bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploration on sagittal alignment and clinical outcomes after consecutive three-level hybrid surgery and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: a minimum of a 5-year follow-up
Authors: Xu Shuai , Liang Yan , Yu Guanjie , Zhu Zhenqi , Wang Kaifeng , Liu Haiying
Published: February 2020

Purpose

To compare sagittal alignment and clinical outcomes between three-level hybrid surgery (HS) and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) on cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) over a 5-year follow-up.

Method

The study included 32 patients with ACDF, 36 patients with 1 prosthesis and 2 cages (HS1 group), and 25 cases with 2 prostheses and 1 cage (HS2 group). Alignment parameters included C2–C7 cervical lordosis (CL), C2–C7 sagittal vertical axis (SVA), T1 slope (T1S), and T1S minus CL (T1SCL). Radiographic parameters were range of motion (ROM), upper and lower adjacent ROM (UROM and LROM), and operated-segment lordosis (OPCL), as well as adjacent segment degeneration (ASD). Clinical outcomes included the neck disability index (NDI) and Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score.

Results

Three groups were well-matched in demographics. All groups gained comparable improvement on NDI and JOA (P < 0.01). All groups gained CL improvement at the final visit (P < 0.05). There were no statistical differences on SVA and T1SCL among the groups and among preoperation, 1 week later, and final follow-up (P > 0.05) while T1S improved at 1 week later and final follow-up with HS2. The final change of all alignment parameters among the three groups was of no differences. ROM decreased and OPCL increased in all groups at the final follow-up (P < 0.05). UROM and LROM increased with ACDF but kept stable with HS1 and HS2. There was no inter-group difference on the incidence of ASD (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Cervical alignment was comparably improved. HS and ACDF provided identified mid-term efficacy, and it was not necessary to have to use prosthesis on three-level CSM.
Male and LGBT survivors of sexual violence in conflict situations: a realist review of health interventions in low-and middle-income countries
Authors: Kiss Ligia , Quinlan-Davidson Meaghen , Pasquero Laura , Tejero Patricia Ollé , Hogg Charu , Theis Joachim , Park Andrew , Zimmerman Cathy , Hossain Mazeda
Published: February 2020

Conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) against women and girls has been the subject of increasing research and scholarship. Less is known about the health of men, boys and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) and other gender non-binary persons who survive CRSV. This paper is the first systematic realist review on medical, mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) interventions that focusses on male and LGBT survivors of CRSV. The review explores the gender differences in context, mechanisms and outcomes that underpin interventions addressing the health and psychosocial wellbeing of male and LGBT survivors. The aim is to contribute to the design and delivery of gender-sensitive and, when needed, gender-specific approaches for interventions that respond to specific needs of different groups of all survivors. We conducted a systematic search of academic and grey literature to identify medical and MHPSS interventions that included men, boys and LGBT survivors. We identified interventions specifically targeting women and girls that we used as comparators. We then purposively sampled studies from the fields of gender and health, and sexual abuse against men and LGBT people for theory building and testing. We identified 26 evaluations of interventions for survivors of CRSV. Nine studies included male survivors, twelve studies focussed exclusively on female survivors and one study targeted children and adolescents. No intervention evaluation focussed on LGBT survivors of CRSV. The interventions that included male survivors did not describe specific components for this population. Results of intervention evaluations that included male survivors were not disaggregated by gender, and some studies did not report the gender composition. Although some mental health and psychosocial consequences of sexual violence against men and boys may be similar among male and female survivors, the way each process trauma, display symptoms, seek help, adhere to treatment and improve their mental health differ by gender. Initiatives targeting male and LGBT survivors of CRSV need to be designed to actively address specific gender differences in access, adherence and response to MHPSS interventions. Models of care that are gender-sensitive and integrated to local resources are promising avenues to promote the health of male and LGBT survivors of CRSV.
Effects of moving cupping therapy for plaque psoriasis: study protocol for a randomized multicenter clinical trial
Authors: Xing Meng , Yan Xiaoning , Yang Suqing , Li Linge , Gong Liping , Liu Hongxia , Xu Rong , Chen Jie , Ying Luo , Zhao Yiding , An Yuepeng , Liu Yang , Huang Gang , Guo Fei , Yin Qingfeng , Wang Ruiping , Li Bin , Li Xin
Published: February 2020

Background

It is difficult to achieve a balance among safety, efficacy, and cost for the clinical treatment of plaque psoriasis. The current treatment of psoriasis often involves comprehensive therapy such as topical plasters, internal medicine, and phototherapy, which are expensive, and some of the drugs have serious side effects. Moving cupping is a type of cupping that has been used clinically for thousands of years in China. It has the advantage of being inexpensive and easy to perform. Therefore, it is widely used in public hospitals in China for psoriasis treatment. However, a comprehensive evaluation of the current clinical evidence of its efficacy is lacking. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of moving cupping to treat plaque psoriasis.

Methods

A multicenter, two-arm parallel group, single-blind, randomized, controlled trial will be conducted at six hospitals in China between August 1, 2019 and December 31, 2021. A total of 122 adult patients (aged 18–65 years) who meet the inclusion criteria are being recruited. Participants will receive either basic treatment combined with moving cupping therapy or basic treatment combined with moving cupping placebo. The treatment cycle will be 4 weeks, and the efficacy of treatment will be assessed weekly by the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index during the treatment period and follow-up visits at weeks 6 and 8. The body surface area, physician’s global assessment, Dermatology Life Quality Index, patient-reported quality of life, visual analog scale, Traditional Chinese Medication syndrome scoring scale, combined medication, and adverse events will also be recorded and compared to the relative baseline values.

Discussion

The findings of this trial may lead to better decisions regarding the treatment of plaque psoriasis. If the trial outcomes are considered favorable, this ancient Chinese medical therapy may be worthy of widespread use because of its convenience and low cost.

Trial registration

This study was registered on May 15,2019 at ClinicalTrials.gov with the identifier number NCT03952676.
Protein-based biorefining driven by nitrogen-responsive transcriptional machinery
Authors: Ma Lianjie , Guo Liwei , Yang Yunpeng , Guo Kai , Yan Yajun , Ma Xiaoyan , Huo Yi-Xin
Published: February 2020

Background

Protein-based bioconversion has been demonstrated as a sustainable approach to produce higher alcohols and ammonia fertilizers. However, owing to the switchover from transcription mediated by the bacterial RNA polymerase σ70 to that mediated by alternative σ factors, the biofuel production driven by σ70-dependent promoters declines rapidly once cells enter the stationary phase or encounter stresses. To enhance biofuel production, in this study the growth phase-independent and nitrogen-responsive transcriptional machinery mediated by the σ54 is exploited to drive robust protein-to-fuel conversion.

Results

We demonstrated that disrupting the Escherichia coli ammonia assimilation pathways driven by glutamate dehydrogenase and glutamine synthetase could sustain the activity of σ54-mediated transcription under ammonia-accumulating conditions. In addition, two σ54-dependent promoters, argTp and glnAp2, were identified as suitable candidates for driving pathway expression. Using these promoters, biofuel production from proteins was shown to persist to the stationary phase, with the net production in the stationary phase being 1.7-fold higher than that derived from the optimal reported σ70-dependent promoter PLlacO1. Biofuel production reaching levels 1.3- to 3.4-fold higher than those of the σ70-dependent promoters was also achieved by argTp and glnAp2 under stressed conditions. Moreover, the σ54-dependent promoters realized more rapid and stable production than that of σ70-dependent promoters during fed-batch fermentation, producing up to 4.78 g L − 1 of total biofuels.

Conclusions

These results suggested that the nitrogen-responsive transcriptional machinery offers the potential to decouple production from growth, highlighting this system as a novel candidate to realize growth phase-independent and stress-resistant biofuel production.
Prognosis after autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation for osteonecrosis of the femoral head in the pre-collapse stage: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Pan Jiafei , Ding Quanwei , Lv Shuaijie , Xia Bingjiang , Jin Hongting , Chen Di , Xiao Luwei , Tong Peijian
Published: February 2020

Objectives

Autologous peripheral blood stem cell (auto-PBSC) transplantation is an effective therapeutic for the osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) but without prognosis estimation. This study mainly aimed to (1) determine whether auto-PBSC transplantation is a promising option, (2) assess the risk of hip-preservation failure, (3) achieve a predictive model of femoral head survival after the intervention, and (4) eventually identify clinical indications for auto-PBSC transplantation in future.

Methods

After reviewing the in-patient database of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medicine University from June 2012 to June 2014, 37 eligible patients with Association Research Circulation Osseous stage I or II ONFH who were receiving intra-arterial infusion of auto-PBSCs were recruited. A case form was designed to retrieve relevant data. Hip-preservation failure was defined as the endpoint. All participants were stratified by the categorical risk of collapse, which was statistically tested through log-rank analysis. All significant factors were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards regression model, and a predictive nomogram plot was generated.

Results

In total, 47 hips were followed up for 53.96 ± 21.09 months; the median survival time was 60.18 months. Among the predictors, body mass index (BMI; P = 0.0015) and Harris hip score (HHS; P < 0.0001) independently affected femoral head survival. Patients with BMI ≥ 24 kg/m2 exhibited a 2.58 times higher risk of hip-preservation failure [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.32–5.45] than those with BMI < 24 kg/m2, whereas those with HHS ≥ 70 exhibited a 0.19 times lower risk (95% CI, 0.09–0.38) than those with HHS < 70. Hazard ratios associated with age (P = 0.042), BMI (P = 0.012), HHS (P = 0.022), and necrotic volume (P = 0.000) were 1.038 (95% CI, 1.001–1.075), 1.379 (95% CI, 1.072–1.773), 0.961 (95% CI, 0.928–0.994), and 1.258 (95% CI, 1.120–1.412), respectively. A nomogram plot (score test P = 0.000; C-index = 0.8863) was available for the orthopedic doctor to predict hip survival probability.

Conclusions

The results suggest that intra-arterial infusion of auto-PBSCs prolongs femoral head survival. Age, BMI, HHS, and necrotic volume can influence the efficacy of this intervention.

This study was approved by ethics committee of the trial center, number 2019-KL-075-01.
Global existence and exponential decay of strong solutions for the three-dimensional Boussinesq equations
Authors: Shang Zhaoyang , Tang Fuquan
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we consider the global existence of strong solutions to the three-dimensional Boussinesq equations on the smooth bounded domain Ω. Based on the blow-up criterion and uniform estimates, we prove that the strong solution exists globally in time if the initial $L^{2}$L2-norm of velocity and temperature are small. Moreover, an exponential decay rate of the strong solution is obtained.
Sustainability evaluation of community-based, solar photovoltaic projects in Malawi
Authors: Dauenhauer Peter M. , Frame Damien , Eales Aran , Strachan Scott , Galloway Stuart , Buckland Hannah
Published: February 2020

Background

A novel project sustainability framework is used to evaluate 65 off-grid solar photovoltaic (PV) energy system projects in Malawi. This study addresses PV projects serving rural public facilities, a solution known to have had historical issues with poor sustainability. A recent countrywide program targeting such facilities was evaluated against existing projects to determine whether this latest iteration offered better results.

Method

Sustainability is defined at the project-level with metrics justified under the main themes of technical, economic, social, and organizational. Data captured for each project is based on a custom survey and interview of key stakeholders. Projects are grouped according to age, project implementer, income level, and PV system size to compare relative results.

Results

The sustainability outlook for each project is evaluated. We find sustainability for most projects to be low. Social sustainability was weak with many projects due to low local community stakeholder engagement in terms of numbers of stakeholders, meeting frequency, and community contributions. Organizational challenges included a lack of key management positions in place and extremely limited training provisions. Furthermore, the evaluation highlights the economic health of the system to be key to sustainability, with the “healthiest” projects affording only 37% of expected operations and maintenance costs. Relative to expected demand, systems were found to be undersized for both panels (53% of required) and batteries (57%). Users reported achieving only 60% of their desired consumption. Poor sizing standards related to the lack of load profiles for first-time electricity users as well as poor quality components reduced the overall technical sustainability.

Conclusion

Rural public facilities with solar PV in Malawi are not well served by isolated community management. Improved sustainability requires the establishment of a robust financial framework prior to project development that includes formal local government support. This paper discusses ideal management frameworks and their ultimate implications for project developers, policy makers, and the research community.
Coseismic changes in groundwater level during the 2018 Hokkaido Eastern Iburi earthquake
Authors: Shibata Tomo , Takahashi Ryo , Takahashi Hiroaki , Kagoshima Takanori , Takahata Naoto , Sano Yuji , Pinti Daniele L.
Published: February 2020

Six wells were continuously monitored in Hokkaido, northern Japan, to relate groundwater level changes to regional seismic activity. Groundwater level changes following the 2018 Hokkaido Eastern Iburi earthquake were detected in three of the six wells, even though they are located hundreds of kilometers from the epicenter. The groundwater level changes are qualitatively consistent with the volumetric strain induced by the earthquake. We analyzed groundwater level responses to the M2tidal constituent before and after the earthquake, but related changes in amplitude and phase shifts remained within the usual variation. Observed coseismic change was explained by the response to the M2tidal constituent component and the calculated volumetric strain for one of the wells, where groundwater level decreased. The observed change in the other two was found to be much greater than the corresponding estimates of the volumetric strain.
Anesthetic management of a child with catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia undergoing insertion of implantable cardioverter defibrillator : a case report
Authors: Omiya Keisuke , Mitsui Kazuha , Matsukawa Takashi
Published: February 2020

Background

Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) is a fatal cardiac ion channelopathy that causes sudden unexpected death in the young.

Case presentation

The patient was a 3-year-old girl with CPVT. Insertion of an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) using epicardial pacing was scheduled. After premedication of rectal midazolam was given, general anesthesia was induced with midazolam, fentanyl, and rocuronium, and maintained with midazolam, fentanyl, remifentanil, and rocuronium. The operation was performed without any complications. Dexmedetomidine and fentanyl were continuously infused after the operation until she was extubated in the morning of postoperative day 1. Fatal arrhythmia due to perioperative stress did not occur.

Conclusions

We report the anesthetic management of a child with CPVT who underwent insertion of an ICD. CPVT-induced fatal arrhythmia did not occur perioperatively by carefully avoiding perioperative stress with premedication and post-operative sedation.
Ventral sculpting decompression: a novel bone scalpel-based technique in thoracic ventral stenosis/kyphosis with myelopathy
Authors: Krishnan Ajay , Patil Sameer , Reddy Chaitanya , Mayi Shivanand , Degulmadi Devanand , Rai Ravi Ranjan , Dave Bharat R.
Published: February 2020

Background

Thoracic kyphosis is not so uncommon, which presents with devastating myelopathy. In the past, the surgical treatment for it had been somewhat controversial. Traditionally, it had been addressed by open decompression and stabilization with significant dissection and disruption of normal tissues and complications.

Main body

Recently, correction techniques have evolved as the standard of care. A substantial body of evidence now supports the benefits of correction but can be questioned in view of the fact that upper dorsal kyphosis is never a cosmetic concern in our part of the world. New technique has reduced complications, but it is not solely due to the technique but due to accessory gadgets like O-arm, navigation, and IONM making it safer. We describe a method of 360° decompression alone with the use of an Ultrasonic Bone Scalpel (UBS) that preserves maximum bony stability and achieves an optimum bone sculpting that negates the need for correction.

Conclusion

This technique of ventral sculpting decompression in the thoracic spine may be more utilized in the future to be applied for more wider indications.
Mineral bone disorder and osteoporosis in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Slouma Maroua , Sahli Hela , Bahlous Afef , Laadhar Lilia , Smaoui Wided , Rekik Sonia , Gharsallah Imen , Sallami Meriem , Moussa Fatma Ben , Elleuch Mohamed , Cheour Elhem
Published: February 2020

Background

Bone disease is common in patients undergoing hemodialysis. It is the result of bone turnover abnormalities and the decrease of bone mineral density (BMD). We aimed to determine the usefulness of serum bone turnover markers and BMD measurement by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in hemodialysis patients.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study including 90 hemodialysis for more than 12 months. Bone mineral density was assessed by DXA. Peripheral blood samples were obtained from each patient before dialysis in a fasting state within a week of the DXA. Biochemical variables of calcium and phosphate were measured. One bone formation marker (bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (bAP), one bone resorption marker (carboxy-terminal telopeptides of type 1 collagen (CTX)) were measured. Total alkaline phosphatase (TAP), intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) which is a bone-derived hormone were also measured.

Results

CTX values were 6.25 times higher than the normal limit of the assay. Bone alkaline phosphatase levels were less than 10 ng/mL in 28.8% of cases. 23% of patients have osteoporosis and 45% have osteopenia. Femoral BMD had negative correlations with age and PTH levels. FGF23 levels were significantly increased in patients with osteoporosis affecting the lumbar. The levels of bAP and CTX showed a positive correlation. Both circulating bAP and CTX levels showed also positive correlations with PTH levels. Fractures, observed in 12.2% of cases, were associated with low PTH values and the existence of osteoporosis.

Conclusions

Our study showed that osteoporosis and fracture are common in dialysis patients. The reduced BMD was associated with advanced age and elevated levels of PTH. Markers of bone turnover and FGF23 may play a role in the diagnosis of bone disease in hemodialysis patients. DXA measurement is necessary for the monitoring for bone loss.
The association of gr/gr deletion in the Y chromosome and impaired spermatogenesis in Bulgarian males: a pilot study
Authors: Levkova Mariya , Chervenkov Trifon , Angelova Lyudmila
Published: February 2020

Background

The microdeletions of the Y chromosome are associated with a decreased number of sperm cells in the ejaculate and male infertility. One such deletion is the gr/gr, which leads to reduction of the alleles in the DAZ gene. In order to evaluate its role, 30 patients with sperm count below 5 × 106/mL and 30 normal fertile men were genotyped for microdeletions in Azoospermia Factor (AZF) region, including gr/gr deletion.

Results

Twenty-one men (70.00%) from the males with impaired fertility had a normal genotype, seven men (23.33%) were carriers of a gr/gr deletion, and two men (6.67%) demonstrated a deletion of the AZFc region. From the control group, there were 22 men (73.33%) with no deletion, seven (23.33%) carried a gr/gr deletion, and one man (3.33%) carried a possible deletion in the b1-b4 region of the Y chromosome. The gr/gr deletion of the Y chromosome showed a statistically nonsignificant difference (p = 0.94, alpha < 0.05) with the control group (chi-square, degrees of freedom 0.006).

Conclusion

The results from the research show no association between this deletion and male infertility in the studied population. Despite the small sample size, the high frequency of the gr/gr deletion, found in the control group, suggests that this variant may not be associated with impaired spermatogenesis.
Perioperative Management of Patients With Hereditary Angioedema With Special Considerations for Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Tanaka Kenichi A. , Mondal Samhati , Morita Yoshihisa , Williams Brittney , Strauss Erik R. , Cicardi Marco
Published: February 2020

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder mostly due to the deficiency of C1-esterase inhibitor (C1-INH). Reduced C1-INH activity below ~38% disrupts homeostasis of bradykinin (BK) formation by increasing kallikrein activation and causes recurrent angioedema attacks affecting the face, extremities, genitals, bowels, oropharynx, and larynx. HAE symptoms can be debilitating and potentially life-threatening. The recent clinical developments of biological and pharmacological agents have immensely improved acute and long-term care of patients with moderate-to-severe HAE. The therapies are given as on-demand and/or prophylaxis, and self-administration is highly recommended and performed with some agents via intravenous or subcutaneous route. Perioperative clinicians need to be familiar with the symptoms and diagnosis of HAE as well as available therapies because of the potential need for airway management, sedation, or anesthesia for various medical and surgical procedures and postoperative care. Cardiovascular surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass is a unique condition in which heparinized blood comes into direct contact with an artificial surface while pulmonary circulation, a major reserve of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), becomes excluded. These changes result in systemic kallikrein activation and BK formation even in non-HAE patients. The objectives of this review are (1) to review pathophysiology of HAE and laboratory testing, (2) to summarize pertinent pharmacological data on the prophylactic and on-demand treatment strategies, and (3) to discuss available clinical data for perioperative management in cardiovascular surgery.
Reactive oxygen species or reactive sulfur species: why we should consider the latter
Authors: Olson Kenneth R.
Published: February 2020

The biological effects of oxidants, especially reactive oxygen species (ROS), include signaling functions (oxidative eustress), initiation of measures to reduce elevated ROS (oxidative stress), and a cascade of pathophysiological events that accompany excessive ROS (oxidative distress). Although these effects have long been studied in animal models with perturbed ROS, their actions under physiological conditions are less clear. I propose that some of the apparent uncertainty may be due to confusion of ROS with endogenously generated reactive sulfur species (RSS). ROS and RSS are chemically similar, but RSS are more reactive and versatile, and can be stored and reused. Both ROS and RSS signal via oxidation reactions with protein cysteine sulfur and they produce identical effector responses, but RSS appear to be more effective. RSS in the form of persulfidated cysteines (Cys-S-S) are produced endogenously and co-translationally introduced into proteins, and there is increasing evidence that many cellular proteins are persulfidated. A number of practical factors have contributed to confusion between ROS and RSS, and these are discussed herein. Furthermore, essentially all endogenous antioxidant enzymes appeared shortly after life began, some 3.8 billion years ago, when RSS metabolism dominated evolution. This was long before the rise in ROS, 600 million years ago, and I propose that these same enzymes, with only minor modifications, still effectively metabolize RSS in extant organisms. I am not suggesting that all ROS are RSS; however, I believe that the relative importance of ROS and RSS in biological systems needs further consideration.
Tumor radiomic features complement clinico-radiological factors in predicting long-term local control and laryngectomy free survival in locally advanced laryngo-pharyngeal cancers
Authors: Agarwal Jai Prakash , Sinha Shwetabh , Goda Jayant Sastri , Joshi Kishor , Mhatre Ritesh , Kannan Sadhana , Laskar Sarbani Ghosh , Gupta Tejpal , Murthy Vedang , Budrukkar Ashwini , Mummudi Naveen , Ganeshan Balaji
Published: February 2020

Objective:

To study if pre-treatment CT texture features in locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of laryngo-pharynx can predict long-term local control and laryngectomy free survival (LFS).

Methods:

Image texture features of 60 patients treated with chemoradiation (CTRT) within an ethically approved study were studied on contrast-enhanced images using a texture analysis research software (TexRad, UK). A filtration-histogram technique was used where the filtration step extracted and enhanced features of different sizes and intensity variations corresponding to a particular spatial scale filter (SSF): SSF = 0 (without filtration), SSF = 2 mm (fine texture), SSF = 3–5 mm (medium texture) and SSF = 6 mm (coarse texture). Quantification by statistical and histogram technique comprised mean intensity, standard-deviation, entropy, mean positive pixels, skewness and kurtosis. The ability of texture analysis to predict LFS or local control was determined using Kaplan–Meier analysis and multivariate cox model.

Results:

Median follow-up of patients was 24 months (95% CI:20–28). 39 (65%) patients were locally controlled at last follow-up. 10 (16%) had undergone salvage laryngectomy after CTRT. For both local control & LFS, threshold optimal cut-off values of texture features were analyzed. Medium filtered-texture feature that were associated with poorer laryngectomy free survival were entropy ≥4.54, (p = 0.006), kurtosis ≥4.18; p = 0.019, skewness ≤−0.59, p = 0.001, and standard deviation ≥43.18; p = 0.009). Inferior local control was associated with medium filtered features entropy ≥4.54; p 0.01 and skewness ≤ – 0.12; p = 0.02. Using fine filters, entropy ≥4.29 and kurtosis ≥−0.27 were also associated with inferior local control (p = 0.01 for both parameters). Multivariate analysis showed medium filter entropy as an independent predictor for LFS and local control (p < 0.001 & p = 0.001).

Conclusion:

Medium texture entropy is a predictor for inferior local control and laryngectomy free survival in locally advanced laryngo-pharyngeal cancer and this can complement clinico-radiological factors in predicting prognosticating these tumors.

Advances in knowledge:

Texture features play an important role as a surrogate imaging biomarker for predicting local control and laryngectomy free survival in locally advanced laryngo-pharyngeal tumors treated with definitive chemoradiation.
Precise determination of the optical properties of turbid media using an optimized integrating sphere and advanced Monte Carlo simulations. Part 2: experiments
Authors: Bergmann Florian , Foschum Florian , Zuber Ralf , Kienle Alwin
Published: February 2020

Based on theoretical investigations of the light propagation within an integrating sphere, we developed an accurate method to determine the optical properties of scattering media using an integrating sphere-based setup. The method takes into account the exact sphere geometry as well as the different angular distributions of the reflected and transmitted light from the sample and the calibration standard. We tested our novelties successfully in theory with Monte Carlo simulations and in practice using a 3D printed and professionally coated integrating sphere. As a result, we were able to determine precisely the effective scattering coefficient,

μ

s

′

, and the absorption coefficient,

μ

a

, between 400 nm and 1500 nm in a range of

μ

a

=
1

e
−

3

m
m

−
1

to

10

m
m

−
1

and

μ

s

′

=
0.2

m
m

−
1

to

100

m
m

−
1

. Usually, the accuracy was around 1% for

μ

s

′

and around 3% for

μ

a

for turbid phantom media with an optical thickness

τ
=

μ

s

′

d
>
1

and a transmittance signal

>

0

.

1

%

.
Precise determination of the optical properties of turbid media using an optimized integrating sphere and advanced Monte Carlo simulations. Part 1: theory
Authors: Foschum Florian , Bergmann Florian , Kienle Alwin
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we describe a method used to determine the optical properties, namely, the effective scattering and absorption coefficients, employing an optimized three-dimensional-printed single integrating sphere. The paper consists of two parts, and in Part 1, the theoretical investigation of an optimized measurement and the evaluation routine are presented. Using an analytical and a numerical model for the optical characterization of the integrating sphere, errors caused by the application of a non-ideal sphere (the one with ports or baffles) were investigated. Considering this research, a procedure for the precise determination of the optical properties, based on Monte Carlo simulations of the light distribution within the sample, was developed. In Part 2, we present the experimental validation of this procedure.
Status of long-wavelength laser fusion
Authors: Singer Sidney
Published: February 2020

As drivers for inertial fusion, pulsed high-power CO2 lasers possess unusual advantages: the laser physics and technology are well developed and can be scaled to megajoule class systems for affordable costs; existing systems (for example, Helios) have achieved overall efficiencies of 1-2%; and, through the use of optical multiplexing, efficiency improvements of an order of magnitude appear feasible.
New optical multilayer recording medium composed of copper-phthalocyanine and tellurium
Authors: Ogawa Koichi , Goto Yasuyuki , Koshino Nagaaki , Ogawa Seiya
Published: February 2020

A new optical recording medium has been developed which is composed of copper-phthalocyanine (Cu-Pc) and tellurium. This medium was found to have a high recording sensitivity, a high SNR, and a sufficient archival stability.
Recent progress on Raman shifting of excimer lasers
Authors: Stappaerts E. A. , Komine H. , Brosnan S. J. , Long W. H.
Published: February 2020

During the past few years major advances have been made, both in performance and theoretical understanding, of frequency converters based on the Raman effect. The impetus for the effort has come largely from the NAVY/DARPA interest in advanced blue-green communication systems, but other applications such as isotope separation and remote sensing have contributed as well. Parallel efforts exist in development of backward Raman pulse compressors for ICF applications, but these will not be discussed in this paper.
On-line laser detection of gases
Authors: Harbert F. C.
Published: February 2020

An IR laser system for detection of toxic and combustible gases has been developed for petrochemical plants and offshore platforms. The scanning range of the beam, which can be up to 1 km in length, permits a complete complex to be covered with a single instrument. Another application uses the instrument mounted on an aircraft flying along a pipeline searching for gas leaks.
MILES; a laser training aid
Authors: Jacobs Paul F.
Published: February 2020

The multiple integrated laser engagement system (MILES) has now reached technological maturity and is currently being deployed at over 20 U.S. Army- bases in the United States, Europe, and Korea. Using GaAs lasers, silicon detectors, and microprocessor logic, MILES has revolutionized tactical infantry and armor training by providing a degree of realism not previously available. This paper will discuss some of the essential physics of MILES, including laser/detector beam geometry, atmospheric scintillation effect, code theory, and eye safety constraints.
Tunable lasers for military applications
Authors: Guenther B. D. , Buser R.
Published: February 2020

Recent developments in primary tunable lasers (such as transition metal lasers) as well as in secondary lasers (such as parametric systems) point to many new military system applications. The results of a recent Army study will be discussed in terms of the laser parameters needed and the most promising means for achieving them.
Surface-enhanced four-wave mixing on silver microstructures
Authors: Chemla D. S. , Heritage J. P. , Liao P. F. , Wokaun A. , Isaacs E. D.
Published: February 2020

The enhancement of optical processes by properly prepared silver surfaces has been reported for the case of Raman scattering, second harmonic generation, one- and two-photon luminescence, and hyper-Raman effect. Here we report the first observation of enhanced four-wave mixing on silver lithographically prepared microstructures.
Ground-state neutral atomic beam generated by pulsed CO2 laser irradiation
Authors: Meng H. C. , Wang M. R.
Published: February 2020

Al and ln cylindrical targets were irradiated by a homemade UV excited CO2 laser beam. A ground-state populated neutral atomic beam was generated, and the time profile and absolute densities at different positions from the target surface were measured by laser resonance fluorescence. Compared with atomic beams which are generated by ordinary methods such as oven or gasdynamic, this atomic beam has the following properties:
Pulse stretching, delay, and attenuation in scale model clouds
Authors: Elliott Richard A.
Published: February 2020

Experiments to measure pulse stretching, delay, and attenuation of optical pulses due to multiple scattering have been performed on systems which are in effect scale model clouds. The scattering systems consist of emulsions of dielectric liquids dispersed in water. The dispersed liquid phase forms spherical droplets whose size and number density can be controlled by the preparation technique. The systems are stable over periods of several days when maintained in a rotating cylindrical scattering cell to reduce flocculation and prevent creaming.
Expanded Ar laser treatment in plastic surgery and dermatology
Authors: Apfelberg D. B.
Published: February 2020

The Ar laser has become useful in plastic surgery and dermatology for an expanding variety of cutaneous lesions. The five categories amenable for treatment include vascular, inflammatory, and nevoid lesions, tattoos, and other miscellaneous skin pathology.
Use of band luminescence as a temperature probe tor laser-beam heating of GaAs
Authors: Kirillov D. , Merz J. L.
Published: February 2020

The knowledge of the temperature reached in the irradiation region of a strongly absorbing semiconductor is important for laser annealing. Due to the small volume of the heated material, it is difficult to obtain precise temperature information; one must study the energy spectrum of the heated region, which may differ considerably from that of blackbody radiation.
One-dimensional anamorphic holo-scanner
Authors: Gerbig Volker G.
Published: February 2020

Holographic laser beam scanners (short holo-scanners) deflect light by diffraction from varying holograms. A concept for 1-D scan paths will be presented here. It is based on the readout of a 1-D hologram by an anamorphic optical system. This configuration exhibits many useful features such as any 1-D discrete or continuous scan path, any 1-D scan spot/pattern, many scan spots, high speed, and high light efficiency. These and other features (e.g,, insensitivity against wobble), will be discussed in general and in view of special applications. We shall also consider various geometrical arrangements.
Quality requirements tor laser recorders in the printing industry
Authors: Byckling Eero
Published: February 2020

The highest quality requirements for laser recorders are met in the printing industry in exposing page films or color separations. The main properties related to quality are resolution, geometric accuracy, and exposure uniformity. In this paper theoretical analysis and practical experience are presented with the aim of developing quality criteria for various applications.
Low-noise laser diode (0.78 μm) for video disk reading
Authors: Kakimoto Shoichi , Mlhashi Yutaka , Yamashita Koji , Nita Shigeyuki , Kumabe Hisao , Sogg Toshio , Takamiya Saburo
Published: February 2020

Various types of visible laser diode have been reported as light sources for optical disk reading, such as audio and video disks. However, among them single-longitudinal-mode lasers need special means, such as super imposing (radio) high frequency on the bias current for applications in video disk reading, which requires about a 30-dB higher SNR than audio disk reading. Because without such means the noise of single-longitudinal-mode lasers increases drastically when a part of the reflected output is returned to the laser diode, resulting in mode jumping. On the other hand, multilongitudinal-mode laser diodes do not show such significant noise deterioration.
U.S. Department of Defense high energy laser program
Authors: Airey J. Richard
Published: February 2020

The U.S. Department of Defense high energy laser program has been in existence for almost two decades with a cumulative research and development investment through 1981 of the order of $1.5 billion. The Department of Defense continues to recognize the potential of laser weapons and is continuing to support aggressively technology development. The history of program development, the current status, and the future prospects will be discussed.
High-speed optical modulators and signal processing
Authors: Sueta T. , Izutsu M.
Published: February 2020

High-speed electrooptical waveguide devices are discussed including an 1864-Hz bandwidth traveling wave modulator. Signal processing applications including multiplication of picosecond electrical signals and correlation of picosecond pulses from a GaAs semiconductor laser will be described.
Advances in focal plane arrays for strategic uses
Authors: Fraser J.
Published: February 2020

Advances in focal plane arrays, tunable optical filters, and signal processing have made possible a number of important surveillance applications. The current status of this electrooptic technology will be described as it relates to strategic applications.
Stable high-gain sensitive avalanche solid-state photomultipliers
Authors: Basov N. G. , Kravchenko A. B. , Plotnikov A. F. , Popov Yu. M. , Shubin V. E.
Published: February 2020

The development of lasers has stimulated the appearance of new technical fields such as optical communications, laser location, optoelectronic computers, and information systems. For all these fields the primary problem is detecting short (tens of nanoseconds and shorter) weak (hundreds, tens of photons) light pulses. Today this problem is being solved by photodetectors such as photomultipliers and avalanche photodiodes with the fast-response mechanism of internal gain: multiplication of carrier numbers by impact ionization.
Observations of gain in the XUV spectral region
Authors: Pert G. J.
Published: February 2020

The generation of a population inversion in hydrogenic ions during rapid expansion and related cooling of plasma occurs during the cascade through the excited states following recombination into high-lying levels. Although it is relatively straightforward to generate a population inversion in a plasma produced by laser irradiation of solid targets, the production of sufficient gain to observe laser action places stringent conditions on the system to be used. A suitable arrangement to achieve small signal gain coefficients of ~10 cm−1 is obtained by irradiating a thin cylinder with a short laser pulse of appropriately matched characteristics. The relative ease with which thin carbon fibers can be constructed and their convenient match to present-day Nd:glass laser systems make this an attractive candidate to study such XUV laser systems with emission on its Ha line at 182 Å.
Slab geometry solid state lasers
Authors: Eggleston J. M. , Kane T. J. , Byer R. L.
Published: February 2020

Solid state lasers have been traditionally fabricated in the form of a pencil-like rod. Under thermal loading, these host rods manifest optical distortions which include thermal focusing, stress induced birefringence and stress induced biaxial focusing.1 These effects can severely degrade the optical quality of the laser output at medium pump powers, and completely extinguish laser action at high pump powers. Clearly the elimination or reduction of these undesirable optical effects is essential to the development of high average power solid state laser systems.
High-energy electron transport in laser-irradiated flat targets
Authors: Yates M. A. , Mitchell Kenneth B. , Van Hulsteyn D. B.
Published: February 2020

The production and transport of high-energy electrons in targets irradiated by high intensity lasers are problems that can have a major impact on the success of laser driven inertial confinement fusion.
Experiment in 1.0-μm optical communications between offshore islets for military applications
Authors: Le Shixiao , Hu Yu , Su Yunxhen
Published: February 2020

As far as excellent penetration of smoke, haze, and fog is concerned, the 10.6-μm beam has the best window for propagation and communication with the available laser sources.
Submarine laser communications
Authors: Mooradian G.
Published: February 2020

No abstract available
Multiphoton ionization and fragmentation of complex organic molecules induced by UV laser radiation
Authors: Abakumov G. A. , Anisimov Yu. M. , Manvelian R. V. , Polyakov B. I. , Simonov A. P. , Yaroslavtzev V. T.
Published: February 2020

Under the action of UV or visible laser radiation complex organic molecules in the gas phase ionize and, depending on the radiation intensity, break up into a number of various neutral and charged fragments.
Laser modification of semiconductor current gain
Authors: Kiang Y. C. , Moulic J. Randal
Published: February 2020

The current gain (of β) of a bipolar transistor is inversely proportional to the base width and resistivity of the emitter region.
High power density short-pulse KrF laser
Authors: Witteman W. J. , Peters P. J. M.
Published: February 2020

The KrF laser has been demonstrated as an efficient high-power system and scalable to high energy per pulse.
Atomic emission spectroscopy from laser-induced breakdown plasmas
Authors: Loree T. R. , Radziemsky L. J. , Cremers D. A. , Schmieder R. W.
Published: February 2020

A focused laser beam of moderate power and any wavelength can cause breakdown in a gas, in a liquid, or at a solid surface. The resultant plasma is a good source of excited atoms for atomic emission spectroscopy, and conventional spectroscopic techniques may be used for identification of the atomic species present. Time resolution of the emission spectrum provides increased detection capabilities. Since the continuum background is short-lived and ionic lifetimes are shorter than neutrals, a carefully chosen time window can result in a better SNR than can be obtained from a spectrum integrated over the full lifetime of the plasma.
Philips data systems semiconductor optical disk recorder
Authors: De Haan Maarten R.
Published: February 2020

For the successful birth of a new product generation, generally a new technology must be available. Digital optical recording (DOR) is a rapidly growing technological mix of optics, mechanics, servo techniques, recording materials, and modulation and error correction techniques with this potential. The DOR system is the first product based on this technology that enables widespread mass storage of digital data.
Industrial applications of lasers: present and future
Authors: Ready John F.
Published: February 2020

The application of lasers to the solution of practical problems by industry has been evolutionary. It has been strongly affected by cost factors, particularly the cost relative to competing technology. Continuing developments in laser technology have gradually reduced their costs, and as a result more practical applications are being adopted. This paper will survey several significant applications of lasers which have experienced increased use in recent times.
Generation of an infrared pattern for sensor testing using a scanning laser beam
Authors: Scholl Marija S.
Published: February 2020

Energy deposited on an absorbing conducting amorphous material results in a local temperature increase which depends on the laser dwell time and power density. This combination acts as a source of IR radiation which can be used to test high-performance sensors by varying the contrast and the average amount of emitted radiation. By varying the scanning parameters to control the localized temperature increase, a testing pattern can be generated with the equivalent blackbody temperature of up to 900 K and temperature differences of the order of 0.2 K.
High-power electron-beam sustained-discharge gas lasers and their uses in materials processing
Authors: Basov N. G. , Glotov E. P. , Danilychev V. A. , Yugov V. I. , Lebedev P. N.
Published: February 2020

Abstract is not available.
Automatic beam alignment and centering for Antares
Authors: Bender S. C. , Appert Q. D.
Published: February 2020

Maintenance of beam alignment and centering in Antares requires error-detection techniques and appropriate correction methods via computer- controlled mirror positioners. A technique for error detection is presented as well as algorithms for simultaneous correction of both beam alignment and centering using optically coupled mirror sets.
Hardware-software tools tor automatic control and parameter diagnostics of the powerful Delphin laser installation
Authors: Allin A. P. , Basov N. G. , Ivanov V. V. , Senatsky Yu. V. , Sklizkov G. V. , Subbotin L. K. , Chernyavsky A. F. , Yakushev A. K.
Published: February 2020

In the laser plasma laboratory of the Lebedev Physical Institute of the USSR Academy of Sciences we are developing an automation system for the powerful Nd:glass laser installation Delphin designed for laser fusion experiments. This system contains power conditioning and alignment and laser parameter diagnostic subsystems. The automation system includes PDP-11-type computers connected by a serial highway with a CAMAC apparatus interfacing control points and drive units of the installation. A power conditioning subsystem controls the capacitor batteries for 700 flashlamps (IFP-20000 type) of the multichannel amplifier.