bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Releasing high positive end-expiratory pressure to a low level generates a pronounced increase in particle flow from the airways
Authors: Broberg Ellen , Pierre Leif , Fakhro Mohammed , Malmsjö Malin , Lindstedt Sandra , Hyllén Snejana
Published: March 2023

Objectives

Detecting particle flow from the airways by a non-invasive analyzing technique might serve as an additional tool to monitor mechanical ventilation. In the present study, we used a customized particles in exhaled air (PExA) technique, which is an optical particle counter for the monitoring of particle flow in exhaled air. We studied particle flow while increasing and releasing positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP). The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of different levels of PEEP on particle flow in exhaled air in an experimental setting. We hypothesized that gradually increasing PEEP will reduce the particle flow from the airways and releasing PEEP from a high level to a low level will result in increased particle flow.

Methods

Five fully anesthetized domestic pigs received a gradual increase of PEEP from 5 cmH2O to a maximum of 25 cmH2O during volume-controlled ventilation. The particle count along with vital parameters and ventilator settings were collected continuously and measurements were taken after every increase in PEEP. The particle sizes measured were between 0.41 µm and 4.55 µm.

Results

A significant increase in particle count was seen going from all levels of PEEP to release of PEEP. At a PEEP level of 15 cmH2O, there was a median particle count of 282 (154–710) compared to release of PEEP to a level of 5 cmH2O which led to a median particle count of 3754 (2437–10,606) (p < 0.009). A decrease in blood pressure was seen from baseline to all levels of PEEP and significantly so at a PEEP level of 20 cmH2O.

Conclusions

In the present study, a significant increase in particle count was seen on releasing PEEP back to baseline compared to all levels of PEEP, while no changes were seen when gradually increasing PEEP. These findings further explore the significance of changes in particle flow and their part in pathophysiological processes within the lung.
Ritualized world relations: a Confucian critique of Rosa’s limitations on resonance
Authors: Sigurðsson Geir , D’Ambrosio Paul J.
Published: March 2023

Hartmut Rosa argues that our modern and post-modern societies can be understood through the notion of dynamic stabilization—institutions require growth to maintain themselves. Part of the impetus behind the acceleration that drives dynamic stabilization is the desire to make the world more available, attainable, and accessible. On both the institutional and individual levels, this is translated into making the world more within our reach, more engineerable, predictable, and controllable. Paradoxically, success in these areas is often accompanied by the world becoming increasingly silent, cold, and unresponsive. We feel alienated or that our world relation has failed. Rosa’s solution is to reestablish resonance with the world. In this paper, we argue that his notion of resonance depends on a degree of atomic agency that muffles its own efficacy. The Confucian notion of ritual offers a more dispersed notion of agency. Rather than seeing oneself, others, and the world as distinct agents or indivisible entities, a ritualized approach sees them as mutually constitutive. It is true even on the level of agency, which drastically changes our relationship with the world.
Simultaneous colonic metastasis of advanced gastric cancer: a case report
Authors: Shima Takafumi , Arita Asami , Sugimoto Satoshi , Takayama Shoichi , Kawaguchi Nao , Imai Yoshiro , Kitahara Tomohiro , Maeda Tamaki , Okuda Junji
Published: March 2023

Background

Although distant metastasis in gastric cancer can be present at the time of the initial diagnosis, colonic metastasis is extremely rare. This report describes a case of simultaneous colonic metastasis of advanced gastric cancer.

Case presentation

The patient was a 78-year-old woman with nausea and epigastric pain. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed an advanced invasive ulcerative tumor in the lesser curvature of the stomach extending from the anterior to the middle portion. Colonoscopy revealed a 4-mm polyp-like lesion in the mid-transverse colon; therefore, a polypectomy was performed. Both gastric and colonic tumors showed poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma with signet ring cell carcinoma. After providing informed consent, the patient underwent a total gastrectomy. Histologic examination showed similar morphologic features of both gastric and colonic tumors. Immunohistochemistry staining showed that these tumor cells were positive for cytokeratin (CK) 7 and negative for CK20.

Conclusions

This was an extremely rare case of simultaneous colonic metastasis of advanced gastric cancer. Because missed metastasis can result in a poorer prognosis, we propose a systemic search including colonoscopy for patients with advanced gastric cancer, especially cases involving poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma or signet ring cell carcinoma.
The mourning process and its importance in mental illness: a psychoanalytic understanding of psychiatric diagnosis and classification
Authors: Gibbons Rachel
Published: March 2023

This article brings together the psychiatric and psychoanalytic views of mental illness to deepen the understanding of mental disorder. The intention is to bring to the fore the importance of loss and mourning in clinical practice. Looking for the loss event that underpins the disorder helps determine therapeutic treatment options and increases the chance of authentic therapeutic engagement and recovery. The article summarises theory about the mourning process and discusses the relationship of loss and pathological mourning to mental illness. Fictitious case vignettes developed from years in psychiatric practice are used to illustrate how this relates to clinical practice and formulation.
Occupational class suicide risk: 12-year study of national coronial data
Authors: Burnett Alexander C.R. , Wong Quincy , Zeritis Stephanie , Deady Mark , Torok Michelle
Published: March 2023

Background

Previous research showed that the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) was associated with a widening disparity in suicide rates between lower-class occupations and the highest-class occupations in Australia. There has been no research investigating whether this trend continued post-GFC.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate suicide rates by occupational class among employed Australians aged 15 years and over, between 2007 and 2018.

Method

A population-level retrospective mortality study was conducted using data from the National Coronial Information System. Adjusted suicide rates were calculated over the period 2007 to 2018. Negative binomial regression models were used to assess the relationship between occupational class, gender and time, comparing post-GFC years (2010–2012, 2013–2015 and 2016–2018) with GFC years (2007–2009).

Results

Relative to the GFC period of 2007–2009, a significant reduction in suicide disparity between managers and other occupation groups was only observed among male labourers (rate ratios (RR) = 0.65, 95% CI 0.49–0.86) and male technicians/trades workers (RR = 0.73, 95% CI 0.56–0.96) for the period 2013–2015.

Conclusion

Skilled manual and lower-skilled occupational classes remain at elevated risk of suicide in Australia. While a decreasing divergence in suicide rates was only observed between labourer and manager occupational classes post-GFC, this trend was not maintained over the later part of the study period (2016–2018). There is a need to further understand the relationship between contextual factors associated with suicide among the employed population, especially during periods of economic downturn.
Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization Versus Conventional Management for Patients With Chronic Subdural Hematoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sattari Shahab Aldin , Yang Wuyang , Shahbandi Ataollah , Feghali James , Lee Ryan P. , Xu Risheng , Jackson Christopher , Gonzalez L. Fernando , Tamargo Rafael J. , Huang Judy , Caplan Justin M.
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND:

The results from studies that compare middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization vs conventional management for patients with chronic subdural hematoma are varied.

OBJECTIVE:

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis on studies that compared MMA embolization vs conventional management.

METHODS:

Medline, PubMed, and Embase databases were searched. Primary outcomes were treatment failure and surgical rescue; secondary outcomes were complications, follow-up modified Rankin scale > 2, mortality, complete hematoma resolution, and length of hospital stay (day). The certainty of the evidence was determined using the GRADE approach.

RESULTS:

Nine studies yielding 1523 patients were enrolled, of which 337 (22.2%) and 1186 (77.8%) patients received MMA embolization and conventional management, respectively. MMA embolization was superior to conventional management for treatment failure (relative risk [RR] = 0.34 [0.14-0.82],P= .02), surgical rescue (RR = 0.33 [0.14-0.77],P= .01), and complete hematoma resolution (RR = 2.01 [1.10-3.68],P= .02). There was no difference between the 2 groups for complications (RR = 0.93 [0.63-1.37],P= .72), follow-up modified Rankin scale >2 (RR = 0.78 [0.449-1.25],P= .31), mortality (RR = 1.05 [0.51-2.14],P= .89), and length of hospital stay (mean difference = −0.57 [−2.55, 1.41],P= .57). For MMA embolization, the number needed to treat for treatment failure, surgical rescue, and complete hematoma resolution was 7, 9, and 3, respectively. The certainty of the evidence was moderate to high for primary outcomes and low to moderate for secondary outcomes.

CONCLUSION:

MMA embolization decreases treatment failure and the need for surgical rescue without furthering the risk of morbidity and mortality. The authors recommend considering MMA embolization in the chronic subdural hematoma management.
101 30-Day Outcomes of Resolute Onyx Stent for Symptomatic Intracranial Stenosis: A Multicenter Propensity-Score Matched Comparison With SAMMPRIS Trial
Authors: Siddiq Farhan , Nunna Ravi Shankar , Khan Inamullah , Khan Musharaf , Beall Jonathan , Tekle Wondwossen , Ezzeldin Mohamad , Tanweer Omar , Burkhardt Jan-Karl , Jabbour Pascal , Tjoumakaris Stavropoula I. , Herial Nabeel , Siddiqui Adnan Hussain , Grandhi Ramesh , Qureshi Adnan I. , Hassan Ameer O.
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease (sICAD) is estimated to cause over 10% of strokes annually in the US alone. Previous investigations employing stenting, most notably SAMMPRIS trial, have produced unfavorable results in regards to both periprocedural complications and risk of recurrent stroke. However, newer generation balloon-mounted drug-eluting stents (BM-DES) have been hypothesized to harbor several technical advantages that may confer improvements in these critical metrics.

METHODS:

Prospectively maintained databases from eight comprehensive stroke centers were reviewed to identify adult patients undergoing RO-ZES for the treatment of sICAD between January,2019 and December,2021. Only patients that presented with either recurrent stroke or TIA, intracranial stenosis 70-99%, with at least one stroke on best medical management were included. The primary outcome was 30-days composite of stroke, ICH, and/or mortality. A propensity-score matched analyses was performed comparing the results of RO-ZES to the intervention arm of SAMMPRIS.

RESULTS:

A total of 132 patients met the inclusion criteria for analysis (mean age:64.2 years). Mean severity of stenosis (±SD) was 81.4% (±11.4%). Four (3.03%) stroke and/or deaths were reported within 30 days in RO-ZES group. A propensity-score matched analysis based on age, HLD, HTN, DMII, and smoking demonstrated a statistically significant decreased risk of 30-day stroke and/or death rate in RO-ZES in comparison to SAMMPRIS (2.6% vs. 15.6%, respectively; OR 6.88, 95% CI 1.92-37.54, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients treated with RO-ZES had a decreased rate of 30-day major complications in comparison to SAMMPRIS. Further large-scale prospective studies are warranted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of RO-ZES for the treatment of sICAD.
Identification of potential compounds for the management of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis using computational methods
Authors: Gatwiri Winnie , Kagia Richard
Published: March 2023

Background: Tuberculosis is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is spread through the air. Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) has become a global health concern. This study focuses on developing alternative compounds to Levofloxacin, Moxifloxacin, Bedaquiline, Kanamycin, Amikacin, Cycloserine, Ethambutol, Pyrazinamide, Linezolid and Streptomycin that can be used to treat patients with multidrug resistance TB. The virtual screening will aid in discovering other possible compounds for use in the management of MDR TB, thereby providing a superior alternative to currently existing medications and aid in eradicating TB. The objective of this study was to identify potential compounds that can be used in managing MDR TB in chronic tuberculosis patients using computational methods.

Methods: The Swiss Similarity tool was used to identify similar compounds to the tuberculosis drugs in a ZINC database. Compounds more similar to the tuberculosis drugs were selected and used to test the molecular docking with their respective targets. The pharmacokinetics and toxicity profiles of the selected compounds were analyzed using Swiss ADME and Pro Tox Server, respectively.

Results: Overall, 90 compounds had higher binding energies than the medications, 88 had lower binding energies, and 14 had binding energies that were equivalent to those of the drugs. Only 14 of the 200 compounds lacked CYP inhibition, were p-glycoprotein substrates, had superior docking scores to the compounds, and fell into toxicity classes V and VI.

Conclusions: The 14 potential compounds should undergo further in vivo and in vitro studies to develop new compounds for managing multidrug-resistant tuberculosis.
A protocol for cloning, expression, and purification of Lysine exporter (LysE) gene of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Upadhyay Shilpa , Dhok Archana , Agarkar Vinod , Kashikar Supriya , Quazi Zahiruddin Syed
Published: March 2023

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is among the deadliest diseases and a significant cause of illness across the globe. Several studies on mycobacterial proteins, such as proteases and transporters that are essential for survival and pathogenesis have aimed to develop an efficient anti-tubercular agent. In mycobacterium, lysine exporter (LysE) is an amino acid transporter and a probable target for an anti-tubercular agent as it is responsible for bacterial growth inhibition and is also absent in the widely used Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine.

Methods: Some studies have purified LysE using different protocols. This study describes a protocol for purifying different constructs of LysE, focusing on its hydrophobic region using immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) after expressing LysE gene in a bacterial expression system. pET vector (pET28a) is used as an expression vector. Amplied LysE gene is ligated with the pET28a vector, and the resultant plasmid is then transformed into E. coli cells. The vector has a histidine tag that makes the purification process convenient. After IMAC, the samples will be subjected to size-exclusion chromatography for further purification.

Results: Cloning and amplification findings will be analyzed using 1% agarose gel, and protein expression and purification outcomes will be examined using sodium dodecyl-sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Domain-specific constructs of LysE can be further analyzed as an anti-tubercular agent.

Conclusions: Despite being a potential anti-tubercular target, research is quite limited on this protein. Therefore, we aim to purify LysE protein for further analysis. Similar protocols have already been implemented to purify several other bacterial proteins with >95% purity.
Modern technologies of personnel management
Authors: Litvinyuk Aleksandr , Babynina Liliya , Kartashova Larisa , Ivanova-Shvec Lyudmila , Novikova Ekaterina , Troska Zul'fiya , Kuzub Ekaterina , Kartashov Sergey
Published: March 2023

The textbook outlines issues related to the peculiarities of using digital products in the organization's personnel management system, much attention is paid to the formation of an HR brand and regulation of labor behavior of employees based on the use of technologies based on the basic provisions of the theory of the motivational complex of labor activity.
The content of the textbook meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
The discipline "Modern technologies of personnel management" is included in the training complex "Personnel Management" and forms professional competencies for the practical application of modern technologies used in the framework of HR management.
For students of higher educational institutions studying in the field of training "Personnel Management". It can be used by students of other specialties and directions, as well as graduate students and practitioners studying the problems of personnel management in modern organizations.
Implementation of the powers of the bodies of inquiry of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia in criminal proceedings
Authors: Fadeev Il'ya , Vlasov Boris
Published: March 2023

The monograph provides an overview of the legal status of the (head) of the body of inquiry, the head of the department of inquiry and the investigator in the Russian criminal process. Certain norms of the Criminal Procedure Code of the Russian Federation, which form the backbone of the legal institute of inquiry, are subjected to critical analysis, in particular in the context of conducting procedural checks, conducting inquiries in an abbreviated form. Readers' attention is focused on the imperfection of the regulatory legal acts of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, which, according to the author, need serious updating against the background of new threats from the criminal world, as well as clarifying the place and role of the bodies of inquiry of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia.
For students, postgraduates and teachers of law schools and faculties, employees of the bodies of inquiry of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, as well as a wide range of readers interested in criminal procedural law.
Legal support of public administration in the field of protection and use of wildlife objects
Authors: Ivanova Svetlana , Yastrebov Oleg , Krasnova Irina , Sokolov Aleksandr
Published: March 2023

The monograph presents the concept of legal support for public administration in the field of protection and use of wildlife objects, examines theoretical and law enforcement aspects of the problem under consideration, develops doctrinal criteria for the effectiveness of legal support for state faunal management, and also identifies the role of principles of legal support for public administration, which contribute to improving the effectiveness of rule-making and law enforcement practice, give a conceptual character to legislation on the animal world. Conclusions and proposals are formulated that form the conceptual basis for the consistent improvement of legal
regulation in order to ensure a balance of social, environmental and economic interests.
For students, postgraduates and teachers of law schools and faculties, as well as a wide range of readers interested in legal relations between humans and animals.
The use of special knowledge in proving cases of crimes and offenses on the Internet
Authors: Maksurov Aleksey
Published: March 2023

The monograph examines the use of modern evidentiary capabilities in the legal process, which are available in connection with human activity in the global information space, including new electronic types of evidence. Such evidence is acquired through the application of special knowledge. The legal bases of the application of special knowledge by the bodies carrying out preliminary investigation, as well as the directions of the application of special knowledge in criminal proceedings are disclosed.
Special attention is paid to the peculiarities of proving involvement in crimes (offenses) committed on the Internet. The concept and criminalistic significance of the method of committing crimes using information and telecommunication networks are defined, the objective elements of the method of committing such crimes (place, time, devices, objects of encroachment) are disclosed. Practical aspects of proving in cases of crimes committed using information and telecommunication networks, including the mechanism of trace formation in information networks, etc., are described.
For researchers, lawyers, judges, prosecutors, investigators, employees of security companies and special services involved in the processing of information, its storage and protection.
Organizational and economic bases of systematization of design solutions in the field of construction
Authors: Kravchuk Evgeniy , Bryanceva Irina , Carionova Yuliya
Published: March 2023

The monograph is a comprehensive study devoted to the systematization of investment and design solutions in the construction sector, which requires increasing awareness of the modern technocratic solution based on the possibility of integrating the design solution through the use of digitalization of design in the construction sector with the traditional approach that has existed in our country since the beginning of the twentieth century. The calculation of the cost-effectiveness of the decision is given, based on the example of calculating and deducing technical and economic indicators indicating the cost-effectiveness of the design decision being made, in relation to metal building structures, which are based on the method of Ya.M. Likhtarnikov, based on the determination of the cost "in business".
It is intended for persons interested in the issues of technocratic design and investment solutions, as well as for persons studying and cognizing the problems of economic justification of design solutions.
Lymphedema of the lower extremities: diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Katorkin Sergey , Myshencev Pavel , Mel'nikov Mihail , Belokonev Vladimir , Stoyko Yuriy
Published: March 2023

The textbook presents modern views on the etiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations and principles of complex treatment of lymphedema of the lower extremities. Individual tactics with the use of clinico-functional and biomechanical methods in diagnosis and treatment are substantiated. The authors described the methods of conservative treatment, the technique of classical operations and modern innovative technologies.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
It is intended for students of medical higher educational institutions, clinical residents, surgeons, angiosurgeons and general practitioners.
Reliability of solving inverse problems of analytical photogrammetry
Authors: Voronin Evgeniy , Chibunichev Aleksandr , Blohinov Yuriy
Published: March 2023

The monograph is devoted to computational aspects of photogrammetric reconstruction of narrow-angle bundles of projecting beams that existed during the survey. Methods of improving the conditionality of systems of linear equations, ensuring the convergence of iterative refinement of their roots, increasing the stability of calculations in finite precision machine arithmetic are considered. The main efforts are focused on solving the problem of establishing reliable measurement weights within the framework of the least squares method. The criteria for the reliability of the weights are determined. Algorithms have been developed for matching the initial values of the measurement weights, adjusting the weights during equalization, and identifying insignificant parameters of mathematical measurement models. A new method for evaluating the accuracy of the equalization results has been developed.
For specialists engaged in the processing of remote sensing data of the Earth and mathematical processing of the results of heterogeneous measurements using weighted methods of statistical estimation of the parameters of functional dependencies.
Scaling Up Electric-Vehicle Battery Swapping Services in Cities: A Joint Location and Repairable-Inventory Model
Authors: Qi Wei , Zhang Yuli , Zhang Ningwei
Published: March 2023

Battery swapping for electric vehicle refueling is reviving and thriving. Despite a captivating sustainable future where swapping batteries will be as convenient as refueling gas today, a tension is mounting in practice (beyond the traditional “range anxiety” issue): On one hand, it is desirable to maximize battery proximity and availability to customers. On the other hand, capacitated urban power grids may curb decentralized charging at a slow speed. To reconcile this tension, some cities are embracing an emerging infrastructure network: Decentralized swapping stations replenish charged batteries from centralized charging stations. It remains unclear how to design such a network or whether pooling charging demands will save costs or batteries. In this paper, we model this new urban infrastructure network. This task is complicated by non-Poisson swaps and by the intertwined stochastic operations of swapping, charging, stocking, and circulating batteries among swapping and charging stations. We tackle these complexities by deriving analytical models, which enrich the classical batched repairable-inventory theory. We next propose a joint location and repairable-inventory model for citywide deployment of hub charging stations, with a nonconvex nonconcave objective function. We solve this problem exactly by exploiting submodularity and combining constraint-generation and parameter-search techniques. Even for solving convexified problems, our algorithm brings a speedup of at least three orders of magnitude relative to the Gurobi solver. The major insight is twofold: The benefit of pooling charging demands alone is not enough to justify the adoption of the “swap-locally, charge-centrally” network; instead, the main justification is that faster charging accessible at centralized charging stations significantly reduces the system-wide battery stock level. In a broader sense, this work deepens our understanding of how mobility and energy are coupled toward enabling smart cities.

This paper was accepted by Chung Piaw Teo, optimization.

Funding: Y. Zhang acknowledges the support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grants 71871023, 72271029, and 72061127001]. W. Qi acknowledges the support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China [Grants 72272014 and 72188101] and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada [Grant RGPIN-2019-04769]. N. Zhang acknowledges the support from the China Scholarship Council [202106030140].

Supplemental Material: The data files and online appendices are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.4731 .
Why is zero trust so difficult?
Authors: Robinson Phil
Published: March 2023

A zero-trust architecture offers significant security benefits and has become one of the most-discussed topics in information security. It's proven to offer high levels of breach prevention and has been shown to greatly reduce the costs of those organisations that are breached. So why is full adoption so slow, even among those organisations that have embraced the concept?
Grade-3 Learners’ Performance and Conceptual Understanding Development in Technology-Enhanced Teaching With Interactive Mathematics Software
Authors: Uwineza Innocente , Uworwabayeho Alphonse , Yokoyama Kenya
Published: March 2023

This study presented the effect of interactive mathematics (IM) software assisted-teaching on primary three learners' conceptual understanding and performance. The cognitive theory of multimedia learning (CTML) supported the quasi-experimental design of this study drawing on IM software features that fit a multimedia tool for effective learning. This study used a sample of 138 lower primary learners. Learners’ test scores and examples of their work provided data to be analyzed. Learners' conceptual understanding was measured using the percentage of learners who performed a particular item and analyzed using sample learners' work while the overall performance was measured using the mean class scores. From the data analysis, IM-assisted teaching influenced conceptual understanding and performance based on a .05 p-value, the effect size of significance, and learning gains. The analysis of learners’ workings revealed different errors in addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication, which were remarkably reduced in the post-test by IM-supported teaching. This evidenced conceptual understanding development by IM-supported teaching. The study suggested the integration of IM in the Rwandan Competence-Based curriculum and its use as an instructional tool in teaching and learning mathematics at the primary level. Besides, it was recommended that Rwanda Education Board support teachers in developing basic computer skills to effectively create and monitor a multimedia learning environment for effective learning. Furthermore, further similar research would improve the literature about interactive technologies in supporting quality mathematics delivery and outcomes.
A Study on Developing Safety and Performance Assessment Guideline for Electronic Warm-Acupuncture Apparatus
Authors: Jang Hansol , Chung U-Ryeong , Moon Jeong-Hyun , Choi Seong-Kyeong , Sung Won-Suk , Hwang Min-Seop , Lee Seung-Deok , Kim Kyung-Ho , Yoon Jong-Hwa , Kim Eun-Jung
Published: March 2023

Objectives: This research aimed to develop a guideline for evaluating safety and performance of electronic warm-acupuncture apparatus. With the development of medical devices like electronic warm-acupuncture apparatus with improved performance, convenience and safety measures compared to traditional warm-acupuncture needling, safety and performance guideline is a necessity.Methods: By referring to existing standards and guidelines of other electronic devices for Korean medicine with heating function, guideline for safety and performance assessment of electronic warm-acupuncture apparatus was draftedResults: The guideline, presents explanation for adequate temperature and settings of the apparatus, and safety measurements providing against thermal runaway situations along with guidelines for the manual. Guideline for detailed test method for the performance of the apparatus such as accuracy of temperature increase and the timer, and safety unit was also provided. The test items and suggested test methods for the requirements of biological, electrical and electromagnetic safety were referred to Korean approval documents of ministry of Food and Drug Safety.Conclusion: We proposed the relevant items to verify performance and safety of warm-acupuncture apparatus to assure patient safety and improve the quality of currently developing devices for application in clinical field.
Spontaneous Spinal Epidural Hematoma in a Near-term Pregnant Patient
Authors: Naik Suprava , Jain Mantu , Sethi Pruthwiraj , Mishra Narayan , Bhoi Sanjeev Kumar
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Spontaneous development of spinal epidural hematoma (SEH) is rare condition with acute presentation and usually associated with some predisposing factors. Early diagnosis and management of SEH are very important because of the risk of permanent neurological deficit. Case Report: Here, we report a rare case of SEH in young pregnant female at 35 week of gestation who presented with short history of paraplegia that was diagnosed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and treated successfully with delivery of the baby by caesarean section and release of cord compression by laminectomy. Conclusion: Spontaneous SEH can be rarely seen in pregnancy. MRI is the investigation of choice. Clinical suspicion is necessary for early management and better prognosis.
Unusual Failure of Modular TKA Prosthesis and Screw Migration following Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Mulpur Praharsha , Jayakumar Tarun , Masilamani A B Suhas , Hippalgaonkar Kushal , Reddy A V Gurava
Published: March 2023

Introduction: The use of modular implants for revision TKA are ever increasing in number due to their definitive advantage over their monoblock counterparts by providing the surgeon with the versatility needed to achieve equal gaps and manage bone defects. This superiority comes at the cost of certain unique complications attributable to its modular design such as loosening and fractures at the areas of component coupling that are prone to fatigue failure with suboptimal fixation. Case Report: We present a case of modular femoral component failure in a 59-year man of Asian decent after revision TKA secondary to disengagement and migration of the extension stem locking bolt of a Total Condylar-III prosthesis. Patient presented with pain, effusion, and instability 2.5 years after stage-2 revision TKA. Radiographs revealed migration of the femur-stem locking bolt into the joint cavity. The femoral component and stem were loose. The locking bolt was extracted, and he underwent re-revision surgery with revised femoral components. Conclusion: Stem-condylar junction of modern modular TKA implants are prone to early loosening and failure. This diagnosis should be anticipated on serial follow-up radiographs and in patients who complain of sudden onset of instability following revision surgery.
The UK – a home for Ukrainians? An analysis of social security and housing policy
Authors: Machin Richard
Published: March 2023

This commentary discusses the ways in which the welfare system has responded to the financial and housing needs of Ukrainian citizens coming to the UK since the Russian invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022. The focus is on two key areas of policy: social security and housing. The article considers the revised eligibility criteria for welfare benefits and two policies which can provide accommodation: the Ukraine Family Scheme, which allows applicants to join family members in the UK, and the Ukrainian Sponsorship Scheme (known as ‘Homes for Ukraine’) which allows Ukrainian nationals to come to the UK if they have a sponsor who can provide accommodation for at least six months. It provides a comparison of the provision for Ukrainian refugees and the standard asylum system in the UK.

This article concludes that although the UK government quickly introduced emergency provisions for newly arrived Ukrainians which go beyond the scope of support for many other groups moving to the UK, significant areas of concern are evident, with risks that these will increase in future months and years. These concerns centre on discrepancies between the two policies which provide accommodation, risk of exploitation, homelessness caused by the breakdown in provision, and complexity in the welfare benefit system.
Collapse arrest of two-color vector optical solitons in nonlocal nonlinear media
Authors: Wu Liang , Kong Qian , Shen Ming
Published: March 2023

In 2017, Sukhinin et al. investigated optical self-focusing that leads to collapse events for copropagating beams with different colors, which show that collapse events depend on the combined critical power of two beams as well as on the ratio of their individual powers [Phys. Rev. A 95, 031801 (2017)PLRAAN1050-294710.1103/PhysRevA.95.031801]. In this paper, we demonstrate that these collapse events of the two-color vector solitons can be eliminated in self-focusing media with nonlocal nonlinearity. We employ the variational approach to derive an approximate solution of the two-color vector solitons for fundamental, vortex, and mixed configurations. In the regime of strong nonlocality, we also show numerically the collapse arrest of the two-color vector solitons with the split-step Fourier transform method.
Label-free integrated microfluidic plasmonic biosensor from vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers for SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain protein detection
Authors: Jiang Wenhui , Ma Zhengtai , Cao Fang , Hu Liangchen , Bao Lei , Chang Pengying , Xu Chen , Lv Xiaoqing , Xie Yiyang
Published: March 2023

The nanoplasmonic sensor of the nanograting array has a remarkable ability in label-free and rapid biological detection. The integration of the nanograting array with the standard vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSEL) platform can achieve a compact and powerful solution to provide on-chip light sources for biosensing applications. Here, a high sensitivity and label-free integrated VCSELs sensor was developed as a suitable analysis technique for COVID-19 specific receptor binding domain (RBD) protein. The gold nanograting array is integrated on VCSELs to realize the integrated microfluidic plasmonic biosensor of on-chip biosensing. The 850 nm VCSELs are used as a light source to excite the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect of the gold nanograting array to detect the concentration of attachments. The refractive index sensitivity of the sensor is 2.99 × 106 nW/RIU. The aptamer of RBD was modified on the surface of the gold nanograting to detect the RBD protein successfully. The biosensor has high sensitivity and a wide detection range of 0.50 ng/mL – 50 µg/mL. This VCSELs biosensor provides an integrated, portable, and miniaturized idea for biomarker detection.
Deep learning for precise axial localization of trapped microspheres in reflective optical systems
Authors: Guo Mengdi , Lin Zuzeng , Zhai Cong , Chen Yulu , Zhou Xiaowei , Chai Zhongyan , Guo Tong , Hu Chunguang
Published: March 2023

High-precision axial localization measurement is an important part of micro-nanometer optical measurement, but there have been issues such as low calibration efficiency, poor accuracy, and cumbersome measurement, especially in reflected light illumination systems, where the lack of clarity of imaging details leads to the low accuracy of commonly used methods. Herein, we develop a trained residual neural network coupled with a convenient data acquisition strategy to address this challenge. Our method improves the axial localization precision of microspheres in both reflective illumination systems and transmission illumination systems. Using this new localization method, the reference position of the trapped microsphere can be extracted from the identification results, namely the “positioning point” among the experimental groups. This point relies on the unique signal characteristics of each sample measurement, eliminates systematic repeatability errors when performing identification across samples, and improves the localization precision of different samples. This method has been verified on both transmission and reflected illumination optical tweezers platforms. We will bring greater convenience to measurements in solution environments and will provide higher-order guarantees for force spectroscopy measurements in scenarios such as microsphere-based super-resolution microscopy and the surface mechanical properties of adherent flexible materials and cells.
Longwave infrared (6.6–11.4 µm) dual-comb spectroscopy with 240,000 comb-mode-resolved data points at video rate
Authors: Vasilyev Sergey , Muraviev Andrey , Konnov Dmitrii , Mirov Mike , Smolski Victor , Moskalev Igor , Mirov Sergey , Vodopyanov Konstantin
Published: March 2023

Using sub-3-cycle pulses from mode-locked Cr:ZnS lasers at λ ≈ 2.4 µm as a driving source, we performed high-resolution dual-frequency-comb spectroscopy in the longwave infrared (LWIR) range. A duo of highly coherent broadband (6.6–11.4 µm) frequency combs were produced via intrapulse difference frequency generation in zinc germanium phosphide (ZGP) crystals. Fast (up to 0.1 s per spectrum) acquisition of 240,000 comb-mode-resolved data points, spaced by 80 MHz and referenced to a Rb clock, was demonstrated, resulting in metrology grade molecular spectra of N2O (nitrous oxide) and CH3OH (methane). The key to high-speed massive spectral data acquisition was low intensity and phase noise of the LWIR combs and high (7.5%) downconversion efficiency, resulting in a LWIR power of 300 mW for each comb.
Development of a 3D ultrafast laser written near-infrared spectro-interferometer
Authors: Martin G. , Zhang G. , Bonduelle M. , Allaw R. , Callejo M. , Morand A. , Rodenas A. , Cheng G. , Stoian R. , d’Amico C.
Published: March 2023

Direct ultrafast laser photoinscription of transparent materials is a powerful technique for the development of embedded 3D photonics. This is particularly adaptable for astrophotonic devices when a number of inputs are required. The process relies essentially on volume fabrication of waveguiding structures in flexible 3D designs and refractive index contrast parameters adjustable for specific spectral ranges. This enables 3D geometry and thus avoids in-plane crossings of waveguides that can induce losses and cross talk in multi-telescope beam combiners. The additional novel capability of the technique allows for the fabrication of high aspect ratio nanostructures nonperturbatively sampling the optical field. Combining ultrafast laser micro- and nanoprocessing with engineered beams, we present here results for the development of chip-sized silica glass integrated robust 3D three-telescope beam combiners in the near-IR range, as well as embedded diffraction gratings, for phase closure analysis and spectro-interferometry applications in astronomy.
Distributed dynamic strain measurement with a direct detection scheme by using a three-step-phase-shifted double pulse in a UWFBG array
Authors: Hong Rui , Wang Feng , Yu Yong , Jiang Wei , Lu Yanqing , Zhang Lin , Zhang Yixin , Zhang Xuping
Published: March 2023

We demonstrate a stable homodyne phase demodulation method with a
double pulse based on an ultra-weak fiber Bragg grating (UWFBG) array.
The technique divides one of the probe pulses into three sections and
introduces successive 2π/3 phase differences into each section. By
using a simple direct detection scheme, it can achieve distributed and
quantitative vibration measurement along the UWFBG array. Compared to
the traditional homodyne demodulation technique, the proposed
technique is more stable and easier to accomplish. Moreover, the
reflected light from the UWFBGs can provide a signal that is modulated
uniformly by the dynamic strain and multiple results for averaging,
resulting in a higher signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). We experimentally
demonstrate the technique’s effectiveness by monitoring different
vibrations. The SNR for measuring a generic 100 Hz, 0.08 rad vibration
in a 3 km UWFBG array with a reflectivity of −40 to −45 dB is
estimated to be ∼44.92 dB.
Design and resonator-assisted characterization of high-performance lithium niobate waveguide crossings
Authors: Chen Yikun , Zhang Ke , Feng Hanke , Sun Wenzhao , Wang Cheng
Published: March 2023

Waveguide crossings are elementary passive components for signal routing in photonic integrated circuits. Here, we design and characterize two multimode interferometer (MMI)-based waveguide crossings to serve the various routing directions in the anisotropic x-cut thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) platform. To address the large measurement uncertainties in traditional cut-back characterization methods, we propose and demonstrate a resonator-assisted approach that dramatically reduces the uncertainty of insertion loss measurement (< 0.021 dB) and the lower bound of crosstalk measurement (−60 dB) using only two devices. Based on this approach, we demonstrate and verify TFLN waveguide crossings with insertion losses of < 0.070 dB and crosstalk of < −50 dB along all three routing directions at 1550 nm. The low-loss and low-crosstalk waveguide crossings in this work, together with the simple and efficient characterization strategy, could provide important layout design flexibility for future large-scale classical and quantum TFLN photonic circuits.
Optical amplification-free deep reservoir computing-assisted high-baudrate short-reach communication
Authors: Han Mengyao , Wang Muguang , Fan Yuchuan , Salgals Toms , Louchet Hadrien , Schatz Richard , Gruen Markus , Pittala Fabio , Krüger Benjamin , Dippon Thomas , Zhang Lu , Yu Xianbin , Spolitis Sandis , Bobrovs Vjaceslavs , Popov Sergei , Pang Xiaodan , Ozolins Oskars
Published: March 2023

An optical amplification-free deep reservoir computing (RC)-assisted high-baudrate intensity modulation direct detection (IM/DD) system is experimentally demonstrated using a 100G externally modulated laser operated in C-band. We transmit 112 Gbaud 4-level pulse amplitude modulation (PAM4) and 100 Gbaud 6-level PAM (PAM6) signals over a 200-m single-mode fiber (SMF) link without any optical amplification. The decision feedback equalizer (DFE), shallow RC, and deep RC are adopted in the IM/DD system to mitigate impairment and improve transmission performance. Both PAM transmissions over a 200-m SMF with bit error rate (BER) performance below 6.25% overhead hard-decision forward error correction (HD-FEC) threshold are achieved. In addition, the BER of the PAM4 signal is below the KP4-FEC limit after 200-m SMF transmission enabled by the RC schemes. Thanks to the use of a multiple-layer structure, the number of weights in deep RC has been reduced by approximately 50% compared with the shallow RC, whereas the performance is comparable. We believe that the optical amplification-free deep RC-assisted high-baudrate link has a promising application in intra-data center communications.
Tuning size and shape of gold nanoparticles using seed-mediated growth by unfocused femtosecond laser-induced plasma
Authors: Hidayah Affi N. , Triyono Djoko , Herbani Yuliati , Saleh Rosari
Published: March 2023

Gold nanoparticles with tunable size and shape are effectively synthesized with a femtosecond laser using the seed and growth method by reducing a KAuCl4 solution with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) surfactant as a stabilizer. The sizes of gold nanoparticles, including 7.30 to 9.90, 11.0, 12.0, 14.1, 17.3, 22, 23.0, 24.4, and 27.2 nm, are effectively altered. In addition, the initial shapes of gold nanoparticles (quasi-spherical, triangular, and nanoplate) are also successfully changed. While the reduction effect of an unfocused femtosecond laser can control the size of nanoparticles, the surfactant can influence the growth of nanoparticles and determine their shape. This technology represents a breakthrough for nanoparticle development by not employing strong reducing agents and instead using an environmentally friendly synthesis technique.
Nonlocality-mediated spatiotemporal optical vortex generation in nanorod-based epsilon-near-zero metamaterials
Authors: Novikov V. B. , Murzina T. V.
Published: March 2023

Optical vortices have myriad applications in photonics. Very recently, promising concepts of spatiotemporal optical vortex (STOV) pulses based on the phase helicity in the space–time coordinates have attracted much attention owing to their donut shape. We elaborate on the molding of STOV under the transmission of femtosecond pulses through a thin epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) metamaterial slab based on a silver nanorod array in a dielectric host. At the heart of the proposed approach is the interference of the so-called main and additional optical waves enabled by strong optical nonlocality of these ENZ metamaterials, which leads to the appearance of phase singularities in transmission spectra. The cascaded metamaterial structure is proposed for high-order STOV generation.