bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Min-Max Optimal Design of Two-Armed Trials with Side Information
Authors: Zhang Qiong , Khademi Amin , Song Yongjia
Published: June 2021

In this work, we study the optimal design of two-armed clinical trials to maximize the accuracy of parameter estimation in a statistical model, where the interaction between patient covariates and treatment are explicitly incorporated to enable precision medication decisions. Such a modeling extension leads to significant complexities for the produced optimization problems because they include optimization over design and covariates concurrently. We take a min-max optimization model and minimize (over design) the maximum (over population) variance of the estimated interaction effect between treatment and patient covariates. This results in a min-max bilevel mixed integer nonlinear programming problem, which is notably challenging to solve. To address this challenge, we introduce a surrogate optimization model by approximating the objective function, for which we propose two solution approaches. The first approach provides an exact solution based on reformulation and decomposition techniques. In the second approach, we provide a lower bound for the inner optimization problem and solve the outer optimization problem over the lower bound. We test our proposed algorithms with synthetic and real-world data sets and compare them with standard (re)randomization methods. Our numerical analysis suggests that the proposed approaches provide higher-quality solutions in terms of the variance of estimators and probability of correct selection. We also show the value of covariate information in precision medicine clinical trials by comparing our proposed approaches to an alternative optimal design approach that does not consider the interaction terms between covariates and treatment.

Summary of Contribution: Precision medicine is the future of healthcare where treatment is prescribed based on each patient information. Designing precision medicine clinical trials, which are the cornerstone of precision medicine, is extremely challenging because sample size is limited and patient information may be multidimensional. This work proposes a novel approach to optimally estimate the treatment effect for each patient type in a two-armed clinical trial by reducing the largest variance of personalized treatment effect. We use several statistical and optimization techniques to produce efficient solution methodologies. Results have the potential to save countless lives by transforming the design and implementation of future clinical trials to ensure the right treatments for the right patients. Doing so will reduce patient risks and reduce costs in the healthcare system.
Development of Learning Media for Motorcycle Chassis Training Kit
Authors: Handoyono Nurcholish Arifin
Published: June 2021

This research aims to determine the development process and the feasibility of learning media for motorcycle chassis training kit at SMK Muhammadiyah 1 Bambanglipuro. The type of research used is R&D. The research subjects were 32 students of class X TBSM SMK Muhammadiyah 1 Bambanglipuro. The data collection instruments used observation and questionnaires. The data analysis technique used the evaluation criteria analysis to determine the feasibility of learning media. The results showed that: (1) The development process went through several stages, namely: (a) problem background; (b) problem identification; (c) development ideas; (d) pre-production stage (tools and materials); (e) production stage; (f) product development; (g) validation and revision; (h) feasibility test; and (i) wearable products; and; (2) Learning media for motorcycle chassis training kit are categorized as very suitable for use in learning with the results of validation of media experts by 90%, material experts by 95%, small group trial of 85.24%, and large group trial of 83.94%.
Sustainability of Fashion Apparel Toward Environmental Well-Being and Sustainable Development
Authors: SHAFIE SHARIFAH BINTI , Kamis Arasinah , Ramli Muhamad Firdaus
Published: June 2021

This paper will look into the agenda of the United Nations (UN) for the planned global, social and environmental progression in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially goals on the quality of education and responsible consumption and production. The combination of these two goals touched on quality education in the field of fashion and also fostered a responsible attitude among producers and consumers. Hence, educators, designers and manufacturers need to ensure the process and production of eco-friendly products do not harm consumers and nature while reducing the amount of waste. Responsibilities of the manufacturers are in terms of producing and adopting sustainable methods in production of textile and clothing products. Furthermore, consumer attitudes and behaviors are also very influential in utilizing of textile products considering the environmental sustainability aspects. In this study, critical review of relevant literature will be conducted. In the context of education for fashion conservation, it is important to raise awareness on the responsibilities of educators, students, consumers and producers on the importance of conserving the environment for future generations. All parties need to play their role in realizing the aspirations of the SDGs agenda. This aspiration can be achieved in an integrated manner through a combination of sustainable practices, positive attitudes and behaviors.
Assessment of Competency Based on Dicotomic Scoring to Diagnose Students 'Skills in Vocational Learning in Vocational Schools
Authors: Munawar Wahid
Published: June 2021

Assessment of competency in schools is carried out by teachers using conventional tests, consists of multiple choice tests, essay tests, and skills tests using open scoring competency tests based on the teacher's principle of "being in charge" in scoring. Therefore, a assessment of competency tool is needed that measures the real competence of students. The research objective was to diagnose students' skills in automotive body vocational learning through a dichotomy scoring competency test. The research method used is pre experimental design (non designs) one shot case study. The research was conducted in January-March 2020. The research location was in a state vocational high school in Bandung. The research sample used simple random sampling of 32 students. Data collection used a dichotomy scoring skill test. Data analysis using percentages. The results showed that: (1) 84% of the students were not competent in the competence of automotive bodies in making mini cars when using the dichotomy scoring competency assessment; (2) only 16% of students were able to complete the competency test by producing work products that match dimensions and on time.
Recruitment and training: the impact of COVID-19 on specialist nursing care
Authors: Morris Katie
Published: June 2021

Exemplar Health Care, a specialist nursing care provider, has transformed its recruitment process over the last 12 months to ensure safe staffing levels and continued training during one of the most turbulent and difficult years for the sector. Katie Morris explains.
Construct Validity and Diagnostic Utility of the Woodcock Johnson Tests of Cognitive Abilities and Clinical Clusters for Children with Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder: A Preliminary Investigation
Authors: Reddy Linda A. , Alperin Alexander , Lekwa Adam
Published: June 2021

The diagnostic utility of the Woodcock- Johnson III Tests of Cognitive Abilities and Clinical Clusters was assessed in a sample of 52 children (26 Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disordered (ADHD) and 26 matched controls). Multivariate analysis of variance followed by post-hoc testing and d-ratios yielded some statistically significant and clinically meaningful differences between groups on the Cognitive Fluency Cluster and the Tests of Auditory Attention, and Rapid Picture Naming. Discriminant function analyses indicated that the WJ III COG Tests collectively classified 80.77% of the sample correctly (76.92% of controls and 84.62% of children with ADHD correctly identified). The Auditory Attention and Rapid Picture Naming tests were found to make the most significant contribution overall to the discriminant function. Using a cut-score of 85, the WJ-III COG Clinical clusters and subtests examined in this study offered fair to weak diagnostic utility based on indices of sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive power, as well as results of Receiver Operating Characteristic curve analyses. Implications for research and practice are outlined.
The association between fibular status and frontal plane tibial alignment post-union in congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia
Authors: Deng Huajun , Mei Haibo , Wang Enbo , Li Qiwei , Zhang Lijun , Canavese Federico , Li Lianyong
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Controversy exists regarding fibular status related to tibial alignment after congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (CPT) achieves union. We aimed to determine whether fibular status affected frontal plane tibial alignment post-CPT union.

Methods

Between January 2010 and December 2013, we followed 36 patients treated using a combined surgical technique (mean 6.6 years (2.2 to 9.4)). Outcome measures comprised medial proximal tibial angle, tibial diaphyseal angulation, lateral distal tibial angle (LDTA), relative intramedullary rod length and relative fibula length discrepancy.

Results

The frequency of proximal tibial valgus deformity and ankle valgus deformity were significantly lower in the fibular integrity group than in the fibular un-integrity group (proximal tibial valgus deformity: 2/17 versus 11/19; p = 0.006; ankle valgus deformity: 10/17 versus 18/19; p = 0.016). The mean LDTA was notably higher in the fibular integrity group than in the fibular un-integrity group (81.2° (sd 6.7°) versus 71.3° (sd 6.6°); p < 0.001). A statistically significant difference was observed in relative fibula length discrepancy between patients with fibular integrity (0.06 (0 to 0.11); Malhotra grade 0, n = 6; Malhotra grade I, n = 11) and those without (0.24 (0.01 to 0.36); Malhotra grade 2, n = 2; Malhotra grade 3, n = 17; p < 0.001). Ankle valgus deformity had a significant positive correlation with proximal tibial valgus deformity (r = 0.402; p = 0.015). Patients with an intact and normal length fibula had a lower frequency of ankle valgus deformity than those with an intact but shortening fibula (1/6 versus 9/11; p = 0.035).

Conclusion

Shortening or pseudarthrosis of the fibula was associated with ankle valgus and proximal tibial valgus deformities post-CPT union.

Level of evidence

III
Optical cages made of graphitic frameworks
Authors: Walker J. P. , McDonough K. , Grebel H.
Published: June 2021

In pursuit of perfect infrared (IR) radiation absorbers, we examined quasi-crystal structures made of graphite wires. Simulations on an array of subwavelength graphitic cages and cage-within-cage frameworks indicate a flat absorption coefficient between 10–30 µm. The concept could be scaled up through the 50–120 µm [far-IR, terahertz (THz)] region by a proper structural design. For cage-within-cage, the IR radiation energy is funneled toward the inner cage, resulting in a rather hot structure. At longer wavelengths (microwave region), the electrical conductivity dominates the negative dielectric effect, and experiments with copper cages indicate scattering resonances. Graphitic structures allude to some absorption even at microwave frequencies. Applications are envisioned as anti-fogging surfaces, adaptable electromagnetic shields, energy harvesting, and efficient absorbers in the far-IR (THz frequencies).
Baseline correction method based on improved adaptive iteratively reweighted penalized least squares for the x-ray fluorescence spectrum
Authors: Jiang Xiaoyu , Li Fusheng , Wang Qingya , Luo Jie , Hao Jun , Xu Muqiang
Published: June 2021

To solve the problem of baseline drift in the detection of soil samples by x-ray fluorescence spectrum, an improved adaptive iterative weighted penalized least squares (
IairPLS
) method is proposed to estimate the baseline of x-ray fluorescence spectrum signals. We improved the original exponential weight function to solve the problem of baseline underestimation caused by adaptive iterative weighted penalized least squares. The improved function effectively reduces the risk of baseline underestimation and speeds up the weighting process, achieving good results. In this paper, the MC simulation spectrum and soil real analysis spectrum are used to verify the performance of the algorithm. Finally, the algorithm is compared with previous penalized least squares methods (asymmetric least squares, adaptive iterative reweighted penalized least squares, and multiple constrained reweighted penalized least squares), with the results showing that the proposed method has the least root-mean-square error after baseline correction for optimal smoothing parameters

λ

and the best relative error of baseline estimation accuracy. Meanwhile, the
IairPLS
method can effectively improve the quantitative analysis ability of the x-ray fluorescence spectrum. The proposed method can be successfully applied to the actual x-ray fluorescence spectrum, which provides a powerful basis for quantitative analysis.
Coherent sensing performance comparison of framed and asynchronous
GMAPD arrays
Authors: Szymanski Maureen E. , Watson Edward A. , Rabb David J.
Published: June 2021

Single photon counting Geiger mode avalanche photodiode (GMAPD) arrays
are typically used for high-resolution 3D ranging. These high-gain,
high-bandwidth detectors are also feasible for coherent sensing. GMAPD
arrays have two different readout architectures: asynchronous and
synchronous (or framed). The individual pixels in asynchronous GMAPD
arrays operate independently, reducing the loss due to blocking during
the reset time. In contrast, framed GMAPD arrays are prone to
saturation as they reset the entire array of pixels simultaneously.
This study presents a performance comparison of asynchronous and
framed GMAPD arrays for coherent sensing as a function of common
system parameters. Expressions for the arm probability and blocking
loss are defined to contrast the mechanisms of missed detection
opportunities for both types of GMAPD detectors.
Measurement algorithm for wafer alignment based on principal component analysis
Authors: Shu Ting , Wang Shaoqing , Xu Jinghao , Fan Lili , Yuan Fenghua , Pan Songyong , Dai Fengzhao , Bu Yang , Wang Xiangzhao
Published: June 2021

We propose a novel measurement algorithm for wafer alignment technology based on principal component analysis (PCA) of a mark image. The waveform of the mark is extracted from the enlarged mark image, which is collected by CCD. The position of the mark center on the CCD can be calculated based on the extracted waveform. By applying PCA to the mark image, the first principal component containing position information of the mark can be obtained. Therefore PCA can be used to extract the waveform from the mark image. Compared with the typical waveform extraction method (the summed projection (SP) method), the proposed PCA method can use the position information contained in the mark image more effectively. Through simulation and experiment, it is proved that the proposed PCA method can improve the contrast of the normalized waveform, and then improve the alignment accuracy.
Graphic-processable deep neural network for the efficient prediction of
2D diffractive chiral metamaterials
Authors: Zhang Jun , Luo Yukun , Tao Zilong , You Jie
Published: June 2021

We propose a novel, to the best of our knowledge, graphic-processable deep neural
network (DNN) to automatically predict and elucidate the optical
chirality of two-dimensional (2D) diffractive chiral metamaterials.
Four classes of 2D chiral metamaterials are studied here, with
material components changing among Au, Ag, Al, and Cu. The
graphic-processable DNN algorithm can not only handle arbitrary 2D
images representing any metamaterials that may even go beyond human
intuition, but also capture the influence of other parameters such as
thickness and material composition, which are rarely explored in the
field of metamaterials, laying the groundwork for future research into
more complicated nanostructures and nonlinear optical devices.
Notably, the rigorous coupled wave analysis (RCWA) algorithm is first
deployed to calculate circular dichroism (CD) in the higher-order
diffraction beams and simultaneously promote the training of DNN. For
the first time we creatively encode the material component and
thickness of the metamaterials into the color images serving as input
of the graphic-processable DNN, in addition to arbitrary graphical
parameters. Especially, the smallest intensity is found in the
third-order diffraction beams of E-like metamaterials, whose CD
response turns out to be the largest. A comprehensive study is
conducted to capture the influence of shape, unit period, thickness,
and material component of arrays on chiroptical response. As expected,
a satisfied precision and an accelerated computing speed that is 4
orders of magnitude quicker than RCWA are both achieved using DNN.
This work belongs to one of the first attempts to thoroughly examine
the generalization ability of the graphic-processable DNN for the
study of arbitrary-shaped nanostructures and hypersensitive
nanodevices.
Common-path intrinsically achromatic optical diffraction tomography
Authors: Zdańkowski Piotr , Winnik Julianna , Patorski Krzysztof , Gocłowski Paweł , Ziemczonok Michał , Józwik Michał , Kujawińska Małgorzata , Trusiak Maciej
Published: June 2021

In this work we propose an open-top like common-path intrinsically achromatic optical diffraction tomography system. It operates as a total-shear interferometer and employs Ronchi-type amplitude diffraction grating, positioned in between the camera and the tube lens without an additional 4f system, generating three-beam interferograms with achromatic second harmonic. Such configuration makes the proposed system low cost, compact and immune to vibrations. We present the results of the measurements of 3D-printed cell phantom using laser diode (coherent) and superluminescent diode (partially coherent) light sources. Broadband light sources can be naturally employed without the need for any cumbersome compensation because of the intrinsic achromaticity of the interferometric recording (holograms generated by –1st and +1st conjugated diffraction orders are not affected by the illumination wavelength). The results show that the decreased coherence offers much reduced coherent noise and higher fidelity tomographic reconstruction especially when applied nonnegativity constraint regularization procedure.
Pixel reassignment in image scanning microscopy with a doughnut beam: example of maximum likelihood restoration
Authors: Sheppard Colin J. R. , Castello Marco , Tortarolo Giorgio , Slenders Eli , Deguchi Takahiro , Koho Sami V. , Bianchini Paolo , Vicidomini Giuseppe , Diaspro Alberto
Published: June 2021

In image scanning microscopy, the pinhole of a confocal microscope is replaced by a detector array. The point spread function for each detector element can be interpreted as the probability density function of the signal, the peak giving the most likely origin. This thus allows a form of maximum likelihood restoration, and compensation for aberrations, with similarities to adaptive optics. As an example of an aberration, we investigate theoretically and experimentally illumination with a vortex doughnut beam. After reassignment and summation over the detector array, the point spread function is compact, and the resolution and signal level higher than in a conventional microscope.
ICP registration with DCA descriptor for 3D point clouds
Authors: He Ying , Yang Jun , Hou Xingming , Pang Shiyan , Chen Jia
Published: June 2021

Widely used in three-dimensional (3D) modeling, reverse engineering and other fields, point cloud registration aims to find the translation and rotation matrix between two point clouds obtained from different perspectives, and thus correctly match the two point clouds. As the most common point cloud registration method, ICP algorithm, however, requires a good initial value, not too large transformation between the two point clouds, and also not too much occlusion; Otherwise, the iteration would fall into a local minimum. To solve this problem, this paper proposes an ICP registration algorithm based on the local features of point clouds. With this algorithm, a robust and efficient 3D local feature descriptor (density, curvature and normal angle, DCA) is firstly designed by combining the density, curvature, and normal information of the point clouds, then based on the feature description, the correspondence between the point clouds and also the initial registration result are found, and finally, the aforementioned result is used as the initial value of ICP to achieve fine tuning of the registration result. The experimental results on public data sets show that the improved ICP algorithm boosts good registration accuracy and robustness, and a fast running speed as well.
Neural network enabled time stretch spectral regression
Authors: Pu Guoqing , Jalali Bahram
Published: June 2021

Spectral interferometry is utilized in a wide range of biomedical and scientific applications and metrology. Retrieving the magnitude and phase of the complex electric field from the interferogram is central to all its applications. We report a spectral interferometry system that utilizes a neural network to infer the magnitude and phase of femtosecond interferograms directly from the measured single-shot interference patterns and compare its performance with the widely used Hilbert transform. Our approach does not require apriori knowledge of the shear frequency, and achieves higher accuracy under our experimental conditions. To train the network, we introduce an experimental technique that generates a large number of femtosecond interferograms with known (labeled) phase and magnitude profiles. While the profiles for these pulses are digitally generated, they obey causality by satisfying the Kramer-Kronig relation. This technique is resilient against nonlinear optical distortions, quantization noise, and the sampling rate limit of the backend digitizer – valuable properties that relax instrument complexity and cost.
SRS suppression in multi-kW fiber lasers with a multiplexed CTFBG
Authors: Song Huaqing , Yan Dongling , Wu Wenjie , Shen Benjian , Feng Xi , liu Yu , Li Li , Chu Qiuhui , Li Min , Wang Jianjun , Tao Rumao
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we present experimental studies on newly developed multiplexed chirped tilted fiber Bragg gratings (MCTFBGs) for stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) suppression for high-power fiber laser systems. The MCTFBG device is composed of five continuous segments of chirped tilted fiber Bragg gratings (CTFBGs), which are inscribed into the large-mode-area (LMA, 25/400μm) fibers. The SRS suppression capability of the MCTFBG device has been successfully demonstrated with a master oscillator power amplification (MOPA) fiber laser system at the output level of 3.4 KW. The experimental observation thus indicates the MCTFBG’s excellent SRS suppression capability at a very high power level (∼15 dB under >3 kW) and high thermal handling capacity (∼1.48℃/kw). Our work thus provides a key development of essential fiber grating components that can effectively suppress the SRS suppression at a very high power level.
Acousto-optic modulator based dispersion scan for phase characterization and shaping of femtosecond mid-infrared pulses
Authors: Nicolai Florian , Müller Niklas , Manzoni Cristian , Cerullo Giulio , Buckup Tiago
Published: June 2021

Compression, shaping and characterization of broadband mid-infrared (MIR) pulses based on an acousto-optic modulator (AOM) pulse shaper is presented. Characterization of the spectral phase is achieved by an AOM-shaper based implementation of a dispersion scan (d-scan). The abilities of the setup are demonstrated by imprinting several test phases with increasing complexity on broadband MIR pulses centered at 3.2 µm and retrieval of the imprinted phases with the presented d-scan method. Phase characterization with d-scan in combination with an evolutionary algorithm allows us to compress the MIR pulses below 50 fs FWHM autocorrelation after the shaper.
StaticCodeCT: single coded aperture tensorial X-ray CT
Authors: Cuadros Angela P. , Ma Xu , Restrepo Carlos M. , Arce Gonzalo R.
Published: June 2021

Coded aperture X-ray CT (CAXCT) is a new low-dose imaging technology that promises far-reaching benefits in industrial and clinical applications. It places various coded apertures (CA) at a time in front of the X-ray source to partially block the radiation. The ill-posed inverse reconstruction problem is then solved using l1-norm-based iterative reconstruction methods. Unfortunately, to attain high-quality reconstructions, the CA patterns must change in concert with the view-angles making the implementation impractical. This paper proposes a simple yet radically different approach to CAXCT, which is coined StaticCodeCT, that uses a single-static CA in the CT gantry, thus making the imaging system amenable for practical implementations. Rather than using conventional compressed sensing algorithms for recovery, we introduce a new reconstruction framework for StaticCodeCT. Namely, we synthesize the missing measurements using low-rank tensor completion principles that exploit the multi-dimensional data correlation and low-rank nature of a 3-way tensor formed by stacking the 2D coded CT projections. Then, we use the FDK algorithm to recover the 3D object. Computational experiments using experimental projection measurements exhibit up to 10% gains in the normalized root mean square distance of the reconstruction using the proposed method compared with those attained by alternative low-dose systems.
Magnetic field sensor based on helical long-period fiber grating with a three-core optical fiber
Authors: Zhao Yuanyuan , Liu Shen , Xiong Cong , Wang Ying , Li Zhengyong , Sun Zhongyuan , Li Jianqing , Wang Yiping
Published: June 2021

A high sensitivity optical fiber magnetic field sensor is proposed and implemented by using a helical long-period fiber grating (HLPFG) based on a three-core fiber (TCF) bonded to a U-shaped aluminum (Al) wire. An electrical current flowing through the Al wire in a perpendicular magnetic field can generate Ampere force, which changes the distance between the two arms of the U-shaped Al wire. Thus, when the intensity and direction of the magnetic field change, the bending curvature of TCF-HLPFG bonded to the U-shaped Al wire varies with the change of Ampere force, which is represented as the shift of resonant wavelength in the spectrum. The as-fabricated sensor can respond to the magnetic field direction and the intensity with a range from −15 mT to 15 mT, and the measured sensitivity is 456.5 pm/mT with Al wire electrical current 1A. The proposed sensor has the advantages of low cost, nondestructive measurement method and ease manufacture, and is expected to be applied to weak magnetic field measurements.
Polarization-selective absorption in an off-centered core-shell square quantum wire
Authors: Thongnak Verasak , Joonhuay Jirarut , Amthong Attapon
Published: June 2021

Core-shell nanostructures are highly attractive; their electrical and optical properties can be tuned by engineering their shapes and types of core-shell materials to achieve optimal nanomaterials for a variety of applications. Unfortunately, in the synthesis process of core-shell structures, geometric defects may unintentionally happen and possibly lead to undesired properties. In this Letter, the defect due to eccentricity in a core-shell square quantum wire is numerically investigated using the finite difference approach. The effects of the core shifting diagonally and vertically on optical transitions are reported. The results show that even a small core shift causes fully polarization-dependent transitions. The shift also affects the splitting of absorption coefficients due to

x

- and

y

-polarized light, leading to polarization-selective absorption in some photon energy ranges. As a result, the considered quantum wire is an alternative structure for polarizing light or detecting polarized light.
High stability laser locking to an optical cavity using tilt locking
Authors: Chabbra Namisha , Wade Andrew R. , Rose Rees Emily , Sutton Andrew J. , Stochino Alberto , Ward Robert L. , Shaddock Daniel A. , McKenzie Kirk
Published: June 2021

This paper describes, to our knowledge, the first demonstration of high performance tilt locking, a method of stabilizing laser frequency to an optical reference cavity using a spatial-mode readout technique. The experiment utilized a traveling wave cavity with a finesse of approximately 10,000, housed in a thermally controlled vacuum chamber. The tilt locking method in a double pass configuration has promising performance in the 100 µHz–1 Hz band, including surpassing the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) Follow-On laser ranging interferometer requirement. Tilt locking offers a number of benefits such as high sensitivity, low cost, and simple implementation and therefore should be considered for future applications requiring high performance laser locking, such as future laser-based satellite geodesy missions and the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna.
On-chip ultra-narrow-linewidth single-mode microlaser on lithium niobate on insulator
Authors: Gao Renhong , Guan Jianglin , Yao Ni , Deng Li , Lin Jintian , Wang Min , Qiao Lingling , Wang Zhenhua , Liang Youting , Zhou Yuan , Cheng Ya
Published: June 2021

We report an on-chip single-mode microlaser with a low threshold fabricated on erbium doped lithium-niobate-on-insulator (LNOI). The single-mode laser emission at 1550.5 nm wavelength is generated in a coupled microdisk via the inverse Vernier effect at room temperature, when pumping the resonator at 977.7 nm wavelength. A threshold pump power as low as 200 μW is demonstrated due to the high quality factor above

10

6

. Moreover, the measured linewidth of the microlaser reaches 348 kHz without discounting the broadening caused by the utilization of optical amplifiers, which is, to our knowledge, the best result in LNOI microlasers. Such a single-mode microlaser lithographically fabricated on chip is in high demand by the photonics community.
Effect of Renamezin upon attenuation of renal function decline in pre-dialysis chronic kidney disease patients: 24-week prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Park Hayne Cho , Cho AJin , Kim Do Hyoung , Yun Kyu-sang , Kim Juhee , Lee Eun Young , Jo Sang Kyung , Lee So-Young , Han Kum Hyun , Chang Yoon Kyung , Oh Dong-Jin , Lee Young-Ki
Published: June 2021

Renamezin® is a modified capsule-type oral spherical adsorptive carbon which lowers indoxyl sulfate levels in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD). This 24-week prospective observational cohort study was performed to evaluate the effect of Renamezin® upon attenuation of renal function decline. A total of 1,149 adult patients with baseline serum creatinine 2.0–5.0 mg/dL were enrolled from 22 tertiary hospital in Korea from April 2016 to September 2018. Among them, a total of 686 patients completed the study and were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. A total of 1,061 patients were included in the safety analysis. The mean age was 63.5 years and male patients were predominant (63.6%). Most of the patients (76.8%) demonstrated high compliance with study drug (6g per day). After 24 week of treatment, serum creatinine was increased from 2.86±0.72 mg/dL to 3.06±1.15 mg/dL (p<0.001), but estimated glomerular filtration rate was not changed significantly during observation period (22.3±6.8 mL/min/1.73m2 to 22.1±9.1 mL/min/1.73m2, p = 0.243). Patients with age over 65 years old and those under good systolic blood pressure control <130 mmHg were most likely to get benefit from Renamezin® treatment to preserve renal function. A total of 98 (9.2%) patients out of 1,061 safety population experienced 134 adverse events, of which gastrointestinal disorders were the most common. There were no serious treatment-related adverse events. Renamezin® can be used safely to attenuate renal function decline in moderately advanced CKD patients.
Validation of the World Health Organization/ International Society of Hypertension (WHO/ISH) cardiovascular risk predictions in Sri Lankans based on findings from a prospective cohort study
Authors: Thulani U. B. , Mettananda K. C. D. , Warnakulasuriya D. T. D. , Peiris T. S. G. , Kasturiratne K. T. A. A. , Ranawaka U. K. , Chakrewarthy S. , Dassanayake A. S. , Kurukulasooriya S. A. F. , Niriella M. A. , de Silva S. T. , Pathmeswaran A. P. , Kato N. , de Silva H. J. , Wickremasinghe A. R.
Published: June 2021

Introduction and objectives

There are no cardiovascular (CV) risk prediction models for Sri Lankans. Different risk prediction models not validated for Sri Lankans are being used to predict CV risk of Sri Lankans. We validated the WHO/ISH (SEAR-B) risk prediction charts prospectively in a population-based cohort of Sri Lankans.

Method

We selected 40–64 year-old participants from the Ragama Medical Officer of Health (MOH) area in 2007 by stratified random sampling and followed them up for 10 years. Ten-year risk predictions of a fatal/non-fatal cardiovascular event (CVE) in 2007 were calculated using WHO/ISH (SEAR-B) charts with and without cholesterol. The CVEs that occurred from 2007–2017 were ascertained. Risk predictions in 2007 were validated against observed CVEs in 2017.

Results

Of 2517 participants, the mean age was 53.7 year (SD: 6.7) and 1132 (45%) were males. Using WHO/ISH chart with cholesterol, the percentages of subjects with a 10-year CV risk <10%, 10–19%, 20%-29%, 30–39%, ≥40% were 80.7%, 9.9%, 3.8%, 2.5% and 3.1%, respectively. 142 non-fatal and 73 fatal CVEs were observed during follow-up. Among the cohort, 9.4% were predicted of having a CV risk ≥20% and 8.6% CVEs were observed in the risk category. CVEs were within the predictions of WHO/ISH charts with and without cholesterol in both high (≥20%) and low(<20%) risk males, but only in low(<20%) risk females. The predictions of WHO/ISH charts, with-and without-cholesterol were in agreement in 81% of subjects (ĸ = 0.429; p<0.001).

Conclusions

WHO/ISH (SEAR B) risk prediction charts with-and without-cholesterol may be used in Sri Lanka. Risk charts are more predictive in males than in females and for lower-risk categories. The predictions when stratifying into 2 categories, low risk (<20%) and high risk (≥20%), are more appropriate in clinical practice.
Detection of R.1 lineage severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) with spike protein W152L/E484K/G769V mutations in Japan
Authors: Hirotsu Yosuke , Omata Masao
Published: June 2021

We aimed to investigate novel emerging severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) lineages in Japan that harbor variants in the spike protein receptor-binding domain (RBD). The total nucleic acid contents of samples from 159 patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were subjected to whole genome sequencing. The SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences from these patients were examined for variants in spike protein RBD. In January 2021, three family members (one aged in their 40s and two aged under 10 years old) were found to be infected with SARS-CoV-2 harboring W152L/E484K/G769V mutations. These three patients were living in Japan and had no history of traveling abroad. After identifying these cases, we developed a TaqMan assay to screen for the above hallmark mutations and identified an additional 14 patients with the same mutations. The associated virus strain was classified into the GR clade (Global Initiative on Sharing Avian Influenza Data [GISAID]), 20B clade (Nextstrain), and R.1 lineage (Phylogenetic Assignment of Named Global Outbreak [PANGO] Lineages). As of April 22, 2021, R.1 lineage SARS-CoV-2 has been identified in 2,388 SARS-CoV-2 entries in the GISAID database, many of which were from Japan (38.2%; 913/2,388) and the United States (47.1%; 1,125/2,388). Compared with that in the United States, the percentage of SARS-CoV-2 isolates belonging to the R.1 lineage in Japan increased more rapidly over the period from October 24, 2020 to April 18, 2021. R.1 lineage SARS-CoV-2 has potential escape mutations in the spike protein RBD (E484K) and N-terminal domain (W152L); therefore, it will be necessary to continue to monitor the R.1 lineage as it spreads around the world.
A space of welcome for (almost) everyone: A study on the tension between Brighton and Bologna’s institutional narratives and practices of welcome
Authors: Mazzilli Caterina
Published: June 2021

Grounding on Derrida’s conceptual framing of hospitality as a continuous tension between its conditional and unconditional forms, this article examines the city as a space of welcome located halfway through the continuum explored in this Special Issue. Through an analysis of the institutional narratives fostered by Brighton and Bologna’s local governments, this piece reflects on the tension between narratives and practices of welcome. By unpacking the accounts of local government’s representatives in both cities, I demonstrate how the notion of ‘welcome’, apparently very wide-encompassing, emerges as rather selective. In addition, I reflect on the benefits that cities can achieve when employing such narratives.
Basis Set Selection for Calculation of Structural and Electronic Properties of Systems Incorporating a Superoxide Radical in an Aqueous Medium
Authors: Ryabykh A.V. , Pirogov M.A. , Maslova O.A. , Beznosyuk S.A.
Published: June 2021

In this work, computer simulation has been carried out, and the molecular parameters of oxygen and a superoxide ion have been calculated to select the most optimal basis set of functions for further quantum mechanical calculations that include the presence of reactive oxygen species. For each particle, the equilibrium bond lengths and averaged polarizabilities in a continuous dielectric aqueous medium are obtained with the Conductor-like Polarizable Continuum Model (CPCM) and Solvation Model based on Density (SMD). Calculations for the 16 basic sets are conducted using the Orca software package. The obtained numerical values are compared with experimental data. The electron affinity energy of the oxygen molecule is used as the main selection criterion. The total time of computer calculations for each basis set is considered, and the most optimal basis sets are selected. The basis sets 6-31+G(d), 6-311+G, def2-TZVPD, and aug-cc-pVDZ are recommended for numerical calculations of molecular systems incorporating molecular oxygen and superoxide radical as its reduction product.
Numerical Solution of a Two-Dimensional Problem of Fluid Filtration in a Deformable Porous Medium
Authors: Virts R.A.
Published: June 2021

The paper considers a two-dimensional mathematical model of filtration of a viscous incompressible fluid in a deformable porous medium. The model is based on the equations of conservation of mass for liquid and solid phases, Darcy’s law, the rheological relationship for a porous medium, and the law of conservation of the balance of forces. In this article, the equation of the balance of forces is taken in full form, i.e. the viscous and elastic properties of the medium are taken into account. The aim of the work is a numerical study of a model initial-boundary value problem. Section 1 gives a statement of the problem and a brief review of the literature on works related to this topic. In item 2, the original system of equations is transformed. In the case of slow flows, when the convective term can be neglected, a system arises that consists of a second-order parabolic equation for the effective pressure of the medium and the first-order equation for porosity. Section 3 proposes an algorithm for the numerical solution of the resulting initial-boundary value problem. For the numerical implementation, a variable direction scheme for the heat equation with variable coefficients is used, as well as the Runge — Kutta scheme of the fourth order of approximation.
Impact of Deposition Temperature on Amorphous Zinc Oxide Thin Film Characteristics
Authors: S S Omprakash , S K Naveen Kumar
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we discuss the deposition of amorphous zinc oxide (a: ZnO) thin film at two different temperatures by spray pyrolysis unit for Thin Film Transistor (TFT) application. The a: ZnO films were studied for its structural, morphology, composition, optical and electrical properties by means of XRD, SEM, EDAX, UV-Visible spectroscopy and I-V measurement system respectively. The film thickness characterized by optical Profilometer. The SEM images exhibit the variation in temperature leads to the crystallinity of the film. The XRD spectrum confirmed the films were amorphous in nature.
A LÓGICA URBANA FRAGMENTÁRIA: DELIMITAR O CONCEITO DE FRAGMENTAÇÃO SOCIOESPACIAL
Authors: Legroux Jean
Published: June 2021

Este artigo visa delimitar o conceito de fragmentação socioespacial, enquanto ferramenta teórico-analítica para estudar as cidades. A partir de uma revisão da literatura, a fragmentação socioespacial é explorada sob diversos aspectos: como processo, como forma urbana, como conceito, como paradigma e como método. Argumenta-se que a ideia de fragmentação socioespacial precisa dialogar com outras vertentes teóricas capazes de explicar as mudanças em curso no urbano. Assim, o conceito de fragmentação, para estudar as mudanças urbanas em curso, precisa ser apreendido junto com a fase crítica (de urbanização planetária) e com a fase atual do capitalismo. A partir daí, o cotidiano urbano e as práticas socioespaciais são indicadas como caminhos para captar a fragmentação socioespacial.
The Impact of Project Manager’s Skills and Age on Project Success
Authors: Elmezain Maryam , Baduruzzaman Wan Hamidon Wan , Khoiry Muhamad Azry
Published: June 2021

Goal: This study seeks to examine project success in relation to project managers’ factors. Pertaining to research questions, we highlighted: “do project manager’s technical, conceptual, political and human skills are significantly related to project success?, and does project manager’s age play a significant role in achieving project success?

Design / Methodology / Approach: This research employed a quantitative research method using survey questionnaires to collect data from 400 project managers working in five well-known construction companies in Cairo, Egypt. Descriptive statistics using Relative Importance Index (RII) were employed to rank the dimensions of project manager’s skills: conceptual, technical, human and political skills; and project success dimensions: cost, schedule and quality. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify the impact of project managers’ skills on project success while simple linear regression was used to examine the relationship between project manager’s age and project success

Results: The results of RII revealed that project managers maintain a competitive level of technical, conceptual, political and human skills, and emphasize on specific aspects of cost, schedule, and quality dimensions of project success. The regression analysis revealed that 49.2% of the explained variation in project success can be accounted for technical, political, human and conceptual skills at coefficient of determination values of 0.611, 0.506, 0.431 and 0.407 respectively while the project manager’s age had no association with project success with a P value 0.694 at alpha level of 0.05.

Limitations of the investigation: Generalizing research findings might be challenged because sample size was randomly selected due lack of identifying the exact size target population.

Practical implications: The managerial implication of this study lies in the need for construction companies not to consider project manager’s age as a significant factor for project success, instead they need to ensure that project managers possess a competitive level of conceptual, technical, political and human skills.

Originality / Value: Pertaining to contribution to academia, this research argues that project success subject to a set of comprehensive set of project managerial skills namely conceptual, technical, political and human. Further, it is essential to distinguish between project manager’s age and experience and not to consider project manager’s age as a determinant of a project success.
Systemic Approach to Assessing Sustainable Development of the Regions
Authors: POPELO Olha , TULCHYNSKA Svitlana , KHARCHENKO Yuliia , DERGALIUK Bogdan , KHANIN Semen , TKACHENKO Tetiana
Published: June 2021

In modern conditions of the society development, there is a single direction of the development of national economies and their regions - through sustainable development. It is the consideration of the simultaneous economic, social and environmental direction of regional development that gives the greatest resultant effects of the territorial development. In turn, sustainable development requires the development of the  specific evaluation methods that can give sound, accurate results of assessing the state and dynamics of sustainable development of regions. The authors propose a methodological approach that involves determining the state and dynamics of sustainable development by determining the integrated index and its components by calculating the integrated sub-indices. The method of assessing the state and dynamics of sustainable development involves the use of disparate methods, including statistical, grouping, rationing, simulation, graphical and cartographic. In addition, the use of such mathematical techniques as: correlation analysis, multiple regression, cluster and factor analysis. The approbation of this method on the example of the regions of Ukraine is carried out. In turn, the obtained calculations of the sub-indices of economic, social and environmental components and sustainable development of the regions as a whole will contribute to the development of measures to increase the level of sustainable development and achieve its goals.
Impact of Social Economy on the Environmental Protection
Authors: SUTBAYEVA Raikhan , BEISENGALIYEV Berik , MADIYAROVA Diana , TUREKULOVA Assiya , KAPENOVA Asemgul
Published: June 2021

Global challenges and threats, which inevitably affect the entire world community, naturally enhance the interdependence of states, require their joint actions aimed at solving social and economic problems of the world economy. As a result, the influence of social policy in the field of organizing and financing the social sphere, where environmental protection is an important factor, increases. Many processes occurring in the modern economy contribute to an increase in the importance of employers in solving modern problems of sustainable socio-economic development, both nationally and internationally. The level where rising unemployment rates have a significant negative impact on environmental priorities.
Economic Efficiency of Housing Construction. Environmental Impact
Authors: AZHIGUZHAYEVA Assel , BASSHIEVA Zhangul , MALGARAYEVA Zhanat
Published: June 2021

The relevance of the research topic is due to the fact that, faced with the growing threat of global climate change, depletion of natural resources and the collapse of the global ecosystem, at the moment, in particular, the global construction industry is at the stage of an unprecedented test of strength. Going forward, Green Standards aim at the extremely difficult task of looking at environmental economics from end to beginning, i.e. from the end of the life cycle of a building or its complete utilization with the calculation of all energy spent in the process of design, construction, operation and utilization, processing. Kazakhstan is among the countries actively promoting the ideas of green growth and the transition to a green economy.