bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and pilot testing of the 2019 Canadian Abortion Provider Survey
Authors: Renner Regina M. , Ennis Madeleine , Maazi Mahan , Dunn Sheila , Norman Wendy V. , Kaczorowski Janusz , Guilbert Edith
Published: March 2023

Background

Substantial changes in abortion care regulations, available medications and national clinical practice guidelines have occurred since a 2012 national Canadian Abortion Provider Survey (CAPS). We developed and piloted the CAPS 2019 survey instrument to explore changes of the abortion provider workforce, their clinical care as well as experiences with stigma and harassment.

Methods

We undertook development and piloting in three phases: (1) development of the preliminary survey sections and questions based on the 2012 survey instrument, (2) content validation and feasibility of including certain content aspects via a modified Delphi Method with panels of clinical and research experts, and (3) pilot testing of the draft survey for face validity and clarity of language; assessing usability of the web-based Research Electronic Data Capture platform including the feasibility of complex skip pattern functionality. We performed content analysis of phase 2 results and used a general inductive approach to identify necessary survey modifications.

Results

In phase 1, we generated a survey draft that reflected the changes in Canadian abortion care regulations and guidelines and included questions for clinicians and administrators providing first and second trimester surgical and medical abortion. In phase 2, we held 6 expert panel meetings of 5–8 participants each representing clinicians, administrators and researchers to provide feedback on the initial survey draft. Due to the complexity of certain identified aspects, such as interdisciplinary collaboration and interprovincial care delivery differences, we revised the survey sections through an iterative process of meetings and revisions until we reached consensus on constructs and questions to include versus exclude for not being feasible. In phase 3, we made minor revisions based on pilot testing of the bilingual, web-based survey among additional experts chosen to be widely representative of the study population. Demonstrating its feasibility, we included complex branching and skip pattern logic so each respondent only viewed applicable questions based on their prior responses.

Conclusions

We developed and piloted the CAPS 2019 survey instrument suitable to explore characteristics of a complex multidisciplinary workforce, their care and experience with stigma on a national level, and that can be adapted to other countries.
“Crossing borders, connecting cultures”: an introduction to the special issue
Authors: Nienaber Birte , Holzapfel-Mantin Nicole , Budach Gabriele
Published: March 2023

This special issue of Comparative Migration Studies on the occasion of the IMISCOE 2021 Conference with the theme “Crossing borders, connecting cultures” features five invited contributions by several conference speakers as well as an article by the host university.
A case–control study of drinking beverages and the risk of multiple sclerosis in Iran
Authors: Dastoorpoor Maryam , Nabavi Seyed Massood , Majdinasab Nastaran , Zare Javid Ahmad , Ahmadi Angali Kambiz , Seyedtabib Maryam
Published: March 2023

Background

There is no study in the world on the relationship between consuming black and green tea as beverages containing polyphenols and the risk of MS. This study aimed to determine the association between the consumption of green and black tea, coffee, non-alcoholic beer, milk, fruit juices and carbonated beverages with the risk of MS.

Methods and materials

This case–control study was performed on 150 patients with MS and 300 healthy individuals as a control group among patients who were referred to the ophthalmology ward of a referral hospital in Ahvaz with the groups matching for age. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire including demographic information and beverage consumption. Analysis was performed using univariate and multiple logistic regression models.

Results

The mean age of patients at the time of diagnosis was 38.55 ± 8.88 years. The results showed that drinking milk (OR = 5.46), natural juice (OR = 2.49), and carbonated beverages (OR = 16.17) were associated with an increased chance of developing MS. However, drinking non-alcoholic beer (OR = 0.48), black tea (OR = 0.20), green tea (OR = 0.29) and coffee (OR = 0.07) were associated with a reduced chance of developing MS.

Conclusion

The results show that drinking black and green tea, non-alcoholic beer, and coffee are associated with a decrease in the chance of developing MS. The results of this study can be used to design interventional research and to change people's lifestyles to prevent MS.
A novel post-fire method to estimate individual tree crown scorch height and volume using simple RPAS-derived data
Authors: Arkin Jeremy , Coops Nicholas C. , Daniels Lori D. , Plowright Andrew
Published: March 2023

Background

An accurate understanding of wildfire impacts is critical to the success of any post-fire management framework. Fire severity maps are typically created from satellite-derived imagery that are capable of mapping fires across large spatial extents, but cannot detect damage to individual trees. In recent years, higher resolution fire severity maps have been created from orthomosaics collected from remotely piloted aerial systems (RPAS). Digital aerial photogrammetric (DAP) point clouds can be derived from these same systems, allowing for spectral and structural features to be collected concurrently. In this note, a methodology was developed to analyze fire impacts within individual trees using these two synergistic data types. The novel methodology presented here uses RPAS-acquired orthomosaics to classify trees based on a binary presence of fire damage. Crown scorch heights and volumes are then extracted from fire-damaged trees using RPAS-acquired DAP point clouds. Such an analysis allows for crown scorch heights and volumes to be estimated across much broader spatial scales than is possible from field data.

Results

There was a distinct difference in the spectral values for burned and unburned trees, which allowed the developed methodology to correctly classify 92.1% of trees as either burned or unburned. Following a correct classification, the crown scorch heights of burned trees were extracted at high accuracies that when regressed against field-measured heights yielded a slope of 0.85, an R-squared value of 0.78, and an RMSE value of 2.2 m. When converted to crown volume scorched, 83.3% of the DAP-derived values were within ± 10% of field-measured values.

Conclusion

This research presents a novel post-fire methodology that utilizes cost-effective RPAS-acquired data to accurately characterize individual tree-level fire severity through an estimation of crown scorch heights and volumes. Though the results were favorable, improvements can be made. Specifically, through the addition of processing steps that would remove shadows and better calibrate the spectral data used in this study. Additionally, the utility of this approach would be made more apparent through a detailed cost analysis comparing these methods with more conventional field-based approaches.
Cognitive internet of things-based framework for efficient consumption of electrical energy in public higher learning institutions
Authors: Kalinga Ellen A. , Bazila Simon , Ibwe Kwame , Abdalla Abdi T.
Published: March 2023

Electric energy is widely used to power homes, businesses, industries, and Higher Learning Institutions. However, the behavioral trend of using electricity poses challenges in saving energy. Most HLIs electricity users do not switch-off electrical appliances such as lights, fans, and air conditioners when not in use, resulting in high electricity bills and a shorter equipment life span. The literature indicates that misuse of electrical power is more of a behavioral matter, which can be challenging to control. In such scenarios, technological intervention is needed to minimize human interaction. Therefore, this work developed a Cognitive Internet of Things (CIoT)-based framework for efficient consumption of electrical energy in HLIs. CIoT has been applied in the context of saving electrical energy. The proposed framework uses the Linear Regression model for training to monitor air conditioners, fans, and light bulbs. The model compared measured values with established thresholds to perform the necessary actions. Training results from the Linear Regression model show that the air conditioning model achieved an of 97.5%, a chi-square, R2, value of 0.450, a standard error of 0.524, and a "t" value of − 4.638% accuracy. The model for fans scored 97.5% accuracy with a chi-square, R2, of 0.314, a standard error of 8.58 × 10–11, and a "t" value of 5.229. On the other hand, the lighting model scored an accuracy of 97.5% with a chi-square, R2, of 0.298, a standard error of 0.396, and a "t" value of 0.311. All scenarios for testing the model using real data were successfully achieved 100%.
Patch repair protects cells from the small pore-forming toxin aerolysin
Authors: Thapa Roshan , Keyel Peter A.
Published: March 2023

Aerolysin family pore-forming toxins damage the membrane, but membrane repair responses used to resist them, if any, remain controversial. Four proposed membrane repair mechanisms include toxin removal by caveolar endocytosis, clogging by annexins, microvesicle shedding catalyzed by MEK, and patch repair. Which repair mechanism aerolysin triggers is unknown. Membrane repair requires Ca2+, but it is controversial if Ca2+ flux is triggered by aerolysin. Here, we determined Ca2+ influx and repair mechanisms activated by aerolysin. In contrast to what is seen with cholesterol-dependent cytolysins (CDCs), removal of extracellular Ca2+ protected cells from aerolysin. Aerolysin triggered sustained Ca2+ influx. Intracellular Ca2+ chelation increased cell death, indicating that Ca2+-dependent repair pathways were triggered. Caveolar endocytosis failed to protect cells from aerolysin or CDCs. MEK-dependent repair did not protect against aerolysin. Aerolysin triggered slower annexin A6 membrane recruitment compared to CDCs. In contrast to what is seen with CDCs, expression of the patch repair protein dysferlin protected cells from aerolysin. We propose aerolysin triggers a Ca2+-dependent death mechanism that obscures repair, and the primary repair mechanism used to resist aerolysin is patch repair. We conclude that different classes of bacterial toxins trigger distinct repair mechanisms.
Metagenomic analysis of coastal Kenya female Aedes aegypti mosquito RNA metaviromes reveal presence of diverse insect specific viruses
Authors: Omuoyo Donwilliams O. , Nyamwaya Doris K. , Kamau Everlyn , Nyagwange James N. , Karanja Henry K. , Gitonga John N. , de Laurent Zaydah , Ngala Jonathan C. , Kinyua Johnson , Rono Martin K. , Mwangangi Joseph M. , Agoti Charles N. , Warimwe George M.
Published: March 2023

Background: Coastal Kenya has experienced repeated outbreaks of Chikungunya (CHIKV) and Dengue (DENV) viruses mediated by competent Aedes aegypti mosquito populations. These mosquitoes harbor insect specific viruses (ISVs), some of which can prevent arboviral transmission. However, there has been no systematic molecular entomological surveillance in coastal Kenya and the diversity of viruses in local Aedes aegypti populations remains largely unknown.

Methods: To obtain a snapshot of the Aedes aegypti viromes from coastal Kenya, we took advantage of a cross-sectional survey of mosquitoes to determine the prevalence of Zika virus. We collected adult mosquitoes using lured Biogent’s sentinel traps at 16 different localities along the Kenyan coast between May to September 2017. Pools of 20 female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes were generated following grouping by morphological characteristics. Presence of arboviruses in the mosquito pools was determined using virus-specific and genera-specific primers with real-time PCR. Metagenomic next generation sequencing (mNGS) on Illumina Miseq and analysis was used to characterize the virome.

Results: A total of 16,520 female Aedes aegypti grouped into 826 pools were analysed. Flaviviruses were detected in 69/826 (8.4%) pools by real time PCR. Sequencing generated 8,459/971,754 (0.87%) clean reads that were taxonomically assigned to 16 and 28 viral families and species, respectively. The family Phenuiviridae represented by Phasi Charoen-like phasivirus (PCLV) species was the most prevalent, detected in 64/73 (87%) mosquito pools. No pathogenic viruses were identified by mNGS. Phylogenetic analysis revealed local PCLV and Cell fusing agent virus (CFAV) were distinct from global sequences.

Conclusions: Our data provides information about virus diversity and composition of the Aedes aegypti mosquitoes from coastal Kenya and contributes to the body of knowledge of the Aedes aegypti virome. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to provide this information from this region.
Characterizing antibody responses to mosquito salivary antigens of the Southeast Asian vectors of malaria and dengue with a human challenge model of controlled exposure: a protocol
Authors: Sawasdichai Sunisa , Chaumeau Victor , Kearney Ellen , Wasisakun Praphan , Simpson Julie A. , Price David J. , Chotirat Sadudee , Rénia Laurent , Bergmann-Leitner Elke , Fowkes Freya , Nosten François
Published: March 2023

Background: Measurement of antibody titers directed against mosquito salivary antigens in blood samples has been proposed as an outcome measure to assess human exposure to vector bites. However, only a handful of antigens have been identified and the specificity and longitudinal dynamics of antibody responses are not well known. We report the protocol of a clinical trial of controlled exposure to mosquito bites that aims to identify and validate biomarkers of exposure to bites of mosquito vector species that transmit malaria and dengue in Southeast Asia and some other parts of the world.

Methods: This study is an exploratory factorial randomized control trial of controlled exposure to mosquito bites with 10 arms corresponding to different species (Aedes aegypt, Ae. albopictus, Anopheles dirus, An. maculatus and An. minimus) and numbers of bites (35 or 305 bites in total over 6 weeks). Blood samples will be collected from study participants before, during and after mosquito biting challenges. Candidate peptides will be identified from published literature with antigen prediction algorithms using mosquito DNA sequence data and with immunoblotting assays carried out using protein extracts of dissected mosquito salivary glands and participants samples. Antibody titers against candidate peptides will be determined in participants samples with high-throughput cutting-edge immuno-assays. Quantification of the antibody response profile over time (including an estimate of the decay rate) and the effect of the number of bites on the antibody response will be determined using linear and logistic mixed-effects models for the continuous and the binary response, respectively.

Conclusion: This research is expected to generate important knowledge for vector sero-surveillance and evaluation of vector-control interventions against malaria and dengue in the Greater Mekong Subregion.

Registration: This study is registered with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04478370) on July 20th, 2020.
Organization of Design and Research Activities of Younger Schoolchildren
Authors: Romanova V.
Published: March 2023

The article analyzes the conditions for the effective formation of design and research activities in elementary school. As a priority form, it is proposed to conduct classes based on the principle of integrating the theoretical and practical components of extracurricular activities. The subject of classes is given, which allows the teacher to plan the work of schoolchildren on projects in the process of studying the course of the Russian language, its stages are indicated. The important role of involving students in research activities for the formation of their cognitive activity and the development of the need and ability for creative search is emphasized.
Development of Learning Independence: Cooperation Between a Teacher and a Schoolchild
Authors: Rydze Oxana
Published: March 2023

The ability of a younger schoolchild to show independence in solving practical and educational problems is one of the results of primary education. Obviously, many schoolchildren find it difficult to show independence due to individual differences: personal qualities, attitudes towards learning, purposefulness in cognition, and even the pace of learning activities. However, a teacher who has knowledge of age-related physiology and psychology, using modern teaching methods and technologies, can help a student become more proactive, teach him to plan and control his actions when studying training courses and performing creative tasks. Learning operations that the student masters under the guidance of a teacher and begins to apply first with the help of an adult, and then without outside help, fall into the treasury of his independent actions. The article discusses some approaches to the organization of cooperation between a teacher and a schoolchild, stimulating the development of a student’s independence in learning. Examples of tasks on the mathematical content are given, illustrating these approaches.
It's important to take a step back and to see the whole picture
Authors: George Heather
Published: March 2023

In the third of a series on the early steps of a newly qualified nurse, Heather George, Critical Care Staff Nurse, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, reflects on the need to take a balanced look at the situation
The impact of stoma management education on the self-care abilities of individuals with an intestinal stoma
Authors: Liu Yani , Wang Li , Zhu Liping
Published: March 2023

An intestinal stoma is a surgically formed exteriorisation of the large or small bowel on to the anterior abdomen wall, to enable faeces to be excreted from the body. Patients living with a stoma may encounter physical, psychological, and social barriers and challenges. Stoma self-management education is essential to improving self-care competence, and patients who perceive the benefits of self-management education show a better adjustment to living with a stoma. This literature review explored the effectiveness of patient education interventions in improving the self-care knowledge and skills of patients living with an ostomy. The findings from the nine studies reviewed showed that self-management education approaches are effective in improving patients' self-care. The application of different approaches to ostomy self-management education, such as a transtheoretical model, chronic care model, telehealth and multimedia-based programmes – helped improve patients' self-care ability. The review also found that patients needed at least 3 months to develop the skills and maintain their ability to self-care. In addition, two education sessions provided to patients in hospital pre-discharge appeared sufficient for improving and maintaining self-care abilities. Where patients received education in hospital post-surgery, 2 or 3 sessions over 7 days were found to be sufficient to provide them with stoma care skills. Education sessions based on the transtheoretical model and chronic care model or telehealth helped maintain and reinforce self-care behaviours following discharge.
A pilot study of a digital ostomy leakage notification system: impact on worry and quality of life
Authors: Brady Richard RW , Fellows Jane , Meisner Søren , Olsen Jesper Kenneth , Vestergaard Martin , Ajslev Teresa Adeltoft
Published: March 2023

Background:

More than 90% of people with an ostomy worry about leakage, with associated high rates of psychological morbidity.

Aims:

To assess the performance of a novel digital ostomy leakage notification system in subjects with faecal stomas who experience and worry about leakage.

Method:

A prospective, single-arm, pilot study ( ClinicalTrials.gov : NCT04894084) with 25 subjects testing the product for 21 days. Subjects completed questionnaires at baseline and termination of study evaluating leakage episodes, leakage worry and quality of life (QoL).

Findings:

Mean age was 56 years, 60% had an ileostomy, and 40% were females. Mean episodes of leakage outside the baseplate decreased significantly from 2.8 to 0.5 episodes after 21 days' use of the test product (P<0.001), worry about leakage decreased significantly (P<0.001) and QoL improved.

Conclusion:

The findings indicate strong improvements to emotional health with the test product, driven by reductions in leakage incidents outside baseplate and in users' worry about leakage.
Psychometric Analysis of the Social Support Scale Among Indonesian Academicians
Authors: Lestari Sri , Nurani Gita Aulia , Hertinjung Wisnu Sri
Published: March 2023

The current study investigates the psychometric characteristics of the Social Support Scale as an instrument for assessing social support for academics. The original version of the scale was adapted and translated into Indonesian and was administered to academics in Indonesia through a google form. The data were then analyzed to investigate the reliability, construct validity, and structure of factors of the instrument. Confirmatory factor analysis confirms that the three-dimension model was the best model regarding the internal structure. Our findings also advocate the Social Support Scale as a valid and reliable tool for assessing social support in Indonesian academics. Thus, it can be employed to examine lecturers’ social support level which helps the universities to build a supportive working climate, as well as improve the relationship quality between employees.
Linear maps that preserve parts of the spectrum on pairs of similar matrices
Authors: Costara Constantin
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we characterize linear bijective maps $\varphi$ on the space of all $n \times n$ matrices over an algebraically closed field $\mathbb{F}$ having the property that the spectrum of $\varphi (A)$ and $\varphi (B)$ have at least one common eigenvalue for each similar matrices $A$ and $B$. Using this result, we characterize linear bijective maps having the property that the spectrum of $\varphi (A)$ and $\varphi (B)$ have common elements for each matrices $A$ and $B$ having the same spectrum. As a corollary, we also characterize linear bijective maps preserving the equality of the spectrum.
Expediente
Authors: Leyva Cruz Juan Alberto
Published: March 2023

Expediente Vol 20_02 2022
AS CORES DO CÉU
Authors: Jesús Correia Jornandes
Published: March 2023

Uma fração da radiação emitida pelo Sol atinge a atmosfera terrestre e dá origem, de forma direta ou indireta, a vários  fenômenos de natureza térmica, óptica, elétrica, magnética e acústica. O aquecimento da atmosfera, o arco-íris, as auroras, os  halos e as coroas solar e lunar, o brilho e a variedade das cores do céu são apenas alguns dentre uma infinidade de meteoros que  têm seus fundamentos teóricos embasados por espalhamento de radiação pelos sistemas que formam a atmosfera  terrestre. Este artigo visa analisar parte dos efeitos de natureza óptica que ocorrem na atmosfera terrestre desde o nascer até o por do Sol. Um destes efeitos analisados é sobre a cor do céu. Se a cor da atmosfera estivesse condicionada ao espalhamento  Rayleigh, o céu deveria ser violeta; se a percepção de uma cor dependesse apenas do máximo da curva de sensibilidade espectral relativa para a visão humana, o céu deveria ser verde; se a cor emitida pela atmosfera estivesse associada ao máximo do espectro de emissão do Sol avaliado base da atmosfera terrestre, o céu deveria ser anil. Logo, conclui-se que o azul do céu é consequente de uma superposição de efeitos não apenas físicos, mas também fisiológicos.
O ECLIPSE DE 1919: UM SÉCULO DE MITOS HISTÓRICOS SOBRE A RELATIVIDADE GERAL
Authors: Capiberibe Nunes Ricardo , Pereira de Queirós Wellington
Published: March 2023

Em 1919, Sir Arthur Eddington e Frank Dyson lideraram duas comitivas para observar o eclipse solar na Ilha do Príncipe (África) e Sobral (Brasil) para verificar se a deflexão da luz ao passar por um campo gravitacional convergia com o valor previsto por Einstein, a partir das equações de campo da Teoria da Relatividade Geral. Eddington declarou para imprensa internacional que a observação confirmava a previsão de Einstein e, desde então, popularizou-se uma narrativa de que a Teoria da Relatividade Geral de Einstein foi provada durante a observação do eclipse de 1919 em Sobral, no Brasil. Essa versão além de ser historicamente equivocada, reproduz uma visão inadequada e deformada sobre a natureza e a construção do conhecimento científico. Infelizmente, ainda são escassas fontes confiáveis que abordam tópicos de história da ciência de forma acessível aos professores da educação básica. Por isso, propormos esse ensaio que por meio de uma revisão de literatura em fontes históricas, apresentar uma síntese sobre este episódio histórico, a observação do Eclipse de 1919 em Sobral, denunciando as imprecisões históricas e as deformações conceituais, algumas delas presentes em livros didáticos aprovados pelo PNLD-2018. Por fim, fazemos algumas reflexões do Eclipse de 1919 ocorrido em Sobral para a aproximação da História da Física em sala de aula.
Testing randomness of series generated in an optical Bell’s experiment
Authors: Nonaka Myriam , Agüero Mónica , Kovalsky Marcelo , Hnilo Alejandro
Published: March 2023

The generation of series of random numbers is an important and difficult problem. Appropriate measurements on entangled states have been proposed as the definitive solution to produce series of certified randomness, and quantum optical systems play a major role. However, several reports indicate that random number generators based on quantum measurements have a high rate of series rejected by standard tests of randomness. This is believed to be caused by experimental imperfections and is usually solved by using classical algorithms to extract randomness. This is acceptable to generate random numbers in a single place. In quantum key distribution (QKD) instead, if the extractor is known by an eavesdropper (a situation that cannot be ruled out), the key’s security may be menaced. We use a not-loophole-free, “toy” all-fiber-optic-based setup, mimicking a QKD one operating in the field, to generate binary series and evaluate their level of randomness according to Ville’s principle. The series are tested with a battery of indicators of statistical and algorithmic randomness and nonlinear analysis. The good performance of a simple method to get random series from rejected ones, previously reported by Solis et al. is confirmed and supported with additional arguments. Incidentally, a theoretically predicted relationship between complexity and entropy is verified. Regarding QKD, the level of randomness of series, obtained by applying Toeplitz’s extractor to rejected series, is found to be indistinguishable from the level of non-rejected raw ones.
Deep learning using a residual deconvolutional network enables real-time high-density single-molecule localization microscopy
Authors: Zhou Zhiwei , Wu Junnan , Wang Zhengxia , Huang Zhen-Li
Published: March 2023

High-density localization based on deep learning is a very effective method to accelerate single molecule localization microscopy (SMLM). Compared with traditional high-density localization methods, deep learning-based methods enable a faster data processing speed and a higher localization accuracy. However, the reported high-density localization methods based on deep learning are still not fast enough to enable real time data processing for large batches of raw images, which is probably due to the heavy computational burden and computation complexity in the U-shape architecture used in these models. Here we propose a high-density localization method called FID-STORM, which is based on an improved residual deconvolutional network for the real-time processing of raw images. In FID-STORM, we use a residual network to extract the features directly from low-resolution raw images rather than the U-shape network from interpolated images. We also use a model fusion from TensorRT to further accelerate the inference of the model. In addition, we process the sum of the localization images directly on GPU to obtain an additional speed gain. Using simulated and experimental data, we verified that the FID-STORM method achieves a processing speed of 7.31 ms/frame at 256 × 256 pixels @ Nvidia RTX 2080 Ti graphic card, which is shorter than the typical exposure time of 10∼30 ms, thus enabling real-time data processing in high-density SMLM. Moreover, compared with a popular interpolated image-based method called Deep-STORM, FID-STORM enables a speed gain of ∼26 times, without loss of reconstruction accuracy. We also provided an ImageJ plugin for our new method.
Electro-optically tunable optical delay line with a continuous tuning range of ∼220 fs in thin-film lithium niobate
Authors: Song Lvbin , Chen Jinming , Wu Rongbo , Zheng Yong , Liu Zhaoxiang , Wang Guanhua , Sun Chao , Wang Min , Cheng Ya
Published: March 2023

We demonstrate fabrication of a 30-cm-long thin-film lithium niobate (TFLN) optical delay line (ODL) incorporated with segmented microelectrodes of 24-cm total length using the femtosecond laser lithography technique. The transmission spectra of the unbalanced Mach–Zehnder interferometers (MZIs) reveal an ultra-low propagation loss of 0.025 dB/cm. The device exhibits a low half-wave voltage of 0.45 V, corresponding to a voltage-length product of 10.8 V·cm, which is equivalent to 5.4 V·cm in the push-pull configuration. We also demonstrate a high electro-optic (EO) tuning efficiency of 3.146 fs/V and a continuous tuning range of 220 fs in the fabricated ODL.
Fiber–terahertz–fiber bridge system in the 355-GHz band using a simple optical frequency comb and a photonics-enabled receiver
Authors: Dat Pham Tien , Morohashi Isao , Sekine Norihiko , Kanno Atsuhi , Yamamoto Naoktatsu , Akahane Kouichi
Published: March 2023

This Letter demonstrates a high-speed
fiber–terahertz–fiber system in the 355-GHz band using
stable optical frequency comb generation and a photonics-enabled
receiver. At the transmitter, a single dual-drive Mach–Zehnder
modulator is employed to generate a frequency comb by driving the
modulator under an optimal condition. At the antenna site, a
photonics-enabled receiver consisting of an optical local oscillator
signal generator, a frequency doubler, and an electronic mixer is used
to downconvert the terahertz-wave signal to the microwave band. Simple
intensity modulation and a direct detection method are used for
transmitting the downconverted signal to the receiver over the second
fiber link. To demonstrate the proof of concept, we transmitted a
16-quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) orthogonal frequency-division
multiplexing signal over a system consisting of two radio-over-fiber
links and a 4 m wireless link in the 355-GHz band and achieved a line
rate of 60 Gb/s. We also successfully transmitted a 16-QAM subcarrier
multiplexing single-carrier signal over the system and achieved a
capacity of 50 Gb/s. The proposed system can facilitate the deployment
of ultra-dense small cells in high-frequency bands in beyond-5G
networks.
Synthesis and characterization of 11B4C containing Ni/Ti multilayers using combined neutron and X-ray reflectometry
Authors: Broekhuijsen Sjoerd , Ghafoor Naureen , Vorobiev Alexei , Birch Jens , Eriksson Fredrik
Published: March 2023

The performance of multilayers in optical components, such as those used in neutron scattering instruments, is crucially dependent on the achievable interface width. We have shown how the interface width of Ni/Ti multilayers can be improved using the incorporation of B4C to inhibit the formation of nanocrystals and limit interdiffusion and intermetallic reactions at the interfaces. A modulated ion-assistance scheme was used to prevent intermixing and roughness accumulation throughout the layer stack. In this work we investigate the incorporation of low-neutron-absorbing 11B4C for Ni/Ti neutron multilayers. Combined fitting of neutron reflectivity and X-ray reflectivity measurements shows an elimination of accumulated roughness for the 11B4C containing multilayers with a mean interface width of 4.5 Å, resulting in an increase in reflectivity at the first Bragg peak by a factor of 2.3 and 1.5 for neutron and X-ray measurements, respectively.
Digitale Identitäten
Authors: Anke Jürgen , Richter Daniel
Published: March 2023

Die digitale Transformation überführt Geschäfts- und Verwaltungsabläufe in den digitalen Raum. Zu deren sicherer und rechtskonformer Durchführung ist es oft notwendig, sich von den notwendigen Eigenschaften der Beteiligten zu überzeugen. Dafür werden digitale Identitäten eingesetzt, die Personen und andere Entitäten mittels Sammlungen von Attributen repräsentieren. Allerdings führt die große Vielfalt von Verfahren und Methoden für das Identitätsmanagement zu hoher Komplexität und Kosten. Als ein vielversprechender Ansatz zur Überwindung dieser Hürden erscheint das Paradigma der selbstbestimmten Identität. Es soll eine durchgängige sichere Identifizierung und Authentifizierung von Personen, Organisationen und Objekten ermöglichen. Dafür werden digitale Nachweise (Verifiable Credentials) über beliebige Sachverhalte von Herausgebern in einer kryptografisch gesicherten Form bereitgestellt. Die Inhaber dieser Nachweise verwalten diese selbst in digitalen Wallets und können sie bei Bedarf an Dritte zum Nachweis von diversen Merkmalen übermitteln. Der vorliegende Beitrag gibt einen Überblick zum aktuellen Stand digitaler Identitäten, den ihnen zugrundeliegenden Verfahren sowie den damit verbundenen praktischen Problemen. Darauf aufbauend werden laufende Aktivitäten zur Entwicklung einheitlich nutzbarer digitaler Nachweise gegeben, die eine Grundlage für künftige digitale Ökosysteme bilden. Zudem wird eine Einordnung in die aktuelle Forschung der Wirtschaftsinformatik zu diesem Thema gegeben.
Effectiveness of healthcare workers and volunteers training on improving tuberculosis case detection: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Amare Desalegne , Getahun Fentie Ambaw , Mengesha Endalkachew Worku , Dessie Getenet , Shiferaw Melashu Balew , Dires Tegenaw Asemamaw , Alene Kefyalew Addis
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Tuberculosis is the second most common infectious cause of death globally. Low TB case detection remains a major challenge to achieve the global End TB targets. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine whether training of health professionals and volunteers increase TB case detection.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized control trials and non-randomized control trials reporting on the effectiveness of health professionals and volunteers training on TB case detection. We searched PubMed, SCOPUS, Cochrane Library, and reference sections of included articles from inception through to 15 February 2021, for studies published in English. Study screening, data extraction, and bias assessments were performed independently by two reviewers with third and fourth reviewers participating to resolve conflicts. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist. Meta-analyses were performed with a random effect model to estimate the effectiveness of training intervention on TB case detection.

Results

Of the 2015 unique records identified through our search strategies, 2007 records were excluded following the screening, leaving eight studies to be included in the final systematic review and meta-analysis. The results showed that providing training to health professionals and volunteers significantly increased TB case detection (RR: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.53, 1.66). There was not a significant degree of heterogeneity across the included study on the outcome of interest (I2 = 0.00%, p = 0.667).

Conclusions

Providing training to healthcare workers and volunteers can increase TB case detection.
Associations between socioeconomic status and screen time among children and adolescents in China: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Ke Youzhi , Chen Sitong , Hong Jintao , Liang Yahan , Liu Yang
Published: March 2023

Background

Socioeconomic status (SES) is an important determinant of screen time (ST) in children and adolescents, however, the association between SES and ST is not fully understood in China. This study aimed to investigate the association between SES and ST (operationalized as meeting the ST guidelines; no more than 2 hours per day) in Chinese children and adolescents.

Methods

Cross-sectional data of 2,955 Chinese children and adolescents aged 8 to 17(53.4% girls) were used. SES was measured using indicators of parental education and perceived family wealth. ST was assessed with detailed items from the Health Behaviour School-aged Children survey questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and a Chi-square test were used to report the sample characteristics and analyse ST differences across different sociodemographic groups. A binary logistic regression was then applied to analyse the association of SES indicators with ST in children and adolescents.

Results

Overall, 25.3% of children and adolescents met the ST guidelines. Children and adolescents with higher parental education levels were 1.84 [95% CI 1.31–2.57; father] and 1.42 [95% CI 1.02–1.98; mother] times more likely to meet the ST guidelines than those with lower parental education levels. Associations between SES and ST varied across sex and grade groups. Moreover, the associations of SES with ST on weekdays and weekends were different.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the association between SES and ST in children and adolescents, highlighting the importance of targeting children and adolescents with low SES levels as an intervention priority. Based on our findings, specific interventions can be tailored to effectively reduce ST. Future studies are encouraged to use longitudinal or interventional designs to further determine the association between SES and ST.
Recruitment strategies and HPV self-collection return rates for under-screened women for cervical cancer prevention
Authors: Smith Jennifer S. , Vaz Olivia M. , Gaber Charley E. , Des Marais Andrea C. , Chirumamilla Bhavika , Hendrickson Lori , Barclay Lynn , Richman Alice R. , Brooks Xian , Pfaff Anna , Brewer Noel T.
Published: March 2023

In the United States, medically underserved women carry a heavier burden of cancer incidence and mortality, yet are largely underrepresented in cancer prevention studies. My Body, My Test is a n observational cohort, multi-phase cervical cancer prevention study in North Carolina that recruited low-income women, aged 30–65 years and who had not undergone Pap testing in ≥ 4 years. Participants were offered home-based self-collection of cervico-vaginal samples for primary HPV testing. Here, we aimed to describe the recruitment strategies utilized by study staff, and the resulting recruitment and self-collection kit return rates for each specific recruitment strategy. Participants were recruited through different approaches: either direct (active, staff-effort intensive) or indirect (passive on the part of study staff). Of a total of 1,475 individuals screened for eligibility, 695 were eligible (47.1%) and 487 (70% of eligible) participants returned their self-collection kit. Small media recruitment resulted in the highest number of individuals found to be study eligible, with a relatively high self-collection kit return of 70%. In-clinic in-reach resulted in a lower number of study-eligible women, yet had the highest kit return rate (90%) among those sent kits. In contrast, 211 recruitment which resulted in the lowest kit return of 54%. Small media, word of mouth, and face-to-face outreach resulted in self-collection kit return rates ranging from 72 to 79%. The recruitment strategies undertaken by study staff support the continued study of reaching under-screened populations into cervical cancer prevention studies.
Mid-term health-related quality of life in community-acquired bacterial meningitis survivors; the COMBAT study
Authors: Della Vecchia Claire , Ebah Josée Vicentia , Tubiana Sarah , Guimard Thomas , Piroth Lionel , Jaffuel Sylvain , Gorenne Isabelle , Mourvillier Bruno , Hoen Bruno , Duval Xavier , Préau Marie
Published: March 2023

Background

Community Acute Bacterial Meningitis (CABM) is a rare infectious disease leading to important impairments. Our aim was to describe CABM survivors’ quality of life (QOL) 12 months post-CABM and to assess its associations with CABM sequelae.

Methods

Patients included in the CABM COMBAT cohort were evaluated one year after the CABM episode. Data were collected by questionnaire, via phone calls with the patients. The WHOQOL-BREF was used to measure CABM survivors’ QOL. Hierarchical multivariate linear regressions were performed.

Results

Study population was composed of 284 patients. At 12 months, 53.9% (153/284) reported at least incident headache/worsening headache intensity at 12 months post-CABM, and/or incident hearing impairment, and/or unfavourable disability outcome (GOS). Unfavourable disability outcome was associated with lower physical health QOL (B = -30.35, p<0.001), lower mental health QOL (B = -15.31, p<0.001), lower environmental QOL (B = -11.08, p<0.001) and lower social relationships QOL (B = -9.62, p<0.001). Incident headache/worsening headache since meningitis onset was associated with lower psychological health (B = -5.62, p = 0.010). Incident hearing impairment was associated with lower physical QOL (B = -5.34, p = 0.030). Hierarchical regressions showed that CABM impairments significantly increase explanatory power of multivariate models (for physical health R2 change = 0.42, p<0.001, for psychological health R2 change = 0.23, p<0.001, for social relationships R2 change = 0.06, p<0.001 and for environment domain R2 change was 0.15, p<0.001).

Conclusions

12 month-CABM burden is heavy. Early detection and management of CABM impairments should be performed in clinical practice as early as possible to optimize patients’ psychological and psychosocial functioning.

ClinicalTrial. Gov identification number

NCT01730690.
Non-oncological gynecological diagnoses in a women’s health care service during the pandemic caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2
Authors: Parada Laís Ribeiro Coca , Turri José Antonio Orellana , Helena da Costa Valery , Vieira Ingrid Batista , Baracat Edmund Chada , Soares Júnior José Maria , Sorpreso Isabel Cristina Esposito
Published: March 2023

Objective

Analyze clinical factors and non-oncological gynecological diagnoses before and during the initial months of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method

Crosssectional study at an Outpatient Gynecology Clinic in Brazil involving medical consultations performed during the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods. The number of visits, prevalence of non-oncological gynecological diagnoses, and clinical-demographic data were analyzed. Parametric continuous variables were evaluated by Student’s t-test and ANOVA tests, non-parametric variables were evaluated by the Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon tests, and categorical or binary variables were evaluated by chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests. Univariate logistic regression tests were performed, and variables with p ≤ 0.20 were subjected to multivariate logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

There were 1,236 records during the pre-pandemic period and 530 during the pandemic, reflecting a significant reduction (57.88%; p = 0.001) in medical consultations. The outpatient prevalence of women older than 50 y (OR 0.85; 95%CI 0.68–1.05) reduced, and the outpatient prevalence of postmenopausal women with hot flashes (OR 1.34; 95%CI 1.09–1.65; p = 0.005) and alcohol consumption habits (OR 2.76; 95%CI 1.15–6.59; p = 0.023) increased. There was a 6% proportional increase in noninflammatory disorders of the female genital tract (p = 0.030) and a 72.4% decrease in general physical examinations, contraception, and procreation (p = 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that there was an increased prevalence of abnormal uterine bleeding (OR, 1.7; 95% CI 1.34–2.16; p = 0.001) and endometriosis (OR 1.65; 95% CI 1.13–2.42; p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Medical consultations for benign gynecological diseases during the pandemic prevented non-inflammatory disorders of the female genital tract, with an emphasis on abnormal uterine bleeding and endometriosis. There was an increased prevalence of women under 50 years of age, women with symptoms of hot flashes, and alcohol consumption habits and a reduction in the prevalence of general physical examinations, contraception, and procreation.
Burnout syndrome among health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross sectional study in Monastir, Tunisia
Authors: Zemni Imen , Dhouib Wafa , Sakly Sihem , Bennasrallah Cyrine , Gara Amel , Kacem Meriem , Ben Fredj Manel , Abroug Hela , Elbaroudi Aicha , Bouanene Ines , Sriha Belguith Asma
Published: March 2023

Background

Burnout syndrome may affect the safety of frontline healthcare care workers (HCW) and patients. We aimed to measure the prevalence of burnout among HCW in care facilities in Tunisia during the Covid-19 pandemic and to identify its associated factors.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study among HCW practicing during the covid-19 pandemic in health care facilities in the governorate of Monastir. Data collection was carried out using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire composed by three sections: epidemiological and clinical characteristics, professional conditions and the Maslach Burn out Inventory (MBI-HSS).

Results

This study included 371 HCW. The prevalence of burnout was 77.9% (CI 95%: 73.6% - 82.1%). The severe level was found in 71 participants (19.1%), the moderate level in 115 (31%) and the low level in 103 (27.8%). The distribution of the levels of the burnout dimensions among the participants was as follows: high emotional exhaustion (EE) (57.4%), high depersonalization (DP) (39.4%) and low personal accomplishment (22.6%). The main determinants of burnout among healthcare professionals during COVID 19 pandemic were: working more than 6 hours per day (OR = 1.19; CI95% [1.06; 1.34]), physician function (OR = 1.17; CI 95% [1.05; 1.31]), feeling a negative impact of work on family life (OR = 1.40; 95% CI [1.13; 1.73]), and high personal estimation of COVID 19 exposure (OR = 1.15; CI95% [1.02; 1.29]).

Conclusion

During the COVID19 pandemic, the prevalence of burnout among health professionals was high. It was related to hard implication in COVID 19 management. Interventions like adjusting working hours, reducing workload, and providing psychological support should be taken.