bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The genome sequence of a ground beetle, Clivina fossor (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authors: Crowley Liam M. , Telfer Mark , Barclay Maxwell V. L. , Badham Xavier Richard ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: August 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Clivina fossor (a ground beetle; Arthropoda; Insecta; Coleoptera; Carabidae). The genome sequence spans 612.60 megabases. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 22 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.48 kilobases in length.
INFLUENCE OF METEOROLOGICAL INDICATORS ON OATS YIELD IN CROPPING ROTATIONS
Authors: Postnikov Pavel , Popova V. , Vasina E. , Ovchinnikov Pavel
Published: August 2024

The studies were carried out to assess the influence of predecessors in crop rotations and nutrition background on the formation of oat yields under different weather conditions. The work was carried out in a stationary two-factor experiment in 2016–2020 in the conditions of the Middle Urals on dark gray heavy loamy soil. The experimental design included the following options: crop rotation (factor A) – green manure (green manure fallow (rapeseed), wheat, oats, peas, barley), grain-grass rotation with a share of legumes of 40% (peas, wheat + clover, clover 1 g.p., barley, oats); background nutrition (factor B) – without mineral fertilizers (control); N30P30K36 (on average per 1 ha of crop rotation area - mineral background); N24P24K30 in combination with green manure and straw (organomineral background). The lowest harvest of oat grain was noted in 2016 in severely arid conditions (GTC = 0.63); it varied depending on the predecessor and nutritional background from 1.30 to 1.70 t/ha. The highest productivity of grain fodder crops was observed in 2017-2018 with a hydrothermal coefficient of 1.8...2.0. In the control variant, it varied in the range from 3.09 to 3.69 t/ha, when applying fertilizers – 4.20…5.52 t/ha. In slightly dry conditions in 2020, the productivity of oats in crop rotations in the control was lower than under favorable weather conditions by 30%, and against the background of fertilizers - by 24...33%. In general, the productivity of the grain forage crop in the control depended little on the predecessor in crop rotations. The placement of oats as a second crop after clover on mineral and organomineral nutrition backgrounds ensured a noticeable increase in grain harvest in relation to green manure crop rotation (the second crop after plowing rapeseed), with the exception of 2016. On average, over the years of research, the increase in oat grain in grain-grass crop rotation was 0. 55…0.56 t/ha. The correlation between the productivity of grain fodder crops and the amount of precipitation and the GTC value was positive (r=0.82...0.95), and with the temperature regime during the growing season - negative (r=-0.88...-0.97).
TEST CONTROL OF FUEL PUMPS OF MODERN AUTOTRACTOR EQUIPMENT
Authors: Gricenko Aleksandr , Gavrilov Konstantin , Gimaltdinov Il'dus , Bityukov Maksim
Published: August 2024

The article presents the results of a study of the energy balance when the technical condition of the fuel pump of agricultural machines changes. Over 30% of internal combustion engine failures occur in the fuel system. Timely diagnostics, repairs and maintenance work (the latter is often not provided for or not performed) of electric fuel pumps can increase the service life and service life. Calculation of the energy balance is a prerequisite for developing a new or upgrading an existing method for diagnosing a fuel pump. The importance of using current strength as a diagnostic parameter (when determining the technical condition) of the pump in the mode of creating maximum pressure in the fuel system is emphasized. Based on the research results, an additional diagnostic parameter can be the rate of increase in the pump supply current. Research has shown that with an increase in the hydraulic resistance of the fuel system by 90%, the average rate of current increase was 7.6 A/s. When the hydraulic resistance of the fuel supply system decreased by less than 10%, the average rate of current increase was 19.2 A/s. Current is a sensitive parameter that increases or decreases depending on the level of increase in hydraulic resistance or leaks in the fuel system. The pump power expended on hydraulic losses did not change significantly due to the constant value of the pump operating voltage. The ideas (methods, techniques) developed in the article are in good agreement with the issues of modeling processes in hydrodynamic tribocouplings of high-pressure fuel pumps, in particular for Common Rail systems. The research was carried out at the expense of the Russian Science Foundation grant No. 23-29-10042, Topic: Numerical modeling of processes in hydrodynamic tribocouplings of high-pressure fuel pumps for advanced high-pressure diesel engines https://rscf.ru/project/23-29-10042/.”
Incentive-Aware Models of Financial Networks
Authors: Jalan Akhil , Chakrabarti Deepayan , Sarkar Purnamrita
Published: August 2024

A financial network is a web of contracts between firms. Each firm wants the best possible contracts. However, a contract between two firms requires the cooperation of both firms. This contest between cooperation and competition is studied in “Incentive-Aware Models of Financial Networks” by Akhil Jalan, Deepayan Chakrabarti, and Purnamrita Sarkar. They show how contract negotiations lead to a stable network where no firm wants to change contract sizes. In this network, the size of any contract depends on the beliefs of all firms, not just the contract’s two parties. Minor news about one firm can affect these beliefs, causing drastic changes in the network. Moreover, under realistic settings, a regulator cannot trace the source of such changes. This research illustrates the importance of firms’ beliefs and their implications for network stability. The insights could inform regulatory strategies and financial risk management.
Sarcomatoid Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma with Brain Metastasis: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Tu Qi , Xu Min , Sun Huiyu , Jiang Jiawei , Zhu Lina , He Yi , Cao Yulu , Zheng Jiawen , Chen Zewei , Xu Zekun
Published: August 2024

Sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma typically signifies an exceptionally poor prognosis, with patients rarely surviving beyond one year. An 83-year-old male presented to our hospital with complaints of headache and left-sided limb weakness. Computed tomography (CT) scans of the head and lungs disclosed a mass within the right temporal lobe, accompanied by peritumoral edema in the right cerebral hemisphere. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with contrast enhancement and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) delineated a mass in the right temporal lobe, measuring 3 × 3 × 3 cm. He underwent cytoreductive surgery successively in the neurosurgery and urology departments. Despite experiencing postoperative tumour recurrence, the patient has lived close to four years to date. This case report illustrates that cytoreductive surgery combined with systemic pharmacotherapy can still confer significant survival benefits for elderly patients
The journey of nurse prescribing
Authors: Mather Linda
Published: August 2024

A snapshot of the evolution of nurse prescribing with Linda Mather
Beyond Purchase Price
Authors: Selby Oliver
Published: August 2024

UK manufacturers need to get realistic about return on investment if they’re going to improve their automation levels.
An overview of the distribution and natural history of Anthaxia olympica Kiesenwetter, 1880 and A. astoreth Obenberger, 1934 (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), with a new synonymy and lectotype designation
Authors: TROJAN ILJA
Published: August 2024

The distribution of Anthaxia olympica Kiesenwetter, 1880 and A. astoreth Obenberger, 1934 is critically reviewed throughout their range. Anthaxia olympica has been recorded from 1026 localities in 21 countries of Europe and Western Asia, while A. astoreth has been recorded from 135 localities in seven Western Asian countries. For the first species, the first detailed distributional record from the Republic of Moldova is presented, while the latter species is for the first time recorded for Iraq. In addition, detailed occurrence data of A. olympica from Azerbaijan with details are provided here for the first time.  Similarly, although A. astoreth has already been listed for Israel, Jordan and Lebanon detailed occurence data from these countries are presented for the first time. Records from literature from all countries are presented here in details, in many cases supplemented by data of the author. A grid map with the distribution of A. olympica in the Czech Republic and Slovakia is presented, as well as a map of the general distribution of both species. Remarks on biology of both species as well as graphs of seasonal dynamics are also provided. The collected data show that A. olympica is monophagous on dog rose (Rosa canina), with only four documented developments in different plant species; on the other hand, A. astoreth has been documented as a polyphagous species. A lectotype for A. olympica is designated here. Based on the study of type materials, Anthaxia denesi Svoboda, 2000 is proposed as junior subjective synonym of A. astoreth.
Supplemental table and figure for "Evaluation of Winter Hydrology Performance of Three Field-Scale Models"
Authors: Kaur Baljeet , Dhiman Jaskaran , Rudra Ramesh , Daggupati Prasad , Goel Pradeep , Macrae Merrin , Prasher Shiv , Shukla Rituraj
Published: August 2024

The deterioration of Lake Erie's water quality is one of the major concerns in North America. A considerable percentage of annual phosphorus runoff occurs during the non-growing season in cold agricultural regions such as those in the Great Lakes region. Consequently, without accurate simulation of water flow during cold periods, reliable modeling of sediment and nutrient loads to surface water bodies is not achievable. Three hydrological models (EPIC, SHAW, and DRAINMOD) were evaluated for their capacity to predict winter tile flow and to highlight the significant processes that have a larger effect on runoff simulation at a field site in Southern Ontario, Canada.
Supplemental information for "Calibration of V-Notch and Compound Weirs for Subsurface Drainage Water Level Control Structures"
Authors: Katuwal Sheela , Johnson Gabriel M. , Craig Andrew J. , Rogovska Natalia , Isenhart Thomas , Malone Robert W.
Published: August 2024

The supplemental information includes derivation of a compound weir equation for a V-notch weir below a rectangular weir, two tables with calibration parameters for V-notch weirs and rectangular weirs used in Agri Drain inline control structures, respectively, and a table consisting of the specification of Agri Drain structures bases on their size.
Quality of Life Analysis of Primary Glaucoma Patients Based on Glaucoma Quality of Life-15 Score at Dr. Moewardi Hospital Surakarta
Authors: Changifer Stephen , Indrakila Senyum , Widiati Retno
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Visual acuity is vital for human's daily life. Glaucoma is a disease that affects visual acuity. In Indonesia, the number of glaucoma cases is quite high and its therapy focuses on eye health indicators. Whereas, Many studies have demonstrated that the quality of life of glaucoma patients diminishes. This research aimed to determine the quality of life of primary glaucoma patients in Dr. Moewardi hospital.

Method: This research was conducted using observational analytic method with cross sectional approach. Sampling process uses probability sampling with purposive sampling method. The subjects of this study were primary glaucoma patients in Dr. Moewardi hospital from July to November 2022. The sample size obtained from the formula was 38 people. Data were analyzed with independent t-test and one-way ANOVA. 

Result: From the data analysis of GQL-15 questionnaire's answer, it was found that there was a decrease in quality of life marked by higher GQL-15 questionnaire score in older patients, longer duration of diagnosis, partially or totally blind and no history of surgery. There was no increase in GQL-15 questionnaire result on patients with higher level of education. GQL-15 score in patients with longer duration of diagnosis (p-value = 0.011) and lower visual acuity (p-value = 0,000) was statistically significant.

Conclusion: Older patient groups, patients with longer duration of diagnosis, blind patients (unilateral or bilateral), and those who had not undergone glaucoma surgery has a worse quality of life. Patients’ visual acuity and duration of diagnosis are significantly correlated with their quality of life.
Low Birth Weight as Predictor of Underweight and Stunting Among Female Students Aged 6-9 Years: an Observational Study in Surakarta
Authors: Shabrina Amalina , Ayusari Amelya Augusthina , Dewi Yulia Lanti Retno , Wiboworini Budiyanti , Sudarsono Joko , Handayani Sutartinah Sri , Rahayu Dwi
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Undernutrition remains a leading cause of premature mortality among children in developing countries. Previous studies discussed that the risk of undernutrition elevated with child’s age, stressing the need to address undernutrition in older children. Maternal factors also caused undernutrition through intergenerational transmission. However, data related to nutritional status of female children age >5 years in Indonesia are lacking. This study aimed to elucidate determinants associated with nutritional status among primary school girls in Surakarta.

Methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional study. A total of 61 female students aged 6-9 years from Nur Hidayah Primary School Surakarta participated in this study. Data were collected through online questionnaire filled by parents who were directed to follow the procedures of anthropometric measurement at home. Z-score was calculated using WHO AnthroPlus software. Nutritional status of children was measured in weight-for-age and height-for-age. Statistical analyses were performed using Spearman’s correlation and backward linear regression. Variables with p<0.05 from the final model were considered as the determinants.

Results: Among study participants, 4.9% were underweight and 9.9% were stunted. Our study found one common determinant of nutritional status by weight-for-age and height-for-age, namely birth weight (p=0.027 and p=0.011 respectively). Maternal height was, in particular, associated with nutritional status by height-for-age (p=0.001).

Conclusion: Birth weight was significantly associated with nutritional status by weight-for-age and height-for-age, while maternal height was significantly correlated with only nutritional status by height-for-age. Nutrition programs for female students such as school lunch and multivitamin supplementation could be implemented to prevent the intergenerational effects of stunting and underweight.
Effect of Red Dragon Fruit Extract (Hylocereus polyrhizus) on Total Cholesterol Levels in Wistar Rats Model of Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Apriliani Devina , Subandono Jarot , Budiastuti Veronika Ika , Hermawan Danus
Published: August 2024

Introduction: The consumption of high fat and sugar can increase the risk of metabolic syndrome. Hylocereus polyrhizus is known to be able to lower total cholesterol levels in the blood. This study aims to determine the effect of Hylocereus polyrhizus extract on total cholesterol levels in Wistar rats with the metabolic syndrome model.

Methods: This study used laboratory experimental research using a pretest and posttest with a control group design. The sample consisted of 30 Wistar rats according to the inclusion criteria which were divided into 5 groups: K1 (positive control), K2 (negative control), K3, K4, and K5 (treatment group). The treatment group was given Hylocereus polyrhizus extract with doses of 60, 120, and 180 mg/200grW. Total cholesterol levels were measured on the 8th, 36th, and 64th day. The data were analyzed using the parameterized One-way ANOVA test followed by Tukey's HSD posthoc test, paired T-test, and Pearson's correlation test.

Results: The average total cholesterol after being given by Hylocereus polyrhizus extract in K3 (137 ± 2.82 mg/dL), K4 (109 ± 2.31 mg/dL), and K5 (100 ± 2.38 mg/dL) was lower than the negative control group. Data analysis showed significant differences (p<0.05) in total cholesterol levels before and after treatment in all groups. The Pearson correlation test explained that the variation dosage of Hylocereus polyrhizus extract had a very strong correlation with a positive correlation with total cholesterol levels.

Conclusion: Induction of Hylocereus polyrhizus extract at doses of 60, 120, and 180 mg/200grW was able to significantly reduce total cholesterol levels.
Correlation between Obesity and Pregnancy Outcomes, Miscarriage, and Mode of Delivery
Authors: Nurinasari Hafi , Fathimatuzzahrah Hanifah , Pradipta Ghazy Wira , Octaviany Frisca Fadhilah , Anggraeni Asih , - Soetrisno
Published: August 2024

Introduction: The obesity pandemic is a source of problems in both developed countries. The obesity is associated with complications before and during pregnancy and even infant death. The study aims to find out the issue of obesity among women of reproductive age, particularly concerning its impact on maternal and fetal outcomes during pregnancy.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional observational study using secondary data with medical records taken at Sebelas Maret University Hospital (UNS Hospital). Subjects were obese pregnant women who gave birth at UNS Hospital. Data from 284 single births were added maternal parameters, obstetric parameters, and newborn parameters were taken and then analyzed univariately, and bivariate analysis was carried out using the Kruskall-Wallis test and the Spearman test for comparison and correlation of each variable.

Results: This study finds lower incidences of postdate pregnancy and instrumental deliveries among obese mothers, but a higher rate of emergency cesarean sections. Newborn anthropometric measurements increase with maternal BMI, indicating a direct association between maternal obesity and newborn health (p = 0.001), while APGAR scores show no significant differences among maternal BMI groups. The findings underscore the importance of addressing maternal obesity to improve both maternal and newborn health outcomes.

Conclusion: The research indicates a correlation between maternal BMI, maternal obstetric characteristics, newborn anthropometric measurements, and APGAR scores. This suggests that interventions aimed at promoting healthy maternal BMI, beginning before conception, continuing throughout pregnancy, and extending into the post-pregnancy period, could potentially improve newborn health outcomes and give long-term health benefits.
Laser enrichment of the 62Ni isotope for betavoltaic devices
Authors: Suryanarayana M. V. , Sankari M.
Published: August 2024

We have studied the laser isotope separation of the 62Ni isotope using a three-step ladder type photoionization scheme. Using density matrix formalism, optimum conditions for the efficient separation of the 62Ni isotope have been derived. The optimum bandwidth of the excitation lasers has been found to be 200 MHz, 1200 MHz, and 1200 MHz for the enrichment of the 62Ni isotope. It has also been shown that it is possible to produce 75 mg/day of 90% enriched 62Ni using the optimized experimental operating parameters derived in this work. Upon irradiation of this enriched 62Ni isotopic mixture, it is possible to produce ∼19mg/day of the 63Ni isotope, which is sufficient to manufacture a 100 µW betavoltaic device each day.
Revealing fractal dynamics by dispersion tuning in a mode-locked fiber laser
Authors: Ni Yiran , Xie Ziyi , Sheng Yulin , Ge Jinman , Peng Junsong , Zeng Heping
Published: August 2024

Fractal dynamics was previously observed by tuning nonlinearity through pump currents in a mode-locked laser. Here we show that the fascinating fractal dynamics (the devil’s staircase) can also be accessed by tuning dispersion only. In this case, the fractal dimension is also the same as that of the devil’s staircase. Standard dispersion control via the cut-back methods is not precise enough to observe the fractal phenomena. A precise and readily dispersion tuning method through software control is thus proposed and confirmed by the numerical simulations. Third-order dispersion is later considered and does not destroy the phenomena, confirming the robustness of the devil’s staircase. Our work confirms the universality of the fractal phenomena in mode-locked lasers, and that the numerical simulations could stimulate future experimental investigations.
Reflection-type orientation-switchable optical differentiator exemplified by the BK7-MoS2 interface
Authors: Shi Jian , Li Jun , He Wenli , Lv Jiangnan , Luo Jingwen , Tong Xuanchen , He Yanliang , Wu Jian , Yin Cheng , Wang Xianping
Published: August 2024

Optical differential operation is an ultra-fast edge information extraction technology that enables identifying the image features, whereas current optical differentiators mainly operate along one or two differential orientations and is incompetent for switching the differential orientation. A reflection-type orientation-switchable optical differentiator is proposed and the BK7-MoS2 interface is used as an example to analyze the edge detection performance. Theory suggests that there are dual modulation methods, one is tuning the incident polarization angle with a Brewster incident angle, and the other one is altering the incident angle with a nearly vertical incident polarization angle. The reason is that the term r
p
/r
s
tan α ≪ 1 is an ignored small quantity under these two situations and the spatial spectral transfer function is closely related to the scale coefficients C
x
and C
y
, whose magnitudes are both the incident polarization angle and incident angle dependent. Our optical differentiator can be combined with other tuning means since some two-dimensional materials are responsive to external stimuli, such as electrical or magnetic fields and defect engineering, these findings have potential applications in optical sensing, machine vision, and biomedical imaging.
Axial clearance measurement method based on time-frequency analysis for high-speed targets in narrow spaces
Authors: Ren Yilin , Zhang Peng , Shao Bin , Liu Xianming , Lei Xiaohua
Published: August 2024

Frequency-scanning interferometry (FSI) is a high-precision distance measurement method. When applied to high-speed moving targets in narrow spaces, the initial short distance combined with significant Doppler effects due to motion can cause the FSI signal to exhibit negative frequency components. Because frequency identification methods only recognize positive frequencies, phase extraction is limited to phase increments, which in turn leads to errors in the initial clearance value derived from the slope demodulation of the phase increment. An axial clearance demodulation algorithm is proposed for FSI signals, based on negative frequency identification and phase correction. By extracting time-frequency signals, using a bidirectional threshold to determine the zero-crossing point of the frequency, and constructing a sign judgment square wave function, the method corrects the frequency interval and the relative phase variation, thereby overcoming the inherent limitations of FSI that require a large initial clearance and low rotational speed. Experimental results demonstrate that at a rotational speed of 12,000 rpm, the corrected average clearance relative to the static average clearance reduces the error from 36.5% to 0.4%.
Cartesian coordinates transformation for backscattering computational polarimetry
Authors: Hao Rui , Zeng Nan , Jiao Wei , He Honghui , He Chao , Ma Hui
Published: August 2024

Computational Mueller matrix polarimetry holds great promise in biomedical studies and clinical applications, providing comprehensive polarization-related vectorial information within the sample. For backscattering polarization imaging systems aimed at in vivo tissue polarimetry, the measurement results can be affected by the Cartesian coordinates transformation due to the vectorial properties of polarized light and the non-collinear characteristics of the measurement system. It can influence the reliability of polarization information decoding and extraction. In this study, we elucidate the coupling effects of the photon and space coordinate systems on the backscattering computational polarimetry and provide complete solutions regarding the Cartesian coordinates transformation. We systematically derive the specific forms of the Mueller matrix elements under all combinations of Cartesian coordinates and demonstrate their interconversion relationships. From anisotropic modulus and direction perspectives, we further investigate the influence mechanism of Cartesian coordinates transformation on different polarization effects. Particularly, polarimetric parameters characterizing anisotropic direction exhibit sensitivity features of true negatives or false positives. Based on theoretical analysis and experimental results, we finally propose correction strategies based on photon and space coordinate system markers. Our study will provide significant insights and references for in vivo research and applications of biomedical optics and biophotonics involving coordinate system selection and transformation such as polarimetric endoscopes, full polarization biosensors, and polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography.
Multi-functional active frequency reconfigurable polarization converter using a simple DC bias circuit
Authors: Zhang Bianmei , Yang Xiaofan , Liu Xiaoming
Published: August 2024

A multi-functional active converter with frequency reconfiguration is proposed and experimentally verified. The unit cell is composed of two T-shaped metal patches connected with a PIN diode. Two metal vias are designed to connect the T-shaped metal to the ground. The T-shaped metal patches are slantly arranged to provide circular polarization conversion. By switching on and off the PIN diode, frequency reconfiguration can be realized. The DC bias is exerted to the PIN diode through two metal vias connecting to the ground. The ground is gracefully designed so that a very simple bias circuit is developed. It is demonstrated that three frequency bands are generated for both off and on states. An incident linear polarization can be converted to right-hand circular polarization, linear polarization, and left-hand circular polarization in these frequency bands, respectively. A circuit model is established to understand the principle of this design. It is found that circuit simulation is consistent with full wave simulation. Measurements conducted during the frequency range of 20-40 GHz shows that good agreement with simulation has been reached.
Geodesic conformal gradient device based on a torus
Authors: Ge Yixiao , Xiao Wen , Chen Huanyang
Published: August 2024

In recent years, optical fields on non-Euclidean geometry have become a hot topic. The geodesic conformal transformation theory, linking curved surfaces with planar gradient refractive indices, holds unique advantages in controlling curved optical fields. However, this theory has not yet addressed surfaces with non-trivial topology with a certain genus. In this work, we design a gradient planar device based on the geodesic conformal transformation theory for toroidal surfaces, which can achieve Gaussian beam focusing. Unlike traditional angle-preserving geodesic theories, the non-zero genus results in the one-to-two discontinuous boundaries in the device, and we utilize inversion transformations to rectify this drawback.
Intensity noise reduction in quantum dot comb laser by lower external carrier fluctuations
Authors: Wang Wenlu , Ding Shihao , Wang Zihao , He Feng , Zhao Shiyuan , Wang Ting , Zhang Jianjun , Xu Xiaochuan , Yao Yong , Huang Heming , Grillot Frédéric , Duan Jianan
Published: August 2024

This work investigates the impact of carrier noise induced by an external current source on the linewidth enhancement factor (LEF) and relative intensity noise (RIN) of a 100 GHz quantum dot fourth-order colliding-pulse mode-locked laser (MLL), driven by a normal pump with Gaussian-distributed carrier sequences and a quiet pump with sub-Poissonian-distributed carrier sequences. The results indicate that under a normal pump, the LEFs are approximately zero for reverse saturable absorber (SA) bias voltages ranging from 0 to 2.5 V, and the laser achieves a RIN as low as −156 dB/Hz. When using a quiet pump, both the LEF and RIN are reduced across all SA bias conditions, particularly at low reverse SA bias voltages. Specifically, the LEF decreases by up to 0.58 at 0 V, and the average RIN spectrum is reduced by more than 3 dB at the same voltage. This work provides a straightforward approach for the development and optimization of multi-channel light sources for dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) technologies with low optical noise.
Restoration of motion-blurred numeral image using a complex-amplitude diffractive processor
Authors: Zhu Haodong , Yin Ruiqi , Hu Tie , Xia Rui , Li Minglong , Zhao Ming , Yang ZhenYu
Published: August 2024

We propose a complex-amplitude diffractive processor based on diffractive deep neural networks (D2NNs). By precisely controlling the propagation of an optical field, it can effectively remove the motion blur in numeral images and realize the restoration. Comparative analysis of phase-only, amplitude-only, and complex-amplitude diffractive processor reveals that the complex-amplitude network significantly enhances the performance of the processor and improves the peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) of the images. Appropriate use of complex-amplitude networks contributes to reduce the number of network layers and alleviates alignment difficulties. Due to its fast processing speed and low power consumption, complex-amplitude diffractive processors hold potential applications in various fields including road monitoring, sports photography, satellite imaging, and medical diagnostics.
Reconfigurable terahertz multifunctional wave plates with VO2/Ge hybrid metasurfaces
Authors: Ba Lingli , Yang Quanlong , Yang Jichen , Dou Yapeng , Wu Fan , Yang Junliang
Published: August 2024

Active control of polarization using metasurfaces is crucial in terahertz optics, offering promising advancements in sensing, imaging, and telecommunications. Here, we developed reconfigurable terahertz multifunctional wave plates by leveraging vanadium dioxide/germanium hybrid metasurfaces. This approach allows for mutual role changing of metasurface among quarter-wave plate, half-wave plate, and full-wave plate, facilitated by the introduction of continuous-wave and pulse lasers. The photoinduced phase change of vanadium dioxide, along with the bridging control of germanium, plays a key role in the transition of multifunctional wave plates. Also, the analysis of polarization conversion ratio, ellipticity, and underlying physics demonstrates the ability of multifunctional wave plates. These discoveries deliver valuable insight into advanced polarization control and demonstrate the potential for innovative active-control devices.
OOPS: Object-Oriented Polarization Software for analysis of fluorescence polarization microscopy images
Authors: Dean William F. , Nawara Tomasz J. , Albert Rose M. , Mattheyses Alexa L.
Published: August 2024

Most essential cellular functions are performed by proteins assembled into larger complexes. Fluorescence Polarization Microscopy (FPM) is a powerful technique that goes beyond traditional imaging methods by allowing researchers to measure not only the localization of proteins within cells, but also their orientation or alignment within complexes or cellular structures. FPM can be easily integrated into standard widefield microscopes with the addition of a polarization modulator. However, the extensive image processing and analysis required to interpret the data have limited its widespread adoption. To overcome these challenges and enhance accessibility, we introduce OOPS (Object-Oriented Polarization Software), a MATLAB package for object-based analysis of FPM data. By combining flexible image segmentation and novel object-based analyses with a high-throughput FPM processing pipeline, OOPS empowers researchers to simultaneously study molecular order and orientation in individual biological structures; conduct population assessments based on morphological features, intensity statistics, and FPM measurements; and create publication-quality visualizations, all within a user-friendly graphical interface. Here, we demonstrate the power and versatility of our approach by applying OOPS to punctate and filamentous structures.
Utilizing mentorship education to promote a culturally responsive research training environment in the biomedical sciences
Authors: Suiter Sarah , Byars-Winston Angela , Sancheznieto Fátima , Pfund Christine , Sealy Linda
Published: August 2024

There is an urgent and compelling need for systemic change to achieve diversity and inclusion goals in the biomedical sciences. Because faculty hold great influence in shaping research training environments, faculty development is a key aspect in building institutional capacity to create climates in which persons excluded because of their ethnicity or race (PEERs) can succeed. We present a mixed methods case study of one institution’s efforts to improve mentorship of PEER doctoral students through mentorship education workshops for faculty. These workshops were one strategy among others intended to improve graduate trainees’ experiences, and positively affect institutional climate with respect to racial and ethnic diversity. Surveys of 108 faculty mentors revealed that about 80% overall agreed or strongly agreed with the value of culturally responsive mentoring behaviors but about 63% overall agreed or strongly agreed that they were confident in their ability to enact those behaviors. Through a series of three focus groups, PEER doctoral students reported that they noticed mentors’ efforts to address cultural diversity matters and identified some guidance for how to approach such topics. We discuss future directions and implications for using mentorship education to activate systemic change toward inclusive research training environments and promoting the value of mentorship within institutions.
Pain medication tapering for patients with Persistent Spinal Pain Syndrome Type II, treated with Spinal Cord Stimulation: A RCT–study protocol of the PIANISSIMO study
Authors: Moens Maarten , Crunelle Cleo Lina , Putman Koen , Wuyts Elke , Bultinck Frenn , Van Puyenbroeck Hubert ,   PIANISSIMO consortium, Goudman Lisa
Published: August 2024

Background

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) may provide pain relief in patients with therapy-refractory Persistent Spinal Pain Syndrome Type II (PSPS-T2). Despite the evidence that SCS can reduce disability and reduce pain medication usage, only 25% of the patients is able to completely omit pain medication usage after 12 months of SCS. To tackle the high burden of patients who consume a lot of pain medication, tapering programs could be initiated before starting a trajectory with SCS. The current objective is to examine whether a pain medication tapering program before SCS alters disability in PSPS-T2 patients compared to no tapering program.

Methods and design

A three-arm, parallel-group multicenter randomized controlled trial will be conducted including 195 patients who will be randomized (1:1:1) to either (a) a standardized pain medication tapering program, (b) a personalized pain medication tapering program, or (c) no tapering program before SCS implantation, all with a follow-up period until 12 months after implantation. The primary outcome is disability. The secondary outcomes are pain intensity, health-related quality of life, participation, domains affected by substance use, anxiety and depression, medication usage, psychological constructs, sleep, symptoms of central sensitization, and healthcare expenditure.

Discussion

Within the PIANISSIMO project we propose a way to reduce the risks of adverse events, medication-induced hyperalgesia, tolerance, and dependence by providing pain medication tapering before SCS. Due to the lack of a commonly accepted in-hospital tapering approach, two different tapering programs will be evaluated in this study. If pain medication tapering programs are deemed to be more effective than no tapering on disability, this would add to the evidence towards an improved patient-centered care model in this patient group and set a clear path to advocate for pain medication tapering before SCS as the new standard treatment guideline for these patients.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05861609. Registered on May 17, 2023.
Voices from the margins: How national stories are linked with support for populist radical right parties
Authors: Oshri Odelia , Amsalem Eran , Shenhav Shaul R.
Published: August 2024

How do national stories shape voter behavior? Do they affect all voters equally, or are some groups more influenced by these narratives? This article examines the impact of "boundary national stories," which highlight clear distinctions between "us" and "them" in national identity, on voting patterns for populist radical right parties (PRRPs). Using original representative election surveys conducted in four Western democracies, we find that voters who embrace a Boundary national story are more likely to vote for Populist Radical Right Parties (PRRPs) than those who do not hold such stories, and that the electoral effect of such stories is more salient for marginalized groups in society. Our findings demonstrate that, while national stories can foster cohesion, they can also drive us apart and polarize our politics. We conclude by discussing the broader implications of these findings for the study of populism in political science.
A qualitative exploration of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gender-based violence against women living with HIV or tuberculosis in Timor Leste
Authors: Martins Nelson , Soares Domingos , Gusmao Caetano , Nunes Maria , Abrantes Laura , Valadares Diana , Marcal Suzi , Mali Marcelo , Alves Luis , Martins Jorge , da Silva Valente , Ward Paul Russell , Fauk Nelsensius Klau
Published: August 2024

Violence against women or gender-based violence (GBV) is a significant public health issue facing women and girls in different settings. It is reported to have worsened globally during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on increased violence against women in general, which has been reported in many settings globally, there is a paucity of evidence of its impact on violence against highly vulnerable women living with HIV or tuberculosis (TB). Using a qualitative design, this study aimed to explore the views and experiences of women living with HIV (n = 19) or TB (n = 23) in Timor Leste regarding the GBV they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. They were recruited using the snowballing sampling technique. Data were collected using one-on-one, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The five steps of qualitative data analysis suggested in Ritchie and Spencer’s analysis framework were employed to guide the analysis of the findings. Findings indicated that women in this study experienced intensified physical, verbal, sexual and psychological violence by their partners, spouses, in-laws, and parents or other family members during the COVID-19 pandemic. Several prominent risk factors that worsened violence against women during the pandemic were (i) HIV or TB-positive status, (ii) traditional gender roles or responsibilities and expectations, (iii) economic and financial difficulties reflected in the loss of jobs and incomes due to the pandemic, and (iv) individual factors such as jealousy and increased alcohol drinking developed during the lockdowns. The women’s experience of GBV during the pandemic also led to various negative psychological impacts. The findings underscore the urgent need for multifaceted interventions to address GBV, which should encompass challenging traditional gender norms, addressing economic inequalities, and targeting individual-level risk factors. The findings also indicate the need for the development of robust monitoring and evaluation systems to assess the effectiveness of policies and interventions addressing GBV where the results can inform future improvement. The findings also indicate the need to include GBV in the protocol or guidelines for HIV and TB management. Future large-scale quantitative studies to capture the magnitude and specific drivers of GBV against women living with HIV and TB during the pandemic are recommended.
Effect of bitter orange blossom distillate on anxiety and sleep disorder in mothers with infants admitted to neonatal intensive care unit: A Randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Dehghan Zahra , Jafarian Amiri Seyedeh Roghaye , Mozaffarpur Seyyed Ali , Shirafkan Hoda , Arzani Afsaneh
Published: August 2024

Objective

Mothers of neonates admitted to the intensive care unit are prone to sleep disorders due to stress and anxiety. Some herbs have anti-anxiety and sedative properties. This study aimed to investigate the effect of bitter orange blossom distillate on anxiety and sleep disorders in mothers with infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit.

Methods

This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted from 2021 May 15 to 2022 February 2, on 60 mothers with NICU-admitted infants in one of the medical teaching centers affiliated with Babol University of Medical Sciences, Iran. Permuted block randomization was used to assign the mothers to the experimental (bitter orange blossom distillate syrup) and control groups (syrup prepared from water and sugar). Given the impossibility of blinding the participants, allocation concealment was used to prevent the researcher from predicting the future allocation of the samples to the groups. In addition, the statistical consultant received coded data pertaining to the type of intervention in each group. A demographic questionnaire, the Spielberger State and Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and the General Sleep Disorder Scale were employed to collect data. We assessed the level of anxiety and sleep disorder (in both groups before the intervention and again after the last day of the intervention). Data were analyzed using SPSS V22 software. A P-value less than 0.05 were considered significant.

Results

The mean and standard deviation of the sleep disorder score in the intervention group from (50.26±5.81) to (44.70±6.94) and in the control group from (50.46±6.95) to (48.53±8.62) changed. The covariance test showed that bitter orange blossom distillate syrup has a significant effect on the improvement of sleep disorders (P = 0.01, Effect size = 0.09), but there was no significant difference in the State and Trait anxiety level of mothers (P = 0.122, 0.144 and Effect size = 0.04, 0.03) respectively.

Conclusions

Due to the positive effect of bitter orange blossom distillate syrup on sleep disorders of mothers with hospitalized babies, this low-cost and low-risk intervention is recommended.

Trial registration

This study is registered at clinicaltrials.gov as Trial ID = IRCT20201209049666N1.
Pathology students’ perceptions of virtual learning: A case study of students in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almohammadi Nawal Hamdan
Published: August 2024

Background

Pathology laboratory classes are traditionally conducted using a conventional light microscope. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and recent technological advances necessitated remote learning through online classes using virtual slides (VS) instead of glass slides (GS).

Aim

The purpose of this study was to gauge the perception of learning pathology using virtual slides (VS) as opposed to glass slides (GS) for medical students in Saudi Arabia. This study would help modify teaching methods with the advancement of the application of newer methods in online teaching.

Methods

This two-phased study evaluated learning outcomes and perceptions in pathology online education for medical students. Using a questionnaire, Phase one analyzed second and third-year students’ perceptions of the teaching methods after an online pathology course. Phase Two assessed the learning outcomes of third-year students during online practical sessions using a pretest and post-test design. Statistical data were collected using a simple additive approach. Statistical tools were used to determine the factors affecting students’ perceptions.

Results

The accessibility of VS at any possible time, location, or device was the most advantageous trait of virtual learning (mean = 2.94±0.9). Students agreed the least with virtual slides as the only optimal method of learning pathology (mean = 2.25±0.9). Most enjoyed the virtual lab experience (51.7%) but still prefer both laboratory-GS and virtual-VS classes (83.5%).

Conclusions

VS had the benefit of accessibility and efficiency. The acceptance of VS was significantly affected by the orientation prior to the online class. Findings showed that VS cannot completely replace GS and more aspects such as technical difficulties and prior VS experience should be explored.
Efficacy of pegylated Graphene oxide quantum dots as a nanoconjugate sustained release metformin delivery system in in vitro insulin resistance model
Authors: Sarkar Kunal , Chatterjee Arindam , Bankura Biswabandhu , Bank Sarbashri , Paul Nirvika , Chatterjee Srilagna , Das Anwesha , Dutta Koushik , Chakraborty Santanu , De Sriparna , Al-Masud Alaa A. , Khan Gausal Azam , Chattopadhyay Dipankar , Das Madhusudan
Published: August 2024

Metformin, the primary therapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), showed limitations such as varying absorption, rapid system clearance, required large amount, resistance, longstanding side effects. Use of Nano formulations for pharmaceuticals is emerging as a viable technique to reduce negative consequences of drug, while simultaneously attaining precise release and targeted distribution. This study developed a Polyethylene Glycol conjugated Graphene Oxide Quantum dots (GOQD-PEG) nanocomposite for the sustained release of metformin. Herein, we evaluated the effectiveness of metformin-loaded nanoconjugate in in vitro insulin resistance model. Results demonstrated drug loaded nanoconjugate successfully restored glucose uptake and reversed insulin resistance in in vitro conditions at reduced dosage compared to free metformin.