bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic value of 18F-FDG PET /CT metabolic parameters in patients with locally advanced pancreatic Cancer treated with stereotactic body radiation therapy
Authors: Ren Shengnan , Zhu Xiaofei , Zhang Anyu , Li Danni , Zuo Changjing , Zhang Huojun
Published: March 2020

Background

18F-FDG PET/CT metabolic parameters have been applied as prognostic factors in multi-malignancies. However, the role in locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) was not confirmed. In this study, we investigated the prognostic value of 18F-FDG PET/CT metabolic parameters in LAPC patients treated with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

Methods

Seventy three LAPC patients who received SBRT therapy and pre-treatment 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging from January 2012 to January 2016 were included in this retrospective study. The study aim was to evaluate the relationship between metabolic parameters with clinical factors, and the value of metabolic parameters in the prognosis of LAPC. The median of parameters was set as the cut-off value for statistical analysis. Univariate survival analysis was performed by the Kaplan Meier method and log-rank test, and multivariate analysis was carried out by a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

Patients with lymph node metastasis or longer tumor diameters were associated with higher TLG (P < 0.05). Univariate analysis showed MTV, TLG, radiotherapy dose and chemotherapy were significantly associated with disease progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) (P < 0.05). Lymph node metastasis and tumor longest diameter were associated with OS. Multivariate analysis demonstrated TLG, radiotherapy dose, and chemotherapy were independent factors of PFS and OS (HR: 2.307, 0.591, 0.572 and 2.145, 0.480, 0.471, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

TLG was found to be the independent prognostic factor of OS and PFS. Among clinical factors, radiotherapy dose and chemotherapy were independent prognostic factors of OS and PFS.
Intestinal endometriosis treated by laparoscopic surgery: case series of 5 patients
Authors: Kondo Hiroka , Hirano Yasumitsu , Ishii Toshimasa , Hara Kiyoka , Obara Nao , Wang Liming , Asari Masahiro , Kato Takuya , Yamaguchi Shigeki
Published: March 2020

Background

Intestinal endometriosis is rare and most frequently involves the rectum and sigmoid colon.

Case presentation

Here, we report a case series of 5 patients who underwent laparoscopic resection for intestinal endometriosis. None of the patients developed postoperative complications, and all were discharged at 5–8 days after surgery. The diagnosis of intestinal endometriosis is difficult to obtain before surgery. Only 2 of 5 patients were diagnosed preoperatively. Among 1 of the 2 patients, the symptoms at the time of menstruation were obvious. In patients with submucosal tumors, the preoperative diagnosis can be difficult. Additional imaging examinations at the time of menstruation might be useful for obtaining a diagnosis. D2 dissections were performed for 3 patients, because malignancy could not be ruled out as a preoperative diagnosis. The surgical findings of 1 patient did not appear to be endometriosis. Surgery for intestinal endometriosis usually encounters advanced pelvic adhesions and fibrosis. For patients undergoing sigmoidectomy, the mean operative time was 152 min and mean blood loss was 10 mL. For patients undergoing rectal resection, the mean operative time was 282 min and mean blood loss was 17 mL. Two cases had severe pelvic adhesions, and the residual rectum could not be straightened. Therefore, side-to-side anastomosis was performed. For intestinal endometriosis surgery, flexible planning for the anastomosis method used for residual intestine should be undertaken.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic surgery for intestinal endometriosis was safe but technically difficult, because of fibrosis and adhesions. An accurate diagnosis should be attempted based on the clinical symptoms, imaging findings, and intraoperative findings. The method used for anastomosis should be decided on a case-by-case basis.
Antitumor efficacy of the Egyptian Scorpion Venom Androctonus Australis: in vitro and in vivo study
Authors: Nafie Mohamed S. , Abdel Daim Mohamed M. , Ali Ibrahim A. I. , Nabil Zohour I. , Tantawy Mohamed A. , Abdel-Rahman Mohamed A.
Published: March 2020

Background

Scorpion venom contains various biomolecules with potential therapeutic values against different diseases, including cancer. The present study was carried out to assess the antitumor efficacy of Androctonus australis crude venom using both in vitro and in vivo approaches.

Methodology

For in vitro assay, the cytotoxic effect of different venom concentrations was determined against HCT116, HepG2, MCF-7, and PC-3 as cancer cell lines and normal WISH cell line. The in vivo assay was carried out by the I.P. transplantation of EAC into Swiss albino female mice, followed by the I.P. injection of the venom at the sublethal dose 1/10 LD50 (0.025 mg/kg BW) compared to cisplatin (2 mg/kg BW), and both normal and EAC control groups were also included. The analysis of ascetic fluid tumor, survival study, and hematological, biochemical, antioxidant, and histopathological assays was evaluated in control and treated animal groups.

Results

Our in vitro results revealed that the A. australis venom had a selective promising activity against MCF-7 cells (IC50 = 19.71 μg/mL). Moreover, it was less cytotoxic on WISH cells. The in vivo data showed that A. australis venom exhibited a highly significant decrease in tumor volume, and viable tumor cell count, and increased the duration of lifespan compared to the EAC control group. The venom significantly enhanced both hematological and biochemical measurements compared to the EAC control group.

Conclusion

The results revealed that the A. australis venom exhibited in vitro and in vivo antitumor activities. Further venomics studies are needed to functionally characterize the active molecules from this scorpion venom and study their mode of action on cancer cells to develop them into potential anticancer agents.
Incorporation apricot seed kernel as untraditional source of protein in rabbit rations
Authors: Omer Hamed A. A. , Ahmed Sawsan M. , Abedo Abdelmegid A. , EL-Nomeary Yasser A. A. , Nasr Soad M. , Nassar Somia A.
Published: March 2020

Background

The main objective of this work aimed to investigate the impact of incorporation apricot seed kernel (ASK) in rabbit rations on their digestion coefficients, nutritive values, performance, carcass characteristics, and blood constituents (hematology and biochemistry).

Method

Forty-five New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits aged 5–6 weeks (730 ± 23 g) were divided into five groups (9 rabbit in each group) for 72 days. The first experimental ration considered the control (R1) that not contained apricot seed kernel (0% ASK). The 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th experimental rations contained 0.75, 1.5, 3, and 4.5 % for R2, R3, R4, and R5, respectively.

Results

ASK had no significant effect on the nutrient digestibility except for EE and nutritive values. Incorporating ASK at different levels significantly (P < 0.05) increased average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ASK at different levels had no effect on both digestive tract and head weights, while giblets and carcass weights were increased (P < 0.05) compared to the control (R1). Rations contained ASK with level 0.75, 1.5, and 3% were significantly (P < 0.05) increased crude protein content of best 9th, 10th, and 11th ribs. Meanwhile, R2, R3, and R4 significantly (P < 0.05) decreased ether extract content of best 9th, 10th, and 11th ribs. Inclusion ASK had no significant difference on red blood cell count (RBCs), white blood cell count (WBCs), packed cell volume percentages (PCV), hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). However, levels of ASK (0.75, 1.5 and 3%) were significantly (P < 0.05) decreased eosinophils. Both basophiles and lymphocytes counts were significantly (P < 0.05) increased with ASK (R4). ASK had no significant effect on total protein, albumin, ALT, total cholesterol, triglycerides, urea, and creatinine. Meanwhile, rabbits received ration contained 4.5% ASK (R5) significantly (P < 0.05) increased total globulins and AST contents.

Conclusion

From the data obtained and under the same condition for this study, it can be concluded that, apricot seed kernel can be used safety as an alternative source of protein used to rates reach up to 4.5% without adverse effects on growth rates, feed consumption, digestion coefficients, nutritive values, carcass characteristics, and blood constituents.
Automated Big Data Analytics for the Radiation Oncology Alternative Payment Model Proposal Using a Novel Health Care Software Technology
Authors: Thaker Nikhil G. , Holloway Joshua , Hodapp Chas , Mellen Michael , Fryefield David , Meghani Rehman , Tong Kathryn , Rose Christopher M.
Published: March 2020

INTRODUCTION:

The proposed Radiation Oncology Alternative Payment Model (RO-APM) aims to test prospective episode-based payments for radiotherapy episodes. Practices will need a tool that can calculate historical episode reimbursements to succeed in this new model. An automated software-based technology was created to calculate historical episode reimbursements within a large Network of community oncology practices.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Claims data between January 1, 2017, and July 31, 2019, were cleaned, organized into episodes, and analyzed with a series of Python computer programs per proposed RO-APM methodology. Averaged Winsorized historical episode reimbursements were first calculated over the entire Network, then over 24 of the largest Practices, and then rerun after application of Clinical Rules to remove misattributed episodes.

RESULTS:

A total of 79,418 RO-APM–defined episodes were generated from 6,512,375 claims lines. A total of 7,086 episodes (8.9%) were removed because of no treatment delivery code within 28 days of treatment planning. The Network of practices had more bone metastases, and breast, cervical, and uterine cancers but less lung and prostate cancer than the RO-APM dataset. Combination-modality episodes were more costly and required more providers than single-modality episodes. Clinical Rules reattributed 2,495 episodes (3.4%) and increased episode reimbursement by +5.8% over all disease sites (+3.7% using volume weighting; P = .001).

CONCLUSION:

As payment models continue to shift from volume to value, practices will need an automated analytics technology to measure historical costs and prepare for operational and financial transformation. This automated approach can be adapted to future versions of the RO-APM. Our analysis suggests that future iterations of the RO-APM could incorporate Clinical Rules to remove misattributed palliative care episodes and could implement a separate payment for episodes with multiple radiation therapy modalities.
The Impact of Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion on Bone Turnover Markers
Authors: Athimulam Shobana , Delivanis Danae , Thomas Melinda , Young William F , Khosla Sundeep , Drake Matthew T , Bancos Irina
Published: March 2020

Context

Several studies have reported increased risk of fragility fractures in patients with mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS), discordant to the degree of bone density deterioration.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of MACS on bone metabolism in patients with adrenal adenomas.

Design

Cross-sectional study with prospective enrollment, 2014-2019

Setting

Referral center.

Patients

213 patients with adrenal adenomas: 22 Cushing syndrome (CS), 92 MACS and 99 nonfunctioning adrenal tumors (NFAT).

Main Outcome Measures

Osteocalcin, procollagen I intact N-terminal (PINP), C-terminal telopeptide (CTX), sclerostin.

Results

Patients with CS demonstrated lower markers of bone formation compared with patients with MACS and NFAT (CS vs MACS vs NFAT: mean osteocalcin 14.8 vs 20.1 vs 21.3 ng/mL [P < 0.0001]; mean PINP 34.8 vs 48.7 vs 48.5 µg/L [P = 0.003]). Severity of cortisol excess was inversely associated with sclerostin (CS vs MACS vs NFAT: mean sclerostin 419 vs 538 vs 624 ng/L, [P < 0.0001]). In a multivariable model of age, sex, body mass index, cortisol, and bone turnover markers, sclerostin was a significant predictor of low bone mass in patients with MACS (OR 0.63 [CI 95%, 0.40–0.98] for each 100 ng/L of sclerostin increase).

After adrenalectomy, osteocalcin, CTX, and sclerostin increased by a mean difference of 6.3 ng/mL, 0.12 ng/mL, and 171 pg/mL (P = 0.02 for all), respectively.

Conclusions

Lower sclerostin level in patients with MACS reflects a reduction in osteocyte function or number associated with exposure to chronic cortisol excess. Increase in bone turnover markers after adrenalectomy suggests restoration of favorable bone metabolism.
mTORC1 Deficiency Modifies Volume Homeostatic Responses to Dietary Sodium in a Sex-Specific Manner
Authors: Brooks Danielle L , Garza Amanda E , Caliskan Guzelce Ezgi , Gholami Shadi K , Treesaranuwattana Thitinan , Maris Stephen , Ranjit Sanjay , Tay Chee Sin , Lee Jessica M , Romero Jose R , Adler Gail K , Pojoga Luminita H , Williams Gordon H
Published: March 2020

The mechanistic target of the rapamycin (mTOR) pathway plays a role in features common to both excess salt/aldosterone and cardiovascular/renal diseases. Dietary sodium can upregulate mTORC1 signaling in cardiac and renal tissue, and the inhibition of mTOR can prevent aldosterone-associated, salt-induced hypertension. The impact of sex and age on mTOR’s role in volume homeostasis and the regulation of aldosterone secretion is largely unknown. We hypothesize that both age and sex modify mTOR’s interaction with volume homeostatic mechanisms. The activity of 3 volume homeostatic mechanisms—cardiovascular, renal, and hormonal (aldosterone [sodium retaining] and brain natriuretic peptide [BNP; sodium losing])—were assessed in mTORC1 deficient (Raptor  +/-) and wild-type male and female littermates at 2 different ages. The mice were volume stressed by being given a liberal salt (LibS) diet. Raptor  +/-mice of both sexes when they aged: (1) reduced their blood pressure, (2) increased left ventricular internal diameter during diastole, (3) decreased renal blood flow, and (4) increased mineralocorticoid receptor expression. Aldosterone levels did not differ by sex in young Raptor  +/- mice. However, as they aged, compared to their littermates, aldosterone decreased in males but increased in females. Finally, given the level of Na+ intake, BNP was inappropriately suppressed, but only in Raptor  +/- males. These data indicate that Raptor  +/- mice, when stressed with a LibS diet, display inappropriate volume homeostatic responses, particularly with aging, and the mechanisms altered, differing by sex.
“Excavating Labor History”: Exploring Class Struggle through Archaeology and Material Culture
Authors: Roller Michael P.
Published: March 2020

Archaeology conducted at sites of labor offers the possibility for new modes of historical inquiry. As a method of recovering unrecorded aspects of the past, archaeology provides a vital set of tools for understanding the everyday lives of peripheralized laborers, immigrants, and working-class communities. As both a material science and a social science, it opens this history up to new research questions. Furthermore, the tactile quality of material evidence recovered through archaeology affords researchers new ways to engage public audiences on a variety of levels. The National Park Service’s Labor Archeology of the Industrial Era National Historic Landmark Theme Study offers one framework and context for assessing the significance and integrity of the nation’s sites of labor. Public archaeology projects, such as the Lattimer Archaeology Project in Lattimer, Pennsylvania, on the site of an immigrant shantytown that witnessed a notorious labor massacre, represent another example of the literal and figurative excavation of labor and working-class history. Performed in collaboration local stakeholders, the project used the tools of archaeology and material culture to link historical oppression to present-day injustices in one postindustrial community.
A dorsal-ventral gradient of Wnt3a/β-catenin signals controls mouse hindgut extension and colon formation
Authors: Garriock Robert J. , Chalamalasetty Ravindra B. , Zhu JianJian , Kennedy Mark W. , Kumar Amit , Mackem Susan , Yamaguchi Terry P.
Published: March 2020

Despite the importance of Wnt signaling for adult intestinal stem cell homeostasis and colorectal cancer, relatively little is known about its role in colon formation during embryogenesis. The development of the colon starts with the formation and extension of the hindgut. We show that Wnt3a is expressed in the caudal embryo in a dorsal-ventral (DV) gradient across all three germ layers, including the hindgut. Using genetic and lineage-tracing approaches, we describe novel dorsal and ventral hindgut domains, and show that ventrolateral hindgut cells populate the majority of the colonic epithelium. A Wnt3a-β-catenin-Sp5/8 pathway, which is active in the dorsal hindgut endoderm, is required for hindgut extension and colon formation. Interestingly, the absence of Wnt activity in the ventral hindgut is crucial for proper hindgut morphogenesis, as ectopic stabilization of β-catenin in the ventral hindgut via gain- or loss-of-function mutations in Ctnnb1 or Apc, respectively, leads to severe colonic hyperplasia. Thus, the DV Wnt gradient is required to coordinate growth between dorsal and ventral hindgut domains to regulate the extension of the hindgut that leads to colon formation.
Young people’s perceptions about abortion in Southwest Nigeria: Findings from formative audience research
Authors: Arije Olujide , Ojo Temitope , Titus Rachel , Alaba Oluwatoyin , Adegbenro Abiodun , Jah Fatou , Connolly Scott , Onayade Adedeji
Published: March 2020

Background: Community dialogue around abortion in Nigeria often revolves around legality and morality. Termination of pregnancy is a criminal offense except in instances where the mother’s health is in jeopardy. Young people bear a huge burden of adverse outcomes from induced abortions in Nigeria therefore viable interventions are needed. This study explored adolescents and young people’s perceptions about abortion in three selected states in southwest Nigeria.

Methods: This study is part of larger formative audience research (FAR) to gather information about the lives of married and unmarried adolescents and young persons in the study area to support the development of understandable, high-quality, and culturally appropriate radio serial dramas in the local language (Yoruba). We conducted 16 focus group discussion sessions that included questions on abortion among eligible male and female participants aged 15 – 25 years. This section of the discussion guide on abortion consisted of a set of open‐ended questions posed concerning the vignette of a young girl who was seeking to terminate a pregnancy. All discussions where transcribed verbatim and analyzed by thematic content analysis using ATLAS.ti 8 software.

Results: Young people indicated that the general public looks unfavorably on abortion. However, personal opinions were likely to be based on whether the person was directly involved, as female participants were more open to the issue than males. Some female participants also indicated that compared with adults, young people had greater negative experiences when procuring abortion ranging from higher cost to stigmatization.

Conclusions: In a background of restrictive abortion laws, negative societal perceptions about abortion and adverse outcomes associated with illegal abortion, young people are the most at risk of the harmful outcomes of procuring abortion in Nigeria. More innovative approaches are required to promote healthy sexual and reproductive health (SRH) among young people in Nigeria.
Applying machine learning EEG signal classification to emotion‑related brain anticipatory activity
Authors: Bilucaglia Marco , Duma Gian Marco , Mento Giovanni , Semenzato Luca , Tressoldi Patrizio E.
Published: March 2020

Machine learning approaches have been fruitfully applied to several neurophysiological signal classification problems. Considering the relevance of emotion in human cognition and behaviour, an important application of machine learning has been found in the field of emotion identification based on neurophysiological activity. Nonetheless, there is high variability in results in the literature depending on the neuronal activity measurement, the signal features and the classifier type. The present work aims to provide new methodological insight into machine learning applied to emotion identification based on electrophysiological brain activity. For this reason, we analysed previously recorded EEG activity measured while emotional stimuli, high and low arousal (auditory and visual) were provided to a group of healthy participants. Our target signal to classify was the pre-stimulus onset brain activity. Classification performance of three different classifiers (linear discriminant analysis, support vector machine and k-nearest neighbour) was compared using both spectral and temporal features. Furthermore, we also contrasted the classifiers’ performance with static and dynamic (time evolving) features. The results show a clear increase in classification accuracy with temporal dynamic features. In particular, the support vector machine classifiers with temporal features showed the best accuracy (63.8 %) in classifying high vs low arousal auditory stimuli.
Piloting a surveillance system to monitor the global patterns of drug efficacy and the emergence of anthelmintic resistance in soil-transmitted helminth control programs: a Starworms study protocol
Authors: Vlaminck Johnny , Cools Piet , Albonico Marco , Ame Shaali , Chanthapaseuth Thipphavanh , Viengxay Vanisaveth , Do Trung Dung , Osei-Atweneboana Mike Y. , Asuming-Brempong Elias , Jahirul Karim Mohammad , Al Kawsar Abdullah , Keiser Jennifer , Khieu Virak , Faye Babacar , Turate Innocent , Mbonigaba Jean Bosco , Ruijeni Nadine , Shema Eliah , Luciañez Ana , Santiago Nicholls Ruben , Jamsheed Mohamed , Mikhailova Alexei , Montresor Antonio , Mupfasoni Denise , Yajima Aya , Ngina Mwinzi Pauline , Gilleard John , Prichard Roger K. , Verweij Jaco J. , Vercruysse Jozef , Levecke Bruno
Published: March 2020

To eliminate soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections as a public health problem, the administration of benzimidazole (BZ) drugs to children has recently intensified. But, as drug pressure increases, the development of anthelmintic drug resistance (AR) becomes a major concern. Currently, there is no global surveillance system to monitor drug efficacy and the emergence of AR. Consequently, it is unclear what the current efficacy of the used drugs is and whether AR is already present. The aim of this study is to pilot a global surveillance system to assess anthelmintic drug efficacy and the emergence of AR in STH control programs. For this, we will incorporate drug efficacy trials into national STH control programs of eight countries (Bangladesh, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Vietnam, Ghana, Rwanda, Senegal and a yet to be defined country in the Americas). In each country, one trial will be performed in one program implementation unit to assess the efficacy of BZ drugs against STHs in school-aged children by faecal egg count reduction test. Stool samples will be collected before and after treatment with BZs for Kato-Katz analysis and preserved to purify parasite DNA. The presence and frequency of known single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the β-tubulin genes of the different STHs will subsequently be assessed. This study will provide a global pattern of drug efficacy and emergence of AR in STH control programs. The results will provide complementary insights on the validity of known SNPs in the ß-tubulin gene as a marker for AR in human STHs as well as information on the technical and financial resources required to set up a surveillance system. Finally, the collected stool samples will be an important resource to validate different molecular technologies for the detection of AR markers or to identify novel potential molecular markers associated with AR in STH.
INFLUENCE OF UNDERSTANDING INTEGRITY AND PROFESSIONAL VALUES FOR ACADEMIC ETHICS PRACTICES AMONG LECTURERS IN ISLAMIC RELIGIOUS HIGHER EDUCATION
Authors: Sufriadi Sufriadi , Yusoff Mohd Zailani Mohd
Published: March 2020

Education, the phenomenon of deterioration in academic ethics among lecturers, is alarming in Indonesia. That reflecting in decline in the value of integrity and the value of professionalism among lecturers. Therefore, this study focuses on the influence of understanding integrity and professional values on lecturers' academic ethics practices. The methodology of this study uses quantitative methods using descriptive survey studies. The data of this study were collected using questionnaire, where the understanding of integrity is measured with integrity according to the Hadith of the Prophet by Hanafi Hamdani (2014), professional values have measured using Wilson (2010) survey questionnaire on moral reasoning, and ethical decision making and academic ethics practices were measured using the College Teaching Behaviors Inventory (CTBI) developed by Braxton & Bayer (2003). The sampling method is to use a stratified sampling technique. Lecturers have randomly selected a total of 439 lecturers from five Universities of the Islamic Religious (PTKIN) in Aceh, Indonesia. Data were analyzed based on multiple regression. The findings showed that there was no significant effect of understanding of [p≥ .05 (.085)] and professional values [p≥ .05 (.140)] on lecturers' academic ethics practices. However, the findings of this study also show that a greater understanding of integrity contributes to the changing academic ethics of PTKIN lecturers than to professional values. This study implies that the aspect of understanding of integrity and professional value has enhanced through courses and training organized by the top management of PTKIN. The management of PTKIN should emphasize this aspect among the lecturers so that they can serve as role models for the younger generation.
Possibilidades hermenêuticas para a apreciação judicial de omissões inconstitucionais administrativas: o controle da inconstitucionalidade por omissão no constitucionalismo contemporâneo
Authors: Neves Isadora Ferreira
Published: March 2020

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo discutir as omissões inconstitucionais administrativas causadas pela proteção insuficiente de direitos fundamentais sob o prisma do Constitucionalismo Contemporâneo. Quanto ao método, utiliza-se da pesquisa bibliográfica associada com pesquisa documental jurisprudencial para abordar o papel do Poder Judiciário enquanto concretizador de direitos fundamentais. Nessa linha, entende-se enquanto omissão inconstitucional a violação da Constituição pelo descumprimento de uma tarefa imposta por um direito fundamental, especialmente os direitos fundamentais sociais, que impõem uma atuação positiva do Estado. O trabalho discute o problema das omissões inconstitucionais administrativas, ocasionada pela proteção insuficiente de direitos fundamentais, analisando as suas possibilidades, bem como o julgamento da Ação Direta de Inconstitucionalidade por Omissão nº 1.698 para suscitar o debate dos pontos abordados. Ao final, conclui-se pela possibilidade de apreciação jurisdicional das omissões inconstitucionais provocadas por omissões do poder público em proteger de modo suficiente o rol de direitos fundamentais.
Federalismo, assimetria e subsidiariedade: paradigmas para a promoção do desenvolvimento nacional
Authors: Pansieri Flávio , Haddad Netto Kamar
Published: March 2020

RESUMO: O presente artigo tem por objetivo analisar o federalismo jurídico assimétrico e o princípio da subsidiariedade como paradigmas para a promoção do desenvolvimento nacional. Mediante o método do raciocínio dedutivo-argumentativo, as modificações nas competências dos entes federados e a forma de seus exercícios, assim como a celebração de negócios jurídicos de cooperação e a evolução na jurisprudência serão apontados como formas de concretizar os pilares teóricos da assimetria e da subsidiariedade, de forma a otimizar a organização político-administrativa brasileira.
Specular signal return through a range-compensating lens
Authors: Mudge Jason
Published: March 2020

A range-compensating lens has been developed which alleviates, to a
certain degree, the one-over-range-squared attenuation in the signal
(laser) return for active optical systems [Appl. Opt.
58, 7921 (2019)APOPAI0003-693510.1364/AO.58.007921].
This compensation applies to the diffuse return and, in particular,
the perfectly diffuse return that is an assumption used to develop the
equations. However, there is another component of the return that is
equally important, and that is the specular signal return. Often this
return is a result of a very shiny and close target, since the return
needs to closely follow the outgoing beam path in order for the light
to be returned to the detector. This implies a high sensitivity to
target orientation. For this reason, specular returns are not counted
on as a signal return, and the sensor is generally not designed to use
this type of return, which can lead to an undesired detector
saturation, should a high reflectivity specular return occur. This
return, with respect to a range-compensation lens, was only discussed
briefly and qualitatively. The work here means to address this
specular signal return quantitatively as it applies to a
range-compensating lens as compared to that of a traditional lens and
considers the specular performance on the sensor–level.
Active and passive optical remote sensing of the aquatic environment: introduction to the feature issue
Authors: Lee Zhongping , Churnside James , Mao Zhihua , Wu Songhua , Zibordi Giuseppe
Published: March 2020

Through decades of efforts and practices, we have achieved great progress in understanding ocean biology and biogeochemistry through satellite measurements of ocean (water) color, or passive remote sensing. These include detailed global maps of the distribution of surface phytoplankton, the production of newly formed particulate organic matter through photosynthesis (i.e., primary production), as well as the change and feedback of phytoplankton in a changing climate, to name a few. However, these results are still far from a full account of ocean biology and biogeochemistry, where we want more detailed information of phytoplankton (e.g., types and sizes), as well as information in the vertical dimension. For such, we are happy to see new developments in ocean optics and ocean color remote sensing. These include, but certainly are not limited to, hyperspectral sensors, measurements via polarized setups, as well as ocean lidar systems. In particular, through pumping laser light into deeper ocean, lidar has demonstrated great potential to fill the gap of passive ocean color remote sensing. These developments in technology are providing exciting new findings where breakthroughs in ocean biogeochemistry are on the horizon. Thus, we organized this feature issue in Applied Optics to summarize a few recent developments and achievements, where readers and the community can easily capture progress on both fronts, as well as the potential and advantages of the fusion of passive and active optical sensing. Specifically, this issue contains 12 papers describing research in both active and passive optical remote sensing of aquatic environment. They are still limited in number and subject, but are expected to stimulate the ocean color community with findings relevant for satellite applications.
Mathematical model and topology evaluation of quantum key distribution network
Authors: Li Qiong , Wang Yaxing , Mao Haokun , Yao Jiameng , Han Qi
Published: March 2020

Due to the intrinsic point-to-point characteristic of quantum key distribution (QKD) systems, it is necessary to study and develop QKD network technology to provide a secure communication service for a large-scale of nodes over a large area. Considering the quality assurance required for such a network and the cost limitations, building an effective mathematical model of a QKD network becomes a critical task. In this paper, a flow-based mathematical model is proposed to describe a QKD network using mathematical concepts and language. In addition, an investigation on QKD network topology evaluation was conducted using a unique and novel QKD network performance indicator, the Information-Theoretic Secure communication bound, and the corresponding linear programming-based calculation algorithm. A large number of simulation results based on the SECOQC network and NSFNET network validate the effectiveness of the proposed model and indicator.
Revisiting ultrafast laser inscribed waveguide formation in commercial alkali-free borosilicate glasses
Authors: Fernandez T. Toney , Gross Simon , Arriola Alexander , Privat Karen , Withford Michael J
Published: March 2020

Alkali-free borosilicate glasses are one of the most used dielectric platforms for ultrafast laser inscribed integrated photonics. Femtosecond laser written waveguides in commercial Corning Eagle 2000, Corning Eagle XG and Schott AF32 glasses were analyzed. They were studied in depth to disclose the dynamics of waveguide formation. We believe that the findings presented in this paper will help bridge one of the major and important gaps in understanding the ultrafast light-matter interaction with alkali-free boroaluminosilicate glass. It was found that the waveguides are formed mainly due to structural and elemental reorganization upon laser inscription. Aluminum along with alkaline earth metals were found to be responsible for the densification and silicon being the exchanging element to form a rarefied zone. Strong affinity towards alkaline earth elements to form the densified zone for waveguides written with high feed rate (>200 mm/min) were identified and explained. Finally we propose a plausible solution to form positive refractive index change waveguides in different glasses based on current and previous reports.
Single-shot sequential projection phase retrieval and 3D localization from chromatic aberration
Authors: Zhou Guocheng , Zhang Shaohui , Hu Yao , Hao Qun
Published: March 2020

A phase retrieval method based on sequential projection and chromatic aberration is reported. Construction of this method includes a red, green and blue (RGB) LED, an objective and a color camera. Owing to the chromatic aberration characteristics of the objective, three color images obtained by the color camera correspond to three equivalent propagation planes. Equivalent relative distances among these planes can be obtained by defining and iteratively minimizing the convergence index. Then, sequential projection strategy is used for phase retrieval in each image plane. Based on the recovered phase information and angular spectrum propagation principle, digital refocusing and 3D localization can be achieved for each subregion of the sample. Finally, the feasibility of our method is demonstrated by simulations and experiments.
Single-frequency DBR Nd-doped fiber laser at 1120  nm with a narrow linewidth and low threshold
Authors: Wang Yafei , Wu Jiamin , Zhao Qilai , Wang Weiwei , Zhang Jing , Yang Zhongmin , Xu Shanhui , Peng Mingying
Published: March 2020

We report a narrow linewidth and low threshold single-frequency distributed Bragg reflector (DBR) fiber laser at 1120 nm based on a short 1.5 cm long Nd-doped silica fiber which, to the best of our knowledge, is the first demonstration of a Nd-doped fiber-based single-frequency fiber laser with a wavelength greater than 1100 nm. A stable single-longitudinal-mode laser operation with a signal-to-noise ratio greater than 67 dB was verified by a scanning Fabry–Perot interferometer. The laser threshold is as low as 10 mW. The DBR fiber laser has a maximum output power of 15 mW and optical-to-optical efficiency for the launched pump power reaches more than 8%. The narrow linewidth of 71.5 kHz is obtained in such a single-frequency fiber laser (SFFL). Our result is expected to offer an exciting new opportunity to realize high-performance SFFLs above 1100 nm.
Scalable Hermite–Gaussian mode-demultiplexing hybrids
Authors: Wen He , Liu Huiyuan , Zhang Yuanhang , Sampson Rachel , Fan Shengli , Li Guifang
Published: March 2020

We propose a Hermite–Gaussian (HG) mode-demulti-plexing hybrid (MDH) for coherent detection of mode-division multiplexed signals. The MDH, which performs multiple functionalities, including demultiplexing, local oscillator splitting, and optical 90-deg mixing, is realized based on the multi-plane light conversion technique. An isosceles right triangle output layout is employed to reduce the number of phase masks to fewer than the number of modes, significantly simplifying the construction of the MDH. A 10-Hermite–Gaussian (HG) mode MDH with only five phase masks is demonstrated by numerical simulation, achieving an insertion loss (IL) and mode dependent loss as low as

−

2.3

and 1.7 dB, respectively. The IL was further reduced to

−

1.5

d
B

through optimization of MDH parameters, such as the beam waists of the input HG modes and the output spots.
Compact Ho:YLF-pumped ZnGeP2-based optical parametric amplifiers tunable in the molecular fingerprint regime
Authors: Cheng Siqi , Chatterjee Gourab , Tellkamp Friedjof , Lang Tino , Ruehl Axel , Hartl Ingmar , Dwayne Miller R. J.
Published: March 2020

We report on a compact mid-infrared laser architecture, comprising a chain of

Z
n
G
e
P

2

-based optical parametric amplifiers (OPAs), which afford a higher energy yield (

∼

x

<

60

µ

J

at 1 kHz) compared to most conventional OPA gain media transparent in the 2–8-µm wavelength range. Specifically, our OPA scheme allows ready tunability in the molecular fingerprint regime and is tailored for strong-field excitation and coherent control of both stretch and bend (or torsional) vibrational modes in molecules. The OPAs are pumped and directly seeded (via supercontinuum generation) by a 2-µm, 3-ps Ho:YLF regenerative amplifier. The compressibility of the OPA output is demonstrated by a representative measurement of the near-Gaussian temporal profile of a dispersion-compensated 105-fs idler pulse at a central wavelength of 5.1 µm, corresponding to

∼

6

optical cycles. Detailed numerical simulations closely corroborate the experimental measurements, providing a benchmark and a platform to further explore the parameter space for future design, optimization, and implementation of high-energy, ultrafast, mid-infrared laser schemes.
Multi-layer Born multiple-scattering model for 3D phase microscopy
Authors: Chen Michael , Ren David , Liu Hsiou-Yuan , Chowdhury Shwetadwip , Waller Laura
Published: March 2020

We propose an accurate and computationally efficient 3D scattering
model, multi-layer Born (MLB), and use it to recover the 3D refractive
index (RI) of thick biological samples. For inverse problems
recovering the complex field of thick samples, weak scattering models
(e.g., first Born) may fail or underestimate the RI, especially with a
large index contrast. Multi-slice (MS) beam propagation methods model
multiple scattering to provide more realistic reconstructions;
however, MS does not properly account for highly oblique scattering,
nor does it model backward scattering. Our proposed MLB model uses a
first Born model at each of many slices, accurately capturing the
oblique scattering effects and estimating the backward scattering
process. When used in conjunction with an inverse solver, the model
provides more accurate RI reconstructions for high-resolution phase
tomography. Importantly, MLB retains a reasonable computation time
that is critical for practical implementation with iterative inverse
algorithms.
Global piston restoration of segmented mirrors with recurrent neural networks
Authors: Guerra-Ramos Dailos , Trujillo-Sevilla Juan , Manuel Rodríguez-Ramos Jose
Published: March 2020

Recurrent neural networks are usually used for processing sequential data. They have been employed in this paper to deal with the sequence of diffraction subimages created by every intersection from a segmented mirror. Every subimage is first processed by a convolutional neural network that extracts a set of features from each of them. It was attained superior prediction accuracy with the recurrent approach than with convolution layers alone. Furthermore, a consistency test was added to detect wrong predictions before computing the global piston values. The final system predicts global piston values with rms = 7.34 nm, high reliability, and capture range of [ − 21λ, 21λ]. Atmospheric seeing, polishing and tip-tilt residual errors were also added in the simulations.
Automated yeast cells segmentation and counting using a parallel U-Net based two-stage framework
Authors: Kong Yan , Li Hui , Ren Yongyong , Genchev Georgi Z. , Wang Xiaolei , Zhao Hongyu , Xie Zhiping , Lu Hui
Published: March 2020

Yeast fluorescence microscopic images are widely used to observe the
living conditions and survival of yeast cells under experimental
conditions. Accurate cell counting provides key quantitative feedback
and plays key roles in biological research as well as in industrial
and biomedical applications. Unfortunately, the commonly used manual
counting method is time-intensive, poorly standardized, and
non-reproducible. Here, we developed a two-stage framework using
parallel modified U-Nets together with seed guided water-mesh
algorithm for automatic segmentation and yeast cells counting. The
proposed framework was tested with independent images, of which the
ground truth of yeast cell number and locations was done by skilled
technicians. Our method improved cell counting by reducing bias and
demonstrated a 99.35% consistent recall rate of experienced manual
counting, and decreased the time required from 5 minutes on average to
only 5 seconds for each image.
An Optimized Protocol for Histochemical Detection of Senescence-associated Beta-galactosidase Activity in Cryopreserved Liver Tissue
Authors: Jannone Giulia , Rozzi Milena , Najimi Mustapha , Decottignies Anabelle , Sokal Etienne M.
Published: March 2020

Senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (SA-β-gal) activity assay is commonly used to evaluate the increased beta-galactosidase (β-gal) activity in senescent cells related to enhanced lysosomal activity. Although the optimal pH for β-gal is 4.0, this enzymatic activity has been most commonly investigated at a suboptimal pH by using histochemical reaction on fresh tissue material. In the current study, we optimized a SA-β-gal activity histochemistry protocol that can also be applied on cryopreserved hepatic tissue. This protocol was developed on livers obtained from control rats and after bile duct resection (BDR). A significant increase in β-gal liver activity was observed in BDR rats vs controls after 2 hr of staining at physiological pH 4.0 (6.98 ± 1.19% of stained/total area vs 0.38 ± 0.22; p<0.01) and after overnight staining at pH 5.8 (24.09 ± 6.88 vs 0.12 ± 0.08; p<0.01). Although we noticed that β-gal activity staining decreased with cryopreservation time (from 4 to 12 months of storage at −80C; p<0.05), the enhanced staining observed in BDR compared with controls remained detectable up to 12 months after cryopreservation ( p<0.01). In conclusion, we provide an optimized protocol for SA-β-gal activity histochemical detection at physiological pH 4.0 on long-term cryopreserved liver tissue:
Legislative Developments in Cybersecurity in the EU
Authors: Wang Faye F.
Published: March 2020

Cyber-attacks have become a very serious issue in Europe, targeting essential services such as national health systems, banks, electoral campaigns or mobile services. There is certainly no one single solution to the need to improve cybersecurity, but a wide range of collective and far-reaching technical and legal measures may make it as hard as is possible for those who want to attack the security of infrastructures, services and products. This article aims to aid our understanding of cybersecurity, cyber threats, cyber-attacks and cyber defence from both legal and technological perspectives. It discusses the most recent EU cybersecurity legislative movements and considers whether current legal and technical measures, including the newly adopted EU Cybersecurity Act 2019, have provided efficient solutions to respond to radically changed cyber threats and attacks, in particular in critical services in the EU. It offers insights into the scope and limitations of technical measures in achieving the highest possible level of cybersecurity due to the unpredictable nature of certain cyber-attacks.
Observations and analysis of risk factors for GDV in a single institution: a case-control study
Authors: Virgilio Fabrizio di , Rabaioli Emanuela , Gualtieri Massimo , Formaggini Luca
Published: March 2020

Objective To evaluate/ determine the risk factors for dogs presented with Gastric Dilation- Volvulus (GDV) to a referral veterinary centre and to compare the results with those currently reported in veterinary literature. Materials and Methods The observational case-control study comprised a population of 215 dogs that attended the referral centre between 2000 and 2018. Medical records were searched for GDV and those matching the criteria were manually reviewed. A questionnaire was completed by the owners of the dogs involved in the study (both case and control populations) in order to gain further information that could be considered relevant to GDVs. In particular, information included the dogs’ behaviour and the dogs daily activities. Results The study included 115 cases of GDV and 115 controls. Out of the GDV dogs 13% (15/115) were small breed dogs and the remaining 87% (100/115) either large or giant breeds. The following risk factors for developing a GDV have been identified: Purebred dogs over 3 years old and either large of giant breeds, weighing > 30 kg. Foreign body ingestion, diarrhoea, and grass consumption were also associated to increase the likelihood in developing GDV. Behavioural temperament was not associated with developing GDV. Clinical Significance The findings support previously identified risk factors in the development of GDV, but characteristics related to the dogs temperament warrant further investigation. Knowledge of these results will further allow clinicians to make evidence‐based recommendations to owners in attempting to prevent GDV in dogs. Furthermore this paper confirms that the risk of GDV in certain breeds and in certain conditions is always high and that GDV is still an extremely current disease.
SUITABLE PRODUCTION TOOLS SELECTION WITH THE USE OF EVOLUTIONARY ALGORITHMS
Authors: Hynek Petr , Kreibich Viktor , Firt Roman
Published: March 2020

This paper deals with the use of a production equipment simulation in the design of production systems, more specifically the welding equipment in the automotive industry. Based on the simulation results, a matrix, which defines the possibility of using given manufacturing tools (in this case welding guns are considered) to connect the plates using the electrical resistance spot welding process, is created. This matrix generates a set of several numbers of solutions depending on other parameters, such as the lowest price, the lowest number of used welding guns, etc. The goal is to solve this task. The solution is presented using mathematical programming. Specifically, the method of genetic evolutionary algorithms is being used. The Solver software is used to optimize the selection of the welding guns’ combination. The Solver is an add-on in MS Excel. The case study shows 15 welding points weldment on which the availability of 20 types of welding guns was simulated. The result is an ideal combination of 2 types of guns for the lowest price.