risk factor for the disease.

Methods

Population-Based Survey of 15,000 people was conducted to assess the public knowledge and awareness of COPD across Saudi Arabia from October 2022 to March 2023.

Results

A total of 15002 responders completed the survey, with a completion rate of 82%. The majority 10314 (69%) were 18–30 year and 6112 (41%) had high school education. The most common comorbidities among the responders were depression (7.67%); hypertension (6%); diabetes (5.77%) and Chronic Lung Disease (4.12%). The most common symptoms were dyspnea (17.80%); chest tightness (14.09%) and sputum (11.19%). Among those who complains of any symptoms, only 16.44% had consulted their doctor. Around 14.16% were diagnosed with a respiratory disease and only 15.56% had performed pulmonary function test (PFT). The prevalence of smoking history was 15.16%, in which current smokers were 9.09%. About 48% of smokers used cigarette, 25% used waterpipe and around 27% were E-cigarette users. About 77% of the total sample have never heard about COPD. Majority of current smokers (73.5%; 1002), ex-smokers (68%; 619), and non-smokers (77.9%; 9911) are unaware of COPD, p value <0.001. Seventy five percent (1028) of the current smokers and 70% (633) of the ex-smokers have never performed PFT, p value <0.001. Male, younger age (18–30 years), higher education, family history of respiratory diseases, previous diagnosis of respiratory disease, previous PFT, and being an ex-smokers increases the odds of COPD awareness, p-value <0.05.

Conclusion

There is a significantly low awareness about COPD in Saudi Arabia, especially among smokers. A nationwide approach must include targeted public awareness campaigns, continued healthcare professional education, community-based activities encouraging diagnosis and early detection, advice on smoking cessation and lifestyle changes, as well as coordinated national COPD screening programs.
Evolutionary diversity of the endemic genera of the vascular flora of Chile and its implications for conservation
Authors: Ramírez-Verdugo Pamela , Tapia Alexis , Forest Félix , Scherson Rosa A.
Published: July 2023

As a direct consequence of global change, both natural and human-induced, a high percentage of biodiversity is now under threat worldwide. This has urged conservation planners to formulate and/or improve existing strategies to preserve species and their ecosystems. In this context, the present study focuses on two strategies using phylogeny-based measures of biodiversity to account for the processes that led to the biodiversity patterns observed today. It will contribute additional information that can aid decision-making regarding the assignment of threat status for some species, thus strengthening measures currently in use and facilitate the allocation of often scarce conservation resources. The Evolutionarily Distinct (ED) index prioritises species that are on long branches of the tree of life with few descendants, and the Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) index integrates evolutionary history with IUCN Red List threat status of species. It has been used mostly in animal groups, but since the threats faced by many plants have not been evaluated, it has been more difficult to compile for plants worldwide. Here, we apply the EDGE metric to species of the endemic genera of Chile. However, more than 50% of the endemic flora of the country are still lacking official threat status. We thus used an alternative measure (Relative Evolutionary Distinctness–RED), based on a range-weighted phylogenetic tree, which uses geographic ranges to adjust branch lengths, and calculate ED. The RED index was shown to be a suitable measure, yielding similar results compared to EDGE, at least for this group of species. Given the urgency to halt biodiversity loss and the time it would take to evaluate all species, we propose that this index is used to set conservation priorities until we can calculate EDGE for these unique endemic species. This would allow guiding decision-making until we can gather more data to assess and assign conservation status to new species.
Multi-population Black Hole Algorithm for the problem of data clustering
Authors: Salih Sinan Q. , Alsewari AbdulRahman A. , Wahab H. A. , Mohammed Mustafa K. A. , Rashid Tarik A. , Das Debashish , Basurra Shadi S.
Published: July 2023

The retrieval of important information from a dataset requires applying a special data mining technique known as data clustering (DC). DC classifies similar objects into a groups of similar characteristics. Clustering involves grouping the data around k-cluster centres that typically are selected randomly. Recently, the issues behind DC have called for a search for an alternative solution. Recently, a nature-based optimization algorithm named Black Hole Algorithm (BHA) was developed to address the several well-known optimization problems. The BHA is a metaheuristic (population-based) that mimics the event around the natural phenomena of black holes, whereby an individual star represents the potential solutions revolving around the solution space. The original BHA algorithm showed better performance compared to other algorithms when applied to a benchmark dataset, despite its poor exploration capability. Hence, this paper presents a multi-population version of BHA as a generalization of the BHA called MBHA wherein the performance of the algorithm is not dependent on the best-found solution but a set of generated best solutions. The method formulated was subjected to testing using a set of nine widespread and popular benchmark test functions. The ensuing experimental outcomes indicated the highly precise results generated by the method compared to BHA and comparable algorithms in the study, as well as excellent robustness. Furthermore, the proposed MBHA achieved a high rate of convergence on six real datasets (collected from the UCL machine learning lab), making it suitable for DC problems. Lastly, the evaluations conclusively indicated the appropriateness of the proposed algorithm to resolve DC issues.
Breast cancer incidence in Yogyakarta, Indonesia from 2008–2019: A cross-sectional study using trend analysis and geographical information system
Authors: Ng Bryant , Puspitaningtyas Herindita , Wiranata Juan Adrian , Hutajulu Susanna Hilda , Widodo Irianiwati , Anggorowati Nungki , Sanjaya Guardian Yoki , Lazuardi Lutfan , Sripan Patumrat
Published: July 2023

Background

Breast cancer is a significant public health concern worldwide, including in Indonesia. Little is known about the spatial and temporal patterns of breast cancer incidence in Indonesia. This study aimed to analyze temporal and spatial variations of breast cancer incidence in Yogyakarta Province, Indonesia.

Methods

The study used breast cancer case data from the Yogyakarta Population-Based Cancer Registry (PBCR) from 2008 to 2019. The catchment areas of the PBCR included the 48 subdistricts of 3 districts (Sleman, Yogyakarta City, and Bantul). Age-standardized incidence rates (ASR) were calculated for each subdistrict. Joinpoint regression was used to detect any significant changes in trends over time. Global Moran’s and Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA) analyses were performed to identify any spatial clusters or outliers.

Results

The subdistricts had a median ASR of 41.9, with a range of 15.3–70.4. The majority of cases were diagnosed at a late stage, with Yogyakarta City having the highest proportion of diagnoses at stage 4. The study observed a significant increasing trend in breast cancer incidence over the study period the fastest of which is in Yogyakarta City with an average annual percentage change of 18.77%, with Sleman having an 18.21% and Bantul having 8.94% average changes each year (p <0.05). We also found a significant positive spatial autocorrelation of breast cancer incidence rates in the province (I = 0.581, p <0.001). LISA analysis identified 11 subdistricts which were high-high clusters in the central area of Yogyakarta City and six low-low clusters in the southeast region of the catchment area in the Bantul and Sleman Districts. No spatial outliers were identified.

Conclusions

We found significant spatial clustering of BC ASR in the Yogyakarta Province, and there was a trend of increasing ASR across the region. These findings can inform resource allocation for public health efforts to high-risk areas and develop targeted prevention and early detection strategies. Further res is needed to understand the factors driving the observed temporal and spatial patterns of breast cancer incidence in Yogyakarta Province, Indonesia.
Exploring family functioning and ‐ hardiness in families’ experiencing adult intensive care – A cross-sectional study
Authors: Ahlberg Mona , Persson Carina , Berterö Carina , Ågren Susanna
Published: July 2023

Being cared for in an intensive care unit affects both the patient being cared for and the family in various ways. The family is of great importance for the recovery of the former intensive-care patient. The aim is to explore family functioning and family hardiness in families of former intensive care patients. A cross-sectional study using two self-reported questionnaires. Former adult intensive care patients and their family were recruited to participate between December 2017 and June 2019. The data were coded and entered the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 25, for analysis. To explore questionnaire data, descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed. Scale values were calculated on, both family wise and between the patients and the family members. STROBE checklist was used. Data was collected from 60 families (60 former intensive cared patients and 85 family members) and showed that 50 families scored healthy family functioning and 52 high strengths in hardiness. The data showed small variations between and within families for family functioning and family hardiness, there were only two families scoring low for both family functioning and hardiness. The variation was higher within the families, but there was no significance level.The conclusions were that family functioning and hardiness was, to a large extent, assessed as good by the families. Nevertheless, it is important to help the family obtain information and support. So, the family need to continue to communicate, finding coping abilities and strengths in adopting new strategies to protect the family unit. The family are very important for members’ mental and physical recovery as the health of one family member affects the family as a unit.
Construction and validation of a novel cuproptosis-mitochondrion prognostic model related with tumor immunity in osteosarcoma
Authors: Feng Jinyan , Wang Jinwu , Xu Yao , Lu Feng , Zhang Jin , Han Xiuxin , Zhang Chao , Wang Guowen
Published: July 2023

Background

The purpose of this study was to develop a new prognostic model for osteosarcoma based on cuproptosis-mitochondrion genes.

Materials and methods

The data of osteosarcoma were obtained from TARGET database. By using Cox regression and LASSO regression analysis, a novel risk score was constructed based on cuproptosis-mitochondrion genes. Kaplan-Meier, ROC curve and independent prognostic analyses were performed to validate the risk score in GSE21257 dataset. Then, a predictive nomogram was constructed and further validated by calibration plot, C-index and ROC curve. Based on the risk score, all patients were divided into high-risk and low-risk group. GO and KEGG enrichment, immune correlation and drug sensitivity analyses were performed between groups. Real-time quantitative PCR verified the expression of cuproptosis-mitochondrion prognostic model genes in osteosarcoma. And we explored the function of FDX1 in osteosarcoma by western blotting, CCK8, colony formation assay, wound healing assay and transwell assays.

Results

A total of six cuproptosis-mitochondrion genes (FDX1, COX11, MFN2, TOMM20, NDUFB9 and ATP6V1E1) were identified. A novel risk score and associated prognostic nomogram were constructed with high clinical application value. Strong differences in function enrichment and tumor immune microenvironment were shown between groups. Besides, the correlation of cuproptosis-mitochondrion genes and drug sensitivity were revealed to search for potential therapeutic target. The expression of FDX1, COX11, MFN2, TOMM20 and NDUFB9 at mRNA level was elevated in osteosarcoma cells compared with normal osteoblast hFOB1.19. The mRNA expression level of ATP6V1E1 was decreased in osteosarcoma. Compared with hFOB1.19, western blotting revealed that the expression of FDX1 was significantly elevated in osteosarcoma cells. Functional experiments indicated that FDX1 mainly promoted the migration of osteosarcoma rather than proliferation.

Conclusions

We developed a novel prognostic model of osteosarcoma based on cuproptosis-mitochondrion genes, which provided great guidance in survival prediction and individualized treatment decision making for patients with osteosarcoma.
L-selectin-dependent and -independent homing of naïve lymphocytes through the lung draining lymph node support T cell response to pulmonary Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection
Authors: Daniel Lina , Counoupas Claudio , Bhattacharyya Nayan D. , Triccas James A. , Britton Warwick J. , Feng Carl G.
Published: July 2023

Recruiting large numbers of naïve lymphocytes to lymph nodes is critical for mounting an effective adaptive immune response. While most naïve lymphocytes utilize homing molecule L-selectin to enter lymph nodes, some circulating cells can traffic to the lung-draining mediastinal lymph node (mLN) through lymphatics via the intermediate organ, lung. However, whether this alternative trafficking mechanism operates in infection and contributes to T cell priming are unknown. We report that in pulmonary Mycobacterium tuberculosis-infected mice, homing of circulating lymphocytes to the mLN is significantly less efficient than to non-draining lymph node. CD62L blockade only partially reduced the homing of naïve T lymphocytes, consistent with L-selectin-independent routing of naïve lymphocytes to the site. We further demonstrated that lymphatic vessels in infected mLN expanded significantly and inhibiting lymphangiogenesis with a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 kinase inhibitor reduced the recruitment of intravenously injected naïve lymphocytes to the mLN. Finally, mycobacterium-specific T cells entering via the L-selectin-independent route were readily activated in the mLN. Our study suggests that both L-selectin-dependent and -independent pathways contribute to naïve lymphocyte entry into mLN during M. tuberculosis infection and the latter pathway may represent an important mechanism for orchestrating host defence in the lungs.
Las dinámicas multimedia y transmedia en la prensa de proximidad: ¿utopía o realidad? Un análisis del caso catalán
Authors: Martori-Muntsant Aida
Published: July 2023

La prensa de proximidad juega un rol informativo y de representación del territorio que contribuye a la cohesión social de la esfera local. Este artículo examina la adaptación de estos medios a la era digital, analizando la integración de dinámicas multimedia y transmedia. Con una revisión exhaustiva de literatura, el estudio combina la recogida de datos cuantitativos (tablas de análisis) y cualitativos (entrevistas semi-estructuradas y grupo focal), sobre una muestra representativa de medios catalanes como study-case paradigmático. El estadio multimedia se define en base a tres parámetros (soportes, formatos y narrativas) y se concibe como un paso necesario para que puedan integrar las narrativas transmedia, de forma que el contenido se expanda y evolucione por las diferentes plataformas, con una estrategia editorial coordinada. Los resultados muestran un uso muy pobre de las dinámicas multimedia, que se traduce en una prácticamente nula utilización de narrativas transmedia, así como un elevado desconocimiento de estos procesos en los medios. El artículo analiza, por tanto, el estado de digitalización de la prensa de proximidad, con un enfoque novedoso en base a dos parámetros (multimedia y transmedia), que contribuye a llenar un vacío en la literatura sobre adaptación de medios tradicionales a los entornos virtuales, considerando su aplicación a escala local. Para el mantenimiento de la función que estos medios juegan a nivel local es inevitable analizar su presencia en múltiples plataformas en línea y el uso de narrativas propias de la digitalización.
Sara Montiel y otros iconos: censura y sexualidades disidentes en el cine franquista [Reseña]
Authors: Codesido-Linares Váleri
Published: July 2023

Creadores queer en el cine español del franquismo: Subcultura homosexual y género realiza un recorrido por el cine del franquismo, analizando códigos e infiriendo acerca del subtexto en películas tan míticas como las dirigidas por el cineasta del régimen Juan de Orduña en la década de los cincuenta. La publicación profundiza en los aspectos camp y lo queer del cine clásico y comercial durante la dictadura franquista, explorando modelos los modelos expresivos del cine con mujeres como protagonistas.
DIVERSITY OF ODONATA IN LANGSA URBAN FOREST, LANGSA, ACEH, INDONESIA
Authors: Asrori Sayed Latiful , Putri Kartika Aprilia , Diniarsih Siti , Lupiyaningdyah Pungki , Sari Herlina Putri Endah
Published: July 2023

Odonata is important as environmental bioindicator as well as pest control. Langsa Urban Forest (LUF) is a 10-ha green open space in Langsa City, Aceh Province which serves the purpose of tourism and support biodiversity conservation, in which Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies) is included. Thereis a lack of Odonata research in Langsa, especially at the LUF area, therefore this study offers a baseline information for wildlife management. Field observations had been conducted between February to March 2022 using line-transect method. As a result, this study recorded 19 Odonata species from four families, of which Orthetrum sabina (Libellulidae) became the most prominent species observed. Odonata diversity in LUF was medium (H’ = 1.863-2.252) with population of each species presumed to be nearly even (J = 0.71-0.79). Odonata diversity in LUF serves as additional information on Odonata species found in Indonesia, especially Aceh Province. Also, the medium category of Odonata diversity index in LUF can be used as a reference for LUF management to support more ecosystems as Odonata habitat.
Effect of NAM on Nasal Symmetry and Proportions in Patients with UCLP: A Systematic Review
Authors: Puspita Sari Felicia , Samsarga Gede Wara , Satrio Kenny , Putra Johansyah Theodorus Kevin , Jonathan Jeremy , Andhika Yogiswara Made Dwi
Published: July 2023

Introduction : Nasal reconstruction presents a challenge in case of patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP). Correction of the nasal deformity to achieve a symmetrical nose from the deficient columella and malformed nasal cartilage in cleft patients presents a great challenge. Nasoalveolar molding (NAM) was developed as a neoadjuvant therapy for patients with cleft lip and palate to improve nasal deformity before surgical intervention. The aim of this systematic review was to understand more about the effect of NAM on nasal symmetry and proportions in patients with UCLP.
Method : We searched for manuscripts involving patients with UCLP who received NAM prior to cleft lip repair. Electronic literature searching of the PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane and Google scholar databases was conducted for the studies that had been published up to December 2021.
Result : Presurgical NAM demonstrated benefits in nasolabial form when compared with patients who did not receive any presurgical infant orthopaedic appliances (PSIO). The use of presurgical NAM helps to achieve favourable reshaping of the nose and decrease the severity of the initial cleft deformity, resulting in improvement on nasolabial form. These changes lead to improved nasal symmetry and proportions in UCLP patients.
Conclusion: The preponderance of evidence in this review suggests that presurgical NAM is a beneficial adjuvant therapy for nasal deformity correction and helps achieve nasal symmetry in patients with UCLP. However, there is insufficient evidence to conclude whether presurgical NAM produces these benefits at the time of nasal maturity.
Keloid and Hypertrophic Scar Post-Excision Recurrence: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Azzahra Alya Mutiara , Perdanakusuma David Sontani , Indramaya Diah Mira , Saputro Iswinarno Doso
Published: July 2023

Introduction : Abnormal scar recurrence can occur and often be greater than pre-excision because the recurrence rate is giving a high percentage. Data about keloid and hypertrophic scar recurrence are rarely found in Indonesia. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct research related to abnormal scar, aims to determine the incidence of abnormal scar recurrence to support future research by giving valuable data.
Method : A retrospective descriptive study that evaluated post-excision abnormal scar patients from 2018 to 2020 using medical records.
Result : The sixteen cases had varied by age with the highest number of presentations in the late adolescence (17-25 years) (31%). Comparison of male (56%) and female (44%) patients were 1.28:1. The distribution of patients with recurrence of abnormal scars based on the type of abnormal scar found that 11 patients (69%) had keloids and the rest had hypertrophic scars with a total of 5 patients (31%) with predominantly ear (38%). Strategies of therapy most commonly excision only (50%), followed by excision with steroid injection combination (31%).
Conclusion: This exemplifies recurrence case in post-excision abnormal scar. Our findings indicate that there are differences in surgical strategy, such as wound closure techniques. Most of them were found with keloid scars and the incidence of recurrence was 11 cases and 5 cases experienced more than 1 recurrence. Furthermore, combination therapy, such as steroid injection, which is the most commonly used therapy after excision in this case, did not appear to prevent recurrence.