bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Learning of Quantum Entanglement
Authors: Koutný Dominik , Ginés Laia , Moczała-Dusanowska Magdalena , Höfling Sven , Schneider Christian , Predojević Ana , Ježek Miroslav
Published: August 2022

Detection of quantum correlations in a physical system is paramount to many cutting-edge applications in quantum information processing. We tackle the problem of inferring the entanglement from incomplete measurements by employing deep neural networks.
Global Precision Time Distribution via Satellite-Based Entangled Photon Sources
Authors: Agullo Ivan , Brady Anthony J. , Haldar Stav , Lamas-Linares Antía , Proctor W. Cyrus , Troupe James E.
Published: August 2022

High-precision time synchronization is a fundamental requirement for quantum networks. We simulate a global time distribution network by using quantum clock synchronization – sharing entangled photons between satellite-ground station pairs. This provides sub-nanosecond to picosecond level precision over intercontinental scales (better than GPS).
Free-space Forwarded-pump Entanglement Source Synchronization
Authors: Spellmeyer Neal W. , Lee Catherine , Boroson Don M. , Dixon P. Benjamin , Grein Matthew E. , Hardy Nicholas D. , Murphy Ryan P. , Rao Hemonth G. , Hamilton Scott A.
Published: August 2022

We investigate entanglement source synchronization using a forwarded-pump signal sent over a 3.2-km free-space retro-reflected link. Results show sub-picosecond alignment between the sources. The paper considers several fundamental and practical aspects of this approach.
Free-Electron Radiation in the Form of Optical Cat and GKP States
Authors: Baranes Gefen , Dahan Raphael , Gorlach Alexey , Ruimy Ron , Rivera Nicholas , Kaminer Ido
Published: August 2022

We show how coherent modulation of free-electron wavefunctions can alter the quantum nature of the light they emit. We utilize this concept to create Schrödinger-cat and GKP states, which are sought-after for fault-tolerant quantum computation.
Direct certification of quantum non-Gaussian character and Wigner function negativity of photonic detectors
Authors: Hloušek Josef , Grygar Jan , Fiurášek Jaromír , Ježek. Miroslav
Published: August 2022

We have devised and experimentally demonstrated a direct certification of the strong non-classical character of quantum measurement devices, namely single-photon avalanche diodes and photon-number-resolving detectors.
Microwave and optical entanglement for quantum transduction and network
Authors: Zhong Changchun , Han Xu , Jiang Liang
Published: August 2022

We prove the advantage of entanglement-based transduction over direct transduction using information-theoretical approach. For entanglement-based transduction, the entanglement rates are compared in both discrete and continuous variable settings. Each setting favors different parameter regimes.
Bright, Waveguide-based Entanglement Sources for High-rate Quantum Networking
Authors: Lee Catherine , Hardy Nicholas D. , Spellmeyer Neal W. , Murphy Ryan P. , Grein Matthew E. , Ben Dixon P. , Boroson Don M. , Hamilton Scott A.
Published: August 2022

We designed and built two polarization entanglement sources optimized for high-rate quantum networking under pump power constraints. We demonstrated entanglement swapping between the sources.
Jitter Cancelation with Superconducting Nanowire Single Photon Detectors for High Clock Rate Quantum Communication
Authors: Mueller Andrew S. , Wollman Emma , Korzh Boris A. , Beyer Andrew D. , Narvaez Lautaro , Spiropulu Maria , Shaw Matthew D.
Published: August 2022

We demonstrate a method for canceling jitter of Superconducting Nanowire Single Photon Detectors (SNSPDs) at high count rate by measuring and correcting for pulse distortions that are correlated with inter-pulse arrival time.
Quantum Limits in Precision Hong-Ou-Mandel Interferometry
Authors: Jordan Kyle M. , Abrahao Raphael A. , Lundeen Jeff S.
Published: August 2022

We examine the precision limits of Hong-Ou-Mandel interferometry-based timing measurements using the Cramér-Rao bounds. We show how to adapt the method for realistic sources of photon pairs involving unequal mode bandwidths and nonmaximal frequency correlations.
Accelerating the Use of Classical Infrastructure to Implement Quantum Networks
Authors: Broberg Robert , Bassett Lee , Smith Jonathan
Published: August 2022

For emerging quantum networks to coexist with the classical internet, they must conform to existing specifications. We examine the architectural model of the internet, especially physical layer requirements, and we propose data link layer standardization.
Clock synchronization methods with single photon sources
Authors: Spiess Christopher , Steinlechner Fabian
Published: August 2022

Single photons can serve as both a carrier of information and timing signals. Here we discuss approaches to clock synchronization using pulsed and continuous wave quantum sources and find that pulsed operation enables higher noise resistance and more versatile link scenarios.
Logical Bell state measurements with maximum loss-tolerance threshold using linear optics
Authors: Hilaire Paul , Barnes Edwin , Economou Sophia E. , Grosshans Frédéric
Published: August 2022

We show that linear optical logical Bell state measurements—a ubiquitous primitive for quantum information processing—can be realized with theoretically maximum photon loss tolerance (50%), overcoming the previous limit, believed to be at 1/√2.
Two-photon quantum interference between separate NV centres in the telecom-band
Authors: Stolk A.J. , van der Enden K.L. , Roehsner M.-C. , Teepe A. , Faes S.O.J. , Bradley C.E. , Cadot S. , van Rantwijk J. , Raa I. te , Hagen R.A.J. , Verlaan A.L. , Biemond F.F.B. , Khorev A. , Vollmer R. , Markham M. , Edmonds A.M. , Morits J.P.J. , Taminiau T.H. , van Zwet E.J. , Hanson R.
Published: August 2022

We demonstrate interference of photons emitted by remote, spectrally distinct NV-centers. Quantum frequency conversion at the nodes brings the photons to the same wavelength in the telecom L-band, compatible with entanglement generation at metropolitan scale.
Theoretical study of nuclear spin closed loop gyro based on magnetic field feedback
Authors: Fan Shimiao , Fan Wenfeng , Li Xiaoping
Published: August 2022

This paper reports a closed-loop nuclear spin gyroscope based on magnetic field feedback to improve system bandwidth. The relationship between bandwidth and the system parameters is analyzed based on the dynamic model.
Electronic-photonic quantum systems on-chip
Authors: Wang Imbert , Ramesh Anirudh , Kramnik Danielius , Fargas Cabanillas Josep M. , Stojanović Vladimir , Kumar Prem , Popović Miloš A.
Published: August 2022

We present progress towards realizing electronic-photonic quantum systems on-chip; particularly, entangled photon-pair sources, placing them in the context of previous work, and outlining our vision for mass-producible quantum networking blocks.
Generation of High-Dimensional Entanglement on a Silicon Photonic Chip
Authors: Manfreda-Schulz Evan , Elliot J. Dulany , van Niekerk Matthew , Tison Christopher C. , Fanto Michael L. , Preble Stefan F. , Howland Gregory A.
Published: August 2022

We present an on-chip source of path-entangled photonic qudits by parallel excitation of 8 microring pair sources. The device is foundry-fabricated and uses advanced packaging techniques, a significant advance in generating high-dimensional quantum light on-chip.
Interaction-Free Polarimetry of a Polarising Object
Authors: Hance Jonte R. , Rarity John
Published: August 2022

We extend counterfactual imaging to polarimetry of a polarising object. This allows imaging of these samples with far less absorbed energy - a key concern when imaging with high-frequency radiation.
Twin-photon Correlations in Quantum Imaging with Undetected Photons
Authors: Lahiri Mayukh , Viswanathan Balakrishnan , Lemos Gabriela Barreto
Published: August 2022

We discuss how position-correlation and momentum-correlation between twin photons govern the key features of quantum imaging with undetected photons, an imaging scheme in which the photon illuminating the object is not detected.
Measurement of spin systems under the Faraday interaction
Authors: Ho Le Bin , Edamatsu Keiichi
Published: August 2022

We model the quantum measurement of spin systems under the Faraday inter-action with a polarized light meter and examine the error-disturbance relations comparing the Heisenberg-Arthurs-Kelly and the Branciard-Ozawa relations.
Device-Independent Prepare-and-Measure Quantum Key Distribution
Authors: Chen Shih-Hsuan , Li Che-Ming
Published: August 2022

We propose a device-independent prepare-and-measure quantum key distribution (DIPQKD) that the transmitter prepares and sends the qubits to the receiver who de-codes by measuring the qubits. Through characterizing the used channel and ruling out any classical strategies of mimicry, one can identify the security of DIPQKD against collective attacks.
Measurement of Entangled States Before, During, and After a Proposed Entangled Two-Photon Molecular Excitation
Authors: Hickam Bryce , He Manni , Szoke Szilard , Cushing Scott
Published: August 2022

Entangled photons are predicted to linearize and enhance the probability of multiphoton processes. We construct an interferometer to measure the quantum state before, during, and after an entangled excitation and distinguish it from one-photon processes.

Comments and questions should be directed to the Optica Conference Papers staff (tel: +1 202.416.6191, e-mail: cstech@optica.org).
InAs Quantum Dot Molecule based Scalable Materials Platform
Authors: Carfagno Henry , McCabe Lauren , Zide Joshua , Doty Matthew
Published: August 2022

We report advancements in material growth, device design, and device fabrication that facilitate development of a scalable platform for quantum photonics using site-templated wavelength-tunable InAs quantum dot molecules to overcome spatial and spectral inhomogeneity.
A General Formalism for Describing High-gain Photon-pair Generation in Dispersive and Absorbing Nanostructured Systems
Authors: Krstić Aleksa , Setzpfandt Frank , Pertsch Thomas , Saravi Sina
Published: August 2022

We develop a non-perturbative formulation of photon-pair generation in the high-gain regime for nanostructured systems with arbitrary amount of loss and dispersion, and use it numerically to investigate integrated quantum spectroscopy in the high-gain regime.
Indistinguishable Photons with High Efficiency from a Quantum Emitter Strongly Coupled to a Plasmonic Nanostructure
Authors: Synanidis Adamantios P. , Thanopulos Ioannis , Paspalakis Emmanuel
Published: August 2022

We theoretically investigate the degree of indistinguishability of photons produced by a solid state quantum emitter coupled to a plasmonic nanostructure and find a high degree of indistinguishability combined with very high emission efficiency.
Machine learner optimization of atom loading in optical nanofiber evanescent dipole traps
Authors: Gupta Ratnesh K. , Everett Jesse L. , Tranter Aaron D. , Henke René , Gokhroo Vandna , Lam Ping Koy , Chormaic Síle Nic
Published: August 2022

We use an online machine learning algorithm to optimize cooling and loading of rubidium-87 atoms into an evanescent dipole trap array along an optical nanofiber, increasing the number of trapped atoms by 50%.
Superiority of the Quantum States of Light in Retinal Parameter Estimation
Authors: Pedram Ali , Müstecaplıoğlu Özgür E. , Kominis Iannis K.
Published: August 2022

Calculating the response of the retinal network to different states of light and computing the Fisher information matrix for the probability distributions of these responses, we show that the quantum light is metrologically superior.
Computing with two quantum reservoirs connected via optimized two-qubit nonselective measurements
Authors: Vintskevich Stephen , Grigoriev Dmitry
Published: August 2022

We propose a novel approach to link multipartite quantum systems - quantum reservoirs into a network to implement quantum reservoir computing. We present the machine learning-based heuristics to optimize performance and information transfer between systems.
Universal Quantum Computing with Spin Waves: Three Methods
Authors: Cox Kevin C. , Bienias Przemek , Meyer David H. , Fahey Donald P. , Hill Joshua C. , Gorshkov Alexey V. , Kunz Paul D.
Published: August 2022

Holographic spin-wave excitations in atoms are commonly used to build high-performance quantum memories. Here we show three methods that enable not just storage, but universal quantum computing, with atomic spin waves.
High Brightness programmable source of frequency-bin qubits.
Authors: Clementi M. , Sabattoli F. A. , Dirani H. El , Bergamasco N. , Gianini L. , Youssef L. , Petit-Etienne C. , Pargon E. , Liscidini M. , Sciancalepore C. , Galli M. , Bajoni D.
Published: August 2022

A high brightness silicon integrated source of entangled frequency-bins is presented. We experimentally demonstrate programmable emission of both computational basis states and Bell states.
A Prototype for Ultimate Secure Transmission and Analysis of Smart Grid Data on the Wire
Authors: Katramatos Dimitrios , Castillo-Veneros Leonardo , Cui Guodong , Du Dounan , Woronick Samuel , Martinez-Rincon Julian , Stankus Paul , Figueroa Eden
Published: August 2022

We present a prototype hybrid quantum/classical networking testbed utilizing MDI-QKD-generated keys for encrypting power grid data, while also performing in-network data analysis using post-quantum cryptography to share the key with the analysis node.
Toward a 20km Free Space Optical Link for Single-Photon Transmission
Authors: Haupt Justine , Gokhale Rishikesh , Figueroa-Barragan Eden , Stankus Paul
Published: August 2022

We describe a proof-of-concept free space link for entanglement distribution. Progress to date and upcoming changes to improve coupling efficiency, atmosphere compensation, and long-range performance are summarized.
Experimental demonstration of Gaussian boson sampling with displacement
Authors: Thekkadath G.S. , Sempere-Llagostera S. , Bell B.A. , Patel R.B. , Kim M.S. , Walmsley I.A.
Published: August 2022

We inject squeezed vacuum and weak coherent light into a multiport interferometer and measure the output photon statistics. Our work explores the capabilities of a displacement field in Gaussian boson sampling.
The pursuit of happiness: A reinforcement learning perspective on habituation and comparisons
Authors: Dubey Rachit , Griffiths Thomas L. , Dayan Peter
Published: August 2022

In evaluating our choices, we often suffer from two tragic relativities. First, when our lives change for the better, we rapidly habituate to the higher standard of living. Second, we cannot escape comparing ourselves to various relative standards. Habituation and comparisons can be very disruptive to decision-making and happiness, and till date, it remains a puzzle why they have come to be a part of cognition in the first place. Here, we present computational evidence that suggests that these features might play an important role in promoting adaptive behavior. Using the framework of reinforcement learning, we explore the benefit of employing a reward function that, in addition to the reward provided by the underlying task, also depends on prior expectations and relative comparisons. We find that while agents equipped with this reward function are less happy, they learn faster and significantly outperform standard reward-based agents in a wide range of environments. Specifically, we find that relative comparisons speed up learning by providing an exploration incentive to the agents, and prior expectations serve as a useful aid to comparisons, especially in sparsely-rewarded and non-stationary environments. Our simulations also reveal potential drawbacks of this reward function and show that agents perform sub-optimally when comparisons are left unchecked and when there are too many similar options. Together, our results help explain why we are prone to becoming trapped in a cycle of never-ending wants and desires, and may shed light on psychopathologies such as depression, materialism, and overconsumption.
Association of race/ethnicity with mortality in patients hospitalized with COVID-19
Authors: Richardson Safiya , Martinez Johanna , Hirsch Jamie S. , Cerise Jane , Lesser Martin , Roswell Robert O. , Davidson Karina W. ,   the Northwell Health COVID-19 Research Consortium
Published: August 2022

Objective

To evaluate racial and ethnic differences in mortality among patients hospitalized with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) after adjusting for baseline characteristics and comorbidities.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study at 13 acute care facilities in the New York City metropolitan area included sequentially hospitalized patients between March 1, 2020, and April 27, 2020. Last day of follow up was July 31, 2020. Patient demographic information, including race/ethnicity and comorbidities, were collected. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality.

Results

A total of 10 869 patients were included in the study (median age, 65 years [interquartile range (IQR) 54–77; range, 18–107 years]; 40.5% female). In adjusted time-to-event analysis, increased age, male sex, insurance type (Medicare and Self-Pay), unknown smoking status, and a higher score on the Charlson Comorbidity Index were significantly associated with higher in-hospital mortality. Adjusted risk of hospital mortality for Black, Asian, Hispanic, multiracial/other, and unknown race/ethnicity patients were similar to risk for White patients.

Conclusions

In a large diverse cohort of patients hospitalized with COVID-19, patients from racial/ethnic minorities experienced similar mortality risk as White patients.
Economic complexity of cities and its role for resilience
Authors: Lapatinas Athanasios , Litina Anastasia , Poulios Konstantinos
Published: August 2022

The aim of the paper is to propose the construction of an index that captures the economic complexity of cities over the globe, as well as to explore whether it is a good predictor for a range of city-level economic outcomes. This index aspires to mitigate data scarcity for cities and to provide policy makers with the tools for monitoring the evolving role of cities in the global economy. Analytically, we implement the economic complexity methodology on data for the ownership, location and economic activities of the world’s 3,000 largest firms and their subsidiaries to propose a new indicator that quantifies the network of the largest cities worldwide and the economic activities of their globalized firms. We first show that complex cities are the highly diversified cities that host non-ubiquitous economic activities of firms with global presence. Then, in a sample of EU cities, we show that complex cities tend to be more prosperous, have higher population, and are associated with more jobs, human capital, innovation, technology and transport infrastructure. Last, using OLS methodology and accounting for several other confounders, we show that a higher ECI, at the city level, enhances the resilience of cities to negative economic shocks, i.e., their ability to bounce back after a shock. Specifically, we find that the expected increase of the ratio of employment in 2012 over 2006 is 0.01 (mean: 0.992; standard deviation: 0.081) when the ECI increases by 1 unit (mean: 0.371; standard deviation: 1.094), i.e., a satisfactory pace of recovery, in terms of employment. The ability to diversify in the presence of a shock, the reallocation of factors of production to other sectors and the ability to extract rents associated with those diversified activities, uncovers the mechanics of the ECI index.
Novel silkworm (Bombyx mori) sulfotransferase swSULT ST3 is involved in metabolism of polyphenols from mulberry leaves
Authors: Yamamoto Kohji , Yamada Naotaka , Endo Satoshi , Kurogi Katsuhisa , Sakakibara Yoichi , Suiko Masahito
Published: August 2022

Polyphenols in plants are important for defense responses against microorganisms, insect herbivory, and control of feeding. Owing to their antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory activities, their importance in human nutrition has been acknowledged. However, metabolism of polyphenols derived from mulberry leaves in silkworms (Bombyx mori) remains unclear. Sulfotransferases (SULT) are involved in the metabolism of xenobiotics and endogenous compounds. The purpose of this study is to investigate the metabolic mechanism of polyphenols mediated byB.moriSULT. Here, we identified a novel SULT in silkworms(herein,swSULT ST3). RecombinantswSULT ST3 overexpressed inEscherichia colieffectively sulfated polyphenols present in mulberry leaves.swSULT ST3 showed high specific activity toward genistein among the polyphenols. Genistein-7-sulfate was produced by the activity ofswSULT ST3. Higher expression ofswSULT ST3 mRNA was observed in the midgut and fat body than in the hemocytes, testis, ovary, and silk gland. Polyphenols inhibited the aldo-keto reductase detoxification of reactive aldehydes from mulberry leaves, and the most noticeable inhibition was observed with genistein. Our results suggest thatswSULT ST3 plays a role in the detoxification of polyphenols, including genistein, and contributes to the effects of aldo-keto reductase in the midgut of silkworms. This study provides new insight into the functions of SULTs and the molecular mechanism responsible for host plant selection in lepidopteran insects.
LTβR overexpression promotes plasma cell accumulation
Authors: Kotov Jessica A. , Xu Ying , Carey Nicholas D. , Cyster Jason G.
Published: August 2022

Multiple myeloma (MM), a malignancy of plasma cells (PCs), has diverse genetic underpinnings and in rare cases these include amplification of the lymphotoxin b receptor (Ltbr) locus. LTβR has well defined roles in supporting lymphoid tissue development and function through actions in stromal and myeloid cells, but whether it is functional in PCs is unknown. Here we showed that Ltbr mRNA was upregulated in mouse PCs compared to follicular B cells, but deficiency in the receptor did not cause a reduction in PC responses to a T-dependent or T-independent immunogen. However, LTβR overexpression (OE) enhanced PC formation in vitro after LPS or anti-CD40 stimulation. In vivo, LTβR OE led to increased antigen-specific splenic and bone marrow (BM) plasma cells responses. LTβR OE PCs had increased expression of Nfkb2 and of the NF-kB target genes Bcl2 and Mcl1, factors involved in the formation of long-lived BM PCs. Our findings suggest a pathway by which Ltbr gene amplifications may contribute to MM development through increased NF-kB activity and induction of an anti-apoptotic transcriptional program.
Migratory network reveals unique spatial-temporal migration dynamics of Dunlin subspecies along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway
Authors: Lagassé Benjamin J. , Lanctot Richard B. , Brown Stephen , Dondua Alexei G. , Kendall Steve , Latty Christopher J. , Liebezeit Joseph R. , Loktionov Egor Y. , Maslovsky Konstantin S. , Matsyna Alexander I. , Matsyna Ekaterina L. , McGuire Rebecca L. , Payer David C. , Saalfeld Sarah T. , Slaght Jonathan C. , Solovyeva Diana V. , Tomkovich Pavel S. , Valchuk Olga P. , Wunder Michael B.
Published: August 2022

Determining the dynamics of where and when individuals occur is necessary to understand population declines and identify critical areas for populations of conservation concern. However, there are few examples where a spatially and temporally explicit model has been used to evaluate the migratory dynamics of a bird population across its entire annual cycle. We used geolocator-derived migration tracks of 84 Dunlin (Calidris alpina) on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF) to construct a migratory network describing annual subspecies-specific migration patterns in space and time. We found that Dunlin subspecies exhibited unique patterns of spatial and temporal flyway use. Spatially,C.a.arcticolapredominated in regions along the eastern edge of the flyway (e.g., western Alaska and central Japan), whereasC.a.sakhalinapredominated in regions along the western edge of the flyway (e.g., N China and inland China). No individual Dunlin that wintered in Japan also wintered in the Yellow Sea, China seas, or inland China, and vice-versa. However, similar proportions of the 4 subspecies used many of the same regions at the center of the flyway (e.g., N Sakhalin Island and the Yellow Sea). Temporally, Dunlin subspecies staggered their south migrations and exhibited little temporal overlap among subspecies within shared migration regions. In contrast, Dunlin subspecies migrated simultaneously during north migration. South migration was also characterized by individuals stopping more often and for more days than during north migration. Taken together, these spatial-temporal migration dynamics indicate Dunlin subspecies may be differentially affected by regional habitat change and population declines according to where and when they occur. We suggest that the migration dynamics presented here are useful for guiding on-the-ground survey efforts to quantify subspecies’ use of specific sites, and to estimate subspecies’ population sizes and long-term trends. Such studies would significantly advance our understanding of Dunlin space-time dynamics and the coordination of Dunlin conservation actions across the EAAF.
Is there an association between pelvic organ prolapse and oxidative stress? A systematic review
Authors: Habes Dominik , Kestranek Jan , Stranik Jaroslav , Kacerovsky Marian , Spacek Jiri
Published: August 2022

Introduction and hypothesis

The pathophysiology of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) has not been fully elucidated, although accumulating evidence suggests that oxidative stress is involved. The present systematic review comprehensively discusses this topic.

Methods

The PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched for relevant studies published up to May 2021. This systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO database (registration number CRD42021242240). Two independent researchers screened and selected articles that fulfilled predefined inclusion criteria, performed a quality assessment, and extracted the relevant data. Of 901 original articles retrieved, 8 fulfilled the selection criteria and were included in the review.

Results

Elevated levels of markers of oxidative stress, such as advanced glycation end products, hydroxynonenal and hydroxydeoxyguanosine, were found in various parts of the pelvic floor of patients with POP. Accordingly, the levels of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase, known as major antioxidant enzymes, were reduced, compared to those in healthy controls. Levels of two other markers (mitofusin 2 and nuclear factor erythroid derived 2) also support hypotheses suggesting the involvement of oxidative stress in POP.

Conclusions

In the literature available, an association between oxidative stress and pelvic organ prolapse was confirmed.
Perception towards preeclampsia and perceived barriers to early health-seeking among pregnant women in selected Hospitals of South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia: A qualitative study
Authors: Mekie Maru , Bezie Minale , Melkie Abenezer , Addisu Dagne , Chanie Ermias Sisay , Bayih Wubet Alebachew , Biru Shimeles , Hailie Mekonnen , Seid Tigist , Dagnew Enyew , Muche Tewachew , Alemu Eshetie Molla
Published: August 2022

Background

Preeclampsia is one of the top maternal morbidity and mortality that disproportionately affects pregnant women in low and middle-income countries where access and quality of health services are limited. People in different areas perceive preeclampsia differently which directly or indirectly affects the timing and place of heath seeking. Positive perception about perceived causes, perceived complications, and prevention of preeclampsia is central for the prediction and early diagnosis of the disease. However, little is known about the perception of pregnant women towards preeclampsia in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the perception towards preeclampsia and perceived barriers to early health-seeking among pregnant women in selected Hospitals of South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A qualitative study using phenomenological approach was implemented among 20 purposively selected pregnant women who visited health facilities for antenatal care service in four selected Hospitals of the South Gondar Zone of the Amhara Region. Data were collected through an in-depth interview (IDI) using a semi-structured interview guide from January to February 2020. Thematic analysis was executed using Open Code Software version 4.03.

Results

The majority of the participants believed preeclampsia as a pregnancy-specific hypertensive disease and mainly associated it with overweight and nutritional problems. With regards to the perceived severity, the study participants agreed that preeclampsia can lead women to death. Personal delay, lack of awareness about the disease, transport problem, and low socioeconomic condition were perceived as the major reasons for the delay to early health-seeking (the 1st and the 2nd delay). While poor service provision and long waiting times were the barriers to receive services at the health facility level (the 3rd delay).

Conclusion

The majority of the participants believed preeclampsia as a pregnancy-specific hypertensive disease and mainly associated it with overweight and nutritional problems. The finding of this study implied that awareness creation about the danger of hypertension during pregnancy and its risk reduction mechanisms shall be emphasized. The care provision at health facilities shall be improved by decreasing long waiting time which discourages service utilizations aside from improving early seeking behavior of pregnant women through different interventions.
Disentangling personalized treatment effects from “time-of-the-day” confounding in mobile health studies
Authors: Chaibub Neto Elias , Perumal Thanneer M. , Pratap Abhishek , Tediarjo Aryton , Bot Brian M. , Mangravite Lara , Omberg Larsson
Published: August 2022

Ideally, a patient’s response to medication can be monitored by measuring changes in performance of some activity. In observational studies, however, any detected association between treatment (“on-medication” vs “off-medication”) and the outcome (performance in the activity) might be due to confounders. In particular, causal inferences at the personalized level are especially vulnerable to confounding effects that arise in a cyclic fashion. For quick acting medications, effects can be confounded by circadian rhythms and daily routines. Using the time-of-the-day as a surrogate for these confounders and the performance measurements as captured on a smartphone, we propose a personalized statistical approach to disentangle putative treatment and “time-of-the-day” effects, that leverages conditional independence relations spanned by causal graphical models involving the treatment, time-of-the-day, and outcome variables. Our approach is based on conditional independence tests implemented via standard and temporal linear regression models. Using synthetic data, we investigate when and how residual autocorrelation can affect the standard tests, and how time series modeling (namely, ARIMA and robust regression via HAC covariance matrix estimators) can remedy these issues. In particular, our simulations illustrate that when patients perform their activities in a paired fashion, positive autocorrelation can lead to conservative results for the standard regression approach (i.e., lead to deflated true positive detection), whereas negative autocorrelation can lead to anticonservative behavior (i.e., lead to inflated false positive detection). The adoption of time series methods, on the other hand, leads to well controlled type I error rates. We illustrate the application of our methodology with data from a Parkinson’s disease mobile health study.
Economic expenditures by recreational anglers in a recovering atlantic bluefin tuna fishery
Authors: Maar Kristian , Riisager-Simonsen Christian , MacKenzie Brian R. , Skov Christian , Aarestrup Kim , Svendsen Jon C.
Published: August 2022

The recent return of Atlantic bluefin tuna to northern Europe following the recovery of the east Atlantic stock has sparked substantial public and scientific interest. This is particularly true for recreational anglers in Denmark, who often consider Atlantic bluefin tuna to be the catch of a lifetime. This attitude has previously sustained a substantial recreational fishery for bluefin tuna with annual tournaments in Denmark, which peaked in the 1950s before the subsequent collapse of the stock during the 1960s. Several scientific tagging programs have recruited recreational anglers in recent years to help catch and release tagged bluefin tuna. The anglers’ investment of time and money in the scientific tagging projects indicate that the recreational fishery could recover in the future. However, the economic aspects of a potential future recreational bluefin tuna fishery remain unknown. We surveyed anglers participating in a scientific catch and release bluefin tuna fishery in Denmark across three years (2018–2020) and calculated the total annual expenditures associated with the activities. Additionally, we estimated the magnitude of the negative impact (i.e., incidental mortalities) on the bluefin tuna stock. Our results show that total annual expenditures by the recreational anglers approached 1,439,540€, totaling 4,318,620€ between 2018 and 2020. We found that recreational bluefin tuna anglers had mean annual expenditures directly related to the bluefin tuna fishing between 7,047€ and 2,176€ with an associated mortality impact on the stock of less than 1 tonne annually. By comparing the mortality impact to the expenditures, we estimate that each dead Atlantic bluefin tuna during the three study years generated 398,163€ in mean annual expenditures, equivalent to approximately 1636€ kg-1. Our study demonstrates significant economic expenditures among recreational anglers who target Atlantic bluefin tuna. This provides a clear example of how a recovery of marine natural capital and related ecosystem services can support development in the blue economy.
Causal relationships between sex hormone traits, lifestyle factors, and osteoporosis in men: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Hui , Cheng Jianwen , Wei Donglei , Wu Hong , Zhao Jinmin
Published: August 2022

Although observational studies have explored factors that may be associated with osteoporosis, it is not clear whether they are causal. Osteoporosis in men is often underestimated. This study aimed to identify the causal risk factors associated with bone mineral density(BMD) in men. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with the exposures at the genome-wide significance (p < 5x10-8) level were obtained from corresponding genome-wide association studies (GWASs) and were utilized as instrumental variables. Summary-level statistical data for BMD were obtained from two large-scale UK Biobank GWASs. A Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was performed to identify causal risk factors for BMD. Regarding the BMD of the heel bone, the odds of BMD increased per 1-SD increase of free testosterone (FT) (OR = 1.13, P = 9.4 × 10−17), together with estradiol (E2) (OR = 2.51, P = 2.3 × 10−4). The odds of BMD also increased with the lowering of sex-hormone binding globulin (SHBG) (OR = 0.87, P = 7.4 × 10−8) and total testosterone (TT) (OR = 0.96, P = 3.2 × 10−2) levels. Regarding the BMD of the lumbar spine, the odds of BMD increased per 1-SD increase in FT (OR = 1.18, P = 4.0 × 10−3). Regarding the BMD of the forearm bone, the odds of BMD increased with lowering SHBG (OR = 0.75, P = 3.0 × 10−3) and TT (OR = 0.85, P = 3.0 × 10−3) levels. Our MR study corroborated certain causal relationships and provided genetic evidence among sex hormone traits, lifestyle factors and BMD. Furthermore, it is a novel insight that TT was defined as a disadvantage for osteoporosis in male European populations.
Experiences and perceptions of people with a severe mental illness and health care professionals of a one-year group-based lifestyle programme (SMILE)
Authors: Walburg Florine , de Joode Johanna Willemina , Brandt Hella , van Tulder Maurits , Adriaanse Marcel , van Meijel Berno
Published: August 2022

Objective

This was to elucidate the experiences and perceptions of people with severe mental illness (SMI) and their health care professionals with the SMILE (Severe Mental Illness Lifestyle Evaluation) group-based lifestyle intervention. SMILE focuses primarily on promoting healthy diet, physical activity and weight loss.

Method

A qualitative study with semi-structured interviews was conducted using purposive sampling. Interviews were conducted with 15 clients and 13 health care professionals (HCPs). Data were analysed according to a thematic analysis.

Results

Four overall themes were identified: interest in a lifestyle programme; group-based setting; changes in lifestyle behaviour; and preconditions for changing health behaviour. The results showed that clients valued the programme and were interested in the subject of lifestyle. The group-based setting was seen as a positive and important aspect of the intervention. Making lifestyle changes was acknowledged as difficult, especially in combination with the presence of psychiatric symptoms. Clients acquired an improved awareness of different aspects related to lifestyle behaviour. Irrespective of weight loss achieved, clients found their efforts successful with relatively ‘small’ changes. Some needed more support during the intervention than others. The practical activities in group sessions were regarded as most useful. HCPs were enthusiastic about the programme and their interactions with lifestyle improvements.

Conclusions

The results of this study shed light on different aspects that were considered important when delivering a lifestyle intervention to people with SMI. We recommend considering these aspects when implementing a lifestyle intervention in a mental health care setting for clients with SMI.
Risk of peripheral artery occlusive disease in patients with lower leg fracture who received fixation and non-fixation treatments: A population cohort study
Authors: Shih Pin-Keng , Chen Jian-Xun , Lin Mei-Chen , Wu Shih-Chi
Published: August 2022

Background

The risk of peripheral artery occlusive disease (PAOD) in patients with lower leg fracture who underwent fixation procedures is not yet completely understood. Therefore, the current study aimed to examine the risk of subsequent PAOD in patients with lower leg fracture who received fixation and non-fixation treatments.

Methods

We included 6538 patients with lower leg fracture who received non-fixation treatment and a matched cohort comprising 26152 patients who received fixation treatment from the National Health Insurance Database. Patients were frequency matched according to age, sex, and index year. The incidence and risk of PAOD in patients with lower leg fracture who received fixation and non-fixation treatments were evaluated via the stratification of different characteristics and comorbidities.

Results

Non-fixation treatment, male sex, older age (≥ 50 years old), diabetes mellitus, and gout were associated with a significantly higher risk of lower extremity PAOD compare to each comparison group, respectively. Moreover, there was a significant correlation between fixation treatment and a lower risk of lower extremity PAOD in women (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 0.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.38–0.90), women aged > 50 years (aHR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.38–0.96), and patients with coronary artery disease (aHR = 0.43, 95% CI = (0.23–0.81). Further, patients with fixation treatment had a significantly lower risk of lower extremity PAOD within 2 years after trauma (aHR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.34–0.97). The Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that the cumulative incidence of PAOD was significantly higher in the non-fixation treatment group than in the fixation treatment group at the end of the 10-year follow-up period (log-rank test: P = 0.022).

Conclusion

Patients with lower leg fracture who received non-fixation treatment had a significantly higher risk of PAOD than those who received fixation treatment. Moreover, the risk of PAOD was higher in women aged > 50 years, as well as in coronary artery disease patients who received non-fixation treatment than in those who received fixation treatment. Therefore, regular assessment of vessel patency are recommended for these patients. Nevertheless, further studies must be conducted to validate the results of our study.
Impact of pre-treatment prognostic nutritional index and the haemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte and platelet (HALP) score on endometrial cancer survival: A prospective database analysis
Authors: Njoku Kelechi , Barr Chloe E. , Ramchander Neal C. , Crosbie Emma J.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The Onodera’s prognostic nutritional index (PNI) and the haemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte and platelet (HALP) score are immune-nutritional indices that correlate with survival outcomes in several adult solid malignancies. The aim of this study was to investigate whether PNI and HALP are associated with survival outcomes in endometrial cancer.

Patients and methods

Women undergoing management for endometrial cancer were recruited to a single centre prospective cohort study. Pre-treatment PNI and HALP scores were computed for study participants and analysed as continuous variables and by selecting cut-off values based on previous publications. Both parameters were analysed in relation to overall, endometrial cancer-specific and recurrence-free survival using Kaplan-Meier estimation and multivariable Cox proportional regression.

Results

A total of 439 women, with a median age of 67 years (interquartile range (IQR), 58, 74) and BMI of 31kg/m2 (IQR 26, 37) were included in the analysis. Most had low-grade (63.3%), early-stage (84.4% stage I/II) endometrial cancer of endometrioid histological subtype (72.7%). Primary treatment was surgery in 98.2% of cases. Adjusted overall mortality hazard ratios for PNI and HALP as continuous variables were 0.97(95%CI 0.94–1.00, p = 0.136) and 0.99(95%CI 0.98–1.01, p = 0.368), respectively. Women with pre-treatment PNI ≥45 had a 45% decrease in both overall (adjusted HR = 0.55, 95% CI 0.33–0.92, p = 0.022) and cancer-specific mortality risk (adjusted HR = 0.55, 95%CI 0.30–0.99, p = 0.048) compared to those with PNI <45. There was no evidence for an effect of PNI on recurrence free survival. HALP scores were associated with adverse clinico-pathologic factors, but not overall, cancer-specific or recurrence-free survival in the multivariable analysis.

Conclusion

PNI is an independent prognostic factor in endometrial cancer and has the potential to refine pre-operative risk assessment.
Usefulness of the delta neutrophil index in predicting surgery in patients with foot and ankle infection
Authors: Shin Ji eun , Deok Seo Kyung , Cha Hyun Jae , Lee Jong Wook , Heo Youn Moo , Kim Kwang Kyoun , Kim Tae Gyun , Kang Chan , Lee Gi Soo , Song Jae Hwang
Published: August 2022

Background

In foot and ankle infections, cases with apparent soft-tissue necrosis or purulent fluid collections definitely require surgical treatments. However, clinicians often have difficulty in determining whether to perform surgery in ambiguous cases without these findings. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the delta neutrophil index as a predictor of surgical treatment in patients with foot and ankle infections.

Methods

In total, 66 patients diagnosed with foot and ankle infections who underwent the delta neutrophil index test were retrospectively investigated. Medical records, including data on diabetes mellitus status, delta neutrophil index values, white blood cell count, polymorphonuclear leukocyte count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and C-reactive protein level, were retrospectively investigated. Logistic regression models were analyzed for the correlation between biomarkers, such as the delta neutrophil index and surgical treatment. The area under the curve was investigated to evaluate the cut-off value of the logistic model in predicting surgery.

Results

The relationship between the delta neutrophil index and surgical treatment was analyzed. The delta neutrophil index, adjusted for diabetes mellitus, was the best predictor of future surgical intervention. Based on the Youden index, the cutoff point (the equation’s adjusted by diabetes mellitus) for the prediction of surgical treatment was defined as a probability of 0.3, with sensitivity and specificity of 82.4% and 77.6%, respectively.

Conclusions

Based on the present study, the delta neutrophil index can help clinicians decide the appropriate surgical treatment for foot and ankle infections at the right time.
Bidirectional cytokine-microRNA control: A novel immunoregulatory framework in leishmaniasis
Authors: Jafarzadeh Abdollah , Nemati Maryam , Aminizadeh Najmeh , Bodhale Neelam , Sarkar Arup , Jafarzadeh Sara , Sharifi Iraj , Saha Bhaskar
Published: August 2022

As effector innate immune cells and as a host to the protozoan parasiteLeishmania, macrophages play a dual role in antileishmanial immunoregulation. The 2 key players in this immunoregulation are the macrophage-expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) and the macrophage-secreted cytokines. miRNAs, as small noncoding RNAs, play vital roles in macrophage functions including cytokines and chemokines production. In the reverse direction,Leishmania-regulated cytokines alter miRNAs expression to regulate the antileishmanial functions of macrophages. The miRNA patterns vary with the time and stage of infection. The cytokine-regulated macrophage miRNAs not only help parasite elimination or persistence but also regulate cytokine production from macrophages. Based on these observations, we propose a novel immunoregulatory framework as a scientific rationale for antileishmanial therapy.
Formative Assessment as an Instructional Approach in the Teaching and Learning of Mathematics
Authors: Wafubwa Ruth Nanjekho
Published: August 2022

A kutatás középpontjában az oktatási folyamat részeként értelmezett, a matematikatanításban és –tanulásban megvalósuló formatív értékelés állt. A kutatás résztvevői kenyai középiskolai matematikatanárok és tanulóik voltak. Öt vizsgálatot végeztünk el; valamennyi a formatív értékelésnek Black és William (2009) által jegyzett elméleti keretére épült. Az első vizsgálatban egy adaptált kérdőív alkalmasságát értékeltük arra vonatkozóan, hogy mennyire jól méri a kenyai matematikatanárok formatív értékelésre vonatkozó nézeteit. A tanárok nézetei az ötfokú Likert-skálán az alacsony-közepes tartományba estek. A második vizsgálat arról szólt, hogyan függnek össze a tanárok formatív értékelésről alkotott nézetei a metakognitív tudatosságukkal. Pozitív kapcsolatot találtunk a formatív értékelés és a metakogníció között. A vizsgálat szerint a formatív értékelési stratégiák meghatározzák a tanári metakognitív szabályozást. A harmadik vizsgálat az előző kiterjesztése volt, és benne a tanároknak a metakogníció osztálytermi használatára vonatkozó nézeteit és fogalmait vizsgáltuk. Az eredmények alapján a tanárok magas szinten metakognitívnek tartották magukat, ám ezt kevéssé fordították át a tanítási gyakorlatba. A negyedik vizsgálat egy teszt kifejlesztését és validálását valósította meg, mely a tanulók arányossági gondolkodási képességeit mérte matematikai tartalmakon. Ezt a tesztet később arra használtuk, hogy a formatív értékelés tanulói teljesítményre gyakorolt hatását értékeljük; erre az ötödik vizsgálatban került sor. A tesztitemek elemzése megmutatta, hogy a teszt alkalmas a formatív értékelésre alapozott kísérlet mérőeszközének. Az ötödik vizsgálat egy kísérlet volt, mellyel a formatív értékelésnek a tanulók matematikai teljesítményére és metakognitív tudatosságára gyakorolt hatását néztük meg. Az eredmények azt mutatták, hogy a formatív értékelésre alapozott kísérlet növelte a tanulók matematikai teljesítményét és a metakogníciót is. Mind az öt vizsgálat esetén elemeztük az elméleti és gyakorlati következményeket, és további kutatási kérdéseket vetettünk fel. Konkrét javaslatokat is megfogalmaztunk, hiszen a formatív értékelés, mint oktatási tevékenység tanulmányozása előtt még tág lehetőségek nyílnak Kenyában.