bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homodyne detection efficiency analysis of coherent lidar based on a hybrid algorithm
Authors: Zhang Shixue , Tan Yixuan , Liu Wei , Jin Dairan , Fu Xingxin , Li Hongli , Xue Jinbo , Cao Jingtai
Published: January 2025

Atmospheric turbulence-induced phase variations affect the homodyne detection efficiency of the coherent lidar, which further affects the performance of the lidar. Adaptive optics (AO) is an effective method to correct turbulence-induced wavefront aberrations. In this paper, a coherent lidar wavefront correction technique based on a hybrid algorithm of stochastic parallel gradient descent (SPGD) and simulated annealing (SA) is proposed on the basis of a theoretical analysis. The simulation results verify that the hybrid algorithm can significantly improve the efficiency of homodyne detection in coherent lidar. The results show that the hybrid algorithm has the characteristics of fast convergence speed and strong correction ability. The conclusion of this paper provides a reference for the design of the coherent lidar AO system.
1 joule arbitrary pulse shape hybrid laser source
Authors: Ovcharenko B. , Kamynin V. , Bagdasarov V. , Dolmatov T. , Trikshev A. , Ponarina M. , Tsvetkov V. , Garnov S.
Published: January 2025

A hybrid laser source with a profiled laser pulse shape is presented. It is designed with a fiber pulse shaping system and a two-stage solid-state amplifier based on two gain modules with pulsed transverse diode pumping. The ability to control the pulse shape of the hybrid laser source pulse is demonstrated, and rectangular and stepped pulse shapes with a radiation wavelength of 1064.15 nm, duration of 20 ns, repetition rate of 2 Hz, and output energy of 1 J are obtained. The resulting shapes are achieved by controlling the temporal shape of the pulses of the master oscillator to compensate for the effect of gain saturation in solid-state amplifiers. The dynamics of the pulse shape evolution as a function of the electrical pump energy in the gain modules is traced.
Optical characteristics and formation mechanism of haze events in Qingdao, a coastal city in China
Authors: Ma Xuebin , Liu Nana , Liu Changyu , Zhang Hanjiu , Yang Kaixuan , Qiao Zhi , Zhen Maochan , Zhai Mengying , Luo Tao , Li Xuebin
Published: January 2025

During the field campaign conducted in Qingdao, Shandong Province, from December 2019 to January 2020, six significant haze episodes occurred. To investigate the optical characteristics and formation mechanisms of haze in this region, we utilized an optical particle counter to measure the size distribution of aerosol particles. The results showed that the average Angström exponent value during the campaign was 1.45, indicating that fine particulate matter dominated. Additionally, the aerosol scattering coefficient, absorption coefficient, and single scattering albedo were measured using a cavity-attenuated phase shift instrument. It was observed that both scattering and extinction coefficients significantly increased during the haze episodes, while SSA notably decreased at the onset of haze, which may be related to newly emitted aerosol particles. Air quality monitors detected a marked increase in sulfur compounds and nitrogen oxides during the haze episodes, with nitrogen oxides being higher than sulfur compounds, indicating that local pollution was primarily driven by vehicular emissions. Using the HYSPLIT4 model, we analyzed atmospheric transport trajectories and found that regional transport played a critical role in haze events. Analysis of micropulse lidar data revealed that the boundary layer height during the haze episodes was significantly lower than during non-haze periods. The lower boundary layer height restricted pollutant dispersion, exacerbating pollution levels. High relative humidity also contributed to the hygroscopic growth of aerosols, altering atmospheric thermal balance and playing a crucial role in the formation of haze events.
Refined phase-matching predictions for AgGa1-xInxS2 mixed chalcopyrite crystals
Authors: Kato Kiyoshi , Miyata Kentaro , Petrov Valentin
Published: January 2025

This paper presents the Sellmeier equations for AgInS2, combined with recently derived equations for AgGaS2, to provide the accurate phase-matching conditions of AgGa1−xInxS2 for nonlinear three-wave mixing across the 0.6164–10.5910 µm range. A new set of these index formulas successfully reproduces the measured 90° phase-matching conditions of AgGa0.46In0.54S2 (x=0.54) for frequency-doubling the emission of Nd:YAG laser-pumped optical parametric oscillators (OPOs) at 2.7780 and 8.6880 µm as well as for frequency-mixing the signal and idler outputs of such an OPO at 1.1940 and 9.7893 µm, respectively.
Optical computing with supercontinuum generation in photonic crystal fibers
Authors: Iskandar Muda Azka Maula , Teğin Uğur
Published: January 2025

We present and study a nonlinear photonic neural network using photonic crystal fibers, leveraging femtosecond pulse supercontinuum generation for optical computing. Investigating its efficacy across machine learning tasks, we uncover the crucial impact of nonlinear pulse propagation dynamics on network performance. Our findings show that octave-spanning supercontinuum generation results in loss of dataset variety due to many-to-one mapping, and optimal performance requires balancing optical nonlinearity with dataset complexity. This study offers guidance for designing energy-efficient and high-performance photonic neural network architectures by explaining the interplay between nonlinear dynamics and optical computing.
Weightless photonic spike processing of time-of-flight signals with delay learning
Authors: Duan Lian , Ma Bowen , Zou Weiwen
Published: January 2025

Time-of-flight (ToF) signal processing has become increasingly crucial in depth perception applications. We propose a photonic spike processing method for ToF signals based on synaptic delay plasticity, which adjusts the spike timing of encoded signals to achieve low-latency processing without the need for weight loading and control. This method employs photonic neurons that directly encode optical pulses of ToF signals into temporal spike sequences, eliminating the necessity for a time-to-digital converter (TDC). We use tunable optical delay lines to emulate the photonic synaptic regulation of spike timing. In addition, we demonstrate the efficacy of a photonic spiking neural network that trains the synaptic delay parameters using the ModelNet dataset, achieving an accuracy of 96.36%. In experiments, the processing delay of ToF signals is 58.66 ns, representing a reduction of two orders of magnitude compared with traditional TDC-based methods. This approach facilitates applying synaptic diversity in photonic neuromorphic information processing.
Single-pass superluminescent diodes with grazing stripe waveguide
Authors: Gordeev N. Yu. , Payusov A. S. , Shernyakov Yu. M. , Kornyshov G. O. , Beckman A. A. , Maximov M. V.
Published: January 2025

We report on an investigation of InGaAs/GaAs quantum well-dot superluminescent diodes (SLDs) based on what we believe to be a novel and simple design of stripe waveguides. The design employing a chip side facet as a component of the SLD structure allows effective suppression of optical feedback, thus increasing the optical power. The test SLDs under study emitting in 950–1150 nm spectral range show CW optical power as high as 150 mW in combination with broad emission spectra of 20 nm full width at half maximum (FWHM).
Fabrication-integrated design for diffractive optical elements
Authors: Xu Yunpeng , Zang Zihan , Wang Haoqiang , Han Yanjun , Li Hongtao , Luo Yi , Wang Lai , Sun Changzheng , Xiong Bing , Hao Zhibiao , Wang Jian , Gan Lin
Published: January 2025

Grayscale direct laser writing lithography (DLWL) is a versatile technique for fabricating diffractive optical elements (DOEs), which play a critical role in controlling light across diverse optical applications. However, optical proximity effects (OPEs) during fabrication often lead to discrepancies between the intended design and the actual produced surface, resulting in degraded performance. Here, a fabrication-integrated design (FID) approach is proposed to address this challenge. This approach seamlessly integrates design and fabrication processes to ensure both optical specification and manufacturability. First, this approach models the impact of OPE in DLWL through a highly efficient fabrication simulator, which predicts the DOE surface based on the exposure dose with minimal experimental calibration. Then, a wave optics simulator is employed to evaluate the optical performance of the DOE. Finally, an optimization algorithm iteratively adjusts fabrication parameters to minimize discrepancies between the desired and simulated optical outcomes. The FID approach demonstrates significant improvements in DOE performance. For instance, it achieves more than 25% reduction in unwanted diffraction orders for diffractive beam splitters. Additionally, it improves the quality of digital holograms and the performance of extended depth-of-focus imaging. Our implementation of the FID approach can support the design of very large-scale DOEs with up to 100 million pixels. These results highlight the effectiveness of the FID approach in producing high-quality optical elements, offering broad benefits for applications in imaging, sensing, and display technologies.
Deep Learning-Driven Ciliary Body Segmentation in UBM Imaging: advancing automated measurements for glaucoma analysis
Authors: Zetao Li , yang juan , wei wang , SHUXI YAN
Published: January 2025

This study introduces an automated deep learning model to improve the efficiency and accuracy of glaucoma screening and diagnosis by enabling precise localization and segmentation of key anatomical structures in ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) images. Employing an improved ResUNet architecture, the model localizes the scleral spur apex using a Gaussian heatmap as the region of interest (ROI) and segments the ciliary body and surrounding areas through a multi-scale input strategy to enhance segmentation accuracy and robustness. The model achieved outstanding performance, with an average Euclidean distance of 9.863 µm for localization and segmentation metrics including an IoU of 96.85%, Dice coefficient of 98.34%, Pixel Accuracy (PA) of 97.20%, and F1 score of 97.45%. Anatomical analysis revealed significant differences among glaucoma types: the PACG group showed a significantly smaller average trabecular-ciliary angle (TCA, 52.763°) and a larger ciliary body area within 1,000 µm (CBA1000, 1.064 mm²) compared to the normal and POAG groups. A significant negative correlation between TCA and CBA1000 (p<0.05) was observed, particularly in PACG cases. These findings underscore the model’s potential to enhance UBM image analysis, provide critical insights for personalized glaucoma diagnosis and treatment, and facilitate early intervention in high-risk patients. Future work will focus on expanding datasets and incorporating additional anatomical structures to improve generalization and clinical applicability.
Difficult control is related to instability in biologically inspired Boolean networks
Authors: Daniels Bryan C. , Borriello Enrico
Published: January 2025

Previous work in Boolean dynamical networks has suggested that the number of components that must be controlled to select an existing attractor is typically set by the number of attractors admitted by the dynamics, with no dependence on the size of the network. Here we study the rare cases of networks that defy this expectation, with attractors that require controlling most nodes. We find empirically that unstable fixed points are the primary recurring characteristic of networks that prove more difficult to control. We describe an efficient way to identify unstable fixed points and show that, in both existing biological models and ensembles of random dynamics, we can better explain the variance of control kernel sizes by incorporating the prevalence of unstable fixed points. In the end, the association of these outliers with dynamics that are unstable to small perturbations reveals them as artifacts of deterministic models, making them less biologically relevant and reinforcing the generality of easy controllability in biological networks.
Technical and management coaching for government institutions: Lessons learned and health systems transformations across 8 countries in sub-Saharan Africa and India
Authors: Graham Kate , Kalbarczyk Anna , Ajijola Lekan , Das Emily , Sow Fatimata , Owino Kenneth , Malik Maheen
Published: January 2025

Traditional engagement with local governments often relies on financial and human resources from international or local partners, leading to direct implementation by organizations, which can hinder sustainability. While some organizations include sustainability indicators, few focus on transferring technical and financial ownership to governments. The Challenge Initiative (TCI) uses a phased coaching model—lead, assist, observe, and monitor—to build local government capacity for scaling family planning (FP) and adolescent and youth sexual and reproductive health (AYSRH) programs. TCI ensures local governments take the lead from day one, coaching them to manage and implement these programs sustainably, improving management, coordination, planning, budgeting, and data-driven decision-making. In-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with stakeholders across 24 TCI sites in 8 countries—Benin, Kenya, India, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, and Uganda—from October 2020 to March 2021. A total of 175 IDIs and 14 FGDs were conducted with 343 master coaches (52 TCI staff, 164 local government staff) and 127 coachees. Participants included TCI staff, local government officials, and health providers at both facility and community levels, all of whom received coaching. Examples were gathered to assess the impact of TCI’s coaching model on government FP and AYSRH programs. TCI documented improvements in local government and health service provider leadership, management, and coordination of health programs through its coaching interventions. It linked health system outcomes to its coaching approach, building a cadre of master coaches and coachees at all levels. This strengthened local governments’ capacity to lead and sustain the scale-up of FP and AYSRH programs beyond TCI’s direct support. Improved monitoring and tracking of coaching quality is needed for further insights.
Identifying key areas of post-secondary student stress: Principal component analysis of the Post-Secondary Student Stressors Index (PSSI)
Authors: Schwartz Danielle , Perera Essence , Clara Ian , Linden Brooke , Bolton Shay-Lee
Published: January 2025

Stress and mental health problems are prominent in Canadian postsecondary populations. Experiences of stress vary widely across the country due to student differences. The Post-Secondary Student Stressors Index (PSSI) is a 46-item inventory that assesses student-specific stressors. The PSSI has previously been validated in Ontario and Canada more broadly. However, as a new scale, the PSSI requires validation across different contexts. The purpose of this study was to use the PSSI to determine the areas of stress specific to the Manitoba population, utilizing more detailed information on severity and frequency of stress. Data were drawn from a Manitoba subset of the PSSI respondents. This resulted in a sample size of 2856 students from the University of Manitoba. Each item on the PSSI-46 was transformed into a new variable representing the inclusion of the frequency and severity variables for each stressor. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to explore relationships between the 46 items of the PSSI. Direct oblimin rotation method was used to examine fit indicators. Spearman’s rho was used to examine correlations between the revised PSSI score and those on other instruments. Cronbach’s alpha was used to determine the internal reliability. The PCA produced 10 stress components consisting of 40 items. Six items did not load onto any components and were therefore excluded from component formation. The components demonstrated strong psychometric properties and internal validity. This study utilized the PSSI measure in a novel way, both through context and statistical assessment. These components of stress may be employed in future research that assesses post-secondary student stress.
Internet gaming disorder and violent video gameplay among higher secondary school-going adolescents in Karachi, Pakistan—A cross-sectional study
Authors: Turabi Rabab Fatima , Rozi Shafquat , Sawani Sobiya , Kazi Momin , Asad Nargis
Published: January 2025

Problematic video game use is giving rise to psychiatric illnesses amongst adolescents including Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD). Violent content of video games can influence IGD development in vulnerable youth, yet its knowledge among Pakistani adolescents is limited, necessitating its assessment. This study estimated IGD prevalence among higher secondary school-going adolescents and assessed its association with violent video game content. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 286 school-going adolescents. Violent video game content was assessed using game ratings by the International Age Rating Coalition, while IGD, anxiety and depression were evaluated using Internet Gaming Disorder Scale–Short-Form (IGDS9-SF), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), respectively. Multiple Cox proportional algorithm was used to report adjusted prevalence odds ratios (POR) and 95% CI considering p-value of <0.05 as significant. Participants were predominantly males and from middle socioeconomic backgrounds. IGD prevalence was 17.50% (95% CI: 13.30–22.40). IGD and violent video game content had no association. However, IGD was associated with 3–4 hours of gaming on weekdays: POR = 5.295 (95% CI: 1.957–14.332), less than 7 years’ age of gaming onset: POR = 2.700 (95% CI: 1.035–7.046) and having a nuclear family: POR = 1.982 (95% CI: 1.021–3.844). Cronbach alpha for IGDS9-SF, GAD-7 and PHQ-9 was 0.742, 0.813 and 0.842 respectively. Findings suggest positive associations of IGD with prolonged gaming, early gaming onset and nuclear family. In conclusion, IGD is a growing concern for Pakistani adolescents. Findings suggest school-based awareness campaigns promoting healthier gaming practices and calls for government legislations for monitoring and control of age appropriate game usage.
The association between helicobacter pylori infection and Triglyceride-Glucose (TyG) index in US adults: A retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Fu Wei , Zhao Junlong , Chen GuoBin , Lyu Linya , Ding Yao , Xu Liang-Bi
Published: January 2025

Background

The Triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is a marker for insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, while Helicobacter pylori is linked to gastrointestinal diseases and may affect metabolic risks. This study examined the association between the TyG index and H. pylori infection in adults.

Methods

Data from 3797 participants in the NHANES 1999–2000 cycle were analyzed. The relationship between the TyG index and H. pylori infection was assessed using multivariate logistic regression and a two-piecewise logistic model to explore non-linear effects. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on age, sex, glucose levels, BMI, and CKD.

Results

A linear association between the TyG index and H. pylori infection was found. Subgroup analyses revealed significant interactions with a few variables.

Conclusions

This study indicates a linear relationship between the TyG index and H. pylori infection, suggesting metabolic influences on H. pylori infection and potential for targeted interventions in at-risk groups.
Lessons learned from cross-sectoral collaboration to protect migrant farmworkers during COVID-19 in Spain
Authors: Úbeda Miquel , Villa-Cordero Vanesa , González-Rodríguez Agustín , Andrés-Cabello Sergio , Perez-Urdiales Iratxe , Jiménez-Lasserrotte María del Mar , Pastor-Bravo Mar , Briones-Vozmediano Erica
Published: January 2025

In Spain, the agricultural sector relies heavily on migrant workers, especially during seasonal seasons. However, these workers face significant challenges related to precarious working conditions and structural vulnerability, which have become more acute since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. This descriptive qualitative study was based on 87 personal interviews with health and social professionals from sectors such as NGOs, social services, trade unions, local institutions, and health services to promote compliance with these measures in four Spanish regions. It explored the difficulties faced by migrant agricultural workers in complying with prevention measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, the measures taken by organizations and public institutions and the health consequences of the pandemic on this group. After a reflexive thematic analysis, the results show how to mitigate the pandemic’s impact, both local authorities and NGOs implemented extraordinary measures to care for migrant farm workers. Responses to the pandemic included temporary housing, mass testing, and stricter labor regulations. Working conditions, constant mobility, precarious housing, and language barriers contributed to the difficulty of implementing preventive measures. Covid-19 intensified inequalities and highlighted the lack of preparedness of institutions to deal with this group. The conclusions suggest that intercultural competence in health professional training and the creation of inclusive approaches to health and social care are critical to addressing health disparities and ensuring the well-being of all migrant farm workers, regardless of their migration status or mobility.
Exploring chilling stress and recovery dynamics in C4 perennial grass of Miscanthus sinensis
Authors: Sobańska Karolina , Mokrzycka Monika , Przewoźnik Martyna , Pniewski Tomasz , Głowacka Katarzyna
Published: January 2025

The increasing cultivation of perennial C4 grass known as Miscanthus spp. for biomass production holds promise as a sustainable source of renewable energy. Unlike the sterile triploid hybrid of M. × giganteus, which cannot reproduce through seeds, M. sinensis possesses attributes that could potentially address these limitations by effectively establishing itself through seed propagation. This study aimed to investigate how 18 genotypes of M. sinensis respond to chilling stress and subsequent recovery. Various traits were measured, including growth and biomass yield, the rate of leaf elongation, and a variety of chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, as well as chlorophyll content estimated using the SPAD method. Principal Component Analysis revealed unique genotype responses to chilling stress, with distinct clusters emerging during the recovery phase. Strong, positive correlations were identified between biomass content and yield-related traits, particularly leaf length. Leaf growth analysis delineated two subsets of genotypes: those maintaining growth and those exhibiting significant reductions under chilling conditions. The Comprehensive Total Chill Stress Response Index (SRI) pinpointed highly tolerant genotypes such as Ms16, Ms14, and Ms9, while Ms12 showed relatively lower tolerance.
Digital inclusive finance, rural revitalization and rural consumption
Authors: Li Wei , Zhang Lu , Pu Mingyue , Wang Hui
Published: January 2025

With the rapid development of technology and the evolution of the global financial system, digital inclusive finance has become a new way to promote rural revitalization and rural residents’ consumption with the power of financial technology. This study explores the relationship between digitally inclusive finance, rural revitalization, and rural residents’ consumption. Based on the panel data of 30 provinces and cities in China from 2011 to 2021, this study empirically examines the impact of digitally inclusive finance on rural residents’ consumption and the mediating and threshold effects of rural revitalization. The results reveal that digitally inclusive finance is conducive to the enhancement of rural residents’ consumption, and rural revitalization acts as a mediator. Meanwhile, there is a nonlinear positive correlation between the impact of digitally inclusive finance and rural revitalization on rural residents’ consumption, in which there is a double-threshold effect of digitally inclusive finance and rural revitalization in the lagged period. Based on the above findings, we believe that while promoting digitally inclusive finance, it is important to promote rural revitalization strategy in a timely manner, improve rural infrastructure, and continuously stimulate the impact of digitally inclusive finance on rural residents’ consumption.
Research on hydrodynamic performance of S-type turbine based on linear wave
Authors: Bao LingJie , Wang Ying , Chen JunHua , Li Hao , Jiang ChuHua , Zhuo Yue , Wu Siru
Published: January 2025

The hydrodynamic performance of a Savonius type turbine (S-type turbine) in wave field is studied. The method of combining numerical simulation with physical experiment is adopted.Based on linear wave theory and turbulence model, Star CCM+numerical simulation software is used for digital modeling, and overlapping grid technology is used for grid modeling. Dynamic Fluid Body Interaction (DFBI) model is called to control the movement of S-type turbine, and second-order time discretization is adopted to establish a two-dimensional wave field model and conduct numerical simulation. At the same time, the physical test system of S-type turbine was developed for physical experiment verification, and the rotating performance of S-type turbine under different wave heights and pe-riods was measured, and the results of numerical simulation and physical experiment were com-prehensively evaluated. The results show that in wave field, the inverted S-shape arrangement of horizontal axis is better than the positive S-shape arrangement of horizontal axis and the vertical axis arrangement, and the captured energy is more than 3 times. At the same time, the fluctuating rotation speed of S-type turbine in wave field needs to be close to the wave frequency to capture more wave energy, which has guiding significance for practical engineering.
Monocyte-cancer cell fusion is mediated by phosphatidylserine—CD36 receptor interaction and induced by ionizing radiation
Authors: Shabo Ivan , Midtbö Kristine , Bränström Robert , Lindström Annelie
Published: January 2025

Emerging evidence suggests that fusion of cancer cells with leucocytes, such as macrophages, plays a significant role in cancer metastasis and results in tumor hybrid cells that acquire resistance to chemo- and radiation therapy. However, the precise mechanisms behind the leukocyte-cancer cell fusion remain unclear. The present in vitro study explores the presence of fusion between the monocyte cell line (THP-1) and the breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) in relation to the expression of CD36 and phosphatidylserine with and without treatment of these cells with ionizing radiation. The study reveals that spontaneous THP-1/MCF-7 cell fusion increases significantly from 2.8% to 6% after irradiation. The interaction between CD36 and phosphatidylserine plays a pivotal role in THP-1/MCF-7 cell fusion, as inhibiting this interaction using anti-CD36 antibodies significantly reduces cell fusion. While irradiation leads to a dose-dependent escalation in phosphatidylserine expression in MCF-7 cells, it does not impact the expression of CD36 in either THP-1 or MCF-7 cells. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate the involvement of the CD36-phosphatidylserine interaction in the fusion between monocytes and cancer cells, shedding light on a novel explanatory mechanism for the roles of CD36 and phosphatidylserine in tumor progression.
Disparities in time to treatment initiation of invasive lung cancer among Black and White patients in Tennessee
Authors: Mamudu Lohuwa , Sulley Saanie , Atandoh Paul H. , Reyes Joanne L. , Bashar Raquibul A. K. M. , Whiteside Martin , McEligot Archana J. , Mamudu Hadii M. , Williams Faustine
Published: January 2025

Background

Early initiation of treatment for lung cancer has been shown to improve patient survival. The present study investigates disparities in time to treatment initiation of invasive lung cancer within and between Black and White patients in Tennessee.

Methods

A population-based registry data of 42,970 individuals (Black = 4,480 and White = 38,490) diagnosed with invasive lung cancer obtained from the Tennessee Cancer Registry, 2005–2015, was analyzed. We conducted bivariate ANOVA tests to examine the difference in time to treatment initiation among independent factors, and multivariable Cox proportional hazard models to identify independent factors that influence median time to treatment initiation after diagnosis.

Results

When considering the estimate of the proportion of time to treatment initiation based on the combined influence of all independent factors (sex, age, race, marital, county of residence, health insurance, cancer stage, and surgical treatment), Black patients were generally more at risk of delayed treatment compared to Whites. Black patients aged <45 years (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.40; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01–1.94) and married White patients (aHR = 1.13; 95% CI = 1.07–1.18) had the highest increased risk of late treatment among their respective racial subgroups. In the general sample, patients with private health insurance had (aHR = 1.08; 95% CI = 1.01–1.16) higher risk of late treatment beyond 2.7 weeks compared to self-pay/uninsured patients. This was consistent among both Black and White subsamples. Patients with localized and regional lung cancer stages had a decreased risk of delayed treatment compared to those diagnosed at the distant stage among both Black and White patients.

Conclusions

Black patients were often at greater risk of late initiation of treatment for invasive lung cancer in Tennessee. Additional research is needed to understand factors influencing time to treatment initiation for Black patients in Tennessee. Further, cancer care resources are needed in Black communities to ensure timely treatment of invasive lung cancer, reduce disparities, and promote equitable care for all cancer patients.
Motivation of nursing undergraduate program entrants: A scoping review protocol
Authors: de Almeida Sasso Leonila Santos , Costa Ana Caroline dos Santos , Engel Ana Maria Rita Pedroso Vilela Torres de Carvalho , Tiol Emília Batista Mourão , Valença Fabrício Renato Teixeira , Castro Natalia Almeida de Arnaldo Silva Rodrigues , Menezes João Daniel de Souza , Martins Cíntia Canato , Costa Carlos Dario da Silva , Assoni Maria Aurélia da Silveira , Martinez William Donegá , Fucuta Patrícia da Silva , Brienze Vânia Maria Sabadoto , Lima Alba Regina de Abreu , André Júlio César
Published: January 2025

Motivation is of great importance in the teaching-learning process, because motivated students seek out opportunities and show interest and enthusiasm in carrying out their tasks. The objective of this review is to identify and present the information available in the literature on the status quo of motivation among nursing program entrants. This is a qualitative scoping review study, a type of literature review designed to map out and find evidence to address a specific research objective, following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. The objective was outlined using the PCC (Population, Concept, Context) acronym. The protocol was developed and registered on the Open Science Framework (OSF) platform under DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/EJNGY. The search strategy and database selection were defined by a library and information science professional together with the authors. The search will be carried out in the following databases: Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Literatura Latino Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde, Lilacs Esp, National Library of Medicine (PubMed), ScienceDirect, Scopus, and the Web of Science platform. The researchers will meet to discuss discrepancies and make decisions using a consensus model, and a third researcher will be tasked with independently resolving any conflicts. Data extraction will involve two independent researchers reviewing each article. Documents such as original articles; theoretical studies; experience reports; clinical study articles; case studies; normative, integrative, and systematic reviews; meta-analyses; meta-syntheses; monographs; theses; and dissertations in English, Portuguese, and Spanish from 2017 to 2023 were included. The results will be presented in tabular and/or diagrammatic format, along with a narrative summary.
Association between early life second-hand smoke exposure on child sleep and psychoactive substance use on adult sleep patterns in an urban informal settlement in Uganda
Authors: Wafula Solomon T. , Namakula Lydia N. , Isunju John B. , Mugambe Richard K. , Ssekamatte Tonny , Musoke David , Wanyenze Rhoda K.
Published: January 2025

Background

Psychoactive substance use in adults and second-hand smoke (SHS) exposure among children are leading contributors to sleeping problems. Despite this, there is limited data on how these exposures influence sleep patterns in informal settings. Our study assessed the associations between substance use, SHS exposure and sleep disturbances among adults and children in an urban informal settlement in Uganda.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study in an urban informal settlement in Kampala, Uganda. Data was collected on self-reported sleep problems among adults including sleep duration, insomnia and sleep dissatisfaction, as well, as sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in children. We evaluated children’s early-life SHS exposure and psychoactive substance use in adults using questionnaires. We modelled the associations between the exposures and sleep problems in adults and children using modified Poisson regression.

Results

Data were collected from 284 adults, who also reported on their children’s sleep experience. Among adults, 59.2% reported insufficient sleep (less than 7 hours), 34.9% experienced insomnia, and 28.3% were dissatisfied with their sleep patterns. Active smoking was associated with insomnia (Prevalence Ratio (PR) = 2.74, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.14–6.59), and alcohol use was associated with sleep dissatisfaction (PR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.23–2.69). In children, 40.0% (88/220) exhibited SDB problems. Those exposed to SHS either during pregnancy or within six months post-birth had a higher risk of SDB than unexposed children (PR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.21–2.61). The risk was also elevated for children exposed to SHS during both periods (PR = 1.48, 95% CI 1.02–2.13).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that smoking was associated with insomnia and alcohol with sleep dissatisfaction among adults. Early-life SHS exposure was associated with an increased risk of SDB in children. These results emphasize the need to support ongoing public health initiatives and maintain a smoke-free environment, particularly for children in their early life.
Antiviral activity of an ACE2-Fc fusion protein against SARS-CoV-2 and its variants
Authors: Bermúdez-Abreut Ernesto , Fundora-Barrios Talia , Hernández Fernández Diana Rosa , Noa Romero Enrique , Fraga-Quintero Anitza , Casadesús Pazos Ana V. , Fernández-Marrero Briandy , Plasencia Iglesias Claudia A. , Clavel Pérez Marilyn , Sosa Aguiar Katya , Sánchez-Ramírez Belinda , Hernández Tays
Published: January 2025

SARS-CoV-2 has continued spreading around the world in recent years since the initial outbreak in 2019, frequently developing into new variants with greater human infectious capacity. SARS-CoV-2 and its mutants use the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as a cellular entry receptor, which has triggered several therapeutic strategies against COVID-19 relying on the use of ACE2 recombinant proteins as decoy receptors. In this work, we propose an ACE2 silent Fc fusion protein (ACE2-hFcLALA) as a candidate therapy against COVID-19. This fusion protein was able to block the binding of SARS-CoV-2 RBD to ACE2 receptor as measured by ELISA and flow cytometry inhibition assays. Moreover, we used classical neutralization assays and a progeny neutralization assay to show that the ACE2-hFcLALA fusion protein is capable of neutralizing the authentic virus. Additionally, we found that this fusion protein was more effective in preventing in vitro infection with different variants of interest (alpha, beta, delta, and omicron) compared to the D614G strain. Our results suggest the potential of this molecule to be used in both therapeutic and preventive settings against current and emerging mutants that use ACE2 as a gateway to human cells.
Influence mechanism of Internet use on the physical and mental health of the Chinese elderly—Based on Chinese General Social Survey
Authors: Hou Peng
Published: January 2025

Based on Chinese General Social Survey data (CGSS 2021), binary logistic regression and stepwise regression were used to explore how Internet use improves the physical and mental health of elderly people and its influence mechanisms. The research found that Internet use has a positive and significant impact on the physical and mental health of the Chinese elderly, and the results are robust with variable replacement and model replacement tests. In its influence mechanism, it found that Internet use promotes the physical and mental health of elderly people through physical exercise, social interaction, and learning frequency, which have a partial mediating effect. The effectiveness of the Internet use in promoting physical and mental health of the Chinese elderly through learning frequency is higher than physical exercise and social interaction, highlighting the importance of continuous learning for the Chinese elderly in the digital age. At the same time, Internet use has an unequal influence on the physical and mental health of the Chinese elderly, and has a greater influence on the mental health of the elderly with higher socio-economic status. Therefore, the research proposes the following three suggestions. First, improve the popularity of Internet use among the Chinese elderly. Second, accelerate the development of Internet application products suitable for the Chinese elderly. Third, provide Internet education for different regions elderly groups, and implement targeted assistance for elderly people with poor socio-economic status.
Association between serum vitamin D and severe headache or migraine: A population-based analysis
Authors: Hao Shunfa , Qian Renyi , Chen Yiru , Liu Jingfang , Xu Xiaoyan , Guan Yunxiang
Published: January 2025

Background

Vitamin D is thought to play a role in the development of migraine, but the nature of the relationship is still not fully understood. Although some studies have shown an association between vitamin D deficiency and migraine, other studies have had inconsistent or inconclusive results. Therefore, further research is needed to better understand the relationship between vitamin D and migraine headaches.

Methods

We selected 9142 participants from the 2001–2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). In our study, the term "serum vitamin D" refers to the concentration of 25OHD2 + 25OHD3 (nmol/L) in the blood. Migraine was assessed based on self-reports in the miscellaneous pain section of the NHANES questionnaire. Associations between vitamin D and the risk of migraine were examined using multiple logistic regression, smoothed curve fitting, and stratified analyses.

Results

In our study, 20.53% of the participants suffered from migraine. The prevalence of migraine was higher in those with lower serum vitamin D levels. Participants in the highest quartile of serum vitamin D levels were found to have a 16% lower prevalence than those in the lowest quartile in the fully adjusted model (OR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.71–0.99). This result was supported by stratified analysis and smoothed curve fitting.

Conclusion

Our study showed a significant negative correlation between serum vitamin D levels and the prevalence of migraine in American adults.
Perceived racial discrimination, resilience, and oral health behaviours of adolescents with immigrant backgrounds
Authors: Saluja Priyanka , Bohlouli Babak , Hoglund Wendy , Amin Maryam
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Unmet oral health needs remain a significant issue among immigrant adolescents, often exacerbated by experiences of racial discrimination. This study aimed to examine the associations between perceived discrimination and oral health behaviours in adolescents with immigrant backgrounds and explore the potential moderating role of resilience on this association.

Methods

Ethical approval for this cross-sectional study was obtained from the University of Alberta Research Ethics Board. Participants were 12 to 18-year-old adolescents from immigrant backgrounds. Participants were recruited through nine community organizations using a snowball sampling technique. After obtaining active parental consent and assent from the adolescent, the participants completed a questionnaire covering demographics, oral health behaviours, and perceived racial discrimination and resilience. Perceived racial discrimination and resilience were measured using validated scales. Descriptive statistics summarized variables. Logistic regression assessed associations, controlling for confounding factors. Resilience’s moderating impact was analyzed via the interaction model of regression analysis.

Results

In this cross-sectional study of 316 participants, average age of 15.3 (SD = 1.9) years, and a median age of 15 years (Inter Quartile Range-12-18), 76% reported discrimination experiences. Adjusted analysis showed that an increase of one unit in the total discrimination distress score was associated with 51% less likelihood of categorizing self-rated oral health as good (OR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.29–0.81). The odds of brushing teeth more than twice a day, as opposed to once a day, decreased by 58% with one unit increase in the total discrimination distress score (OR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.25–0.71). The odds of visiting the dentist for an urgent procedure instead of a regular check-up were 2.3 times higher with a unit increase in the total discrimination distress score (OR = 2.3: 95% CI:1.3–4.0) Resilience did not moderate the observed association.

Conclusion

Perceived racial discrimination was associated with the pattern for dental attendance, tooth brushing frequency, and self-rated oral health. Resilience did not moderate the observed association.
Effects of maximum dose on local control after stereotactic body radiotherapy for oligometastatic tumors of colorectal cancer
Authors: Kang Su Jin , Park Jongmoo , Choi Gyu-Seog , Kim Jong Gwang , Park Jun Seok , Kim Hye Jin , Baek Jin Ho , Kang Byung Woog , Seo An Na , Park Shin-Hyung , Bae Bong Kyung , Kang Min Kyu , Park Soo Yeun
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to identify radiotherapy dosimetric parameters related to local failure (LF)-free survival (LFFS) in patients with lung and liver oligometastases from colorectal cancer treated with stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). We analyzed 75 oligometastatic lesions in 55 patients treated with SBRT between January 2014 and December 2021. There was no constraint or intentional increase in maximum dose. LF was defined as the progression of the treated lesion until the last follow-up or death. The dose distributions were recalculated using Monte Carlo-based algorithms. The significance of the planning target volume (PTV) biologically effective dose (BED) 10s (D2, D95, D98, Dmean) in LFFS was evaluated using Cox regression, considering sex, age, primary cancer, tumor site, oligometastatic status, multiplicity, and either tumor size or one of the volume parameters. LF occurred in 23.4% of the lesions. Lesions showing LF received significantly lower PTV D2 (146 ± 21 vs. 164 ± 23, p = 0.006). Multivariate analysis revealed that PTV D2 (< 159 Gy10 vs. ≥ 159 Gy10) was the sole dosimetric parameter associated with LFFS. Tumors equal to or larger than the median size/volume yet receiving < 159 Gy10 of PTV D2 showed the lowest LFFS following stratification by median PTV D2 combined with tumor size or volume parameters. The maximum dose (PTV D2) was significantly associated with LFFS after SBRT for lung and liver oligometastases from colorectal cancer. Increasing the maximum dose may be beneficial for managing larger tumors.
An overview of healthcare-associated Candida auris outbreaks in Ministry of Health hospitals–Saudi Arabia 2020–2022; Retrospective multicentric study
Authors: Alanazi Khalid H. , Roushdy Hala M. , ALzubaidi Waad I. , Alanazi Arwa S. , Alanazi Nawal M. , Alamri Ahlam H. , Alnshbah Yahya I. , AL Almatrafi Nawaf M. , Al Shahrani Zainah M. , Alanazi Adel S. , Alshanbari Nasser H.
Published: January 2025

Background

Candida auris (C. auris) is an emerging fungus pathogen associated with nosocomial infections that is seen as a serious global health issue.

Aim

To describe the epidemiology and features of hospital-acquired Candida auris outbreaks in the Ministry of Health hospitals (MOH).

Methods

A three-year (2020–2022) retrospective analysis of Candida auris outbreaks in the Saudi MOH hospitals. A total of 45 hospitals were involved, with 511 cases of Candida auris. The data collected from the General Directorate of Infection Prevention and Control (GDIPC) platform comprises all patients’ data for C. auris instances, whether infected or colonized.

Results

Out of the 511 Candida auris recruited cases, 291 (56.9%) were infected, whereas 220 (43.1%) were colonized. 32.9% of cases were above the age of 65, and 68.9% were male. The majority of cases were admitted in the ICU unit (95.5%). Approximately 18.8% of cases were diabetes, and 18.5% were hypertensive. Central lines were discovered in 37.7% of the cases. Approximately 85.9% of cases had Foley catheters, 68.5% were on ventilators, and 53.8% had a tracheostomy. The crude mortality rate was particularly high (41.5%) among the study cases. It was non-significantly higher among infected individuals (44.7%) than colonized patients (37.3%) at (p value = 0.093). The prevalence of hypertension (p = 0.001), DM (p = 0.003), and peripheral line insertion (p = 0.004) was significantly higher among colonized patients. While the presence of COVID-19 (p = 0.001), and central line insertion (p = 0.001) was significantly higher among infected patients.

Conclusion

C. auris is a new pathogen that causes hospital outbreaks. Strict adherence to infection prevention and control criteria established by the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and GDPIC has significantly contained and reduced the spread of these outbreaks. One-month retrospective surveillance before diagnosing the index case and a prospective surveillance strategy for at least three months is highly recommended.
Repellency and toxicity of long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets (LLINs) to bed bugs
Authors: Hayes Christopher C. , Schal Coby
Published: January 2025

Vector control is essential for eliminating malaria, a vector-borne parasitic disease responsible for over half a million deaths annually. Success of vector control programs hinges on community acceptance of products like long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLINs). Communities in malaria-endemic regions often link LLIN efficacy to their ability to control indoor pests such as bed bugs (Cimex lectularius L. and Cimex hemipterus (F.)) (Hemiptera: Cimicidae). Despite this, little is known about the potential repellent effects and toxicity of LLINs to bed bugs. Herein, we demonstrate for the first time that commonly deployed LLINs lack olfactory and contact-based repellency to host-seeking C. lectularius from both insecticide-susceptible and insecticide-resistant populations. One LLIN (PermaNet Dual) was significantly attractive to both populations when exposed olfactorily, but not in contact assays, highlighting the complexity of bed bug-LLIN interactions. The insecticide resistant bed bugs experienced low mortality in 4 d of continuous exposure to LLINs. These results suggest that LLINs would likely not repel or eliminate bed bug infestations in malaria-endemic communities, further selecting for insecticide resistance and potentially disrupting vector control programs.