bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic accuracy of panoramic radiography and ultrasonography in detecting periapical lesions using periapical radiography as a gold standard
Authors: Arslan Zeynep Betül , Demir Hilal , Berker Yıldız Dila , Yaşar Füsun
Published: May 2020

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to compare the accuracy of imaging techniques in diagnosing periapical lesions.

Methods:

Imaging records of 80 patients (51 females, 29 males, aged between 14 and 75 years) including periapical and panoramic radiographs and ultrasonographic images were selected from databases of Selcuk University Dentistry Faculty. Periapical radiographs were accepted as gold-standard and 160 anterior maxillary and mandibular teeth with or without periapical lesion were included to the study. Three specialist observers (dental radiologists) evaluated the presence and appearance of periapical lesions on panoramic radiograph and ultrasonographic images. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and diagnostic value of panoramic radiographs and ultrasonography were determined.

Results:

Sensitivity was 0.80 and 0.77 for ultrasonographic images and panoramic radiographs, respectively which shows that periapical lesion was correctly detected in 80% of the cases with ultrasound and in 77% of the cases with panoramic radiography. Specificity values were determined as 0.97 for ultrasound and 0.95 for panoramic radiography. Overall diagnostic accuracy was 0.86 and 0.84 for ultrasound and panoramic radiography, respectively.

Conclusions:

Periapical and panoramic radiographs are commonly used to visualize periapical lesions. Besides, ultrasonography is an alternative method to digital radiographic techniques in the diagnosis of anterior teeth with periapical lesions.
Differences in the ratio of soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and soil organic carbon (SOC) at various altitudes of Hyperalic Alisol in the Amazon region of Ecuador
Authors: Mendoza Benito , Béjar Jaime , Luna Daniel , Osorio Miguel , Jimenez Mauro , Melendez Jesus R.
Published: May 2020

Protecting soil fertility represents a fundamental effort of sustainable development. In this study we investigate how different altitudes affect soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and soil organic carbon (SOC), and their ratio, MBC/SOC in Hyperalic Alisol. MBC and SOC are well established and widely accepted microbial quotients in soil science. Our work hypothesis was that a decrease in MBC and SOC should be observed at higher altitudes. This initial assumption has been verified by our measurements, being attributed to the increase in MBC and SOC at low altitudes. Our approach should contribute to the better understanding of MBC and SOC distribution in soil and changes in MBC/SOC at various altitudes in the region.
ISSUES OF IMPROVEMENT OF LAND TURNOVER FROM AGRICULTURAL LAND COMPOSITION
Authors: Gaynutdinov Ilgizar , Mukhametgaliev Farit , Avhadiev Fayaz
Published: May 2020

One of the factors hindering the further development of agricultural enterprises of various legal forms is the imperfection of land legislation. Land plots that are in state or municipal ownership, when leased or owned through auctions, are not always given to peasant (farmer) households or agricultural enterprises that need them for production. This is due to the high transaction costs, which are caused by the need to form, register for cadastral registration and registration of rights to land, as well as the costs of holding auctions to provide them. Moreover, as a result of tenders at such auctions, rental payments are often overstated due to unfair competition from participants who do not carry out agricultural activities. Relations between agricultural producers and state and municipal executive authorities on the ownership, use and disposal of land from the category of agricultural land, including state or municipal property, are regulated by the Federal Law “On the Turnover of Agricultural Land”. A number of its provisions do not facilitate the transfer of agricultural land to effective owners - agricultural producers. On the other hand, the low efficiency of agricultural production, due to objective and subjective reasons, does not allow to set the rent at a level of interest to owners of land shares. It is necessary at the level of the ministries of land and property relations of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation to develop Regulations on holding auctions for the sale of agricultural land in ownership or lease rights on them, which should reflect the criteria for participants in such auctions. The lease payment for lands in shared ownership shall be at least 3% of the cash proceeds from 1 ha.
TRENDS OF GRAIN PRODUCTION DEVELOPMENT IN THE CONDITIONS OF IMPORT SUBSTITUTION
Authors: Mukhametgaliev Farit , Sitdikova Landysh , Avhadiev Fayaz , Asadullin Nail , Gaynutdinov Ilgizar
Published: May 2020

The relevance of the work is determined by the need to identify the main trends and characteristics of the development of the grain industry at the regional level in the face of new challenges of the external economic situation. The purpose of the research is to identify trends in the grain industry development under the conditions of import substitution and justification of the necessary priority organizational, economic and technological measures to increase the efficiency of grain production. The subject of the study is the system of organizational and economic relations that take shape in the process of production and sale of grain in modern conditions of globalization of the economy. As the main results of the study, the article presents the trends and characteristics of the development of grain production: the continuing disparity in prices for agricultural and industrial products, the current low level of profitability of grain production, the inertia in the development of innovative technologies, the lag in the growth of processing capacities and domestic consumption from the rate of increase in grain production, infrastructural restrictions and unstable situation in the regional grain market. A transition to innovative technologies with resource-saving technologies, precision farming and digitalization, clustering of the grain-product subcomplex of the agro-industrial complex, improvement of distribution routes, expansion of sustainable distribution channels, an increase in the number of operators in the regional market, and the formation of a distribution channel through the Republican Commodity Exchange are proposed
INTEGRAL ASSESSMENT OF LABOR PRODUCTIVITY
Authors: Smirnova Elena , Postnova Marina
Published: May 2020

To assess the level and dynamics of labor productivity, quite a lot of different indicators are used, which complicates the process of analysis and monitoring. Often they have multidirectional trends and meanings, which makes it difficult to formulate recommendations for increasing labor productivity. To smooth out these differences, it is necessary to conduct an integrated assessment of labor efficiency. The purpose of our study is to evaluate the productivity of agricultural labor in the municipal regions of Ulyanovsk region on the basis of an integral indicator to identify areas of leaders and outsiders. The evaluation was carried out using two methods based on the calculation of various indices. The value of the integral indicator of labor productivity, which was determined taking into account the indices of productivity, intensity and productivity, in the municipal districts of Ulyanovsk region varied from -0.01 in the Baryshsky District (negative value) to 3.5 in Ulyanovsk district. According to the results of ranking and differentiation according to integral assessment, the group with high and average labor productivity (IPT ≥ 0.76) included six regions, or only 30% of the study population. In half of the districts, its low level was noted (IPT 0.1 ... 0.76), labor is inefficient in four districts of the region. The leading regions in labor productivity are Tsilninsky and Ulyanovskiy (IPT ≥1.5), outsiders are Baryshskiy, Inzenskiy and Starokulatkinskiy (IPT ≤ 0.1). An integrated assessment of the level of labor productivity can be used to develop recommendations for its increase for areas lagging behind industry average indicators and leading regions in their development
ADAPTIVE POTENTIAL OF THE INITIAL MATERIAL IN THE SELECTION OF SOFT SPRING WHEAT
Authors: Mal'ceva Lidiya , Filippova Elena , Bannikova Natal'ya
Published: May 2020

The work was carried out in 2019 in five ecological points of Kurgan region: at Kurgan Scientific Research Institute of Agriculture and at 4 state-owned sections (Belozerskiy, Polovinskiy, Kurtamyshskiy, Dalmatovskiy). The purpose of the research is to identify varieties with high productivity and ecological plasticity for use in crosses when creating new highly productive spring wheat varieties. We tested 26 varieties of various biotypes with a growing season from 70 (Novosibirskaya 16) to 92 (Lider 80) days. Plant height ranged from 65 to 110 cm. The best in yield in the early ripening group (29.5 ... 30.3 c/ha) were Omskaya 36, Tarskaya 12, Extra; mid-season (32.6 ... 32.9 kg/ha) - Heracles Icarus, Zauralskaya volna; medium-late (36.6 ... 37.4 kg / ha) - Bulyak, KVS Buran, KVS 240-3-13. Dusty smut (defeat 27 ... 30%) was observed in Silach, Raduga, KVS Torridon varieties. High resistance to stress (U2-U1 = -8.6 ... -11.6) was found in the genotypes Zauralochka, Tarskaya 12, Zauralskaya volna, low (-20.3 ... -28.0) Lider 80, Novosibirskaya 16, Bulyak. The most stable under changing growing conditions were Zauralochka variety samples (V = 11.8%; Hom = 29.4), Zauralskaya wave (V = 16.3%; Hom = 17.4), and Raduga (V = 16%; Hom = 17.7%). Low ductility at the level of bi = 0.31 ... 087 was recorded in the varieties Zauralochka, Novosibirskaya 16, Tarskaya 12, Omskaya 36, Boevchanka, Zauralskaya volna. Varieties KVS Torridon, Raduga, KVS Buran, KVS Jetstream, Krasnozerka, Zauralskaya zhemchuzhina, Lutetsiya, KVS 240-3-13 can be grown on an intensive background (σd2 = 0.6 ... 5.0). Raduga variety formed a consistently high productivity in different growing conditions. According to a set of indicators and related calculations, it is recommended to use the following varieties combining yield with ecological plasticity parameters for inclusion in the system of crosses: early ripening - Extra, Tarskaya 12; mid-season - Hercules, Icarus, Lutetsiya; medium-late - KVS 240-3-1, Bulyak, KVS Buran.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF FEEDS DEPENDING ON BASIC SOIL TILLAGE METHODS AND NUTRITION BACKGROUND
Authors: Medvedev Vyacheslav , Fomin Vladimir , Nafikov Makarim , Nigmatzyanov Aydar
Published: May 2020

In 2014–2016 in Zakame of the Republic of Tatarstan, a study was conducted to increase the productivity of corn (Mashuk 250 hybrid) for silage using various fertilizer systems (without fertilizers – control, NPK at 40 t/ha of green mass, PK - background, background + N40, background + N60 , background + N80, background + N100, background + N120) and tillage methods (plowing - control, tillage cultivation). The availability of phosphorus in the soil of the experimental plot was sufficient for the formation of the planned yield, therefore, phosphorus fertilizers were not added. The nitrogen content in the green mass of corn for plowing was 3.03 ... 3.85%, phosphorus - 0.45 ... 0.71%, potassium - 1.71 ... 1.98%, for non-dump processing, respectively - 3.01 ... 3, 83; 0.43 ... 0.69 and 1.69 ... 1.97%. Against an unfertilized background, the nitrogen content in the green mass of corn for plowing was equal to 3.03%, with the introduction of NK under the yield of 40 t/ha - 3.41%, K - 3.14%. In the variant with the use of anhydrous ammonia at a dose of 40 kg of active substance/ha against a background of potash fertilizers, the amount of nitrogen in the green mass was 3.34%, 60 kg - 3.41%, 80 kg - 3.43%, 100 kg - 3.76% and 120 kg - 3.85% (0.82% higher than unfertilized background). The maximum NPK removal in the experiment was observed by plowing in the background + N120 variant (1183; 218; 608 kg/ha, respectively), background + N100 (1114; 207; 584 kg/ha) and when fertilizing with a yield of 40 t/ha of green mass (1051; 206; 598 kg/ha). With subsurface processing, the take-off decreased, but the distribution of the first variants of this indi
DEFINITION OF MEASURES FOR THE QUALITY ASSURANCE PROGRAM FOR THE DESIGN AND SERIAL PRODUCTION OF CHIPS AND EVALUATION OF THEIR EFFECTIVENESS ON THE EXAMPLE OF VLSI 1867VN016
Authors: Zolnikov Konstantin , Yagodkin A. , Evdokimova Svetlana , Skvortsova Tatyana
Published: May 2020

The article is devoted to the process of creating microelectronic devices and analyzing methods and criteria for product rejection. We consider procedures that ensure high quality of work of chip design processes and their serial production. The result of the analysis of domestic and foreign patents for multi-core processor systems is presented.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE DESIGN ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT OF THE MANUFACTURABILITY OF THE CHIP PRODUCTION TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE RESISTANCE TO SPECIAL FACTORS ON THE EXAMPLE OF VLSI 1867VTS6F
Authors: Sklyar V. , Smerek V. , Zolnikov Konstantin , Chernov D. , Yagodkin A.
Published: May 2020

The article is devoted to the process of creating digital microelectronic devices that meet certain parameters, including the requirements for resistance to special factors. The technological environment for designing the 1867vc6f product and the design route are described. The created design technology provided the development of a radiation-resistant chip. The assessment of the product's production manufacturability and the level of standardization and unification was carried out.
Available markers in the diagnosis and prognosis of kidney cancer
Authors: Szumna Klaudia Daria , Madras Dominika Katarzyna , Piędel Faustyna , Jasielski Patryk Piotr , Rocka Agata Agnieszka
Published: May 2020

Introduction and purpose:Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common kidney cancer that has no symptoms for a long time. It is most often diagnosed accidentally during abdominal ultrasound or abdominal computed tomography, performed primarily due to non-specific clinical symptoms. Despite progress in treatment, late detection is associated with poor prognosis. The aim of the study is to analyze literature (database PubMed) for potential prognostic markers and those used in RCC diagnostics.A brief description of the state of knowledge: The most common RCC subtype is clear cell renal cell carcinoma(ccRCC). Metastatic ccRCC is associated with poor prognosis. The pathogenesis of ccRCC includes, among others, disorders of miRNA change. These molecules are described as a promising marker of both diagnostic and prognostic. Detection of CD163 + antigen on cancer cells may be useful in assessing the clinical course of ccRCC patients. In clinical diagnosis of RCC, the presence of mutations and epigenetic inactivation of the von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) gene, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and carbonic anhydrase IX (CIAX) genes are particularly important. Plasma CIAX levels are described as not only a diagnostic and prognostic marker, but also lymph node involvement. There are studies on molecular markers that can also be a therapeutic target, including Caveolin-1 (CAV1), CCL5. Recent research results show a link between PDL1 expression and high-grade tumors. PDL-1 may also be an important prognostic factor.Conclusions:Research on molecular markers is a promising personalized diagnostic and prognostic route. The limitation is the nonspecificity of molecular markers, so research on new and current markers is needed.
Educational and cultural aspects of the activities of sports associations in Poland in the interwar period
Authors: Kędzia Piotr
Published: May 2020

Sports associations in the interwar period were active in many areas of social life. One of the basic goals they pursued was the training of players who taking active part in various competitions and sports competitions,  fought for the highest positions and trophies. However, there were also such organizations whose work went beyond sports competition, focusing also on multidirectional educational and cultural activities. These associations, through special sections, as well as various forms of non-sport activities organized a series of self-education, training, artistic and tourist activities et al. The implementation of these activities, both in the field of sport, as well as in the field of culture and education, raised the prestige of associations among the local community, expanded their leisure activities, liberated social instincts and created a kind of myth [5, p. 127]. Thanks to such initiatives, members expanded their knowledge, developed skills and interests, and as a consequence became more enlightened and conscious citizens-athletes. This diversity of socio-cultural impact also had a direct impact on the formation of personality. Sports organizations as educational environments shaped the character of young sport adepts, shaping prosocial, pro-health and prosomatic attitudes.
Dose of information about laryngeal cancer with particular emphasis on laryngectomy
Authors: Gonet Klara Elżbieta , Zaborek Monika Karolina , Łyczba Jakub , Borowik Joanna Urszula , Przysucha Anna
Published: May 2020

Introduction and purpose: The laryngeal cancer is the most common cancer of head and neck and is associated with smoking. It is mainly squamous cell carcinoma. There are many methods to diagnosis this cancer. The most important method of the treatment is complicated operation – laryngectomy which is described in this article. There are presented diagnosis and staging of laryngeal cancer, the main types of laryngectomy, process, results and complications. And the end of this article will be mentioned about the loss of voice and of normal and efficient verbal communication as a negative consequence associated with this type of surgery that can have significant impacts on the quality of life. The purpose of this article is to familiarize readers with the topic of laryngectomy as the primary treatment for larynx cancer.Description of the state of knowledge: Studies show an increase in the incidence of this type of cancer. The main risk factors are smoking, drinking alcohol and exposure to heavy metals. Symptoms are really different and include hoarseness, sore throat, coughing and dysphagia. Depending on the location, the course of the cancer can be different. The main examinations are laryngoscopy, CT, MRI, USG and PET. The laryngectomy procedure as a main therapy must be radical as far as possible to the extent that the tumor can be resected within healthy tissue but the goal is to preserve the largest possible function of the organ. The most often complication is pharyngocutaneous fistula.Summary: The laryngectomy is the main method of therapy of the laryngeal cancer. it is a mutilating and often speech-depriving procedure but medicine has now many solutions for this kind of patients.
Arthroscopic Bone Grafting and Kirschner-Wires Fixation for Scaphoid Nonunion
Authors: Lee Young Keun , Jeon Mooheon , Lee Ha Song
Published: May 2020

Various surgical techniques, such as corticocancellous or cancellous bone graft and other vascularized bone grafting techniques have been developed to treat scaphoid nonunion. However, open grafting with dissection of wrist capsule and ligaments damages the joint and hence can lead to increased stiffness of the wrist and hand. Arthroscopic assisted bone grafting and percutaneous fixation have advantages such as minimal surgical trauma to the scaphoid blood supply and its ligament connection and provide a thorough wrist assessment, comprehensive approach for scaphoid nonunion and its sequelae in a minimally invasive manner. This article briefly discusses the characteristic anatomy of the wrist and scaphoid, and reviews the technique of arthroscopic bone grafting and percutaneous fixation for the treatment of scaphoid nonunion.
Shareholder Wealth Effects of Modern Slavery Regulation
Authors: Cousins Paul , Dutordoir Marie , Lawson Benn , Neto João Quariguasi Frota
Published: May 2020

We examine the shareholder wealth effects of the adoption of the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015 (MSA). The MSA’s Transparency in Supply Chains clause introduced new reporting requirements mandating certain firms to provide an annual statement outlining how they identify and mitigate modern slavery in their business and supply chain. An event study of stock price reactions of UK firms covered by the MSA to eight events associated with its adoption provides no evidence of abnormal stock returns. We do, however, uncover significant cross-sectional differences in stock price reactions, with results suggesting that the MSA provides a competitive advantage to firms with a demonstrated track record of addressing slavery risk. We find no effects for preregulatory corporate social responsibility disclosure levels on stock price reactions. Our findings highlight the economic value of maintaining socially responsible sourcing practices and inform the current policy debate on the importance of greater transparency in corporate supply chains.

This paper was accepted by Gad Allon, operations management.
Informed Trading Reactions to New Private Information: Evidence from Nonpublic Merger Negotiations
Authors: Heitzman Shane , Klasa Sandy
Published: May 2020

Theory provides competing predictions on whether informed investors immediately trade on newly generated private information. We address this question using Securities and Exchange Commission–mandated disclosures to identify the dates when new private information about target or acquiring firm value is created. We find that informed investors immediately trade on new private information in both the stock and options markets. Next, we investigate which factors drive the speed of these investors’ trading reactions to newly generated private information. We show that cross-sectional variation in the speed of their trading reactions can be explained by the number of privately informed investors, institutional ownership, the expected profits from informed trading and associated risk of attracting the attention of enforcement agencies, and the existence of public information about the acquisition deal.

This paper was accepted by David Simchi-Levi, finance.
Tecnologia educativa sobre cuidados domiciliares com o recém-nascido de baixo risco [Educational technology on home care for low-risk newborns] [Tecnología educativa sobre atención domiciliaria para recién nacidos de bajo riesgo]
Authors: Santos Andressa Silva Torres dos , Góes Fernanda Garcia Bezerra , Ledo Beatriz Cabral , Silva Liliane Faria da , Bastos Mayara Pacheco da Conceição , Silva Maria Da Anunciação
Published: May 2020

Objetivos: identificar dúvidas de puérperas e familiares sobre cuidados domiciliares com o recém-nascido de baixo risco e analisar a roda de conversa, mediada por simulador realístico de baixa fidelidade, como uma tecnologia educativa para o preparo de famílias no processo de alta da maternidade. Método: pesquisa qualitativa, incluindo dezenove familiares de recém-nascidos de baixo risco em um hospital municipal de Rio das Ostras, Rio de Janeiro, de maio a outubro de 2018, por entrevista semiestruturada. Dados submetidos à Análise Temática. Resultados: as dúvidas dos familiares versaram sobre cuidados com higiene, alimentação, ambiente, afeto, saúde, sono e doenças. A roda de conversa com simulador de baixa fidelidade foi considerada uma estratégia positiva para mediar o aprendizado. Conclusão: a tecnologia educativa revelou-se útil na instrumentalização de famílias no processo de alta da maternidade, visto que o cuidador fortalece suas potencialidades, retira dúvidas e troca informações e experiências no grupo.
Gene Co-expression Network Analysis Associated with Acupuncture Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Animal Model
Authors: Ravn Dea Louise , Mohammadnejad Afsaneh , Sabaredzovic Kemal , Li Weilong , Lund Jesper , Li Shuxia , Svendsen Anders Jørgen , Schwämmle Veit , Tan Qihua
Published: May 2020

Background: Classical acupuncture is being used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). To explore the biological response to acupuncture, a network-based analysis was performed on gene expression data collected from an animal model of RA treated with acupuncture.Methods: Gene expression data were obtained from published microarray studies on blood samples from rats with collagen induced arthritis (CIA) and non-CIA rats, both treated with manual acupuncture. The weighted gene co-expression network analysis was performed to identify gene clusters expressed in association with acupuncture treatment time and RA status. Gene ontology and pathway analyses were applied for functional annotation and network visualization.Results: A cluster of 347 genes were identified that differentially downregulated expression in association with acupuncture treatment over time; specifically in rats with CIA with module-RA correlation at 1 hour after acupuncture (-0.27; p < 0.001) and at 34 days after acupuncture (-0.33; p < 0.001). Functional annotation showed highly significant enrichment of porphyrin-containing compound biosynthetic processes (p < 0.001). The network-based analysis also identified a module of 140 genes differentially expressed between CIA and non-CIA in rats (p < 0.001). This cluster of genes was enriched for antigen processing and presentation of exogenous peptide antigen (p < 0.001). Other functional gene clusters previously reported in earlier studies were also observed.
Conclusion: The identified gene expression networks and their hub-genes could help with the understanding of mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of RA, as well understanding the effects of acupuncture treatment of RA.
Clinical Study of Acupotomy Treatment for Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Fu Xinyi , Lee Mira , Guo Changqing
Published: May 2020

Background: Compared with conventional closed therapy, acupotomy has the advantages of lower cost, convenient application, and better single and long-term effects. The aim of this study was to explore the clinical effect of acupotomy in the treatment of Tarsal Tunnel syndrome.Methods: There were 80 patients enrolled into the study who were randomly assigned to either the acupotomy or closed therapy group, with 40 patients in each group. The acupotomy group was treated once every 6 days, on 3 occasions for the duration of treatment, and the closed therapy group was treated twice a week, for 3 weeks as the course of treatment. The effects of treatment were analyzed and evaluated according to the standard of curative effect.Results: The “cure rate” of the number of patients in the acupotomy group whose symptoms had completely disappeared (13 patient out of 39) was higher than the closed therapy group (1 patient out of 39), and this difference was significant (p < 0.01). The number of patients in the acupotomy group who did not benefit from the therapy (5 patients) was significantly lower than the closed therapy group (15 patients; p < 0.05). The total number of patients in the acupotomy group who benefitted from the therapy (34 patients) resulted in an effective rate of 87.18%, which was higher than the closed therapy group (24 patients; 61.53%). The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Acupotomy is effective in the treatment of Tarsal Tunnel syndrome, was superior to traditional closed therapy, and is worthy of clinical application.
Electroacupuncture Treatment for Women with Primary Obesity: A Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Lee Soo Jin , Oh Da Yoon , Park Jae Eun , Lee Min Cheol , Jeon Myung Kyu , Jang Yeong Suk , Kim Hyeon Jin , Ahn Jae Young , Hong Noo ri , Kim Woo Young
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this review was to evaluate the effectiveness of electroacupuncture treatment for women with “primary obesity.” Primary obesity is caused by an imbalance in energy intake and consumption due to abnormal eating and living habits in the absence of specific diseases causing the obesity. A literature review (up to December 2019) of randomized controlled trials (RCT) of electroacupuncture treatment for women with “primary obesity” was performed. Relevant clinical studies were retrieved from several databases, and interventions and results were analyzed. There were 6 RCT that fitted the inclusion criteria for this review. The intervention for the treatment group of the selected 6 RCT was electrical stimulation applied to acupoints. Interventions for the control groups included non-treatment, general acupuncture, and so on. Indicators for assessing treatment effects varied from study to study. Four out of 5 studies used body mass index (BMI) as an assessment tool and showed a significant decrease in BMI following electroacupuncture treatment. There were 4 studies using waist circumference as an indicator of abdominal obesity and these studies showed a significant decrease in waist circumference following electroacupuncture treatment. Electroacupuncture treatment used in primary obese women had a clinically significant effect, however, further RCT are needed.
D-shaped silicon core fiber-based surface plasmon-resonance refractive index sensor in 2  µm
Authors: Yu Yi-Lin , Laiw Shien-Kuei , Kishikawa Hiroki , Goto Nobuo
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we propose a D-shaped silicon core fiber sensor based on surface plasmon resonance within the 2 µm range. Au layer coating on the D-shaped side-face of silicon core fiber acts as a plasmonic active metal. By using the limited element methods, the sensing properties of the proposed sensor are investigated, and an average sensitivity up to 2650 nm/RIU with a resolution of

3.776

×

10

−
5

R
I
U

is obtained for the analyte of different refractive indices varies from 1.25 to 1.6. In the investigated simulation, we used real parameters of liquid (e.g., 

C
H

4

liquid and

C
H
B
r

3

) in our simulations for being closer to reality. In addition, the Au coating layer and analyte are placed on the D-shaped side-face of the proposed fiber sensor; hence, this structure does not need to fill the voids. Thus, it is easy to fabricate and put to use. Also, the wavelength band in 2 µm is far from the optical communication band, which means the proposed sensor could be connected with a fiber network without any influence and crosstalk.
6.5  m telescope for multi-object spectroscopy over a 3° field of view
Authors: Eads Ryker , Angel Roger
Published: May 2020

Multi-object spectroscopy via independently positioned optical fibers is of growing importance in many research areas in astronomy. Currently the most powerful instrument of this type is the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI), now being commissioned at the 3.8 m Mayall telescope. It has a 3.2° field of view where spectra of 5000 different objects may be recorded simultaneously. Here we present an optical design for a two-mirror 6.5 m telescope with 3.0° field of view, for an etendue 2.6 times larger than for DESI. The images are at

f

/

3.7

for fiber matching, and —averaged over the field and elevations down to 40°—have a diameter of 0.53 arcsec for 80% encircled energy. We outline methods capable of polishing and testing the 1.56 m diameter gull-wing lens of the wide field corrector. If a 2 m diameter lens could be made, the same design could be scaled up to an 8.4 m primary for a 4.3-fold etendue advantage.
Geometry effects on luminescence solar concentrator efficiency: analytical treatment
Authors: Sychugov Ilya
Published: May 2020

Luminescence solar concentrators act as semitransparent photovoltaic cells of interest for modern urban environments. Here, their efficiencies were analytically derived for different regular unit shapes as simple, integral-free expressions. This allowed analysis of the shape and size effect on the device performance. All regular shapes appear to have a similar efficiency as revealed by optical path distribution formulas, despite differences in the perimeter length. Rectangles of the same area feature higher efficiency due to reduced average optical path. It comes with the cost of a longer perimeter, and the relation between these two is provided. An explicit formula for the critical size of an LSC unit, above which its inner part becomes inactive, has been obtained. For square geometry with matrix absorption coefficient

α

this critical size is

∼

2.7

/

α

, corresponding to 70–90 cm for common polymer materials. Obtained results can be used for treatment of individual units as well as for analysis of tiling for large areas.
Polarization method for imaging through the water surface
Authors: Dolin L. S. , Turlaev D. G.
Published: May 2020

The possibility of improving imaging of the bottom of a water body by suppressing an inhomogeneous light background that occurs as a result of skylight reflection from the water surface and being superimposed on the bottom image is theoretically studied. It is shown that the radiance of this background can be reduced by a polarization filter and the correct choice of the imaging direction. It has been determined how the optimal directions of the bottom imaging with a Polaroid and without it depend on the Sun’s position. The possibility of expanding the bottom swath by about 2 times due to joint use of its imaging facilities in polarized and nonpolarized light is proved. Photographs that demonstrate the effect of improving the bottom imaging with a Polaroid are presented.
Two-dimensional peripheral refraction and retinal image quality in orthokeratology lens wearers
Authors: Lin Zhenghua , Duarte-Toledo Raul , Manzanera Silvestre , Lan Weizhong , Artal Pablo , Yang Zhikuan
Published: May 2020

Orthokeratology (O-K) is a common procedure that uses rigid contact lenses to reshape the cornea while worn overnight. Beyond the correction of refractive error, it has been suggested that this approach can also be used to reduce myopia progression, possibly because it induces changes in peripheral optics. As this hypothesis remains unproven, the aim of the present study was to explore changes in peripheral retinal optical quality in a group of myopic children following O-K treatment. We provide a comprehensive description of optical characteristics in a group of myopes before and after achieving stable corneal reshaping using overnight O-K lenses. These characteristics extended across the central visual field (60° horizontal x 36° vertical) as measured with a custom Hartmman-Shack wavefront sensor. After corneal reshaping, peripheral refraction was found to be asymmetrically distributed, with a myopic relative refraction of approximately 3D in the temporal retina. Astigmatism and higher order aberrations also increased in the temporal side. Based on corneal topography following treatment, subjects were divided into two groups: Centred Treatment (CT, decentration ∈ [−0.5 + 0.5] mm) and Slightly Decentred Treatment (subjects with more decentred lenses). The process was also modelled by ray-tracing simulation. The results indicate that increased myopia in the temporal retina is caused by the decentration of lenses towards the temporal side. Peripheral optics differ significantly following O-K lens treatment, but further research is required to determine whether this is likely to affect myopia progression.
Enhancing the lateral current injection by modulating the doping type in the p-type hole injection layer for InGaN/GaN vertical cavity surface emitting lasers
Authors: Qiu Xuejiao , Zhang Yonghui , Hang Sheng , Gao Yuanbin , Kou Jianquan , Tian Kangkai , Zheng Quan , Li Qing , Zhang Zi-Hui
Published: May 2020

In this report, we propose GaN-based vertical cavity surface emitting lasers with a p-GaN/n-GaN/p-GaN (PNP-GaN) structured current spreading layer. The PNP-GaN current spreading layer can generate the energy band barrier in the valence band because of the modulated doping type, which is able to favor the current spreading into the aperture. By using the PNP-GaN current spreading layer, the thickness for the optically absorptive ITO current spreading layer can be reduced to decrease internal loss and then enhance the lasing power. Furthermore, we investigate the impact of the doping concentration, the thickness and the position for the inserted n-GaN layer on the lateral hole confinement capability, the lasing power, and the optimization strategy. Our investigations also report that the optimized PNP-GaN structure will suppress the thermal droop of the lasing power for our proposed VCSELs.
Fast beam steering with an optical phased array
Authors: Gozzard David R. , Roberts Lyle E. , Spollard James T. , Sibley Paul G. , Shaddock Daniel A.
Published: May 2020

Optical phased arrays (OPAs) are devices that use the coherence of light to control the interference pattern in the far field, which enables them to steer a laser beam with no moving parts. As such, OPAs have potential applications in laser communications, target acquisition and tracking, metrology, and directed energy. In this Letter, we present a control architecture for an actively phase-locked OPA, capable of steering a laser beam at speeds limited by the actuation bandwidth of electro-optic modulators. The system achieved an output phase stability of

λ

/

770

and steering speeds up to 1 MHz. The digital control architecture can be extended to GHz steering speeds, is readily scalable to hundreds of emitters, and is compatible with high-power arrays.
Tunable UV spectrometer for Doppler broadening thermometry of mercury
Authors: Clivati Cecilia , Gravina Stefania , Castrillo Antonio , Costanzo Giovanni A. , Levi Filippo , Gianfrani Livio
Published: May 2020

We realized a UV laser spectrometer at 253.7 nm for Doppler broadening thermometry on the

1

S

0

−
3

P

1

intercombination line in mercury vapors. Our setup is based on the two-stage duplication of a 1014.8 nm diode laser in a fiber-coupled periodically poled lithium niobate waveguide crystal and a beta-barium borate crystal in enhancement cavity, and we exploit injection locking of a 507.4 nm diode laser to boost the available optical power after the first duplication. Our setup addresses spectroscopic features that allow the thermodynamic temperature determination of the atomic sample from the absorption profile with

10

−
6

accuracy. The realized UV laser source has

1
×

10

−
4

relative intensity stability, Gaussian shape, and over 10 GHz mode-hop-free tunable range. These features are crucial for the practical realization of the kelvin in the new International System of Units through a spectroscopic technique.
Large-scale multiplexed weak reflector array fabricated with a femtosecond laser for a fiber-optic quasi-distributed acoustic sensing system
Authors: Wu Mengshi , Li Chi , Fan Xinyu , Liao Changrui , He Zuyaun
Published: May 2020

In this Letter, we propose a large-scale multiplexed weak reflector array fabrication method by using a femtosecond laser with relatively high reflectivity and low transmission loss. This kind of weak reflector array can be used in a quasi-distributed acoustic sensing system as sensing fiber instead of single-mode fiber (SMF) to achieve an ultrahigh signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). An automated fabrication system is designed, and a reflector geometric structure with high reflectivity and low scattering loss is designed based on this system. As a prototype to demonstrate the performance, one thousand weak reflectors are written on the SMF with an interval of 10 m, a reflectivity around

−

42

d
B

, and a transmission loss of 0.34 dB/km. In comparison to the method of using SMF as the sensing fiber, at least 15.8 dB enhancement to the SNR can be achieved by using the reflector array as the sensing fiber.
Nonlinear time-lens with improved power efficiency through a discrete multilevel pump
Authors: Fernández Manuel P. , Romero Cortés Luis , Konatham Saikrishna R. , Crockett Benjamin , Bulus-Rossini Laureano A. , Costanzo-Caso Pablo A. , Azaña José
Published: May 2020

We report a novel, to the best of our knowledge, all-optical discrete multilevel time-lens (DM-TL) design based on cross-phase modulation (XPM). In this approach, the pump is synthesized such as the quadratic phase modulation is applied to the probe in constant-level time-bins with a maximum phase excursion of

2

π

. As a result, a considerable reduction in the required pump power is achieved in comparison to the conventional approach based on a parabolic pump. To illustrate the concept, the proposed DM-TL is here applied to the energy-preserving conversion of a continuous-wave (CW) signal into a train of pulses according to the theory of temporal Talbot array illuminators. We demonstrate CW-to-pulse conversion gains up to 12 at repetition rates exceeding 16 GHz, with a power saving with respect to the conventional parabolic TL that is more significant for increasing conversion gains.
Single-frequency Q-switched Er:YAG laser with high frequency and energy stability via the Pound–Drever–Hall locking method
Authors: Chen ChaoYong , Wang Qing , Huang Shuai , Zhang Xu , Wang KaiXin , Gao MingWei , Gao ChunQing
Published: May 2020

We present an injection-seeding

Q

-switched 1645 nm Er:YAG ceramic laser with high frequency stability and energy stability by combining the injection-seeding technique and Pound–Drever–Hall technique. 10.31 mJ single-frequency pulses with optimal frequency stability (525 kHz) and relative energy stability (0.52%) at a high pulse repetition rate of 1 kHz are obtained. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest frequency stability and energy stability so far in a high pulse repetition frequency, large pulse energy, single-frequency

Q

-switched Er-doped solid laser. This single frequency laser with high stability provides an excellent light source for a coherent lidar system.
Cross-phase modulation instability in PM ANDi fiber-based supercontinuum generation
Authors: Genier Etienne , Ghosh Amar N. , Bobba Swetha , Bowen Patrick , Moselund Peter M. , Bang Ole , Dudley John M. , Sylvestre Thibaut
Published: May 2020

We demonstrate broadband supercontinuum generation in an all-normal dispersion polarization-maintaining photonic crystal fiber and report the observation of a cross-phase modulation instability sideband generated outside of the supercontinuum bandwidth. We demonstrate that this sideband is polarized on the slow axis and can be suppressed by pumping on the fiber’s fast axis. We theoretically confirm and model this nonlinear process using phase-matching conditions and numerical simulations, obtaining good agreement with the measured data.
Plasmonic resonance-linewidth shrinkage to boost biosensing
Authors: Gao Min , Yang Weimin , Wang Zhengying , Lin Shaowei , Zhu Jinfeng , Yang Zhilin
Published: May 2020

Coupling effects of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) induce changes in the wavelength, intensity, and linewidth of plasmonic modes. Here, inspired by coupling effects, we reveal an abrupt linewidth-shrinking effect in 2D gold nanohole arrays at the azimuthal angle of 45° arising from the interference of two degenerate SPR modes. We further demonstrate the biosensing capability under various excitation conditions for detecting the critical molecular biomarker of prostatic carcinoma, and achieve the maximum sensitivity at this angle. Our study not only enhances the understanding toward plasmonic resonance-linewidth shrinking, but also provides a promising strategy to greatly improve biosensing performance by light manipulation on plasmonic nanostructures.
Triple-cation perovskite solar cells for visible light communications
Authors: Mica Natalie A. , Bian Rui , Manousiadis Pavlos , Jagadamma Lethy K. , Tavakkolnia Iman , Haas Harald , Turnbull Graham A. , Samuel Ifor D. W.
Published: May 2020

Hybrid perovskite materials are widely researched due to their high absorptivity, inexpensive synthesis, and promise in photovoltaic devices. These materials are also of interest as highly sensitive photodetectors. In this study, their potential for use in visible light communication is explored in a configuration that allows for simultaneous energy and data harvesting. Using a triple-cation material and appropriate device design, a new record data rate for perovskite photodetectors of 56 Mbps and power conversion efficiencies above 20% under white LED illumination are achieved. With this device design, the

−
3
  
dB

bandwidth is increased by minimizing the dominating time constant of the system. This correlation between the bandwidth and time constant is proved using measurements of time-resolved photoluminescence, transient photovoltage, and device resistance.
Afterword: The British Monarchy and Brexit
Authors: Polland Imke
Published: May 2020

Imke Polland's Afterword - building on socio-political debates in 2019 - offers thoughts on the role of the British royals in current times of uncertainty, particularly in the context of ongoing Brexit negotiations based on a review of recent British media coverage. Her article discusses newspaper's conjectures about Queen Elizabeth's alleged views on the referendum and it looks at the travels of royal heirs to European countries in the aftermath of the referendum as prime examples of the exertion of royal soft power influence. Its main argument is that by being illusive, the monarchy accumulates and upholds its symbolic relevance. As questions of national identity and the meanings of Britishness have been asked anew on occasion of the Brexit referendum debate, the role of the monarchy within conceptions of national identity are and will be renegotiated, too. This contribution addresses questions about the monarchy's possible roles, functions, and meanings in (post-)Brexit Britain.
Wissenschaftsmuseen
Authors: Kohl Stefanie
Published: May 2020

Das Museum ist ein Ort des Wissens. Doch dieses Wissen entsteht erst durch die dort ausgestellten Exponate (die einzelnen Dinge) sowie die Art und Weise ihrer Inszenierung. Anhand der beispielhaft ausgewählten Wissenschaftsmuseen »Berliner Medizinhistorisches Museum der Charité« und der Londoner »Wellcome Collection« analysiert Stefanie Kohl die Zusammenhänge von Ding, Inszenierung und Wissen. Das Wissen wird dabei als eine sich stetig transformierende Form der Wirklichkeitswahrnehmung verstanden. Das Museum - und insbesondere die museale Ausstellung - kann somit als Medium des Wandels von Wissen betrachtet werden.
Poop Feminism - Fäkalkomik als weibliche Selbstermächtigung
Authors: Balke Gregor
Published: May 2020

Fäkalkomik galt lange Zeit als männliche Domäne. Doch inzwischen entwerfen Komikerinnen wie Amy Schumer oder Rachel Bloom ganz eigene Perspektiven und Deutungsrahmen eines weiblichen Fäkalhumors. Unter dem Schlagwort »Poop Feminism« unterzieht Gregor Balke die semantischen Konturen dieser Komik mit Körperflüssigkeiten einer originellen Lesart des Populären und deutet sie als neues und subversives Mittel weiblicher Selbstermächtigung. In der mit ihren leiblichen Eskapaden inszenierten Frau, die hier als populärkulturelle persona in Erscheinung tritt, wird so eine Reflexionsfigur der Gegenwart greifbar, die das bekannte Missverhältnis der Geschlechter von einer durchaus unerwarteten Seite her zurechtzurücken vermag.