bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Household satisfaction and associated factors with community-based health insurance scheme in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Worede Daniel Tarekegn , Tariku Mengistie Kassahun , Asresie Melash Belachew , Shibesh Belayneh Fentahun
Published: September 2023

Background

Community-based health insurance (CBHI) schemes are crucial for households to avoid financial hardship, improve healthcare quality, and engage in health policies. Household satisfaction is a key indicator for assessing healthcare quality and identifying service gaps. However, research on household satisfaction with CBHI in Ethiopia is limited. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate household satisfaction and associated factors with CBHI schemes in Ethiopia.

Methods

A comprehensive search of relevant literature was conducted using multiple databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Africa Journal Online, and Ethiopian Universities' institutional open-access online repositories. The search was carried out between January 25, 2023, and February 28, 2023. Twelve primary studies, including eight published and four unpublished, were identified and included in the analysis with a total sample size of 5311 participants. A protocol with the registration number CRD20531345698 is recorded on the Prospero database. Two authors, DT and MK, independently extracted the required data using a standardized form. The extracted data were then analyzed using STATA version 17 software. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochrane Q-test and I2 tests. Finally, a random-effect model was employed to calculate the overall household satisfaction with CBHI and to determine the associated factors.

Results

The meta-analysis showed that the overall household satisfaction with CBHI in Ethiopia was 62.26% (95% CI 53.25–71.21%). The study found regional variations in household satisfaction, with 63.40% in Oromia, 64.01% in Amhara, 49.58% in Addis Ababa, and 66.76% in SNNPs. The study identified several factors associated with household satisfaction and the CBHI scheme, including the availability of drugs (OR 2.13, 95% CI 1.47–2.78), friendly services (OR 3.85, 95% CI 1.60–6.10), affordability of premium (OR 2.80, 95% CI 1.97–3.63), and knowledge/awareness of CBHI (OR 2.52, 95% CI 1.73–3.33).

Conclusions

The study provides valuable insights into household satisfaction with CBHI in Ethiopia, with a considerable proportion of enrolees being satisfied. The finding highlights regional variations in household satisfaction and underscores the need for tailored interventions and monitoring to enhance CBHI sustainability and effectiveness. The results suggest that healthcare providers and policymakers should prioritize the availability of drugs, friendly services, affordable premiums, and education to improve household satisfaction with CBHI schemes.
Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI shows altered blood–brain barrier function of deep gray matter structures in neuroborreliosis: a case–control study
Authors: Lindland Elisabeth S. , Solheim Anne Marit , Andreassen Silje , Bugge Robin , Eikeland Randi , Reiso Harald , Lorentzen Åslaug R. , Harbo Hanne F. , Beyer Mona K. , Bjørnerud Atle
Published: September 2023

Background

Main aim was assessment of regional blood–brain barrier (BBB) function by dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) in patients with neuroborreliosis. Secondary aim was to study the correlation of BBB function with biochemical, clinical, and cognitive parameters.

Methods

Regional ethical committee approved this prospective single-center case–control study. Within 1 month after diagnosis of neuroborreliosis, 55 patients underwent DCE-MRI. The patient group consisted of 25 males and 30 females with mean age 58 years, and the controls were 8 males and 7 females with mean age 57 years. Pharmacokinetic compartment modelling with Patlak fit was applied, providing estimates for capillary leakage rate and blood volume fraction. Nine anatomical brain regions were sampled with auto-generated binary masks. Fatigue, severity of clinical symptoms and findings, and cognitive function were assessed in the acute phase and 6 months after treatment.

Results

Leakage rates and blood volume fractions were lower in patients compared to controls in the thalamus (p = 0.027 and p = 0.018, respectively), caudate nucleus (p = 0.009 for both), and hippocampus (p = 0.054 and p = 0.009). No correlation of leakage rates with fatigue, clinical disease severity or cognitive function was found.

Conclusions

In neuroborreliosis, leakage rate and blood volume fraction in the thalamus, caudate nucleus, and hippocampus were lower in patients compared to controls. DCE-MRI provided new insight to pathophysiology of neuroborreliosis, and can serve as biomarker of BBB function and regulatory mechanisms of the neurovascular unit in infection and inflammation.

Relevance statement

DCE-MRI provided new insight to pathophysiology of neuroborreliosis, and can serve as biomarker of blood–brain barrier function and regulatory mechanisms of the neurovascular unit in infection and inflammation.

Key points

• Neuroborreliosis is an infection with disturbed BBB function.

• Microvessel leakage can be studied with DCE-MRI.

• Prospective case–control study showed altered microvessel properties in thalamus, caudate, and hippocampus.

Graphical Abstract
Dysphagia handicap index and fibre-optic endoscopic examination of swallowing in assessment of dysphagia
Authors: Abdelhamid Nihal Hisham , Elrouby Iman Mohamed
Published: September 2023

Oropharyngeal dysphagia is a swallowing disorder characterized by difficulty in transferring foods and/or liquids from the oral cavity to the stomach, affecting safe oral feeding. The main complications caused by dysphagia are tracheobronchial aspiration, pneumonia, malnutrition, and dehydration. Fibre-optic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) is the first choice for studying swallowing disorders, it is easy to use, very well tolerated, allows bedside examination, and is economic. The dysphagia handicap index (DHI) is a 25-item self-administered questionnaire. It is a noninvasive tool measuring the handicapping effect of dysphagia in three aspects: the physical, functional, and emotional aspects of life, so a patient can rate the impact of his swallowing problem. The aim of this study is to test the correlation between DHI scores and fibre-optic endoscopic examination of swallowing and the ability of DHI to predict penetration and aspiration. For all patients, FEES examination was done as an assessment tool for dysphagia and DHI. Testing the correlation between DHI scores and penetration and aspiration on FEES results in a positive significant correlation, so we can apply DHI as a predictor of aspiration and penetration at medical centres where FEES examination is not accessible.
Computed tomography pulmonary angiogram in a poly-trauma patient undergoing veno venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: our experience in diagnosing pulmonary embolism
Authors: Al Bshabshe Ali , Purushothaman Senthil , Alwadai Nasser Mohammed , Omer Hussam Haider , Palanivel Om Prakash
Published: September 2023

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is an adapted form of the heart–lung machine that provides cardiopulmonary bypass life support for critically ill patients with acute cardiac and/or respiratory failure who are unresponsive to standard medical and surgical therapies. Although ECMO therapy has advanced significantly, complications like thrombosis and bleeding continue to be substantial, necessitating rapid transport of patients to the radiology suite to reveal crucial findings for further treatment plans or care. Even though the low flow rate for veno-arterial ECMO (VA-ECMO) support during contrast-enhanced CT is well known, the flow rate for veno-venous ECMO support during CT, especially computed tomography pulmonary angiography, is not well understood. Our case emphasizes that CTPA can be performed safely in trauma patients with ECMO runs and any suspected complications during ECMO runs may delay or worsen the clinical prognosis therefore immediate radiological verdicts may reveal significant findings to plan the treatment accordingly. Also, there were no complications associated with our examinations or transport. Our case highlights that VV-ECMO like VA-ECMO induces flow-dependent alterations in the patient’s circulation due to contrast injections, which might lead to an incorrect interpretation of CTPA. However, CTPA is safe, and bringing down the VV-ECMO flow rate of zero with vigilant monitoring of vitals and ventilation support helps radiologists to predict and interpret the contrast flow based on injection and cannula sites in the diagnosing and evaluation of pulmonary embolism patients with acute respiratory failure during ECMO.
Remdesivir administration for SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia in ICU and non-ICU patients: outcome and posttreatment differences — the Italian Military Hospital experience
Authors: Sabba Antonio , Pontoni Giancarlo , Santangelo Maria , Rachedi Nadir , D’Ercole Maurizio , Marseglia Bernardino , Fusaro Marcella , Bignami Elena Giovanna , Fontana Costantino
Published: September 2023

Background

Four-hundred forty-nine patients affected by Covid-19 were hospitalized at the Rome Military Hospital between March 2020 and July 2022. Depending on the severity of the disease, they were assigned either to the Functional Health Emergency Unit — if suffering from interstitial pneumonia with a clinical manifestation of dyspnea associated with peripheral oxygen saturation  < 92%, and oxygen atmospheric pressure therapy — or to the intensive care unit — if the blood gas-lytic index P/F (ratio between partial pressure of arterial O2 and inspired fraction of O2) was below 150. This prospective observation and monocentric study aim to verify the outcome (healing/death) of early use of remdesivir in pneumonia patients.

Results

The results highlight the importance of the adoption of remdesivir in the initial stages of infection to prevent the systemic spread and viral multiplication and, in the subsequent phase, a cytokine storm resulting in acute respiratory failure and multiorgan failure. The use of the drug in the most advanced stages of the disease is not associated with a real impact on patient outcomes. Therefore, there is a statistically significant correspondence between the early use of remdesivir in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 disease — in addition to guidelines therapies — and a favorable clinical outcome.

Conclusions

This work shows therapeutic efficacy in the first 5 days of intravenous administration of remdesivir, following the loading dose. It is also necessary to underline the different behaviors of the drug when administered late in patients undergoing mechanical ventilation, compared to those who only needed low-flow oxygen therapy, whose share of recovery — decidedly relevant — reaches statistical significance.
A Case Study for Critical Reagent Qualification for Ligand Binding Assays Using Equivalence Test Methodology
Authors: Niemuth Nancy A. , Triplett Cheryl A. , Anderson Michael S. , Sankovich Karen A. , Rudge Thomas L.
Published: September 2023

Qualifying critical reagents in ligand binding assays by parallel testing of current and candidate reagent lots is recommended by regulatory agencies and industry groups, but specific guidance on the format of reagent qualification experiments is limited. Equivalence testing is a statistically sound approach that is consistent with the objective of critical reagent qualification. We present power analysis for equivalence regions ranging from 1.25- to 1.5-fold multiples of the GM ratio (centered on 1) of current and candidate lots, over a range of assay variability from 5 to 30% coefficient of variation (CV). A 1.25-fold equivalence region can be tested using 6 to 12 plates per lot for assays with up to 15% CV but is not practical for more variable assays. For these assays, wider equivalence regions are justified so long as care is taken to avoid assay drift and the assay remains suitable for the intended use. The equivalence test method is illustrated using historical data from passing and failing reagent qualification experiments. Simulation analysis was performed to support the design of qualification experiments using 6, 12, or 18 plates per lot over a broad range of assay variability. A challenge in implementing the equivalence test approach is selecting an appropriate equivalence region. Equivalence regions providing 90% power using 12 plates/lot were consistent with 1.5σ bounds, which are recommended for equivalence testing of critical quality attributes of biosimilars.

Graphical Abstract
Riluzole Suppresses Growth and Enhances Response to Endocrine Therapy in ER+ Breast Cancer
Authors: Olukoya Ayodeji O , Stires Hillary , Bahnassy Shaymaa , Persaud Sonali , Guerra Yanira , Ranjit Suman , Ma Shihong , Cruz M Idalia , Benitez Carlos , Rozeboom Aaron M , Ceuleers Hannah , Berry Deborah L , Jacobsen Britta M , Raj Ganesh V , Riggins Rebecca B
Published: September 2023

Background

Resistance to endocrine therapy in estrogen receptor–positive (ER+) breast cancer remains a significant clinical problem. Riluzole is FDA-approved for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. A benzothiazole-based glutamate release inhibitor with several context-dependent mechanism(s) of action, riluzole has shown antitumor activity in multiple malignancies, including melanoma, glioblastoma, and breast cancer. We previously reported that the acquisition of tamoxifen resistance in a cellular model of invasive lobular breast cancer is accompanied by the upregulation of GRM mRNA expression and growth inhibition by riluzole.

Methods

We tested the ability of riluzole to reduce cell growth, alone and in combination with endocrine therapy, in a diverse set of ER+ invasive ductal and lobular breast cancer–derived cell lines, primary breast tumor explant cultures, and the estrogen-independent, ESR1-mutated invasive lobular breast cancer patient-derived xenograft model HCI-013EI.

Results

Single-agent riluzole suppressed the growth of ER+ invasive ductal and lobular breast cancer cell lines in vitro, inducing a histologic subtype-associated cell cycle arrest (G0-G1 for ductal, G2-M for lobular). Riluzole induced apoptosis and ferroptosis and reduced phosphorylation of multiple prosurvival signaling molecules, including Akt/mTOR, CREB, and Fak/Src family kinases. Riluzole, in combination with either fulvestrant or 4-hydroxytamoxifen, additively suppressed ER+ breast cancer cell growth in vitro. Single-agent riluzole significantly inhibited HCI-013EI patient-derived xenograft growth in vivo, and the combination of riluzole plus fulvestrant significantly reduced proliferation in ex vivo primary breast tumor explant cultures.

Conclusion

Riluzole may offer therapeutic benefits in diverse ER+ breast cancers, including lobular breast cancer.
Assuring the Groundwork for Success: Mentorship, Sponsorship, and Allyship for Practicing Anesthesiologists
Authors: Diallo Mofya S. , Wright Crystal C. , Coombs Alice A. Tolbert , Vetter Thomas R.
Published: September 2023

The challenges facing the health care industry in the post–coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic world are numerous, jeopardizing wellness, and performance. Maintaining engagement and fulfillment of anesthesiologists in their work is now a critical issue in various practice settings: academic, private practice, and corporate medicine. In this article, we offer insights on how mentorship, sponsorship, and allyship are important in the advancement of the anesthesiology workforce including women and underrepresented minorities inclusive of race, gender, and disability. Mentorship, sponsorship, and allyship require a framework that intentionally addresses the programmatic structures needed to optimize the environment for increasing women, underrepresented minorities, and other diverse groups. These 3 distinct yet interrelated concepts are defined with a discussion on the value of implementation. In addition, the concept of “belonging” and its importance in enhancing the culture in anesthesiology is explored. We believe that part of the solution to wellness, recruitment and retention and improved job satisfaction of clinicians is having an environment where mentorship, sponsorship, and allyship are foundational.
The Quality Improvement Fellow: Educating on Making the Difference
Authors: Pereira Rodrigo O. L. , Ohnuma Tetsu , Mehdiratta Nitin , Hashmi Nazish K. , Patoli Daneel M. , Krishnamoorthy Vijay
Published: September 2023

The critical care medicine (CCM) fellowship is an opportunity for advanced anesthesiology trainees to refine their quality improvement (QI) skills. However, the short training period and inconsistent curricula make this challenging. The QI fellow (QIF) is described as an education program to provide consistent QI training during the CCM fellowship. The QIF is a mentored position to help manage data review, QI conferences, and improvement efforts within the CCM Division. The curriculum is focused on a QI education framework and mentored experiential learning. The QIF program is an opportunity for education and mentorship in the role of a CCM operational leader.
Free Verse and Prose Rhythm
Authors: Crone J. H.
Published: September 2023

Free verse and prose rhythms, by definition, do not have metrical organizing schemes, but does this mean that rhythm in free verse or prose poems is like speech or prose rhythm? Taking up these questions debated since the advent of modernist free verse more than one hundred years ago, this essay draws on recent critical literary and linguistic findings to formulate a new method for scanning and comparing rhythm in English-language free verse and prose genres. The comparison of six texts suggests that in poetic free verse or prose texts rhythm constructs information-rich, multilevel, context-specific semantic systems in a way that does not occur in the nonpoetic texts. These results contest persisting prosodic theories that free verse and prose poetry are largely written in prose, and suggest that rhythm is a more important generic marker of the poetic function than lineation is.
The Sound of the Reel in Ted Hughes's Birthday Letters
Authors: Lowenthal Jeremy
Published: September 2023

This article presents a mediacentric reading of the autobiographical-lyric (auto-lyric) sound structures of Ted Hughes's 1998 poetry collection Birthday Letters, which broke his decades-long silence on the controversies surrounding his life with and after Sylvia Plath. It explores how Hughes's poems of bereavement adapt the media logics of film, tape, record, and radio not only to understand trauma's complex psychology but also to textually remediate his lost connection with his beloved dead. Rendering Hughes's traumas audible by way of phonotextual analysis, this essay ultimately forwards an ear-sighted approach to poetry of trauma, wherein traumatic memories are often written down to be sounded out by the reading voice and heard—not seen—accordingly.
A molecular landscape of quiescence and proliferation highlights the role of Pten in mammary gland acinogenesis
Authors: Tomasin Rebeka , Rodrigues Ana Maria , Manucci Antonio Carlos , Bruni-Cardoso Alexandre
Published: September 2023

Cell context is key for cell state. Using physiologically relevant models of laminin-rich extracellular matrix (lrECM) induction of mammary epithelial cell quiescence and differentiation, we provide a landscape of the key molecules for the proliferation–quiescence decision, identifying multiple layers of regulation at the mRNA and protein levels. Quiescence occurred despite activity of Fak (also known as PTK2), Src and phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3Ks), suggesting the existence of a disconnecting node between upstream and downstream proliferative signalling. Pten, a lipid and protein phosphatase, fulfils this role, because its inhibition increased proliferation and restored signalling via the Akt, mTORC1, mTORC2 and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. Pten and laminin levels were positively correlated in developing murine mammary epithelia, and Pten localized apicolaterally in luminal cells in ducts and near the nascent lumen in terminal end buds. Consistently, in three-dimensional acinogenesis models, Pten was required for triggering and sustaining quiescence, polarity and architecture. The multilayered regulatory circuitry that we uncovered provides an explanation for the robustness of quiescence within a growth-suppressive microenvironment, which could nonetheless be disrupted by perturbations in master regulators such as Pten.
Carbon-Neutral Energy Cycle via Highly Selective Electrochemical Reactions Using Biomass Derivable Organic Liquid Energy Carriers
Authors: Fukushima Takashi , Higashi Manabu , Yamauchi Miho
Published: September 2023

Efficient storage and transport of electric energy is essential to promote the use of renewable energy based electricity. We demonstrate an energy cycle based on highly selective redox reactions between lactic acid (Lac) and pyruvic acid (Pyr), both of which are liquid under ambient conditions and can be obtained from biomass resources, thus realizing a completely low-emission system. As an energy storage device, an electrosynthesis cell (LAEC) for the production of Lac from Pyr was constructed using a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) consisting of a TiO2 cathode catalyst for the electroreduction of Pyr and an IrOx anode catalyst for water oxidation. Our LAEC achieved highly efficient Lac production from 10 M Pyr aqueous solution with Faradaic efficiency (FE) of approximately 100% in the applied voltage range of 1.4–2.4 V, resulting in an energy conversion efficiency of 50% and a current density of −0.4 A cm−2 at 2.0 V. Direct Lac fuel cell (DLAFC) was also constructed and its FE values for the Pyr production reached approximately 100%, enabling direct electronic energy storage in bio-derivative liquid carriers and efficient energy circulation with minimal CO2 emissions.
A rarely described Kimura’s disease of the breast
Authors: Almohawes Eman A. , Zakareia Yasser , Dumiati Zainab A. , Zaki Wael A. , Alfudhili Khalid M.
Published: September 2023

Kimura’s disease is a rare chronic inflammatory disease of unknown aetiology. The majority of cases are reported in middle-aged Asian males and rarely seen in other ethnicities. Patients classically present with chronic single or multiple painless subcutaneous masses, lymphadenopathies, hypereosinophilia and elevated serum immunoglobulin E. The disease usually affects the head and neck area, however, rare involvement of other locations such as axilla, upper limbs, popliteal region and abdomen has been reported. Here, we report a rarely encountered Kimura’s disease of the breast and axillary lymph nodes in a middle-aged female. In this report, we will describe the main clinical, radiological and pathological features to raise the awareness about this indolent disease.
Unusual paranasal sinus solitary neurofibroma and literature review
Authors: Yang Xian Chun , Chen Li
Published: September 2023

Neurofibroma (NF) is a common benign peripheral neurogenic tumor that is rarely encountered in the paranasal sinus tract. In this report, we present a 55-year-old female who serendipitously discovered a maxillary sinus NF during a medical examination for a pulmonary nodule. The purpose of this article is to enhance medical practitioners' comprehension of paranasal sinus solitary NF by exploring cases, summarizing occurrences located in the paranasal sinus tract and conducting an organized review of paranasal sinus tract NF.
Níveis séricos de vitamina D e urinários de KIM-1 e MCP-1 em pacientes com anemia falciforme
Authors: Castelo Luan Rebouças , Sampaio Tiago Lima , Menezes Ramon Róseo Paula Pessoa Bezerra de , Machado Rosângela Pinheiro Gonçalves , Lemes Romélia Pinheiro Gonçalves
Published: September 2023

Objetivo: realizar dosagens de biomarcadores de função renal não convencionais em pacientes com anemia falciforme e associar com os níveis séricos de vitamina D. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo observacional, analítico de corte transversal. Participaram do estudo 51 pacientes adultos com anemia falciforme, e o grupo controle foi composto por 17 adultos saudáveis doadores de sangue. Os níveis séricos de 25- hidroxi-vitamina D foram determinados por imunoensaio quimioluminecente de micropartículas (CMIA), e a função renal foi avaliada pelas dosagens de molécula-1 de lesão renal (KIM-1) e proteína-1 quimiotática de monócitos (MCP-1). Os resultados foram expressos como mediana (intervalo interquartil). Os testes t-Student de amostras independentes, análise de variância de Welch e teste não paramétrico de Kruskal-Wallis foram realizados para comparar as diferenças entre os grupos. Resultados: os pacientes apresentaram níveis séricos de vitamina D superiores ao grupo controle, além de uma maior prevalência de suficiência de vitamina D. Os níveis urinários de KIM-1 e MCP-1 estavam aumentados nos pacientes em relação ao grupo controle. Não houve relação entre baixos níveis séricos de vitamina D e a probabilidade de desenvolvimento de doença renal. Conclusões: este estudo fornece dados importantes sobre a prevalência da deficiência de vitamina D em pacientes com anemia falciforme e demonstra não haver relação entre baixos níveis de vitamina D e desenvolvimento de doença renal.
Case Report: Rehabilitation of missing lower anterior teeth with Maryland bridge
Authors: Pathak Ankita , Dhamande Mithilesh , Sathe Seema , Gujjelwar Smruti
Published: September 2023

Congenital partial hypodontia is a common disorder, and many treatments have been developed for adolescents, but each has had one or more significant drawbacks. Maryland Bridge, a widely available treatment option, appears to offer great strength and aesthetics. The option is discussed in this article along with a successful application of it. A young male patient reported to us with the chief complaint of missing lower anterior teeth. After examination, clinical findings revealed that the patient was receiving orthodontic treatment and two lateral incisors missing in the lower arch. The patient was diagnosed with congenital partial hypodontia. A treatment plan was decided to rehabilitate the missing teeth with a Maryland Bridge. A treatment conundrum for restorative dentists is the presence of congenitally absent lateral incisors. There are numerous therapy alternatives, none of which are perfect. The outcome of this rehabilitation was aesthetically pleasing appearance, hence serving the required purpose. This article offers Maryland Bridge as a feasible substitute for the patient.
Acid leaching technology for post-consumer gypsum purification
Authors: Castro-Diaz Miguel , Osmani Mohamed , Cavalaro Sergio , Needham Paul , Parker Bill , Lovato Tatiana
Published: September 2023

Background: Contaminants and water-soluble salts present in mechanically recycled gypsum from refurbishment and demolition (post-consumer) plasterboard waste limit its use as a secondary raw material in plasterboard manufacturing.  This research addresses this limitation, developing a novel acid leaching purification technology combined with an improved mechanical pre-treatment for post-consumer gypsum valorization. 

Methods: Laboratory-scale acid leaching purification was performed with a borosilicate beaker, hot plate, and overhead stirrer.  Stuccos were produced after calcination of gypsum at 150 °C for 3 hours.  Samples were characterized through X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, thermal gravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy and particle size analysis. 

Results: Acid leaching at 90 °C for 1 h using a 5 wt% sulfuric acid solution was revealed to be the optimum purification conditions.  Stuccos produced from purified gypsum under optimum conditions had similar initial setting times to that of a commercial stucco but with higher water demand, which could be reduced by optimizing the calcination conditions.  A magnesium-rich gypsum was precipitated from the wastewater.

Conclusions: Purified post-consumer gypsum with > 96 wt% chemical purity and calcium sulfate dihydrate content was produced.  The research recommends acid neutralization prior filtration, use of gypsum particles < 2 mm in size, and stirring speed of 50 rpm to reduce the economic and environmental impacts of the acid leaching purification process at industrial scale.  The magnesium-rich gypsum could potentially be marketed as soil fertilizer.
Seasonal changes in antioxidant enzyme activities of Garra rufa (Heckel, 1843) in Göynük Stream (Bingöl, Türkiye)
Authors: Kırıcı Muammer , Şen Özdemir Nurgül , Caf Fatma , Koyun Mustafa
Published: September 2023

In this study, seasonal variations of antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR) and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD)) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in gill, kidney, muscle and liver tissues of Garra rufa (Heckel, 1843) caught from Göynük Stream, one of the most important branch of Murat River, were investigated. Fish samples were caught from two stations (Garip and Ilıcalar), which are determined regularly every month, and brought to the laboratory. The levels of biomarkers in tissues were determined by spectrophotometric methods. It was determined that the difference between the parameters in the studied tissues was statistically significant (P < 0.05) between the two stations, but the difference between the stations in the liver tissue in all seasons in GR enzyme was not statistically significant. However, it was determined that the differences between the seasons were significant in both stations. GR and G6PD enzyme activities were found to be lower than other enzyme activities among the enzyme groups studied, but CAT and SOD enzyme activities were found to be higher than the other enzymes., enzyme activities in muscle tissue are lower than activities in the other tissues among tissues.
Generalized Stochastic Arbitrage Opportunities
Authors: Arvanitis Stelios , Post Thierry
Published: September 2023

Concepts are introduced and applied for analyzing and selecting arbitrage portfolios in the face of uncertainty about initial positions and risk preferences. A stochastic arbitrage opportunity is defined as a zero-cost investment portfolio that enhances every feasible host portfolio for all admissible utility functions. The alternative to the existence of such investment opportunities is the existence of a solution to a dual system of asset pricing restrictions based on a class of stochastic discount factors. Feasible approaches to numerical optimization and statistical inference are discussed. Empirical results suggest that equity factor investing is appealing for all risk-averse stock investors with a wide range of initial position and sufficiently low transactions costs by mixing multiple factor portfolios with high after-cost appraisal ratios, low mutual correlation, and negative exposures to the relevant host portfolios. These findings weaken the case for risk-based explanations for the profitability of factor investing.

This paper was accepted by Kay Giesecke, finance.

Supplemental Material: The data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.4892 .
Hypertrophic pachymeningitis as an unusual cause of headache and sphincter dysfunction in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Oumlil Soukaina , Zahlane Mouna , Essaadouni Lamiaa
Published: September 2023

Hypertrophic pachymeningitis (HP) is an uncommon condition characterised by focal or diffuse thickening of the dura mater. An increasing number of cases have been reported of its association with underlying connective tissue diseases. It is a rare complication in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and might be the initial and sole clinical manifestation. We report a case of a 21-year-old man presenting with febrile meningeal syndrome and sphincter dysfunction. Physical examination showed malar rash and joint pain. Biological assessment revealed a regenerative normocytic normochromic anaemia, a leucopenia and a lymphopenia. The 24-hour urine protein was positive at 0.6 g. Immunological evaluation revealed positive antinuclear, anti-Sm and anti-dsDNA antibodies. Brain and spinal magnetic resonance imaging showed hypertrophic pachymeningitis. Cerebrospinal fluid biochemistry was within normal limits. Renal biopsy revealed a mesangial proliferative lupus nephritis. The diagnosis of SLE with neurologic and renal involvement was established, and the patient was treated with intravenous methylprednisolone pulse, followed by oral prednisone in association with azathioprine and hydroxychloroquine. Considering the persistence of symptoms and MRI lesions after 6 months, a treatment with rituximab was initiated with good evolution.
Coexistence in future optical access networks from an operator’s perspective [Invited]
Authors: Saliou Fabienne , Simon Gaël , Le Huérou Stéphane , Chanclou Philippe , Potet Jérémy , Gaillard Georges , Percevault Ugo , Chevalier Dylan , Zandueta Joseph , Yang Bo , Vagionas Christos , Gatzianas Marios , Kalfas Georgios , Moschos Theodoros , Miliou Amalia , Pleros Nikos
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we address the challenges related to the simultaneous operation of legacy and future network technologies in passive optical networks (PONs) and point-to-point topologies. We explore the coexistence issues for various user categories, including residential, enterprise, factories, and mobile users. The future access networks will need to accommodate multiple technologies concurrently. Our paper demonstrates how G-PON, XGS-PON, and 50G-PON can coexist on the same optical distribution network using triple coexistence multi-PON modules. However, there are certain limitations that need to be considered, such as achieving a high optical budget and the associated costs, both in terms of monetary investment and CO2 emissions for technology deployment by operators. Additionally, we emphasize the significance of optical line terminals (OLTs) as crucial network components in the future. OLTs play a central role in supporting the traffic evolution with optimal efficiency in terms of throughput, latency, jitter, and adherence to CO2 emission constraints. Finally, we experimentally demonstrate the first assessment, to our knowledge, of a 50G-PON prototype with optical budget reaching 23.9 dB limited by the downstream (DS). Furthermore, we evaluate the potential limitations regarding coexistence by examining the effects of stimulated Raman scattering between the DS of 50G-PON and the upstream of XGS-PON for the first time with real PON systems.
Generation of flattop beams from a distorted optical field by the wavefront shaping technique
Authors: Sun Hang , Li Haoran , Chen Ziyang , Wu Xiaoyan , Liu Guodong , Pu Jixiong
Published: September 2023

Uniform laser beams with controllable patterns are crucial for various applications, including laser processing and inertial confinement fusion. While some methods have been proposed to generate flattop beams, they often require complex optical systems that can become ineffective because of the misalignment of the system or the imperfection of optical elements. To overcome these issues, we utilized feedback-based wavefront shaping (FWS) technology to generate flattop beams with desired patterns from a disordered light. To solve the multi-goal optimization problem, we propose some modifications based on the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA2) and successfully generate focal beams with a uniform intensity distribution and controllable beam shape from the disordered light field.
Self-consistent description of relaxation processes in systems with ultra- and deep-strong coupling
Authors: Sergeev Timofey T. , Zyablovsky Alexander A. , Andrianov Evgeny S. , Lozovik Yurii E.
Published: September 2023

An ultra-strong coupling regime takes place in a compound system when a
coupling strength between the subsystems exceeds one-tenth of the
system eigenfrequency. It transforms into a deep-strong coupling
regime when the coupling strength exceeds the system eigenfrequency.
In these regimes, there are difficulties with the description of
relaxation processes without explicit consideration of environmental
degrees of freedom. To correctly evaluate the relaxation rates, it is
necessary to consider the interaction of the system with its
environment taking into account the counter-rotating wave and
diamagnetic terms. We develop a self-consistent theory for the
calculation of the relaxation rates in the systems, in which the
coupling strength is of the order of the system eigenfrequency. We
demonstrate that the increase in the coupling strength can lead to a
significant decrease in the relaxation rates. In particular, we show
that, for frequency-independent density of states of the environment,
the relaxation rates decrease exponentially with the increase in the
coupling strength. This fact can be used to suppress losses by tuning
the strength coupling and the environment states.
Wide-field-of-view auto-coupling optical antenna system for high-speed bidirectional optical wireless communications in C band
Authors: Tian Jiahan , Guo Tingbiao , He Nan , Du Ji , Hong Xiaojian , Fei Chao , Lin Zijian , Zhang Ranran , Huang Qiangsheng , Wang Yuan , Zhang Tianyi , He Sailing
Published: September 2023

Due to a great many superior features of infrared light communication (ILC), like high capacity and strong privacy, ILC is considered a potential candidate for serving the high demands of beyond fifth-generation/sixth-generation (B5G/6 G) communication systems. However, the terminal’s limited field-of-view (FOV) induces great difficulty in establishing line-of-sight (LoS) link between the transceiver and the terminal. In this paper, we propose a wide-FOV auto-coupling optical antenna system that utilizes a wide-FOV telecentric lens to collect incident infrared beams and automatically couple them into a specific single-mode-fiber (SMF) channel of fiber array and optical switch. The performance of this optical antenna system is assessed through simulation and manual alignment operation, and validated by automatic alignment results. A coupling loss of less than 10.6 dB within a FOV of 100° for both downstream and upstream beams in C band is demonstrated by the designed system. Furthermore, we establish a bidirectional optical wireless communications (OWC) system employing this antenna and a fiber-type modulating retro-reflector (MRR) system in the terminal. Both 10-Gbps on-off keying (OOK) downstream and upstream transmissions are successfully realized with the FOV of up to 100° in C band where the measured bit-error-rate (BER) is lower than 3.8 × 10−3. To the best of our knowledge, this is a brand-new auto-coupling optical antenna system with the largest FOV in ILC automatic alignment works in terminals that have ever been reported.
Continuous daytime and nighttime forecast of atmospheric optical turbulence from numerical weather prediction models
Authors: Quatresooz Florian , Griffiths Ryan , Bardou Lisa , Wilson Richard , Osborn James , Vanhoenacker-Janvier Danielle , Oestges Claude
Published: September 2023

Future satellite-to-ground optical communication systems will benefit from accurate forecasts of atmospheric optical turbulence; namely for site selection, for the routing and the operation of optical links, and for the design of optical communication terminals. This work presents a numerical approach based on the Weather Research and Forecasting software that enables continuous forecast of the refractive index structure parameter, C
n
2, vertical profiles. Two different C
n
2 models are presented and compared. One is based on monitoring the turbulent kinetic energy, while the other is a hybrid model using the Tatarskii equation to depict the free atmosphere region, and the Monin-Obukhov similarity theory for describing the boundary layer. The validity of both models is assessed by using thermosonde measurements from the Terrain-induced Rotor Experiment campaign, and from day and night measurements of the coherence length collected during a six-day campaign at Paranal observatory by a Shack-Hartmann Image Motion Monitor. The novelty of this work is the ability of the presented approach to continuously predict optical turbulence both during daytime and nighttime, and its validation with measurements in day and night conditions.
Autoencoder assisted subcarrier optimization for nonlinear frequency division multiplexing
Authors: Ge Peiyun , Xi Lixia , Deng Jiayun , Wei Jiacheng , Du Shucheng , Zhang Xiaoguang
Published: September 2023

Nonlinear frequency division multiplexing (NFDM) is a novel optical communication technique that can achieve nonlinear free transmission. However, current design of NFDM is analogous to orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), where sinc function is utilized as subcarriers, which may not be optimal for nonlinear spectrums. In this paper, we propose an auto-encoder (AE) assisted subcarrier optimization scheme for dual-polarized (DP) NFDM systems. Numerical verifications show that our scheme can improve the Q-factor by 1.54 dB and 0.62 dB compared to sinc subcarrier and linear minimum mean square error (LMMSE) equalization, respectively, in a 960 km transmission scenario. We also analyze the characteristics of the optimized subcarriers and discuss how they enhance the performance. Furthermore, we demonstrate the robustness of the optimized subcarriers to different modulation formats, transmission distances and bandwidth. Our work provides a new idea in subcarrier design for NFDM.
RIS-aided dynamically adaptive wide field-of-view receiver for visible light communication in industrial internet of things
Authors: Ye Zi-wei , Zhang Yan-yu , Wang Chao , Fan Peng-hui , Zhu Yi-jun
Published: September 2023

In the current visible light communication (VLC) system, a condenser lens is generally used in the front of receiver to achieve a higher data rate, making an extremely narrow field-of-view for the receiver. With the spread of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), the communication between mobile terminals is urgently required. A wide-range detecting method for VLC system in IIoT scenario is asked. In this paper, a novel self-adaptive wide-FoV receiver involving reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) is proposed. The effective detecting range of the receiver can be expanded by dynamically adjusting the incident light directions with the assistance of RIS. Based on the maximum arrived flux criterion, the mathematical model is established and the optimized RIS parameter tuning algorithm is presented. The feasibility and validity of the method are verified by simulation. The results show that the tolerable transceiver offset can be increased to 2∼4 times as the conventional receiver.
Optical transparent metamaterial with multi-band compatible camouflage based on inverse design
Authors: Nong Jie , Jiang Xinpeng , Wei Xueling , Zhang Yiyi , Li Ning , Li Xin , Chen Huan , He Xin , Yu Yang , Zhang Zhenfu , Zhang Zhenrong , Yang Junbo
Published: September 2023

Infrared (IR) thermal camouflage and management are deeply desirable in the field of military and astronomy. While IR compatible with laser camouflage technology is extensively studied to counter modern detection systems, most existing strategies for visible light camouflage focus on color matching, which is not suitable for scenarios requiring transparency. In this work, we propose an optically transparent metamaterial with multi-band compatible camouflage capability based on the inverse design. The metamaterial consists of Ag grating, Si3N4 dielectric spacer layer, Ag reflection layer, and Si3N4 anti-reflective layer. An ideal multi-band compatible spectrum is involved in the inverse design algorithm. Calculated results demonstrate high transmittance (T0.38-0.78µm = 0.70) in the visible region, low reflectance (R1.55µm = 0.01) in laser working wavelength, high reflectance (R3-5µm = 0.86 and R8-14µm = 0.92) in the dual-band atmospheric window, and high emissivity (ɛ5-8µm = 0.61) for the non-atmospheric window. The radiative heat flux in the detected band is 31W/m2 and 201W/m2 respectively. Furthermore, the incident and polarized insensitivity of the proposed metamaterial supports applicability for practical situations. This work, emphasizes an effective strategy for conducting optically transparent design with compatible IR-laser camouflage as well as radiative cooling properties by an automated design approach.
Erecting time telescope for photonic quantum networks
Authors: Srivastava Shivang , Horoshko Dmitri B. , Kolobov Mikhail I.
Published: September 2023

A time lens allows one to stretch or compress optical waveforms in time, similar to the conventional lens in space. However, a single-time-lens imaging system always imparts a residual temporal chirp on the image, which may be detrimental for quantum networks, where the temporal image interacts with other fields. We show that a two-time-lens imaging system satisfying the telescopic condition, a time telescope, is necessary and sufficient for creating a chirpless image. We develop a general theory of a time telescope, find the conditions for loss minimization, and show how an erecting time telescope creating a real image of a temporal object can be constructed. We consider several applications of such a telescope to making indistinguishable the photons generated by spontaneous parametric downconversion or single emitters such as quantum dots.
On-chip all-optical second-order ordinary differential equation solver based on a single microdisk resonator
Authors: Zhou Jiahao , Guo Pengxing , Li Jingsi , Lu Bing , Duong Luan H. K. , Hou Weigang , Guo Lei
Published: September 2023

This paper proposes an all-optical second-order ordinary differential equation (SODE) solver based on a single microdisk resonator. We validate the feasibility of our structure for constant and complex coefficient SODE solutions for Gaussian and super-Gaussian pulses. The results demonstrate a good agreement between the solutions obtained with the designed structure and those obtained through mathematical calculations for both constant and complex coefficient SODEs. We also discuss the influence of input optical signal pulse width on solution result deviations. Furthermore, we validate the capability of the designed structure to achieve tunable solutions for complex-coefficient SODEs with a tuning power of less than 10 mW. The device footprint is approximately 20×30 μm2, and it is 3-4 times smaller than the current smallest solving unit. The maximum Q-factor reaches 9.8×104. The proposed device avoids the traditional approach of cascading two resonators for SODE solving. Moreover, achieving mode alignment within the same resonator reduces the process challenges associated with aligning multiple devices in a cascade. Furthermore, it offers wider applicability for solving SODEs, namely, the ability to solve both constant and complex coefficient SODEs with complete derivative terms.
Imaging process matched neural network for complex wavefront retrieval with a higher space–bandwidth product
Authors: Ma Bole , Huang Chuxuan , Hou Sibing , Zhang Haiyu , Liu Manhua , Yan Hao
Published: September 2023

Recently, deep learning (DL) has shown great potential in complex wavefront retrieval (CWR). However, the application of DL in CWR does not match well with the physical diffraction process. The state-of-the-art DL-based CWR methods crop full-size diffraction patterns down to a smaller size to save computational resources. However, cropping reduces the space–bandwidth product (SBP). In order to solve the trade-off between computational resources and SBP, we propose an imaging process matched neural network (IPMnet). IPMnet accepts full-size diffraction patterns with a larger SBP as inputs and retrieves a higher resolution and a larger field of view of the complex wavefront. We verify the effectiveness of the proposed IPMnet through simulations and experiments.