bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stem cell therapies for neurological disorders: current progress, challenges, and future perspectives
Authors: Rahimi Darehbagh Ramyar , Seyedoshohadaei Seyedeh Asrin , Ramezani Rojin , Rezaei Nima
Published: July 2024

Stem cell-based therapies have emerged as a promising approach for treating various neurological disorders by harnessing the regenerative potential of stem cells to restore damaged neural tissue and circuitry. This comprehensive review provides an in-depth analysis of the current state of stem cell applications in primary neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), stroke, spinal cord injury (SCI), and other related disorders. The review begins with a detailed introduction to stem cell biology, discussing the types, sources, and mechanisms of action of stem cells in neurological therapies. It then critically examines the preclinical evidence from animal models and early human trials investigating the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of different stem cell types, such as embryonic stem cells (ESCs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), neural stem cells (NSCs), and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). While ESCs have been studied extensively in preclinical models, clinical trials have primarily focused on adult stem cells such as MSCs and NSCs, as well as iPSCs and their derivatives. We critically assess the current state of research for each cell type, highlighting their potential applications and limitations in different neurological conditions. The review synthesizes key findings from recent, high-quality studies for each neurological condition, discussing cell manufacturing, delivery methods, and therapeutic outcomes. While the potential of stem cells to replace lost neurons and directly reconstruct neural circuits is highlighted, the review emphasizes the critical role of paracrine and immunomodulatory mechanisms in mediating the therapeutic effects of stem cells in most neurological disorders. The article also explores the challenges and limitations associated with translating stem cell therapies into clinical practice, including issues related to cell sourcing, scalability, safety, and regulatory considerations. Furthermore, it discusses future directions and opportunities for advancing stem cell-based treatments, such as gene editing, biomaterials, personalized iPSC-derived therapies, and novel delivery strategies. The review concludes by emphasizing the transformative potential of stem cell therapies in revolutionizing the treatment of neurological disorders while acknowledging the need for rigorous clinical trials, standardized protocols, and multidisciplinary collaboration to realize their full therapeutic promise.
Intelligent saline controlling valve based on fuzzy logic
Authors: Al-Obaidi Ahmed Saeed Ibrahim , Al-Nima Raid Rafi Omar , Qassim Hassan M.
Published: July 2024

Valve control for patients feeding saline is a sensitive issue. Such a valve is used to control the amount of important fluid entering the body. In this paper, we present an intelligent method based on fuzzy logic (FL) to deliver drugs and nutrients to patients through intravenous catheters. The proposed method is called intelligent saline controlling valve (ISCV) and relies on three inputs and two outputs. Specifically, the fluid’s drip, pressure, and the number of available bubbles are the three-valve inputs that control the two outputs which are the opening and closing. In other words, the ISCV controls the feeding saline for medical purposes. The obtained results show the success of the proposed method.
Realization of a fully integrated electronic-photonic sensor-receiver array for endoscopic ultrasound
Authors: Ζάρκος Παναγιώτης
Published: July 2024

Η απεικόνιση υπερήχου παραμένει ένα απαραίτητο εργαλείο σε πολλαπλούς ιατρικούς τομείς, από την ογκολογία μέχρι την καρδιολογία και από την δερματολογία μέχρι την οφθαλμολογία. Απεικονιστές που χρησιμοποιούν πιεζοηλεκτρικούς και μικρομηχανικούς χωρητικούς μετατροπείς αποτελούν εδώ και καιρό την πρότυπη λύση όσον αφορά παραδοσιακά υπερηχογραφήματα κοιλίας, λεκάνης ή μαιευτικής. Ωστόσο, όταν χρησιμοποιούνται σε ενδοσκοπικές, ενδοφλέβιες ή καθετηριακές εφαρμογές συστήματα που στηρίζονται στους παραδοσιακούς αυτούς μετατροπείς έχουν παρουσιάσει σημαντικά μειονεκτήματα ως προς την κατανάλωση ισχύος και την επιφάνεια που καταλαμβάνουν. Η παρούσα διατριβή εστιάζει στην ανάπτυξη και την υλοποίηση ενός ηλεκτρονικού-φωτονικού συστήματος λήψης που θα πληροί τις προδιαγραφές ενός μοντέρνου μικροσκοπικού καθετηριακού ενδοσκοπίου. Ξεκινά με μία επισκόπηση υπαρχουσών οπτικών και ηλεκτρικών τεχνολογιών απεικόνισης υπερήχου, η οποία αναδεικνύει την ανάγκη για μια εναλλακτική προσέγγιση στην ενδοσκοπική αίσθηση υπερήχου και προτείνει ένα ηλεκτρονικό-φωτονικό σύστημα συστοιχίας από μικρο-δακτυλιακούς ταλαντωτές (ΜΔΤ) (Eng: micro-ring resonators) ως πολλά υποσχόμενο υποψήφιο. Εν συνεχεία, παρουσιάζει την αρχή λειτουργίας της ανίσχνευσης υπερήχου με ΜΔΤ συνοδευόμενη από θεωρητική ανάλυση και προσομοιώσεις των μηχανισμών μετατροπής με λογισμικό πεπερασμένων στοιχείων. Η θεωρία που αναπτύσσεται υποστηρίζεται από πειραματικά αποτελέσματα που αποδεικνύουν την αρχή της έννοιας ανίχνευσης υπερήχου μέσω ΜΔΤ. Η αρχική ανάλυση ακολουθήθηκε από σχεδιασμό και κατασκευή μιάς πρώτης-στο-είδος της συστοιχίας δεκτών σε ένα φωτονικό τσιπ πυριτίου (Eng: Silicon Photonic chip) με πολύ ευαίσθητους, μικροσκοπικής κλίμακας οπτικούς ΜΔΤ αισθητήρες στον πυρήνα της. Ένα τέτοιο σύστημα μπορεί να είναι εξαιρετικά χαμηλής κατανάλωσης και μεγέθους, διασφαλίζοντας ασφαλή λειτουργία εντός του ανθρωπίνου σώματος χωρίς να θυσιάζει βασικά χαρακτηριστικά του συστήματος, όπως η ευκρίνεια και το εύρος ζώνης. Τοποθετημένοι σε μια 2-Δ συστοιχία σχηματισμού δέσμης (Eng: beamforming) από χιλιάδες στοιχεία, αυτοί οι οπτικοί αισθητήρες μπορούν να πραγματοποιήσουν 3-Δ απεικόνιση σε πραγματικό χρόνο και να ανοίξουν το δρόμο για μικροσκοπικούς οπτικούς καθετήρες λήψης υπερήχου με μεγέθη κάτω από 5mm3 (κυβικά χιλιοστά), που θα υπακούν στις προδιαγραφές μοντέρνων ενδοσκοπικών καθετήρων. Μετά την παρουσίαση αποτελεσμάτων μετρήσεων αυτού του πρωτότυπου ηλεκτρονικού-φωτονικού συστήματος-σε-τσιπ, η διατριβή συζητά αρχιτεκτονικές που θα βελτιώσουν περαιτέρω την συνολική ευαισθησία του συστήματος μέσω της χρήσης ανίχνευσης συνοχής και ΜΔΤ υψηλότερου συντελεστή ποιότητας.
The Quality of Graphic Training at the University: Desired, Actual, Action
Authors: Tikhonov-Bugrov D. , Abrosimov S. , Soloduhin E.
Published: July 2024

The concept of quality is considered in relation to graphic training in higher education. Among the wide variety of quality assurance issues, competent and result-oriented approaches to assessing the effectiveness (quality) of training are distinguished. It is noted that there are many questions for discussions, however, it is obvious that in the same case, the main role is played by monitoring and audit on the basis of a description of the expected learning outcomes. According to the Federal State Educational Standard, the graduate must be able to solve the “problems of design procedures” correctly, in accordance with the requirements of regulatory documents, to draw up design documentation, use computer and information technologies, and automated design tools. This is the basis of the notorious competency - based approach to training, in which the requirements of certain employers, and not the scientific justification of the existence of the necessary knowledge, skills that do not deny the possessions, are dominated. The situation is described in which the St. Petersburg professional community first encountered a similar approach to training. There is a contradiction between the principles of D.V. Manturov, declaring the need for wide and versatile training of modern engineers, and reality.

The comprehensive impact on the quality of preparation of the level of basic training of applicants, the transformations of the organizational structure of universities, attempts to reduce screening in the undergraduate and specialty through the introduction of specific rating systems and technological cards that allow students to certify students (not fulfilling the requirements of the Program) only by passing the minimum level of competence . On the example of an elite educational group, recruited under the Rostec Wings program, the problems of ensuring the quality of graphic training, a tendency to reduce the intellectual level of students due to total gadgetization are shown. It is noted that in this situation to ensure the possible quality of students' training, independent cathedral rating systems that stimulate the educational activities of students should be developed.
Commercial glass strengthening and safety technologies: lessons learned and yet to be learned
Authors: Macrelli Guglielmo ,   Isoclima, Varshneya Arun K. , Karlsson Stefan , Mauro John C. ,   Alfred University,   RISE Research Institutes of Sweden,   The Pennsylvania State University
Published: July 2024

This is the fourth in this series of “Lessons Learned and Yet to be Learned” on topics related to glass strength.(1–3) In this paper we pick up the topic of stronger glass products from our earlier publication(2) and expand to discussing commercial technologies. Included in this discussion are a brief historical perspective of the initial technologies and update to newer technologies with the aim to obtain faster production rates that focus on lightweight glass products and a sustainable future with respect to resource conservation, reduced energy consumption and reduced CO2 emissions. Also included are glass products which focus on safety mostly and less on overall strength.
COBRAR MAIS E ENTREGAR MENOS? TAXA DE ADMINISTRAÇÃO X PERFORMANCE DE FUNDOS DE RENDA FIXA DURAÇÃO BAIXA SOBERANO
Authors: Lanza Marcos Torres , Da Silveira Heber Pessoa
Published: July 2024

Este artigo analisou a relação entre rentabilidade das cotas dos fundos de investimentos “renda fixa duração baixa soberano”, que exibem pouca variação em seu grau de risco, e suas taxas de administração. Foram utilizados dados de 105 fundos de 2006 a 2020, período em que o CDI variou de 15,28%a.a. ao mínimo histórico de 2,77%a.a. Variáveis de controle foram idade do fundo, tamanho, captação e dummies temporais, testadas em modelo de painel curto desbalanceado, com efeitos-aleatórios. A performance dos fundos se mostrou negativamente correlacionada com a taxa de administração, com significância de 1% em todas as especificações dos modelos. Os resultados apontam para a existência de ineficiência na indústria de fundos e de assimetria de informação entre os investidores e os administradores dos FIs, que conseguem cobrar mais caro de investidores a quem entregam resultados piores, sem que tais investidores abandonem os fundos, como esperado em um mercado eficiente.
CAPACIDADE ABSORTIVA E SISTEMAS DE CONTROLE DE GESTÃO: UMA ARTICULAÇÃO POSSÍVEL? ANÁLISE DOS ESTUDOS NA INDÚSTRIA DE SERVIÇOS E SERVIÇOS HOTELEIROS
Authors: Silva Noro Claudiana Aparecida , Lima Cruz Cassiana Maris , Dalamaria Bárbara Adelle , Angonese Rodrigo
Published: July 2024

Este estudo realiza uma análise sistemática sobre a interação entre a capacidade absortiva e os sistemas de controle de gestão na indústria de serviços e serviços hoteleiros, destacando tanto os benefícios quanto os desafios dessa relação. O estudo justifica-se pela análise dos benefícios e desafios das temáticas da indústria de serviços e serviços hoteleiros, visando preencher lacunas na literatura e melhorar práticas internas para aumentar a competitividade e sucesso estratégico neste setor. O método utilizado foi da revisão sistemática de literatura recorrendo a critérios de análise com relação de artigos investigados, contento buscas em bases de dados, utilizando dados de pesquisa dos últimos cinco anos nas áreas de Economia Empresarial, Negócios e Gestão e Ciências Sociais. Os resultados deste estudo, apontam que a capacidade absortiva é utilizada como fonte de aprimoramento interno, o que possibilita adotar novas práticas de gestão nos serviços hoteleiros.  Apesar de poucos estudos, chega-se à conclusão de que diretores e gestores visam melhorias nos processos e que implementações nos controles de gestão internos aumentam as chances de ganhos como status sine qua non para o sucesso e alcance das estratégias internas organizacionais.
Father William Atkinson: Quadriplegic, Augustinian Friar, Servant of God
Authors: Ryan Joseph G. , Hayes Patrick J. , Rademacher Nicholas K.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Despite injuries that left him a quadriplegic, Father William E. Atkinson, O.S.A. (1946–2006), undertook with assistance priestly ministry as an Augustinian. Known as “Father Bill,” Atkinson was dependent on his Augustinian community, his family, and individuals who believed that his physical limitations were no match for his spirit or abilities. This essay, researched and written by members of the historical commission for Atkinson’s beatification and canonization, focuses on the particular problems presented in the effort to ordain a quadriplegic as well as his integration into religious life. It concludes with some thoughts on how his case is important for the growing field of disability studies.
Teaching with Love and Walking Beside in the Neoliberal University: A Dialogue
Authors: Ezeaku Adaezejeso , Gagan Rebecca
Published: July 2024

Abstract: In this article we “work on” the university, to use Sara Ahmed’s important phrasing about the work of rebuilding the university that is activated through conversations, stories, and testimony. Through a dialogue between teacher and student, we make visible and explore bell hooks’s contention in Teaching Community that “between teacher and student love makes recognition possible.” Our dialogue challenges the principles of a dominant university culture through a conversation that is at once a critical exploration and a representation of hooks’s pedagogy of love. Our conversation sees a teacher bearing witness to her student’s story of her lived experience of racism on campus as together we unfold hooks’s statement that teaching with love “will move us away from domination in all its forms.” Following hooks, we ask how teaching with love might transform, might work on the university. Our conversation is framed by an engagement with antiracist pedagogy and the principles of the Scarborough Charter.
Mothers’ Labor: Organizing and Parenting in Neoliberal Academia
Authors: Eldridge Sarah Vandegrift
Published: July 2024

Abstract: In this article I reflect on my experiences in my university’s labor union, United Campus Workers (UCW), both before and after I became a parent. Labor unions—especially wall-to-wall unions like UCW—are an important site of solidarity and resistance against the neoliberal policies of university administrations. UCW, a union without collective bargaining in a state hostile to labor, has won important fights for better working conditions. This work takes time, however, and a long history of cultural depictions insists that political activism and parenting, particularly mothering, are opposed to one another. I examine some of these depictions, their embeddedness in my graduate training, and how they make me worry that I am abandoning my young children when I choose to engage in union work. Ultimately, we need to reject this dichotomy as part of capitalism’s false narrative of individualism and embrace labor organizing as a place for family in multi-faceted ways.
The Necessary Vulnerability of Cross-Racial Collaboration: A Conversation
Authors: Hill Amy Lynne , Porter Cynthia D.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: We have been collaborating for the past five years, since we served as co-chairs for a graduate student conference. Since then we have found additional ways to remain interwoven in our respective professional narratives—including group projects as a part of the Joint-PhD Program in Comparative Media Analysis and Practice, co-representatives of our German graduate student association, and a current collaboration as part of an edited volume discussing the intersections of anger, feminism, race, identity, and sexuality/sexual expression. One of the many rewards of our collective endeavors is the unique way collaboration informs our growth as emerging scholars and professional thinkers. Our shared interests fall broadly under the umbrella of body politics, and an unavoidable but welcome—and we believe fundamentally necessary—thread that weaves our individual and collaborative projects together is race. Not only do our positionalities as a Black woman (Porter) and a White woman (Hill) have a deep impact on the work we choose to do and the communities we choose to engage in, but we have also come to center the intersection of race, sex, and gender in both our professional and personal relationship. We were recently given the opportunity to publicly reflect on our own cross-racial collaboration at the 2022 Women in German annual conference, after which we began considering the possibility of sharing our experiences in the form of “life-writing” as a way to once again work together in the face of the many burdens we carry as racialized women in academia.
Flags and Flagships: Symbolism, Conservation, and the National Bison Legacy Act
Authors: Parish Claire , Olive Andrea
Published: July 2024

abstract: Plains bison ( Bison bison bison ) currently number over 500,000 in the United States, but the vast majority are raised as commercial livestock. Historically, bison were an ecological and cultural keystone species in the Great Plains, but only a handful of conservation herds exist today. In 2016, amid ongoing conflict over bison conservation, the National Bison Legacy Act (NBLA) was signed into law, making bison the official national mammal. Previous research on symbolically significant species suggests that the NBLA could be a promising sign for bison conservation, whereas scholarship on national symbols indicates the act could be about national identity instead. We analyze legislation and newsprint media to explore the values and rationale underpinning the NBLA. We conclude that the NBLA enshrined bison as a symbol of national identity rather than a symbol of particular use to conservation efforts. These findings bring together knowledge of animal symbolism to demonstrate that symbolic recognition reflects human values rather than inspiring support for the species itself.
Ethics and Best Practices of Studying Contemporary Human Populations
Authors: Adegboyega Mayowa , Zhang Xinjun
Published: July 2024

abstract: At the 2021 meeting of the American Association of Biological Anthropologists, the “ Ethics and Best Practices of Studying Contemporary Human Populations ” symposium brought together a diverse panel of scientists to address the growing concerns related to consent, communication, and ethical practices in biological anthropology research. Drawing from historical parallels and current practices, the panel underscored the responsibilities of researchers to engage transparently and respectfully with the subjects of their studies. This article summarizes some of the topics raised and debated at that meeting, including the specific challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting surge in studies utilizing biological data from diverse populations, and the meaning of informed consent, genetic privacy, and data justice. The authors emphasize the importance of diversity and inclusion within research teams and leadership roles, and the role this can play in reshaping research approaches and fostering innovation in our field. They challenge the traditional notions of informed consent and encourage a more nuanced understanding that acknowledges the historical context and respects refusals as a form of knowledge production. The diverse perspectives shared at the symposium offer a glimpse into the ongoing efforts of biological anthropologists to navigate ethical challenges in contemporary human population studies. The collective aim is to spark sustained conversations and collaborative endeavors within biological anthropology and to promote continuous improvement in ethical standards and best practices.
The Ethical Responsibilities of Forensic Science Organizations in an Era of Oppressive Legislative Action
Authors: McCrane Samantha M. , Tallman Sean D.
Published: July 2024

abstract: In 2023 and 2024, a wave of anti-DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) legislation has been passed in multiple states, representing a dramatic reversal from 2019–2022, when violence and systemic injustices against minority individuals were highlighted and DEI measures increased. In forensic anthropology, where practitioners frequently work with remains of individuals from marginalized identities, these events have forced a necessary period of disciplinary and individual self-reflection regarding our complicity in the entrenched racism and cis-heteropatriarchy that underlies our society. This article reflects on the role that professional forensic science organizations play in perpetuating and/or combatting inequity. It discusses how recent anti-DEI legislation negatively impacts forensic science, hurting both practitioners and scholarly output, and the ethical responsibilities of professional organizations to publicly affirm support for minority members and contradict scientific misinformation around these legislative measures. In particular, the authors highlight how the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) has responded—often with silence and a lack of meaningful change—and propose potential remedies to promote long-term equitable changes both within the AAFS and external to it. The role of professional organizations in supporting all of their members, and good science, is more important now than ever, and it is time we expect and demand more from them.
Warm Rydberg atom-based quadrature amplitude-modulated receiver
Authors: Nowosielski Jan , Jastrzębski Marcin , Halavach Pavel , Łukanowski Karol , Jarzyna Marcin , Mazelanik Mateusz , Wasilewski Wojciech , Parniak Michał
Published: July 2024

Rydberg atoms exhibit both remarkable sensitivity to electromagnetic fields making them promising candidates for revolutionizing field sensors and, unlike conventional antennas, they neither disturb the measured field nor necessitate extensive calibration procedures. In this study, we propose a receiver design for data-modulated signal reception near the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi frequency band, harnessing the capabilities of warm Rydberg atoms. Our focus lies on exploring various quadrature amplitude modulations and transmission frequencies through heterodyne detection. We offer a comprehensive characterization of our setup, encompassing the atomic response frequency range, attainable electric field amplitudes, and sensitivity, which we estimate to be equal to 0.50 µV cm−1 Hz−0.5. Additionally, we delve into analyzing communication errors using Voronoi diagrams and evaluating the communication channel capacity across different modulation schemes. We find that the maximum achievable capacity for a single communication channel equals 19.3 Mbps and can be achieved using the QAM4 scheme.
Analysis of the mechanisms by which sputtered AlN nucleation layers enhance the performance of red InGaN-based LEDs
Authors: Xing Kun , Jin Zhengxian , Xia Zhihu , Hu Junwei , Yang Xiaoping , Sang Yimeng , Tao Tao , Zhuang Zhe , Zhang Rong , Liu Bin
Published: July 2024

This work proposed to modulate the strain of underlying GaN layers using different thicknesses of sputtered AlN nucleation layer to achieve long-wavelength red InGaN mini-light-emitting diodes (mini-LEDs). The increase in thickness of sputtered AlN from 15 nm to 60 nm could reduce the compressive strain in epitaxial GaN layers, which led to a shift in the peak wavelength of InGaN LEDs ranging from 633 nm to 656 nm at 1 A/cm2. However, a significant decrease in external quantum efficiency (EQE) was observed when the sputtered AlN thickness was increased from 45 nm to 60 nm. We found that the EQE and peak wavelength (PW) of the red mini-LEDs with 45-nm sputtered AlN at 1 A/cm2 were 8.5% and 649 nm, respectively. The study revealed that varying the thickness of AlN nucleation layers could extend the emission of red InGaN mini-LEDs toward longer wavelengths with a slight EQE loss.
Temperature retrieval of near space with the combined use of O2(a1Δg) and O2(b1∑+
g) dayglow emissions under self-absorption effect correction
Authors: Wang Daoqi , Li Faquan , He Weiwei , Wang Zhihua , Li Haotian , Wu Kuijun
Published: July 2024

Atmospheric temperature information in the near space is of great academic significance and engineering value to support the development and utilization of the near space. Based on the theory of O2 molecular dayglow spectroscopy and the mechanism of atmospheric radiative transfer, a method is proposed for the joint retrieval of temperature profiles in the near space using O2(a1Δg) and O2(b1∑+g) bands dayglow spectroscopy signal with the self-absorption effect. First, the temperature dependence of O2(a1Δg) and O2(b1∑+g) bands dayglow is investigated, and the influence of the self-absorption effect on the radiative transfer characteristics is analyzed in the limb-view mode. Then, with the use of the onion peeling algorithm, the dayglow emission spectra signals of the O2(a1Δg) and O2(b1∑+g) bands measured by the SCanning Imaging Absorption spectroMeter for Atmospheric CHartographY (SCIAMACHY) in the limb-viewing mode were processed, and combined with optimization algorithms, the temperature profiles from 35 km to 120 km is successfully retrieved. Finally, the accuracy and reliability of the self-absorption effect correction as well as the joint temperature retrieval were verified by comparing with temperature product data from remote sensing satellites such as Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER), Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment Fourier-Transform Spectrometer (ACE-FTS), and Michelson Interferometer for Passive Atmospheric Sounding (MIPAS). The error analysis shows that the temperature retrieval error after correction for the self-absorption effect is about 3 K minimum and 20 K maximum.
Entanglement and classical nonseparability convertible from orthogonal polarizations
Authors: Li Minghui , Wang Wei , Tang Zikang , Ian Hou
Published: July 2024

The nonclassicality of a macroscopic single-mode optical superposition state is potentially convertible into entanglement, when the state is mixed with the vacuum on a beam splitter. Considering light beams with polarization degree of freedom in Euclidean space as coherent product states in a bipartite Hilbert space, we propose a method to convert the two orthogonal polarizations into simultaneous entanglement and classical nonseparability through nonclassicality in the superpositions of coherent and displaced Fock states. Equivalent Bell state emerges from the resulted superpositions and the proportion of mixed entanglement and nonseparablity is determined by the displacement amplitudes along the polarization directions. We characterize the state nonclassicality via features in Wigner distributions and propose an experimental method for generating these states and measuring them via homodyne tomography.
Fiber optic relative humidity and temperature sensor with the cascaded Vernier effect based on the C-shaped cavity structure
Authors: Zhao Ke , Song Bojun , Ye Canjia , Jin Xuemei , Yu Changyuan , Zhou Guiyao , Pan Jingshun , Huang Xuguang
Published: July 2024

The water-absorbent sensing film, coated on the surface of traditional optical fiber humidity sensors, often suffers from detachment issues. In this paper, we present what we believe to be a new fiber-optic cascaded Fabry-Perot interferometer sensor for detecting relative humidity (RH) and temperature, without the need for sophisticated instrumentation. The sensing structure comprises two sections of single-mode optical fibers and a C-shaped cavity between them. The C-shaped cavity is created by grinding the side of a hollow-core fiber with fiber optic abrasive paper. The Vernier effect arises from the cascaded interaction between the C-shaped cavity filled with ultraviolet optical glue (NOA61) and the subsequent single-mode fiber pigtail. The sensor exhibits a high RH sensitivity of 0.248 nm/%RH (35-95%RH) and an RH resolution of up to 0.08%RH. It also has high-temperature sensitivities of -1.091 nm/°C (25 - 65°C). Furthermore, simultaneous measurement of RH and temperature is achieved by establishing a dual parameter matrix, and the sensor's response time and recovery time for RH and temperature are within 300s. Therefore, this work provides a simple and cost-effective manufacturing process and the proposed RH and temperature sensor features a compact size, strong environmental adaptability, and significant potential for practical applications.
Polarizability inversion suspension for nonlinear optical limiting with a low limiting threshold
Authors: Huang Jian , Lu Yuangang , Liu Yang , Dong Biao , He Chongjun
Published: July 2024

We propose what we believe to be a novel nonlinear optical limiting (NOL) method with a low limiting threshold based on a light intensity-controlled polarizability inversion suspension (PIS). This suspension has negative polarizability under weak light, allowing stable propagation of weak light with a low loss. Nevertheless, the suspension reverses into positive polarizability due to the optical Kerr effect under strong light, resulting in enhanced scattering that rapidly attenuates the intense light. In a proof-of-concept experiment, PS (polystyrene)-CS2-CCl4 suspension is used as the example suspension. We experimentally verify the NOL performance of several samples. Among them, 4 g/L PS-CS2-CCl4 suspension with a volume ratio of 0.15 has the best optical limiting effect, with a high limiting capacity coefficient of 0.48 and a very low limiting threshold of 14.80 kW/cm2, which is an order magnitude lower than that of most common NOL materials. Therefore, the proposed method provides a new promising approach to achieve NOL of continuous wave laser with a low limiting threshold.
Optical fiber integrated WGM cylindrical cavity resonator
Authors: Mei Yongli , Wang D. N. , Wang Qiaoben , Zhang Yan
Published: July 2024

Whispering gallery mode (WGM) resonators are usually discrete optical devices, which have integration difficulties with an optical fiber system. Here we present a new, to the best of our knowledge, type of optical fiber whispering gallery mode resonator based on a cylindrical cavity, which is located in the multimode fiber core and fabricated by femtosecond laser micromachining together with fast hydrofluoric acid etching techniques. When light traveling in the fiber core is tangent to the cylindrical cavity wall, it is coupled into the cavity and circulates along the cavity wall to excite WGM resonance before being coupled out to the same tangential path and continuing propagation in the fiber core. The device is fully integrated into the optical fiber, simple in fabrication, convenient in operation, low in cost, and has a good quality factor (Q) of 1.06 × 104. The device enriches the family of WGM resonators and is expected to have promising applications in photonics.
FPGA implementation of power-lite Volterra-inspired neural network equalizer in 180-Gb/s net bitrate IMDD short-reach optical system
Authors: Jiang Wenqing , Guan Xiaokai , Huang Luyao , Xu Yongxin , Xie Yunhao , Hu Weisheng , Yi Lilin
Published: July 2024

A white-box power-lite Volterra-inspired neural network (VINN) equalizer is proposed to solve the problem of complexity discontinuity in a Volterra nonlinear equalizer (VNLE). By adjusting the granularity of the solution space, it conserves computational resources while maintaining nonlinear compensation capability. The performance of VINN is verified on a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) in a short-reach intensity modulation and direct detection (IMDD) system, and a 240-Gb/s real-time signal processing rate is achieved. Under the 25% overhead soft-decision forward error correction (SD-FEC) bit error rate (BER) threshold, we realize a record net rate of up to 180 Gb/s based on the FPGA.
Room-temperature DBR-free VCSEL operation on an InGaN/GaN thin-film platform with a monolithic surface grating
Authors: Fu Wai Yuen , Wang Zhongqi , Cheung Yuk Fai , Choi Hoi Wai
Published: July 2024

Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) are pivotal in various applications ranging from data communication to sensing technologies. This study introduces a VCSEL design featuring a monolithic top surface high contrast grating (HCG) reflector on a thin-film substrate, aimed at improving lasing performance while reducing fabrication costs by omitting the use of distributed Bragg reflectors (DBRs). We fabricated the proposed VCSEL with the surface grating and characterized its performance through micro-photoluminescence measurements. The laser demonstrated room-temperature lasing at 436.2 nm with a Q factor of 4600 and a lasing threshold of 5.5 kW/cm2 under optical pumping. The implementation of the surface grating reflector was instrumental in facilitating vertical lasing, significantly improving surface reflectivity compared to conventional flat GaN/air interfaces. This innovative design holds significant promise for the development of cost-effective, DBR-free VCSELs, with potential applications extending to photonic integrated circuits and light detection and ranging (LiDAR) systems.
Maternal regulation of the vertebrate oocyte-to-embryo transition
Authors: Fuentes Ricardo , Marlow Florence L. , Abrams Elliott W. , Zhang Hong , Kobayashi Manami , Gupta Tripti , Kapp Lee D. , DiNardo Zachary , Heller Ronald , Cisternas Ruth , García-Castro Priscila , Segovia-Miranda Fabián , Montecinos-Franjola Felipe , Vought William , Vejnar Charles E. , Giraldez Antonio J. , Mullins Mary C.
Published: July 2024

Maternally-loaded factors in the egg accumulate during oogenesis and are essential for the acquisition of oocyte and egg developmental competence to ensure the production of viable embryos. However, their molecular nature and functional importance remain poorly understood. Here, we present a collection of 9 recessive maternal-effect mutants identified in a zebrafish forward genetic screen that reveal unique molecular insights into the mechanisms controlling the vertebrate oocyte-to-embryo transition. Four genes, over easy, p33bjta, poached and black caviar, were found to control initial steps in yolk globule sizing and protein cleavage during oocyte maturation that act independently of nuclear maturation. The krang, kazukuram, p28tabj, and spotty genes play distinct roles in egg activation, including cortical granule biology, cytoplasmic segregation, the regulation of microtubule organizing center assembly and microtubule nucleation, and establishing the basic body plan. Furthermore, we cloned two of the mutant genes, identifying the over easy gene as a subunit of the Adaptor Protein complex 5, Ap5m1, which implicates it in regulating intracellular trafficking and yolk vesicle formation. The novel maternal protein Krang/Kiaa0513, highly conserved in metazoans, was discovered and linked to the function of cortical granules during egg activation. These mutant genes represent novel genetic entry points to decipher the molecular mechanisms functioning in the oocyte-to-embryo transition, fertility, and human disease. Additionally, our genetic adult screen not only contributes to the existing knowledge in the field but also sets the basis for future investigations. Thus, the identified maternal genes represent key players in the coordination and execution of events prior to fertilization.
Transcriptional programs of Pitx2 and Tfap2a/Tfap2b controlling lineage specification of mandibular epithelium during tooth initiation
Authors: Shao Fan , Phan An-Vi , Yu Wenjie , Guo Yuwei , Thompson Jamie , Coppinger Carter , Venugopalan Shankar R. , Amendt Brad A. , Van Otterloo Eric , Cao Huojun
Published: July 2024

How the dorsal-ventral axis of the vertebrate jaw, particularly the position of tooth initiation site, is established remains a critical and unresolved question. Tooth development starts with the formation of the dental lamina, a localized thickened strip within the maxillary and mandibular epithelium. To identify transcriptional regulatory networks (TRN) controlling the specification of dental lamina from the naïve mandibular epithelium, we utilized Laser Microdissection coupled low-input RNA-seq (LMD-RNA-seq) to profile gene expression of different domains of the mandibular epithelium along the dorsal-ventral axis. We comprehensively identified transcription factors (TFs) and signaling pathways that are differentially expressed along mandibular epithelial domains (including the dental lamina). Specifically, we found that the TFs Sox2 and Tfap2 (Tfap2a/Tfap2b) formed complimentary expression domains along the dorsal-ventral axis of the mandibular epithelium. Interestingly, both classic and novel dental lamina specific TFs—such as Pitx2, Ascl5 and Zfp536—were found to localize near the Sox2:Tfap2a/Tfap2b interface. To explore the functional significance of these domain specific TFs, we next examined loss-of-function mouse models of these domain specific TFs, including the dental lamina specific TF, Pitx2, and the ventral surface ectoderm specific TFs Tfap2a and Tfap2b. We found that disruption of domain specific TFs leads to an upregulation and expansion of the alternative domain’s TRN. The importance of this cross-repression is evident by the ectopic expansion of Pitx2 and Sox2 positive dental lamina structure in Tfap2a/Tfap2b ectodermal double knockouts and the emergence of an ectopic tooth in the ventral surface ectoderm. Finally, we uncovered an unappreciated interface of mesenchymal SHH and WNT signaling pathways, at the site of tooth initiation, that were established by the epithelial domain specific TFs including Pitx2 and Tfap2a/Tfap2b. These results uncover a previously unknown molecular mechanism involving cross-repression of domain specific TFs including Pitx2 and Tfap2a/Tfap2b in patterning the dorsal-ventral axis of the mouse mandible, specifically the regulation of tooth initiation site.
Oral administration of GnRH via a cricket vehicle stimulates spermiation in tiger salamanders (Ambystoma tigrinum)
Authors: Chen Devin M. , Chen Li-Dunn , Kouba Carrie K. , Songsasen Nucharin , Roth Terri L. , Allen Peter J. , Kouba Andrew J.
Published: July 2024

More than 50% of caudates are threatened with extinction and are in need of ex-situ breeding programs to support conservation efforts and species recovery. Unfortunately, many salamander populations under human care can experience reproductive failure, primarily due to missing environmental cues necessary for breeding. Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) are a useful suite of techniques for overcoming or bypassing these missing environmental cues to promote breeding. Exogenous hormones are used to stimulate natural breeding behaviors or gamete expression for in-vitro fertilization or biobanking and are typically administered intramuscularly in caudates. While effective, intramuscular injection is risky to perform in smaller-bodied animals, resulting in health and welfare risks. This research investigated the spermiation response to hormone administration through a non-invasive oral bioencapsulation route using the tiger salamander (Ambystoma tigrinum) as a model species. Male salamanders were randomly rotated six weeks apart through four treatments (n = 11 males/treatment) in which animals received a resolving dose of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) as follows: (1) Prime-Only (0.0 μg/g); (2) Low (0.25 μg/g); (3) Medium (1.0 μg/g); and (4) High (2.0 μg/g). All males were given a GnRH priming dose (0.25 μg/g) 24 hours prior to the resolving dose. Exogenous hormone was delivered inside of a cricket (Gryllodes sigillatus) that was presented as a food item by tweezers. Sperm samples were collected at 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 24 hours after the resolving dose and analyzed for quantity and quality. For all treatments, sperm concentration was produced in an episodic pattern over time. The Prime-Only treatment had a lower (p < 0.05) percent of sperm exhibiting normal morphology compared to treatments utilizing a resolving dose of GnRH. Overall, oral administration of GnRH is a feasible route of inducing spermiation in salamanders, yielding sperm of sufficient quantity and quality for in-vitro fertilization and biobanking efforts.
Sputum production and salivary microbiome in COVID-19 patients reveals oral-lung axis
Authors: Lu Korina Yun-Fan , Alqaderi Hend , Bin Hasan Saadoun , Alhazmi Hesham , Alghounaim Mohammad , Devarajan Sriraman , Freire Marcelo , Altabtbaei Khaled
Published: July 2024

SARS-CoV-2, a severe respiratory disease primarily targeting the lungs, was the leading cause of death worldwide during the pandemic. Understanding the interplay between the oral microbiome and inflammatory cytokines during acute infection is crucial for elucidating host immune responses. This study aimed to explore the relationship between the oral microbiome and cytokines in COVID-19 patients, particularly those with and without sputum production. Saliva and blood samples from 50 COVID-19 patients were subjected to 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing for oral microbiome analysis, and 65 saliva and serum cytokines were assessed using Luminex multiplex analysis. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare cytokine levels between individuals with and without sputum production. Logistic regression machine learning models were employed to evaluate the predictive capability of oral microbiome, salivary, and blood biomarkers for sputum production. Significant differences were observed in the membership (Jaccard dissimilarity: p = 0.016) and abundance (PhILR dissimilarity: p = 0.048; metagenomeSeq) of salivary microbial communities between patients with and without sputum production. Seven bacterial genera, including Prevotella, Streptococcus, Actinomyces, Atopobium, Filifactor, Leptotrichia, and Selenomonas, were more prevalent in patients with sputum production (p<0.05, Fisher’s exact test). Nine genera, including Prevotella, Megasphaera, Stomatobaculum, Selenomonas, Leptotrichia, Veillonella, Actinomyces, Atopobium, and Corynebacteria, were significantly more abundant in the sputum-producing group, while Lachnoanaerobaculum was more prevalent in the non-sputum-producing group (p<0.05, ANCOM-BC). Positive correlations were found between salivary IFN-gamma and Eotaxin2/CCL24 with sputum production, while negative correlations were noted with serum MCP3/CCL7, MIG/CXCL9, IL1 beta, and SCF (p<0.05, Mann-Whitney test). The machine learning model using only oral bacteria input outperformed the model that included all data: blood and saliva biomarkers, as well as clinical and demographic variables, in predicting sputum production in COVID-19 subjects. The performance metrics were as follows, comparing the model with only bacteria input versus the model with all input variables: precision (95% vs. 75%), recall (100% vs. 50%), F1-score (98% vs. 60%), and accuracy (82% vs. 66%).
Exploring the most promising anti ‐ Depressant drug targeting Microtubule Affinity Receptor Kinase 4 involved in Alzheimer’s Disease through molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Ahmad S. Rehan , Zeyaullah Md. , AlShahrani Abdullah M. , Khan Mohammad Suhail , Muzammil Khursheed , Ahmed Faheem , Dawria Adam , Mohieldin Ali , Ali Haroon , Altijani Abdelrhman A. G.
Published: July 2024

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is the prevailing type of neurodegenerative illness, characterised by the accumulation of amyloid beta plaques. The symptoms associated with AD are memory loss, emotional variability, and a decline in cognitive functioning. To date, the pharmaceuticals currently accessible in the marketplace are limited to symptom management. According to several research, antidepressants have demonstrated potential efficacy in the management of AD. In this particular investigation, a total of 24 anti-depressant medications were selected as ligands, while the Microtubule Affinity Receptor Kinase 4 (MARK4) protein was chosen as the focal point of our study. The selection of MARK4 was based on its known involvement in the advancement of AD and other types of malignancies, rendering it a highly prospective target for therapeutic interventions. The initial step involved doing ADMET analysis, which was subsequently followed by molecular docking of 24 drugs. This was succeeded by molecular dynamics simulation and molecular mechanics generalised Born surface area (MMGBSA) calculations. Upon conducting molecular docking experiments, it has been determined that the binding affinities observed fall within the range of -5.5 kcal/mol to -9.0 kcal/mol. In this study, we selected six anti-depressant compounds (CID ID ‐ 4184, 2771, 4205, 5533, 4543, and 2160) based on their binding affinities, which were determined to be -9.0, -8.7, -8.4, -8.3, -8.2, and -8.2, respectively. Molecular dynamics simulations were conducted for all six drugs, with donepezil serving as the control drug. Various analyses were performed, including basic analysis and post-trajectory analysis such as free energy landscape (FEL), polarizable continuum model (PCM), and MMGBSA calculations. Based on the findings from molecular dynamics simulations and the MMGBSA analysis, it can be inferred that citalopram and mirtazapine exhibit considerable potential as anti-depressant agents. Consequently, these compounds warrant further investigation through in vitro and in vivo investigations in the context of treating AD.
Declarative memory supports children’s math skills: A longitudinal study
Authors: Evans Tanya M. , Lipscomb Daniel W. , Earle F. Sayako , Del Tufo Stephanie N. , Lum Jarrad A. G. , Cutting Laurie E. , Ullman Michael T.
Published: July 2024

Substantial progress has been made in understanding the neurocognitive underpinnings of learning math. Building on this work, it has been hypothesized that declarative and procedural memory, two domain-general learning and memory systems, play important roles in acquiring math skills. In a longitudinal study, we tested whether in fact declarative and procedural memory predict children’s math skills during elementary school years. A sample of 109 children was tested across grades 2, 3 and 4. Linear mixed-effects regression and structural equation modeling revealed the following. First, learning in declarative but not procedural memory was associated with math skills within each grade. Second, declarative but not procedural memory in each grade was related to math skills in all later grades (e.g., declarative memory in grade 2 was related to math skills in grade 4). Sensitivity analyses showed that the pattern of results was robust, except for the longitudinal prediction of later math skills when accounting for stable inter-individual differences via the inclusion of random intercepts. Our findings highlight the foundational role of early domain-general learning and memory in children’s acquisition of math.