bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (VRd) ± daratumumab (DARA) in patients (pts) with transplant-eligible (TE) newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM): A multicenter, randomized, phase III study (PERSEUS).
Authors: Sonneveld Pieter , Broijl Annemiek , Gay Francesca , Boccadoro Mario , Einsele Hermann , Blade Joan , Dimopoulos Meletios A. , Delforge Michel , Spencer Andrew , Hajek Roman , Schjesvold Fredrik , Lonergan Sarah , Smith Elena , Carson Robin L. , Crist Wendy , Garvin Wendy S. , Vermeulen Jessica , Moreau Philippe
Published: March 2020

TPS8055

Background: DARA, a human, CD38-targeting, IgGκ monoclonal antibody, is approved in many countries for use as monotherapy in relapsed/refractory MM (RRMM), and in combination with standard-of-care regimens in RRMM and transplant-ineligible NDMM. Given the initial safety and efficacy observed with DARA plus VRd (D-VRd) in the safety run-in cohort of the ongoing phase 2 GRIFFIN study in TE NDMM pts, the phase 3 PERSEUS study will evaluate the efficacy and safety of D-VRd versus VRd alone in TE NDMM. Methods: This is an ongoing multicenter, open-label, randomized phase 3 study of D-VRd versus VRd alone in TE NDMM pts. Approximately 690 pts across Europe will be stratified by ISS stage and cytogenetic risk (high risk defined as presence of del17p, t[4;14], or t[14;16]) and randomized in a 1:1 ratio. All pts will receive VRd (V: 1.3 mg/m2 SC Days 1, 4, 8, 11; R: 25 mg PO Days 1-21; d: 40 mg PO Days 1-4, 9-12) for 4 pre-transplant induction and 2 post-transplant consolidation cycles (all 28-d cycles), followed by R (10 mg PO Days 1-28) maintenance until progressive disease (PD). Pts in the DARA group will also receive subcutaneous DARA (1,800 mg co-formulated with recombinant human hyaluronidase PH20 [rHuPH20; Halozyme]) QW in Cycles 1-2, Q2W in Cycles 3-6, and Q4W in maintenance Cycles 7+ until PD. After induction, pts will undergo melphalan 200 mg/m2 conditioning and autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). Pts in the DARA group who achieve sustained minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity (10–5 threshold; assessed by NGS) for 12 months after ≥24 months of maintenance will stop DARA but continue R maintenance until PD; upon loss of CR or MRD-negative status, pts will restart DARA treatment. All pts will receive preinfusion medications. The primary endpoint is progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints include MRD-negative rate, overall response rate, PFS on next line of therapy, overall survival, time to and duration of response, health-related quality of life, pharmacokinetics, immunogenicity, stem cell yield after mobilization, time to engraftment post-ASCT, and safety. Clinical trial information: NCT03710603.
The myeloma-developing regimens using genomics (MyDRUG) master protocol.
Authors: Auclair Daniel , Anderson Kenneth Carl , Avigan David , Bianchi Giada , Biran Noa , Chaudhry Maria , Cho Hearn J. , Furlong Maggie , Hofmeister Craig C. , Kansagra Ankit J. , Krishnan Amrita Y. , Larsen Jeremy Todd , Orloff Gregory Joshua , Vij Ravi , Voorhees Peter Michael , Yee Andrew Jenho , Ye Jing Christine , Zonder Jeffrey A. , Lonial Sagar , Kumar Shaji
Published: March 2020

TPS8057

Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second most prevalent blood cancer, representing approximately 1% of all cancers. Although overall survival has improved in recent years due to new approved agents, the vast majority of MM patients (pts) ultimately stop responding to treatment. Moreover, about a quarter of MM pts characterized as “high risk” experience limited benefit from existing treatments. Seminal genomic sequencing research efforts, such as the MMRF CoMMpass study, have highlighted that a large number of MM cases harbor potentially actionable oncogenic molecular alterations and published reports on small numbers of cases suggest that Precision Medicine (PM) interventions clinically targeting such actionable drivers may benefit MM pts. These results suggest that PM approaches in MM are possible and should be further studied clinically. To that end, we have launched MyDRUG, a master protocol aimed at developing new myeloma regimens based on individual pt’s genomics. Methods: This study is a Phase I-II, multicenter master protocol in functional high risk MM patients (i.e patients having progressed from baseline treatment within 18 months without maintenance or 3 years on maintenance) with 1-3 prior lines of therapy. Patients are screened for actionable genomic alterations on the CLIA-grade MI-ONCOSEQ platform. Patients with actionable alterations are assigned to the appropriate targeted agent used in combination with a backbone regimen ixazomib, pomalidomide and dexamethasone (IPd), whereas patients without such alterations go on an immune arm (see Table). Inclusion criteria include measurable disease (as measured by M-protein and FLC) and acceptable hematologic and metabolic functions. A maximum of 12 evaluable pts will be accrued onto the phase I portion of each arm and an additional 21 evaluable phase II pts will be accrued onto each arm for a total of 27 evaluable pts at the MTD combination dose. The primary objective of the study is to evaluate ORR per IMWG consensus criteria. Secondary objectives are to assess adverse events (AEs), progression-free survival, and overall survival (OS). Experimental correlative aims include assessing molecular or clonal response, molecular and immune signatures of resistance/response, MRD. Clinical trial information: NCT03732703. [Table: see text]
CANOPY-A: A phase III study of canakinumab as adjuvant therapy in patients with surgically resected non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Authors: Garon Edward B. , Ardizzoni Andrea , Barlesi Fabrice , Cho Byoung Chul , De Marchi Pedro , Goto Yasushi , Lu Shun , Paz-Ares Luis G. , Spigel David R. , Thomas Michael , Mookerjee Bijoyesh , Cazorla Arratia Pilar , Baum Jason , Lau Yi-Yang Yvonne , Zhu Zewen , Yang James Chih-Hsin
Published: March 2020

TPS8570

Background: Overexpression of interleukin (IL)-1β has been described in solid tumors, including lung. IL-1β can promote angiogenesis, tumor invasiveness, and induce tumor-associated immunosuppression through myeloid-derived suppressor cell (MDSC) accumulation in tumors. Pre-clinical data has shown that IL-1β inhibition stably reduces tumor growth, by limiting inflammation and inducing the maturation of MDSCs into M1 macrophages. Canakinumab is a human monoclonal antibody with high affinity and specificity for IL-1β. Recently, it was found that canakinumab was associated with a significant and dose-dependent reduction in incidence and mortality from lung cancer based on CANTOS study. Methods: CANOPY-A is a phase III, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study designed to evaluate efficacy and safety of adjuvant canakinumab versus placebo in patients with surgically resected NSCLC. This trial will enroll adult patients, with completely resected (R0) AJCC/UICC v.8 stages II−IIIA and IIIB (T >5 cm and N2) NSCLC, who have completed standard-of-care adjuvant treatments, including cisplatin-based chemotherapy and mediastinal radiation therapy (if applicable). Prior treatment with neoadjuvant chemotherapy or neoadjuvant radiotherapy is not permitted. Approximately 1500 patients will be randomized 1:1 to receive canakinumab (200 mg Q3W, s.c) or placebo (Q3W, s.c.) for 18 cycles or until disease recurrence, unacceptable toxicity, treatment discontinuation at the discretion of the investigator or patient, death, or loss to follow-up. Randomization will be stratified by AJCC/UICC v.8 stage, tumor histology, and region. The primary objective is disease-free survival, per investigator assessment. Secondary objectives include overall survival (key secondary objective), lung cancer-specific survival, safety, pharmacokinetics and immunogenicity of canakinumab, and patient-reported outcomes. Enrollment is ongoing. Clinical trial information: NCT03447769.
The selective personalized radioimmunotherapy for locally advanced NSCLC trial (SPRINT).
Authors: Ohri Nitin , Cheng Haiying , Jolly Shruti , Gadgeel Shirish M. , Cooper Benjamin Thomas , Shum Elaine , Halmos Balazs
Published: March 2020

TPS8571

Background: Concurrent chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (LA-NSCLC) can cause significant toxicities, and disease recurrence after treatment is common. We previously demonstrated that a dose-painted radiotherapy approach provides excellent local disease control and has a favorable toxicity profile. Consolidation immunotherapy was recently shown to improve outcomes after chemoradiotherapy for LA-NSCLC, and pembrolizumab monotherapy is now a standard of care for patients with advanced high PD-L1-positive NSCLC. We hypothesize that dose-painted thoracic radiotherapy and immunotherapy without chemotherapy will be safe and effective for the treatment of biomarker-selected patients with LA-NSCLC. Methods: Patients with a new diagnosis of unresectable stage II or stage III NSCLC and performance status 0-1 will be enrolled on this phase II trial at one of three participating institutions. Twenty-five subjects with PD-L1 Tumor Proportion Score (TPS) of at least 50% will receive three cycles of induction pembrolizumab (200 mg every 3 weeks). Subjects then receive 20 fractions of dose-painted radiotherapy, where lesions with metabolic tumor volume exceeding 20 cc on FDG-PET receive a dose of 55 Gy, while smaller lesions receive a dose of 48 Gy. Subjects then receive 12 additional cycles of pembrolizumab. The primary endpoint is progression-free survival one year following study enrollment, which we hypothesize will be achieved for at least 65% of study subjects. Other endpoints include overall survival, distant metastasis-free survival, freedom from intrathoracic disease progression, adverse events, patient-reported outcomes, and physical activity metrics captured using wearable devices. In addition, we will explore markers of immune activation as prognostic factors. Approximately 38 patients with PD-L1 TPS below 50% will receive standard chemoradiotherapy and adjuvant therapy to serve as a contemporary comparison cohort. SPRINT is an innovative biomarker-driven study that explores a paradigm shift in the local and systemic therapy used to treat LA-NSCLC. This trial opened in August of 2018, and 5 subjects have been enrolled to date. Clinical trial information: NCT03523702.
Determining the Prevalence of Primary Aldosteronism in Patients With New-Onset Type 2 Diabetes and Hypertension
Authors: Hu Yuhang , Zhang Jingjing , Liu Wei , Su Xin
Published: March 2020

Context

Despite a high prevalence of hypertension in diabetes and close relationship between primary aldosteronism (PA) and glucose metabolism, few study concerns the prevalence of PA in diabetes with hypertension.

Objective

This study aimed to detect the prevalence of PA in patients with new-onset type 2 diabetes (T2D) and hypertension and to explore the association between PA and diabetes.

Methods

A total of 256 outpatients with new-onset T2D and hypertension were screened for PA. Plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC), plasma renin activity (PRA) were measured. Patients with an aldosterone renin activity ratio (ARR) ≥ 30 ng/dL/ng/mL/h and PAC ≥ 15 ng/dL underwent confirmatory captopril challenge test (CCT) for PA. The diagnostic criteria for PA were, after CCT, (1) PAC decreased < 30%, (2) ARR maintained ≥ 30 ng/dL/ng/mL/h, and (3) PAC was ≥ 11 ng/dL.

Results

Of 256 consecutive patients, 99 (39%) were positive for the screening test, and 49 (19%) were diagnosed with PA. Compared with those in groups A (screening test −) and B (screening test +, CCT −), patients in group C (diagnosed with PA) had a higher percentage of systolic blood pressure of ≥ 160 mmHg, less family history of hypertension, and lower serum potassium. Patients in group B and C had higher PAC and ARR levels, but lower PRA than those in group A. Homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was positively associated with PAC level among the diabetic patients.

Conclusion

The prevalence of PA in new-onset T2D patients with hypertension is at least 19%. Higher aldosterone may be related with insulin resistance in patients with diabetes.
Former orphan riboswitches reveal unexplored areas of bacterial metabolism, signaling, and gene control processes
Authors: Sherlock Madeline E. , Breaker Ronald R.
Published: March 2020

Comparative sequence analyses have been used to discover numerous classes of structured noncoding RNAs, some of which are riboswitches that specifically recognize small-molecule or elemental ion ligands and influence expression of adjacent downstream genes. Determining the correct identity of the ligand for a riboswitch candidate typically is aided by an understanding of the genes under its regulatory control. Riboswitches whose ligands were straightforward to identify have largely been associated with well-characterized metabolic pathways, such as coenzyme or amino acid biosynthesis. Riboswitch candidates whose ligands resist identification, collectively known as orphan riboswitches, are often associated with genes coding for proteins of unknown function, or genes for various proteins with no established link to one another. The cognate ligands for 16 former orphan riboswitch motifs have been identified to date. The successful pursuit of the ligands for these classes has provided insight into areas of biology that are not yet fully explored, such as ion homeostasis, signaling networks, and other previously underappreciated biochemical or physiological processes. Herein we discuss the strategies and methods used to match ligands with orphan riboswitch classes, and overview the lessons learned to inform and motivate ongoing efforts to identify ligands for the many remaining candidates.
Recent advances in epilepsy genomics and genetic testing
Authors: Hebbar Malavika , Mefford Heather C.
Published: March 2020

Developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) are a group of severe, early onset epilepsies characterized by refractory seizures, developmental delay or regression associated with ongoing epileptic activity, and generally poor prognosis. DEE is genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous, and there is a plethora of genetic testing options to investigate the rapidly growing list of epilepsy genes. However, more than 50% of patients with DEE remain without a genetic diagnosis despite state-of-the-art genetic testing. In this review, we discuss the major advances in epilepsy genomics that have surfaced in recent years. The goal of this review is to reach a larger audience and build a better understanding of pathogenesis and genetic testing options in DEE.
The effectiveness of integrating clinical pharmacists within general practice to optimise prescribing and health outcomes in primary care patients with polypharmacy: A protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Croke Aisling , James Oscar , Clyne Barbara , Moriarty Frank , Cardwell Karen , Smith Susan M.
Published: March 2020

Introduction: Coordinating prescribing for patients with polypharmacy is a challenge for general practitioners. Pharmacists may improve management and outcomes for patients with polypharmacy. This systematic review aims to examine the clinical and cost-effectiveness of pharmacist interventions to optimise prescribing and improve health outcomes in patients with polypharmacy in primary care settings. 

Methods: The review will be reported using the PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search of 10 databases from inception to present, with no language restrictions will be conducted. Studies will be included where they evaluate the clinical or cost-effectiveness of a clinical pharmacist in primary care on potentially inappropriate prescriptions using validated indicators and number of medicines. Secondary outcomes will include health related quality of life measures, health service utilisation, clinical outcomes and data relating to cost effectiveness. Randomised controlled trials, non-randomised controlled trials, controlled before-after, interrupted-time-series and health economic studies will be eligible for inclusion. 

Titles, abstracts and full texts will be screened for inclusion by two reviewers. Data will be extracted using a standard form. Risk of bias in all included studies will be assessed using the Effective Practice and Organisation of Care (EPOC) criteria. Economic studies will be assessed using the Consensus Health Economic Criteria (CHEC) list as per the Cochrane Handbook for critical appraisal of methodological quality. A narrative synthesis will be performed, and the certainty of evidence will be assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria. Where data support quantitative synthesis, a meta-analysis will be performed.

Discussion: This systematic review will give an overview of the effectiveness of pharmacist interventions to improve prescribing and health outcomes in a vulnerable patient group. This will provide evidence to policy makers on strategies involving clinical pharmacists integrated within general practice, to address issues which arise in polypharmacy and multimorbidity. 

PROSPERO Registration: CRD42019139679 (28/08/19)
How Can Pluralistic Organizations Proceed with Strategic Change? A Processual Account of Rhetorical Contestation, Convergence, and Partial Agreement in a Nordic City Organization
Authors: Sorsa Virpi , Vaara Eero
Published: March 2020

This study examines how pluralistic organizations confronting fundamental differences in values can proceed with strategic change. By drawing on a longitudinal case analysis of strategic change in a Nordic city organization, we show how the proponents and challengers play a “rhetorical game” in which they simultaneously promote their own value-based interests and ideas and seek ways to enable change. In particular, we identify a pattern in which the discussion moved from initial contestation through gradual convergence to increasing agreement. In addition, we elaborate on four rhetorical practices used in this rhetorical game: voicing own arguments, appropriation of others’ arguments, consensus argumentation, and collective we argumentation. By so doing, our study contributes to research on strategic change in pluralistic organizations by offering a nuanced account of the use of rhetoric when moving from contestation to convergence and partial agreement. Furthermore, by detailing specific types of rhetorical practices that play a crucial role in strategy making, our study advances research on the role of rhetoric in strategy process and practice research more generally.
Discovering Call Interaction Fluency: A Way to Improve Experiences with Call Centres
Authors: Fernández-Sabiote Estela , López-López Inés
Published: March 2020

In this article, the authors integrate the concept of fluency into the call centre service experience. Results (1) provide an easy-to-administer scale to measure call interaction fluency; (2) provide a holistic model by which fluency is linked to customer’s emotional response (anger), an evaluation of the interaction (interaction satisfaction), and the customer-company relationship (call aversion, trust, and satisfaction with the company); (3) highlight agents’ nationality and gender as well as customers’ age moderated the effect of call interaction fluency on interaction satisfaction; and (4) provide evidence of the role of the coping strategy used by customers depending on their initial emotional state; specifically, fluent interaction proved to be efficacious for both emotion-focused and problem-focused customers. Results reveal that fluency should be considered when designing training programmes for call centre employees.
From support worker to district nurse team manager: a narrative
Authors: Donovan Patricia , Hayden Amanda
Published: March 2020

As the general population ages, so too does the nursing workforce. A recent Queen's Nursing Institute (QNI) report (2019a) stated that 1 in 10 qualified district nurse positions have been lost in the past 10 years—without a trained workforce to replace those who retire.

Workforce planning is central to ensure safe and effective care in the community setting. This article aims to provide a narrative account of one student who started her career at the University of Bolton as a trainee assistant practitioner and over time achieved her present position as a district nurse team manager.

The account will include her journey from support worker to assistant practitioner, studying at the University of Bolton as a trainee assistant practitioner on a ‘work, earn and learn’ programme.

It details the support she received from mentors in the trust, alongside her onward journey to registered nurse and specialist nurse practitioner qualifications.
Effective clinical feedback provision to ambulance clinicians: a literature review
Authors: Eaton-Williams Peter , Mold Freda , Magnusson Carin
Published: March 2020

Background

Clinical feedback provision to health professionals is advocated to benefit both clinical development and work engagement.

Aim

This literature review aims to develop recommendations for effective clinical feedback provision by examining mechanisms that exist specifically for ambulance clinicians.

Method:

A systematic search of contemporary literature identified 15 research papers and four articles, which were included for review and narrative synthesis.

Findings

The initial identification of practice that requires improvement, together with an understanding of the practitioners' baseline attitudes, is important. While minimising resource demands will improve sustainability, repeated interaction with clinicians will benefit effectiveness. Provision should be balanced and timely, and who delivers feedback is significant. Clinical outcome feedback not restricted to specific conditions requires further consideration of which incidents will initiate feedback and what information will be supplied.

Conclusion

Feedback has been shown to improve clinical performance but demonstrating subsequent benefits to patient outcomes has proved more difficult.
Theory into practice
Authors: Parry Samuel
Published: March 2020

After having experienced his first placement and completed his first OSCE over the span of only a few months, Samuel Parry reflects on the value of his first year so far and how it is helping him to weave theory into practice in a way that is unique to student life
Prescribing in emergency care
Authors: Paterson Ruth
Published: March 2020

Ruth Paterson provides an overview of recently published articles that may be of interest to non-medical prescribers. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided
Three-dimensional visualization of opacifications in the murine crystalline lens by in vivo optical coherence tomography
Authors: Eugui Pablo , Harper Danielle J. , Kummer Stefan , Lichtenegger Antonia , Gesperger Johanna , Himmel Tanja , Augustin Marco , Merkle Conrad W. , Glösmann Martin , Baumann Bernhard
Published: March 2020

Diagnostic classification techniques used to diagnose cataracts, the world’s leading cause of blindness, are currently based on subjective methods. Here, we present optical coherence tomography as a noninvasive tool for volumetric visualization of lesions formed in the crystalline lens. A custom-made swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) system was utilized to investigate the murine crystalline lens. In addition to imaging cataractous lesions in aged wildtype mice, we studied the structure and shape of cataracts in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease. Hyperscattering opacifications in the crystalline lens were observed in both groups. Post mortem histological analysis were performed to correlate findings in the anterior and posterior part of the lens to 3D OCT in vivo imaging. Our results showcase the capability of OCT to rapidly visualize cataractous lesions in the murine lens and suggest that OCT might be a valuable tool that provides additional insight for preclinical studies of cataract formation.
Functional optical coherence tomography and photoacoustic microscopy imaging for zebrafish larvae
Authors: Haindl Richard , Deloria Abigail J. , Sturtzel Caterina , Sattmann Harald , Rohringer Wolfgang , Fischer Balthasar , Andreana Marco , Unterhuber Angelika , Schwerte Thorsten , Distel Martin , Drexler Wolfgang , Leitgeb Rainer , Liu Mengyang
Published: March 2020

We present a dual modality functional optical coherence tomography and photoacoustic microscopy (OCT-PAM) system. The photoacoustic modality employs an akinetic optical sensor with a large imaging window. This imaging window enables direct reflection mode operation, and a seamless integration of optical coherence tomography (OCT) as a second imaging modality. Functional extensions to the OCT-PAM system include Doppler OCT (DOCT) and spectroscopic PAM (sPAM). This functional and non-invasive imaging system is applied to image zebrafish larvae, demonstrating its capability to extract both morphological and hemodynamic parameters in vivo in small animals, which are essential and critical in preclinical imaging for physiological, pathophysiological and drug response studies.
Torsion and strain simultaneous measurement using a cascaded helical long-period grating
Authors: Xian Lunlun , Wang Dongdong , Li Li
Published: March 2020

A cascaded helical long-period grating (C-HLPG) with two different grating fabricating molten state duration times (MSDTs) for simultaneous measurement of torsion and strain is proposed. The sensing system, which can discriminate torsion and strain within ranges of

0

−

1744

µ
ε

and

−

240

∘

∼

240

∘

with accuracies of

∼

120

µ
ε

and

∼

0.12

r
a
d

, respectively, is demonstrated. The C-HLPG with different MSDTs offers unique opportunities for torsion and strain sensors as well as for providing a potential development for multiparameter fiber-optical sensors and new development in optical-fiber components.
Investigation of evanescent scattering for low-distortion submicron vibration sensing using ferromagnetic cantilevers
Authors: Li Binghui , Chan Hau Ping , Ahmmed Kazi Tanvir
Published: March 2020

In this study, we investigate the dynamic performance of a previously reported evanescent-scattering platform for submicron vibration sensing with low distortions. The platform consists of self-assembled ferromagnetic cantilevers located above a liquid-cladded optical waveguide. Theoretical analyses show enhancement of sensitivity and dynamic sensing range by reducing the waveguide core-cladding index difference. Moreover, a careful tradeoff between sensitivity and linearity is required, which is determined by the bias position of the cantilever tip. Experimental results confirm that our platform can offer low total-harmonic-distortions (THD) of < 3.00% with a submicron displacement of 0.40 µm over the frequency range from 80 Hz to 750 Hz. The measured THD value is very close to our theoretical prediction. Thus, our platform can be employed in submicron vibration sensing with high-precision requirements.
Interferometric near-field characterization of plasmonic slot waveguides in single- and poly-crystalline gold films
Authors: Prämassing M. , Liebtrau M. , Schill H. J. , Irsen S. , Linden S.
Published: March 2020

Single-crystalline gold films show superior plasmonic properties compared to their poly-crystalline counterparts. However, this advantage comes at the cost of a more complex preparation process. It is thus crucial to validate whether the impact of the material quality on the performance of the respective plasmonic device justifies this additional effort. In order to address this question for the case of plasmonic slot waveguides, we present interferometric near-field measurements at telecommunication wavelengths on slot waveguides in single- and poly-crystalline gold films. We observe significantly larger propagation lengths in the case of single-crystalline gold films for slot widths below 100 nm. In contrast for larger widths, both gold films give rise to comparable propagation lengths.
Dynamic tailoring of an optical skyrmion lattice in surface plasmon polaritons
Authors: Bai Chunyan , Chen Jian , Zhang Yuxing , Zhang Dawei , Zhan Qiwen
Published: March 2020

A skyrmion is a topologically protected soliton with a spin structure on the micro/nano scale that has promising applications in magnetic information storage and spintronics devices. This study focuses on the optical skyrmion lattice structures created in the surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) field. Both the Néel-type optical skyrmion lattice formed by the electric field vector and Bloch-type optical skyrmion lattice formed by the magnetic field vector are generated via exciting a hexagonal grating structure on the metal surface with six Gaussian optical spots. Such a multiple-spot excitation can be realized through tightly focusing a specially designed complex field with a high NA lens. Through introducing the phase difference of the excitation beams to shift the SPP standing waves, the shape and position of the optical skyrmion lattice can be dynamically controlled. Both the electric field vector and magnetic field vector are evaluated quantitatively based on the electric and magnetic field obtained by finite difference time domain (FDTD) simulation to demonstrate the validity and capability of the proposed technique.
Image quality of compressive single-pixel imaging using different Hadamard orderings
Authors: Vaz Pedro G. , Amaral Daniela , Requicha Ferreira L. F. , Morgado Miguel , Cardoso João
Published: March 2020

Single-pixel imaging is an imaging technique that has recently attracted a lot of attention from several areas. This paper presents a study on the influence of the Hadamard basis ordering on the image reconstruction quality, using simulation and experimental methods. During this work, five different orderings, Natural, Walsh, Cake-cutting, High Frequency and Random orders, along with two different reconstruction algorithms, TVAL3 and NESTA, were tested. Also, three different noise levels and compression ratios from 0.1 to 1 were evaluated. A single-pixel camera was developed using a digital micromirror device for the experimental phase. For a compression ratio of 0.1, the Cake-cutting order achieved the best reconstruction quality, while the best contrast was achieved by Walsh order. For compression ratios of 0.5, the Walsh and Cake-cutting orders achieved similar results. Both Walsh and Cake-cutting orders reconstructed the images with good quality using compression ratios from 0.3. Finally, the TVAL3 algorithm showed better image reconstruction quality, in comparison with NESTA, when considering compression ratios from 0.1 to 0.5.
Identifying structured light modes in a desert environment using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Ragheb Amr , Saif Waddah , Trichili Abderrahmen , Ashry Islam , Esmail Maged A. , Altamimi Majid , Almaiman Ahmed , Altubaishi Essam , Ooi Boon S. , Alouini Mohamed-Slim , Alshebeili Saleh
Published: March 2020

The unique orthogonal shapes of structured light beams have attracted researchers to use as information carriers. Structured light-based free space optical communication is subject to atmospheric propagation effects such as rain, fog, and rain, which complicate the mode demultiplexing process using conventional technology. In this context, we experimentally investigate the detection of Laguerre Gaussian and Hermite Gaussian beams under dust storm conditions using machine learning algorithms. Different algorithms are employed to detect various structured light encoding schemes including the use of a convolutional neural network (CNN), support vector machine, and k-nearest neighbor. We report an identification accuracy of 99% under a visibility level of 9 m. The CNN approach is further used to estimate the visibility range of a dusty communication channel.
Chirping fiber Bragg gratings within additively manufactured polymer packages
Authors: Canning John , Ziyani Asma
Published: March 2020

Fiber Bragg gratings are embedded within 3D printed polymer packages.
Information about both induced and applied stresses, and operator
error, can be determined from the observed spectral shifts and
chirping. A novel way to produce packaged broadband
gratings, with

Δ

λ

B
W

>

7

n
m

/

c
m

, is proposed and demonstrated.
Dispersion-tunable chalcogenide tri-cladding fiber based on novel continuous two-stage extrusion
Authors: Si Nian , Xiao Jing , Wang Jinjing , Wang Xiange , Jiao Kai , Zhong Minghui , Zhao Zheming , Wang Xunsi , Liu Jia , Liu Yongxing , Zhang Peiqing , Nie Qiuhua , Wang Rongping
Published: March 2020

A novel robust tri-cladding stepped fiber structure has been proposed for the dispersion tuning, and a systematic simulation has been given for the fibers with different sizes of claddings and cores. The results show that double zero-dispersion wavelength (ZDW) points can be obtained, and the first ZDW is shorter at 3.3 µm and the second ZDW at 9.9 µm. Based on the simulation of the structural optimization, we have prepared a well-structured tri-cladding fiber with a minimum loss of 1.55 dB/m at 6.77 µm by a novel continuous two-stage extrusion method. Moreover, a flattened supercontinuum extending from 1.3 to 12.9 µm pumping at anomalous dispersion wavelength of 5 µm between the two ZDWs can be achieved, which fits well with the simulated results. After all, the optimized fiber consisting of As2Se3, Ge10As22Se68, As2S3 exhibits excellent properties that demonstrate the potential for a simple way to prepare high quality fiber with a tri-cladding structure.
Tribal radio stations as key community informants and sites of resistance to mainstream media narratives
Authors: Wilbricht Jana
Published: March 2020

Rural US Indigenous communities are disproportionately affected by digital divides, insufficient infrastructures, and health disparities, so that community radio still represents a key medium in the lean mediascapes of these communities. The first US radio stations licensed to American Indian/Alaska Native tribes began broadcasting in 1971, about 50 years after the rise of rural radio in the US, which until then had almost entirely ignored Indigenous news, concerns, and voices. This paper draws on interview data from 2016 fieldwork conducted in Alaska and Arizona with two community radio stations serving the local, mostly Indigenous audience, to highlight how its historical ties to social activism continue to play a role in how tribal radio functions as a medium today. Tribal radio stations value not only traditional journalistic standards, but also advocacy for the community, combating stereotypes, and view themselves as distinct from mainstream and other community media.
Literatura infantil, teatro e educação
Authors: Evangelista Vieira Prudêncio Bárbara
Published: March 2020

Neste artigo, discorro sobre os potenciais da literatura infantil no contexto da educação escolar; apresento algumas considerações a respeito da aproximação e da apropriação da referida literatura pela Pedagogia do Teatro e reflito sobre os aprendizados que a literatura para crianças pode oferecer à educação. Para tanto, relato a experiência que me motivou a escrever sobre este assunto e explicito as perguntas norteadoras desta pesquisa. Tomo como principais referências artigos que resultaram do VI Seminário de Literatura Infantil e Juvenil e Práticas de Mediação Literária (UFSC) e do I Seminário Internacional de Literatura Infantil e Juvenil (UFSC), além de revisar estudos de teóricos como Heloise Baurich Vidor, da Pedagogia do Teatro/Teatro e Educação, e Jorge Larrosa, da Filosofia da Educação. Concluo que, para além da importância de aprendermos formas de aproximação e de apropriação da literatura infantil pela Pedagogia do Teatro e pela Educação, é relevante nos atentarmos àquilo que, como educadores, podemos aprender com a literatura infantil: a atribuição de um olhar poético ao processo de ensino-aprendizagem.
ESTIMATION OF PREDOMINANT PERIOD OF GROUND SURFACE LAYER USING THE INVERSE DISTANCE WEIGHTING METHOD
Authors: Nishikawa Hayato , Takatani Tomiya
Published: March 2020

The evaluation of a site amplification effect is very important in the earthquake engineering when an earthquake damage distribution of wooden house will be predicted by an accurate estimation of seismic intensity. A predominant period in the microtremor H/V spectral ratio at ground surface corresponds to the natural period of surface ground layer. The microtremor H/V spectral ratio measurement was applied to the east district in Maizuru city. Both horizontal and vertical microtremors at 75 sites in the east district in Maizuru city were measured by servo type accelerometers, and the microtremor H/V spectral ratio and its predominant period at each site were evaluated from microtremor accelerations. Also, the predominant periods at 353 sites were numerically evaluated from the predominant periods measured at 75 sites by the Inverse Distance Weighting method.
SHEAR STRAIN SAMPLING POINTS OF PLATE ELEMENT FROM DESIRABLE DISPLACEMENT FIELDS AND MIXED FINITE ELEMENTS
Authors: Kowsuwan Teerapon , Vimonsatit Vanissorn
Published: March 2020

A newly developed four-node bilinear plate element based on linked interpolation and Desirable Displacement Field (DDF) concept is formulated for the analysis of general plate problems. The proposed element is formulated on a mixed finite element for Reissner-mindlin plate theory and transverse displacement is linked to the rotation degree of freedom to ensure high-order interpolation capacity. By assumed strain method, the DDF is introduced for the investigation of strain sampling points. A high order polynomial for transverse displacement with linking shape function is used in finite element discretization to provide a better solution for the plate problems. A number of commonly selected problems will be tested using the present element to compare with other element models in the open literature to assess their relative convergence and accuracy.
UNIQUE DETERMINANTS OF CRANE SELECTION FOR MULTICRANE BUILDING CONSTRUCTION SITES
Authors: Ben-David Albert , Shapira Aviad
Published: March 2020

Mega building projects typically employ numerous tower cranes covering the entire area of the building footprint and staging areas with multiple overlapping work envelopes. This paper aims to answer the following question: Are the determinants of crane selection for mega building projects similar to projects serviced by a small number of cranes? On-site interviews found: (1) the visibility of the crane forest in the surroundings of the project affects the approach to crane selection; (2) various modes of action are taken by project management to share information with the neighboring residents and business and to ease the hardships of living and working near a busy construction site; and (3) cranes are often selected and located such that they could dismantle other cranes, due to difficulties of using a dismantling mobile crane in the depth of the crane array.
VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT OF SEISMIC RETROFIT MEASURES FOR FRAME AND WALL PRE-CODE BUILDINGS
Authors: Mwafy Aman , Issa Anas
Published: March 2020

The number of existing buildings that may be at risk because of insufficient seismic design provisions cannot be underestimated. Recent studies have confirmed the pressing need for the seismic retrofit of pre-code structures to reduce their probability of collapse. A number of retrofit approaches are therefore assessed in this study, namely reinforced concrete jacketing, fiber reinforced polymers wrapping, and installing externally unbonded steel plates. Detailed structural design and fiber-based modeling are carried out for five reference structures representing frame and shear wall multi-story buildings before and after retrofit. Forty earthquake records are selected to represent potential earthquake scenarios in a region of medium seismicity that was selected as a reference study area. A large number of inelastic pushover and dynamic analyses are performed to assess the lateral capacity and to derive a wide range of fragility relationships for the reference structures. The highest positive impact of retrofit is observed on the pre-code flat slab-column systems. The reductions in the vulnerability of the retrofitted structures confirmed the effectiveness of the selected techniques for mitigating the earthquake losses of pre-code building inventory.
SUBCONTRACTING MANAGEMENT IN AN EPC PROJECT: A CASE STUDY OF DELAY RISKS
Authors: Tamin Puti Farida , Perwitasari Dian , Tamin Rizal
Published: March 2020

Subcontracting was adopted in a major EPC power generating infrastructure project in South-Sumatera, Indonesia. The completion of this project, which was executed in the framework of the government’s alternative energy power generation acceleration endeavor, was delayed. This paper analyzes subcontracting management as the main cause of the delay. A data collecting survey, which included interviews with project respondents, was conducted in the objective to obtain their perception on delay risk caused by subcontracting management. A risk factor list was created based on this survey. A qualitative risk analysis was used to assess the risk extent. 18 risk factors with high and significant levels are presented. The list of risk factors in each of the EPC project’s phases was then used in analyzing the project’s completion delay. It is shown that the main contractor’s lack of experience in the work’s subcontracting management has caused miscommunications in engineering phase, tender process miscalculations, lack of procured materials and equipment quality, imperfect construction preparation, imperfect commissioning, and reworks. Construction was identified as the most critical project phase due to a relatively high number of subcontractors involved in the work and the complexity of the EPC project. The interaction of the whole factors finally caused project completion delay.
EXPERIMENTS ON CRESCENT SHAPED BRACES
Authors: Dib Antoine , Palermo Michele , Pieraccini Luca , Silvestri Stefano , Gasparini Giada , Trombetti Tomaso
Published: March 2020

Different design strategies, within the Performance Based Design framework, have been proposed through the years in order to design a structure of high seismic performances, including seismic isolation, viscous dampers and hysteretic dampers. A new lateral-resisting device, referred to as Crescent Shaped Brace (CSB), has been recently proposed to be used for the story isolation of multi-story frame structures. The main property of the CSB is that its lateral stiffness is uncoupled from its yield strength so that the practical designer may choose them independently, unlike conventional diagonal braces whose lateral stiffness is directly proportional to the yield strength. Past studies were devoted to the development of analytical formula for the design of such devices and to the study (through numerical simulations) of their non-linear response. In the present paper, the main results of experimental tests conducted on scaled CSB specimens (monotonic tests, cyclic tests, pseudo-static tests) are presented in order to assess the seismic behavior of such devices. The results of the experimental tests are compatible with the analytical predictions.
COMPARISON OF DIFFERENT METHODS FOR VISCOUS DAMPER PLACEMENT IN EXISTING FRAME BUILDINGS
Authors: Landi Luca , Conti Filippo , Diotallevi Pier Paolo
Published: March 2020

The main purpose of this research is to investigate the effects of different vertical distributions of the properties of nonlinear fluid-viscous dampers for the retrofit of existing multi-story reinforced concrete frames. In particular, the different distributions are defined on the basis of the same value of the supplemental damping ratio. Since the viscous dampers are used for the retrofit of existing buildings, they are dimensioned assuming that the structure can exceed the elastic limit, with the only condition to satisfy the prefixed performance limit. In the design phase the different vertical distributions of damper properties are compared in terms of the total sum of the damping coefficients. The effectiveness of the different distributions is then examined by performing time-history analysis of several case studies considering a nonlinear behavior both for the viscous dampers and for the structural members. The results of the nonlinear dynamic analyses are examined in terms of inter-story drifts and dampers forces. The considered case studies are five RC frames characterized by different number of stories (3, 6 and 9 stories) and also by different properties in terms of regularity in elevation. In this way it is also possible to investigate the effect of the vertical distribution of the damper properties for regular and irregular frames.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON SLIP COEFFICIENT OF HIGH STRENGTH BOLTED JOINT WITH METAL SPRAYED CONTACT SURFACE
Authors: Nakanishi Yusuke , Hashimoto Kunitaro , Suzuki Yasuo , Sugiura Kunitomo
Published: March 2020

There are several ways to reduce the number of bolts of frictional bolted joints from the viewpoint of the construction cost and the maintenance cost for steel structures. For example, there are the ways which are strengthening the material of bolts, or increasing the slip coefficient. This study is focused on the slip coefficient with metal thermal sprayed contact surfaces. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of different surface conditions on the slip coefficient. Therefore, slip tests were conducted in consideration of 9 patterns of surface treatment method (3 kinds of thickness, 3 kinds of material of sprayed metal).
DESIGN OF ISOLATED BRIDGES USING POLYNOMIAL FRICTION PENDULUM ISOLATOR
Authors: Lee T. Y. , Lu L. Y. , Chung K. J.
Published: March 2020

This paper is aimed to develop a design procedure of Polynomial Friction Pendulum Isolator (PFPI), a various-frequency sliding isolator, for decreasing the seismic responses of isolated bridges. Although sliding isolators have been widely used to mitigate seismic hazard, it may be not effective in decreasing the seismic responses of isolated structures subjected to near-field ground motions. The sliding surface of the PFPI is defined by a sixth-order polynomial function to avoid resonance under near-field ground motions. The restoring stiffness of the PFPI possesses softening section as well as hardening section. The structural acceleration response can be decreased by decreasing the restoring stiffness in softening section while the structural displacement response can be decreased by increasing the restoring stiffness in hardening section. However, it is difficult to determine the design parameters of PFPI in practical implementations. This study proposes a design procedure for the PFPI based on the bridge seismic design code in Taiwan. Designers can follow this procedure to easily design the bridge with PFPIs which satisfies the requirements of the code. The bridge with PFPIs designed by using this procedure is analyzed to realize the dynamic nonlinear responses of the bridge under artificial strong earthquake. The results show that the PFPIs effectively decrease the seismic responses of isolated bridges as compared with non-isolated bridges.