bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flexible fabrication of core/shell nanoparticles for tailored infrared emissivity on aluminum via femtosecond laser self-deposition
Authors: Zhai Quanxing , Gong Wenqi , Yu Mingjie , Gu Runyan , Lei Cheng , Liu Sheng , Wang Ziyu , Wang Du
Published: September 2024

A metal surface with controllable infrared emissivity has a wide range of applications. However, a flexible and simple fabrication method is needed. Here, a controllable femtosecond laser self-deposition technology was developed to fabricate Al@AlOx core/shell micropillars (MPs) with diverse size distribution on the aluminum surface in a single-step operation under ambient conditions. By establishing a deterministic relationship between pulse-repetition frequency (PRF) and particle size distribution (PSD), we achieved continuous control of the infrared emissivity of the surface by lower PRF, ranging from low (0.31) to high (0.93). Additionally, by using higher PRF, we attained dual-band emissivity control, featuring high emissivity in the range of 10–14 µm and near-continuous change in the range of 2.5–10 µm.
Broadband and tunable fiber polarizer based on a graphene photonic crystal fiber
Authors: Gan Jiajie , Deng Qingyan , Zeng Zijian , Peng Jiantao , Qi Jinlin , Zuo Yonggang , Zhou Xu
Published: September 2024

The recent flourishing development of two-dimensional (2D) graphene has sparked considerable interest and extensive research on graphene-based optical fiber polarizers. However, studies on graphene-optical fiber polarizers focused on the structure with graphene films attached to side-polished fibers, which face challenges such as low birefringence of 10−6, low polarization extinction ratio (PER), and narrow polarizing window of tens of nanometers. Here, a fiber polarizer based on a graphene-photonic crystal fiber (Gr-PCF) is proposed firstly, which exhibits high birefringence of ∼2.5 × 10−3, high PER of ∼111 dB/mm, broad polarizing window of >400 nm, and tunable polarization states. Graphene or graphene/hBN/graphene (Gr/hBN/Gr) heterojunctions are attached to the surface of two square holes in the PCF to make one of the polarizing modes attenuate significantly. The tunability of the Fermi level (EF) in Gr/hBN/Gr enables the proposed device to function as a polarizer or a polarization-maintaining fiber. The combination of PCF’s endless single-mode feature and graphene’s broadband optical response feature enables the fiber polarizer to exhibit a wide spectrum range with single-mode transmission characteristics.
W-band photonic-aided reconfigurable multichannel vector mm-wave transmission enabled by the digital subcarrier multiplexing technique
Authors: Fang Liye , Xie Tangyao , Li Xinying , Pan Xiaolong , Bi Jiahao , Yan Hengxin , Wang Jiawei , Li Gang , Xin Xiangjun
Published: September 2024

As multimedia service demands rise, radio-over-fiber (RoF) systems necessitate a flexible wireless resource allocation in multi-user scenarios. Optical wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) can meet multi-user application scenarios but has the problems of high hardware cost and complexity. In this Letter, we propose a photonic-aided reconfigurable multichannel vector millimeter-wave (mm-wave) transmission scheme in the RoF system enabled by the digital subcarrier multiplexing (DSCM) technique. The scheme can flexibly adjust the number and frequency spacing of subcarriers as well as the bandwidth and modulation format allocated to each subcarrier, and it can be applied to multi-user scenarios without increasing the cost and complexity of hardware implementation. The off-line experiments verify the system transmission performance with different numbers, bandwidth, and frequency spacing of subcarriers, fully verifying the feasibility of the scheme. Furthermore, the Letter delves into the effects of the subcarrier number, bandwidth, and frequency spacing on overall system performance, highlighting the potential of this scheme for flexible and cost-effective wireless resource allocation in RoF systems.
165 MHz highly stable femtosecond Er:ZBLAN fiber laser operating at 2.8 µm
Authors: Chen Zifeng , Ma Shuanglong , Yang Ying , Wang Jiachen , Yan Peiguang , Wang Jinzhang , Wang Pengfei , Jin Wei , Lue Qitao , Ruan Shuangchen , Guo Chunyu
Published: September 2024

Three-micrometer mid-infrared (MIR) femtosecond pulse sources with a high repetition rate (HRR) have potential applications in a number of fields such as biological imaging, optical frequency combs, and gas detection. In this paper, by optimizing the fiber length and the cavity structure, we demonstrated a highly stable, self-starting mode-locked fluoride fiber laser (MLFFL) with a fundamental repetition rate of ∼165 MHz and a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 90 dB. As far as we know, this stands as the highest fundamental repetition rate ever acquired directly from an ultrafast MLFFL in the >2.5 µm MIR region. Stable 352-fs pulses at 2795 nm with an average output power of 392 mW and a low integrated relative intensity noise (RIN) of 0.018% [10 Hz, 10 MHz] were generated. The root mean square (RMS) power fluctuation is 0.17% over 2 h, which indicates excellent oscillator stability. This high-performance laser offers a practicable scheme both for scaling the repetition frequency in MIR MLFFLs and high-precision ultrafast applications at longer wavelengths.
Robust super-resolution classifier by nonlinear optics
Authors: Darji Ishan , Kumar Santosh , Huang Yu-Ping
Published: September 2024

Spatial-mode projective measurements could achieve super-resolution in remote sensing and imaging, yet their performance is usually sensitive to the parameters of the target scenes. We propose and demonstrate a robust classifier of close-by light sources using optimized mode projection via nonlinear optics. Contrary to linear-optics based methods using the first few Hermite–Gaussian (HG) modes for the projection, here the projection modes are optimally tailored by shaping the pump wave to drive the nonlinear-optical process. This minimizes modulation losses and allows high flexibility in designing those modes for robust and efficient measurements. We test this classifier by discriminating one light source and two sources separated well within the Rayleigh limit without prior knowledge of the exact centroid or brightness. Our results show a classification fidelity of over 80% even when the centroid is misaligned by half the source separation, or when one source is four times stronger than the other.
High-efficiency photon-number resolution and 250 Mcps detection rate with a 28-pixel superconducting nanowire single-photon detector
Authors: Stasi Lorenzo , Taher Towsif , Resta Giovanni V. , Zbinden Hugo , Thew Rob , Bussières Félix
Published: September 2024

A 28-pixel superconducting nanowire single-photon detector in a parallel con-figuration is presented, displaying high photon-number efficiencies and 250 Mcps detection rate using only one coaxial cable.
Highly indistinguishible photons emitted from dissimilar atomic quantum nodes
Authors: Hoffet Félix , Lowinski Jan , Heller Lukas , Padrón-Brito Auxiliadora , de Riedmatten Hugues
Published: September 2024

We demonstrate the generation of highly-indistinguishable single photons from two independent quantum nodes. Node 1 is a quantum repeater node based on a quantum memory and Node 2 is a fully blockaded cold Rydberg ensemble.
The Synthesis: high precision sensing in quantum astrometry, super-resolution microscopy and beyond
Authors: Vintskevich Stephen , Katamadze Konstantin , Nomerotski Andrei , Stankus Paul , Abrahao Raphael , Slosar Anže
Published: September 2024

We propose a new approach to quantum-assisted astrometry with the potential to improve their astrometric precision by orders of magnitude. We extend our framework to super-resolution microscopy and sensor networks and demonstrate novel experimental capabilities.
Assessing the second-order correlation function of a quantum state from its Wigner function
Authors: Najafabadi Mojdeh S. , Sánchez-Soto Luis L. , Le Jeannic Hanna , Laurat Julien , Leuchs Gerd
Published: September 2024

We relate the second-order correlation function g(2)(0) to the state’s phase space Wigner function. Our experiment measures g(2)(0) via direct photocounting and re-constructs the Wigner function via homodyne tomography, validating our theoretical findings.
Phase-dependent Hanbury Brown-Twiss effect for the complete measurement of the complex coherence function
Authors: Tang Xuan , Zhang Yunxiao , Guo Xueshi , Liang Cui , Li Xiaoying , Ou Z. Y.
Published: September 2024

We report a phase sensitive two-photon interference effect when the incoming thermal fields are mixed with weak coherent reference fields. The complex second-order coherence function of the input thermal fields can be extracted.
Multi-Photon Subtraction from Squeezed Light toward Full Quantum State Engineering
Authors: Endo Mamoru , Nomura Takefumi , Sonoyama Tatsuki , Takahashi Kazuma , Fukui Kosuke , Kashiwazaki Takahiro , Inoue Asuka , Umeki Takeshi , Takasu Sachiko , Hattori Kaori , Fukuda Daiji , Nehra Rajveer , Marek Petr , Filip Radim , Takase Kan , Asavanant Warit , Furusawa Akira
Published: September 2024

We have applied up to four annihilation operations to squeezed light by photon subtraction. The presence of negative values in the Wigner function for all states indicates the successful implementation of quantum manipulation.
7.3 dB Polarization Squeezing Using Kerr Effect in Fibers
Authors: Kalinin Nikolay , Leuchs Gerd , Sánchez-Soto Luis L. , Andrianov Alexey V.
Published: September 2024

We report on a record 7.3 dB polarization squeezing generation using Kerr effect in a polarization-maintaining fiber and propose a way to apply such squeezed states for sensitivity enhancements in Michelson-like interferometers.
Quantum steering from phase measurements with limited resources
Authors: Bizzarri Gabriele , Gianani Ilaria , Manrique Mylenne , Berardi Vincenzo , Bruni Fabio , Capellini Giovanni , Barbieri Marco
Published: September 2024

We extend a metrology-assisted protocol to certify steering, explicitly accounting for experimental imperfections, in a limited resource scenario.

Our results provide guidelines to apply such a metrological approach to the validation of quantum channels.
Experimental demonstration of continuous variable measurement-device-independent resource certification
Authors: Larsen B. L. , Hajomer A. A. E. , Abiuso P. , Acin A. , Gehring T. , Neergaard-Nielsen J. S. , Andersen U. L.
Published: September 2024

Relying only on generation of trusted coherent states, we present experimental demonstrations of continuous variable measurement-device-independent (MDI) resource certification of: 1) entanglement, and 2) non-entanglement breaking optical memory.
Mid-infrared Qubit Entanglement in Silicon
Authors: Currie Sebastian , Gears Samuel , Sulway Dominic , Silverstone Joshua
Published: September 2024

We demonstrate the first instance of integrated quantum entanglement in the mid-infrared, using tailored Silicon photon pair sources, filters and detectors. We show a 6 sigma violation of the CHSH inequality with S=2.74.
Er sites in Si for quantum information processing
Authors: Lyasota Alexey , Berkman Ian R. , de Boo Gabriele G. , Bartholomew John G. , Lim Shao Qi , Johnson Brett C. , McCallum Jeffrey C. , Xu Bin-Bin , Xie Shouyi , Ahlefeldt Rose L. , Sellars Matthew J. , Yin Chunming , Rogge Sven
Published: September 2024

We report on Er sites in 28Si with millisecond spin coherence (extended to 40 ms using Alternating-Phase-CPMG sequence), homogeneous and inhomogeneous broadening below 100 kHz and 100 MHz. These results are promising for future quantum applications.
Experimental anonymous quantum conferencing
Authors: Webb Jonathan , Ho Joseph , Grasselli Federico , Murta Gláucia , Pickston Alexander , Ulibarrena Andrés , Fedrizzi Alessandro
Published: September 2024

Using a six-photon maximally entangled state, we demonstrate anonymous key distribution protocols showing a substantial reduction in network resources when multi-partite entanglement is available over solely bi-partite entanglement, considered in the asymptotic- and finite-key regime.
A Multiplexed Programmable Quantum Photonic Network
Authors: Valencia Natalia Herrera , Goel Suraj , Ma Annameng , Leedumrongwatthanakun Saroch , Graffitti Francesco , Fedrizzi Alessandro , McCutcheon Will , Malik Mehul
Published: September 2024

We harness the large mode-mixing process inside a multi-mode fibre to implement a spatially multiplexed programmable network that distributes and swaps entanglement between 4 parties.
Quantum key distribution with atom-photon entanglement for an urban fiber link
Authors: Meiers Jonas , Haen Christian , Bergerhoff Max , Kucera Stephan , Eschner Jürgen
Published: September 2024

We implement a protocol for quantum key distribution based on atom-photon-entanglement over a 14-km urban dark-fiber link, using single photons from a 40Ca+-ion and active polarization correction.
Analyzing Quantum Secure Direct Communication with Forward Error Correction
Authors: Iqbal M. , Moreolo M. Svaluto , Villegas Arturo , Nadal Laia , Velasco Luis
Published: September 2024

We implement a quantum equivalent to classical QPSK communication on IBMQ and NetSquid. Results show that forward error correction fails to provide error-free transmission using near-term devices. Error-free transmission is possible when qubit fidelity reaches 0.981.
Towards Interconnecting Cold-Atom Interfaces using an Infrared Free-Space Quantum Link
Authors: Demircan Samet , Gokhale Rishikesh , Cui Guodong , Haupt Justine , Huang Ivy , Stankus Paul , Katramatos Dimitrios , Figueroa Eden
Published: September 2024

We report on our progress towards establishing a 20 km free-space quantum communication link connecting two cold-atom quantum light-matter interfaces across the Stony Brook University (SBU) and Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) campuses.
QKD Secret Key Scaling with Ground Station Aperture Size and Satellite Overpass
Authors: Singh R. , Roger T. , Perumangatt C. , Sanzaro M. , Woodward R. I. , Shields A. J.
Published: September 2024

The secret key generation results for different telescope sizes and maximum satellite elevation within an overpass are generated using a satellite-to-ground quantum key distribution emulator which can support cost-effective satellite-QKD network deployment.
Mode formation in optical microcavities
Authors: van Exter Martin P. , He Chunjiang , Koks Corné
Published: September 2024

We show how the resonant modes in optical microcavities differ from the well-known Gaussian modes, due to non-paraxial and mirror-shape effects. We discuss their resonance frequencies, (polarization-resolved) mode profiles, and attainable finesse.
Spatially Ordered Spectrally Compliant On-Demand Scalable Quantum Emitter Large Arrays for Multi-Emitter Based Quantum Networks
Authors: Huang Qi , Jordao Lucas , Lu Siyuan , Chattaraj Swarnabha , Zhang Jiefei , Madhukar Anupam
Published: September 2024

Unique spatially-ordered and spectrally-uniform solid-state quantum emitter arrays show figures-of-merit suitable for realizing multisource and multipartite quantum networks. Optical and structural characteristics of these quantum emitters in large (~100×100) arrays are statistically sampled and discussed.
Experimental quantum noise sensing via quantum Zeno/anti-Zeno effect
Authors: Virzì S. , Knoll L. T. , Piacentini F. , Avella A. , Gherardini S. , Opatrný T. , Kofman A. G. , Kurizki G. , Gramegna M. , Caruso F. , Degiovanni I. P. , Genovese M.
Published: September 2024

We introduce and experimentally demonstrate two techniques allowing to extract information on the noise affecting single-photon probes propagating in a quantum channel, by exploiting quantum Zeno and anti-Zeno effects.
Observing PT-Symmetry Breaking in Integrated Quantum Photonics
Authors: Klauck Friederike , Heinrich Matthias , Szameit Alexander , Wolterink Tom A. W.
Published: September 2024

In PT-symmetric systems, losses dramatically alter quantum correlations of interfering photons. We study the impact of increased loss on two-photon correlations in lossy couplers and observe changes in Hong-Ou-Mandel interference upon entering the PT-broken phase.
Breaking Rayleigh’s Curse through Photon Distribution Analysis Combined with Point Spread Function Shaping
Authors: Bantysh B. I. , Vintskevich S. V. , Romanova A. V. , Katamadze K. G.
Published: September 2024

We introduce a novel super-resolution imaging technique, combining photon distribution analysis and point spread function shaping. Resolving unbalanced point sources with unknown parameters is achieved across diverse photon statistics.
Light-field ghost imaging
Authors: Paniate Alberto , Massaro Gianlorenzo , Avella Alessio , Meda Alice , Pepe Francesco V. , Genovese Marco , D’Angelo Milena , Berchera Ivano Ruo
Published: September 2024

We propose a technique which exploits light correlations and light-field principles to recover the volumetric image of an object without acquiring axially resolved images and without knowing its position or longitudinal extent.
The minimum-error quantum estimation through noisy multi-projector measurement
Authors: Bielak Martin , Koutný Dominik , Neset Michal , Ježek Miroslav
Published: September 2024

Full quantum state characterization requires a tomographic procedure performed on a limited number of copies. Our experimental demonstration of one- and two-qubit overcomplete tomographic measurements (up to 400 separable projections) outper-forms state-of-the-art approaches.
Enhanced Greenhouse Gas Sensors Exploiting Upconversion of Light
Authors: Cardoso Arthur C. , Smith Ruaridh , Moreland Imogen , McKnight Loyd , Gawith Corin , Astill Andy , Pandiyan Krish , Carver Sara , Weld Andrew , Ai Xiao , Rarity John G.
Published: September 2024

This paper proposes a new generation of greenhouse gas sensors exploiting upconversion of light. The method can outperform the state-of-the-art methane and carbon dioxide sensors by using silicon photon-counting technologies and high-efficiency upcon-version waveguides.
Dual Pump Wavelength Frequency-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography with undetected Mid-infrared Photons
Authors: Swarnkar Rajshree , Placke Marlon , Vanselow Aron , Chrzanowski Helen , Ramelow Sven
Published: September 2024

We implement a mid-infrared optical coherence tomography in a nonlinear optical interferometer using two different pump wavelengths for spontaneous parametric down conversion to enhance its axial resolution for the depth scans of highly scattering materials.
Evaluating cyclic translational symmetry in boson sampling systems with few detectors
Authors: Isdrailă Tudor-Alexandru , Wu Jun-Yi
Published: September 2024

Tomography of multi-photon states represents a complex procedure requiring a large number of photon number resolving detectors. By expanding an efficient single-photon tomography protocol we recover a reduced density matrix with just two detectors.
Experiment for entanglement distribution between Pr-doped Y2SiO5 crystals with an optical frequency comb
Authors: Nagano Koji , Tsuno Tomoki , Yoshida Daisuke , Sasaki Riku , Tateishi Hiroki , Akamatsu Daisuke , Hong Feng-Lei , Horikiri Tomoyuki
Published: September 2024

For long-distance quantum communication, low-loss photon transmission and remote frequency synchronization systems are required. We perform an entanglement distribution experiment with 1550-nm idler photons and an optical-frequency-comb-assisted frequency synchronization system.
Distributed Blind Quantum Computing with a Two-Node Quantum Network
Authors: Stas Pieter-Jan , Wei Yan-Cheng , Suleymanzade Aziza , Baranes Gefen , Knaut Can , Huan Yan Qi , Knall Erik , Werker-Smith Kelly , Machado Francisco , Sutula Madison , Assumpcao Daniel , Merz Moritz , Park Hongkun , Lončar Marko , Lukin Mikhail
Published: September 2024

We show progress towards the experimental demonstration of distributed blind quantum computing using a two node quantum network of Silicon-Vacancy (SiV) centres in diamond nanocavities.
Towards a Long Distance Memory Assisted Quantum Repeater
Authors: Wallace Chase , Lodhen Tsering , Castillo-Veneros Leonardo , Del Valle Anthony , Du Dounan , Woronick Samuel , Katramatos Dimitrios , Martínez-Rincón Julián , Gera Sonali , Figueroa Eden
Published: September 2024

We report our progress towards performing memory-assisted entanglement swapping using deployed fiber in a five-node 259 km network testbed. Our quantum repeater testbed is envisioned to push beyond the PLOB boundary of repeaterless networks.
Superconducting single-photon camera for quantum state tomography
Authors: Brosseau P. , Vetlugin A.N. , Adamo G. , Dong S. , Soci C.
Published: September 2024

We report our progress in designing and fabricating a quantum-state tomography camera operating at a single-photon level, based on superconducting nanowire metamaterials single-photon detectors with polarization selectivity.
Photon Quantum Interference for Quantum Position Verification with Four Detectors
Authors: Kanneworff Kirsten N. , Steindl Petr , Poortvliet Mio T.L. , Löffler Wolfgang
Published: September 2024

We show a first proof of concept experiment of quantum position verification using single photons produced 1 µs apart in a quantum-dot cavity-QED system.
A long-distance two-node quantum network with silicon vacancies in diamond nanocavities
Authors: Wei Y.-C. , Knaut C. M. , Suleymanzade A. , Assumpcao D. R. , Stas P. -J. , Huan Y.Q. , Machielse B. , Knall E. N. , Sutula M. , Baranes G. , Sinclair N. , De-Eknamkul C. , Levonian D. S. , Bhaskar M. K. , Park H. , Loncar M. , Lukin M. D.
Published: September 2024

A key challenge in realizing long-distance quantum networks involves entanglement between memory nodes via existing fiber infrastructure. Here, we demonstrate a two-node quantum network based on Silicon Vacancy defect centers in diamond nanophotonic cavities integrated with a metropolitan telecommunication fiber network [1].
Mid-IR and Telecom Bands Interconnection through Direct Generation of Quantum Correlated Photons: an Integrated Silicon Photonics route
Authors: Pandey Abhishek Kumar , Jain Deepak , Baskiotis Catherine
Published: September 2024

We propose a Silicon-On-Insulator waveguide for Four-Wave Mixing conversion of two pump photons at 2260 nm into a correlated photon pair with signal wavelength in the mid-IR band and idler wavelength in the C-band.
Optimization of inhibited-coupling hollow-core fibers for quantum entangled photon source platforms
Authors: Rosa L. , Belardi W. , Melli F. , Cucinotta A. , Vincetti L.
Published: September 2024

We present developments on generation platforms for correlated entangled photon pairs in gases using hollow-core inhibited-coupling optical fibers. Non-linear simulation on tube lattice fibers can be accomplished through innovative techniques based on fast analytical optimization.
SiN/ GaAs quantum photonic platform with eﬃcient fiber-coupling
Authors: De Witte Jasper , Liu Zhe , Shadmani Atefeh , Vanackere Tom , Vandekerckhove Tom , Roelkens Gunther , Pedersen Claus , Midolo Leonardo , Van Thourhout Dries , Kuyken Bart
Published: September 2024

High demands on quantum photonic experiments necessitate full integration of its building blocks. We integrated GaAs nanobeams embedded with InAs quantum dots on SiN as well as SU8 spot size convertors for efficient fiber coupling.
Optimization of AlGaAs-Based Bragg-Reflection Waveguides for Entangled Photon Sources in Telecom C-Band
Authors: Passow Thorsten , Yang Quankui , Leidel Vivienne , Keil Robert , Giudicatti Silvia , Preschle Marina , Diwo-Emmer Elke , Waltereit Patrick , Härtelt Marko
Published: September 2024

We realized AlGaAs-based waveguides with reduced effective refractive index difference of TE and TM polarized modes which are promising for generation of entangled photons with high concurrence at high rate.
Quantum detector tomography of MgB2nanowire
Authors: Sidorova Mariia , Semenov Alexej D. , Cherednichenko S. , Charaev I. , Vetlugin A.N. , Soci C. , Hübers H.-W.
Published: September 2024

We perform quantum detector tomography of a novel, unknown detector – superconducting magnesium diboride nanowire, and show that reconstructed POVM elements provide insights into underlying detection mechanism and multiphoton detection efficiencies.
Universal Control of Symmetric States Using Spin Squeezing
Authors: Gutman Nir , Gorlach Alexey , Tziperman Offek , Ruimy Ron , Kaminer Ido
Published: September 2024

We present protocols relying on coherent rotations and squeezing for the creation of arbitrary symmetric states. The obtained states can be further transferred to traveling photonic states via spontaneous emission, enabling engineered quantum light states.
Heterogeneous Integration of GaAs Waveguides with Silicon Nitride Photonic Integrated Circuits
Authors: Shadmani Atefeh , Nielsen Arnulf J. S. , Heck Martijn J. R. , Volet Nicolas , Scholz Sven , Ludwig Arne , Wieck Andreas D. , Midolo Leonardo
Published: September 2024

The heterogeneous integration of GaAs waveguides with embedded quantum dots on a silicon nitride chip is presented. Efficient optical light coupling between the two waveguide layers is realized by designing a taper-based spot-size converter.
Polarization-entangled Photon-pair Generation in Thin-film Lithium Niobate Waveguides
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Saravi Sina , Pertsch Thomas , Setzpfandt Frank
Published: September 2024

Polarization-entangled photon-pair states are useful for quantum applications. Here, we propose generation of these states with controlled spectral properties using doubly periodically poled and dispersion-engineered thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) ridge waveguides.
Extending classical boson sampling techniques
Authors: van den Hoven S. N. , Kanis E. , Renema J. J.
Published: September 2024

We extend classical simulation techniques for noisy boson sampling twice. First, we extend the algorithm to include realistic, non-uniform, partially distinguishable photons. Second, we extend the simulation technique to a particular family of structured matrices.
Experimental Generation of Three-dimensional Cluster Entangled State
Authors: Roh Chan , Gwak Geunhee , Yoon Young-Do , Ra Young-Sik
Published: September 2024

We deterministically generate three-dimensional cluster entangled state in time-frequency modes of ultrafast quantum light. Moreover, we verify the cluster state generation by nullifier measurements as well as full inseparability test.
Fluorescence detected photon echoes in Er3+:Y2SiO5
Authors: Basset Félix Montjovet- , Panigrahi Jayash , Serrano Diana , Tallaire Alexandre , Bertet Patrice , Tiranov Alexey , Goldner Philippe
Published: September 2024

Understanding the dephasing dynamics of quantum materials with a low number of emitters is crucial for optimizing them for quantum nanophotonics. Here, we investigate the recovery of photon echoes from fluorescence emissions in rare-earth doped systems.
Entanglement Distribution using Loop-Based Quantum Memories
Authors: Pittman Todd B. , Evans Carson J. , Nunn Cory M. , Cheng Sandra W.L. , Franson James D.
Published: September 2024

We describe experimental work on storing polarization-entangled photons in distant “loop-based” quantum memories. The inherently broadband nature of this memory platform offers advantages in various entanglement distribution and quantum networking applications.
The coral pathogen Vibrio coralliilyticus uses a T6SS to secrete a group of novel anti-eukaryotic effectors that contribute to virulence
Authors: Mass Shir , Cohen Hadar , Podicheti Ram , Rusch Douglas B. , Gerlic Motti , Ushijima Blake , van Kessel Julia C. , Bosis Eran , Salomon Dor
Published: September 2024

Vibrio coralliilyticus is a pathogen of coral and shellfish, leading to devastating economic and ecological consequences worldwide. Although rising ocean temperatures correlate with increased V. coralliilyticus pathogenicity, the specific molecular mechanisms and determinants contributing to virulence remain poorly understood. Here, we systematically analyzed the type VI secretion system (T6SS), a contact-dependent toxin delivery apparatus, in V. coralliilyticus. We identified 2 omnipresent T6SSs that are activated at temperatures in which V. coralliilyticus becomes virulent; T6SS1 is an antibacterial system mediating interbacterial competition, whereas T6SS2 mediates anti-eukaryotic toxicity and contributes to mortality during infection of an aquatic model organism, Artemia salina. Using comparative proteomics, we identified the T6SS1 and T6SS2 toxin arsenals of 3 V. coralliilyticus strains with distinct disease etiologies. Remarkably, T6SS2 secretes at least 9 novel anti-eukaryotic toxins comprising core and accessory repertoires. We propose that T6SSs differently contribute to V. coralliilyticus’s virulence: T6SS2 plays a direct role by targeting the host, while T6SS1 plays an indirect role by eliminating competitors.
Accelerating joint species distribution modelling with Hmsc-HPC by GPU porting
Authors: Rahman Anis Ur , Tikhonov Gleb , Oksanen Jari , Rossi Tuomas , Ovaskainen Otso
Published: September 2024

Joint species distribution modelling (JSDM) is a widely used statistical method that analyzes combined patterns of all species in a community, linking empirical data to ecological theory and enhancing community-wide prediction tasks. However, fitting JSDMs to large datasets is often computationally demanding and time-consuming. Recent studies have introduced new statistical and machine learning techniques to provide more scalable fitting algorithms, but extending these to complex JSDM structures that account for spatial dependencies or multi-level sampling designs remains challenging. In this study, we aim to enhance JSDM scalability by leveraging high-performance computing (HPC) resources for an existing fitting method. Our work focuses on the Hmsc R-package, a widely used JSDM framework that supports the integration of various dataset types into a single comprehensive model. We developed a GPU-compatible implementation of its model-fitting algorithm using Python and the TensorFlow library. Despite these changes, our enhanced framework retains the original user interface of the Hmsc R-package. We evaluated the performance of the proposed implementation across various model configurations and dataset sizes. Our results show a significant increase in model fitting speed for most models compared to the baseline Hmsc R-package. For the largest datasets, we achieved speed-ups of over 1000 times, demonstrating the substantial potential of GPU porting for previously CPU-bound JSDM software. This advancement opens promising opportunities for better utilizing the rapidly accumulating new biodiversity data resources for inference and prediction.
Overcoming CRISPR-Cas9 off-target prediction hurdles: A novel approach with ESB rebalancing strategy and CRISPR-MCA model
Authors: Yang Yanpeng , Zheng Yanyi , Zou Quan , Li Jian , Feng Hailin
Published: September 2024

The off-target activities within the CRISPR-Cas9 system remains a formidable barrier to its broader application and development. Recent advancements have highlighted the potential of deep learning models in predicting these off-target effects, yet they encounter significant hurdles including imbalances within datasets and the intricacies associated with encoding schemes and model architectures. To surmount these challenges, our study innovatively introduces an Efficiency and Specificity-Based (ESB) class rebalancing strategy, specifically devised for datasets featuring mismatches-only off-target instances, marking a pioneering approach in this realm. Furthermore, through a meticulous evaluation of various One-hot encoding schemes alongside numerous hybrid neural network models, we discern that encoding and models of moderate complexity ideally balance performance and efficiency. On this foundation, we advance a novel hybrid model, the CRISPR-MCA, which capitalizes on multi-feature extraction to enhance predictive accuracy. The empirical results affirm that the ESB class rebalancing strategy surpasses five conventional methods in addressing extreme dataset imbalances, demonstrating superior efficacy and broader applicability across diverse models. Notably, the CRISPR-MCA model excels in off-target effect prediction across four distinct mismatches-only datasets and significantly outperforms contemporary state-of-the-art models in datasets comprising both mismatches and indels. In summation, the CRISPR-MCA model, coupled with the ESB rebalancing strategy, offers profound insights and a robust framework for future explorations in this field.
Energy landscapes of peptide-MHC binding
Authors: Collesano Laura , Łuksza Marta , Lässig Michael
Published: September 2024

Molecules of the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) present short protein fragments on the cell surface, an important step in T cell immune recognition. MHC-I molecules process peptides from intracellular proteins; MHC-II molecules act in antigen-presenting cells and present peptides derived from extracellular proteins. Here we show that the sequence-dependent energy landscapes of MHC-peptide binding encode class-specific nonlinearities (epistasis). MHC-I has a smooth landscape with global epistasis; the binding energy is a simple deformation of an underlying linear trait. This form of epistasis enhances the discrimination between strong-binding peptides. In contrast, MHC-II has a rugged landscape with idiosyncratic epistasis: binding depends on detailed amino acid combinations at multiple positions of the peptide sequence. The form of epistasis affects the learning of energy landscapes from training data. For MHC-I, a low-complexity problem, we derive a simple matrix model of binding energies that outperforms current models trained by machine learning. For MHC-II, higher complexity prevents learning by simple regression methods. Epistasis also affects the energy and fitness effects of mutations in antigen-derived peptides (epitopes). In MHC-I, large-effect mutations occur predominantly in anchor positions of strong-binding epitopes. In MHC-II, large effects depend on the background epitope sequence but are broadly distributed over the epitope, generating a bigger target for escape mutations due to loss of presentation. Together, our analysis shows how an energy landscape of protein-protein binding constrains the target of escape mutations from T cell immunity, linking the complexity of the molecular interactions to the dynamics of adaptive immune response.
The impact of modified incision height and surgical procedure on trichiasis surgery outcomes: Results of the maximizing trichiasis surgery success (MTSS) randomized trial
Authors: Gower Emily W. , Sisay Alemayehu , Bayissasse Belay , Seyum Dawit , Weaver Jerusha , Munoz Beatriz , Keil Alexander P. , Bankoski Andrea , Sullivan Kristin M. , Kana Hashiya , Admassu Fisseha , Tadesse Demissie , Merbs Shannath L.
Published: September 2024

Background

Poor surgical outcomes remain a problem in trachoma-endemic countries working to reach elimination thresholds. Methods to improve outcomes could positively impact programmatic success.

Methods

This parallel, three-armed clinical trial conducted in Ethiopia randomized individuals with previously unoperated trachomatous trichiasis (TT) to receive surgery utilizing one of three approaches: bilamellar tarsal rotation with a 3 mm incision height (BLTR-3), BLTR with 5 mm incision height (BLTR-5) and posterior lamellar tarsal rotation (PLTR). We followed participants for one year. The primary outcome was post-operative trichiasis (PTT). Secondary outcomes were eyelid contour abnormalities (ECA) and pyogenic granulomata.

Findings

We randomized and operated on 4,914 individuals with previously unoperated TT (6,940 eyes). Primary analyses include 6,815 eyes with follow-up. Overall, 1,149 (16.9%) eyes developed PTT. The risk difference for PTT was minimal comparing BLTR-3 and PLTR (adjusted risk difference [aRD] 1.8% (98.3%CI: -0.5–4.2%)), but significantly higher for BLTR-5 surgeries compared to BLTR-3 (aRD: 6.7% (3.9–9.4%)) and PLTR (aRD: 8.6% (5.9–11.3%)). BLTR-5 had the lowest ECA (6.1% versus 9.6% BLTR-3, 11.2% PLTR) and granuloma rates (5.2% versus 6.5% BLTR-3 and 7.5% PLTR). One eyelid operated with PLTR experienced an eyelid margin division; four BLTR-3 and eight BLTR-5 eyelids experienced excessive bleeding.

Interpretation

We do not recommend modifying the BLTR incision height of 3 mm. Overall, we did not find a significant difference in PTT between BLTR-3 and PLTR in terms of PTT or ECA.

Trial registration

Registration number: NCT03100747; ClinicalTrials.gov

Full study protocol available at (https://doi.org/10.15139/S3/QHZXWD)
A novel antigen biomarker for detection of high-level of Loa loa microfilaremia
Authors: Greene Sarah E. , Huang Yuefang , Fischer Kerstin , Rosa Bruce A. , Martin John , Mitreva Makedonka , Yates Devyn , Wanji Samuel , Kamgno Joseph , Budge Philip J. , Weil Gary J. , Fischer Peter U.
Published: September 2024

Background

Loiasis is a disease caused by the nematode Loa loa. Serious adverse events sometimes occur in people with heavy L. loa microfilaremia after ivermectin treatment. In regions of Central Africa where loiasis is endemic, this significantly impedes global elimination programs for lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis that use mass distribution of ivermectin. Improved diagnostic tests to identify individuals at increased risk of serious adverse events could facilitate efforts to eliminate lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis in this region.

Methods and findings

We previously identified the L. loa protein Ll-Bhp-1 in loiasis patient sera. Here, we further characterize Ll-Bhp-1 and report development of an antigen capture ELISA to detect this antigen. This assay detected Ll-Bhp-1 in 74 of 116 (63.8%) loiasis patient sera. Ll-Bhp-1 levels were significantly correlated with L. loa microfilarial counts, and the sensitivity of the assay was highest for samples from people with high counts, (94% and 100% in people with ≥20,000 and ≥50,000 microfilaria per milliliter of blood, respectively). The antigen was not detected in 112 sera from people with other filarial infections, or in 34 control sera from the USA.

Conclusions

This Ll-Bhp-1 antigen assay is specific for loiasis, and highly sensitive for identifying people with high L. loa microfilarial counts who are at increased risk for serious adverse events after ivermectin treatment. L. loa antigen detection has the potential to facilitate loiasis mapping efforts and programs to eliminate lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis in Central Africa.
Changing seroprevalence of schistosomiasis japonica in China from 1982 to 2020: A systematic review and spatial analysis
Authors: Zhou Yu , Zheng Mao , Gong Yanfeng , Huang Junhui , Wang Jiamin , Xu Ning , Tong Yixin , Chen Yue , Jiang Qingwu , Cai Yu , Zhou Yibiao
Published: September 2024

Background

Schistosomiasis is a global public health issue. In China, while the seroprevalence of Schistosomiasis japonica has currently reduced to a relatively low level, risk of infection still exists in certain areas. However, there has been a lack of comprehensive research on the long-term trends of national seroprevalence, changes across age groups, and characteristics in spatial distribution, which is crucial for effectively targeting interventions and achieving the goal of eliminating schistosomiasis by 2030. Our study aimed to address this gap by analyzing the long-term trends of Schistosomiasis japonica seroprevalence in China from 1982 to 2020 based on the data from diverse sources spanning a period of 39 years.

Methodology

Seroprevalence data were collected from literature databases and national schistosomiasis surveillance system. Meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the seroprevalence. Joinpoint model was used to identify changing trend and inflection point. Inverse distance weighted interpolation was used to determine the spatial distribution of seroprevalence.

Principal findings

The seroprevalence decreased from 34.8% in 1982 to 2.4% in 2020 in China. Before 2006, the seroprevalence was higher in the middle age group, and a pattern of increasing with age was observed afterwards. The areas with high seroprevalence existed in Dongting Lake, Poyang Lake, Jianghan Plain, the Anhui branch of the Yangtze River and some localized mountainous regions in Sichuan and Yunnan provinces.

Conclusions/Significance

There was a significant decline in the seroprevalence of Schistosomiasis japonica from 1982 to 2020 in China. Nevertheless, schistosomiasis has not been eradicated; thus, implementing precise and personalized monitoring measures is crucial for the elimination of schistosomiasis, especially in endemic areas and with a particular focus on the elderly.
Changes in mortality due to Chronic Liver Diseases (CLD) during the COVID-19 pandemic: Data from the United States’ National Vital Statistics System
Authors: Paik James M. , Shah Dipam , Eberly Katherine , Golabi Pegah , Henry Linda , Younossi Zobair M.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

We assessed chronic liver disease (CLD)-related mortality in the U.S. using death data (2011–2021) obtained from National Vital Statistics System (NVSS). The average annual percentage change (AAPC) from the models selected by Joinpoint regression analysis over the pre-pandemic (2011–2019) and the 2019–2021 were reported because non-linear trend in death rates were observed over the 2011–2021. Liver-specific death was defined as an underlying cause of death and Chronic liver disease (CLD)-related death was defined as any cause of death. During the pre-pandemic, age-standardized HCC- and cirrhosis-specific death rates were annually increased by AAPC = +1.18% (95% confidence interval, 0.34% to 2.03%) and AAPC = +1.95% (1.56% to 2.35%). In contrast, during the 2019–2021, the AAPC in age-standardized cirrhosis-specific death rate (per 100,000) accelerated by up to AAPC +11.25% (15.23 in 2019 to 18.86 in 2021) whereas that in age-standardized HCC-specific death rate slowed to -0.39 (-1.32% to 0.54%) (3.86 in 2019 to 3.84 in 2021). Compared to HCC-specific deaths, cirrhosis-specific deaths were more likely to be non-Hispanic white (72.4% vs. 62.0%) and non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska native (AIAN) (2.2% vs. 1.1%) and have NAFLD (45.3% vs. 12.5%) and ALD (27.6% vs. 22.0%). During the 2019–2021, the age-standardized HCV- and HBV-related death rate stabilized, whereas the age-standardized NAFLD- and ALD-related deaths rate increased to 20.16 in 2021 (AAPC = +12.13% [7.76% to 16.68%]) and to 14.95 in 2021 (AAPC = +18.30% [13.76% to 23.03%]), which were in contrast to much smaller incremental increases during the pre-pandemic (AAPC = +1.82% [1.29% to 2.35%] and AAPC = +4.54% [3.97% to 5.11%]), respectively). The most pronounced rise in the age-standardized NAFLD-related death rates during the pandemic was observed among AIAN (AAPC = +25.38%), followed by non-Hispanic White female (AAPC = +14.28%), whereas the age-standardized ALD-related death rates during the pandemic were highest among AIAN (AAPC = +40.65%), followed by non-Hispanic Black female (AAPC = +26.79%).

Conclusions

COVID-19 pandemic had a major negative impact on cirrhosis-specific and CLD-related mortality in the U.S. with significant racial and gender disparities.
Assessment of photodynamic therapy with annatto and led for the treatment of halitosis in mouth-breathing children: Randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Bruno Laura Hermida , Mandetta Amanda Rafaelly Honório , Sobral Ana Paula Taboada , Leal Gonçalves Marcela Leticia , Santos Elaine Marcilio , Fossati Ana Laura , Gallo Juliana Maria Altavista Sagretti , Motta Pamella de Barros , Deana Alessandro Melo , Horliana Anna Carolina Ratto Tempestini , Motta Lara Jansiski , Ferrari Raquel Agnelli Mesquita , Santos Fernandes Kristianne Porta , Kalil Bussadori Sandra
Published: September 2024

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) employing an annatto-based (20%) dye combined with blue LED for the treatment of halitosis in mouth-breathing children.

Materials and methods

Fifty-two children six to twelve years of age with diagnoses of mouth breathing and halitosis (score of ≥ 3 on portable breath meter) Breath Alert™ (Tanita Corporation®-Japan), were randomly allocated to two groups (n = 26). Group 1: brushing, dental floss and aPDT applied to middle third of the dorsum of the tongue. Group 2: brushing, dental floss and tongue scraper. Breath meter results before, immediately after treatment as well as seven and 30 days after treatment were compared. The hypothesis of normality in the data was discarded by the Shapiro-Wilk test (p < 0.05) and for statistical analysis the Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests were used.

Results

A significant difference was found between the pre-treatment reading and all other readings (p < 0.05) in both groups, suggesting the effectiveness of the proposed treatments. No significant difference was found between the post-treatment reading and two follow-up readings, suggesting the maintenance of the effect of treatment over time (p > 0.05). However, significant differences were found between groups for all post-treatment assessments (p < 0.0001 for all comparisons), indicating greater effectiveness with aPDT. No association was found between the initial reading and the presence of coated tongue.

Conclusion

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy using annatto and blue LED proved to be a viable therapeutic option for the treatment of halitosis in mouth-breathing children.
Effects of environmental impact labels on the sustainability of food purchases: A randomised controlled trial in an experimental online supermarket
Authors: Potter Christina , Pechey Rachel , Clark Michael , Frie Kerstin , Bateman Paul A. , Cook Brian , Stewart Cristina , Piernas Carmen , Lynch John , Rayner Mike , Poore Joseph , Jebb Susan A.
Published: September 2024

Providing consumers with product-specific environmental impact information for food products (ecolabels) may promote more sustainable purchasing, needed to meet global environmental targets. This UK study (N = 1051 participants) investigated the effectiveness of different ecolabels using an experimental online supermarket platform, comparing three labels against control (no label). Significant reductions were found in the environmental impact score (EIS) for all labels compared to control (labels presented: values for four environmental indicators [-3.9 percentiles, 95%CIs: -5.3, -2.6]; a composite score [taking values from A to E; -3.9, 95%CIs: -5.2,-2.5]; or both together [-3.2, 95%CIs: -4.5, -1.9]). Providing ecolabels is a promising intervention to promote the selection of more sustainable products.
A modified fractional short circuit current MPPT and multicellular converter for improving power quality and efficiency in PV chain
Authors: Byanpambé Geoffroy , Djondiné Philippe , Guidkaya Golam , F. Elnaggar Mohammed , Paldou Yaya Alexis , Tchindebé Emmanuel , Kitmo  , Djongyang Noel
Published: September 2024

This article presents the contribution of multicellular converters in improving of the quality of power produced in photovoltaic chain, with the aim of exploiting the maximum power produced by the photovoltaic generator with low oscillations around of the maximum power point (MPP) at steady state and to reduce switching losses. After modeling the multicellular parallel boost converter, fractional short circuit current (FSCC) MPPT was modified to get an estimated photocurrent as a reference to control the inductance current for good functioning of the converter in pursuit of the maximum power point. To verify the performance of the proposed solution, the system was submitted to irradiance and temperature variations. The simulations carried out in the Matlab/Simulink environment presented satisfactory results of the proposed solution, in comparison with the high-gain quadratic boost converter we have a response time of 0.04 s, power oscillations at maximum point around 0.05 W and efficiency of 99.08%; in comparison with the interleaved high-gain boost converter the results show a response time of 0.1 s for the transferred power, a very low output voltage ripples of 0.001% and 98.37% as efficiency of the chain. The proposed solution can be connected to a grid with a reduction of level of the inverter and active filter.