bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Guard-ring free InGaAs/InP single photon avalanche diodes for C-band quantum communication
Authors: Rustige Pascal , Krause Jan , Eckoldt Lorenz , Runge Patrick , Schell Martin
Published: May 2023

We present a guard-ring free InGaAs/InP single photon avalanche diode with 20 µm diameter for the optical C-band. At 225 K, 25.6 µs dead time and 17% detection efficiency, the dark count rate is 3 kcps with 0.5% afterpulsing probability. This corresponds to a quantum bit error rate of about 1.2% for 625 MHz timebin-phase BB84 QKD over 125 km.
Can LAN-Wavelength Division Multiplexing Meet the Evolution of B5G/6G Terabit/s Fronthaul Networks?
Authors: Wang Qingsong , Zhang Jiao , Zhang Junhao , Hua Bingchang , Chen Jian , Cai Yuancheng , Lei Mingzheng , Zou Yucong , Tian Liang , Zhu Min
Published: May 2023

We experimentally demonstrate a LAN-WDM access system with a record bit rate of 2 Tb/s (250 Gbit/s×8) PS-PAM-8 signal with joint equalization techniques to support the evolution of future mobile fronthaul networks with low cost.
End-to-End Slicing via O-RAN and Software Defined Optical Access
Authors: Centofanti C. , Marotta A. , Cassioli D. , Graziosi F. , Gudepu V. , Kondepu K.
Published: May 2023

We propose an end-to-end slice management strategy which exploits the programmability of O-RAN and software defined optical access. Advantages in terms of user experienced latency and packet loss are experimentally evaluated.
New Photonic Gateway to Handle Digital-Coherent and IM-DD User Terminals and Enable Turn-back Connections in Metro/Access-Integrated All-Photonics Network
Authors: Yoshino Manabu , Kaneko Shin , Shibata Naotaka , Igarashi Ryo , Kani Jun-ichi , Yoshida Tomoaki
Published: May 2023

We propose and demonstrate a novel Photonic Gateway architecture that can flexibly and scalably handle both 100-Gbit/s digital-coherent and IM-DD user terminals with direct optical connections including turn-back channels.
DDOS attack identification via a silicon photonic Deep Neural Network with 50 GHz input and weight update
Authors: Tsakyridis Apostolos , Giamougiannis George , Moralis-Pegios Miltiadis , Mourgias-Alexandris George , Totovic Angelina R. , Dabos George , Kirtas Manos , Passalis Nikolaos , Tefas Anastasios , Kalavrouziotis Dimitrios , Syrivelis Dimitris , Bakopoulos P. , Mentovich E. , Pleros Nikos
Published: May 2023

We experimentally demonstrate distributed denial of service (DDOS) attack identification using Deep Learning over a photonic neuromorphic engine that supports both input signal and weight update at 50 GHz, reporting a Cohen’s κ-score of 0.636.
Deployment results of super C(120)+L(100) long-haul optical transmission system with fast distributed fault recovery
Authors: Zhu Chen , Zhou Xu , Li Shengnan , Jiang Yufeng , Wang Shuo , Wang Juan , Jin Yu , Lu Wanjie , Li Hu , Cheng Gang , Cui Yongxin
Published: May 2023

We discuss the hardware, architect and system control of a C+L long-haul transmission link with 11THz total bandwidth. We show that a hierarchy fast distributed fault recovery mechanism is critical for the successful system deployment.
Next Generation Wireless Fronthaul using VCSEL-based Free Space Optics
Authors: Li Tongyun , Ali Wajahat , Chen Rui , Liu Yi , Crisp Michael , Penty Richard
Published: May 2023

A free-space optics (FSO) based fronthaul final drop is proposed, enabling cost-effective remote unit deployment. Experimental results show >45dB RF dynamic range and an EVM of 1.1% for a 2x20MHz 64QAM RF signal.
Direct Electrostriction Measurement using SPM for Fiber Type Identification
Authors: Al-Shaikhli Fatima , O’Sullivan Maurice , Hui Rongqing
Published: May 2023

We present a simple technique for in-field determination of fiber types through the measurement of electrostriction effect based on self-phase modulation.
Machine-Learning-as-a-Service for Optical Network Automation
Authors: Natalino Carlos , Mohammadiha Nasser , Panahi Ashkan
Published: May 2023

MLaaS is introduced in the context of optical networks, and an architecture to take advantage of its potential is proposed. A use case of QoT classification using MLaaS techniques is benchmarked against state-of-the-art methods.
LSTM Assisted Optical Transmission Performance Analysis over a 493-km Field-Trial
Authors: Shen S. , Yang R. , Li H. , Shi Z. , Wang R. , Nejabati R. , Yan S. , Simeonidou D.
Published: May 2023

We implement an LSTM-based algorithm to predict and analyse transmission performance and detect anomalies. Cross-validation of the model over two experimental datasets shows high precision of up to 96% for R2 to predict short-term variations.
986 km Field Trial of Cascaded ANN-based Link-Penalty Models for QoT Prediction
Authors: Yang R. , Shen S. , Li H. , Shi Z. , Wang R. , Nejabati R. , Yan S. , Simeonidou D.
Published: May 2023

Cascaded ANN-based link penalty models are developed and demonstrated for QoT predictions over a 986-km field trial testbed, with precision of ± 0.16 dB. Co-training of ANN models allows network-level QoT prediction feasible.
Long-haul Transmission of 1 Tb/s Data Rate Channel with Inline Filtering based on 145 GBd Dual Polarization 16QAM
Authors: Almonacil S. , Hong Y. , Mardoyan H. , Ye X. , Ghazisaeidi A. , Renaudier J.
Published: May 2023

We demonstrate Tb-class long-haul experiment based on 145-GBd signal occupying one 150-GHz slot. We achieve 1.0-Tb/s/λ over 3630-km distance with a spectral efficiency of 6.67-b/s/Hz while accounting for inline filtering from ROADM in transport networks.
110.4 Tbit/s Same-wavelength Bidirectional Optical Fiber Transmission over 100 km G. 654D Fiber in Super-C band with Rayleigh Scattering Noise Suppressed by Raman Amplifiers
Authors: Wu Chengcheng , Li Wei , Luo Ming , Yu Shaohua , He Zhixue , Wang You , Feng Zhongshuai , He Peili , Lian Weihua , Mei Muyang , Zhang Xu , Mei Liang , Wu Xuefeng
Published: May 2023

we have demonstrated a capacity of 111.6 Tbit/s over a 75-km G.654D fiber along with a capacity of 110.4 Tbit/s over 100 km in super C-band based on the same-wavelength bidirectional optical fiber transmission scheme.
An Integrated Radar Detection and Microwave Frequency Measurement System Based on an Optically Injected Semiconductor Laser
Authors: Tang Zhigang , Zhou Pei , Zhu Jian , Li Nianqiang , Pan Shilong
Published: May 2023

An integrated radar detection and microwave frequency measurement system has been proposed and experimentally demonstrated based on an optically injected semiconductor laser. Both high-resolution radar detection and accurate microwave frequency measurement are realized simultaneously.
Duobinary-Coded Coherent ΣΔ Radio-over-Fiber Transmission at 9 GHz Downlink Channel Spacing
Authors: Schrenk Bernhard , Honz Florian
Published: May 2023

We show digitized radio-over-fiber transmission using coherent envelope detection. A low EVM of 1.3%, a high optical budget of 34.6dB and 25% improvement in spectral occupancy are found when introducing duobinary signaling and coherent detection.
Instability-driven image recovery of 180-degree backscattered polarized-light in turbid water
Authors: Han Jing , Liu Yan , Guo JInjia , Xu Qinfeng
Published: May 2023

Although the incoherent modulation instability has been proven to be effective for the recovery of forward-scattering images, the similar attempt of backscatter is still non-ideal. In this paper, considering the preservation properties of polarization and coherence in 180° backscatter, we propose an instability-driven nonlinear imaging method based on polarization modulation. A coupling model is established using Mueller calculus and mutual coherence function, in which the instability generation and image reconstruction are both analyzed. Experimental results clearly show the enhancement of imaging quality. This method is general and has potential for echo detection in various scattering environments.
Arbitrarily rotated optical axis waveguide induced by a trimming line
Authors: Wang Ying-De , Zhang Zhi-yuan , Chen Yang , Sun Yi-ke , Li Yi-chun , Tian Zhen-Nan , Ren Xi-Feng , Chen Qi-Dai , Guo Guang-Can
Published: May 2023

Rotated optical axis waveguides can facilitate on-chip arbitrary wave-plate operations, which are crucial tools for developing integrated universal quantum computing algorithms. In this paper, we propose a unique technique based on femtosecond laser direct writing technology to fabricate arbitrarily rotated optical axis waveguides. First, a circular isotropic main waveguide with a non-optical axis was fabricated using a beam shaping method. Thereafter, a trimming line was used to create an artificial stress field near the main waveguide to induce a rotated optical axis. Using this technique, we fabricated high-performance half- and quarter-wave plates. Subsequently, high-fidelity (97.1%) Pauli-X gate operation was demonstrated via quantum process tomography, which constitutes the basis for the full manipulation of on-chip polarization-encoded qubits. In the future, this work is expected to lead to new prospects for polarization-encoded information in photonic integrated circuits.
Prematurity and Hyperoxia Have Different Effects on Alveolar and Microvascular Lung Development in the Rabbit
Authors: Rößler Giacomo , Labode Jonas , Regin Yannick , Salaets Thomas , Gie André , Toelen Jaan , Mühlfeld Christian
Published: May 2023

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a developmental disorder of infants born prematurely, characterized by disrupted alveolarization and microvascular maturation. However, the sequence of alveolar and vascular alterations is currently not fully understood. Therefore, we used a rabbit model to evaluate alveolar and vascular development under preterm birth and hyperoxia, respectively. Pups were born by cesarean section 3 days before term and exposed for 7 days to hyperoxia (95% O2) or normoxia (21% O2). In addition, term-born rabbits were exposed to normoxia for 4 days. Rabbit lungs were fixed by vascular perfusion and prepared for stereological analysis. Normoxic preterm rabbits had a significantly lower number of alveoli than term rabbits. The number of septal capillaries was lower in preterm rabbits but less pronounced than the alveolar reduction. In hyperoxic preterm rabbits, the number of alveoli was similar to that in normoxic preterm animals; however, hyperoxia had a severe additional negative effect on the capillary number. In conclusion, preterm birth had a strong effect on alveolar development, and hyperoxia had a more pronounced effect on capillary development. The data provide a complex picture of the vascular hypothesis of BPD which rather seems to reflect the ambient oxygen concentration than the effect of premature birth.
A glycan receptor kinase facilitates intracellular accommodation of arbuscular mycorrhiza and symbiotic rhizobia in the legume Lotus japonicus
Authors: Kelly Simon , Hansen Simon B. , Rübsam Henriette , Saake Pia , Pedersen Emil B. , Gysel Kira , Madland Eva , Wu Shunliang , Wawra Stephan , Reid Dugald , Sullivan John T. , Blahovska Zuzana , Vinther Maria , Muszynski Artur , Azadi Parastoo , Thygesen Mikkel B. , Aachmann Finn L. , Ronson Clive W. , Zuccaro Alga , Andersen Kasper R. , Radutoiu Simona , Stougaard Jens
Published: May 2023

Receptors that distinguish the multitude of microbes surrounding plants in the environment enable dynamic responses to the biotic and abiotic conditions encountered. In this study, we identify and characterise a glycan receptor kinase, EPR3a, closely related to the exopolysaccharide receptor EPR3. Epr3a is up-regulated in roots colonised by arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and is able to bind glucans with a branching pattern characteristic of surface-exposed fungal glucans. Expression studies with cellular resolution show localised activation of the Epr3a promoter in cortical root cells containing arbuscules. Fungal infection and intracellular arbuscule formation are reduced in epr3a mutants. In vitro, the EPR3a ectodomain binds cell wall glucans in affinity gel electrophoresis assays. In microscale thermophoresis (MST) assays, rhizobial exopolysaccharide binding is detected with affinities comparable to those observed for EPR3, and both EPR3a and EPR3 bind a well-defined β-1,3/β-1,6 decasaccharide derived from exopolysaccharides of endophytic and pathogenic fungi. Both EPR3a and EPR3 function in the intracellular accommodation of microbes. However, contrasting expression patterns and divergent ligand affinities result in distinct functions in AM colonisation and rhizobial infection in Lotus japonicus. The presence of Epr3a and Epr3 genes in both eudicot and monocot plant genomes suggest a conserved function of these receptor kinases in glycan perception.
Combining Mendelian randomization and network deconvolution for inference of causal networks with GWAS summary data
Authors: Lin Zhaotong , Xue Haoran , Pan Wei
Published: May 2023

Mendelian randomization (MR) has been increasingly applied for causal inference with observational data by using genetic variants as instrumental variables (IVs). However, the current practice of MR has been largely restricted to investigating thetotalcausal effect between two traits, while it would be useful to infer thedirectcausal effect between any two of many traits (by accounting for indirect or mediating effects through other traits). For this purpose we propose a two-step approach: we first apply an extended MR method to infer (i.e. both estimate and test) a causal network of total effects among multiple traits, then we modify a graph deconvolution algorithm to infer the corresponding network of direct effects. Simulation studies showed much better performance of our proposed method than existing ones. We applied the method to 17 large-scale GWAS summary datasets (with medianN= 256879 and median #IVs = 48) to infer the causal networks of both total and direct effects among 11 common cardiometabolic risk factors, 4 cardiometabolic diseases (coronary artery disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, atrial fibrillation), Alzheimer’s disease and asthma, identifying some interesting causal pathways. We also provide an R Shiny app (https://zhaotongl.shinyapps.io/cMLgraph/) for users to explore any subset of the 17 traits of interest.
Community-based COVID-19 active case finding and rapid response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: Improving case detection and response
Authors: Otshudiema John Otokoye , Folefack Gervais Léon Tengomo , Nsio Justus M. , Kakema Cathy H. , Minikulu Luigino , Bafuana Aimé , Kosianza Joel B. , Mfumu Antoine K. , Nkwembe Edith , Munyeku-Bazitama Yannick , Makiala-Mandanda Sheila , Guinko Noé , Mbuyi Gisèle , Tshilumbu Jean-Marie K. , Saidi Guy N. , Umba-di-Masiala Moreau-Serge , Ebondo Amos K. , Mutonj Jean-Jacques , Kalombo Serge , Kabeya Jad , Mawanda Taty K. , Bile Faustin N. , Kasereka Gaby K. , Mbala-Kingebeni Placide , Ahuka-Mundeke Steve , Karamagi Humphrey Cyprian , Fai Karl Njuwa , Djiguimde Amédée Prosper
Published: May 2023

A community-based coronavirus disease (COVID-19) active case-finding strategy using an antigen-detecting rapid diagnostic test (Ag-RDT) was implemented in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to enhance COVID-19 case detection. With this pilot community-based active case finding and response program that was designed as a clinical, prospective testing performance, and implementation study, we aimed to identify insights to improve community diagnosis and rapid response to COVID-19. This pilot study was modeled on the DRC’s National COVID-19 Response Plan and the COVID-19 Ag-RDT screening algorithm defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), with case findings implemented in 259 health areas, 39 health zones, and 9 provinces. In each health area, a 7-member interdisciplinary field team tested the close contacts (ring strategy) and applied preventive and control measures to each confirmed case. The COVID-19 testing capacity increased from 0.3 tests per 10,000 inhabitants per week in the first wave to 0.4, 1.6, and 2.2 in the second, third, and fourth waves, respectively. From January to November 2021, this capacity increase contributed to an average of 10.5% of COVID-19 tests in the DRC, with 7,110 positive Ag-RDT results for 40,226 suspected cases and close contacts who were tested (53.6% female, median age: 37 years [interquartile range: 26.0–50.0)]. Overall, 79.7% (n = 32,071) of the participants were symptomatic and 7.6% (n = 3,073) had comorbidities. The Ag-RDT sensitivity and specificity were 55.5% and 99.0%, respectively, based on reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis, and there was substantial agreement between the tests (k = 0.63). Despite its limited sensitivity, the Ag-RDT has improved COVID-19 testing capacity, enabling earlier detection, isolation, and treatment of COVID-19 cases. Our findings support the community testing of suspected cases and asymptomatic close contacts of confirmed cases to reduce disease spread and virus transmission.
A comprehensive mortise and tenon structure selection method based on Pugh’s controlled convergence and rough Z-number MABAC method
Authors: Shang Bin , Chen Zhe , Ma Qing , Tan Yuhang
Published: May 2023

Mortise and tenon joints are widely used in the building and furniture industries because of their excellent mechanical and eco-friendly properties. In real-life cases, there are usually many available alternative structures for a joint area, it is a challenge to select a proper structure from massively available alternatives. This paper aims to select a proper multiple attribute decision-making method based on massive alternatives and unreliable, uncertain and subjective information. Pugh’s controlled convergence, rough number, Z-number, consistency theory and Shannon entropy are integrated and proposed an improved rough Z-number Multi-Attributive Border Approximation Area Comparison (MABAC) method. Firstly, Pugh’s controlled convergence is a selection method, simple and rapid, presented in the first phase to eliminate most of the alternatives. In the second phase, an integrated method is proposed. The consistency theory, distance measurement and the Z-number are initially aggregated to calculate the expert weight. The entropy method is then presented to determine the criteria weight. The alternatives are then ranked and the optimal mortise and tenon joint is selected based on the rough Z-number MABAC method. A real-life case is presented, and the proposed method is implemented in the joint of a bucket cabinet. Finally, the efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed method are proved by the case, sensitivity analysis and related comparisons.
Higher theta-beta ratio during screen-based vs. printed paper is related to lower attention in children: An EEG study
Authors: Zivan Michal , Vaknin Sasson , Peleg Nimrod , Ackerman Rakefet , Horowitz-Kraus Tzipi
Published: May 2023

Reading is considered a non-intuitive, cognitively demanding ability requiring synchronization between several neural networks supporting visual, language processing and higher-order abilities. With the involvement of technology in our everyday life, reading from a screen has become widely used. Several studies point to challenges in processing written materials from the screen due to changes in attention allocation when reading from a screen compared to reading from a printed paper. The current study examined the differences in brain activation when reading from a screen compared to reading from a printed paper focusing on spectral power related to attention in fifteen 6-8-year-old children. Using an electroencephalogram, children read two different age-appropriate texts, without illustrations, presented randomly on the screen and on a printed paper. Data were analyzed using spectral analyses in brain regions related to language, visual processing, and cognitive control, focusing on theta vs. beta waveforms. Results indicated that while reading from a printed paper was accompanied by higher energy in high-frequency bands (beta, gamma), reading from the screen was manifested by a higher power in the lower frequency bands (alpha, theta). Higher theta compared to the beta ratio, representing challenges in allocating attention to a given task, was found for the screen reading compared to the printed paper reading condition. Also, a significant negative correlation was found between differences in theta/beta ratio for screen vs paper reading and accuracy level in the age-normalized Sky-Search task measuring attention and a positive correlation with performance time. These results provide neurobiological support for the greater cognitive load and reduced focused attention during screen-based compared to print-based reading and suggest a different reliance on attention resources for the two conditions in children.
Earnings and work loss from 5 years before to 5 years after bariatric surgery: A cohort study
Authors: Norrbäck Mattias , Neovius Martin , Ottosson Johan , Näslund Ingmar , Bruze Gustaf
Published: May 2023

Background

The personal economic impact of bariatric surgery is not well-described.

Objectives

To examine earnings and work loss from 5 years before to 5 years after bariatric surgery compared with the general population.

Setting

Nationwide matched cohort study in the Swedish health care system.

Methods

Patients undergoing primary bariatric surgery (n = 15,828) and an equal number of comparators from the Swedish general population were identified and matched on age, sex, place of residence, and educational level. Annual taxable earnings (primary outcome) and annual work loss (secondary outcome combining months with sick leave and disability pension) were retrieved from Statistics Sweden. Participants were included in the analysis until the year of study end, emigration or death.

Results

From 5 years before to 5 years after bariatric surgery, earnings increased for patients overall and in subgroups defined by education level and sex, while work loss remained relatively constant. Bariatric patients and matched comparators from the general population increased their earnings in a near parallel fashion, from 5 years before (mean difference -$3,489 [95%CI -3,918 to -3,060]) to 5 years after surgery (-$4,164 [-4,709 to -3,619]). Work loss was relatively stable within both groups but with large absolute differences both at 5 years before (1.09 months, [95%CI 1.01 to 1.17]) and 5 years after surgery (1.25 months, [1.11 to 1.40]).

Conclusions

Five years after treatment, bariatric surgery had not reduced the gap in earnings and work loss between surgery patients and matched comparators from the general population.
Exploring biomarkers and prognostic factors in uterine carcinosarcoma: An insight into L1CAM, CDX2, p53, and MSI status
Authors: da Silva Jesse Lopes , de Albuquerque Lucas Zanetti , Rodrigues Fabiana Resende , Bastos Nina Carrossini , Small Isabele Avila , Barroso Elisa Bouret Campos , Cordero Fernando Lopes , Fernandes Daniel de Souza , Paulino Eduardo , de Melo Andreia Cristina
Published: May 2023

Background

Uterine Carcinosarcomas (UCS) are a rare type of cancer composed of an admixture of high-grade carcinomatous and sarcomatous elements. Clinicopathological prognostic factors in UCS are well established, but studies that approach the impact of biomarkers in this unusual disease are scarce. The study objective was to evaluate the prevalence and prognostic impact of a panel of prominent biomarkers in uterine carcinosarcoma (UCS) using an immunohistochemical characterization with four biomarkers.

Methods and findings

The internal database of a single Brazilian institution was carefully explored to select women diagnosed with UCS who were submitted to surgery and postoperative chemotherapy with carboplatin and paclitaxel between January 2012 and December 2017. Tissue microarrays containing UCS samples were evaluated by immunohistochemistry for L1CAM, CDX2, p53 and microsatellite instability markers. A total of 57 cases were included. The mean age was 65.3 years (standard deviation, SD 7.0). L1CAM was negative (score 0, no staining) in 27 (47.4%) patients. Of L1CAM-positive, 10 (17.5%) showed weak (score 1, <10%), 6 (10.5%) showed moderate (score 2, between 10–50%), and 14 (24.6%) showed strong L1CAM staining (score 3, ≧50%). dMMR occurred in 3 (5.3%) cases. The p53 was aberrantly expressed in 15 (26.3%) tumors. CDX2 was positive in 3 (5.3%) patients. The three-year progression-free survival (PFS) rate in the general population of the study was 21.2% (95% CI: 11.7–38.1) and the three-year overall survival (OS) rate was 29.4% (95% CI: 18.1–47.6). By multivariate analysis, the presence of metastases and CDX2-positive were significantly associated with poorer PFS (p < 0.001 and p = 0.002, respectively) and OS (p < 0.001 and p = 0.009, respectively).

Conclusion

The strong influence of CDX2 on prognosis requires further investigation. Biological or molecular variability may have impaired the assessment of the impact of the other markers on survival.
A novel nonlinear grey Bernoulli model NGBM(1,1,t^p,α) and its application in forecasting the express delivery volume per capita in China
Authors: Cheng Maolin , Liu Bin
Published: May 2023

The grey prediction is a common method in the prediction. Studies show that general grey models have high modeling precision when the time sequence varies slowly, but some grey models show low modeling precision for the high-growth sequence. The paper researches the grey modeling for the high-growth sequence using the extended nonlinear grey Bernoulli model NGBM(1,1,t⌃p,α). To improve the nonlinear grey Bernoulli model NGBM(1,1,t⌃p,α)’s prediction precision and make data have better adaptability to the model, the paper makes improvements in the following three aspects: (1) the paper improves the accumulated generating sequence of original time sequence, i.e. making a new transformation of traditional accumulated generating sequence; (2) the paper improves the model’s structure, extends the grey action and builds an extended nonlinear grey Bernoulli model NGBM(1,1,t⌃p,α); (3) the paper improves the model’s background value and uses the value of cubic spline function to approximate the background value. Because the parameters of the new accumulated generating sequence transformed, the nonlinear grey Bernoulli model’s time response equation and the background value are optimized simultaneously, the prediction precision increases greatly. The paper builds an extended nonlinear grey Bernoulli model NGBM(1,1,t⌃2,α) using the method proposed and seven comparison models for China’s express delivery volume per capita. Comparison results show that the extended nonlinear grey Bernoulli model built with the method proposed has high simulation and prediction precision and shows the precision superior to that of seven comparison models.
A novel soybean hairy root system for gene functional validation
Authors: Pereira Bruna Medeiros , Arraes Fabrício , Martins Andressa Cunha Quintana , Alves Nayara Sabrina Freitas , Melo Bruno Paes , Morgante Carolina Vianna , Saraiva Mario Alfredo Passos , Grossi-de-Sá Maria Fátima , Guimaraes Patricia Messenberg , Brasileiro Ana Cristina Miranda
Published: May 2023

Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated transformation has long been explored as a versatile and reliable method for gene function validation in many plant species, including soybean (Glycine max). Likewise, detached-leaf assays have been widely used for rapid and mass screening of soybean genotypes for disease resistance. The present study combines these two methods to establish an efficient and practical system to generate transgenic soybean hairy roots from detached leaves and their subsequent culture under ex vitro conditions. We demonstrated that hairy roots derived from leaves of two (tropical and temperate) soybean cultivars could be successfully infected by economically important species of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne incognita and M. javanica). The established detached-leaf method was further explored for functional validation of two candidate genes encoding for cell wall modifying proteins (CWMPs) to promote resistance against M. incognita through distinct biotechnological strategies: the overexpression of a wild Arachis α-expansin transgene (AdEXPA24) and the dsRNA-mediated silencing of an endogenous soybean polygalacturonase gene (GmPG). AdEXPA24 overexpression in hairy roots of RKN-susceptible soybean cultivar significantly reduced nematode infection by approximately 47%, whereas GmPG downregulation caused an average decrease of 37%. This novel system of hairy root induction from detached leaves showed to be an efficient, practical, fast, and low-cost method suitable for high throughput in root analysis of candidate genes in soybean.
The effect of angiotensin converting enzyme gene insertion/deletion polymorphism on anthropometric and biochemical parameters among hypertension patients: A case-control study from Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Birhan Tsegaye Adane , Molla Meseret Derbew , Tesfa Kibur Hunie
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene polymorphism has recently been linked with altered anthropometric and biochemical parameters in hypertensive patients. However, these links are still poorly understood and there is scarce evidence on the topic. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effect of ACE gene insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism on anthropometric and biochemical parameters among essential hypertension patients at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.

Materials and methods

A case-control study with 64 cases and 64 controls was conducted from October 07, 2020, to June 02, 2021. The anthropometric measurements, biochemical parameters, and ACE gene polymorphism were determined using standard operating procedures, enzymatic colorimetric method, and polymerase chain reaction, respectively. A one-way analysis of variance was used to determine the association of genotypes with other study variables. P value < 0.05 was regarded as statistically significant.

Result

The systolic/diastolic blood pressure and blood glucose level (P-value<0.05) were significantly higher among study hypertensive patients with the DD genotype. However, anthropometric measures and lipid profiles of cases and controls were not associated with ACE gene polymorphism (P-value>0.05).

Conclusion

The DD genotype of the ACE gene polymorphism was found to have a significant association with high blood pressure and blood glucose levels in the study population. Advanced studies with a considerable sample size may be needed to utilize the ACE genotype as a biomarker for the early detection of hypertension-related complications.
Unsupervised machine learning framework for discriminating major variants of concern during COVID-19
Authors: Chandra Rohitash , Bansal Chaarvi , Kang Mingyue , Blau Tom , Agarwal Vinti , Singh Pranjal , Wilson Laurence O. W. , Vasan Seshadri
Published: May 2023

Due to the high mutation rate of the virus, the COVID-19 pandemic evolved rapidly. Certain variants of the virus, such as Delta and Omicron emerged with altered viral properties leading to severe transmission and death rates. These variants burdened the medical systems worldwide with a major impact to travel, productivity, and the world economy. Unsupervised machine learning methods have the ability to compress, characterize, and visualize unlabelled data. This paper presents a framework that utilizes unsupervised machine learning methods to discriminate and visualize the associations between major COVID-19 variants based on their genome sequences. These methods comprise a combination of selected dimensionality reduction and clustering techniques. The framework processes the RNA sequences by performing a k-mer analysis on the data and further visualises and compares the results using selected dimensionality reduction methods that include principal component analysis (PCA), t-distributed stochastic neighbour embedding (t-SNE), and uniform manifold approximation projection (UMAP). Our framework also employs agglomerative hierarchical clustering to visualize the mutational differences among major variants of concern and country-wise mutational differences for selected variants (Delta and Omicron) using dendrograms. We also provide country-wise mutational differences for selected variants via dendrograms. We find that the proposed framework can effectively distinguish between the major variants and has the potential to identify emerging variants in the future.
Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody among SARS-CoV-2 vaccinated vs post-infected blood donors in a tertiary hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Permpikul Parichart , Tongyoo Surat , Chaimayo Chutikarn , Kanpai Prapan , Virat Jitmanee , Virat Sutasinee , Chuchaaim Jaratsri , Thongput Anchalee , Bhatnagar Sonu
Published: May 2023

SARS-CoV-2 virus infection has imposed a significant healthcare burden globally. To contain its spread and decrease infection-related mortality, several vaccines have been deployed worldwide in the past 3 years. We conducted a cross-sectional seroprevalence study to assess the immune response against the virus among blood donors at a tertiary care hospital, Bangkok, Thailand. From December 2021 to March 2022, total of 1,520 participants were enrolled, and their past history of SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination was recorded. Two serology test, namely, quantitative IgG spike protein (IgGSP) and qualitative IgG nucleocapsid antibody (IgGNC) were performed. The median age of study participants was 40 years (IQR 30–48) and 833 (54.8%) were men. Vaccine uptake was reported in 1,500 donors (98.7%) and 84 (5.5%) reported the past infection history. IgGNC was detected in 46/84 donors with the past infection history (54.8%) and in 36 out of the rest 1,436 (2.5%) with no past history. IgGSP positivity was observed in 1484 donors (97.6%). When compared to unvaccinated donors (n = 20), IgGSP level was higher in the donors who had received one vaccine dose (p< 0.001) and these antibody levels increased significantly among those with 3rd and 4th vaccine doses. Factors associated with low IgGSP (lowest quartile) by multivariate analysis included: no past infection history, homologous vaccination, < 3 vaccine doses, and > 90 days duration since last vaccination. In conclusion, vaccine uptake among our study donors was high (98.7%) and IgGSP antibody was observed in nearly all the vaccinated donors (97.6%). Previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, use of heterologous vaccination, vaccines ≥ 3 doses, and duration of the last vaccination >90 days affected IgGSP levels. Use of serological assays were found beneficial in the evaluation and differentiation of immune response to vaccination, and natural infection including the identification of previous asymptomatic infections.
Interval walking training in type 2 diabetes: A pilot study to evaluate the applicability as exercise therapy
Authors: Kitajima Kouhei , Oiwa Ako , Miyakoshi Takahiro , Hosokawa Manami , Furihata Mayuka , Takahashi Masaaki , Masuki Shizue , Nose Hiroshi , Okubo Yosuke , Sato Ai , Yamazaki Masanori , Komatsu Mitsuhisa
Published: May 2023

There are few established easy-to-perform exercise protocols with evidence-based effects for individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D). A unique exercise regimen, interval walking training (IWT), has been reported to be beneficial for improving metabolic function, physical fitness and muscle strength in adults of overall health. This pilot study aims to demonstrate descriptive statistics of IWT adherence and changes in various data before and after the intervention of IWT in adults with T2D, perform statistical hypothesis testing, and calculate effect sizes. We performed a single-arm interventional pilot study with IWT for 20 weeks. We enrolled 51 participants with T2D aged 20–80 years with glycohemoglobin (HbA1c) levels of 6.5–10.0% (48–86 mmol/mol) and a body mass index of 20–34 kg/m2, respectively. The target was 60 min/week of fast walking for 20 weeks. The participants visited the hospital and were examined at 4-week intervals during this period. Between the start of IWT and after 20 weeks, we measured and evaluated changes in glucose and lipid metabolism data, body composition, physical fitness, muscle strength, dietary calorie intake, and daily exercise calories. All included participants completed IWT, with 39% of them reaching the target length of fast walking over 1,200 minutes in 20 weeks. In the primary outcome, HbA1c levels, and in the secondary, lipid metabolism and body composition, no significant changes were observed except for high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (from 1.4 mmol/L to 1.5 mmol/L, p = 0.0093, t-test). However, in the target achievement group, a significant increase in VO2 peak by 10% (from 1,682 mL/min to 1,827 mL/min, p = 0.037, t-test) was observed. Effect sizes were Cohen’s d = 0.25 of HDL-C, -0.55 of triglyceride, and 0.24 of VO2 peak in the target achievement group, which were considered to be of small to medium clinical significance. These results could be solely attributed to IWT since there were no significant differences in dietary intake and daily life energy consumption before and after the study. IWT could be highly versatile and was suggested to have a positive effect on lipid metabolism and physical fitness. In future randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies, the detailed effects of IWT, focusing on these parameters, will be examined.

Trial registration: This trial was registered with the Japanese University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR: Usefulness on interval walking training in patients with type 2 diabetes. 000037303).
Development of a method of passaging and freezing human iPS cell-derived hepatocytes to improve their functions
Authors: Inui Jumpei , Ueyama-Toba Yukiko , Mitani Seiji , Mizuguchi Hiroyuki
Published: May 2023

Human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell-derived hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs) are expected to replace primary human hepatocytes as a new source of functional hepatocytes in various medical applications. However, the hepatic functions of HLCs are still low and it takes a long time to differentiate them from human iPS cells. Furthermore, HLCs have very low proliferative capacity and are difficult to be passaged due to loss of hepatic functions after reseeding. To overcome these problems, we attempted to develop a technology to dissociate, cryopreserve, and reseed HLCs in this study. By adding epithelial-mesenchymal transition inhibitors and optimizing the cell dissociation time, we have developed a method for passaging HLCs without loss of their functions. After passage, HLCs showed a hepatocyte-like polygonal cell morphology and expressed major hepatocyte marker proteins such as albumin and cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). In addition, the HLCs had low-density lipoprotein uptake and glycogen storage capacity. The HLCs also showed higher CYP3A4 activity and increased gene expression levels of major hepatocyte markers after passage compared to before passage. Finally, they maintained their functions even after their cryopreservation and re-culture. By applying this technology, it will be possible to provide ready-to-use availability of cryopreserved HLCs for drug discovery research.
Factors influencing users’ willingness to use new energy vehicles
Authors: Pang Jianjun , Ye Jing , Zhang Xuan
Published: May 2023

To understand potential users’ behavioral intention (BI) to adopt new energy vehicles (NEVs), a media-based perceptions and adoption model (MPAM) of NEVs geared toward potential NEV consumers was constructed based on social cognition theory, the technology acceptance model, the value acceptance model, perceived risk theory, and the MPAM of autonomous vehicles (AVs). A sample survey including 309 NEV potential users was conducted and the results were analyzed through SPSS 24.0 and SmartPLS 3.0 to test the model and verify the research hypotheses. The results show that mass media (MM) has a direct influence on users’ social norms (SNs) and part of product perceptions, and an indirect influence on their BI to adopt NEVs; SNs have a direct influence on product perception, and also indirectly affect BI toward NEVs. Product perception directly and significantly affects BI; perceived usefulness (PU), perceived ease of use (PEOU), and perceived enjoyment (PE) have a positive and significant influence on BI, while both perceived cost (PC) and perceived risk (PR) have a negative and significant impact. This study is a theoretical extension of the technology acceptance model (TAM) to green product adoption scenarios, such as NEVs, in the face of the external stimuli from MM information; it proposes product perception variables and media information effects that are different from the MPAM of AVs. The results are expected to greatly promote NEV design and marketing.
Use of admission serum neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) concentrations as a marker of sepsis and outcome in neonatal foals
Authors: Laurberg Malene , Saegerman Claude , Jacobsen Stine , Berg Lise C. , Laursen Sigrid Hyldahl , Hoeberg Emma , Sånge Elaine Alexandra , van Galen Gaby
Published: May 2023

Background

Equine neonatal sepsis can be challenging to diagnose and prognosticate. Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), a new marker of renal damage and inflammation, can potentially be helpful.

Objectives

To evaluate NGAL in neonatal foals with sepsis, and assess its relation to outcome.

Animals

Foals ≤ 14 days, with admission blood analysis and stored serum.

Methods

NGAL was measured on stored serum from 91 foals. Foals were scored for sepsis and survival and categorized according to sepsis status (septic, sick non-septic, healthy, and uncertain sepsis status) and outcome groups (survivors and non-survivors). The septic foals were further sub-categorized according to severity (normal sepsis, severe sepsis and septic shock). A Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare serum NGAL concentrations in survivors and non-survivors, in the sepsis status groups, and in the sepsis severity groups. Optimal cut-off values for serum NGAL concentrations to diagnose sepsis and outcome were determined with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. NGAL was compared to creatinine and SAA.

Results

Median serum NGAL concentrations were significantly higher in septic than non-septic foals. However, serum NGAL concentrations did not differ between sepsis severity subgroups. Serum NGAL concentrations were significantly lower in survivors than in non-survivors. Optimal cut-off values of serum NGAL concentrations were 455 μg/L (sensitivity 71.4%, specificity 100%) and 1104 μg/L (sensitivity 39.3%, specificity 95.2%) for predicting sepsis and non-survival, respectively. NGAL correlated to SAA, but not to creatinine. NGAL performed similarly to SAA to diagnose sepsis.

Conclusion

Serum NGAL concentrations may be useful for diagnosing sepsis and predicting outcome.
Cytogenetic evidence and dmrt linkage indicate male heterogamety in a non-bilaterian animal
Authors: Vacarizas Joshua , Taguchi Takahiro , Mezaki Takuma , Manalili Sam Edward , Kawakami Rei , Kubota Satoshi
Published: May 2023

The diversity of sex determination systems in animals suggests that sex chromosomes evolve independently across different lineages. However, the present data on these systems is largely limited and represented mainly by bilaterian animals. Sex chromosomes and sex determination system based on cytogenetic evidence remain a mystery among non-bilaterians, the most basal animals. Here, we investigated the sex determination system of a non-bilaterian (Goniopora djiboutiensis) based on karyotypic analysis and identification of locus ofdmrt1, a known master sex-determining gene in many animals. Results showed that among the three isolateddmrtgenes,GddmrtCwas sperm-linked. Fluorescence in situ hybridization revealed that 47% of the observed metaphase cells contained theGddmrtClocus on the shorter chromosome of the heteromorphic pair, whereas the other 53% contained noGddmrtClocus and pairing of the longer chromosome of the heteromorphic pair was observed. These findings provided the cytogenetic evidence for the existence of the Y sex chromosome in a non-bilaterian animal and supports male heterogamety as previously reported in other non-bilaterian species using RAD sequencing. The Y chromosome-specificGddmrtCsequence was most homologous to the vertebratedmrt1, which is known for its role in male sex determination and differentiation. Our result on identification of putative sex chromosomes forG.djiboutiensismay contribute into understanding of the possible genetic sex determination systems in non-bilaterian animals.
The impact of government subsidy and weather on environmentally sustainable investment decision for agricultural supply chain
Authors: Fu Hongyong , Zhou Ting , Zhang Shuguang , Wang Qi
Published: May 2023

This paper studies the environmentally sustainable investment of an agricultural supply chain composed of a farmer and a company, under three subsidy policies which are the non-subsidy policy, the fixed subsidy policy, and the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) subsidy policy. Then, we analyse the impact of different subsidy policy and adverse weather on the costs of the government and profits of the farmer and the company. By comparing with the non-subsidy policy, we find that both the fixed subsidy policy and the ARC policy encourage the farmer to improve the environmentally sustainable investment level and increase the profit of the farmer and the company. We also find that both the fixed subsidy policy and the ARC subsidy policy lead to an increase in government spending. Our results show that the ARC subsidy policy has a significate advantage in encouraging the farmer’s environmentally sustainable investment if the adverse weather is relatively serious, comparing with the fixed subsidy policy. In turn, our results also show that the ARC subsidy policy is more beneficial for both the farmer and the company than the fixed subsidy policy if the adverse weather is relatively serious, which then leads to a higher expenditure of the government. Therefore, our conclusion serves as a theoretical basis for governments to formulate agricultural subsidy policies and promote sustainable development of the agricultural environment.
The prevalence of multiple chronic conditions and medical burden in asthma patients
Authors: Jo Eun-Jung , Lee Young Uk , Kim Ahreum , Park Hye-Kyung , Kim Changhoon
Published: May 2023

Background

The prevalence of multiple chronic conditions (MCC), defined as several coexisting chronic conditions, has increased with the aging of society. MCC is associated with poor outcomes, but most comorbid diseases in asthma patients have been evaluated as asthma-associated diseases. We investigated the morbidity of coexisting chronic diseases in asthma patients and their medical burdens.

Methods

We analyzed data from the National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort for 2002–2013. We defined MCC with asthma as a group of one or more chronic diseases in addition to asthma. We analyzed 20 chronic conditions, including asthma. Age was categorized into groups 1–5 (< 10, 10–29, 30–44, 45–64, and ≥ 65 years, respectively). The frequency of medical system use and associated costs were analyzed to determine the asthma-related medical burden in patients with MCC.

Results

The prevalence of asthma was 13.01%, and the prevalence of MCC in asthmatic patients was 36.55%. The prevalence of MCC with asthma was higher in females than males and increased with age. The significant comorbidities were hypertension, dyslipidemia, arthritis, and diabetes. Dyslipidemia, arthritis, depression, and osteoporosis were more common in females than males. Hypertension, diabetes, COPD, coronary artery disease, cancer, and hepatitis were more prevalent in males than females. According to age, the most prevalent chronic condition in groups 1 and 2 was depression, dyslipidemia in group 3, and hypertension in groups 4 and 5. Older age, low income, and severe disability were independent risk factors for MCC in patients with asthma. The frequency of asthma-related medical system use and asthma-associated costs increased with increasing numbers of coexisting chronic diseases.

Conclusion

Comorbid chronic diseases in asthma patients differed according to age and sex. The asthma-related-medical burdens were highest in patients with five or more chronic conditions and groups 1 and 5.