Theory of wave-front reversal of short pulses in dynamically-tuned zero-gap periodic systems

Recently, we have shown that the wave-front of short pulses can be accurately and efficiently reversed by use of simple one-dimensional zero-gap photonic crystals. In this Article, we describe the analytical approach in detail, and discuss specific structures and modulation techniques as well as the required steps for achieving complete time-reversal. We also show that our scheme is only very weakly sensitive to material losses and dispersion

A versatile all-optical parity-time signal processing device using a Bragg grating induced using positive and negative Kerr-nonlinearity

The properties of gratings with Kerr nonlinearity and PT symmetry are investigated in this paper. The impact of the gain and loss saturation on the response of the grating is analysed for different input intensities and gain/loss parameters. Potential applications of these gratings as switches, logic gates and amplifiers are also shown

Rigorous analysis of numerical methods: a comparative study

For any photonic device simulation, the accuracy of the numerical solution not only depends on the methods being used but also on the discretization parameters used in that numerical method. In this work, Finite Element Method and Finite Difference Time Domain Method based on Maxwell’s equations were used to simulate optical waveguides and directional couplers. As the solution accuracy may also depend on the index contrast used in such photonic devices, the characteristics of low-index contrast Germanium doped Silica and high-index contrast Silicon Nanowire Waveguides were analyzed, evaluated and benchmarked. Numerical results to benchmark Directional Couplers are also reported in this paper

Theory and numerical modelling of parity-time symmetric structures in photonics: introduction and grating structures in one dimension

A class of structures based on PT PT-symmetric Bragg gratings in the presence of both gain and loss is studied. The basic concepts and properties of parity and time reversal in one-dimensional structures that possess idealised material properties are given. The impact of realistic material properties on the behaviour of these devices is then investigated. Further extension to include material non-linearity is used to study an innovative all-optical memory device

Liver transplantation versus liver resection for colorectal liver metastasis: a survival benefit analysis in patients stratified according to tumor burden score

Liver transplantation (LT) for colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) may provide excellent survival rates in patients with unresectable disease. High tumor load is a risk factor for recurrence and low overall survival (OS) after liver resection (LR). We tested the hypothesis that LT could offer better survival than LR in patients with high tumor load. LR performed at Padua University Hospital for CRLM was compared with LT for unresectable CRLM performed both at Oslo and Padua. High tumor load was defined as tumor burden score (TBS) ≥ 9, and inclusion criteria were as in the SECA-I transplant study. 184 patients were eligible: 128 LRs and 56 LTs. 5-year OS after LR and LT was 40.5% and 54.7% (P = 0.102). In the high TBS cohort, 5-year OS after LR and LT was 22.7% and 52.2% (P = 0.055). In patients with Oslo score ≤ 2 and TBS ≥ 9 (13 LR; 24 LT) the 5-year OS after LR and LT was 14.6% and 69.1% (P = 0.002). The corresponding disease-free survival (DFS) was 0% and 22.9% (P = 0.005). Selected CRLM patients with low Oslo score and high TBS could benefit from LT with survival outcomes that are far better than what is achieved by LR