bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical analysis techniques based on Cross-Cultural research methods: cross-cultural paradigms and intra-country comparisons
Authors: Mylonas Kostas
Published: January 2021

Accumulated cross-cultural research has shown that its methods can also apply within countries, especially as more and more different immigrants or sojourners flow into host countries and the need to deal at least with acculturation issues is pressing. Cross-cultural methodology approximates research on intra-country issues, since comparinggroups with different characteristics within countries may also reflect different “cultures” represented by each of the differential groups. A question of bias elimination is raised when such comparisons areattempted either under a Cross-Cultural or an intra-country scope. Taking the van de Vijver and Leung and the Poortinga and van de Vijver theories on bias in terms of culture as a starting point, a triple-fold paradigm employing factor analysis and other techniques is presented on: (a) the application of simple congruence coefficients in estimating factor similarity –that is, basic factor equivalence testing– along with a proposed method of taking advantage of the Tucker coefficient matrix for a set of two or more factor structures, (b) the within-country application of multilevel covariance structure analysis and Procrustean rotations for a set of between groups and pooled-within correlation matrices, and (c) the reduction of “bias in terms of culture” by eliminating variance components through multivariate methods. By incorporating some of these methods in standard -within country- psychological research, we should be able to gain on theoretical andpsychometric grounds and we may finally question the degree of construct similarity among groups within a country, which cannot be necessarily taken for granted. These considerations are closely related to the use of multilevel analyses, as these stem from Cross-Cultural Psychology through most forms of intracountry and/or inter-country comparisons.
Επιστημολογικές πεποιθήσεις: Διερεύνηση της δομής και της σχέσης τους με τη σχολική επίδοση σε μαθητές Λυκείου
Authors: Πολυχρόνη Φωτεινή
Published: January 2021

The term epistemological beliefs (EBs) refers to the nature of students’ beliefsof knowledge and learning, these are related to the learning process through their effect on academic performance, motivation and self-regulation. Schommer has argued that the concept is multidimensional and consists of four distinct dimensions, the structure of knowledge, the stability of knowledge, the ability of learning and the speed of learning. The aim of the present study is to explore the structure of epistemic beliefs in a Greek sample, according to the theoretical model of Schommer, and how these beliefs are related to academic performance and other demographic and non demographic variables. The sample was composed by 470 students attending the three gradesof upper high school. The students responded to the Epistemological Belief Questionnaire (Schommer, 2000). The results showed that the structure of the epistemological beliefs is in accordance to Schommer’s theoretical model as regards the four dimensions and that the dimension structure of knowledge was the strongest factor. Low reliability rates lead to doubts regarding Schommer’s conceptual model. Moreover, it was found that ability of learning and stability of knowledge significantly contribute to the prediction ofacademic performance and that higher grades are related to sophisticated EBs. It was also found that girlshave more sophisticated EBs than boys in the speed of learning, and that older students have more sophisticated EBs in the stability of knowledge. Similar findings were found for the students of the theoretical study direction in terms of the stability and the structure of knowledge.
Detection of antifungal drug-resistant and ERG11 gene mutations among clinical isolates of Candida species isolated from Khartoum, Sudan.
Authors: Osman Mohamed Ahmed , Suliman Mohamed Malik , Abdelrahman Hussain Mohamed , Fatahalrahman Ahmed Ibrahim
Published: January 2021

Background: Candida species are one of the most important opportunistic fungal pathogens that cause both superficial and systemic infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Considering the sharp increase in the rate of Candida infections, and resistance to commonly used antifungal agents in the last decades; this study was conducted to determine the rate of resistance among clinical isolates of Candida species, and to characterize some of the resistant genes among resistant isolates collected in Khartoum. 

Methods: This is a cross-sectional laboratory-based study included 100 pre-screened Candida species isolates from Khartoum state hospitals. Chromogenic media was used for Candida isolation and/or identification. The standard disc diffusion method was performed to investigate the susceptibility to fluconazole, itraconazole, and amphotericin. Following genomic DNA extraction, the entire ERG11 gene was amplified from someC. albicansresistant isolates, sequenced, and further analyzed.

Results: Out of 100 clinical isolates collected, 51% were C. albicans, followed by C. glabrata (31%), C. krusie (8%), C. tropicals (5%), andC. dupliniens (5%). Resistance rate was 23% for fluconazole, 4% for itraconazole, while there were no amphotericin resistant isolates detected.C. albicans ERG11 gene sequence reveals 15 different mutations. Among these, three (D116E, E266D, and V488I) were missense mutations; however, these substitutions do not contribute to fluconazole resistance.

Conclusion: C. albicanswas found to be the most common species. Resistance against fluconazole was observed most frequently; however, mutations inERG11are unlikely to be the reason behind fluconazole resistance among these isolates.
Study Protocol: Understanding SARS-Cov-2 infection, immunity and its duration in care home residents and staff in England (VIVALDI)
Authors: Krutikov Maria , Palmer Tom , Donaldson Alasdair , Lorencatto Fabiana , Forbes Gill , Copas Andrew , Robson James , Hopkins Susan , Moss Paul , Farrar Jeremy , Hayward Andrew , Shallcross Laura
Published: January 2021

Global infection and mortality rates from severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) are disproportionately high in certain populations, including amongst older people. Care home residents are frequently exposed to infection due to contact with staff and other residents, and are highly susceptible to infection due to their age and co-morbidity. In England, official statistics suggest that at least 25% of all deaths in care home residents since the start of pandemic are linked to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), but limited testing for SARS-CoV-2 early in the pandemic means estimates of the true burden of disease are lacking. Additionally, little is known about patterns of transmission between care homes, the community and hospitals, or the relationship between infection and immunity in care home staff and residents. The VIVALDI study plans to address these questions.

VIVALDI is a prospective cohort study aiming to recruit  6,500 staff and 5000 residents from 105 care homes across England. Successive rounds of testing for infection will be performed over a period of 12 months.  Nasopharyngeal swabs will detect evidence of viral RNA and therefore active infection (accompanied by collection of data on symptoms), whereas blood tests will detect antibodies and evidence of cellular immunity to SARS-CoV-2. Whole genome sequencing of viral isolates to investigate pathways of transmission of infection is planned in collaboration with the COVID-19 Genomics UK Consortium. Qualitative interviews with care home staff will investigate the impact of the pandemic on ways of working and how test results influence infection control practices and behaviours. Data from residents and staff will be linked to national datasets on hospital admissions, antibody and PCR test results, mortality and care home characteristics. 

Data generated will support national public health efforts to prevent transmission of COVID-19 and protect care home staff and residents from infection.

Protocol registration: ISRCTN14447421 05/06/2020
Gender/sex, race/ethnicity, similarities/differences among SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and COVID-19 patients
Authors: Ha Freedom , John Albin , Zumwalt Mimi
Published: January 2021

SARS-CoV-2 is a novel virus that has resulted in a global pandemic since the first cases were reported in late 2019 from Wuhan, China. It is also a coronavirus that shares similarities to SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV with respect to pathophysiology, transmission, and affected populations. A review of the literature was conducted to explain possible underlying reasons for the difference in coronaviruses’ effects on certain demographics with a focus on gender/sex and race/ethnicity. Both male and female genders vary in their biological makeup, including immunity, hormones, and physiological components, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). These variations seem to give moderate support to the data that demonstrate a higher mortality rate of COVID-19 in males. Yet, these factors must be investigated further since the current studies are limited in scope and sample size as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve. Information involving COVID-19 racial and ethnic data currently is limited, as most countries have not recorded cases based on race or ethnicity, but primarily age and gender. The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) limited data have shown that racial minorities, such as African-Americans, are more likely to have worse outcomes. This could be due to other parameters, including healthcare disparities, biological factors, and socioeconomic status. Further research in understanding both gender/sex and race/ethnicity with respect to respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, could potentially improve the poor prognosis seen among particular demographics.
Assessment of the prevalence of rheumatic ailments among people aged 18-25 years
Authors: Kitowska Wioleta
Published: January 2021

IntroductionRheumatic diseases, along with other diseases of the musculoskeletal system are among the most common chronic diseases in the world. Factors predisposing to rheumatic diseases are genetic factors, external physical factors as well as  the so-called "civilization factor" - an effect of modern "civilized" life. It is suspected that rheumatic diseases are responsible for absorbing the largest portion of the GDP of all diseases.Materials and MethodThe study was conducted using a diagnostic survey. The study population consisted of university students in the age group of 18-25 years. The tool used to perform the test was an original questionnaire, which was distributed using the CAWI technique. The number of respondents amounted to 308 persons.ResultsAs many as 38% of respondents declared visiting a doctor due to ailments of the skeletal system, which were not a result of injury. A larger proportion of women (40%) than men (30%) declared such visits.Most people do not have bone or joint deformities that are not caused by injury (59%). More women (31%) than men (29%) acknowledged an existence of such defects.More than half of both women (50%) and men (52%) have experienced joint stiffness or difficulty moving said joints.ConclusionsYoung adults often show symptoms that may be associated with rheumatic diseases. However, only a small percentage have seen a medical professional because of them, and even less have done tests aimed at diagnosing a rheumatic disease. The low rate may be due to lack of knowledge about rheumatic diseases.It is possible, that more people live to fall ill at an earlier age.
The determinants of quality and satisfaction in the opinion of small medical service enterprises’ customers – the chosen problems
Authors: Klimecka-Tatar Dorota , Kowalik Kamila
Published: January 2021

The objective of the article is to identify the determinants of service quality

and satisfaction in the opinion of small medical service enterprises’ customers. The first part contains literature review in the field of service quality and the satisfaction as its important factor. Afterwards, the results of empirical research have been presented. Anonymous survey was conducted among customers of small medical service enterprises. The questionnaire regarding the significance assessment of chosen determinants of satisfaction, which respondents made using Likert scale, indicated that particular factors influence the quality and satisfaction of medical service provided by small enterprises to a different extent.
The expression level of the CLDN14 gene in patients with urolithiasis - a preliminary report
Authors: Słota Diana , Wasilewski Tadeusz Paweł , Goniewicz Mariusz , Długoborska Klaudia
Published: January 2021

Summary

Aim: An attempt to assess the expression of the CLDN14 gene at the mRNA level in patients diagnosed with urolithiasis in relation to healthy persons constituting a comparative group.

Material and methods: The material for examinations was peripheral blood from 23 patients, including 12 women and 11 men with diagnosed kidney stones disease and 6 donors (control group), including 2 women and 4 men who did not have kidney stones.

Results and conclusions: The studies showed differences in the level of CLDN14 gene expression in both the examined and the comparative group.

Key words: CLDN14, gene expression, urolithiasis
Physiotherapeutic management in the separation of the white borderline
Authors: Kubiak K. , Kwiatkowska K. , Lamtych M. , Zukow W. , Strojek K.
Published: January 2021

Dissolution of the white border of the rectus abdominal muscle is a disruption of the functioning of the rectus muscle, which results in loosening of the white border. As a result, a characteristic muscle stretch is visible. This defect affects a significant number of pregnant women and is not just an aesthetic problem. There are many factors that contribute to the above-mentioned ailments. To get the best treatment results, it is important to diagnose the problem early. For this purpose, special tests are used. The ease with which they are made enables the patient to control the separation of the frontier by the patient. The implementation of therapy should take place already in the first days after delivery. It is important to start therapy with posture corrective exercises, breathing exercises and learning how to properly perform everyday activities. Then we implement exercises that involve the abdominal muscles. The exercise program can be supplemented with dynamic slicing. A holistic approach to the problem and combining different forms of therapy allows you to obtain optimal results.
Effects of fitness programs with aquatics elements on physical condition of 16-17 year-old males
Authors: Pidhaina Vira
Published: January 2021

The article identifies the impact of an aquatics fitness program on the physical condition of 16-17-year-old males. Objective. The study was aimed at assessing the effects of the fitness program with aquatics elements on physical condition of 16-17 year-old males. Methods and organization of the study. The following methods were used: analysis and generalization of special scientific and methodological literature; pedagogical, sociological, anthropometric, and physiological methods; and the methods of mathematical statistics. To assess physical health, Apanasenko’s method for somatic health express assessment was used. The level of physical fitness of young men was assessed according to the Krutsevich’s method. The Ruffier, Robinson, Skibinsky, Stange, and Genche indices were used to assess the functional status of the cardiorespiratory system. The program lasted for 9 months with workouts done three times a week. The program included three stages: preparatory (10-12 weeks), main (16-18 weeks), and final (14-16 weeks) ones. The study involved 48 males aged 16-17 years. Results of the study. After the experiment, significant (p
Tourist arrivals from Germany to Poland in the years 2000-2018
Authors: Parzych Krzysztof , Gotowski Rafał , Karczewska Wiktoria
Published: January 2021

This study addresses the issue of inbound tourism from Germany to Poland. The analysis of the issue was made on the basis of statistical data of the Local Data Bank of the Central Statistical Office of Poland based on data on the number of German tourists and the number of overnight stays granted to them in individual voivodships. In the years 2000, 2010, 2018.
Model of organizational and methodological framework of health-enhancing and recreational activities for preschool children in a football club environment
Authors: Sukhomlynov R. , Andrieieva O.
Published: January 2021

The article addresses the urgent problem of improving the organizational and methodological framework of health-enhancing and recreational activities for older preschool children in children's football clubs aiming at strengthening the health of this population and increasing their involvement in regular physical activity. Objective. To substantiate the model of organizational and methodological framework of health-enhancing and recreational activities for preschool children in a football club environment. Research methods. The following methods were used in the study: theoretical analysis of special scientific and methodological literature and documentary materials, pedagogical and sociological methods, modelling, and methods of mathematical statistics. Results. The model of organizational and methodological framework for health-enhancing and recreational activities of older preschool children in a children's football club environment was theoretically substantiated and developed. The model included organizational, diagnostic, methodological, and control units, as well as the technological and methodological conditions for its implementation to improve safety and the effectiveness of classes for preschool children. The program of health-enhancing and recreational activities involving football skills training, which was a component of the developed model, was substantiated, developed, and implemented. Information and educational components of the model were also developed to increase the level of awareness of parents on health issues. Special training was conducted for children's coaches to increase the level of knowledge on the safety of classes and on the use of health-enhancing and recreational physical activity during classes for older preschoolers. Conclusion. The study has identified the ways to modernization of organizational and methodological framework of health-enhancing and recreational activities for older preschoolers in a football club environment.
The concept of rehabilitation treatment after COVID-19 infection
Authors: Mrozkowiak Mirosław
Published: January 2021

Covid-19 is an infectious respiratory disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus Prevention of infection includes frequent and thorough hand washing, maintaining physical distance from persons with flu-like symptoms, and not touching the mouth, eyes, and nose with unwashed hands. The task of physiotherapy in the period of convalescence is, among others, improving the efficiency of the body, endurance and motor coordination. To a lesser extent, speed and strength. No less important is the diet and re-education of intellectual performance, elimination of post-sickness stress and possible depressive states. Due to the lack of studies on the type and methodology of the use of physical agents, the therapy should be similar to that used in respiratory diseases and respond to the individual needs of the recovered patient. The concept includes post-hospital management. It is based on the results of research on the effects of physical exercise and selected physiotherapeutic treatments on the human body. It is consistent with WHO guidelines for post-hospital management (Stage I). It consists of 5 stages with varied and progressive management objectives, depending on the efficiency and multisystem efficiency of the patient. It contains proposals of physical treatments and examples of specific exercises compatible with the course of training to improve efficiency. The concept is open. It suggests a course of action. It is one of the first published and proposed complex physiotherapeutic procedures after Covid-19 infection.
Biosynthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles using Ziziphus mauritiana Leaf Extract
Authors: Fathima Neeshat , Afreen Shaistha , Muniyan Thirumavalavan , Sundramurthy Venkatesa Prabhu , Daniel Nahom
Published: January 2021

In the area of Nano technological research, green synthesis of Nanoparticles (NPs) has pulled in a ton of interest in light of the fact that the green-synthesized Ag NPs show more prominent antimicrobial and inhibitory qualities, in perspective on which they could be utilized in various applications in the areas of medical and drug delivery. It might be the most appropriate option for the conventional techniques that are commonly conflicting and exert dangerous impacts on the earth. In this research, green synthesis of silver NPs using Ziziphus mauritiana leaf extract was carried out. The synthesized Ag NPs were characterized using UV–V is spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The consequences of UV-Vis spectroscopy showed plasma resonance peaks around 413 nm, that exhibited the existence of Ag NPs. The result observedfromSEM demonstrated thatNPs werefound inspherical and in the 4–96 nm range. The practical gatherings forNPs synthesis using organic compounds with minimized procedure of biosynthesis and stabilization of silver NPs were studied with FTIR and were observed to be phenols, alcohols, primary amines, and alkenes. The XRD pattern demonstrated the FCC structure of AgNO3 and average particle was observed to be 12.0 nm.
Molecular Characterization of Thirteen Oil seed Brassica L. Variants From Bangladesh Through Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (PAGE)
Authors: Akbar Faria , Saha Susmita , Pinky Meghla Saha , Begum Kazi Nahida
Published: January 2021

Brassica L. is the most agronomical important genus of Brassicaceae family. An electrophoretic exploration was conveyed for proper identification of genetically diverse and agronomically superior genotypes and pursuing the extent of genetic divergence and phylogenetic relationship within the thirteen variants of Brassica for leaf storage protein by using Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (PAGE) as biochemical marker. A total of 19 alternative protein bands were found with high polymorphism of 89.47%. The protein banding pattern suggested the existence of differences among the studied variants pertaining to the location, molecular weight and staining intensity of the bands which could be utilized as fingerprints for variants identification. Based on Nei’s genetic distance, a wide range of genetic distance (0.0541–1.5581) offered the presence of broad genetic variability among the quested variants. A dendrogram was constructed by using UPGMA where all the analyzed Brassica variants were rouped into two major clusters. Relying on this analysis, highest genetic variation (1.5581) was observed between BS-10 and BS-14 while the lowest genetic variation (0.0541) was recorded between BS-9 and BS-12, which might be furnished as a source of parental line. Consequently, it can be proposed that the protein profile of the analyzed thirteen variants of Brassica L. by PAGE would be considered to be a contributory implement to the breeders of Brassica by providing sufficient information on the genetic resources of Brassica and improvement of new offspring in the forthcoming breeding program of Brassica L.
Dermatoglyphic study in Azoospermic and Oligozoospermic males
Authors: Prasad Bheem , Panchal Padamjeet , Kumar Dayanidhi
Published: January 2021

Introduction:Infertility resulting in men has evoked considerable medical and social interest. The dermatoglyphic study has been proven to be a useful diagnostic tool for different diseases. It is easy due to its cost-effectiveness and non-invasive procedure. Multiple aetiological factors are responsible for azoospermia and oligozoospermia. This study was done to know thedermatoglyphic patterns among male patients suffering from azoospermia and oligozoospermia and compare the findings with the general population. Methods:Total seventy-six cases suffering from azoospermia and oligozoospermia were taken with an equal number of individuals in the control group. The fingerprint patterns and ridge counts were compared with healthy age-matched control subjects. The fingerprint patterns were collected by standard ink method. The data was collected and subjected to Chi-square and analysis of variance at a 95 % confidence interval. Results:The overall frequency was loop was higher, followed by whorls and arches in men with azoospermia and oligozoospermia. It was observed that comparing the fingertip ridge patterns and their frequencies were significant (p<.05) inazoospermia and oligozoospermia as compared to controls.The increase in the total number of arches wasobserved in men with oligozoospermia as compared with respect to the control group. Thedifferencesin cases and control groups with respect to parameters such as Total finger ridge count (TFRC)as well as Absolute finger ridge count (AFRC) were found statistically insignificant. Conclusions:There is a substantial correlation between fingerprint patterns of men withazoospermia and oligozoospermiamales attending the In Vitro fertilisation Centre. These correlations may have an essential role in the early diagnosis of reproductive dysfunction in the future.
Monometallic Zinc and Bimetallic Cu-Zn Nanoparticles Synthesis Using Stem Extracts of Cissusquadrangularis (Haddjod) and Proneness as Alternative Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Khatak Sunita , Wadhwa Naman , Jain Pranay
Published: January 2021

Cissus quadrangularis belongs to family Vitaceae and is an edible medicinal plant found in India, Malaysia, Java, West Africa and Thailand. Mainly an osteogenic by nature, the plant is used for strengthening joints and bones, reducing pain and helps to re pair fractures so named as “Haddjod”. It has been reported in treatment of Bloody Diarrhea, skin disorders, ear ache, hemorrhoids, irregular menstruation and leucorrhoea. The plant is a potent antioxidant and a anti-inflammatory agent. The activity of aqueous stem extracts against Gram-negative bacteria: Escherichia coli (MTCC-5704), Pseudomonas aeruginosa(MTCC-2295),and two gram positive bacteria: Bacillus subtilis(MTCC-121) and Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC-3160) along with one cariogenic pathogen Streptococcus mutans (MTCC-497) was analyzed using agar well diffusion assay. Zinc nanoparticles and bimetallic Cu-Zn nanoparticles were synthesized using stem as plant part in contradiction to leaves which have been exploited by many nanotechnologists in nanoparticle synthesis as reducing and capping agent. Pathogenic microbes confirmed that the plant contains bioactive compounds which exhibited measurable antimicrobial activity against bacteria. Zinc nanoparticles have abundant scope in food as additives and packaging and are considered safe in food items. Synthesis of Zinc nanoparticles was further confirmed using UV visible spectroscopy and XRD analysis. While bimetallic Cu-Zn nanoparticles were confirmed by simple visual color change and UV visible spectroscopy. The bimetallic have been in more demand as compared to monometallic as they are better in magnetic, optical properties and this is the first report of bimetallic nanoparticle synthesis from Cissus stem.
Intestinal Macrophages and Intestinal Infection
Authors: Al-Amrah Hadba , Bahieldin Ahmad , Alshehri Dikhnah , Alatawi Hanan , Alatawy Marfat
Published: January 2021

There has been increased interest in the role played by macrophages in the maintenance of an active immune system and intestinal homeostasis. Nonetheless, they are also responsible for the rise of chronic pathologies such as inflammatory bowel syndrome in the gut. The lack of differentiation of monocytes in the intestines due to disease conditions leads to a fall in the diversity of microbiota and subsequent gut inflammation. Macrophages play a central role in the homeostasis and immunity of the gut, making them potential sources of novel therapies or remedies for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. To explore this possibility, this research discusses their structure, differentiation, and functionality in an in-depth manner. It will also describe their role in the local intestinal environment and how it changes upon infection. Finally, the paper will outline its conclusions as well as comment on the future outlook of related research.
Preventive Effects of Dietaryraisins on Steroid - Induced Bone Changes in Rats
Authors: Aiman Al-Qtaitat , Said Al-Dalaien , Amal Albtoosh , Karawya Fardous
Published: January 2021

Glucocorticoids is the most common cause of secondary osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is widespread, costly and causes pain, deformity and disability. Several studies report health benefits of raisins. Raisins have a combination of compounds with antibacterial, antioxidant,anticarcinogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. The present study investigated the impact of Raisins onmethylprednisolone-induced osteoporosis in rats. Thirty male albino rats were randomly divided into three main groups, ten rats each. Group I control group; Group II, osteoporotic group, where osteoporosis was induced by injection of methylprednisolone; Group III, protected group, animals were given raisinsconcomitant daily with methylprednisolone. Bone biochemical markers were assisted, hydroxyproline, urinary calcium excretion, serum calcium, alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin. In addition to histological findings in lumbar vertebrae of the rats.Our findings showed that raisin has a positive osteoprotective effects on methylprednisolone induced bone changes histologically and over the biomarkers examined.This study suggests that dietary raisins may moderate methylprednisolone bone induced changes.
Development of Interspecific Hybrids (Abelmoschus Esculentus × A. Tetraphyllus) in Okra Using Embryo Rescue Approach
Authors: Rattan Puja , Kumar Sanjeev
Published: January 2021

Undomesticated related species are the rich stock of genes providing resistance to various diseases, pests and unfavourable environmental conditions. The sexual incompatibilities are bottleneck in introgression of such genes from wild species to popular varieties. The present study was executed to standardize a protocol of embryo rescue so to obtain the hybrids of Abelmoschus esculentus × A. tetraphyllus IC141017. Crosses were made between four (Arka Anamika, Pusa Makhmali, Parbhani Kranti, Jammu Okra-05) cultivated varieties of okra (A. esculentus) and a wild species (A. tetraphyllus IC141017) in reciprocal manner. Out of the four popular cultivars used in crossing, fruit set was recorded in Arka Anamika, Pusa Makhmali, Parbhani Kranti only when A. tetraphyallus IC141017 was used as a male parent. Fruit showed distal cracking after 25 d of pollination. The seeds appeared healthy for up to 15 d after pollination and later shrivelled and became pale yellow. Cross combinations, viz., Parbhani Kranti × A. tetraphyllus IC141017, Arka Anamika × A. tetraphyllus IC141017 and Pusa Makhmali × A. tetraphyllus IC 141017 showed the highest shoot regeneration on MS media containing 0.5 mg l-1 NAA + 1.0 mg l-1 IBA. Greatest number of shoots per explant (0.92±0.12) as well as the highest frequency of shoot regeneration (86±0.12%) was reported in Parbhani Kranti × A. tetraphyllus IC141017. Arka Anamika × A. tetraphyllus IC 141017 (86±0.12%) and Pusa Makhmali × A. tetraphyllus IC 141017 (82±0.13%) resulted in high frequency of shoot regeneration on MS media containing 0.5 mg l-1 NAA + 1.0 mg l-1 IBA. It can be inferred that MS media containing on 0.5 mg l-1 NAA + 1.0 mg l-1 IBA showed positive results in regeneration of interspecific hybrids of okra.
Bandwidth extension and conversion efficiency improvements beyond phase matching limitations using cavity-enhanced OPCPA
Authors: Siddiqui Aleem M. , Hong Kyung-Han , Moses Jeffrey , Kärtner Franz X.
Published: January 2021

The conversion efficiency and phase matching bandwidth of ultrafast optical parametric amplification (OPA) are constrained by the dispersion and nonlinear coefficient of the employed crystal as well as pulse shaping effects. In our work we show that an enhancement cavity resonant with the pump seeded at the full repetition rate of the pump laser can automatically reshape the small-signal gain in optical parametric chirped-pulse amplification (OPCPA) to achieve close-to-optimal operation. This new method termed cavity-enhanced OPCPA or C-OPCPA significantly increases both the gain bandwidth and the conversion efficiency, in addition to boosting gain for high-repetition-rate amplification. The goal in C-OPCPA is to arrive at a condition of impedance matching at all temporal coordinates, such that, in the absence of linear losses, all the incident pump power is dissipated in the nonlinear loss element, i.e., converted to signal and idler. The use of a low finesse enhancement cavity resonant with a low average power (<1W) and a high repetition rate (78MHz) pump source is shown to achieve more than 50% conversion efficiency into signal and idler from the coupled pump in an optical parametric process, whereas an equivalent amount of pump power in a single-pass configuration leads to negligible conversion. Additionally, the gain bandwidth is extended by a factor of 3-4 beyond the phase-matching limit. Our empirical observations are corroborated by a numerical analysis of depletion optimizing the single-pass case, which assesses the underlying impedance matching that is responsible for the observed performance improvements.
Orders of magnitude loss reduction in photonic bandgap fibers by engineering the core surround
Authors: Upendar S. , Ando R. F. , Schmidt M. A. , Weiss T.
Published: January 2021

We demonstrate how to reduce the loss in photonic bandgap fibers by orders of magnitude by varying the radius of the corner strands in the core surround. As a fundamental working principle we find that changing the corner strand radius can lead to backscattering of light into the fiber core. Selecting an optimal corner strand radius can thus reduce the loss of the fundamental core mode in a specific wavelength range by almost two orders of magnitude when compared to an unmodified cladding structure. Using the optimal corner radius for each transmission window, we observe the low-loss behavior for the first and second bandgaps, with the losses in the second bandgap being even lower than that of the first one. Our approach of reducing the confinement loss is conceptually applicable to all kinds of photonic bandgap fibers including hollow core and all-glass fibers as well as on-chip light cages. Therefore, our concept paves the way to low-loss light guidance in such systems with substantially reduced fabrication complexity.
High-efficiency water-window x-ray generation from nanowire array targets irradiated with femtosecond laser pulses
Authors: Shou Yinren , Kong Defeng , Wang Pengjie , Mei Zhusong , Cao Zhengxuan , Pan Zhuo , Li Yunhui , Xu Shirui , Qi Guijun , Chen Shiyou , Zhao Jiarui , Zhao Yanying , Fu Changbo , Luo Wen , Zhang Guoqiang , Yan Xueqing , Ma Wenjun
Published: January 2021

We demonstrate the high-efficiency generation of water-window soft x-ray emissions from polyethylene nanowire array targets irradiated by femtosecond laser pulses at the intensity of 4×1019 W/cm2. The experimental results indicate more than one order of magnitude enhancement of the water-window x-ray emissions from the nanowire array targets compared to the planar targets. The highest energy conversion efficiency from laser to water-window x-rays is measured as 0.5%/sr, which comes from the targets with the longest nanowires. Supported by particle-in-cell simulations and atomic kinetic codes, the physics that leads to the high conversion efficiency is discussed.
Control of the spatial characteristics of femtosecond laser filamentation in glass via feedback-based wavefront shaping with an annular phase mask
Authors: Li Jing , Tan Wenjiang , Si Jinhai , Tang Shiyun , Kang Zhen , Hou Xun
Published: January 2021

We propose a feedback-based wavefront shaping with an annular phase mask to control the spatial characteristics of femtosecond laser filamentation in K9 glass. A closed-loop feedback driven by a genetic algorithm was used to search for the optimal phase profile for generating the specified filaments. We demonstrate the flexibility of this method to extend or shorten filaments, improve continuity, and simultaneously control the position of filaments with specified lengths. Our approach offers a flexible regulation of the spatial characteristics of femtosecond laser filamentation for its potential applications.
Enhanced light extraction from AlGaInP-based red light-emitting diodes with photonic crystals
Authors: Tang Xiansheng , Han Lili , Ma Ziguang , Deng Zhen , Jiang Yang , Wang Wenxin , Chen Hong , Du Chunhua , Jia Haiqiang
Published: January 2021

The photonic crystal (PC) has been demonstrated to be very effective in improving the extraction efficiency of light-emitting diodes (LEDs). In this paper, high-brightness AlGaInP-based vertical LEDs (VLEDs) with surface PC (SPCLED) and embedded PC (EPCLED) were successfully fabricated. Compared with normal LED (NLED), photoluminescence intensities of SPCLED and EPCLED have been improved up to 30% and 60%, respectively. And the reflection patterns of SPCLED and EPCLED were periodic bright points array, showing the ability to control light in PC. Electroluminescent measurements show that three kinds of LEDs have similar threshold voltages. Simultaneously, the light output power (LOP) of SPCLED and EPCLED has been improved up to 24% and 11% at 200 mA, respectively, in comparison to NLEDs. But the LOP decays earlier for EPCLED due to the excessive heat production. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the SPCLED and EPCLED luminous uniformity is better. This kind of high brightness PCLED is promising in improving the properties of all kinds of LEDs, especially mini LEDs and micro LEDs.
Random fiber laser based on a partial-reflection random fiber grating for high temperature sensing
Authors: Deng Jiancheng , Churkin D. V. , Xu Zuowei , Shu Xuewen
Published: January 2021

A stable single wavelength random fiber laser (RFL) with a partial-reflection random fiber grating (PR-RFG) for high temperature sensing is proposed and demonstrated for the first time, to the best of our knowledge. The PR-RFG is fabricated with the help of a femtosecond laser, with its highest reflection peak significantly higher than all other reflection peaks, which can ensure the stability of this filter-free RFL. Theoretical calculations also show that such a PR-RFG should be designed with reflectivity in the range of

∼

30

%

−

90

%

to obtain one reflection peak significantly higher than other peaks. The threshold of this laser is only 6.4 mW. In addition, the RFL realizes temperature sensing in the range from 25°C to 500°C and has an optical signal-to-noise ratio of up to 70 dB.
Broadband thermomechanically limited sensing with an optomechanical accelerometer
Authors: Zhou Feng , Bao Yiliang , Madugani Ramgopal , Long David A. , Gorman Jason J. , LeBrun Thomas W.
Published: January 2021

Acceleration measurement is widely used in commercial, scientific, and defense applications, but the resolution and accuracy achievable for demanding applications is limited by the current technology used to build and calibrate accelerometers. We report an optomechanical accelerometer based on a Fabry–Perot microcavity in a silicon chip that is extremely precise, field deployable, and can self-calibrate. The measured acceleration resolution is the highest reported to date for a microfabricated optomechanical accelerometer and is achieved over a wide frequency range (

314

n
m

⋅

s

−
2

/

√

H
z

over 6.8 kHz). The combination of a single vibrational mode in the mechanical spectrum and the broadband thermally limited resolution enables accurate conversion from sensor displacement to acceleration. This also allows measurement of acceleration directly in terms of the laser wavelength, making it possible for sensors to calibrate internally and serve as intrinsic standards. This sensing platform is applicable to a range of measurements from industrial accelerometry and inertial navigation to gravimetry and fundamental physics.
Deep learning in nano-photonics: inverse design and beyond
Authors: Wiecha Peter R. , Arbouet Arnaud , Girard Christian , Muskens Otto L.
Published: January 2021

Deep learning in the context of nano-photonics is mostly discussed in terms of its potential for inverse design of photonic devices or nano-structures. Many of the recent works on machine-learning inverse design are highly specific, and the drawbacks of the respective approaches are often not immediately clear. In this review we want therefore to provide a critical review on the capabilities of deep learning for inverse design and the progress which has been made so far. We classify the different deep-learning-based inverse design approaches at a higher level as well as by the context of their respective applications and critically discuss their strengths and weaknesses. While a significant part of the community’s attention lies on nano-photonic inverse design, deep learning has evolved as a tool for a large variety of applications. The second part of the review will focus therefore on machine learning research in nano-photonics “beyond inverse design.” This spans from physics-informed neural networks for tremendous acceleration of photonics simulations, over sparse data reconstruction, imaging and “knowledge discovery” to experimental applications.
Causal network inference from gene transcriptional time-series response to glucocorticoids
Authors: Lu Jonathan , Dumitrascu Bianca , McDowell Ian C. , Jo Brian , Barrera Alejandro , Hong Linda K. , Leichter Sarah M. , Reddy Timothy E. , Engelhardt Barbara E.
Published: January 2021

Gene regulatory network inference is essential to uncover complex relationships among gene pathways and inform downstream experiments, ultimately enabling regulatory network re-engineering. Network inference from transcriptional time-series data requires accurate, interpretable, and efficient determination of causal relationships among thousands of genes. Here, we develop Bootstrap Elastic net regression from Time Series (BETS), a statistical framework based on Granger causality for the recovery of a directed gene network from transcriptional time-series data. BETS uses elastic net regression and stability selection from bootstrapped samples to infer causal relationships among genes. BETS is highly parallelized, enabling efficient analysis of large transcriptional data sets. We show competitive accuracy on a community benchmark, the DREAM4 100-gene network inference challenge, where BETS is one of the fastest among methods of similar performance and additionally infers whether causal effects are activating or inhibitory. We apply BETS to transcriptional time-series data of differentially-expressed genes from A549 cells exposed to glucocorticoids over a period of 12 hours. We identify a network of 2768 genes and 31,945 directed edges (FDR ≤ 0.2). We validate inferred causal network edges using two external data sources: Overexpression experiments on the same glucocorticoid system, and genetic variants associated with inferred edges in primary lung tissue in the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) v6 project. BETS is available as an open source software package at https://github.com/lujonathanh/BETS.
Modeling invasion patterns in the glioblastoma battlefield
Authors: Conte Martina , Casas-Tintò Sergio , Soler Juan
Published: January 2021

Glioblastoma is the most aggressive tumor of the central nervous system, due to its great infiltration capacity. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate the Glioblastoma invasion front is a major challenge with preeminent potential clinical relevances. In the infiltration front, the key features of tumor dynamics relate to biochemical and biomechanical aspects, which result in the extension of cellular protrusions known as tumor microtubes. The coordination of metalloproteases expression, extracellular matrix degradation, and integrin activity emerges as a leading mechanism that facilitates Glioblastoma expansion and infiltration in uncontaminated brain regions. We propose a novel multidisciplinary approach, based on in vivo experiments inDrosophilaand mathematical models, that describes the dynamics of active and inactive integrins in relation to matrix metalloprotease concentration and tumor density at the Glioblastoma invasion front. The mathematical model is based on a non-linear system of evolution equations in which the mechanisms leading chemotaxis, haptotaxis, and front dynamics compete with the movement induced by the saturated flux in porous media. This approach is able to capture the relative influences of the involved agents and reproduce the formation of patterns, which drive tumor front evolution. These patterns have the value of providing biomarker information that is related to the direction of the dynamical evolution of the front and based on static measures of proteins in several tumor samples. Furthermore, we consider in our model biomechanical elements, like the tissue porosity, as indicators of the healthy tissue resistance to tumor progression.
A sensory integration account for time perception
Authors: Toso Alessandro , Fassihi Arash , Paz Luciano , Pulecchi Francesca , Diamond Mathew E.
Published: January 2021

The connection between stimulus perception and time perception remains unknown. The present study combines human and rat psychophysics with sensory cortical neuronal firing to construct a computational model for the percept of elapsed time embedded within sense of touch. When subjects judged the duration of a vibration applied to the fingertip (human) or whiskers (rat), increasing stimulus intensity led to increasing perceived duration. Symmetrically, increasing vibration duration led to increasing perceived intensity. We modeled real spike trains recorded from vibrissal somatosensory cortex as input to dual leaky integrators–an intensity integrator with short time constant and a duration integrator with long time constant–generating neurometric functions that replicated the actual psychophysical functions of rats. Returning to human psychophysics, we then confirmed specific predictions of the dual leaky integrator model. This study offers a framework, based on sensory coding and subsequent accumulation of sensory drive, to account for how a feeling of the passage of time accompanies the tactile sensory experience.