bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase II Study of Combination Obinutuzumab, Ibrutinib, and Venetoclax in Treatment-Naïve and Relapsed or Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Rogers Kerry A. , Huang Ying , Ruppert Amy S. , Abruzzo Lynne V. , Andersen Barbara L. , Awan Farrukh T. , Bhat Seema A. , Dean Allison , Lucas Margaret , Banks Christin , Grantier Cara , Heerema Nyla A. , Lozanski Gerard , Maddocks Kami J. , Valentine Thomas R. , Weiss David M. , Jones Jeffrey A. , Woyach Jennifer A. , Byrd John C.
Published: August 2020

PURPOSE

The development of highly effective targeted agents for chronic lymphocytic leukemia offers the potential for fixed-duration combinations that achieve deep remissions without cytotoxic chemotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This phase II study tested a combination regimen of obinutuzumab, ibrutinib, and venetoclax for a total of 14 cycles in both patients with treatment-naïve (n = 25) and relapsed or refractory (n = 25) chronic lymphocytic leukemia to determine the response to therapy and safety.

RESULTS

The primary end point was the rate of complete remission with undetectable minimal residual disease by flow cytometry in both the blood and bone marrow 2 months after completion of treatment, which was 28% in both groups. The overall response rate at that time was 84% in treatment-naïve patients and 88% in relapsed or refractory patients. At that time, 67% of treatment-naïve patients and 50% of relapsed or refractory patients had undetectable minimal residual disease in both the blood and marrow. At a median follow-up of 24.2 months in treatment-naïve patients and 21.5 months in relapsed or refractory patients, the median progression-free and overall survival times were not yet reached, with only 1 patient experiencing progression and 1 death. Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia were the most frequent adverse events, followed by hypertension. Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia was experienced by 66% of patients, with more events in the relapsed or refractory cohort. There was only 1 episode of neutropenic fever. A favorable impact on both perceived and objective cognitive performance during treatment was observed.

CONCLUSION

The combination regimen of obinutuzumab, ibrutinib, and venetoclax offers time-limited treatment that results in deep remissions and is now being studied in phase III cooperative group trials.
Chemotherapy and COVID-19 Outcomes in Patients With Cancer
Authors: Jee Justin , Foote Michael B. , Lumish Melissa , Stonestrom Aaron J. , Wills Beatriz , Narendra Varun , Avutu Viswatej , Murciano-Goroff Yonina R. , Chan Jason E. , Derkach Andriy , Philip John , Belenkaya Rimma , Kerpelev Marina , Maloy Molly , Watson Adam , Fong Chris , Janjigian Yelena , Diaz Luis A. , Bolton Kelly L. , Pessin Melissa S.
Published: August 2020

PURPOSE

Coronavirus-2019 (COVID-19) mortality is higher in patients with cancer than in the general population, yet the cancer-associated risk factors for COVID-19 adverse outcomes are not fully characterized.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We reviewed clinical characteristics and outcomes from patients with cancer and concurrent COVID-19 at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center until March 31, 2020 (n = 309), and observed clinical end points until April 13, 2020. We hypothesized that cytotoxic chemotherapy administered within 35 days of a COVID-19 diagnosis is associated with an increased hazard ratio (HR) of severe or critical COVID-19. In secondary analyses, we estimated associations between specific clinical and laboratory variables and the incidence of a severe or critical COVID-19 event.

RESULTS

Cytotoxic chemotherapy administration was not significantly associated with a severe or critical COVID-19 event (HR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.73 to 1.60). Hematologic malignancy was associated with increased COVID-19 severity (HR, 1.90; 95% CI, 1.30 to 2.80). Patients with lung cancer also demonstrated higher rates of severe or critical COVID-19 events (HR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.20 to 3.30). Lymphopenia at COVID-19 diagnosis was associated with higher rates of severe or critical illness (HR, 2.10; 95% CI, 1.50 to 3.10). Patients with baseline neutropenia 14-90 days before COVID-19 diagnosis had worse outcomes (HR, 4.20; 95% CI, 1.70 to 11.00). Findings from these analyses remained consistent in a multivariable model and in multiple sensitivity analyses. The rate of adverse events was lower in a time-matched population of patients with cancer without COVID-19.

CONCLUSION

Recent cytotoxic chemotherapy treatment was not associated with adverse COVID-19 outcomes. Patients with active hematologic or lung malignancies, peri–COVID-19 lymphopenia, or baseline neutropenia had worse COVID-19 outcomes. Interactions among antineoplastic therapy, cancer type, and COVID-19 are complex and warrant further investigation.
SARS-CoV-2 Testing in Patients With Cancer Treated at a Tertiary Care Hospital During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Berghoff Anna S. , Gansterer Margaretha , Bathke Arne C. , Trutschnig Wolfgang , Hungerländer Philipp , Berger Julia M. , Kreminger Judith , Starzer Angelika M. , Strassl Robert , Schmidt Ralf , Willschke Harald , Lamm Wolfgang , Raderer Markus , Gottlieb Alex D. , Mauser Norbert J. , Preusser Matthias
Published: August 2020

PURPOSE

To analyze the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with cancer in hospital care after implementation of institutional and governmental safety measurements.

METHODS

Patients with cancer routinely tested for SARS-CoV-2 RNA by nasal swab and real-time polymerase chain reaction between March 21 and May 4, 2020, were included. The results of this cancer cohort were statistically compared with the SARS-CoV-2 prevalence in the Austrian population as determined by a representative nationwide random sample study (control cohort 1) and a cohort of patients without cancer presenting to our hospital (control cohort 2).

RESULTS

A total of 1,688 SARS-CoV-2 tests in 1,016 consecutive patients with cancer were performed. A total of 270 of 1,016 (26.6%) of the patients were undergoing active anticancer treatment in a neoadjuvant/adjuvant and 560 of 1,016 (55.1%) in a palliative setting. A total of 53 of 1,016 (5.2%) patients self-reported symptoms potentially associated with COVID-19. In 4 of 1,016 (0.4%) patients, SARS-CoV-2 was detected. At the time of testing at our department, all four SARS-CoV-2–positive patients were asymptomatic, and two of them had recovered from symptomatic COVID-19. Viral clearance was achieved in three of the four patients 14-56 days after testing positive. The estimated odds ratio of SARS-CoV-2 prevalence between the cancer cohort and control cohort 1 was 1.013 (95% CI, 0.209 to 4.272; P = 1), and between control cohort 2 and the cancer cohort it was 18.333 (95% CI, 6.056 to 74.157).

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that continuation of active anticancer therapy and follow-up visits in a large tertiary care hospital are feasible and safe after implementation of strict population-wide and institutional safety measures during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Routine SARS-CoV-2 testing of patients with cancer seems advisable to detect asymptomatic virus carriers and avoid uncontrolled viral spread.
Fertility Options for the Transgender and Gender Nonbinary Patient
Authors: Mayhew Allison C , Gomez-Lobo Veronica
Published: August 2020

Comprehensive care for transgender and gender nonbinary patients has been a priority established by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health. Because pubertal suppression, gender-affirming hormone therapy, and antiandrogen therapy used alone or in combination during medical transition can affect gonadal function, understanding the effects these treatments have on fertility potential is important for practitioners caring for transgender and gender nonbinary patients. In this review, we outline the impacts of gender-affirming treatments on fertility potential and discuss the counseling and the treatment approach for fertility preservation and/or family building in transgender and gender nonbinary individuals.
Endocrine Outcomes In Central Diabetes Insipidus: the Predictive Value of Neuroimaging “Mismatch Pattern”
Authors: Bianco Deborah , Napoli Flavia , Morana Giovanni , Pistorio Angela , Allegri Anna Elsa Maria , Fava Daniela , Schiavone Maurizio , Thiabat Hanan F , Crocco Marco , Camia Tiziana , Lezzi Marilea , Calandrino Andrea , Tortora Domenico , Severino Mariasavina , Patti Giuseppa , Ibba Anastasia , Rossi Andrea , Di Iorgi Natascia , Maghnie Mohamad
Published: August 2020

Context

The etiology of central diabetes insipidus (CDI) in children is often unknown. Clinical and radiological features at disease onset do not allow discrimination between idiopathic forms and other conditions or to predict anterior pituitary dysfunction.

Objective

To evaluate the evolution of pituitary stalk (PS) thickening and the pattern of contrast-enhancement in relation with etiological diagnosis and pituitary function.

Methods

We enrolled 39 children with CDI, 29 idiopathic and 10 with Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH). Brain magnetic resonance images taken at admission and during follow-up (332 studies) were examined, focusing on PS thickness, contrast-enhancement pattern, and pituitary gland size; T2-DRIVE and postcontrast T1-weighted images were analyzed.

Results

Seventeen of 29 patients (58.6%) with idiopathic CDI displayed “mismatch pattern,” consisting in a discrepancy between PS thickness in T2-DRIVE and postcontrast T1-weighted images; neuroimaging findings became stable after its appearance, while “mismatch” appeared in LCH patients after chemotherapy. Patients with larger PS displayed mismatch more frequently (P = 0.003); in these patients, reduction of proximal and middle PS size was documented over time (P = 0.045 and P = 0.006). The pituitary gland was smaller in patients with mismatch (P < 0.0001). Patients with mismatch presented more frequently with at least one pituitary hormone defect, more often growth hormone deficiency (P = 0.033).

Conclusions

The PS mismatch pattern characterizes patients with CDI, reduced pituitary gland size, and anterior pituitary dysfunction. The association of mismatch pattern with specific underlying conditions needs further investigation. As patients with mismatch show stabilization of PS size, we assume a prognostic role of this peculiar pattern, which could be used to lead follow-up.
Glucagonotropic and Glucagonostatic Effects of KATP Channel Closure and Potassium Depolarization
Authors: Früh Eike , Elgert Christin , Eggert Frank , Scherneck Stephan , Rustenbeck Ingo
Published: August 2020

The role of depolarization in the inverse glucose-dependence of glucagon secretion was investigated by comparing the effects of KATP channel block and of high potassium. The secretion of glucagon and insulin by perifused mouse islets was simultaneously measured. Lowering glucose raised glucagon secretion before it decreased insulin secretion, suggesting an alpha cell–intrinsic signal recognition. Raising glucose affected glucagon and insulin secretion at the same time. However, depolarization by tolbutamide, gliclazide, or 15 mM KCl increased insulin secretion before the glucagon secretion receded. In contrast to the robust depolarizing effect of arginine and KCl (15 and 40 mM) on single alpha cells, tolbutamide was of variable efficacy. Only when applied before other depolarizing agents had tolbutamide a consistent depolarizing effect and regularly increased the cytosolic Ca2+ concentration. When tested on inside-out patches tolbutamide was as effective on alpha cells as on beta cells. In the presence of 1 µM clonidine, to separate insulinotropic from glucagonotropic effects, both 500 µM tolbutamide and 30 µM gliclazide increased glucagon secretion significantly, but transiently. The additional presence of 15 or 40 mM KCl in contrast led to a marked and lasting increase of the glucagon secretion. The glucagon secretion by SUR1 knockout islets was not increased by tolbutamide, whereas 40 mM KCl was of unchanged efficiency. In conclusion a strong and sustained depolarization is compatible with a marked and lasting glucagon secretion. KATP channel closure in alpha cells is less readily achieved than in beta cells, which may explain the moderate and transient glucagonotropic effect.
let-7 miRNAs inhibit CHD7 expression and control auditory-sensory progenitor cell behavior in the developing inner ear
Authors: Evsen Lale , Li Xiaojun , Zhang Shuran , Razin Sharjil , Doetzlhofer Angelika
Published: August 2020

The evolutionarily conserved lethal-7 (let-7) microRNAs (miRNAs) are well-known activators of proliferative quiescence and terminal differentiation. However, in the murine auditory organ, let-7g overexpression delays the differentiation of mechano-sensory hair cells (HCs). To address whether the role of let-7 in auditory-sensory differentiation is conserved among vertebrates, we manipulated let-7 levels within the chicken auditory organ: the basilar papilla. Using a let-7 sponge construct to sequester let-7 miRNAs, we found that endogenous let-7 miRNAs are essential for limiting the self-renewal of HC progenitor cells. Furthermore, let-7b overexpression experiments revealed that, similar to mice, higher than normal let-7 levels slow/delay HC differentiation. Finally, we identify CHD7, a chromatin remodeler, as a candidate for mediating the repressive function of let-7 in HC differentiation and inner ear morphogenesis. Our analysis uncovered an evolutionarily conserved let-7-5p-binding site within the chicken Chd7 gene and its human and murine homologs, and we show that let-7g overexpression in mice limits CHD7 expression in the developing inner ear, retina and brain. Haploinsufficiency of CHD7 in humans causes CHARGE syndrome and attenuation of let-7 function may be an effective method for treating CHD7 deficiency.
Disturbed nitric oxide signalling gives rise to congenital bicuspid aortic valve and aortopathy
Authors: Peterson Joshua C. , Wisse Lambertus J. , Wirokromo Valerie , van Herwaarden Tessa , Smits Anke M. , Gittenberger-de Groot Adriana C. , Goumans Marie-José T. H. , VanMunsteren J. Conny , Jongbloed Monique R. M. , DeRuiter Marco C.
Published: August 2020

Patients with a congenital bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), a valve with two instead of three aortic leaflets, have an increased risk of developing thoracic aneurysms and aortic dissection. The mechanisms underlying BAV-associated aortopathy are poorly understood. This study examined BAV-associated aortopathy in Nos3−/− mice, a model with congenital BAV formation. A combination of histological examination and in vivo ultrasound imaging was used to investigate aortic dilation and dissections in Nos3−/− mice. Moreover, cell lineage analysis and single-cell RNA sequencing were used to observe the molecular anomalies within vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) of Nos3−/− mice. Spontaneous aortic dissections were found in ascending aortas located at the sinotubular junction in ∼13% of Nos3−/− mice. Moreover, Nos3−/− mice were prone to developing aortic dilations in the proximal and distal ascending aorta during early adulthood. Lower volumes of elastic fibres were found within vessel walls of the ascending aortas of Nos3−/− mice, as well as incomplete coverage of the aortic inner media by neural crest cell (NCC)-derived VSMCs. VSMCs of Nos3−/− mice showed downregulation of 15 genes, of which seven were associated with aortic aneurysms and dissections in the human population. Elastin mRNA was most markedly downregulated, followed by fibulin-5 expression, both primary components of elastic fibres. This study demonstrates that, in addition to congenital BAV formation, disrupted endothelial-mediated nitric oxide (NO) signalling in Nos3−/− mice also causes aortic dilation and dissection, as a consequence of inhibited elastic fibre formation in VSMCs within the ascending aorta.
Science during lockdown – from virtual seminars to sustainable online communities
Authors: Bottanelli Francesca , Cadot Bruno , Campelo Felix , Curran Scott , Davidson Patricia M. , Dey Gautam , Raote Ishier , Straube Anne , Swaffer Matthew P.
Published: August 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted traditional modes of scientific communication. In-person conferences and seminars have been cancelled and most scientists around the world have been confined to their homes. Although challenging, this situation has presented an opportunity to adopt new ways to communicate science and build scientific relationships within a digital environment, thereby reducing the environmental impact and increasing the inclusivity of scientific events. As a group of researchers who have recently created online seminar series for our respective research communities, we have come together to share our experiences and insights. Only a few weeks into this process, and often learning ‘on the job’, we have collectively encountered different problems and solutions. Here, we share our advice on formats and tools, security concerns, spreading the word to your community and creating a diverse, inclusive and collegial space online. We hope our experience will help others launch their own online initiatives, helping to shape the future of scientific communication as we move past the current crisis.
Diffusion rather than intraflagellar transport likely provides most of the tubulin required for axonemal assembly in Chlamydomonas
Authors: Craft Van De Weghe Julie , Harris J. Aaron , Kubo Tomohiro , Witman George B. , Lechtreck Karl F.
Published: August 2020

Tubulin enters the cilium by diffusion and motor-based intraflagellar transport (IFT). However, the respective contribution of each route in providing tubulin for axonemal assembly remains unknown. Using Chlamydomonas, we attenuated IFT-based tubulin transport of GFP–β-tubulin by altering the IFT74N–IFT81N tubulin-binding module and the C-terminal E-hook of tubulin. E-hook-deficient GFP–β-tubulin was incorporated into the axonemal microtubules, but its transport frequency by IFT was reduced by ∼90% in control cells and essentially abolished when the tubulin-binding site of IFT81 was incapacitated. Despite the strong reduction in IFT, the proportion of E-hook-deficient GFP–β-tubulin in the axoneme was only moderately reduced. In vivo imaging showed more GFP–β-tubulin particles entering cilia by diffusion than by IFT. Extrapolated to endogenous tubulin, the data indicate that diffusion provides most of the tubulin required for axonemal assembly. We propose that IFT of tubulin is nevertheless needed for ciliogenesis, because it augments the tubulin pool supplied to the ciliary tip by diffusion, thus ensuring that free tubulin there is maintained at the critical concentration for plus-end microtubule assembly during rapid ciliary growth.
Advanced cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in takotsubo cardiomyopathy
Authors: Ojha Vineeta , Khurana Rishabh , Ganga Kartik P , Kumar Sanjeev
Published: August 2020

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC) is a reversible condition in which there is transient left ventricular (LV) dysfunction characterised most commonly by basal hyperkinesis and mid-apical LV ballooning and hypokinesia. It is said to be triggered by stress and mimics, such as acute coronary syndrome (ACS) clinically. Diagnosis is usually suspected on echocardiography due to the characteristic contraction pattern in a patient with symptoms and signs of ACS but normal coronary arteries on catheter angiography. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), with its latest advancements, is the diagnostic modality of choice for diagnosis, prognosis and follow-up of patients. The advances in CMR (including T1, T2, ECV mapping and threshold-based late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) measurements have revolutionised the role of CMR in tissue characterisation and prognostication in patients with TC. In this review, we highlight the current role of CMR in management of TC and enumerate the CMR findings in TC as well the current advances in the field of CMR, which could help in prognosticating these patients.
Vascular imaging of the lung: perspectives on current imaging methods
Authors: Schiebler Mark L. , Fain Sean , van Beek Edwin
Published: August 2020

This commentary will discuss the use of advanced non-invasive imaging methodology for the pulmonary vascular system with special attention to a rubric for the imaging and clinical team to use for any particular clinical situation.
Effects of healthcare policy and education on reading accuracy of bitewing radiographs for interproximal caries
Authors: Sato Hiroki , Da Silva John D , Lee Cliff , Yonemoto Hisashi , Kuwajima Yukinori , Ohyama Hiroe , Lambert Robert Fredrick , Izumisawa Mitsuru , Takahashi Noriaki , Nagai Shigemi
Published: August 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study is to assess the accuracy of bitewing radiograph interpretation of predoctoral students, residents and general dentists who work under different core curriculum of dental education and healthcare policy.

Methods

A total of 118 examiners including predoctoral dental students, residents and general dentists from USA and Japan were tasked with evaluating a series of bitewing radiographs and diagnosing interproximal carious lesions. This study was approved by the Harvard Medical School Institutional Review Board (IRB). Participants graded interproximal aspects of those images and categorized the following criteria; “intact”, “enamel caries <1/2 width”, “enamel caries >1/2 width” or “caries into dentin”. The gold-standard was determined by the consensus of two HSDM full-time faculty.

Results

There was significant difference in the sensitivity for all three caries levels between the two groups but there was no significant difference on specificity. The positive-predictive and negative-predictive values of the USA group for the enamel caries (<1/2 of enamel) were significantly higher than the Japanese group. The average of AUC (ROC) was significantly higher in the USA group (0.885 ± 0.04) than the Japanese group (0.785 ± 0.08, p<0.01).

Conclusion

Teaching and adopting BW radiographs for diagnosis of interproximal caries is integral for dental providers to accurately and efficiently use them in their practices. It is critical that all dental educators approach policymakers to explain the importance of BW radiographs and promote their efficacy for prevention and early diagnosis of interproximal caries.
Analysis of Digital Evidence on Denial of Service (DoS) Attack Log Based
Authors: Fanani Galih , Riadi Imam
Published: August 2020

This research is carried out an analysis and investigation of digital log file data retrieval from DoS (Denial of Service) attacks, on internet networks that have been detected by IDS (Intrusion Detection System) and using Wireshark as Tools Analysis Network. The research phase begins with the design of an experimental scenario which is often carried out daily where users access the internet network. The next stage is an attack in the form of ping flood on the target computer connected to the internet network, the final stage of data retrieval which will be analyzed later. Testing research using UAT (User Acceptance Test), to prove that the analysis has been received by the user. The results of research conducted to obtain data in the form of an attacker's IP (Internet Protocol), target IP, protocol type, the port used and the time of the attack. In the UAT test results, the obtained value of 18% of students disagrees, 58% of students agree, and 24% of students strongly agree. This research has conducted an analysis of random data attacks using Wireshark applications received by users.
Gyroscope and Accelerometer Sensor on the Lanange Jagad Dance Robot Balance System
Authors: Samosir Ahmad Sopi , Widodo Nuryono Satya
Published: August 2020

In performing dance moves, humanoid robots are expected to move flexibly and not easily fall during dance moves. To reduce the risk of robots falling while performing dance moves, a balance control system using a gyroscope sensor and accelerometer from the MPU6050 is controlled through the Arduino MEGA 2560 PRO. Robots that have balance control, are able to maintain stability in track conditions that have a certain degree of slope. This balance control system uses the Kalman filter method for processing data from the gyroscope sensor and accelerometer in order to reduce the noise that occurs during the robot's balance process. From the results of the test, the percentage of the success rate of robots in rest was 88.8%, the percentage of success when the robot was running was 86.6%, and the percentage of success when the robot was walking with dancing was 75%. From the results of all tests, humanoid robot has a percentage of 83.4% after adding a balance control system and when the humanoid robot does not use balance control will only produce a percentage of success rate of 48.4%.
The Relationship between Effective Communication Skills and Verbal Intelligence Levels of Faculty of Sport Sciences Students
Authors: Filiz Bijen
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between effective communication skills and verbal intelligence levels of Faculty of Sports Sciences students according to variables such as gender, department, age, academic grade point average (GPA), and way of taking the Effective Communication Skills (ECS) course. The correlational survey model was used in the research. The subjects were 230 volunteer university students, chosen by simple random sampling method. The Multiple Intelligence Areas Inventory and The Effective Communication Skills Scale were used. The result showed that there was a significant difference in favor of female students in terms of effective listening by gender. A significant difference was found in favor of the Recreation Department in terms of self-recognition/self-disclosure, I-language, and verbal intelligence sub-dimensions. A significant difference was found in favor of 21-23 age in self-recognition/self-disclosure sub-dimension by age variable. According to academic GPA, a significant difference was found in the verbal intelligence sub-dimension in favor of those whose academic GPA was 3.15-3.57. In addition, according to way of taking the ECS course, a significant difference was found in favor of the compulsory course in the sub-dimensions of ego supportive language, self-recognition/self-disclosure, and I-language. Besides, it was determined that there is a positive and significant relationship between students' effective communication skills and verbal intelligence levels. As a result, it has been determined that, in terms of the development of communication skills, it is important that the ECS course is included in the curriculum as part of the compulsory course.
Investigation of Shared Leadership and Organizational Commitment in Primary and Secondary Schools: Malatya Case
Authors: Cobanoglu Necati
Published: August 2020

Shared leadership enables employees to develop positive feelings for their organizations and themselves. Especially, their devotional feelings and behaviours towards their organizations increase with the sharing of leadership. In this study, the shared leadership of the school and the organizational commitment levels of the teachers, their relationship with each other and the predictive status were examined. This study is a research within relational survey model. The data of the research were collected from 512 teachers in primary and secondary schools in Malatya districts of Turkey in the 2019-2020 academic year. The data were collected through the Shared Leadership Scale and the Organizational Commitment Scale of Teachers. For the analysis of the data, t-test, ANOVA test, correlation and regression analyzes were performed. According to the results of the research, shared leadership and organizational commitment levels in primary and secondary schools are high. There is a positively significant and moderate correlation between the shared leadership of the school and the organizational commitment of teachers. Shared leadership in primary and secondary schools positively and significantly predicts teachers' organizational commitment. For this reason, in order to increase the organizational commitment of teachers; it is important to create a sharing school life, in order to support teachers for the purposes of the organization and to include them in decision-making processes. According to the results obtained, it is recommended that young teachers with lower organizational commitment be given more duties, powers and responsibilities.
A randomized controlled clinical trial of carbohydrate mix-fortified nutrition in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: Eliana Fatimah , Pranoto Budi Agung
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND Liquid meal replacement nutrition (LMRN) contains low glycemic index food (isomaltulose, resistant dextrin, and inulin), which can decrease large blood glucose level fluctuations and reduce food intake. This study aimed to determine the stability of daily blood glucose and the level of appetite sensations after intake of LMRN in type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients.

METHODS This randomized, controlled, crossover, and open-labeled study included 30 subjects with type 2 DM. Subjects attended two visit sessions to consume either LMRN or controlled-nutrition solid food (CNSF) for 4 consecutive days. Each subject had 2 days of 24-hour periods of blood glucose measurement using a continuous glucose monitoring system and had a 1-week washout period. Glycemic response (GR) and incremental area under the curve (iAUC) were calculated. The satiety level was measured using a visual analog scale.

RESULTS After 48 hours, LMRN reduced GR compared with CNSF with glucose measurements of 13.72 (30.42) and 17.47 (36.38) mg/dl, respectively. The reduction on iAUC after consuming LMRN (36,891 [30,255.8] mg.min/dl) compared with CNSF (40,641 [38,798.9] mg.min/dl) was also noted. Subjects having LMRN felt less hungry and more satiated than those consuming CNSF. The administration of LMRN does not have any serious side effects.

CONCLUSIONS LMRN provides a greater reduction of GR and longer term of satiety compared with CNSF without causing any serious side effects.
3D waveguide element fabrication in Gorilla glass by an ultrafast laser
Authors: Lv Jing , Wang Kedian , Cheng Guanghua
Published: August 2020

Waveguide fabrication with an ultrafast laser system and the mechanism of index modification have been investigated in Corning Gorilla glass. Type I waveguides were obtained when the pulse duration was in the range of  250 fs to 15 ps. With the increase of pulse energy, single-mode waveguides converted to ring-mode waveguides. The variation tendency of Raman peak at

580

c
m

−
1

band is nonmonotonic with the increase of pulse energy, and the negative index change appears finally in the waveguide core. The alkali ions migrated towards the outside with different diffusivities after the laser irradiation. Finally, bend waveguides and hexagon-link waveguide connectors were produced.
Advances in optical metrology and instrumentation: introduction
Authors: Ellis Jonathan D. , Haitjema Han , Jiang Xiangqian , Joo Ki-Nam , Leach Richard
Published: August 2020

Optical measurement and characterization are two of the pillars of metrology. The ability to measure precisely with high dynamic range and accuracy betters our understanding of nature and the universe. In this feature issue, we present a collection of articles that delves into the fundamental techniques used to advance the field.
23-dB average isolation using a silicon photonic Mach-Zehnder modulator
Authors: Jacques Maxime , El-Fiky Eslam , Xing Zhenping , Samani Alireza , Carpentier Olivier , Plant David V.
Published: August 2020

We demonstrate an optical time-gate isolator entirely fabricated on the silicon-on-insulator (SOI) platform based on a conventional traveling-wave Mach-Zehnder modulator (TW-MZM) design. The device achieves 18.2 dB (22.7 dB) time-averaged isolation when driven with 2.0-Vpp (7.1-Vpp) differential clock signals at 6.8 GHz and biased at null. Under these conditions, the isolator blocks backward light at all time regardless of driver amplitude, but produces periodic modulation in the forward direction. Moreover, we embed our isolator in a digital communication link and measure a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) penalty of only 0.5 dB due to the isolator at 13.6 Gbaud PAM-4 data rate. Our device can be integrated in larger circuits to protect laser sources or mitigate interference.
Impact of optical coherence on the performance of large-scale spatiotemporal photonic reservoir computing systems
Authors: Nguimdo Romain Modeste , Antonik Piotr , Marsal Nicolas , Rontani Damien
Published: August 2020

Large-scale spatiotemporal photonic reservoir computer (RC) systems offer remarkable solutions for massively parallel processing of a wide variety of hard real-world tasks. In such systems, neural networks are created by either optical or electronic coupling. Here, we investigate the impact of the optical coherence on the performance of large-scale spatiotemporal photonic RCs by comparing a coherent (optical coupling between the reservoir nodes) and incoherent (digital coupling between the reservoir nodes) RC systems. Although the coherent configuration offers significant reduction on the computational load compared to the incoherent architecture, for image and video classification benchmark tasks, it is found that the incoherent RC configuration outperforms the coherent configuration. Moreover, the incoherent configuration is found to exhibit a larger memory capacity than the coherent scheme. Our results pave the way towards the optimization of implementation of large-scale RC systems.
Highly sensitive optofluidic refractive index sensor based on a seven-liquid-core Teflon-cladding fiber
Authors: Dong Jiang-Tao , Cheng Chang-He , Wu Chuang , Li Jie , Guan Bai-Ou
Published: August 2020

We propose and theoretically demonstrate a highly sensitive optofluidic refractive index (RI) sensor based on a spectral filter formed by a segment of liquid-filled seven-hole Teflon-cladding fiber sandwiched by two standard single mode fibers (SMFs). When liquid flows through the air hole channels of the seven-hole Teflon-cladding fiber, it forms a seven-liquid-core fiber (SLCF) and the lightwaves are well guided by the liquid cores owing to total inner reflection. When the input SMF is aligned to the central core of the SLCF, the light excited in the central core will couple to outer cores periodically along the length of the SCLF. At the detection port, the output SMF is also aligned to the central core of the SLCF. Since the coupling coefficient depends on wavelength, the coupling efficiency is also wavelength dependent, leading to a filter spectrum for a given length of the SLCF. The spectral response of the filter to the change in RI of the liquid cores is numerically simulated based on the coupled-mode theory through finite-element method. The dependence of the RI sensitivity on the diameter and pitch of air holes of the SLCF are studied, respectively. Finally, a very high sensitivity of 25,300 nm/RIU for RI around 1.333 is achieved.
White-light-driven resonant fiber-optic strain sensor
Authors: Zhao Shuangxiang , Liu Qingwen , He Zuyuan
Published: August 2020

Recently, laser-driven resonant fiber-optic sensors (FOSs) have been reported to reach the ultimate resolution limit, set by the thermal noise in fiber. However, they are still far away from commercialization because of their dependence on expensive and ultra-narrow-linewidth lasers. In this Letter, a white-light-driven resonant FOS is proposed for the first time, to the best of our knowledge. By using the white-light multi-beam interferometry, the resonant peaks of a fiber Fabry–Perot interferometer sensor are obtained, and the resonance drifts are tracked for sensor readout by using the Pound–Drever–Hall technique. The proposed FOS is adopted for strain measurement, and the achieved strain resolution (

0.9

p

ε

/

√

H
z

at 100 Hz) is comparable with that of  laser-driven FOSs.
TE/TM-pass polarizers based on lateral leakage in a thin film lithium niobate–silicon nitride hybrid platform
Authors: Liu Yang , Huang Xingrui , Li Zezheng , Kuang Yingxin , Guan Huan , Wei Qingquan , Fan Zhongchao , Li Zhiyong
Published: August 2020

TE/TM-pass polarizers based on the lithium niobate–silicon nitride
hybrid platform are numerically proposed for the first time, to the
best of our knowledge. By utilizing the lateral leakage of a shallowly
etched rib waveguide, 1-mm-long TE/TM-pass polarizers with high
extinction ratios of 28.72/24.03 dB are obtained. Because of the
anisotropy of the lithium niobate, the lateral leakage of TE/TM
polarization modes can occur along crystallographic

z

/

y

directions, respectively. Such
TE/TM-pass polarizers can be integrated in the same wafer.
Superlattice hole injection layers for UV LEDs grown on SiC
Authors: Zollner Christian J. , Almogbel Abdullah S. , Yao Yifan , Wang Michael , Iza Michael , Speck James S. , DenBaars Steven P. , Nakamura Shuji
Published: August 2020

AlGaN-based germicidal UV LEDs show promise in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic through disinfection of air, water, and surfaces. We report UV LEDs grown by MOCVD on SiC substrates, fabricated into thin-film flip chip devices. Replacing the uniform p-Al
x
Ga1-xN layer (x = 0.2) with a short-period-superlattice of alternating (x = 0.1 and 0.8) Al-composition improved EQE from 1.3% to 2.7% (3.2% with encapsulation) at 20 A/cm2. Peak EQE and WPE values of 4.8% and 2.8% (287 nm) were measured at current densities below 2 A/cm2, and maximum output power of 7.4 mW (76 mW/mm2) was achieved at 284 nm. Further WPE improvements are expected with both superlattice and uniform layer optimization, improved p-contact metallization, and active region optimization.
Rabi splitting obtained in a monolayer BP-plasmonic heterostructure at room temperature
Authors: Huang Yan , Liu Yan , Shao Yao , Han Genquan , Zhang Jincheng , Hao Yue
Published: August 2020

Hybrid exciton states can be formed under the strong coupling of plasmons excited by metal nanostructures and excitons. Because of the large exciton binding energy, black phosphorus (BP) is an ideal platform to investigate the strong coupling. In this paper, we first demonstrate the strong coupling between local surface plasmon modes of different metal nanostructures and excitons in monolayer BP by adjusting the dimensions of nanostructures and polarization angle at room temperature. Moreover, the exciton dispersion curves obtained from the coupled oscillator model show the anti-crossing behavior at the exciton energy. And the Rabi splitting energies of the two different BP-metal nanostructures heterostructure are 250 meV and 202 meV, respectively, which paves a way towards the development of BP photodetectors, sensors, and emitters.
Fast and wide-band tuning single-mode microlaser based on fiber Fabry–Pérot microcavities
Authors: Gao Xin-Xia , Cui Jin-Ming , Hu Zhi-Hao , Dong Chun-Hua , Wang Jian , Huang Yun-Feng , Li Chuan-Feng , Guo Guang-Can
Published: August 2020

A narrow-linewidth laser operating at the telecommunications band combined with both fast and wide-band tuning features will have promising applications. Here we demonstrate a single-mode (both transverse and longitudinal mode) continuous microlaser around 1535 nm based on a fiber Fabry–Pérot microcavity, which achieves wide-band tuning without mode hopping to the 1.3 THz range and fast tuning rate to 60 kHz and yields a frequency scan rate of

1.6
×

10

17

  
Hz
/
s

. Moreover, the linewidth of the laser is measured as narrow as 3.1 MHz. As the microlaser combines all these features into one fiber component, it can serve as the seed laser for versatile applications in optical communication, sensing, frequency-modulated continuous-wave radar, and high-resolution imaging.
An Ion-exchange Bone Demineralization Method for Improved Time, Expense, and Tissue Preservation
Authors: Narotzky Emma , Jerome Maria E. , Horner John R. , Rashid Dana J.
Published: August 2020

Here, we describe an ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)-based bone demineralization procedure that uses cation-exchange resin and dialysis tubing. This method does not require solution changes or special equipment, is faster than EDTA alone, is cost-effective, and is environmentally friendly. Like other EDTA-based methods, this procedure yields superior tissue preservation than formic acid demineralization. Greater protein antigenicity using EDTA as opposed to formic acid has been described, but we also find significant improvements in carbohydrate-based histological staining. Histological staining using this method reveals cartilage layers that are not distinguishable with formic acid demineralization. Carbohydrate preservation is relevant to many applications of bone demineralization, including the assessment of osteoarthritis from bone biopsies and the use of demineralized bone powder for tissue culture and surgical implants. The improvements in time, expense, and tissue quality indicate this method is a practical and often superior alternative to formic acid demineralization:
Molecular characterization of antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes of Escherichia coli isolates from bovine mastitis
Authors: Ismail Zuhair Bani , Abutarbush Sameeh M.
Published: August 2020

Background and Aim: Mastitis is a common and economically important disease in dairy cattle. It remains one of the most common reasons for the extensive use of antimicrobials in dairy farms leading to the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens. The aim of this study was to determine the patterns of antimicrobial resistance of Escherichia coli isolates from bovine mastitis and to identify prominent antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes among isolated strains.

Materials and Methods: Antimicrobial susceptibility testing against six antibiotic groups, including tetracyclines, aminoglycosides, beta-lactams, macrolides, sulfonamides, and fluoroquinolones was performed using the disk diffusion method. PCR was performed on resistant isolates to detect resistance and virulence genes using commercially available primers.

Results: Out of 216 milk samples cultured, 14 samples yielded E. coli isolates. All isolates (100%) were resistant to ampicillin, amoxicillin, procaine penicillin, streptomycin, oxytetracycline, and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim. Only one isolate (7%) was sensitive to gentamicin, and all isolates (100%) were sensitive to enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin. All isolates carried at least one resistance gene against one or more of the major antibiotic groups. All isolates carried the ereA, tetG, tetE, and tetB genes, followed by tetA (93%), ampC (86%), strA (86%), sul1 (78%), tetD (71%), tetC (57%), aadA (57%), and strB (36%). The lowest percentage of isolates carried bla1 (17%) and bla2 (12%) genes, and none of the isolates carried the qnrA gene. Most of the isolates (93%) carried the Shiga toxin 1 virulence gene, followed by complement resistance protein (79%), intimin (64%), Shiga toxin 2 (36%), cytotoxic necrotizing factor (35%), aerotaxis receptor (21%), and type 1 fimbriae (15%).

Conclusion: Results of this study indicate that the high percentages of E. coli isolate from bovine mastitis are resistant to two or more of the major antibiotic groups, irrespective of the presence or absence of relevant resistance or virulence genes.
Humans, Dolphins, and Porpoises: Investigations at the Par-Tee Site, Seaside, Oregon, AD 100–800
Authors: Loiselle Hope
Published: August 2020

Small cetaceans are understudied compared to whales and pinnipeds even though they represent a high-ranking prey choice when available in the environment. Building upon previous faunal analyses at the Par-Tee site, Seaside, Oregon that investigated whaling, this analysis of dolphin and porpoise remains suggests that people were hunting small cetaceans between AD 100–800 on the Oregon coast, especially harbor porpoise, which was found significantly more than any other cetacean species at the site. The quantity of small cetacean bone is unlikely to be the result of only acquiring stranded individuals. While there is no direct evidence of hunting, ethnographic literature and archaeologically recovered hunting technologies like harpoons provide insight into the means by which these species may have been hunted.
Exhuming Dead Persons: Forensic Science and the Making of Post-fascist Publics in Spain
Authors: Rubin Jonah S.
Published: August 2020

Four decades after the fall of its dictator, Spain still refuses to undertake its legal and moral responsibilities to locate the disappeared. This essay examines how Spanish activists use forensic exhumations to transform the political status of Franco’s victims. Departing from popular and scholarly depictions of forensic science, I show that, in post-fascist Spain, the impact of exhumations has little to do with their ability to extract historical information directly from the bones of the exhumed. Instead, I argue that exhumations transform the disappeared into dead persons, thereby reincorporating them as integral participants in a democratic public sphere. For memory activists, the project of securing Spain’s democratic future depends on recognizing the personhood of long-excluded victims of fascist violence. Absent any official legal framework, I show how Spanish activists train laypersons to recognize the inherent dignity of the dead and see them as potential participants in an alternative democratic public.

Resumen

Cuatro décadas después de la caída del dictador Francisco Franco, España aún rechaza su responsabilidad legal y moral de localizar a los desaparecidos. Este ensayo examina cómo los activistas españoles transforman el estatus político de las víctimas del franquismo a través de las exhumaciones forenses. Partiendo de representaciones académicas y populares de la ciencia forense, demuestro que el impacto de las exhumaciones en la España posfascista tiene poco que ver con la capacidad de extraer los hechos históricos directamente de los huesos exhumados. En lugar de ello, sostengo que los desaparecidos se transforman en personas muertas a través de las exhumaciones y, de esa manera, son reincorporados como participantes integrales en la esfera pública democrática. Para los activistas por la memoria, el proyecto de asegurar el futuro democrático de España depende de que las víctimas de la violencia fascista, excluídas por largo tiempo, sean por fin reconocidas como personas. A falta de marco jurídico, demuestro cómo los activistas españoles entrenan a las personas no expertas a reconocer la dignidad de los muertos y considerarlos como participantes potenciales en una esfera pública democrática y alternativa.