bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exact Approaches for Single Machine Total Weighted Tardiness Batch Scheduling
Authors: Pessoa Artur Alves , Bulhões Teobaldo , Nesello Vitor , Subramanian Anand
Published: January 2022

This paper addresses a single machine total weighted tardiness (TWT) batch-scheduling problem in which jobs have release dates, nonidentical sizes, and are compatible between each other. We propose two integer linear programming models: the first one is a time-indexed formulation (TIF), and the second is an innovative time-size-indexed formulation (TSIF). Although TIF clearly outperforms the existing formulation for the problem, TSIF is capable of producing much stronger bounds in practice. The latter also enables us to develop an efficient column-generation (CG) algorithm. The pricing subproblem corresponds to a resource-constrained shortest path problem that is solved using a bucket graph–based labeling algorithm. The solutions of such a subproblem may contain cycles (reprocessing of jobs), and thus, a memory mechanism called dynamic arc-based ng-sets is employed in the labeling with a view toward avoiding some of them. Moreover, we also implement a preprocessing scheme based on Lagrangian relaxation to perform variable fixing. Extensive computational experiments were carried out in 810 benchmark instances. The proposed CG algorithm is capable of solving instances with up to 100 jobs to optimality. In addition, we believe that this is the first exact approach for a TWT batch-scheduling variant capable of systematically solving instances with up to 50 jobs. High-quality results are also reported for three special cases of the problem—more precisely, when (i) the penalty weights are unitary, (ii) there are no release dates, and (iii) all due dates are set to zero and, hence, the objective becomes equivalent to minimizing the weighted completion time.

Summary of Contribution: This paper provides the first exact algorithm for a standard variant of a batch-scheduling total weighted tardiness problem that can solve instances with up to 100 jobs to optimality, a considerable leap with respect to previous works. In particular, we propose a time-indexed formulation that has the advantage of being relatively simple to implement, and yet we show that it is not theoretically dominated by the other innovative formulation proposed in the paper referred to as the time-size-indexed formulation (TSIF). Moreover, we present a Lagrangian approach to quickly fix variables and an iterative column-generation (CG) procedure over a Dantzig–Wolfe decomposition of TSIF that combines an efficient pricing algorithm with a dynamic scheme to adjust the subproblem constraints. The proposed CG approach is capable of producing very strong bounds for the problem as well as for some of its special cases.
Social and Spatiotemporal Impacts of Casino Jackpot Events
Authors: Park Hee Mok , Pancras Joseph
Published: January 2022

This study empirically investigates the effect of casino jackpots on the subsequent betting behavior of jackpot winners, their peers, and bystanders playing in nearby slot machines.
Information Accessibility and Corporate Innovation
Authors: Kong Dongmin , Lin Chen , Wei Lai , Zhang Jian
Published: January 2022

This study identifies information accessibility as a determinant of corporate innovation. Using the sudden termination of Google’s search services in China, we find a persistently large negative effect on the intensity and quality of innovation among firms relying on foreign knowledge. The results are stronger for firms in industries dominated by foreign technology, in regions with local web filters, and for firms with fewer alternative sources of foreign information. We also find that the affected firms cite fewer foreign patents and their innovation efficiency declines after Google’s exit. Overall, the results are consistent with the view that access to information is an important driver of technological progress.

This paper was accepted by Kay Giesecke, finance.

Funding: D. Kong acknowledges financial support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grants 71802160, 71991473, and 71772178] and the Major Project of National Social Science Foundation of China [Grant 21ZDA010]. C. Lin acknowledges financial support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grant 71790601]. L. Wei acknowledges financial support from the Research Grant Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China [Project T35/710/20R]. J. Zhang acknowledges financial support fromthe PRC Ministry of Education Youth Project for Humanities and Social Science Research [Grant 18XJC630008].

Supplemental Material: The data files and online appendix are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2021.4224 .
Legal Assignments and Fast EADAM with Consent via Classic Theory of Stable Matchings
Authors: Faenza Yuri , Zhang Xuan
Published: January 2022

Since the seminal work of Gale and Shapley, stable assignments have received widespread attention for their mathematical elegance and broad applicability. However, in applications such as the school choice problem, in which public schools are often perceived as commodities and only students’ welfare matters, enforcing stability implies a loss of efficiency for the students. In “Legal assignments and fast EADAM with consent via classical theory of stable matchings,” Faenza and Zhang study two extensions of the traditional model—legal assignments and efficiency adjusted deferred acceptance mechanism (EADAM)—that strive to regain this loss in efficiency. The authors establish a tight connection between legal and stable assignments, which allows them to use critical structural tools of stable matchings, such as the concept of rotations, to design provably fast algorithms for (1) optimizing linear functions over the set of legal assignments and (2) finding the outcome of EADAM. These algorithmic results greatly improve the applicability of both extensions as witnessed by a complexity analysis and experimental results.
PROCESSING USED COOKING OIL INTO SOAP AS AN EFFORT TO ESTABLISH HOME INDUSTRY
Authors: Murwaningsih Tri
Published: January 2022

Cooking oil is a daily necessity used by a family for cooking purposes. As the consumption level of cooking oil increases, it turns out slowly producing waste in the form of used cooking oil. The purpose of this research is to provide training in processing used cooking oil into soap. The training method in the research carried out several stages including preparation, socialization, soap production process, follow-up and evaluation. The training was held in Bulu, Jaten Village, Karanganyar Regency, ob January 16, 2021. The soap was processed from used cooking oil in various stages and mixed with chemicals in approximately 1 month. The results of the training activities could innovate the productivity of the local community with long-term prospects to welcome the empowerment of economically independent of Dusun Bulu residents. It can also build a Home Industry to increase the use-value of used cooking oil
THE TRAINING TO UTILIZE SOCIAL MEDIA TO INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY OF LOCAL ARTISTS IN EAST JAKARTA DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Khotimah Wininda Qusnul , Wahdiyati Dini
Published: January 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic affects many sectors of life including the world of art, particularly for local artists. They no longer have a stage to work on. The restriction policies during the pandemic Covid-19 limit their existence. As a result, the local artists in East Jakarta need a way to stay creative and productive. The lack of work performed has an impact on the lack of income they get. Thus, the community service team is looking for a solution to this problem by providing education about the use of social media. The method from this community service is carried out by providing knowledge about the types, features, and use of social media. Then, provide training to create content from the work of these local East Jakarta artists. From this training, East Jakarta local artists have started to understand the types, features, and use of social media. Besides, they also started to create content to share on their social media
Biodegradation of Microplastics by Microorganisms Isolated from Two Mature Landfill Leachates
Authors:   Department of Biology Faculty of Science and Technology Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Indonesia, Pikoli Megga Ratnasari , Astuti Puji ,   Center for Integrated Laboratory Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Indonesia, Rahmah Festy Auliyaur ,   Center for Integrated Laboratory Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Indonesia, Sari Arina Findo ,   Department of Biology Faculty of Science and Technology Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Indonesia, Solihat Nur Amaliah ,   Center for Integrated Laboratory Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Indonesia
Published: January 2022

Abstract Microplastics are contaminants in the form of tiny plastic fragments diluted in terrestrial and aquatic environments. Recently, these contaminants have become a concern due to their negative impact on the quality of life of living things. The isolation and examination of microplastic degrading microorganisms' ability from two large mature landfills were conducted. Therefore, this study aims to obtain bacteria and fungi as bioremediation agents that can degrade microplastics. The isolation process was conducted by direct and indirect (enriched) methods. Nutrient agar and potato dextrose agar media were used either in the form of a full or a tenth of a recipe with the addition of polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene microplastics. Furthermore, indirect isolation used mineral media treated with the same microplastics. Colony morphology was observed to be the difference among isolates. The isolates were selected based on their ability to produce lipase in butter agar, and their ability to use microplastic as the only carbon source was examined. A total of 211 isolates were obtained, consisting of 74 bacteria and 137 fungi. One-third of the total isolates produced lipase. A bacterial isolate with the highest lipase index identified based on the 16S rRNA gene showed that it was Bacillus paramycoides. The isolate used all three types of microplastics, with the highest ability in polystyrene, which was degraded up to 11.12% in 42 days. In conclusion, microorganisms isolated from the landfill leachate have potential as bioremediation agents that degrade microplastics. Keywords: Bacillus, Bacillus paramycoides, Biodegradation, Bioremediation, Landfill, Leachate, Microplastics, Polystyrene
Suggested Quarantine Decision for International Travelers in COVID-19 Situation in Thailand: A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand, Kewcharoenwong Chidchamai , Khamduang Woottichai ,   Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand, Jiranusornkul Supat ,   Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand, Nazir Yasir ,   Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand,   Faculty of Sciences, Department of Chemistry, University of Sialkot, Sialkot Pakistan, Pornprasert Sakorn ,   Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Published: January 2022

Abstract During the COVID-19 pandemic, international travelling has been altered. Thailand requires a 14-day travel quarantine for travelers entering the country. However, extra self-quarantine might be ordered by the local authorities, so the healthy travelers could be kept isolated and excluded from work or other responsibilities. We reported a male traveler who was unnecessarily quarantined for 30 days since he arrived Thailand. Based on a symptom and an antibody result, we also proposed the promising quarantine decision for international travelers in Thailand. Reducing the length of quarantine may make it easier for people to quarantine by reducing the time they cannot work. A shorter quarantine period also can lessen stress on the public health system, especially when new infections are rapidly rising. Keywords: COVID-19, International travelers, Quarantine decision, Thailand
The Validity of Iscan’s Age Estimation Method applied to the Fourth Rib in a Thai Male population
Authors:   Forensic science, Chiangmai University, Chiang Mai, 50200 Thailand, Siriphimolwat Phimolsinee , Minsan Watha ,   Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200 Thailand, Mekjaidee Karnda ,   Department of Forensic medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200 Thailand
Published: January 2022

Abstract Iscan’s staging method for age estimation from fourth ribs has been proved to be a potentially useful tool for various populations. However, due to interracial variations, it is necessary to calibrate its’ accuracy in reference to a population of Thai males before it can be applied. This study aimed to evaluate the validity of phasing analyses of sternal ends of fourth ribs developed by Iscan, et al., on a Thai male population. The Iscan’s method was applied to 50 Thai males aged 18 years and above. Staging of sternal ends of the ribs was analyzed based on 3 morphological features: pit depth, pit shape, and rim and wall configurations – designated as components 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, and cross-tabulation with Kendall’s Tau-c correlation. It was found that sternal end stages of fourth ribs in each component, inclusive of composite scores, are positively correlated to the age of the individual (P < 0.001). However, Iscan’s result - which was derived from a population of white males - delivers age-underestimation in a Thai population. Hence, we developed a modified age prediction reference table for application to Thai males. Applying cross-tabulation analysis, stages 1 and 2 were found only in individuals who were less than 40 years old, and stages 4 and 5 were found only in the 40 years and above age-group except for 1 case. Keywords: Age estimation, Fourth rib, Iscan’s method, Thai male
Association between sagittal spinopelvic alignment and femoral head destruction in the early stage of rapidly destructive coxopathy
Authors: Onishi Eijiro , Ota Satoshi , Fujita Satoshi , Tsukamoto Yoshihiro , Yamashita Shinnosuke , Hashimura Takumi , Matsunaga Kazuhiro , Yasuda Tadashi
Published: January 2022

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate sagittal spinopelvic alignment (SSPA) in the early stage of rapidly destructive coxopathy (RDC) compared with hip osteoarthritis (HOA), and to identify risk factors of SSPA for destruction of the femoral head within 12 months after the disease onset.

Methods

This study enrolled 34 RDC patients with joint space narrowing > 2 mm within 12 months after the onset of hip pain and 25 HOA patients showing femoral head destruction. Sharp angle was measured for acetabular coverage evaluation. Femoral head collapse ratio was calculated for assessment of the extent of femoral head collapse by RDC. The following parameters of SSPA were evaluated using the whole spinopelvic radiograph: pelvic tilt (PT), sacral slope (SS), pelvic incidence (PI), sagittal vertical axis (SVA), thoracic kyphosis angle (TK), lumbar lordosis angle (LL), and PI-LL.

Results

The HOA group showed higher Sharp angles compared with the RDC group. PT and PI-LL were higher in the RDC group than the HOA group. SS and LL were lower in the RDC group than the HOA group. No difference was found in PI, SVA, or TK between the groups. Femoral head collapse ratio was associated with PT, SS, SVA, LL, and PI-LL. A PI-LL > 20° and a PT > 30° correlated with greater extent of femoral head destruction by RDC. From regression analysis, SS and SVA were significantly associated with the femoral head collapse ratio within 12 months after disease onset.

Conclusion

Compared with HOA, RDC in the early stage correlated with sagittal spinopelvic malalignment. SS and SVA may partially contribute to the extent of femoral head destruction by RDC within 12 months after the onset of hip pain. The present study indicates a potential role of SSPA assessment in identification of RDC patients at risk for subsequent bone destruction. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(1):77–84.
Open for the childless skilled only: the poverty risks of migrant workers with children under the UK points-based immigration system
Authors: Meyer Traute , Bridgen Paul
Published: January 2022

Post-Brexit, UK migration rules treat ‘EU- and non-EU citizens equally’. Thus, a much larger number of working migrants have less access to social rights than before. This article compares how the different welfare entitlements for working migrants and non-migrants affect the incomes of 21 hypothetical households; some workers are single, some have a child. Using micro-simulation, we assess the risk of poverty and the extent of inequality for migrants and non-migrants. We show that the system excludes new migrants from the social contract which defines the rights of UK citizens as working parents, leading to significant poverty risks and inequality.
Enduring commitment: older couples living apart
Authors: Gopinath Manik , Holland Caroline , Peace Sheila
Published: January 2022

As people live longer, there is an increasing possibility of couples becoming separated because one partner moves into a care home. Our qualitative mixed-method pilot study in an English town involved eight married couples aged over 65 years to explore experiences and practices of couplehood in these circumstances. This article focuses on the most striking emergent element of expressed couplehood in these now challenged long-term relationships: commitment. Drawing on in-depth (biographical) individual and joint interviews, observations and emotion maps, this article explores how separation affected the couples’ current sense and enactment of commitment to the relationship. Commitment in the partnership is now often one-sided. How committed the community-living partner feels – and its enactment – is heavily shaped by the shared history of happy and unhappy periods in the relationships, current contextual constraints, and family and institutional support.
Reordering family practices in an unequal and disorderly world: contemporary adoption and contact in the UK
Authors: Wood Kate , Featherstone Brid , Gupta Anna
Published: January 2022

Using findings from The Role of the Social Worker in Adoption – Ethics and Human Rights: An Enquiry, commissioned by the British Association of Social Workers, the following article presents a number of emerging themes regarding post-adoption contact and support in the UK. Three hundred individuals and 13 organisations across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland contributed to the enquiry and the data were analysed thematically. Within this article we will address some of the challenges regarding post-adoption contact and locate these within broader, often unexamined, concerns about poverty and inequalities. Drawing on sociological literature on ‘family practices’ and ‘displaying family’, we will consider both the status of adoption and the realities of carrying out post-adoption contact in an age of ever-increasing complexities in relationships. In doing so, we will explore how those involved in adoption carry out such practices, as well as the implications for professionals tasked with facilitating contact.
A feminist-intersectional analysis of sexual violence experienced by Nigerian women who are living in England
Authors: Ajayi Chinyere Elsie , Chantler Khatidja , Radford Lorraine
Published: January 2022

There is a growing body of work on violence against women of black and minority ethnic (BME) origin who live in the UK. This study adds to this body of work by exploring the nature of sexual violence experienced by Nigerian women both in Nigeria and England. It draws upon in-depth narrative interviews conducted with 12 women of Nigerian origin who had experienced sexual violence. Women’s accounts were analysed thematically. The women described experiencing different, sometimes multiple forms of sexual violence over the life course including, sexual abuse and female genital mutilation (FGM) in childhood, sexual assaults, rape, sex trafficking and sexual violence from an intimate partner. Drawing upon a feminist-intersectional theoretical framework this article illuminates how: (1) the intersection of age, gender, poverty, cultural socialisation and religious practice could provide the conditions for the perpetration of child sexual abuse, (2) patriarchal ideologies relating to gendered roles and expectations support men’s notion of uncontested sexual access to women, (3) men’s need to exercise power and control could contribute to women’s experiences of rape, and (4) the intersection of FGM and gender continue to disempower women within heterosexual relationships.
Exploring women’s vision(s) of peace: towards feminist peace in Myanmar and Georgia?
Authors: Cárdenas Magda Lorena
Published: January 2022

This article contributes to the discussion of what feminist peace entails and how women peace activists in different contexts understand it. By analysing the work of three women’s organisations in Myanmar and Georgia, I highlight diversity in the conceptualisation of feminist peace. I argue that the idea of gender equality as an intrinsic aspect of peace constitutes a common feature of these organisations’ peace work. However, this goal can be pursued through different political strategies and arenas. In particular, visions of feminist peace are shaped by the context of conflict and the position of women’s organisations in relation to the conflict parties. The findings reveal substantial differences in how feminist peace is envisioned, from a militant approach focused on conflict settlement, to an alternative means of conflict transformation that seeks to reimagine key conflict issues.
Gender norms, global hierarchies and the evolution of feminist foreign policy
Authors: Thomson Jennifer
Published: January 2022

Gender equality has long been adopted by states to indicate liberal values and respect for international norms. Feminist thought argues that the gendered hierarchies created by these norms underpin and sustain international relations. This article contributes to this literature on gendered norms and hierarchies through the case study of feminist foreign policy. It addresses four case-study countries who adopt feminist foreign policy – Sweden, Canada, France and Mexico – arguing that the developing norm of feminist foreign policy acts to signify liberal modernity and adherence to the international liberal order when deployed by states. It further argues that this deployment of feminist foreign policy contributes to existing gendered global hierarchies and these states’ positions on the world stage. As such, it contributes to the developing literature on feminist foreign policy and to wider work on norms and hierarchies around gender in global politics.
What are emotional mechanisms?
Authors: Salice Alessandro , Salmela Mikko
Published: January 2022

The article offers an account of emotional mechanisms (EMs). EMs are claimed to be personal, often unconscious, distinctively patterned, mental processes whereby an emotion of a given kind is transmuted into an emotion of a different kind. After preliminary considerations about emotions as felt evaluations, the article identifies three families of emotional mechanisms. These processes are set in motion when a given emotion (for example, envy, shame or anger) generates feelings of inferiority and/or impotence in the subject resulting in a negative sense of self. These feelings prompt an evaluative reappraisal of the emotion’s intentional target. Based on the reappraisal, the subject comes to feel a different kind of emotion, which does not generate feelings of inferiority and/or impotence. Importantly, the second emotion entails a psychological disposition to be collectivised: the subject seeks confirmation of the revised evaluation by sharing the emotion with others. It is argued that these features set EMs apart from other emotion regulatory processes.
Nonlinear absorption in lithium triborate frequency converters for high-power ultrafast lasers
Authors: Röcker Christoph , Weinert Pascal , Villeval Philippe , Lupinski Dominique , Delaigue Martin , Hönninger Clemens , Weber Rudolf , Graf Thomas , Ahmed Marwan Abdou
Published: January 2022

We report on an analysis of the nonlinear absorption in lithium triborate (LBO) used for second and third harmonic generation of ultrashort laser pulses at average powers in the order of kW and with sub-picosecond pulse duration. Thermographic imaging of the LBO crystals together with a simple analytical model revealed the presence of nonlinear absorption in both harmonic generation processes. Subsequent processing with a numerical model considering the nonlinear mixing, the absorption, and the heat conduction was used to estimate the absorption coefficients. Average powers exceeding 100 W in the ultraviolet and 400 W in the visible spectral range were obtained while maintaining a good beam quality by avoiding excessive nonlinear absorption.
Single photonic integrated circuit imaging system with a 2D lens array arrangement
Authors: Liu Gang , Wen Desheng , Fan Wenhui , Song Zongxi , Li Baopeng , Jiang Tuochi
Published: January 2022

The segmented planar imager is an advanced optical interferometric telescope with a photonic integrated circuit (PIC). It provides a significant reduction in size, weight, and power consumption as compared to traditional optical interferometry. In this article, we propose the combination of a single PIC with a two-dimensional (2D) lens array to achieve single-PIC imaging. Unlike previous designs which require a large number of PIC arrangements in different directions for imaging, a single-PIC imaging system requires only one PIC for 2D frequency domain sampling and imaging. In addition, the single-PIC imaging system can form a larger equivalent aperture through modularization. Since PIC can be mass-produced, the modularization ability of the single-PIC imaging system greatly shortens the production and development cycle of large-aperture telescopes.
Probability density function estimation for filament creation in lossy, turbulent, nonlinear media
Authors: Stotts Larry B. , Oliver Antonio , Peñano Joseph R.
Published: January 2022

Optical Kerr effects induced by the propagation of high peak-power laser beams through real atmospheres have been a topic of interest to the nonlinear optics community for several decades. Previous work has focused on estimating the Filamentation Onset Distance (FOD) in real atmospheres but not its statistical variance. This paper describes two ad hoc engineering models for predicting the FOD Probability Density Function (PDF) for lossy, turbulent, nonlinear media. Specifically, these models characterize the FOD variation with turbulence. One model uses a log-normal PDF with mean and variance proportional to the Rytov Variance. The other uses a gamma PDF employing the same mean and variance equations. These two PDFs will be compared to previous computer simulation results. Both show reasonable agreement between PDF predictions and computer simulation results for long-range filamentation. In fact, both give similar results, and there is no preference given to the data comparisons presented.
Analytical expressions for the crosstalk of super-modes in the tightly bounded multicore fibers
Authors: Zhou Junhe , Pu Haoqian
Published: January 2022

In this paper, an analytical approach for the super-modes in the tightly bounded multicore fibers is proposed. The method considers deterministic and random inter-core coupling, and the analytical analysis is based on the ordinary differential equations (ODEs), which are derived from the stochastic differential equations (SDEs). It is theoretically found that the crosstalk level is directly proportional to the square of the ratio for the random inter-core coupling strength over the deterministic coupling strength, and is inversely proportional to the random coupling correlation length. The ODEs for the variance and the super-mode power correlations are also provided to further facilitate the analysis for the tightly bounded multicore fibers. Simple and explicit formulas for the super-mode crosstalk power and power covariance evaluation are provided in the weak super-mode crosstalk scenario.
Memory and CPU efficient coherent mode decomposition of partially coherent synchrotron radiation with subtraction of common quadratic phase terms
Authors: Li Ruizi , Chubar Oleg
Published: January 2022

Application examples of a memory and CPU efficient coherent mode decomposition (CMD) method for wave-optics based simulation of the partially coherent undulator radiation propagation through a hard X-ray beamline in a 3rd generation synchrotron radiation source are presented. The high efficiency of the method is achieved thanks to the analytical treatment of the common quadratic phase terms that are developed in the phase of cross-spectral density (CSD) of partially coherent radiation at a distance from source. This treatment allows for a considerable, several orders of magnitude, reduction of the 4D CSD mesh density (and the memory occupied by the CSD) required for ensuring sufficient accuracies of wavefront propagation simulations with the modes produced by the CMD at a beamline entrance. This method, implemented in the “Synchrotron Radiation Workshop” open-source software, dramatically increases the feasibility of the CMD of 4D CSD for producing 2D coherent modes for a large variety of applications at storage rings and other types of radiation sources.
Noise-free terahertz-wave parametric generator
Authors: Mine Sota , Kawase Kodo , Murate Kosuke
Published: January 2022

We achieved noise-free terahertz (THz)-wave output from an injection-seeded THz-wave parametric generator (is-TPG) employing high-power injection seeding. A conventional is-TPG uses a weak continuous-wave (CW) seed beam. The position in which broadband noise is generated (via spontaneous parametric down-conversion) and the position of the THz signal overlap. Thus, the output features broadband TPG noise, reducing the signal-to-noise ratio. To solve this problem, we shifted the position in which the THz signal is generated to the front of the crystal; we separated the signal from broadband TPG noise using a high-powered, pulsed seed beam that was 107-fold more powerful than the CW seed beam. Thus, we extracted only the THz signal; we achieved a noise-free is-TPG. This system features a signal-to-noise ratio of 95 dB, approximately 40 dB better than the signal-to-noise ratio of the conventional system.
Quantum phases of Rydberg atoms on a frustrated triangular-lattice array
Authors: Li Chang-Xiao , Yang Sheng , Xu Jing-Bo
Published: January 2022

The neutral atoms coupled to a highly excited Rydberg state on a two-dimensional triangular lattice are investigated by employing the density matrix renormalization group technique in the matrix product state form. The full ground-state phase diagram as a function of blockade radius and the detuning of the exciting laser is determined by the behavior of entanglement entropy. We find several quantum phases including stripe-ordered and symmetry-breaking density-wave-ordered phases featured with regular excitation patterns of different excitation densities ρ = 1/3, 1/4, and 1/7. In addition, a ρ = 2/3 ordered phase and an interesting “order-by-disorder” phase, which has been prepared experimentally, are also observed in this work. Our work provides an exploration of the possible quantum phases that can occur in a triangularly arrayed Rydberg system, and thus could be a faithful theoretical guide for further experimental research.
Control of upconversion luminescence by tailoring energy migration in doped perovskite superlattices
Authors: Chen Wenwen , Dong Zhengang , Chen Haisheng , Shen Jiaying , Du Xiaona , Dong Feng , Zhou Tianhong , Huang Wen , Wu Zhenping , Liu Weiwei , Zhang Yang
Published: January 2022

We describe an experimental investigation of photon upconversion (UC) in a series of perovskite BaTiO3/SrTiO3 superlattices doped with different lanthanide compositions. We show that UC emission can be effectively enhanced by precisely incorporating a set of lanthanide ions into separated layers rather than homogeneously distributing the dopant ions in the host lattice. The use of an inert layer in the superlattice can suppress deleterious energy cross-relaxation. Furthermore, UC emission can be rendered by controlling the energy migration mediated by the Yb-doped sublattice. These results demonstrate the opportunity to modulate energy migration and transfer processes through the rational design of superlattice structures.
Thermo-optic dispersion properties of CdSe for parametric nonlinear interactions
Authors: Miyata Kentaro , Kato Kiyoshi , Wada Satoshi , Petrov Valentin
Published: January 2022

Temperature tuning of CdSe optical parametric oscillators (OPO’s) is studied by pumping with the 1.8645-µm signal and 2.4793-µm idler outputs of a Nd:YAG laser-pumped CsTiOAsO4 (CTA) OPO. The measured temperature-dependent phase-matching conditions are used to construct new Sellmeier and thermo-optic dispersion formulas for CdSe, which are verified via temperature-tuned sum-frequency generation (SFG) between the fundamental and second harmonic of a transversely excited atmospheric (TEA) CO2 laser operating at 10.2466, 9.5525, and 9.2714 µm.
Polypolish: Short-read polishing of long-read bacterial genome assemblies
Authors: Wick Ryan R. , Holt Kathryn E.
Published: January 2022

Long-read-only bacterial genome assemblies usually contain residual errors, most commonly homopolymer-length errors. Short-read polishing tools can use short reads to fix these errors, but most rely on short-read alignment which is unreliable in repeat regions. Errors in such regions are therefore challenging to fix and often remain after short-read polishing. Here we introduce Polypolish, a new short-read polisher which uses all-per-read alignments to repair errors in repeat sequences that other polishers cannot. Polypolish performed well in benchmarking tests using both simulated and real reads, and it almost never introduced errors during polishing. The best results were achieved by using Polypolish in combination with other short-read polishers.
Monoclonal antibodies to Cache Valley virus for serological diagnosis
Authors: Skinner Benjamin , Mikula Sierra , Davis Brent S. , Powers Jordan A. , Hughes Holly R. , Calvert Amanda E.
Published: January 2022

Cache Valley virus (CVV) is a mosquito-borne virus in the genusOrthobunyavirus, familyPeribunyaviridae. It was first isolated from aCuliseta inoratamosquito in Cache Valley, Utah in 1956 and is known to circulate widely in the Americas. While only a handful of human cases have been reported since its discovery, it is the causative agent of fetal death and severe malformations in livestock. CVV has recently emerged as a potential viral pathogen causing severe disease in humans. Currently, the only serological assay available for diagnostic testing is plaque reduction neutralization test which takes several days to perform and requires biocontainment. To expand diagnostic capacity to detect CVV infections by immunoassays, 12 hybridoma clones secreting anti-CVV murine monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) were developed. All MAbs developed were found to be non-neutralizing and specific to the nucleoprotein of CVV. Cross-reactivity experiments with related orthobunyaviruses revealed several of the MAbs reacted with Tensaw, Fort Sherman, Tlacotalpan, Maguari, Playas, and Potosi viruses. Our data shows that MAbs CVV14, CVV15, CVV17, and CVV18 have high specific reactivity as a detector in an IgM antibody capture test with human sera.
CardiOvascular examination in awake Orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus pygmaeus): Low-stress Echocardiography including Speckle Tracking imaging (the COOLEST method)
Authors: Chetboul Valérie , Concordet Didier , Tissier Renaud , Vonfeld Irène , Poissonnier Camille , Alvarado Maria Paz , Passavin Peggy , Gluntz Mathilde , Lefort Solène , Bourgeois Aude , Duby Dylan , Hano Christelle , Chai Norin
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Cardiovascular diseases have been identified as a major cause of mortality and morbidity in Borneo orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus pygmaeus). Transthoracic echocardiography is usually performed under anesthesia in great apes, which may be stressful and increase risks of peri-anesthetic complications in case of cardiac alteration. The aim of the present pilot study was hence to develop a quick and non-stressful echocardiographic method (i.e., the COOLEST method) in awake Borneo orangutans (CardiOvascular examination in awake Orangutans: Low-stress Echocardiography including Speckle Tracking imaging) and assess the variability of corresponding variables.

Materials and methods

Four adult Borneo orangutans trained to present their chest to the trainers were involved. A total of 96 TTE examinations were performed on 4 different days by a trained observer examining each orangutan 6 times per day. Each examination included four two-dimensional views, with offline assessment of 28 variables (i.e., two-dimensional (n = 12), M-mode and anatomic M-mode (n = 6), Doppler (n = 7), and speckle tracking imaging (n = 3)), representing a total of 2,688 measurements. A general linear model was used to determine the within-day and between-day coefficients of variation.

Results

Mean±SD (minimum-maximum) images acquisition duration was 3.8±1.6 minutes (1.3–6.3). All within-day and between-day coefficients of variation but one (n = 55/56, 98%) were <15%, and most (51/56, 91%) were <10% including those of speckle tracking systolic strain variables (2.7% to 5.4%).

Discussion

Heart morphology as well as global and regional myocardial function can be assessed in awake orangutans with good to excellent repeatability and reproducibility.

Conclusions

This non-stressful method may be used for longitudinal cardiac follow-up in awake orangutans.
Genetic diversity of local and introduced cassava germplasm in Burundi using DArTseq molecular analyses
Authors: Pierre Niyonzima , Wamalwa Lydia Nanjala , Muiru William Maina , Simon Bigirimana , Kanju Edward , Ferguson Morag Elizabeth , Ndavi Malu Muia , Tumwegamire Silver
Published: January 2022

In Burundi most small-scale farmers still grow traditional cassava landraces that are adapted to local conditions and have been selected for consumer preferred attributes. They tend to be susceptible, in varying degrees, to devastating cassava viral diseases such as Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD) and Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD) with annual production losses of US$1 billion. For long term resistance to the disease, several breeding strategies have been proposed. A sound basis for a breeding program is to understand the genetic diversity of both landraces and elite introduced breeding cultivars. This will also assist in efforts to conserve landraces ahead of the broad distribution of improved varieties which have the possibility of replacing landraces. Our study aimed at determining the genetic diversity and relationships within and between local landraces and introduced elite germplasm using morphological and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. A total of 118 cultivars were characterized for morphological trait variation based on leaf, stem and root traits, and genetic variation using SNP markers. Results of morphological characterization based on Ward’s Method revealed three main clusters and five accessions sharing similar characteristics. Molecular characterization identified over 18,000 SNPs and six main clusters and three pairs of duplicates which should be pooled together as one cultivar to avoid redundancy. Results of population genetic analysis showed low genetic distance between populations and between local landraces and elite germplasm. Accessions that shared similar morphological traits were divergent at the molecular level indicating that clustering using morphological traits was inconsistent. Despite the variabilities found within the collection, it was observed that cassava germplasm in Burundi have a narrow genetic base.
COVID-19 infection prevention practices among a sample of food handlers of food and drink establishments in Ethiopia
Authors: Andualem Atsedemariam , Tegegne Belachew , Ademe Sewunet , Natnael Tarikuwa , Berihun Gete , Abebe Masresha , Alemnew Yeshiwork , Mulu Alemebante , Mezemir Yordanos , Melaku Abayneh , Addis Taffere , Belay Emaway , Walle Zebader , Kumlachew Lake , Teym Abraham , Adane Metadel
Published: January 2022

Background

Cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) are increasing at an alarming rate throughout the world, including Ethiopia. Food handlers in food and drink establishments are at high risk of exposure to the virus due to their many daily contacts with customers. Since there is a paucity of evidence about infection prevention practices and associated factors among this high-risk group in Ethiopia including in Dessie City and Kombolcha Town, this study was designed to address this gap.

Method

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 422 food handlers in Dessie City and Kombolcha Town food and drink establishments in July and August 2020. The study participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected by trained data collectors using a pretested structured questionnaire and an on-the-spot observational checklist. Data were entered into EpiData version 4.6 and exported to STATA version 14.0 for data cleaning and analysis. Data were analyzed using bivariable and multivariable logistic regression model at 95% confidence interval (CI). From the bivariable analysis, variables with a p-value <0.25 were retained into multivariable analysis. Finally, variables that had a p-value <0.05 were declared as factors significantly associated with good infection prevention practices of COVID-19 among food handlers.

Main findings

The overall rate of good practice in infection prevention among food handlers was 43.9% (95% CI: 39.2–48.4%). Among the total 401 food handlers, 79.8% had good knowledge and 58.4% had a favorable attitude about COVID-19 infection prevention. Factors significantly associated with good COVID-19 infection prevention practices were: educational status of college or above (AOR = 1.97; 95% CI: 1.32–3.75), food handling work experience greater than five years (AOR = 2.55; 95% CI: 1.43–5.77), availability of written guidelines within the food and drink establishment (AOR = 2.68; 95% CI: 1.52–4.75), and taking training about infection prevention (AOR = 3.26; 95% CI: 1.61–6.61).

Conclusion

Our findings showed that around one-third of food handlers had good infection prevention practices. Thus, to reduce COVID-19 transmission, integrated work is urgently needed to further improve food handlers’ good practices, knowledge and attitude about infection prevention through providing health education, training and by making written infection prevention guidelines available in food and drink establishments.
Understanding pharmaceutical care and nurse prescribing in Spain: A grounded theory approach through healthcare professionals’ views and expectations
Authors: Lillo-Crespo Manuel , Riquelme-Galindo Jorge , De Baetselier Elyne , Van Rompaey Bart , Dilles Tinne
Published: January 2022

Background

Pharmaceutical care has been implemented and regulated differently across Europe with no consensus among countries in relation with professional competencies and especially on nurse prescribing. Demophac Project funded by the European Commission aims to develop a Pan-European Pharmaceutical Care Model with collaboration of 14 partner teams across Europe including Spain where nurse prescribing is starting its implementation at regional level. The aim of the study was to increase understanding of the role of nurses in Pharmaceutical care in Spain after the Nurse Prescribing Regulation approved in 2018 throughout exploring the views and expectations of health professionals involved in the representative settings.

Methods and findings

In depth interviews were conducted in a structure previously agreed by the European Demophac partnership around four topics associated with the Nursing ideal role in pharmaceutical care and the ideal interaction with other healthcare professionals. A grounded-theory approach based on Corbin & Strauss was conducted to interpret collected data from the Spanish most representative settings (primary care, specialized care and residential care for older population). Participants were health professionals involved in pharmaceutical care that accepted to participate (nurses (n = 7), physicians (n = 8) and pharmacists (n = 9)). A pharmaceutical care comprehensive model for the Spanish context considering the recently approved Nurse Prescribing role and the interprofessional collaboration and communication was developed towards facilitating the understanding in such context and the contribution to the unified European Demophac Framework.

Conclusions

Nurses are primarily responsible for population’s Pharmaceutical Care while other professionals pivot on them to provide quality healthcare on a multidisciplinary level. Nurse prescribing may contribute efficiently to the Spanish Health System though more consensus in terms of nurses’ training nationwide and enhancement in communication among different professionals within healthcare organizations is required to achieve adequate integrated care into practice.
Peripheral mitochondrial DNA, telomere length and DNA methylation as predictors of live birth in in vitro fertilization cycles
Authors: Li Piani Letizia , Reschini Marco , Somigliana Edgardo , Ferrari Stefania , Busnelli Andrea , Viganò Paola , Favero Chiara , Albetti Benedetta , Hoxha Mirjam , Bollati Valentina
Published: January 2022

Objective

To evaluate whether telomere length (TL), mitochondrial-DNA (mt-DNA) or epigenetic age estimators based on DNA methylation (DNAm) pattern could be considered reliable predictors of in-vitro-fertilization (IVF) success in terms of live birth rate.

Design

Prospective cohort study

Setting

Infertility Unit of the Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico

Patients

181 women aged 37–39 years who underwent IVF at a single-centre between January 2017 and December 2018.

Interventions

On the day of recruitment, blood samples were collected, and genomic DNA was isolated from white blood cells. TL, mt-DNA and DNAm assessment was performed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Biological age (DNAm age) was computed as the algorithm based on methylation pattern of five genes. Epigenetic age acceleration was estimated from the residuals of the linear model of epigenetic age regressed on chronological age. Long Interspersed Nuclear Elements (LINE)-1 methylation pattern was used as a surrogate for global DNA methylation.

Main outcome measures

This study investigated whether peripheral TL, mt-DNA and DNAm could predict live birth in IVF cycles.

Results

TL, mt-DNA and LINE-1 methylation were not associated with IVF success. Conversely, DNAm age resulted significantly lower in women who had a live birth compared to women who did not (36.1 ± 4.2 and 37.3 ± 3.3 years, respectively, p = 0.04). For DNAm age, odds ratio (OR) for live birth per year of age was 0.90 (95%CI: 0.82–0.99, p = 0.036) after adjusting for FSH and antral follicle count (AFC) and 0.90 (95%CI: 0.82–0.99, p = 0.028) after adjusting also for number of oocytes retrieved. A significant association also emerged for epigenetic age acceleration after adjustments (OR = 0.91, 95%CI: 0.83–1.00, p = 0.048).

Conclusion

DNAm age is associated with IVF success but the magnitude of this association is insufficient to claim a clinical use. However, our findings are promising and warrant further investigation. Assessment of biological age using different epigenetic clocks or focusing on different tissues may reveal new predictors of IVF success.