bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Real-World Tumor Response Derived From Electronic Health Record Data Sources: A Feasibility Analysis in Patients With Metastatic Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Treated With Chemotherapy
Authors: McKelvey Brittany A. , Garrett-Mayer Elizabeth , Rivera Donna R. , Alabaster Amy , Andrews Hillary S. , Bond Elizabeth G. , Brown Thomas D. , Bruno Amanda , Damato Lauren , Espirito Janet L. , Fernandes Laura L. , Hansen Eric , Kluetz Paul , Ma Xinran , McCracken Andrea , Mishra-Kalyani Pallavi S. , Natanzon Yanina , Potter Danielle , Robert Nicholas J. , Schwartz Lawrence , Schwind Regina , Sweetnam Connor , Wagner Joseph , Stewart Mark D. , Allen Jeff D.
Published: August 2024

PURPOSE

Real-world data (RWD) holds promise for ascribing a real-world (rw) outcome to a drug intervention; however, ascertaining rw-response to treatment from RWD can be challenging. Friends of Cancer Research formed a collaboration to assess available data attributes related to rw-response across RWD sources to inform methods for capturing, defining, and evaluating rw-response.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective noninterventional (observational) study included seven electronic health record data companies (data providers) providing summary-level deidentified data from 200 patients diagnosed with metastatic non–small cell lung cancer (mNSCLC) and treated with first-line platinum doublet chemotherapy following a common protocol. Data providers reviewed the availability and frequency of data components to assess rw-response (ie, images, radiology imaging reports, and clinician response assessments). A common protocol was used to assess and report rw-response end points, including rw-response rate (rwRR), rw-duration of response (rwDOR), and the association of rw-response with rw-overall survival (rwOS), rw-time to treatment discontinuation (rwTTD), and rw-time to next treatment (rwTTNT).

RESULTS

The availability and timing of clinician assessments was relatively consistent across data sets in contrast to images and image reports. Real-world response was analyzed using clinician response assessments (median proportion of patients evaluable, 77.5%), which had the highest consistency in the timing of assessments. Relative consistency was observed across data sets for rwRR (median 46.5%), as well as the median and directionality of rwOS, rwTTD, and rwTTNT. There was variability in rwDOR across data sets.

CONCLUSION

This collaborative effort demonstrated the feasibility of aligning disparate data sources to evaluate rw-response end points using clinician-documented responses in patients with mNSCLC. Heterogeneity exists in the availability of data components to assess response and related rw-end points, and further work is needed to inform drug effectiveness evaluation within RWD sources.
Global Neurosurgery: An Overview
Authors: Garcia Roxanna M. , Shlobin Nathan A. , Baticulon Ronnie E. , Ghotme Kemel A. , Lippa Laura , Borba Luis A , Qureshi Mahmood , Thango Nqobile , Khan Tariq , Hutchinson Peter , Rosseau Gail
Published: August 2024

In the following article, we define the practice of global neurosurgery and review the major historical events defining this movement within the larger context of global surgery. The current state of the neurosurgical workforce, disease burden, and ongoing collaborative efforts are highlighted. Ethical practice leading the sustainability is discussed, as well as future targets for the global community as we look beyond the next decade of opportunities to affect the neurosurgical burden of disease.
Examining the development and utilisation of Community-Based Health Information Systems (CBHIS) in Africa: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kuvuna Beatrice , Nyanchoka Moriasi , Guleid Fatuma , Ogutu Michael , Tsofa Benjamin , Nzinga Jacinta
Published: August 2024

Introduction The community-based health information system (CBHIS) is a vital component of the community health system, as it assesses community-level healthcare service delivery and generates data for community health programme planning, monitoring, and evaluation. CBHIS promotes data-driven decision-making, by identifying priority interventions and programs, guiding resource allocation, and contributing to evidence-based policy development. Objective This scoping review aims to comprehensively examine the use of CBHIS in African countries, focusing on data generation, pathways, utilization of CBHIS data, community accessibility to the data and use of the data to empower communities. Methods We utilised Arksey and O'Malley's scoping review methodology. We searched eight databases: PubMed, EMBASE, HINARI, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and grey literature databases (Open Grey and OAIster). We synthesized findings using a thematic approach. Results Our review included 55 articles from 27 African countries, primarily in Eastern and Southern Africa, followed by West Africa. Most of the studies were either quantitative (42%) or qualitative (33%). Paper-based systems are primarily used for data collection in most countries, but some have adopted electronic/mobile-based systems or both. The data flow for CBHIS varies by country and the tools used for data collection. CBHIS data informs policies, resource allocation, staffing, community health dialogues, and commodity supplies for community health programmes. Community dialogue is the most common approach for community engagement, empowerment, and sharing of CBHIS data with communities. Community empowerment tends towards health promotion activities and health provider-led approaches. Conclusion CBHIS utilizes both paper-based and electronic-based systems to collect and process data. Nevertheless, most countries rely on paper-based systems. Most of the CBHIS investments have focused on its digitization and enhancing data collection, process, and quality. However, there is a need to shift the emphasis towards enabling data utilisation at the community level and community empowerment.
Navegando pela história do Movimento de Educação de Base e margeando suas propostas educativas:
Authors: Rodrigues Coelho Leni
Published: August 2024

Este artigo é parte constituinte da pesquisa realizada no processo de doutoramento que trata sobre o Movimento de Educação de Base (MEB), no município de Tefé/AM. Tivemos como objetivo analisar as propostas educativas do MEB em Tefé, direcionadas para a população ribeirinha no período de 1963 a 1973. Para a compreensão da sua historicidade, utilizamos como fontes documentais os relatórios, as propostas pedagógicas, os termos de convênios, os scripts e as matérias jornalísticas acessadas por meio do portal da Hemeroteca Digital da Biblioteca Nacional. Para estabelecer diálogo com essas fontes, apropriamo-nos de autores que tratam do Movimento de Educação de Base em diferentes contextos. Quanto ao embasamento metodológico, aproximamo-nos das ideias de Certeau (2017), Prost (2008) e Ginzburg (1989). Evidenciamos que o MEB, a partir de suas ações, envolveu a população ribeirinha em práticas relacionadas à educação, à saúde, ao lazer, à religião e à cultura. Utilizando-se do MEB, a Igreja Católica se fez presente em áreas longínquas do Norte do país, assumindo, muitas vezes, o papel do Estado.
A personagem Lamparina:
Authors: Pereira Lage Ana Cristina , Mendes Clarisse
Published: August 2024

O artigo versa sobre a personagem Lamparina, uma menina negra, criação de José Carlos de Brito e Cunha, que esteve presente nas histórias em quadrinhos da revista infantil O Tico-Tico. A estreia dessa personagem ocorreu em 1928, e sua última aparição se deu em 1944, sendo estes os anos que compreendem o recorte temporal adotado. Na revista foram vinculadas variadas seções de atividades lúdicas com o intuito de, por meio do entretenimento, educar os leitores em uma perspectiva moral, cívica e civilizacional. O objetivo central deste trabalho é compreender quais ensinamentos o autor pretendia transmitir aos leitores por meio de Lamparina, uma vez que a revista deve ser considerada como um instrumento educativo não escolar, cujo público-alvo seria as famílias com recurso financeiro para comprá-la e geralmente formado por crianças brancas. A metodologia emprega a análise documental, cujas fontes são as tiras de quadrinhos existentes na revista e que apresentam histórias em que a personagem aparece, com a intenção de explicitar estereótipos racistas. Pretende-se mostrar o que Lamparina evidencia sobre a representação e o imaginário social dos negros naquele momento.
Gênero e gestão escolar:
Authors: Santos Maia Pontes Roberta Kelly , Araújo Mouta Limária , Rocha Matos Tereza Gláucia
Published: August 2024

A presença das mulheres em cargos de gestão escolar é consolidada no Brasil. Porém, é preciso visibilizar a atuação feminina à frente da direção de escolas públicas, ocupando cargos que também se constituem como espaços de poder e de disputa. Esta pesquisa tem como objetivo discutir a condução da gestão escolar por mulheres que ocuparam cargos de direção de escolas públicas estaduais no contexto da implementação da Política de Ensino Médio em Tempo Integral no Ceará. A pesquisa, do tipo exploratório, de caráter qualitativo, tem como eixo as categorias de gênero e gestão escolar. Para tanto, utilizou-se a metodologia da História Oral, através da realização de entrevistas com três gestoras de escolas-piloto dessa política na cidade de Fortaleza. A análise das falas das entrevistadas foi realizada a partir da Análise de Conteúdo de Bardin. A pesquisa revelou os desafios enfrentados pelas gestoras, principalmente durante a implementação da Política de Ensino Médio em Tempo Integral, e como as questões de gênero impactam no cotidiano das gestões escolares.
“Na minha época o professor era valorizado, o professor era gente, o professor era bem visto˜":
Authors: Gomes Vilanova Francisco
Published: August 2024

Esta pesquisa tem como temática central as trajetórias de professoras piauienses. O objetivo incide em analisar suas trajetórias, com foco no processo de ingresso no magistério e no papel que ocupavam em seus lugares, a partir de relatos de memórias. O recorte temporal definido atravessa as décadas de 1950 e 1970, período no qual as protagonistas ingressaram no magistério. O estudo vincula-se ao campo da História da Educação, associado às postulações da Nova História Cultural. Do ponto de vista metodológico, priorizou-se o uso de memórias captadas através da História Oral. Os depoimentos foram coletados por meio de entrevistas realizadas com cinco professoras aposentadas. Esses relatos foram entrecruzados com outras fontes documentais, como mensagens de governo, matérias de jornais, entre outros, que nos auxiliaram na compreensão do contexto estudado. A relevância do trabalho reside no fato de privilegiar personagens comuns, cujas memórias tiraram do silêncio e do esquecimento aspectos de suas trajetórias docentes.
Can Israel Survive?
Authors: Zwanenberg Roger van
Published: August 2024

While the present invasion of Gaza by Israel in the wake of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood (October 2023) is still ongoing, I want to alter our attention and ask whether Israel in its present form can survive this latest atrocity in Gaza. Israel’s war against Hamas appears to be the final attempt to eradicate Palestinians from the land first conquered by the British in 1917 following the World War I (WWI), and subsequently settled in 1948 by people of Jewish descent, , fleeing from the German holocaust (1941-1945).
Latina Undergraduates on the Path to Becoming Exitosas on Their Own Terms
Authors: Contreras Lauren R.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This research shares testimonios from 11 Latina undergraduates attending a 4-year PWI in the Western US to better understand how they defined and measured their success in higher education. Traditional success measures, like graduation and persistence rates, are based on the institution's values and do not fully represent Latine values. While Latina undergraduates embraced dominant measures of student success, such as academic achievement and career attainment, they also shared student success beliefs that closely aligned with their Latine values, as well as emphasizing well-being. Drawing from Anzaldua's pathway to conocimiento, this study demonstrated how Latina undergraduates were on the path to becoming exitosas (successful) on their own terms by balancing both dominant measures of success and those that honored their Latine values. A better understanding of Latina undergraduates' beliefs about student success will assist higher education and student affairs professionals in supporting Latinas' success in all the ways they define it. This article provides recommendations for practice and research with the goal of enhancing the Latina undergraduate student experience.
A Rooming House for Transient Girls: Black Women's Spatial Vision in the Black Metropolis
Authors: Jones Jovonna , Price Nancey B.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This essay traces the spatial vision of a house for Black women north of Chicago. Founded in 1924 by the Iroquois League—a Black women's club—the North Shore Community House was a "home-away-from-home" for Black women arriving in Evanston, IL, for education and domestic work. Rooming houses were a common source of additional income for Black residents in Great Migration cities but drew much social criticism. Rooming houses were considered to be places of vice, immorality, and deviance. Like fellow women's clubs, the Iroquois League hoped to protect and uplift their residents through collective living and cultural programs. But when faced with the threat of closure, they shifted their emphasis away from the moral character of their residents and toward the structural politics of housing. Drawing on archives from the Evanston History Center and Shorefront Legacy Center, this essay offers a close study of world-building and shows how one club secured space for Black women in a city that rendered them invisible beyond their labor.
Lydia
Authors: Greene Sally
Published: August 2024

Abstract: An enslaved woman named Lydia was the victim of the 1829 assault in Chowan County, North Carolina, that was at issue in State v. Mann . After a trial court convicted John Mann for shooting Lydia as she fled from his punishment, the North Carolina Supreme Court, in a decision written by Thomas Ruffin, exonerated him. Ruffin reasoned that nothing short of "absolute" physical power of the enslaver over the enslaved could keep the institution of slavery intact. The opinion gave license to enslavers while it gave moral ballast to the abolitionist cause, with its frank acknowledgment of the cruelty at the heart of slavery. This essay approaches State v. Mann through the story of Lydia's life. Reading the archives closely, it speculates that Lydia, like Harriet Jacobs (whose story was unfolding in the same town at the same time), was the victim of sexual as well as physical abuse.
Integrated error modeling and evaluation of the effect for the Wolter-I grazing incidence focusing mirror imaging quality
Authors: Li Erbo , Zhang Zhijing , Li Chaojiang , Zuo Fuchang , Mei Zhiwu , Su Taiyu , Sheng Zhichao
Published: August 2024

The imaging quality determines the performance of the Wolter-I grazing incidence focusing mirror. When the design parameters are specified, the factors affecting the imaging quality are mainly machining and assembly errors; finding the error sources and evaluating the main errors are critical fundamental issues to achieve process optimization and control and improve imaging quality. This paper constructs a model of surface distribution error based on Nurbs surface reconstruction by non-contact measurement. It proposes an integrated error modeling method based on the surface distribution error model, taking into account the typical assembly errors such as decenter error, defocus error, and tilt error formed during the assembly process. First, the theoretical modeling and analysis of imaging quality based on ideal surface shape are carried out, and the sensitivity analysis of each error is carried out by using the Monte Carlo ray tracing method; then, an integrated optical simulation model containing assembly errors based on the surface distribution error is established, and the imaging quality of the focused spot is evaluated; finally, the experimental validation is carried out. The results of the experiment and the integrated optical simulation model show overall consistency, where the decenter error and defocus error have less influence, and the tilt error has the greatest impact, with the 10′ tilt error causing a decrease in the angular resolution of the focused spot of about 50″. The method can provide effective modeling and computational approaches to support the optimization of the precision assembly process and quality control of the Wolter-I grazing incidence focusing mirror.
Method for optical adjustment with deep learning to quantitatively predict misalignment in optics
Authors: Hashimoto Ryo , Matsuura Shuji , Iida Yusuke
Published: August 2024

We developed a method for optical adjustment using a deep learning
model to quantitatively
predict misalignment of optical components. The proposed model
predicts the misalignment parameters using only through-focus images
of a point source, while conventional methods require specialized
measurements or extensive manual analysis. There is no need for special
preparation for measurements, and quantitative prediction will reduce
the cost of optical adjustment. A distinctive aspect of our method is
that the training dataset is not obtained through measurements but
generated using ray-tracing simulation, which produces through-focus
images with various type of aberrations. By applying the method to a
simple parabolic mirror and a reflecting telescope, we demonstrated
its prediction accuracy. The through-focus images obtained from
simulated optics, according to the predicted misalignment parameters,
matched the measured images. We adjusted two optics and confirmed that
the measured images after adjustment were in good agreement with the
simulation images of the designed optics.
Dynamic ONU grouping algorithm based on combination partition for centralized flexible PON
Authors: Chen Junjie , Tian Qinghua , Zhang Xiao , Wang Fu , Sun Dandan , Zhu Lei , Tian Feng , Zhou Sitong , Zhang Qi , Xin Xiangjun
Published: August 2024

The traditional optical access network architecture is fixed, and passive optical networking (PON) is only used as the transmission pipeline, which fails to make full use of the exchange capability of OLTs. In this paper, a dynamic optical network unit (ONU) grouping algorithm based on combination partition (DGACP) is proposed in the centralized flexible PON architecture. The algorithm transforms the global partitioning problem into a local partitioning problem, thereby reducing the number of algorithm iterations while obtaining the minimum cross-OLT traffic. Simulation results show that compared with the existing dynamic PON slice restructuring algorithm (DRA), the traffic gain of the DGACP is almost equal or slightly better, and the maximum running time is reduced from around 180 s to less than 0.5 s when the number of ONUs is 512.
Frequency stabilization via interference between transmitted and reflected lights from a reference cavity
Authors: Ikuta Rikizo
Published: August 2024

We propose a modulation-free optical frequency stabilization technique using an interferometric effect between transmitted and reflected lights from a reference cavity. The property of the reflected light brings robustness of the error signal against laser intensity fluctuations as in previous stabilization methods. Due to the property of the transmitted light, the capture range for a specific locking frequency is expanded up to twice the FSR of the cavity, which we experimentally demonstrate. If locking to any resonant frequency is allowed, the capture range is infinite. From the effect of using both lights, our method achieves the highest sensitivity to the frequency fluctuations around the resonant frequency and provides robustness against the interferometer fluctuations.
Flexible tunable microwave photonic filter with a dual ultra-narrow passband based on a dual-wavelength Brillouin laser
Authors: You Yajun , Hou Jiaxin , Liu Yuan , Liu Sha , Yang Xulei , He Wenjun , Geng Wenping , Liu Yi , Chou Xiujian
Published: August 2024

This article presents a flexibly tunable microwave photonic filter (MPF) with a dual ultra-narrow passband based on a dual-wavelength and narrow linewidth Brillouin laser. The dual passband of the filter not only exhibits ultra-high frequency selectivity but also allows for flexible and simultaneous tuning of the center frequency and interval of the passbands. In the proposed scheme, the core optical processor of the MPF consists of a dual-ring Brillouin laser resonator, which is composed of a 100-meter main fiber ring cascaded with a 10-meter secondary fiber ring. A dual-tone pump is generated through carrier-suppressed dual sideband modulation and injected into the dual-ring resonator to excite two Brillouin gains, which resonate separately in the dual-ring resonant cavity to generate a dual-wavelength single longitudinal mode Brillouin laser for processing optical RF signals. By selectively amplifying the modulated sideband signal through narrow linewidth Brillouin laser gain, the ultra-narrow dual passband are ultimately demodulated. The resulting dual filtering passband exhibits unparalleled sub-kHz bandwidth and flexible tuning capability. Experimental results demonstrate that the MPF proposed in this paper achieves an ultra-narrow dual passband of 83 Hz with a maximum side-mode suppression ratio of over 28 dB. Within the testing range of vector network analysis, the maximum tuning range of the center frequency is 20 GHz, and the passband interval can be freely tuned from 2-18 GHz. These results highlight the MPF’s ability to concurrently filter dual-channel signals with high precision and its significant potential application value in ultrafine microwave frequency spectrum resolution and processing fields, such as instantaneous frequency measurement and microwave photonic sensing.
Strong coupling between excitons and chiral quasibound states in the continuum of the bulk WS2 metasurface
Authors: Xie Suxia , Chen Jianghao , Sun Miaowenhao , Sun Siyi , Zeng Zhaoyou , Guan Xin , Yang Shengxin
Published: August 2024

In the fields of optics and photonics, the topic of light-matter interactions, particularly strong coupling effects, is a developing area of research. Exciton polariton, a hybridized state brought about by strong coupling, is a hot topic, especially from the standpoint of chiral optics. Under the incidence of right circularly polarized light and left circularly polarized (RCP and LCP) light, we investigate the strong coupling between excitons and quasibound states in the continuum (Q-BICs) resonance in a bulk WS2 metasurface. It is discovered that the Q-BICs are affected obviously on center frequencies and linewidth by structure parameters; while the exciton peaks are impacted insignificantly. Furtherly Q-BIC shows chiral enhancing features. When we take into account both Q-BIC and excitons of the metasurface simultaneously, there is a strong coupling as evidenced by the Rabi splitting up to 182 meV and the clear anti-crossing behavior in the transmittance and reflectance spectra of left and right circularly polarized light, respectively. Notably, a quasi-induced transparency window forms in the circular dichroism (CD) spectrum around the exciton band due to the non-chirality of exciton peaks. This enables the removal of excitons that are not involved in the strong coupling. The bulk WS2 chiral metasurface as a strong coupling system not only provides a way to understand the strong Light-matter interaction, but also generate a potential possibility for realizing the application of chiral optics. Additionally, it can realize the strong chiral coupling with a single self-hybridized element in the structure. Our results have potential implications in the chiral optical field and provide a chiral perspective on the study of strong photon-exciton coupling.
Dispersion response broadband tunable underwater FMCW blue chirped laser source
Authors: Xing Guohui , Rong Jiamin , Xue Kai , Li Jianglong , Yue Hongbo , Xing Tong , Jia Tao , Liu Wenyao , Zhou Yanru , Xing Enbo , Tang Jun , Liu Jun
Published: August 2024

Frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) narrow linewidth lasers have served as the cornerstone behind applications such as autonomous driving, wearable technology, virtual reality, and remote sensing mapping. Strongly coherent lasers are typically used for these studies, with a clear demand for linear fast response and wide frequency tuning range. In this paper, profiting from the ultrahigh-quality factor of the crystalline whispering-gallery-mode resonator, by using a self-injection locking mechanism to suppress spontaneous emission noise and improve coherence, sub-kHz linewidth at 450 nm is obtained. Furthermore, based on the dispersive response principle, fast electrical tuning is realized by using the strain-influenced resonator, and the experimental test result reaches 81 pm/V. More importantly, we demonstrate the comprehensive performance of this type of FMCW laser in underwater detection, with a sensitivity of 319 MHz/m at a chirp frequency of 1 kHz.
Improvement of luminescence properties in Zn2.1Mg0.9Ta2O8:Cr3+ by the cation substitution and its application in biological nondestructive testing and night vision lighting
Authors: Huo Xiaoxue , Wang Zhijun , Meng Xue , Zhou Mingxin , Wang Yu , Suo Hao , Li Panlai
Published: August 2024

Recently, it is of great significance to explore near-infrared (NIR) phosphor with more application prospects. In this work, a series of Zn2.1 Mg(0.9 − y)GaySnyTa(2 − y)O8:0.003Cr3+ NIR broadband phosphors with high quantum yields and high thermal stability are discovered by uniquely replacing [Mg2+–Ta5+] in Zn2.1Mg0.9Ta2O8 with [Ga3+–Sn4+]. Under 460 nm excitation, Zn2.1Mg0.85Ga0.05Sn0.05Ta1.95O8: 0.003Cr3+ depicts the 600–1100 nm broadband emission with a full-width at half maximum (FWHM) of 210 nm, and the quantum yields can reach 61.2%. Finally, the phosphor was mixed with epoxy resin and encapsulated in a 460 nm blue light emitting diode (LED) chip to convert the NIR LED by phosphor (NIR pc-LED), which was applied in the field of biological nondestructive testing and night vision lighting.
Quality improvement of unfiltered holography by optimizing high diffraction orders with fill factor
Authors: Zhou Jie , Wang Jiabao , Yu Guangwei , Wu Yang , Wang Mohan , Wang Jun
Published: August 2024

Computer-generated holography (CGH) suffers from high diffraction orders (HDOs) due to the pixelated nature of spatial light modulators (SLMs), typically requiring bulky optical filtering systems. To address this issue, a novel unfiltered holography approach known as the high-order gradient descent (HOGD) algorithm was previously introduced to optimize HDOs without optical filtering, enabling compact holographic displays. However, this algorithm overlooks a crucial physical parameter of SLMs—the fill factor—leading to limited optical quality. Here, we introduce a fill factor-based HOGD (FF-HOGD) algorithm, specifically designed to improve the quality of unfiltered holography by incorporating the fill factor into the optimization process. The quality advantage of FF-HOGD is demonstrated through numerical simulations and optical experiments.
Driven-dissipative phases and dynamics in non-Markovian nonlinear photonics
Authors: Sloan Jamison , Rivera Nicholas , Soljačić Marin
Published: August 2024

Interactions between photons (nonlinearities) enable a powerful form of
control over the state of light. This control has enabled technologies
such as light sources at new wavelengths, ultra-short optical pulses,
frequency-comb metrology systems, even quantum light sources. Common
to a wide variety of nonlinear optical technologies is an equilibrium
between an energy source, such as an external laser, and dissipation,
such as radiation loss or absorption. In the vast majority of these
systems, the coupling between the system and the outside world (which
leads to loss) is well described as “Markovian,” meaning that the
outside world has no memory of its past state. In this work, we
introduce a class of driven-dissipative systems in which a nonlinear
cavity experiences non-Markovian coupling to the outside world. In the
classical regime, we show that these non-Markovian cavities can have
extremely low thresholds for nonlinear effects, as well as
self-pulsing instabilities at THz rates, and rich phase diagrams with
alternating regions of stability and instability. In the quantum
regime, we show how these systems, when implemented on
state-of-the-art platforms, can enable generation of strongly squeezed
cavity states with intensity fluctuations that can be more than
15 dB below the classical limit, in contrast to the Markovian
driven-dissipative cavity, in which the limit is 3 dB. In the
regime of few-photon nonlinearity, such non-Markovian cavities can
enable a deterministic protocol to generate Fock states of high order,
which are long-desired, but still elusive at optical frequencies. We
expect that exploiting non-Markovian couplings in nonlinear optics
should in the future lead to even richer possibilities than those
discussed here for both classical and quantum light manipulations.
Managing diabetes and hypertension in western Kenya: A qualitative study of experiences of patients supported by the primary health integrated care for chronic conditions (PIC4C) model of care
Authors: Naanyu Violet , Willis Ruth , Kamano Jemima , Koros Hillary , Murphy Adrianna , Perel Pablo , Nolte Ellen
Published: August 2024

The Primary Health Integrated Care for Chronic Conditions (PIC4C) pilot project was launched in 2018 to strengthen prevention and control of four non-communicable conditions at primary health care level in western Kenya. We conducted a qualitative study to explore the extent to which PIC4C integrated services supported people with hypertension and/or diabetes towards timely diagnosis and referral, treatment, follow-up and adherence, from the perspective of those receiving care. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposively sampled patient cohort at two time points, with the intention of capturing changes over time (total (n) = 43, completion of both interviews (n) = 37). We extracted existing survey data to describe socio-demographic characteristics and analyzed qualitative data thematically. We identified two cross-cutting contextual factors, individual’s financial resources and their social situation, which shaped each stage of their interactions with PIC4C services. The PIC4C model successfully engaged people in accessing screening services to enable timely diagnosis and referred them to enter care. Free community level screening services and decentralization of care to lower level facilities reduced cost barriers for patients. However, retention in care and adherence to treatment were affected by the wider system context in which PIC4C was operating, including inconsistencies in medication availability and patients’ limited financial capacity. Individually tailored advice from health care workers to work around some of these challenges supported self-management strategies. Further development of the service should focus on supporting health care workers to adopt flexible, contextually responsive approaches in order to support patients facing economic and other constraints to engage in (self) care.
Fear of the unknown: Experience of frontline healthcare workers with coping strategies used to face the COVID 19 pandemic
Authors: Arango-Martinez Gabriela , Sarmiento Laura Becerra , Forero Isabela Castaneda , Carreno Laura Castaneda , Cadena-Camargo Yazmin
Published: August 2024

The COVID 19 pandemic presented various challenges among health care workers, one of them being the impact it has on mental health. The psychological problems such as anxiety, depression, insomnia and stress, all consequences of the pandemic cause psychopathological outcomes reverberating negatively on the emotional well-being of health care workers. This study aimed to explore the experience of frontline healthcare workers (HCWs) during the COVID-19 pandemic in a middle-income country in Latin America and to identify the coping mechanisms they used to face stressful situations during this time. A qualitative study based on an interpretative paradigm was conducted allowing to examine complex, ambiguous and emotionally loaded topics to explore in detail the experience of frontline HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through convenience sampling eleven frontline HCWs were recruited to participate in semi-structured interviews. An inductive analysis was done with four pre-established categories: the experience of HCWs during the attention of COVID-19 patients, the experience during their own infection, the experience during the work reintegration and the coping mechanisms used. Our results show that fear and uncertainty predominated throughout the attention of COVID-19 patients. Participants used both coping strategies based on problem-solving efforts, such as routine changes, and emotional management efforts, like social support or psychological counselling. The choice of coping strategies was influenced by their personal beliefs, past emotional experiences, and prior medical formation. These findings provide public and private institutions insight for creating effective policies, based on the HCWs’ preferences, to promote their psychological well-being.
Predictors of change in early child development among children with stunting: Secondary analysis of a randomized trial in Uganda
Authors: Mbabazi Joseph , Pesu Hannah , Mutumba Rolland , McCray Gareth , Ritz Christian , Filteau Suzanne , Briend André , Mupere Ezekiel , Grenov Benedikte , Friis Henrik , Olsen Mette F.
Published: August 2024

Millions of children under 5 years in low- and middle-income countries fail to attain their development potential with accruing short- and long-term consequences. Low length/height for age (stunting) is known to be a key factor, but there is little data on how child characteristics are linked with developmental changes among children with stunting. We assessed the socioeconomic, household, anthropometric, and clinical predictors of change in early child development (ECD) among 1–5-year-old children with stunting. This was a prospective cohort study nested in a randomized trial testing effects of lipid-based nutrient supplementation among children with stunting in Uganda. Development was assessed using the Malawi Development Assessment Tool (MDAT). Multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess for predictors of change. We included 750 children with mean ±SD age of 30.2 ±11.7 months 45% of whom were female. After 12 weeks, total MDAT z-score increased by 0.40 (95%CI: 0.32; 0.48). Moderate vs severe stunting, higher fat-free mass, negative malaria test and no inflammation (serum α-1-acid glycoprotein <1 g/l) at baseline predicted greater increase in ECD scores. Older age and fat mass gain predicted a lesser increase in ECD. Our findings reinforce the link between stunting and development with more severely stunted children having a lesser increase in ECD scores over time. Younger age, freedom from malaria and inflammation, and higher fat-free mass at baseline, as well as less gain of fat mass during follow-up predicted a higher increase in developmental scores in this study. Thus, supporting fat-free mass accretion, focusing on younger children, and infection prevention may improve development among children with stunting.
The prevalence and patterns of hearing loss in Jordan: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Alqudah Safa , Zuriekat Margaret , Hassan Saja , Mahafdeh Heba , Alqudah Zainab , Shatarah Aya , Smadi Ghufran
Published: August 2024

Background

Hearing loss is known to be a serious issue that impedes human communication. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 20 in 100,000 newborns demonstrate congenital hearing impairments, leading to severely impacted language, academic, and social abilities of these children.

Objective

The reduced quality of life and work productivity among hearing-impaired individuals eventually affects societal outcomes and development. Since limited studies address the nature of hearing-impaired individuals in Jordan, this research aimed to define the prevalence and nature of hearing loss in Jordan, highlighting important facts about hearing loss epidemiology across Jordanians.

Methods

The current research focused on assessing hearing function for 1000 individuals over 12 years to define the rate, most prominent configurations, and the most common characteristics of hearing difficulties in Jordan.

Results

The results showed that sixty-three per 1,000 people have hearing loss, most frequently sensorineural hearing loss. The age range of people with hearing loss was 12 to 89 years old, with a median age of 51. The incidence of hearing loss appeared at a later age (33.33%, X2 = 15.74, p<0.05). The percentages of hearing loss were similar across the main Jordanian governorates (X2 = 7.14, p>0.05), with sensorineural hearing loss reported to be the most common type of hearing loss (N = 46, 73.00%), and mild is the most frequent severity (N = 25, X2 = 23.58, p<0.05). No statistical variation was reported in the prevalence of hearing loss based on gender.

Conclusion

The rate of hearing loss in Jordan is higher than worldwide prevalence, which was assumed to be due to genetic factors impacting the auditory system. These findings will assist in creating effective hearing conservation programs to reasonably prevent or minimize the spread of hearing loss in Jordan.
The architecture of functional brain network modulated by driving under train running noise exposure
Authors: Zhao Yashuai , Huang Yuanchun , Liu Zhigang , Zhou Yifan
Published: August 2024

A noisy environment can considerably impact drivers’ attention and fatigue, endangering driving safety. Consequently, this study designed a simulated driving experimental scenario to analyse the effects of noise generated during urban rail transit train operation on drivers’ functional brain networks. The experiment recruited 16 participants, and the simulated driving scenario was conducted at noise levels of 50, 60, 70, and 80 dB. Functional connectivity between all electrode pairs across various frequency bands was evaluated using the weighted phase lag index (WPLI), and a brain network based on this was constructed. Graph theoretic analysis employed network global efficiency, degree, and clustering coefficient as metrics. Significant increases in the WPLI values of theta and alpha frequency bands were observed in high noise environments (70 dB, 80 dB), as well as enhanced brain synchronisation. Furthermore, concerning the topological metrics of brain networks, it was observed that the global efficiency of brain networks in theta and alpha frequency ranges, as well as the node degree and clustering coefficients, experienced substantial growth in high noise environments (70 dB, 80 dB) as opposed to 50 dB and 60 dB. This finding indicates that high-noise environments impact the reorganisation of functional brain networks, leading to a preference for network structures with improved global efficiency. Such findings may improve our understanding of the neural mechanisms of driving under noise exposure, and thus potentially reduce road accidents to some extent.
The impact of common language on international trade: Evidence from Korean language
Authors: Xia Qingshu , Zhou Boxu
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the impact of a minority language on international trade. Using the distance to Hunchun as an instrumental variable, and transaction-level customs data from 2000 to 2015, we investigate the causal impact of common Korean language on international trade between Chinese counties and South/North Korea. The results suggest that a 1% increase in the proportion of population speaking Korean will increase value share and transactions share in trade by 1.8% and 2.3%, respectively. These effects are more pronounced in trade with North Korea and in higher trade share regions. Furthermore, we show that the common Korean language exerts its influence through reducing communication barrier. The impact is mainly observed at the extensive margin rather than the intensive margin. These findings highlight the potential of leveraging minority languages to boost bilateral trade in developing countries.
Adoptability of digital payments for community health workers in peri-urban Uganda: A case study of Wakiso district
Authors: Kembabazi Veronica , Tigaiza Arnold , Opio Charles , Aweko Juliet , Nakafeero Mary , Makumbi Fredrick Edward , Ediau Michael , Kiracho Elizabeth Ekirapa , Tusubira Andrew K. , Waiswa Peter
Published: August 2024

Background

Whereas digital payments have been identified as a solution to health payment challenges, evidence on their adoptability among Community Health Workers (CHWs) is limited. Understanding their adoptability is crucial for sustainability. This study assessed the adoptability of digital payments for CHWs in Wakiso district, Uganda.

Methods

A convergent parallel mixed-methods study was conducted between November and December 2022, in Wakiso district, Uganda. We surveyed a random sample of 150 CHWs using a structured questionnaire and conducted key informant interviews among three purposively selected Digital payment coordinators. The study utilized the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework to assess the adoptability of digital payments among CHWs. Factor analysis was performed to extract composite variables from the original constituting variables. Using the median, the outcome was converted to a binary variable and logistic regression was conducted to assess the association between the TAM constructs and adoptability of digital payments by CHWs. Quantitative data was analyzed using STATA 14, while qualitative data was transcribed verbatim and analyzed using ATLAS.ti 22.

Results

Nearly all participants (98.0%; n = 49) had previously received payments through mobile money, a digital payment method. (52%; n = 78) of CHWs said they intend to use digital payment modalities. Perceived risk of digital payments was associated with 83% lower odds of adoptability of digital payment modalities (OR = 0.17;95%CI:0.052, 0.54), while perceived trust had nearly three times higher odds of adoptability of digital payment modalities (OR = 2.82;95%CI:1.41, 5.67). Qualitative interviews showed that most CHWs reported positive experiences with digital health payments, including effectiveness and completeness of payments except for delays associated with mobile money payments across payment providers. Mobile money was reported to be easy to use, in addition to fostering financial responsibility compared to cash.

Conclusion

CHWs in Wakiso district intend to use digital payment modalities, particularly mobile money/e-cash. Perceived risk of the payment method and trust are key determinants of adoptability. Synergized efforts by both payment providers to manage payment delays and mitigate risks associated with digital payments could attenuate perceived risk and build trust in digital payment modalities.
Antimicrobial resistance profile of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from patients, healthcare workers, and the environment in a tertiary hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Ibrahim Rajiha Abubeker , Wang Shu-Hua , Gebreyes Wondwossen A. , Mediavilla Jose R. , Hundie Gadissa Bedada , Mekuria Zelalem , Ambachew Rozina , Teklu Dejenie Shiferaw , Kreiswirth Barry , Beyene Degefu , Berhe Nega
Published: August 2024

Staphylococcus aureus infection and colonization in patients may be transmitted to healthcare providers and the environment and subsequently cause healthcare-associated infections in other patients. Pathogenic S. aureus strains produce virulence factors, such as Panton-Valentine Leukocidin (PVL), that contribute to the severity of infections and aid in their spread. The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is additional concern with respect to S. aureus infection. In this study, the virulence genes and antibiotic resistance profiles of S. aureus were characterized from patients’ clinical isolates, healthcare workers’ (HCWs’) nasal colonization screenings, and the environment at a tertiary healthcare hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A total of 365 samples were collected from September 2021 to September 2022: 73 patients’ clinical specimens, 202 colonization screenings from HCWs, and 90 hospital environment’s swabs. Fifty-one (25.2%) HCW and 10/90 (11.1%) environment S. aureus isolates were identified. Among the 134 isolates, 10 (7.5%) were methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). Three (4.1%), five (9.8%), and two (20.0%) of the MRSA isolates were identified from the patients, HCWs, and the environment, respectively. Overall, 118 (88.1%) were ampicillin and penicillin resistant; 70 (52.2%) were trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole resistant; and 28 (20.9%) were erythromycin resistant. S. aureus isolates from patients were more resistant to antibiotics than isolates from HCWs or the hospital environment (p<0.05). A total of 92/134 (68.6%) isolates possessed the lukfF-PV gene, which was identified in 62 (85.0%), 26 (51.0%), and 4 (40.0%) of the patient, HCWs, and the environment, respectively. The proportion of lukfF-PV gene containing S. aureus isolated from patient samples was statistically significant. Four (40.0%) of the MRSA isolates also had the lukfF-PV gene. The identification of highly AMR and virulence factors from patients, HCWs and the environment is concerning. Further studies are needed to identify potential transmission links and improve infection prevention and control.
Fundraiser engagement, third-party endorsement and crowdfunding performance: A configurational theory approach
Authors: Li Qingxiang , Wang Nianxin
Published: August 2024

Reward-based crowdfunding is a typical two-sided platform (fundraiser side and backer side) with high information asymmetry. While existing research indicates that signals from fundraisers and backers can impact crowdfunding performance, the interplay among these signals warrants further investigation. Drawing on signaling theory, this study adopts a configurational perspective and utilizes the fsQCA method and linear regression to investigate the combined effects of fundraiser engagement (update and fundraiser comment), third-party endorsement (backer comment and Facebook sharing), and project preparedness (video, image, and description) on crowdfunding performance. Drawing data from the reward-based crowdfunding platform Indiegogo, this research pointed out that these signals cannot generate better crowdfunding performance alone and examined substitution and complementary effects among different signals. Based on the linear regression and fsQCA results, configurations that lead to high crowdfunding performance are identified. We found that project preparedness must work with other signals to produce high crowdfunding performance. Besides, we summarized these configurations into two patterns that may lead to high crowdfunding performance: a fundraiser engagement-driven pattern and a third-party endorsement-driven pattern. This study contributes a configurational perspective and valuable insights into how signals can work together to mitigate information asymmetry in crowdfunding.