bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An efficient computational scheme for nonlinear time fractional systems of partial differential equations arising in physical sciences
Authors: Dubey Ved Prakash , Kumar Rajnesh , Kumar Devendra , Khan Ilyas , Singh Jagdev
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we broaden the utilization of a beautiful computational scheme, residual power series method (RPSM), to attain the fractional power series solutions of nonhomogeneous and homogeneous nonlinear time-fractional systems of partial differential equations. This paper considers the fractional derivatives of Caputo-type. The approximate solutions of given systems of equations are calculated through the utilization of the provided initial conditions. This iterative scheme generates the fast convergent series solutions with conveniently determinable components. The implementation of this numerical scheme clearly exhibits its effectiveness, reliability and easiness regarding the procedure of the solution, as well as its better approximation. The repercussions of the fractional order of Caputo derivatives on solutions are depicted through graphical presentations for various particular cases.
Development of a conceptual framework for a group-based format of the Lifestyle-integrated Functional Exercise (gLiFE) programme and its initial feasibility testing
Authors: Kramer Franziska , Labudek Sarah , Jansen Carl-Philipp , Nerz Corinna , Fleig Lena , Clemson Lindy , Becker Clemens , Schwenk Michael
Published: January 2020

Background

The Lifestyle-integrated Functional Exercise (LiFE) programme is a fall prevention programme originally taught in a resource-intensive one-to-one format with limited feasibility for large-scale implementation. The aim of this paper is to present the conceptual framework and initial feasibility evaluation of a group-based LiFE (gLiFE) format developed for large-scale implementation.

Methods

The conceptual gLiFE framework (part I) is based on three pillars,LiFE Activities and Principles,Theory of Behaviour Change and Behaviour Change Techniques, andInstruction. The feasibility of gLiFE was tested (part II) within a multimodal approach including quantitative questionnaires measuring safety, acceptability (1 = best to 7 = insufficient), and adherence to the LiFE activities (range = 0–14) as well as a focus group interview. Exploratory self-reported measures on behaviour change including self-determined motivation (range = 1–5), intention, planning, action control, and habit strength (range = 1–6) were assessed pre and post intervention. Data analyses were performed using descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis.

Results

The development process resulted in a manualised gLiFE concept containing standardised information on gLiFE’s content and structure. Feasibility testing: Six older adults (median = 72.8 years, 5 female) completed the feasibility study and rated safety (median = 7.0, IQR = 0.3) and acceptability as high (median = 1, IQR = 1). Participants implemented 9.5 LiFE activities (IQR = 4.0) into their daily routines. No adverse events occurred during the study. In the focus group, the group format and LiFE activities were perceived as positive and important for maintaining strength and balance capacity. Self-determined motivation intention, planning, and habit strength were rated higher post intervention.

Conclusion

The developed conceptual gLiFE framework represents the basis for a gLiFE format with potential for standardised large-scale implementation. Proof-of-concept could be demonstrated in a group of community-dwelling older adults at risk of falling. The public health potential of gLiFE in terms of (cost-)effectiveness is currently being evaluated in a large trial.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT03412123. Registered on January 26, 2018
Mapping research in student engagement and educational technology in higher education: a systematic evidence map
Authors: Bond Melissa , Buntins Katja , Bedenlier Svenja , Zawacki-Richter Olaf , Kerres Michael
Published: January 2020

Digital technology has become a central aspect of higher education, inherently affecting all aspects of the student experience. It has also been linked to an increase in behavioural, affective and cognitive student engagement, the facilitation of which is a central concern of educators. In order to delineate the complex nexus of technology and student engagement, this article systematically maps research from 243 studies published between 2007 and 2016. Research within the corpus was predominantly undertaken within the United States and the United Kingdom, with only limited research undertaken in the Global South, and largely focused on the fields of Arts & Humanities, Education, and Natural Sciences, Mathematics & Statistics. Studies most often used quantitative methods, followed by mixed methods, with little qualitative research methods employed. Few studies provided a definition of student engagement, and less than half were guided by a theoretical framework. The courses investigated used blended learning and text-based tools (e.g. discussion forums) most often, with undergraduate students as the primary target group. Stemming from the use of educational technology, behavioural engagement was by far the most often identified dimension, followed by affective and cognitive engagement. This mapping article provides the grounds for further exploration into discipline-specific use of technology to foster student engagement.
Four-Point Computed Tomography Scores for Evaluation of Occult Peritoneal Metastasis in Patients with Gastric Cancer: A Region-to-Region Comparison with Staging Laparoscopy
Authors: Li Zi-Yu , Tang Lei , Li Zhe-Min , Li Yan-Ling , Fu Jia , Zhang Yan , Li Xiao-Ting , Ying Xiang-Ji , Ji Jia-Fu
Published: January 2020

Background

Preoperative diagnosis of peritoneal metastasis with gastric cancer remains challenging. This study explored the abnormal computed tomography (CT) signs of occult peritoneal metastasis (OPM) and evaluated it by region-to-region comparison using staging laparoscopy, from which a 4-point CT score system was developed.

Methods

Patients with advanced gastric cancer (stage cT ≥ 2M0) diagnosed by CT were enrolled in the study. Occult peritoneal metastasis detected during staging laparoscopy was compared with preoperative CT to investigate the presence of abnormal signs by a region-to-region comparison. A 4-point CT score system was developed to define the radiologic characteristics. Subsequently, the diagnostic efficacy of the CT score system was prospectively verified.

Results

In this study, 57 OPM regions were detected by staging laparoscopy in 33 of the 385 enrolled patients. The greater omentum was the most frequent site of OPM (38.60%, 22/57), which usually exhibited a smudge-like ground-glass opacity (S-GGO) (90.91%, 20/22) with a mean CT score of 2.14. The parietal and perihepatic peritoneum was the second most common site (22.81%, 13/57). A 4-point CT score system was developed based on the results. A cutoff CT score of 2 or higher was associated with a false-negative rate of 2% (2/99). This CT score system had a sensitivity of 87.5% and a specificity of 76.4% for an OPM-positive diagnosis (area under the curve, 0.848). The agreement between two radiologists on the assigned final score was 76.2% (kappa, 0.5).

Conclusions

Patients with OPM mostly exhibited S-GGO on CT, which should be interpreted cautiously. The 4-point CT score system may improve the pretreatment evaluation of occult peritoneal metastasis, and staging laparoscopy might not be necessary for patients with a score lower than 2.
Primary Tumor Surgery for Patients with De Novo Stage IV Breast Cancer can Decrease Local Symptoms and Improve Quality of Life
Authors: Si Yiran , Yuan Peng , Hu Nanlin , Wang Xue , Ju Jie , Wang Jiayu , Ma Fei , Luo Yang , Zhang Pin , Li Qing , Xu Binghe
Published: January 2020

Background

It was unknown whether surgery for primary tumor would affect the occurrence of local symptoms caused by tumor progression in patients with de novo stage IV breast cancer (BC). Our work attempted to probe the effect of local resection on controlling local symptoms and improving the quality of life in de novo stage IV BC patients.

Methods

Our study included patients presenting with de novo stage IV BC at the Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences from January 2008 to December 2014. In this study, we defined a new term called “local progress/recurrence of symptoms” (LPRS) to refer to the local problems caused by tumor progression/recurrence. All the patients were grouped into surgery and non-surgery groups. The characteristics of the two groups were analyzed by Chi square and Fisher’s test. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were designed to evaluate independent prognostic factors.

Results

This study contained 177 patients. The follow-up deadline was April 1, 2019. The median follow-up time was 33 months (range 1–135 months). In included patients, 77 (43.5%) underwent surgery for primary tumors. Primary tumor surgery could reduce the occurrence of LPRS (relative risk/risk ratio (RR = 0.440; 95% CI 0.227–0.852; p = 0.015)) and patients without LPRS had longer OS (45 months vs 29 months, p < 0.001). In addition, patients who had only one symptom had better OS than those who had two or three symptoms (p = 0.0175).

Conclusions

The quality of life in patients with de novo stage IV breast cancer can be improved by reducing the incidence of local symptoms through primary tumor surgery.
Artificial Intelligence: reshaping the practice of radiological sciences in the 21st century
Authors: El Naqa Issam , Haider Masoom A , Giger Maryellen L , Ten Haken Randall K
Published: January 2020

Advances in computing hardware and software platforms have led to the recent resurgence in artificial intelligence (AI) touching almost every aspect of our daily lives by its capability for automating complex tasks or providing superior predictive analytics. AI applications are currently spanning many diverse fields from economics to entertainment, to manufacturing, as well as medicine. Since modern AI’s inception decades ago, practitioners in radiological sciences have been pioneering its development and implementation in medicine, particularly in areas related to diagnostic imaging and therapy. In this anniversary article, we embark on a journey to reflect on the learned lessons from past AI’s chequered history. We further summarize the current status of AI in radiological sciences, highlighting, with examples, its impressive achievements and effect on re-shaping the practice of medical imaging and radiotherapy in the areas of computer-aided detection, diagnosis, prognosis, and decision support. Moving beyond the commercial hype of AI into reality, we discuss the current challenges to overcome, for AI to achieve its promised hope of providing better precision healthcare for each patient while reducing cost burden on their families and the society at large.
Socio-economic Profile and Adoption of Recommended Milking Practices among Small Dairy Farmers of Meenangadi Gram Panchayat of Wayanad District of Kerala
Authors: Asiya P , Gopi Girigan
Published: January 2020

The study was conducted in Meenangadi panchayat of Wayanad, Kerala. Agriculture was primary occupation for majority of the respondents (44 percent). 38 percentage of the respondents were utilising the facilities provided by the animal husbandry department of the state. According to the perception of 72 percent of the respondents, the most important constraint in dairy farming was the non-availability of fodder followed by responses that indicated the next deterrent to be the high cost of cattle feed (60 percent). A total of fourteen clean milking practices were analysed and adoption of milking practices were calculated by using adoption index. Majority of the respondents were found to be medium adopters.
Earthworm Population in Relation to Different Agro Climatic Regions of Wayanad District of Kerala
Authors: John Joseph , Sreeraj PR , Asiya P , Kathireswari P , Joseph Rini , George Jijo
Published: January 2020

Among the numerous microorganisms in the soil, earthworms play an important role in the formation and maintenance of soil structure and fertility by altering the physical, chemical and biological properties. A study was conducted in Wayanad district during 2017 to 2018 to collect and identify the earthworm species present in three agro climatic regions of Wayanad. A total of 30 samples were collected from Wetland, upland and an evergreen forest. A total of 15 earth worm species were identified and among this two species were new to Wayanad, the Dravida thomasi and Amynthas corticis.
Versatile Performance in Vuca World: A Case Study
Authors: Chakraborty Debarun
Published: January 2020

Versatile execution in the workplace refers to adapting to changes in the working environment. It can be understood as adjusting conduct to meet new concerns owing to changing and dubious work circumstances. In situations characterised by volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA), versatile execution is significant. This paper investigates how and where versatile execution can be understood, examined and analysed under the imperatives and rules for VUCA conditions.
Business Ethics and Consumer Buying: An Ethno-Regional Study in UAE
Authors: Bose Indranil
Published: January 2020

UAE has the largest number of expatriates from across the globe and has the presence of the largest number of products, services and brands from across the globe. Understanding the consumer consciousness or business ethicality of the products, services or the brands available is important for sustainable marketing. The present research explores the level of overall consumer consciousness about the business ethics adopted by different brands or products and whether consumer consciousness or perception remains different about the ethical practices followed by different companies, according to their places of origin. The results show that the overall consumer consciousness about the ethical practices of the products/brands available is significant and the consumer consciousness about the ethical business is different according to the regional groups.
Crossing Boundaries and Transforming Experiences in "Kāvya" Literature
Authors: Gönc Moačanin Klara
Published: January 2020

Some boundaries can never be crossed but boundaries in literature seem to be like no boundaries at all, whether in the geographical, mythological, literary or literal sense. A few of the examples from kāvya literature can be seen in Kālidāsa’s Abhijñānaśākuntala vs. the story of Śakuntalā in the Mahābhārata and in his Vikramorvaśīya vs. the story of Purūravas and Urvaśī in RV 10, 95. In kathā literature geographical hindrances are easily crossed as in Daṇḍin’s Daśakumāracarita and also in Subandhu’s Vāsavadattā. In Bāṇa’s Kādambarī crossing the boundaries happens in space and time through different reincarnations of his characters. Kāvya authors often crossed boundaries by evoking mythological and epic figures, alluding to earlier works, using known motifs, themes and citations, and created new experiences by transforming them.
Gamificación en contextos educativos: analisis de aplicación en un programa de contaduría pública a distancia
Authors: Gómez Contreras Jennifer Lorena
Published: January 2020

La escasez de estudios en donde se vincule la aplicación de gamificación educativa, con sus fundamentos teóricos y/o principios, ha llevado al fracaso de la gamificación en contextos educativos. En el presente artículo de reflexión se busca contribuir a solventar esta falencia conectando la aplicación de la gamificación educativa realizada en el programa de Contaduría Pública a Distancia de la Universidad Militar Nueva Granada (Colombia), con los fundamentos teóricos del tema. Para lo cual, se abordan las diferencias existentes entre la gamificación y elaprendizaje basado en juegos, seguidamente se examina el concepto, los objetivos, los aportes y los elementos de la gamificación, posteriormente se identifican los aspectos clave para una implementación exitosa en el contexto educativo. Finalmente, se explica el proceso de gamificación implementado, desde la planeación docente hasta el análisis de las opiniones de los estudiantes. Para ello, se utilizó una metodología exploratoria soportada en análisis documental y aplicación de encuestas a estudiantes. Como resultado de la aplicación realizada se verificó que la gamificación educativa promueve la autonomía, la motivación, el compromiso y la interacción social en los estudiantes, permitiendo a su vez la progresión y el dominio de los temas abordados en cada reto propuesto.
Rendimiento contable y EVA en la pyme de la industria del cuero, calzado y marroquinería en Colombia
Authors: Rivera Godoy Jorge Alberto
Published: January 2020

Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación que tiene como propósito evaluar el desempeño financiero de la pyme del sector cuero, calzado y marroquinería en Colombia en el periodo 2010-2016, mediante un estudio que sigue como metodología el análisis de los indicadores contables y de valoreconómico agregado que miden su crecimiento, eficiencia, eficacia y efectividad.Se encuentra que la pyme de este sector genera rendimientos contables en el periodo, siendo superior en la pequeña empresa por disponer de una mayor eficacia en la administración de costos de producción y ventas, una mayor eficiencia en la utilización de los activos y un uso de un mayor apalancamiento financiero positivo. Sin embargo, la pyme destruye valor económico agregado (eva) en cada uno de losaños; pero es la pequeña empresa la que menos destruye eva por cada unidad monetaria invertida. Esta destrucción de valor obedece a que el costo de recursos financieros es superior a la utilidad operacional después de impuestos. Estos hallazgos se fortalecerán con estudios similares para pymes más homogéneas en edad y ubicación geográfica.
Perfil de riesgo de crédito para una cooperativa en Villavicencio a partir de un modelo Logit
Authors: Pardo Cariillo Otto Smith , Díaz Castro Javier
Published: January 2020

El perfilamiento de riesgo de crédito es un tema relevante para las entidades financieras, toda vez que identifica los factores generadores de riesgo de crédito (edad, género, capacidad de pago), además de contribuir en la implementación de Sistemas de Administración de Riesgo SARC. En ese sentido, este estudio estima el perfil de riesgos de los asociados (buenos y malos) de una cooperativa de ahorro y crédito en la ciudad de Villavicencio, que acceden a créditos en la modalidad de consumo, para lo cual se utiliza un modelo logit, que luego de ser aplicado arrojo como resultado que los asociados a la misma, presentan como factores generadores de riesgo, el ser hombres, la corta edad, bajos ingresos, ser soltero, poca antigüedad como asociado, no tener personas a cargo, encontrarse empleado en empresas privadas, tener créditos con montos altos, al igual que su respectivo plazo.
Bargaining Process and Channel Efficiency
Authors: Haruvy Ernan , Katok Elena , Pavlov Valery
Published: January 2020

The behavioral literature has demonstrated that the format of supply chain contracts matters even when theoretically it should not and that contracts that in theory coordinate channels fail to do so in laboratory experiments. The existing body of experimental evidence uses an ultimatum bargaining protocol to test analytical models, but there is no reason to think that bargaining in supply chains is in the form of ultimatum offers. We investigate the effect of bargaining on contract performance by extending the bargaining protocol to allow the manufacturer to make concessions. We test coordinating contract with bargaining in the laboratory by comparing wholesale price and the two-part tariff contracts using two different bargaining protocols. We then develop and estimate a statistical model of behavior with bargaining and find that this model organizes our data well. Our main finding is that the contracts that we study are more efficient when participants are allowed to make concessions. The additional channel efficiency is owing to more efficient offers made by manufacturers. The higher channel efficiency primarily benefits the retailer—the weaker party. Our main contribution is the observation that, when testing analytical models of contracts in the laboratory, the way that the bargaining process is implemented, such as the ability to make concessions, has a critical effect on conclusions.

This paper was accepted by Vishal Gaur, operations management.
Art hodontics: the Search for ‘Ultimate Beauty’ in Philosophy, Classicism and Orthodontics
Authors: Alkadhimi Aslam , Farnaz Motamedi
Published: January 2020

Abstract: The nature of beauty is one of the most imperishable and controversial themes in Western philosophy, and is a fundamental issue in philosophical aesthetics. Beauty has classically been counted among the ultimate values, with goodness, truth and justice. It is a primary theme among ancient Greek, Hellenistic and Medieval philosophers. The origins of clinical facial aesthetic analysis stem from the theoretical musings and introspection of pioneering artists and sculptors, stretching back to antiquity. The application of such analyses in clinical practice has been modified in accordance with changing cultural perceptions. Nonetheless, the work of the great artists and sculptors of past ages remains inherent in our ability to diagnose variations in facial appearance accurately.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Understanding the philosophical, artistic and clinical basis of facial harmony is essential to diagnose and treat dental patients in general, and orthodontic patients in particular.
Technique Tips
Authors: Prajapat Kalpesh , Mackenzie Louis
Published: January 2020

PTFE Tape: The Trick You May Have Been Missing
An unusual case of SMMCI syndrome: supernumerary midline central incisor in siblings
Authors: Morison Hannah , Gillgrass Toby , Dunbar Evelyn , Welbury Richard
Published: January 2020

This is the first reported case of siblings with Solitary Median Maxillary Central Incisor (SMMCI) syndrome presenting with an erupted single symmetrical central maxillary midline incisor between normal central incisors. Usually only one central incisor is present. This case is also interesting as the tooth described could have been mistaken for a mesiodens, however, a mesiodens is not symmetrical and usually erupts between the maxillary central incisors and sits slightly to the right or left of the midline.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This case highlights the fact that SMMCI should not be considered as a simple dental anomaly because it may be associated with more complex craniofacial malformations.
An unusual presentation of dental transposition caused by digit-sucking
Authors: Shargill Inderjit , Littlewood Simon J
Published: January 2020

This article describes the case of a 12-year-old boy who presented with a unique digit-sucking habit which has led to transposition of the lower lateral incisors with the lower canines. The aetiology, pathology and management are described for digit-sucking habits and dental transposition.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: It is important to recognize digit-sucking habits in patients and the implications for the malocclusion.
First premolar ankylosis
Authors: Oliver Graham , Nevard Heather , McKnight Mary
Published: January 2020

A case is described of a 13-year-old boy who presented with infra-occluded primary molars in three quadrants. Creation of space allowed the second premolars in two quadrants to erupt spontaneously. The first premolar in the remaining quadrant did not erupt spontaneously, failing to reach occlusal contact despite orthodontic traction.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This case demonstrates apparent intermittent ankylosis of a maxillary first premolar.
A Greener Practice: Sustainability in Healthcare
Authors: Dave Hancock
Published: January 2020

How can you respond to the increasing need to protect the environment and reduce greenhouse emissions? Dave Hancock investigates
Recording consultations: Where do we stand?
Authors: Pendlebury Gabrielle
Published: January 2020

Gabrielle Pendlebury, Medicolegal Consultant at Medical Protection, offers advice to the practice and GP on handling requests to record consultations, and what to do if you find out a consultation has been recorded overtly
A Guide to Gastroesophageal Reflux
Authors: Amy Noakes
Published: January 2020

Health professionals in primary care can provide supportive and information for parents of children with diagnosed or suspected gastroesophageal reflux, says Amy Noakes
Endoscopic resection for giant oesophageal fibrovascular polyp
Authors: Acar N , Acar T , Cengiz F , Şuataman B , Tavusbay C , Haciyanli M
Published: January 2020

A fibrovascular polyp is a rare benign pseudotumour of the oesophagus and hypopharynx. Although patients usually present with dysphagia, aspiration related mortality may occur. If the tumour is too large and/or located in the proximal oesophagus, it may protrude from the mouth. The general approach to treatment is complete reconstruction with cervicotomy. We present our experience of a giant oesophageal fibrovascular polyp that was protruding from the mouth and treated with endoscopic resection.

A 55-year-old man was admitted to our outpatient clinic complaining of a mass protruding from his mouth when he coughed. Endoscopy and bronchoscopy both revealed a 15–18cm long polypoid mass originating from the proximal oesophagus (at the level of the hypopharynx). Complete resection was performed via endoscopy.
Ordinary Matters in Islamic Studies: Notes from the Field
Authors: Manoukian Setrag
Published: January 2020

This essay is a reflection on the everyday conceptual matters that inform the workings of the academic field of Islamic Studies and constitute its conditions of possibility. The research is based on observations I made while working at the Institute of Islamic Studies at McGill University. The everyday of the Institute is marked by arguments that reject orientalism but also foreshadow its return in different guises. In this context, historical and linguistic approaches, with their own tensions and limits, appear as safeguards, but they are inevitably caught up in a binary that juxtaposes theory to the archive as two opposing but equally necessary modalities of knowledge. While several ideas about what constitutes Islam seem to cohabit without much friction, a quite fixed and stable notion of politics overdetermines the possibility to think otherwise. The essay is primarily descriptive, but it contains a few personal and “extra-territorial” notes on how to inhabit these matters differently and follow desire.
Disintegrating the Hyphen: The “Judeo-Christian Tradition” and the Christian Colonization of Judaism
Authors: Smith Robert O.
Published: January 2020

Jewish dissent to the concept of a “Judeo-Christian Tradition” reveals it to be a political assemblage offering conditional, incomplete access to structures of white, western Christian power. While the concept offers pragmatic benefits to Jews, it does so at the expense of Jewish distinction from Christian beliefs and purposes and to the exclusion of Islam and Muslims. The supersessionist foundations of the “Judeo-Christian” concept inspire and perpetuate Christian settler-colonial domination of Jews and Judaism. Destabilizing this concept promotes new levels of liberative dialogical engagement, moving us beyond present systems of theological, political, and economic injustice.
Black Excellence and the Curse of Ham: Debating Race and Slavery in the Islamic Tradition
Authors: Bashir Haroon
Published: January 2020

The Curse of Ham narrative claims that Ham (the son of Noah) and his progeny were cursed by God with “blackness and slavery.” While the story can be located within Islamic literature, the tradition was refuted by numerous scholars for various reasons. Firstly, the story is not found within the Quranic text. Secondly, it was generally accepted that slavery was not linked to color but was a substitute for execution following defeat in warfare. Most importantly, scholars refuted the idea that blackness could be considered a curse due to a number of early Muslim heroes being described as black. This paper explores the debates and discourses surrounding blackness and the story of Ham.
Too many cooks or cannot follow the recipe? A critical consideration of conceptualising the professional leadership of social work in England as a collective endeavour
Authors: Scourfield Peter
Published: January 2020

In 2018, the official requirement for social workers in England to demonstrate ‘professional leadership’ was refreshed and extended to now include needing to be part of the ‘collective leadership’ of the profession. This development raises several issues, not the least of which is whether there is a clearly identifiable ‘collective leadership’ in English social work to be a part of. The article discusses how professional leadership has come to be placed on the social work agenda in England. It then examines various definitional and practical issues associated with putting collective models of leadership into practice, noting that collective leadership is made more challenging in hierarchical organisations and where there is the lack of a shared vision. A survey of sources of social work leadership in England reveals a picture that is crowded and fragmented, and where leadership is as likely to come from private accountancy firms as it is from social work professionals. The discussion concludes with suggestions for making progress if the idea of collective leadership is to be a realistic aim. This includes building leadership capacity at all levels of the profession, starting at the qualification stage.
Field-only surface integral equations: scattering from a dielectric body
Authors: Sun Qiang , Klaseboer Evert , Yuffa Alex J. , Chan Derek Y. C.
Published: January 2020

An efficient field-only nonsingular surface integral method to solve
Maxwell’s equations for the components of the electric field on the
surface of a dielectric scatterer is introduced. In this method, both
the vector wave equation and the divergence-free constraint are
satisfied inside and outside the scatterer. The divergence-free
condition is replaced by an equivalent boundary condition that relates
the normal derivatives of the electric field across the surface of the
scatterer. Also, the continuity and jump conditions on the electric
and magnetic fields are expressed in terms of the electric field
across the surface of the scatterer. Together with these boundary
conditions, the scalar Helmholtz equation for the components of the
electric field inside and outside the scatterer is solved by a fully
desingularized surface integral method. Compared with the most popular
surface integral methods based on the Stratton–Chu formulation or the
Poggio–Miller–Chew–Harrington–Wu–Tsai (PMCHWT) formulation, our method
is conceptually simpler and numerically straightforward because there
is no need to introduce intermediate quantities such as surface
currents, and the use of complicated vector basis functions can be
avoided altogether. Also, our method is not affected by numerical
issues such as the zero-frequency catastrophe and does not contain
integrals with (strong) singularities. To illustrate the robustness
and versatility of our method, we show examples in the Rayleigh, Mie,
and geometrical optics scattering regimes. Given the symmetry between
the electric field and the magnetic field, our theoretical framework
can also be used to solve for the magnetic field.
Polarization in reflectance imaging
Authors: Sheppard Colin J. R. , Bendandi Artemi , Le Gratiet Aymeric , Diaspro Alberto
Published: January 2020

The Sinclair and Kennaugh matrices are widely used in the remote sensing discipline for signals detected in the backward direction. The connections between the Jones matrix and the Sinclair matrix, and between the Mueller matrix and the Kennaugh matrix, are explored. Different operations on the Jones matrix and their corresponding effects on the Mueller matrix, coherency matrix, and coherence vector are derived. As an example, the Sinclair matrix leads to a Mueller–Sinclair matrix, and a transformed coherence vector. The Kennaugh matrix is not, however, a Mueller matrix, but can be determined from the Mueller or Mueller–Sinclair matrices. We consider backscattering through a medium on a perfect mirror. We propose that backscattering from a uniform medium can be modeled as an effective uniform medium situated on a perfectly reflective substrate, and the elementary polarization properties derived. In this way, the concept of a uniform polarizing medium can be extended to the reflectance geometry. An experimental Mueller matrix from the literature is considered as an example.
Spatial resonance in an anisotropic medium with modulated gyrotropy
Authors: Aslanyan L. S. , Hovakimyan H. H.
Published: January 2020

The problem of the propagation of linearly polarized light in an optically anisotropic medium with spatially modulated gyrotropy is considered. The analysis has been carried out using optical Bloch equations in the approximation of a rotating wave. For clarity, the results are interpreted on the Poincaré sphere. It is demonstrated that under the resonance conditions, i.e., when the spatial frequency of modulation of gyrotropy coincides with the spatial frequency of polarization beats, a resonant increase in the amplitude of these beats is observed.
Parallel Fabry-Perot interferometers fabricated on multicore-fiber for temperature and strain discriminative sensing
Authors: Zhang Cong , Fu Songnian , Tang Ming , Liu Deming
Published: January 2020

We experimentally demonstrate parallel Fabry-Perot interferometers (FPIs) fabrication in multicore-fiber with individually variable cavity length, for the purpose of discriminative sensing of temperature and strain. First, we theoretically find that, in order to obtain a small condition number of sensitivity matrix, it is necessary to fabricate parallel FPIs with large cavity difference in single multicore fiber. Then, parallel FPIs are inscribed by femtosecond laser selective micro-holes drilling on the seven-core fiber facet, together with fiber fusion splicing process. By the use of image processing algorithm, individual core position is precisely locked, and then parallel FPIs can be obtained on arbitrary two cores of seven-core fiber. With the location of parallel micro-holes and duration time of fiber fusion splicing adjusted, parallel FPIs with different cavity length of 26µm and 61µm can be simultaneously obtained at the central core and surrounding core, respectively. Consequently, each FPI possesses different sensitivity towards environmental temperature and strain. Finally, a proof-of-concept experiment verifies that relative measurement errors of both temperature and strain discriminative sensing are less than 0.5% and 2.5%, respectively.
Unsupervised deep learning for depth estimation with offset pixels
Authors: Imran Saad , Bin Mukarram Sikander , Karim Khan Muhammad Umar , Kyung Chong-Min
Published: January 2020

Offset Pixel Aperture (OPA) camera has been recently proposed to estimate disparity of a scene with a single shot. Disparity is obtained in the image by offsetting the pixels by a fixed distance. Previously, correspondence matching schemes have been used for disparity estimation with OPA. To improve disparity estimation we use a data-oriented approach. Specifically, we use unsupervised deep learning to estimate the disparity in OPA images. We propose a simple modification to the training strategy which solves the vanishing gradients problem with the very small baseline of the OPA camera. Training degenerates to poor disparity maps if the OPA images are used directly for left-right consistency check. By using images obtained from displaced cameras at training, accurate disparity maps are obtained. The performance of the OPA camera is significantly improved compared to previously proposed single-shot cameras and unsupervised disparity estimation methods. The approach provides 8 frames per second on a single Nvidia 1080 GPU with 1024×512 OPA images. Unlike conventional approaches, which are evaluated in controlled environments, our paper shows the utility of deep learning for disparity estimation with real life sensors and low quality images. By combining OPA with deep learning, we obtain a small depth sensor capable of providing accurate disparity at usable frame rates. Also the ideas in this work can be used in small-baseline stereo systems for short-range depth estimation and multi-baseline stereo to increase the depth range.
Change in phase singularities of a partially coherent Gaussian vortex beam propagating in a GRIN fiber
Authors: Wang Jing , Yang Shuai , Guo Miaojun , Feng Zhifang , Li Jinhong
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we have derived the analytical formulae for the cross-spectral densities of partially coherent Gaussian vortex beams propagating in a gradient-index (GRIN) fiber. In numerical analysis, the variations of the intensity and the phase distributions are demonstrated to illustrate the change in singularities within a GRIN fiber. It turns out that the beam intensity and phase distribution change periodically in the propagation process. The partially coherent Gaussian vortex beams do not typically possess the center intensity zero in the focal plane, which usually called ‘hidden’ singularities in intensities detection. We demonstrated the phase singularities more clearly by the phase distribution, one finds that the phase vortex of a partially coherent beam will crack near the focus, and opposite topological charge will be generated, we attribute to the wave-front decomposition and reconstruction of the vortex beams by the GRIN fiber. Our results show that the change in phase singularities not only affected by the GRIN fiber, but also by the initial coherence of the beam source, and high initial coherence will be more conducive to maintaining the phase singularities in the propagation. Our results may find applications in singular optics, wave-front reconstruction and optical fiber communications.
GaTe–Sb2Te3 thin-films phase change characteristics
Authors: Bouška Marek , Nazabal Virginie , Gutwirth Jan , Halenkovič Tomáš , Přikryl Jan , Normani Simone , Němec Petr
Published: January 2020

A radio frequency magnetron co-sputtering technique exploiting GaTe and

S
b

2

T
e

3

targets was used for the fabrication of Ga–Sb–Te thin films. Prepared layers cover broad region of chemical composition (

∼

10.0

−

26.3

a
t
.

 % of Ga,

∼

19.9

−

34.4

a
t
.

% of Sb) while keeping Te content fairly constant (53.8–55.6 at. % of Te). Upon crystallization induced by annealing, large variations in electrical contrast were found, reaching a sheet resistance ratio of

R

a
n
n
e
a
l
e
d

/

R

a
s
−
d
e
p
o
s
i
t
e
d

∼

2.2

×

10

−
8

for the

G
a

26.3

S
b

19.9

T
e

53.8

layer. Phase transition from the amorphous to crystalline state further leads to huge changes of optical functions demonstrated by optical contrast values up to

|

Δ
n

|

+

|

Δ
k

|

=

4.20

for

G
a

26.3

S
b

19.9

T
e

53.8

composition.
Experimental investigation of silicon and silicon nitride platforms for phase-change photonic in-memory computing
Authors: Li Xuan , Youngblood Nathan , Cheng Zengguang , Carrillo Santiago Garcia-Cuevas , Gemo Emanuele , Pernice Wolfram H. P. , Wright C. David , Bhaskaran Harish
Published: January 2020

Advances in artificial intelligence have greatly increased demand for data-intensive computing. Integrated photonics is a promising approach to meet this demand in big-data processing due to its potential for wide bandwidth, high speed, low latency, and low-energy computing. Photonic computing using phase-change materials combines the benefits of integrated photonics and co-located data storage, which of late has evolved rapidly as an emerging area of interest. In spite of rapid advances of demonstrations in this field on both silicon and silicon nitride platforms, a clear pathway towards choosing between the two has been lacking. In this paper, we systematically evaluate and compare computation performance of phase-change photonics on a silicon platform and a silicon nitride platform. Our experimental results show that while silicon platforms are superior to silicon nitride in terms of potential for integration, modulation speed, and device footprint, they require trade-offs in terms of energy efficiency. We then successfully demonstrate single-pulse modulation using phase-change optical memory on silicon photonic waveguides and demonstrate efficient programming, memory retention, and readout of

>

4

bits of data per cell. Our approach paves the way for in-memory computing on the silicon photonic platform.
Media, comunicação e desporto. Uma introdução
Authors: Pinheiro Francisco , Marín-Montín Joaquín
Published: January 2020

https://doi.org/10.14195/2183-6019_8_0
La marca en los clubes de La Liga
Authors: Mayorga Escalada Santiago
Published: January 2020

Este trabalho de investigação procura conhecer qual é a realidade de alguns clubes de futebol profissional em Espanha, que integraram La Liga na época de 2017/2018, atendendo à sua dimensão estratégica, por se terem constituído como marcas comerciais através de um processo integrado de gestão. Como marcas integrantes do setor do entretenimento, mais concretamente da indústria do desporto profissional, este tipo de organizações dependem da profissionalização das suas ações de branding, marketing, management e comunicação para conseguirem valor acrescentado, para além de aumentar as suas vendas, procurar novas vias de financiamento, melhorar a reputação, posicionar-se no mercado, diferenciar- -se da concorrência, gerar e potenciar engagement entre os seus públicos, e ampliar o seu mercado, chegando a internacionalizá- lo. Em definitiva, utilizar a sua marca para conseguir melhorar as receitas financeiras, fortalecendo a sua imagem de forma positiva, coerente, consistente e global. Igualmente importante é conhecer como os clubes valorizam a profissionalização dos seus processos de gestão estratégica da marca, bem como o tratamento dos resultados, a destreza na investigação e gestão de dados, e as ações de implementação estratégica com o objetivo de gerar, a longo prazo, uma ideia positiva da marca em todos os domínios.
Odi et amo
Authors: Manso José Henrique
Published: January 2020

Sentimentos aparentemente inconciliáveis, amor e ódio, aparecem conjugados na poesia de Catulo e em vários outros poetas que se lhe seguiram. No entanto, apesar de ser Catulo a popularizá-lo, este tópico literário já se encontra nalguns escassos poemas que nos chegaram de Safo, imitados pelo poeta latino. Neste ensaio, debruçamo-nos particularmente sobre o carme catuliano Odi et amo (nº 85) e sobre a cantiga de amor Se eu podesse desamar, de Pero da Ponte, composta catorze séculos mais tarde. O cotejo entre os dois poemas mostra-nos ainda a influência de Catulo sobre o primeiro momento da literatura portuguesa, a lírica trovadoresca.
Diagnostic value of mean platelet volume in neonatal sepsis
Authors: Pamudji Kristopher May , Kardana I Made
Published: January 2020

Background Neonatal sepsis is a severe disease with potentially serious impacts if not treated early. However, the symptoms and clinical signs are not specific. Several studies have been conducted to find early infection markers for detection of neonatal sepsis, but without satisfactory results. Mean platelet volume (MPV) is a new marker of infection that has good potential for diagnosing neonatal sepsis.

Objective To assess the diagnostic value of MPV in early detection of neonatal sepsis.

Methods This retrospective study with diagnostic testing was done with data collected from medical records of neonates with neonatal sepsis who were admitted to the Neonatology Department in Sanglah Hospital, Denpasar from December 2018 to March 2019. Mean platelet volume cut-off point was determined using a receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of MPV in neonatal sepsis were determined using a 2x2 table.

Results Of 82 subjects, 55 subjects were male (67%). Positive blood culture results were found in 25 subjects (30%). Mean platelet volume with a cut-off point of 7.44 fL had 80% sensitivity, 84.2% specificity, 69% PPV, and 90.6% NPV.

Conclusion Mean platelet volume with a cut-off point of 7.44 fL can be used to diagnose neonatal sepsis with a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 84.2%.
Current management of children with acute otitis media: a feasibility survey for a pragmatic study
Authors: Ranakusuma Respati Wulansari , McCullough Amanda R. , Beller Elaine M. , Del Mar Christopher B. , Safitri Eka Dian , Pitoyo Yupitri , Widyaningsih Widyaningsih
Published: January 2020

Background Acute otitis media (AOM) is a common self-limiting infection where antibiotics confer limited benefit. Other treatments, such as anti-inflammatory agents have been proposed as an alternative to antibiotics, but no high-quality clinical trials have tested this.

Objective To identify current AOM management practices among Indonesian clinicians. We also required this information for our proposed corticosteroids clinical trial for AOM.

Methods This cross-sectional study surveyed a convenience sample of general practitioners (GPs), pediatricians, and Ear-Nose-Throat (ENT) specialists in Jakarta, Depok, and Bekasi. We addressed their current AOM management practices and willingness to participate in a future trial on corticosteroids.

Results We distributed 2,694 questionnaires through conferences, primary care/hospital visits, and by mail-list group. Of 492 questionnaires received (response rate 18%), 352 were from eligible clinicians. Most clinicians diagnosed AOM by using an otoscope (64-91%). Tympanometry was used by a quarter of ENT specialists. Amoxicillin-clavulanate was the most common antibiotic for AOM, prescribed by pediatricians and ENT specialists, whilst most GPs prescribed amoxicillin. Clinical scenarios indicated most ENT specialists (88%) would prescribe antibiotics and most pediatricians (54%) would choose expectant observation by withholding antibiotics for mild AOM. Almost half of clinicians would consider using corticosteroids in a trial.

Conclusion Most clinicians would prescribe antibiotics for mild AOM. However, slightly over half of pediatricians would solely choose expectant observation. Adequate numbers of potential participating clinicians, who would consider using corticosteroids, make our proposed corticosteroids trial for AOM feasible. We found gaps between clinical practice and evidence requiring further investigation to improve AOM management in Indonesia.