bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does [18F]F-FDG-PET/MRI add metabolic information to magnetic resonance image in childhood-onset Takayasu’s arteritis patients? A multicenter case series
Authors: Clemente Gleice , de Souza Alexandre W. , Leão Filho Hilton , Coelho Fernando M. A. , Buchpiguel Carlos , Lima Marcos , Carneiro Camila , Pereira Rosa M. R. , Aikawa Nadia , Silva Clovis A. , Campos Lucia M. A. , Alves Gabriel , Astley Camilla , Gualano Bruno , Terreri Maria Teresa
Published: July 2022

Background

The observation that 2-deoxy-2[18F]fluoro-D-glucose-positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging ([18F]F-FDG-PET/MRI) revealed high-grade arterial wall FDG uptake, without arterial wall thickening with contrast-enhancement, in a considerable number of c-TA patients in our previous study, encouraged us to compare patients with both PET and MR angiography (MRA) positives, with those with PET positive but MRA negative. Our aim was to evaluate the relevance of these two imaging modalities together.

Methods

A three-center cross-sectional study with 17 patients who fulfilled the EULAR/PRINTO/PReS criteria for c-TA and who underwent [18F]F-FDG-PET/MRI was previously performed. Herein we compared patients/vessels with positive PET (arterial wall 18F-FDG uptake higher than liver) and positive MRA (arterial wall thickening with contrast-enhancement)—group 1, with those with positive PET but negative MRA—group 2.

Results

Median disease duration of 17 c-TA patients was 10.4 years. Nine patients were classified as group 1 and six as group 2. Median of metabolic inflammatory volume (MIV) of all arterial segments was significantly higher in group 1 (2346 vs. 1177 cm3; p = 0.036). Fifty-four (19%) from 284 available arterial segments presented positive findings in vessel wall in one or both images. Positive findings were concordant between PET and MRA in only 13% arterial segments (group 1); most changes (28–59.6%) that were discordant between both images, were positive in PET and negative in MRA (group 2).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that [18F]F-FDG-PET/MRI added information about inflammation in vessel wall of c-TA patients. Prospective multicenter studies are needed in order to get solid data to guide immunosuppressive tapering and withdrawal.
Anti-Homer-3 antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid and serum samples from a 58-year-old woman with subacute cerebellar degeneration and diffuse breast adenocarcinoma
Authors: Klötzsch Christof , Böhmert Matthias , Hermann Ruxandra , Teegen Bianca , Rentzsch Kristin , Till Andreas
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Subacute cerebellar ataxia combined with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pleocytosis is the result of an immune response that can occur due to viral infections, paraneoplastic diseases or autoimmune-mediated mechanisms. In the following we present the first description of a patient with anti-Homer-3 antibodies in serum and CSF who has been diagnosed with paraneoplastic subacute cerebellar degeneration due to a papillary adenocarcinoma of the breast.

Case presentation

A 58-year-old female was admitted to our clinical department because of increasing gait and visual disturbances starting nine months ago. The neurological examination revealed a downbeat nystagmus, oscillopsia, a severe standing and gait ataxia and a slight dysarthria. Cranial MRI showed no pathological findings. Examination of CSF showed a lymphocytic pleocytosis of 11 cells/µl and an intrathecal IgG synthesis of 26%. Initially, standard serological testing in serum and CSF did not indicate any autoimmune or paraneoplastic aetiology. However, an antigen-specific indirect immunofluorescence test (IIFT) revealed the presence of anti-Homer-3 antibodies (IgG) with a serum titer of 1: 32,000 and a titer of 1: 100 in CSF. Subsequent histological examination of a right axillary lymph node mass showed papillary adenocarcinoma cells. Breast MRI detected multiple bilateral lesions as a diffuse tumour manifestation indicative of adenocarcinoma of the breast. Treatment with high-dose methylprednisolone followed by five plasmaphereses and treatment with 4-aminopyridine resulted in a moderate decrease of the downbeat nystagmus and she was able to move independently with a wheeled walker after 3 weeks. The patient was subsequently treated with chemotherapy (epirubicin, cyclophosphamide) and two series of immunoglobulins (5 × 30 g each). This resulted in a moderate improvement of the cerebellar symptoms with a decrease of ataxia and disappearance of the downbeat nystagmus.

Conclusion

The presented case of anti-Homer-3 antibody-associated cerebellar degeneration is the first that is clearly associated with the detection of a tumour. Interestingly, the Homer-3 protein interaction partner metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 1A (mGluR1A) is predominantly expressed in Purkinje cells where its function is essential for motor coordination and motor learning. Based on our findings, in subacute cerebellar degeneration, we recommend considering serological testing for anti-Homer-3 antibodies in serum and cerebrospinal fluid together with tumor screening.
Implications of a holographic density of states on inflation
Authors: Ramakrishna Satish
Published: July 2022

There is theoretical evidence that the number of degrees of freedom in quantum fields decreases as one studies them at extremely short distances. This emerges from the study of entropy of black holes, as well as from holographic theories in AdS geometries. Presumably a theory of quantum gravity will provide an explicit description of how the number of degrees of freedom thin out as one studies high energy scales. We do not have a comprehensive theory of how such a thinning of degrees of freedom would occur. It is likely that there might be residual (and measurable) effects at larger length scales, though this might be significant only near the Planck scale. There are very few instances in Nature where one might be able to see effects of this thinning. One promising venue is in the phenomenon of inflation, produced in the simplest models through a scalar inflaton field in a potential with a flat (“slow-roll”) part as well as a potential well. During inflation, fluctuations of small length scales are stretched to large scales and then exit the Hubble horizon. We compute the effect of such a thinning of degrees of freedom upon the running of the spectral index of quantum fluctuations of the inflaton and deduce that this will lead to a small positive power of wave vector (opposite to the usual

, i.e., negative power correction). Some comments are then made about the impact on observations (or non-observations) of such fluctuations (Martin J. and Ringeval C., Phys. Rev. D, 69 (2004) 083515).
Disruption of Sleep Continuity During the Perimenopause: Associations with Female Reproductive Hormone Profiles
Authors: Coborn Jamie , de Wit Anouk , Crawford Sybil , Nathan Margo , Rahman Shadab , Finkelstein Lauren , Wiley Aleta , Joffe Hadine
Published: July 2022

Context

Nocturnal vasomotor symptoms (nVMS), depressive symptoms (DepSx), and female reproductive hormone changes contribute to perimenopause-associated disruption in sleep continuity. Hormonal changes underlie both nVMS and DepSx. However, their association with sleep continuity parameters resulting in perimenopause-associated sleep disruption remains unclear.

Objective

We aimed to determine the association between female reproductive hormones and perimenopausal sleep discontinuity independent of nVMS and DepSx.

Methods

Daily sleep and VMS diaries, and weekly serum assays of female reproductive hormones were obtained for 8 consecutive weeks in 45 perimenopausal women with mild DepSx but no primary sleep disorder. Generalized estimating equations were used to examine associations of estradiol, progesterone, and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) with mean number of nightly awakenings, wakefulness after sleep onset (WASO) and sleep-onset latency (SOL) adjusting for nVMS and DepSx.

Results

Sleep disruption was common (median 1.5 awakenings/night, WASO 24.3 and SOL 20.0 minutes). More awakenings were associated with estradiol levels in the postmenopausal range (β = 0.14; 95% CI, 0.04 to 0.24; P = 0.007), and higher FSH levels (β [1-unit increase] = 0.12; 95% CI, 0.02 to 0.22; P = 0.02), but not with progesterone (β [1-unit increase] = −0.02; 95% CI, −0.06 to 0.01; P = 0.20) in adjusted models. Female reproductive hormones were not associated with WASO or SOL.

Conclusion

Associations of more awakenings with lower estradiol and higher FSH levels provide support for a perimenopause-associated sleep discontinuity condition that is linked with female reproductive hormone changes, independent of nVMS and DepSx.
A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Preoperative Antithrombin Supplementation in Patients at Risk for Antithrombin Deficiency After Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Moront Michael George , Woodward Michael K. , Essandoh Michael K. , Avery Edwin G. , Reece T. Brett , Brzezinski Marek , Spiess Bruce , Shore-Lesserson Linda , Chen Junliang , Henriquez Waleska , Barceló Miquel , Despotis George , Karkouti Keyvan , Levy Jerrold H. , Ranucci Marco , Mondou Elsa ,   on behalf of the Clinical Thrombate Study Group
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Antithrombin (AT) activity is reduced during cardiac operations with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), which is associated with adverse outcomes. Preoperative AT supplementation, to achieve >58% and <100% AT activity, may potentially reduce postoperative morbidity and mortality in cardiac operations with CPB. This prospective, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of preoperative treatment with AT supplementation in patients at risk for low AT activity after undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB.

METHODS:

A total of 425 adult patients were randomized (1:1) to receive either a single dose of AT (n = 213) to achieve an absolute increase of 20% above pretreatment AT activity or placebo (n = 212) before surgery. The study duration was approximately 7 weeks. The primary efficacy end point was the percentage of patients with any component of a major morbidity composite (postoperative mortality, stroke, acute kidney injury [AKI], surgical reexploration, arterial or venous thromboembolic events, prolonged mechanical ventilation, and infection) in the 2 groups. Secondary end points included AT activity, blood loss, transfusion requirements, duration of intensive care unit (ICU), and hospital stays. Safety was also assessed.

RESULTS:

Overall, 399 patients (men, n = 300, 75.2%) with a mean (standard deviation [SD]) age of 66.1 (11.7) years, with the majority undergoing complex surgical procedures (n = 266, 67.9%), were analyzed. No differences in the percentage of patients experiencing morbidity composite outcomes between groups were observed (AT-treated 68/198 [34.3%] versus placebo 58/194 [29.9%]; P = .332; relative risk, 1.15). After AT infusion, AT activity was significantly higher in the AT group (108% [42–143]) versus placebo group (76% [40–110]), and lasted up to postoperative day 2. At ICU, the frequency of patients with AT activity ≥58% in the AT group (81.5%) was significantly higher (P < .001) versus placebo group (43.2%). Secondary end point analysis did not show any advantage of AT over placebo group. There were significantly more patients with AKI (P < .001) in the AT group (23/198; 11.6%) than in the placebo group (5/194, 2.6%). Safety results showed no differences in treatment-emergent adverse events nor bleeding events between groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

AT supplementation did not attenuate adverse postoperative outcomes in our cohort of patients undergoing cardiac surgery with CPB.
Csf1rb regulates definitive hematopoiesis in zebrafish
Authors: Dai Yimei , Wu Shuting , Cao Canran , Xue Rongtao , Luo Xuefen , Wen Zilong , Xu Jin
Published: July 2022

In vertebrates, hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) are capable of self-renewal and continuously replenishing all mature blood lineages throughout life. However, the molecular signaling regulating the maintenance and expansion of HSPCs remains incompletely understood. Colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) is believed to be the primary regulator for the myeloid lineage but not HSPC development. Here, we show a surprising role of Csf1rb, a zebrafish homolog of mammalian CSF1R, in preserving the HSPC pool by maintaining the proliferation of HSPCs. Deficiency of csf1rb leads to a reduction in both HSPCs and their differentiated progenies, including myeloid, lymphoid and erythroid cells at early developmental stages. Likewise, the absence of csf1rb conferred similar defects upon HSPCs and leukocytes in adulthood. Furthermore, adult hematopoietic cells from csf1rb mutants failed to repopulate immunodeficient zebrafish. Interestingly, loss-of-function and gain-of-function assays suggested that the canonical ligands for Csf1r in zebrafish, including Csf1a, Csf1b and Il34, were unlikely to be ligands of Csf1rb. Thus, our data indicate a previously unappreciated role of Csf1r in maintaining HSPCs, independently of known ligands.
Διερεύνηση και θεμελίωση της διαχρονικής συγκρισιμότητας των βασικών εννοιών των ερευνών Οικογενειακών Προϋπολογισμών για την Ελλάδα
Authors: Οικονομάκη Μαρία
Published: July 2022

Ο έλεγχος της δυνατότητας διαχρονικών συγκρίσεων αλλά και συγκρίσεων μεταξύ χωρών δεδομένων δειγματοληπτικών ερευνών συνιστά προϋπόθεση για την ανάλυσή τους. Στην παρούσα μελέτη διερευνάται η διαχρονική συγκρισιμότητα των βασικών εννοιών – και των αντίστοιχων μετρήσεών τους – για τις Ελληνικές Έρευνες Οικογενειακών Προϋπολογισμών (1957/1958-2020).

Τα ευρήματα καταδεικνύουν ότι η χρήση περισσότερο λεπτομερών και περιοριστικών κοινών ορισμών για το νοικοκυριό και τα μέλη του, οι οποίοι εφαρμόστηκαν στις πλέον πρόσφατες έρευνες, διασφαλίζουν την συγκρισιμότητα των δεδομένων διαχρονικά. Η εισαγωγή του προσώπου αναφοράς καταδεικνύει μια μετατόπιση στον ορισμό του υπεύθυνου του νοικοκυριού από την ανάληψη των ευθυνών λόγω φύλου σε κυρίως οικονομικά κριτήρια, η οποία θέτει ως όριο το έτος εφαρμογής αυτού του ορισμού για τη διαχρονική συγκρισιμότητα των δεδομένων. Αυτή η μεθοδολογική μελέτη συμβάλλει στην έρευνα για τα ζητήματα των διαχρονικών συγκρίσεων δεδομένων από δειγματοληπτικές έρευνες, που χρησιμοποιούνται εκτενώς στην κοινωνική έρευνα.
Case Report: Mitral valve obstruction by metastatic malignant phyllodes tumor
Authors: Ikram Chamtouri , Nesrine Amdouni , Rania Kaddoussi , Bellalah Ahlem , Chokri Kortas , Asma Achour , Sameh Joober , Faouzi Maatouk
Published: July 2022

Cardiac metastases are rare. Herein, we report a case of a 37-year-old female patient with a history of borderline breast phyllodes tumor (PT) treated by surgery, admitted to our department for concomitant cardiac and pulmonary metastases of malignant PT. Cardiac metastasis occurred through direct extension from pulmonary metastasis to the left atrium via the right inferior pulmonary vein, causing severe mitral valve obstruction. Although the total surgical removal of metastases, the patient had a huge relapse of the mediastinal metastasis resulting in her death.
Low back pain and associated risk factors among medical students in Bangladesh: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Sany Shabbir Ahmed , Tanjim Taukir , Hossain Md Ikbal
Published: July 2022

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Different studies showed the high prevalence of LBP among medical students. However, no study has been conducted on Bangladeshi medical students to estimate the prevalence of LBP. This study determined the prevalence, characteristics, and associated risk factors of LBP among medical students in Bangladesh.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from October to December 2020 among randomly selected 270 medical students and medical interns in Faridpur Medical College, Bangladesh, using an online questionnaire. In data analysis, chi-square test and binary logistic regression were performed, and a p-value of < 0.05 was regarded as statistically significant.

Results: A total of 207 participants responded fully to the survey, and were included in the analysis. The mean age of the participants was 22.4 ± 1.9 years. The point, 6-month, and 12-month prevalence of LBP was 25.6%, 46.9%, and 63.3%, respectively. In most participants, LBP was localized (53.2%), recurrent (64.9%), non-specific (70.8%), affected for a short period (55%), and relieved without receiving any treatment (60.4%). Participants who had a significantly higher 12-month prevalence of LBP included females (72.2% vs 52.2%), with BMI >25 kg/m2 (73.2% vs 56.7%), those who performed physical activity at low to moderate frequency (72.4% vs 29.5%), those who spent > 6 hours/day by sitting (71.3% vs 45.3%), and those who did not have enough rest time (92.7% vs 56%). Ergonomic features of chairs, such as having back support, adjustable back support, and adjustable sitting surface, significantly (p < 0.05) influenced the outcomes.

Conclusion: The prevalence of LBP among medical students in Bangladesh was high, and most of the risk factors associated with the high prevalence of LBP were modifiable. Hence, LBP can be prevented by implementing preventive strategies and providing ergonomic training and physical activity facilities.
Mathematical modelling of activation-induced heterogeneity in TNF, IL6, NOS2, and IL1β expression reveals cell state transitions underpinning macrophage responses to LPS
Authors: Dey Shoumit , Boucher Dave , Pitchford Jon , Lagos Dimitris
Published: July 2022

Background: Despite extensive work on macrophage heterogeneity, the mechanisms driving activation induced heterogeneity (AIH) in macrophages remain poorly understood. Here, we aimed to develop mathematical models to explore theoretical cellular states underpinning the empirically observed responses of macrophages following lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge.

Methods: We obtained empirical data following primary and secondary responses to LPS in two in vitro cellular models (bone marrow-derived macrophages or BMDMs, and RAW 264.7 cells) and single-cell protein measurements for four key inflammatory mediators: TNF, IL-6, pro-IL-1β, and NOS2, and used mathematical modelling to understand heterogeneity.

Results: For these four factors, we showed that macrophage community AIH is dependent on LPS dose and that altered AIH kinetics in macrophages responding to a second LPS challenge underpin hypo-responsiveness to LPS. These empirical data can be explained by a mathematical three-state model including negative, positive, and non-responsive states (NRS), but they are also compatible with a four-state model that includes distinct reversibly NRS and non-responsive permanently states (NRPS). Our mathematical model, termed NoRM (Non-Responsive Macrophage) model identifies similarities and differences between BMDM and RAW 264.7 cell responses. In both cell types, transition rates between states in the NoRM model are distinct for each of the tested proteins and, crucially, macrophage hypo-responsiveness is underpinned by changes in transition rates to and from NRS.

Conclusions: Overall, we provide a mathematical model for studying macrophage ecology and community dynamics that can be used to elucidate the role of phenotypically negative macrophage populations in AIH and, primary and secondary responses to LPS.
Exploring what motivates the development of upcycling practices.
Authors: Martín Martín José María , Ruiz Martos María José , Morales Pachón Andrés , Calvo Martínez Sara
Published: July 2022

Faced with an aggressive production model with the use of resources, initiatives such as upcycling arise that seek to extend the life of products. This paper analyzes the role of individuals’ principles and values as driving factors, something that has not been studied in depth to date. The study is based on a field work in which 830 subjects from 180 countries have participated in a survey, from September 2019 to September 2020. This large sample of participants at the international level is one of the key contributions of the work, since it allows us to contrast conclusions from the few previous works and issue new ones based on the sequence of analysis described below, which broadens the empirical base in this field of study. The data so collected was analysed using the statistical software Stata and estimating standard multiple linear regressions, ordered logit and logit regressions. The findings confirmed the chain of actions - doing, frequency, entrepreneurship - is decisively conditioned by personal values and principles. This sequence of analysis constitutes the main contribution of our work. With regards to entrepreneurship, this work provides evidence that having the intention to start up an upcycling business is more likely when individuals consider upcycling important for them and report themselves as having a high probability of upcycling; but it is less likely among women and the older age groups (more than 55 years old).
Treatment of bilateral staghorn nephrolithiasis using percutaneous nephrolithotripsy in a patient chronically infected with Proteus mirabilis: a case report with literature review
Authors: Rudziński Gracjan , Brzuszkiewicz Kinga , Kusak Natalia , Pożarowska Kinga , Cholewa Krystian , Niezabitowska Ewa
Published: July 2022

Although urolithiasis is a common disease in the European population, bilateral staghorn stones are a relatively rare variant of nephrolithiasis. It is often associated with a chronic urinary tract infection or a metabolic disorder.
The aim of this paper is to show an example of the treatment of bilateral staghorn  stones in a patient chronically infected with a resistant strain of Proteus mirabilis. Percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (PCNL) is currently the gold standard of treatment.  And this is the way the patient was managed.
In the following section, the authors sought to describe new reports on this treatment method and how it could be improved.  Conservative treatment does not appear to be a safe alternative. And of the other surgical treatments, PCNL has the greatest benefits.
Nearly 68% of patients with bilateral staghorn  stones have some underlying metabolic disorder in a small sample of patients. It seems reasonable, therefore, to introduce genetic and metabolic diagnosis in younger patients with the aim of prevention through diet or pharmacotherapy.
Revisiting the Conditional Construal of Conditional Probability
Authors: Węgrecki Jakub , Wroński Leszek
Published: July 2022

We show how to extend any finite probability space into another finite one which satisfies the conditional construal of conditional probability for the original propositions, given some maximal allowed degree of nesting of the conditional. This mitigates the force of the well-known triviality results.
Graves’ Disease Caused by SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors: Sousa Bruno , Pestana Santos Catarina , Gonçalves Ferreira Ana , Judas Tiago
Published: July 2022

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that results in hyperthyroidism, caused by autoantibodies to the thyrotropin receptor (TRAbs) stimulating thyroid hormone synthesis, giving rise to a variety of systemic manifestations such as goitre, dermatopathy and orbitopathy.  The authors present the case of a 28-year-old man admitted to hospital for a 3-week history of fatigue, shortness of breath, palpitations and diffuse goitre, after recent mild SARS-CoV-2 infection. Laboratory investigation revealed hyperthyroidism with TRAbs elevation. Thyroid ultrasound confirmed a diffusely heterogeneous and irregular thyroid gland and a nodular image below the sternal notch. Thyroid scintigraphy excluded the nodule and confirmed a Graves’ disease pattern. Following the initiation of methimazole, the patient had complete resolution of symptoms and normalization of thyroid values. The results suggest a possible association between Graves’ disease and SARS-CoV-2 infection acting as a trigger. Graves’ disease is an important differential diagnosis to keep in mind when patients present with hyperthyroidism after COVID-19 disease.
Stabilization and enhancement of soft and hard tissues around dental implants: a surgical perspective
Authors: Romeed Shihab
Published: July 2022

This article discusses the surgical considerations for stabilizing and enhancing soft and hard tissues around dental implants. Recession is one of the recognized complications around dental implants, especially in the aesthetic zone. The novelty of computed dental implantology has widened the practice of dental implants with increased predictability and better safety margins. However, case selection is paramount to fulfil patients' functional and aesthetic expectations in the short and long term. 3D surgical planning for dental implant placement is key to ensure maximum stability of the soft and hard tissues around dental implants and reduce the risks of biological and mechanical complications. Holistic treatment planning needs to be formulated to achieve the expected aesthetic and functional treatment outcomes and ensure that there is no soft tissue or bone loss.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Knowledge of the surgical considerations in placing dental implants is essential for achieving a good aesthetic and functional outcome.
Experimental Investigation on Traction, Mobility, and Energy Usage of a Tracked Autonomous Ground Vehicle on a Sloped Soil Bin
Authors: Badgujar Chetan M. , Flippo Daniel , Brokesh Edwin , Welch Stephen
Published: July 2022

Highlights

Laying the groundwork for AGV mobility models for high slope terrain operations.

AGV drawbar pull performance was evaluated on a level terrain, uphill, and downhill slopes up to 18° on a soil bin.

AGV generates the optimum power efficiency with enough drawbar pull to perform a range of agricultural operations on uphill and downhill slopes up to 18°.

Explored the suitability and established the boundary conditions of small size ground vehicles on the high slope farming.

Generated sloped traction data would empower the multi-AGV system on sloped terrain.

Abstract. Excessive steepness of grasslands, hills, or uneven terrain presents difficulties for farming with large conventional equipment. Therefore, a fleet of Autonomous Ground Vehicles (AGV) is proposed to perform primary agricultural operations on high sloped hills or terrain. However, it is imperative to understand how an individual AGV functions on sloping terrain under varying load and speed. Hence, this study aims to investigate the traction, mobility, and energy consumption characteristics of AGV on a sloped soil bin environment. A drawbar pull performance of the prototype AGV was evaluated on a level terrain and variable slope of 10° and 18°, both uphill and downhill, at varying drawbar pull (P) and AGV speed. The AGV’s performance metrics include power efficiency (PE), travel reduction (TR), and power number (PN) which relates to AGV’s traction, mobility, and energy usage, respectively. The AGV generated drawbar pull equivalent to its weight only on downhill run for reduced PE. On a level terrain (0°), the peak PE was 0.20 and was found to be 108.3% and 328.6% higher on 10° and 18° downhill run than uphill with 55.5% and 133% increase in drawbar pull, respectively. Both applied drawbar pull and uphill operation caused the AGV’s TR. The TR, corresponding to a peak PE, increased from 10% to 30%, respectively, on 0° and both 10° and 18° uphill. The optimum values of power number ranged from 2 to 4. The AGV delivers the optimum PE and generates enough drawbar pull with an optimum TR to perform a range of agricultural operations on a slope up to 18°. This study explored the suitability and established the boundary conditions of small size ground vehicles for high-sloped farming. Besides this, the study also aims to generate an AGV’s slope traction database to optimize its control variables, design optimization, and develop a mobility model for sloped terrain. Keywords: Drawbar pull, Ground vehicle, Multi-AGV fleet, Power efficiency, Slope, Travel reduction.
Optimization of Induction Charging of Water Droplets to Develop an Electrostatic Spray Scrubber Intended for Poultry Particulate Matter Mitigation
Authors: Knight Reyna Madison , Li Xiaochuan , Hocter Jeb Stuart , Zhang Bo , Zhao Lingying , Zhu Heping
Published: July 2022

Highlights

Induction charging of water droplets by an ESS showed greatest CMRs using an 80° tapered edge flat spray nozzle

CMR of 0.578 mC kg-1 achieved with a water mass flow rate of 0.397 kg min-1 and an applied voltage of -11.6 kV

Changes in water conductivity did not significantly affect measured droplet CMRs

Abstract. Particulate matter (PM) is a prominent air pollutant in poultry facilities. One promising technology for PM mitigation in poultry facilities is the electrostatic spray scrubber (ESS). However, there is a significant lack of information on the charging characteristics of an ESS to promote efficient droplet charging and poultry PM collection. This study quantified the effects of applied voltage, water mass flow rate, water conductivity, and spray pattern on the charge-to-mass ratio (CMR) of droplets charged by a ring-shape electrode during induction. Voltages from -5 to -14 kV were applied to a 100 mm diameter, cylindrical copper electrode ring to charge droplets sprayed from different nozzles using 80° hollow cone, 80° tapered edge flat, and 110° tapered edge flat spray patterns. It was found that CMRs increased with greater negative voltages up to a point, after which greater negative voltages would decrease the CMR. A similar trend was observed for the effects of water mass flow rate on CMR. Water conductivity showed inconsistent effects on CMR across spray patterns and was deemed a statistically significant but practically insignificant factor. The 80° tapered edge flat spray pattern was found to produce the greatest CMRs. A linear regression model (R2 = 0.865) was developed and optimized to find the ESS configuration resulting in the greatest droplet CMR. The optimal CMR was 0.578 mC kg-1, produced using an 80° tapered edge flat spray nozzle at a water mass flow rate of 0.397 kg min-1, a conductivity of 0.05 S m-1, and an applied voltage of -11.6 kV. Keywords: Droplet charging, Electrostatic scrubber, Electrostatic sprayer, ESS, Induction charging, Spray charging, Spray nozzle.
Evaluation of Bioaerosol Samplers for Airborne Escherichia Coli Carried by Poultry Litter Particles
Authors: Nguyen Xuan Dung , Zhao Yang , Evans Jeffrey Dwayne , Lin Jun , Schneider Liesel , Voy Brynn , Hawkins Shawn , Purswell Joseph L.
Published: July 2022

Highlights

The study demonstrated a methodology to evaluate bioaerosol samplers on collecting Escherichia coli (E. coli) carried by airborne dust.

A dry-base aerosolization system was developed for the study.

The sampling efficiency of Andersen six-stage impactor and AGI-30 outperformed that of ACD-200 Bobcat.

Airborne E. coli might be preferentially aggregated on large particles (> 7.0 µm).

Abstract. Pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) are frequently recovered in poultry litter and may be transmitted through the air after bird activities create airborne dust. To assess risks of airborne transmission of E. coli carried by dust, efficient bioaerosol samplers under dry aerosolization conditions are required. The objective of this study was to compare the performance of three commonly used bioaerosol samplers, which included an Andersen six-stage impactor, an all-glass impinger (AGI-30), and an ACD-200 Bobcat (Bobcat), for collecting the airborne E. coli carried by dust particles under dry aerosolization condition in a bio-safety chamber. A dry aerosolization system was designed to generate dry bioaerosols for the study. Under the same airborne E. coli concentration with stable environmental conditions including temperature and relative humidity (RH), the E. coli concentrations determined by the three samplers were 5.05±2.08 log10 colony-forming units (CFU) m-3, 5.69±1.92 log10 CFU m-3, and 2.69±0.81 log10 CFU m-3 for Andersen six-stage impactor, AGI-30, and Bobcat, respectively. The results showed that there is no significant difference between Andersen six-stage impactor and AGI-30, while there was a sizeable decrease in the bacteria concentration determined by the Bobcat sampler. The results also showed that airborne E. coli were preferentially aggregated on large particles (> 7.0 µm). This study demonstrated a methodology to evaluate bioaerosol sampler efficiency using dry-base carriers of biological agents which are predominant in poultry houses. The optimal sampler can be used to determine the airborne E. coli loading in commercial poultry houses. Keywords: Airborne transmission, Bioaerosol samplers, Dry aerosolization, E. coli, Poultry.
Multispectral Retinography in Healthy Adult Population
Authors: Burgos-Fernández Francisco J. , Alterini Tommaso , Díaz-Doutón Fernando , Bou Marina , Vilaseca Meritxell
Published: July 2022

Spectral reflectance of the eye fundus was evaluated in adult healthy patients through a fast visible and near-infrared multispectral fundus camera. Spectral signatures were analyzed for different ocular structures of the retina and the choroid.
A Simple Algorithm for Diffuse Optical Tomography (DOT) without Matrix Inversion
Authors: Paul Ria , K Murali , Chetia Sumana , Varma Hari M
Published: July 2022

We present a computationally fast algorithm for estimating the optical property distribution of turbid media using diffuse optics principles without the inversion of Jacobian matrix. The algorithm is validated by simulations and experimental studies.
Investigating changes in skin biochemistry due to Discoid Lupus Erythematosus using Raman Spectroscopy and Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Holtkamp Hannah U. , Marini Federico , Quinn Liam , Aguergaray Claude , Nieuwoudt Michel , Grey Gus , Jarrett Paul , Simpson Cather
Published: July 2022

Discoid Lupus Erythematosus is a dermatological disease difficult to diagnose. By using Raman spectroscopy and MALDI mass spectrometry a shift in lipid biochemistry has been identified relative to healthy tissue, that can improve early detection.
Multifrequency Frequency Domain Diffuse Optical Tomography
Authors: deJong Max , Perkins Guy , Dehghani Hamid , Eggebrecht Adam
Published: July 2022

By simulating measurements from a HD-DOT system on a head atlas, we show that combining multiple modulation frequencies improves image quality over the standard continuous wave method and performs comparably to the single frequency counterpart.
Microstructured Optoacoustic Lens of Black-TiOx for Focused Ultrasound and Confined Cavitation Bubbles
Authors: Vella Daniele , Muc Blaž Tašič , Lukač Nejc , Kos Matjaž , Drnovšek Aljaž , Jezeršek Matija
Published: July 2022

We present a laser induced ultrasound and the localization of cavitation bubbles using an optoacoustic spherical Ti/black-TiOx lens. Results demonstrate the possibility to localize cavities and secondary ablative effects into the subsurface tissue.
In Vitro Screening with Holographic Incoherent Quantitative Phase Imaging Focuses on Finding Medicaments for Repurposing as Anti-Metastatic Agents Designated as Migrastatics
Authors: Šuráňová Markéta , Zicha Daniel , Veselý Pavel , Brábek Jan , Jůzová Veronika , Chmelík Radim
Published: July 2022

Live lung cancer cells in vitro were exposed to selected medicaments with putative anti- metastatic potential and examined by time-lapse hiQPI, providing simultaneous measurements of the effect on cell growth and motility with unprecedented accuracy.
A portable wireless device for monitoring of cell culture growth based on light scattering
Authors: Chernova Daria N. , Moskalensky Alexander E.
Published: July 2022

Monitoring of cell culture growth is of interest for many industrial and scientific areas. We present a device that non-invasively evaluates the cell concentration in a culture flask based on the light scattering measurements.
Hyperspectral Imaging for Perfusion Assessment of the Skin with Convolutional Neuronal Networks
Authors: Linek Matthäus , Schrader Isabel , Volgger Veronika , Rühm Adrian , Sroka Ronald
Published: July 2022

Convolutional neural networks were trained to determine four perfusion parameters from HSI recordings. The false-color images generated in this process show slight differences from the corresponding references, but can be reproduced meaningfully by visual assessment.
Adaptive Optics Light-Sheet Microscopy for Functional Neuroimaging
Authors: Hubert Antoine , Harms Fabrice , Imperato Sophia , Loriette Vincent , Veilly Cynthia , Levecq Xavier , Farkouh Georges , Rouyer François , Fragola Alexandra
Published: July 2022

We present a new implementation of adaptive optics for light-sheet microscopy, with a direct extended-scene wavefront sensing measurement for fast aberration correction. We report AO-enhanced images of GCaMP in freshly dissected drosophila brains.
Adaptive light sheet microscopy for in vivo imaging of fluorescently labeled specimens
Authors: Mylonakis Mikis , Zacharopoulos Athanasios , Marakis Evangelos , Papazoglou Dimitrios G. , Zacharakis Giannis
Published: July 2022

We explore wavefront shaping techniques to produce and control illumination patterns for use on Light-Sheet Fluorescence Microcopy (LSFM). We demonstrate the use of these patterns to perform in vivo imaging using fluorescently labeled specimens.
Optimum Selection of Individual-Level Neonatal Models in Place of Subject-Specific Priors for Infant Diffuse Optical Tomography
Authors: Collins-Jones Liam H , Elwell Clare E , Cooper Robert J
Published: July 2022

Diffuse optical tomography relies on anatomical models to simulate light transport. We investigate which cotside measures are best to choose an individual-level head model when subject-specific data is unavailable for neonatal infants.
Real-Time, Wide-Field Endoscopic Quantitative Imaging Based on 3D Profile Corrected Deep-Learning SSOP
Authors: Baratelli L. , Aguénounon E. , Flury M. , Gioux S.
Published: July 2022

We present the design of an endoscopic imaging system based on Deep Learning-optimized 3D profile corrected “Single Snapshot imaging of Optical Properties” (3D-SSOP), for real-time, wide-field quantitative oxygenation imaging of biological tissues.
Fourier transform provides computational advantages for time-domain diffuse optical tomography
Authors: Mozumder Meghdoot , Tarvainen Tanja
Published: July 2022

The Fourier transform was compared to conventional temporal moments for time-domain diffuse optical tomography. Both approaches provided similar accuracies. The Fourier transform enabled a computationally cheaper implementation of the inverse solver.
Pump-probe photoacoustic spectroscopy of red fluorescent proteins
Authors: Golmohamadi Farzin Ghane , Mehmood Amna , Schmitt Franz-Josef , Laufer Jan
Published: July 2022

Photoacoustic pump-probe excitation was used to generate a fluorophore-specific contrast in fluorescent proteins. The measured signals using pump-probe spectroscopy were found to correlate with the absorption and emission spectra of the protein.
3D Optoacoustic Tomography Via Spatially Codded Detectors
Authors: Hahamovich Evgeny , Monin Sagi , Hazan Yoav , Levi Ahiad , Nagli Michael , Rosenthal Amir
Published: July 2022

Novel method for spatially coding ultrasonic detectors is described and experimentally demonstrated by in vivo Optoacoustic imaging of a mouse leg using a single detector, effectively transformed to a 2D detection array with 1763 elements.
Fluorescence Based Handheld Imaging Device for In-Vivo Detection of Oral Precancer
Authors: Sah Amar Nath , Kumar Pavan , Pradhan Asima
Published: July 2022

An imaging device based on fluorescence for in vivo detection of oral cancer has been developed. Images collected from cancerous patients and normal volunteers have shown a clear difference in fluorescence intensity.
Background-free 3D four-wave mixing microscopy of single gold nanoparticles inside biological systems
Authors: Pope Iestyn , Ferreira Nuno G. C. , Wang Yisu , Masia Francesco , Swann Karl , Kille Peter , Langbein Wolfgang , Borri Paola
Published: July 2022

Individual small gold nanoparticles are imaged in 3D background-free with high contrast by four-wave-mixing interferometry inside living mouse oocytes and multi-cellular organs, despite the strong linear scattering background in these large samples.
Benchtop Photoacoustic Tomograph with Camera Based Ultrasound Detection
Authors: Nuster Robert , Brandmueller Dorian , Paltauf Guenther
Published: July 2022

We developed a rotatable and compact tabletop photoacoustic tomograph with camera based optical ultrasound detection. The system's performance: achievable resolution of <100 µm and 3D imaging duration of less than 20s.
Multimode Fibre-based Optical-resolution Photoacoustic Endo-microscopy with a Real-valued Intensity Transmission Matrix
Authors: Zhao Tianrui , Ourselin Sebastien , Vercauteren Tom , Xia Wenfeng
Published: July 2022

We present the development of a forward-viewing optical-resolution photoacoustic endo-microscopy probe based on a multimode fibre via high-speed wavefront shaping. High-resolution 3D photoacoustic microscopy images of carbon fibres and red blood cells were obtained.
New Hybrid Time-domain Device for Diffuse Correlation Spectroscopy and Near-infrared Spectroscopy for Brain Hemodynamic Assessment
Authors: Samaei Saeed , Mogharari Neda , Borycki Dawid , Liebert Adam , Kacprzak Michał
Published: July 2022

Hybrid device for the study of blood flow index and hemoglobins concentrations changes was developed. Diffuse correlation spectroscopy and time-resolved near-infrared spectroscopy were applied to study brain hemodynamics of healthy adults human during the Valsalva maneuver.
Mathematical framework for freeform design
Authors: ten Thije Boonkkamp J. H. M. , Romijn L. B. , Anthonissen M. J. H. , IJzerman W. L.
Published: July 2022

We outline the mathematical framework for freeform optical design, based on Hamilton’s characteristic functions and energy conservation.
Analysis of the allowable maximum amplitude of random jitter in computational ghost imaging
Authors: Jiang Tongji , Bai Yanfeng , Tan Wei , Zhu Xiaohui , Liang Xiaoqian , Jin Hang , Fu Qin , Fu Xiquan
Published: July 2022

The imaging blur caused by the relative motion between an imaging system and an imaging target can be eliminated by a compensation operation based on the motion law, although it is invalid when the movement is random. In this paper, the influence of the random jitter on imaging resolution is investigated quantitatively in a computational ghost imaging system, and the maximum of random-jitter amplitude that the system can allow is analyzed. The numerical and experimental results verify our conclusion, and the error between the experiment and simulation is less than 12%. The main reason for the error is the disturbance of experimental noise. By using ghost imaging algorithms to reduce the corresponding impact, this error can be further reduced to 6%.
Radially polarized 33  W emission from a double-pass Ho:YAG thin-slab amplifier
Authors: Barber Matthew J. , Shardlow Peter C. , Smith Callum R. , Clarkson W. Andrew
Published: July 2022

The generation of a 33.7 W radially polarized output is demonstrated by way of double-pass amplification in a Ho:YAG thin-slab crystal. The amplifier system was seeded with the radially polarized output beam from a continuous-wave 13.2 W, 2.1 µm Ho:YAG rod laser, which exploited gain medium bifocusing and a ring-shaped pump spot to promote preferential lasing on the radially polarized Laguerre–Gaussian mode. By compensating for both the thermally induced stress birefringence in the thin-slab crystal and the Gouy phase shift resulting from astigmatic focusing of the 13.2 W seed, only marginal beam degradation was observed across the 95 W range of pump power into the amplifier.
Entangling three identical particles via spatial overlap
Authors: Lee Donghwa , Pramanik Tanumoy , Hong Seongjin , Cho Young-Wook , Lim Hyang-Tag , Chin Seungbeom , Kim Yong-Su
Published: July 2022

Quantum correlations between identical particles are at the heart of quantum technologies. Several studies with two identical particles have shown that the spatial overlap and indistinguishability between the particles are necessary for generating bipartite entanglement. On the other hand, researches on the extension to more than two-particle systems are limited by the practical difficulty to control multiple identical particles in laboratories. In this work, we propose schemes to generate two fundamental classes of genuine tripartite entanglement, i.e., GHZ and W classes, which are experimentally demonstrated using linear optics with three identical photons. We also show that the tripartite entanglement class decays from the genuine entanglement to the full separability as the particles become more distinguishable from each other. Our results support the prediction that particle indistinguishability is a fundamental element for entangling identical particles.
Wide-waveguide high-power low-RIN single-mode distributed feedback laser diodes for optical communication
Authors: Xiang Minwen , Zhang Yuanhao , Li Guojiong , Liu Can , Chen Quanan , Lu Qiaoyin , Huang Lirong , Lu Mingzhi , DoneGan John , Guo Weihua
Published: July 2022

We present an 8-µm-wide 800-µm-long high-power, single-mode and low RIN DFB laser using a dual-waveguide structure. The introduced passive lower waveguide has weakenes the lateral optical confinement for the ridge waveguide, and thus reduces losses caused by the p-doped layers and maintains single mode stability of the laser. The fabricated laser exhibited an output power higher than 170 mW and a relative intensity noise (RIN) below −157 dB/Hz along with a side-mode suppression-ratio (SMSR) over 55 dB. The temperature tuning from −10°C to 60°C allows an 8.6 nm wavelength tunability with a variation coefficient of 0.12 nm/K. The relaxation oscillation frequency is around 8 GHz, and the linewidth is about 250 kHz at 100 mW output power for the fabricated laser. The characteristics of the proposed high-power laser, including high slope efficiency, single mode stability and low noise, make it a suitable candidate for optical communication.
Coupling light emission of single-photon sources into single-mode fibers: mode matching, coupling efficiencies, and thermo-optical effects
Authors: Schwab Julian , Weber Ksenia , Drozella Johannes , Jimenez Carlos , Herkommer Alois , Bremer Lucas , Reitzenstein Stephan , Giessen Harald
Published: July 2022

We discuss the coupling efficiency of single-photon sources into single-mode fibers using 3D printed micro-optical lens designs. Using the wave propagation method, we optimize lens systems for two different quantum light sources and assess the results in terms of maximum coupling efficiencies, misalignment effects, and thermo-optical influences. Thereby, we compare singlet lens designs with one lens printed onto the fiber with doublet lens designs with an additional lens printed onto the semiconductor substrate. The single-photon sources are quantum dots based on microlenses and circular Bragg grating cavities at 930 nm and 1550 nm, respectively.
Tunable picosecond optical parametric amplifier pumped by 1 ps pulses at 1 µm for coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering
Authors: Zhao Xiaodong , Baudisch Matthias , Beutler Marcus , Gabler Thomas , Nolte Stefan , Ackermann Roland
Published: July 2022

We report an optical parametric amplifier (OPA), providing a maximum pulse energy of ∼200 µJ at 700–950 nm and a pulse duration of ∼1 ps. The OPA is driven by a ∼1 ps pulse with ∼2.5 mJ energy at 1 kHz, provided by a commercial thin-disk based laser. Using the output pulse of the OPA as pump, the thin-disk laser pulses at 1030 nm as Stokes, and the second harmonic (515 nm) as probe, we investigate the coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) of N2 and CO2 at various temperatures.