bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low-complexity robust baud-rate clock recovery for probabilistically shaped Nyquist signals in short-reach coherent transmission systems
Authors: Xu Menghong , Cui Sheng , Liu Jingpeng , Han Jianfeng , Yao Tianhang , Shen Kangyue , Dai Jing , Zhou Keji , Tang Ming
Published: November 2024

Probabilistic shaping (PS) has emerged as a promising technique in enhancing the capacity and adaptability of coherent transmission systems. However, it is reported that the impact of the PS on clock recovery may be detrimental and lead to the malfunction of coherent receivers. The joint clock recovery and adaptive equalization (JCA) scheme proposed by us recently is a comprehensive and hardware efficient solution for short-reach coherent transmission systems. It can realize clock recovery, as well as chromatic dispersion (CD) and receiver IQ skew compensation, and can accommodate Nyquist signals with small roll-off factors (ROFs). In this letter, we investigate the impact of the PS on the clock recovery performance of the JCA scheme, focusing specifically on its core the baud-rate modified Mueller and Müller timing phase error detector (3M-TPED). Its performance is compared with the other PS compatible clock recovery techniques with both numerical simulations and experiments. It has been proved that the proposed scheme is more robust for the PS, CD and local oscillator frequency offsets.
Fused-fiber-photometry based on a low-autofluorescence wideband multimode circulator
Authors: Formozov Andrey , Dieter Alexander , Lamarre Joseph , Laurence Audrey , Boudoux Caroline , Wiegert J. Simon , Beaudette Kathy
Published: November 2024

Analysis of fluorescent signals in biological samples is widely used in the fields of life science and medicine and can be achieved through conceptually distinct approaches. Here, we report the use of a wideband multimode circulator (WMC), a three-port optical fused-fiber device with an asymmetrical structure specifically designed to ensure efficient light transmission in both illumination and collection paths. It features a flat spectral response and is ideally suited for simultaneous excitation and detection of fluorescence in biological tissue. The WMC used in this work was further improved by minimizing its inherent background autofluorescence. Using the WMC, we demonstrate improved fluorescence detection against already existing fiber-based approaches. Finally, we utilize the WMC to establish fiber photometry recordings in vivo to infer neuronal activity in a small neuromodulatory nucleus in the brainstem of an awake mouse.
Fringe pattern preprocessing via adaptive multidirectional empirical mode decomposition
Authors: Liang Lingfei , Liu Zhonghua
Published: November 2024

Fringe patterns often suffer from background illumination and noise due to the environment changes, the sample itself and the optical setup. Therefore, in the preprocessing stage before phase retrieval, removing the background, and minimizing noise is crucial for the accuracy of optical measurements. In this contribution, we propose an automatic, robust, and effective fringe pattern preprocessing based on adaptive multidirectional empirical mode decomposition (AMDEMD). AMDEMD utilizes customized directional fitting filters based on the local direction of the data to address the deficiency in local direction constraints. Furthermore, by examining the decomposition outcomes, AMDEMD introduces what we believe to be novel inner and outer stopping criteria for sifting to automatically extract the intrinsic mode functions containing fringes and the residual component containing the background. This greatly simplifies the reconstruction process. Before decomposition, the adaptive noise level estimation based block matching 3D filtering is applied to the fringe pattern to ensure robustness in noise removal. Performance validation of the previously reported bidimensional empirical mode decomposition is conducted by simulated and experimental data to verify the versatility and effectiveness of the proposed method.
High-quality silicon-based perovskite photodetectors with the detectivity exceeding 7.5 × 1013 Jones
Authors: Liu Ciyu , Wu Wenyi , Liang Junxian , Zhou Hai
Published: November 2024

Considering the advantages of silicon-based microelectronic devices and the excellent photophysical properties of halide perovskites, silicon-based perovskites are expected to demonstrate great potential for application in the field of optoelectronic devices. In this paper, an antisolvent-assisted strategy is used to prepare MAPbBr3 perovskite microcrystals on silicon substrates, and dense, continuous, and smooth perovskite microcrystal thick films are further obtained after the hot-press treatment. Finally, an n-Si/perovskite thick film/carbon structure device is constructed which shows excellent photoresponsive performance with a responsivity of 11.7 A/W, a detectivity of 7.57 × 1013 Jones, and a linear dynamic range of 147 dB at 405 nm with a 0.5 V bias. Moreover, the device can respond to the light with its light intensity of as low as 2.14 × 10−6 mW cm−2, demonstrating excellent weak-light detection performance. This integration of silicon with the halide perovskites shows tremendous potential for applications in the field of semiconductor devices.
Using slow light to enable laser frequency stabilization to a short, high-Q cavity
Authors: Gustavsson David , Lindén Marcus , Shortiss Kevin , Kröll Stefan , Walther Andreas , Kinos Adam , Rippe Lars
Published: November 2024

State-of-the-art laser frequency stabilization is limited by miniscule length changes caused by thermal noise. In this work, a cavity-length-insensitive frequency stabilization scheme is implemented using strong dispersion in a 21 mm long cavity with a europium-ion-doped spacer of yttrium orthosilicate. A number of limiting factors for slow light laser stabilization are evaluated, including the inhomogeneous and homogeneous linewidth of the ions, the deterioration of spectral windows, and the linewidth of the cavity modes. Using strong dispersion, the cavity modes were narrowed by a factor 1.6 × 105, leading to a cavity linewidth of 3.0 kHz and a Q factor of 1.7 × 1011. Frequency stabilization was demonstrated using a cavity mode in a spectral transparency region near the center of the inhomogeneous profile, showing an overlapping Allan deviation below 6 × 10−14 and a linear drift rate of 3.66 Hz s−1. Considering improvements that could be implemented, this makes the europium-based slow light laser frequency reference a promising candidate for ultra-precise tabletop frequency stabilization.
Reversible symmetry breaking of BIC graphene plasmons for tunable mid-infrared absorption
Authors: Guadagnini Silvia , Ghanekar Alok , Shrewsbury Bo , Povinelli Michelle L.
Published: November 2024

We use symmetry breaking to create switchable absorption peaks in mid-infrared (MIR) graphene metamaterials. We consider a structure consisting of graphene nanoribbons in contact with a gold grating. The unit cell of the untuned device is symmetric and supports both a bright and dark plasmon; the latter is also known as a BIC (bound state in the continuum) mode. We break symmetry by dynamically tuning the chemical potential of one of two graphene nanoribbons per unit cell. We show numerically that the BIC mode couples to the continuum, turning on an absorption peak. As the tuning increases, the two modes spatially flip and concentrate in a single nanoribbon. By controlling the relative chemical potential of two ribbons, we can control the wavelength of the switchable absorption peak.
Single-mode selection in a non-strongly coupled whispering gallery mode cavity
Authors: Xing Shuai , Bi Wenhan , Zhang Junyuan , Yu Jiaxin , Gu Fuxing
Published: November 2024

Mode selection through coupling multiple cavities has proven to be an effective method for constructing single-mode lasers. In coupled Fabry–Perot cavities, it is well accepted that mode selection relies on the strong coupling effect of closely contacted component structures. However, in coupled whispering gallery mode (WGM) cavities, the mode-selection mechanism remains under debate due to the inconsistent characteristics of the selected mode. Herein, we elucidate that the inconsistency can be attributed to varied selection mechanisms led by the trade-off between coupling strength and field distortion. Particularly, it is demonstrated that except for a traditional strong-coupling configuration, single-mode selection can also be achieved in an intermediate-coupling WGM configuration, where two component cavities depart from each other. This study addresses the gap in understanding mode selection in WGM cavity structures and explains the varied characteristics of single-mode lasing reported in the literature, thereby offering new insights into the development of miniaturized, low-threshold, single-mode laser devices.
Computer-generated holography enables high-uniformity, high-efficiency depth-of-focus extension in endoscopic OCT
Authors: Gu Chengfu , Zhang Haoran , Lan Qi , Zhang Weiyi , Liu Chang , Yang Jianlong
Published: November 2024

Fiber-form optics extends the high-resolution tomographic imaging capabilities of optical coherence tomography (OCT) to the inside of the human body, i.e., endoscopic OCT. However, it still faces challenges due to the trade-off between probe size, resolution, and depth of focus (DOF). Here we introduce a method for extending the DOF in endoscopic OCT with high uniformity and efficiency. On the basis of multi-level diffractive optics, we leverage the multi-dimensional light-field modulation capabilities of computer-generated holography (CGH) to achieve precise control of the intensity distribution of the off-axis portion of the OCT probe light. Our method eliminates the need for an objective lens, allowing for direct fabrication at the distal facet of a single-mode fiber using femtosecond laser two-photon 3D printing. The superiority of our method has been verified through numerical simulation, beam measurement, and imaging results obtained with our home-built endoscopic OCT system.
Experimental demonstration of an on-chip spatial light receiver based on inverse design in free-space optical communication
Authors: Jiao Suping , Qiu Jifang , Mao Pengcheng , Guo Wenjie , Li Yan , Wu Jian
Published: November 2024

We propose and demonstrate an experiment to explore the optical reception performance of an on-chip spatial optical receiver based on an inverse design under three distinct turbulent conditions. Experimental results demonstrate that the receiver achieved a maximum emission efficiency of 81% at 1530 nm, with fluctuations of less than 2 dB over the wavelength range from 1530 to 1568 nm. Moreover, the measured mode purity for the generated HG00 mode varied from 89.5% (at 1568 nm) to 92.9% (at 1530 nm). Additionally, a desktop turbulence experiment on the receiver is carried out. The results indicate that in the absence of turbulence, the received power mainly falls within the range of [−40, −35] dBm. As the turbulence intensity increases, the peak of the received power decreases, shifting from the range of [−50, −45] to [−60, −55] dBm, and further to [−65, −60] dBm. Notably, the power distribution across the three turbulence intensities agrees with a Gamma–Gamma distribution, confirming the feasibility and effectiveness of the receiver.
Gauge-flux-controlled orbital angular momentum mode conversion in silicon waveguides
Authors: Liu Yang , Zhang Fengyi , Jiang Chuang , Liu Fangmei , Zhao Dong , Ke Shaolin
Published: November 2024

We propose a method to convert fundamental modes into orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes through chiral dynamics induced by gauge fluxes in silicon waveguides. By integrating a trench into a few-mode waveguide, we induce the rotation of TE10 and TE01 modes, naturally generating the gauge flux for the synthesized OAM modes. By precisely controlling the gauge flux, we achieve chiral dynamics that optimize the conversion efficiency of OAM modes at specific propagation distances, addressing challenges posed by mode degeneracy. Additionally, we demonstrate an on-chip OAM mode (de)multiplexer based on flux-controlled mode conversion. Our findings offer new, to the best of our knowledge, strategies for creating artificial gauge fluxes in straight waveguides and open up possibilities for manipulating OAM modes on photonic chips.
Three-channel-switchable coded aperture snapshot multispectral polarization imaging
Authors: Dong Xue , Xiang Meng , Lan Yubo , Cai Chang , Shao Xiaopeng , Xie Peiyue , Han Pingli , Niu Sibo , Liu Yanyan , Liu Jinpeng , Liu Fei
Published: November 2024

An ingenious and compact snapshot multispectral polarization imaging method is proposed based on a new, to the best of our knowledge, three-channel-switchable spectral polarization coded aperture. We utilize the coded aperture to simultaneously select three-channel light components and encode them with specific spectrum-polarization coefficients. It enables easy retrieval of each channel’s light component from the mixed information via polarization measurements and linear decoding operations. Distinct three-channel light components can be detected simultaneously, thus achieving either three spectral images or linearly polarized ones per snapshot. The number of detectable light components is unlimited and triple that of snapshot times, showing its superior capability in measuring spectral polarization properties. The resulting prototype is miniaturized, featuring compact dimensions of Φ5.5 cm × 25 cm and a light weight of ∼800 g. This is attributed to its simplistic structure comprising a monochrome polarization detector and an imaging lens integrated with the coded aperture, making it suitable for portable and on-board applications. Furthermore, the absence of advanced or costly production technologies for manufacturing the prototype ensures an affordable price for its acquisition, facilitating widespread adoption and application of the proposed method.
Compact speckle spectrometer based on CNN-LSTM denoising
Authors: Deng Guoliang , Xu Yunlong , Cai Rui , Zhao Hong , Wu Jie , Zhou Hao , Zhang Hong , Zhou Shouhuan
Published: November 2024

We propose a compact speckle spectrometer that utilizes micro-nanostructures processed by femtosecond lasers on sapphire surfaces as scattering media. The spectral resolution is 0.5 nm, and the entire system is compact and stable. At the same time, the convolutional long short-term memory network (CNN-LSTM) was introduced into the denoising algorithm. Compared with traditional reconstruction algorithms, this method not only ensures rapid spectral reconstruction but also offers better reconstruction accuracy. It can effectively reduce the reconstruction error caused by the reduction of speckle autocorrelation caused by environmental noise and prolong the stability time of the system.
Estimate of mode coupling in a spin-VECSEL
Authors: Le Mignon Quentin , Baili Ghaya , Dolfi Daniel , Bouchoule Sophie , Romanelli Marco , Alouini Mehdi
Published: November 2024

We study experimentally the nonlinear mode coupling between circular polarizations in a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) device developed for spin injection. The specific experimental arrangement that includes a Faraday rotator enables laser oscillation on left-circular or right-circular polarization, by adjusting the cavity losses. We show the simultaneous oscillation of both polarizations never occurs, proving that the Lamb coupling constant is very close to 1 in this VCSEL device, a situation that is ideal for spintronic applications.
SPDC single photon source in Ti-indiffused diced ridge LiNbO3 waveguides
Authors: Kießler Christian , Kirsch Michelle , Lengeling Seabstian , Herrmann Harald , Silberhorn Christine
Published: November 2024

Stable and bright single photon sources are key components for future quantum applications. A simple fabrication method is an important requirement for such sources. Here, we present a single photon source based on diced ridge waveguides in titanium indiffused LiNbO₃. These waveguides can be easily fabricated by combining planar titanium in-diffusion without lithographic patterning and easy-to-handle precision dicing. Such devices have the potential to generate high single photon rates, because ridge structures are typically less prone to the photorefractive effect. We achieve waveguide propagation losses <0.4dB/cm and a SHG conversion efficiency of about 81 %/W/cm². Harnessing a type-0 SPDC process to generate 1550 nm photons, we obtain a SPDC brightness of 3·10⁵ 1/(s mW nm), with a heralding efficiency of η_h=45 % (η_h=77.5 % for the waveguide itself excluded setup losses) and a heralded second-order correlation function of g²_h(0)<0.003 at low pump powers.
Apoptotic extracellular vesicles carrying Mif regulate macrophage recruitment and compensatory proliferation in neighboring epithelial stem cells during tissue maintenance
Authors: Essien Safia A. , Ahuja Ivanshi , Eisenhoffer George T.
Published: November 2024

Apoptotic cells can signal to neighboring cells to stimulate proliferation and compensate for cell loss to maintain tissue homeostasis. While apoptotic cell-derived extracellular vesicles (AEVs) can transmit instructional cues to mediate communication with neighboring cells, the molecular mechanisms that induce cell division are not well understood. Here, we show that macrophage migration inhibitory factor (Mif)-containing AEVs regulate compensatory proliferation via ERK signaling in epithelial stem cells of larval zebrafish. Time-lapse imaging showed efferocytosis of AEVs from dying epithelial stem cells by healthy neighboring stem cells. Proteomic and ultrastructure analysis of purified AEVs identified Mif localization on the AEV surface. Pharmacological inhibition or genetic mutation of Mif, or its cognate receptor CD74, decreased levels of phosphorylated ERK and compensatory proliferation in the neighboring epithelial stem cells. Disruption of Mif activity also caused decreased numbers of macrophages patrolling near AEVs, while depletion of the macrophage lineage resulted in a reduced proliferative response by the epithelial stem cells. We propose that AEVs carrying Mif directly stimulate epithelial stem cell repopulation and guide macrophages to cell non-autonomously induce localized proliferation to sustain overall cell numbers during tissue maintenance.
Evaluation of Bayesian Linear Regression models for gene set prioritization in complex diseases
Authors: Gholipourshahraki Tahereh , Bai Zhonghao , Shrestha Merina , Hjelholt Astrid , Hu Sile , Kjolby Mads , Rohde Palle Duun , Sørensen Peter
Published: November 2024

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) provide valuable insights into the genetic architecture of complex traits, yet interpreting their results remains challenging due to the polygenic nature of most traits. Gene set analysis offers a solution by aggregating genetic variants into biologically relevant pathways, enhancing the detection of coordinated effects across multiple genes. In this study, we present and evaluate a gene set prioritization approach utilizing Bayesian Linear Regression (BLR) models to uncover shared genetic components among different phenotypes and facilitate biological interpretation. Through extensive simulations and analyses of real traits, we demonstrate the efficacy of the BLR model in prioritizing pathways for complex traits. Simulation studies reveal insights into the model’s performance under various scenarios, highlighting the impact of factors such as the number of causal genes, proportions of causal variants, heritability, and disease prevalence. Comparative analyses with MAGMA (Multi-marker Analysis of GenoMic Annotation) demonstrate BLR’s superior performance, especially in highly overlapped gene sets. Application of both single-trait and multi-trait BLR models to real data, specifically GWAS summary data for type 2 diabetes (T2D) and related phenotypes, identifies significant associations with T2D-related pathways. Furthermore, comparison between single- and multi-trait BLR analyses highlights the superior performance of the multi-trait approach in identifying associated pathways, showcasing increased statistical power when analyzing multiple traits jointly. Additionally, enrichment analysis with integrated data from various public resources supports our results, confirming significant enrichment of diabetes-related genes within the top T2D pathways resulting from the multi-trait analysis. The BLR model’s ability to handle diverse genomic features, perform regularization, conduct variable selection, and integrate information from multiple traits, genders, and ancestries demonstrates its utility in understanding the genetic architecture of complex traits. Our study provides insights into the potential of the BLR model to prioritize gene sets, offering a flexible framework applicable to various datasets. This model presents opportunities for advancing personalized medicine by exploring the genetic underpinnings of multifactorial traits.
Prevalence and predictors of depressive symptoms among people living with HIV in Pakistan; country-wide secondary data analysis from National Stigma Index Study
Authors: Ali Usman , Riaz Umar , Doyle Heather , Satti Asghar , Mahmood Nashmia , Rasheed Summayyah , Zahra Kalsoom
Published: November 2024

The objective of this analysis is to identify the prevalence of depressive symptoms and its predictors in the national cohort of people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Pakistan. This is a secondary data analysis of the National Stigma Index Study 2.0. We screened PLHIV in the Stigma Index study for depressive symptoms using the Urdu version of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-9. We used stepwise multiple linear regression to identify predictors of depressive symptoms. We also explored the moderating effect of stigma faced by PLHIVs while accessing HIV health services on depressive symptoms. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 26 and PROCESS MACRO Version 4.2. A total of 1,497 PLHIV participated in the original study. Based on the PHQ-9 depressive symptom categories, 39.89% had no depressive symptoms, 24.42% had mild depressive symptoms, 16.89% had moderate depressive symptoms, 10.17% had moderately severe depressive symptoms, and 8.61% had severe depressive symptoms. Results of multiple linear regression show that being worried to meet basic life needs such as food and shelter in last 12 months (2.188, 95% Confidence interval 3.98–5.68, p < .01), female sex (3.599, 95% CI 2.703–4.49, p < .01), substance use (31.33, 95% CI 2.379–3.88, p < .01), being employed (-1.627, 95% CI -2.36 to -.88, p < .01), being recruited through limited chain referral as opposed to recruitment from HIV service delivery sites (-2.147, 95% CI -3.41 to -.88, p< .01), and doing sex work (1.143, 95% CI .225–2.061, p < .01) were significant predictors of depressive symptoms. There is a high prevalence of depressive symptoms among PLHIV in Pakistan. Inability to meet basic life needs, female sex, substance use, employment, and facing stigma in the healthcare setting were predictors of depression. There is a need of socioeconomic empowerment, stigma reduction in healthcare settings, and a robust screening program for depressive symptoms for PLHIV community in the country.
Patient experiences of treatment-resistant depression (TRD): A systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis
Authors: Cernat Alexandra , Pahwa Manisha , Hadid Dima , Shen Katrina , Abelson Julia , Samaan Zainab , Ramdyal Amanda , Vanstone Meredith
Published: November 2024

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) occurs when depressive symptoms persist after a patient has tried at least two antidepressants at an appropriate dose for an adequate length of time, as judged by their clinician. Understanding what it is like to live with and seek care for TRD can inform treatment planning and contribute to health technology assessments for depression-related therapies. Our objective was to systematically review this evidence through an investigation of qualitative literature about the experiences of people who have TRD. We searched MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Web of Science Core Collection. Publications eligible for inclusion were English-language primary empirical qualitative studies or the qualitative component of mixed methods studies examining adults’ experiences with TRD or with specific treatment options for TRD. Two reviewers independently screened and extracted data, as well as critically appraised included studies using the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) instrument. This review was guided by integrative meta-synthesis. Data analysis consisted of a staged coding process similar to grounded theory. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO prior to the search (record ID: CRD42022356813). Sixteen studies were included from screening 18,568 results. Two studies focused on the overall experience of TRD and 14 explored experiences of specific treatments such as ketamine. Patients described the depressive symptoms they experienced, a sense of futility and desperation to find an effective treatment, and their experiences with new, sometimes experimental, therapies including deriving benefits beyond the clinical. Overall, few studies have examined the patient experience of TRD, reflecting the clinical complexity of this patient population. As most literature coalesced around experiences of specific treatments, greater examination of the overall experience of TRD is needed to inform clinical practice, and administrative and funding policy decisions for interventions that may be effective for this patient population.

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022356813.
Mapping schistosomiasis risk landscapes and implications for disease control: A case study for low endemic areas in the Middle Paranapanema river basin, São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Ferreira da Silva Vivian Alessandra , Kampel Milton , Silva dos Anjos Rafael , Gardini Sanches Palasio Raquel , Escada Maria Isabel Sobral , Tuan Roseli , Singleton Alyson , Glidden Caroline Kate , Chamberlin Andrew , De Leo Giulio Alessandro , Pinter dos Santos Adriano , Vieira Monteiro Antônio Miguel
Published: November 2024

Background

Schistosomiasis, a chronic parasitic disease, remains a public health issue in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in low and moderate-income countries lacking assured access to safe water and proper sanitation. A national prevalence survey carried out by the Brazilian Ministry of Health from 2011 to 2015 found a decrease in human infection rates to 1%, with 19 out of 26 states still classified as endemic areas. There is a risk of schistosomiasis reemerging as a public health concern in low-endemic regions. This study proposes an integrated landscape-based approach to aid surveillance and control strategies for schistosomiasis in low-endemic areas.

Methodology/Principal findings

In the Middle Paranapanema river basin, specific landscapes linked to schistosomiasis were identified using a comprehensive methodology. This approach merged remote sensing, environmental, socioeconomic, epidemiological, and malacological data. A team of experts identified ten distinct landscape categories associated with varying levels of schistosomiasis transmission potential. These categories were used to train a supervised classification machine learning algorithm, resulting in a 92.5% overall accuracy and a 6.5% classification error. Evaluation revealed that 74.6% of collected snails from water collections in five key municipalities within the basin belonged to landscape types with higher potential for S. mansoni infection. Landscape connectivity metrics were also analysed.

Conclusions/Significance

This study highlights the role of integrated landscape-based analyses in informing strategies for eliminating schistosomiasis. The methodology has produced new schistosomiasis risk maps covering the entire basin. The region’s low endemicity can be partly explained by the limited connectivity among grouped landscape-units more prone to triggering schistosomiasis transmission. Nevertheless, changes in social, economic, and environmental landscapes, especially those linked to the rising pace of incomplete urbanization processes in the region, have the potential to increase risk of schistosomiasis transmission. This study will help target interventions to bring the region closer to schistosomiasis elimination.
Epac activation reduces trans-endothelial migration of undifferentiated neuroblastoma cells and cellular differentiation with a CDK inhibitor further enhances Epac effect
Authors: Inuwa Rabiu Fage , Moss Diana , Quayle John , Swadi Rasha
Published: November 2024

Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common solid extracranial neoplasm found in children and is derived from primitive sympathoadrenal neural precursor. The disease accounts for 15% of all cancer deaths in children. The mortality rate is high in patients presenting with a metastatic tumour even with extensive treatments. This signifies the need for further research towards the development of new additional therapies that can combat not only tumour growth but metastasis, especially amongst the high-risk groups. During metastasis, primary tumour cells become migratory and travel towards a capillary within the tumour. They then degrade the matrix surrounding the pericytes and endothelial cells traversing the endothelial barrier twice to establish a secondary. This led to the hypothesis that modulation of the endothelial cell junctional stability could have an influence on tumour metastasis. To test this hypothesis, agents that modulate endothelial permeability on NB cell line migration and invasion were assessed in vitro in a tissue culture model. The cAMP agonist and its antagonists were found to have no obvious effect on both SK-N-BE2C and SK-N-AS migration, invasion and proliferation. Next, NB cells were cocultured with HDMEC cells and live cell imaging was used to assess the effect of an Epac agonist on trans-endothelial cell migration of NB cells. Epac1 agonist remarkably reduced the trans-endothelial migration of both SK-N-BE2C and SK-N-AS cells. These results demonstrate that an Epac1 agonist may perhaps serve as an adjuvant to currently existing therapies for the high-risk NB patients.
Adaptation of the G-NORM (Gender norms scale) in Uganda: An examination of how gender norms are associated with reproductive health decision-making
Authors: Sedlander Erica , Granovsky Rachel , Birabwa Catherine , Amongin Dinah , Wasswa Ronald , Diamond-Smith Nadia , Waiswa Peter , Holt Kelsey , Bingenheimer Jeffrey B.
Published: November 2024

Background

Restrictive gender norms exacerbate health inequalities all over the world. More specifically, they prevent women from seeking preventive health services, constrain women’s economic empowerment, and are associated with reproductive health decision making. Gender norms, a subset of social norms, are dynamic and change over time. However, we lack data on how they are changing and how these changes affect health outcomes because current measures do not adequately capture the complex concept of gender norms.

Methods

We originally developed and validated a gender norms scale, the G-NORM, in India. In this study, using cross-sectional data, we adapted the G-NORM from Southeast Asia (India and Nepal) to sub-Saharan Africa (Uganda) in four steps: 1. Formulation of new scale items (via qualitative analysis) 2. Cognitive Interviewing 3. Questionnaire Administration (n = 2422 women of reproductive age) and 4. Psychometric analysis (Confirmatory Factor Analysis).

Results

Like the original scale, descriptive norms and injunctive norms comprised two unique sub scales with high Cronbach’s alphas (.80 & .92). Average scores differed depending on the type of norm suggesting that some gender norms are changing faster than others. Specifically, more equitable injunctive norms were associated with lower odds of partner-dominated contraceptive decision making but descriptive norms were not.

Conclusions

Gender norms serve as a multi-faceted determinant of health and wellbeing and require measurement tools which account for their conceptual complexity. Validating the G-NORM in Uganda expands measurement options for researchers in the sub-Saharan African region working to change norms to reduce health inequalities or to understand the gender normative context before beginning a study.
An fMRI study examining the role of the extended amygdala and amygdala in emotion and inhibitory control in native versus second language processing
Authors: Sugita-McEown Maya , Makuuchi Michiru , Naoe Taiga , Ellinger James , Oga-Baldwin W. L. Quint , McEown Kristopher
Published: November 2024

The role of the extended amygdala and amygdala in mediating emotion and inhibitory control in native language versus second language processing is currently not well understood. The current study examined activity in the extended amygdala and amygdala when twelve healthy young adults were exposed to emotional-linguistic stimuli in either their native language (i.e., Japanese) or in a second language (i.e., English) using a go/no-go task while undergoing fMRI scans. Data was bootstrapped using random resampling. A significant interaction was observed for the amygdala and extended amygdala activity for language (English vs. Japanese), emotional-linguistic valence (positive, negative, neutral) and inhibitory control (go/no-go condition). Furthermore, main effects were observed for language and valence for the amygdala and extended amygdala. Main effects were observed for inhibitory control for the extended amygdala and right amygdala but not for the left amygdala, which did not show a main effect for inhibitory control. Significant interactions and main effects were also observed for behavioral outcomes (go/no-go reaction time and accuracy scores) for the amygdala and extended amygdala. Post hoc analyses found that under conditions of inhibitory control participants had less activation in the extended amygdala and amygdala when processing emotional information in English (i.e., second language) compared to Japanese (i.e., native language). In summary, our findings suggest that the amygdala and extended amygdala may mediate emotion and inhibitory control when participants process information in their native (Japanese) versus a second language (English).
Effects of gestational age on blood cortisol and prolactin levels during pregnancy in malaria endemic area
Authors: Kiemde Francois , Sorgho Hermann , Zango Serge Henri , Some Gnohion Fabrice , Rouamba Toussaint , Traore Ousmane , Kabore Berenger , Natama Hamtandi Magloire , Hien Yeri Esther , Valea Innocent , Schallig Henk , Tinto Halidou
Published: November 2024

Background

The hormonal shift occurring in pregnant women is crucial for the outcome of pregnancy. We conducted a study in pregnant women living in a malaria endemic area to determine the potential effect of gestational age on the modulation of the endocrine system by cortisol and prolactin production during pregnancy.

Methods

Primigravidae and multigravidae with a gestational age between 16–20 weeks were included in the study and followed up to delivery and 6–7 weeks thereafter. Venous blood was collected at scheduled visit: Visit 1 (V1; 16–20 weeks of amenorrhea), Visit 2 (V2; 28 ±1 weeks of pregnancy), Visit 3 (V3; 32 ±1 weeks of pregnancy), Visit4 (V4; delivery) and Visit5 (V5; 6–7 weeks after delivery). In addition, a cord blood sample was also collected during labour at delivery. Nulliparous and primiparous/multiparous non-pregnant women were enrolled in the control group. Cortisol and prolactin plasma concentrations were measured using ichroma II and i-chamber apparatus. Light microscopy was used to detect Plasmodium falciparum infections. A linear mixed-effects regression (LMER) model was used to assess the association between the variation of cortisol titres and prolactin levels during the pregnancy and the post-partum.

Results

Results showed that cortisol and prolactin levels in the peripheral blood were globally up-regulated during pregnancy. Concentrations of cortisol during follow-up was significantly higher in primigravidae than in multigravidae during the whole pregnancy (p<0.024). Moreover, the level of prolactin which was higher before delivery in primigravidae reversed at delivery and postpartum visit, but the difference was not statistically significant during the follow-up (V1 to V5) (p = 0.60). The cortisol level in peripheral blood at delivery was higher than that in the cord blood, and conversely for prolactin. Cortisol and prolactin levels decreased after delivery, though the level of prolactin was still higher than that at enrolment. An increase of one unit of prolactin was associated with the decrease of the average concentration of cortisol by 0.04 ng/ml (p = 0.009). However, when cortisol increases with one unit, the average concentration of prolactin decreases by 1.16 ng/ml (p = 0.013).

Conclusion

These results showed that the up-regulation effects of cortisol and prolactin are related to gestational age. A The downward regulation effect that both hormones have on each other during the pregnancy when each increase to 1 unit (1.0 ng/ml) was also reported.
Tecnologias digitais no ensino de línguas antes do período emergencial remoto de 2020/2021: o que os teóricos já diziam?
Authors: Gonçalves Joice Élida Alves , Rafael Edmilson Luiz
Published: November 2024

Evidencia-se que as tecnologias digitais têm provocado fortes mudanças no mundo contemporâneo, assim, além de expor algumas dessas mudanças, este artigo tem como principal objetivo: apresentar uma revisão teórica sobre o uso de tecnologias digitais no ensino, principalmente no ensino de línguas, a partir de produções acadêmicas a esse respeito, antes do período emergencial remoto de 2020/21. Isso porque, enormemente integradas às práticas sociais, as discussões sobre as tecnologias digitais já se remetem à escola há décadas através de trabalhos científicos, ao deixarem claro possibilidades e necessidades de sua utilização no ensino, não somente por ocasião do ensino remoto. Neste artigo, dialoga-se com teóricos da linguagem como Barton e Lee (2015) e da sociologia e psicologia, como a Teoria da Complexidade de Morin (2015) e do Pensamento Sistêmico (Vasconcellos, 2002). Baseia-se, ainda, em autoras como Rojo e Barbosa (2015) ao tratar dos multiletramentos na escola e Levy (1999) sobre o ensino mediado por computador. Este estudo mostra, portanto, que: embora possam ter sido ainda mais inseridas nas discussões acadêmicas e educacionais a partir do período de ensino remoto, as tecnologias digitais já haviam ganhado grande espaço em escritos teóricos relacionados à educação básica muito antes do referido período.
Reutilização de Sonda/Cateter de Aspiração em Pacientes Traqueostomizados na Assistência Domiciliar: Protocolo de Revisão de Escopo
Authors: Amorim Samuel Ilo Fernandes , Carvalho Vanessa Lacerda Couras , Silva Layla Raquel Alves , Ferino Luis Paulo da Penha , Freitas Dominique Araújo de , Patrício Pedro Antônio Lira , Carvalho Rogério Sandrey Couras
Published: November 2024

O Objetivo do presente estudo consiste em mapear na literatura os cuidados adotados na reutilização de sonda/cateter de aspiração em pacientes traqueostomizados na assistência domiciliar. Metodologia: Trata-se de um protocolo de revisão de escopo, realizado de acordo com a metodologia do Joanna Briggs Institute e checklist do Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR), seguindo as seguintes etapas: protocolo; critérios de elegibilidade; fontes de informação; estratégia de pesquisa; seleção de fontes de evidência; extração dos dados; análise de dados e apresentação dos resultados. Tem como pergunta de revisão: Quais os manejos adotados para reutilização de sonda/cateter de aspiração em pacientes traqueostomizados na assistência domiciliar? Para identificar documentos relevantes, as seguintes bases de dados bibliográficas serão pesquisadas: Literatura Latino-Americano e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (LILACS); Public Medline, via PubMed; Cochrane Library; Embase e Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature (CINAHL). Estudos de literatura cinzenta também serão considerados como o banco de dados da Organização Mundial da Saúde, o Google Scholar, a Biblioteca Digital Brasileira de Teses e Dissertações (BDTD), o repositório institucional da Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ) e quaisquer pesquisa, diretrizes/protocolos relacionados ao tema desta revisão. O resultado do fluxo de seleção, desta etapa metodológica, será apresentado em forma de figura, conforme o Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Resultados: Os resultados deste estudo possibilitarão o conhecimento sobre esses manejos na perspectiva de desvelar lacunas para futuras pesquisas e tomadas de decisões nas intervenções dos cuidados domiciliares desses pacientes. Conclusão: Este estudo constitui o primeiro passo para uma pesquisa que vise sistematizar e/ou padronizar os cuidados na reutilização de sonda/cateter de aspiração em pacientes traqueostomizados na assistência domiciliar.
Modelos de Trabalho: Impactos na performance e na qualidade de vida dos profissionais da área de Tecnologia da Informação
Authors: Uchôa João Gabriel Abrantes de Oliveira , Medeiros Elyskarien Ferreira Rosendo , Landim Jose Marcondes Macedo , Oliveira Gislene Farias de
Published: November 2024

A performance e a qualidade de vida dos funcionários de qualquer empresa ou organização são aspectos de grande importância para todas as entidades envolvidas, visto que é necessário equilíbrio entre ambas as partes para possibilitar uma relação empregatícia saudável e eficiente. Assim, uma das maneiras que as empresas podem manipular a forma de trabalho dos seus empregados consiste no estabelecimento de modelos de trabalho que os funcionários devem seguir, sendo esses o presencial, remoto e híbrido, cada um com características e impactos distintos na performance e qualidade de vida. Com base nisso, este trabalho buscou analisar os impactos dos modelos de trabalho na performance e na qualidade de vida dos funcionários da área de Tecnologia da Informação. Do ponto de vista metodológico, foi realizada uma pesquisa Survey cujos dados foram coletados através da aplicação de um questionário.  Com base nas respostas obtidas, foi realizado um tratamento estatístico através do qual foram feitos testes de hipótese para verificar o impacto do modelo de trabalho remoto em relação aos outros. Por fim, concluiu-se que o modelo de trabalho remoto, com base nos dados colhidos, apresenta bons indícios de que contribui positivamente para a performance e qualidade de vida. Ademais, constatou-se também que o modelo de trabalho remoto apresenta indícios significativos do impacto positivo na qualidade em relação aos outros modelos, entretanto, não existem evidências suficientes para constatar que essa declaração seja verdadeira para a performance.
Aprendizagem com a utilização de Simuladores Cirúrgicos e Virtuais no Ensino da Saúde: Uma Revisão Sistemática
Authors: Araújo Mikaely Medeiros de , Silva Lucas Lucena Medeiros da , Medeiros Fernanda Augusta de Andrade , Silva Ana Karoliny de Valença , Medeiros Nara Maria Holanda de , Almeida Elzenir Pereira de Oliveira
Published: November 2024

A simulação na educação em saúde oferece uma abordagem interdisciplinar para preparar alunos para ambientes médicos. A simulação proporciona uma imersão eficaz em cenários clínicos e aprimora competências antes do contato com pacientes reais. O objetivo desse trabalho é demonstrar a importância da utilização de métodos de simulação em saúde, para os alunos que buscam a aprendizagem e melhorias nas técnicas utilizadas em suas futuras áreas de atuação. Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática da literatura,  realizada através de buscas nas bases de dados Sciencedirect, Scopus, Web of science e Google Acadêmico. Como critérios de inclusão foram considerados os trabalhos publicados nos últimos 03 anos nos idiomas inglês e português, o uso de simulador cirúrgico na pratica de ensino da saúde e trabalhos que avaliaram o desempenho dos alunos que utilizaram os simuladores. A simulação médica e as tecnologias inovadoras estão sendo amplamente adotadas na formação médica e cirúrgica. O uso de videogames, simuladores laparoscópicos, realidade virtual e estendida, modelos 3D e impressões 3D são ferramentas eficazes para o desenvolvimento de habilidades e conhecimentos dos alunos, proporcionando experiências em ambientes otimizados pela tecnologia. A telessimulação facilita a educação em saúde de forma remota, promovendo interação e desenvolvimento profissional. A simulação no ensino da saúde é um método de ensino ativo e inovador, que apresenta modelos eficientes de treinamentos físicos ou virtuais que agregam de forma significativa na aprendizagem dos alunos e preparam profissionais da saúde para lidar com desafios da vida real de forma mais segura e eficaz.
Assédio Moral sofrido por Operadores de Telemarketing e Call Center
Authors: Foreston Eduarda de Oliveira , Machado Matheus Gomes , Nunes Ana Lucia de Paula Ferreira
Published: November 2024

O assédio moral é uma questão que permeia intrinsecamente os mais variados contextos sociais, afetando a preservação de ambientes de convivência benfazejos, adequados e éticos. O campo de call center é hoje em dia um dos mais impactados pelo assédio moral. A execução constante de abusos, violência física e psicológica, ademais da demanda para lograr metas de produção impraticáveis e inacessíveis faz do ambiente de trabalho um lugar adverso. As práticas assediadoras são colocadas na própria estruturação do trabalho, abrangendo todos os operadores de telemarketing. Assim sendo, o presente trabalho busca analisar sobre o assédio moral sofrido por operadores de telemarketing e call center, e, como isso pode ser superado. Como metodologia, fez-se uma pesquisa bibliográfica, embasada em autores que discorrem sobre o tema. Conclui-se que o assédio moral continua a ser um fenómeno social generalizado, predominante tanto em contextos laborais como educativos. As consequências negativas e graves do assédio para as vítimas e para as organizações estão bem documentadas e incluem problemas de saúde física e mental, diminuição da satisfação no trabalho, menor compromisso organizacional e sintomas de perturbação de stress pós-traumático, assim pode impactar negativamente a experiência no local de trabalho, e, para combater essa conjuntura é necessário que líderes e gestores observem e desenraizem essas situações com ações, palestras e conscientização coletiva.
A Importância das Equipes Interdisciplinares nos Centros de Atenção Psicossocial (CAPS)
Authors: Fernandes Fernando França , Silva Elizabeth Alves , Bezerra Martha Maria Macedo
Published: November 2024

O trabalho realizado pelas equipes interdisciplinares nos Centros de Atenção Psicossocial (CAPS) envolve uma abordagem colaborativa e integrada para oferecer cuidados de saúde mental. Esses profissionais, vindos de diferentes áreas como psicologia, psiquiatria, enfermagem, assistência social, entre outras, unem seus conhecimentos e experiências para criar estratégias de tratamento personalizadas e humanizadas, que atendam às necessidades específicas de cada pessoa em sofrimento psíquico. O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar a importância do trabalho das equipes interdisciplinares, atuantes  em um CAPS no Sul do Ceará. Contou com a participação de 23 profissionais de diferentes CAPS (CAPSad, CAPSi e CAPS III) em um município do Sul do Ceará. Foi realizada entre maio de 2022 e abril de 2024. Para coletar os dados, foram utilizadas técnicas como observação e encontros de discussão sobre o trabalho.  Os resultados levaram a crer que a atuação em equipe facilita a troca de saberes, enriquecendo o cuidado e garantindo uma atenção mais ampla e efetiva ao paciente, sempre com o foco em sua recuperação e reintegração social. Conclusão: A dimensão coletiva do trabalho interdisciplinar contribui significativamente para uma gestão mais eficiente das atividades. No entanto, é essencial que os coletivos de trabalho sejam fortalecidos, com a criação de espaços grupais mais efetivos para discussão, troca de ideias e colaboração. Isso favorece a construção de uma equipe mais coesa e preparada para enfrentar os desafios do dia a dia.