bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unraveling the timeline of gene expression: A pseudotemporal trajectory analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing data
Authors: Cheng Jinming , Smyth Gordon K. , Chen Yunshun
Published: November 2023

Background Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technologies have rapidly developed in recent years. The droplet-based single cell platforms enable the profiling of gene expression in tens of thousands of cells per sample. The goal of a typical scRNA-seq analysis is to identify different cell subpopulations and their respective marker genes. Additionally, trajectory analysis can be used to infer the developmental or differentiation trajectories of cells. Methods This article demonstrates a comprehensive workflow for performing trajectory inference and time course analysis on a multi-sample single-cell RNA-seq experiment of the mouse mammary gland. The workflow uses open-source R software packages and covers all steps of the analysis pipeline, including quality control, doublet prediction, normalization, integration, dimension reduction, cell clustering, trajectory inference, and pseudo-bulk time course analysis. Sample integration and cell clustering follows the Seurat pipeline while the trajectory inference is conducted using the monocle3 package. The pseudo-bulk time course analysis uses the quasi-likelihood framework of edgeR. Results Cells are ordered and positioned along a pseudotime trajectory that represented a biological process of cell differentiation and development. The study successfully identified genes that were significantly associated with pseudotime in the mouse mammary gland. Conclusions The demonstrated workflow provides a valuable resource for researchers conducting scRNA-seq analysis using open-source software packages. The study successfully demonstrated the usefulness of trajectory analysis for understanding the developmental or differentiation trajectories of cells. This analysis can be applied to various biological processes such as cell development or disease progression, and can help identify potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets.
Levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon in the soil around typical automobile repair workshops in Nigeria
Authors: Adesina Olusola Adedayo , Fakayode Oluwatomi Atinuke , Lala Mayowa Adeoye , Adewale Abiodun John , Sonibare Jacob Ademola
Published: November 2023

Background: This study determined the levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the soil around typical automobile repair workshops in Nigeria. Risk assessment associated with human contact with the soil was carried out using hazard quotient (HQ) and incremental life cancer risk (ILCR) from human unconscious ingestion and dermal contact with the soil. Methods: Soil samples were obtained at different automobile workshops in Ado-Ekiti, Western Nigeria. The PAHS in the samples were extracted using dichloromethane and extracts were cleaned up using silica-alumina gel open column chromatography. Analysis of PAHs in the soil was done using a gas chromatograph coupled to a mass selective detector operated on electron ionization mode. Results: The results showed the mean PAHs concentration at the sampling locations ranged from 5.58 – 6.4 μg/g and the mean ∑ carcinogenic PAHs was 58.4 μg/g, equivalent to 59.39 % of total PAHs observed. The mean Toxicity equivalence (TEQs) ranged from 0.02 - 6.680 μg/g. Benzo (a) pyrene and dibenzo(a,h)anthracene have the highest toxicity equivalent. The total ILCRs from accidental ingestion and dermal contact in adults were 1 ×10^(-3) and 9.8 ×10^(-5) , for adults and children respectively; both are higher than the permissible limit stipulated by the World Health Organization.The HQs obtained are several folds higher than 1. This implies high carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks for children and adults. Conclusions: The study revealed the levels of PAHs and also revealed the risks associated with human contact with the soil around automobile repair workshops.
Radial peripapillary capillary density as a predictive factor for glaucoma in eyes with ocular hypertension. An observational, comparative, single-centred study
Authors: Kollia Elpida , Christou Evita-Evangelia , Patsea Eleni , Papadonta Styliani Alexia , Papaconstantinou Dimitris
Published: November 2023

Background: Ocular hypertension (OH) is a condition characterized by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) exceeding the normal range, without any evident damage to the optic nerve or visual field defects characteristic of glaucoma. It constitutes a significant precursor to the development of glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible vision loss worldwide. Emerging evidence has shown that microcirculation alterations in eyes with OH could serve as predicting factors to identify eyes at high risk for progression to glaucoma. In view of the above, the purpose of our study is to investigate microcirculation alterations of the radial peripapillary capillary plexus using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) in patients with ocular hypertension (OH).

Methods: A total of 192 eyes were included in this observational, comparative, single-centre study and were divided in two groups: OH eyes and healthy controls. OCT-A was performed to analyze microcirculation characteristics at the peripapillary area. Radial peripapillary capillary density was measured at the total area of the optic disc and at each separate region (superior, inferior, inside). The parameters of age, medical treatment for ocular hypertension, sex and retinal fiber layer thickness were evaluated. 

Results: Total radial peripapillary capillary density was significantly lower in patients with OH than in healthy controls Concerning the microcirculation characteristics at each separate region of the peripapillary area, the results were as follows: inferior radial peripapillary capillary density was significantly decreased in individuals with OH than in controls, while measurements in the superior peripapillary area and internal optic disc were similar in both groups.  

Conclusions: Our study indicates decreased radial peripapillary capillary density in eyes with OH. Microcirculation alterations in the inferior peripapillary area could potentially comprise biomarkers for OH progression to glaucoma.
A protocol to study the impact of implementation of National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers (NABH) standards among health care workers in a tertiary care hospital in India
Authors: Kanyal Deepika , Ghewade Babaji
Published: November 2023

Background: The healthcare system is now transforming widely with new technology including the introduction of a variety of medical gadgets, clinical trials, telemedicine, health insurance, health tourism, and outsourcing programs. Recent research focused on the quality of healthcare has proved useful for evaluating satisfaction and improvement of services in an organization. The World Medical Assembly asserts that in order to enhance patient outcomes on an individual level and community health, healthcare providers and organizations have an ethical and professional commitment to continuously improve the quality of services and patient safety. The National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers - Quality Council of India - (NABH) formed a constituent board to design and oversee an accreditation scheme for healthcare institutions to ensure the quality of care. Healthcare accreditation organizations and certification programs have progressed international efforts to raise the standard of healthcare since the 1970s. The accreditation process, which is carried out by qualified external peer reviewers, allows a healthcare organization to be officially recognized for achieving performance standards.

The objectives of this protocol are to understand the perception and impact of healthcare workers towards implementation of NABH standards and to study the impact of pre and post assessment of NABH with the help of 10 important key performance indicators in hospitals.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design will be adopted in the study. It includes collection of data from the medical record department records for pre-assessment and direct questionnaire to the participants for post-assessment of NABH standards. The pre-assessment data of quality indicators will be collected from the previous records of NABH files from the quality assurance department.

Expected result: The expected result of the study will identify the different impacts of implementation of NABH standards after pre and post assessment in an organization.
Comparative evaluation of dose dependent efficacy of vitamin C, in relation to oxidative stress level in subjects with Oral Submucus Fibrosis
Authors: Patel Shraddha , Patel Aditya , Lohe Vidya , Mohod Swapnil , Urkude Minakshi , Patel Satyawansingh
Published: November 2023

Background Oral submucus fibrosis (OSMF) has a 0.2-0.5 prevalence rate in India. The malignancy rate of OSMF was found to be 7.6%. The focus of pathogenesis is currently on reactive oxygen species levels which can rise to extremely high levels, exceeding the human body’s antioxidant defense system and causing oxidative stress that goes beyond physiological limitations. Since oxidative stress plays such a significant part in carcinogenesis and other degenerative diseases, it is fair to believe that antioxidants will help to reduce or even stop these processes. Vitamin C is known for its antioxidant properties which act as a lipid-soluble free radical scavenger in cell membranes. But in some of studies a paradoxical effect of antioxidant doses was found. Thus, the present study will be conducted to evaluate the dose dependent efficacy of Vitamin C level in relation to oxidative stress level in subjects of OSMF. Methods After informed consent, the patient’s examination will be conducted. For each individual, 5ml of the blood sample will be withdrawn under all the aseptic precautions and oxidative stress level will be assessed depending on MDA & SOD level in a central research laboratory. Depending on oxidative stress level patients will be divided into two groups. Group I - Moderate oxidative stress in OSMF SI less than 240 but more than 192 Group II - High Oxidative Stress in OSMF SI more than 240 Single and double doses of Vitamin C will be given to patients accordingly and the MDA & SOD levels will be calculated on day 30,90 days and on 180th day Conclusions Positive results of the study will give direction for choosing the correct dose of the antioxidant Vitamin C for OSMF depending on oxidative stress level.
The impact of COVID-19 on clinical research: the PIPPRA and MEDRA experience
Authors: Larkin Louise , Raad Tala , Moses Anusha , Fraser Alexander , Gallagher Stephen , Appel Esbensen Bente , Glynn Liam , Griffin Anne , Tierney Audrey C , Kennedy Norelee
Published: November 2023

Background Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has had a significant impact on clinical research. This paper aims to provide an insight into how the COVID-19 pandemic, associated public health restrictions and international guidance on the conduct of clinical research impacted two clinical rheumatology research trials - the Physiotherapist-led Intervention to Promote Physical Activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis (PIPPRA) and the MEDiterranean diet in Rheumatoid Arthritis (MEDRA) projects. Methods The March 2019 public health restrictions imposed to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 occurred at a time when PIPPRA was in the process of delivering assessment and intervention on a face-to-face basis (n=48) and MEDRA had commenced recruitment. Participants in PIPPRA and MEDRA had a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, with some being immunosuppressed and thus at a higher risk for COVID-19. The decision-making processes of both trials is outlined to demonstrate the required amendments to continue in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results Amendments to PIPPRA and MEDRA trial protocols were agreed and received ethical and funder approval. Both trials switched from a face-to-face delivery to a telehealth using online platforms. The PIPPRA study was paused for five months (April-August 2020), resulting in n=33 (60%) negative deviations from assessment protocol. MEDRA switched from face-to-face to online recruitment with 20% (n=35/44) negative deviations in recruitment. Of the n=18 participants who consented to participating in a face-to-face trial, just n=2 (11%) opted to engage with telehealth delivery of the intervention. MEDRA assessment and intervention deviations were 100% as no sessions were completed as planned in 2020. Conclusions The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the PIPPRA and MEDRA clinical trials. Moving face-to-face clinical research to telehealth delivery may not be the panacea it is purported to be. Our experiences may be of benefit to researchers, clinicians, and funders in seeking to continue clinical research during a global pandemic.
The genome sequence of the Six-belted Clearwing, Bembecia ichneumoniformis (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775)
Authors: Boyes Douglas ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: November 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Bembecia ichneumoniformis (the Six-belted Clearwing; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Sesiidae). The genome sequence is 511.4 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.32 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 12,114 protein coding genes.
20 aastat lingvistikaolümpiaadi koos Renate Pajusaluga
Authors: Norvik Miina , Freienthal Linda , Gerassimenko Olga , Harrik Airika , Jagau Axel , Torn-Leesik Reeli , Prillop Külli
Published: November 2023

Rahvusvaheline lingvistikaolümpiaad kutsuti ellu 2003. aastal. Eestis seati see sisse samal aastal tänu Renate Pajusalule, kes seda vedama asus. Siinne artikkel vaatabki tagasi 20-le lingvistikaolümpiaadi aastale ning Renate rollile selles, tehes seda Renate kaasteeliste pilgu läbi. Artiklis leiavad kajastust erinevad võistlusvoorud, aga ka olümpiaadi heaks tehtavad tegevused, nagu lingvistikalaagrid, koolikülastused ja lingvistikaseminarid. Ühtlasi ilmneb artiklist, et olümpiaad ja sellega seonduv on nende 20 aasta jooksul täitnud oma laiemat eesmärki: tuhanded õpilased on saanud aimu erisugustest maailma keeltest ja ka keeleteadusest.

Abstract. Miina Norvik, Linda Freienthal, Olga Gerassimenko, Airika Harrik, Axel Jagau, Reeli Torn-Leesik, Külli Prillop: 20 years of linguistics Olympiad with Renate Pajusalu. The International Linguistics Olympiad was inaugurated in 2003. The corresponding Estonian national olympiad was established in the same year thanks to the efforts of Renate Pajusalu who became its chief organiser. The present article looks back on the role played by Professor Pajusalu in the history of the Estonian linguistics olympiad through the eyes of colleagues who have been part of the process. The text recalls the different stages of the contest, as well as various tasks preparing the olympiad such as linguistics retreats, school visits to introduce it, and linguistics seminars. It is clear that the 20 years of the olympiad and events associated with it have served its overall purpose well: thousands of school students have become aware of the diversity of the world’s languages and of the science of linguistics.
Discoveries and Paradoxes of Modern Communication Science
Authors: Goncharova Lyubov
Published: November 2023

The Word of the Editor-in-Chief reflects the main trends and directions of communication research
Reconstruction of extensive scalp defects of oncologic origin using thoracodorsal artery perforator free flaps
Authors: Lee Sang-Hun , Lee Kyeong-Tae
Published: November 2023

Purpose: Ablation of malignant neoplasms of the scalp usually leaves extensive defects. Free musculocutaneous transfer using the latissimus dorsi muscle with a skin graft has been the gold standard for restoring such defects; however, this approach may be limited by potential functional morbidity and delayed healing of the grafted skin. This study presents a case series of microsurgical reconstruction with thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAP) flaps for extensive scalp defects after radical oncologic resection.Methods: Consecutive patients with malignant scalp tumors who underwent wide local excision and defect coverage with TDAP free flaps between April 2019 and January 2023 were evaluated. Operation-related data and surgical outcomes, including donor- and recipient-site complications, postoperative shoulder function, and aesthetic results, were thoroughly assessed. As an oncologic outcome, local recurrence was also recorded.Results: Eleven patients who underwent reconstruction with an average flap size of 223.2 cm2 (range, 160.0–406.0 cm2) were identified. The flaps were based on an average of 2.4 perforators. The donor-site wound was closed primarily in all cases. All flaps achieved complete wound healing within an average of 2 weeks and presented stable resurfacing of the scalp with satisfactory morphological outcomes. No functional shoulder disability was observed in the postoperative period. Five patients exhibited local recurrence but were appropriately treated in a timely manner.Conclusion: The free TDAP flap could be a potential, effective reconstructive tool for extensive scalp defects of oncologic origin and can overcome the recipient- and donor-site complications associated with the conventional procedure.
Neglected upper-extremity fractures at a severe trauma center in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Kim Dong Hee , Han Seung Soo , Lee Sang Hyun
Published: November 2023

Purpose: Missed injuries and delayed diagnoses are likely when diagnosing patients with severe trauma. This research aimed to investigate the incidence of missed fractures in the upper extremities by retrospectively analyzing factors leading to an overlooked diagnosis.Methods: We retrospectively investigated patients hospitalized with newly diagnosed upper-extremity fractures after an initial diagnosis at Severe Trauma Center of Pusan National University Hospital. We analyzed the accompanying injuries, Injury Severity Score (ISS), reasons for a missed diagnosis, and treatment results.Results: Twenty-four patients and 27 cases were identified. The incidence of fracture was 0.4%, and the average diagnostic period was 33 days. The mean ISS was 24.3. Among the 27 cases of neglected fractures there were 1 intercondylar fracture of the humerus, 11 were radial or ulnar forearm fractures , six were carpus or metacarpal fractures, and nine were phalangeal fractures. Among the 24 patients with a delayed diagnosis, 21 patients had orthopedic-related fractures at other sites at the time of initial diagnosis. There were 12 cases of fracture in the ipsilateral limb. At final follow-up, 15 patients exhibited <50% of normal range of motion in the injured area.Conclusion: A neglected upper-extremity fracture can result in missing the optimal surgery window and rehabilitation period, culminating in poor outcomes. Therefore, an orthopedic surgeon must conduct repeated, careful physical examinations with appropriate consideration of the injury mechanisms.
Linburg-Comstock syndrome: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Kim Segi , Ha Cheungsoo , Oh Chi-Hoon , Jeong Simho , Han Soo-Hong
Published: November 2023

In 1979, Linburg and Comstock reported a lesion that interfered with the independent flexion of the fingers due to an abnormal connection between the flexor pollicis longus and the tendon of the flexor digitorum profundus to the index finger. This entity can cause discomfort in daily life when functionally delicate finger use is required; therefore, surgical treatment is sometimes recommended depending on the symptoms. The authors performed surgical treatment for a patient who visited our outpatient clinic seeking functional improvement for congenital symptoms of simultaneous thumb and index finger flexion and obtained satisfactory results. Reports of surgical treatment for Linburg-Comstock syndrome are rare in Korea, so the authors report this experience, along with a review of the literature.
Organized Crime and Firms: Evidence from Antimafia Enforcement Actions
Authors: Slutzky Pablo , Zeume Stefan
Published: November 2023

We exploit staggered municipality-level antimafia enforcement actions in Italy over the 1995–2015 period to study how the presence of organized crime affects firms. Following enforcement actions, we find increases in competition (i) among firms and (ii) for public procurement contracts. Firms that do not exit after a weakening of organized crime shrink in size, more so when operating in the nontradable sector. Our findings are consistent with organized crime acting as a barrier to entry and affecting local economic activity.

This paper was accepted by David Sraer, finance.

Supplemental Material: Data and the online appendix are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2021.00859 .
Paired-subcarrier equalization for phase noise and transmitter IQ skew in digital subcarrier multiplexing system
Authors: Lin Hong , Jin Taowei , Zhang Jing , Wang Rui , Ren Xuecheng , Liu Jiaming , Xu Bo , Qiu Kun
Published: November 2023

The digital subcarrier multiplexing (DSCM) transmission scheme is expected for future ultra-large baud rate transmission. However, the phase noise and transmitter (Tx) IQ skew tolerance are decreased due to the narrow sub-band transmission and conjugated interference from symmetric subcarrier. In this paper, we propose a paired-subcarrier equalization scheme to jointly mitigate the phase noise and Tx IQ skew. We use a phase locking loop (PLL) embedded 4 × 4 MIMO equalizer to simultaneously realize polarization demultiplexing, phase noise and Tx IQ skew compensation. The 4 × 4 MIMO can deal with the paired-subcarrier interference in the DSCM transmission. Besides, since the inner subcarrier suffers smaller interference from its symmetric subcarrier, we estimate the phase noise by inner subcarriers and share the phase noise information with other subcarriers to reduce the overall complexity. Through simulations of 100-GBaud 64-QAM DSCM coherent optical fiber transmission consisting of eight 12.5-Gbaud subcarriers and experiment of 10-GBaud four-subcarriers PM-16QAM transmission, we find that the PLL embedded equalizer for DSCM scheme exhibits better skew and phase noise compensation ability compared with other equalizers. Additionally, we compare the performance of single-carrier and DSCM schemes with the proposed equalizers in simulation. The influence of phase noise and Tx IQ skew on DSCM transmission can be largely relaxed.
Plasmon-modulated bistable second-harmonic generation in a nonlinear microcavity coupled to a metallic nanoparticle
Authors: Zhou Shuang , Li Ying , Song Zhenzhen , Li Xiyun , Pu Yong
Published: November 2023

Multiple nonlinear effects with second-harmonic (SH) generation and optical bistability (OB) are highly desired but rather rare due to insufficient intrinsic nonlinearity in most nonlinear media. Here, a nonlinear microcavity coupled to a metallic nanoparticle (MNP) is suggested to realize the bistable SH generation. When two counterpropagating driving fields are injected into the cavity, a traditional SH pathway is constructed via the two-photon process of fundamental-harmonic (FH) photons. In addition, we report the coexistence between the SH and OB effects under the condition that the strong excitation and the detuning management for the driving fields boost system nonlinear responses. In the presence of a control field toward the MNP, our calculation finds that the traditional and plasmon-induced SH pathways in the present system allow enhancing the SH conversion efficiency and reducing the OB thresholds simultaneously. With the control field intensity increasing, a linear growth rate for the SH efficiency maximum is achieved. Furthermore, the relative phase between the driving and control fields has profound effects on modulating the bistable SH efficiency, the bistable interval and the thresholds.
Simple high-resolution 3D microscopy by a dielectric microsphere: a proof of concept
Authors: Abbasian Vahid , Darafsheh Arash , Moradi Ali-Reza
Published: November 2023

We present a simple high-resolution approach for 3D and quantitative phase imaging (QPI). Our method makes the most of a glass microsphere (MS) for microscopy and a glass plate for lateral shearing self-referencing interferometry. The single MS serves all the functions of a microscope objective (MO) in digital holographic microscopy (DHM) while offering the advantages of compactness, lightness, and affordability. A proof-of-concept experiment is performed on a standard diffraction grating, and various effective parameters on the imaging performance are investigated. The results are validated by atomic force microscopy and Mirau-DHM, and 3D morphometric information of the sample under inspection is obtained. The technique is then applied for 3D quantitative measurement and visualization of a human red blood cell, proving the principle of our easy-to-implement and vibration-immune arrangement for high-contrast label-free QPI of biological samples, and its utility in cell morphology, identification, and classification.
Design and fabrication of a microcoil metamaterial absorber for the sub-terahertz region
Authors: Agulto Verdad C. , Ling Ziqi , Zhao Zixi , Feng Shiyu , Kato Kosaku , Haga Motoharu , Mag-usara Valynn Katrine , Yoshimura Masashi , Nakajima Makoto
Published: November 2023

The development of electromagnetic wave absorbers operating in the sub-terahertz (sub-THz) region is necessary in 6G communications. We designed and fabricated a sub-THz metamaterial absorber based on metal microcoils embedded and periodically arranged in a dielectric substrate. The microcoil parameters were optimized by calculating the electromagnetic response of the metamaterial using finite element analysis. An actual metamaterial was then fabricated based on the optimized parameters and characterized using THz time-domain spectroscopy. Our microcoil absorber exhibits an absorptance of >80% and a high shielding performance at about 250 GHz. The resonance frequency can be precisely adjusted by modifying the microcoil array dimensions.
Second harmonic generation in an anisotropic lithium niobate metasurface governed by quasi-BICs
Authors: Liu Rongyu , Zhou Chaobiao
Published: November 2023

Resonant metasurfaces can greatly trap the light fields, so that they are widely used to enhance light–matter interactions at the nanoscale, such as promoting nonlinear effects of materials. Lithium niobate (LN) is an excellent nonlinear optical material and is often employed to generate harmonic signals. In this Letter, we numerically study the second harmonic generation (SHG) characteristics of the LN metasurface based on the quasi-bound states in the continuum (QBIC). The designed BIC and excited QBIC metasurfaces always hold C4v symmetry, and the BIC is demonstrated to degenerate into two BICs due to the anisotropic characteristics of LN. Moreover, the excited two high Q-factor QBICs can effectively enhance the SHG in LN, although the device maintains C4v symmetry, the SHG signal still shows polarization dependence. In addition, with the increase of Q-factor of quasi-BIC, the power and conversion efficiency (η) of SHG increase significantly. The calculated η can reach 6.04 × 10−3 and can be further improved when the resonance mode is closer to BIC. These results have important implications for high-quality nonlinear light sources based on LN materials.
ErF3 microcrystals controllably deposited in perfluoride glass for upconversion red emission
Authors: Liu Ruite , Hu Linjia , Wang Zaiyang , Zhao Wenkai , Zhang Longfei , Jiang Yiguang , Zhang Long
Published: November 2023

To the best of our knowledge, this paper first reports ErF3 microcrystals controllably deposited in perfluoride glass using phase-separation engineering techniques. The sample exhibited strong upconversion red-light emission owing to the small distance between Er3+ ions and low phonon energy (585 cm−1). The sample has a high red/green ratio of up to 18.6, which, to our knowledge, is the highest reported value in Er3+-doped fluoride glass ceramics. Furthermore, the sample has a long fluorescence lifetime (3.18 ms @660 nm), good color saturation (0.6255,0.3707), and good thermal stability (ΔE=0.31eV). Therefore, this sample has the potential for application across multiple fields, such as color display, visible laser, and lighting.
Highly efficient nonlinear vortex beam generation by using a compact nonlinear fork grating
Authors: Yang Yangfeifei , Li Hao , Liu Haigang , Chen Xianfeng
Published: November 2023

Vortex beams with an orbital angular momentum (OAM) are extremely important in optical trapping, optical micromachining, high-capacity optical communications, and quantum optics. Nonlinear generation of such a vortex beam enables vortex beams to be obtained at new wavelengths, which opens up new possibilities for all-optical switching and manipulation of vortex beams. However, previous nonlinear vortex beam generation suffers from either low efficiency or low-level integration. Here, we use the technique of ultraviolet photolithography-assisted inductively coupled plasma (ICP) etching to realize a compact nonlinear fork grating for high-efficiency nonlinear vortex beam generation. In our experiment, the depth of such a compact nonlinear fork-grating structure can be precisely controlled by etching time. The vortex beams with a topological charge of
l
 = ±1,  ± 2,  ± 3 can be generated in the far field, and the normalized nonlinear conversion efficiency of such nonlinear vortex beam is 189% W−1cm−2. Our method not only provides an efficient and compact method for nonlinear vortex beam manipulation but also suits for timesaving and large-area nonlinear functional device fabrication.
Real-time, chirped-pulse heterodyne detection at room temperature with 100 GHz 3-dB-bandwidth mid-infrared quantum-well photodetectors
Authors: Lin Quyang , Hakl Michael , Lepillet Sylvie , Li Hua , Lampin Jean-François , Peytavit Emilien , Barbieri Stefano
Published: November 2023

Thanks to intrinsically short electronic relaxation on the ps time scale, III-V semiconductor unipolar devices are ideal candidates for ultrahigh-speed operation at mid-infrared frequencies. In this work, antenna-coupled, GaAs-based multi-quantum-well photodetectors operating in the 10–11 µm range are demonstrated, with a responsivity of 0.3 A/W and a 3-dB-cutoff bandwidth of 100 GHz at room temperature. The frequency response is measured up to 220 GHz: beyond 100 GHz we find a roll-off dominated by the 2.5-ps-long recombination time of the photo-excited electrons. The potential of the detectors is illustrated by setting up an experiment where the time dependent emission frequency of a quantum cascade laser operated in pulsed mode is measured electronically and in real time, over a frequency range >60GHz. By exploiting broadband electronics, and thanks to its high signal-to-noise ratio, this technique allows the acquisition, in a single-shot, of frequency-calibrated, mid-infrared molecular spectra spanning up to 100 GHz and beyond, which is particularly attractive for fast, active remote sensing applications in fields such as environmental or combustion monitoring.
Photon Budget Estimation for Long-Range Underwater Free-Space Optical Communications Through Realistic Levels of Oceanic Absorption and Scattering
Authors: Davis Anthony , Roberts Lewis , Dolinar Samuel , Cheng Michael
Published: November 2023

Optical communications (OC) through water bodies is an attractive technology for a variety of applications. Thanks to current single-photon detection capabilities, OC receiver systems can reliably decode very weak transmitted signals. This is the regime where pulse position modulation is an ideal scheme. However, there has to be at least one photon that goes through the pupil of the fore optics and lands in the assigned time-bin. We estimate the detectable photon budget as function of range for propagation through ocean water, both open and coastal. We make realistic assumptions about the water's inherent optical properties, specifically, absorption and scattering coefficients, as well as the strong directionality of the scattering phase function for typical hydrosol populations. We adopt a path-integral small-angle solution of the radiative transfer equation for multiple forward-peaked scattering across intermediate to large optical distances. Integrals are performed both along the directly-transmitted beam (whether or not it is still populated) and radially away from it. We use this modeling framework to estimate transmission of a 1-Joule pulse of 532 nm light through open ocean and coastal waters. Thresholds for single-photon detection per time bin are a few km and a few 100 m respectively.
Ultra-long bandwidth two-channel photonic crystal fiber polarization filter
Authors: Ding YI Feng , Liu Chao
Published: November 2023

In this paper, a two-channel photonic crystal fiber (PCF) polarization filter is designed base on surface plasma resonance. The full-vector Finite element method (FEM) was used for simulation analysis. The result is that the y-polarized confinement losses under optimal parameters are as high as 1496.46dB/cm and 1847.67dB/cm at wavelengths 1310nm and 1550nm, respectively. Meanwhile, when the fiber length is 1000μm, the crosstalk losss are -1298.08dB and -1591.23dB, at wavelengths 1310nm and 1550nm, respectively. The bandwidth with the two-channel filter is continuous and the range is large. Bandwidth greater than 20dB is 1060nm. This results show that the device has a broad prospect in the field of optical communication.
Multifunctional imaging enabled by optical bound states in the continuum with broken symmetry
Authors: Chen Jiale , Chen Zhaoxxian , Kou Junlong , Lu Yanqing
Published: November 2023

For photonic crystal slab (PCS) structures, bound states in the continuum (BICs) and circularly polarized states (dubbed C-points) are important topological polarization singularities in momentum-space and have attracted burgeoning attention due to their novel topological and optical properties. In our work, the evolution of polarization singularities from BICs to C-points is achieved by breaking the in-plane C2 symmetry of a PCS structure of a square lattice with C4v symmetry. Correspondingly, a BIC is split into two C-points with opposite chirality, incurring distinct optical transmission responses with the incidence of right or left circular polarization (RCP or LCP). Harnessing such chirality selectivity of the C-points, we propose a multifunctional imaging system by integrating the designed PCS into a conventional 4-f imaging system, to realize both the edge imaging and conventional bright-field imaging, determined by the circular polarization state of the light source. In addition to multifunctional imaging, our system also provides a vivid picture about the evolution of the PCS platforms’ singularities.
Referenzarchitektur Cybersicherheit im Föderalsystem Deutschlands
Authors: Rehbohm Thomas , Sandkuhl Kurt
Published: November 2023

Cybersicherheitsarchitekturen sind im Föderalsystem Deutschlands elementarer Bestandteil der digitalen Daseinsvorsorge für Gesellschaft, Wirtschaft und Verwaltung. In Deutschland stehen neben dem Bund alle Länder vor vergleichbaren Herausforderungen, die Akteure ihrer Region dergestalt in eine Architektur einzubinden, dass eine gegenüber Cybersicherheitsbedrohungen resiliente IKT-Infrastruktur entsteht. Sofern die Länder eine harmonisierte Architektur implementiert haben, kann die Gesamtarchitektur im Binnenverhältnis der Länder in kooperativer und komplementärer Zusammenarbeit mit dem Bund und für Europa aufwachsen. Das Ziel der hier vorgestellten Forschungsarbeit ist es, die Verzahnung der systemrelevanten Akteure der regionalen und föderalen Cybersicherheit zu unterstützen und zu vereinfachen. Konkret werden dazu sowohl die inter-organisationalen Prozesse und davon betroffenen Rollen und Organisationseinheiten bei Land, Kommune und Unternehmen der Privatwirtschaft als auch gemeinsam nutzbare Komponenten einer Cybersicherheitsorganisation betrachtet und in Form einer Unternehmensarchitektur dokumentiert, die zu einer Referenzarchitektur weiterentwickelt werden soll. Die Modellierung der Referenzarchitektur in der Modellierungssprache ArchiMate wird in Auszügen vorgestellt.
BayFlux: A Bayesian method to quantify metabolic Fluxes and their uncertainty at the genome scale
Authors: Backman Tyler W. H. , Schenk Christina , Radivojevic Tijana , Ando David , Singh Jahnavi , Czajka Jeffrey J. , Costello Zak , Keasling Jay D. , Tang Yinjie , Akhmatskaya Elena , Garcia Martin Hector
Published: November 2023

Metabolic fluxes, the number of metabolites traversing each biochemical reaction in a cell per unit time, are crucial for assessing and understanding cell function. 13C Metabolic Flux Analysis (13C MFA) is considered to be the gold standard for measuring metabolic fluxes. 13C MFA typically works by leveraging extracellular exchange fluxes as well as data from 13C labeling experiments to calculate the flux profile which best fit the data for a small, central carbon, metabolic model. However, the nonlinear nature of the 13C MFA fitting procedure means that several flux profiles fit the experimental data within the experimental error, and traditional optimization methods offer only a partial or skewed picture, especially in “non-gaussian” situations where multiple very distinct flux regions fit the data equally well. Here, we present a method for flux space sampling through Bayesian inference (BayFlux), that identifies the full distribution of fluxes compatible with experimental data for a comprehensive genome-scale model. This Bayesian approach allows us to accurately quantify uncertainty in calculated fluxes. We also find that, surprisingly, the genome-scale model of metabolism produces narrower flux distributions (reduced uncertainty) than the small core metabolic models traditionally used in 13C MFA. The different results for some reactions when using genome-scale models vs core metabolic models advise caution in assuming strong inferences from 13C MFA since the results may depend significantly on the completeness of the model used. Based on BayFlux, we developed and evaluated novel methods (P-13C MOMA and P-13C ROOM) to predict the biological results of a gene knockout, that improve on the traditional MOMA and ROOM methods by quantifying prediction uncertainty.
The driving factors behind urban communities’ carbon emissions in the selected urban villages of Jakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Fatmah Fatmah
Published: November 2023

As there is a high number of urban communities and residential activities like electricity uses, transportation, food consumption, garbage production, and knowledge on climate change and carbon emissions, these affect the resulting carbon emissions in the city. However, the studies learn about the association between household and human activities, socio-demographic characteristic, carbon emissions and climate change knowledge on urban communities carbon emissions at Jakarta are still rare. This study aimed to assess whether daily human behavior, demographic variables, climate change knowledge, and carbon emissions knowledge affecting carbon emissions of urban communities. A cross-sectional study design was performed via a structured questionnaire survey and a jejakkarbonku application towards 200 respondents who were living in the two selected urban villages of Jakarta, Indonesia (Jatinegara and East Cengkareng). The results revealed that the mean urban communities’ carbon emissions in the region were 4.4 tonnes CO2 eq/th. Electricity consumption in the kitchen and dining room produced the most carbon emissions (38.6%), and waste disposal activity produced the least (0.68%). Urban carbon emissions affected by employment status and income level, but not according to food consumption, garbage production, climate change and carbon emission knowledge. Climate change and carbon emissions knowledge influenced by marital and employment status. Although not significant, in theory, these two types of knowledge contribute indirectly to carbon emissions. Further research on the low carbon diet, intervention studies to increase deep awareness on the carbon emissions and climate change is needed to develop strategies reducing carbon emissions at urban communities.
Resilience, innovation and collapse of settlement networks in later Bronze Age Europe: New survey data from the southern Carpathian Basin
Authors: Molloy Barry , Jovanović Dragan , Bruyere Caroline , Estanqueiro Marta , Birclin Miroslav , Milašinović Lidija , Šalamon Aleksandar , Penezić Kristina , Ramsey Christopher Bronk , Grosman Darja
Published: November 2023

Societies of the later Early to Middle Bronze Age (ca. 2200–1600 BC) in the Carpathian Basin exhibited complex, hierarchical and regionally influential socio-political organisation that came to an abrupt end in the 16th century BC. Considered a collapse by some, this change was characterised by abandonment of virtually all central places / nodes in settlement networks. Until recently, the complexity that characterised the period was believed to have substantially diminished alongside depopulation. This model was reinforced by a combination of the loss of established external networks and low-resolution knowledge of where and how people lived in the first stages of the Late Bronze Age (between 1600 and 1200 BC). We contest the idea of a diminished Late Bronze Age and argue that a fully opposite trajectory can be identified–increased scale, complexity and density in settlement systems and intensification of long-distance networks. We present results of a settlement survey in the southern Pannonian Plain using remote and pedestrian prospection, augmented by small-scale excavations. New absolute dates are used to define the occupational history of sites dating primarily between 1500–1200 BC. We argue that climate change played a substantial role in in the transformation of settlement networks, creating a particular ecological niche enabling societies to thrive. New and specific forms of landscape exploitation developed that were characterised by proximity to wetlands and minor watercourses. In this context, the largest monuments of Bronze Age Europe were created and inhabited. In considering the origins and demise of these megasites and related settlements, we provide a new model for Late Bronze Age societies in the Carpathian Basin and their regional relevance.
Development of youth tennis players: A study based on the ranking history of top ATP/WTA players worldwide and China
Authors: Chen Hui , Li Caifeng , Meng Xianlu , Chmura Paweł , Wei Xiaobin
Published: November 2023

Background

The top 100 ATP/WTA ranking points are a crucial indicator of entry into the high-level world of tennis players, and the number of players from a nation in this ranking reflects the overall level of their tennis. However, the growth time series characteristics of elite tennis athletes are unclear.

Objective

This study aims to examine the historical career ranking changes of elite players and provide valuable insights for aspiring young players looking to achieve success in the sport. At the same time, it is of great significance for the efficient and sustainable cultivation of Chinese tennis players.

Methods

Data on the rankings of 202 players were analyzed, Spearman and Pearson correlations were employed to investigate the association between ranking and time-use patterns. The variance test was utilized to compare disparities in time characteristics of the ranking, with a statistical significance level of p<0.05.

Results

There was a significant correlation between the time of entering the professional tournament ranking system and the ranking, top 100 time, top 100 age, and age of starting tennis. Top 50 ATP players are earlier than those ranked 51–100. There was a significant difference between the age of starting tennis and the time to top 10 among the ATP and WTA players. Chinese female players showed no significant differences compared to their global Top 10 counterparts in terms of time-to-success characteristics.

Conclusion

The elite tennis players who achieve success typically start playing and competing in the sport at a young age, with professional competition often commencing around 18 years of age. Notably, these players frequently attain high rankings before reaching the age of 20. Furthermore, top 10 ATP male players tend to start tennis at an earlier age and require a shorter time to achieve a top 10 ranking compared with WTA female players.
Medical Admission Prediction Score (MAPS); a simple tool to predict medical admissions in the emergency department
Authors: Zahid Muhammad , Khan Adeel Ahmad , Ata Fateen , Yousaf Zohaib , Naushad Vamanjore Aboobacker , Purayil Nishan K. , Chandra Prem , Singh Rajvir , Kartha Anand Bhaskaran , Elzouki Abdelnaser Y. Awad , Al Mohanadi Dabia Hamad S. H. , Al-Mohammed Ahmed Ali A. A.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Overcrowding in the emergency departments (ED) is linked to adverse clinical outcomes, a negative impact on patient safety, patient satisfaction, and physician efficiency. We aimed to design a medical admission prediction scoring system based on readily available clinical data during ED presentation.

Methods

In this retrospective cross-sectional study, data on ED presentations and medical admissions were extracted from the Emergency and Internal Medicine departments of a tertiary care facility in Qatar. Primary outcome was medical admission.

Results

Of 320299 ED presentations, 218772 were males (68.3%). A total of 11847 (3.7%) medical admissions occurred. Most patients were Asians (53.7%), followed by Arabs (38.7%). Patients who got admitted were older than those who did not (p <0.001). Admitted patients were predominantly males (56.8%), had a higher number of comorbid conditions and a higher frequency of recent discharge (within the last 30 days) (p <0.001). Age > 60 years, female gender, discharge within the last 30 days, and worse vital signs at presentations were independently associated with higher odds of admission (p<0.001). These factors generated the scoring system with a cut-off of >17, area under the curve (AUC) 0.831 (95% CI 0.827–0.836), and a predictive accuracy of 83.3% (95% CI 83.2–83.4). The model had a sensitivity of 69.1% (95% CI 68.2–69.9), specificity was 83.9% (95% CI 83.7–84.0), positive predictive value (PPV) 14.2% (95% CI 13.8–14.4), negative predictive value (NPV) 98.6% (95% CI 98.5–98.7) and positive likelihood ratio (LR+) 4.28% (95% CI 4.27–4.28).

Conclusion

Medical admission prediction scoring system can be reliably applied to the regional population to predict medical admissions and may have better generalizability to other parts of the world owing to the diverse patient population in Qatar.