bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Initial evaluation of (4S)-4-(3-[18F]fluoropropyl)-l-glutamate (FSPG) PET/CT imaging in patients with head and neck cancer, colorectal cancer, or non-Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Park Sonya Y. , Mosci Camila , Kumar Meena , Wardak Mirwais , Koglin Norman , Bullich Santiago , Mueller Andre , Berndt Mathias , Stephens Andrew W. , Chin Frederick T. , Gambhir Sanjiv S. , Mittra Erik S.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

(4S)-4-(3-[18F]Fluoropropyl)-l-glutamic acid ([18F]FSPG) measures system xC− transporter activity and shows promise for oncologic imaging. We present data on tumor uptake of this radiopharmaceutical in human subjects with head and neck cancer (HNC), colorectal cancer (CRC), and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).

Methods

A total of 15 subjects with HNC (n = 5), CRC (n = 5), or NHL (n = 5) were recruited (mean age 66.2 years, range 44–87 years). 301.4 ± 28.1 MBq (8.1 ± 0.8 mCi) of [18F]FSPG was given intravenously to each subject, and 3 PET/CT scans were obtained 0–2 h post-injection. All subjects also had a positive [18F]FDG PET/CT scan within 1 month prior to the [18F]FSPG PET scan. Semi-quantitative and visual comparisons of the [18F]FSPG and [18F]FDG scans were performed.

Results

[18F]FSPG showed strong uptake in all but one HNC subject. The lack of surrounding brain uptake facilitated tumor delineation in the HNC patients. [18F]FSPG also showed tumor uptake in all CRC subjects, but variable uptake in the NHL subjects. While the absolute [18F]FDG SUV values were comparable or higher than [18F]FSPG, the tumor-to-background SUV ratios were greater with [18F]FSPG than [18F]FDG.

Conclusions

[18F]FSPG PET/CT showed promising results across 15 subjects with 3 different cancer types. Concordant visualization was mostly observed between [18F]FSPG and [18F]FDG PET/CT images, with some inter- and intra-individual uptake variability potentially reflecting differences in tumor biology. The tumor-to-background ratios were greater with [18F]FSPG than [18F]FDG in the cancer types evaluated. Future studies based on larger numbers of subjects and those with a wider array of primary and recurrent or metastatic tumors are planned to further evaluate the utility of this novel tracer.
The impact of critical illness on the expiratory muscles and the diaphragm assessed by ultrasound in mechanical ventilated children
Authors: IJland Marloes M. , Lemson Joris , van der Hoeven Johannes G. , Heunks Leo M. A.
Published: August 2020

Background

Critical illness has detrimental effects on the diaphragm, but the impact of critical illness on other major muscles of the respiratory pump has been largely neglected. This study aimed to determine the impact of critical illness on the most important muscles of the respiratory muscle pump, especially on the expiratory muscles in children during mechanical ventilation. In addition, the correlation between changes in thickness of the expiratory muscles and the diaphragm was assessed.

Methods

This longitudinal observational cohort study performed at a tertiary pediatric intensive care unit included 34 mechanical ventilated children (> 1 month– < 18 years). Thickness of the diaphragm and expiratory muscles (obliquus interna, obliquus externa, transversus abdominis and rectus abdominis) was assessed daily using ultrasound. Contractile activity was estimated from muscle thickening fraction during the respiratory cycle.

Results

Over the first 4 days, both diaphragm and expiratory muscles thickness decreased (> 10%) in 44% of the children. Diaphragm and expiratory muscle thickness increased (> 10%) in 26% and 20% of the children, respectively. No correlation was found between contractile activity of the muscles and the development of atrophy. Furthermore, no correlation was found between changes in thickness of the diaphragm and the expiratory muscles (P = 0.537). Decrease in expiratory muscle thickness was significantly higher in patients failing extubation compared to successful extubation (− 34% vs − 4%, P = 0.014).

Conclusions

Changes in diaphragm and expiratory muscles thickness develop rapidly after the initiation of mechanical ventilation. Changes in thickness of the diaphragm and expiratory muscles were not significantly correlated. These data provide a unique insight in the effects of critical illness on the respiratory muscle pump in children.
A systematic review of the barriers to and facilitators of the use of evidence by philanthropists when determining which charities (including health charities or programmes) to fund
Authors: Greenhalgh Caroline , Montgomery Paul
Published: August 2020

Background

Philanthropists, charity leaders and policy-makers have increasingly recognised that the process of giving resources needs to be grounded in evidence—sometimes referred to as ‘evidence-based’ or ‘data-driven’ philanthropy. Yet few philanthropists practise evidence-based philanthropy, and some contend that there is insufficient evidence on which to base their funding decisions. This review aims to identify factors that promote or limit the use of evidence by philanthropists and to rigorously evaluate all existing research on this issue.

Objectives

To identify, synthesise, and evaluate appropriate and rigorous research, examining factors which act as barriers to or facilitators of the use of evidence by philanthropists.

Methods

This review was conducted according to Cochrane standards and reported following PRISMA guidelines. The review protocol was pre-registered (dx.doi.org/10.17504/protocols.io.wbsfane). We searched 10 interdisciplinary databases using a highly sensitive search strategy, developed in consultation with an information scientist. We also contacted experts and searched a range of websites. Studies were included if they comprised primary research into or systematic reviews of the barriers to and facilitators of the use of evidence by philanthropists or funders when determining which charities (including health charities or programmes) to fund. All studies were appraised for quality, and the results synthesised using thematic analysis.

Results

Of 686 studies identified through database and hand searching, nine met inclusion criteria. The thematic summary identified three main barriers to philanthropists or funders using evidence: (1) inadequate knowledge transfer and difficulties accessing evidence, (2) challenges in understanding the evidence and (3) insufficient resources. The three key factors that expedite the use of evidence are (1) improved knowledge transfer and more accessible/relevant high-quality information, (2) access to professional advisors and networks and (3) broadening the definition of what counts as credible evidence along with standardisation of reporting.

Conclusions

The authors of this review found several compelling arguments for promoting the use of evidence by philanthropists to inform their philanthropy. If evidence-based philanthropy is to flourish, then they recommed the following actions: Firstly, philanthropy should be underpinned by a commitment to 'do no harm'. Secondly, the definition of evidence should be expanded and funding decisions based upon consideration of 'all available evidence'. Finally, there should be more investment in synthesizing evidence and in the infrastructure for knowledge transfer.
Dynamics of COVID-19 mathematical model with stochastic perturbation
Authors: Zhang Zizhen , Zeb Anwar , Hussain Sultan , Alzahrani Ebraheem
Published: August 2020

Acknowledging many effects on humans, which are ignored in deterministic models for COVID-19, in this paper, we consider stochastic mathematical model for COVID-19. Firstly, the formulation of a stochastic susceptible–infected–recovered model is presented. Secondly, we devote with full strength our concentrated attention to sufficient conditions for extinction and persistence. Thirdly, we examine the threshold of the proposed stochastic COVID-19 model, when noise is small or large. Finally, we show the numerical simulations graphically using MATLAB.
The relationship of test takers’ learning motivation, attitudes towards the actual test use and test performance of the College English Test in China
Authors: Bai Ying
Published: August 2020

Test takers’ individual characteristics may have a significant impact on their test performance (e.g. Bachman & Palmer, Language assessment in practice: Developing language assessments and justifying their use in the real world, 2010). However, given their dynamic and context-sensitive nature, different variables of test takers’ individual characteristics were explored in previous empirical research and the multivariate relationships among these variables and test performance varied in different research contexts. This study explored the relationships of test takers’ English learning motivation, attitudes towards the actual test use of the College English Test (CET), a high-stakes test in China, and their test performance. The findings revealed two distinctive dimensions with regards to English leaning motivation and embedded value implications in test use. Meanwhile, test takers’ test performance was positively and negatively affected by their supportive attitudes towards the actual test use of the CET and test-related learning motivation, respectively.
Trans-synaptic and retrograde axonal spread of Lewy pathology following pre-formed fibril injection in an in vivo A53T alpha-synuclein mouse model of synucleinopathy
Authors: Schaser Allison J. , Stackhouse Teresa L. , Weston Leah J. , Kerstein Patrick C. , Osterberg Valerie R. , López Claudia S. , Dickson Dennis W. , Luk Kelvin C. , Meshul Charles K. , Woltjer Randall L. , Unni Vivek K.
Published: August 2020

It is necessary to develop an understanding of the specific mechanisms involved in alpha-synuclein aggregation and propagation to develop disease modifying therapies for age-related synucleinopathies, including Parkinson’s disease and Dementia with Lewy Bodies. To adequately address this question, we developed a new transgenic mouse model of synucleinopathy that expresses human A53T SynGFP under control of the mouse prion protein promoter. Our characterization of this mouse line demonstrates that it exhibits several distinct advantages over other, currently available, mouse models. This new model allows rigorous study of the initial location of Lewy pathology formation and propagation in the living brain, and strongly suggests that aggregation begins in axonal structures with retrograde propagation to the cell body. This model also shows expeditious development of alpha-synuclein pathology following induction with small, in vitro-generated alpha-synuclein pre-formed fibrils (PFFs), as well as accelerated cell death of inclusion-bearing cells. Using this model, we found that aggregated alpha-synuclein somatic inclusions developed first in neurons, but later showed a second wave of inclusion formation in astrocytes. Interestingly, astrocytes appear to survive much longer after inclusion formation than their neuronal counterparts. This model also allowed careful study of peripheral-to-central spread of Lewy pathology after PFF injection into the hind limb musculature. Our results clearly show evidence of progressive, retrograde trans-synaptic spread of Lewy pathology through known neuroanatomically connected pathways in the motor system. As such, we have developed a promising tool to understand the biology of neurodegeneration associated with alpha-synuclein aggregation and to discover new treatments capable of altering the neurodegenerative disease course of synucleinopathies.
Investigating the value of arterial spin labeling and intravoxel incoherent motion imaging on diagnosing nasopharyngeal carcinoma in T1 stage
Authors: Li Yujie , Li Xiaolu , Yu Xiaoduo , Lin Meng , Ouyang Han , Xie Lizhi , Shang Yuqing
Published: August 2020

Background

To investigate the diagnostic value of arterial spin labeling (ASL) and intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) imaging in distinguishing nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) in T1 stage from healthy controls (HC).

Methods

Forty-five newly diagnosed NPC patients in the T1 stage and thirty-one healthy volunteers who underwent MR examinations for both 3D pseudo-continuous ASL (pCASL) and IVIM were enrolled in this study. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the mean values of blood flow (BF) derived from pCASL and IVIM derived parameters, including apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), pure molecular diffusion (D), pseudo-diffusion coefficient (D*) and perfusion fraction (f) between NPC tumor and benign nasopharyngeal mucosa of HC. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) was performed to determine diagnostic cutoff and efficiency. The correlation coefficients among parameters were investigated using Spearman’s test.

Results

The NPC in the T1 stage showed higher mean BF, lower ADC, D, and f compared to benign nasopharyngeal mucosa (P < 0.001) with the area under curve of ROC of 0.742–0.996 (highest by BF). BF cutoff was set at > 36 mL/100 g/min; the corresponding sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy in differentiating NPC stage T1 from benign nasopharyngeal mucosa were 95.56% (43/45), 100% (31/31) and 97.37% (74/76), respectively. BF demonstrated moderate negative correlation with D* on HC (ρ [Spearman correlation coefficients] = − 0.426, P = 0.017).

Conclusions

ASL and IVIM could reflect the difference in perfusion and diffusion between tumor and benign nasopharyngeal mucosa, indicating a potential for accessing early diagnosis of NPC. Notably, BF, with a specificity of 100%, demonstrated better performance compared to IVIM in distinguishing malignant lesions from healthy tissue.
Effectiveness of iron supplementation in the perioperative management of total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review
Authors: Lee Seung Hoon , Kim Joong Il , Choi Wonchul , Kim Tae Woo , Lee Yong Seuk
Published: August 2020

Introduction/purpose

The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the effect of iron supplementation during total knee arthroplasty (TKA): (1) Is the iron supplementation necessary during TKA? (2) When is the optimal timing of iron supplementation? (3) Which is better, between orally and intravenously administered iron supplementation? And (4) What is the optimal dose of iron supplementation?

Materials and methods

A rigorous and systematic approach was used and each of the selected studies was evaluated for methodological quality. Data about study design, total number of cases enrolled, iron administration method, timing, and dose were extracted. Change in hemoglobin and transfusion rates were extracted to evaluate the effectiveness of iron supplementation.

Results

Eleven studies were included in the final analysis. Most of studies reported that hemoglobin change between iron and control group did not show any difference. Only one study reported that iron supplementation could reduce the decrease in hemoglobin. However, transfusion rate showed a decrease in the iron supplementation group compared with the control group. There was no clear consensus on the optimum timing and dose of iron supplementation and intravenously administered iron was more effective than orally administered iron, especially in anemic patients.

Conclusion

Iron supplementation is not clear as a way to raise hemoglobin levels after TKA, but an effective treatment for lowering transfusion rate, especially in patients with anemia. We could not determine the optimal timing and dose of the iron. Intravenously administered iron was similar to, or better than, orally administered iron for improving hemoglobin levels and transfusion rate.
A retrospective study of intramuscular clozapine prescription for treatment initiation and maintenance in treatment-resistant psychosis
Authors: Casetta Cecilia , Oloyede Ebenezer , Whiskey Eromona , Taylor David Michael , Gaughran Fiona , Shergill Sukhi S. , Onwumere Juliana , Segev Aviv , Dzahini Olubanke , Legge Sophie E. , MacCabe James Hunter
Published: August 2020

Background

Clozapine is uniquely effective in treatment-resistant psychosis but remains underutilised, partly owing to psychotic symptoms leading to non-adherence to oral medication. An intramuscular formulation is available in the UK but outcomes remain unexplored.

Aims

This was a retrospective clinical effectiveness study of intramuscular clozapine prescription for treatment initiation and maintenance in treatment-resistant psychosis over a 3-year period.

Method

Successful initiation of oral clozapine after intramuscular prescription was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included all-cause clozapine discontinuation 2 years following initiation, and 1 year after discharge. Discontinuation rates were compared with a cohort prescribed only oral clozapine. Propensity scores were used to address confounding by indication.

Results

Among 39 patients prescribed intramuscular clozapine, 19 received at least one injection, whereas 20 accepted oral clozapine when given an enforced choice between the two. Thirty-six (92%) patients successfully initiated oral clozapine after intramuscular prescription; three never transitioned to oral. Eight discontinued oral clozapine during the 2-year follow-up, compared with 83 out of 162 in the comparator group (discontinuation rates of 24% and 50%, respectively). Discontinuation rates at 1-year post-discharge were 21%, compared with 44% in the comparison group. Intramuscular clozapine prescription was associated with a non-significantly lower hazard of discontinuation 2 years after initiation (hazard ratio 0.39, 95% CI 0.14–1.06) and 1 year after discharge (hazard ratio 0.37, 95% CI 0.11–1.24). The only reported adverse event specific to the intramuscular formulation was injection site pain and swelling.

Conclusions

Intramuscular clozapine prescription allowed transition to oral maintenance in an initially non-adherent cohort. Discontinuation rates were similar to patients only prescribed oral clozapine and comparable to existing literature.
Acertando problemas complexos: o “praticalismo” e os “processos estruturais”
Authors: Osna Gustavo
Published: August 2020

Solving complex problems: ‘practicalism’ and ‘structural litigation’ RESUMOO tema dos “processos estruturais” tem recebido atenção crescente da doutrina brasileira ao longo dos últimos anos, repercutindo também em seus Tribunais. Nesse sentido, formam-se diferentes propostas e estudos acadêmicos, oferecendo conteúdos díspares a ideias como “decisões estruturais”. O presente ensaio procura enfrentar essa matéria, mas de uma perspectiva diversa. Defende-se que os principais provimentos usualmente vistos como “estruturais”, na realidade, representaram uma alternativa “praticalista” do Poder Judiciário para lidar mais adequadamente com problemas complexos. Dessa forma, é necessário evitar que o conceitualismo limite a criatividade jurisdicional e estabeleça requisitos que restrinjam essa atividade. ABSTRACTOver the last years, the idea of ‘structural litigation’ is being increasingly studied by Brazilian doctrine and by Brazilian Courts. In this sense, one can find several academic proposals that do not attribute the same content to notions as ‘structural injunction’. The present essay faces this subject, but do it from a different perspective. I argue that the main decisions usually seen as “structural” have represented a ‘practicalist’ path adopted by the Judiciary to handle complex problems more properly. Thus, I defend that conceptualism must not limit such judicial creativity.
Risky sexual behaviours among young adults attending Higher Learning Institutions in Mbeya, Tanzania: implications for STIs and HIV preventive programs
Authors: Mcharo Ruby Doryn , Olomi Willyhelmina , Mayaud Philippe , Msuya Sia E.
Published: August 2020

Background: High-risk sexual behaviours (HRSBs) among young adults are a key risk for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), HIV and unplanned pregnancies. The World Health Organization has identified the 15-24 year age-group as high-risk for STIs. Students at Higher Learning Institutions (HLIs) may be at higher risk because they are free of immediate parental supervision, a transient migratory population, and probably at peak years of sexual activity. Here, we describe risky sexual behaviours and preventive practices among young adults attending HLIs in Mbeya, Tanzania.

Methods: Cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2019 to January 2020 among students aged 18-24 years enrolled in HLIs within Mbeya. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect information on sexual health education, activity, behaviour and STI knowledge.

Results: 504 students were enrolled; mean age of 21.5 (SD 1.74) years. 377 (74.8%) students were sexually active. Mean age of first sexual encounter was 18.4 years and 11.6% reported their sexual debut was <15 years. A higher proportion of male students (59.7%) reported their sexual debut with non-steady partners compared with female students (40.9%). Lack of condom use at sexual debut was reported by 43.3% of sexually active students. Consistent condom use during the past 4-weeks was reported at 23.3% and 16.9% among men and women, respectively. Almost 1 in 10 students reported being forced into having sex by someone they were dating. Sex under the influence of alcohol was reported by 25.5% of the students. Nearly 7 in 10 (77%) students had heard of STIs, but only 15% were aware STIs could be asymptomatic. 

Conclusion: STI prevention programs need to recognize young adults in HLIs as an at-risk population. HLIs must advocate targeted messages to minimize risks to acquiring STIs, offer counselling and support for those experiencing sexual violence, and promote condom use and safer-sex negotiation skills.
The use of essential oils as a growth promoter for small ruminants: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Andri Faizal , Huda Asri Nurul , Marjuki Marjuki
Published: August 2020

Background: Due to their antimicrobial properties and safety, essential oils are currently proposed as a sustainable option for antibiotic alternatives in the livestock sector. This current systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of dietary essential oil supplements on dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain (ADG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of small ruminants.

Methods: A total of 12 studies (338 small ruminants) were included in this meta-analysis. The overall effect size was quantified using Hedges’ g with 95% confidence interval (CI) using a fixed-effect model. Publication bias was inspected using Begg’s and Egger’s tests, followed by trim and fill method to detect the number of potential missing studies.

Results: Insignificant heterogeneity among studies was detected both on DMI (P of Q = 0.810; I-square = 0.00%), ADG (P of Q = 0.286; I-square = 17.61%), and FCR (P of Q = 0.650; I-square = 0.00%). The overall effect size showed that essential oils supplementation had no significant impact on DMI (Hedges’ g = -0.12; 95% CI = -0.50 to 0.26; P = 0.429) and FCR (Hedges’ g = -0.17; 95% CI = -0.55 to 0.22; P = 0.284), but had a significant positive impact on ADG (Hedges’ g = 0.44; 95% CI = 0.12 to 0.76; P = 0.002). The result of publication bias analysis showed that DMI, ADG, and FCR did not present any significant biases ( P > 0.10), and no potential missing studies detected.

Conclusions: Dietary essential oil could improve ADG of small ruminants, without any alteration on DMI and FCR. Further research in this topic is still required to provide stronger evidence of the potency of essential oil as a growth promoter for small ruminants.
Regulation and rationing of modern labor processes
Authors: SAVEL'EVA Ekaterina
Published: August 2020

A wide range of topical theoretical and practical issues of regulation and normalization of modern labor processes is considered. The materials of the training manual take into account not only the legislation and regulations currently in force in the Russian Federation, but also international standards, as well as the experience of advanced countries and companies.
The main attention is paid to the topics that have recently attracted the greatest interest: legal support for labor regulation; requirements for the content and management of regulatory documentation within the quality management system; features of regulations as electronic documents; opportunities for applying professional standards in the corporate regulatory system; technology for developing standard operating procedures, job descriptions and other regulatory documents, taking into account the requirements of the QMS; methods for reducing the implementation time of regulations. The issues of building and evaluating the effectiveness of the corporate system of labor rationing, taking into account the recommendations approved by the Ministry of labor of Russia, are considered. The description of software solutions and current tools for labor rationing is given; the legal aspects of electronic accounting of working hours and control over the performance of labor duties are analyzed, etc.
Meets the requirements of the Federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
It is intended for students studying in the direction 38.03.03 "personnel Management" and other economic and technical areas, for teachers, postgraduates, students of courses of additional professional education, as well as managers and specialists involved in practical issues of labor regulation and rationing."
Social management of institutional changes in Russian society: sociological analysis of transformational processes
Authors: Schelokov Denis
Published: August 2020

The monograph is devoted to the problem of studying the transformation of social institutions in Russian society. The current state of society is characterized by dynamic processes developing in it. This applies to all levels and elements of such education. A significant condition for their course is the purposefulness and systematic influence of interested social structures. In the context of specific historical and landscape-geographical conditions, these are Federal and regional public authorities that exercise their powers within the framework of the official management system. The most effective implementation of the relevant competencies is possible through social management, taking into account the needs of the population, which are expressed through current socio-economic problems.

For students and teachers, as well as anyone interested in the sociology of social change.
Reception of citizens and consideration of appeals in investigative bodies
Authors: Burynin Sergey , Valov Sergey , Cvetkov Yuriy , Savos'kin Aleksandr
Published: August 2020

In the monograph, based on the achievements of the theory of constitutional law, criminal procedure and administrative law, extensive regulations, decisions of the constitutional Court of the Russian Federation, the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation, courts of General jurisdiction and enforcement practices and the results of their research presented the main aspects of organizing and conducting the reception of citizens, consideration of complaints in the investigative agencies of the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation, Ministry of internal Affairs of Russia and FSB of Russia.

It is intended for managers and employees of investigative bodies, and can also be useful to employees and employees of other state and local government bodies that are authorized to receive citizens and consider appeals, as well as specialists in state and municipal management.
Reconstruction of Elbow Joint and Soft Tissue Defect with Anterolateral Thigh Flap and Total Elbow Replacement: A Case Report
Authors: Park Hyun Sik , Kim Dong-Jin , Hwang Joing Ick
Published: August 2020

Soft tissue and bone defect due to the machinery penetrating injury of elbow joint are a rare and challenging problem for reconstructive surgeons. After reconstructing soft tissue with anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap and external fixator, the authors planned restoration of elbow function using total elbow replacement (TER). Finally, the patient regained the soft tissue reconstruction and the motion of the elbow using TER, and satisfied with the clinical results. Therefore, the authors present the successful case of ALT flap and TER to treat the machinery penetrating the injury of the elbow.
Field Experiment on the Profit Implications of Merchants’ Discretionary Power to Override Data-Driven Decision-Making Tools
Authors: Kesavan Saravanan , Kushwaha Tarun
Published: August 2020

Data-driven decision-making (DDD) is rapidly transforming modern operations. The availability of big data, advances in data analytics tools, and rapid gains in processing power enable firms to make decisions based on data rather than intuition. Yet, most firms still allow managers to override decisions from DDD tools, as managers might possess private information not present in the DDD tool. We report on a field-experiment conducted by an automobile replacement parts retailer that examines the profit implications of providing discretionary power to merchants. We find that merchants’ overrides of the DDD tool reduce profitability by 5.77%. However, our analysis over product life cycle (PLC) reveals that merchants increase (decrease) profitability for growth- (mature- & decline-) stage products.

This paper was accepted by Charles Corbett, operations management.
A Stochastic Integer Programming Approach to Air Traffic Scheduling and Operations
Authors: Wang Kai , Jacquillat Alexandre
Published: August 2020

Air traffic management measures comprise tactical operating procedures to minimize delay costs and strategic scheduling interventions to control overcapacity scheduling. Although interdependent, these problems have been treated in isolation. This paper proposes an integrated model of scheduling and operations in airport networks that jointly optimizes scheduling interventions and ground-holding operations across airports networks under operating uncertainty. It is formulated as a two-stage stochastic program with integer recourse. To solve it, we develop an original decomposition algorithm with provable solution quality guarantees. The algorithm relies on new optimality cuts—dual integer cuts—that leverage the reduced costs of the dual linear programming relaxation of the second-stage problem. The algorithm also incorporates neighborhood constraints, which shift from exploration to exploitation at later stages. We also use a scenario generation approach to construct representative scenarios from historical records of operations—using integer programming. Computational experiments show that our algorithm yields near-optimal solutions for the entire U.S. National Airspace System network. Ultimately, the proposed approach enhances airport demand management models through scale integration (by capturing network-wide interdependencies) and scope integration (by capturing interdependencies between scheduling and operations).
Is acetabular dysplasia and pelvic deformity properly interpreted in patients with congenital femoral deficiency? A 3D analysis of pelvic computed tomography
Authors: Musielak Bartosz Jan , Shadi Milud , Kubicka Anna Maria , Koczewski Paweł , Rychlik Michał , Premakumaran Pirunthi , Jóźwiak Marek
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study is to assess the pelvis's morphology and spatial orientation of the acetabulum, and their relation to the severity of Congenital Femoral Deficiency (CFD) using 3D imaging. Defining these pathologies is crucial for adequate surgical correction.

Methods

The shape and structure of the acetabulum and pelvis were evaluated in 14 children with unilateral CFD via 3D computed tomography (CT) scans, and then analysed with geometric morphometrics (Procrustes ANOVA). The association between pelvic directional asymmetry and CFD classifications (Aitken, Paley) was assessed. The affected acetabulum's orientation was compared to the non-affected side, and the variability of orientation in different CFD types was evaluated (bivariate correlation).

Results

The hemipelvis with CFD is characterized by a smaller acetabulum, a laterally curved ischium and a less upright ilium (p < 0.001). Multivariate regressions revealed a greater level of pelvis asymmetry in more severe types of CFD (p < 0.001). The acetabulum orientation assessment showed a significant decrease in mean anteversion (1.3°) and inclination (9.6°) angle, when compared to the non-affected side (26°and 17.1° respectively; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The affected side of the pelvis is considerably smaller and more deformed, and this should be considered during limb lengthening. The acetabulum presents with significant dysplasia due to its severe retroversion and steepness (superoposterior distortion). This should not be interpreted as a simple wall deficit, but as a complete acetabular misalignment (often misinterpreted in 2D imagery). Using transiliac osteotomies (e.g. Dega, Salter) is debatable due to abnormal acetabular orientation (superoposterior malalignment). Therefore, alternative options, e.g. San Diego or triple pelvic osteotomy, should be considered.
Poor delineation of labrum and acetabular surface on arthrogram is a predictor of early failure of closed reduction in children aged six to 24 months with developmental dysplasia of the hip
Authors: Yuan Zhe , Li Yiqiang , Hong Kai , Wu Jianping , Canavese Federico , Xu Hongwen
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The objective of this study was to explore the predictors for failed reduction in children with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) managed by arthrogram, closed reduction (CR) and spica cast immobilization.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of patients with DDH treated by CR and cast immobilization (2015-2020), including age, sex, affected side, presence/absence of an ossific nucleus, International Hip Dysplasia Institute classification, the delineation of labrum and acetabular surface on arthrogram, inverted labrum, acetabular index (AI), hip abduction angle and medial dye pool (MDP) distance. Predictors that potentially predicted failure of CR were evaluated by logistic regression analysis, simple t-test, Fisher's Exact Test and chi-square test.

Results

In total, 16 out of 187 hips failed to achieve initial CR (8.6%). Gender, age, preoperative AI and poor delineation of arthrogram were candidate predictors for failed CR in children aged six to 24 months with DDH; on the other hand, logistic regression analysis confirmed age and poor delineation of arthrogram significantly predicted failure of CR. Receive operating characteristic curve (ROC) showed MDP less than 6 mm and age higher than 14.5 months significantly increased the failure rate of CR in children aged six to 24 months with DDH.

Conclusion

Age and poor delineation of labrum and acetabular surface during arthrogram predicted failure of CR in children with DDH. In particular, age > 14.5 months and MDP distance ≥ 6 mm significantly increased the risk of CR failure.

Level of evidence

III
Surface plasmon resonance effect on laser trapping and swarming of gold nanoparticles at an interface
Authors: Huang Chih-Hao , Kudo Tetsuhiro , Bresolí-Obach Roger , Hofkens Johan , Sugiyama Teruki , Masuhara Hiroshi
Published: August 2020

Laser trapping at an interface is a unique platform for aligning and assembling nanomaterials outside the focal spot. In our previous studies, Au nanoparticles form a dynamically evolved assembly outside the focus, leading to the formation of an antenna-like structure with their fluctuating swarms. Herein, we unravel the role of surface plasmon resonance on the swarming phenomena by tuning the trapping laser wavelength concerning the dipole mode for Au nanoparticles of different sizes. We clearly show that the swarm is formed when the laser wavelength is near to the resonance peak of the dipole mode together with an increase in the swarming area. The interpretation is well supported by the scattering spectra and the spatial light scattering profiles from single nanoparticle simulations. These findings indicate that whether the first trapped particle is resonant with trapping laser or not essentially determines the evolution of the swarming.
Complex pulsating dynamics of counter-propagating solitons in a bidirectional ultrafast fiber laser
Authors: Wang Zhiqiang , Jiang Qi , Tang Zhonghan , Zhang Zuxing
Published: August 2020

Bidirectional ultrafast fiber lasers capable of generating counter-propagating (CP) coherent solitons are promising to be served as a dual-comb light source for the applications in spectroscopy and gyroscope. In the absence of efficient numerical model, the understanding of the operation of bidirectional fiber lasers is very limited. In this paper, we experimentally explore the pulsating dynamics of CP solitons in a bidirectional mode locked fiber laser and present a set of rich complex dynamics of CP solitons, revealing for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, the periodic breathing and acyclic pulsating dynamics of CP solitons. With a bi-directional pumping configuration, the impacts of gain distribution along the fiber on the dynamics of CP solitons have been investigated and discussed. These results provide further evidence of the universality of breathing dynamics of solitons. More importantly, the abundant dynamical behavior of CP solitons demonstrated in this paper, collaborating with a handful of previous reports on the buildup dynamics of CP solitons in bidirectional fiber lasers, underline further the independent evolving dynamics of CP solitons. These findings contribute to the understanding of how bidirectional lasers work and, consequently, will accelerate the development of bidirectional lasers in the applications such as gyroscope.
Coherence time of a cold-atom laser below threshold
Authors: Harvie Graeme , Butcher Adam , Goldwin Jon
Published: August 2020

We experimentally study the coherence time of a below-threshold Raman laser in which the gain medium is a gas of magneto-optically trapped atoms. The second-order optical coherence exhibits photon bunching with a correlation time that is varied by two orders of magnitude by controlling the gain. Results are in good agreement with a simple analytic model that suggests the effect is dominated by gain, rather than dispersion, in this system. Cavity ring-down measurements show the photon lifetime, related to the first-order coherence time, is also increased.
Resonant bending of silicon nanowires by incident light
Authors: Bulgakov Evgeny N. , Sadreev Almas F.
Published: August 2020

Coupling of two dielectric wires with a rectangular cross section gives rise to bonding and anti-bonding resonances. The latter is featured by extremal narrowing of the resonant width for variation of the aspect ratio of the cross section and distance between wires. A plane wave resonant to this anti-bonding resonance gives rise to unprecedent enhancement of the optical forces up to several nano Newtons per micrometer length of the wires. The forces oscillate with the angle of incidence of the plane wave but always try to repel the wires. If the wires are fixed at the ends, the light power

1.5

m
W

/

µ

m

2

bends wires with length 50 µm by order 100 nm.
Universal frequency engineering tool for microcavity nonlinear optics: multiple selective mode splitting of whispering-gallery resonances
Authors: Lu Xiyuan , Rao Ashutosh , Moille Gregory , Westly Daron A. , Srinivasan Kartik
Published: August 2020

Whispering-gallery microcavities have been used to realize a variety of efficient parametric nonlinear optical processes through the enhanced light–matter interaction brought about by supporting multiple high quality factor and small modal volume resonances. Critical to such studies is the ability to control the relative frequencies of the cavity modes, so that frequency matching is achieved to satisfy energy conservation. Typically this is done by tailoring the resonator cross section. Doing so modifies the frequencies of all of the cavity modes, that is, the global dispersion profile, which may be undesired, for example, in introducing competing nonlinear processes. Here, we demonstrate a frequency engineering tool, termed multiple selective mode splitting (MSMS), that is independent of the global dispersion and instead allows targeted and independent control of the frequencies of multiple cavity modes. In particular, we show controllable frequency shifts up to 0.8 nm, independent control of the splitting of up to five cavity modes with optical quality factors

≳

10

5

, and strongly suppressed frequency shifts for untargeted modes. The MSMS technique can be broadly applied to a wide variety of nonlinear optical processes across different material platforms and can be used to both selectively enhance processes of interest and suppress competing unwanted processes.
Development of a coagglutination kit as a rapid test for diagnosing Newcastle disease in poultry
Authors: Naf'an Muhammad Kholish , Kurniasih Kurniasih , Untari Tri , Prakoso Yos Adi
Published: August 2020

Background and Aim: Newcastle disease (ND) is a viral infection that causes high mortality and economic loss in the poultry industry. The Office International des Epizooties (OIE) recommends several diagnostic methods for the detection of ND, including isolation and molecular tests. However, these detection methods are time-consuming and highly expensive. Therefore, this study was conducted to develop a coagglutination kit as a novel diagnostic tool for ND in the poultry industry.

Materials and Methods: Two adult male New Zealand White rabbits weighing 2.5 kg were vaccinated using ND life vaccine intraperitoneally. The vaccination was conducted once a week for 4 weeks with multilevel doses. Rabbits' serum was collected at week 6 and inactivated at 56°C for 30 min. The serum was precipitated using ammonium sulfate and reacted with protein A of Staphylococcus aureus to produce the agglutination kit for detecting ND virus. A total of 25 chickens suspected with ND infection from a local poultry farm in Yogyakarta were used as the test samples. The chickens were necropsied, and the brain, spleen, lung, intestine, and feces were collected. Half of these organs were subjected to tests using the coagglutination kit and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The other half was processed for histopathology. Data were analyzed qualitatively.

Results: Of the 25 samples, 13 (52%) were positive for ND infection when tested using both the ND coagglutination kit and RT-PCR. The positive samples also exhibited several histopathological changes, including perivascular cuffing surrounding the cerebral blood-brain barrier, hemorrhagic pneumonia, splenitis, and necrotic hemorrhage enteritis.

Conclusion: This study confirmed that the ND coagglutination kit could be used as a novel diagnostic tool for the detection of ND virus infection in the poultry industry.
Efficacy of high-dose methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide in childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Trisnia Putu Ayunda , KUmara Wati Ketut Dewi , Witarini Komang Ayu , Sutawan Ida Bagus Ramajaya , Santoso Hendra
Published: August 2020

Background Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic, multisystem, autoimmune disease. Untreated SLE often become progressive and lead to increased risk of mortality. Corticosteroid and cyclophosphamide remain the treatment of choice for severe SLE. Disease activity assessed with SLE Daily Activity Index (SLEDAI).

Objective To compare the disease activity of childhood-onset severe SLE at the time of diagnosis, after completion of high dose methylprednisolone, and after three month of cyclophosphamide by using  SLEDAI.

Methods This study was conducted in the Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Department of Child Health, Udayana University/Sanglah Hospital, Denpasar, Bali. Subjects were SLE patient aged 0-18 years who had severe clinical manifestations. Subject received therapy combination of high dose methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide every 2 weeks for six doses. SLEDAI score was assessed at the time of diagnosis, after completion of high dose methylprednisolone, and after three month of cyclophosphamide.

Results During the study period, 51 children were diagnosed as SLE. Twenty-one subjects were included for analysis. Median SLEDAI score at the time of diagnosis was 23 (range 13-39). SLEDAI score after three months of cyclophosphamide was decreased to 2 (range 0-14). Post hoc analysis with Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed the improvement of SLEDAI score at the time of diagnosis and after three months of cyclophosphamide was statistically significant  (Z=-4.016, P<0.0001).

Conclusion SLEDAI score reduced after completion of high-dose methylprednisolone and three month of cyclophosphamide therapy.
ROLE OF NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS IN INCREASING ELECTORAL ACTIVITY OF CITIZENS
Authors: Kosygina Ksenia E. , Kaminsky Vadim S.
Published: August 2020

Citizens participation in elections is the most accessible and effective mechanism for society's influence on the political system. However, the problem of absenteeism (refusal to participate in elections) is currently characteristic for Russia and in particular for the Vologda region, which actualizes the task of determining ways to increase the electoral activity of citizens. One of these methods may be the activities of non-profit organizations. The purpose of the study is to determine the role of non-profit organizations in increasing the electoral activity of citizens. The information base of the study are legislative sources, official statistics, data from sociological surveys: regular monitoring of public opinion of residents of the Vologda region (n = 1500) and an expert survey of heads of non-profit organizations (n = 35). Main methods: system, comparative, statistical and sociological analysis. The key results of the study are as follows: the dominant form of absenteeism in the region is identified (distancing from the government, not its " tacit approval»); it is established that the activities of NPOs have a positive impact on the electoral activity of citizens; a number of recommendations have been formulated for authorities, as well as for non-profit organizations themselves, to involve NPOs in the electoral process.
Evaluation of mixtures of lateritic clayey soil with quartzite and stone powder for road purposes
Authors: Corrêa Fernando Augusto , Collares Ana Carina Zanollo Biazotti , Collares Eduardo Goulart , Ribeiro Rogério Pinto , Reis Fernanda Medeiros Dutra
Published: August 2020

Este trabalho tem por objetivo estudar a viabilidade de uso do resíduo fino de quartzito e do pó de pedra de dunito de minerações da região Sudoeste do estado de Minas Gerais – Brasil, como agregados misturados ao Solo de Comportamento Laterítico Argiloso (LG’) no tratamento de camadas de base e sub-base de pavimentos de baixo volume de tráfego. Foram preparadas misturas com o solo e os resíduos em proporções distintas e realizados ensaios laboratoriais propostos na metodologia MCT (Miniatura, Compactado, Tropical) para classificação e obtenção de algumas propriedades geotécnicas. Os resultados alcançados apontam para a potencial substituição do agregado convencional, visto que as amostras avaliadas enquadraram-se nas classes “satisfatórias” e/ou “recomendadas” da Classificação MCT, abrindo perspectivas de um aproveitamento mais amplo dos resíduos e sub-produtos da produção de placas de quartzitos e agregados de rochas ultrabásicas.