bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of the Nettle Essential Oil (Urtica dioica L.) on the Performance and Carcass Quality Traits in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Puvača N , Roljević Nikolić S , Lika E , Shtylla Kika T , Giannenas I , Nikolova N , Tufarelli V , Bursić V
Published: April 2024

As a result of the worldwide ban on antibiotic growth promotants in food animals, essential oils have gained considerable importance. Animal meat and carcass quality traits have also been reported to be influenced by essential oils. This study investigated the effects of common nettle essential oil (Urtica dioica L.) in broiler chicken nutrition on performance and carcass quality characteristics. For this experiment which has lasted a 42-days, a total of 648 one-day-old broilers hybrid Cobb 500 was used. A total of 12 replicates were used per dietary treatment, leading to a total of 18 broilers per replicate. The three dietary treatments comprised a control diet (C), a control diet + 0.5% of nettle essential oil (EO1), and a control diet + 1.0% of nettle essential oil (EO2). Despite the carcass and breast yields being higher in the essential oil treatments (EO1 and EO2) compared to the control treatment (C), the thigh yields were unaffected by diet (P>0.05). Shank yield was higher in the EO1 and EO2 treatments as compared with the control (P<0.05) treatment. The weight of the viscera decreased (P<0.05) in the dietary treatments with the addition of essential oils. The EO2 treatment had a lower meat pH compared to the other two treatments. Based on the obtained results, it is concluded that the EO2 treatment was equally effective as the EO1, regarding the carcass traits, and therefore can serve as an alternative to the banned antibiotic growth promoters in broiler chickens.
Reliability and validity of the Greek version of the Short Gratitude Resentment and Appreciation Test (S-GRAT-GR)
Authors: Kargakou Aikaterini , Kafetsios Konstantinos , Stamatopoulou Maria , Prezerakos Panagiotis , Rojas Gil Andrea Paola
Published: April 2024

Gratitude is a psychological notion that has been associated with numerous beneficial outcomes for individuals and communities. The Short Gratitude Resentment and Appreciation Test (S-GRAT), one of the most widely used measure to detect trait gratitude, comprises three subscales that assess lack of a sense of deprivation, appreciation for simple pleasures, and appreciation of others. The present study tested the psychometric properties of the Greek version of the S-GRAT scale. Using a sample of 681 adults from the general population and a smaller separate sample of fifty individuals we found that the scale demonstrated good internal consistency and high test-retest reliability. Explanatory and confirmatory factor analyses confirmed the original three-dimensional scale structure. Convergent and discriminant validity tests found S-GRAT-Gr total score was significantly correlated with Agreeableness, Intellect, Extraversion, Emotional Stability and Conscientiousness. S-GRAT-Gr also had positive correlations with the Gratitude Questionnaire (GQ-6), the Subjective Happiness Scale and the Satisfaction With Life Scale. S-GRAT-Gr score was found to have a unique impact on Life Satisfaction and Happiness beyond the basic taxonomies of personality and also beyond the GQ-6. Results indicate that the Greek version of the Revised Short Gratitude, Resentment, and Appreciation Test (S-GRAT-Gr) is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing dispositional gratitude in the Greek context.
Unicanvas: Exploring a tool for strategic management
Authors: Segundo Julio , Fernandez-Alles Mariluz , Velez Maria , Sanchez Jose M.
Published: April 2024

Purpose This research proposes an adapted version of Business Model Canvas (BMC) as a strategic instrument for Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). University-Model Canvas (Unicanvas) is intended to be a critical visual and dynamic tool for addressing the challenges faced by entrepreneurial universities in their quintuple helix model. Research methods/Approach Considering the new challenges facing HEIs, transfer knowledge, corporate social responsibility, internationalization, digitalization, sustainability, and the critical role of universities in innovation and regional development, we adapt the strategic building blocks of the BMC in the context of universities. Findings and implications Departing from BMC, we propose 10 strategic building blocks against the nine BMCs, including an achievement box. The new challenges HEIs face, the expansion of university outputs, and new societal demands highlight the opportunity to use this tool instead of traditional and static strategic planning models to discuss and concretise their differentiated way of competing. The use of this participative, dynamic, intuitive, and flexible strategic tool will facilitate the holistic strategic management of these institutions in their current new challenges.
Social Embeddings: Concept and Initial Investigation
Authors: Lemaignan Séverin , Andriella Antonio , Ferrini Lorenzo , Juricic Luka , Mohamed Youssef , Ros Raquel
Published: April 2024

We introduce social embeddings as a compact, yet semantics-preserving, mathematical representation of social situations. Social embeddings are constructed by leveraging pre-trained large language models: we automatically generate a textual description of the social environment of a robot, and use pre-trained text embeddings to generate a vector representation of the social scene. The article presents the details of the methodology, and analyses key properties of these embeddings, including their ability to measure social ‘similarity’. We argue that social embeddings are a quantitative pseudo-metric for social situations, we demonstrate their operationalization on actual social robots, and discuss their potential applications.
Understanding hospital antimicrobial prescribing decisions and determinants of uptake of new local antimicrobial prescribing guidelines in the Laos
Authors: Chansamouth Vilada , Douangnouvong Anousone , Thammavongsa Peeyanout , Sombandith Xaysana , Keomany Sommay , Rattana Sommana , Newton Paul N , Day Nicholas PJ , Turner Paul , Mayxay Mayfong , van Doorn H. Rogier , Ashley Elizabeth A
Published: April 2024

Background Antimicrobial use in the Laos is among the highest in the Southeast Asia region. The first Lao comprehensive antimicrobial prescribing guidelines have been available since 2021. This study explored the determinants of antibiotic prescribing decisions and how the new prescribing guidelines were being used. Methods In August 2022, in-depth interviews were conducted with 16 Lao prescribers from two hospitals. Participants were questioned about their prescribing behaviours, attitudes to guidelines, how they learned about the guidelines and factors influencing their uptake. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated into English. Thematic analysis of the transcripts was conducted. Results Lao prescribers considered multiple factors before deciding to prescribe antibiotics to their patients. The most common factor was based on the clinical judgement of the prescribers. Lack of certain antibiotics and turnaround times of laboratory results were the main challenges to prescribing antibiotics appropriately. The majority of participants were satisfied with the guidelines, regarding them as comprehensive, simple and convenient. However, most participants admitted that they did not access the guidelines very often. The main reason was that they could remember the treatment recommendations because they treat similar diseases on a daily basis. Improving antibiotic knowledge was the most common recommendation in order to improve the appropriate use of antibiotics. Raising awareness of the guidelines and promoting their use should also be considered. In addition, heads of the wards, and policy and implementation leaders, should support, monitor and feedback their use to encourage all prescribers to follow the guidelines. Conclusions Several factors contribute to enhancing appropriate antibiotic prescription. Key factors for improving antibiotic prescription include enhancing prescribers' clinical knowledge, ensuring access to essential antibiotics, utilizing point-of-care diagnostics while waiting for culture and susceptibility testing results, and updating guidelines regularly. Health leaders must get involved to promote their use.
Riboseq-flow: A streamlined, reliable pipeline for ribosome profiling data analysis and quality control
Authors: Iosub Ira A. , Wilkins Oscar G. , Ule Jernej
Published: April 2024

Ribosome profiling is a powerful technique to study translation at a transcriptome-wide level. However, ensuring good data quality is paramount for accurate interpretation, as is ensuring that the analyses are reproducible. We introduce a new Nextflow DSL2 pipeline, riboseq-flow, designed for processing and comprehensive quality control of ribosome profiling experiments. Riboseq-flow is user-friendly, versatile and upholds high standards in reproducibility, scalability, portability, version control and continuous integration. It enables users to efficiently analyse multiple samples in parallel and helps them evaluate the quality and utility of their data based on the detailed metrics and visualisations that are automatically generated. Riboseq-flow is available at https://github.com/iraiosub/riboseq-flow.
ECG of the month
Authors: Bloe Charles
Published: April 2024

In this issue's ECG of the month, Charles Bloe presents the case of a 64-year-old woman living with atrial fibrillation, type 2 diabetes and chronic stable angina, who experienced acute cardiac pain while showering.
Heart failure awareness days: heart failure in primary care
Authors: Wright Nasa-Marie
Published: April 2024

In recognition of this year's heart failure awareness days, taking place between 29 April and 5 May, Nasa‑Marie Wright presents a case study of suspected heart failure in a primary care setting and suggests recommendations for improving diagnosis and management.
Effects of Cover Crop and Filter Strips on Sediment and Nutrient Loads Measured at the Edge of a Commercial Cotton Field
Authors: Thapa Arjun , Aryal Niroj , Reba Michele L. , Teague Tina Gray , Payne Geoffrey K. , Pieri Anna
Published: April 2024

Highlights

Winter cover crops and growing season filter strips were implemented without sacrificing significant land and achieved positive results.

Cover crops reduced runoff depth, peak flow rate, sediment, TP, and TN load by 30%, 49%, 43%, 4%, and 7%, respectively.

Filter strips reduced runoff depth, peak flow rate, sediment, TP, and TN load by 36%, 49%, 56%, 15%, and 21%, respectively.

Abstract. Effective use of conservation practices in agricultural fields can reduce sediment and other pollutant loads entering waterways. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of using cover crops and filter strips on sediment and nutrient loss at the edge of paired, 7.83 ha (19.35 ac), commercial cotton fields in the Lower Mississippi River Basin (LMRB) in northeastern Arkansas. Cover crops included winter wheat, black oat, and ryegrass seeded in the winter fallow period, while filter strips included a grassy turn row at the field border and switchgrass transplanted around the drainage pipe at the edge of the treatment field. The field border of the control field was generally free from vegetation. A monitoring system measured discharge and collected composite water samples from rainfall and irrigation runoff events. Water samples were analyzed for phosphate (PO4-P), total phosphorus (TP), nitrate (NO3-N), ammonium (NH4-N), total nitrogen (TN), and suspended sediment concentrations. Data were collected from 2015 to 2020. Baseline data were collected when both fields had similar conservation practices (i.e., no cover crops in 2015 and no filter strips in 2015 and 2016). A comparison of 66 common runoff events between the control and cover crop treatment fields during the non-growing season indicated that the median peak flow and sediment loads were significantly reduced (p < 0.05), with an average reduction of 49% and 43%, respectively. Similarly, a comparison of 55 common runoff events between the control and filter strips treatment fields during the growing season found that the filter strips reduced significantly with average runoff by 36%, peak flow by 49%, and sediment loads by 56% (p < 0.05). Nutrient load reductions by the cover crop and filter strip treatments were not significantly different than by the control (p > 0.05). However, mean PO4-P, TP, NO3-N, NO2-N, NH4-N, and TN loads in the cover crop treatment field were lower than in the control field by 21%, 4%, 9%, 4%, 17%, and 7%, respectively. Similarly, mean PO4-P, TP, NO3-N, NH4-N, and TN loads in the filter strip treatment field were lower than in the control field by 23%, 15%, 11%, 42%, and 21%, respectively. The results demonstrated runoff depth, peak flow rate, nutrients, and sediment load reductions following the implementation of cover crops and filter strips at the commercial field scale. Keywords: Agricultural conservation practices, BMPs, Cotton, Cover crop, Edge-of-field monitoring, Filter strips, Switch grass.
AFC-ResNet18: A Novel Real-Time Image Semantic Segmentation Network for Orchard Scene Understanding
Authors: Zhang Jian , Yang Jingwei , An Ting , Wu Pengxin , Ma Chen , Zhang Cong , Zhao Ying , Wang Lihong , Li Chengsong
Published: April 2024

Highlights

A novel real-time image semantic segmentation network for orchards, termed AFC-ResNet18, was designed and tested.

The AFC-ResNet18 model outperformed the SwiftNet network in terms of segmentation depth.

The AFC-ResNet18 model achieved the highest accuracy in the architecture performance testing.

The AFC-ResNet18 model won first place in the orchard scene test with 72.5% accuracy.

Abstract. Semantic segmentation is a fundamental prerequisite for the real-time understanding of scenes. This understanding is essential for developing automated devices that can enhance productivity. Orchards, being labor-intensive and time-consuming workplaces, urgently require automated equipment to boost efficiency. Therefore, the objective of this article is to develop a real-time image semantic segmentation network tailored for orchard environments. This development aims to offer significant new insights into the design of automated maintenance and harvesting equipment. Based on ResNet, the 2015 classification champion network, a novel real-time image semantic segmentation network termed AFC-ResNet18, which used an attentional feature complementary module (AFC) to fuse RGB and depth image information, was designed and systematically tested. Interestingly, in the segmentation ability tests, the AFC-ResNet18 model outperformed the SwiftNet network in terms of segmentation depth. Surprisingly, in the architecture performance testing, the AFC-ResNet18 model achieved the highest accuracy. Noteworthily, in the orchard scene test, the AFC-ResNet18 model won first place with 72.5% accuracy. Predictably, these findings may accelerate the development of novel automated equipment to maintain the orchard worldwide, especially AFC-ResNet18 based robots. Keywords: Attentional feature complementary module, Orchard, Real-time, Robots, Semantic segmentation.
Reducing Water, Nutrient, Pesticide, and Carbon Footprints and Costs for Drip-Irrigated Vine Crops with Compact Bed Plasticulture
Authors: Santikari Vijay , Shukla Sanjay , Sishodia Rajendra P. , Hansen Kira M. , Hendricks Gregory S.
Published: April 2024

Highlights

Narrower and taller compact beds (CB) were designed to increase the system efficiency of drip-irrigated plasticulture.

CB lowered water, fertilizer, plastic, pesticide, and fuel inputs while maintaining watermelon yield.

CB reduced GHG emissions and input costs while increasing input productivity.

CB are a synergistic and win-win climate-smart design to increase the sustainability of high-intensity plasticulture.

Abstract. Raised bed plasticulture, used globally for producing high-value fruits and vegetables, is a high input and high intensity production system. We show that improved water and nutrient efficiency with reduced material inputs, costs, and carbon footprint is achieved with the use of taller and narrower plastic-mulched compact beds [61×30 (width × height in cm), 61×10, 46×30, and 41×30] compared to the wider and shorter conventional bed [76×20] used for growing watermelon. The primary motivation behind the compact bed design is to improve economic and environmental sustainability by reducing the bed width, to increase the fraction of the bed that is wetted by drip irrigation and to reduce the area of farmland covered under plastic. Compact beds were evaluated at two locations in South Florida with different hydrologic settings, using an ensemble of field data (inputs, plant health, yield, soil moisture, and nutrient levels) and a field-verified hydrologic model (HYDRUS). No reduction in yields was observed with compact beds, indicating no production risk for the growers. Compact beds conserve water and reduce deep percolation losses by 6 cm compared to conventional beds, thereby improving water productivity by 20%. Compact beds require less fertilizer (10%-50%) to maintain the same nutrient (N-P-K) concentrations as those in conventional beds because of smaller soil volumes. Reductions in water and fertilizer inputs provide the environmental benefit of reducing nutrient leaching to groundwater, while reduced impervious area reduces runoff losses. Compact beds reduced input (fertilizer, plastic mulch, pesticide, and diesel) costs of the system by US$720/ha and greenhouse gas emissions by 1630 kg CO2e/ha (9%) compared to conventional plasticulture. The annual cost savings create a win-win for farmers to increase profits and/or invest in conservation measures such as precision irrigation. Compact beds offer a climate change mitigation and adaptation strategy for the plasticulture system for watermelon and other similar cucurbit crops (e.g., cucumber, pumpkin, and zucchini). Keywords: Climate-Smart Agriculture, Economics, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Nutrient Leaching, Sustainable Design, Water Conservation.
Development and Implementation of a Damage Model for Potato Tuber Blackspot in Discrete Element Method to Analyze Harvesting and Handling Processes
Authors: Poppa Lukas , Frerichs Ludger , Liu Jintian , Böl Markus
Published: April 2024

Highlights

Method for determining the discoloration of potato tissue samples induced by mechanical stress.

Model of the discoloration susceptibility of specific potato tissue.

Particle segmentation algorithm in the Discrete Element Method for contact localization in post-processing.

Development of the "Discrete Element Method Blackspot Potato Tuber Model" capable of predicting internal blackspot damage in potato tubers.

Abstract. Blackspot damage caused by mechanical load during the harvesting and processing stages of potato tubers remains difficult to mitigate. Field tests are inadequate as it takes around two days to develop blackspot discoloration, making it unclear when and where the initial damage occurs. Particle simulation, particularly with the Discrete Element Method (DEM), offers opportunities to improve machine performance and reduce crop losses. However, the DEM cannot predict local blackspot damage, making it unsuitable for reducing potato tuber damage. To address this, the “DEM blackspot potato tuber model” presented in this contribution integrates a discoloration function and a segmentation algorithm of DEM particles to predict and analyze blackspot damage during harvesting and processing. Based on mechanical experiments on tuber tissues with different loading conditions, a discoloration function was proposed dependent on strain and strain rate. The segmentation algorithm adapts to the varying potato tuber particle size by varying the number of segments to generate segments of average blackspot size. Two different validation tests are used to identify the single and multiple impact capabilities of the model. The preliminary results show that the discoloration induced by single impact events is well predicted in terms of the number of damaged tubers as well as the average damage per tuber. Damage of multiple impacts is less accurately predicted since the model does not take into account the accumulation of damage.

Keywords: Blackspot, Damage model, Discrete Element Method, Potato handling, Simulation.
Loss analysis of a grating coupler for single-mode fiber coupling into an SOI waveguide
Authors: Cai Ziyu
Published: April 2024

Silicon-on-insulator (SOI) technology is widely used in silicon photonic integrated circuits. How to improve the coupling efficiency of the light coupling in free space and optical fibers into waveguides on SOI must be discussed. Grating coupling is a commonly used and highly efficient coupling method. This article discusses the causes of loss in grating couplers from three aspects: transmission, reflection, and mode mismatch, and proposes corresponding loss reduction solutions. The coupling efficiency of Si and SiN grating couplers optimized according to the loss reduction scheme has been improved by 25% and 45%, respectively.
Graphene-enhanced decagonal patch antenna for terahertz frequency operation in breast cancer detection
Authors: Ashok Gandreddi Lakshmi Prasanna , Nath Ganimidi Veerendra , Neelapu Bala Chakravarthy
Published: April 2024

This paper presents a decagonal patch antenna loaded with graphene designed for terahertz (THz) frequency applications, with a specific emphasis on its potential for early breast cancer detection. The proposed antenna features a hybrid structure, integrating both copper and graphene materials. A decagonal graphene strip is intricately incorporated into the copper patch, yielding significant improvements in reflection coefficient, bandwidth, and gain. The antenna, with dimensions of 155µm×130µm×13µm, is designed on a polyimide substrate, characterized by a dielectric constant of 3.5 and a loss tangent of 0.0027. To ensure relevance in medical contexts, the design is optimized to operate within the frequency range of 2.1 to 5.7 THz, a critical spectrum for medical applications. Simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed antenna, demonstrating S11<−10dB within the frequency band of 2.1 to 5.7 THz (92.3% fractional bandwidth). The antenna exhibits an impressive bandwidth of 3.6 THz and a gain of 7.87 dBi at 4 THz. These findings establish the graphene-loaded decagonal patch antenna as a highly promising solution for breast cancer detection applications, showcasing its potential in the realm of medical diagnostics.
Introduction to the Optical Molecular Probes, Imaging and Drug Delivery 2023 feature issue
Authors: Niedre Mark , Samkoe Kimberly S. , Kossatz Susanne , Mallidi Srivalleesha , Tichauer Kenneth M.
Published: April 2024

A feature issue is being presented by a team of guest editors containing papers based on studies presented at the Optical Molecular Probes, Imaging and Drug Delivery conference as part of the Optica Biophotonics Congress in Vancouver, Canada from April 24–27, 2023.
High-efficiency scattering field modeling in metallic components: a machine-learning-inspired approach
Authors: Chiang Po-Jui , Tseng Chih Lung , Wang Chien-Kun
Published: April 2024

We present a highly efficient method for characterizing the scattering field distribution of surface plasmon polaritons in metallic components by combining the eXtended Pseudospectral Frequency-Domain (X-PSFD) method with an iterative, machine-learning-inspired procedure. Shifting away from traditional matrix operations, we utilize the “Adam” optimizer—an effective and swift machine learning algorithm—to solve the scattering field distribution. Our method encompasses the derivation of the associated cost function and gradient differentiation of the field, leveraging spectral accuracy at Legendre collocation points in the Helmholtz equation. We refine the total-field/scattered-field (TF/SF) formulation within the X-PSFD framework for optimized incident field management and employ Chebyshev–Lagrange interpolation polynomials for rapid, accurate computation of broad-band results. To ensure global accuracy, we introduce unique physical boundary conditions at subdomain interfaces. Demonstrating our method’s robustness and computational efficiency, we model perfect electric conductors (PECs) and silver nanocylinders, and we apply our approach to analyze the excited electric field on subtly distorted metallic surfaces, particularly plasmonic structures, thereby validating its wide-ranging effectiveness.
Autofocusing in digital holography based on an adaptive genetic algorithm
Authors: Wang Zhongyang , Ma Hongwei , Chen Yuan , Liu Dengxue
Published: April 2024

In digital holography (DH), determining the reconstruction distance is critical to the quality of the reconstructed image. However, traditional focal plane detection methods require considerable time investment to reconstruct and evaluate holograms at multiple distances. To address this inefficiency, this paper proposes a fast and accurate autofocusing method based on an adaptive genetic algorithm. This method only needs to find several reconstruction distances in the search area as an initial population, and then adaptively optimize the reconstruction distance through iteration to determine the optimal focal plane in the search area. In addition, an off-axis digital holographic optical system was used to capture the holograms of the USAF resolution test target and the coin. The simulation and experimental results indicated that, compared with the traditional autofocusing, the proposed method can reduce the computation time by about 70% and improve the focal plane accuracy by up to 0.5 mm.
Scene-based dual domain non-uniformity correction algorithm for stripe and optics-caused fixed pattern noise removal
Authors: Liu Yuan , Qiu Bingwen , Tian Yayuan , Cai Juan , Sui Xiubao , Chen Qian
Published: April 2024

Non-uniformity is a long-standing problem that significantly degrades infrared images through fixed pattern noise (FPN). Existing scene-based algorithms for non-uniformity correction (NUC) effectively eliminate stripe FPN assuming consistent inter-frame non-uniformity. However, they are ineffective in handling spatially continuous optical FPN. In this paper, a scene-based dual domain correction approach is proposed to address the non-uniformity problem by simultaneously removing stripe and optics-caused FPN. We achieve this through gain correction in the frequency domain and offset correction in the spatial domain. To remove stripes, we approximate the desired image using a guided filter and iteratively update the bias correction parameters frame by frame. For optics-caused noise removal, we separate low frequency noise from the scene using Fourier transform and update the gain correction parameters accordingly. To mitigate ghost artifacts, a combined strategy is introduced to adaptively adjusts learning rates and weights during the updating stage. Comprehensive evaluations demonstrate that our proposed approach outperforms compared methods in both real and simulated non-uniformity infrared videos.
Single-photon sources based on stepwise optimized binary-tree multiplexers
Authors: Adam Peter , Mechler Matyas
Published: April 2024

We propose a spatially multiplexed single-photon source where the structure of the applied binary-tree multiplexer is optimized systematically during its construction. Along the building procedure of this type of multiplexer, the position of a binary photon router appended to the tree in a step of the expansion is determined by taking into account the current achievable single-photon probability of the source. The method chooses the position where this probability is maximal. We determine the stepwise optimized binary-tree multiplexers for experimentally realizable values of the loss parameters, and for a fixed number of routers. The method is scalable, that is, it is possible to determine the multiplexer with an optimal structure for any number of photon routers. We show that single-photon sources based on stepwise optimized binary-tree multiplexers yield higher single-photon probabilities than single-photon sources based on any spatial multiplexer types discussed in the literature thus far in the considered ranges of the loss parameters.
Exploring the pyro-phototronic effect for giant lateral photoresponse in an ITO/CdS/Si heterojunction position-sensitive detector
Authors: Zhang Guojuan , Guo Siyang , Zhang Tao , Wang Qing , Zhang Zicai , Liu Jihong , Wang Shufang , Qiao Shuang
Published: April 2024

The demand for a high-performance position sensitive detector (PSD), a novel type of photoelectric sensor, is increasing due to advancements in digitization and automation technology. Cadmium sulfide (CdS), a non-centrosymmetric material, holds significant potential in photoelectric devices. However, the pyroelectric effect of CdS in PSDs and its influence on lateral photoresponse are still unknown. In this work, we fabricated an ITO/CdS/Si heterojunction using chemical bath deposition (CBD) and investigated the pyro-phototronic effect under nonuniform illumination. The theory of electron-hole pairs’ generation, separation, and carrier diffusion was carefully considered to understand the underlying mechanisms. Our experimental findings revealed that the device exhibited an exceptionally high position sensitivity (PS) of 1061.3 mV/mm, surpassing the generally observed PS of 655.1 mV/mm induced by single photovoltaic effect by 160.5%. Meanwhile, the PSD demonstrated rapid response times of 0.01 and 0.04 ms, respectively. Moreover, the influence of ambient temperature and electrode distance on the pyro-phototronic effect was well analyzed. Notably, the PSD exhibited remarkable stability even at ambient temperatures up to 150 °C. Despite the considerable working distance of 11 mm, the PS of the PSD remained at 128.99 mV/mm. These findings provide valuable theoretical and experimental foundations for optimizing the design and implementation of high-performance large working distance PSDs.
Generation of optical vortex beams with bandwidth exceeding 550 nm using a helical fiber needle exhibiting strong mode coupling
Authors: Zhu Chengliang , Tang Chengfeng , Meng Xinyue , Chang Jinming , Cheng Tonglei , Zhao Yong
Published: April 2024

A strong-coupling helical fiber needle (HFN) is proposed and demonstrated for the realization of bandwidth-enhanced broadband optical vortex beam (OVB) generation. The HFN is based on a single mode fiber and operates at the dispersion-turning-point (DTP) of the lowest radial order of the cladding mode (i.e., LP11) but with a remarkably high mode coupling efficiency. By utilizing this novel, to the best of our knowledge, HFN, successful generation of the first-order OVB with an impressive bandwidth up to 556 nm at −10 dB and a center wavelength of ∼1570 nm has been achieved. This represents the broadest bandwidth demonstrated among all fiber grating-based OVB generators to date. The proposed HFN-based OVB generator exhibits a relatively compact size, ultra-wide bandwidth, and customizable center wavelength, making it highly promising for applications in optical vortex-based endoscopic imaging as well as particle detection and manipulation.
Event-triggered background-oriented schlieren: high-frequency visualization of a heated jet flow
Authors: Lyu Zhen , Cai Weiwei , Liu Yingzhneg
Published: April 2024

This Letter reports a novel, to our knowledge, event-triggered background-oriented schlieren (EBOS) technique using a combination of an event-triggered camera and pulsed laser speckle projection. The BOS images are reconstructed using the event data generated by the pulsed laser speckle projection and then processed to obtain the density and temperature distribution of the flow. This technique enables continuous visualization and recording of flows at kFPS frame rates with a very low cost, breaking through the short operating times of existing high-frame-rate BOSs. To examine the event-triggered BOS technique, tests are conducted on a hot air gun. The measured temperature distribution coincides with the thermocouple data with an error of no more than 10.8%. Measurements taken during the start-up of the hot air gun demonstrate that the presented technique can measure the evolution of the jet temperature for at least 150 s, as well as capture the localized unsteady turbulent structure in the heated jet flow.
Single-shot characterization of photon indistinguishability with dielectric metasurfaces
Authors: Zhang Jihua , Ma Jinyong , Li Neuton , Lung Shaun , Sukhorukov Andrey A.
Published: April 2024

Characterizing the indistinguishability of photons is a key task in
quantum photonics, underpinning the tuning and stabilization of the
photon sources and thereby increasing the accuracy of quantum
operations. The protocols for measuring the degree of
indistinguishability conventionally require photon-coincidence
measurements at several different time or phase delays, which is a
fundamental bottleneck towards fast measurements and real-time
monitoring of indistinguishability. Here, we develop a static
dielectric metasurface grating without any reconfigurable elements
that realizes a tailored multiport transformation in the free-space
configuration without the need for phase locking and enables
single-shot characterization of the indistinguishability between two
photons in multiple degrees of freedom including time, spectrum,
spatial modes, and polarization. Topology optimization is employed to
design a silicon metasurface with polarization independence, high
transmission, and high tolerance to measurement noise. We fabricate
the metasurface and experimentally quantify the indistinguishability
of photons in the time domain with fidelity over 98.4%. We anticipate
that the developed framework based on ultrathin metasurfaces can be
further extended for multi-photon states and additional degrees of
freedom associated with spatial modalities.
Exploring ethical practice in NGOS on mental health research in Malawi
Authors: Amos Action , Guerra Cristobal , Reid Corinne , Toro Edgardo , Calia Clara
Published: April 2024

In recent years, an increasing trend in mental health research has been to collaborate with non-governmental organizations [NGOs] and their constituents. However, ethical difficulties can arise as a result of such partnerships. Understanding the ethics-related practices of NGOs engaged in mental health research is therefore critical. This study addressed these questions in a Malawian context. The goal of this study was to investigate NGO’s ethical practices in relation to mental health research by identifying characteristics that influence ethical practices and investigating staff conceptualization of ethics and mental health. Twenty individuals who work for different local NGOs took part in one-on-one interviews or a workshop about their engagement in diverse research initiatives. They pinpointed the areas that needed improvement, as well as the challenges and chances to create partnerships and increase research capability. The diversity in conceptualizing mental health was a key influence on research practices, with heterogeneity in definitions reflected in the use of cultural, spiritual, behavioural, or medical terms. Notably, there was also a greater emphasis on procedural ethics than ethics-in-practice. Collaboration dynamics and limited staffing capacity were cited as major ethical practice considerations. Each of these elements have an impact on NGOs’ ethical behaviour when conducting mental health research. Participants in the study saw engagement with notions of both ethics and mental health as lacking or rudimentary in their institutions and felt that they needed to be improved through capacity building and stronger research involvement.
Diagnosis of soil-transmitted helminth infections with digital mobile microscopy and artificial intelligence in a resource-limited setting
Authors: Lundin Johan , Suutala Antti , Holmström Oscar , Henriksson Samuel , Valkamo Severi , Kaingu Harrison , Kinyua Felix , Muinde Martin , Lundin Mikael , Diwan Vinod , Mårtensson Andreas , Linder Nina
Published: April 2024

Background

Infections caused by soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) are the most prevalent neglected tropical diseases and result in a major disease burden in low- and middle-income countries, especially in school-aged children. Improved diagnostic methods, especially for light intensity infections, are needed for efficient, control and elimination of STHs as a public health problem, as well as STH management. Image-based artificial intelligence (AI) has shown promise for STH detection in digitized stool samples. However, the diagnostic accuracy of AI-based analysis of entire microscope slides, so called whole-slide images (WSI), has previously not been evaluated on a sample-level in primary healthcare settings in STH endemic countries.

Methodology/Principal findings

Stool samples (n = 1,335) were collected during 2020 from children attending primary schools in Kwale County, Kenya, prepared according to the Kato-Katz method at a local primary healthcare laboratory and digitized with a portable whole-slide microscopy scanner and uploaded via mobile networks to a cloud environment. The digital samples of adequate quality (n = 1,180) were split into a training (n = 388) and test set (n = 792) and a deep-learning system (DLS) developed for detection of STHs. The DLS findings were compared with expert manual microscopy and additional visual assessment of the digital samples in slides with discordant results between the methods. Manual microscopy detected 15 (1.9%) Ascaris lumbricoides, 172 (21.7%) Tricuris trichiura and 140 (17.7%) hookworm (Ancylostoma duodenale or Necator americanus) infections in the test set. Importantly, more than 90% of all STH positive cases represented light intensity infections. With manual microscopy as the reference standard, the sensitivity of the DLS as the index test for detection of A. lumbricoides, T. trichiura and hookworm was 80%, 92% and 76%, respectively. The corresponding specificity was 98%, 90% and 95%. Notably, in 79 samples (10%) classified as negative by manual microscopy for a specific species, STH eggs were detected by the DLS and confirmed correct by visual inspection of the digital samples.

Conclusions/Significance

Analysis of digitally scanned stool samples with the DLS provided high diagnostic accuracy for detection of STHs. Importantly, a substantial number of light intensity infections were missed by manual microscopy but detected by the DLS. Thus, analysis of WSIs with image-based AI may provide a future tool for improved detection of STHs in a primary healthcare setting, which in turn could facilitate monitoring and evaluation of control programs.
Rapid detection and molecular epidemiology of β-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae isolated from food animals and in-contact humans in Nigeria
Authors: Olorunleke Solomon Olabiyi , Kirchner Miranda , Duggett Nicholas , Stevens Kim , Chah Kennedy F. , Nwanta John A. , Brunton Lucy A. , Anjum Muna F.
Published: April 2024

The emergence and spread of β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae poses a significant threat to public health, necessitating the rapid detection and investigation of the molecular epidemiology of these pathogens. We modified a multiplex real-time (RT)-PCR to concurrently detect β-lactamase genes (blaCTX-M, blaTEM, and blaSHV) and Enterobacteriaceae 16S ribosomal RNA. qPCR probes and primers were validated using control isolates, and the sensitivity and specificity assessed. The optimised multiplex qPCR was used to screen 220 non-clinical Enterobacteriaceae from food animals and in-contact humans in Southeast Nigeria selected on cefotaxime-supplemented agar plates. Binary logistic regression was used to explore factors associated with the presence of the blaTEM and blaSHV genes in these isolates, and a subset of isolates from matched sampling sites and host species were whole genome sequenced, and their antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and plasmid profiles determined. The sensitivity and specificity of the qPCR assay was 100%. All isolates (220/220) were positive for Enterobacteriaceae ribosomal 16S rRNA and blaCTX-M, while 66.4% (146/220) and 9% (20/220) were positive for blaTEM and blaSHV, respectively. The prevalence of blaTEM and blaSHV varied across different sampling sites (farm, animal market and abattoirs). Isolates from Abia state were more likely to harbour blaTEM (OR = 2.3, p = 0.04) and blaSHV (OR = 5.12,p = 0.01) than isolates from Ebonyi state; blaTEM was more likely to be detected in isolates from food animals than humans (OR = 2.34, p = 0.03), whereas the reverse was seen for blaSHV (OR = 7.23, p = 0.02). Furthermore, Klebsiella and Enterobacter isolates harboured more AMR genes than Escherichia coli, even though they were isolated from the same sample. We also identified pan resistant Klebsiella harbouring resistance to ten classes of antimicrobials and disinfectant. Therefore, we recommend ESKAPE pathogens are included in AMR surveillance in future and suggest qPCRs be utilised for rapid screening of Enterobacteriaceae from human and animal sources.
The high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C)-concentration-dependent association between anti-inflammatory capacity and sepsis: A single-center cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen Kai-Lee , Chou Ruey-Hsing , Chang Chun-Chin , Kuo Chin-Sung , Wei Jih-Hua , Huang Po-Hsun , Lin Shing-Jong
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Known to have pleiotropic functions, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) helps to regulate systemic inflammation during sepsis. As preserving HDL-C level is a promising therapeutic strategy for sepsis, the interaction between HDL and sepsis worth further investigation. This study aimed to determine the impact of sepsis on HDL’s anti-inflammatory capacity and explore its correlations with disease severity and laboratory parameters.

Methods and materials

We enrolled 80 septic subjects admitted to the intensive care unit and 50 controls admitted for scheduled coronary angiography in this cross-sectional study. We used apolipoprotein-B depleted (apoB-depleted) plasma to measure the anti-inflammatory capacity of HDL-C. ApoB-depleted plasma’s anti-inflammatory capacity is defined as its ability to suppress tumor necrosis factor-α–induced vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) expression in human umbilical-vein endothelial cells. A subgroup analysis was conducted to investigate in septic subjects according to disease severity.

Results

ApoB-depleted plasma’s anti-inflammatory capacity was reduced in septic subjects relative to controls (VCAM-1 mRNA fold change: 50.1% vs. 35.5%; p < 0.0001). The impairment was more pronounced in septic subjects with than in those without septic shock (55.8% vs. 45.3%, p = 0.0022). Both associations were rendered non-significant with the adjustment for the HDL-C level. In sepsis patients, VCAM-1 mRNA fold change correlated with the SOFA score (Spearman’s r = 0.231, p = 0.039), lactate level (r = 0.297, p = 0.0074), HDL-C level (r = –0.370, p = 0.0007), and inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein level: r = 0.441, p <0.0001; white blood cell: r = 0.353, p = 0.0013).

Conclusion

ApoB-depleted plasma’s anti-inflammatory capacity is reduced in sepsis patients and this association depends of HDL-C concentration. In sepsis patients, this capacity correlates with disease severity and inflammatory markers. These findings explain the prognostic role of the HDL-C level in sepsis and indirectly support the rationale for targeting HDL-C as sepsis treatment.
Development and characterization of microsatellite markers for population genetics of the cocoa pod borer Conopomorpha cramerella (Snellen) (Lepidoptera: Gracillaridae)
Authors: Purificacion Marynold , Shah Roslina Binti Mohd , De Meeûs Thierry , Bakar Saripah Binti , Savantil Anisah Bintil , Yusof Meriam Mohd , Amalin Divina , Nguyen Hien , Sulistyowati Endang , Budiman Aris , Ekayanti Arni , Niogret Jerome , Ravel Sophie , Vreysen Marc J. B. , Abd-Alla Adly M. M.
Published: April 2024

The cocoa pod borer (CPB)Conopomorpha cramerella(Snellen) (Lepidoptera: Gracillaridae) is one of the major constraints for cocoa production in South East Asia. In addition to cultural and chemical control methods, autocidal control tactics such as the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) could be an efficient addition to the currently control strategy, however SIT implementation will depend on the population genetics of the targeted pest. The aim of the present work was to search for suitable microsatellite loci in the genome of CPB that is partially sequenced. Twelve microsatellites were initially selected and used to analyze moths collected from Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. A quality control verification process was carried out and seven microsatellites found to be suitable and efficient to distinguish differences between CPB populations from different locations. The selected microsatellites were also tested against a closely related species, i.e. the lychee fruit borerConopomorpha sinensis(LFB) from Vietnam and eight loci were found to be suitable. The availability of these novel microsatellite loci will provide useful tools for the analysis of the population genetics and gene flow of these pests, to select suitable CPB strains to implement the SIT.
Differences in lower-limb biomechanics during single-leg landing considering two peripheral fatigue tasks
Authors: Asaeda Makoto , Hirata Kazuhiko , Ohnishi Tomoya , Ito Hideyuki , Miyahara So , Mikami Yukio
Published: April 2024

Dynamic knee valgus (DKV) occurs during landing after a fatigue task involving the lower extremity. However, the manner in which different peripheral fatigue tasks affect DKV remains unknown. In this study, we investigated the DKV via electromyography during single-leg landing considering the hip-joint fatigue task (HFT) and knee-joint fatigue task (KFT) performed by healthy men. We recruited 16 healthy male participants who performed a single-leg jump-landing motion from a height of 20 cm before and after an isokinetic hip abduction/adduction task (HFT) and knee extension/flexion task (KFT). Three-dimensional motion analysis systems were attached to the left gluteus medius and quadriceps, and surface electromyography was used to analyze the lower limb kinematics, kinetics, and muscle activity. The primary effects and interactions of the task and fatigue were identified based on the two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance. The results of the average angle during landing indicated that DKV occurs in KFT, whereas HFT applies external forces that adduct and internally rotate the knee at peak vertical ground reaction force (vGRF). Furthermore, both KFT and HFT exhibited an increase in muscle activity in the quadriceps. The analysis revealed that the occurrence of DKV varies depending on the peripheral fatigue task, and the effects on average DKV during landing and DKV at peak vGRF vary depending on the peripheral fatigue task.