bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increase in IL-15 levels in patients with alopecia areata
Authors: Madras Dominika Katarzyna , Rocka Agata , Piędel Faustyna , Psiuk Dominika , Nowak Emilia
Published: October 2020

Introduction and purpose: Alopecia areata (AA) is a condition that causes non-scarring hair loss (often with acute onset). Alopecia areata in the population occurs in 0.1-0.2% of people, with a similar frequency in men and women. Alopecia areata is an example of an autoimmune disease of the hair follicle. Hair loss in alopecia areata is caused by lymphocytic infiltration around the hair follicle and IFN-γ. IgG antibodies against hair follicle cells are also found in people suffering from alopecia areata.  Recent studies have shown a significant increase in IL-15 in AA. The aim of the study was to review the current knowledge on the use of IL-15 in the treatment of alopecia areata.A brief description of the state of knowledge: Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a pleiotropic cytokine that exhibits multidirectional biological effects on various cell types. It affects the functions of the immune system, both innate and acquired, and therefore plays an important role in inflammation and during the immune response to infections and infestations. In the AA mouse model, antibody-mediated blockade of IFN-γ, interleukin-2 (IL-2), or interleukin-15 receptor β (IL-15Rβ) prevented disease progression by minimizing the accumulation of CD8 (+) NKG2D (+) T cells in the skin and reducing the cutaneous IFN response. The concentration of IL-15 in patients with alopecia areata was significantly higher than in the control group. Moreover, the concentration of IL-15 increased in direct proportion to the area of alopecia, the highest value in patients with total alopecia.For this reason, it is important to search for new medical treatments that will enable patients to stay physically healthy, and what is equally important, to remain mental health. Conclusions: In addition, studies have shown an increase in IL-15 levels in patients with alopecia areata, which correlated with the duration of the disease. However, too few studies conducted so far do not allow conclusions to be drawn regarding the use of IL-15 as a therapeutic point.
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy for IIIC stage ovarian cancer - case report
Authors: Obuchowska Aleksandra , Standyło Arkadiusz , Ozga Alicja , Wójcik Justyna , Obuchowska Karolina , Skorupski Paweł
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Ovarian cancer accounts only for 4.7% of female malignancies in Poland but has the worst prognosis among gynaecological neoplasms. Due to non-specific and scant symptoms the disease is diagnosed in nearly 70% of cases in stages III and IV (FIGO). The primary goal of surgical treatment is complete cytoreduction with no residual disease left after surgery involving hysterectomy, bilateral adnexectomy, omentectomy and removal of all metastatic foci from the peritoneum and abdominal organs. If it is not possible to achieve the complete cytoreduction, patients may be qualified for neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) and surgery after achieving complete or partial remission.Purpose: Description of NACT protocol used for the treatment of stage IIIC ovarian cancer. Comparison of treatment results of advanced ovarian cancer using NACT and primary debulking surgery (PDS).Case report: A 58-year-old female patient was hospitalized with the diagnosis of the pelvic mass. Her predominant signs were abdominal pain on the right flank and flatulence. Laboratory tests and imaging studies indicated a high risk of metastatic ovarian cancer. Initial diagnosis was confirmed on the laparoscopy. Ovarian cancer matched stage IIIC with Fagotti score of 8 points. The inspection of the abdominal organs revealed tumors in both adnexa, miliary spread on the parietal peritoneum, the surface of the small intestine and the diaphragm and the thick infiltration of greater omentum. Multiple specimens for the pathology were collected and left adnexectomy was done. Due to the inability to achieve complete cytoreduction, the patient was qualified to NACT. Following 6 cycles of standard protocol paclitaxel and carboplatin chemotherapy, laparotomy with hysterectomy, bilateral adnexectomy and omentecomy was done. Residual disease was found only within greater omentum but complete cytoreduction was achieved. The patient was discharged in good condition.Summary: Clinical data indicates that patients with advanced ovarian cancer treated with NACT and surgery have similar prognosis  to those treated by primary cytoreductive surgery. The advantages of NACT are reduced perioperative morbidity and mortality, lower  complication rate and shorter hospital stay. In the described patient, the implementation of the NACT protocol has resulted in complete surgical cytoreduction which is the main factor permitting prolongation of life expectancy in woman with advanced ovarian cancer.
The use of lung ultrasound in the diagnosis of pneumothorax in trauma patients
Authors: Undziakiewicz Adrian , Sekuła Michał , Smoluchowski Krzysztof , Sokół Dorota , Świerczyńska Blanka , Piecewicz-Szczęsna Halina
Published: October 2020

Introduction and purpose: Pneumothorax is a condition in which air is present in the pleural cavity and often has a traumatic etiology. It can be a life-threatening condition, making quick and effective diagnosis essential. Chest ultrasound can be a useful study for this purpose.A brief description of the state of knowledge: The sonographic signs of pneumothorax are absence of lung sliding, absence of B-lines, absence of lung pulse and presence of lung point. When a pneumothorax is suspected, the supine position is the most appropriate position for the patient. The sonographic technique consists of exploration of the least gravitationally dependent areas progressing more laterally. The bedside sonographic diagnosis of pneumothorax can be performed with most ultrasound machines without the need of any sophisticated functions. The average time to perform this examination varies from two to three minutes. In the most recent meta-analysis chest ultrasound sensitivity and specificity were 0.91 (95% CI: 0.85 to 0.94) and 0.99 (95% CI: 0.97 to 1.00), respectively. There was a significant difference in the sensitivity of CUS compared to CXR with an absolute difference in sensitivity of 0.44 (95% CI: 0.27 to 0.61; P<0.001).Conclusions: Chest ultrasound is a safe, effective and sensitive method of diagnosing pneumothorax. It may be considered as the first study of trauma patients with suspected pneumothorax.
Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) – case report
Authors: Borkowska Aleksandra , Sobstyl Anna , Chałupnik Aleksandra , Chilimoniuk Zuzanna , Dobosz Maciej , Marosz Szymon
Published: October 2020

Introduction Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is characterized by hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia and acute renal failure. In 90% of children, HUS most often develops after an intestinal infection caused by verotoxin-producing E. coli. The remaining 10%, without any preceding diarrhea, are diagnosed with atypical HUS.Aim The objective of the study was the presentation the case of two patient with hemolytic uremic syndrome.Results The case report concerns two patients diagnosed with haemolytic uremic syndrome. Both cases shared many symptoms. Initially gastroenteritis, dehydration followed by thrombocytopenia, renal failure and anemia. These are examples of a typical hemolytic uremic syndrome. Many additional tests were carried out, including morphology, urinalysis, blood chemistry, but the final diagnosis was made on the basis of the clinical picture and the triad of symptoms typical of HUS.Conclusions Hemolytic uremic syndrome is a disease that threatens the life of a child. It is important to recognize symptoms as soon as possible and begin treatment to prevent dangerous complications.
Is pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy safe and effective in the treatment of peritoneal metastases from pancreatic adenocarcinoma?
Authors: Smoluchowski Krzysztof , Sekuła Michał , Świerczyńska Blanka , Undziakiewicz Adrian , Suchodolska Magdalena
Published: October 2020

Introduction and purpose: Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAC) is the third most common cancer of the gastrointestinal tract in the Western population. Peritoneal metastases (PM) affect 5-10% patients with PAC at the moment of diagnosis and 50% of patients who experience a recurrence after a successful resection. This review aims to evaluate the efficacy of pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) in the treatment of PM from PAC based on the literature available on PubMed websiteBrief description of the state of knowledge: PIPAC is a relatively new method of treatment and the number of studies investigating its application in the treatment of PM from PAC is scarce. Nevertheless, initial findings suggest that PIPAC is linked to 15,6 months of the median overall survival, while standard intravenous chemotherapy reaches only 7,6 months . Furthermore, PIPAC seems to be a fairly safe method, as no grade 3 or grade 4 complications (according to CTCAE v4.0) occurred. However, all of the studies involved an unrepresentative number of patients and they were not free from a selection bias. Moreover, due to the novelty of the PIPAC procedure, it still needs to be properly standardised. Conclusions: Available data concerning the application of PIPAC in the treatment of PM from PDAC is limited. Large prospective studies consisting of control groups are still lacking. Nevertheless, the results of accessible studies displaying a median OS of participants reaching 14-16,8 months, with no G3 and G4 complications, are encouraging and justify further research.
Preeclampsia as a risk factor of the cardiovascular complications development
Authors: Ozga Alicja Maria , Obuchowska Aleksandra , Wójcik Justyna , Standyło Arkadiusz , Obuchowska Karolina , Kimber-Trojnar Żaneta , Leszczyńska-Gorzelak Bożena
Published: October 2020

Introduction:The term “preeclampsia” (PE) refers to a multisystem disorder occurring after 20 weeks of pregnancy; it includes a new onset of hypertension and proteinuria and affects from 2 to 8% of all pregnancies. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a group of pathologies, which present significant mortality rate all over the world. The literature implicates that both disorders are linked in a sense of further cardiovascular complications in women who had preeclamptic pregnancy.Purpose:Evaluation of the relationship between pre-eclampsia and the risk of future potential maternal cardiovascular complications and proposal of the possible causes of this association.Materials and methods:We performed the database research using Pubmed, Springer Link and ResearchGate and we made review and meta-analysis of relevant studies. We searched for studies analyzing the relationship between preeclampsia and future maternal cardiovascular risk.Results:Systematic reviews and cohort studies qualified for the purpose of this review showed the relationship between preeclampsia and future cardiovascular diseases in mothers. The possible explanations include endothelium dysfunction enduring after delivery and the co-existence of common risk factors for both diseases.Conclusions:Preeclampsia is a risk factor predisposing to cardiovascular diseases and may lead to cardiac complications later in life. The course of pregnancies is very important for the future maternal health.Key words: preeclampsia; pregnancy; hypertension; cardiovascular disease
Effectiveness of Fascial Manipulation Method (FM®)
Authors: Podstawka Zuzanna , Pińkowska Oliwia , Byś Aleksandra , Gawda Piotr
Published: October 2020

BackgroundFascial Manipulation® (FM®) is a manual method of treatment created by Luigi Stecco that centres on the muscular fascia. Fascia is a fibrous collagenous tissue which, with its wide strands, connects all the connective tissues in the body into a whole. Fascia can also cause restriction of motion of the organs as a result of an injury, inflammation or infection. FM® technique bases on identification and therapy of specific points, which are located at the point of convergence of the vectorial forces of the muscles involved in every movement. The aim of this literature review was to analyze publications on the use of FM® in treatment of pain and functional dysfunctions.Materials and methodsMaterial for this literature review was found by two independent authors using PubMed, Cochrane library, ScienceDirect and PEDro databases. In order to identify appropriate studies, a combination of keywords ,,fascial manipulation”, „pain”, „dysfunction” was used. Finally, 10 publications were qualified for a literature review.ResultsIn the analyzed ten publications, improvement after treatment, reduction of pain and better functional outcome in patients conditions were figured. Six authors had some similar conclusions which state that the positive results of treatment last over time. One study presented opposite findings and state that the treatment has not brought long-lasting effects. ConclusionsConsidering all the reports on this subject, it is suggested that FM® therapy is worth considering in treatment of pain disorders, orthopaedic dysfunctions and postural disabilities. Further research of the subject on whether the treatment results are sustainable is necessary.
Is the effect worth the risk? - The most common complaints during oral isotretinoin anti-acne therapy and controversies around its adverse effects
Authors: Drozd Małgorzata , Marzęda Magdalena , Blicharz Agnieszka , Piecewicz-Szczęsna Halina
Published: October 2020

Introduction and purpose: Acne vulgaris, the most common skin disease, causes medical, esthetic and psychosocial problems. Isotretinoin, the vitamin A-derivative, has been the most effective treatment for acne vulgaris. It provides significant improvement and long-term remission. However, it leads to multiple side effects. The aim of our study was to evaluate the prevalence of adverse effects in patients treated with isotretinoin and analyze the most commonly reported symptoms.Material and methods: The study was conducted using original survey questionnaire addressed to members of Polish group of patients treated with isotretinoin. 196 responds were collected and confronted with current PubMed publications.Results: The most common mucocutaneous side effects, such as dry lip, dryness of the mucous membranes, xerodermia and dryness of the conjunctiva occurred in 92,6%, 73,5%, 66,8% and 66,3% of respondents, respectively. Both, tiredness and back pain were reported by 70,4% of respondents; myalgia - 55,1%, arthalgia - 32,1% and stiffness of joints - 26,0%. Mood change occurred in 54,6%, hair loss in 50,0%, gastrointestinal symptoms, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea – in 15,8% and 10,7%.Conclusions: All of the most common isotretinoin side effects are usually mild and dose-dependent. However, their prevalence is very high. Isotretinoin’s association to depression and suicidality remains unclear. In spite of the previous data, the risk of inflammatory bowel disease is probably not increased in patients isotretinoin exposed. However, more studies are necessary.
Assessment of severity of cystic fibrosis in children depending on the vitamin D status
Authors: Dudnyk Veronika , Demianyshyna Valeriia
Published: October 2020

Introduction.Severity of CF depends on speed of lung disease progression which depend on many factors. Patients with CF suffer from vitamin D deficiency that could contribute to decreasing of lung function due to anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity. Correction of vitamin D3 level may be a potentially effective way to keep pulmonary function in such patients.Purpose. Evaluation of severity of CF in children depending on the vitamin D3 level in blood serum.Materials and methods. 84 children suffering from CF have been examined. Level of 25 (ОН) D3 in blood serum measured with immunosorbent assay. Patients were performed spirometry and the bacteriograms of sputum coughed up by children were analyzed.Results.  Measurement of serum vitamin D3 among children with cystic fibrosis showed that 58,3% of subjects had insufficiency. Children who suffered from severe CF had significant lower serum 25 (OH) D3 concentrations. It was shown that children with insufficient level of 25 (OH) D3 had higher risk of FEV1 rate decreasing less than 64 %, and significant association with Ps. aeruginosa-positive culture was detected. Subjects with sufficient 25 (OH) D3 had strong association with higher rates of FEV1 and risk of Ps. aeruginosa-positive culture was also decreased.Conclusions.  Vitamin D insufficiency is common among children with cystic fibrosis. It was found that there is a relationship between the content of 25 (OH) D3 and the severity of the disease. Children with low levels of 25 (OH) D3 are associated with lower FEV1 rates and have a higher risk of positive culture of Ps. aeruginosa.
Passing across the blood-brain barrier in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM)
Authors: Rocka Agata , Psiuk Dominika , Nowak Emilia , Madras Dominika , Szumna Klaudia
Published: October 2020

Introduction and purpose: Blood-brain barrier (BBB) consists of  capillary endothelium, in which there are three types of intercellular junctions - adherent, tight and gap junctions.Efficient therapy involves delivering a therapeutic dose of drug into a specific site in the body, and maintaining this dose for adequate time afterwards. The aim of this study is to review current knowledge of new strategies in drug delivery to CNS and the effectiveness of these methods in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) treatment. This review was performed using the PubMed database. A brief description of the state of knowledge:  Methods for delivering drugs to the brain are divided into invasive and non-invasive. Invasive methods involve temporary disrupting tight intercellular junctions of the vascular endothelial cells and delivering drugs intracerebrally or intraventricularly during neurosurgical procedures. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the use of nanoparticles as drug carriers to the central nervous system via blood-brain barrier. The usage of nanoparticles implies many advantages, such as non-invasive, low cost, good biodegradability, stability, ability to carry various types of agents, selectivity and ability to control drug release. Conclusions: Limited options in treating brain located tumors, including glioblastoma multiforme, due to difficulties in drug penetration through the BBB engages scientists to search for new treatments. Crossing the BBB using invasive methods based on interruption of cell junctions show promising results, but they are associated with i.a. a high risk of uncontrolled influx of toxins to the CNS or  ion-electrolyte imbalance, which may lead to neuronal dysfunction. Invasive methods can be effective only in tumors, while treatment of diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease is impossible. Recent studies show that nanoparticles would be a great, non-invasive alternative, but they are difficult to use with relatively low permeability through undamaged BBB. In some studies using nanoparticles as nanocarriers  (EDVDox) or SYMPHONY method (combining photothermal therapy with GNS and immunotherapy of checkpoints in a mouse model) against GBM shows positive results. More research is required to confirm the effectiveness and safety of these treatments.
Research on the knowledge of women about the risk factors for cervical cancer
Authors: Obuchowska Aleksandra , Wójcik Justyna , Standyło Arkadiusz , Ozga Alicja , Obuchowska Karolina , Piotrowska Paulina
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Cervical cancer (CC) is currently the eight most common cancer among women and the seventh leading cause of cancer-related death in women in Poland. Early, non-invasive cervical cancer may develop over the years without clinical symptoms. Also, given the fact that early forms are treatable effectively, it's important to get preventive examinations. It is especially important in the group of women at high risk of developing CC. Purpose: The aim of the study is to assess women's knowledge of the risk factors for cervical cancer.Material and method: Women's knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors was verified with an anonymous online questionnaire. The obtained results were analysed and checked on the basis of scientific literature.Results: The vast majority of respondents consider family history of cancer as a risk factor for CC. 75.9% of women consider infection with HPV a risk factor. Chronic vaginal infections were chosen by over half of the women. The onset of intercourse at an early age was considered a risk factor by only 24.6%, while a large number of sexual partners by 45.4%.Conclusions: The results of the conducted research indicate that the knowledge of women from the studied group about the risk factors for cervical cancer and methods of prevention is average. In order to improve the epidemiological situation of cervical cancer in Poland, efforts should be intensified to increase the education of women in this field.
Streptozotocin - an antibiotic used to induce diabetes on experimental animals
Authors: Siedlecka Dagna , Micał Wojciech , Krzewicka-Romaniuk Ewa
Published: October 2020

Streptozotocin (STZ) is a cytostatic antibiotic produced by Streptomyces achromogenes. It is an inhibitor of DNA replication showing a special affinity for pancreatic β-cells DNA. It is used in medicine as an antineoplastic agent (indicated in the treatment of malignant neoplasms of pancreas) and in scientific research to induce hyperglycemia, insulitis, diabetes mellitus (DM), Alzheimer’s disease on experimental animals. Insulinopenia syndrome is called ‘streptozotocin diabetes’, caused by necrosis of the pancreatic β-cells. STZ induced DM offers a very cost-effective and expeditious technique in medical research.
Does Online Training Work in Retail?
Authors: Fisher Marshall , Gallino Santiago , Netessine Serguei
Published: October 2020

Problem definition: How much, if at all, does training in product features increase a sales associate’s sales productivity? Academic/practical relevance: A knowledgeable retail sales associate (SA) can explain the features of available product variants and give a customer sufficient confidence in the customer’s choice or suggest alternatives so that the customer becomes willing to purchase. Although it is plausible that increasing an SA’s product knowledge will increase sales, training is not without cost and turnover is high in retail, so most retailers provide little product-knowledge training. Methodology: We partner with two firms and collect data on more than 50,000 SAs who had access to training. We assemble a detailed data set of the training history and individual sales productivity over a two-year period. We conduct econometric analysis to quantify the causal effect of training on sales. Results: For SAs who engaged in training, the sales rate increases by 1.8% for every online module taken, which is a much higher benefit than the direct or indirect costs associated with this training. Brand-specific training has a larger effect on the focal brand; however, there is a positive effect on other brands the SA sells. We also assess how the training benefit varies depending on the SA’s tenure, sales rate prior to training, and number of modules taken. Managerial implications: We present evidence of a novel training mechanism that can be extremely attractive to retailers. Online training tools, such as the one we study, have two characteristics that should not be overlooked. First, it is the brands, not the retailers, that create, develop, and pay for the training content. Second, the incentives are such that SAs invest their own time, rather than time on the job, to train, and this makes the retailer’s investment in the training a profitable proposition.
Predictive Duty Cycle of Maximum Power Point Tracking Based on Artificial Neural Network and Bootstrap Method for Hybrid Photovoltaic/ Wind Turbine System Considering Limitation Voltage of Grid
Authors: Pamuji Feby Agung
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we propose a new control-based the neural network and bootstrap method to get the predictive duty cycle for the maximum power point of hybrid Photovoltaic (PV) and Wind Turbine generator system (WTG) connected to 380 V grid. The neural network is designed to be controller by learning the data control of multi-input DC/ DC converter. The artificial neural network (ANN) needs many data for training then the ANN can give the predictive duty cycle to multi input DC/ DC converter. To get much data, we can use the bootstrap method to generate data from the real data. From Photovoltaic characteristic, we can get 344 real data after the data are made by bootstrap method we can get 8000 data. The 8000 data of PV can be used for training artificial neural network (ANN) of PV system. From wind turbine characteristic we can get 348 real data after the data are made by bootstrap method we can get 6000 data. The 6000 data of WT can be used for training artificial neural network of WT system. This new control has two responsibilities, are to shift the voltage of PV and WTG to optimum condition and to maintain the stability of grid system. From the simulation results those can be seen that the power of hybrid PV / WTG system using MPPT controller is in maximum power and has constant voltage and constant frequency of grid system.
Performance Comparison of PI Control and Fuzzy Logic for Speed Control of DC Shunt Motor Using Matlab / Simulink
Authors: Aliyya Jehan
Published: October 2020

DC motor speed regulation is an important role in the industrial process so it can run easily and efficiently. A good DC motor speed control system must have a fast and accurate response. However, it is rare to find a DC motor that has controlled to get a constant speed. This research presents an analytical comparison of PI controller and Fuzzy Logic Controller for Speed Control of DC Shunt Motor. The disadvantages of PI controller like it do not operate properly when the system has a high degree of load disturbances [1]. FLC is a good for load disturbances and can be easily implemented. The simulation of both speed controller have been made by Matlab Simulink software.
Encoding technology of an asymmetric combined structured light for 3D measurement
Authors: Cao Zhirui , Jiang Hanbing
Published: October 2020

Sinusoidal phase-shifting symmetrically combined with cyclic code is
one of the most important encoding methods in the field of 3D
measurement. Due to the modulation of the object surface and the
influence of the noise of the image acquisition system, the periods of
the cyclic code and the sinusoidal phase-shifting in the intensity
image do not coincide completely, and they lead to large absolute
phase decoding errors near the cycle boundaries, which are called
cycle dislocation errors. In order to eliminate these errors in
principle, the concept and method of region encoding for four-step
sinusoidal phase-shifting are proposed, and the sinusoidal
phase-shifting is combined with cyclic code asymmetrically. Under the
premise that the cyclic code and the region code change at different
times, the cycle dislocation error is reduced from one cycle of cyclic
code to one pixel by the dual constraint of cyclic code and region
code. The simulation measurement results of 3 ds max and the
physical measurement results show that the asymmetric combination
encoding method effectively eliminates the cycle dislocation errors;
the maximum measurement error is reduced by an order of magnitude, and
the root mean square measurement error is reduced by 70%.
Reflective Toraldo pupil for high-resolution millimeter-wave astronomy
Authors: Shitvov Alexey , Pisano Giampaolo , Olmi Luca , Bolli Pietro , Tucker Carole
Published: October 2020

A novel, to the best of our knowledge, beam-shaping reflective surface for high-resolution millimeter/submillimeter-wave astronomy instruments is presented. The reflector design is based on Toraldo’s super-resolution principle and implemented with annulated binary-phase coronae structure inspired by the achromatic magnetic mirror approach. A thin, less than half a free-space wavelength, reflective Toraldo pupil device operated in the W-band has been fabricated using mesh-filter technology developed at Cardiff University. The device has been characterized on a quasi-optical test bench and demonstrated expected reduction of the beam width upon reflection at oblique incidence, while featuring a sidelobe level lower than

−

10

d
B

. The proposed reflective Toraldo pupil structure can be easily scaled for upper millimeter and infrared frequency bands as well as designed to transform a Gaussian beam into a flat-top beam with extremely low sidelobe level.
Enhanced coupling efficiency and electrical property in surface plasmon-enhanced light-emitting diodes with the tapered Ag structure
Authors: Wang Xuzheng , Tian Zhenhuan , Zhang Mingyin , Li Qiang , Su Xilin , Zhang Ye , Hu Peng , Li Yufeng , Yun Feng
Published: October 2020

We design, fabricate and analyze plasmon-enhanced LEDs with the tapered Ag structure that significantly increases plasmonic coupling efficiency at a coupling distance far beyond the penetration depth. The electroluminescence intensity showed a 16-fold increase compared with planar LEDs with a coupling distance of 100 nm. The enhanced coupling efficiency with large distance is originated from the accumulated SP energy at the metal conical tip and the missing momentum provided by the corrugated surface. Therefore, the SP-enhanced LED with tapered Ag structure can maintain a high luminous efficiency and a stable working state even with thick p-GaN layer, which also guarantees a high electrical performance. Our study paves the way for a practical implementation of SP-enhanced LEDs with excellent optical and electrical properties.
Fully symmetric dispersionless stable transmission-grating Michelson interferometer
Authors: Kolesnichenko Pavel V. , Wittenbecher Lukas , Zigmantas Donatas
Published: October 2020

Michelson interferometers have been routinely used in various applications ranging from testing optical components to interferometric time-resolved spectroscopy measurements. Traditionally, plate beamsplitters are employed to redistribute radiation between the two arms of an interferometer. However, such an interferometer is susceptible to relative phase fluctuations between the two arms resulting from vibrations of the beamsplitter. This drawback is circumvented in diffraction-grating-based interferometers, which are especially beneficial in applications where highly stable delays between the replica beams are required. In the vast majority of grating-based interferometers, reflective diffraction gratings are used as beamsplitters. Their diffraction efficiency, however, is strongly wavelength dependent. Therefore transmission-grating interferometers can be advantageous for spectroscopy methods, since they can provide high diffraction efficiency over a wide spectral range. Here, we present and characterize a transmission grating-based Michelson interferometer, which is practically dispersion-free, has intrinsically high symmetry and stability and moderate throughput efficiency, and is promising for a wide range of applications.
Topologically protected beam splitters and logic gates based on two-dimensional silicon photonic crystal slabs
Authors: He L. , Ji H. Y. , Wang Y. J. , Zhang X. D.
Published: October 2020

The beam splitters are essential optical components that are widely used in various optical instruments. The robustness of beam splitters is very necessary to all-optical networks. Here we report the design of the topologically protected beam splitter, whose splitting ratio can change flexibly to an arbitrary ratio, such as 50:50, 33:67, 25:75, based on the two-dimensional silicon photonic crystal slab. By using the 50:50 beam splitter, all major logic gates (OR, AND, NOT, XOR, NAND, XNOR, and NOR) are suitably designed with the linear interference approach. Additionally, these devices exhibit robustness even though some disorders exist. It is expected that these robust and compact devices are potentially applicable in optical computing and signal processing.
Numerical analysis of LG3,3 second harmonic generation in comparison to the LG0,0 case
Authors: Heinze Joscha , Vahlbruch Henning , Willke Benno
Published: October 2020

For coating Brownian thermal noise reduction in future gravitational wave detectors, it is proposed to use light in the helical Laguerre-Gaussian LG3,3 mode instead of the currently used LG0,0 mode. However, the simultaneous reduction of quantum noise would then require the efficient generation of squeezed vacuum states in the LG3,3 mode. Current squeezed light generation techniques employ continuous-wave second harmonic generation (SHG). Here, we simulate the SHG for both modes numerically to derive first insights into the transferability of standard squeezed light generation techniques to the LG3,3 mode. In the first part of this paper, we therefore theoretically discuss SHG in the case of a single undepleted pump mode, which, in general, excites a superposition of harmonic modes. Based on the differential equation for the harmonic field, we derive individual phase matching conditions and hence conversion efficiencies for the excited harmonic modes. In the second part, we analyse the numerical simulations of the LG0,0 and LG3,3 SHG in a single-pass, double-pass and cavity-enhanced configuration under the influence of the focusing, the different pump intensity distributions and the individual phase matching conditions. Our results predict that the LG3,3 mode requires about 14 times the pump power of the LG0,0 mode to achieve the same SHG conversion efficiency in an ideal, realistic cavity design and mainly generates the harmonic LG6,6 mode.
Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) regulates embryonic organizer formation during zebrafish early embryogenesis
Authors: Liu Yanyan , Lin Ziyuan , Sun Huaqin
Published: October 2020

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is associated with the manifestation of a number of medical conditions throughout the body. This prompted us to investigate the etiology of CF from the viewpoint of the embryonic organizer, which is responsible for steering the movement of surrounding cells into specific organs and tissues. In our previous work, we found that a cftr mutant had decreased nuclear β-catenin levels in the early embryo at 5 hours post-fertilization (hpf), when the organizer forms. It is known that nuclear β-catenin signaling is essential for the induction of the dorsal organizer. Therefore, we explored the role of cftr in the formation of the embryonic organizer in this work. Indeed, the expression of organizer and germ layer markers was significantly affected in cftr mutant embryos dependent on Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Furthermore, quantitative proteome analysis revealed that the cftr mutant induced significant alteration in the expression of proteins related to many critical biological processes, cellular components, molecular functions, and signaling pathways, except for the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. These findings demonstrate the function of cftr in embryonic organizer formation and provide an explanation for why many abnormalities occur in the bodies of CF patients.
Development of Dithranol overloaded hard Lipid Nanoparticles
Authors: C Anahera , S Kahurangi
Published: October 2020

Dithranol belongs to the keratolytic category, which is widely used drug in the treatment of psoriasis. The drug is virtually inexplicable in water. Many conservative quantity forms for psoriasis treatment have been have been formulated earlier, but they did not show good results. Hence in the present study, it was attempted to invent dithranol in the form of solid lipid nanoparticle. Solid lipid nanoparticles of dithranol were obtained by alteration of lipid spreading method. Preformulation studies were performed to check the compatibility of drug and excepient for the development of formulation by DSC and no statement was found. Solubility study, division coefficient purpose, UV examination, HPLC study, FTIR study were also performed. After the preformulation studies Dithranol loaded solid lipid nanoparticles was also prepared. Hence it was concluded that solid lipid nanoparticle of dithranol could be formulated.
Preparation and Evaluation of Biocompatible Composite for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Md. Masud Rana , Akhtar Naznin , Md. Zahid Hasan , S M Asaduzzaman
Published: October 2020

Bone tissue engineering with cells and synthetic extracellular matrix represents a new approach for the regeneration of mineralized tissue compared with the transplantation of bone. Hydroxyapatite (HA) and its composite with biopolymer are extensively developed and applied in bone tissue regeneration. The main aim of this study was to fabricate and characterize of HA apatite based biocompatible scaffold for bone tissue engineering. Scaffolds with different ratio of polymers (chitosan & alginate), and fixed amount of synthetic HA were prepared using in situ co precipitation method and mineral to polymer ratio was 1:1 to 1: 2 . A cross linker agent, 2-Hydroxylmethacrylate (HEMA) was added at different percentage (0.5-2%) into the selected composition and irradiated at 5- 25 kGy to optimize the proper mixing of components at the presence of HEMA. Fabricated scaffolds were analyzed to determine porosity, density, biodegradability, morphology and structural properties. Porosity and density of the prepared scaffold were 75 to 92% and 0.21 to 0.42 g/cm3 respectively. However, the swelling ratio of the fabricated scaffolds was ranged from 133 to 197%. Nonetheless, there had a reasonable in-vitro degradation of prepared scaffolds. Flourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed intermolecular interaction between components in the scaffold. Pore size of scaffold was measured by scanning electron microscope and the value was 162-510 μm. It could be proposed that this scaffold fulfills all the main requirements to be considered as a bone substitute for biomedical application in near future.
Design New Compound of Meisoindigo Derivative as Anti Breast Cancer Based on QSAR Approach
Authors: Ananto Agus Dwi , Muliasari Handa , Hadisaputra Saprizal
Published: October 2020

Design new compounds of Meisoindigo using the QSAR approach with semiempirical methods have been successfully made with better biological activity as anti-breast cancer results. The research method used to design the new compound of meisoindigo derivatives uses the semiempirical methods. The research procedure divide into tree step, molecular modeling, QSAR equation analysis, and design of new compounds. The PM3 method was chosen as a better method because it has model results that are more representative of physicochemical aspects. The selection of the best model is made by multilinear regression statistical analysis. New compounds derived from the design are expected to bind to the Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 4 (CDK4) enzyme that helps in the cell cycle to prevent cell division. Based on the design, the compound of (E)-2-(2-oxo-1-(2-(trifluoromethyl) benzyl)indolin-3-ylidene)-N-(quinoline-7-yl) acetamide choose as a new compound with more better biological activity (log 1/IC50 = 6.992) than before (log 1/IC50 = 5.823)
Determination of Shelf Life of Herbal Products from the Combination of Stevia rebaudiana, Curcuma zanthorrhiza and Honey (Stekurmin MD) through the Accelerated Shelf Life Test (ASLT) Method
Authors: Martono Yohanes , Novitasari Fidelia , Aminu November Rianto
Published: October 2020

Stekurmin MD is a syrup preparation formulated from the extract of Stevia rebaudiana leaves, temu lawak (Curcuma zanthorrhiza), and honey. One of the active compounds in Stekurmin MD products is phenolic and flavonoid compounds in which the active phenolic and flavonoid compounds can be degraded during the storage period. This study aimed to determine the shelf life of Stekurmin MD products based on the degradation of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. The Accelerated Shelf Life Test (ASLT) method was used in determining the shelf life kinetics of this product. Phenolic and flavonoid concentrations were determined using the UV-Vis spectrophotometric method with the gallic acid standard for phenolic and quercetin standard for flavonoids. Degradation of phenolic and flavonoid compounds was determined every 7 days during 35 days of storage at 25, 35, 45, and 55°C ± 2°C. In natural ingredients, there is a multi-mechanism reaction. The shelf life of Stekurmin MD products based on the degradation of phenolic and flavonoid active ingredients at room temperature were 39.909 days and 23.53 hours, respectively.
Does the Activity in Scapular Muscles During Plyometric Exercises Change When the Kinetic Chain Is Challenged?—An EMG Study
Authors: Werin Maria B. , Maenhout Annelies G. , Icket Jonas , Jacxsens Nielt , Kempkes Evelien , Cools Ann M.
Published: October 2020

Werin, MB, Maenhout, AG, Icket, J, Jacxsens, N, Kempkes, E, and Cools, AM. Does the activity in scapular muscles during plyometric exercises change when the kinetic chain is challenged?—An EMG study. J Strength Cond Res 36(7): 1793–1800, 2022—Plyometric exercises for the shoulder are used in rehabilitation and in workout regime when the sport demands high speed power training. The aim of this clinical laboratory electromyography (EMG) study was to determine whether scapular muscle performance differs during plyometric shoulder exercises when changing the demand on the kinetic chain. Thirty healthy overhead athletes, with a mean age of 22.7 years (±2.2), performed 6 exercises, with both a low and a high demand on the kinetic chain, in prone, side and standing in positions. The EMG activity of the upper trapezius (UT), middle trapezius (MT), lower trapezius (LT), and serratus anterior (SA) on the tested side and bilateral of gluteus maximus (GM) and abdominal oblique externus (OE) was registered with wireless surface EMG. Intermuscular muscle ratios UT/SA, UT/MT, and UT/LT were also calculated. The level of significance set for the study was alpha = 0.05. The muscle ratio UT/SA was significantly lower (p < 0.05) when high demand on the kinetic chain compared with low. SA muscle activity showed significantly (<0.001) higher values in the prone position with high demand on the kinetic chain compared with low. All 3 trapezius muscle parts had significantly higher values (p < 0.001) in the prone compared with side and standing positions. The GM and OE showed significantly higher (p ≤ 0.01) activity in positions more demanding for the kinetic chain. When composing a strengthening or a rehabilitation program for athletes, the knowledge of how scapular and trunk muscles interact can be used to amplify the strengthening effect.
Wearing Compression Garment Enhances Central Hemodynamics? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lee Daniel C.W. , Ali Ajmol , Sheridan Sinead , Chan Derwin K.C. , Wong Stephen H.S.
Published: October 2020

Lee, DCW, Ali, A, Sheridan, S, Chan, DKC, and Wong, SHS. Wearing compression garment enhances central hemodynamics? a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Strength Cond Res 36(8): 2349–2359, 2022—Compression garments (CG) are believed to enhance exercise performance and recovery by improving central hemodynamic responses. However, evidence is inconclusive. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the effect of wearing CG at rest or after a physiological challenge on central hemodynamic responses, including cardiac output, stroke volume (SV), heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and systemic vascular resistance in healthy individuals. The English language searches of the electronic databases SPORTDiscus, MEDLINE, and Web of Science were conducted from November 2018–February 2019. The studies involved were limited to the following: (a) original articles; (b) randomized controlled trials; (c) monitoring of central hemodynamic responses (either at rest or after a physiological challenge: maximal exercise or orthostatic challenge); and (d) healthy individuals. Of the 786 studies identified, 12 were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Meta-analysis was performed by the restricted maximum likelihood method. The results indicated that the effect size (ES) of wearing CG on improving central hemodynamic responses was large overall (Hedges' g = 0.55) and was large in SV (Hedges' g = 1.09) and HR (Hedges' g = 0.65). Subgroup analysis showed that the ESs in “post-physiological challenge” was large in overall (Hedges' g = 0.98), SV (Hedges' g = 1.78), HR (Hedges' g = 1.10), and DBP (Hedges' g = 0.75). Their ESs in “at rest” were not significant in all central hemodynamic responses, apart from a significant medium ES observed in SV (Hedges' g = 0.44). Healthy individuals who wear CG have marked improvement in central hemodynamic responses, particularly after a physiological challenge. More pronounced effects of CG are observed in increasing SV and reducing HR.
Effects of Combined Strength and Resisted Sprint Training on Physical Performance in U-19 Elite Soccer Players
Authors: Ben Brahim Mehdi , Bougatfa Rim , Makni Emna , Gonzalez Pablo Prieto , Yasin Hussain , Tarwneh Raghad , Moalla Wassim , Elloumi Mohamed
Published: October 2020

Ben Brahim, M, Bougatfa, R, Makni, E, Gonzalez, PP, Yasin, H, Tarwneh, R, Moalla, W, and Elloumi, M. Effects of combined strength and resisted sprint training on physical performance in U-19 elite soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 35(12): 3432–3439, 2021—This study assessed the effects of combined muscular strength and resisted sprint training using both sled and weight vest compared with regular soccer training on physical fitness of lower limbs in U-19 elite soccer players. Thirty-four male soccer players (age: 18.8 ± 0.8 years, height: 1.81 ± 0.05 m, body mass: 76.4 ± 4.9 kg, and body fat mass: 11.3 ± 4.2%) were randomly assigned into a resisted sprint training group (RSTG, n = 20), using both weight vest and sled, and a control group (CONTG, n = 14). Sprinting ability (5 m and 20 m), squat jump (SJ) and counter-movement jump (CMJ) tests, 1 repetition maximum of half-back squat (1RM half-back squat), and soccer ball-shooting speed were assessed before and after a 6-week training program. Within-group interactions showed significant combined muscular strength and resisted sprint training effects were observed for all the tests' measurements (effect sizes = 0.97 and 3.69 for 20-m sprint and SJ, respectively). However, significant increases of performances were observed for 5-m and 20-m sprinting time (

= 0.25, p < 0.01 and

= 0.22, p < 0.01, respectively), SJ and CMJ (

= 0.78, p < 0.0001 and

= 0.34, p < 0.001, respectively), 1 repetition maximum (1-RM) half-back squat (

= 0.45, p < 0.0001), and soccer ball-shooting speed (

= 0.41, p < 0.0001) in RSTG with large effect size, whereas the CONTG showed significant performances increase only for CMJ (p < 0.05), 1RM half-back squat (p < 0.01), and soccer ball-shooting speed (p < 0.05). We conclude that combined strength and both horizontal (weighted sled) and vertical (weighted vest) resisted sprint training are more effective than regular soccer training for enhancing sprinting and jumping abilities as well as ball-shooting speed in soccer.