bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metasurface optical elements for high performing augmented/mixed-reality smart glasses
Authors: Boo Hyunpil , Lee Yoo Seung , Yang Hangbo , Matthews Brian , Lee Tom G. , Wong Chee Wei
Published: August 2021

We report state-of-the-art metasurface optical elements enabling our high-resolution full color prototype, via various combination of analytical and numerical simulations. Our prototype device has achieved FoV (>40o), high output efficiency (>1%), and 1080-pixel resolution.
Characterization of Contactless Integrated Photonic Probes on Silicon Waveguides at Cryogenic Temperatures
Authors: Wang Zhao , Liu Haiyi , Zhang Ziyu , Zou Kai , Hu Nan , Meng Yun , Xu Liang , Hu Xiaolong
Published: August 2021

We characterized contactless integrated photonic probes on silicon waveguides in a temperature range from 293 K down to 12 K, and observed the oscillation of admittance and decrease of the sensitivity.
Actuation bandwidth extension of an integrated piezo-optomechanical nanophotonic device
Authors: Siddharth Anat , Weng Wenle , Lihachev Grigory , Riemensberger Johann , Tian Hao , Liu Junqiu , Bhave Sunil A. , Kippenberg Tobias J.
Published: August 2021

We demonstrate a novel technique of contour-mode suppression of an integrated MEMS-photonic chip up to the first HBAR mode at 17 MHz. The flattened actuation response is critical to the development of compact LiDAR engine or low-noise frequency-agile laser.
Low Divergence Dual-Grating Distributed Feedback Lasers Operating at 1.0 μm
Authors: Hou Bin , Ye Shengwei , Liang Song , Marsh John H. , Hou Lianping
Published: August 2021

A 1.0 μm laterally-coupled dual-wavelength distributed feedback laser is reported, with a frequency separation of 1.1 THz and near-circular output beam with small divergence angle of 20.6° (H) × 22.8° (V).
All-fiber, Optical Parametric Oscillator Based on Birefringent Phase Matching in a Polarization Maintaining Fiber
Authors: Batjargal Orkhongua , Qin Yukun , Kieu Khanh
Published: August 2021

We present an all-fiber, synchronously pumped, optical parametric oscillator based on birefringent phase matching in a polarization maintaining fiber. The laser system produces ultrashort signal and idler pulses near 930 nm and 1230 nm.
Transverse Mode Instability Threshold Manipulation in a Core-Pumped Raman Amplifier
Authors: Distler Victor , Möller Friedrich , Yildiz Benjamin , Plötner Marco , Walbaum Till , Schreiber Thomas
Published: August 2021

The threshold of transverse mode instability induced by stimulated Raman scattering is examined. Therefore, key parameters for TMI in a passive fiber high-power core-pumped Raman amplifier are experimentally investigated and discussed.
High-speed Silicon Mach-Zehnder Modulator with Corrugated Waveguides for Data Center Interconnects
Authors: Singh Karanveer , Misra Arijit , Dev Sourav , Hosseini Reza , Preußler Stefan , Jamshidi Kambiz , Schneider Thomas
Published: August 2021

An energy-efficient integrated silicon Mach-Zehnder modulator using 0.5 mm long corrugated waveguides with an extinction ratio of 30 dB is presented. Using this modulator, 15 Gb/s NRZ transmission is demonstrated with modulation efficiency (Vπ L) of 0.065 V.cm.
High-density two-color micro-LED array based on brushing-assisted micropatterning of quantum dots
Authors: Mao Dacheng , Xiong Zheshun , Donnelly Matthew , Xu Guangyu
Published: August 2021

We report a 17 μm-pitched two-color micro-LED array based on brushing-assisted micro- patterning of quantum dots. Filtered by an integrated distributed Bragg reflector layer, our array features bright, localized, and fast light output near 462 nm and 623 nm with low spectral and spatial crosstalk.
High-stability quantum dot passivated with low temperature atomic layer deposition 3-in-1 full-color light-emitting diodes
Authors: Huang Yu-Ming , Liou Yu-Hau , Liu An-Chen , Lin Chien-Chung , Kuo Hao-Chung
Published: August 2021

We report a 3-in-1 mini-light emitting diode and combine ink-jet printing technique to achieve a full color in monolithic chip. Finally, make reliability test by low-temperature ALD technology at 2020 color gamut of red and green QDs during 300 hours reliability test under 50°C /50% RH condition.
All-fiber, all-optical ultrafast switch based on two-dimensional nanomaterials
Authors: Wu Q. , Zhang M. , Zheng Z.
Published: August 2021

We present an all-fiber, all-optical modulator based on a polarization interferometer structure depositing with two-dimensional nanomaterials. Bright and stable modulated output signals can be achieved highlighting the potential for two-dimensional nanomaterial- based photonic applications.
Synchronization of Normal-GVD Kerr Combs
Authors: Kim Bok Young , Jang Jae K. , Okawachi Yoshitomo , Ji Xingchen , Lipson Michal , Gaeta Alexander L.
Published: August 2021

We demonstrate all-optical synchronization of Kerr combs in the normal group-velocity dispersion regime. Our results reveal the universality of Kerr comb synchronization and extend its scope beyond soliton modelocking.
PhoXonic Whispering Gallery Mode Resonators: parametrical optomechanic oscillations and its applications
Authors: Rosello-Mecho Xavier , Frigenti Gabriele , Farnesi Daniele , Delgado-Pinar Martina , Andrés Miguel V. , Righini Giancarlo , Conti Gualtiero Nunzi , Soria Silvia
Published: August 2021

We report on the experimental analysis of parametrical optomechanical oscillations and photo-acoustical applications such as flow cytometers in hollow phoxonic whispering gallery mode resonators. Both phenomena can be enchanced or suppressed and showed chaotic behavior.
Optical Dual-Comb Vernier Division of an Octave-Spanning Kerr Microcomb
Authors: Alshaykh Mohammed S. , Wang Cong , O’Malley Nathan P. , Ye Zhichao , Al Noman Abdullah , Leaird Daniel E. , Qi Minghao , Torres-Company Victor , Weiner Andrew M.
Published: August 2021

We measure the repetition rate of a 900 GHz octave-spanning soliton micro-comb based on Vernier dual-comb frequency division implemented with two silicon nitride microresonator combs fabricated on the same wafer.
Seven-Octave High-Brightness and Carrier Envelope Phase-Stable Light Source
Authors: Elu Ugaitz , Maidment Luke , Vamos Lenard , Tani Francesco , Novoa David , Frosz Michael H. , Badikov Valeriy , Badikov Dmitrii , Petrov Valentin , Russell Philip St. J. , Biegert Jens
Published: August 2021

We present a carrier-envelope-phase stable light source with simultaneous spectral coverage across 7 optical octaves (UV to THz) by combining soliton self-compression, dispersive wave generation and intra-pulse difference frequency generation.
Ultrafast nano-imaging and control of optical switching in strongly coupled infrared quantum-well heterostructures
Authors: Johnson Samuel C. , Bechtel Hans A. , Mann Sander A. , Nookala Nishant , Alu Andrea , Klem John F. , Brener Igal , Belkin Mikhail A. , Raschke Markus B.
Published: August 2021

We perform ultrafast degenerate infrared pump-probe micro- to nano-scale imaging and spectroscopy of multi-quantum-well antenna heterostructures. We demonstrate coupling strength and phase rotation control through modification of the optical nano-cavity.
Ultrafast spectroscopy of biomolecules with few-femtosecond UV pulses
Authors: Borrego-Varillas R.
Published: August 2021

By using a novel UV beamline with sub-20-fs temporal resolution we investigate the ultrafast dynamics of DNA nucleosides and thiobases, revealing the primary photo-induced processes occurring in sub-100 fs timescales.
Broadly Tunable Watt-level Source of Few-Cycle Mid-Infrared Pulses Based on Yb-doped Laser and Two-Channel Parametric Amplifier
Authors: Budriūnas Rimantas , Jurkus Karolis , Varanavičius Arūnas
Published: August 2021

We present a twin optical parametric amplifier setup for generating broadly tunable mid-IR pulses. Sub-60fs pulses are demonstrated throughout 2.5-10μm tuning range. Output power >1 W at 3.5μm and >450 mW at 10μm is achieved with an 80W pump laser operating at 400kHz or 50kHz repetition rate.
Modulation Characteristics of a Delay-Controlled Optoelectronic Oscillator
Authors: Sanjari Pouria , Aflatouni Firooz
Published: August 2021

A rapidly adjustable, continuously tuned optoelectronic oscillator is implemented using an integrated variable delay line. The oscillator has a tuning range of 594-634MHz and is capable of being modulated with frequencies higher than 400MHz.
On-Chip Optical Tweezers Based on Micro-Reflectors
Authors: Lu Jinsheng , Yu Shaoliang , Ginis Vincent , Kheifets Simon , Lim Soon Wei Daniel , Qiu Min , Gu Tian , Hu Juejun , Capasso Federico
Published: August 2021

We introduce a new class of on-chip optical tweezers with high trapping efficiency, compact footprint, and broadband operation by integrating free-form micro-reflectors to the facets of waveguides.
Sidelobe-Free Beam-Steering using Optical Phased Arrays for Neural Probes
Authors: Chen Fu-Der , Jung Youngho , Xue Tianyuan , Mak Jason C. C. , Luo Xianshu , Lo Patrick Guo-Qiang , Roukes Michael L. , Poon Joyce K. S. , Sacher Wesley D.
Published: August 2021

We demonstrate implantable neural probes with integrated silicon nitride optical phased arrays (OPAs) fabricated on 200mm wafers for wavelengths near 480nm. A free-propagation slab enables the emission of a single steerable beam from an OPA.
Material Identification by Plasmonic Infrared Microspectrometer Employing Machine Learning
Authors: Meng Jiajun , Weston Luke , Balendhran Sivacarendran , Wen Dandan , Cadusch Jasper J. , Unnithan Ranjith Rajasekharan , Crozier Kenneth B.
Published: August 2021

We demonstrate a microspectrometer comprising plasmonic filters integrated with an infrared camera. Blackbody light illuminates the material being studied, with transmitted light collected by the microspectrometer. The latter uses machine learning to identify the material.
Observation of 1D self-healing Airy beams on a silicon photonic chip
Authors: Fang Zhuoran , Chen Rui , Ryou Albert , Majumdar Arka
Published: August 2021

The self-heling and non-diverging behaviours of Airy beams are observed on a silicon-on-insulator integrated photonic platform near 1550nm.
Single-Shot Non-Diffracting Light-Sheet Microscopy by Dispersion of Light
Authors: Ebrahimi Vahid , Tang Jialei , Han Kyu Young
Published: August 2021

We demonstrate that non-diffracting light-sheet can be generated instantaneously by dispersing wavelengths of diode lasers or supercontinuum light source.
Deep Learning Powered Single Cell Biological Microlasers
Authors: Qiao Zhen , Sun Wen , Jie Randall Ang , Chen Yu-Cheng
Published: August 2021

Laser modes from single cell lasers were analyzed by deep learning analysis. The results demonstrated a prediction of cell sizes with subwavelength-level accuracy, showing the potential of laser mode imaging in single cell physical analysis.
Optofluidic Fiber Laser with Full-Color Lasing Emission
Authors: Chenlu Wang , Chaoyang Gong , Zhang Yifan , Chen Yu-Cheng
Published: August 2021

A controllable full-color optofluidic fiber laser based on manipulating the nanostructure of dye-doped cholesteric liquid crystal microdroplets was first presented. This work paves the way for the tunable light source with high controllability.
Stacking of Two-Dimensional Materials to Large-Area Heterostructures by Wafer Bonding
Authors: Quellmalz Arne , Sawallich Simon , Prechtl Maximilian , Hartwig Oliver , Luo Siwei , Wagner Stefan , Duesberg Georg S. , Lemme Max C. , Niklaus Frank , Gylfason Kristinn B.
Published: August 2021

The integration of 2D materials for photonic applications is not compatible with high-volume manufacturing. We report a generic methodology that uses only readily available semiconductor equipment and experimentally demonstrate the stacking of graphene and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2).
Direct Growth of Transparent Graphene Electrodes on GaN LEDs Using Metal Proximity Catalytic Effect
Authors: Xiong Fangzhu , Guo Weiling , Wang Le , Du Zaifa , Sun Jie
Published: August 2021

High-quality graphene was obtained directly on GaN epiwafers at low temperature using the metal proximity catalytic effect. Metal catalyse graphene without contacting with it ensure high performance of graphene-GaN LED.
Enhancing Second Harmonic Generation of Transition Metal Dichalcogenides Through 1D Nanoscrolls
Authors: Qian Qingkai , Huang Shengxi
Published: August 2021

We fabricated MoS2 nanoscrolls with different chiralities. As a 1D material, MoS2 nanoscrolls show second harmonic generation (SHG) intensity up to 98 times stronger than that of monolayer MoS2, with chirality dependence.
Dispersive coupling between MoSe2 and a zero-dimensional integrated nanocavity
Authors: Rosser David , Gerace Dario , Chen Yueyang , Liu Yifan , Whitehead James , Ryou Albert , Andreani Lucio C. , Majumdar Arka
Published: August 2021

We demonstrate dispersive coupling between the neutral exciton in monolayer MoSe2 and a zero-dimensional, small mode volume nanocavity with an estimated exciton-cavity coupling of ∼ 4.3 meV and a cooperativity of C ∼ 3.4.
Unified FROG for characterizing 205 nm to 2000 nm, s or p polarization, from 2-cycle to 100 ps
Authors: Wilson Derrek J. , Ramirez Alicia , Kumar Mayank , Longa Adrien , Laramée Antoine , Ibrahim Heide , Légaré François , Schmidt Bruno E.
Published: August 2021

A Frequency Resolved Optical Gating instrument accepting s or p polarized input pulses ranging from 205 nm to 2000 nm, durations from 2 cycles to 100 ps, and nano-Joule energies is presented.
Spatiospectral Characterization of Pulse-beams via Broadband Ptychography
Authors: Goldberger David , Barolak Jonathan , Durfee Charles G. , Adams Daniel E.
Published: August 2021

We demonstrate spatiospectral characterization of complicated pulse-beams via Broadband Ptychography. Reconstructions of the complex field of multiple spectral components from complicated probe illumination produced by a modelocked Ti:sapphire laser are presented.
THz Generation Control in Fe/X Spintronic Multilayers by chemical bonding at epitaxial Fe/GaAs(001) interfaces
Authors: Adam Roman , Chen Genyu , Bürgler Daniel E. , Cao Derang , Heidtfeld Sarah , Chakraborty Debamitra , Cheng Jing , Komissarov Ivan , Hardtdegen Hilde , Mikulics Martin , Schneider Claus M. , Sobolewski Roman
Published: August 2021

We report an additional degree of control of THz transients in Fe/X spintronic emitters grown on GaAs(001). We ascribe the field-independent enhancement of the THz amplitude to specific chemical bonding at the epitaxial Fe/GaAs(001) interface.
Simulations on the propagation dynamics of TW square-aperture CO2 laser pulses in the atmosphere
Authors: Panagiotopoulos Paris , Kolesik Miroslav , Hasson Victor , Tochitsky Sergei , Moloney Jerome V.
Published: August 2021

We simulate the linear and nonlinear propagation dynamics of multi-TW 10.6 μm square-frame wavepackets in the atmosphere. It is shown that the location of the obscuration is critical for multiple-filamentation and energy delivery downstream.
Machine learning with multimode fibers
Authors: Teğin Uğur , Yıldırım Mustafa , Oğuz İlker , Moser Christophe , Psaltis Demetri
Published: August 2021

A novel optical computing framework by harnessing spatiotemporal nonlinear effects of multimode fibers for machine learning is presented. With linear and nonlinear interactions of the spatial fiber modes, a brain-inspired computation engine is experimentally realized.
Modeling Harmonic and Supercontinuum Generation in Polycrystalline Materials
Authors: Gu Jiahui , Vasilyev Sergey , Mirov Mike , Kolesik Miroslav
Published: August 2021

We develop a comprehensive model to simulate random quasi-phase-matched frequency conversion in polycrystalline media, and present simulations which shed light on the mechanisms of supercontinuum generation and the properties of generated radiation in zinc-blende materials.
Stable Formation of Multiple Solitons in an Optical Microresonator Assisted by Saturable Absorption
Authors: Nakashima Ayata , Fujii Shun , Imamura Riku , Nagashima Keigo , Tanabe Takasumi
Published: August 2021

We numerically investigate soliton microcomb generation with a saturable absorption effect. We found that a cavity-integrated saturable absorber allows the formation of a much higher number of solitons than possible with a Kerr-only monolithic cavity.
Laser Annealing of Anodic TiO2 Nanotubes: Explosive Solid Phase Crystallization into Anatase
Authors: Mirza Inam , Sopha Hanna , Turčičova Hana , Pavlinak David , Novák Ondřej , Mužík Jiří , Shukhov Yuri G. , Starinskiy Sergey V. , Smrž Martin , Michalicka Jan , Krbal Milos , Pereira Jhonatan Rodriguez , Hromadko Ludek , Kolibalova Eva , Goodfriend Nathan , Bulgakov Alexander V. , Mocek Tomáš , Macak Jan M. , Bulgakova Nadezhda M.
Published: August 2021

Annealing of amorphous TiO2 nanotubes has been performed by nano-, pico- and femtosecond lasers. Only picosecond high-power laser of the HiLASE Centre enabled achieving crystallization into anatase phase via explosive solid-phase crystallization at high throughput.
Conical Third Harmonic Generation due to Multipulse Optical Damage of Transparent Dielectrics at High Repetition Rates
Authors: Grigutis Robertas , Navickas Marius , Tamošauskas Gintaras , Jukna Vytautas , Staliūnas Kęstutis , Dubietis Audrius
Published: August 2021

We report on conical third harmonic generation by filamentation of high repetition rate femtosecond laser pulses in transparent dielectrics which results from in-bulk optical damage of the material in the form of quasiperiodic nanograting.
Ultrafast Carrier Dynamics in (Bi1-xInx)2Se3 Thin Films: From Topological to Band Insulator
Authors: Kushnir Kateryna , Shi Teng , Wang Zhengtianye , Law Stephanie , Titova Lyubov
Published: August 2021

Replacing some of the Bi atoms with In transforms Bi2Se3 from a topological to a band insulator. We have used time-resolved terahertz spectroscopy to study carrier dynamics in (Bi1-xInx)2Se3 films across this transition.
Size-invariant twisted optical modes for the efficient generation of higher-dimensional quantum states
Authors: Anwar Ali , Prabhakar Shashi , Singh R. P.
Published: August 2021

Optical vortex beams are profiled as helical wavefronts with a phase singularity carrying an orbital angular momentum (OAM) associated with their spatial distribution. The transverse intensity distribution of a conventional optical vortex has a strong dependence on the carried topological charge. However, perfect optical vortex (POV) beams have their transverse intensity distribution independent of their charge. Such “size-invariant” POV beams have found exciting applications in optical manipulation, imaging, and communication. In this paper, we investigate the use of POV modes in the efficient generation of high-dimensional quantum states of light. We generate heralded single photons carrying OAM using spontaneous parametric downconversion (SPDC) of POV beams. We show that the heralding efficiency of the SPDC single photons generated with a POV pump is greater than that with normal optical vortex beams. The dimensionality of the two-photon OAM states is increased with POV modes in the pump and projective measurements using Bessel–Gaussian vortex modes that give POV, instead of Laguerre–Gaussian modes.
Spatially dense integration of micron-scale devices from multiple materials on a single chip via transfer-printing
Authors: Jevtics Dimitars , Smith Jack A. , McPhillimy John , Guilhabert Benoit , Hill Paul , Klitis Charalambos , Hurtado Antonio , Sorel Marc , Hoe Tan Hark , Jagadish Chennupati , Dawson Martin D. , Strain Michael J.
Published: August 2021

The heterogeneous integration of devices from multiple material platforms onto a single chip is demonstrated using a transfer-printing (TP) technique. Serial printing of devices in spatially dense arrangements requires that subsequent processes do not disturb previously printed components, even in the case where the print head is in contact with those devices. In this manuscript we show the deterministic integration of components within a footprint of the order of the device size, including AlGaAs, diamond and GaN waveguide resonators integrated onto a single chip. Serial integration of semiconductor nanowire (NW) using GaAs/AlGaAs and InP lasers is also demonstrated with device to device spacing in the 1 μm range.
Handlungsempfehlungen für die Gestaltung mobiler Apps in smarten und nachhaltigen Quartieren
Authors: Bonenberger Lukas , Graf-Drasch Valerie , Meindl Oliver
Published: August 2021

Aktuell stammen zwei Drittel der weltweiten Energienachfrage sowie 70 % aller CO2-Emissionen aus Städten. Diese Tatsache bietet ein hohes Potenzial für das Adressieren des Klimawandels durch gezielte Maßnahmen in urbanen Gebieten. Der Bau oder die Sanierung energieeffizienter Gebäude, innovative Mobilitätskonzepte, nachhaltige Energieversorgung oder Anreizmechanismen für Bürger:innen helfen, Städte nachhaltiger und klimafreundlicher zu gestalten. Die dafür benötigten Services können digital durch sogenannte mobile Quartiers-Apps unterstützt und abgebildet werden. Mobile Quartiers-Apps helfen Bürger:innen ihr alltägliches Verhalten klimabewusster zu gestalten, können klassische Services digital abbilden und die Bürger:innen untereinander vernetzen. Bestehende mobile Quartiers-Apps sind meist individuell auf ein Stadtquartier zugeschnitten und adressieren ein Ziel aus den Bereichen Nachhaltigkeit, Services oder Soziales. Dieser Artikel stellt alle Zielbereiche von mobilen Quartiers-Apps auf eine generische Ebene und präsentiert neun Handlungsempfehlungen, die Städteplaner:innen bei der Konzeption und Entwicklung von mobilen Quartiers-Apps unterstützen sollen. Die Handlungsempfehlungen beleuchten die Dimensionen Benutzerzentriertheit, Datenschutz und Wirtschaftlichkeit. Alle diese Dimensionen greifen bei der Entwicklung von mobilen Quartiers-Apps ineinander und sollten für einen erfolgreichen Betrieb berücksichtigt werden. Der Artikel beschreibt die Umsetzung der Handlungsempfehlungen exemplarisch am Beispiel der Quartiers-App aus dem Verbundforschungsprojekt Stadtquartier 2050. In diesem Projekt sollen die Bewohner:innen zweier Demonstrationsquartiere in Deutschland klimaneutral mit Energie versorgt werden. Die App unterstützt dieses Projektziel durch die Bereitstellung von Werkzeugen zur Analyse und zum Benchmarking des Energiekonsumverhaltens der Benutzer:innen sowie die Information und Schulung der Bewohner:innen der Quartiere zu klimabewussterem Leben und Wohnen.
Paper-based ELISA diagnosis technology for human brucellosis based on a multiepitope fusion protein
Authors: Yin Dehui , Bai Qiongqiong , Wu Xiling , Li Han , Shao Jihong , Sun Mingjun , Jiang Hai , Zhang Jingpeng
Published: August 2021

Background

Brucellosis, as a serious zoonotic infectious disease, has been recognized as a re-emerging disease in the developing countries worldwide. In china, the incidence of brucellosis is increasing each year, seriously threatening the health of humans as well as animal populations. Despite a quite number of diagnostic methods currently being used for brucellosis, innovative technologies are still needed for its rapid and accurate diagnosis, especially in area where traditional diagnostic is unavailable.

Methodology/Principal findings

In this study, a total of 22 B cell linear epitopes were predicted from five Brucella outer membrane proteins (OMPs) using an immunoinformatic approach. These epitopes were then chemically synthesized, and with the method of indirect ELISA (iELISA), each of them displayed a certain degree of capability in identifying human brucellosis positive sera. Subsequently, a fusion protein consisting of the 22 predicted epitopes was prokaryotically expressed and used as diagnostic antigen in a newly established brucellosis testing method, nano-ZnO modified paper-based ELISA (nano-p-ELISA). According to the verifying test using a collection of sera collected from brucellosis and non-brucellosis patients, the sensitivity and specificity of multiepitope based nano-p-ELISA were 92.38% and 98.35% respectively. The positive predictive value was 98.26% and the negative predictive value was 91.67%. The multiepitope based fusion protein also displayed significantly higher specificity than Brucella lipopolysaccharide (LPS) antigen.

Conclusions

B cell epitopes are important candidates for serologically testing brucellosis. Multiepitope fusion protein based nano-p-ELISA displayed significantly sensitivity and specificity compared to Brucella LPS antigen. The strategy applied in this study will be helpful to develop rapid and accurate diagnostic method for brucellosis in human as well as animal populations.
Significance of descriptive symptoms and signs and clinical parameters as predictors of neuropathic cancer pain
Authors: Baek Sun Kyung , Shin Sang Won , Koh Su-Jin , Kim Jung Han , Kim Hyo Jung , Shim Byoung Yong , Kang Seok Yun , Bae Sang Byung , Yun Hwan Jung , Sym Sun Jin , Han Hye Sook , Gil Ha Yeong
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Evaluation of symptoms and signs for the management of neuropathic cancer pain (NCP) is challenging. This study aimed to identify clinical predictors of NCP and symptoms and signs most relevant of those in Korean patients.

Methods

This nationwide, descriptive, cross-sectional, multicenter, observational study included 2,003 cancer patients aged ≥20 years who reported a visual analog scale (VAS) score ≥1 for pain and provided informed consent for participation. The Douleur Neuropathic (DN4) questionnaire (score ≥4) was used to determine symptoms and signs as well as the presence of NCP.

Results

The prevalence of NCP was associated with age <65 years [OR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.270–1.934], disease duration >6 months (OR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.232–2.012), stage IV cancer (OR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.593–0.955), history of chemotherapy (OR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.225–2.472), and moderate-to-severe cancer pain (OR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.671–2.524) after multivariate analysis. The most common descriptive symptoms of NCP were tingling, electric shock, and pins and needles. For NCP patients in the presence or absence of the clinical predictors, pins and needles (p = 0.001) and painful cold (p<0.001) symptoms were significantly frequent in patients with moderate-to-severe pain. Tingling, numbness, and touch hypoesthesia (p = 0.022, 0.033, 0.024, respectively) were more frequent in those with longer cancer duration and hyperesthesia (p = 0.024) was more frequent in young patients.

Conclusion

Age <65 years, disease duration >6 months, stage IV cancer, history of chemotherapy, and moderate-to-severe cancer pain, were identified as predictors of NCP. Some symptoms and signs of NCP were associated with these predictors. Further studies are warranted on the pathogenesis and management of NCP with respect to the symptoms and signs, and factors associated with pain severity in Korean patients.
Mapping of biodiversity hubs and key ecosystem services as a tool for shaping optimal areas for conservation
Authors: Gatwaza Olivier Clement , Wang Xiangrong
Published: August 2021

Most National Parks (NP) and nature reserves in Rwanda have been established opportunistically in the early 1900s, without clear consideration of ensuring the protection to all threatened different taxonomical or functional groups, such as vegetation, invertebrates, fish, and birds. With the increasing conservation objectives, raised expectations into Protected Areas (PA), and within a more challenging environmental context, it is important to identify biodiversity hubs and key areas for Ecosystem Services (ES) to maximize the efficiency of conservation efforts by assisting priority areas under threats. To date, no comprehensive analysis, to the best of our knowledge has been done to assess both biodiversity and ES in Rwanda. This is a notable gap, considering that global-scale research suggests that the spatial overlap between biodiversity targets and ES is low. This study reports a nationwide assessment, mapping the richness of threatened species and three key ES Carbon Storage, Water Quantity, and Water Quality. Our analysis has shown that PAs are neither perfectly delineated to protect biodiversity nor key ES. The state of PAs offers a taxonomic protection bias in favor of mammals and birds but leaves many endangered species in other taxonomic groups in collapsing and unprotected small ecosystems scattered around the country. Rwanda’s PAs cover important carbon stock but can do better at securing higher water balance regions and clean water sources. We propose an improvement of the NP system in Rwanda to help guide the economic development along a path of green growth and ensures the well-being of both people and nature. Locating biodiversity hubs and key ES can help to connect conservationists, local people, and governments in order to better guide conservation actions.
Characteristics of fish-bone foreign bodies in the upper aero-digestive tract: The importance of identifying the species of fish
Authors: Shishido Tadahisa , Suzuki Jun , Ikeda Ryoukichi , Kobayashi Yuta , Katori Yukio
Published: August 2021

Background

Fish bones are common foreign bodies in the upper aero-digestive tract, but their clinical features in relation to fish species have not been confirmed. We aimed to clarify the clinical characteristics of fish-bone foreign bodies and their location and removal methods depending on the fish species.

Study design

Retrospective, observational, monocentric study.

Methods

From October 2015 to May 2020, 368 patients visited the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Tohoku University Hospital complaining of dysphagia, sore throat, or pharyngeal discomfort after eating fish. We analyzed the patients’ sex and age distribution, foreign-body location, type of the fish, and the techniques used for removing the foreign body.

Results

Fish bones were confirmed in the upper aero-digestive tract in 270 cases (73.4%), of which 236 (87.4%) involved fish-bone foreign bodies in the mesopharynx. The most frequently involved site was the palatine tonsil (n = 170). Eel was the most frequently observed fish species (n = 39), followed by mackerel (n = 33), salmon (n = 33), horse mackerel (n = 30), and flounder (n = 30). Among the 240 cases in which the bones did not spontaneously dislocate, 109 (45.4%) were treated by endoscopic removal (103 cases) or surgery (6 cases). In pediatric cases (<12 years old), almost all fish bones were found in the mesopharynx (138/139, 99.3%), and 31 cases (22.3%) required endoscopic removal. Flounder fish bones were often lodged in the hypopharynx and esophagus (9/30, 30%), hindering spontaneous dislocation and frequently necessitating endoscopic or surgical removal (19/29, 65.5%).

Conclusion

The characteristics of fish-bone foreign bodies differed depending on the fish species. Flounder bones were often stuck in the hypopharynx and esophagus and were likely to require more invasive removal methods. Confirming the species of the fish could facilitate appropriate diagnosis and treatment of fish-bone foreign bodies.
Soft-tissue vibration and damping response to footwear changes across a wide range of anthropometrics in running
Authors: Behling Anja-Verena , Giandolini Marlene , von Tscharner Vinzenz , Nigg Benno Maurus
Published: August 2021

Different factors were shown to alter the vibration characteristics of soft-tissue compartments during running. Changing pre-heel strike muscle activation or changing footwear conditions represents two possibilities to influence the vibration response via frequency shift or altered damping. Associated with the study of muscle pre-tuning is the difficulty in quantifying clean experimental data for the acceleration of soft-tissue compartments and muscle activities in heterogeneous populations. The purpose of this study was to determine the vibration and pre-tuning response to footwear across a wide range of participants during running and establish and describe groups formed according to the damping coefficient. 32 subjects were used for further analysis. The subjects ran at a self-selected speed (5 min) on a treadmill in two different shoes (soft & hard), while soft-tissue accelerations and muscle activation at the gastrocnemius medialis were quantified. Damping coefficients, total muscle intensity and dominant vibration frequencies were determined. Anthropometrics and skinfold measurements of the lower limbs were obtained. According to the damping coefficient response to the footwear intervention, three groups were formed, with most runners (n = 20) showing less damping in the hard shoe. Total muscle intensity, anthropometrics, and dominant vibration frequency across footwear were not different for these three groups. Most runners (84.4%) used the strategy of adjusting the damping coefficients significantly when switching footwear. Despite damping being the preferred adjustment to changes in footwear, muscle pre-tuning might not be the only mechanism to influence damping as previously suggested. Future studies should focus on the subject-specific composition of soft-tissue compartments to elucidate their contribution to vibrations.
Contributors to reduced life expectancy among Native Americans in the Four Corners States
Authors: Omisakin Olusola A. , Park Hyojun , Roberts Max T. , Reither Eric N.
Published: August 2021

To assess trends in life expectancy and the contribution of specific causes of death to Native American-White longevity gaps in the Four Corners states, we used death records from the National Center for Health Statistics and population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau from 1999–2017 to generate period life tables and decompose racial gaps in life expectancy. Native American-White life expectancy gaps narrowed between 2001 and 2012 but widened thereafter, reaching 4.92 years among males and 2.06 years among females in 2015. The life expectancy disadvantage among Native American males was primarily attributable to motor vehicle accidents (0.96 years), liver disease (1.22 years), and diabetes (0.78 years). These causes of deaths were also primary contributors to the gap among females, forming three successive waves of mortality that occurred in young adulthood, midlife, and late adulthood, respectively, among Native American males and females. Interventions to reduce motor vehicle accidents in early adulthood, alcohol-related mortality in midlife, and diabetes complications at older ages could reduce Native American-White longevity disparities in the Four Corners states.
Comparison of Antimicrobial Potency Assay of Common Antibiotic Prophylaxis Drugs Recommended in Dentistry for Preventing Infective Endocarditis - An Invitro Study from Chennai, India
Authors: Poornachitra Poornachitra , Vadivel Jayanth Kumar , R. V Geetha , Manoharan Subha
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND Infective endocarditis [IE] prophylaxis is recommended for all dental procedures that involve manipulation of gingival tissue or the periapical region of teeth or perforation of the oral mucosa. The study intended to compare the antimicrobial potency of amoxicillin, cephalexin, and clindamycin against Streptococcus mutans, the common causative organism of dental infections. The objective was to assess the potency of recommended choice of antibiotics and its efficacy among each other in infective endocarditis prophylaxis during dental procedures. METHODS Saliva samples [N = 20] were collected from patients susceptible for IE and Streptococcus mutans was cultured in Infusion Agar. The principle used in this study was based on the Kirby - Bauer disc diffusion Antimicrobial Susceptibility Test [AST] Method and minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC]. In this method, the three HiMedia antibiotic discs of amoxicillin, cephalexin and clindamycin were loaded and assessed for measurable “zone of inhibition” against mutans. RESULTS One-way ANOVA was used to compare the means of zone of inhibition of each disc. The test was statistically significant with F value of 4.093 at P value 0.038. Post hoc analysis was conducted using Tukey’s HSD test as one-way ANOVA was statistically significant. The mean difference of 13.16 mm between amoxicillin and cephalexin was found to be statistically significant at P value 0.041 with lower and upper bound at 0.527 and 25.806 respectively. The mean difference of 2.65 mm between amoxicillin and clindamycin and - 10.50 mm between cephalexin and clindamycin was not found to be statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Amoxicillin showed to be more potent among the antibiotics chosen for this study. Clindamycin showed to be a better alternative to cephalexin and could be the first choice in case of patients allergic to penicillin group of drugs. KEY WORDS Antibiotic Prophylaxis, Infective Endocarditis, Antimicrobial Potency, Minimum Inhibitory Concentration [MIC], Antimicrobial Susceptibility Test [AST], Kirby Bauer Disk Diffusion Method
Prevalence of Scapular Dyskinesis in Breastfeeding Postnatal Women in Satara District - An Observational Study
Authors: Situt Gandhali Atul , Philip Shyma , Patil Poonam
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND Poor posture like hunching forward is one of the most commonly practiced postures by women during breastfeeding. The maintenance of such postures for prolonged period can result in progressive weakness of the scapular muscles and subsequent increase in the kyphotic curve. Both lordosis and kyphosis increase during pregnancy and are observed to be maintained for up to 2 months postnatally. The thoracic spine position and slouched position significantly affects the scapular dynamics during scapular abduction resulting in decreased muscle forces. Thus, scapular dyskinesis, defined as an alteration of normal position or motion of the scapula during coupled scapulohumeral movements can occur as a result of decreased muscle forces. Thus, this gives rise to the need for evaluating scapular dyskinesis and its prevalence in postnatal women. The purpose of the study was to find the prevalence of scapular dyskinesis in breastfeeding postnatal women. METHODS An observational analytical study was undertaken at Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, including a total of 40 subjects within the age group of (15 - 40) yrs. who had been breastfeeding for 6 months or more. These subjects were assessed for scapular dyskinesis using Yes / No test and the lateral scapular slide test (LSST). Kyphosis was assessed on observational basis through postural assessment in these individuals. Statistical analysis was done using the InStat app. RESULTS 67 % and 75 % of the subjects were found to be positive for scapular dyskinesis through Yes / No Test and LSST test respectively. Observational assessment showed that 55 % of the subjects were positive for kyphosis. Subjects demonstrated significant prevalence of scapular dyskinesis and subsequent kyphosis in postnatal females due to wrong ergonomic practice of breastfeeding. CONCLUSIONS The study shows that women lack proper knowledge about the breastfeeding ergonomics leading to weakness of scapular muscles. Thus, a significant prevalence of scapular dyskinesis was seen in breastfeeding postnatal women. KEY WORDS Breastfeeding, Scapular Muscle Weakness, Kyphosis, Ergonomics, Scapular Dyskinesis
Echocardiographic Assessment of Right Ventricular Function in Post Thrombolysed Acute Inferior Wall Infarction Patients with Angiographic Correlation
Authors: Kannappan Sabapathy
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND A significant number of patients with acute Inferior wall infarction will have RV dysfunction and most of them have occlusion of either right or left circumflex coronary artery. But RV assessment is not done routinely in echocardiographic examination. Patients present with inferior wall myocardial infarction (IWMI) subsequently develop right ventricular myocardial infarction (RVMI) and have poor prognosis. In this study we wanted to evaluate the incidence of RVMI and the role of echocardiography in assessing RV function and its impact in predicting infarct related artery by angiographic analysis in acute IWMI after thrombolysis. METHODS 86 patients with acute IWMI after thrombolysis were randomly selected. Echocardiographic examination of RV function was performed within 72 hours after thrombolysis. We applied RV echo parameters like FAC (Fractional Area Change %), TAPSE (Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion), RV S’ (RV Systolic Excursion Velocity) and MPI (Myocardial Performance Index) to assess RV function. 48 patients underwent coronary angiogram which included 10 patients with normal RV function, rest with RV dysfunction. RESULTS Among 86 patients, we compared 64 patients of RV dysfunction with 22 patients having normal function. Echo indices were significantly lower in RV dysfunction group. FAC ( 27 ± 5.95 vs 45 ± 5.4 ) TAPSE (8.5 ± 2.0 19.59 ± 2.8 ), RV S’ ( 5.78 ± 1.26 vs 17.2 ± 3.5 ) and RVMPI (0.22 ± 0.03 vs 0.57± 0.03). Angiographic analysis of 28 of 38 patients with RV dysfunction showed significant proximal lesion in RCA as compared to only 2 among 10 patients with normal RV function. CONCLUSIONS Conventional echo examination will underestimate RV dysfunction hence we applied echo parameters like FAC, TAPSE, RV S’ and RVMPI and a significant proportion of thrombolysed acute IWMI patients were found to have RV dysfunction and it was also helpful in the prediction of infarct related artery which would be predominantly a critical proximal RCA occlusion. KEY WORDS RVMI (Right Ventricular Myocardial Infarction), FAC (Fractional Area Change %), TAPSE (Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion), RV S’ (RV Systolic Excursion Velocity) ,MPI (Myocardial Performance Index), IRA ( Infarct Related Artery)
A Rare Case Report of Pseudo Pancreatic Cyst in a Child
Authors: Saqqaf Syed Athhar , Taksande Amar , Meshram Revat
Published: August 2021

It is difficult to diagnose pancreatic cysts in children. Any previous history of acute pancreatitis is very important because it can lead to a wide set of complications like pseudocyst, pancreatic necrosis, splenic venous thrombosis etc. The most known and common cause of pancreatic pseudocyst in children is trauma. The characteristic features of pancreatitis include abdominal pain, serum lipase or amylase values three times more than that of the normal range and characteristic radiological features. Pancreatic pseudocyst may occur in 15 % of children with acute pancreatitis as a complication.1 Pancreatic juice collection enclosed by a wall of granulation or fibrous tissue, is defined as a pseudocyst. As the resulting cyst has no true endothelial lining, it is classified as a pseudocyst.2 The pseudocyst contains inflammatory pancreatic fluid, mainly the lipase enzyme or semisolid matter. The incidence of pseudocyst is relatively low 1.6 % - 4.5 %, or 0.5 - 1 per 100 000 adults per year.2 Very few cases of pancreatic pseudocyst have been reported in world literature. Commonly, it develops as a sequel of acute or chronic pancreatitis. It develops around 4 weeks after the episode of acute pancreatitis.3 It is characterized by pancreatic inflammation, abdominal pain and raised levels of serum digestive enzymes.4 Here we discuss a case report of pancreatic pseudocyst in a 10-year-old male child presenting with history of abdominal pain and decreased appetite.
Infant Oral Health Care Concerning Education of Mothers – Part 2
Authors: Kadali Lehya Mounica , Mopagar Viddyasagar , Shetty Shilpa , Shetty Shridhar , Kodgi Venkatesh , Chaudhari Shantanu
Published: August 2021

Infant oral health care is essential in a way where it provides a solid foundation on which a healthy oral environment is augmented. Dental caries is perhaps the most infectious and prevalent disease seen in the current scenario. Dental caries is 5 times more common than asthma and 7 times more common than hay fever in children. Rotten primary teeth can influence kids' development, lead to malocclusion, and result in huge torment and possibly perilous swelling. To forestall caries in youngsters, high-risk individuals should be distinguished at an early age (ideally high-risk moms during pre-birth care), and aggressive strategies ought to be received, such as anticipatory guidance, behaviour modifications (oral cleanliness and taking care of practices). On establishment of Dental Home, mothers should be told about preventive measures to take during teething of infants and how to administer oral care and proper cleaning of teeth.
A Magyarország és Szerbia közti határ menti turisztikai projektek hatása a Vajdaság turisztikai fejlődésére = The impact of border tourism projects between Hungary and Serbia on the tourism development of Vojvodina
Authors: Tőzsér Anett
Published: August 2021

Jelen kutatás célja, hogy megvizsgálja azoknak a határ menti turisztikai projekteknek az eredményeit és hatásait, amelyek szerb–magyar viszonylatban valósultak meg a 2014 és 2020 közötti európai uniós támogatási időszakban. A vizsgálatokat részben szakirodalmi kutatással, részben pedig azoknak az interjúknak a segítségével végeztük el, amelyeket a térségre jellemző turisztikai termékekhez kapcsolódó jelentősebb projektek vezetőivel készítettünk. A vizsgálatok során azt tártuk fel, hogy a fenti projektek által kitűzött célok és eredmények hogyan és milyen mértékben segítik a Vajdaság turisztikai fejlődését. A kutatás megmutatta, hogy a projektek által érintett településeken kiugró fejlődés ugyan nem történt, azonban az uniós források nélkül ez a fejlődés kisebb mértékű lenne. Elmondható, hogy a turisztikai források mindenképpen fejlődési alternatívát jelentettek a kisebb méretű települések számára, és hogy a támogatott projektek jelentős hatást gyakoroltak egy-egy település mikroközösségének életére, a szorosabb együttműködések kialakítására.
Resolução do Problema de Estacionamento Paralelo em Tempo Mínimo Utilizando um Novo Pacote de Otimização: COPILOTS
Authors: Lobato Fran Sérgio , Iasbeck Arthur Henrique , Assis Pedro Augusto Queiroz de
Published: August 2021

Este trabalho objetiva apresentar o COPILOTS (BasiC OPtImaLCOnTrol Solver), um pacote proposto para resolução

de Problemas de Controle Ótimo (PCOs) baseado nos Métodos Diretos, de fácil utilização e ideal para usuários com

pouca ou nenhuma experiência na resolução de PCOs. Em linhas gerais, a ferramenta proposta realiza a discretização dos controles via colocação trapezoidal ou colocação Hermite-Simpson, ao passo que empregam-se polinômios cúbicos na interpolação dos estados. Com efeito, o problema original (algébrico-diferencial) é transformado em um puramente algébrico, que é resolvido considerando o SQP (Sequential Quadratic Programming). Para fins de validação, o COPILOTS foi empregado na determinação da trajetória de tempo mínimo a ser percorrida por um veículo na execução de uma manobra de estacionamento paralelo e um novo algoritmo para inicialização dos estados e controles foi proposto de forma a minimizar o esforço computacional despendido. Os resultados demonstram que o pacote proposto configura-se como uma alternativa para a resolução de PCOs.
Modelo Hedônico para Estimação do Valor de Imóveis: Aplicação em Nova Friburgo-RJ
Authors: Kappel Marco André Abud , Teodoro Leonardo de Almeida
Published: August 2021

Com a expansão do mercado imobiliário na Região Serrana do estado do Rio de Janeiro, uma parcela cada vez maior da população precisa tratar com a compra e venda de imóveis. Porém, a avaliação justa de uma unidade imobiliária não é uma tarefa simples e pode ser influenciada por diferentes atributos da edificação. Com o propósito de auxiliar nessa incumbência, o presente trabalho tem como objetivo identificar as características mais importantes na avaliação de um imóvel nessa região e, em seguida, propor um modelo matemático simples capaz de estimar o seu valor de mercado. Para isso, informações sobre valores de comercialização e detalhes construtivos de casas e apartamentos à venda na cidade de Nova Friburgo foram extraídos de portais de anúncios online, formando uma base única de dados imobiliários, sobre a qual foram, posteriormente, aplicadas técnicas de seleção de variáveis e regressão linear múltipla para a obtenção do modelo pretendido. Os resultados obtidos revelaram que a característica de maior influência na determinação do preço de compra e venda de um imóvel na região é a sua área construída. Por outro lado, o modelo matemático construído foi capaz de estimar os preços de comercialização de uma propriedade com aproximadamente 25% de desvio percentual médio da base de testes.