bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of Bioindicator Elements in Tissues: Case of Human Teeth Ankylosis
Authors: Konečná Anna , Pořízka Pavel , Štembírek Jan , Hurník Pavel , Vrlíková Lucie , Buchtová Marcela , Kaiser Jozef
Published: December 2023

Our study focused on the analysis of human teeth ankylosis using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy and the elucidation of consequential elemental changes.
Optimizing Spatial Coherence in Collinear Type-1 SPDC with Partially Coherent Pump
Authors: Sharma Preeti , Rao Sakshi , Kanseri Bhaskar
Published: December 2023

We experimentally study the first order interference of collinearly propagating biphotons generated using a partially coherent pump. The visibility of the pattern rapidly degrades with decrease in spatial coherence of the pump.
Optical Anisotropy of NbOCl2
Authors: Wu Shuin Jian , Ho Yi Wei , Ahmadalidokht Isa , Eda Goki , Ling Alexander
Published: December 2023

Guo et al, 2023, report that NbOCl2 is a novel thin-material SPDC source. This work presents optical measurements on thick flakes of the material that differ from standard SPDC sources like LiNbO3.
Simulation of Laser-induced Alignment of Asymmetric Top Molecules at High Temperature
Authors: Zhao Haoran , Centurion Martin
Published: December 2023

We simulate the rotational dynamics of asymmetric top molecules induced by femtosecond laser pulses. We use symmetries and parallelization to reduce computing cost and simulate dynamics at much higher initial temperature than previously possible. © 2023 Haoran Zhao, and Martin Centurion
Calculating the Speed of Light Based on the Properties of the Quantum Vacuum
Authors: Leuchs Gerd , Hawton Margaret , Sánchez-Soto Luis L.
Published: December 2023

Maxwell’s equations perfectly describe the spatio-temporal structure of the electromagnetic field also in vacuum. Modelling the virtual elementary particle – antiparticle pairs in the vacuum as quantum harmonic oscillators reproduces the speed of light exactly.
Strong-Field Homodyne Detection with Superconducting Nanowire Single-Photon Detectors
Authors: Protte Maximilian , Schapeler Timon , Höpker Jan Philipp , Bartley Tim J.
Published: December 2023

Using continuous-wave homodyne detection, we investigate the count rate linearity of two SNSPDs. With the demonstrated broad linear regime and a shot-noise clearance of 47 dB, they are versatile detectors for DV and CV experiments.
Ultrafast Coherent Raman Spectroscopy on Phonon Dynamics at Equilibrium
Authors: Singhapurage Helani A.S. , Senarathna Dinusha M. , Sylvester Jeremy , Neupane Chandra P. , Ganikhanov Feruz
Published: December 2023

We present direct measurements on ultrafast decay rates of optical phonons in KTiOPO4, BaSnO3 and SrTiO3 materials that have been achieved by the Time-domain coherent Raman spectroscopy technique with 120 fs resolution.
Strong-field-driven dissociation dynamics in CO2+
Authors: Hoang Van-Hung , Thumm Uwe
Published: December 2023

We investigate strong-field XUV-IR pump-probe dissociative ionization of CO2 by solving the Schrödinger equation for the nuclear motion in full dimensionality on the lowest five coupled Oppenheimer (BO) potential-energy surfaces. Applying a multi-configurational self-consistent-field quantum-chemistry code to calculate ab initio non-BO, laser dipole, and spin-orbit couplings between adiabatic electronic states, we provide kinetic energy release (KER) spectra for the O(3Pg) + CO+( X2Σ+) and O+(4Su) + CO(X1Σ+) dissociation channels and their branching ratio. Our KER spectra identify the vibrational excitations of CO+ fragments along a dominant 3ω dissociation paths. Mediated by the nuclear dynamics near the conical intersection of the CO2+ A2∏u and B2Σu+ states, we reproduce a core-hole oscillation period 115 fs, in good agreement with the experiment of Timmers et al. [1]. In addition, we find 62 fs oscil-lations in the CO+ fragmentation channel due to quantum beats between specific vibrational and electronic CO2+ states.
Upconverting nanoparticles for high contrast breast cancer biomarker imaging
Authors: Sekar Sanathana Konugolu Venkata , Ma Hui , Komolibus Katarzyna , Dumlupinar Gokhan , Mickert Matthias J. , Krawczyk Krzysztof , Andersson-Engels Stefan
Published: December 2023

We report high contrast upconverting nanoparticles labeling of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 in control pellet arrays and breast cancer tissue. A Fourier transform-based algorithm provided semi-quantitative tissue assessment tool with high background-to-noise ratio.
Integrated Polarization-Diverse Grating Emitters for Trapped-Ion Quantum Systems
Authors: Corsetti Sabrina , Hattori Ashton , Swint Reuel , Notaros Milica , West Gavin N. , Sneh Tal , Knollmann Felix , Callahan Patrick T. , Mahony Thomas , Clements Ethan R. , Kharas Dave , Sorace-Agaskar Cheryl , McConnell Robert , Chiaverini John , Notaros Jelena
Published: December 2023

We design and experimentally demonstrate the first pair of integrated TE- and TM- emitting gratings at a wavelength of 422nm, targeting the 52s1/2-52p1/2 transition of 88Sr+ ions, to enable operations requiring diverse polarizations for integrated-photonics-based trapped-ion quantum systems.
First demonstration of an 8-node Mbps quantum access network based on passive optical distribution network facilities
Authors: Bian Yiming , Pan Yan , Ma Li , Wang Heng , Dou Jiayi , Pi Yaodi , Yang Jie , Li Yang , Huang Wei , Yu Song , Zhang Yichen , Xu Bingjie
Published: December 2023

Quantum access network with 8 nodes and a secret key rate of over 6 Mbps per user is firstly demonstrated using passive optical distribution network facilities, paving the way of high-performance and scalable quantum-secured network.
Guiding light via Lagrange points
Authors: Luo Haokun , Wei Yunxuan , Wu Fan O. , Pyrialakos Georgios G , Christodoulides Demetrios N. , Khajavikhan Mercedeh
Published: December 2023

We present a novel approach to trapping light utilizing the exotic characteristics of Lagrange points. This is achieved in twisted arrangements, whereby guiding channels are induced at locations where the refractive index landscape is defocusing.
Photoelastic Dispersion Coefficient Analysis of Epoxy Regin Samples With and Without Dental Implants
Authors: Prado Felipe M. , de Souza Pedro H. M. , da Silva Sidney L. , Wetter Niklaus U.
Published: December 2023

We characterize the dispersion coefficient of epoxy resin samples using Photoelasticity and digital holography. Furthermore, we analyzed the change in its coefficient with an added ceramic dental implant using traditional Photoelasticity.
High-order Harmonic Generation in the nonadiabatic regime over a sub-mm glass chip
Authors: Azzolin Agata , Giovannetti Gaia , Fan Guangyu , Ahsan Md S. , Rockenstein Sabine , Cannelli Oliviero , Colaizzi Lorenzo , Månsson Erik P. , Faccialà Davide , Frassetto Fabio , Lodi Dario W. , Manzoni Cristian , Vázquez Rebeca Martínez , Devetta Michele , Osellame Roberto , Poletto Luca , Stagira Salvatore , Vozzi Caterina , Wanie Vincent , Trabattoni Andrea , Calegari Francesca
Published: December 2023

In this work we present experimental results on High-order Harmonic Generation in a sub-mm glass cell, showing a remarkable extension of the cut-off explicable in the framework of the nonadiabatic generation regime.
Laser Speckle Imaging of Non-stationary Processes
Authors: Stoykova E. , Nazarova D. , Nedelchev L. , Blagoeva B. , Hong Keehoon , Choi Kihong
Published: December 2023

We proposed laser speckle imaging of speed distribution for a non-stationary process with high spatial and temporal resolution. We proved efficiency of the method by numerical simulation and tracking fast evaporation of a polymer drop on a hot stage.
Fabrication of sputtering-GaN waveguide resonators
Authors: Wu Shih-Hsin , Liu Hung-Sheng , Chen Zhi-Guang , Chen Sheng-Hui , Wang Pei-Hsun
Published: December 2023

We demonstrate sputtering-GaN resonators on the silicon-based substrate. By employing high-power impulse magnetron sputtering, waveguide resonators with quality factor 4×104 can be achieved. This work highlights the potentials for fabricating GaN waveguides using CMOS-compatible processes.
Integrated self-delayed 2-m coil-resonator for high sensitivity optical frequency discrimination and laser linewidth narrowing
Authors: Liu Kaikai , Harrington Mark W. , Wang Jiawei , Nelson Karl D. , Blumenthal Daniel J.
Published: December 2023

We report an integrated self-delayed 2.0 m coil resonator with 61 million intrinsic Q for high-sensitivity optical frequency discrimination and semiconductor laser stabilization with 4 orders magnitude frequency noise reduction and 212 Hz integral linewidth.
Passband shapes that minimize the insertion loss and bandwidth of coupled-resonator bandpass filters
Authors: Zhang Xinchang , Popović Miloš A.
Published: December 2023

We use a general theory to show a new class of bandpass filter shapes for coupled-resonator filters that provides the lowest insertion loss and the narrowest bandwidth achievable for a given intrinsic Q and bandwidth.
Strain-tunable emission from single photon emitters in a Hexagonal Boron Nitride Metasurface
Authors: Manna Arnab , Fröch Johannes E. , Majumdar Arka
Published: December 2023

We propose and demonstrate a large in-situ strain tuning of quasi bound-states in continuum (qBIC) mode coupled photoluminescence of single photon emitters in a partially etched hexagonal boron nitride metasurface at cryogenic temperatures.
Single-Pixel Diffractive Terahertz Processor for Nondestructive Detection of Hidden Objects and Defects
Authors: Li Jingxi , Li Xurong , Yardimci Nezih T. , Hu Jingtian , Li Yuhang , Chen Junjie , Hung Yi-Chun , Jarrahi Mona , Ozcan Aydogan
Published: December 2023

We present the deep learning-based design of a diffractive terahertz processor that rapidly detects hidden defects or objects within a 3D sample by analyzing its output spectrum measured using a single-pixel spectroscopic detector.
Foveated holographic displays based on gaze-contingent hologram generation
Authors: Lee Siwoo , Nam Seung-Woo , Lee Juhyun , Jeong Yoonchan , Lee Byoungho
Published: December 2023

This study presents a novel approach to high-quality gaze-contingent hologram generation, reducing artifacts and achieving a generation speed of 100 Hz for 2k holograms. The simulation results validate its effectiveness, highlighting potential for practical holographic display applications.
Broadband Silicon Nitride Multi-Mode Interferometer with Sub-Wavelength Gratings
Authors: Lin Shuqing , Zhang Yanfeng , Yu Siyuan
Published: December 2023

We designed a silicon nitride multimode interferometer coupler with ultra-broad bandwidth up to 400 nm using sub-wavelength gratings and developed a stable process flow that can filled the grating gap well.
Experimental Demonstration of Fano Resonance Based One Dimensional Plasmonic Metasurface Absorber for Refractive Index Sensing in NIR Regime
Authors: Verma Sagar Kumar , Srivastava Sachin Kumar
Published: December 2023

A Fano resonance-based one-dimensional plasmonic metasurface absorber (PMA) has been fabricated for the NIR regime with a maximum absorbance of 60% at 800 angle of incidence. PMA could achieve a spectral-sensitivity of 3079.945 nm/RIU.
Image Processing of Antibody Detection using Machine Learning for an Optical Bio-sensing Application
Authors: Tieppo Bianca , Vale Daniella L. , Fonsaca Jéssica E. S. , Rehan Mohd , Megid Jane , Teixeira Wanderson S. R. , Grasseschi Daniel , de Matos Christiano J. S. , Saito Lúcia A. M.
Published: December 2023

We propose images processing recorded with a waveguide sensor of an immunological test based on antigen-antibody reaction. Machine Learning combining optical detection identifies bovine brucellosis antibodies and can be useful for other immunoassays.
Universal Quantum Illumination Advantage for Stand-off Target Detection
Authors: Cox Ali , Guha Saikat
Published: December 2023

We provide a proof that Gaussian entanglement can provide up to 6dB of advantage in the error probability exponent compared to using a classical light source of the same signal brightness for the task of discriminating between the presence of two arbitrary objects (whose shapes are known). The proof is based on a perturbative expansion in the high loss and low signal brightness regime of the joint state of the reflected signal and the stored idler mode with which the signal is entangled.
Shallow Recurrent Decoder for Compressed Aero-Optical Wavefront Sensing
Authors: Sahba Shervin , Wilcox Christopher C. , McDaniel Austin , Shaffer Benjamin D. , Kutz J. Nathan
Published: December 2023

We demonstrate SHRED, a SHallow REcurrent Decoder, to augment aero-optical wavefront sensors. The neural network achieves high-fidelity state reconstruction and forecasting using sparse, robust sensor placements, useful for data compression and adaptive optic predictive control.
Using Infrared Light Field Imaging to Remove Fixed Pattern Noise
Authors: S. Joaquin Lermanda , Pinto Matías , Torres Sergio N. , S. Jonathan Torres , Coelho Pablo A.
Published: December 2023

A single camera infrared plenoptic system free of fixed pattern noise is im-plemented using the roughness Laplacian pattern index. Results are then compared to the two-point calibration method using the structural similarity index.
Power Reduction in Photonic Meshes by MZI Optimization
Authors: de Queiroz Maurício Gomes , Cardoso Raphael , Jimenez Paul , Abdalla Mohab , O’Connor Ian , Bosio Alberto , Pavanello Fabio
Published: December 2023

Here, we investigate power reduction techniques for meshes of Mach Zehnder Interferometers (MZI), used for photonic matrix multiplications. We also propose a novel bottom-up algorithm that optimally lowers the applied phase shift in each MZI.
High-Speed Multidimensional Optical Computing
Authors: Fardoost Alireza , Vanani Fatemeh Ghaedi , Zhu Zheyuan , Doerr Christopher , Pang Shuo , Li Guifang
Published: December 2023

A coherent multi-dimensional photonic tensor accelerator performing high-speed matrix-matrix multiplication is proposed and demonstrated. A pattern recognition experiment is demonstrated at a 25Gbps modulation speed exploiting orthogonal dimensions of light including time, wavelength, and spatial mode.
A Framework for Constructing an Image Sensor Based Random Number Generators
Authors: Shafi Albaraa , Prabhakar Anil
Published: December 2023

This work proposes a framework for determining and setting up a random number generators based on spontaneous emission and photon absorption using commercial off-the-shelf complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor image sensors and Light Emitting Diodes.
Optical Hashing for Secure Data Compression in Heterogeneous Convolution Neural Networks
Authors: Kang Haoyan , Solyanik-Gorgone Maria , Ye Jiachi , Nouri Behrouz Movahhed , Wang Hao , Dalir Hamed , Sorger Volker J.
Published: December 2023

We introduce an optical hashing and compression scheme using analog optical AI accelerators for high-speed processing of encrypted data, offering improved performance and data security over electronic machine-learning accelerators.
Wavelet shrinkage-based superposition WASABI-3 for hologram calculations from multi-layer images
Authors: Shiomi Harutaka , Ito Tomoyoshi , Shimobaba Tomoyoshi
Published: December 2023

Since conventional hologram computation from RGB-D images is insufficient to take advantage of their sparsity, WASABI-3 is proposed. The relationship between the number of layered images, computation time, and reconstruction quality is investigated.
Sparse Single Photon Reconstruction through Masked Autoencoder
Authors: McEvoy Luke , Tafone Daniel , Sua Yong Meng , Huang Yu-ping
Published: December 2023

Leveraging masked autoencoders, we achieve 4 times classification accuracy than that of Vision Transformers, and 2 times better classification accuracy than Convolutional Neural Networks on 50% masked LiDAR images acquired with sparse photon detections.
Attosecond Time Delay Trends across the Isoelectronic Noble Gas Sequence
Authors: Grafstrom Brock , Landsman Alexandra S.
Published: December 2023

We use the Relativistic Random Phase Approximation to calculate Wigner delays for the noble gases and their halide counterparts. Our analysis is the first to report on the relative shift in delays between each pairing.
Determining the Orbital Angular Momentum of a Vortex Beam Using the Strong Field Approximation
Authors: Pasquinilli Harrison , Schimmoller Alex , Landsman Alexandra
Published: December 2023

Using a Classical Trajectory Monte Carlo Simulation and a unique setup with a planewave beam perpendicular to a Laguerre-Gaussian beam, the strong field approximation is used to determine the angular momentum of the vortex beam.
Small Signal Frequency Response of a Slotted Photonic Crystal based Raman Laser
Authors: Pradhan Akash Kumar , Prakash Chandra , Sen Mrinal , Pant Rashmi
Published: December 2023

Small signal frequency response of a silicon nanocrystal based slotted photonic crystal Raman laser has been evaluated theoretically by solving the coupled mode equations for laser in steady state. Modulation bandwidth of the order of ~ 144 GHz has been achieved in this type of laser due to the high Raman gain coefficient of silicon nanocrystal.
Wideband Coplanar Terahertz Metamaterial Absorber
Authors: Dey Nikhil , Kaur Sukhvinder , Varshney Ravendra Kumar
Published: December 2023

A coplanar wideband metamaterial absorber at terahertz frequencies has been designed by assembling split ring resonators (SRRs) in matrix form with varying radii and thicknesses. This resulted in absorption ≥99% with a simplified coplanar design.
Does Carrier Envelope Phase Affect the Ionization Site in a Neutral Diatomic Molecule?
Authors: Schimmoller Alex , Pasquinilli Harrison , Landsman Alexandra S.
Published: December 2023

We employ quantum trajectory Monte Carlo techniques to understand the carrier envelope phase (CEP)’s role in N2 strong-field ionization. Simulations indicate the ratio of down-to-upfield ions is roughly 2:1 regardless of CEP.
Unveiling metabolic changes in ex vivo brain tissue through intrinsic NADH autofluorescence imaging using the advanced non-linear optical modality
Authors: Raju Gagan , Gangadharan Gireesh , Managuli Vishwanath , Mahato KK , Mazumder Nirmal
Published: December 2023

Study explores the application of two photon fluorescence lifetime imaging modality to reveal metabolic alterations in ex vivo brain tissue by analyzing intrinsic NADH autofluorescence, providing valuable insights into brain metabolism and potential disease mechanisms.
Optical and Microwave Synthesis with an Er/Yb: Glass Frequency Comb for Precision Metrology of Atomic clocks
Authors: Nardelli Nicholas V. , Fortier Tara M.
Published: December 2023

We present a robust and ultra-low noise Er/Yb:glass optical frequency comb for ultralow noise microwave synthesis from optical references using a digital feed-forward technique, as well as for record-stability inter-species optical atomic clock comparisons.
Photoelectron interferometry for metrology of autoionizing states and electron-core interactions
Authors: Sandhu Arvinder
Published: December 2023

We demonstrate Raman photoelectron interferometry for metrology of autoionizing states with high temporal and spectral resolution. Phases and amplitudes of quantum beats in the spin-orbit split continuum of Argon provide insights into the short-range interactions.
Supercontinuum Light Generation from Water-like Scattering Media
Authors: Mazhar Shah Faisal B. , Alfano Robert R.
Published: December 2023

White light generation for intense 90 femtosecond laser pulses at 800 nm on the anti-Stokes side from scattering in water media with small and large polystyrene particles was experimentally investigated. This work shed light on the propagation of light in free space communication, imaging in tissues and scattering media.
Efficient spatially resolved tomography of polarization entanglement using a fast camera
Authors: Li Cheng , Kulkarni Girish , Soward Isaac , Zhang Yingwen , Upham Jeremy , England Duncan , Nomerotski Andrei , Karimi Ebrahim , Boyd Robert
Published: December 2023

We demonstrate a highly efficient scheme for spatially resolving the polarization entanglement of photon pairs emitted into different paths. This scheme allows probing a two-photon entangled state with an effective dimensionality of over 1000. Our results pave the way for the practical implementations of quantum technologies based on high-dimensional entanglement.
Automatic Differentiation for Phase Retrieval to Measure Extreme Ultraviolet Free Electron Laser Pulses
Authors: Elverson Francesca , Skrodzki Patrick , Bowlan Pamela , Scheinker Alexander
Published: December 2023

We demonstrate work towards applying auto-differentiation to transient grating XFROG traces for phase retrieval to measure Free Election Laser Pulses at ionizing photon energies.
Terawatt-Scale Attosecond X-ray Pulses via Cascaded Amplification at a Free Electron Laser
Authors: Franz Paris L. , Guo Zhaoheng , Bohler Dorian , Cesar David , Cheng Xinxin , Driver Taran , Duris Joseph , Kamalov Andrei , Li Siqi , Lin Ming-Fu , Obaid Razib , Robles River , Sudar Nick , Wang Anna Li , Zhang Zhen , Cryan James P. , Marinelli Agostino
Published: December 2023

High intensity, ultrafast XFEL pulses enable nonlinear x-ray spectroscopies and advanced imaging methods. Here we report the experimental generation of soft x-ray attosecond pulses with TW-scale peak power at the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS).
Femtosecond Optical Transmission Response of Plasmonic Nanohole Arrays
Authors: Pearce Kellie , Kleineberg Ulf
Published: December 2023

We report about theoretical and experimental results on ultrafast optical transmission switching in nanoscaled periodic gold hole arrays. FDTD simulations and fsec laser experiments show an ultrafast spectral transmission beating due to the interference of SPP modes and the laser field. Applications as single-molecule biosensors will be discussed.
Attosecond Currents Reveal Conduction Band Dynamics
Authors: Ossiander M. , Golyari K. , Scharl K. , Floss I. , Smejkal V. , Lemell C. , Hampel H. K. , Meretska M. L. , Lim S. W. D. , Knefz N. , Jauk T. , Capasso F. , Krausz F. , Schultze M.
Published: December 2023

Macroscopic attosecond currents driven in dielectrics by strong light fields after carrier injection by extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) light reveal nonequilibrium conduction band carrier dynamics. To introduce spatial resolution to attosecond physics, we demonstrate novel EUV metasurfaces.
Electron-phonon coupling of the iron pnictide superconductor Ba(Fe0.92Co0.08)2As2
Authors: Bartenev Alexander , Kolodka Roman S. , Eom Ki-Tae , Kang Jong-Hoon , Rua Adrian , Theran Larry , Verbel Camilo , Hellstrom Eric E. , Eom Chang-Beom , Rua Armando , Lysenko Sergiy
Published: December 2023

Femtosecond photoexcitation of Ba(Fe0.92Co0.08)2As2 superconductors reveals distinct dynamics of laser fluence-dependent ultrafast processes. The modified two-temperature model shows the complex interplay between thermalization time constants, electron-phonon coupling parameters, and level of optical excitation.
Structural transition dynamics in FeSe0.8Te0.2 thin film
Authors: Bartenev Alexander , Kolodka Roman S. , Verbel Camilo , Rua Adrian , Theran Larry , Fernandez Felix , Rua Armando , Lysenko Sergiy
Published: December 2023

Time-resolved ultrafast reflectivity measurements along with the two-temperature model analysis reveal a complex interplay between optical nonlinearities, structural phase transition, electronic correlations, electron-phonon energy transfer, and the second moment of Eliashberg function in FeSe0.8Te0.2.
Terahertz narrow bandpass filtering employing high quality-factor bilayer metasurfaces
Authors: Kuo Shin-Chun , Huang Yue , Azad Abul K. , Chen Hou-Tong , Chang Chun-Chieh
Published: December 2023

We present high-performance terahertz narrow bandpass filters based on high quality-factor bilayer metasurfaces. These bandpass filters are mechanically robust and easy to fabricate, and can be actively switched on/off when integrated with vanadium dioxide overcoating.
Refractive Fresnel liquid crystal lenses driven by two voltages
Authors: Feng Wenbin , Ye Mao
Published: December 2023

We propose and demonstrate a high-performance refractive Fresnel liquid crystal (LC) lens with a simple electrode design. The interconnected circular electrodes enable the creation of a parabolic voltage distribution within each Fresnel zone using only two driving voltages. By controlling these voltages within the linear response region of LC material, the desired parabolic phase profile can be achieved. We provide a detailed discussion on the electrode structure design methodology and operating principles of the lens. In our experiments, we constructed a four-zone Fresnel LC lens with a total aperture of 8 mm. The results show that the optical power of the lens can be continuously adjusted from −1.30 D to +1.33 D. Throughout the process of electrically tuning the optical power, the phase distribution within each Fresnel zone maintains a parabolic profile. These results demonstrate the high-performance of the proposed Fresnel LC lens.
Area-level deprivation and individual-level socioeconomic correlates of the diabetes care cascade among black south africans in uMgungundlovu, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Madela Sanele Listen Mandlenkosi , Harriman Nigel Walsh , Sewpaul Ronel , Mbewu Anthony David , Williams David R , Sifunda Sibusiso , Manyaapelo Thabang , Nyembezi Anam , Reddy Sasiragha Priscilla
Published: December 2023

South Africa is experiencing a rapidly growing diabetes epidemic that threatens its healthcare system. Research on the determinants of diabetes in South Africa receives considerable attention due to the lifestyle changes accompanying South Africa’s rapid urbanization since the fall of Apartheid. However, few studies have investigated how segments of the Black South African population, who continue to endure Apartheid’s institutional discriminatory legacy, experience this transition. This paper explores the association between individual and area-level socioeconomic status and diabetes prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control within a sample of Black South Africans aged 45 years or older in three municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal. Cross-sectional data were collected on 3,685 participants from February 2017 to February 2018. Individual-level socioeconomic status was assessed with employment status and educational attainment. Area-level deprivation was measured using the most recent South African Multidimensional Poverty Index scores. Covariates included age, sex, BMI, and hypertension diagnosis. The prevalence of diabetes was 23% (n = 830). Of those, 769 were aware of their diagnosis, 629 were receiving treatment, and 404 had their diabetes controlled. Compared to those with no formal education, Black South Africans with some high school education had increased diabetes prevalence, and those who had completed high school had lower prevalence of treatment receipt. Employment status was negatively associated with diabetes prevalence. Black South Africans living in more deprived wards had lower diabetes prevalence, and those residing in wards that became more deprived from 2001 to 2011 had a higher prevalence diabetes, as well as diabetic control. Results from this study can assist policymakers and practitioners in identifying modifiable risk factors for diabetes among Black South Africans to intervene on. Potential community-based interventions include those focused on patient empowerment and linkages to care. Such interventions should act in concert with policy changes, such as expanding the existing sugar-sweetened beverage tax.
Causal relationship between Helicobacter pylori antibodies and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): A mendelian study
Authors: Chen Jiaqin , Zhang Junning , Ma Xiaolu , Ren Yuehan , Tang Yi , Zhang Zhongmian , Ye Wangyu , Zhang Xiyan , Lin Zili , Wang Lan , Li Zhihong
Published: December 2023

Background

Observational studies have indicated that both Helicobacter pylori infection and the presence of Helicobacter pylori antibodies may increase the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, the exact association between Helicobacter pylori antibodies and the occurrence of GERD remains largely unresolved. Therefore, this two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study aims to investigate the causal relationship between Helicobacter pylori infection and GERD.

Methods

This study encompassed seven different specific protein antibodies targeting Helicobacter pylori and utilized a genome-wide association study (GWAS) on GERD. MR analysis was conducted to assess the causal relationship between Helicobacter pylori antibodies and the development of GERD.

Results

Genetically predicted serum levels of Helicobacter pylori IgG antibodies were positively associated with an increased risk of GERD (odds ratio [OR] = 1.001, 95% CI 1.000–1.003, P = 0.043). No causal relationship was found between other Helicobacter pylori antibodies and gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Conclusion

The outcomes derived from our two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis demonstrate a discernible link between the levels of Helicobacter pylori IgG antibodies and an augmented susceptibility to GERD. However, it is imperative to expand the sample size further in order to corroborate the correlation between Helicobacter pylori infection and GERD.
Adenomyosis in women undergoing hysterectomy for abnormal uterine bleeding associated with uterine leiomyomas
Authors: Lonky Neal M. , Chiu Vicki , Portugal Cecilia , Estrada Erika L. , Chang John , Fischer Heidi , Vora Jamie B. , Harrison Lawrence I. , Peng Lauren , Munro Malcolm G.
Published: December 2023

Background

Uterine leiomyomas and adenomyosis are both common and often associated with abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), including the symptom of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). Understanding the prevalence of adenomyosis in women with uterine leiomyomas could inform clinicians and patients in a way that may improve therapeutic approaches.

Objective

To explore the prevalence of adenomyosis in a group of women who underwent hysterectomy for AUB-L, to determine the prevalence of submucous leiomyomas, and to examine the utility of preoperative ultrasound to detect the presence of adenomyosis.

Methods

The Kaiser Permanente Hysterectomy Database (KPHD) was searched for women aged 18–52 undergoing hysterectomy for leiomyoma-associated chronic AUB (AUB-L) in 2018 and 2019. A target sample of 400 comprised those with at least 3 years in the Health System. Radiologists evaluated preoperative pelvic ultrasound images to determine leiomyoma size and level 2 FIGO type (submucous or other), and the linked electronic medical record abstracted for clinical features, including histopathological evidence of adenomyosis.

Results

Of the 370 subjects that met the study criteria, adenomyosis was identified via histopathology in 170 (45.9%). There was no difference in the adenomyosis prevalence with (47.1%) and without (43.0%) at least one submucous leiomyoma. Subgroup analysis of ultrasound images by an expert radiologist for the presence of adenomyosis demonstrated a positive predictive value of 54.0% and a negative predictive value of 43.4%.

Conclusions

Adenomyosis was present in almost half of this AUB-L cohort undergoing hysterectomy and was equally prevalent in those with and without submucous leiomyomas as determined by sonographic evaluation. The imaging findings are in accord with prior investigators and demonstrate that 2-D ultrasound is insensitive to the presence of adenomyosis when the uterus is affected by leiomyomas. Further research is necessary to determine the impact of various adenomyosis phenotypes on the presence and severity of the symptom of HMB.
The influence of distant surcharge load with a finite length on the cantilever walls
Authors: Akan Recep
Published: December 2023

The behavior of a sheet pile wall constructed on saturated sand soil and exposed to a distant surcharge load with a finite length at the top of the backfill soil is examined in this study. For this aim, various internal friction angles (φ), and natural ground surface for the groundwater level are considered. Furthermore, it is considered that the sheet pile wall acts as cantilevered and supports a six-meter-high (H) excavation. The simple “45° distribution” (AP) and uniform distribution of “Beton Kalender distribution” (BK) methods are examined with Coulomb’s and Rankine’s earth pressure theories in analytical solutions, while the finite element method (FEM) is used as a numerical method. The present research has two primary goals: a) determining the best analytical approach that provides the maximum bending moment (Mmax) values that are more comparable to those of theFEMb) examining the behavior of the sheet pile wall considering several effects of load scenarios, depth (D) and section type (ST) of the wall, and the soil properties together. In this context, parametrical analyses are performed. Consequently, it is found that the distance of the surcharge load (x1) has a pronounced effect than the intensity (q)and length (Ls) of the surcharge load on the behavior of the sheet pile, and this effect vanishes for the large values ofx1. Furthermore, Coulomb theory provides more convenient values withFEMforMmaxthan those obtained from Rankine theory. TheMmaxvalues obtained fromFEMare generally less than those fromBK, while they are greater than those fromAPC.
Inflation targeting: A time-frequency causal investigation
Authors: Islam Tanweer Ul , Ahmed Dajeeha
Published: December 2023

The enduring discourse regarding the effectiveness of interest rate policy in mitigating inflation within developing economies is characterized by the interplay of structural and supply-side determinants. Moreover, extant academic literature fails to resolve the direction of causality between inflation and interest rates. Nevertheless, the prevalent adoption of interest rate-based monetary policies in numerous developing economies raises a fundamental inquiry: What motivates central banks in these nations to consistently espouse this strategy? To address this inquiry, our study leverages wavelet transformation to dissect interest rate and inflation data across a spectrum of frequency scales. This innovative methodology paves the way for a meticulous exploration of the intricate causal interplay between these pivotal macroeconomic variables for twenty-two developing economies using monthly data from 1992 to 2022. Traditional literature on causality tends to focus on short- and long-run timescales, yet our study posits that numerous uncharted time and frequency scales exist between these extremes. These intermediate scales may wield substantial influence over the causal relationship and its direction. Our research thus extends the boundaries of existing causality literature and presents fresh insights into the complexities of monetary policy in developing economies. Traditional wisdom suggests that central banks should raise interest rates to combat inflation. However, our study uncovers a contrasting reality in developing economies. It demonstrates a positive causal link between the policy rate and inflation, where an increase in the central bank’s interest rates leads to an upsurge in price levels. Paradoxically, in response to escalating prices, the central bank continues to heighten the policy rate, thereby perpetuating this cyclical pattern. Given this observed positive causal relationship in developing economies, central banks must explore structural and supply-side factors to break this cycle and regain control over inflation.
Identification of quantitative trait loci associated with bacterial spot race T4 resistance in intra-specific populations of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Adhikari Pragya , Siddique Muhammad Irfan , Louws Frank J. , Panthee Dilip R.
Published: December 2023

Bacterial spot of tomato is a serious disease caused by at least four species and four races of Xanthomonas- X. euvesicatoria (race T1), X. vesicatoria (race T2), X. perforans (race T3 and T4), and X. gardneri, with X. perforans race T4 being predominant in the southeast USA. Practical management of this disease is challenging because of the need for more effective chemicals and commercially resistant cultivars. Identification of genetic resistance is the first step to developing a disease-resistant variety. The objective of this study was to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) conferring resistance to race T4 in two independent recombinant inbred lines (RILs) populations NC 10204 (intra-specific) and NC 13666 (interspecific) developed by crossing NC 30P x NC22L-1(2008) and NC 1CELBR x PI 270443, respectively. Seven QTLs on chromosomes 2, 6, 7, 11, and 12 were identified in NC 10204. The QTL on chromosome 6 explained the highest percentage of phenotypic variance (up to 21.3%), followed by the QTL on chromosome 12 (up to 8.2%). On the other hand, the QTLs on chromosomes 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 11 were detected in NC 13666. The QTLs on chromosomes 6, 7, and 11 were co-located in NC 10204 and NC 13666 populations. The donor of the resistance associated with these QTL in NC 10204 is a released breeding line with superior horticultural traits. Therefore, both the donor parent and the QTL information will be useful in tomato breeding programs as there will be minimal linkage drag associated with the bacterial spot resistance.
Experimental study on the treatment of AMD by SRB immobilized particles containing “active iron” system
Authors: An Wenbo , Hu Xuechun , Chen He , Wang Qiqi , Zheng Yonglin , Wang Jiahui , Di Junzhen
Published: December 2023

The inhibition and toxicity of high acidity and heavy metals on sulfate-reducing bacteria in acid mine drainage (AMD) were targeted. Highly active SRB immobilized particles were prepared using SRB, warm sticker wastes (iron powders), corncobs, and Maifan stones as the main matrix materials, employing microbial immobilization technology. The repair ability and reusability of highly active immobilized particles for AMD were explored. The results indicate that the adaptability of immobilized particles to AMD varied under different initial conditions, such as pH, Mn2+, and SO42-. The adsorption process of immobilized particles on Mn2+ follows the quasi-second-order kinetic model, suggesting that it involves both physical and chemical adsorption. The maximum adsorption capacity of immobilized particles for Mn2+ is 3.878 mg/g at a concentration of 2.0 mg/L and pH 6. On the other hand, the reduction process of immobilized particles on SO42- adheres to the first-order reaction kinetics, indicating that the reduction of SO42- is primarily driven by the dissimilation reduction of SRB. The maximum reduction rate of SO42- by immobilized particles is 94.23% at a concentration of 800 mg/L and pH 6. A layered structure with a flocculent appearance formed on the surface of the immobilized particles. The structure’s characteristics were found to be consistent with sulfate green rust (FeII4FeIII2(OH)12SO4·8H2O). The chemisorption, ion exchange, dissimilation reduction, and surface complexation occurring between the matrices in the immobilized particles can enhance the alkalinity of AMD and decrease the concentration of heavy metals and sulfates. These results are expected to offer novel insights and materials for the treatment of AMD using biological immobilization technology, as well as improve our understanding of the mechanisms behind biological and abiotic enhanced synergistic decontamination.
Exponential adoption of battery electric cars
Authors: Jung Felix , Schröder Malte , Timme Marc
Published: December 2023

The adoption of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) may significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions caused by road transport. However, there is wide disagreement as to how soon battery electric vehicles will play a major role in overall transportation. Focusing on battery electric passenger cars, we analyze BEV adoption across 17 individual countries, Europe, and the World, and consistently find exponential growth trends. Modeling-based estimates of future adoption given past trends suggest system-wide adoption substantially faster than typical economic analyses have proposed so far. For instance, we estimate the majority of passenger cars in Europe to be electric by about 2031. Within regions, the predicted times of mass adoption are largely insensitive to model details. Despite significant differences in current electric fleet sizes across regions, their growth rates consistently indicate fast doubling times of approximately 15 months, hinting at radical economic and infrastructural consequences in the near future.
A genocídium-fogalom lehatárolásának vizsgálata a XXI. századi
fegyveres konfliktusok eszkalációja kapcsán
Authors: Illyés Szabolcs József
Published: December 2023

Since almost 80 years, the first publication of the technical term:
genocide, the validity of this notion starts turning continuos devalvation.
Nowadays according to almost every armed conflict, the political actors
gladly „shouts” genocide because of any kind of crimes against humanity.
But the genocide contains much more different origins besides the other war
or humanitarian crimes: the clear will to exterminate complete groups of
people, nations, cultures or complete, other civilisation. For the scholar
distinctions – very needed to clarify the origins and the definitions of
the war crimes – and the real nature of the „degenerate warfare” of the
XXI. Century.
Az egyházak megjelenítése a csehszlovákiai magyar általános iskolai
történelemtankönyvekben
Authors: Bese László
Published: December 2023

In the decades of socialism, history teaching, including history
textbooks, was strongly at the service of political propaganda. This was no
different in Czechoslovakia, where the Hungarian-language schools could
only use the mirror translations of the centrally approved Czechoslovak
textbooks. Under the influence of party-state propaganda, a particular form
of narrative emerged, which operated essentially with enemy images. One of
the typical images of the enemy of the party-state in the mainstream was
the church itself, and so the church institution became one of the central
(negative) characters in history textbooks. From antiquity onwards,
textbook writers in the period under study emphasised what they saw as the
church’s harmful activities in society, which were primarily aimed at
legitimising the activities of oppressive and exploitative social groups.
The aim of this paper is to show the characteristics of this textbook
representation and how it changed in the decades of socialism as a result
of various current political events.
Hand-to-hand Combat in World War I as the Royal Hungarian Defence
Forces’ Soldiers saw it
Authors: Varga Imre
Published: December 2023

World War I. showed so much bloodshed that had never been seen
before. On the contrary of the high effectiveness of firepower, combatants
had to fight face-to-face many times. Frequently, they could not use their
firearms efficiently for various reasons. In many situations, this led to
hand-to-hand combat that resembled the struggling of long gone ages. In the
era of our topic opinions on hand-to-hand combat were controversial. On one
hand, Hand-to-hand combat was emphasized by the training methods of the
Austro-Hungarian Monarchy. On the other hand, armed forces of other
countries did not find it so vital. In my opinion, the strife of the Royal
Hungarian Defence Forces in World War I. has its own value nowadays as
well. Firepower has been increasing and the other factors that forced
soldiers to fight in close combat have not disappeared either.
The Hungarian Members of the French Foreign Legion in the Battle of
France in 1940
Authors: Bene Krisztián
Published: December 2023

In the period between the two world wars, a significant number of
Hungarians settled down in France for various reasons. After France entered
the war in September 1939, many of the members of the Hungarian diaspora
living in France joined the French army. These candidates who did not have
French nationality were assigned to the French Foreign Legion by the French
military command. These new recruits were trained in the south of France,
after which they were deployed against the German army, which was on the
offensive in May and June 1940. Many were killed in the fierce fighting,
and afterwards many Hungarians were taken prisoner of war by the Germans.
The present study attempts, based on the available French and Hungarian
archival sources, to present the members of this particular group, as well
as a sketch of the history of the units in which these soldiers served
during the Battle of France.
INNOVATIVE AND INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES OF DOMESTIC ENGINEERING: STATUS AND TRENDS
Authors: Askanova O. V.
Published: December 2023

In today’s reality, Russia’s technological vulnerability problem requires an urgent solution. Therefore, intensifying investment and innovation activities in the mechanical engineering sector, the main system-forming sector of the economy, is crucial for the survival of our country. The author recognizes the close interdependence of investment and innovation processes and aims to conduct a comparative and correlation analysis based on official data from the Federal State Statistics Service for one type of activity related to mechanical engineering.

The study reveals that the crisis in Russian engineering, which began in the 1990s, is ongoing, with extremely low levels of innovation and investment. These factors are insufficient for the technical and technological re-equipment of the country’s machine-building sector. Additionally, the depreciation of partially and completely worn-out equipment exacerbates the crisis.

The author believes that the development of mechanical engineering and related sectors in the Russian economy can only occur when the ruling elites implement a radical change in the direction of state policy. This change should prioritize the integrated use of state support measures to systematically address the identified problem. The author emphasizes that such a change in policy should follow a rhetoric of innovation and investment by the ruling elites.
OPTIMIZING OVERHAUL OF THE MULTI-APARTMENT FUND IN THE ALTAI TERRITORY: ANALYSIS AND PROPOSALS
Authors: Martens A. A. , Derkach N. O. , Lepeshkina S. V.
Published: December 2023

The article examines the multi-apartment fund in the Altai Territory, focusing on its quantitative and qualitative characteristics and territorial distribution. The predominance of the urban multi-apartment fund is noted, and changes in its structure are discussed due to the exclusion of block buildings from statistical data collection by Rosstat. The authors also identify challenges in accumulating financial resources for the overhaul of low-rise apartment buildings using the current funding method. The article reviews the practice of overhauling the multi-apartment fund in the region and identifies the main works required. The authors propose solutions to the challenges of the overhaul process in the Altai Territory, including addressing funding shortages, improving the information base on the state of apartment buildings, and optimizing the quality of the overhaul process.