bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Joint Deep Learning Optical Band Selection and Classification Method for Spectral Data
Authors: Fonseca Karen , Garcia Hans , Silva Felipe da , Arguello Henry , Bacca Jorge
Published: November 2023

This paper proposes a joint deep learning-based optical band selection and classification method by acquiring only the relevant data. The proposed method despite using fewer bands provides better performance than state-of-the-art.
Imaging Systems with Nanoscale CMOS LEDs
Authors: Li Zheng , Xue Jin , de Cea Marc , Kim Jaehwan , Ram Rajeev J.
Published: November 2023

Nanoscale, sub-wavelength size light-emitting diodes (LEDs) have attractive features including high spatial coherence, fast modulation, and high array density. Here we present digital holography and time-of-flight ranging using nanoscale CMOS LEDs.
Learning a Spatially-Variant Propagation Model for Compressive Spectral Imaging
Authors: Gualdrón-Hurtado Romario , Garcia Hans , Arguello Henry , Bacca Jorge
Published: November 2023

We propose a methodology for reconstruction of compressive spectral imaging from an uncalibrated optical system, where the propagation model is learned and included as regularizer to improve the reconstruction quality.
Blind Unmixing of Passively-Scattered Multispectral Light
Authors: Hashemi Connor , Avelar Rafael , Leger James
Published: November 2023

We propose isolating scattered light from desired objects based on their unknown spectral content using off-the-shelf algorithms. These algorithms require few priors and can extract the desired signal in the presence of overwhelming background signals.
Learned Large Field-of-View Imaging with Efficient Shift-Variant Wave Optics Modeling
Authors: Wei Haoyu , Liu Xin , Lam Edmund Y. , Peng Yifan
Published: November 2023

Efficiently modeling shift-variant point spread functions is essential in designing large field-of-view imaging systems. We present an end-to-end optimized large field-of-view imaging framework that models off-axis diffraction at ultra-fast speed.
Physics aware semi-trained deep framework for phase retrieval in digital inline holography
Authors: Galande Ashwini S , Vijay Aswathy , Gurram Hanu Phani Ram , John Renu
Published: November 2023

We propose a hybrid deep framework that combines trained as well as untrained deep models for phase recovery in inline holography. We adopted distributed optimization which efficiently combines learned priors in loss function for high-fidelity reconstruction.
Correlative table-top infrared and EUV ptychography of microorganisms using an integrated setup
Authors: Liu C. , Eschen W. , Loetgering L. , Licht L. , Penagos Molina D. S. , Iliou A. , Klas R. , Hillmann F. , Limpert J. , Rothhardt J.
Published: November 2023

We present a novel high-harmonic-based multi-wavelength correlative ptychographic microscope that employs infrared and extreme ultraviolet illumination. Our approach achieves position-correlated sub-60 resolution and wide field-of-view imaging (1 mm2) of biological samples.
Scattering matrix tomography: deep imaging with digital gates
Authors: Wang Zeyu , Zhang Yiwen , Hsu Chia Wei
Published: November 2023

Light scattering in opaque materials limits the imaging depth. We present a non-invasive method that uses hyperspectral scattering matrices to realize virtual spatiotemporal focusing, enabling deep tomography with sub-micron resolution and large depth of field.
Super-resolution using Gradient Descent
Authors: Islam Mohammad Tariqul , Aarav Shaurya , Wadood S. A. , Fleischer Jason W.
Published: November 2023

We introduce a method to estimate the separation between two point sources beyond the Rayleigh limit using gradient descent. The method applies to any differentiable point spread function (PSF) and does not require knowledge of the centroid.
Virtual Re-staining of Faded H&E-Stained Slides Using NIR Quantitative Phase Imaging
Authors: Chae Hyesuk , Jeon Joonsung , Lee Kyung Chul , Choi Ji Ung , Lee Kyungwon , Lee Seung Ah
Published: November 2023

We propose the virtual H&E re-staining of faded or unstained slides using a GAN-based network and Fourier ptychography. It minimizes the absorption variation using near-infrared LEDs, and we demonstrate virtual re-staining of faded samples.
Photothermally Detected Stimulated Raman Scattering Microscopy
Authors: Ge Xiaowei , Zhu Yifan , Ni Hongli , Yin Jiaze , Lin Haonan , Wang Le , Tan Yuying , Prabhu Dessai Chinmayee V. , Cheng Ji-Xin
Published: November 2023

We present Stimulated Raman Photothermal (SRP) microscopy, a method that overcomes the sensitivity limitations of stimulated Raman scattering by probing its energy deposition, achieves >500-fold boost of modulation depth, and demonstrates versatile applications on biosamples.
Coherence-Gated Digital Holography for Personalized Cancer Care
Authors: Nolte David , Lim Dawith , Hua Zhen , Turek John
Published: November 2023

Low-coherence digital holography of patient cancer biopsies shows promise as a method to select personalized chemotherapy. We review the status of current clinical trials of biodynamic imaging in human esophageal and triple-negative breast cancer.
Accurate Holographic Light Potentials For Cold-Atom Experiments
Authors: Schroff Paul , La Rooij Arthur , Haller Elmar , Kuhr Stefan
Published: November 2023

We holographically generate light potentials on a microscopic scale relevant for cold-atom experiments using a liquid crystal spatial light modulator and two high-NA microscope objectives. The root-mean-squared error of our potentials falls within the range of 3.6 − 6.2%.
Polarization Holographic Imaging for High-throughput Microplastic Analysis
Authors: Li Yuxing , Zhu Yanmin , Huang Jianqing , Zhang Yunping , Lam Edmund Y.
Published: November 2023

We propose a polarization holography system with deep learning. It allows dynamic analysis and high-throughput detection in an aqueous phase, facilitating real-time multimodal monitoring of microplastics.
3D Partial Bloody Fingermark Imaging based on Digital Holography and Transport of Intensity
Authors: Alanazi Nouf A. , Banerjee Partha P. , Faryad Muhammad , Lakhtakia Akhlesh
Published: November 2023

We propose a single-shot 3D optical imaging technique that combines digital holography and transport of intensity equation to retrieve the 3D topography of partial bloody fingermarks deposited on substrates and coated with columnar thin films.
Phase Response Measurement of Gradient Descent Phase-only Hologram Optimization
Authors: Kim Youngrok , Sung Hyunsik , Son Wonseok , Seo Dong-Woo , Min Sung-Wook
Published: November 2023

Gradient descent ensures high-quality computer-generated holograms. In this paper, we propose a phase-only SLM compensation system with a phase retrieval manner and measure that the phase is optimized during the gradient descent process.
Multi-modal, multi-scale, neutron imaging for materials science and the need for sparse tomography
Authors: Hussey Daniel S. , Daugherty M. Cyrus , Kim Youngju , Jacobson David L. , LaManna Jacob M. , Bajcsy Peter , Sathe Pushkar , Klimov Nikolai N. , Robinson Sarah M. , Murphy Ryan P. , Wolf Caitlyn M. , Kienzle Paul A. , Huber Michael G. , Thomas Nicholas E. , Speegle Chet O. , Weigandt Katie M.
Published: November 2023

We discuss instrumentation and analysis efforts at NIST to develop neutron dark-field imaging, simultaneous neutron/X-ray tomography and the Wolter optics neutron microscope. Progress will be highlighted through applications in electrochemistry, advanced manufacturing, concrete, and geology.
Lens-free structured illumination digital holography
Authors: Huang Chung-Hsuan , Tu Han-Yen , Cheng Chau-Jern
Published: November 2023

This study presents a novel technique for resolution enhancement using structured illumination with lens-free digital holography. The experimental results show the technical feasibility of the proposed method.
Recent Advances in Sparse and Ultra-Sparse Reconstruction for Medical Imaging
Authors: Liu Wen-Chih , Pratap Jayanth , Bhashyam Abhiram R. , Chen Neal C. , Li Quanzheng , Li Xiang
Published: November 2023

Reconstruction of 3D medical imaging data, including but not limited to Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Confocal Microscopy, has benefited from the advancement of computing technologies over the past decades. Rather than depending on the full views (projections) of the 2D source data for reconstruction, by leveraging the prior knowledge about the distribution of the projection and the 3D image, it becomes gradually feasible that only a limited (i.e., sparse) views will be needed to reconstruct the 3D image with similar quality. Such a feature can significantly reduce the scan time and required dosage (for CT) for imaging. This work will extensively review the technological progress of the sparse and ultra-sparse medical image reconstruction from the compressed sensing framework to the deep learning-based reconstruction.
The Moina Gender Investigation using In-Line Digital Holographic Microscopy
Authors: Voochaiyaphum Bunyarit , Thongsuwan Setthanun , Ruttanasirawit Chinnapat , Plaipichit Suwan , Thonglim Pachara , Buranasiri Prathan
Published: November 2023

The investigation of Moina was performed using in-line DHM. The reconstructed images of Moinas have been applied for investigation their surface area. Then the surface area has been used for gender investigation.
Digital Holographic Interferometry: Out-of-plane measurement over a large dynamic range
Authors: Sjödahl Mikael , Picart Pascal
Published: November 2023

Digital Holographic Interferometry is limited by the dynamic range of the deformation to be measured. In this presentation, we re-visit a technique that address these issues and maximizes the output from DHI measurements.
Investigation of Permuted Phase Steps on Multiwavelength Digital Holographic Measurements
Authors: Störk Tobias , Seyler Tobias , Bertz Alexander , Carl Daniel
Published: November 2023

While measuring in mechanical unstable environments, axial movements can superimpose the phase steps of a digital holographic measurement. We investigate the impact of phase step permutations on the reconstructed holograms using a mechanically oscillating setup.
X-ray induced acoustic computed tomography (XACT)
Authors: Xiang Liangzhong (Shawn)
Published: November 2023

XACT is a new imaging modality that can image the human body at a faster speed and smaller radiation dose compared to traditional CT imaging. It has potential applications in biomedical imaging and radiotherapy. Its evolution since 2013 will be discussed, along with advanced concepts and future directions.
Speckle phase noise versus out-of-focus in digital holographic interferometry
Authors: Meteyer Erwan , Pezerat Charles , Picart Pascal
Published: November 2023

This paper discusses on the close relationship between the focus distance error in digital holography and the speckle decorrelation noise in the phase data. Experiments support the theory.
Wide-field, high-resolution reflection-mode Fourier ptychographic microscopy
Authors: Wang Hao , Zhu Jiabei , Sung Jangwoon , Hu Guorong , Greene Joseph , Li Yunzhe , Park Seungbeom , Kim Wookrae , Lee Myungjun , Yang Yusin , Tian Lei
Published: November 2023

We demonstrate a novel topography technique based on the reflection-mode Fourier ptychographic microscopy, termed Fourier ptychograhpic topography (FPT), to provide a wide field-of-view, high resolution, and nanoscale topography reconstruction accuracy.
Polarization-sensitive digital holography for microplastic identification through scattering media
Authors: Huang Jianqing , Zhu Yanmin , Li Yuxing , Zhang Yunping , Lam Edmund Y.
Published: November 2023

A polarization-sensitive holographic imaging system is designed for identifying transparent microplastics (MPs) through scattering media. The degree of linear polarization (DoLP) is an angle-independent feature for distinguishing different types of MPs.
Compression challenges for digital holography
Authors: Schelkens Peter , Blinder David , Muhamad Raees Kizhakkumkara , Mahmoudpour Saeed , Schretter Colas , Shimobaba Tomoyoshi
Published: November 2023

Interoperability between holographic devices and application pipelines is an important functionality to guarantee the smooth integration of products and services. This also requires suitable data formats at the different stages of a holographic signal processing chain.
Real-Time Instability Tracking with Deep Learning on FPGAs in Magnetic Confinement Fusion Devices
Authors: Forelli Ryan , Wei Yumou , Levesque Jeffrey , Hansen Chris , Tran Nhan , Di Guglielmo Giuseppe , Herwig Christian , Eisch Jonathan , Mitrevski Jovan
Published: November 2023

This work enables active control and suppression of MHD instabilities in magnetic confinement fusion devices such as the Tokamak with a feedback control system using high speed cameras and deep learning on frame grabber FPGAs.
GHz speed 1D light modulation in a scalable resonant Lithium Niobite platform
Authors: Trajtenberg-Mills Sivan , ElKabbash Mohamed , Brabec Cole , Panuski Christopher , Christen Ian , Englund Dirk
Published: November 2023

We present a 1D light modulator based on thin film Lithium Niobite enhanced by a high quality factor guided mode resonance with large field overlap. The device offers GHz speed scalable 1D modulation.
Polarization-independent nonlocal metasurfaces
Authors: Long Olivia Y. , Guo Cheng , Jin Weiliang , Fan Shanhui
Published: November 2023

We design a polarization-independent metasurface using guided resonances with degenerate band curvatures in a photonic crystal slab. Our device can perform both free-space compression and spatial differentiation when operated at different frequencies at normal incidence.
Realization of High Numerical Aperture Achromatic Metalens via 3D Printed Multilayer Structures
Authors: Pan Cheng-Feng , Wang Hao , Yang Joel K.W.
Published: November 2023

Multilayer achromatic metalenses with NA=0.5 & NA=0.7, working in 400-700 nm band are fabricated with low refractive index material by high resolution 3D printing within a single step.
Ultra-Fast Optimization of Aperiodic Metasurface Superpixels Using Conditional Physics-Augmented Deep Learning
Authors: Lupoiu Robert , Chen Mingkun , Shao Yixuan , Mao Chenkai , Fan Jonathan A.
Published: November 2023

Conventional neural network surrogate solvers are severely limited by their inability to function outside of fixed simulation parameters. We present a foundational method for conditioning on arbitrary parameters and demonstrate optimizing high-efficiency aperiodic superpixel deflectors.
Meta-optic accelerators for object classification
Authors: Zheng Hanyu , Liu Quan , Zhou You , Kravchenko Ivan I. , Huo Yuankai , Valentine. Jason
Published: November 2023

A meta-optic platform for accelerating object classification is demonstrated. End-to-end design is used to co-optimize the optical and digital systems resulting in high-speed classifiers that are demonstrated for handwritten MNIST digits.
Efficient simulation of metasurfaces: From meta-atoms to millimeter-scale structures and beyond
Authors: Gomez Federico Duque , Niegemann Jens , Huynh Dan-Nha , Elliot Erin , Cheng Han-Hsiang (Michael) , Smagley Vlad , Humbert Eric , McGuire Dylan , Pond James
Published: November 2023

A complete workflow to design and optimize millimeter-scale metasurfaces is presented. We demonstrate an efficient scattering model for simulation of metalenses in optical systems, combining full-vectorial electromagnetic simulation and ray tracing techniques.
Quantitative Phase Contrast Imaging with Plasmonic Metasurface Photodetectors
Authors: Liu Jianing , Wang Hao , Li Yuyu , Tian Lei , Paiella Roberto
Published: November 2023

We report a new technique for single-shot quantitative phase retrieval from transparent objects, based on plasmonic metasurface photodetectors featuring an asymmetric angular response around normal incidence combined with a particularly simple optical setup.
LWIR metalenses for broadband, wide-angle imaging
Authors: Lin Hung-I , Geldmeier Jeffrey , Baleine Erwan , Yang Fan , An Sensong , Pan Ying , Rivero-Baleine Clara , Gu Tian , Hu Juejun
Published: November 2023

We designed and experimentally realized a Long-wave infrared (LWIR) metalens platform based on bulk Si wafers featuring 140-degree field-of-view. Using a metalens-integrated focal plane array, We further demonstrated unfiltered broadband, wide-angle thermal imaging.
Incoherent LWIR Optical Edge Detection With Inversely Designed Metasurfaces
Authors: Swartz Brandon , Zheng Hanyu , Forcherio Gregory , Valentine Jason
Published: November 2023

This work demonstrates incoherent, broadband, low-noise, LWIR optical edge detection of real world scenes by combing the broadband focusing of a refractive lens with the wavefront shaping of an inversely designed, large-scale metasurface.
Switchable wavelengths of 1700 nm pulsed Raman fiber laser for photoacoustic generation
Authors: Bak Seongjin , Park Sang Min , Kim Gyeong Hun , Cho Soon-Woo , Kim Chang-Seok
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we utilize tunable laser for seed light to make switchable wavelength of 1700 nm pulse Raman fiber laser. The multiple output wavelengths around the 1700 nm can be used for photoacoustic generation.
Identification of Causal Relationship between Amyloid-beta Accumulation and Alzheimer’s Disease Progression via Counterfactual Inference
Authors: Dai Haixing , Hu Mengxuan , Li Qing , Zhang Lu , Zhu Dajiang , Li Quanzheng , Li Sheng , Liu Tianming , Li Xiang
Published: November 2023

We developed GVCNet for estimating the individual treatment effect of regional amyloid-beta accumulation in the brain, characterized by Positron Emission Tomography, and its counterfactual causal relationship with the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Robust processing algorithm for chemical identification using time domain terahertz imaging in reflection
Authors: Singh Khushboo , Aalam Uzair , Bandyopadhyay Aparajita , Dixit Nimish , Sengupta Amartya
Published: November 2023

A simple and yet robust image processing algorithm has been developed for chemical identification using terahertz time domain imaging (THz-TDI) for realistic security screening applications in reflection scanning configuration.
Improved resolution in 3D structured illumination microscopy using a 3D-based U-Net
Authors: Kebede Bereket E. , Preza Chrysanthe
Published: November 2023

Recent developments using deep learning (DL) super-resolution in structured-illumination microscopy (SIM) have improved speed in two-dimensional (2D) image restoration and minimized the impact of noise. We explore extending this 2D DL technique to 3D by augmenting the 2D-convolutional layers to 3D in a U-Net DL network. We demonstrate experimentally that this extension improves lateral and axial resolution in the final 3D restoration compared to the resolution achieved by axially stacking the outputs of the 2D U-Net.
Caustic Illumination-based HiLo Microscopy
Authors: Hu Guorong , Greene Joseph , Zhu Jiabei , Yang Qianwan , Li Yunzhe , Alido Jeffrey , Guo Ruipeng , Davison Ian G. , Tian Lei
Published: November 2023

We demonstrate a novel caustic illumination-based HiLo microscopy using an off-the-shelf diffuser and an LED source.
Enhanced phonon lifetimes with optically controlled single molecules
Authors: Ceban Victor , Macovei Mihai A.
Published: November 2023

We have investigated the phonon dynamics of a single molecule embedded in a mechanical
resonator made of an organic crystal. The whole system is placed in an
optical resonator within the bad cavity limit. We have found that the
optical control of the molecular population affects the phonon
dynamics. Long-lived phonons are obtained when slowing down the decay
dynamics of the molecule via modulation of the transition frequency.
The discussed results are also valid for optomechanical setups based
on other types of two-level emitters and mechanical resonators.
Properties and utilization in time-dependent Rydberg EIT
Authors: Jia Zhengmao , Li Qianzhu , Wang Yingfan , You Yu , Chen Bing , Peng Yandong
Published: November 2023

Transient response of four-level cold Rb atoms with light and microwave (MW) fields is investigated via electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) theoretically. The local control laser acts as a switch. When the control field is weak, the population transition channel from state 53D5/2 to state 5S1/2 is closed, which leads to that the transient absorption for the probe field monotonically decreases to its steady state. Nevertheless, when the control field becomes strong, the transition channel is open, which gives rise to that the transient absorption for the probe laser will be oscillatorily damped to the steady-state value, and transient negative absorption appears. A third MW field can induce splitting of the time-dependent EIT transmission spectrum, and the stable splitting distance shows a linear dependence on the continuous MW electric (E) field strength. Furthermore, the simulation results show that the temporal medium transmission signals are sensitive to the E-field strength of local MW pulse, and can be used to sense pulsed MW fields.
Research on Dynamic Monitoring and Optimization of Lighting Environment in Clothing Workshop Based on Visual Comfort
Authors: Jia Tie , Hou WanJun , Liu Liu , Xi Hui
Published: November 2023

This paper addresses the issue of inadequate illuminance on the work surface in the post-finishing workshop of a clothing factory. T8 LED light tubes with adjustable brightness and color temperature were installed in the workshop to allow workers to control the lighting. Additionally, an illuminance acquisition system was designed, and illuminance sensors were strategically placed in accordance with the workflow to dynamically monitor the illuminance on the work surface for a period of one year. The collected illuminance data was quantitatively analyzed to explore the suitable illuminance thresholds and color temperature preferences of workers in real-world scenarios and optimize the lighting layout accordingly. The light environment of post-finishing workshop was optimized according to the uniformity.
Investigation of vertical profiles of the outer scale L0 in the atmospheric surface layer
Authors: Sprung Detlev , Sucher Erik , van Eijk Alexander M.J.
Published: November 2023

The height dependency of the outer scale of turbulence in the atmospheric surface layer is investigated using Ultrasonic anemometer measurements. The focus of the analysis was on different atmospheric stability conditions.
Observed increase in atmospheric optical turbulence with increasing stability in the nocturnal boundary layer
Authors: Sneha R. , Anand N. , Sunilkumar K , Satheesh S. K , Moorthy K Krishna
Published: November 2023

Using sonic anemometer-thermometer measurements in the nocturnal boundary layer over a semi-arid region, we present observational evidence for increasing atmospheric optical turbulence with increasing thermal stability at low wind speeds.
Coupling of Surface Layer Aerosol Loading, Sensible/Latent Heat, and Optical Turbulence
Authors: Fiorino Steven , Keefer Kevin , McCrae Jack , Bose-Pillai Santasri , Wilson Ben , Raut Yogendra , Schmidt Jaclyn , Fourman Blaine
Published: November 2023

Interdependence of atmospheric aerosol particle formation, ambient sensible and latent heat flux and implications for optical turbulence are studied. Nano-aerosol particle counters, Energy Balance and Aerodynamic methods are used to enhance potential Machine Learning applications.
Systematic Study of Optical Turbulence in Rayleigh-Bénard Underwater Convection
Authors: O’Malley Owen , Avramov-Zamurovic Svetlana , Ferlic Nathaniel A. , Judd K. Peter
Published: November 2023

Synchronized optical wavefront and intensity measurements are used to characterize the optical turbulence generated by Rayleigh-Bénard convection. We find refractive index structure constant and the shape of the phase structure function at varying temperatures.
Vaccination against the HDL receptor of S. japonicum inhibits egg embryonation and prevents fatal hepatic complication in rabbit model
Authors: Zhu Jifeng , Zhang Lina , Xue Zechao , Li Zilüe , Wang Chun , Chen Fanyan , Li Yalin , Dai Yang , Zhou Yonghua , Zhou Sha , Chen Xiaojun , Okumura-Noji Kuniko , Lu Rui , Yokoyama Shinji , Su Chuan
Published: November 2023

Background

Schistosomiasis is one of the most important neglected tropical infectious diseases to overcome and the primary cause of its pathogenesis is ectopic maturation of the parasite eggs. Uptake of cholesteryl ester from the host high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is a key in this process in Schistosoma japonicum and CD36-related protein (CD36RP) has been identified as the receptor for this reaction. Antibody against the extracellular domain of CD36RP (Ex160) efficiently blocked the HDL cholesteryl ester uptake and the egg embryonation in vitro. However, whether Ex160 immunization could efficiently raise proper antibody responses to sufficiently block HDL cholesteryl ester uptake and the egg embryonation to protect host in vivo is very interesting but unknown.

Methodology/Principal findings

In this study, rabbits were immunized with the recombinant Ex160 peptide (rEx160) to evaluate its anti-pathogenic vaccine potential. Immunization with rEx160 induced consistent anti-Ex160 IgG antibody and significant reduction in development of the liver granulomatosis lesions associated with suppressed intrahepatic maturation of the schistosome eggs. The immunization with rEx160 rescued reduction of serum HDL by the infection without changing its size distribution, being consistent with interference of the HDL lipid uptake by the parasites or their eggs by antibody against Ex160 in in vitro culture.

Conclusions/Significance

The results demonstrated that vaccination strategy against nutritional supply pathway of the parasite is effective for reducing its pathogenesis.
Antibiogram of uropathogens and associated risk factors among asymptomatic female college students in Dessie town, Northeast Ethiopia
Authors: Reda Berhanu Kebede , Molla Genet , Gedefie Alemu , Gebretsadik Daniel , Tilahun Mihret , Belete Melaku Ashagrie , Shibabaw Agumas
Published: November 2023

Background

Asymptomatic urinary tract infection (asymptomatic bacteriuria and asymptomatic candiduria) may not be routinely detected in sexually active non-pregnant female population at the initial and reversible stages. This is mainly due to the fact that most women may not feel compelled to seek medical attention.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, and factors associated with urinary tract infection (UTI), and antibiogram of the uropathogen isolates among asymptomatic female college students.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted at selected colleges in Dessie from January 2021–March 2021. A total of 422 reproductive age (15 to 49 years) non-pregnant female students were included. Socio-demographic and clinical characteristics data were collected using structured questionnaires. Ten mLs of freshly voided mid-stream urine specimen was collected, transported and processed according to the standard operating procedures. Data were coded and entered for statistical analysis using SPSS version 22.0. Descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed and p-values <0.05 with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were considered statistically significant.

Result

The overall prevalence of UTI was 24.6%. The prevalence of asymptomatic UTI bacteriuria and candiduria was 57 (13.5%) and 47 (11.1%), respectively. The predominant uropathogens were Staphylococcus saprophyticus 24 (23.1%), followed by Candida tropicalis 23 (22.1%), Candida albican 10 (9.6%), Candida krusei 9 (8.7%) and Escherichia coli 8 (7.7%). Gram negative bacterial isolates showed a higher level of resistance to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid 24 (92.3%). Gram positive bacterial uropathogens showed high level of resistance to penicillin 28 (96.6%) and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole 23 (79.3%). Gram positive bacterial isolates were sensitive to norfloxacin, clindamycin, and ciprofloxacin, accounting for 24 (82.7%), 20 (69.0%), and 19 (65.5%), respectively. Multidrug resistance was seen in 50 (87.7%) of bacterial uropathogens. Factors identified for acquisition of UTI were frequency of sexual intercourse (≥3 per week) (AOR = 7.91, 95% CI: (2.92, 21.42), and genital area washing habit (during defecation (AOR = 5.91, 95%CI: (1.86, 18.81) and every morning (AOR = 6.13, 95%CI: (1.60, 23.45)).

Conclusion

A significant prevalence of uropathogens, and high resistance of bacterial isolates to the commonly prescribed drugs were detected. Therefore, routine UTI screening, regular health education on the risk of asymptomatic infectious diseases for reproductive age group females, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing should be practiced to avoid the progression of an asymptomatic infection into a symptomatic UTI.
Comparison of vaginal microbiota between women with inflammatory bowel disease and healthy controls
Authors: Bar Ofri , Sudhof Leanna S. , Yockey Laura J. , Bergerat Agnes , Moriel Nadav , Andrews Elizabeth , Ananthakrishnan Ashwin N. , Xavier Ramnik J. , Yassour Moran , Mitchell Caroline M.
Published: November 2023

Background

The gut microbiota in patients with inflammatory bowel disease are perturbed in both composition and function. The vaginal microbiome and its role in the reproductive health of women with inflammatory bowel disease is less well described.

Objective

We aim to compare the vaginal microbiota of women with inflammatory bowel disease to healthy controls.

Methods

Women with inflammatory bowel disease enrolled in a longitudinal cohort study provided self-collected vaginal swabs. Healthy controls underwent provider-collected vaginal swabs at routine gynecologic exams. All participants completed surveys on health history, vulvovaginal symptoms and gastrointestinal symptoms, if applicable. Microbiota were characterized by sequencing the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. Associations between patient characteristics and microbial community composition were evaluated by PERMANOVA and Principal Components Analysis. Lactobacillus dominance of the microbial community was compared between groups using chi-square and Poisson regression.

Results

The cohort included 54 women with inflammatory bowel disease (25 Ulcerative colitis, 25 Crohn’s Disease) and 26 controls. A majority, 72 (90%) were White; 17 (31%) with inflammatory bowel disease and 7 (27%) controls were postmenopausal. The composition of the vaginal microbiota did not vary significantly by diagnosis or severity of inflammatory bowel disease but did vary by menopausal status (p = 0.042). There were no significant differences in Shannon Diversity Index between healthy controls and women with IBD in premenopausal participants. There was no difference in proportion of Lactobacillus dominance according to diagnosis in premenopausal participants. A subgroup of postmenopausal women with Ulcerative colitis showed a significant higher alpha diversity and a lack of Lactobacillus dominance in the vaginal microbiome.

Conclusions

Menopausal status had a larger impact on vaginal microbial communities than inflammatory bowel disease diagnosis or severity.
Reliability of maximal respiratory nasal pressure tests in healthy young adults
Authors: de Lima Jackson C. C , Resqueti Vanessa R. , Marcelino Ana Aline , da Fonsêca Jéssica Danielle M. , Paz Ana Lista , Dias Fernando A. Lavezzo , Otto-Yañez Matias , Fregonezi Guilherme A. F.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Sniff nasal inspiratory (SNIP) and expiratory pressure (SNEP) may complement the assessment of respiratory muscle strength. Thus, specifying their reliability is relevant to improving the clinical consistency of both tests.

Objective

To assess the reliability of SNIP and SNEP in healthy young adults.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included self-reported healthy aged 18 to 29 years. SNIP was performed using a plug to occlude one nostril, while SNEP was conducted using a facemask. Participants performed 20 SNIP and SNEP maneuvers with 30-second intervals in between. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimum detectable change (MDC) assessed the reliability of SNIP and SNEP. Analyses were conducted between the highest peak pressure and the first reproducible maneuver in men and women.

Results

The total sample comprised 32 participants: 16 men and 16 women. The ICC, SEM, and MDC for SNIP maneuvers were 0.994 (95%CI 0.988 to 0.997), 1.820 cmH2O, and 5.043 cmH2O, respectively. For SNEP, these parameters were 0.950 (95%CI 0.897 to 0.976), 6.03 cmH2O, and 16.716 cmH2O. The SNIP and SNEP in men showed ICC of 0.992 (95%CI 0.977 to 0.997) and 0.877 (95%CI 0.648 to 0.957), SEM of 2.07 and 7.66 cmH2O, and MDC of 5.74 and 21.23 cmH2O. In women, SNIP and SNEP presented ICC of 0.992 (95%CI 0.977 to 0.997) and 0.957 (95%CI 0.878 to 0.985), SEM of 1.15 and 6.11 cmH2O, and MDC of 3.19 and 16.95 cmH2O. Also, 60% of the highest SNIPs occurred among the 11th and 20th maneuvers in men and women. In men, 55% of the highest SNEPs occurred among the 11th and 20th maneuvers; this value was 50% in women.

Conclusion

SNIP and SNEP showed excellent reliability. The reliability of SNIP and SNEP in men was good and excellent, respectively, whereas both tests had excellent reliability in women. Also, women reached the highest peak pressure faster than men in both tests.
Exploring cadmium stress responses in sisal roots: Insights from biochemical and transcriptome analysis
Authors: Li Jing , Ge Lifang , Liu Ping , Huang Zhaoxue , Tan Shibei , Wu Weihuai , Chen Tao , Xi Jingen , Huang Xing , Yi Kexian , Chen Helong
Published: November 2023

Sisal is a leaf fiber crop with a high integrated value and a wide range of uses in the application of soil remediation of heavy metal contamination. This study provides a preliminary understanding of how sisal responds to Cd stress and presents a theoretical basis for exploring the potential of sisal in the remediation of Cd-contaminated soils. In this work, the activities of the antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD, and CAT) of sisal were measured by hydroponics with the addition of CdCl2·2.5H2O and different concentrations of Cd stress. Whole transcriptome sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis was performed with lllumina sequencing technology, and qRT-PCR was conducted to verify the differential genes. The results obtained were as follows: (1) Short-term low concentration of Cd stress (20 mg/kg) had a transient promotion effect on the growth of sisal roots, but Cd showed a significant inhibitory effect on the growth of sisal roots over time. (2) Under different concentrations of Cd stress, the Cd content in sisal root was greater than that in sisal leaf, and Cd accumulated mainly in sisal roots. (3) With the increase of Cd stress concentration, the antioxidant enzyme catalase activity increased, peroxidase activity showed a decreasing trend, and superoxide dismutase showed a trend of increasing and then decreasing. (4) Transcriptome sequencing analysis detected 123 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), among which 85 genes were up-regulated and 38 genes were down-regulated. The DEGs were mainly concentrated in flavonoid biosynthesis and glutathione metabolism, and both processes had some regulatory effects on the Cd tolerance characteristics of sisal. This study elucidated the physiological, biochemical and transcriptomic responses of sisal under cadmium stress, and provided a theoretical basis for the ecological restoration function of sisal.
How does digital transformation improve new product development performance from the perspective of resource orchestration?—Analysis based on configuration
Authors: Zhang Daohai , Hou Xianqiao , Guo Jiayuan
Published: November 2023

The new product development (NPD) activities of enterprises serve as a critical source of competitiveness. To effectively harness the opportunities presented by digital transformation and enhance the performance of NPD in organizations amidst the digital revolution is an area of concern that warrants attention. In this context, we conducted research using data from the annual reports of 35 listed mainboard enterprises in 2021. This research used the resource arrangement theory and the resource-structure-capability research framework. In addition, we utilized the quantitative comparative analysis (QCA) method to investigate how digital transformation capability, R&D investment capability, and heterogeneity synergies impact the performance of NPD. The findings indicate that: (1) Four distinct paths (i.e., digital innovation-driven, large-scale multi-talent, mature and robust, and digital start-up) drive improvements in NPD performance. Notably, there exists an asymmetric causal relationship between these four paths and the performance; (2) Digital transformation capability, firm R&D investment, and firm heterogeneity all contribute to enhancing NPD performance. However, they do not individually guarantee high performance. A synergistic effect of at least two factors is required to yield notable NPD performance; (3) Enterprise heterogeneity plays a pivotal role. Companies with different characteristics must opt for distinct digital transformation paths to improve their NPD performance; (4) In the initial stage of digital transformation, enterprises can enhance NPD performance by augmenting their investment in R&D personnel.
A network community structure similarity index for weighted networks
Authors: Malekzadeh Milad , Long Jed A.
Published: November 2023

Identification of communities in complex systems is an essential part of network analysis. Accordingly, measuring similarities between communities is a fundamental part of analysing community structure in different, yet related, networks. Commonly used methods for quantifying network community similarity fail to consider the effects of edge weights. Existing methods remain limited when the two networks being compared have different numbers of nodes. In this study, we address these issues by proposing a novel network community structure similarity index (NCSSI) based on the edit distance concept. NCSSI is proposed as a similarity index for comparing network communities. The NCSSI incorporates both community labels and edge weights. The NCSSI can also be employed to assess the similarity between two communities with varying numbers of nodes. We test the proposed method using simulated data and case-study analysis of New York Yellow Taxi flows and compare the results with that of other commonly used methods (i.e., mutual information and the Jaccard index). Our results highlight how NCSSI effectively captures the impact of both label and edge weight changes and their impacts on community structure, which are not captured in existing approaches. In conclusion, NCSSI offers a new approach that incorporates both label and weight variations for community similarity measurement in complex networks.
Diet-derived antioxidants and osteoporosis: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Haitao , Chen Lanlan , Yuan Chaofeng , Yang Hongqun , Ma Zhuangzhuang , Zuo Jianlin
Published: November 2023

Background

Antioxidants can prevent osteoporosis, but the association between serum antioxidants and the cause of osteoporosis remains unknown. We aimed to utilize Mendelian randomization (MR) to determine whether genetically predicted serum levels of diet-derived antioxidants can affect the risk of osteoporosis, to determine the effect of dietary supplementation of antioxidants.

Methods

Genetic variants associated with diet-derived antioxidants were selected from the genome-wide association studies. A total of 12,946 osteoporosis cases and 506,624 healthy controls were obtained from UK Biobank (UKB) and Genetic Factors of Osteoporosis (GEFOS) consortia. We implemented a two-sample MR design and performed several sensitivity analyses to evaluate the causal relationship.

Results

In UKB, the genetically predicted higher β-carotene (OR = 0.863, p = 7.37 × 10−6, power = 100%) and γ-tocopherol (OR = 0.701, p = 0.021, power = 5%) had an inverse relationship with osteoporosis. However, only the association of serum β-carotene passed FDR correction. In GEFOS, there were no significant diet-derived antioxidants. The direction of the association of β-carotene with osteoporosis (OR = 0.844, p = 0.106, power = 87%) was consistent with that in the UKB dataset. A fixed-effects meta-analysis confirmed that β-carotene (OR = 0.862, p = 2.21 × 10−6) and γ-tocopherol (OR = 0.701, p = 2.31 × 10−2) could decrease the risk of osteoporosis. To reduce exclusion limit bias, we used total body bone mineral density, lumbar spine bone mineral density and femoral neck bone mineral density as surrogates and found that the genetically elevated circulating β-carotene level could increase total body BMD (beta = 0.043, p-value = 8.26 x 10−5, power = 100%), lumbar spine BMD (beta = 0.226, p-value = 0.001, power = 100%) and femoral neck BMD(beta = 0.118, p-value = 0.016, power = 100%).

Conclusions

We observed that genetically predicted serum β-carotene could elevate BMD and prevent osteoporosis.
Environment matters: How are neighborhood structural indexes associated with parenting stress among Asian immigrant families?
Authors: Pei Fei , Yoon Susan , Zhai Fuhua , Gao Qin
Published: November 2023

The Asian immigrant population is the fourth largest immigrant population in the United States, and its parenting stress issues have been consistently recognized in previous studies. However, little attention has been paid to neighborhood-level factors and their parenting stress. Using the Study of Asian American Families and 2016 American Community Survey 5-year estimates, this study examined the association between neighborhood structural indexes and Asian immigrant parents’ parenting stress, along with the mechanism driving the relationship. We found that cultural orientation and social support fully mediated the effects of economic disadvantages on parenting stress among Asian immigrant parents. Only cultural orientation mediated the direct effects of ethnic heterogeneity on Asian parents’ parenting stress. Improving Asian immigrants’ living environment, including economic status and ethnic diversity, would be critical to relieve the parenting stress of Asian immigrant families. Interventions and preventions to increase social support, and inform cultural orientation and acculturation are emphasized.
Effect of government revenue on economic growth of sub-Saharan Africa: Does institutional quality matter?
Authors: Ayana Isubalew Daba , Demissie Wondaferahu Mulugeta , Sore Atnafu Gebremeskel
Published: November 2023

Following the approval of sustainable development goals at the global level, the link between fiscal policy, institutional quality, and economic growth has attracted special attention in economic literature. This study scrutinizes the effect of government revenue-institutional quality interaction on the economic growth of 43 Sub-Saharan Africa countries for the period of 2012–2022. Methodology-wise, the study employed the System Generalized Method of Moment (SGMM) to analyze the panel data gained from dependable data sources; the World Development Indicator and the Heritage Economic Freedom Index. The novelty of this study emanates from the estimation technique designated and the introduction of revenue-institutional quality into the economic growth model of SSA. The result of the study reveals that government revenue adversely affects economic growth while institutional quality positively enhances economic growth before interacting with each other. However, the interactive coefficient of government revenue and economic growth positively affected the real GDP growth rate of SSA countries over the study periods. Precisely, before interacting with institutional quality, a percentage change in government revenue, keeping all other things constant, leads to a 0.0866 percent decline in economic growth while it marks a 0.2329 percent upsurge in economic growth in the presence of institutional quality. The result of the study further shows that government revenue promotes the economic growth of the region when combined with institutional quality. On the other hand, foreign direct investment and openness to trade were the key sources of economic growth whereas the population growth rate adversely impacted economic growth in SSA countries. The policy implication of the study is that SSA needs to strengthen government revenue management. Further, the finding of the study implies that SSA countries need to improve institutional quality through promoting efficiency of the regulatory quality and the size of the SSA governments. In addition to this, the fast real GDP growth rate of SSA countries demands improved institutional quality indicators such as the rule of law and extended access to the open market.
Parental co-residence and young adults’ mental health
Authors: Howard Amber , Li Ang , Bentley Rebecca
Published: November 2023

The growing trend towards young adults staying in the parental home has garnered much recent scholarly interest. However, less is known about which young adults are living at home, and the impacts this has over young adults’ lives. Using The Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) dataset, this study examines the profiles of co-residing young adults and how these have changed over the first two decades of the 21st century. It then analyses the associations between co-residence and young adults’ mental health, applying a propensity score modelling approach to determine differences in mental health between young adults living at home and their counterparts living independently. Results indicate that rates of co-residence have increased over the 2000s, most steeply amongst those residing outside of major cities (by 46%), older adults (by 36%), females (by 28%), and low-income groups (by 10%). Findings show a significant negative association between co-residence and mental health (a 4-point difference on the 100-point scale, 95% CI -5.93, -2.14). However, the greatest differential in mental health between co-resident and independent young adults is observed amongst those for whom rates of co-residence have increased most dramatically, i.e., females and older adults (a 6-point difference in mental health) and residents of regional and rural areas (a 5-point difference in mental health). We situate this discussion in the context of intensifying housing market constraints, considering how the transformation of the Australian housing system into a vehicle for wealth accumulation has generated barriers to residential independence.
Macro/Microfracture evolution and instability behaviors of high-temperature granite under water-cooling subjected to Brazilian splitting test using the DIC technique
Authors: Wu Xinghui , Wu Xu , Zhang Shukun , Zhu Yu
Published: November 2023

To investigate the evolution and stability characteristics of granite thermal damage, a series of Brazilian splitting tests is conducted on high-temperature granite samples using digital image correlation (DIC) technology. The results show that the Brazilian tensile strength and P-wave velocity exhibit a clear decline beyond a temperature threshold of 450~600°C, with a linear relationship between them. The presence of micro-cracks alters the stress transfer path, disrupting the stress balance on the Brazilian disc and leading to complex fracture patterns. At temperatures below 450°C, high strain areas and the development of micro-cracks occur at both the upper and lower loading ends of the granite Brazilian disc. However, these phenomena are only observed at the upper loading end when the temperature exceeds 450°C. Thermal cracks also cause changes in the internal structure of rock samples, and temperature variations can affect both the P-wave velocity and tensile strength. In terms of the relationship between P-wave velocity and Brazilian tensile strength (BTS) of high-temperature granite under water cooling, the negative exponential function model proposed in this study fits the experimental data very well.