bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malaria transmission potential of Anopheles gambiae s.l. in indoor residual spraying areas with clothianidin 50 WG in northern Benin
Authors: Odjo Esdras Mahoutin , Tognidro Mathilde , Govoetchan Renaud , Missihoun Antoine Abel , Padonou Gil Germain , Ahouandjinou Juvenal Minassou , Akinro Bruno , Koukpo Zinsou Come , Tokponnon Filémon T. , Djenontin Armel , Agbangla Clement , Akogbeto Martin C.
Published: February 2024

The study objective was to assess the frequency of the kdr-L995F and ace-1 G280S genetic mutations in Anopheles gambiae s.l. mosquitoes and examine their ability to transmit Plasmodium falciparum in areas where indoor residual spraying (IRS) was implemented with Clothianidin 50 WG. The study was conducted in six communes in the Alibori and Donga departments of which four were IRS-treated and two were untreated and served as control. Post-IRS monthly samples of adult mosquitoes were collected in study communes using human landing catches (HLC). An. gambiae s.l. specimens were processed to detect kdr-L995F and ace-1 G280S mutations via PCR as well as Plasmodium falciparum infectivity through CSP ELISA. Our data revealed a high and similar allelic frequency for the kdr-L995F mutation in both treated and control communes (79% vs. 77%, p = 0.14) whilst allelic frequency of the ace-1 G280S mutation was lower across the study area (2–3%, p = 0.58). The sporozoite rate was 2.6% and 2.4% respectively in treated and untreated communes (p = 0.751). No association was found between Plasmodium falciparum infection in Anopheles gambiae s.l. vectors and carriage of kdr-L995F and ace-1 G280S mutations regardless of genotypes. The study findings underline the need for an integrated approach to malaria control, combining different control methods to effectively target transmission. Regular monitoring of insecticide resistance and genetic mutations is essential to guide control strategies.
Feasibility of clinical newborn metabolic screening in a high-volume maternity center in Nepal
Authors: Khan Janine Y. , Subedi Kalpana U. , Karmacharya Shailendra B. , Paudel Prajwal , Manandhar Dharma S. , Hennessy Garza Rose , Dookeran Keith A. , Manandhar Sunil R.
Published: February 2024

Background

Strategic action plans around newborn health evaluation are needed, to address the high neonatal mortality rate in Nepal. Surveillance systems, like Newborn Metabolic Screening (NBS), could reveal unrecognized drivers of neonatal death. NBS is not routinely performed in Nepal. Our objective was to determine the feasibility of establishing NBS, and its acceptability among healthcare providers and parents, in Nepal.

Methods

This prospective cohort study was conducted between November 2021 and May 2022 in term/late preterm infants born at Paropakar Maternity Hospital, Kathmandu, screening for 6 disorders that can be confirmed and managed locally. Staff were trained on dried-blood spot collection and transport protocols, performance metrics were established, and assays were performed at an accredited laboratory in Bangalore, India. Surveys were developed to determine acceptability among health-care providers and parents.

Results

Of 835 parents approached for the study, 825 (98.8%) consented. Parental surveys showed that 92% considered “no cost” option most important in choosing to participate in the study. Samples were transported to laboratories in Kathmandu and Bangalore in 36 ± 24 h, and 4.75 ± 1 days, which exceeded expected metrics of 24 and 48 h, respectively. Results were communicated to parents by 9.5 ± 2 days, which was within the expected metric window of 14 days. Abnormalities were reported in 13 infants and included 5 hemoglobinopathy traits (4 Hb E and 1 Hb D), 3 congenital hypothyroidism, 2 glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, 1 congenital adrenal hyperplasia, 1 elevated acylcarnitine, and 1 biotinidase deficiency. Healthcare providers surveyed (n = 116) showed that 67% reported a moderate understanding of NBS; all indicated that screening would be beneficial. Most cited early diagnosis and treatment, as well as, providing risk to future pregnancies as significant benefits. 90% thought screening should be routinely performed.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that it is feasible to introduce NBS in Nepal. Transport metrics were longer than expected due to COVID pandemic travel restrictions; however, it was possible to deliver results to families within 2 weeks of birth. Parents overwhelmingly considered “no cost” option as the most important in choosing to screen. A government-sponsored program will be a key factor in establishing NBS in Nepal.
Long-Term Follow-Up of the Anthracyclines in Early Breast Cancer Trials (USOR 06-090, NSABP B-46-I/USOR 07132, and NSABP B-49 [NRG Oncology])
Authors: Geyer Charles E. , Blum Joanne L. , Yothers Greg , Asmar Lina , Flynn Patrick J. , Robert Nicholas J. , Hopkins Judith O. , O'Shaughnessy Joyce A. , Rastogi Priya , Puhalla Shannon L. , Hilton Christie J. , Dang Chau T. , Gómez Henry Leonidas , Vukelja Svetislava J. , Lyss Alan P. , Paul Devchand , Brufsky Adam M. , Colangelo Linda H. , Swain Sandra M. , Mamounas Eleftherios P. , Wolmark Norman
Published: February 2024

Clinical trials frequently include multiple end points that mature at different times. The initial report, typically based on the primary end point, may be published when key planned co-primary or secondary analyses are not yet available. Clinical Trial Updates provide an opportunity to disseminate additional results from studies, published in JCO or elsewhere, for which the primary end point has already been reported.

The primary joint efficacy analysis of the Anthracyclines in Early Breast Cancer (ABC) trials reported in 2017 failed to demonstrate nonanthracycline adjuvant therapy was noninferior to anthracycline-based regimens in high-risk, early breast cancer. Full analyses of the studies had proceeded when the prespecified futility boundary was crossed at a planned futility analysis for the ability to demonstrate noninferiority of a nonanthracycline regimen with continued follow-up. These results were presented with 3.3 years of median follow-up. This manuscript reports results of the final analyses of the study efficacy end points conducted with 6.9 years of median follow-up. Long-term analysis of invasive disease-free survival (IDFS), the primary end point of the ABC trials, remains consistent with the original results, as noninferiority of the nonanthracycline regimens could not be declared on the basis of the original criteria. The secondary end point of recurrence-free interval, which excluded deaths not due to breast cancer as events, favored anthracycline-based regimens, and tests for heterogeneity were significant for hormone receptor status ( P = .02) favoring anthracycline regimens for the hormone receptor–negative cohorts. There was no difference in overall survival, and review of the type of IDFS events in the groups suggested reductions in cancer recurrences achieved with anthracycline regimens were offset by late leukemias and deaths unrelated to breast cancer.
Testosterone Treatment, Weight Loss, and Health-related Quality of Life and Psychosocial Function in Men: A 2-year Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Grossmann Mathis , Robledo Kristy P , Daniel Mark , Handelsman David J , Inder Warrick J , Stuckey Bronwyn G A , Yeap Bu B , Ng Tang Fui Mark , Bracken Karen , Allan Carolyn A , Jesudason David , Zajac Jeffrey D , Wittert Gary A
Published: February 2024

Objective

To determine the effect of testosterone vs placebo treatment on health-related quality of life (HR-QOL) and psychosocial function in men without pathologic hypogonadism in the context of a lifestyle intervention.

Design, Setting, Participants

Secondary analysis of a 2-year randomized controlled testosterone therapy trial for prevention or reversal of newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes, enrolling men ≥ 50 years at high risk for type 2 diabetes from 6 Australian centers.

Interventions

Injectable testosterone undecanoate or matching placebo on the background of a community-based lifestyle program.

Main Outcomes

Self-reported measures of HR-QOL/psychosocial function.

Results

Of 1007 participants randomized into the Testosterone for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T4DM) trial, 648 (64%) had complete data available for all HR-QOL/psychosocial function assessments at baseline and 2 years. Over 24 months, while most measures were not different between treatment arms, testosterone treatment, compared with placebo, improved subjective social status and sense of coherence. Baseline HR-QOL/psychosocial function measures did not predict the effect of testosterone treatment on glycemic outcomes, primary endpoints of T4DM. Irrespective of treatment allocation, larger decreases in body weight were associated with improved mental quality of life, mastery, and subjective social status. Men with better baseline physical function, greater sense of coherence, and fewer depressive symptoms experienced greater associated decreases in body weight, with similar effects on waist circumference.

Conclusion

In this diabetes prevention trial, weight loss induced by a lifestyle intervention improved HR-QOL and psychosocial function in more domains than testosterone treatment. The magnitude of weight and waist circumference reduction were predicted by baseline physical function, depressive symptomology, and sense of coherence.
Thoracic Epidural Analgesia Is Not Associated With Improved Survival After Pancreatic Surgery: Long-Term Follow-Up of the Randomized Controlled PAKMAN Trial
Authors: Klotz Rosa , Ahmed Azaz , Tremmel Anja , Büsch Christopher , Tenckhoff Solveig , Doerr-Harim Colette , Lock Johan F. , Brede Elmar-Marc , Köninger Jörg , Schiff Jan-Henrik , Wittel Uwe A. , Hötzel Alexander , Keck Tobias , Nau Carla , Amati Anca-Laura , Koch Christian , Diener Markus K. , Weigand Markus A. , Büchler Markus W. , Knebel Phillip , Larmann Jan
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Perioperative thoracic epidural analgesia (EDA) and patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) are common forms of analgesia after pancreatic surgery. Current guidelines recommend EDA over PCIA, and evidence suggests that EDA may improve long-term survival after surgery, especially in cancer patients. The aim of this study was to determine whether perioperative EDA is associated with an improved patient prognosis compared to PCIA in pancreatic surgery.

METHODS:

The PAKMAN trial was an adaptive, pragmatic, international, multicenter, randomized controlled superiority trial conducted from June 2015 to October 2017. Three to five years after index surgery a long-term follow-up was performed from October 2020 to April 2021.

RESULTS:

For long-term follow-up of survival, 109 patients with EDA were compared to 111 patients with PCIA after partial pancreatoduodenectomy (PD). Long-term follow-up of quality of life (QoL) and pain assessment was available for 40 patients with EDA and 45 patients with PCIA (questionnaire response rate: 94%). Survival analysis revealed that EDA, when compared to PCIA, was not associated with improved overall survival (OS, HR, 1.176, 95% HR-CI, 0.809–1.710, P = .397, n = 220). Likewise, recurrence-free survival did not differ between groups (HR, 1.116, 95% HR-CI, 0.817–1.664, P = .397, n = 220). OS subgroup analysis including only patients with malignancies showed no significant difference between EDA and PCIA (HR, 1.369, 95% HR-CI, 0.932–2.011, P = .109, n = 179). Similar long-term effects on QoL and pain severity were observed in both groups (EDA: n = 40, PCIA: n = 45).

CONCLUSIONS:

Results from this long-term follow-up of the PAKMAN randomized controlled trial do not support favoring EDA over PCIA in pancreatic surgery. Until further evidence is available, EDA and PCIA should be considered similar regarding long-term survival.
Association of Early Dexmedetomidine Utilization With Clinical Outcomes After Moderate-Severe Traumatic Brain Injury: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Liu Sunny Yang , Kelly-Hedrick Margot , Komisarow Jordan , Hatfield Jordan , Ohnuma Tetsu , Treggiari Miriam M. , Colton Katharine , Arulraja Evangeline , Vavilala Monica S. , Laskowitz Daniel T. , Mathew Joseph P. , Hernandez Adrian , James Michael L. , Raghunathan Karthik , Krishnamoorthy Vijay
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an expensive and common public health problem. Management of TBI oftentimes includes sedation to facilitate mechanical ventilation (MV) for airway protection. Dexmedetomidine has emerged as a potential candidate for improved patient outcomes when used for early sedation after TBI due to its potential modulation of autonomic dysfunction. We examined early sedation patterns, as well as the association of dexmedetomidine exposure with clinical and functional outcomes among mechanically ventilated patients with moderate-severe TBI (msTBI) in the United States.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using data from the Premier dataset and identified a cohort of critically ill adult patients with msTBI who required MV from January 2016 to June 2020. msTBI was defined by head-neck abbreviated injury scale (AIS) values of 3 (serious), 4 (severe), and 5 (critical). We described early continuous sedative utilization patterns. Using propensity-matched models, we examined the association of early dexmedetomidine exposure (within 2 days of intensive care unit [ICU] admission) with the primary outcome of hospital mortality and the following secondary outcomes: hospital length of stay (LOS), days on MV, vasopressor use after the first 2 days of admission, hemodialysis (HD) after the first 2 days of admission, hospital costs, and discharge disposition. All medications, treatments, and procedures were identified using date-stamped hospital charge codes.

RESULTS:

The study population included 19,751 subjects who required MV within 2 days of ICU admission. The patients were majority male and white. From 2016 to 2020, the annual percent utilization of dexmedetomidine increased from 4.05% to 8.60%. After propensity score matching, early dexmedetomidine exposure was associated with reduced odds of hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR], 0.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.47–0.74; P < .0001), increased risk for liberation from MV (hazard ratio [HR], 1.20; 95% CI, 1.09–1.33; P = .0003), and reduced LOS (HR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.01–1.22; P = .033). Exposure to early dexmedetomidine was not associated with odds of HD (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 0.73–1.78; P = .56), vasopressor utilization (OR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.78–1.55; P = .60), or increased hospital costs (relative cost ratio, 1.98; 95% CI, 0.93–1.03; P = .66).

CONCLUSIONS:

Dexmedetomidine is being utilized increasingly as a sedative for mechanically ventilated patients with msTBI. Early dexmedetomidine exposure may lead to improved patient outcomes in this population.
The Association of Preoperative Diabetes With Postoperative Delirium in Older Patients Undergoing Major Orthopedic Surgery: A Prospective Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Shang Zixiang , Jiang Yu , Fang Panpan , Zhu Wenjie , Guo Jiaxin , Li Lili , Liang Yongjie , Zhang Sichen , Ma Shenglan , Mei Bin , Fan Yinguang , Xie Zhongcong , Shen Qiying , Liu Xuesheng
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Postoperative delirium (POD) is a common form of postoperative brain dysfunction, especially in the elderly. However, its risk factors remain largely to be determined. This study aimed to investigate whether (1) preoperative diabetes is associated with POD after elective orthopedic surgery and (2) intraoperative frontal alpha power is a mediator of the association between preoperative diabetes and POD.

METHODS:

This was a prospective matched cohort study of patients aged 60 years or more, with a preoperative diabetes who underwent elective orthopedic surgery. Nondiabetic patients were matched 1:1 to diabetic patients in terms of age, sex, and type of surgery. Primary outcome was occurrence of POD, assessed using the 3-minute Diagnostic Confusion Assessment Method (3D-CAM) once daily from 6 pm to 8 pm during the postoperative days 1–7 or until discharge. Secondary outcome was the severity of POD which was assessed for all participants using the short form of the CAM-Severity. Frontal electroencephalogram (EEG) was recorded starting before induction of anesthesia and lasting until discharge from the operating room. Intraoperative alpha power was calculated using multitaper spectral analyses. Mediation analysis was used to estimate the proportion of the association between preoperative diabetes and POD that could be explained by intraoperative alpha power.

RESULTS:

A total of 138 pairs of eligible patients successfully matched 1:1. After enrollment, 6 patients in the diabetes group and 4 patients in the nondiabetes group were excluded due to unavailability of raw EEG data. The final analysis included 132 participants with preoperative diabetes and 134 participants without preoperative diabetes, with a median age of 68 years and 72.6% of patients were female. The incidence of POD was 16.7% (22/132) in patients with preoperative diabetes vs 6.0% (8/134) in patients without preoperative diabetes. Preoperative diabetes was associated with increased odds of POD after adjustment of age, sex, body mass index, education level, hypertension, arrhythmia, coronary heart disease, and history of stroke (odds ratio, 3.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4–8.0; P = .009). The intraoperative alpha power accounted for an estimated 20% (95% CI, 2.6–60%; P = .021) of the association between diabetes and POD.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study suggests that preoperative diabetes is associated with an increased risk of POD in older patients undergoing major orthopedic surgery, and that low intraoperative alpha power partially mediates such association.
Vertebral Bone Quality Score as a Predictor of Adjacent Segment Disease After Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Authors: Kuo Cathleen C. , Soliman Mohamed A. R. , Baig Rehman Ali , Aguirre Alexander O. , Ruggiero Nicco , Donnelly Brianna M. , Siddiqi Manhal , Khan Asham , Quiceno Esteban , Mullin Jeffrey P. , Pollina John
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

With lumbar spine fusion being one of the most commonly performed spinal surgeries, investigating common complications such as adjacent segment disease (ASD) is a high priority. To the authors' knowledge, there are no previous studies investigating the utility of the preoperative magnetic resonance imaging–based vertebral bone quality (VBQ) score in predicting radiographic and surgical ASD after lumbar spine fusion. We aimed to investigate the predictive factors for radiographic and surgical ASD, focusing on the predictive potential of the VBQ score.

METHODS:

A single-center retrospective analysis was conducted of all patients who underwent 1–3 level lumbar or lumbosacral interbody fusion for lumbar spine degenerative disease between 2014 and 2021 with a minimum 12 months of clinical and radiographic follow-up. Demographic data were collected, along with patient medical, and surgical data. Preoperative MRI was assessed in the included patients using the VBQ scoring system to identify whether radiographic ASD or surgical ASD could be predicted.

RESULTS:

A total of 417 patients were identified (mean age, 59.8 ± 12.4 years; women, 54.0%). Eighty-two (19.7%) patients developed radiographic ASD, and 58 (13.9%) developed surgical ASD. A higher VBQ score was a significant predictor of radiographic ASD in univariate analysis (2.4 ± 0.5 vs 3.3 ± 0.4; P < .001) and multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 1.601; 95% CI, 1.453-1.763; P < .001). For surgical ASD, a significantly higher VBQ score was seen in univariate analysis (2.3 ± 0.5 vs 3.3 ± 0.4; P < .001) and served as an independent risk factor in multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 1.509; 95% CI, 1.324-1.720; P < .001). We also identified preoperative disk bulge and preoperative existence of adjacent segment disk degeneration to be significant predictors of both radiographic and surgical ASD. Furthermore, 3-level fusion was also a significant predictor for surgical ASD.

CONCLUSION:

The VBQ scoring system might be a useful adjunct for predicting radiographic and surgical ASD.
The contribution of asymmetric cell division to phenotypic heterogeneity in cancer
Authors: Buss Julieti Huch , Begnini Karine Rech , Lenz Guido
Published: February 2024

Cells have evolved intricate mechanisms for dividing their contents in the most symmetric way during mitosis. However, a small proportion of cell divisions results in asymmetric segregation of cellular components, which leads to differences in the characteristics of daughter cells. Although the classical function of asymmetric cell division (ACD) in the regulation of pluripotency is the generation of one differentiated daughter cell and one self-renewing stem cell, recent evidence suggests that ACD plays a role in other physiological processes. In cancer, tumor heterogeneity can result from the asymmetric segregation of genetic material and other cellular components, resulting in cell-to-cell differences in fitness and response to therapy. Defining the contribution of ACD in generating differences in key features relevant to cancer biology is crucial to advancing our understanding of the causes of tumor heterogeneity and developing strategies to mitigate or counteract it. In this Review, we delve into the occurrence of asymmetric mitosis in cancer cells and consider how ACD contributes to the variability of several phenotypes. By synthesizing the current literature, we explore the molecular mechanisms underlying ACD, the implications of phenotypic heterogeneity in cancer, and the complex interplay between these two phenomena.
Examining Musical Aptitudes and Achievements in the Subjective Version of the Self-evaluation of Teachers’ Work: Current Perspectives
Authors: Kołodziejski Maciej , Kisiel Mirosław
Published: February 2024

The article is a review which concerns methods of measuring and evaluating the musical aptitudes and achievements of primary school students in the light of the assumptions of Edwin E. Gordon’s music learning theory and in the subjective version of the self-evaluation of the teacher’s work, i.e. the study of the value of his or her own didactic and educational work in music education classes. The authors describe selected tools for measuring musical aptitudes available on the Polish market and methods to objectively verify musical achievements.
El mapa y el periplo. Cartografía antigua y espacio hodológico
Authors: Janni Pietro
Published: February 2024

Esta obra, que aborda el tema de la cartografía antigua y el espacio hodológico, constituye la traducción del libro de Pietro Janni titulado originalmente La mappa e il periplo. Cartografia antica e spazio odologico, aparecido en 1984, que introdujo un nuevo cambio de paradigma en los estudios de geografía antigua, cuyos postulados teóricos y análisis textuales siguen estando vigentes en el estudio de la concepción del espacio de griegos y romanos, en general, y de la cartografía, en particular. Se ha respetado el estilo del autor original: breve y conciso, así como, a menudo, incisivo y agudo, que revela un dominio absoluto de la literatura clásica.
Exact and Heuristic Solution Techniques for Mixed-Integer Quantile Minimization Problems
Authors: Cattaruzza Diego , Labbé Martine , Petris Matteo , Roland Marius , Schmidt Martin
Published: February 2024

We consider mixed-integer linear quantile minimization problems that yield large-scale problems that are very hard to solve for real-world instances. We motivate the study of this problem class by two important real-world problems: a maintenance planning problem for electricity networks and a quantile-based variant of the classic portfolio optimization problem. For these problems, we develop valid inequalities and present an overlapping alternating direction method. Moreover, we discuss an adaptive scenario clustering method for which we prove that it terminates after a finite number of iterations with a global optimal solution. We study the computational impact of all presented techniques and finally show that their combination leads to an overall method that can solve the maintenance planning problem on large-scale real-world instances provided by the ROADEF/EURO challenge 2020 1 and that they also lead to significant improvements when solving a quantile-version of the classic portfolio optimization problem.

History: Accepted by Andrea Lodi, Area Editor for Design & Analysis of Algorithms–Discrete.

Funding: This work was supported by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft [CRC TRR 154], Fonds De La Recherche Scientifique [PDR T0098.18], and Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/ijoc.2022.0105 .
Jam in the Tunnel: On Urban Freight Tunnels, Their Operational Scheduling, and Unused Transport Capacity
Authors: Boysen Nils , Briskorn Dirk , Rupp Johannes , Schwerdfeger Stefan
Published: February 2024

Underground passageways for the transport of goods and people have fascinated mankind throughout the centuries. Recent initiatives in different parts of the world aim at rekindling the freight tunnel concept for urban logistics. According to this concept, freight is lifted into a tunnel, moved via electrically powered vehicles, rail cars, or maglev shuttles toward inner-city microhubs, and finally delivered with environmentally friendly vehicles to urban recipients. The main justification for this concept to outweigh the huge tunnel boring cost is a substantial reduction of road-based urban freight traffic. To warn about unfulfilled expectations, however, we show that the combination of time-critical goods, small inner-city hubs with restricted storage capacity, and the wrong booking procedure can hinder a loading of tunnel vehicles to capacity. To do so, we consider a polynomially solvable scheduling problem where due date-restricted shipments are to be assigned to tunnel vehicles and delivered to a given set of microhubs with limited storage capacity. Scarce hub capacities, tight due dates, and the wrong booking policy may not only lead to unused tunnel capacity but also to shipments that cannot be feasibly transported through the tunnel. If they are handed over to trucks as a fallback option, we show that a Braess-like paradox can occur: The time-critical, small-lot transports of the leftover shipments can produce even more surface traffic than trucking all shipments right from the start without the tunnel.

Supplemental Material: The online appendices are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/serv.2023.0005 .
Autism and the HCA: autistic history and autistic diagnosis
Authors: Barber Chris
Published: February 2024

This series of articles will explore the neurodivergent condition of autism from a range of different perspectives. This second article will explore the history of, and diagnostic issues relating to, autism.
Rapid nursing redeployment from a specialist ward to a COVID-19 high-dependency setting
Authors: Robinson Rachel , Madge Susan
Published: February 2024

Background:

Redeployment in health care can have a negative impact on the mental wellbeing of staff. Advanced planning and provisions for wellbeing support for health professionals has been recommended following previous pandemics. At the authors' institution nurses were redeployed overnight from a specialist cystic fibrosis ward to a COVID-19 high-dependency unit.

Aim:

To evaluate nurses' wellbeing following this redeployment during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method:

A mixed online survey, consisting of both open and closed questions, based on literature, preliminary results of the Impact of COVID-19 on the Nursing and Midwifery Workforce (ICON) study and staff feedback. This was sent to 28 nurses to explore their feelings and experiences of redeployment to a COVID-19 environment. Purposive sampling was used to select study participants while thematic analysis and descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data.

Findings:

The survey had an 86% response rate. Using thematic analysis three key themes emerged: redeployment anxiety, lack of organisational preparedness and newfound teamworking. More than half (57%) of respondents expressed anxiety and concern when told of their redeployment; 52% reported that they did not receive adequate support from senior staff and management. However, 74% reported that they felt their nursing was positively influenced by support and teamwork from those in patient-facing roles. Twenty-five percent reported that they were looking for a new job or leaving their current role.

Conclusion:

This study examines the effects that redeployment to a COVID-19 environment has had on nurses. It highlights the need for further improvement to ensure redeployed staff are supported to safeguard their mental wellbeing.
Telling tales in early years
Authors: Leeper Marion
Published: February 2024

World Storytelling Day falls on 20 March later this month and is a celebration of the art of oral storytelling. Storyteller Marion Leeper shares more about what children can learn through telling and listening to oral tales, and how early years educators can use the practice to inspire a love of stories among the children in their care.
Outdoor play: The right for children to be outside
Authors: Macbeth Rachel
Published: February 2024

Rachel Macbeth, founder and manager of Beatle Woods Nursery, talks about her outdoor nursery based in 10 acres of woodland, and shares ways settings can use outdoor areas to encourage play, develop children's imaginations, boost their mental and physical health, and connect with nature. She also discusses the importance of professional love in enabling children to develop their play outside.
An investigation into the current early years employment crisis: Looking at the opinions of previous and current practitioners
Authors: Richman Charlotte
Published: February 2024

Charlotte Richman, MA student at the University of Chichester, looks at some of the issues linked to the current recruitment and retention crisis in the early years sector. She discusses different areas of research alongside the views of practitioners who currently work or have previously worked within the sector.
Taking action in early years is essential for children's health and well-being
Authors: Ziolkowsk Stella
Published: February 2024

More than one in five children aged four to five years old are currently overweight or obese according to the National Child Measurement programme. Stella Ziolkowski, director of Quality & Training at NDNA, highlights how important this issue is and shares her thoughts for how settings can help combat the situation.
The important role gratitude can play in building resilience and improving well-being
Authors: Halls Christopher
Published: February 2024

Dr Christopher Halls, head of Early Years at Dulwich Prep London, shares his thoughts on the importance of gratitude in helping children and staff develop resilience in these challenging times, instead of focusing on the negatives.
The morphology of the Chinese Mayfly Ephoron nanchangi (Hsu, 1936) (Ephemeroptera: Polymitarcyidae)
Authors: PANG JIA-HAO , XU JUN-KAI , WANG YING-SHU , ZHENG XU-HONG-YI , ZHOU CHANG-FA
Published: February 2024

The Chinese polymitarcyid mayfly Ephoron nanchangi (Hsu, 1936) was originally named upon females, which were lost. The exact morphology has not been presented until now. The newly collected materials of this species, which include nymphs, female subimagos and male imagos, show it is a valid species with unique morphology, distinguishable from congeners by its short and strong nymphal mandibular tusks, long distance between forks of Rs and MA in imaginal forewings.
Teachers’ understanding of gender-based violence in two public schools in Burkina Faso
Authors: Saini Ruchi , Spear Anne
Published: February 2024

Gender-based violence (GBV) in schools in Burkina Faso is a central concern for international organisations, as well as local NGOs and the national government. Yet, the voices of school teachers have received limited attention. In this article, we draw on focus group discussions and interviews conducted with school teachers at two public schools in Burkina Faso to investigate how they conceptualise GBV, as well as the factors shaping their understanding. The findings foreground the situated and subjective nature of their conceptualisation; which is shaped not just by international and national policies, but also by the sociocultural context in which the policies are enacted. Existing gender norms, the acceptance of corporal punishment as a disciplinary tool inside homes, and the practice of child marriage in Burkina Faso emerged as key factors shaping the participants’ perceptions. Based on the findings we argue that teachers must be 1) empowered to critically assess contextually relevant gender norms and cultural practices, and 2) provided with clear codes of ethical conduct in schools. It is equally important that teachers are given a seat at the table of policy formulation at regional, national and international levels, and the challenges faced by them are given consideration when designing interventions to curb GBV.
Comparison and optimization of different routing methods for meshed QKD networks using trusted nodes
Authors: Johann Tim , Wenning Mario , Giemsa Daniel , Dochhan Annika , Gunkel Matthias , Fehenberger Tobias , Pachnicke Stephan
Published: February 2024

Quantum key distribution (QKD) appears as a promising technique for encrypted communication, preserving security even in the presence of a future powerful quantum computer. At the same time, communication infrastructure becomes increasingly complex, and the exponentially increasing traffic volume makes the application of QKD a challenging task. In addition, current hardware for QKD modules is still subject to research to gain maturity, to guarantee secret key rates, and to mitigate key rate fluctuations and instabilities. Our study analyzes and optimizes five routing algorithms to efficiently use the secret keys as a resource in meshed national-wide networks. By fulfilling distinct security and performance levels, the algorithms are compared with respect to key performance indicators and optimized for blocking probabilities, load balancing, or the management traffic amount. Depending on the application, our study allows operators to choose a well-suited algorithm and gives performance estimates, including an assessment of the performance gap to globally optimized algorithms.
Experimental optimization design synthesis for up-conversion luminescence performance in SrBi4Ti4O15: Er3+/Yb3+ red-green phosphors
Authors: Liu Shengyi , Gao Duan , Wang Li , Song Wenbin , Zhang Zhiliang , Wang Shitao , Zhu Ying , Zhang Qi
Published: February 2024

Er3+/Yb3+ co-doped SrBi4Ti4O15 crystalline powders were synthesized using the high-temperature solid-phase method. The crystal structure of the obtained phosphors was analyzed through x-ray diffraction (XRD), confirming the purity of all products such as SrBi4Ti4O15. Employing experimental design optimization theory, regression equations were established to correlate the Er3+/Yb3+ doping concentrations with the luminescent intensities. The genetic algorithm was utilized to compute the optimal solutions of the equations, resulting in Er3+ and Yb3+ doping concentrations of 3 mol% (molar fraction) and 20 mol% under 980 nm laser excitation and 3 mol% and 29.79 mol% under 1550 nm laser excitation. The up-conversion fluorescence emission spectra of the samples were measured under 980 nm excitation, revealing intense green emissions at 525 nm, 550 nm, and 662 nm, corresponding to the 2H11/2→4I15/2, 4S3/2→4I15/2, and 4F9/2→4I15/2 energy levels, respectively. Under 1550 nm excitation, peaks corresponding to the same energy levels were observed at 523 nm, 548 nm, and 661 nm. The relationship between the up-conversion fluorescence and the laser operating current for the optimal samples under 980 nm and 1550 nm excitations was explored, indicating two-photon and three-photon processes, respectively. Detailed analysis and discussion of the up-conversion fluorescence mechanisms were conducted. Additionally, the relationship between the up-conversion fluorescence and the temperature for the optimal samples was investigated, revealing excellent temperature sensing characteristics under 980 and 1550 nm laser excitations. The CIE coordinates for the optimal samples were calculated as (0.3111, 0.6747) and (0.5254, 0.4671) under 980 nm and 1550 nm excitations, respectively.
Polarization sensitive optical side leakage radiometry for distributed characterization of anti-resonant hollow-core fibers
Authors: Sun Yizhi , Liu Qi , Deng Haoping , Sheng Yulin , Gao Shoufei , Wang Yingying , Ding Wei
Published: February 2024

A novel technique referred to as optical side leakage radiometry is proposed and experimentally demonstrated for non-destructive and distributed characterization of anti-resonant hollow-core optical fibers with high spatial resolution. Through in-depth analysis of the leakage light collection, we discover a unique polarization dependence, which is validated by our experiment. By leveraging this effect and employing Fourier filtering, this method enables accurate quantification of propagation attenuations for fundamental and higher order modes (with the uncertainty of <1 dB/km), identification of localized defects (with the resolution of ∼5 cm), and measurement of ultra-low spectral phase birefringence (at the level of 10−7) in two in-house-fabricated nested antiresonant nodeless hollow-core fibers. Such a fiber characterization approach, boasting unprecedently high accuracy and a potentially wide dynamic range, holds the potential to become an indispensable diagnosis tool for monitoring and assisting the manufacture of high-quality anti-resonant hollow-core fiber.
Effects of biomass burning on CO, HCN, C2H6, C2H2 and H2CO during long-term FTIR measurements in Hefei, China
Authors: Zhu Qianqian , Wang Wei , Shan Changgong , Xie Yu , Zeng Xiangyu , Wu Peng , Liang Bin , Liu Cheng
Published: February 2024

High-resolution solar absorption spectra were continuously collected by a ground-based Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer to retrieve the total column of carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen cyanide (HCN), ethane (C2H6), acetylene (C2H2), and formaldehyde (H2CO). The time series and variation characteristics of these gases were analyzed. The biomass combustion process is identified by using the correlations between the monthly mean deviations of HCN, C2H6, C2H2 and H2CO versus CO and satellite fire point data. The months with high correlation coefficients (R > 0.8) and peaks of fire point number are considered to be with biomass combustion occurrence. The emissions of HCN, C2H6, C2H2 and H2CO in Anhui were estimated using the enhancement ratios of gases to CO in these months when biomass combustion was the main driving factor of gas concentration change. The study proved the ability of FTIR system in inferring the period during biomass combustion and estimating emissions of the trace gases concerning biomass combustion.
Adaptive-memory-length look-up table (LUT)-based digital pre-distortion for IM/DD underwater wireless optical communications
Authors: Zhou Yanting , Zhang Junwei , Lu Chao , Ghassemlooy Zabih , Guo Changjian
Published: February 2024

A digital pre-distortion (DPD) scheme based on an adaptive-memory-length look-up table (AML-LUT) is proposed and experimentally demonstrated in a four-level pulse amplitude modulation (4-PAM) underwater optical wireless communication (UOWC) system. By implementing adaptive memory length for each pattern in the AML-LUT-based DPD, the size of the AML-LUT can be significantly reduced without sacrificing performance compared to both the full-size LUT and the multi-symbol simplified look-up table (MSS-LUT)-based DPDs. The performance of the proposed AML-LUT-based DPD is experimentally evaluated for a 625 Mbit/s 4-PAM UOWC over 1 m transmission length. Experimental results show that compared with the full-size LUT with a memory length of 7 (LUT-7)-based DPD, the proposed AML-LUT-based DPD (i) incurs a marginal power penalty of 0.5 dB at both the 7% hard-decision forward error correction (HD-FEC) and KP4-FEC threshold limits, while simultaneously reducing the implementation complexity (i.e., the LUT size) by 93%; (ii) achieves comparable transmission performance compared to the MSS-LUT-based DPD, while reducing the implementation complexity by 89%; and (iii) shows great potential for high-speed, low-complexity and memory-efficient intensity modulation and direct detection (IM/DD) UOWC and short-reach optical interconnects.
Spatially resolved current density distribution in GaN-based flip-chip green mini-LEDs by microscopic hyperspectral imaging and modified two-level modeling
Authors: Lin Yi , Deng Jingyu , Li Qiyao , Zheng Xi , Zhu Lihong , Guo Weijie , Lin Yue , Chen Zhong , Lu Yijun
Published: February 2024

A modified two-level model is proposed to study the spatially resolved current density distribution of GaN-based green miniaturized light-emitting diodes (mini-LEDs), combining with microscopic hyperspectral imaging. We found that the spatially resolved current density distribution reveals both the radiative and non-radiative recombination mappings, which can also be provided separately by this model. In addition, higher current density is not necessarily correlated with higher photon emission, especially for the regions around the electrode edges, where the high current density suggests current crowding and defect-related non-radiative recombination. The current density distribution of mini-LEDs is further verified by the laser-beam-induced current (LBIC) and the spatially resolved mappings of peak wavelength and FWHM. The modified two-level model also offers radiative/non-radiative mappings and is proved to be beneficial to determine the micro-zone current density distribution and to reveal the intrinsic radiative/non-radiative recombination mechanism of mini-LEDs.
Mid-infrared large-aperture metalens design verification and double-layer micro-optical system optimization
Authors: He Weilin , Xin Lei , Yang Zhongming , Li Wei , Wang Zuojia , Liu Zhaojun
Published: February 2024

In this article, we explored the design and simulation techniques of large-aperture metalenses, and the optimization design methods of metalenses. For verification and experimental demonstration, a centimeter-scale aperture single-layer metalens and a field of view optimized metalens doublet,composed of subwavelength-spaced Si nanopillars with an operating wavelength of 3.77 µm were designed and manufactured. Finally, the focusing performance of the two under narrow-band laser irradiation was characterized, and an imaging demonstration of the metalens doublet was performed under an optical bandwidth of 250 nm (3500-3750 nm). We envision that the calculation, design, sample manufacturing and demonstration research on large-aperture metalens presented here will provide an important reference for the design and verification of large-aperture metasurface lenses or special metasurface devices in the future, such as large-aperture compact multifunctional metalens optical equipment for low-load special application systems like airborne, spaceborne, missile, satellite and deep sea.
Stay or go? Geographic variation in risks due to climate change for fishing fleets that adapt in-place or adapt on-the-move
Authors: Samhouri Jameal F. , Feist Blake E. , Jacox Michael , Liu Owen R. , Richerson Kate , Steiner Erin , Wallace John , Andrews Kelly , Barnett Lewis , Beaudreau Anne H. , Bellquist Lyall , Buil Mer Pozo , Haltuch Melissa A. , Harley Abigail , Harvey Chris J. , Kaplan Isaac C. , Norman Karma , Phillips Amanda , Rasmuson Leif K. , Ward Eric J. , Whitmire Curt , Selden Rebecca L.
Published: February 2024

From fishers to farmers, people across the planet who rely directly upon natural resources for their livelihoods and well-being face extensive impacts from climate change. However, local- and regional-scale impacts and associated risks can vary geographically, and the implications for development of adaptation pathways that will be most effective for specific communities are underexplored. To improve this understanding at relevant local scales, we developed a coupled social-ecological approach to assess the risk posed to fishing fleets by climate change, applying it to a case study of groundfish fleets that are a cornerstone of fisheries along the U.S. West Coast. Based on the mean of three high-resolution climate projections, we found that more poleward fleets may experience twice as much local temperature change as equatorward fleets, and 3–4 times as much depth displacement of historical environmental conditions in their fishing grounds. Not only are they more highly exposed to climate change, but some poleward fleets are >10x more economically-dependent on groundfish. While we show clear regional differences in fleets’ flexibility to shift to new fisheries via fisheries diversification (‘adapt in-place’) or shift their fishing grounds in response to future change through greater mobility (‘adapt on-the-move’), these differences do not completely mitigate the greater exposure and economic dependence of more poleward fleets. Therefore, on the U.S. West Coast more poleward fishing fleets may be at greater overall risk due to climate change, in contrast to expectations for greater equatorward risk in other parts of the world. Through integration of climatic, ecological, and socio-economic data, this case study illustrates the potential for widespread implementation of risk assessment at scales relevant to fishers, communities, and decision makers. Such applications will help identify the greatest opportunities to mitigate climate risks through pathways that enhance flexibility and other dimensions of adaptive capacity.
Peripheral muscle oxygenation, pain, and disability indices in individuals with and without nonspecific neck pain, before and after myofascial reorganization®: A double-blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: dos Santos Amorim Mayane , Sinhorim Larissa , Baptistella do Nascimento Iramar , Wagner Janaína , de Paula Lemos Francisco , Duarte França Maria Elisa , Schleip Robert , Sonza Anelise , Moraes Santos Gilmar
Published: February 2024

To investigate whether myofascial reorganization® in the trapezius muscle (MRT) improves peripheral muscle oxygenation and pain tolerance and decreases neck disability index (NDI) scores in individuals with and without nonspecific neck pain (NP) using a double-blind randomized controlled trial. Seventy-five subjects were equally and randomly assigned to three groups: the intervention groups (experimental [EG] and sham sSG]) and the control group (CG). Several inclusion criteria were applied to the intervention groups: male or female, aged 18–32 years, self-reported NP in the last 3 months without a defined cause; at least “soft” pain in session 1 of the NDI, and at least a score of 1 on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The CG was required to have NDI and VAS scores of 0 at recruitment. Intervention: The EG underwent MRT for 10 min, once a week for 6 weeks. Patients with NP in the SG underwent classical massage for the same duration and frequency. Patients in the CG had no pain and underwent no intervention. Data collection was performed using the NDI Questionnaire, a pressure algometer for pain evaluation, and near-infrared spectroscopy for muscle oxygenation measurements. It was registered as NCT03882515 at ClinicalTrials.gov. The NDI score in both the EG (p<0.001) and SG (p<0.001) decreased after 6 weeks of intervention compared to the CG. The CG demonstrated a lower basal tissue saturation (TSI) index than the EG (p<0.001) and SG (p = 0.02). The EG demonstrated higher oxyhemoglobin values than the SG (p<0.001) and CG (p = 0.03). The CG had higher pain tolerance than the EG (p = 0.01) and SG (p<0.001) post-intervention. MRT increased trapezius muscle oxygenation after 6 weeks of intervention.