bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined optical fluorescence microscopy and X-ray tomography reveals substructures in cell nuclei in 3D
Authors: Wittmeier Andrew , Bernhardt Marten , Robisch Anna-Lena , Cassini Chiara , Osterhoff Markus , Salditt Tim , Köster Sarah
Published: August 2022

The function of a biological cell is fundamentally defined by the structural architecture of packaged DNA in the nucleus. Elucidating information about the packaged DNA is facilitated by high-resolution imaging. Here, we combine and correlate hard X-ray propagation-based phase contrast tomography and visible light confocal microscopy in three dimensions to probe DNA in whole cell nuclei of NIH-3T3 fibroblasts. In this way, unlabeled and fluorescently labeled substructures within the cell are visualized in a complementary manner. Our approach enables the quantification of the electron density, volume and optical fluorescence intensity of nuclear material. By joining all of this information, we are able to spatially localize and physically characterize both active and inactive heterochromatin, euchromatin, pericentric heterochromatin foci and nucleoli.
Improving the phase reconstruction accuracy of simultaneous phase-shifted lateral shearing interferometry using a polarization redundant sub-region interpolation method
Authors: Wang Siqi , Liu Bingcai , Wang Hongjun , Zhu Yahui , Wang Kai , Ren Kexin , Zhang Yuwen , Tian Ailing
Published: August 2022

In a simultaneous phase-shifted lateral shearing interferometry, a division of focal plane polarization camera is generally used as the phase-shifting device. However, acquiring simultaneous phase-shift interferograms in a single frame suffers from a lack of spatial resolution, significantly affecting the phase reconstruction accuracy. A polarization redundant sub-region interpolation (PRSI) method is proposed to solve this problem. This interpolation method distinguishes smooth regions from stripe fringe regions by calculating the polarization redundancy error of the synchronous phase shift interferogram. After sub-regional processing, resolution reconstruction is performed in the smoothed area using a fast convolutional bilinear interpolation method. In the streak detail region, the resolution reconstruction is performed based on the strength of the correlation between the orthogonal and non-orthogonal polarization channels crossing the streak region. The PRSI method can quickly reconstruct the lost pixels and accurately recover the stripe detail information. Experiment results show that the proposed interpolation method outperforms the existing dominant methods in terms of visual reconstruction effect and quantitative index of phase reconstruction.
Experimental study on underwater continuous-variable quantum key distribution with discrete modulation
Authors: Tang Xinke , Chen Zhen , Zhao Zongyao , Kumar Rupesh , Dong Yuhan
Published: August 2022

We experimentally demonstrated the feasibility of an underwater continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD) system based on four-state protocol, which is promising to guarantee the unconditionally secure underwater wireless optical communication. CV-QKD parameter estimation is performed after transmitting quantum coherent signal from Alice to Bob through a water tank. The secure key rate under collective attack of the demonstrated CV-QKD system is estimated as 22.9 kbits/s at a channel loss of 12.4 dB. In addition, the performance is also investigated with various water types and the maximum underwater transmission distance of the demonstrated CV-QKD system is estimated as 148.7 m in the pure sea water.
Repumping atomic media for an enhanced sensitivity atomic magnetometer
Authors: Li Rujie , Perrella Christopher , Luiten André
Published: August 2022

Atomic vapour magnetometers sense the local magnetic field strength by measuring the resulting precession rate of a well-defined quantum state. An essential prerequisite for this approach is a requirement to drive the media into this quantum state, which is frequently achieved via optical pumping. In real-world alkali-metal atoms, with their multiplicity of ground states, the optical pumping process is necessarily lossy, with a large fraction of the atoms being lost to quantum states that do not contribute to the useful magnetically sensitive signal. This consequently reduces the sensitivity of all optically-pumped atomic sensors. Here we theoretically and experimentally study the population changes of the quantum ground states of 87Rb during optical pumping. We use this understanding to develop a repumping scheme that allows us to increase the number of atoms that are contributing to the useful magnetic sensing output. Unlike prior schemes, our approach delivers this improved sensitivity with significantly suppressed fictitious magnetic fields associated with the repumping, which would otherwise reduce the accuracy of the sensor. When operated at Earth’s field strength (∼50µT), the repumped sensor shows a magnetic sensitivity of 200 fT/

Hz

, that is nearly three times higher than the non-repumped version.
Interfacial topological photonics: broadband silicon waveguides for THz 6G communication and beyond
Authors: Tan Yi Ji , Wang Wenhao , Kumar Abhishek , Singh Ranjan
Published: August 2022

Topological photonics has expanded our understanding of electromagnetic wave propagation and unraveled new methods of electromagnetic wave shaping. Among the various topological photonic systems, valley photonic crystal (VPC) is a highly versatile platform for constructing interfaces that supports unidirectional edge state to enable the robust topological transport of light. Although silicon VPC waveguides has demonstrated the lossless propagation of terahertz (THz) waves through multiple sharp bends, existing designs are mostly based on the standard zigzag-interface. Here, we explore interfacial topological photonics by designing a composite interface junction for an air-slot-like VPC waveguide with a 60° bend and an unchanging bearded-interface to allow the topologically protected propagation of THz waves over a 20% relative bandwidth. We employ particle swarm optimization to design the geometry of a bearded-interface silicon VPC waveguide to achieve a 42% relative bandgap and a topological edge state spanning a usable 25% relative bandwidth. Our work illustrates the prospects and challenges of interfacial topological photonics in the design of broadband silicon topological waveguides for potential applications across the electromagnetic spectrum, including the on-chip THz sixth-generation (6G) communication.
Even sampling photonic-integrated interferometric array for synthetic aperture imaging
Authors: Wang Kun , Zhu You Qiang , An Qi Chang , Zhang Xiang Chao , Peng Cheng , Meng Hao Ran , Liu Xin Yue
Published: August 2022

To improve the effectiveness of spatial spectrum sampling for the photonic-integrated interferometric imaging, an array forming scheme is proposed with evenly distributed interferometric baselines, which is referred to as the even sampling photonic-integrated interferometric array (ESPIA). The subaperture array of ESPIA is configured as equi-spaced concentric rings. The subaperture beams are coupled and transmitted to the photonic integrated circuit through fiber optic channels and paired into baselines by the interferometric beam combination. The characteristics of ESPIA are analyzed with the discrete modulation transfer function (D-MTF) and multi-resolution mutual information (MR-MI). The simulation results show that it can realize the even sampling coverage of spatial spectrum effectively. With the same scale of synthetic aperture and subaperture array, it can also improve the capabilities of information acquisition for the interferometric array.
Thin-film lithium niobate polarization modulator without polarization diversity
Authors: Sun Xuerui , Wu Yinan , Lu Chuanyi , Li Hao , Ye Xiaona , Zhang Yuting , Liu Shijie , Zheng Yuanlin , Chen Xianfeng
Published: August 2022

With the development of photonic integrated circuits and optical information processing on thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN), the realization of the TFLN-based polarization device is becoming more and more crucial. Here, we demonstrate a polarization modulator on the TFLN platform without polarization diversity. Without polarization manipulation elements, the device only composes a phase modulator and a two-dimensional grating coupler. The structure features small footprint and high fabrication tolerance. The device holds promise for polarization encoding telecommunication.
Optical amplification enables a huge sensitivity improvement to laser heterodyne radiometers for high-resolution measurements of atmospheric gases
Authors: Deng Hao , Li Renshi , Liu Hao , He Yabai , Yang Chenguang , Li Xiang , Xu Zhenyu , Kan Ruifeng
Published: August 2022

A novel, to the best of our knowledge, performance-enhanced laser heterodyne radiometer has been developed by utilizing a semiconductor optical amplifier to amplify the collected weak solar radiation in an optical fiber. High-spectral-resolution measurements of atmospheric carbon dioxide column absorption are used to validate the technique and performance of the developed instrument. The implementation of optical amplification led to a 9-times improvement in sensitivity according to the Allan variance analysis for noise fluctuations, and resulted in a 7.7-times enhancement in measurement precision for atmospheric carbon dioxide. The promising results showed the great potential of employing this type of compact fiber-optics-based spectral radiometer for applications such as atmospheric greenhouse gas sensing.
Significant performance enhancement of UV-Vis self-powered CsPbBr3 quantum dot-based photodetectors induced by ligand modification and P3HT embedding
Authors: Wang Meng , Liang Dehai , Ma Wen , Mo Qionghua , Zang Zhigang , Qian Qingkai , Cai Wensi
Published: August 2022

In this work, we report a novel, to the best of our knowledge, strategy to improve the performance of UV-Vis self-powered CsPbBr3 quantum dot (QD) based photodetectors (PDs) by ligand modification and poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) embedding. Compared with those based on pure QDs, modified PDs show a shortened response time by nearly ten times, and increases of maximum responsivity and specific detectivity by nearly 45 and 97 times, respectively. Such PDs also show a high stability with 90% of the initial photocurrent being maintained even after storage in ambient air without any encapsulation for 30 days.
Directional dependent magnetooptical effect and the photonic spin Hall effect in a magnetic Weyl semimetal-based photonic crystal
Authors: Da Haixia , Song Qi , Ye Huapeng
Published: August 2022

The ability to generate and manipulate the directional dependent magnetooptical effect and photonic spin Hall effect is essential toward realistic unidirectional optoelectronic devices, but its exploration remains scarce. Here we theoretically identify that the multilayer structure whose unit cell is composed of a new, to the best of our knowledge, emergent magnetic Weyl semimetal layer and two anisotropic dielectric layers has the capability of creating the propagation direction dependent magnetooptical effect and photonic spin Hall effect simultaneously due to its intrinsic lack of space inversion and time reversal symmetries. Specifically, we also realize the continuous manipulation of the magnetooptical effect and photonic spin Hall effect in this structure under two opposite directions by an electrical means, which is contributed by the control of the optical properties in magnetic Weyl semimetals by Fermi energy. Our work enables an alternative strategy to achieve the directional dependent optical as well as magnetooptical effects simultaneously, which provides new perspectives in the fresh field of unidirectional optoelectronics and spin photonics.
Optical encryption in spatial frequencies of light fields with metasurfaces
Authors: Ouyang Min , Yu Haoyang , Pan Danping , Wan Lei , Zhang Cheng , Gao Shecheng , Feng Tianhua , Li Zhaohui
Published: August 2022

Optical encryption has attracted attention recently as information security becomes important in modern society. For most encryption methods based on metasurfaces, however, information is encrypted into the metasurfaces of physical forms, limiting information sharing and compatibility with digital information processing technology. Here, we demonstrate an alternative scheme in which information is encrypted on optical images other than metasurfaces, releasing the constraints mentioned above. This is achieved by modulating the spatial frequencies of optical images with metasurfaces. Specifically, information encryption and decryption based on the intensity or phase of spatial frequency have been demonstrated with the developed microscopic Fourier optics technique. The abundance of spatial frequency also promises a flexible multiplexing platform for increasing information capacity, which has been verified by a 4-bit encryption experiment. These findings could enable high-security and high-capacity optical encryption platforms.
Deep-learning-augmented computational miniature mesoscope
Authors: Xue Yujia , Yang Qianwan , Hu Guorong , Guo Kehan , Tian Lei
Published: August 2022

Fluorescence microscopy is essential to study biological structures and dynamics. However, existing systems suffer from a trade-off between field of view (FOV), resolution, and system complexity, and thus cannot fulfill the emerging need for miniaturized platforms providing micron-scale resolution across centimeter-scale FOVs. To overcome this challenge, we developed a computational miniature mesoscope (

C
M

2

) that exploits a computational imaging strategy to enable single-shot, 3D high-resolution imaging across a wide FOV in a miniaturized platform. Here, we present

C
M

2

V2, which significantly advances both the hardware and computation. We complement the

3

×

3

microlens array with a hybrid emission filter that improves the imaging contrast by

5

×

, and design a 3D-printed free-form collimator for the LED illuminator that improves the excitation efficiency by 3×. To enable high-resolution reconstruction across a large volume, we develop an accurate and efficient 3D linear shift-variant (LSV) model to characterize spatially varying aberrations. We then train a multimodule deep learning model called

C
M

2

N
e
t

, using only the 3D-LSV simulator. We quantify the detection performance and localization accuracy of

C
M

2

N
e
t

to reconstruct fluorescent emitters under different conditions in simulation. We then show that

C
M

2

N
e
t

generalizes well to experiments and achieves accurate 3D reconstruction across a

∼

7
-

m
m

FOV and 800-µm depth, and provides

∼

6
-

µ

m

lateral and

∼

25
-

µ

m

axial resolution. This provides an

∼

8
×

better axial resolution and

∼

1400
×

faster speed compared to the previous model-based algorithm. We anticipate this simple, low-cost computational miniature imaging system will be useful for many large-scale 3D fluorescence imaging applications.
Quantum Networking Advantage with Graph States
Authors: Pickston Alexander , Webb Jonathan , Morrison Christopher , Proietti Massimiliano , Ulibarrena Andrés , Ho Joseph , Grasselli Federico , Fedrizzi Alessandro
Published: August 2022

Quantum networks will provide multi-user entanglement to connected nodes. Here we demonstrate a network advantage for quantum conference key agreement between four users from a re-configurable six-photon graph state.
Long-distance quantum teleportation from a photonic telecom qubit to a matter qubit
Authors: Lago-Rivera Dario , Rakonjac Jelena V. , Grandi Samuele , de Riedmatten Hugues
Published: August 2022

We demonstrate long-distance quantum teleportation from a telecom photonic time-bin qubit to a solid-state quantum memory. The storage time of the quantum memory allows for active feedforward, therefore completing the protocol.
High-Dimensional Quantum Key Distribution with Scrambled Time-Bin Encoding
Authors: Sulimany Kfir , Dudkiewicz Rom , Korenblit Simcha , Eisenberg Hagai S. , Bromberg Yaron , Ben-Or Michael
Published: August 2022

We propose and analyze a high-dimensional cryptographic protocol relying on a coherent-one-way quantum key distribution system. We demonstrate it over a 40km fiber link and observe a twofold enhancement in the secure key rate.
Information Encoding in Bright Twins Beams as Tailored Spatial Correlations - A Perturbative Approach
Authors: Nirala Gaurav , Pradyumna Siva T. , Kumar Ashok , Marino Alberto M.
Published: August 2022

We encode information in the distribution of the far-field correlations of bright twin beams. Using a perturbative approach to calculate the expected spatial correlations, we increase the fidelity between the simulated and experimental results.
Towards quantum electro-optic transduction with an embedded 100 ms coherence time quantum memory
Authors: Planz Eric , Seis Yannick , Capelle Thibault , Xi Xiang , Langman Eric , Schliesser Albert
Published: August 2022

We present an implementation of a hybrid electro-optical quantum transducer made with an ultracoherent nanomembrane, whose motion is coupled to both an optical cavity and a microwave cavity. Interestingly, this membrane can be used as an embedded quantum memory, with an inferred coherence time of more than 100 ms.
Quantum state preparation and measurement using liquid crystals and deep learning
Authors: Bielak Martin , Vašinka Dominik , Stárek Robert , Mičuda Michal , Ježek Miroslav
Published: August 2022

We report fast estimation of single and multi-mode polarization states at an unprecedented fidelity level of 0.9996(4) and deep learning preparation of arbitrary polarization-encoded qubits with 0.998(6) fidelity using twisted nematic liquid-crystals.
Administering an antidote to Schrödinger’s cat
Authors: Álvarez Juan-Rafael , IJspeert Mark , Barter Oliver , Yuen Ben , Barrett Thomas D. , Stuart Dustin , Dilley Jerome , Holleczek Annemarie , Kuhn Axel
Published: August 2022

We present a technique that steers the measured state of a quantum superposition to a determined outcome by using feedback on the interference of two long, identical photons produced using 87Rb atoms in cavities.
Toward A 1D Chain Of Cold Rydberg Atoms Next To An Optical Nanofiber
Authors: Brown Dylan , Vylegzhanin Alexey , Raj Aswathy , Chormaic Síle Nic
Published: August 2022

We experimentally generate Rydberg atoms next to an optical nanofiber via the evanescent field to investigate the impact of the fiber on the excitation, with the goal of producing a 1D chain of Rydberg atoms.
Temporal Coherence of an Optical Field in the Presence of Entanglement
Authors: Zhang Yunxiao , Huo Nan , Zhao Wen , Guo Xueshi , Li Xiaoying , Ou Z. Y.
Published: August 2022

We demonstrate in SU(1,1) interferometers that temporal coherence of an optical field depends on not only its spectrum but also its entanglement property. This study reveals the relationship among interference visibility, photon distinguishability and entanglement.
Experimental observation of anomalous supralinear response of single-photon detectors
Authors: Hloušek Josef , Straka Ivo , Ježek Miroslav
Published: August 2022

We demonstrate a direct single-source method for absolute measurement of nonlinearity of SPADs and SNSPDs with unprecedented accuracy. We discover supralinear behavior of SPADs and show that it cannot be explained using known theoretical models.
Multiple entangled modes out of a hot rubidium vapour
Authors: Guerrero A. Montaña , Rincon Celis R. L. , Nirala G. , Meireles T.L. , Nussenzveig P. , de Andrade G. C. B. , Martinelli M. , Marino A. M. , Florez H. M.
Published: August 2022

Parametric amplification and oscillation in atomic vapors produced by four wave mixing process can lead to multiple entangled sidebands. We explore this structure, revealing four mode entanglement on the probe and conjugate modes.
Compact, Portable, Fiber-Coupled Correlated Photon Pair Source with Enhanced Performance
Authors: Holló Csaba Tamás , Sarkadi Tamás , Galambos Máté , Bodrog Bertalan , Barócsi Attila , Koppa Pál , Erdei Gábor
Published: August 2022

Our recently published photon source has been enhanced in terms of robustness and spectral width. Thanks to a custom breadboard rigidity increased by 350%, due to 10nm spectral filtering the heralding ratio grew to 39%.
Entangled photon factory: How to generate quantum resource states from a minimal number of quantum emitters
Authors: Li Bikun , Economou Sophia E. , Barnes Edwin
Published: August 2022

Photonic graph states are a crucial resource for quantum networks and measurement-based quantum computing. We present a general, efficient algorithm for determining how to generate any graph state from a minimal number of quantum emitters.
Multipath Routing for Multipartite State Distribution in Quantum Networks
Authors: Sutcliffe Evan , Hoban Matty J. , Beghelli Alejandra
Published: August 2022

Multipath routing for multipartite state distribution is proposed. Compared to shortest path routing, multipath routing achieved exponential rate improvement and an observed 6000× speedup on error-prone grid networks.
Recursion Depth Reduction in Shor’s Algorithm
Authors: Wang Shuangbao Paul
Published: August 2022

Mathematical-oriented analog quantum computing paradigm seeks perfectness in searching for solutions. However, the errors propagation due to noises may offset the accuracy over time. This paper aims to shorten the execution time on QFT transforms.
Experimentally Realizable Continuous-variable Quantum Neural Networks
Authors: Bangar Shikha , Siopsis George , Yeter-Aydeniz Kübra
Published: August 2022

We build a continuous variable hybrid quantum-classical neural network using only Gaussian gates. We achieve non-linearity through measurements on ancillary qumodes. Our protocol can be realized experimentally with current photonic technology.
Scalability of Photonic Frequency Domain Processing Revealed via Spectral Hong-Ou-Mandel Effect Between Independent Single Photons
Authors: Kashi Anahita Khodadad , Kues Michael
Published: August 2022

Scalability of frequency-encoded photonic quantum processing is demonstrated via a first-time implementation of the spectral bosonic and fermionic-like Hong-Ou-Mandel effect between independent single photons and within a reconfigurable frequency processing circuit.
Integrated Photon-pair Sources on a 3C-SiC-on-insulator Platform
Authors: Li Jiayang , Poon Andrew W.
Published: August 2022

Silicon carbide (SiC) polytypes are emerging integrated second-order nonlinear and quantum photonic platforms. We demonstrate on a 3C-SiC-on-insulator platform photon-pair generation through spontaneous parametric down-conversion in the 1550nm wavelengths from an elliptical microring resonator.
Atomic Clocks Technologies Supporting Twin-Field QKD in a Real World
Authors: Donadello S. , Clivati C. , Meda A. , Virzì S. , Genovese M. , Levi F. , Mura A. , Pittaluga M. , Yuan Z. , Shields A. J. , Lucamarini M , Degiovanni I. P. , Calonico D.
Published: August 2022

We describe the exploitation of narrow linewidth lasers and coherent laser interferometry techniques originally developed in the atomic clocks community to improve the performances of twin-field quantum key distribution protocols in real-world, long-distance fiber networks.
Quantum limits to polarization measurement of classical light
Authors: Jarzyna Marcin
Published: August 2022

I derive ultimate lower bound on the precision of polarization estimation for classical coherent light. I show that it is attainable with conventional detection schemes and discuss role of the global phase in this problem.
The Hong-Ou-Mandel effect is really odd
Authors: Alsing Paul M. , Birrittella Richard J. , Gerry Christopher C. , Mimih Jihane , Knight Peter L.
Published: August 2022

We show that any odd parity state entering one input port of a 50:50 beam splitter, with an arbitrary state entering the other input port, produces zero coincidence counts. This result extends the HOM effect.
Superconducting Nanowire Single-Photon Detectors and Multi-Photon Detectors
Authors: Zou Kai , Meng Yun , Hu Nan , Feng Yifang , Hao Zifan , Gyger Samuel , Steinhauer Stephan , Zwiller Val , Hu Xiaolong
Published: August 2022

We present our research progress in superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs) and multi-photon detectors (SNMPDs), including fractal SNSPDs with reduced polarization sensitivity, two mechanisms of device timing jitter, and SNMPDs integrated with current reservoirs.
Reducing g(2)(0) of a Parametric Down-Conversion Source via Photon-Number Resolution with Superconducting Nanowire Detectors
Authors: Sempere-Llagostera S. , Thekkadath G. S. , Patel R. B. , Kolthammer W. S. , Walmsley I. A.
Published: August 2022

We demonstrate a 13 ± 0.4% reduction of the second-order correlation function g(2)(0) by harnessing the photon-number resolving capabilities of commercial super-conducting nanowire single-photon detectors, improving the quality of a heralded single-photon source.
Developing a layered quantum-capable internet
Authors: Castillo-Veneros Leonardo , Du Dounan , Cui Guodong , Cottrill Dillion , Stankus Paul , Katramatos Dimitrios , Martínez-Rincón Julián , Flament Mael , Namazi Mehdi , Figueroa Eden
Published: August 2022

We are currently developing a long-baseline quantum network in Long Island, New York. We have communicated quantum memories over a 158km network between Stony Brook and Brookhaven. Here we present the quantum enabling tools necessary to construct a quantum capable internet.
An efficient photonic indistinguishability witness: Experimental demonstration on a photonic processor
Authors: van der Meer Reinier , Hooijschuur Peter , Somhorst Franciscus H.B. , Venderbosch Pim , de Goede Michiel , Kassenberg Ben , Snijders Henk , Taballione Caterina , Epping Jörn , van den Vlekkert Hans , Walk Nathan , Pinkse Pepijn W.H. , Renema Jelmer J.
Published: August 2022

Efficient and reliable measurement of photonic indistinguishability is crucial for any claim of a quantum advantage in photonics. Using an integrated photonic processor, we introduce and demonstrate a semi-device-independent witness of photonic indistinguishability.
Entanglement-Enhanced Matter-Wave Interferometry in a High-Finesse Cavity
Authors: Luo Chengyi , Greve Graham P. , Wu Baochen , Thompson James K.
Published: August 2022

We demonstrate an entanglement-enhanced matter-wave interferometer in a high-finesse cavity with

1.7

−
0.5

+
0.5

dB

directly observed metrological enhancement of phase resolution. The squeezing is generated through quantum non-demolition measurement and cavity-mediated one-axis twisting dynamics.
Nondestructive microwave detection for compact quantum inertial sensors
Authors: Dubosclard W. , Kim S. , Sidorenkov L. A. , Garrido Alzar C. L.
Published: August 2022

Inertial sensors based on cold atom interferometry are characterized by extremely high sensitivity and stability. They are therefore compatible with the stringent requirements of applications ranging from geophysics, navigation, positioning, and civil engineering to fundamental physics tests. However, the practical use of these sensors remains essentially limited by their relative bulkiness and low measurement bandwidth. Here, we address these drawbacks by implementing a novel solution for atomic state detection. It is based on the modification of the radiation resistance of an antenna in the presence of a cold atom ensemble. This method allowed us the nondestructive monitoring of a coherent quantum dynamics with a bandwidth of about 30 kHz and a chosen destructiveness of less than 0.1%. In addition, by performing a typical Ramsey sequence (a clock measurement), we demonstrate the preservation of the atomic quantum coherence.
Ten simple rules for maximizing the recommendations of the NIH data management and sharing plan
Authors: Gonzales Sara , Carson Matthew B. , Holmes Kristi
Published: August 2022

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Policy for Data Management and Sharing (DMS Policy) recognizes the NIH’s role as a key steward of United States biomedical research and information and seeks to enhance that stewardship through systematic recommendations for the preservation and sharing of research data generated by funded projects. The policy is effective as of January 2023. The recommendations include a requirement for the submission of a Data Management and Sharing Plan (DMSP) with funding applications, and while no strict template was provided, the NIH has released supplemental draft guidance on elements to consider when developing a plan. This article provides 10 key recommendations for creating a DMSP that is both maximally compliant and effective.
Neural networks for self-adjusting mutation rate estimation when the recombination rate is unknown
Authors: Burger Klara Elisabeth , Pfaffelhuber Peter , Baumdicker Franz
Published: August 2022

Estimating the mutation rate, or equivalently effective population size, is a common task in population genetics. If recombination is low or high, optimal linear estimation methods are known and well understood. For intermediate recombination rates, the calculation of optimal estimators is more challenging. As an alternative to model-based estimation, neural networks and other machine learning tools could help to develop good estimators in these involved scenarios. However, if no benchmark is available it is difficult to assess how well suited these tools are for different applications in population genetics.

Here we investigate feedforward neural networks for the estimation of the mutation rate based on the site frequency spectrum and compare their performance with model-based estimators. For this we use the model-based estimators introduced by Fu, Futschik et al., and Watterson that minimize the variance or mean squared error for no and free recombination. We find that neural networks reproduce these estimators if provided with the appropriate features and training sets. Remarkably, using the model-based estimators to adjust the weights of the training data, only one hidden layer is necessary to obtain a single estimator that performs almost as well as model-based estimators for low and high recombination rates, and at the same time provides a superior estimation method for intermediate recombination rates. We apply the method to simulated data based on the human chromosome 2 recombination map, highlighting its robustness in a realistic setting where local recombination rates vary and/or are unknown.
Occurrence of Lymphatic Filariasis infection after 15 years of mass drug administration in two hotspot districts in the Upper East Region of Ghana
Authors: Adu Mensah Derrick , Debrah Linda Batsa , Gyamfi Peter Akosah , Rahamani Abu Abudu , Opoku Vera Serwaa , Boateng John , Obeng Prince , Osei-Mensah Jubin , Kroidl Inge , Klarmann-Schulz Ute , Hoerauf Achim , Debrah Alexander Yaw
Published: August 2022

Background

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) causes chronic morbidity, which usually manifests as lymphedema or hydrocele. Mass drug administration (MDA) began in Kassena Nankana East Municipal (KNEM) and Nabdam, two hotspot districts in the Upper East Region in Ghana, in 2000 and 2005, respectively. This cross-sectional study evaluated the impact of 15 years of MDA on the control of LF as determined by circulating filarial antigen (CFA) and microfilariae assessment in the KNEM and the Nabdam districts.

Methodology/Principal findings

A total of 7,453 participants from eight sub-districts in the two hotspot districts (KNEM: N = 4604; Nabdam: N = 2849) were recruited into the study. The overall CFA prevalence as determined by the FTS was 19.6% and 12.8% in the KNEM and Nabdam districts, respectively. Manyoro, a sub-district on the border with Burkina Faso, recorded the highest CFA prevalence of 26% in the KNEM. Assessment of microfilariae and Og4C3 antigen was done from 1009 (KNEM: N = 799 (79.2%); Nabdam: N = 210 (20.8%)) randomly selected FTS-positive (N = 885) and FTS-negative (N = 124) individuals. The Og4C3 antigen was found in 22.6%/23.0% of the selected individuals (KNEM/Nabdam), whereas the night blood revealed microfilariae in only 0.7%/0.5%.

Conclusions/Significance

Using the WHO endorsed FTS, CFA prevalence exceeded the long-standing <2% threshold—which may need revision and validation. Surprisingly, the Og4C3 ELISA showed positive results in only about one-fifth of the FTS positive samples. However, even this result would not have met the <2% CFA criteria for LF elimination. In contrast, projections from the microfilariae results revealed a halt in LF transmission. The global elimination target was due in 2020 but has been extended to 2030 since this could not be met. Focused MDA intervention intensification on seasonal migrants and non-compliers, and implementation of alternative treatment strategies may suffice for the elimination of the disease.
Patterns of rates of mortality in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink
Authors: Schmidt James C. F. , Lambert Paul C. , Gillies Clare L. , Sweeting Michael J.
Published: August 2022

The Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD) is a widely used data resource, representative in demographic profile, with accurate death recordings but it is unclear if mortality rates within CPRD GOLD are similar to rates in the general population. Rates may additionally be affected by selection bias caused by the requirement that a cohort have a minimum lookback window, i.e. observation time prior to start of at-risk follow-up. Standardised Mortality Ratios (SMRs) were calculated incorporating published population reference rates from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), using Poisson regression with rates in CPRD GOLD contrasted to ONS rates, stratified by age, calendar year and sex. An overall SMR was estimated along with SMRs presented for cohorts with different lookback windows (1, 2, 5, 10 years). SMRs were stratified by calendar year, length of follow-up and age group. Mortality rates in a random sample of 1 million CPRD GOLD patients were slightly lower than the national population [SMR = 0.980 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.973, 0.987)]. Cohorts with observational lookback had SMRs below one [1 year of lookback; SMR = 0.905 (0.898, 0.912), 2 years; SMR = 0.881 (0.874, 0.888), 5 years; SMR = 0.849 (0.841, 0.857), 10 years; SMR = 0.837 (0.827, 0.847)]. Mortality rates in the first two years after patient entry into CPRD were higher than the general population, while SMRs dropped below one thereafter. Mortality rates in CPRD, using simple entry requirements, are similar to rates seen in the English population. The requirement of at least a single year of lookback results in lower mortality rates compared to national estimates.
Does entropy modulate the prediction of German long-distance verb particles?
Authors: Stone Kate , Vasishth Shravan , von der Malsburg Titus
Published: August 2022

In this paper we examine the effect of uncertainty on readers’ predictions about meaning. In particular, we were interested in how uncertainty might influence the likelihood of committing to a specific sentence meaning. We conducted two event-related potential (ERP) experiments using particle verbs such asturn downand manipulated uncertainty by constraining the context such that readers could be either highly certain about the identity of a distant verb particle, such asturn the bed […] down, or less certain due to competing particles, such asturn the music […] up/down. The study was conducted in German, where verb particles appear clause-finally and may be separated from the verb by a large amount of material. We hypothesised that this separation would encourage readers to predict the particle, and that high certainty would make prediction of a specific particle more likely than lower certainty. If a specific particle was predicted, this would reflect a strong commitment to sentence meaning that should incur a higher processing cost if the prediction is wrong. If a specific particle was less likely to be predicted, commitment should be weaker and the processing cost of a wrong prediction lower. If true, this could suggest that uncertainty discourages predictions via an unacceptable cost-benefit ratio. However, given the clear predictions made by the literature, it was surprisingly unclear whether the uncertainty manipulation affected the two ERP components studied, the N400 and the PNP. Bayes factor analyses showed that evidence for our a priori hypothesised effect sizes was inconclusive, although there was decisive evidence against a priori hypothesised effect sizes larger than 1μVfor the N400 and larger than 3μVfor the PNP. We attribute the inconclusive finding to the properties of verb-particle dependencies that differ from the verb-noun dependencies in which the N400 and PNP are often studied.
Personality growth after relationship losses: Changes of perceived control in the years around separation, divorce, and the death of a partner
Authors: Asselmann Eva , Specht Jule
Published: August 2022

Background

Previous research suggests that romantic relationships play a crucial role for perceived control. However, we know surprisingly little about changes in perceived control before and after the end of romantic relationships.

Methods

Based on data from the Socio-Economic Panel Study (SOEP), a nationally representative household panel study from Germany, we examined changes of perceived control in the years around separation from a partner (N =1,235), divorce (N =423), and the death of a partner (N =437).

Results

Multilevel analyses revealed that external control beliefs were higher in but not beyond the first year after separation from a partner. Internal and total control beliefs increased gradually in the years after separation. Moreover, internal control beliefs were higher in and especially beyond the first year after the death of a partner compared to the years before. No evidence was found that perceived control already changed in the years before relationship losses or in the years around a divorce.

Conclusion

Taken together, these findings point toward stress-related growth of perceived control after some relationship losses–especially separation and the death of a partner.
Development and validation of a Community Resilience Scale for Youth (CRS-Y)
Authors: Silva Sofia Marques da , Nata Gil , Silva Ana Milheiro , Faria Sara
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this article is to present the development and validation of a Community Resilience Scale for Youth (CRS-Y) among a Portuguese sample of nearly 4000 young people growing up in regions on the border with Spain. The scale was developed for young people to assess their perception of the resilience of regional communities in terms of positive development and purposeful experiences for young people. Resilient communities, under a social ecological approach, are those able to move forward on social change and transformation. This concept is especially remarkable in more challenging contexts such as border regions of mainland Portugal which are characterised by economic, social, educational, and cultural disadvantages while discovering possibilities of resilience through promising local dynamics. A multi-step approach was used to develop this scale of 12-item scale. Items were generated based on an in-depth literature review and research previously conducted with young people in these contexts. The overall sample was randomly divided into two subsamples of 1828 and 1735 young people each. Principal component analysis was performed with one of the subsamples and yielded a three-factor structure, explaining 61.5% of the total variance. Confirmatory factor analysis performed on the second showed good fit indexes. Furthermore, internal consistency of the three proposed components, gauged either by Cronbach’s alpha or McDonald’s omega, indicated good reliability. Given the results, the CRS-Y is a valid and reliable tool showing adequate psychometric properties. This scale will be useful for schools and policy makers at the local level. Indicators such as the promotion of opportunities to participate and be recognised, collective trust and the promotion of shared values and protection are relevant in assessing regional communities’ resilience and informing youth policies.
Medicalizing risk: How experts and consumers manage uncertainty in genetic health testing
Authors: Mukherjee Meghna , Eby Margaret , Wang Skyler , Lara-Millán Armando , Earle Althea Maya
Published: August 2022

Given increased prevalence of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic health tests in recent years, this paper delves into discourses among researchers at professional genomics conferences and lay DTC genetic test users on popular discussion website Reddit to understand the contested value of genetic knowledge and its direct implications for health management. Harnessing ethnographic observations at five conferences and a text -analysis of 52 Reddit threads, we find both experts and lay patient-consumers navigate their own versions of “productive uncertainty.” Experts develop genetic technologies to legitimize unsettled genomics as medical knowledge and mobilize resources and products, while lay patient-consumers turn to Internet forums to gain clarity on knowledge gaps that help better manage their genetic risk states. By showing how the uncertain nature of genomics serves as a productive force placing both parties within a mutually cooperative cycle, we argue that experts and patient-consumers co-produce a form of relational medicalization that concretizes “risk” itself as a disease state.
Assessing the impact of color blindness on the ability of identifying benign and malignant skin lesions by naked-eye examination
Authors: Elfalah Mutasem , Sulyman Nesrin , Alrwashdeh Anas , Al Hajaj Sari , Alrawashdeh Sonia , Al-Rawashdeh Asad , AlRyalat Saif Aldeen
Published: August 2022

Background

Color vision deficiency describes the inability to distinguish certain shades of color. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of having color vision deficiency on the accuracy of distinguishing benign and malignant skin lesions by naked-eye examination.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study conducted during the period August 2020 to February 2021. We randomly selected a total of 20 nevi and 20 melanoma images from an open access image database. The 40 images were divided into four sets of images, each set contained 5 benign and 5 malignant skin lesion images simulated as if they were seen by a protanope physician, deuteranope physician, tritanope physician, and a set of images presented without simulation. In an online survey, students who were in their final year of medical school or had newly graduated were asked to diagnose each image as benign or malignant.

Results

A total of 140 participants were included with a mean (SD) age of 24.88 (1.51). We found a significantly higher mean accuracy for non-simulated images compared to deuteranope simulated images (p< 0.001, mean difference = 11.07, 95% CI 8.40 to 13.74). We did not find a significant difference in accuracy classification for protanope simulated images (p = 0.066), nor for tritanope simulated images (p = 0.315). Classification accuracy for malignant lesions was higher than classification accuracy for benign lesions, with the highest difference belonging to deuteranope simulated images, with a difference in mean accuracy of classifying malignant lesions by 32.2 (95% CI 27.0 to 37.6).

Conclusion

Deuteranope participants (i.e., green color deficiency) had a significantly lower accuracy of distinguishing pigmented skin lesions as benign or malignant, an impact not found for other color vision deficiencies, which was mainly for misdiagnosing benign lesions as malignant.
The global temperature-related mortality impact of earlier decarbonization for the Australian health sector and economy: A modelling study
Authors: Sharma Siddhanth , Bressler R. Daniel , Bhopal Anand , Norheim Ole F.
Published: August 2022

Background

Sustained elevated concentration of GHGs is predicted to increase global mortality. With the Australian health sector responsible for 7% of the nation’s GHG emissions, the benefits and costs of various decarbonisation trajectories are currently being investigated. To assist with this effort, we model the impact earlier decarbonisation has on temperature-related mortality.

Design

We used DICE-EMR, an Integrated Assessment Model with an endogenous mortality response, to simulate Australian GHG trajectories and estimate the temperature-related mortality impact of early decarbonisation. We modelled a linear decline of the Australian health sector’s and economy’s GHG annual emissions to net-zero targets of 2040 and 2050.

Main outcome measure

Deaths averted and monetary-equivalent welfare gain.

Results

Decarbonisation of the Australian health sector by 2050 and 2040 is projected to avert an estimated 69,000 and 77,000 global temperature-related deaths respectively in a Baseline global emissions scenario. Australian economy decarbonisation by 2050 and 2040 is projected to avert an estimated 988,000 and 1,101,000 global deaths respectively. Assuming a low discount rate and high global emissions trajectory, we estimate a monetary equivalent welfare gain of $151 billion if the Australian health sector decarbonises by 2040, only accounting for the benefits in reducing temperature-related mortality.

Conclusions

Earlier decarbonisation has a significant impact on temperature-related mortality. Many uncertainties exist and health impacts other than temperature-related mortality are not captured by this analysis. Nevertheless, such models can help communicate the health risk of climate change and improve climate policy decision making.
Evaluating the geographic distribution of cervical cancer patients presenting to a multidisciplinary gynecologic oncology clinic in Gaborone, Botswana
Authors: Friebel-Klingner Tara M. , Iyer Hari S. , Ramogola-Masire Doreen , Bazzett-Matabele Lisa , Monare Barati , Seiphetlheng Alexander , Ralefala Tlotlo B. , Mitra Nandita , Wiebe Douglas J. , Rebbeck Timothy R. , Grover Surbhi , McCarthy Anne Marie
Published: August 2022

Objective

In Botswana, cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for females. With limited resources, Botswana is challenged to ensure equitable access to advanced cancer care. Botswana’s capital city, Gaborone, houses the only gynecologic oncology multi-disciplinary team (MDT) and the one chemoradiation facility in the country. We aimed to identify areas where fewer women were presenting to the MDT clinic for care.

Methods

This cross-sectional study examined cervical cancer patients presenting to the MDT clinic between January 2015 and March 2020. Patients were geocoded to residential sub-districts to estimate age-standardized presentation rates. Global Moran’s I and Anselin Local Moran’s I tested the null hypothesis that presentation rates occurred randomly in Botswana. Community- and individual-level factors of patients living in sub-districts identified with higher (HH) and lower (LL) clusters of presentation rates were examined using ordinary least squares with a spatial weights matrix and multivariable logistic regression, respectively, with α level 0.05.

Results

We studied 990 patients aged 22–95 (mean: 50.6). Presentation rates were found to be geographically clustered across the country (p = 0.01). Five sub-districts were identified as clusters, two high (HH) sub-district clusters and three low (LL) sub-district clusters (mean presentation rate: 35.5 and 11.3, respectively). Presentation rates decreased with increased travel distance (p = 0.033). Patients residing in LL sub-districts more often reported abnormal vaginal bleeding (aOR: 5.62, 95% CI: 1.31–24.15) compared to patients not residing in LL sub-districts. Patients in HH sub-districts were less likely to be living with HIV (aOR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.38–0.90) and more likely to present with late-stage cancer (aOR: 1.78; 95%CI: 1.20–2.63) compared to patients not in HH sub-districts.

Conclusions

This study identified geographic clustering of cervical cancer patients presenting for care in Botswana and highlighted sub-districts with disproportionately lower presentation rates. Identified community- and individual level-factors associated with low presentation rates can inform strategies aimed at improving equitable access to cervical cancer care.