bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing a community-based, multicultural-friendly prenatal education pilot program
Authors: Cha EunSeok , Lee Sojung , Kim Gui-Nam , Kang Byung Hun , Jeon Minsun
Published: September 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the acceptability, availability and sustainability of a pilot prenatal program developed by an interdisciplinary team. Methods: Out of 19 multicultural women participated in the 6-session prenatal program, 6 women took part in an exit- focus group interview as a part of formative evaluation. The verbatim transcriptions of semi-structured interview data were analyzed using conventional content analysis. Results: In general, the participants expressed high satisfaction with program content, educators and education methods. A hybrid model including health professionals and community health workers and using online and offline education modes was suggested as a way to disseminate the program at a national level. Interventions using aesthetic approaches such as music and an integrated method such as the introduction of available social services in pregnancy and during the postpartum period may play a role as the facilitator of the program participation of multicultural women. These approaches may also help them develop healthy coping skills, problem solving skills and empowerment in multicultural childbearing women who need to adjust to life in a new country simultaneously taking a new role as a mother. Conclusion: An interdisciplinary prenatal program using a holistic approach contributes to enhancing multicultural women’s empowerment to become a mother in a new country.
A Systematic Review of Questionnaire Measuring eHealth Literacy
Authors: Ahn Jung-Won , Kim Mi Young
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This review aims to summarize the characteristics of currently used questionnaires measuring eHealth literacy and assess the quality of their psychometric properties in self-reported assessments within community settings. Methods: The systematic analysis was conducted using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments checklist to evaluate the methodological quality of studies on measurement properties. Results: A total of 21 studies, including 19 questionnaires, were reviewed. The findings indicated that the quality of psychometric assessments for eHealth literacy was generally rated as 'good,' with most studies addressing multiple aspects of reliability and validity. Internal reliability, content validity, hypothesis testing, and responsiveness were particularly well-supported, each receiving over 10 sufficient ratings. However, there was limited evidence regarding measurement errors, test-retest reliability, criterion validity, and analyses of floor and ceiling effects. Conclusion: This study contributes to the enhancement of eHealth literacy measurement tool selection and improves the reporting of their validity and reliability, thereby increasing the credibility of future research.
Factors Associated with Positive Religious Coping in Diabetic Foot Ulcer Patients in Indonesia
Authors: Endang Sri Purwanti Ningsih , Rizki Fitryasari , Ah Yusuf , Bisepta Prayogi , Ifa Hafifah
Published: September 2024

Purpose: To analyze factors associated with positive religious coping among diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) patients based on demographic factors, disease characteristics, and patient factors.Methods: This study was conducted in two hospitals in Indonesia. Patients (N=173) were selected through convenience sampling. The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the Brief RCOPE, and the Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS) were questionnaires employed in this study. The test of a binary logistic regression model was used.Results: There was a significant relationship between positive religious coping and diabetes distress (p=.037). However, positive religious coping showed no significant relationship with demographic factors (age, education level) or disease characteristics (duration and degree of DF) (all p>0.05). Binary logistic regression results showed that family support (OR=4.09) and spiritual experience (OR=2.74) had the greatest strengths of relationship among factors influencing positive religious coping.Conclusion: Efforts to improve positive religious coping in DFU patients can be made by optimizing their family support and spiritual experiences to improve their resilience and quality of life.
Development and Effects of a Laughter Therapy Program for Middle-aged Women Hospitalized in Psychiatric Wards
Authors: Lee Do Young , Woo Ju Hyun
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to develop and implement a laughter therapy program for middle-aged women hospitalized in psychiatric wards and evaluate its effects on their hope, self-efficacy, and medication adherence.Methods: This study employed a non-equivalent control pre–post quasi-experimental design. Sixty middle-aged female psychiatric inpatients were enrolled in total, with 30 in the experimental group and 30 in the control group. The experimental group participated in laughter therapy sessions twice a week for a total of eight 60-minute sessions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, x2 test, and repeated measures analysis of variance using SPSS/Win 20.0.Results: Following the implementation of the laughter therapy program, significant differences were observed between the experimental and control groups in hope (t=-0.21, p<.001) and self-efficacy (t=2.65, p=.010). However, there was no significant difference found in medication adherence (t=-0.11, p=.077).Conclusion: These findings indicate that the laughter therapy program effectively enhanced hope and self-efficacy among middle-aged female psychiatric inpatients. Future interventions should consider incorporating strategies to enhance medication adherence as well, as this would ultimately contribute to the development of comprehensive mental health nursing interventions for middle-aged women.
Land Use Change and its Impact on Terrestrial Biodiversity of Surrounding Areas of Jim Corbett National Park
Authors: Rawat Meera , Parihar Devendra Singh
Published: September 2024

Located at the Shivalik Himalayas' foothills, near the worldwide popular hill-station of Nainital, the beautiful park is famous for being home to a huge number of Bengal tigers, the highest among any Indian national park. So many other mammals, including tigers, leopards and elephants (wild), roam in this park. On the edge of the Western Ramganga Reservoir, the Sonanadi zone is habitat to elephants and leopards, along with more than hundreds of species of fowl. Also CNP is a prime protected area of Uttarakhand forest as it provides ecological viable, profitable and sources of different income for local people. Dense forest cover is one among the most natural resources for every animal (Including human) directly and indirectly. But rapid excessive exploitations of the different vegetation, woods, shrubs species for human development here are now under the threat of biodiversity loss and uncovering forests. Present study focused on significance of terrestrial biodiversity, reason of land use changes and threats to terrestrial biodiversity (TB) because of land use change, terrestrial biodiversity of the local area is influencing by various ways. For continuous use of the forest ecosystems, it is very important to find the land use land covers changes and its negative impacts on biodiversity and surrounding environment. Forest resources are the full of vital material, base of direct and indirect human’s continuous progress and it needs to monitor the status and change of forest resources timely for logical exploitation of forests and its renewal. Present study focused on monitoring the changes in the forest areas, surrounding barren land, build-up area and natural resources.
Percepções e desafios de profissionais da enfermagem sobre punção venosa periférica difícil na oncologia
Authors: Miranda Amanda Loyse da Costa , Sagica Taís dos Passos , Nicolussi Adriana Cristina , Parente Andressa Tavares , Toffano Silmara Elaine Malaguti , Ramos Aline Maria Pereira Cruz
Published: September 2024

Objetivo: compreender as percepções e os desafios da equipe de enfermagem a respeito da punção venosa periférica difícil em adultos na oncologia. Método: estudo descritivo, transversal, com abordagem qualitativa, aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa, realizado com 17 profissionais de enfermagem da unidade de oncologia de um hospital universitário entre janeiro e maio de 2022, por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas analisadas por conteúdo de Bardin, com uso do software Iramuteq para exploração do corpus textual. Resultados: foram obtidas cinco três subcategorias: fatores de risco, competência clínica, sentimento e aptidão sobre  punção venosa periférica difícil, com divergência entre enfermeiros e técnicos nesta última. Conclusão: identificou-se diferentes percepções sobre a punção venosa periférica difícil foi diferente entre os técnicos de enfermagem e enfermeiros. Entre os desafios, foram citados as competências técnicas e os fatores clínicos a serem observados frente a punção venosa periférica difícil.
Significado de espiritualidade e o sentido da vida para pessoa com ferida de difícil cicatrização
Authors: Oliveira Fabiano Fernandes de , Francisco Marcela Fonseca Raposo de Almeida , Santos Taís Cristina Barbosa da Silva dos , Sokem Jaqueline Aparecida dos Santos , Popim Regina Célia
Published: September 2024

Objetivo: analisar os significados de espiritualidade e do sentido da vida para pessoas com ferida de difícil cicatrização. Método: estudo com abordagem qualitativa, desenvolvido no interior de São Paulo, Brasil. Os dados referentes ao contexto da espiritualidade foram constituídos conforme análise temática e segundo Minayo, organizados e interpretados a partir da fenomenologia de Viktor Emil Frankl. Resultados: emergiram quatro categorias: o sentido da vida para pessoa com ferida de difícil cicatrização; o significado de espiritualidade para pessoa com ferida de difícil cicatrização; consequências e fragilidades de conviver com a lesão; e estratégias de enfrentamento e resiliência entre pacientes com feridas. Conclusão: constatou-se que a espiritualidade tem vários significados para os entrevistados, os quais fizeram questão de relatar que a fé os ajudou e, no momento da pesquisa, ainda auxiliava a lidar com os sentimentos negativos, com a dor e a vergonha de possuir uma lesão crônica.
A dimensão espiritual dos cuidados paliativos na doença renal crônica: revisão integrativa
Authors: Lemos Karine Cardoso , Souza Mariana Cristina dos Santos , Borges Moema da Silva
Published: September 2024

Objetivo: analisar a influência da dimensão espiritual no enfrentamento da doença renal crônica de pacientes em cuidados paliativos. Método: revisão integrativa conduzida entre abril e maio de 2023, incluindo a Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, bases de dados MEDLINE, LILACS e BDENF, a SCIELO e o portal PUBMED. A análise foi realizada com auxílio do software IRAMUTEQ. Resultados: a amostra foi composta por 12 artigos, os quais identificaram as necessidades dos sujeitos e suas estratégias para a promoção do bem-estar espiritual e o desafio profissional no manejo da doença e na promoção da autonomia do sujeito. Conclusão: a dimensão espiritual auxilia no enfrentamento da doença renal crônica, porém os sujeitos não têm todas as suas necessidades de cuidados atendidas. Aponta-se como fator desafiador na prática clínica, a falta de equipe especializada em cuidados paliativos nos centros de diálise.
Caesarean section vs vaginal birth: a narrative review of decision making and postnatal outcomes
Authors: Sylvania Egbuonu Ifechukwu , Higgins Katie
Published: September 2024

Background/Aims

Few studies have mapped decision-making factors behind mode of birth to postpartum outcomes. This review's aim was to compare factors that drive women's decision making on mode of birth and postnatal outcomes.

Methods

This narrative literature review of Google Scholar, PubMed, Medline and Wiley Online Library explored studies published from 2000 onwards that compared caesarean section and vaginal birth in relation to decision-making factors and postnatal quality of life. Extracted data were analysed thematically.

Results

A total of 10 articles were included. Most women favoured vaginal birth, associating it with satisfaction, fear of surgery and cultural norms. Caesarean sections were favoured because of a fear of pain, previous caesarean section experience and the perception that it was easier. There were poorer physical and mental postpartum quality of life outcomes for caesarean sections and assisted vaginal birth, even after 10 years.

Conclusions

Healthcare professionals require more exposure to supporting women to decide on mode of birth. Routine checks for new mothers require a holistic, person-centred approach as opposed to generalised care.

Implications for practice

Healthcare workers can and should make every contact with intending and present mothers count. Open conversations about childbirth need to be had, even outside of women's health spaces, with appropriate referrals and signposting to best available evidence for informed decisions to be made regarding mode of childbirth and expected outcomes.
Factors Related to a Good Quality of Work Life for Employees in the Poultry Processing Industry in Northeastern Thailand
Authors:   Department of Community Medicine, Family Medicine, and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Thailand, Mornmee Janthimard , Soonthornvinit , Warisa ,   Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand, Chaiear Naesinee ,   Department of Community Medicine, Family Medicine, and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Thailand, Boonjaraspinyo Sirintip ,   Department of Community Medicine, Family Medicine, and Occupational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Thailand
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE This study aims to analyze factors related to a good quality of work life (QoWL) for employees in the poultry processing industry in northeastern Thailand. METHODS This study was a cross-sectional analytical study. The sample size was 229 poultry processing workers with good and 458 with not-good QoWL. The Work-related Quality of Life Scale-2 Online Website (THQWL) questionnaire was used. A test of the reliability of the questionnaire found a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.899. The principal analyses used the Chi-squared test, the Fisher exact test, and binary logistic regression. Confidence intervals were set at 95% (95% CI), and a p-value of less than 0.05 (p < 0.05) was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Factors significantly related to employees with a good QoWL were working in departments other than slaughtering departments (AOR = 15.58, 95% CI: 7.62, 31.83, p < 0.001), having less than a bachelor’s degree education level (AOR = 6.65, 95% CI: 3.05, 14.49, p < 0.001), being a unit leader or in an upper level position (AOR = 7.26, 95% CI: 3.30, 15.98, p < 0.001) and working 40 or more hours per week (AOR= 1.92, 95% CI: 1.17, 3.16, p = 0.010). CONCLUSIONS Not working in the slaughtering department showed the strongest association with good QoWL. Other factors significantly linked to good QoWL included an education level lower than a bachelor’s degree, holding positions as unit leaders or in upper management, and working 40 hours or more per week. The study’s findings can be applied to enhance and promote the QoWL of workers in the poultry processing and related industries as well as to help improve and reinforce the knowledge, skills, and other attributes important to the efficient performance of employees in the poultry processing industry. KEYWORDS quality of work life, poultry processing industry, work- related quality of life scale, slaughtering
Treatment Patterns and Surgical Outcomes of Stage IA1 Cervical Carcinoma
Authors:   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Sethasathien Sethawat , Tantipalakorn Charuwan ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Apichottiwat Unyavee ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Charoenkwan Kittipat ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Suprasert Prapaporn ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand, Srisomboon Jatupol ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVE The primary objective was to determine the 5-year overall survival rate and 5-year disease-free survival rate of patients with CACx 1A1 treated at Chiang Mai University Hospital and the secondary objective was to describe treatment modalities as well as their associated complications. METHODS Patients with stage IA1 cervical cancer diagnosed from January 2001 to June 2018 at Chiang Mai University Hospital were retrospectively reviewed. Inclusion criteria included previously untreated patients diagnosed with stage IA1 cervical cancer (2018 FIGO staging system). Exclusion criteria were patients with recurrent cervical cancer, other gynecologic malignancies, and those in a pregnant state. The analysis included treatment patterns, surgical types, and clinicopathologic variables, i.e., nodal metastasis, parametrial involvement, positive surgical margins, deep stromal invasion (DSI), lymph-vascular space invasion (LVSI), adjuvant treatment, 5-year disease-free survival, and 5-year overall survival. All pathologic slides were reviewed by gynecologic pathologists. The Kruskal-Wallis test, Fisher’s exact test, the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS Of the 184 patients included in this study, simple hysterectomy was the most common treatment (57.3%), followed by modified radical hysterectomy (MRH) and radical hysterectomy (RH) (27.6% and 9.7% respectively). Conization and radiation were chosen in a few cases. At the median follow up time of 40.8 months, the 5-year disease free survival rate was 99.1% and the 5-year overall survival rate was 95.0%. Pelvic lymph node dissection was done in 62 cases (33.7%), but only one case (0.54%) had pelvic lymph node metastasis. CONCLUSIONS The surgical and survival outcomes for women with stage IA1 cervical cancer are excellent. They can be effectively treated with less radical interventions such as simple hysterectomy and conization. Lymph node metastasis is rare at this stage (0.54%); therefore, lympha-denectomy may possibly be omitted. KEYWORDS cervical cancer, IA1, treatment outcome
Acción socioeducativa con jóvenes que migran solos
Authors: Vilà Baños Ruth , Sánchez Martí Angelina , Freixa Niella Montserrat , Corti Franciele
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCCIÓN. Los debates en cuanto a la atención socioeducativa de los jóvenes que migran solos siguen siendo exiguos. En Cataluña, el modelo de atención e intervención que prima es el educativo de ayuda, fundamentado a nivel teórico en los principios de normalización-responsabilización de las personas implicadas, y traducido a efectos prácticos en un trabajo con una doble lógica: comunitaria e individual. MÉTODO. Conforme a ello, a partir de un estudio descriptivo-comprensivo basado en técnicas interrogativas, profundizamos en las modalidades y ámbitos de intervención que se desarrollan en los centros, unidades o servicios donde se atiende a estos jóvenes, a partir de la triple mirada de los profesionales educadores de los centros, los jóvenes que han migrado a Barcelona y la dirección de los centros. RESULTADOS. Los resultados muestran que, pese a los intentos explícitos por respetar los principios educativos, existe disparidad de criterios en función de la tipología de centro. No obstante, en todos ellos el vínculo educativo cobra un rol fundamental de acción socioeducativa para la inclusión, que no deja exenta la necesidad de seguir afianzando la corresponsabilidad con las Administraciones, la participación extensiva de los jóvenes en los recursos del barrio —especialmente, formativos— y su arraigo en el territorio. DISCUSIÓN. Los hallazgos señalan la necesidad de promover vínculos sólidos, facilitando la relación de los y las jóvenes con sus familias, desde un enfoque multidimensional que abarque aspectos educativos, emocionales, sociales y culturales, y que promueva la participación y el arraigo de estos jóvenes en la comunidad.
La imagen de la educación como factor explicativo de abandono escolar prematuro. Propuesta de un modelo de análisis
Authors: Avellaneda San Antonio Silvia
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCCIÓN. La investigación sobre abandono escolar prematuro (AEP) en España demuestra que las imágenes, percepciones y elementos subjetivos de la familia y el alumnado sobre la educación son determinantes en el análisis del problema. Pero están difuminados en otros elementos como el capital cultural, el ambiente familiar o la presión del grupo de iguales y definidos de formas muy heterogéneas. OBJETIVOS. El objetivo de este trabajo es operativizar y concretar una hipótesis de análisis de esta imagen, como un factor latente del AEP. MÉTODO. Para ello, se han revisado 19 estudios y se ha realizado la explotación de datos de fuentes primarias. RESULTADO. El resultado es una propuesta de un modelo, formado por cuatro dimensiones: el valor simbólico de la educación (su importancia atribuida y la formación para la vida); la percepción instrumental (su utilidad y la formación para el trabajo); institucional (afección y vinculación con el centro y percepción de apoyo docente, formación para aprender) y de futuro (expectativas y formación para el futuro). Los resultados apuntan, así mismo, a la polarización social de estas dimensiones: el deterioro de la percepción de la educación como herramienta de empleo y de futuro es especialmente significativa en las familias y los y las jóvenes más vulnerables, que cuentan con menos herramientas para contrarrestarlo. CONCLUSIONES Y DISCUSIÓN. Este trabajo pone de manifiesto la carencia de información de variables subjetivas y análisis específicos sobre AEP que contemplen las imágenes, percepciones y los universos simbólicos como resortes de (des)vinculación y factores explicativos del problema. Con esta premisa, aporta una propuesta que puede servir para investigaciones cuantitativas o cualitativas y profundiza en el debate sobre las devastadoras consecuencias del progresivo deterioro de la percepción de la educación.
SiO2-capped ZnO quantum dot based highly sensitive optical fiber humidity sensor with potential applications in human breath monitoring and voice print recognition
Authors: Mohan Sunil , Negi Manish Singh
Published: September 2024

This article describes the development and characterization of an optical fiber humidity sensor employing intensity modulation via the evanescent wave (EW) absorption technique. For the development of the sensor, SiO2-capped ZnO quantum dot (QDs) thin film is synthesized over the decladded portion of plastic cladding silica (PCS) fiber via the sol-gel method. A thorough experimental investigation was conducted by varying the thickness of the sensing film to optimize the sensor’s response. The sensing probe with optimized film thickness of 891 nm demonstrates a linear response over 30.5%–92.5%RH with an enhanced sensitivity of 46.2 mV/%RH (0.0138RH−1). Very fast response and recovery times of 2 s and 2.5 s are observed during humidification and dehumidification for the optimized sensing probe. The maximum resolution recorded during the short stability test is ±0.12%RH. Additionally, the proposed sensor demonstrates a very high degree of repeatability, reversibility, and stability. The proposed sensor has also been tested for human breath monitoring and voice print recognition. The result shows the sensor is able to detect minute humidity fluctuations in exhaled air during breathing and speaking.
Surface roughness metrology with a raster scanning single photon LiDAR
Authors: Tafone Daniel , McEvoy Luke , Meng Sua Yong , Huang Yu-Ping
Published: September 2024

We explore a novel, to the best of our knowledge, approach to surface roughness metrology utilizing a single pixel, raster scanning single photon counting LiDAR system. It uses a collimated laser beam in picosecond pulses to probe a surface, capturing the changes of back-scattered photons from different points on the surface into a single mode fiber, and counting them using a single photon detector. These back-scattered photons carry speckle noise produced by the rough surface, and the variation in photon counts over different illumination points across the surface becomes a good measure of its roughness. By analyzing the variation frequency as the LiDAR scans over the surface using machine learning techniques, we demonstrate general measurements of surface roughness from 1.21 (1.27±4.51) to 102.01 (87.97±10.55) microns.
Dynamics of a high-energy fiber optical parametric chirped-pulse oscillator
Authors: Guezennec Tristan , Idlahcen SaÏd , Provino Laurent , Haboucha Adil , Godin Thomas , Hideur Ammar
Published: September 2024

We investigate the performances and noise characteristics of the recent concept of fiber optical parametric chirped-pulse oscillator (FOPCPO). Our FOPCPO is based on an in-house built functionalized nonlinear fiber for power handling and delivers broadly tunable pulses in the 820 nm (signal) and 1380 nm (idler) bands. Pulses can be dechirped to sub-500 fs duration with an energy up to 500 nJ. This system also exhibits an excellent RIN and we highlight that the cavity’s feedback level is a key parameter that has a strong impact on the FOPCPO’s dynamics. We eventually compare the oscillator and amplifier configurations for equivalent pump levels and show, through RIN and DFT analysis, that FOPCPOs prove superior in terms of noise properties, confirming their potential for nonlinear imaging and spectroscopy experiments where low noise levels are essential.
High quality factor, monodisperse micron-sized random lasers based on porous PLGA spheres
Authors: Pham Nhat Van , Nguyen Quan Ngoc , Nguyen Toan Van , Nguyen Tien-Anh , Ta Van Duong
Published: September 2024

Miniature random lasers with high quality factor are crucial for applications in barcoding, bioimaging, and on-chip technologies. However, achieving monodisperse and size-tunable biocompatible random lasers has been a significant challenge. In this study, we employed poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA), a biocompatible material approved for medical use, as the base material for random lasers. By integrating a dye-doped PLGA solution with a microfluidic system, we successfully fabricated monodisperse and miniature dye-doped PLGA spheres with tunable sizes ranging from 25 to 52 µm. Upon optical pulse excitation, these spheres exhibited strong random lasing emission at 610–640 nm with a threshold of approximately 22 µJ·mm−2. The lasing modes demonstrated a spectral linewidth of 0.2 nm, corresponding to a quality factor of 3100. Fourier transform analysis of the lasing emission revealed fundamental cavity lengths, providing insights into the properties of the random lasers.
Optical pulse generation with programmable positions in an actively mode-locked optical cavity
Authors: Liu Shifeng , Yang Li , Liu Mingzhen , Du Changlong , Xu Xiangqian , Lou Peihuang , Pan Shilong
Published: September 2024

A novel, to our knowledge, approach for generating optical pulses with programmable positions in an actively mode-locked (AML) optical cavity is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. In the AML, active mode locking occurs when the cavity gain exceeds one, and the cavity round trip time equals integer multiples of the repetition period of the electrical driving signal. The generated optical pulses are present at the positions where the optical cavity operates at its maximum transmission points. By periodically controlling the cavity gain with the driving signal, the maximum transmission points can be manipulated using a periodic arbitrary waveform, allowing the positions of the generated optical pulses within one round trip time to be programmed. Thanks to the superposition of the circulating optical field within the optical cavity, the pulse width of the generated pulses can be greatly compressed. In a proof-of-concept experiment, optical pulses with programmable pulse numbers, pulse intervals, and pulse position distributions in one period are generated by programming the driving signals. Optical pulse compression is also successfully verified. Optical pulses with an approximate 34-ps pulse width, ultra-low pulse interval (about 200 ps), and linear positional distribution are achieved.
Enhanced-performance and wavelength-tunable magnetically controlled random lasing based on magnetic-plasmonic nanoparticles
Authors: Ning Shuya , Zhao Dingming , Zhang Naming , Wang Shuo , Xiao Yu , Zhang Jing , Zhang Fanghui
Published: September 2024

High-performance and wavelength-tunable random lasing has a wide application prospect. We developed an enhanced-performance and wavelength-tunable magnetically controlled random lasing system based on R6G solution doped with Fe3O4/Au nanoparticles (NPs), in which Fe3O4/Au NPs could exhibit both magnetic and plasmonic characteristics. Compared to the Fe3O4 NPs, Fe3O4/Au NPs could more effectively lower the random lasing threshold, which was 37.6% of that of the net gain medium. This is because the Fe3O4/Au NPs exhibit the plasmonic effect and larger scattering cross section than the Fe3O4 NPs. In addition, the distribution of the Fe3O4/Au NPs in the R6G solution could be effectively regulated by an external magnetic field; thus the random lasing emission modes could be tuned in real-time, and a switch between the random lasing and amplified spontaneous emission can be achieved by removing or applying the external magnetic field. This work provides a simple method to enhance the lasing properties and tune the emission wavelength simultaneously.
Extended S2 diagnosis of mode degradation in fiber components through group delay stretching
Authors: Chen Xiao , Huang Shanmin , Huang Liangjin , Yan Zhiping , Pan Zhiyong , Jiang Zongfu , Zhou Pu
Published: September 2024

The separate diagnosis of mode degradation in few-mode fiber components (FMFCs) is a challenging task due to the reciprocal mode cross talk. In this work, we propose the group delay stretching, combined with the extended spatially and spectrally (S2) resolved imaging technique, to decouple and analyze the mode coupling within the body of the FMFC with short-length pigtails. Through stretching the mode delay by a delay fiber, the degraded modes related to different origins are effectively separated, and the extended S2 technique quantifies the individual modal weight for each component. Experiments on different types of FMFCs have verified the validity of our method. This method paves the way for optimizing and manipulating the fiber components in the dimensionality of modes.
Plasmon-enhanced optical nonlinearity in pyramidal silver nanocrystals
Authors: Pradhan Amit Kumar , Kumar Suman , Ballav Swastik , Priyam Amiya , Datta Prasanta Kumar
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the coherent optical nonlinearity of two sets of anisotropic silver nanocrystals (NCs) showing plasmon peaks at 530 and 610 nm (hence named Ag-530 and Ag-610 NCs, respectively). The nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of Ag-530 and Ag-610 NCs are compared with spherical silver NCs exhibiting plasmon peak at 420 nm (hence called Ag-420 NCs). Resonant excitation induces significant one-photon absorption (1PA) saturation for all NCs, with Ag-610 NCs displaying exceptional transparency. Off-resonant excitation reveals efficient two-photon (2PA), three-photon (3PA), and saturable (SA) absorption in Ag-610 NCs. In the 3PA regime, the effective nonlinear absorption coefficient of Ag-610 NCs is 221% and 340% that of Ag-420 and Ag-530 NCs, respectively, at a laser intensity of 40 GW/cm2. The impressive absorption figures of merit of Ag-610 NCs make it the ultimate contender for high-performance 2PA and 3PA applications.
A new approach to Health Benefits Package design: an application of the Thanzi La Onse model in Malawi
Authors: Molaro Margherita , Mohan Sakshi , She Bingling , Chalkley Martin , Colbourn Tim , Collins Joseph H. , Connolly Emilia , Graham Matthew M. , Janoušková Eva , Li Lin Ines , Manthalu Gerald , Mnjowe Emmanuel , Nkhoma Dominic , Twea Pakwanja D. , Phillips Andrew N. , Revill Paul , Tamuri Asif U. , Mfutso-Bengo Joseph , Mangal Tara D. , Hallett Timothy B.
Published: September 2024

An efficient allocation of limited resources in low-income settings offers the opportunity to improve population-health outcomes given the available health system capacity. Efforts to achieve this are often framed through the lens of “health benefits packages” (HBPs), which seek to establish which services the public healthcare system should include in its provision. Analytic approaches widely used to weigh evidence in support of different interventions and inform the broader HBP deliberative process however have limitations. In this work, we propose the individual-based Thanzi La Onse (TLO) model as a uniquely-tailored tool to assist in the evaluation of Malawi-specific HBPs while addressing these limitations. By mechanistically modelling—and calibrating to extensive, country-specific data—the incidence of disease, health-seeking behaviour, and the capacity of the healthcare system to meet the demand for care under realistic constraints on human resources for health available, we were able to simulate the health gains achievable under a number of plausible HBP strategies for the country. We found that the HBP emerging from a linear constrained optimisation analysis (LCOA) achieved the largest health gain—∼8% reduction in disability adjusted life years (DALYs) between 2023 and 2042 compared to the benchmark scenario—by concentrating resources on high-impact treatments. This HBP however incurred a relative excess in DALYs in the first few years of its implementation. Other feasible approaches to prioritisation were assessed, including service prioritisation based on patient characteristics, rather than service type. Unlike the LCOA-based HBP, this approach achieved consistent health gains relative to the benchmark scenario on a year- to-year basis, and a 5% reduction in DALYs over the whole period, which suggests an approach based upon patient characteristics might prove beneficial in the future.
BootCellNet, a resampling-based procedure, promotes unsupervised identification of cell populations via robust inference of gene regulatory networks
Authors: Kumagai Yutaro
Published: September 2024

Recent advances in measurement technologies, particularly single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), have revolutionized our ability to acquire large amounts of omics-level data on cellular states. As measurement techniques evolve, there has been an increasing need for data analysis methodologies, especially those focused on cell-type identification and inference of gene regulatory networks (GRNs). We have developed a new method named BootCellNet, which employs smoothing and resampling to infer GRNs. Using the inferred GRNs, BootCellNet further infers the minimum dominating set (MDS), a set of genes that determines the dynamics of the entire network. We have demonstrated that BootCellNet robustly infers GRNs and their MDSs from scRNA-seq data and facilitates unsupervised identification of cell clusters using scRNA-seq datasets of peripheral blood mononuclear cells and hematopoiesis. It has also identified COVID-19 patient-specific cells and their potential regulatory transcription factors. BootCellNet not only identifies cell types in an unsupervised and explainable way but also provides insights into the characteristics of identified cell types through the inference of GRNs and MDS.
Exploring the potential of structure-based deep learning approaches for T cell receptor design
Authors: Ribeiro-Filho Helder V. , Jara Gabriel E. , Guerra João V. S. , Cheung Melyssa , Felbinger Nathaniel R. , Pereira José G. C. , Pierce Brian G. , Lopes-de-Oliveira Paulo S.
Published: September 2024

Deep learning methods, trained on the increasing set of available protein 3D structures and sequences, have substantially impacted the protein modeling and design field. These advancements have facilitated the creation of novel proteins, or the optimization of existing ones designed for specific functions, such as binding a target protein. Despite the demonstrated potential of such approaches in designing general protein binders, their application in designing immunotherapeutics remains relatively underexplored. A relevant application is the design of T cell receptors (TCRs). Given the crucial role of T cells in mediating immune responses, redirecting these cells to tumor or infected target cells through the engineering of TCRs has shown promising results in treating diseases, especially cancer. However, the computational design of TCR interactions presents challenges for current physics-based methods, particularly due to the unique natural characteristics of these interfaces, such as low affinity and cross-reactivity. For this reason, in this study, we explored the potential of two structure-based deep learning protein design methods, ProteinMPNN and ESM-IF1, in designing fixed-backbone TCRs for binding target antigenic peptides presented by the MHC through different design scenarios. To evaluate TCR designs, we employed a comprehensive set of sequence- and structure-based metrics, highlighting the benefits of these methods in comparison to classical physics-based design methods and identifying deficiencies for improvement.
In vivo screening of flavonoid compounds revealed quercetin as a potential drug to improve recovery of angiostrongyliasis after albendazole treatment
Authors: Lam Ho Yin Pekkle , Huang Yu-Ting , Liang Ting-Ruei , Peng Shih-Yi
Published: September 2024

Human angiostrongyliasis, caused by consuming the larva stage of Angiostrongylus cantonensis, is an infectious disease involving the central nervous system (CNS) and ophthalmic system. Current treatment of angiostrongyliasis involves albendazole accompanied by analgesics and corticosteroids. However, long-term use of corticosteroids may lead to significant adverse effects. In the current study, we screened through different potentially effective flavonoid compounds and identified quercetin as an effective anti-inflammatory agent in an angiostrongyliasis mouse model. Our results identified that quercetin may reverse the neurological defects in mice with angiostrongyliasis. The brain pathology and inflammatory status were also improved by albendazole-quercetin co-therapy. Further analysis showed that albendazole-quercetin co-therapy had a better therapeutic effect than albendazole or quercetin monotherapy. This therapeutic effect was achieved by inhibiting the brain inflammasome activation and apoptosis. Albendazole-quercetin co-therapy also leads to the inhibition of brain IL-5, possibly leading to improved pathology. Our results here proved that quercetin may serve as a potential adjuvant drug in treating human angiostrongyliasis.
Assessing the effects of N-acetyl cysteine on growth, antioxidant and immune response in tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) under different regimes of stocking densities
Authors: Komal Wajeeha , Fatima Shafaq , Minahal Qandeel , Liaqat Razia , Hussain Aya S.
Published: September 2024

The study investigated the impact of N-acetyl cysteine on growth, immune response, and antioxidant activity in tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Fish were reared at three densities (1.50, 3.00, and 4.50 kg/m3) with four levels of N-acetyl cysteine supplementation (0, 2, 4, and 6 mg/kg) over 60 days. Better growth was observed at low density, but at all densities, fish fed the highest N-acetyl cysteine level (6 mg/kg) showed improved growth. Chemical composition of fish and activity of amylase, lipase and protease in all treatments were noted to be insignificant. The levels of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase) and cortisol in HD treatments were high as compared to LD and MD treatment. However, fish fed with N3 diet in each density treatment showed the lowest level of antioxidant enzymes as well as cortisol. Similarly, the levels of malondialdehyde were noted to be high at HD treatments as compared to that in LD and MD. Its levels were lower in fish fed with N3 diets in all density treatments. Expression of somatostatins-1 did not increase in MD and HD treatments in response to high stocking density when compared with LD treatment. However, pro-opiomelanocortin-α level was reduced after N3 diet in HD treatment and interleukin 1-β expression increased after N3 supplement in HD treatment. In conclusion, N-acetyl cysteine supplementation improved growth and antioxidant response in tilapia. The most optimum dose of N-acetyl cysteine was noted to be 6 mg/kg at high stocking, suggesting the potential role of this nutraceutical in tilapia intensive culture.
The impact of ICT goods exports and environmental technology innovation on mineral rents: Evidence from OECD countries
Authors: Dou Shanshan , Dong Muhan , Shi Junguo , Sadowski Bert M. , Gbolo Sufyan Sannah
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the effects of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) goods exports and environmental technology innovation (ETI) on mineral rents using a panel dataset of 23 OECD countries from 2000 to 2020. Employing a fixed-effects regression and several robustness checks (FGLS, PCSE, and DKSE), we find that ICT goods exports are positively associated with mineral rents, while ETI exerts a negative impact. Notably, the positive effect of ICT goods exports was more pronounced in countries with higher levels of ICT goods exports. Our findings underscore the complex interplay among technological advancements, environmental sustainability, and economic outcomes in resource-dependent economies, emphasizing the need for tailored policy interventions to navigate these multifaceted dynamics.
Cytotoxicity of bendamustine, alone and in combination with novel agents, toward adult T-cell leukemia cells
Authors: Osada Naoki , Kikuchi Jiro , Okada Yosuke , Matsuoka Sae , Morishita Kazuhiro , Nakasone Hideki , Furukawa Yusuke
Published: September 2024

Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) develops from the infection of T cells with human T lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1). There are an estimated 5–20 million HTLV-1 carriers worldwide and the patients are frequently observed in subtropical Africa, the Caribbean, Middle East, South America, and South West Japan. The prognosis of ATL remains dismal due to rapid acquired resistance to treatment with cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents. In particular, the development of novel therapies for relapsed or refractory (R/R) ATL is an unmet need. Previous clinical trials revealed that bendamustine (BDM) was effective as the first-line treatment for indolent lymphoma and R/R cases of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Its major advantage is that it has few side effects such as hair loss and peripheral neuropathy, and does not impair the quality of life. However, its efficacy has not been verified for ATL in pre-clinical or clinical studies. In this study, we have shown the cytotoxicity of BDM alone and in combination with novel agents including the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor tucidinostat, the enhancer of zeste homolog 1/2 (EZH1/2) dual inhibitor valemetostat, and the Bcl2 family inhibitor ABT-737. The combined in vitro effects of BDM and tucidinostat were reproduced in a murine model without any obvious hematological toxicity. Our present results suggest that the combination of tucidinostat and BDM could additively prolong the survival of patients with R/R progressive ATL. The efficacy and safety of this combination are thus worthy of investigation in clinical settings.
“It’s just getting the word out there”: Self-disclosure by people with young-onset dementia
Authors: Kohl Gianna , Koh Wei Qi , Scior Katrina , Charlesworth Georgina
Published: September 2024

Background

Sharing a dementia diagnosis with others is a prerequisite to accessing important support for social, cognitive, and physical activity. However, due to the stigma associated with dementia, individuals may be hesitant to disclose their diagnosis. Despite the importance of this issue, there is limited research on personal experiences with sharing one’s diagnosis. This study explored how people with young-onset dementia disclose their diagnosis to other people, also known as self-disclosure, and how time affects self-disclosure.

Methods

We conducted an exploratory qualitative study, using semi-structured interviews with nine people with young-onset dementia living in the United Kingdom (UK). A narrative approach to analysis was applied, focusing on understanding the core narratives, themes, tone, and imagery of each participant’s narratives as well as providing a cross-case analysis to identify patterns across narratives.

Results

Participants openly disclosed their diagnosis, accepting it as an illness that did not define their identity. Several were met with stigmatizing reactions, which affected their levels of openness, and a lack of understanding, which caused shrinking social networks for some. Peer support groups, advocacy activities, and strategic concealment were used to support self-disclosure.

Conclusion

This study provides a holistic understanding of people with young-onset dementia’s experiences with self-disclosure and how these evolved. Policies should prioritize the creation of dementia-friendly communities, while recommendations for practice include integrating empowerment interventions and peer support into post-diagnostic support. These efforts will support individuals in their self-disclosure journey, promote social engagement and reduce stigma.