bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Planar waveguide laser at 705 nm based on Eu:KY(WO4)2 epitaxial layer
Authors: Baillard Amandine , Bae Ji Eun , Loiko Pavel , Solé Rosa Maria , Aguiló Magdalena , Díaz Francesc , Brasse Gurvan , Mateos Xavier , Camy Patrice
Published: October 2024

We report on polarized spectroscopy and deep-red laser operation of heavily Eu3+-doped KY(WO4)2 epitaxial layers. The waveguide laser delivered 7 mW at 705 mW with a linear polarization and a laser threshold of 22 mW.
Tuning refractive index change of SiNx induced by ultrafast laser pulses
Authors: Shayeganrad Gholamreza , Beresna Martynas , Bucio Thalia Domínguez , Brambilla Gilberto , Gardes Fredric Y.
Published: October 2024

We demonstrate the feasibility of femtosecond laser pulses to tune refractive index of SiNx, enabling direct writing waveguides in SiNx and reconfiguring microring resonators. The refractive index increases with pulse energy and pulse density.
Fiber optical parametric oscillator pumped by a 16 GHz tunable frequency comb
Authors: Ghawas M. , Freysz V. , Pontagnier L. , Cormier E. , Santarelli G. , Freysz E.
Published: October 2024

We demonstrate a 16 GHz repetition rate fiber-based optical parametric oscillator, pumped by an electro-optical comb tunable around 1.03 µm, delivering picosecond and wavelength tunable signal and idler pulses. Build-up and relaxation dynamics of these pulses are reported.
Amplification at 2.3-µm in 1.9-µm thulium-doped silica fiber laser
Authors: Hou Changshun , Pal Debasis , Baker Colin C. , Zhou Tony , Rhonehouse Daniel , Sanghera Jasbinder , Nilsson Johan
Published: October 2024

A high-power 1.9-µm Tm3+-doped silica fiber laser generates 7.3-dB of gain at 2.3 µm when cladding- pumped with 207 W of power at 793 nm. We attribute the 2.3-µm gain to the transition 3H4 → 3H5 of Tm3+.
Tunable UV Laser for External Seeding of the High Repetition Rate Soft X-ray Free Electron Laser FLASH
Authors: Lang T. , Ahmed A. , Alisauskas S. , Ferrari E. , Grosse-Wortmann U. , Hoang N. , Kazemi M. , Mohr C. , Rashtabadi H. , Schaper L. , Swiderski A. , Tavakol H. , Zheng J. , Hartl I.
Published: October 2024

We are currently developing a tunable high-repetition rate femtosecond UV laser system for external seeding superconducting soft X-ray Free Electron Laser FLASH. Initial results show excellent power and wavelength stability of the Optical Parametric Chirped Pulse Amplification system.
Actively pulse shaped linearly polarized nanosecond hybrid Ho3+ and Tm3+-doped silica fiber & Ho3+:YAG MOPA at 2048 nm
Authors: Lorenz Dominik , Rupp Marius , Panitzek Dieter , Romano Clément , Schneider Julian , Goth Katharina , Deutsch Johannes , Eichhorn Marc , Kieleck Christelle
Published: October 2024

Ho3+:YAG amplifiers are able to efficiently scale pulse energy at wavelengths far shorter than the main emission peak. For 24 W input power at 2048 nm a signal output power of 81.6 W is reached, resulting in 5.3 dB gain.
First thin-disk laser operation of an alexandrite crystal
Authors: Esser Stefan , Graf Thomas , Ahmed Marwan Abdou
Published: October 2024

We present the first thin-disk laser operation of alexandrite with an average power over 15 W in continuous-wave multimode operation at a wavelength of 750 nm. Additionally, single- mode operation with up to 2.6 W was achieved.
Single-cycle CEP-stable Cr:ZnS lasers
Authors: Lenke Nathalie , Steinleitner Philipp , Kowalczyk Maciej , Rosenberger Philipp , Gröbmeyer Sebastian , Sebesta Aleksandar , Pervak Vladimir , Karpowicz Nicholas , Krausz Ferenc , Weigel Alexander
Published: October 2024

We showcase a coherent infrared light source capable of producing single-cycle pulses with exceptional waveform stability. With ALBATROSS, a commercial solution is made available to chart new horizons in infrared spectroscopy and high-speed opto-electronics.

© 2024 The Author(s)
The European Research Council Funding for frontier research in Europe
Authors: Salo Janne , Ilday Ömer
Published: October 2024

The European Research Council provides funding for independent researchers in all research areas and career stages. This session provides basic information on how to prepare an ERC grant proposal and how the ERC funding can support researchers and their careers.
Continuous-wave and SESAM mode-locked 2.3-µm Tm:LiYF4 lasers: Upconversion pumping at 1.45 µm
Authors: Bae Ji Eun , Gaulke Marco , Loiko Pavel , Heidrich Jonas , Golling Matthias , Idlahcen Said , Guillemot Lauren , Benayad Abdelmjid , Godin Thomas , Keller Ursula , Camy Patrice , Hideur Ammar
Published: October 2024

A Tm:LiYF4 laser operating on the 3H4→3H5 transition with upconversion pumping at 1.45 µm generates 831 mW at 2313 nm with 34.0% slope efficiency. Mode-locked by a GaSb- based SESAM, it delivers 855-fs pulses at 104.4-MHz.
2.3 J, 25 Hz Nd:YAG/sapphire composite powerchip amplifier operating at room temperature
Authors: Kausas Arvydas , Yahia Vincent , Odaka Hideho , Yoshida Mitsuhiro , Taira Takunori
Published: October 2024

We demonstrate a sub-nanosecond Joule-class room-temperature diode-pumped solid-state chip laser comprising of periodically bonded Nd:YAG and sapphire crystal plates and operating at 25 Hz, delivering the peak power over 3 GW. In addition, a model describing parasitic oscillations in a composite, high-gain media is developed.
Sub-2-cycle multi-mJ single-stage post-compression in a multipass cell
Authors: Daniault Louis , Kaur Jaismeen , Gallé Geoffrey , Sire Cedric , Sylla François , Lopez-Martens Rodrigo
Published: October 2024

We report on the nonlinear temporal compression of multi-mJ pulses from a commercial Ti:Sa laser in a gas-filled multipass cell down to a record pulse duration of 4 fs with 60% overall efficiency.
Backward Wave Optical Parametric Oscillator Targeting CO2 Absorption Lines at 2.7µm
Authors: Vågberg Adrian , Brunzell Martin , Widarsson Max , Mutter Patrick , Zukauskas Andrius , Laurell Fredrik , Pasiskevicius Valdas
Published: October 2024

The first demonstration of a 2.7 µm CO2 gas sensing source exploiting a backward wave optical parametric oscillator (BWOPO). Transmission measurements of the backward wave are demonstrated through air with good agreement with simulations.
Measuring ultrafast vector pulses with amplitude swing
Authors: Barbero Cristian , Alonso Benjamín , Sola Íñigo J.
Published: October 2024

The amplitude swing technique is demonstrated theoretically and experimentally to measure time-varying polarization ultrashort laser pulses, using a simple setup. The reconstruction strategy extracts all the vector pulse information from a single trace measurement.
A Faraday isolator based on fused silica in a Herriott cell
Authors: Meyer Johann Gabriel , Zablah Andrea , Kapzems Kristaps , Kovalenko Nazar , Pronin Oleg
Published: October 2024

We demonstrated a multipass Faraday isolator based on fused silica. The polarization rotation angle of 45° was accumulated in a Herriott cell. The concept enables the use of magneto-optic materials with low Verdet constants in Faraday isolators.
New strain sensor takes inspiration from butterfly wings to optimize sensitivity and stretchability
Authors: Lim Alane
Published: October 2024

Butterfly-inspired device has potential to improve wearable health devices.
Restoring H&E stain in faded slides via phase-to-color virtual staining in near-infrared
Authors: Chae Hyesuk , Kim Jongho , Jeon Joonsung , Lee Kyungwon , Lee Kyung Chul , Choi Ji Ung , Kang Suki , Choi Soyoung , Bang Geunbae , Lee Jong Ha , Park Eunhyang , Cho Nam Hoon , Lee Seung Ah
Published: October 2024

Histological stains, such as hematoxylin and eosin, tend to fade over time, compromising subsequent analysis accuracy. Traditional methods of restoring stain color in faded samples involve physical re-staining, which is time-consuming and expensive and may damage tissue samples. In addition, digital post-processing techniques, such as color normalization, face limitations when dealing with highly faded slides. To address this, we propose the non-invasive phase-to-color “virtual re-staining” framework. This approach utilizes a trained generative adversarial network with label-free quantitative phase imaging, capturing the intrinsic physiochemical properties of histological samples. It employs multi-channel Fourier ptychographic microscopy to generate pixel-wise paired phase and color images in a high-throughput manner. To streamline data generation, near-infrared illumination is used to mitigate the impact of absorption variations in faded and stained samples, eliminating the need for repetitive data acquisition and potential physical alterations in samples. Our trained network yields comparable or better results to other digitally staining methods, successfully demonstrating the re-staining of approximately decade-old faded slides archived in hospital storage.
Analyzing descriptive report writing among English language learners in Japan through a genre-based approach to second
language writing
Authors: Nagao Akiko
Published: October 2024

This mixed-methods study evaluated the evolution of thematic development in descriptive report writing among 12
first-year English for Academic Purposes (EAP) university students in Japan over the course of a 15-week program. The program
employed a genre-based approach within a Systemic Functional Linguistic framework. Four consecutive information report essays (two
pre-essays, a post-essay, and a delayed test essay) were analyzed to assess the student’s writing progress. The results revealed a
general progression, starting with limited Theme development in the first pre-essay, to some students exhibiting a growing
familiarity with coherence and cohesion in terms of the generic structure of descriptive reports.
“One soft kiss” in a derelict world
Authors: Pietrzak Wit
Published: October 2024

The paper focuses on the contemporary Irish poet Alan Gillis’s latest collection, The Readiness,
with special attention paid to “Metropolis” and “Vespers,” two long poems that come in the latter part of the volume. In them, the
pressures of late modernity, which are thematised throughout The Readiness, are given sustained attention,
revealing loneliness and dereliction as the most excruciating aspects of an individual’s life. While the bleak perspective on late
modern existence is characteristic of Gillis work to date, I show that the poems included in this collection, each in its own
distinct way, discover relief from the alienation in the establishment of meaningful relationships with other people.
Blood Draw Training in Okapi (
Okapia johnstoni
)
Authors: Newnham Zoe , Keywood Lisa , Reynard Joanna , Constable-Dakeyne Georgina
Published: October 2024

Sedating any species in a zoological setting for veterinary procedures, including blood draws can have negative implications for the individual animal, both physiological and psychological both during and after the procedure. In addition, these can take a lot of staff time and resources and can impact the long-term relationship between the individual and keepers. Training individuals to take part voluntarily in their own health care can help to reduce these negative implications; helping to reduce stress, improve welfare, and give individuals choice and control while developing the future management of the species. This case study describes the training of four okapi individuals, a notoriously flighty species, for voluntary blood draws and how training plans should always be adaptable for individuals to encourage successful progression and development.

Information

© The Authors 2024
Recovering of Olive Groves Infected by
Xylella fastidiosa
subsp.
pauca
in Apulia (Italy) Through a Sustainable Management Strategy
Authors: Scortichini Marco
Published: October 2024

Xylella fastidiosa
subsp.
pauca
, listed as a quarantine bacterium in the European Union, has spread in Salento (Apulia, Southern Italy) landscape causing severe damage to the olive cultivation.
X. fastidiosa
is the causal agent of the “olive quick decline syndrome” (OQDS). Through a series of multidisciplinary studies, it has been possible to assess and set up an effective management strategy for maintaining the traditional olive germplasm of Salento. For this aim, a systemic biocomplex containing zinc (4%), copper (2%) and citric acid is sprayed to the tree canopy, once per month, from spring to early autumn. The strategy also includes sustainable vector control through agronomical techniques as well as the regular tree pruning and soil fertilization. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assessments showed a significant reduction of
X. fastidiosa
subsp.
pauca
concentration in the xylem tissue of the leaves upon the treatments, thus allowing the olive trees to normally yield. Both
1
H-NMR metabolomic and mass-spectrometry lipidomic analyses of leaf extracts revealed the occurrence of biomarkers linked to the disease or tree restoration. After the spray treatment, a rapid re-programming in the metabolic tree activity has been observed. Multi-scale satellite imagery monitoring confirmed the robustness of the strategy for several years in both experimental and productive olive groves. Currently, the strategy is applied in many olive groves of Salento. Some aggressive fungal species belonging to the
Neofusicoccum
genus have been found to be associated with olive trees that show symptoms very similar to OQDS and that are also co-infected by
X. fastidiosa
subsp
. pauca
.

Information

© The Author 2024
Semi-quantum secret sharing protocol with specific bits based on third party
Authors: Ma Zhongliang , Li Jing , Wang Xianmin , Liu Feng
Published: October 2024

The fundamental concept of secret sharing involves dividing a secret into multiple parts and distributing them among several participants, who collectively safeguard the secret. When it comes to restoring the secret, cooperation among specific participants is necessary to reconstruct the original secret. Quantum secret sharing (QSS) employs quantum methods to address some limitations of classical secret sharing. Semi-QSS, an advancement of quantum methods, requires fewer quantum resources. Previous semi-quantum protocols demanded at least one participant with full quantum capabilities and randomly generated secret information. This paper introduces a protocol allowing three participants lacking complete quantum capabilities to share secret information of specific bits with the assistance of a third party possessing complete quantum capabilities. Unlike previous approaches, this protocol does not require participants to possess full quantum capabilities and shares secret information of specific bits. These characteristics make the protocol more practical and flexible for real-world applications.
Side-channel free quantum digital signature with source monitoring
Authors: Ma 马 Luo-Jia 洛嘉 , Sun 孙 Ming-Shuo 铭烁 , Zhang 张 Chun-Hui 春辉 , Ding 丁 Hua-Jian 华建 , Zhou 周 Xing-Yu 星宇 , Li 李 Jian 剑 , Wang 王 Qin 琴
Published: October 2024

Quantum digital signature (QDS) can guarantee the information-theoretical security of a signature with the fundamental laws of quantum physics. However, most current QDS protocols do not take source security into account, leading to an overestimation of the signature rate. In this paper, we propose to utilize Hong–Ou–Mandel interference to characterize the upper bound of the source imperfections, and further to quantify information leakage from potential side-channels. Additionally, we combine decoy-state methods and finite-size analysis in analyzing the signature rate. Simulation results demonstrate the performance and feasibility of our approach. Our current work can improve the practical security of QDS systems, thereby promoting their further networked applications.
The Nano-Revolution in Rubber Bushings: Boosting Mechanical Performance
Authors: Muneer Roaa Mohammed , Salman Hassan Dawood , Sadiq Sadiq E.
Published: October 2024

A new method for manufacturing rubber bushings with unique properties has been introduced. The method involves adding alumina nanoparticles at different ratios (0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, and 3) Phr to a rubber recipe consisting of 30% natural rubber, 70% styrene-butadiene rubber. The recipe also contains a constant percentage of carbon black (51 Phr). The materials were mixed for (specific time) to ensure even distribution. Extensive testing has been conducted to ensure the cured rubber meets performance standards, including evaluations of tensile strength, tear propagation, wear resistance, hardness, elasticity, and resistance to fatigue. The bush material excelled in friction resistance and long-term fatigue performance. Adding 0.6 phr Nano-Alumina further enhanced its elasticity, strength, tear resistance, and resilience. At 3 phr of Al2O3 increased Elongation, Hardness, and Fatigue resistance value.
From CAD model to WAM component: implementation of complex geometries using the example of a hydrogen tank.
Authors: Florian Mayrhofer , Oliver Motlik , Dominic Pragerstorfer , Stephan Ucsnik , Christian Schneider-Bröskamp
Published: October 2024

Hydrogen is expected to play a decisive role on the way to climate neutral transportation. This paper explores the innovative use of wire arc Directed Energy Deposition (waDED) in the manufacturing of a double walled, vacuum insulated liquid hydrogen storage tank. The study demonstrates the feasibility of the waDED process for the manufacturing of tank shells and furthermore the integration of heat exchanger channels into tank shells. Key findings include the development of a suitable process chain with integration of multiple features to ease manufacturing. However, challenges such as thermal shrinkage of the shells as well as geometrical deviations of the outer tank heat exchanger are encountered. Future research will focus on improvements in the process reliability with regards to geometric accuracy as well as in-depth testing under liquid hydrogen condition.
Insights on Weld Quality using Unsupervised Learning: Clustering of MIG/MAG Process Signals
Authors: Doe Ocansey Evans , Hinterbichler Hannes , Holom Roxana-Maria , Araz Michael
Published: October 2024

With the increasing complexity of gas metal arc welding (GMAW) processes, data-driven approaches for monitoring and understanding automated GMAW production lines are gaining increased prominence. In this work, welding process data recorded in a production environment is analysed using unsupervised learning methods. We describe a data processing pipeline for feature engineering and apply a state-of-the-art clustering method to gain more insights into the welding production process. The clustering results are compared with the results from the application of dimensional reduction techniques and discussed based on human-interpretable characteristics of the welding process.
Investigation of Wire-Arc Directed Energy Deposition of Copper for use in e-Mobility applications.
Authors: Bharadwaj Kamalesh , Silmbroth Mathias , Mühlgrabner David
Published: October 2024

Additive manufacturing of pure copper is interesting for utilising high electrical and thermal conductivity properties for electrical as well as thermal applications. Wire-arc directed energy deposition is beneficial for producing large parts with less material wastage and is suitable for relatively less abundant resources like copper. The present study explores the feasibility and properties of parts produced using CuSn1 feedstock alloy and this process. Metallographic analysis and micro-hardness tests were conducted. The relative density of 99.99% is achieved, the micro-hardness is 64 HV0 1 and the grain sizes are observed to be growing along the build direction.
Re-manufacturing of Pre-deformed Automotive Sheet Metal Stamping Scrap Without Melting
Authors: Österreicher Johannes A. , Grabner Florian , Kühlein Maria , Cerny Angelika , Schlögl Carina M.
Published: October 2024

The recycling of aluminium sheet metal typically involves shredding and re-melting, processes which are both energy-intensive and challenged by the presence of metallic contaminants. To mitigate these issues, this study explores an alternative approach: the re-manufacturing of deep-drawn parts directly from scrap aluminium sheets, thus bypassing the melting step. We used 2 mm thick Al-Mg sheet metal in H111 temper to produce simulated stamping scrap (miniaturized bonnets). Blanks were cut from these bonnets and secondary parts in a cross-cup geometry were deep-drawn using two different forming processes: warm-forming at 200 °C and O-temper forming at room temperature. The resulting maximum draw depths were 20-22 mm for warm-forming and 25-30 mm for O-temper forming. While warm-forming resulted in lower draw depths, O-temper forming led to coarse recrystallized grain formation in some regions. Our approach could significantly reduce the energy consumption associated with aluminium recycling.
Enhancement of the electrical conductivity of APPD manufactured copper conductors integrated into aluminium WAAM structures
Authors: Gradinger R , Hohm D
Published: October 2024

Copper conductors - manufactured by atmospheric plasma powder deposition, insulated by alumina layers and integrated into aluminium structures - were analysed with regard to their electrical conductivity. Variations of a novel electrical post-processing were studied in comparison to standard heat treatment. Both of them showed significant improvement of the specific electrical resistivity.
Robot arm grasping based on YOLOv5 in the perspective of automated production
Authors: Wang Liang
Published: October 2024

The rapid development of industrial intelligence has gradually expanded the application of automated production. As a typical automated production equipment, the robotic arm still faces the problems of low grasping efficiency and high control costs when facing highly integrated and miniaturized components. Given this, to improve the grasping level of the robotic arm in complex production environments, this study first constructs a kinematic mathematical model of the robotic arm. Secondly, based on the algorithm that You Only Look Once, improvements are made to its convolution operation and feature extraction modules, ultimately proposing a new type of robotic arm grasping control model. The results showed that the loss test value of the new model was the lowest at 2.75, the average detection error of the captured object was the lowest at 0.003, and the average detection time was the shortest at 1.28 seconds. The highest success rate for grasping six types of industrial parts was 94%, and the lowest average energy consumption was 35.67 joules. Therefore, research models can significantly improve the grasping performance of robotic arms under various complex conditions, thereby achieving efficient manipulation of robotic arms in industrial automation.
Developing ultra-high performance concrete with different strength grade based on mix proportion sensitivity factor analysis
Authors: Wang Anjie , Huang Zhide , Li Yilei , Gu Guangyao , Zhu Li , Jiang Ruishuang
Published: October 2024

Owing to the excellent strength and durability, ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) has been used for fabricating large-scale and important infrastructures. However, mix proportion of UHPC is still the core factor influencing its workability, strength, cost and energy resource consumption. Based on this, the amount of cementitious materials, water-binder ratio, and the content of steel fibers were matched to obtain UHPC with required workability and strength according to three-factor five-level orthogonal range analysis considering the interaction of these three parameters. Experimental results show that the water-binder ratio and steel fiber content is the primary factor to guarantee the fluidity/compressive and flexural strength of UHPC, respectively. For developing UHPC with compressive strength grade of 150 MPa and flexural strength higher than 50 MPa, the amount of cementitious materials (including cement, silica fume, cenosphere, and fly ash) and the content of steel fibers should be higher than 1000 kg m−3 and 2.5 vol.%, and the corresponding water-binder ratio is equal to 0.16. When the aim is to fabricate UHPC with compressive strength grade of 120 MPa and flexural strength higher than 40 MPa, the water-binder ratio can be increased but should be lower than 0.20 with the increasing amount of cementitious material, and the volume fraction of steel fibers should be higher than 1.5 vol.%. High steel fiber content and water-binder ratio all easily coarsens the microstructure and pore structure of UHPC, and this phenomenon cannot be compensated by using high amount of cementitious materials. It should be adjusting the matching degree of amount of cementitious materials and water-binder ratio to obtain a slurry with appropriate fluidity and cohesiveness, and then content of steel fibers can be selected to perform without adverse effects.
Enhanced superconducting qubit performance through ammonium fluoride etch
Authors: Kopas Cameron J , Goronzy Dominic P , Pham Thang , Torres Castanedo Carlos G , Cheng Matthew , Cochrane Rory , Nast Patrick , Lachman Ella , Zhelev Nikolay Z , Vallières André , Murthy Akshay A , Oh Jin-su , Zhou Lin , Kramer Matthew J , Cansizoglu Hilal , Bedzyk Michael J , Dravid Vinayak P , Romanenko Alexander , Grassellino Anna , Mutus Josh Y , Hersam Mark C , Yadavalli Kameshwar
Published: October 2024

The performance of superconducting qubits is often limited by dissipation and two-level systems (TLS) losses. The dominant sources of these losses are believed to originate from amorphous materials and defects at interfaces and surfaces, likely as a result of fabrication processes or ambient exposure. Here, we explore a novel wet chemical surface treatment at the Josephson junction-substrate and the substrate-air interfaces by replacing a buffered oxide etch (BOE) cleaning process with one that uses hydrofluoric acid followed by aqueous ammonium fluoride. We show that the ammonium fluoride etch process results in a statistically significant improvement in median

T
1

by

∼
22
%

(p = 0.002), and a reduction in the number of strongly-coupled TLS in the tunable frequency range. Microwave resonator measurements on samples treated with the ammonium fluoride etch after niobium deposition and etching also show

∼
33
%

lower TLS-induced loss tangent compared to the BOE treated samples. As the chemical treatment primarily modifies the Josephson junction-substrate interface and substrate-air interface, we perform targeted chemical and structural characterizations to examine materials differences at these interfaces and identify multiple microscopic changes that could contribute to decreased TLS losses.
Comparison of the performance equation with its generalized version in describing the temperature-dependent survival of insects and mites
Authors: Shi Peijian , Deng Linli , Quinn Brady K
Published: October 2024

The performance of various life processes in arthropods is greatly influenced by temperature. The survival of arthropods is temperature-dependent, which must be accounted for when predicting and simulating outbreaks of pest population under global warming scenarios. However, mathematical models for describing temperature-dependent arthropod survival are still lacking. The 5-parameter performance equation (PE), which was originally proposed to describe the influence of temperature on the jumping distance of the green frog, can generate symmetrical and asymmetrical inverted U-shaped curves, and thus is applicable to modeling a broad variety of thermal performance relationships. However, prior studies have not assessed its validity in describing the temperature-dependent survival of arthropods. In this study, we used 16 data sets of insects and mites to test the validities of this PE and its generalized version with 7 parameters (GPE) in fitting temperature-dependent survival data. The PE and GPE were both found to be valid for use in fitting the observed data. However, the estimated values of the PE’s parameters were more robust than those of the GPE. The goodness of fit of the GPE was better than that of the PE for each data set; however, the GPE tended to overfit the data when observations at threshold temperatures were lacking. Overall, the PE is better than the GPE. The present work further confirmed that the temperature-dependent survival of arthropods is an inverse U-shaped curve and provided a useful tool for quantifying the effect of temperature on the survival of arthropods.
Diagnostic approach to leukemia cutis
: A differential diagnostic step-by-step algorithm
Authors: Jenei Alex , Tzankov Alexandar
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Leukemia cutis is a conflicting term to describe neoplastic hematopoietic infiltrates in the skin. Cutaneous myeloid or lymphoid proliferations often present a serious differential diagnostic challenge for pathologists.

Methods

This review aims to outline the confusion associated with the term leukemia cutis and discuss in detail the foremost common differential diagnoses in daily practice. The review is based on a summary of the relevant literature as well as on the authors’ experience.

Results

It addresses precursor cell myeloid and lymphoid tumors that are strictly considered true leukemia cutis but also more mature neoplasms, including some recently described mature extramedullary myeloid proliferations. Finally, a practical, comprehensive stepwise approach combining traditional immunohistochemical marker panels, novel lineage- or mutational-specific markers, and other ancillary tests is suggested to reach an entity-specific diagnosis.

Conclusion

The proper combination of ancillary techniques can help the pathologist to provide an accurate diagnosis of these challenging skin lesions.
Predicting ‘pain genes’: multi-modal data integration using probabilistic classifiers and interaction networks
Authors: Zhao Na , Bennett David L , Baskozos Georgios , Barry Allison M
Published: October 2024

Motivation

Accurate identification of pain-related genes remains challenging due to the complex nature of pain pathophysiology and the subjective nature of pain reporting in humans. Here, we use machine learning to identify possible ‘pain genes’. Labelling was based on a gold-standard list with validated involvement across pain conditions, and was trained on a selection of -omics, protein–protein interaction network features, and biological function readouts for each gene.

Results

The top-performing model was selected to predict a ‘pain score’ per gene. The top-ranked genes were then validated against pain-related human SNPs. Functional analysis revealed JAK2/STAT3 signal, ErbB, and Rap1 signalling pathways as promising targets for further exploration, while network topological features contribute significantly to the identification of ‘pain’ genes. As such, a network based on top-ranked genes was constructed to reveal previously uncharacterized pain-related genes. Together, these novel insights into pain pathogenesis can indicate promising directions for future experimental research.

Availability and implementation

These analyses can be further explored using the linked open-source database at https://livedataoxford.shinyapps.io/drg-directory/, which is accompanied by a freely accessible code template and user guide for wider adoption across disciplines.
Global proliferation of nonnative plants is a major driver of insect invasions
Authors: Bertelsmeier Cleo , Bonnamour Aymeric , Brockerhoff Eckehard G , Pyšek Petr , Skuhrovec Jiří , Richardson David M , Liebhold Andrew M
Published: October 2024

Invasions by nonnative insect species can massively disrupt ecological processes, often leading to serious economic impacts. Previous work has identified propagule pressure as important driver of the trend of increasing numbers of insect invasions worldwide. In the present article, we propose an alternative hypothesis—that insect invasions are being driven by the proliferation of nonnative plants, which create niches for insect specialists and facilitate their establishment outside their native ranges where their hosts are planted or are invasive. We synthesize mechanisms by which plant invasions facilitate insect invasions, macroecological patterns supporting the tight link between plant and insect invasions, and case studies of plant invasions having facilitated subsequent insect establishment. This body of evidence indicates that plant invasions are a major driver of insect invasions. Consequently, the benefits of limiting the spread of nonnative plants include averting the proliferation of nonnative insects and their spillover onto native plant species.
Challenges and opportunities for sustainable wildlife population recovery
Authors: Liu Jiajia , Braczkowski Alexander , Ma Zhijun , Wang Fang , Gibson Luke
Published: October 2024

Although biodiversity is declining at the global scale, some species populations are recovering in recent decades, mainly because of effective conservations efforts. However, population increases of some species are sustained only briefly, and public concern over human–wildlife conflict following population recovery is also on the rise, jeopardizing the wildlife species’ long-term recovery. Questions related to the extent and sustainability of wildlife population recoveries and their impacts on human society and local ecosystems remain unanswered across many of the areas where they have occurred. These answers are vital if ongoing public support for wildlife conservation and species recovery programs is to continue. In the present article, we outline evidence, benefits, challenges, and unforeseen consequences of wildlife population recoveries globally, and highlight a series of policies and conservation practices to foster long-term wildlife population recovery.
Association of lichen planopilaris with cardiovascular and metabolic disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chuang Kai-Wen , Huang Shiu-Wen , Chang Hua-Ching
Published: October 2024

Background

Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is among the most common types of immune-mediated scarring alopecia. Observational studies have reported conflicting findings regarding the association of LPP with different comorbidities.

Objectives

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to elucidate the association between LPP and different cardiovascular and metabolic disorders.

Methods

We systematically searched four electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Cochrane Library) for relevant studies published from their inception to 1 August 2024. A random-effects model was used to perform a pooled analysis and calculate odds ratios or incidence rate ratios with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

The meta-analysis included 10 case–control studies involving 7516 patients with LPP and 64 719 097 controls. The results demonstrated no significant associations between LPP and hypertension, diabetes mellitus or hyperlipidaemia. The results of the pooled analyses also revealed that patients with LPP did not have significantly higher risks of obesity or heart failure than did controls. All pooled analyses revealed high levels of heterogeneity across the studies, but no significant publication bias was detected.

Conclusions

LPP is not significantly associated with most cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidaemia, obesity and heart failure.
Judicialization of Global Climate Governance: In Defence of the Paris Agreement
Authors: Rovnov Yury
Published: October 2024

This article questions the effect that the delegation of global climate governance to the international judiciary may have on climate action. It argues that the underlying premise of the judicialization movement—namely, the existence of a broad international consensus as to the objectives of global climate change risk management—is contradicted by evidence, such as political declarations by governments, countries’ nationally determined contributions, and domestic court judgments. Governments brought to court resist propositions that domestic or international legal norms subject them to quantitative emission reduction obligations that can be “objectively” determined on the basis of best available science, and national judiciaries make conflicting findings on the implications of science for climate policy. In this context, renouncement of the “bottom-up” Paris model which was designed specifically to address the complex landscape of diverse interests and risk perceptions across world regions and societies may have a chilling, rather than galvanizing, effect on climate action.
Impact over metrics: Turing and the ultimate contribution of cryptology
Authors: Furnell Steven
Published: October 2024

Amongst his many lasting contributions, Alan Turing’s name is strongly linked to the domain of cryptology, particularly due to his pioneering wartime work in cryptanalysis. However, the fact that his work remained classified until many years later has arguably limited its wider influence on the science of cryptology. Nonetheless, while his research was never able to be properly referenced until many years later, its resulting impact is arguably greater than much that followed it. This article summarizes Turing’s crypto work and considers his contribution from this perspective.
Impact of ticagrelor with or without aspirin on total and recurrent bleeding and ischaemic events after percutaneous coronary intervention: a sub-study of the TWILIGHT trial
Authors: Baber Usman , Cao Davide , Collier Timothy , Sartori Samantha , Dangas George , Angiolillo Dominick J , Vogel Birgit , Kunadian Vijay , Briguori Carlo , Cohen David J , Dudek Dariusz , Gibson C Michael , Gil Robert , Huber Kurt , Kaul Upendra , Kornowski Ran , Krucoff Mitchell W , Mehta Shamir , Moliterno David J , Ohman E Magnus , Escaned Javier , Sardella Gennaro , Sharma Samin K , Shlofmitz Richard , Weisz Giora , Witzenbichler Bernhard , Steg P Gabriel , Pocock Stuart , Mehran Roxana
Published: October 2024

Aims

In standard time-to-first event analysis, early aspirin discontinuation followed by ticagrelor monotherapy has been shown to reduce bleeding without increasing ischaemic complications compared with ticagrelor plus aspirin after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We evaluated whether these treatment effects are preserved when recurrent events are considered.

Methods and results

In this TWILIGHT trial post-hoc analysis, we assessed the effects of ticagrelor monotherapy on the total number of events that occurred over the 12-month follow-up among 7119 high-risk patients randomized to aspirin or placebo in addition to ticagrelor at 3 months post-PCI if event-free and adherent to treatment. There were 391 patients with at least one Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) type 2, 3, or 5 bleeding (primary endpoint). Of those, 28 (7.2%) had a recurrent event. The total number of BARC 2, 3, or 5 bleeding events was 148 in the ticagrelor monotherapy arm compared with 278 with ticagrelor plus aspirin arm (P < 0.001). Among 272 patients with at least one key secondary ischaemic endpoint (all-cause death, myocardial infarction, or stroke), 37 (13.6%) sustained a recurrent event. Total ischaemic events were similar (155 vs. 159) in the two groups.

Conclusion

Among selected high-risk patients who underwent PCI and completed 3 months of dual antiplatelet therapy followed by ticagrelor with or without aspirin, recurrent bleeding was less common than recurrent ischaemic events over 12 months. Analysis of total events indicates that ticagrelor monotherapy continues to be more effective than ticagrelor plus aspirin in reducing bleeding without a signal of ischaemic harm.
Polymer-interface-tissue model to estimate leachable release from medical devices
Authors: Tanaka Martin L , Saylor David M , Elder Robert M
Published: October 2024

The ability to predict clinically relevant exposure to potentially hazardous compounds that can leach from polymeric components can help reduce testing needed to evaluate the biocompatibility of medical devices. In this manuscript, we compare two physics-based exposure models: 1) a simple, one-component model that assumes the only barrier to leaching is the migration of the compound through the polymer matrix and 2) a more clinically relevant, two-component model that also considers partitioning across the polymer–tissue interface and migration in the tissue away from the interface. Using data from the literature, the variation of the model parameters with key material properties were established, enabling the models to be applied to a wide range of combinations of leachable compound, polymer matrix and tissue type. Exposure predictions based on the models suggest that the models are indistinguishable over much of the range of clinically relevant scenarios. However, for systems with low partitioning and/or slow tissue diffusion, the two-component model predicted up to three orders of magnitude less mass release over the same time period. Thus, despite the added complexity, in some scenarios it can be beneficial to use the two-component model to provide more clinically relevant estimates of exposure to leachable substances from implanted devices.
Longitudinal exposure to antiseizure medications shape gut-derived microbiome, resistome, and metabolome landscape
Authors: Dop Camille , Auvin Stéphane , Mondot Stanislas , Lepage Patricia , Ilhan Zehra Esra
Published: October 2024

The influence of chronically administered host-targeted drugs on the gut microbiome remains less understood compared to antibiotics. We investigated repetitive exposure effects of three common antiseizure medications [carbamazepine (CBZ), valproic acid, and levetiracetam] on the gut microbial composition, resistome, and metabolome using microcosms constructed from feces of young children. Microcosms were established by cultivating feces for 24 h (C0). These microcosms were daily transferred into fresh media for seven cycles (C1–C7) with antiseizure medications or carrier molecules, followed by four cycles without any drugs (C8–C11). The microbial dynamics and resistome of microcosms at C0, C1, C7, and C11 were assessed with 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid gene sequencing or shotgun metagenome sequencing and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of the antimicrobial resistance genes, respectively. Metabolites of CBZ-treated and control microcosms at C0, C1, and C7 were evaluated using non-targeted metabolomics. Our findings revealed that the serial transfer approach longitudinally altered the microcosm composition. Among the medications, CBZ had the most substantial impact on the structure and metabolism of the feces-derived microcosms. The microbiome composition partially recovered during the drug-free period. Specifically, Bacteroides and Flavonifractor were depleted and Escherichia and Clostridium were enriched. Additionally, repetitive CBZ exposure increased the abundance and expression of genes related to various antibiotic resistance mechanisms, more specifically, efflux pumps and antibiotic target alteration. CBZ-induced changes in the microbiome were mirrored in the metabolome, with reductions in the citric acid cycle metabolites, glutamine, and spermidine, alongside increased levels of vitamin B6. Our study suggests that repetitive CBZ exposure may negatively impact gut microbial homeostasis and metabolism.
Dalbavancin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis in vivo selection following a prosthetic joint infection: phenotypic and genomic characterization
Authors: Ruffier d’Epenoux L , Barbier P , Fayoux E , Guillouzouic A , Lecomte R , Deschanvres C , Nich C , Bémer P , Grégoire M , Corvec S
Published: October 2024

Background

Dalbavancin is a lipoglycopeptide antibiotic with a wide spectrum of activity against Gram-positive bacteria, including MDR isolates. Its pharmacokinetic properties and administration patterns could be useful for the treatment of bone and joint infections, especially prosthetic joint infections (PJIs).

Introduction

We report the case of an 80-year-old man who experienced an acute periprosthetic joint infection of his right total knee arthroplasty (TKA). A DAIR procedure was done with tissue sampling, which allowed identification of a linezolid-resistant MDR S. epidermidis (LR-MDRSE) strain. The patient was then treated with dalbavancin (four injections).

Methods

We studied the phenotypic and genomic evolution of the strains and plasma through concentrations of dalbavancin at different points in time.

Results

After four injections (1500 mg IV) of dalbavancin over a 6 month period, the dalbavancin MIC increased 4-fold. Calculated fAUC0–24/MIC ratios were 945, 1239 and 766.5, respectively, at Days 49, 71 and 106, assuming an MIC of 0.032 mg/L. The PFGE dendrogram revealed 97% similarity among all the isolates. These results suggest acquisition by the S. epidermidis strain of dalbavancin resistance when the patient underwent dalbavancin treatment. A 4-amino-acid deletion in the walK gene coinciding with the emergence of phenotypic resistance was revealed by WGS without any other relevant indels.

Conclusions

Despite dalbavancin treatment with pharmacokinetic management, emerging dalbavancin resistance in S. epidermidis was observed, resulting in treatment failure. This outcome led to a prosthesis revision and long-term suppressive antibiotic therapy, with no recurrence of PJI after an 18 month follow-up.
An overview of the development of termite baits in the past 3 decades
Authors: Su Nan-Yao
Published: October 2024

Since the commercialization in 1995, termite baits have been introduced in 32 countries, protecting over 3.7 million homes and reducing pesticide use by more than 11,100 metric tons. Over the past 3 decades, advancements have been made to address the limitations of bait systems, including improvements in bait toxicants, bait matrices, and the frequency of required site visits. Termite baits have been applied in both commercial and experimental area-wide projects. This article discusses the factors contributing to the success of these projects and the key elements driving the progress and advancements in termite bait technology.
Interpreting the Child’s Right to Protection from Violence in the South African Context in Line with International Law Obligations
Authors: Mesthrie Sapna
Published: October 2024

This article considers whether the South African government is currently meeting its obligations under international law to take appropriate legislative, administrative, social and educational measures to protect children from all forms of violence. Research has consistently demonstrated that exposure to violence at a young age can have an immense negative impact on children’s survival and future development. Accordingly, adopting and implementing effective measures to eliminate violence against children is a pressing concern, especially in the South African context. With these objectives in mind, this article evaluates the South African Children’s Act 38 of 2005 and the National Childcare and Protection Policy 2021, in light of the obligations contained in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, with a focus on prevention and early intervention strategies.
The apodotic wāw in Qurʾānic Arabic
Authors: Moqbel Tareq
Published: October 2024

This article discusses the usage and semantic function of the apodotic wāw in Qurʾānic Arabic. It takes as its starting point the usage of the same particle in the Hebrew Bible, and goes on to survey the discourse about it in the classical treatises of Arabic grammar. It then analyses a number of Qurʾānic passages where the exegetical literature discussed whether a wāw is (or could be) marking an apodosis. By demonstrating the interpretive options enabled by the apodotic wāw, the article argues—pace the classical Arabic grammarians and Qurʾān exegetes, many of whom denied its existence outright—that this particle is not simply superfluous. Rather, the article contends that the apodotic wāw creates a space for ambiguity, and thereby expands the range of hermeneutical possibilities. In presenting this argument, the article suggests that the function of the apodotic wāw in the Qurʾān closely resembles its function in the Hebrew Bible.