bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The US–Latin America Cancer Research Network
Authors: Vedham Vidya , Henderson Marianne K. , Podhajcer Osvaldo , Llera Andrea , Breitenbach Marisa Dreyer , Abdelhay Eliana , Müller Bettina , Ordenes Jorge Fernandez , Navarro Adrian Daneri , Del Toro-Arreola Alicia , Velazquez Carlos Arturo , Delgado Lucia , Artagaveytia Nora , Gross Thomas G.
Published: July 2020

PURPOSE

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) Center for Global Health promotes global oncology research to reduce cancer burden worldwide. In 2009, NCI launched the Latin American Cancer Research Network (LACRN) to support a clinical cancer research network in Latin America. LACRN was started by a coalition of research institutions through bilateral collaborative agreements between the US Department of Health and Human Services and the governments of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, and Uruguay. The LACRN is supported through a research contract to a study coordination center and subcontracts to 6 low- and middle-income country sites. The participating countries have a shared goal that meets the specific research needs of the regions. The overarching purpose of this endeavor is to implement high-quality standards for conducting clinical research studies and developing collaborative cancer research projects.

METHODS

NCI supported a clinical breast cancer project for LACRN, “Molecular profiling of breast cancer (MPBC) in Latin American women with stage II and III breast cancer receiving standard neo-adjuvant chemotherapy.” The molecular profiling of breast cancer study was conducted in 40 hospitals and research institutions across 5 countries with a study population of approximately 1,400 patients.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Establishing a comprehensive network in Latin America and their research institutions yielded an incredible research resource that can be used in future studies, driven by the network. Throughout the process of developing and implementing studies, LACRN helped identify key elements of the functionality of research networks, such as the pivotal role of institutional and government commitment for sustainability; the importance of building multidisciplinary teams, transparent communications, and training; the ability to combine translational, epidemiology, and clinical research to close research gaps; and the application of new technologies to standard cancer clinical care.
Cancer Biomarkers to Improve Performance of Xpert HPV for Cervical Cancer Screening
Authors: Kuhn Louise , Tergas Ana , Wright Thomas C , Denny Lynette , Saidu Rakiya , Boa Rosalind , Moodley Jennifer , Persing David , Campbell Scott , Svanholm-Barrie Cecilia
Published: July 2020

PURPOSE

We evaluated whether cancer biomarkers improve the performance of Xpert human papillomavirus (HPV) testing as screening for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or greater (CIN2+).

METHODS

In a clinical study in Cape Town, South Africa, 418 HIV-negative and 426 HIV-positive women, age 30 to 65 years, were recruited. All women had cervical samples collected and underwent colposcopy and histologic sampling with consensus pathology review. Cervical samples were tested onsite using Xpert HPV, which detects 14 high-risk HPV types in 5 channels: HPV 16; HPV 18 and -45; HPV 31, -33, -35, -52, and -58; HPV 51 and -59; and HPV 39, -56, -66, and -68. Cycle threshold (Ct) values are outputted for each channel. Samples were also tested using real-time polymerase chain reaction to detect mRNA for CDKN2A, TOP2A, and MKi-67. Results were reported as ΔCt values relative to internal controls. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate associations between Ct values for HPV and biomarkers with CIN2+.

RESULTS

Ct values from channels detecting HPV 16, -18, -45, -33, -35, -52, and -58 were informative to predict CIN2+. Area under the curve was 0.906 in HIV-negative and 0.870 in HIV-positive women. When sensitivity was set at 80%, specificity was 94.0% in HIV-negative and 82.7% in HIV-positive women. ΔCt values for detection of mRNA for CDKN2A and MKi-67 added significant improvement to the prediction of CIN2+ when included with the Ct values from the 3 informative Xpert channels. Including both HPV and biomarker parameters, area under the curve was 0.944 in HIV-negative and 0.913 in HIV-positive women. When sensitivity was set at 80%, specificity was 97.3% in HIV-negative and 89.6% in HIV-positive women.

CONCLUSION

Improvements in specificity of a round of screening using Xpert HPV can be achieved with the addition of cancer biomarkers.
Effective Collaborative Project to Reduce Disparities and Inequities in Cancer Care and for Cancer Control in Low-Resource Setting Countries: South African Experience
Authors: Osei-Fofie Daniel
Published: July 2020

PURPOSE

The Northern Cape Province is the largest province in South Africa; however, it has the fewest resources for cancer care. There is a high incidence and prevalence of mesothelioma and lung cancer as a result of the previous indiscriminate mining of asbestos without proper legislation for the protection of miners and the environment. Mine dumps remain near villages and schools after the banning of asbestos mining, resulting in continuous exposure to asbestos fibers. Unfortunately, majority of cancers are diagnosed in late stages because of a lack of awareness and the misdiagnosis of lung cancer and mesothelioma as tuberculosis.

METHODS

The Northern Cape Department of Health, Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation, and Cancer Charity Workers formed a collaboration in May 2017 to reduce disparities and inequities in cancer care and for cancer control. The Northern Cape Department of Health also collaborated with Project ECHO at the University of New Mexico to use the ECHO model for training community health care workers, training in palliative care, and mentorship and empowerment of doctors and nurses in rural areas. The aim is to recognize early symptoms and signs of cancers affecting the lung and to make referrals for early diagnosis and treatment.

RESULTS

An advocacy group has engaged the Provincial and National Department of Mining and Environmental Affairs for rehabilitation of asbestos mine dumps. Community health care workers have been trained and are assisting with community awareness and patient navigation. Doctors have been trained in palliative care and are training other health care workers in palliative care. A center of excellence for the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer, palliative care, survivorship, and research has been established. Retention of doctors and nurses in rural areas for cancer care and early referral is improving. A lung cancer research laboratory is being set up.

CONCLUSION

Effective collaborative projects can help address disparities in cancer care and effective cancer control in areas with limited resources.
Breast Cancer Patient Advocacy: Challenges and Opportunities in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Dvaladze Allison , Kizub Darya A. , Cabanes Anna , Nakigudde Gertrude , Aguilar Bertha , Singh R. K. Pritam , Zujewski Jo Anne , Duggan Catherine , Anderson Benjamin O. , Gralow Julie R.
Published: July 2020

PURPOSE

Breast cancer advocacy movements, driven by advocate-led civil society organizations (CSOs), have proven to be a powerful force for the advancement of cancer control in high-income countries, playing a critical role in providing peer support, raising awareness, reducing stigma, educating the public, raising funds, influencing policy, and affecting national cancer research agendas by bringing the public’s concerns about cancer to policymakers and the medical community. Breast cancer patient advocacy movements are growing in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in response to an increasing cancer burden and disparities in outcomes; however, there are few studies on the experiences and needs of advocate-led breast cancer CSOs in LMICs.

METHODS

We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 98 participants representing 23 LMICs in Eastern Europe, Central Asia, East and Southern Africa, and Latin America.

RESULTS

Despite geographic, cultural, and socioeconomic differences, the common themes that emerged across the 3 regions are strikingly similar: trust, knowledge gaps, stigma, sharing experiences, and sustainability. We identified common facilitators—training/education, relationship building/networking, third-party facilitators, communication—and barriers—mistrust, stigma, organizational fragility, difficulty translating high-income country strategies—to establishing trust, collaboration, and advancing cancer advocacy efforts. To our knowledge, our study is the first to describe the role coalitions and regional networks play in advancing breast cancer advocacy in LMICs across multiple regions

CONCLUSION

Our findings reflect the importance of investing in three-way partnerships between CSOs, political leaders, and health experts. When provided with information that is evidence based and relevant to their respective environments, as well as opportunities to engage and network, advocates are better equipped to pursue evidence-based programs, advocate for appropriate solutions, and to hold their governments accountable to the commitments they make. Global and local actors can do more to create opportunities for education and engagement.
The Program for Enhanced Training in Cancer: An Initial Experience of Supporting Capacity Building for Oncology Training in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Fish Madeleine , Parkes Jeannette , Dharsee Nazima , Dryden-Peterson Scott , Efstathiou Jason , Schnipper Lowell , Chabner Bruce , Parikh Aparna R.
Published: July 2020

PURPOSE

Sub-Saharan Africa is simultaneously facing a rising incidence of cancer and a dearth of medical professionals as a result of insufficient training numbers and emigration, creating a growing shortage of cancer care. To combat this, Massachusetts General Hospital and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center partnered with institutions in South Africa, Tanzania, and Rwanda to develop a fellowship exchange program to supplement the training of African oncologists practicing in their home countries.

METHODS

In its initial 2 years (2018 and 2019), the Program for Enhanced Training in Cancer (POETIC) hosted a pilot cohort of 14 fellows for 3-week observerships in their areas of interest. Researchers distributed questionnaires for program evaluation to participants before arrival and upon departure, and 8 participated in semistructured interviews.

RESULTS

Five themes emerged from the qualitative data: expectations of POETIC, differences in oncology between the United States and sub-Saharan Africa, positive elements of the program, areas for improvement, and potential impact. Fellows identified several elements of Western health care that will inform their practice: patient-centered care, research development, and collaboration among medical, radiation, and surgical oncologists. The time in Boston modeled a research infrastructure that participants expressed interest in emulating at their home hospitals. In addition, the fellowship inspired some participants to address prevention and survivorship efforts in their home countries. From the quantitative data, feedback was primarily around logistical areas for improvement.

CONCLUSION

POETIC was found to be feasible and valuable. The results from the first years justify the program’s continuation in hopes of strengthening global health partnerships to support oncology training in Africa. One weakness is the small number of fellows, which will limit the impact of the study and the relevance of its conclusions. Future work will involve long-term follow up with participants and the development of an alumni network.
Evaluation of a Breast Cancer Early Detection Curriculum Among Nurses Working in 5 Antiretroviral Clinics in Eswatini
Authors: O’Neil Daniel S. , Nxumalo Sifiso , Ngcamphalala Cebisile , Jacobson Judith S. , Nuwagaba-Biribonwoha Harriet , Harripersaud Katherine , Dlamini Xolisile , Pace Lydia E. , Neugut Alfred I. , Harris Tiffany G.
Published: July 2020

PURPOSE

Breast cancer (BC) incidence is rising in sub-Saharan Africa, and approximately 75% of cases are diagnosed at stages III and IV. Women living with HIV, who are surviving longer with antiretroviral use, are also increasingly affected. Survey data suggest that primary care providers often fail to recognize early-stage BC. We trained nurses from 5 antiretroviral clinics in Eswatini to assess breast abnormalities and evaluated our curriculum’s effectiveness in improving BC knowledge and skills.

METHODS

The 2-day curriculum covered breast physiology, benign pathology, and BC. Clinical breast exam and management were taught using mannequins and standardized patient scenarios, with emphasis on prompt referral for biopsy. After training, mentoring was provided every 2 to 4 weeks at each study clinic. A written examination of BC knowledge (maximum score, 23 points) and an observed examination of practical clinical skills (maximum score, 28 points) were administered before training, immediately after training, and 90 days after training. Pre- and post-training scores were compared using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests.

RESULTS

Forty-four nurses, with a median of 10 years of experience, underwent training; only 5 nurses (11%) reported prior BC education. All nurses completed the pre- and immediate post-training exams, and 38 completed the 90-day post-training exams. Median scores on pre-, immediate post-, and 90-day post-training knowledge exams were 17.5 (interquartile range [IQR], 16-19), 20 (IQR, 19-21), and 20 (IQR, 19-21), respectively. Median scores on pre-, immediate post-, and 90-day post-training practical exams were 10 (IQR, 7-11), 23 (IQR, 21.5-25), and 23 (IQR, 22-24), respectively. Compared with pretraining scores, immediate post- and 90-day post-training scores on both exams were significantly improved ( P < .0001 for all comparisons).

CONCLUSION

Our curriculum produced a sustained improvement in nurses’ BC-related knowledge and clinical skills, including identification of possible early cancers. Our results resemble those among similarly trained Rwandan nurses, suggesting that the curriculum may generally benefit front-line health care providers and patients in sub-Saharan Africa.
Phase Ib Study of Lenvatinib Plus Pembrolizumab in Patients With Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Finn Richard S. , Ikeda Masafumi , Zhu Andrew X. , Sung Max W. , Baron Ari D. , Kudo Masatoshi , Okusaka Takuji , Kobayashi Masahiro , Kumada Hiromitsu , Kaneko Shuichi , Pracht Marc , Mamontov Konstantin , Meyer Tim , Kubota Tomoki , Dutcus Corina E. , Saito Kenichi , Siegel Abby B. , Dubrovsky Leonid , Mody Kalgi , Llovet Josep M.
Published: July 2020

PURPOSE

The immunomodulatory effect of lenvatinib (a multikinase inhibitor) on tumor microenvironments may contribute to antitumor activity when combined with programmed death receptor-1 (PD-1) signaling inhibitors in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We report results from a phase Ib study of lenvatinib plus pembrolizumab (an anti–PD-1 antibody) in unresectable HCC (uHCC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this open-label multicenter study, patients with uHCC received lenvatinib (bodyweight ≥ 60 kg, 12 mg; < 60 kg, 8 mg) orally daily and pembrolizumab 200 mg intravenously on day 1 of a 21-day cycle. The study included a dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) phase and an expansion phase (first-line patients). Primary objectives were safety/tolerability (DLT phase), and objective response rate (ORR) and duration of response (DOR) by modified RECIST (mRECIST) and RECIST version 1.1 (v1.1) per independent imaging review (IIR; expansion phase).

RESULTS

A total of 104 patients were enrolled. No DLTs were reported (n = 6) in the DLT phase; 100 patients (expansion phase; included n = 2 from DLT phase) had received no prior systemic therapy and had Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage B (n = 29) or C disease (n = 71). At data cutoff, 37% of patients remained on treatment. Median duration of follow-up was 10.6 months (95% CI, 9.2 to 11.5 months). Confirmed ORRs by IIR were 46.0% (95% CI, 36.0% to 56.3%) per mRECIST and 36.0% (95% CI, 26.6% to 46.2%) per RECIST v1.1. Median DORs by IIR were 8.6 months (95% CI, 6.9 months to not estimable [NE]) per mRECIST and 12.6 months (95% CI, 6.9 months to NE) per RECIST v1.1. Median progression-free survival by IIR was 9.3 months per mRECIST and 8.6 months per RECIST v1.1. Median overall survival was 22 months. Grade ≥ 3 treatment-related adverse events occurred in 67% (grade 5, 3%) of patients. No new safety signals were identified.

CONCLUSION

Lenvatinib plus pembrolizumab has promising antitumor activity in uHCC. Toxicities were manageable, with no unexpected safety signals.
Multisystem Progeroid Syndrome With Lipodystrophy, Cardiomyopathy, and Nephropathy Due to an LMNA p.R349W Variant
Authors: Hussain Iram , Jin Ruilin Raelene , Baum Howard B A , Greenfield Jerry R , Devery Sophie , Xing Chao , Hegele Robert A , Carranza-Leon Barbara G , Linton Macrae F , Vuitch Frank , Wu Kathy H C , Precioso Débora Rossi , Oshima Junko , Agarwal Anil K , Garg Abhimanyu
Published: July 2020

Background

Pathogenic variants in lamin A/C (LMNA) cause a variety of progeroid disorders including Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome, mandibuloacral dysplasia, and atypical progeroid syndrome. Six families with 11 patients harboring a pathogenic heterozygous LMNA c.1045C>T; p.R349W variant have been previously reported to have partial lipodystrophy, cardiomyopathy, and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), suggesting a distinct progeroid syndrome.

Methods

We report 6 new patients with a heterozygous LMNA p.R349W variant and review the phenotype of previously reported patients to define their unique characteristics. We also performed functional studies on the skin fibroblasts of a patient to seek the underlying mechanisms of various clinical manifestations.

Results

Of the total 17 patients, all 14 adults with the heterozygous LMNA p.R349W variant had peculiar lipodystrophy affecting the face, extremities, palms, and soles with variable gain of subcutaneous truncal fat. All of them had proteinuric nephropathy with FSGS documented in 7 of them. Ten developed cardiomyopathy, and 2 of them died early at ages 33 and 45 years. Other common features included premature graying, alopecia, high-pitched voice, micrognathia, hearing loss, and scoliosis. Metabolic complications, including diabetes mellitus, hypertriglyceridemia, and hepatomegaly, were highly prevalent. This variant did not show any abnormal splicing, and no abnormal nuclear morphology was noted in the affected fibroblasts.

Conclusions

The heterozygous LMNA p.R349W variant in affected individuals has several distinct phenotypic features, and these patients should be classified as having multisystem progeroid syndrome (MSPS). MSPS patients should undergo careful assessment at symptom onset and yearly metabolic, renal, and cardiac evaluation because hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, FSGS, and cardiomyopathy cause major morbidity and mortality.
Reversible Formation of Self-Assembly Gels Containing Giant Vesicles in Trifluoromethylbenzene Using Oxymethylenehelicene Oligomers with Terminal C16 Alkyl Groups
Authors: Sawato Tsukasa , Arisawa Mieko , Yamaguchi Masahiko
Published: July 2020

A 1:1 mixture of pseudoenantiomeric oxymethylenehelicene (P)-pentamer and (M)-hexamer with terminal C16 alkyl groups in trifluoromethylbenzene formed hetero-double-helices and their self-assembly gels. The gels contained giant vesicles with concentric structures possessing an average diameter in the range of 20–30 µm, and the introduction of the C16 alkyl groups on the oligomers was essential for their formation. Heating and cooling reversibly decomposed and formed the gel containing giant vesicles in the nonpolar organic solvent, thereby showing thermal hysteresis.
Ultrafast Dynamics in Nonaromatic Cation Based Ionic Liquids: A Femtosecond Raman-Induced Kerr Effect Spectroscopic Study
Authors: Shirota Hideaki , Ando Masatoshi , Kakinuma Shohei , Takahashi Kotaro
Published: July 2020

Herein, the data of the intermolecular vibrations of forty nonaromatic cation based ionic liquids (ILs) at 293 K measured by femtosecond Raman-induced Kerr effect spectroscopy are reported. The low-frequency spectra in the frequency range of 0.3–700 cm−1 were obtained by Fourier transform deconvolution analysis. The line shapes of the low-frequency spectra below ∼200 cm−1 were discussed on the basis of the ion species. The spectral intensity in nonaromatic cation based ILs was much lower than that in aromatic cation based ILs owing to the absence of the aromatic ring, i.e., the libration of the aromatic species had a strong spectral intensity in the low-frequency region. However, nonaromatic cation based ILs with a flat anion, such as dicyanamide and tricyanomethanide, showed stronger spectral intensity because of the libration of the anion. Other unique spectral features were also discussed in the context of the structure of the ion species. Liquid properties, such as density, viscosity, electrical conductivity, and surface tension, were also estimated. On comparing the low-frequency spectra with the bulk liquid properties of the nonaromatic cation based ILs, a mild linear relationship between the first moment of the low-frequency spectrum and a bulk parameter comprised of surface tension and density was observed.
Extended spectrum β-lactamases and class C β-lactamases gene frequency in Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from various clinical specimens in Khartoum State, Sudan: a cross sectional study
Authors: Abdelrahman Dina N. , Taha Aya A. , Dafaallah Mazar M. , Mohammed Alaa Abdelgafoor , El Hussein Abdel Rahim M. , Hashim Ahmed I. , Hamedelnil Yousif F. , Altayb Hisham N.
Published: July 2020

Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a pathogenic bacterium, causing nosocomial infections with intrinsic and acquired resistance mechanisms to a large group of antibiotics, including β-lactams. This study aimed to determine the susceptibility pattern to selected antibiotics and to index the first reported β-lactamases gene (extended spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) genes and class C β-lactamases genes) frequency in Ps. aeruginosa in Khartoum State, Sudan.

Methods: 121 Ps. aeruginosa clinical isolates from various clinical specimens were used in this cross-sectional study conducted in Khartoum State. A total of 80 isolates were confirmed as Ps. aeruginosa through conventional identification methods and species-specific primers (the remaining 40 isolates were other bacterial species). The susceptibility pattern of the confirmed isolates to selected antibiotics was done following the Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method. Multiplex PCR was used for detection of seven β-lactamase genes (blaTEM, blaSHV, blaCTXM-1, blaVEB, blaOXA-1, blaAmpC and blaDHA).

Results: Of the 80 confirmed Ps. aeruginosa isolates, 8 (10%) were resistant to Imipenem while all isolates were resistant to Amoxicillin and Amoxyclav (100%). A total of 43 (54%) Ps. aeruginosa isolates were positive for ESBLs genes, while 27 (34%) were positive for class C β-lactamases, and 20 (25%) were positive for both classes. Frequency of ESBLs genes was as follows: blaTEM, 19 (44.2%); blaSHV, 16 (37.2%); blaCTX-M1, 10 (23.3%); blaVEB, 14 (32.6%); and blaOXA-1, 7 (16.3%). Occurrence of class C β-lactamases genes was blaAmpC 22 (81.5%) and blaDHA 8 (29.6%). In total, 3 (11.1%) isolates were positive for both blaAmpC and blaDHA genes.

Conclusion: Ps. aeruginosa isolates showed a high rate of β-lactamases production, with co-resistance to other antibiotic classes. The lowest resistance rate of Ps. aeruginosa was to Imipenem followed by Gentamicin and Ciprofloxacin. No statistically significant relationship between production of β-lactamases in Ps. aeruginosa and resistance to third generation cephalosporins was found.
What industries received COVID-19 closure orders? A cross-state comparison in the US
Authors: Jacobs Philip , Ohinmaa Arvi P.
Published: July 2020

The United States federal government developed a COVID-19 blueprint for states to follow; it included the issuance by state/local governments of “stay at home” orders coupled with lists of essential services. Suppliers of these services would be exempt from closure so their workers could fulfill their essential functions. The blueprint was embraced by the states in a variety of ways.  In this paper, we identify how business closure rules were enacted across the states for each of 15 types of services. The outcome measures were: “open” “open with restrictions” and “closure”.

For six business types, most states permitted businesses to open.  In four types, businesses were mainly closed. In three, they were allowed to open with restrictions.  In the rest, there was a mixture of outcomes.  In sum, the federal blueprint resulted in a regulatory patchwork as it spread throughout the country.
Underwriting Government Debt Auctions: Auction Choice and Information Production
Authors: Gupta Sudip , Sundaram Rangarajan K. , Sundaresan Suresh
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we examine a novel two-stage mechanism for selling government securities, wherein the dealers underwrite in the first stage the sale of securities, which are auctioned in stage 2 via either a discriminatory auction (DA) or a uniform price auction (UPA). Using proprietary data on auctions during 2006–2013, we find that (a) the first stage underwriting auction generates significant information, including predicting the likelihood of devolvement, and bid shading, and (b) the outcome of the underwriting auction may generate enough asymmetry amongst bidders that may make DA dominate UPA in certain counterfactual situations. We document that the unique two-stage auction design provides a market-driven mechanism to simultaneously insure against auction failures and produce information about the quality of the underlying issue.

This paper was accepted by Karl Diether, finance.
Mostly Exploration-Free Algorithms for Contextual Bandits
Authors: Bastani Hamsa , Bayati Mohsen , Khosravi Khashayar
Published: July 2020

The contextual bandit literature has traditionally focused on algorithms that address the exploration–exploitation tradeoff. In particular, greedy algorithms that exploit current estimates without any exploration may be suboptimal in general. However, exploration-free greedy algorithms are desirable in practical settings where exploration may be costly or unethical (e.g., clinical trials). Surprisingly, we find that a simple greedy algorithm can be rate optimal (achieves asymptotically optimal regret) if there is sufficient randomness in the observed contexts (covariates). We prove that this is always the case for a two-armed bandit under a general class of context distributions that satisfy a condition we term covariate diversity. Furthermore, even absent this condition, we show that a greedy algorithm can be rate optimal with positive probability. Thus, standard bandit algorithms may unnecessarily explore. Motivated by these results, we introduce Greedy-First, a new algorithm that uses only observed contexts and rewards to determine whether to follow a greedy algorithm or to explore. We prove that this algorithm is rate optimal without any additional assumptions on the context distribution or the number of arms. Extensive simulations demonstrate that Greedy-First successfully reduces exploration and outperforms existing (exploration-based) contextual bandit algorithms such as Thompson sampling or upper confidence bound.

This paper was accepted by J. George Shanthikumar, big data analytics.
O GÓTICO E O DISTÓPICO SE ENTRELAÇAM: SEXUALIDADE E O CONTROLE DO CORPO FEMININO EM O CONTO DA AIA E OS TESTAMENTOS DE MARGARET ATWOOD
Authors: Pereira Alice De Araujo Nascimento
Published: July 2020

Resumo: O gótico é muitas vezes tido como um gênero escapista e sentimental, com seus castelos mal assombrados, fantasmas e donzelas em perigo. No entanto ele reflete dilemas morais e políticas de momentos históricos específicos: as convulsões pós Revolução Francesa e as transformações sociais do período Vitoriano. Essas narrativas exploram os medos profundos da psique humana, problematizam as relações com o passado, investigam a fragmentação da identidade e questionam relações de poder. Ao longo do século XX, o gótico retornou intertextualmente, para novamente negociar ansiedades contemporâneas, diluído muitas vezes em outros gêneros e diversas mídias. Outro gênero que lida com questões similares é a distopia. Os romances O conto da aia e Os testamentos de Margaret Atwood são distopias em que há um regime autoritário teocrático cristão cujo foco central é o domínio do corpo feminino e o controle da reprodução e da sexualidade. Tais questões também eram centrais na literatura gótica. Nesse artigo pretendemos identificar e analisar os elementos do gótico nas obras de Atwood e compreender como a distopia e o gótico dialogam entre si e revelam críticas ao real
CONTROLE DOS CORPOS, GESTÃO DOS AFETOS E DISTOPIA: LÓGICAS DE PODER EM 1984 E WHITE BEAR
Authors: Lourenço Marise , Farinaccio Pascoal
Published: July 2020

A partir da reflexão sobre a distopia enquanto gênero, nos parece caro refletir sobre os elementos narrativos que a constituem, bem como sobre as táticas textuais que lhe são pertencentes. Entendendo a distopia como um texto que se produz a partir de estratégias que nos fazem pensar sobre a nossa realidade social (MOYLAN, 2000) pretendemos voltar nossas observações para analisar como se constituem as seguintes obras: 1984, de George Orwell, e o episódio White Bear, da série Black Mirror. Assumindo que as distopias analisadas possuem, em sua constituição, um trabalho que reflete sobre as lógicas de poder utilizadas nas sociedades que espelham, o presente trabalho busca compreender como as dinâmicas de poder e suas lógicas são trabalhadas no gênero, bem como suas alocações apontam para uma reflexão do âmbito social tanto na sociedade de Orwell, quanto na apresentada pela série. Nesse sentido, buscamos observar como esses pontos sinalizam apontamentos para elementos presentes em nosso cenário social, que são utilizados nas obras tanto em caráter de espelhamento quanto de denúncia.
Skin health and masks
Authors: Mahto Anjali
Published: July 2020

Consultant dermatologist Dr Anjali Mahto offers her professional advice on limiting the negative impact of PPE
Changing perceptions of PPE
Authors: Wingrove Zoe
Published: July 2020

Zoe Wingrove a dental nurse at Cotswold Dental Wellness, reveals how they are telling patients about their ‘PPE evolution’
Alcohol and dentistry
Authors: Thomson Sarah
Published: July 2020

Dental hygienist and therapist Sarah Thomson offers a sobering account of her journey – from suspension by the GDC due to her active alcoholism to helping others face their own addictions
Pregnant during lockdown
Authors: Colak Hulya , Meldrum Eloise
Published: July 2020

Hulya Colak works in an NHS practice in Thanet in Kent. Here, she talks to Eloise Meldrum about her ‘lockdown’ pregnancy and how it might affect her role as a dental nurse
Explore and expand
Authors: Farrell Emma
Published: July 2020

Emma Farrell talks us through implant nursing and rubber dam placement in a COVID-19 world
Diabetes and oral health
Authors: Reeves Juliette
Published: July 2020

Juliette Reeves considers the clinical implications and management
Estudis i recerca sobre llibre infantil i juvenil a Catalunya (2018-2019)
Authors: Colomer Teresa
Published: July 2020

Els estudis sobre literatura infantil i juvenil (LIJ) es troben en fase de transició generacional, tant dels especialistes com dels autors i professionals que han configurat el panorama de la LIJ catalana en l’etapa democràtica. Així, premis, entrevistes, exposicions o articles han atès la preservació de la memòria, tot i que amb una certa feblesa respecte del que caldria. Els estudis universitaris mantenen, amb altes i baixes, la seva oferta formativa, les tesis i les publicacions, però continua la disminució d’equips i projectes i la manca de línies específiques de LIJ. Resulta més activa la difusió i promoció a la xarxa i a través de les activitats dels sectors professionals. Els temes tractats mostren continuïtat amb el passat bienni: l’atenció a la història de la LIJ recent; la perspectiva de gènere a les obres; la interrelació de codis: els àlbums, però també els aspectes materials dels llibres, la narració gràfica i la LIJ digital, així com la promoció i l’educació literària.
The Leviathan’s Achilles’ Heel. On Deconstruction and Conscription
Authors: De Michele Giustino
Published: July 2020

Este ensayo trata de situar el problema del servicio militar en el pensamiento de Jacques Derrida. La primera parte explora esta cuestión en el seminario La bestia y el soberano, entre el Leviatán de Hobbes y tres fábulas clásicas. La segunda parte solicita algunas referencias clásicas como Rousseau, Heidegger y Renan, con el fin de cuestionar la conscripción tal y como está ejemplarmente implicada en la Francia contemporánea. La tercera y última parte convoca a Kant, la Iglesia Católica y el problema de la pena de muerte para esbozar la función del servicio militar desde el punto de vista de la deconstrucción del cosmopolitismo.
Texts on Violence: Of the Impure (Contaminations, Equivocations, Trembling)
Authors: Mercier Thomas Clément
Published: July 2020

Este artículo interroga cierta escena filosófica –una que se constituye a través de la posición de lo que Jacques Derrida llama “la instancia ética de la violencia”. En el curso del ensayo, analizo esta escena cuasi-jurídica a través de las lecturas de Aristóteles, Walter Benjamin y Giorgio Agamben, entre otros. La escena, construida sobre textos sobre textos sobre violencia, exige una lógica de la pureza; es recelosa de conta-minaciones y equívocos. Y sin embargo, se alimenta de ellos. Analizando las implicaciones del texto, la escritura y la huella para el discurso filosófico sobre la violencia, sigo a Derrida “solo para ver” que puede hacer temblar esta escena.
Numerical approach for hydrodynamic behavior in the kerf with a quasi-complete model of the laser cutting process
Authors: Tamsaout T. , Amara E. H. , Bouabdallah A.
Published: July 2020

The fundamental physical phenomena occurring during the process of laser cutting are still only slightly understood, and thus the need to develop mathematical and numerical models to optimize the process parameters has become unavoidable for obtaining products with superior quality and for better use. It is in this context that we propose a new approach by building a model to study the laser cutting process, by including several physical mechanisms which interact during the cutting process, such as the laser–metal interaction (wavelength effect, energy absorption, …), the phase change (solidification/fusion), the heat transfers, the fluid flows with influence of the free surface, the turbulent gas jets, and the kerf formation. In view of the complexity of the phenomena put into action, the fundamental mechanisms related to the cutting process are very difficult to understand and then to model. It is indeed necessary to take into account all of the aforementioned interactions, avoiding excessive simplifications and simulation loss of accuracy. The models found in the literature are often simplified and focus on effects such as assisting gas contribution used to evacuate the molten metal film, considered as forces applied to the gas–material interface, which is likely to neutralize given interactions. In these conditions, after highlighting most of the interactions that are involved, we provide a generalized model which accounts for laser absorption, phase transition, heat transfer, fluid flow, kerf formation, and assisting gas jet flow. In other works, each of these contributions has been considered separately, while in this paper, we make an attempt to combine all of them within a single general model that is likely to account for the physical reality of the laser cutting process.
Multifunctional and tunable trigate graphene metamaterial with “Lakes of Wada” topology
Authors: Liu Yang , Xu Xiaodan , Yang Donghao , Zhang Xinzheng , Ren Mengxin , Gong Nan , Cai Wei , Hassan Faheem , Zhu Zhimao , Drevenšek-Olenik Irena , Rupp Romano A. , Xu Jingjun
Published: July 2020

Many plasmon-induced transparency (PIT) metamaterials previously reported had limited functions. Their tunabilities were realized by complex discrete structures, which greatly increased the difficulty and cost of device fabrication and adversely affected their resonance characteristics. It is an open question to adjust the Fermi levels of many graphene patterns with only a few in-plane electrodes. We propose and numerically study a novel electrically tunable and multifunctional trigate graphene metamaterial (TGGM) based on the concept of “Lakes of Wada”. Benefiting from the trigate regulation, our proposed TGGM turns out to exhibit excellent characteristics, that can not only be used for terahertz band-stop filter, terahertz refractive index sensor, near-field optical switch, slow-light device, but also for double PIT window metamaterial with broad transparency windows and large tunable frequency range.
Efficient absorption enhancement approaches for AlInAsSb avalanche photodiodes for 2-μm applications
Authors: Chen Dekang , Sun Keye , Jones Andrew H. , Campbell Joe C.
Published: July 2020

Recently, advances in imaging and LIDAR applications have stimulated the development of high-sensitivity receivers that operate at wavelengths of ≥ 2 µm, which has driven research on avalanche photodiodes (APDs) that operate in that spectral region. High quantum efficiency is a key performance parameter for these photodetectors. Increasing the thickness of the absorption region is a straightforward approach to increase the quantum efficiency. However, the primary source of dark current is the narrow-bandgap material used for 2-µm detection. Increasing its thickness results in higher noise. In this paper, we describe two approaches to enhance the quantum efficiency, both of which are superior to a conventional anti-reflection (AR) coating. For normal incidence at 2 µm, finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations show the absorption can be enhanced by more than 100% with a triangular-lattice photonic crystal, and nearly 400% by applying a metal grating. This is achieved by coupling normal incidence light into the laterally propagating modes in the device. Moreover, the significantly higher absorption of the metal grating compared to the photonic crystal is due to the high coupling efficiency provided by the metal grating. This work provides promising methods and physical understanding for enhancing the quantum efficiency for 2-µm detection without increasing absorber thickness, which also enables low dark current and high bandwidth.
Reflecting properties of narrowband Si/Al/Sc multilayer mirrors at 58.4  nm
Authors: Chkhalo Nikolai , Polkovnikov Vladimir , Salashchenko Nikolai , Svechnikov Mikhail , Tsybin Nikolai , Vainer Yuliy , Zuev Sergei
Published: July 2020

This study considers the reflective characteristics of three-component Si/Al/Sc multilayer mirrors with a

M
o
S
i

2

protective cap layer as candidates for telescopes for observation of the solar corona in the He I (

λ
=
58.4

n
m

) spectral line. At 58.4 nm, a peak reflectance of 32% and a spectral width at a half-maximum intensity of

Δ
λ
=
5.4

n
m

are obtained. The temporal stability of the reflectance at

λ
=
58.4

n
m

for Si/Al/Sc samples with a 6 nm thick

M
o
S
i

2

cap layer is investigated during storage in air for 20 months.
Ultralow jitter silica microcomb
Authors: Jeong Dongin , Kwon Dohyeon , Jeon Igju , Do In Hwan , Kim Jungwon , Lee Hansuek
Published: July 2020

Silica microcombs have a high potential for generating tens of gigahertz of optical pulse trains with ultralow timing jitter, which is highly suitable for higher speed and higher bandwidth information systems. So far, the accurate characterization of timing jitter in microcombs has been limited by the measurement methods—although theoretically predicted to be

>

20

d
B

better performance, the true performance has not been accurately measured until now. Here, using a self-heterodyne-based measurement method with

20

z
s

/

H
z

1

/

2

resolution, we show that 2.6-fs rms timing jitter is possible for 22-GHz silica microcombs. We identified their origins, which suggests that silica microcombs may achieve 200-as-level jitter by better intensity noise control. This jitter performance can greatly benefit many high-speed and high-bandwidth applications including analog-to-digital conversion, microwave generation, and optical communications.
Doubly resonant second-harmonic generation of a vortex beam from a bound state in the continuum
Authors: Wang Jun , Clementi Marco , Minkov Momchil , Barone Andrea , Carlin Jean-François , Grandjean Nicolas , Gerace Dario , Fan Shanhui , Galli Matteo , Houdré Romuald
Published: July 2020

Second-harmonic generation in nonlinear materials can be greatly
enhanced by realizing doubly resonant cavities with high quality
factors. However, fulfilling such doubly resonant condition in
photonic crystal (PhC) slab cavities is a long-standing challenge,
because of the difficulty in engineering photonic bandgaps around both
frequencies. Here, by implementing a second-harmonic bound state in
the continuum (BIC) and confining it with a heterostructure design, we
show the first doubly resonant PhC slab cavity with

2.4
×

10

−
2

W

−
1

intrinsic conversion efficiency under
continuous-wave excitation. We also report the confirmation of highly
normal-direction concentrated far-field emission pattern with radial
polarization at the second harmonic frequency. These results represent
a solid verification of previous theoretical predictions and a
cornerstone achievement, not only for nonlinear frequency conversion
but also for vortex beam generation and prospective nonclassical
sources of radiation.
Use of a differential evolution algorithm for determining input driving signals in optical frequency combs
Authors: Pendiuk Guilherme F. I. , Neves Paulo T. , Pohl Alexandre A. P.
Published: July 2020

In this work, a genetic algorithm based on differential evolution is proposed to identify sets of input driving signals used in the generation of optical frequency combs with Mach-Zehnder intensity modulators. Simulation results show that the algorithm is a powerful technique for solving a multiparameter optimization problem concerning the design of combs with a desired number of optical frequency lines under a given flatness. Results from experiments corroborate that combs with the desired number of lines can be achieved according to the driving voltages provided by the algorithm.
Improvement of reproducibility and research transparency in Silva Fennica
Authors: Nygren Pekka
Published: July 2020

.
Fungal Glycoside Hydrolases of White-Rot Fungi for Cellulosic Biofuels Production: A Review
Authors: SUNARDI  , ISTIKOWATI WIWIN TYAS , ISHIGURI FUTOSHI , YOKOTA SHINSO
Published: July 2020

The second generation bioethanol production from lignocellulose materials through environmental friendly methods is one of the biggest
challenges on industrial application. Enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulose has more benefits compared with the acid hydrolysis This method
has the good specificity, low consumption of energy and chemicals and is more environmental friendly. However, the utilization of
lignocellulose for bioethanol production through enzymatic methods is still confronting several difficulties for commercialization. Cellulose
hydrolysis step has been reported to be the bottleneck of bioethanol production by enzymatic process, and the major barrier of this process
is high price of enzymes, which making the process less economically feasible. For this reason, many developments are still needed in
cellulase production from various organisms for cellulose saccharification. White-rot fungi have received much consideration for their
valuable enzyme systems which can effective degrade lignocellulose biomass. These fungi could secrete extracellular oxidative and
hydrolytic enzymes that degrade lignin, hemicellulose, and cellulose. This review provides a complete overview of the glycoside hydrolases
enzymes production by white-rot fungus, such as endoglucanase, exoglucanase, β-glucosidase, cellobiose dehydrogenase and lytic
polysaccharide monooxygenase. The use of white-rot fungus for low cost glycoside hydrolases enzymes production might be fascinating
for second generation bioethanol production.
Wprowadzenie
Authors: Krajewski Marek
Published: July 2020

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Wokół fundamentalizmu. Zygmunt Bauman w Poznaniu
Authors: Marzec Andrzej
Published: July 2020

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Na Śródce rewolucji nie było, czyli słabe więzi w procesie rewitalizacji
Authors: Dolata Dorota
Published: July 2020

The term “weak ties” can be discussed in the context of both, interpersonal relationships in an anonymous metropolis and a mass society. Can the case of ródka in Pozna" be applied to certain questions relating to the phenomenon of weak ties? It is clearly visible, that revitalisation in this area of the city has lost its momentum now. Municipal program was a temporary way to avoid progressive degradation and increasing gentrification. However, in the most lively period of projects and events at ródka experts often referred to the traditional ties between inhabitants and invoked the urgency of their activities. Even the minimum effort and engagement was to trigger the renovation processes and contribute to the so-calledsustainable development of ródka. It is worth asking at this point, who emphasized the role of local relations and animated the sequence of revitalizing events? What were the goals of revitalization animators? Did we come across the true cooperation of local residents, or perhaps the social participation was limited to the show for "tourists" from other parts of the city? Were the city officials able to engage the community of ródka? And if not the officials – were the artists able to (re)build relationships and connections between inhabitants? Their projects – both individual and group ones – are an important material for research To understand the growing complexity of the case of ródka, it is essential to discover its historical background and consider the relative isolation of ródka in the previous times. In the first half of the twentieth century, the district was perceived as a local base of crafts and small trade. Its distinctive mark were strong neighborhood ties. Can these ties – partly mythologized – now become the driving force of the revitalization?