bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prescribed fires effects on actual and modeled fuel loads and forest structure in southern coast redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) forests
Authors: Katuna Taj A. , Collins Brandon M. , Stephens Scott L.
Published: October 2024

Background

Fire suppression, timber harvesting, and the forced removal of Indigenous burning have fundamentally changed conditions in coast redwood forests. The contemporary approach of forest preservation and fire exclusion has produced high densities of small trees, elevated fuel loads, and increased vulnerability to wildfire and climate change. Prescribed broadcast burning presents a viable treatment option to meet forest management goals, especially where mechanical treatments are not feasible. Forest and fire managers utilizing fire modeling software such as the Fire and Fuels Extension of Forest Vegetation Simulator (FFE) to predict prescribed fire effects in redwoods are limited by model accuracy due to a lack of empirical research and model verification across a breadth of site conditions.

Results

We compared the difference between pre- and post-treatment conditions for two fall-season prescribed burns in Sonoma and Santa Cruz counties in California to quantify changes to forest structure, fuel loads, and modeled wildfire hazard. Observed data was used to analyze the accuracy of FFE modeled prescribed fire treatment outputs for post-treatment forest and fuel conditions. Observed burn treatments were low intensity and resulted in no significant change to forest structure and composition, but there was a reduction in seedling and sapling densities and an increase in resprout density. There was a reduction in duff and litter fuels, and litter and fine woody debris reduction was driven by pre-treatment total fuel loads. The modeled probability of torching was very low pre- and post-treatment. FFE underpredicted scorch height, duff fuel reduction, and redwood regeneration, but slightly overpredicted tree mortality and significantly overpredicted reduction of litter and fine woody debris.

Conclusion

Our results highlight a need for model refinement in regard to species-specific mortality, tree regeneration dynamics, fuel recruitment and deposition, and moisture-dependent fuel consumption. In order to achieve desired forest management goals, fire practitioners may need to burn at moderate to high intensities, and potentially pair burning with mechanical thinning. Long-term health of coast redwood forests also relies on the restoration of cultural fire and stewardship partnerships that equally share decision making power between western science and Indigenous knowledge bearers.
Circulating microRNA-21, microRNA-122, and microRNA-222 as diagnostic biomarkers for hepatitis c virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Hetta Helal F. , Hamed Hager M. , Mekky Mohamed A. , Abdel-Malek Mohamed O. , Hassan Waleed Attia
Published: October 2024

Background and aim

MicroRNAs (miRs) are now a well-known subject in various tumor genesis and are studied as early diagnostic biomarker. Many arrays of miRs were incorporated in the pathogenesis of HCV-related hepatocellular carcinomas (HCV-HCC). In this respect, we aimed to evaluate the diagnostic role of circulating miR-21, miR-122, and miR-222 in Egyptian patients with HCV-HCC.

Patient and methods

Between June 2018 and April 2019, a cross-sectional comparative study was designed to evaluate the circulating miR-21, miR-122, and miR-222 by quantitative Real-Time PCR. For analytical purposes, patients were categorized into three groups: chronic HCV group (CHC-group, n = 22), HCV-related liver cirrhosis (LC-group, n = 22), and HCV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCV-HCC-group, n = 54).

Results

Serum levels of miR-21 and miR-222 increased with the progressive course from CHC to LC and HCC; p < .001. Serum levels of miR-122 in HCC patients were significantly lower than non-HCC patients (CHC and LC patients, n = 44); p < .001. However, the differences in levels of serum miR-122 between CHC and LC were not statistically significant; P = 0.8.

ROC curve analysis showed that the sensitivity and specificity of miR-21 were 61.1% and 95.5%, miR-222 were 71.7% and 93.2%, and miR-122 were 98.2% and 100%. The positive predictive value for miRNA-21, miRNA-122, and miRNA-222 were 13.4%, 93.3%, and 10.5% respectively. The Negative predictive value for miRNA-21, miRNA-122, and miRNA-222 were 94.3%, 97.8%, and 92.7% respectively.

Conclusion

MiR-21 and miR-222 could be potential markers for advanced liver damage, while miR-122 had the best diagnostic accuracy and could be a promising marker for detection of HCC.
Weak field deflection angle and analytical parameter estimation of the Lorentz-violating Bumblebee parameter through the black hole shadow using EHT data
Authors: Lambiase Gaetano , Pantig Reggie C. , Övgün Ali
Published: October 2024

We explored how the Lorentz symmetry breaking parameter ℓ affects the Reissner-Nordstöm BH solution in the context of weak field deflection angle, and the black hole shadow. We aim to derive the general expression for the weak deflection angle using the non-asymptotic version of the Gauss-Bonnet theorem, and we presented a way to simplify the calculations under the assumption that the distance of the source and the receiver are the same. Through the Solar System test, ℓ is constrained from around

orders of magnitude to 0, implying challenging detection of ℓ through the deflection of light rays from the Sun. We also studied the black hole shadow in an analytic way, where we applied the EHT results under the far approximation in obtaining an estimate expression for ℓ. Using the realistic values of the black hole mass and observer distance for Sgr. A* and M87*, it was shown that

is satisfied, implying the relevance and potential promise of the spontaneous Lorentz symmetry breaking parameter's role on the shadow radius uncertainties as measured by the EHT. We find constraints for ℓ to be negatively valued, where the upper and lower bounds are ∼ - 1.94 and ∼ - 2.04, respectively.
Reliable replicative lifespan determination of yeast with a single-channel microfluidic chip
Authors: Salzman Valentina , Torres Moises R. Bustamante , Tedesco Francisco G. Correa , Tarkowski Nahuel , Willems María J. Godás , Bravo Joaquín N. , Mercuri Magalí , Mercado Dante G. , Berlin Guido , Bellino Martín G. , Aguilar Pablo S. , Estrada Laura C.
Published: October 2024

Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a powerful model for aging research due to its short lifespan and genetic malleability. Microfluidic devices offer an attractive approach enabling rapid monitoring of hundreds of cells during their entire replicative lifespan (RLS). Yet, key operational issues such as contaminations, cell loss, and cell-aggregates-dependent flow obstruction can hinder RLS experiments. We report the development of a microfluidic device configuration that effectively prevents flow blockage. We conducted comprehensive performance characterization, evaluating trapping efficiency, cell retention, budding orientation, and cell aggregate formation. The optimized device successfully supported long-term culturing and reliable RLS measurements of budding yeast strains. For accurate lifespan determination, a detailed workflow is provided that includes device fabrication, live microscopy setup, and characterization of cell age distribution. This work describes an accessible and reliable microfluidic device for yeast RLS studies, promoting further exploration in aging research.
Cell–cell junctions in focus – imaging junctional architectures and dynamics at high resolution
Authors: Janssen Vera , Huveneers Stephan
Published: October 2024

Studies utilizing electron microscopy and live fluorescence microscopy have significantly enhanced our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that regulate junctional dynamics during homeostasis, development and disease. To fully grasp the enormous complexity of cell–cell adhesions, it is crucial to study the nanoscale architectures of tight junctions, adherens junctions and desmosomes. It is important to integrate these junctional architectures with the membrane morphology and cellular topography in which the junctions are embedded. In this Review, we explore new insights from studies using super-resolution and volume electron microscopy into the nanoscale organization of these junctional complexes as well as the roles of the junction-associated cytoskeleton, neighboring organelles and the plasma membrane. Furthermore, we provide an overview of junction- and cytoskeletal-related biosensors and optogenetic probes that have contributed to these advances and discuss how these microscopy tools enhance our understanding of junctional dynamics across cellular environments.
High Schools Tailored to Adults Can Help Them Complete a Traditional Diploma and Excel in the Labor Market
Authors: Brough Rebecca , Phillips David C. , Turner Patrick S.
Published: October 2024

Over 18 million adults in the United States lack a high school credential. While some go on to attain the GED, diplomas are potentially more valuable. A network of high schools helps adults graduate by providing tailored curricula, nonacademic coaching, onsite child care, and transportation. After five years, earnings increase by 38 percent more for graduates than nonenrolling applicants. We address selection by conditioning on preapplication earnings and comparing to students who exit after positive shocks. Much of the wage gains can be accounted for by sectoral switching and evidence on credential completions is consistent with a human capital mechanism. (JEL I21, I26, J24, J31)
Integridade pública: (De)limitações conceituais e caminhos para uma agenda robusta
Authors: Amâncio Dayse Leticia Pereira , Faria Evandro Rodrigues de , Biscaia Ricardo
Published: October 2024

A integridade pública tem percorrido um caminho amplamente pavimentado por legislações e recomendações. Entretanto, no âmbito do campo de estudo, é apontada ora como sinônimo de compliance, ora como de anticorrupção, sendo frequentemente associada a temas como governança, ética, transparência, accountability e gestão de riscos. Mas o que é a integridade, afinal? Que relações cabe estabelecer entre esses conceitos e quais seriam suas fronteiras? Tais imprecisões, aliadas ao uso retórico do termo visando apenas à legitimação da gestão pública, podem causar o efeito oposto ao almejado pelo fenômeno. Assim, faz-se premente a ampliação do debate científico acerca do tema para que, em vez de receber o rótulo de panaceia, a integridade seja compreendida, gerida e avaliada em seus matizes. Afinal, seu potencial é imenso para – enquanto arranjo normativo de princípios e regras – gerar reflexos na gestão e cultura organizacionais e, por conseguinte, noalcance do interesse público.
Energy efficient heating and ventilation of a factory hall by monitoring the indoor air climate
Authors: Wandy Yose , Gritzki Ralf , Rösler Markus , Perschk Alf , Felsmann Clemens
Published: October 2024

Background Different usage scenarios and design guidelines were considered when planning a factory building and its ventilation system. Accordingly, it often makes sense to analyze the actual operating conditions again during subsequent operations in order to optimally adapt the air supply to the respective conditions in terms of demand-responsive ventilation. The aim is to ensure good indoor air quality and thermal comfort while significantly reducing energy consumption. Methods For this purpose, in addition to the sensors in the building management system, approximately 120 wireless sensors were installed in the occupied areas to measure the air temperature, operating temperature, humidity, and CO2. In this way the spatial and temporal distributions of temperature, humidity, and CO2 in the hall were visualized and evaluated to reduce the volume flows of the ventilation systems. The recorded data and findings were used to optimize ventilation systems by gaining a deeper understanding of indoor air flow. Results As part of the investigation, a considerable reduction in the air volume flows and thus the required energy consumption of the air handling units was achieved while maintaining the same thermal comfort. It was shown that the temperature field and indoor air quality were not negatively affected by the change in the air volume flow over a wide range. Conclusions This was made possible by the well-designed ventilation system, which achieves a low-pulse, slightly stratified indoor airflow, and a structural envelope with very good thermal insulation.
The Questionnaire for Experiencing and Using Violence in intimate relationships
Authors: Dyjakon Dorota Jolanta , Rajba Beata Marta
Published: October 2024

Cel pracy

Celem skonstruowania i walidacji Kwestionariusza Poczucia Doznawania i Stosowania Przemocy w relacji intymnej (KPDiSP) jest pomoc w diagnozie i wzbogacenie kompetencji psychoterapeutów pracujących z osobami doświadczającymi trudności w związkach intymnych.

Metoda

Kwestionariusz składa się z ośmiu twierdzeń dotyczących poczucia doznawania i stosowania przemocy. Ustosunkowując się do kolejnych twierdzeń w pięciostopniowej skali, osoba może określić poziom doznawania, ale także i stosowania przemocy. KPDiSP pozwala mierzyć poziom doświadczania i stosowania przemocy w czterech podstawowych wymiarach – emocjonalnym, seksualnym, ekonomicznym i fizycznym.

Wyniki

Na podstawie całości przeprowadzonych analiz można stwierdzić, że kwestionariusz cechuje dobra rzetelność. KPDiSP może być używany przez terapeutów zarówno jako narzędzie służące ocenie natężenia doznawania i stosowania przemocy, ale także przez pacjentów jako materiał do analizy własnych doznań oraz zachowań partnera, pomagając im zdobyć świadomość trudności, a czasem i zagrożeń w relacji intymnej.

Wnioski

Zaletą tego kwestionariusza jest także krótka forma ułatwiającą terapeutom i pacjentom szybkie zapoznanie się z treścią.
Mothers' experiences of negative interactions with health professionals when breastfeeding beyond 1 year
Authors: Jackson Jessica Eve , Hallam Jenny , Safari Reza
Published: October 2024

This study explores women's negative interactions with health professionals when continuing to breastfeed beyond the first year. The research used a cross-sectional design, with an online questionnaire to gather responses from women worldwide who reported negative experiences with health professionals related to continued breastfeeding between the ages of 1 and less than 2 years. The study used content analysis to analyse responses from 1951 participants. Experiences of negative interactions with health professionals involved advising women to wean (74%), judging the women (18%), stigmatising the women (17%) or telling the women that breastfeeding would affect their healthcare (5%). The findings highlight the urgent need for widespread training programmes, advocating for evidence-based, supportive and non-judgemental care. Healthcare systems are urged to prioritise comprehensive training initiatives aligned with current recommendations, fostering environments where health professionals effectively support and empower women throughout their breastfeeding journey.
Advice on contraception for young people
Authors: Robinson Gina
Published: October 2024

While the legal age to take part in sexual acts in the UK is 16, one in three young people will already have had sexual intercourse by this age. Health professionals are legally allowed to support under-16s in choosing appropriate contraception, to reduce the risk of pregnancy occurring. When undertaking a consultation, health professionals must be educated in the areas of consent, confidentiality, safeguarding and abuse referral pathways. Understanding how to identify abuse, use specific questioning and listening skills, and having the ability to notice non-verbal cues, are essential in identifying the vulnerable young. It is also important to have an awareness of groups who are at higher risk of abuse (e.g. vulnerable adults, LGBTQ+ community), and to understand when to refer to safeguarding teams and the police. Despite access to contraception being more readily available, holistic barriers to accessing contraception still exist. This article discusses assessing a young person for contraception, Gillick competency and legal issues, forms of available contraception (including some common risks and benefits), barriers to accessing contraception and emergency contraception.
Has school nursing progressed since 2018? A systematised review
Authors: Day Patricia
Published: October 2024

The aim of the study is to identify progress in two key areas of practice in the school nursing profession: sexual and mental health, between 2018 and 2023. A systematised review of published articles was undertaken for the period 2018 to 2023 related to school nursing on the topics of sexual and mental health. The systematised review used Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). Coding and thematic analysis was undertaken according to Braun and Clarke's guide to thematic analysis. The scope was limited to peer-review publications between 2018 and 2023. CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases were searched. Eight publications met the criteria: six on sexual health, one on mental health, and one hybrid study. The study concludes that there is a paucity of current school nursing literature on the topics of sexual and mental health. Only one study describes a new initiative: use of a text-messaging service. Progress in school nurse innovations has stalled. Erosion of the public health aspects of the school nurse role to fill gaps in service has led to reactive and ineffective practice.
Unleashing the Power of Civil Society: Examining the Impact of the Saudi Green Building Forum in Advancing Eco-friendly Construction in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alfadl Faisal S. , Bhandari Medani P.
Published: October 2024

This paper delves into the role of civil society in propelling green building practices, one key to a sustainable future. It focuses on the Saudi Green Building Forum (SGBF) “in Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council, since 2017” as a case study that illuminates how civil society organizations contribute to environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic prosperity in the construction sector. The concept of green building is traced from its origins through its global development, explicitly emphasizing notable examples from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Saudi Arabia. The paper reassures the audience by outlining the unique and robust alignment of SGBF’s initiatives and its support for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underscoring its commitment to global sustainability.
The study presents a descriptive analysis based on desktop research, illustrating the transformative impact of civil society in promoting sustainable construction practices through the SGBF. Key aspects covered include the historical evolution of the green building movement, successful implementations of green building standards, and the activation of civil society institutions and organizations in driving sustainability. The paper showcases SGBF’s strategies and projects as exemplary models of civil society’s contribution to greening the built environment and fostering a sustainable future in Saudi Arabia and beyond. The objective is to inspire by highlighting civil society’s far-reaching impact on the construction sector’s environmental, social, and economic dimensions of sustainable development.
High-performance 320-nm continuous-wave solid-state laser
Authors: Xu Guofeng , Wang Shuxian , Liang Fei , Lu Dazhi , Wu Kui , Zhang Huaijin , Yu Haohai , Yu Pingzhang , Wang Zhengping
Published: October 2024

For the first time, to our knowledge, we realized a high-performance 320-nm continuous-wave (CW) laser with a fiber-coupled blue laser diode as the pump source. A V-shaped folded cavity is constituted by three mirrors, with a Pr3+:LiYF4 (Pr:YLF) as the laser crystal and a LiB3O5 (LBO) as the frequency doubling crystal, respectively. Under an absorbed pump power of 19.5 W, the maximum 320-nm output power reaches 4.26 W, corresponding to an optical conversion efficiency of 21.8% and a root-mean-square (RMS) power fluctuation of 0.61%, which give the best results of a 320-nm CW laser up to now. The excellent performance will make this ultraviolet laser source very suitable for practical applications, including semiconductor detection, spectral analysis, microscopic imaging, and biotechnology.
High-precision ethanol concentration microsensor with global spectra aided by the multi-layer perceptron
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , Liu WenYao , Chen Huiyu , Wang Canjin , Tan Qingyun , Mi Runyao , Wang Rong , Zhou Yanru , Xing Enbo , Tang Jun , Liu Jun
Published: October 2024

Whispering gallery mode (WGM) resonators can be used for precision measurement thanks to their high sensitivity, small size, and fast response time. Nevertheless, the design of such sensors is usually achieved by selecting a typical single-mode tracking method, which leads to low utilization of a great deal of information in the resonance spectrum and affects the precision. Here, we use the multi-layer perceptron (MLP) deep learning algorithm to train the global spectra and realize the high-precision measurement of ethanol concentration. Firstly, a large number of transmission spectra of different ethanol concentrations are collected and directly used as the original data sets. Secondly, the MLP algorithm is used for training and testing. Finally, the local feature dimension is extracted from the global features of the spectrum for prediction. The results show that the prediction accuracy of the global spectra sensing is 99.81%, which is 13.02% higher than that of extracting 10 local features. In addition, the prediction accuracy of the MLP is compared with four other commonly used machine learning (ML) algorithms, and the results show that the MLP algorithm has the highest prediction accuracy. Therefore, the high-precision ethanol concentration sensor proposed in this paper opens a new way for intelligent optical micro-resonator sensing.
Determination of principal axes orientation in an ion trap using matter-wave interference
Authors: Saito Ryoichi , Mukaiyama Takashi
Published: October 2024

We have developed a method for determining the orientations of the principal axes of an ion trap using an ion matter-wave interferometer. By examining the ion matter-wave interference signal induced by spin-dependent momentum kicks originating from stimulated Raman transitions, we can accurately ascertain the angles between the directions of these momentum kicks and the trap principal axes. The application of direct–current voltage to the ground electrodes, a common method adopted to finely tune trap frequencies in ion traps, leads to the trap principal axes rotating, a phenomenon that is yet to be reported quantatively. Our measurements successfully captured the rotation of the trap axes depending on the applied offset voltages. The findings of this study offer valuable insights into the functioning of ion traps for diverse quantum science and technology applications.
SGE: structured light system based on Gray code with an event camera
Authors: Lu Xingyu , Sun Lei , Gu Diyang , Wang Kaiwei
Published: October 2024

Fast and accurate depth sensing has long been a significant research challenge. Event camera, as a device that quickly responds to intensity changes, provides a new solution for structured light (SL) systems. In this paper, we introduce Gray code into event-based SL systems for the first time. Our setup includes an event camera and a digital light processing (DLP) projector, enabling depth estimation through high-speed projection and decoding of Gray code patterns. By employing Gray code for point matching in event-based SL system, our method is immune to timestamp noise, realizing high-speed depth estimation without loss of accuracy and spatial resolution. The binary nature of events and Gray code minimizes data redundancy, enabling us to fully utilize sensor bandwidth at 100%. Experimental results show that our approach achieves accuracy comparable to state-of-the-art scanning methods while surpassing them in data acquisition speed (up to 41 times improvement) without sacrificing accuracy and spatial resolution. Our proposed approach offers a highly promising solution for ultra-fast, real-time, and high-precision dense depth estimation.
Frequency-locked Si3N4 microring for Doppler frequency shift detection
Authors: Jiang Chen , Xuan Yixin , Wan Shuai , Liu Biheng , Hu Xiaomin , Dong Chunhua , Yang Qinmin , Pan Yu
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we propose to use a homemade all-fiber Si3N4 microring as the frequency discriminator for Doppler frequency shift detection. The full width at half maximum of the microring is 361.83 MHz, which covers the dynamic range of ± 70 m/s for wind measurement applications. By introducing a time-division multiplexing method, we have achieved the frequency locking of the microring to the central frequency of the laser source, which effectively stabilizes the measurement accuracy against perturbations such as temperature fluctuations. By alternatively upshifting and downshifting the pulses, a dual-frequency lasing scheme has been designed to realize the double-edge technique for frequency shift detection. A commercial single-photon detector with 25% quantum efficiency and approximately 1300 Hz dark count rate is used to detect the backscattered signals, which circumvents the need for bulky and expensive superconducting single-photon detectors. The proposed system is validated through an outdoor wind speed detection experiment using a reference anemometer. The experiment results demonstrate the feasibility of using microring as the frequency discriminator and that the precise frequency locking control is able to improve the measurement accuracy to the state-of-the-art level under the influence of perturbations, which highlights the potential for highly integrated direct detection Doppler wind lidar design.
Online recursive independent component analysis based equalization for orbital angular momentum mode division multiplexed transmission
Authors: Kong Jintian , Li Zhipei , Gao Ran , Xu Qi , Wang Fei , Chang Huan , Zhou Sitong , Zhu Lei , Guo Dong , Xin Xiangjun
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we propose an online recursive independent component analysis (ORICA) algorithm as an alternative to multi-input multi-output (MIMO) equalizers in orbital angular momentum (OAM) mode division multiplexed (MDM) transmission systems. Due to the random intra-group mode coupling in the OAM system and the application limitations of the algorithm itself, the traditional MIMO-based constant modulus algorithm (CMA) algorithm is not suitable for OAM transmission. To address this issue, we introduce an adaptive forgetting factor into the conventional independent component analysis (ICA) algorithm and iterate the whiting matrix and weigh matrix. As a result, the whole algorithm can achieve efficient signal equalization and demodulation. A 10 km ring core fiber (RCF) transmission system, which transfers eight different OAM multi-mode QPSK signals, was set up to verify the effectiveness and adaptability of the algorithm. Our experimental results show that the proposed ICA algorithm outperformed CMA with an average improvement in bit error rate (BER) of 0.6 dB. In addition, the proposed ICA algorithm outperformed other conventional ICA algorithms with an average improvement in BER of 9.28 dB. Compared to CMA and Infomax ICA, the complexity of the ORICA algorithm is reduced by 42.6% and 29.2%, respectively, demonstrating that this algorithm achieves high-precision demodulation while maintaining low complexity.
Flexible switchable mid-infrared metalens optical tweezer based on VO2
Authors: He Qining , Zhang Yuqing , Xiao Siyang , Nong Jie , He Honglin , Lu Yeping , Huang Xiaopeng , He Xin , Zhang Zhenfu , Huang Sha , Han Yunxin , Yu Yang , Chen Huan , Zhang Zhenrong , Yang Junbo
Published: October 2024

Metasurface has developed rapidly since its advent because of its powerful control over electromagnetic waves, but most traditional metasurface can only passively realize a single fixed function, which limits its application and development in integrated systems. To modulate electromagnetic waves more flexibly and efficiently, here, we first propose what we believe to be a novel scheme to design a switchable metalens by utilizing the phase change materials VO2 and double-layer metasurface modulation. The metalens designed by the proposed scheme can achieve flexible conversion between the transmitted focusing and reflected focusing through changing the phase state of VO2. Then, we investigate the optical force phenomenon of these metalenses, the simulation results indicating that the proposed switchable metalens can achieve stable particle manipulation under both the transmission and reflection modes. This makes it a promising device in flexible optical manipulation, and this reversible tuning will also show significant application potentials in biology, medicine, optical communication and other fields.
Simple phase unwrapping method with continuous convex minimization: erratum
Authors: Lian Songzhe , Yang Haiquan , Kudo Hiroyuki
Published: October 2024

This erratum corrects two equations (11), (12) in our paper [Opt. Express 30, 33395 (2022)10.1364/OE.467658].
High range resolution spectral-scanning LiDAR based on optical frequency-domain reflectometry
Authors: Kong Degangao , Chen Cheng , Wan Jiajun , Wen Yongqiang , Zhang Xiaolei , Yuan Sujun , Liu Xiaoping
Published: October 2024

Spectral scanning, which utilizes the dispersive effect of light, is a simple and robust method for solid-state beam steering in light detection and ranging (LiDAR) applications. Powered by a tunable laser source, optical frequency-domain reflectometry (OFDR) is a high-precision measurement scheme that is inherently compatible with spectral scanning. Here, we propose a spectral-scanning LiDAR based on OFDR technology and demonstrate that, by connecting the measured spectral reflectivity and group delay of the targets with the dispersion equation, their cloud point data can be obtained. Moreover, compared to the spectral-scanning LiDAR based on the frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) ranging method, our proposed LiDAR scheme offers a more than tenfold improvement in range resolution with a large number of angular pixels. This enhancement enables high-resolution 3D imaging along both the angular and range axes.
Reconstruction of a complex-valued object without a support constraint
Authors: Liu Mengxin , Cao Wenke , Liu Guangxu , Chen Jiaxu , Ma Shengjie , Huang Yuli , Meng Shen , Li Jiacheng , Zhang Jian
Published: October 2024

This study demonstrates that a nonnegative complex-valued object without support constraints can be reconstructed from its diffraction pattern, even with partially missing data. We employed a continuous hybrid input–output (CHIO) algorithm, which imposes double nonnegative constraints on the real and imaginary parts of the object. The missing data at the diffraction pattern center is recovered linearly before iterations. Simulations and experiments indicate that this method yields more accurate results and lower reconstruction errors than the hybrid input–output (HIO) algorithm, thus offering a robust approach for coherent diffraction microscopy of biological samples using soft x rays or visible light lasers.
A Computational Framework for Understanding the Impact of Prior Experiences on Pain Perception and Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Ramne Malin , Sensinger Jon
Published: October 2024

Pain perception is influenced not only by sensory input from afferent neurons but also by cognitive factors such as prior expectations. It has been suggested that overly precise priors may be a key contributing factor to chronic pain states such as neuropathic pain. However, it remains an open question how overly precise priors in favor of pain might arise. Here, we first verify that a Bayesian approach can describe how statistical integration of prior expectations and sensory input results in pain phenomena such as placebo hypoalgesia, nocebo hyperalgesia, chronic pain, and spontaneous neuropathic pain. Our results indicate that the value of the prior, which is determined by the internal model parameters, may be a key contributor to these phenomena. Next, we apply a hierarchical Bayesian approach to update the parameters of the internal model based on the difference between the predicted and the perceived pain, to reflect that people integrate prior experiences in their future expectations. In contrast with simpler approaches, this hierarchical model structure is able to show for placebo hypoalgesia and nocebo hyperalgesia how these phenomena can arise from prior experiences in the form of a classical conditioning procedure. We also demonstrate the phenomenon of offset analgesia, in which a disproportionally large pain decrease is obtained following a minor reduction in noxious stimulus intensity. Finally, we turn to simulations of neuropathic pain, where our hierarchical model corroborates that persistent non-neuropathic pain is a risk factor for developing neuropathic pain following denervation, and additionally offers an interesting prediction that complete absence of informative painful experiences could be a similar risk factor. Taken together, these results provide insight to how prior experiences may contribute to pain perception, in both experimental and neuropathic pain, which in turn might be informative for improving strategies of pain prevention and relief.
Detectability of runs of homozygosity is influenced by analysis parameters and population-specific demographic history
Authors: Silva Gabriel A. A. , Harder Avril M. , Kirksey Kenneth B. , Mathur Samarth , Willoughby Janna R.
Published: October 2024

Wild populations are increasingly threatened by human-mediated climate change and land use changes. As populations decline, the probability of inbreeding increases, along with the potential for negative effects on individual fitness. Detecting and characterizing runs of homozygosity (ROHs) is a popular strategy for assessing the extent of individual inbreeding present in a population and can also shed light on the genetic mechanisms contributing to inbreeding depression. Here, we analyze simulated and empirical datasets to demonstrate the downstream effects of program selection and long-term demographic history on ROH inference, leading to context-dependent biases in the results. Through a sensitivity analysis we evaluate how various parameter values impact ROH-calling results, highlighting its utility as a tool for parameter exploration. Our results indicate that ROH inferences are sensitive to factors such as sequencing depth and ROH length distribution, with bias direction and magnitude varying with demographic history and the programs used. Estimation biases are particularly pronounced at lower sequencing depths, potentially leading to either underestimation or overestimation of inbreeding. These results are particularly important for the management of endangered species, as underestimating inbreeding signals in the genome can substantially undermine conservation initiatives. We also found that small true ROHs can be incorrectly lumped together and called as longer ROHs, leading to erroneous inference of recent inbreeding. To address these challenges, we suggest using a combination of ROH detection tools and ROH length-specific inferences, along with sensitivity analysis, to generate robust and context-appropriate population inferences regarding inbreeding history. We outline these recommendations for ROH estimation at multiple levels of sequencing effort, which are typical of conservation genomics studies.
Recurrence patterns and evolution of submicroscopic and asymptomatic Plasmodium vivax infections in malaria-endemic areas of the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Garcia Castillo Stefano S. , Abanto Alvarez Caroline , Rosas-Aguirre Ángel , Acosta Carlos , Corder Rodrigo M. , Gómez Joaquín , Guzmán Mitchel , Speybroeck Niko , Llanos-Cuentas Alejandro , Castro Marcia C. , Rosanas-Urgell Anna , Ferreira Marcelo U. , Vinetz Joseph M. , Gamboa Dionicia , Torres Katherine
Published: October 2024

Background

In the Peruvian Amazon, Plasmodium vivax malaria transmission is maintained due to the high frequency of recurrences. By understanding the recurrence rates of submicroscopic and asymptomatic cases, we can develop informed strategies to prevent transmission more efficiently and disrupt the silent transmission cycle.

Methods

A three-year, population-based cohort study was conducted in two sites, Cahuide and Lupuna, within the Loreto region in Peru from 2013 to 2015. The study included 385 individuals and aimed to examine the temporal dynamics of malaria recurrences and their impact on transmission and control.

Results

Individuals from Lupuna presented a higher risk of P. vivax infections compared to Cahuide, where most recurrences were asymptomatic and submicroscopic. It is estimated that a great proportion of these recurrences were due to relapses in both communities. The application of molecular diagnostic method proved to be significantly more effective, detecting 2.3 times more episodes during the follow-up (PCR, 1068; microscopy, 467). PCR identified recurrences significantly earlier, at 151 days after an initial infection, compared to microscopy, which detected them on average after 365 days. Community, occupation and previous malaria infections were factors associated with recurrences. Finally, potential infection evolution scenarios were described where one frequent scenario involved the transition from symptomatic to asymptomatic infections with a mean evolution time of 240 days.

Conclusions

This study explores the contrast in malaria recurrence risk among individuals from two endemic settings, a consequence of prolonged exposure to the parasite. Through the analysis of the evolution scenarios of P. vivax recurrences, it is possible to have a more complete vision of how the transmission pattern changes over time and is conditioned by different factors.
Clinical features of and severity risk factors for COVID-19 in adults during the predominance of SARS-CoV-2 XBB variants in Okinawa, Japan
Authors: Ideguchi Shuhei , Miyagi Kazuya , Kami Wakaki , Tasato Daisuke , Higa Futoshi , Maeshiro Noriyuki , Nagamine Shota , Nakamura Hideta , Kinjo Takeshi , Nakamatsu Masashi , Haranaga Shusaku , Tokushige Akihiro , Ueda Shinichiro , Fujita Jiro , Yamamoto Kazuko
Published: October 2024

Background and objective

Since 2023, COVID-19 induced by SARS-CoV-2 XBB variants have been a global epidemic. The XBB variant-induced epidemic was largest in the Okinawa Prefecture among areas in Japan, and healthcare institutions have been burdened by increased COVID-19 hospitalizations. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical features of XBB variant-induced COVID-19 and risk factors for severe COVID-19.

Methods

This retrospective study included adult patients hospitalized for COVID-19 between May and July 2023 at four tertiary medical institutions in Okinawa, Japan. Patients with bacterial infection-related complications were excluded. According to oxygen supplementation and intensive care unit admission, patients were divided into two groups, mild and severe. Patient backgrounds, symptoms, and outcomes were compared between both groups, and the risk factors for severe COVID-19 were analyzed using a multivariate logistic regression model.

Results

In total of 367 patients included, the median age was 75 years, with 18.5% classified into the severe group. The all-cause mortality rate was 4.9%. Patients in the severe group were more older, had more underlying diseases, and had a higher mortality rate (13.2%) than those in the mild group (3.0%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that diabetes mellitus was an independent risk factor for severe COVID-19 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.002–3.772), whereas bivalent omicron booster vaccination was an independent factor for less severe COVID-19 (95% CI, 0.203–0.862).

Conclusion

This study implies that assessing risk factors in older adults is particularly important in the era of omicron variants.
Impact of sample processing delays on plasma markers of inflammation, chemotaxis, cell death, and blood coagulation
Authors: Gyorffy Vanessa J. , Dwivedi Dhruva J. , Liaw Patricia C. , Fox-Robichaud Alison E. , Tsang Jennifer L. Y. , Binnie Alexandra
Published: October 2024

Background

Biosampling studies in critically ill patients traditionally involve bedside collection of samples followed by local processing (ie. centrifugation, aliquotting, and freezing) and storage. However, community hospitals, which care for the majority of Canadian patients, often lack the infrastructure for local processing and storage of specimens. A potential solution is a “simplified” biosampling protocol whereby blood samples are collected at the bedside and then shipped to a central site for processing and storage. One potential limitation of this approach is that delayed processing may alter sample characteristics.

Objective

To determine whether delays in blood sample processing affect the stability of cytokines (IL-6, TNF, IL-10, IFN-γ), chemokines (IL-8, IP-10, MCP-1, MCP-4, MIP-1α, MIP-1β), cell-free DNA (cfDNA) (released by dying cells), and blood clotting potential in human blood samples.

Methods

Venous blood was collected into EDTA and citrate sample tubes and stored at room temperature (RT) or 4°C for progressive intervals up to 72 hours, prior to processing. Plasma cytokines and chemokines were quantified using single or multiplex immunoassays. cfDNA was measured using Picogreen DNA Quantification. Blood clotting potential was measured using a thrombin generation assay.

Results

Blood samples were collected from 9 intensive care unit (ICU) patients and 7 healthy volunteers. Admission diagnoses for the ICU patients included sepsis, trauma, ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm, intracranial hemorrhage, gastrointestinal bleed, and hyperkalemia. After pre-processing delays of up to 72 hours at RT or 4°C, no significant changes were observed in plasma cytokines, chemokines, cfDNA, or thrombin formation.

Conclusions

Delayed sample processing for up to 72 hours at either RT or 4°C did not significantly affect cytokines, chemokines, cfDNA, or blood clotting potential in plasma samples from healthy volunteers and ICU patients. A “simplified” biosampling protocol is a feasible solution for conducting biosampling research at hospitals without local processing capacity.
On the psychology of environmental preferences: The influence of contextual priming on discrete choice experiments
Authors: Notaro Sandra , Mariel Petr , Hadjichristidis Constantinos
Published: October 2024

This paper addresses an important gap in discrete choice experiments literature regarding the effect of contextual priming on preferences and willingness to pay. Contextual priming arises when the mere context in which a survey takes place–whether interviewees are approached in areas related or unrelated to the target issue under evaluation–can sway stated choices. We found priming to have a significant effect on one of the analyzed attributes associated with managing a natural park. We recommend interviewing participants in locations that are neutral with respect to the attributes under investigation. This procedure would prevent researchers from communicating incorrect recommendations to policymakers, natural resource planners, and managers.
Accumulation of road salt in a calcareous fen: Kampoosa Bog, western Massachusetts
Authors: Ndlovu Wayne , Guswa Andrew J. , Rhodes Amy L.
Published: October 2024

Road salt poses a threat to the quality of soils and water resources. Wetlands located in salt contaminated areas are at risk of experiencing lower plant and animal species diversity. Therefore, it is critical to understand how modifications to salt application rates and hydrological events impact wetland water quality. Here, we use chloride mass flux, discharge, groundwater chloride concentration, meteorological, and salt application data from 2012–2020 to estimate chloride accumulation and outflux rates in the Kampoosa Bog subwatersheds, located in Stockbridge and Lee, Massachusetts, and bordered by major highways (Interstate-90 and U.S. Route 7). We also investigate the correlation between wetland size and chloride retention rate. During the 2018–2019 period, mean annual chloride application rates in the major watershed increased from 363000 kg/year (2012–2017) to 479000 kg/year. This led to a net chloride accumulation (KB100 subwatershed: 339000 kg; KB150 subwatershed: 188000 kg) and increased groundwater chloride concentrations in the fen. Chloride outflux from these subwatersheds was primarily driven by discharge. We found that the relationship between wetland percent cover and chloride retention is complex. Although the percent wetland cover is greater in the KB100 main wetland region compared to the KB150 subwatershed, high precipitation in 2018 resulted in similar chloride retention efficiencies (~26%). During the drier year (2019), chloride retention was higher in the wetland region due to its gentle slopes which promote water accumulation and consequently higher evaporation rates which lowers discharge and chloride outfluxes. The chloride steady-state concentration analysis also suggests that there is potential for chloride accumulation to continue because the watershed has not yet reached steady-state chloride concentrations. Without major modifications to salting practices, chloride concentrations will continue increasing and potentially promote the re-growth of invasives (Phragmites) and continued growth of salt tolerant species (Typha angustifolia/xglauca) that diminish plant diversity.
Numerical modelling of downstream scour in circular culverts: Impact of inlet blockages and variable flow conditions
Authors: Ahmed Kaywan Othman , Kavianpour Mohammad Reza , Amini Ata , Aminpour Younes
Published: October 2024

An accurate estimate of scour depth downstream of culvert outlets is essential for culvert design integrity. Inadequate designs can result in structural failures, leading to increased costs for maintenance and rehabilitation. The present research evaluates the efficacy of numerical models in predicting scour depth and its location downstream of circular culverts under variable flow conditions. Two hydrographs were created for unsteady flow, featuring nine different flow discharges, while steady flow conditions were analysed at flow rates of 14 l/s and 22 l/s. The study investigated circular culverts with inlet blockages of 0%, 15%, and 30%, comparing outcomes with predictions from the Flow-3D software using the renormalisation group (RNG) turbulence model. Extensive experimental data on circular culverts were utilised, with simulations performed using commercial software. This involved analysing the scour’s downstream profile, its maximum depth, and its location, and comparing these metrics with actual observed data. The results revealed that the numerical model predictions closely corresponded to the experimental data, even though the simulated scour was generally less than that observed for steady and unsteady flows. The results showed that in unsteady flow conditions and for the discharge of 22 l/s, 30% blockage increased scour by 6.8% and 14.2%, respectively, compared to 15% blockage and non-blocked flow. This increase was 22% and 9.5% for the discharge of 14 l/s, respectively. In the steady case, when the flow rate was adjusted from 14 l/s to 22 l/s, there was a noticeable increase in scour depth downstream of the culvert. While blockage rates impacted the scour patterns significantly in unsteady flow scenarios, escalating blockage percentages did not lead to uniformly proportional increases in scour depth within steady flow environments.