bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of high-resolution melting curve analysis in rapid detection of vanA gene, Enterococcus faecalis, and Enterococcus faecium from clinical isolates
Authors: Dehbashi Sanaz , Tahmasebi Hamed , Sedighi Parinaz , Davarian Faeze , Arabestani Mohammad Reza
Published: February 2020

Background

High-resolution melting analysis (HRMA) is a novel molecular technique based on the real-time PCR that can be used to detect vancomycin resistance Enterococcus (VRE). The purpose of this study was to identify VRE species with HRMA in clinical isolates.

Results

Out of 49 Enterococcus isolates, 11 (22.44%) E. faecium isolates and 19 (38.77%) E. faecalis isolates were detected. Average melting temperatures for divIVA in E.faecalis, alanine racemase in E.faecium, and vanA in VRE strains were obtained as 79.9 ± 0.5 °C, 85.4 ± 0.5 °C, and 82.99 ± 0.5 °C, respectively. Furthermore, the data showed that the HRMA method was sensitive to detect 100 CFU/ml for the divIVA, alanine racemase, and vanA genes. Also, out of 49 Enterococcus spp., which were isolated by HRMA assay, 8 isolates (16.32%) of E. faecium and 18 isolates (36.73%) of E. faecalis were detected. The vanA gene was reported in 2 isolates (25%) of E. faecium and 9 isolates (50%) of E. faecalis.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that using the HRMA method, we can detect E. faecium, E. faecalis, and the vanA gene with high sensitivity and specificity.
Identification of DNA variation in callus derived from Zingiber officinale and anticoagulation activities of ginger rhizome and callus
Authors: Abd El-Hameid Asmaa R. , Abo El-kheir Zakia A. , Abdel-Hady M. S. , Helmy Wafaa A.
Published: February 2020

Background

The medicinal plants have been used as alternative treatments for many diseases in many countries. Thus, the possibility of the alteration of some naturally relatively cheap sources into highly valuable products for pharmaceutical and biological importance via tissue culture is investigated in this study. Special attention is needed to estimate the molecular genetic variation between the studied plant and the callus.

Results

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) rhizome was affected by various concentrations of cytokinin and auxin for the induction of callus. The highest percentage of callus induction and maximal callus fresh weight was achieved when Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium was supplemented with 2 mg/l 2, 4-D + 1mg/l BA. The genetic variations accompanied with in vitro conditions of callus induction was evaluated by four primers of inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) that amplified 36 bands. The highest readings for clotting times were found by using the sulfated neutral extract of ginger rhizome at a concentration of 400 μg/ml, and the extract of sulfated alkaline plant callus had an anticoagulation activity at (200 μg/ml) comparable to that of a standard preparation of heparin sodium.

Conclusion

These results showed that ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) rhizome was affected by various concentrations of cytokinin and auxin for induction of callus especially when MS was supplemented with 2 mg/l 2, 4-D + 1 mg/l BA. Also, the results of ISSR markers confirmed the occurrence of genetic variations during callus induction process. The results indicated that the sulfated alkaline of ginger rhizome and sulfated aqueous extracts of ginger rhizome and callus exhibited anticoagulant activity. So, it was clear that the addition of sulfate group into the investigated extracts enhances the anticoagulation activities.
Transcranial pulsed electromagnetic fields for treatment-resistant depression: A multicenter 8-week single-arm cohort study
Authors: Larsen Erik Roj , Licht Rasmus W. , Nielsen René Ernst , Lolk Annette , Borck Bille , Sørensen Claus , Christensen Ellen Margrethe , Bizik Gustav , Ravn Janus , Martiny Klaus , Vinberg Maj , Jankuviené Odeta , Jørgensen Pernille Blenker , Videbech Poul , Bech Per
Published: February 2020

Background.

The efficacy of antidepressant treatment is fair, but the efficacy is considerably lower in patients failing two or more trials underscoring the need for new treatment options. Our study evaluated the augmenting antidepressant effect of 8-weeks transcranial pulsed electromagnetic field (T-PEMF) therapy in patients with treatment-resistant depression.

Methods.

A multicenter 8-week single-arm cohort study conducted by the Danish University Antidepressant Group.

Results.

In total, 58 participants (20 men and 38 women) with a moderate to severe depression as part of a depressive disorder according to ICD-10 who fulfilled criteria for treatment resistance were included, with 19 participants being nonresponders to electroconvulsive therapy during the current depressive episode. Fifty-two participants completed the study period. Scores on the Hamilton Depression Scale 17-items version (HAM-D17) decreased significantly from baseline (mean = 20.6, SD 4.0) to endpoint (mean = 12.6, SD 7.1;N = 58). At endpoint, utilizing a Last Observation Carried Forward analysis, 49 and 28% of those participants with, respectively, a nonchronic current episode (≤2 years;N = 33) and a chronic current episode (>2 years;N = 25) were responders, that is, achieved a reduction of 50% or more on the HAM-D17scale. At endpoint, respectively, 30 and 16% obtained remission, defined as HAM-D17 ≤ 7. On the Hamilton Scale 6-item version (HAM-D6), respectively, 51 and 16% obtained remission, defined as HAM-D6 ≤ 4.

Conclusions.

The findings indicate a potential beneficial role of T-PEMF therapy as an augmentation treatment to ongoing pharmacotherapy in treatment-resistant depression.
General Health Care Utilization Among Nonelderly Cancer Survivors Before and After Affordable Care Act Implementation: Early Results
Authors: Shaver Amy L. , Cao Ying , Noyes Katia
Published: February 2020

PURPOSE:

The number of nonelderly cancer survivors is expected to grow and so are their health care costs. Many cancer survivors worry about medical bills. This study examined the impact of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) on the rate of insurance, average annual health care expenditure, and patient care experience among cancer survivors and investigated the patient characteristics that were associated with highly rated care experiences before and after ACA implementation.

METHODS:

The study is a cross-sectional analysis of adult, nonelderly cancer survivors in the 2011 and 2016 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey who completed health care experience questionnaires. Percent covered by insurance both before and after the ACA was calculated, including total out-of-pocket (OOP) expenses as a percentage of overall health care expenditure per patient. Regression was performed to determine characteristics associated with patient experience ratings.

RESULTS:

Health insurance coverage for cancer survivors was higher in 2016 than in 2011 (98.4% v 94.4%; P = .006). OOP spending as a percentage of health care expenditure among those with expenses decreased and was most striking in those with no insurance. Privately insured individuals were 3 times as likely to rate their care experience high compared with those with no insurance (odds ratio, 3.31; P < .0001). Those with above-average ratings of self-health and with few comorbidities rated their care experiences highly.

CONCLUSION:

After the ACA, OOP costs have decreased for all types of insurance coverage. The association between patient experience and health status warrants additional study to better manage and coordinate the care of such patients.
Pharmacological Management of Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women: An Endocrine Society Guideline Update
Authors: Shoback Dolores , Rosen Clifford J , Black Dennis M , Cheung Angela M , Murad M Hassan , Eastell Richard
Published: February 2020

Objective

The objective is to provide an update of the 2019 Pharmacological Management of Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline for the pharmacological management of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women using romosozumab.

Conclusions

We reviewed findings from the meta-analysis and primary clinical trials assessing the efficacy of romosozumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting sclerostin, for the prevention of fractures and concluded that this agent can be considered a treatment option for postmenopausal women at very high risk for osteoporotic fracture. The romosozumab label has a boxed warning, recommending careful consideration by the treating clinician as to cardiovascular risk profile in the individual woman who might receive this agent, since clinical trial data from an active comparator study show an imbalance in serious cardiovascular adverse events between romosozumab and alendronate.
Effects of Mineralocorticoid and AT1 Receptor Antagonism on The Aldosterone-Renin Ratio In Primary Aldosteronism—the EMIRA Study
Authors: Rossi Gian Paolo , Ceolotto Giulio , Rossitto Giacomo , Maiolino Giuseppe , Cesari Maurizio , Seccia Teresa Maria
Published: February 2020

Context

While current guidelines recommend the withdrawal of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) and renin-angiotensin system blockers for the screening and detection of primary aldosteronism (PA), this can worsen hypokalemia and control of high blood pressure (BP) values.

Objective

To investigate whether aldosterone/renin ratio (ARR) values were affected by the MRA canrenone and/or by canrenone plus olmesartan treatment in patients with PA.

Design

Within-patient study.

Setting

The European Society of Hypertension center of excellence at the University of Padua.

Patients

Consecutive patients with an unambiguous diagnosis of PA subtyped by adrenal vein sampling.

Interventions

Patients were treated for 1 month with canrenone (50–100 mg orally), and for an additional month with canrenone plus olmesartan (10–20 mg orally). Canrenone and olmesartan were up-titrated over the first 2 weeks until BP values and hypokalemia were controlled. Patients with unilateral PA were adrenalectomized; those with bilateral PA were treated medically.

Main Outcome Measures

BP, plasma levels of sodium and potassium, renin and aldosterone.

Results

Canrenone neither lowered plasma aldosterone nor increased renin; thus, the high ARR and true positive rate remained unaffected. Addition of the angiotensin type 1 receptor blocker raised renin and slightly lowered aldosterone, which reduced the ARR and increased the false negative rate.

Conclusions

At doses that effectively controlled serum potassium and BP values, canrenone did not preclude an accurate diagnosis in patients with PA. Addition of the angiotensin type 1 receptor blocker olmesartan slightly raised the false negative rate. Hence, MRA did not seem to endanger the accuracy of the diagnosis of PA.
BMD-Related Genetic Risk Scores Predict Site-Specific Fractures as Well as Trabecular and Cortical Bone Microstructure
Authors: Nethander Maria , Pettersson-Kymmer Ulrika , Vandenput Liesbeth , Lorentzon Mattias , Karlsson Magnus , Mellström Dan , Ohlsson Claes
Published: February 2020

Context

It is important to identify patients at highest risk of fractures.

Objective

To compare the separate and combined performances of bone-related genetic risk scores (GRSs) for prediction of forearm, hip and vertebral fractures separately, as well as of trabecular and cortical bone microstructure parameters separately.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Using 1103 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) independently associated with estimated bone mineral density of the heel (eBMD), we developed a weighted GRS for eBMD and determined its contribution to fracture prediction beyond 2 previously developed GRSs for femur neck BMD (49 SNPs) and lumbar spine BMD (48 SNPs). Associations between these GRSs and forearm (ncases = 1020; ncontrols = 2838), hip (ncases = 1123; ncontrols = 2630) and vertebral (ncases = 288; ncontrols = 1187) fractures were evaluated in 3 Swedish cohorts. Associations between the GRSs and trabecular and cortical bone microstructure parameters (n = 426) were evaluated in the MrOS Sweden cohort.

Results

We found that eBMDGRS was the only significant independent predictor of forearm and vertebral fractures while both FN-BMDGRS and eBMDGRS were significant independent predictors of hip fractures. The eBMDGRS was the major GRS contributing to prediction of trabecular bone microstructure parameters while both FN-BMDGRS and eBMDGRS contributed information for prediction of cortical bone microstructure parameters.

Conclusions

The eBMDGRS independently predicts forearm and vertebral fractures while both FN-BMDGRS and eBMDGRS contribute independent information for prediction of hip fractures. We propose that eBMDGRS captures unique information about trabecular bone microstructure useful for prediction of forearm and vertebral fractures. These findings may facilitate personalized medicine to predict site-specific fractures as well as cortical and trabecular bone microstructure separately.
Roles of Vitamin D in Reproductive Systems and Assisted Reproductive Technology
Authors: Chen Yilu , Zhi Xu
Published: February 2020

Vitamin D, an essential steroid hormone in the human body, plays an important role in not only the regulation of calcium and phosphorus metabolism, but also in various physiological processes, such as cell differentiation and apoptosis, inflammation, and insulin resistance. Vitamin D receptors are widely distributed in male and female reproductive systems, suggesting that vitamin D is essential for fertility. Because vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent around the world, this review aims to discuss the potential functions of vitamin D in male and female reproductive systems and the associations between vitamin D and assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Vitamin D is involved in many physiological reproductive processes, including steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, and acrosome reaction. It is correlated with sperm quality, ovarian reserve, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and endometriosis, among others. Controversial clinical findings on vitamin D levels and ART outcomes were revealed in this review, and demonstrations of efficacy for human fertility in randomized controlled trials of vitamin D supplementation are notably lacking. Thus, further studies are highly required involving molecular mechanisms among different species and human populations, as well as randomized controlled trials.
The perspectives of patients and their caregivers on self-management interventions for chronic conditions: a protocol for a mixed-methods overview
Authors: Niño de Guzmán Ena , Martínez García Laura , González Ana I. , Heijmans Monique , Huaringa Jorge , Immonen Kaisa , Ninov Lyudmil , Orrego-Villagrán Carola , Pérez-Bracchiglione Javier , Salas-Gama Karla , Viteri-García Andrés , Alonso-Coello Pablo
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Self-management (SM) interventions are complex interventions and one of the main components of high-quality chronic disease care for which the incorporation of the perspectives of patients and their informal caregivers is crucial. We aim to identify, appraise and synthesise the evidence exploring patients’ and caregivers’ perspectives on SM interventions. More precisely, we aim to 1) describe how they value the importance of outcomes of SM interventions, and 2) identify the factors that might impact on acceptability and feasibility of SM interventions based on their preferences and experiences.

Methods and analysis: We will conduct four mixed-methods overviews as part of COMPAR-EU, a European Union (EU) funded project aimed to identify the most effective and cost-effective SM interventions for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart failure (HF), obesity, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We will search in MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO for systematic reviews of studies addressing patients’ preferences on outcomes, or their experiences with SM alongside their disease trajectory or with SM interventions, published in English. Selection of studies and data extraction will be conducted in pairs. We will assess the overlap of studies and methodological quality. We will follow a three-step synthesis process: 1) narrative synthesis for quantitative evidence, 2) thematic synthesis for qualitative evidence, and 3) integration of findings in the interpretation phase. Additionally, we will consult on the relevance of findings with patients and their caregivers.

Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42019117867
Regional Franchising: Modern Trend in Business
Authors: Berdina Marina , Berdin Aleksandr
Published: February 2020

The article is devoted to one of the most popular trends in the development of franchising in the world and in Russia — regional franchising. Today, the regional expansion of franchising is proceeding at an accelerated pace, building up its development potential with each new enterprise. Distribution of networks in the regions is also supported by the ever-growing popularity of chain stores, which allows Russian brands to significantly expand their sphere of influence by opening franchising points in cities remote from the capital cities. The authors presented a comprehensive model for the development of international franchising, where the regional aspects of network expansion play a leading role. In addition, an analysis is carried out and the results of the development of regional franchising in Russia are presented, which show the rapid development of this type of business as one of the winning areas in a crisis. Statistical data on the growth of franchising over the past 10 years, as well as ratings of leading companies that have chosen franchising as the main focus of their activity, are presented.
The perceived benefits of community-based group exercise sessions for survivors of stroke
Authors: Dam Seshnee L , Rhind Daniel JA
Published: February 2020

Background/aims

Post-stroke physical disability, cognitive impairment and emotional trauma can adversely affect the wellbeing of people who have survived stroke. Active participation in group exercise programmes has been advocated as an intervention to potentially enhance wellbeing. This study adopted a qualitative approach to explore the experiences of survivors of stroke who were participating in ongoing community-based group exercise sessions and their impact on subjective wellbeing.

Methods

Interviews were conducted with 12 participants from four community-based group exercise sessions. Of these, 6 were survivors of stroke (44–60 years) and the remaining 6 participants comprised caregivers, group coordinators and/or instructors, who were closely involved with sessions attended by the stroke survivors.

Results

Thematic analysis revealed that participation in community-based group exercise sessions offered survivors opportunities for building confidence; enhancing motivation; improving physical ability of affected limbs; enhancing interpersonal relationships; and providing support and knowledge. Participants all agreed that these physical and psychosocial benefits contributed to improved wellbeing and this supported previous research on the benefits of group work.

Conclusions

Participants explained how community-based group exercise sessions had facilitated their recovery journey and hence it is recommended that such programmes are made available, accessible and affordable to survivors of stroke.
Inequalities for permanents and permanental minors of row substochastic matrices
Authors: Chen Zhi , Li Jiawei , Yang Lizhen , Zhu Zelin , Cao Lei
Published: February 2020

In this paper, some inequalities for permanents and permanental minors of row substochastic matrices are proved. The convexity of the permanent function on the interval between the identity matrix and an arbitrary row substochastic matrix is also proved. In addition, a conjecture about the permanent and permanental minors of square row substochastic matrices with fixed row and column sums is formulated.
Effects on the distance Laplacian spectrum of graphs with clusters by adding edges
Authors: Díaz Roberto , Rojo Oscar
Published: February 2020

All graphs considered are simple and undirected. A cluster in a graph is a pair of vertex subsets (C, S), where C is a maximal set of cardinality |C| ≥ 2 of independent vertices sharing the same set S of |S| neighbors. Let G be a connected graph on n vertices with a cluster (C, S) and H be a graph of order |C|. Let G(H) be the connected graph obtained from G and H when the edges of H are added to the edges of G by identifying the vertices of H with the vertices in C. It is proved that G and G(H) have in common n −|C| + 1 distance Laplacian eigenvalues, and the matrix having these common eigenvalues is given, if H is the complete graph on |C| vertices then ∂ −|C| + 2 is a distance Laplacian eigenvalue of G(H) with multiplicity|C| − 1, where ∂ is the transmission in G of the vertices in C. Furthermore, it is shown that if G is a graph of diameter at least 3, then the distance Laplacian spectral radii of G and G(H) are equal, and if G is a graph of diameter 2, then conditions for the equality of these spectral radii are established. Finally, the results are extended to graphs with two or more disjoint clusters.
Generalized Commuting Maps On The Set of Singular Matrices
Authors: Franca Willian , Louza Nelson
Published: February 2020

Let Mn(K) be the ring of all n × n matrices over  a field K. In the present paper, additive mappings G : Mn(K) → Mn(K) such that [[G(y), y], y] = 0 for all singular matrix y will be characterized. Precisely, it will be proved that G(x) = λx + µ(x) for all x ∈ Mn(K), where λ ∈ K and µ is a central map.  As an application, the description is given of all  additive  maps  g : Mn(K) → Mn(K)  such that [[g(yk1 ), yk2 ], yk3 ] = 0 for all singular matrices y ∈ Mn(K),  where m ∈ N∗.
Penanaman Nilai Moral- Spiritual Pada Anak Usia Dini Melalui Cerita Fabel dalam Surat Al-Fiil
Authors: Puspitasari Intan , Hidayatulloh Miftah Khilmi
Published: February 2020

Abstrak. Bercerita merupakan salah satu metode untuk menanamkan nilai moral- spiritual pada anak usia dini. Metode bercerita efektif untuk dilakukan pada anak usia dini karena anak sedang berada pada tingkat dongeng (fairy tale stage) dalam tahap perkembangan spiritualnya. Pada tahapan ini anak tertarik dengan cerita menakjubkan sehingga mengembangkan daya imajinasinya. Kondisi ini dapat dimanfaatkan oleh orang tua maupun pendidik untuk dapat menanamkan berbagai nilai moral- spiritual pada anak melalui sebuah cerita. Untuk menarik minat anak, cerita dapat disampaikan dengan berbagai cara yang lebih sesuai dengan kemajuan zaman saat ini. Dua diantaranya adalah dengan media interaktif dan story telling- story acting. Al quran sebagai pedoman hidup umat Islam sarat akan pelajaran yang tertuang dalam firman-firman Allah. Adapun beberapa pelajaran tersebut disampaikan melalui kisah Nabi, umat terdahulu maupun kisah-kisah binatang. Artikel ini merupakan gagasan tertulis yang membahas tentang pesan-pesan moral yang dapat diambil dari karakter fabel dalam Surat Al-Fiil. Metode yang dilakukan dalam pembuatan artikel ini dilakukan dengan literature review menggunakan tinjauan psikologi melalui teori perkembangan moral- spiritual dan tafsir Al Quran. Tujuan dari artikel ini adalah memberikan wawasan baru mengenai penanaman nilai moral pada anak dengan menyampaikan pesan-pesan moral dari cerita fabel dalam Al Quran.  Kata kunci: Nilai Moral, Cerita Fabel, Surat Al-Fiil, Anak Usia Dini
Discrimination of hue angle and discrimination of colorimetric purity assessed with a common metric
Authors: Danilova M. V. , Mollon J. D.
Published: February 2020

It has been suggested that thresholds for discriminating colorimetric purity are systematically higher than those for discriminating hue angle, a difference captured in Judd’s phrase “the super-importance of hue.” However, to compare the two types of discrimination, the measured thresholds must be expressed in the same units. An attractive test is offered by measurements along the horizontal lines in the chromaticity diagram of MacLeod and Boynton [ J. Opt. Soc. Am. 69, 1183 (1979)JOSAAH0030-394110.1364/JOSA.69.001183], i.e., a chromaticity diagram. A horizontal line that extends radially from the white point represents a variation in colorimetric purity alone (and subjectively a variation that is primarily in saturation). In contrast, a horizontal line that runs along the

x

axis of the diagram, close to the long-wave spectrum locus, corresponds predominantly to variation in hue angle. Yet, in both cases, only the ratio of the excitations of the long- and middle-wave cones is being modulated, and so the thresholds can be expressed in a common metric. Measuring forced-choice thresholds for 180 ms foveal targets presented on a steady field metameric to Illuminant D65, we do not find general support for Judd’s working rule that thresholds for purity are systematically twice those for saturation. Thresholds for colorimetric purity were only a little higher than those for hue angle, and the advantage for hue was seen in only part of the ranges that were tested. However, in the upper-left quadrant of the MacLeod–Boynton diagram, where the excitation of short-wave cones is high and where both hue angle and colorimetric purity vary along any given horizontal line, thresholds were indeed sometimes half those observed for discrimination of purity alone.
Bidirectional relationships between semantic words and hues in color vision normal and deuteranopic observers
Authors: Shinomori Keizo , Komatsu Honami , Negishi Ippei
Published: February 2020

We previously showed that impressions of nine semantic words expressing
abstract meanings (like “tranquil”) can be expressed by 12 hues in a
paired comparison method; in this study, White, Gray, and Black were
added (Exp. 1) to the previous 12 hues. Color impressions were also
estimated using a set of 35 paired words by a semantic differential
(SD) method (Exp. 2). The data of nine color vision normal (CVN) and
seven color vision deficient (CVD) observers (one protanope and six
deuteranopes) were analyzed separately by principal component analysis
(PCA). In the results of Exp. 1, all hues used as loadings were
distributed in a hue-circle shape in the 2D color space of PC axes for
both observer groups [however, the four bluish hues (Blue-Green to
Violet) tended toward convergence]. One data set of five CVNs and five
deuteranopes was analyzed together using PCA because of high
concordance. In the word distribution of the CVDs in Exp. 1, because
second PC scores tended to be smaller, the categorization of the words
was not clear; the points of five word scores were approximately on
one line, reflecting that the colors used in the paired comparison
were treated in one-dimensional scaling (which correlates to
lightness) in the CVDs. In the results of Exp. 2, the word
distribution of loadings was similar between the CVNs and CVDs, and
the color score distribution had a similar tendency of showing an
ellipse-shaped hue circle; it was probably caused by their experience
of being associated with color names rather than color appearance
(although the radius of the short axis is shorter in the CVDs’ data).
The comparison of the word distribution between experiments suggests
that two to five semantic word impressions can be stably expressed by
hue, but the impression of other words, such as “Magnificent” for the
CVNs and “Fine” for the CVDs, cannot. The hue circle is conceptually
kept in the SD measurement for all observers; however, it was not kept
in the paired comparison for the CVDs. The analysis of one combined
data set suggests that the 2D color distribution is not caused by a 3D
color system because the lightness scaling is involved in the 2D color
distribution.
Description of spatio-temporal couplings from heat-induced compressor grating deformation
Authors: Leroux Vincent , Eichner Timo , Maier Andreas R.
Published: February 2020

High average power high-intensity laser systems can suffer from a heat-induced deformation of the final compressor gratings, which introduces wavefront aberrations and spatio-temporal couplings to the pulse. Here, we use a simple numerical description, that was first introduced by Li et al. (Appl. Phys. Express, 10, 102702, 2017 and Optics Express, 26, 8453, 2018), to calculate the resulting degradation of the peak intensity and the 3-dimensional deformation of the laser pulse as a function of average power, and verify the results using experimental data. For a typical 100 TW-class laser we find that non-negligible pulse distortions can occur at an average power as low as 2.7 Watts. An open source implementation of our numerical description is available for researchers to estimate the effects of spatio-temporal couplings for their specific laser configuration.
Major reshaping of narrow beams by resonant multilayer structures
Authors: Yurchenko V. B. , Ciydem M. , Gradziel M. L. , Murphy J. A.
Published: February 2020

Major reshaping of electromagnetic MM-wave beams transmitted at resonant frequencies through high-quality multilayer structures is demonstrated. Beam reshaping emerges due to efficient excitation of intrinsic quasi-optical modes with complex spatial profiles by an incident beam. This leads to a significant increase of width and distortion of shape of transmitted beams, which grow with increasing likelihood of excitation of higher-order modes. The beam shape is extremely sensitive to imperfections of real structures and can become complex and asymmetric even at the normal-angle transmission of symmetric incident beams. The effect is of importance for the resonant MM-wave and THz spectroscopy of low-loss dielectric materials.
Random source for generating Airy-like spectral density in the far field
Authors: Sun Baoyin , Huang Zhaofeng , Zhu Xinlei , Wu Dan , Chen Yahong , Wang Fei , Cai Yangjian , Korotkova Olga
Published: February 2020

A stationary beam forming an Airy-like spectral density in the far field is analyzed theoretically and experimentally. The Schell-model source that radiates such a beam is an extended version of a recently introduced source [O. Korotkova, et al., Opt. Lett. 43, 4727 (2018)10.1364/OL.43.004727; X. Chen, et al., Opt. Lett. 44, 2470 (2019)10.1364/OL.44.002470, in 1D and 2D, respectively]. We show, in particular, that the source degree of coherence, being the fourth-order root of a Lorentz-Gaussian function and having linear and cubic phase terms, may be either obtained from the Fourier transform of the far-field Airy-like pattern or at the source using the sliding function method. The spectral density of the beam is analyzed on propagation through paraxial ABCD optical systems, on the basis of the generalized Collins integral, by means of the derived closed-form expression. We show that the distribution of the side lobes in the Airy beam spectral density can be controlled by the parameters of the source degree of coherence. Further, an experiment involving a spatial light modulator (SLM) is carried out for generation of such a beam. We experimentally measure the complex degree of coherence of the source and observe the gradual formation of a high-quality Airy-like spectral density towards the far field. In addition, the trajectory of the intensity maxima of the beam after a thin lens is studied both theoretically and experimentally. The random counterpart of the classic, deterministic Airy beam may find applications in directed energy, imaging, beam shaping, and optical trapping.
Turbulence aberration correction for vector vortex beams using deep neural networks on experimental data
Authors: Zhai Yanwang , Fu Shiyao , Zhang Jianqiang , Liu Xueting , Zhou Heng , Gao Chunqing
Published: February 2020

The vector vortex beams (VVB) possessing non-separable states of light, in which polarization and orbital angular momentum (OAM) are coupled, have attracted more and more attentions in science and technology, due to the unique nature of the light field. However, atmospheric transmission distortion is a recurring challenge hampering the practical application, such as communication and imaging. In this work, we built a deep learning based adaptive optics system to compensate the turbulence aberrations of the vector vortex mode in terms of phase distribution and mode purity. A turbulence aberration correction convolutional neural network (TACCNN) model, which can learn the mapping relationship of intensity profile of the distorted vector vortex modes and the turbulence phase generated by first 20 Zernike modes, is well designed. After supervised learning plentiful experimental samples, the TACCNN model compensates turbulence aberration for VVB quickly and accurately. For the first time, experimental results show that through correction, the mode purity of the distorted VVB improves from 19% to 70% under the turbulence strength of D/r0 = 5.28 with correction time 100 ms. Furthermore, both spatial modes and the light intensity distribution can be well compensated in different atmospheric turbulence.
Nonlinear optical vortex coronagraph
Authors: Engay Einstom , Rodrigo Peter John
Published: February 2020

A nonlinear optical vortex coronagraph (n-OVC) based on sum-frequency generation (SFG) in a periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) crystal is presented. We demonstrate an n-OVC by mixing the image of an on-axis point source (

λ
s

=
1.6

µ

m

) inside the PPLN crystal with a pump beam (

λ
p

=
1064

n
m

) imprinted with a helical phase profile from a vector vortex mask (topological charge

l

=
2

). Due to quasi-phase matching and orbital angular momentum conservation, a coronagraphic image is produced at the SFG wavelength (

λ

u
p

∼
630

n
m

). We validate that the n-OVC is tunable to signal wavelength but only requires a vortex mask operating at the pump wavelength. The acceptance bandwidth of the SFG process provides the n-OVC a degree of achromaticity even with a monochromatic vortex mask. The n-OVC exhibits an inner working angle of

∼

λ
s

/

D

and an experimental contrast of

10

−
4

at

3

λ
s

/

D

.
Ultrafast ultrasound imaging of surface acoustic waves induced by laser excitation compared with acoustic radiation force
Authors: Zhao Lingyi , Vanderlaan Don , Yoon Heechul , Liu Jingfei , Li Changhui , Emelianov Stanislav Y.
Published: February 2020

Two generation mechanisms—optical perturbation and acoustic radiation force (ARF)—were investigated where high frame rate ultrasound imaging was used to track the propagation of induced SAWs. We compared ARF-induced SAWs with laser-induced SAWs generated by laser beam irradiation of the uniformly absorbing tissue-like viscoelastic phantom, where light was preferentially absorbed at the surface. We also compared the frequency content of SAWs generated by ARF versus pulsed laser light, using the same duration of excitation. Differences in the SAW bandwidth were expected because, in general, laser light can be focused into a smaller area. Finally, we compared wave generation and propagation when the wave’s origin was below the surface. We also investigated the relationship between shear wave amplitude and optical fluence. The investigation reported here can potentially extend the applications of laser-induced SAW generation and imaging in life sciences and other applications.
Tunable self-similar Bessel-like beams of arbitrary order
Authors: Goutsoulas Michael , Bongiovanni Domenico , Li Denghui , Chen Zhigang , Efremidis Nikolaos K.
Published: February 2020

We predict that Bessel-like beams of arbitrary integer order can exhibit a tunable self-similar behavior (that take an invariant form under suitable stretching transformations). Specifically, by engineering the amplitude and the phase on the input plane in real space, we show that it is possible to generate higher-order vortex Bessel-like beams with fully controllable radius of the hollow core and maximum intensity during propagation. In addition, using a similar approach, we show that it is also possible to generate zeroth-order Bessel-like beams with controllable beam width and maximum intensity. Our numerical results are in excellent agreement with our theoretical predictions.
High-speed photography of shock waves with an adaptive illumination
Authors: Agrež Vid , Požar Tomaž , Petkovšek Rok
Published: February 2020

An adaptable, laser-diode-based illumination system was developed to simultaneously visualize the dynamics of slow and fast phenomena in optically transparent media. The system can be coupled with still or high-speed cameras and makes it possible to generate an arbitrary train of illumination pulses with a variable pulse duration, pulse energy, and an intrapulse delay with a temporal resolution of 12.5 ns. Its capabilities are presented with selected illustrative visualizations of the dynamics of the shock waves and the cavitation entities generated after the laser-induced breakdown in water.
Effect of thermal lensing and the micrometric degraded regions on the catastrophic optical damage process of high-power laser diodes
Authors: Pura Jose Luis , Souto Jorge , Jiménez Juan
Published: February 2020

Catastrophic optical damage (COD) is one of the processes limiting the lifetime of high-power laser diodes. The understanding of this degradation phenomenon is critical to improve the laser power and lifetime for practical applications. In this Letter, we analyze the defect propagation inside the cavity of quantum well (QW) high-power laser diodes presenting COD. For this, we studied the effect of highly localized thermal gradients and degraded regions on the laser field distribution. Finite element method (FEM) simulations are compared to experimental cathodoluminescence (CL) measurements. The presence of micrometric hot spots inside the QW induces the thermal lensing of the laser field. The laser self-focusing inside the cavity eventually generates a new hot spot, and, in a repetitive way, a sequence of hot spots would be created. This would account for the propagation of the dark line defects (DLDs) that are characteristic of this degradation mode.
THE DRAFT LAW OF THE ALTAI TERRITORY “ON THE INTERACTION OF PUBLIC AUTHORITIES OF THE ALTAI TERRITORY AND LEADING UNIVERSITIES OF THE ALTAI TERRITORY”
Authors: Vasiliev A.A. , Anichkin E. S. , Serebryakov A.A.
Published: February 2020

The article presents the concept and main provisions of the bill of the Altai Territory on the leadinguniversities of the Altai Territory. The authors note the desire of the federal government to isolate a specialpool among regional universities in order to retain talent in the regions and reduce migration outflows.At the first stage, the so-called core universities in the constituent entities of the Russian Federation were selected, which received additional financing for development programs. The status of supportinguniversities was never developed in educational legislation, although a number of constituent entitiesof the Russian Federation adopted laws on supporting universities, emphasizing their importance forregional development. Within the framework of the priority national project, it is supposed to be selectedin 2020–2024. 80 educational institutions of higher education that provide training for the basic sectorsof the economy and social sphere of the subject of the Russian Federation. The article proposes a draftlaw of the Altai Territory on the interaction of state authorities of the Altai Territory and educationalinstitutions of higher education, providing training for basic sectors of the economy and social sphere ofthe Altai Territory.
INTERACTION OF THE EAEU COURT WITH NATIONAL AUTHORITIES (INSTITUTIONS) OF KAZAKHSTAN AS A MEMBER OF THE EAEU
Authors: Sarsembayev M.A.
Published: February 2020

The annotated article analyzes the scientific problems of relations between the Court of the Eurasianeconomic Union (EAEU) and national institutions (bodies) of the Republic of Kazakhstan in different forms.The relevancy of the topic is that the member countries, including Kazakhstan, could solve integrationproblems through regional justice. In this regard, the article attempts to assist the EAEU Court and nationalinstitutions of Kazakhstan in resolving the problems of their relations. The main results of the topic of thearticle include: ensuring the effectiveness of regional justice; prevention of violations of integration normsin the process of consideration of appeals of the Kazakh ent; strengthening of cooperation between the EAEUCourt and national institutions of Kazakhstan. The article concludes: on the appropriateness of formulatingnorms to prevent violations of the EAEU norms; on the justification of forms of cooperation between nationalauthorities, institutions and the EAEU Court. The scientific novelty of the topic of the article lies in the factthat it in the legal and other literature has not previously been studied by anyone.
Multiplicação de Pseudomonas fluorescens em temperaturas de refrigeração e seu potencial proteolítico
Authors: Miguel Elisângela Michele , Sobral Denise , Moreira Gisela De Magalhães Machado , Costa Renata Golin Bueno , Teodoro Vanessa Aglaê Martins , Carvalho Antônio Fernandes de
Published: February 2020

A multiplicação de estirpes de Pseudomonas fluorescens 07A e 041 em condições de refrigeração foi avaliada neste trabalho, bem como seu potencial proteolítico usando-se ágar-leite e azocaseína como substrato. Foi possível observar a multiplicação dos isolados nas temperaturas de refrigeração, sendo que ocorreu um aumento da multiplicação na medida em que se aumentou a temperatura e o período de estocagem. A atividade proteolítica dos isolados foi demonstrada pelo ágar-leite, sendo que a do isolado 07A foi superior à de 041, o que também foi observado pela técnica de azocaseína. Esse resultado se deve à variabilidade genética entre os microrganismos psicrotróficos e a expressão de suas enzimas proteolíticas. A legislação brasileira preconiza o uso de temperaturas de refrigeração para o armazenamento do leite cru na propriedade rural e no estabelecimento processador. Entretanto, as temperaturas estabelecidas não inibem a multiplicação de microrganismos psicrotróficos. Portando, é imprescindível assegurar a adoção de boas práticas de produção para evitar contaminações, além do controle efetivo do tempo e da temperatura de estocagem do leite cru para se evitar a sua contaminação durante a produção e não comprometer a sua qualidade e de seus derivados.
Applied analysis of milk market in Bahrain
Authors: Al-Mahish Mohammed , Sisman Muhammet Yunus , Elzaki Raga
Published: February 2020

Este trabalho analisa o mercado e o consumo de leite no Reino do Bahrein com foco nas leis da oferta e da procura. Os resultados mostraram que a demanda por leite em Bahrain é inelástica ao preço e o leite importado é um complemento ao produzido internamente. Além disso, a oferta por leite doméstico em Bahrein é inelástica ao preço e o aumento do leite importado gera aumento na produção de leite doméstico. Além disso, com o aumento da renda interna ocorre o aumento da demanda por leite doméstico e importado. No entanto, isto não afeta a oferta por leite doméstico e os preços. Por outro lado, o aumento no preço de feno e alfafa diminui a produção de leite doméstico e aumenta a importação.
A aprendizagem da leitura e da escrita entre negras e negros escravizados no Brasil: as várias histórias dos “sem arquivos”
Authors: Peres Eliane
Published: February 2020

Neste artigo trabalha-se com anúncios de jornais das primeiras décadas do século XIX com o objetivo de identificar onde, como e com quem, homens, mulheres e crianças escravizadas aprendiam a ler e a escrever. A pesquisa indica que, via de regra, nas próprias residências, padres, senhoras, moças vindas da Europa, por exemplo, estavam entre as pessoas que ensinavam escravos e escravas as habilidades da leitura e da escrita. Além disso, um dos resultados do estudo revela a relação entre o ensino das primeiras letras e o ensino de tarefas domésticas e de ofícios especializados, como indicam os próprios anúncios analisados.
Modernidade, Educação e História da Educação
Authors: Carvalho Bruno Bernardes
Published: February 2020

A obra “Da Cadeira ao Banco: Escola e Modernização (Séculos XVIII – XX)”, de autoria de Justino Magalhães, professor catedrático do Instituto de Educação da Universidade de Lisboa, é leitura essencial aos pesquisadores da História da Educação. Partindo da metáfora que dá título ao livro, o autor faz uma incursão pelos séculos XVIII ao XX, munido pela erudição que lhe é peculiar. Além do profundo trabalho de pesquisa, o autor nos oferece uma visão sobre a “história da longa duração”, isto é, o processo histórico de constituição da escola e da educação escolar enquanto instituintes e institutos da Modernidade na Europa. Adotando a perspectiva da síntese historiográfica, pela visão ampliada do processo de escolarização, o conjunto de análises e reflexões apresentadas na obra são importantes contribuições à historiografia educacional, pois faz emergir categorias de análise, que servem de aporte para outras investigações, como por exemplo: estatalização; nacionalização; governamentação; regimentação; cultura escrita; e munícipio pedagógico, discutidas em artigos e livros anteriores por Justino Magalhães.
Construction of twenty-six points specific optimum second order rotatable designs in three dimensions with a practical example
Authors: Isaac Kipkosgei Tum
Published: February 2020

This quadratic response surface methodology focuses on finding the levels of some (coded) predictor variables x = (x1u, x2u, x3u)' that optimize the expected value of a response variable yu from natural levels. The experiment starts from some best guess or â€œcontrolâ€ combination of the predictor variables (usually coded to x = 0 for this case x1u=30, x2u=25 and x3u =40) and experiment is performed varying them in a region around this center point.We go further to construct a specific optimum second order rotatable design of three factors in twenty-six points. The achievement of this is done with estimation of the free parameters using calculus in an existing second order rotatable design of twenty-six points. Such a design permits a response surface to be fitted easily and provides spherical information contours besides the realizations of optimum combination of ingredients in Agriculture, horticulture and allied sciences which results in economic use of scarce resources in relevant production processes. The expected second order rotatable design model in three dimensions is available where the responses would then facilitate the estimation of the linear and quadratic coefficients. An example involving Phosphate (x1u), Nitrogen (x2u) and Potassium (x3u) is used to represent the three factors in the coded level and converted into natural levels.Â Â
Underground Inscriptions
Authors: Lancione Michele
Published: February 2020

This essay examines the politics of home in underground Bucharest, and the ways relationships of care among homeless drug users emerge amid everyday violence and exclusion, illuminating the unconventional practices of belonging that take shape in transient communal spaces such as underground electric, transportation, and waste-management systems. The traces of systemic exclusion in these experiences converge in makeshift forms of kinship and care, provoking questions of solidarity, fragility, and the political potential of recognizing such forms through ethnographic collaboration.
Study on Relationship between Roles of Public Open Spaces and Pedestrians Inside Campus
Authors: Kongphunphin Chompoonut , Hegyi Pál , Koren Csaba
Published: February 2020

Public open spaces in campuses are social places for students and staffs. Convenient accessibility both physical and visual is the main factor that attracts people to use these spaces. This article analyses the physical layout of public open spaces through their relationship with the surrounding. The purpose of this study is to compare the relationship between public open spaces and pedestrians in the campuses. The case study conducted in four campuses located in Thailand and Hungary. In order to get the required data, spatial analysis from Geographic Information System and observation survey was employed as qualitative techniques. The study revealed that pedestrian facilities are the most important accessibility types in public open spaces in each campus. The different lengths of pedestrian facilities are related with three factors of campuses’ layout. They are the size, surrounding and design elements of the campuses and their public open spaces.