bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Concept Analysis of the Quality of Life for the Aged
Authors: Lee Sun Hyea , Lee Jeong Seop
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study was to attempt an accurate understanding of the quality of life and provide basic materials for application to nursing research, intervention and further theoretical development. Data, obtained from such research methods as the lexical and literature review and the in-depth interview with the aged, were analysed according to Walker and Avant, s(1995) process of concept analysis. The concrete stage of analysis comprised 1) identification of the usage range of the quality of life, 2) identification of the attribute of quality of life, 3) presentation of diverse cases of the concept of the quality of life, 4) identification of antecedent elements and the outcomes of subjective judgement and 5) experiential reference of the concept of the quality of life.As a result of analysis, it was found that the attributes of the concept of the quality of life included individuality, locational perception, orientation, filling up, vitality and proactiveness. There was the coexistence between antecedent element and the outcomes of subjective judgement - satisfaction/dissatisfaction, happiness/unhappiness, enjoyment/sorrow. comfortableness/frustration, which indicates the coexistence of positive and negative emotions.Therefore, nursing intervention should be provided for aged by concentrating focus on the coordination of internal and external situations in order to prompt them to express their life with positive emotions. Experiential reference was used to suit the purpose of this study based on the use of objective and subjective indicators, and the development of the instrument considering the aged was proposed because of the absence of the unified measurement instrument.
Relationship among English Competency, Anxiety, Burden, and Social Support in Korean Nurses Preparing for the NCLEX-RN
Authors: Seo Mia , Kang Hee-Sun , Lee Han-Ju
Published: November 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the degree of anxiety, burden, social support including English ability in Korean nurses preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam. Methods: The survey was carried out on a convenient sample of 146 nurses preparing for the NCLEX-RN at private academy. Structured questionnaire which consisted of each scale for English ability, anxiety, burden, and social support was used. Results: Subjects had the most difficulties in spoken English. The subjects 1 anxiety level was mild and the score of trait anxiety(46.86±7.14) was slightly higher than state anxiety(45.61+7.71). Subjects had heavy burden on English skills and passing the test. Social support was high(l 10.25 + 13.21). There were positive correlations between anxiety and burden(r=.419) but negative correlations between anxiety and social support(r=-,518), burden and social support(r=-.280).Conclusion: This study results suggest spoken English needs to be intensified at nursing school Social support was considered as a factor which decreasing anxiety and burden. Thus, further study needs to be conducted to develop strategies to increase social support and methods such as part-time working system and education through cyber to reduce the nurses’ burden and anxiety.
A Study on Mental Health Status, Burden and Quality of Life of Mothers with Handicapped Children
Authors: Chung Kil-Soo , Lee Seoung-Eun , Cho Kyung-Mee , Jung Young-Mi
Published: November 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate mental health status, burden and quality of life(QOL) of mothers with handicapped children. Methods: Data were collected using a structured questionnaire from September to November, 2002. The subjects consisted of 65 mothers who live in D and I city. The instrument was utilized SCL-90-R, subjective and objective burden scale and QOL scale. The collected data were analyzed by SPSS program including descriptive statistics, Pearson Correlation Coefficient. Results: In the level of SCL-90-R, the mean score was 1.0642 of 'depression' and 1.009 of 'obsessive-compulsive'. It is that the mothers with handicapped children have mild mental health symptoms. The mean score of burden was 2.95 and it of QOL was 3.14. Burden was positive correlation with mental health status, its 9 subfactors and additional items, and negative correlation with QOL and its 6 subfactors. Also mental health status was negative correlation with QOL. Conclusion: It is necessary to develop supportive psychotherapy program for decreasing potential or actual psychologic problem in mothers with handicapped children. This study suggests that it will be done longitudinal study on emotional problem and adaptation process of parents by growth and development of handicapped children, and research on supportive program development and its effects.
Family Functioning, Mental Health and Dyadic Adjustment between Employed and Unemployed Mothers
Authors: Doh Bok Num
Published: November 2024

Purpose: This study was performed to compare the level of family functioning, mental health and dyadic adjustment between the employed and unemployed mothers and obtain correlations among above 3 variables.Methods: The study was designed as a correlational survey research. The subjects were consisted of 79 employed and 80 unemployed women who had child 3-6 years children. Data were collected with self-reporting questionnaires translated into Korean from Feetham Family Functioning survey, Mental Health Inventory (Veit and Ware) and Spanier's Dyadic Adjustment Scale. Results: There were no significant differences between the employed and unemployed mothers in the exiting and desired level of family functioning, mental health and dyadic adjustment. The unemployed mothers were significantly higher in the importance about family functioning than the employed mothers. There were significantly negative correlation between the existing family functioning and negative emotion(anxiety, depression, loss of cotrol) and positive correlation with positive emotion. There was significant positive correlation between the existing family functioning and dyadic adjustment. The level of dyadic adjustment was negatively correlated with the level of anxiety, depression and loss of behavior/emotional control and positively correlated with the level of pleasure emotion and emotional ties. Conclusion: The level of family functioning, mental health and dyadic adjustment of the employed and unemployed mothers were same. The higher scores of family functioning and dyadic adjustment got, the level of mental health was.
The Enneagram Program Effect for Stress Management of College Students
Authors: Lee Jeong Seop , Kim Young woon
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study is to analysis of effect enneagram program on stress management of college students.The participants are ninty six students and the enneagram program is consist of 16 Hours program for 2days.The result of this study is as follow 1. Participants's pattern of enneagram was large group sixty, ninth, first, third on order.2. Participants's level of stress was follow the Domain of future(self understandings, n=2.76) interpersonal relationship(n=2.63) friendship(n=2.62) and, 5th, 6th, first pattern of enneagram, as ordered has so much stress. 3. The effect of enneagram program on stress management was confirmed, partly in Domain of future. Self understanding(t=-7.262, P=.000) and the Domain of professor and stool(t=-2.042, p=.O44).4. Participants opinion of program was as follow they was trying to obsering their-self life and weak point of personality and trying to changing their life positively. But they need to more support to change their life and applicate enneagram to their life.In conclusion, enneagram program is effective to stress management of college students, partly so we need to develop continuous management program for participants's wholesome life change.
Análise dos medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados em duas unidades cardio intensivas: estudo transversal
Authors: Camerini Flavia Giron , Silva Isabelle Araujo da Silva Alves da , Marins Ana Lucia Cascardo , Fassarella Cintia Silva , Henrique Danielle de Mendonça , Nepomuceno Raquel de Mendonça
Published: November 2024

Objetivo: analisar a associação entre o uso de medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados e as comorbidades de pessoas idosas internadas em unidades cardio intensivas a luz da segurança do paciente. Método: estudo observacional transversal com abordagem quantitativa. Aprovado sob parecer ético de número 4.503.135. Os cenários de estudo duas foram unidades cardio intensivas de um Hospital Universitário, no Rio de Janeiro. A coleta dos dados foi documental. Os medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados foram classificados a partir dos Beers Criteria®. Para análise de associação utilizou-se odds ratio e um p-valor menor que 0,05. Resultados: Foram analisados dados de 201 pacientes, nos quais foram identificados 2.259 medicamentos prescritos, sendo 369 (16,3%) medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados. O omeprazol foi o fármaco de maior prevalência nas prescrições 145 (39,2%). Conclusão: a hipertensão arterial foi a comorbidade que apresentou associação positiva com a utilização medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados (OR=1,6).
Análise da rede social de apoio de estudantes universitários na pandemia de Covid-19
Authors: Faria Magda Guimarães de Araujo , Silva Tarciso Feijó da , David Helena Maria Scherlowski Leal , Capulot Amanda Franco , Andrade Carolina Neves Dias de , Ramos Tatiana Cabral da Silva , Martins Neto Genes de Lima , Perri Ana Luiza da Silva
Published: November 2024

Objetivo: identificar a rede social de apoio de estudantes de uma universidade pública brasileira durante o período de bloqueio da Covid-19. Método: estudo observacional, transversal baseado na análise de redes sociais. Os participantes foram estudantes de graduação de uma universidade. A coleta de dados ocorreu entre maio e dezembro de 2021 através de um formulário online. A análise foi realizada com o uso do software GephiⓇ. Resultados: participaram deste estudo, 969 indivíduos. Os maiores graus de centralidade foram encontrados respectivamente nas opções: família (0.572), os amigos (0.552) e mãe (0.551), entretanto, observou-se também a inserção de outros atores na rede, como a religião (0.074) e a figura do terapeuta (0.098). Considerações finais: espera-se que esta investigação possa subsidiar novos debates sobre o papel da universidade na manutenção da rede social de apoio dos estudantes, já que, mesmo em contexto de crise, a instituição não foi reconhecida COMO parte da rede estudantil.
Satisfação no trabalho, sentimentos de pertencimento e conforto em serviço de atendimento móvel de urgência
Authors: Carmo Hercules de Oliveira , Peduzzi Marina , Tronchin Daisy Maria Rizatto
Published: November 2024

Objetivo: analisar a satisfação no trabalho e os sentimentos de pertencimento e conforto em um serviço de atendimento móvel de urgência. Método: estudo transversal, quantitativo e correlacional, com 95 profissionais de um serviço de atendimento móvel de urgência. Empregou-se as escalas de Satisfação no trabalho S20/23, de pertencimento e conforto, e questionário com variáveis sociodemográficas e laborais, submetidos a análise estatística descritiva, testes de correlação e regressão linear. Resultados: houve evidências de associações significantes entre as dimensões da satisfação e variáveis gênero, tipo de equipe, cargo/função, vínculo e regime de trabalho; associações negativas entre satisfação intrínseca, com o ambiente físico, escore total e plantões mensais; e positiva entre satisfação intrínseca e jornada por plantão. A maioria dos profissionais avaliou pertencimento e conforto com valores acima de oito pontos. Conclusão: evidenciam-se elementos associados à satisfação e as variáveis sociodemográficas e laborais, além de um ambiente onde os profissionais sentem-se pertencentes e confortáveis.
Filling your cup
Authors: Brown Paula
Published: November 2024

Working in early years can be exhausting, joyful, frustrating, rewarding and frantic. Focussing on staff well-being can help the sector to thrive. Paula Brown, play therapist, shares more about how practitioners can look after themselves.
PERCEPÇÕES DOS JOVENS DO “BRASIL PROFUNDO” SOBRE AS SELFIES NAS MÍDIAS SOCIAIS
Authors: Braga Vitor
Published: November 2024

Esse artigo reflete sobre o papel do autorretrato na sociabilidade dos jovens de cidades do interior. Discutimos suas percepções das selfies circuladas nas mídias sociais, considerando as estratégias adotadas nas performances, bem como os modos como as TICs e os usuários se apropriam dessas imagens. Para tanto, apresentamos uma análise de entrevistas realizadas com habitantes de cidades do Rio Grande do Sul e de Sergipe. Discutimos como eles percebem a exposição de si mesmo nesses canais digitais e as formas de interlocução com suas redes sociais.
Towards a chronological framework for early Irish carved stone: Reassessing the evidence of Latinate inscriptions
Authors: Riain Diarmuid Ó , Carragáin Tomás Ó
Published: November 2024

Abstract: The Digital Atlas of Early Irish Carved Stone (DAEICS) seeks to record and map key traits of carved stone monuments of late prehistoric and early medieval date, providing fresh perspectives on stone-carving over the course of a millennium. First, however, the question of chronology must be addressed, so here we reassess the potential of Latinate inscriptions as a dating tool. Rather than a comprehensive treatment of palaeography and language, we focus, first, on the small number of monuments that commemorate historically identifiable individuals and, second, on the chronological implications of the use or non-use of formulae, proposing new termini post quem for different variations. We also show that the appearance of Gilla- compound personal names on inscriptions allows the monuments in question to be dated to after 950 CE. The implications of the inscriptions for the date-ranges of some specific cross-forms are explored, above all with respect to the singularly large collection of carved stone monuments at Clonmacnoise, which we argue was the only site in Ireland where stone-carving was sustained over several centuries. Using the dateable inscriptions, we demonstrate that there was a general increase in the average size of recumbent grave-markers between 600 and 1200 CE, a trend indicative of changing strategies of commemoration that has important implications for the chronology of these monuments, especially those that cannot readily be dated on other criteria. This refined chronology will facilitate further research on the key questions raised by these monuments, including patterns of patronage and resource investment, the varied identities of ecclesiastical communities, and networks of carvers and churches.
Henry II, the council of Oxford and Angevin overlordship in Leinster, 1177–85
Authors: Flanagan Marie Therese
Published: November 2024

Abstract: This paper contextualises an original, hitherto overlooked, charter of Robert Poher that sheds new light on King Henry II's overlordship in Ireland. From its text it may be inferred that Henry infringed on the rights of Strongbow as lord of Leinster by granting Robert Poher land that was to be held by him and his heirs directly of the king and his heirs. The charter dates from around the time of a royal council held at Oxford in 1177 when, in the wake of Strongbow's death, Henry II made a tripartite custodial division of the military services owing from Leinster. Henry's action predates the better-known encroachments on the prerogative rights of the lord of Leinster by his son, John, following the assumption in 1185 by the latter's personal household of responsibility for Angevin lordship in Ireland.
Skreen, County Meath—from ancient burial ground to medieval manorial village
Authors: Schot Roseanne
Published: November 2024

Abstract: This paper presents the results of the first detailed archaeological survey of the Hill of Skreen, an important multiperiod site that is closely linked—topographically, historically, and symbolically—with the Hill of Tara, 3km to its west. Skreen's early ancestry as a burial ground laid a foundation for the establishment, in or before 976, of a church dedicated to Colum Cille ( Scrín Columb Chille ) and, some two hundred years later, an Anglo-Norman manor. Few extant remains of pre-Anglo-Norman date survive and, beyond the Columban church and motte marking the caput of the manor granted to Adam de Feypo, an array of low-relief earthworks provides the only visible trace of an associated settlement. High-resolution aerial and geophysical surveys conducted as part of the Discovery Programme's Tara Research Project, combined with documentary and cartographic evidence, reveal the wider imprint of past occupation at Skreen in remarkable detail. There is now evidence to suggest that the church is circumscribed by a large, subrectangular enclosure and that this putative ecclesiastical boundary may be an original feature of the Columban foundation. The Anglo-Norman manorial settlement that developed around the church and castle, moreover, is shown to be far more extensive, and indeed significant, than previously recognised. The core area of the medieval village of Skreen, extending to more than 30ha, was demarcated by an earthwork boundary, of hexagonal plan, and encompassed a complex network of roads, property divisions, domestic and agricultural buildings, enclosures and fields. These bear witness to the vibrant and dynamic 'market settlement' of which we catch such intriguing glimpses in contemporary historical records. Skreen thus presents a case study of particular relevance to the field of medieval settlement studies, with significant potential for further research.
Coherent mid-infrared vortex generation at room temperature for manipulation of microparticles
Authors: Mallick Nawaz Sarif
Published: November 2024

We investigate the generation of mid-infrared (mid-IR) vortex beams carrying orbital angular momentum (OAM) through nonlinear processes in an inhomogeneously broadened 85Rb atomic ensemble. By employing a four-level atomic system featuring two strong control fields and a weak probe field, we generate a non-degenerate four-wave mixing signal at a wavelength of 5.23 µm. Applying the density-matrix formalism, we derive an analytical expression for the nonlinear atomic coherence which facilitates the transfer of vortex characteristics such as topological charge and intensity and phase profiles from the probe field to the mid-IR signal. Numerical solutions of Maxwell’s wave equation confirm the generation of mid-IR vortex beams with adjustable topological charges and beam widths at different spatial positions. This technique offers significant potential for applications in mid-IR communication, providing additional bandwidth and improved data transmission rates, as well as in fields such as microfluidics, biophysics, and nanotechnology, where OAM-carrying beams can manipulate microparticles with precision.
Speckle-free self-supervised learning for scalable imaging through scattering media with unseen condition changes
Authors: Huang Zicheng , Shi Mengyang , Ma Jiahui , Guo Zhishun , Gao Yesheng , Liu Xingzhao
Published: November 2024

Recently, deep learning (DL) methods have been extensively developed for imaging through scattering media. However, most learning methods rely on training with pairs of target-speckle data and lack integration with the physical imaging process. Here, we report a speckle-free self-supervised learning method that could be applied for scalable imaging through unknown random diffusers with unseen condition changes. Unlike traditional learning-based methods, our approach optimizes speckle reconstruction by leveraging the physical process of scattering imaging instead of fitting to "speckle-label" pairs. Our method models the scattered light field across potential scattering conditions to generate speckle patterns and extracts their correlation properties for model training and optimization. This eliminates the need for any pre-collected speckle patterns during network training. Our speckle-free method exhibits high reconstruction performance for imaging in unseen scattering conditions. We validate its performance across 440 unseen scattering conditions, including plane displacements, rotations, and combinations. Our method outperforms physics-informed learning approaches regarding reconstruction performance, consistency, and generalization ability in scalable imaging scenarios. This approach addresses the challenges of model generalization and extensive data collection for training, demonstrating its feasibility and superiority for imaging through unknown scattering media in novel scenarios.
Fast calculations of band diagrams of irregularly shaped scatterers in periodic structures using the multiple scattering theory and broadband Green's function
Authors: Gao Ruoxing , Liao Tien-Hao , Tsang Leung , Tan Shurun , Bai Xuyang , Zheng Haifeng
Published: November 2024

A fast method is developed utilizing the multiple scattering theory with broadband Green’s function (MST-BBGF) to calculate band diagrams for vector electromagnetic waves in 3D periodic structures composed of irregularly shaped scatterers. The method uses the T-matrix of irregular-shaped scatterers to formulate eigenvalue problems for the KKR (Korringa-Kohn, Rostoker) equations. The single scatterer T-matrix is derived from far-field scattering amplitudes using vector spherical harmonics and is re-usable since it is independent of lattice structures or Bloch vectors. The method is applied to a scatterer consisting of a two-layer triangular prism structure developed for 3D photonic topological insulators. Various comparisons are made to test the accuracies of the numerically derived T-matrix. The computations of the fast MST-BBGF method for the first five bands require only a KKR eigen equation dimension of 6, utilizing 6 vector spherical waves. The simulation time for the MST-BBGF method for two-layer triangular prism on a standard laptop is 4.63 seconds for band diagram calculations for 30 Bloch vectors given the pre-calculated T-matrix elements. The CPU is 3 orders of magnitude less than the CPU of 3.5 hours with COMSOL’s finite element method on a relatively coarse grid.
Directional emission with super narrow divergence from perforated elliptical microdisk
Authors: Wang Yuchen , Liu Shuo , Qian Xiuxian , Hou Rui , Wang Xiuhua
Published: November 2024

In this work, a perforated polymeric elliptical microcavity is investigated by using the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method, highly directional laser emission with a far-field divergence angle of 2.57°, which is achieved without spoiling Q much. Further simulation analyses reveal that the far-field profile is insensitive to the deformation parameter of the hole, demonstrating the device is robust. In addition, the position of the hole and deformation parameter of the elliptical microcavity is vital for optimizing the far-field profile. Our work has provided an effective way to achieve directional whispering gallery mode emission with super narrow divergence, which will be important in integrated optics, optical communication and biochemical sensing.
Laser pretreatment enhances the laser-induced damage threshold of MgAl2O4 transparent ceramics
Authors: Chen Yue , Lian Ya-fei , Jiang Ben-xue , Zhao Yuan-an , Fan Jin-tai , Zhang Long
Published: November 2024

The demand for transparent ceramics as essential optical components in high-energy laser systems is escalating. Given the continuous surge in laser output power, there is an urgent need to enhance their laser-induced damage threshold (LIDT). This research systematically investigates the influence of variables such as laser energy density, number of scan repetitions, and stepwise scanning on the LIDT of MgAl2O4 transparent ceramics by modulating the process parameters of laser pretreatment. Through this method, oxygen vacancy defects on the material surface were effectively minimized, achieving surface purification of transparent ceramics and reducing residual stress. Under a consistent laser energy density of 8.96 J/cm2, the transparent ceramics were subjected to 1 to 9 scanning passes. The LIDT showed a progressive increase with the number of scans, reaching a maximum value of 15.0 J/cm2 after seven scans, which corresponds to a 34% improvement compared to untreated samples. Additionally, laser pretreatment facilitated the expansion of the material's bandgap and increased transmittance in the 200-300 nm band, further substantiating the intimate relationship between the reduction of oxygen vacancy defects and the improvement of optical properties. The findings indicate that laser pretreatment, as an effective post-processing technique, can substantially augment its resistance to laser damage by optimizing the microstructure and surface characteristics of the material. Moreover, judicious control of laser energy density and number of scan repetitions is crucial for optimally improving LIDT. In conclusion, this study offers what we believe to be a new theoretical foundation and technical support for the performance optimization of transparent ceramics in high-power laser systems, underscoring the significant potential of laser pretreatment as an effective post-processing technology in enhancing material optical properties and durability.
Strategic modal management for enhanced stimulated Raman scattering in optical fibers
Authors: Fan Chenchen , Li Yang , Hao Xiulu , Yao Tianfu , Leng Jinyong , Zhou Pu
Published: November 2024

Raman fiber lasers have attracted significant attention for their unique ability to generate high-power output at specific wavelengths. Theoretically, the quantum loss associated with the nonlinear Stokes frequency shift in Raman scattering is lower than that from energy level transitions in conventional ytterbium-doped lasers, suggesting that Raman lasers should achieve higher conversion efficiencies. However, in practice, the efficiency of high-power Raman lasers often fails to reach these theoretical limits, with power scaling being impeded by 2
nd
order Raman effects. In this article, we delve into the dynamics of stimulated Raman scattering within few-mode fibers, offering an in-depth analysis of the underlying physical mechanisms from multiple perspectives. Our research combines theoretical analysis with experimental research, covering the frequency domain, spatial domain, and nonlinear behavior. The experimental findings indicate that strategically increasing the proportion of higher-order modes in the injected light can enhance the conversion efficiency of the Raman process and effectively suppress higher-order Raman and four-wave mixing nonlinear processes. This study provides profound theoretical insights and practical guidance, contributing significantly to the ongoing development and optimization of Raman laser technology.
Research on mechanism of Pr:YLF Laser based on multi-wavelength master-slave pulse modulation
Authors: Jin Yushi , Dong Yuan , Jin Long , Jin Guangyong
Published: November 2024

This study presents what we believe to be the first Pr:YLF laser that directly generates a visible-band triple-wavelength double-pulse laser. A theoretical model was developed to elucidate the mode oscillation mechanism, integrating step-loss control with gain modulation across oscillation modes. The maximum output achieved was 76 mW, with a 12.3% slope efficiency at 10 kHz for the triple-wavelength (604, 607, and 639 nm) double-pulse laser. The master and slave pulse widths were 162 ns and 241 ns, respectively, with an adjustable pulse interval of 30–40 µs. Simulation and experimental results confirmed the model’s effectiveness, presenting a streamlined method for visible triple-wavelength double-pulse laser generation.
Chirality sorting with 3D-arbitrarily-oriented circularly polarized ultra-long optical needle field
Authors: Rui Guanghao , Gu Si , Zhang Zhaorui , Li Bingjue
Published: November 2024

We propose an all-optical sorting method for chiral nanoparticles by use of a 3D-arbitrarily-oriented circularly polarized ultra-long optical needle field, which is constructed through reversing the radiation patterns from an array of spin dipole located in the focal volume of a 4Pi microscopy. It is demonstrated that particles with different chirality can be trapped at different positions along the optical needle by the chiral gradient force, and the direction and distance of sorting are determined by the orientation and length of the circularly polarized optical needle respectively, which can be easily controlled by modifying the quantity and orientation of the equivalent spin dipoles. This scheme combines the advantages of controllable sorting direction and long sorting distance, providing a feasible route toward all-optical enantiopure chemical syntheses and enantiomer separations in pharmaceuticals.
Polarimetric 3D integral imaging profilometry under degraded environmental conditions
Authors: Lee Jiheon , Usmani Kashif , Javidi Bahram
Published: November 2024

We propose polarimetric three-dimensional (3D) integral imaging profilometry and investigate its performance under degraded environmental conditions in terms of the accuracy of object depth acquisition. Integral imaging based profilometry provides depth information by capturing and utilizing multiple perspectives of the observed object. However, the performance of depth map generation may degrade due to light condition, partial occlusions, and object surface material. To improve the accuracy of depth estimation in these conditions, we propose to use polarimetric profilometry. Our experiments indicate that the proposed approach may result in more accurate depth estimation under degraded environmental conditions. We measure a number of metrics to evaluate the performance of the proposed polarimetric profilometry methods for generating the depth map under degraded conditions. Experimental results are presented to evaluate the robustness of the proposed method under degraded environment conditions and compare its performance with conventional integral imaging. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on polarimetric 3D integral imaging profilometry, and its performance under degraded environments.
Annular lithography for fabricating micro- and mesoscale optical structures on curved surfaces
Authors: Knoblich Maria , Werner Lukas , Uwurukundo Xavier , Stumpf Daniela , Dobschal Hans Jürgen , Sabbaghniya Mahshid , Hillmer Hartmut H. , Brunner Robert
Published: November 2024

This paper presents an advanced exposure system that, we believe, for the first time, enables annular lithography to create micro- and mesostructures on curved surfaces. The principle of ring creation is based on an axicon zoom system whereas the exposure tool exhibits several features that enhance its performance over previous models. Its optical design features a high numerical aperture, resulting in narrow ring widths and high resolution. Additionally, the ring diameter, which can be varied between 400 µm and 8 mm, remains constant along the optical axis due to telecentric imaging. Further functional components include an observation unit for alignment and monitoring, as well as an integrated autofocus system. In addition to determining the exposure ring width (∼ 10 µm), diffractive lenses on planar substrates as well as on a spherical lens with a radius of curvature of 68.8 mm were structured. The periods of the diffractive structure varied between 60 µm and 460 µm.
Three-stage HCF fabrication technique for high yield, broadband UV-visible fibers: erratum
Authors: Jackson Gregory , Jasion Gregory T. , Bradley Thomas D. , Poletti Francesco , Davidson Ian A.
Published: November 2024

We report and correct an errata in [Opt. Express 32, 7720 (2024)10.1364/OE.507703]. The paragraph on self-pressurisation has been modified. All other content is unchanged.
Non-resonant picosecond three-wave mixing in the gas phase
Authors: LaCombe Grayson , Wang Jianan , Rouxel Jérémy R. , Simeni Simeni Marien
Published: November 2024

We report on the experimental observation of non-resonant, second-order optical sum-frequency generation (SFG) in five different atomic and molecular gases. The measured signal is attributed to a SFG process by characterizing its intensity scaling and its polarization behavior. We show that the electric quadrupole mechanism cannot explain the observed trends and suggest a mechanism based on symmetry breaking along the incident beam path arising from laser-induced species ground state number density gradients. Our results demonstrate that the SFG is about four orders of magnitude stronger than the third-harmonic generation (THG) and independent from any externally applied electric fields. These features make this method suitable for gas number density measurements at the picosecond time scale in reactive flows and plasmas.
Hybrid dark-field and attenuation contrast retrieval for laboratory-based X-ray tomography
Authors: Doherty Adam , Buchanan Ian , Roche i Morgó Oriol , Astolfo Alberto , Savvidis Savvas , Gerli Mattia F. M. , Citro Antonio , Olivo Alessandro , Endrizzi Marco
Published: November 2024

X-ray dark-field imaging highlights sample structures through contrast generated by sub-resolution features within the inspected volume. Quantifying dark-field signals generally involves multiple exposures for phase retrieval, separating contributions from scattering, refraction, and attenuation. Here, we introduce an approach for non-interferometric X-ray dark-field imaging that presents a single-parameter representation of the sample. This fuses attenuation and dark-field signals, enabling the reconstruction of a unified three-dimensional volume. Notably, our method can obtain dark-field contrast from a single exposure and employs conventional back projection algorithms for reconstruction. Our approach is based on the assumption of a macroscopically homogeneous material, which we validate through experiments on phantoms and on biological tissue samples. The methodology is implemented on a laboratory-based, rotating anode X-ray tube system without the need for coherent radiation or a high-resolution detector. Utilizing this system with streamlined data acquisition enables expedited scanning while maximizing dose efficiency. These attributes are crucial in time- and dose-sensitive medical imaging applications and unlock the ability of dark-field contrast with high-throughput lab-based tomography. We believe that the proposed approach can be extended across X-ray dark-field imaging implementations beyond tomography, spanning fast radiography, directional dark-field imaging, and compatibility with pulsed X-ray sources.
Climate and ecology predict latitudinal trends in sexual selection inferred from avian mating systems
Authors: Barber Robert A. , Yang Jingyi , Yang Chenyue , Barker Oonagh , Janicke Tim , Tobias Joseph A.
Published: November 2024

Sexual selection, one of the central pillars of evolutionary theory, has powerful effects on organismal morphology, behaviour, and population dynamics. However, current knowledge about geographical variation in this evolutionary mechanism and its underlying drivers remains highly incomplete, in part because standardised data on the strength of sexual selection is sparse even for well-studied organisms. Here, we use information on mating systems—including the incidence of polygamy and extra-pair paternity—to estimate the intensity of sexual selection in 10,671 (>99.9%) bird species distributed worldwide. We show that avian sexual selection varies latitudinally, peaking at higher latitudes, although the gradient is reversed in the world’s most sexually selected birds—specialist frugivores—which are strongly associated with tropical forests. Phylogenetic models further reveal that the strength of sexual selection is explained by temperature seasonality coupled with a suite of climate-associated factors, including migration, diet, and territoriality. Overall, these analyses suggest that climatic conditions leading to short, intense breeding seasons, or highly abundant and patchy food resources, increase the potential for polygamy in birds, driving latitudinal gradients in sexual selection. Our findings help to resolve longstanding debates about spatial variation in evolutionary mechanisms linked to reproductive biology and also provide a comprehensive species-level data set for further studies of selection and phenotypic evolution in the context of global climatic change.
Association of the humoral immune response with the inflammatory profile in Plasmodium vivax infections in pregnant women
Authors: Souza Rodrigo Medeiros de , dos Santos Maria Inês , Gomes Laura Cordeiro , de Melo Bruna Beatriz Pedroza , Separovic Erika Paula Machado , Murillo Oscar , Wunderlich Gerhard , Clark Taane Gregory , Campino Susana , Epiphanio Sabrina , Marinho Claudio Romero Farias , Dombrowski Jamille Gregório
Published: November 2024

Background

Plasmodium vivax infection, when it occurs during pregnancy, has often been associated with serious adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, immunological alterations in pregnancy and their consequences have been little explored. We characterized the humoral immune response in pregnant women exposed to malaria by P. vivax antigens and its association with the maternal inflammatory profile and poor pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

An observational cohort study in the Brazilian Amazon was conducted between 2013 and 2015. After applying exclusion criteria, 242 mother-child pairs were included in the analysis. Data on maternal infection, gestational outcomes, and inflammatory factors were evaluated in the maternal peripheral plasma. In samples from the first infection, the presence of total IgG and its subclasses in plasma against PvMSP119 protein were also quantified.

Results

Previous exposure to malaria, observed by anti-total IgG antibodies to the PvMSP119 antigen, increased the inflammatory response to infection when the pregnant woman had malaria during pregnancy. IL-6 and IL-10 levels were positively correlated with parasitemia and with total IgG levels; but they were negatively correlated with the gestational age at delivery from Pv-infected woman. In multivariate linear regression analyses, IgG 1, 2 and 4 was negatively and positively associated with cytokines IL-6 and IL-10, respectively, in P. vivax-infection.

Conclusions

An association between the humoral immune response and the peripheral inflammatory cytokine profile with the adverse outcomes in malaria in pregnancy by P. vivax was observed. Previous exposure to the parasite can influence the IL-6 and IL-10 response, which is associated with increased parasitemia, reduced maternal weight gain and premature delivery.
Sunlight exposure practice and its associated factors among infants in Ethiopia, systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ayele Fanos Yeshanew , Kebede Natnael , Mekonen Asnakew Molla , Mihiretu Mengistu Mera , Tsega Yawkal , Addisu Elsabeth , Cherie Niguss , Birhane Tesfaye , Daba Chala , Asfaw Ahmed Hussien , Abegaz Zinet , Endawekie Abel , Mohammed Anissa , Melak Dagnachew , Bayou Fekade Demeke , Yasin Husniya , Zerga Aregash Abebayehu , Gebeyehu Fikre Bayu , Wagaye Birhanu
Published: November 2024

Background

Lack of sunlight exposure is the primary reason for the worldwide epidemic of vitamin D deficiency. There was a meta-analysis conducted under the title of Knowledge and Practice of Mothers towards sunshine exposure of their children in Ethiopia. However, studies conducted on factors associated with sunlight exposure practice among infants showed non-conclusive and inconsistent findings. Hence, this systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to estimate the pooled prevalence of good sunlight exposure practice and its associated factors among infants in Ethiopia.

Methods

All articles were systematically searched by PubMed, Hinari, Global Health and CINAHL, Epistemonikos, African Journal of Online (AJOL), Google Scholar and Google. All studies, until the end of May 30, 2023, were included in this review. Pure qualitative studies and studies in which the outcome was not reported were excluded from the review. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline was used. Meta-analysis was conducted by using STATA 17 software. Forest plots were used to present the pooled prevalence of good sunlight exposure practices. A random effect model was used to compute the pooled prevalence, while subgroup analysis was performed to identify the possible source of heterogeneity. Publication bias was assessed by begg’s and Egger’s tests. We use Trim and fill analysis was used to treat the publication bias.

Results

This review involved 14 studies and 6,121 participants. The pooled prevalence of good sunlight exposure practice among infants in Ethiopia was 53.46% (95%CI: 45.98, 60.95). Mothers had PNC follow-up [OR = 2.22 (95% CI: 1.31, 3.47)], mothers with secondary and above educational status [OR = 4.17, (95% CI: 1.73, 10.06)], employed mothers [OR = 3.72, (95% CI: 2.71, 5.11)], urban residence [OR = 2.67, (95% CI: 1.17, 6.08)] and not fear of sunlight exposure [OR = 4.08, (95% CI: 1.44, 16.00)] were positively associated with good sunlight exposure practice.

Conclusions

The pooled prevalence of good sunlight exposure practices among infants in Ethiopia is low. Had postnatal care follow-up, being urban residents, mother’s employment status, mother’s educational status and not fear of sunlight exposure were independent factors of good sunlight exposure practice among infants. Therefore, health professionals create awareness for mothers to increase postnatal follow-up, and the importance of health education especially for rural residents.
Prevalence of chronic kidney disease among young people living with HIV in Sub Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nasuuna Esther M. , Nanyeenya Nicholus , Kibirige Davis , Izudi Jonathan , Dziva Chikwari Chido , Kalyesubula Robert , Castelnuovo Barbara , Tomlinson Laurie A. , Weiss Helen A.
Published: November 2024

Background

Globally, the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing among young people living with HIV (YPLHIV), with inconsistent estimates. Aggregated data on the prevalence of CKD are needed in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) to inform strategies for early diagnosis and management. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the pooled prevalence of CKD among YPLHIV in SSA.

Methods

We searched Medline/PubMed, EMBASE, African Index Medicus, and African Journals Online for articles reporting the prevalence of CKD among YPLHIV in SSA using predefined search strategies up to 15th January 2024. The reference lists of identified articles were checked for additional eligible studies. The eligibility criteria were studies among YPLHIV aged 10–24 years reporting CKD prevalence defined by either glomerular filtration rate (GFR), albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) or proteinuria. We used a narrative synthesis to report differences between the included studies. The DerSimonian-Laird random effects model was used to pool the CKD prevalence, and heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochrane Q-test and I-squared values. We assessed the risk of bias in each article using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist and publication bias in a funnel plot and Egger’s test.

Results

Of 802 retrieved articles, 15 fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. Of these, 12 (80%) were cross-sectional studies that used estimated GFR to diagnose CKD. Only one study followed the standard definition of CKD. The pooled CKD prevalence from 15 studies was 12% (95% CI 6.0–19.5%), ranging from 0.8% to 53.1% according to the definition used, with a high degree of heterogeneity (I2 = 97.7%, p<0.001). The included studies were of moderate quality, with no evidence of publication bias. Sensitivity analysis showed that the findings were robust to the methodological and analytic approach.

Conclusion

CKD prevalence among YPLHIV is moderately high and highly heterogeneous across SSA. The standard definition of CKD should be used to enable estimation of CKD prevalence in different studies and settings. HIV programs enrolling YPLHIV should routinely screen for CKD to ensure early diagnosis and management.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022347588.
The dual burden of malnutrition and its associated factors among mother-child pairs at the household level in Ethiopia: An urgent public health issue demanding sector-wide collaboration
Authors: Yigezu Muluken , Oumer Abdu , Damtew Bereket , Birhanu Dereje , Getaye Workie Sewnet , Hamza Aragaw , Atle Anteneh , Kebede Natnael
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The coexistence of under-nutrition and over-nutrition in developing countries like Ethiopia results in the "mother-child pair double burden of malnutrition," with children experiencing either stunting, wasting or underweight while mothers face overweight or obesity. This poses a major public health challenge, prompting global health organizations to prioritize the issue and urge governments to act quickly. Despite this, there is a lack of research in Ethiopia on the double burden of malnutrition among mother-child pairs at the household level and the factors that worsen it.

Objective

To assess the magnitude of double burden of malnutrition and its associated factors among mother-child pair at household level in East Ethiopia, 2022.

Method

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in East Ethiopia from April 15 to June 11, 2022. Multi-stage sampling was used, and data were collected through structured interviews. Child nutrition indicators were processed using WHO Anthro software. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed, calculating both crude and adjusted odds ratios to assess associations. Variables with a P value <0.05 in multivariable analysis were deemed statistically significant.

Result

The study revealed that coexisting malnutrition rates for (OM/SC), (OM/WC), and (OM/UC) were 8.5%, 7.0%, and 7.9% respectively. The double burden of malnutrition among mother-child pairs was found to be 12.3% [95% CI: 10.7, 13.7]. Marital status (divorced) [AOR = 1.80; 95% CI: 1.15, 2.82], child birth order (fourth or above) [AOD = 1.88; 95% CI:1.08, 3.26], number of under-five children in the household (five or more under-five children) [AOR = 1.58; 95% CI: 1.04, 2.39], poor maternal and child dietary diversity score [AOR = 2.76; 95% CI: 1.71, 4.45] and [AOR = 8.66; 95% CI: 4.85, 15.44], respectively, household food security status (food insecurity) [AOR = 3.68; 95% CI: 2.36, 5.75], and maternal stature (short stature) [AOR = 2.39; 95% CI: 1.65,3.45] were factors significantly associated with this burden.

Conclusion

The study emphasized the double burden of malnutrition affecting both mothers and children, a major public health concern in the area. Early-life nutrition is vital in preventing childhood under nutrition and adult obesity, leading to this dual burden. Breaking the cycle of malnutrition across generations is crucial. Policy makers should prioritize improving child nutrition and maternal health, stressing early-life nutrition to address the mother-child double burden of malnutrition.