bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive strategies for oocyte maturation in IVF cycles: from single indicators to integrated models
Authors: He Li-Na , Xu Qing , Lin Jie , Liu Yi , Chen Wei
Published: June 2024

Accurate prediction of oocyte maturation is a critical determinant of success in in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) procedures. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the various predictive approaches employed to assess oocyte maturity, including single indicators, combined indicators, and predictive models. Factors such as ovarian reserve, patient characteristics, and controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) strategies can significantly influence oocyte maturation rates. Single indicators, including hormone levels, ultrasound parameters, and clinical parameters, have been extensively studied. However, their predictive power may be limited when used in isolation. Combined indicators, integrating multiple parameters, have demonstrated improved predictive performance compared to single indicators. Additionally, predictive models and algorithms, such as machine learning and deep learning models, have emerged as promising tools for assessing oocyte maturity. These models leverage advanced statistical and computational methods to analyze complex datasets and identify patterns that can predict oocyte maturation rates with potentially higher accuracy. Despite these advancements, several gaps and limitations persist, including limited generalizability, lack of standardization, insufficient external validation, and the need to incorporate patient-specific factors and emerging technologies. The review highlights potential areas for further research, such as multicenter collaborative studies, integration of advanced omics technologies, development of personalized prediction models, and investigation of trigger time optimization strategies. Recommendations for clinical practice include utilizing a combination of indicators, adopting validated predictive models, tailoring approaches based on individual patient characteristics, continuous monitoring and adjustment, and fostering multidisciplinary collaboration. Accurate prediction of oocyte maturation holds profound implications for improving the success rates of IVF-ET and enhancing the chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy. Continued research, innovative approaches, and the implementation of evidence-based practices are essential to optimize assisted reproductive outcomes.
Personality disorders among a sample of Egyptian patients with major depressive disorder and their association with suicide
Authors: Hasan Haytham Mohamad , Rizk Enas Shafaey , Omar Abd El Nasser Mahmoud , Awaad Mona Ibrahim , Hashem Reem El Sayed , Mohamed Mohamed Yousef
Published: June 2024

Background

Depression is a prevalent psychiatric disorder that can arise at any age and is often present as a co-occurring illness in different illnesses. There is a high comorbidity rate between major depressive disorder and personality disorders (PDs). The current study aimed to investigate the significant impact of personality disorders on depression severity, functional impairment, and suicidal tendencies in individuals with depression.

Methods

The researchers conducted a cross-sectional observational study involving 120 patients, with an age range from 18 to 56 years of both genders, recruited from Okasha’s Institute of Psychiatry in Cairo, Egypt. Their major depressive disorder diagnosis was verified through the use of the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders (SCID-I). Participants underwent evaluations using the SCID-II to evaluate personality disorders, the Hamilton Depression-Rating Scale (HAM-D) to assess the severity of depression, the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) to investigate suicidal ideation, and the Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (GAF) to determine functional level.

Results

Borderline personality disorder and narcissistic personality disorder were the predominant personality disorders in the sample, with prevalence rates of 55.8% and 40.8%, respectively. Sixty-six percent of the participants reported experiencing suicidal thoughts at some point in their lifetime, whereas only 17.5% had actually attempted suicide. Borderline personality disorder showed a strong correlation with more severe depression (P value 0.043), a decline in functioning (P value 0.001), the existence of suicidal thoughts (P value 0.001), and a past of suicide attempts (P value 0.038).

Conclusions

Personality disorders are highly prevalent in patients with depression, borderline PD, and narcissistic PD were the most common PDs. Borderline PD showed a significant effect on depression severity. PDs, mainly borderline, avoidant, depressive, and narcissistic PDs contribute to more impairment of functioning of the MDD patients. There is a significant effect of the presence of co-morbid personality disorder on suicidal thoughts and suicidal attempts, mainly depressive and borderline PDs.
A mixed methods approach identifying facilitators and barriers to guide adaptations to InterCARE strategies: an integrated HIV and hypertension care model in Botswana
Authors: Gala Pooja , Ponatshego Ponego , Bogart Laura M. , Youssouf Nabila , Ramotsababa Mareko , Van Pelt Amelia E. , Moshomo Thato , Dintwa Evelyn , Seipone Khumo , Ilias Maliha , Tonwe Veronica , Gaolathe Tendani , Hirschhorn Lisa R. , Mosepele Mosepele
Published: June 2024

Background

Botswana serves as a model of success for HIV with 95% of people living with HIV (PLWH) virally suppressed. Yet, only 19% of PLWH and hypertension have controlled blood pressure. To address this gap, InterCARE, a care model that integrates HIV and hypertension care through a) provider training; b) adapted electronic health record; and c) treatment partners (peer support), was designed. This study presents results from our baseline assessment of the determinants and factors used to guide adaptations to InterCARE implementation strategies prior to a hybrid type 2 effectiveness-implementation study.

Methods

This study employed a convergent mixed methods design across two clinics (one rural, one urban) to collect quantitative and qualitative data through facility assessments, 100 stakeholder surveys (20 each PLWH and hypertension, existing HIV treatment partners, clinical healthcare providers (HCPs), and 40 community leaders) and ten stakeholder key informative interviews (KIIs). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and deductive qualitative analysis organized by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and compared to identify areas of convergence and divergence.

Results

Although 90.3% of 290 PLWH and hypertension at the clinics were taking antihypertensive medications, 52.8% had uncontrolled blood pressure. Results from facility assessments, surveys, and KIIs identified key determinants in the CFIR innovation and inner setting domains. Most stakeholders (> 85%) agreed that InterCARE was adaptable, compatible and would be successful at improving blood pressure control in PLWH and hypertension. HCPs agreed that there were insufficient resources (40%), consistent with facility assessments and KIIs which identified limited staffing, inconsistent electricity, and a lack of supplies as key barriers. Adaptations to InterCARE included a task-sharing strategy and expanded treatment partner training and support.

Conclusions

Integrating hypertension services into HIV clinics was perceived as more advantageous for PLWH than the current model of hypertension care delivered outside of HIV clinics. Identified barriers were used to adapt InterCARE implementation strategies for more effective intervention delivery.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05414526. Registered 18 May 2022 – Retrospectively registered.
Optimizing implementation: elucidating the role of behavior change techniques and corresponding strategies on determinants and implementation performance: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Dubbeldeman Eveline M. , Crone Mathilde R. , Kiefte-de Jong Jessica Christina , van der Kleij Rianne M.J.J.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Behavior change techniques (BCTs) are considered as active components of implementation strategies, influencing determinants and, ultimately, implementation performance. In our previous Delphi study, experts formulated ‘implementation hypotheses’, detailing how specific combinations of BCTs and strategies (referred to as BCT-strategy combinations) might influence determinants and guideline implementation within youth care. For example, educational meetings providing instructions on guideline use were hypothesized to enhance practitioners' knowledge and, consequently, guideline implementation. However, these hypotheses have not been verified in practice yet.

Method

We conducted a cross-sectional study involving practitioners and management professionals from youth (health)care organizations. Using questionnaires, we obtained data on the presence of BCT-strategy combinations and their perceived influence on determinants and implementation performance. Chi-squared tests and regression analyses were employed to determine the influence of specific BCT-strategy combinations on determinants and implementation performance.

Results

Our analyses included data from 104 practitioners and 34 management professionals. Most of the management professionals indicated that the BCT-strategy combinations positively influenced or had the potential to influence their implementation performance. At the practitioner level, half of the combinations were perceived to have a positive influence on determinants and implementation performance. Furthermore, practitioners who reported the absence of BCT-strategy combinations were more skeptical about their potential influence on determinants and implementation performance.

Conclusion

Several BCT-strategy combinations were perceived to improve or potentially improve implementation performance of both practitioners and management professionals. In the development and evaluation of implementation efforts, we advocate for clearly describing the implementation effort’s objective and using frameworks that detail the BCTs inducing behavior change, the strategy employed, and the processes driving the observed changes. Understanding these interconnected processes is important in designing targeted, evidence-based behavior change interventions. This understanding optimizes resource allocation and contributes to the overall success of implementation efforts in youth care.
Application of lightweight steel-UHPC composite beam in bridge emergency repair
Authors: Hong Lujia , Li Zhiyong , Peng Yao
Published: June 2024

This paper mainly introduces the emergency repair process for small- and medium-span bridges. The causes of deterioration were analysed by investigating old bridges. After comparison and selection of schemes, the scheme of beam replacement was confirmed using a lightweight steel ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) composite beam as the superstructure. The main components of the calculations and the design are introduced in detail. Finally, through the load test of the bridge, it was shown that the lightweight steel-UHPC composite beam had good performance and met the requirements of Highway Level I bearing capacity. The lightweight steel-UHPC composite beam described in this paper has the characteristics of high strength, light weight, fast construction, excellent working performance, and remarkable social and economic benefits. It can be popularised and applied in the emergency repair of small- and medium-span bridges and new bridges.
Effects of dissolved organic matter on the toxicity of micro- and nanoplastic particles to Daphnia - a meta-analysis
Authors: Salomon Sophia , Grubmüller Eric , Kropf Philipp , Nickl Elisa , Rühl Anna , Weigel Selina , Becker Felix , Antonio Vital Ana Leticia , Laforsch Christian , Schott Matthias , Mair Magdalena M.
Published: June 2024

Effects of micro- and nanoplastic particles (MNP) on organisms have been increasingly reported in recent years, with a large number of studies conducted on water fleas of the genus Daphnia. Most of the available studies used pristine particles that have not been exposed to the environment or to organic substances. In natural environments, however, organic substances like dissolved organic matter (DOM) attach to the MNP, forming an ecocorona on the particles’ surface. How the formation of an ecocorona influences MNP toxicity is still uncertain. While some studies suggest that DOM can mitigate the negative effects of MNP on organisms, other studies did not find such associations. In addition, it is unclear whether the DOM attached to the particles’ surface attenuates the effects of MNP directly or whether co-exposure with DOM solved in the medium attenuates MNP toxicity indirectly, for instance by increasing Daphnia‘s resilience to stressors in general. To draw more solid conclusions about the direction and size of the mediating effect of DOM on MNP-associated immobilization in Daphnia spp., we synthesized evidence from the published literature and compiled 305 data points from 13 independent studies. The results of our meta-analysis show that the toxic effects of MNP are likely reduced in the presence of certain types of DOM in the exposure media. We found similar mediating effects when MNP were incubated in media containing DOM before the exposure experiments, although to a lesser extent. Future studies designed to disentangle the effects of DOM attached to the MNP from the general effects of DOM in the exposure medium will contribute to a deeper mechanistic understanding of MNP toxicity in nature and enhance the reliability of MNP risk assessment.

Graphical Abstract
Quantitative Pupillometry Predicts Return to Play and Tracks the Clinical Evolution of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in US Military Academy Cadets: A Military Traumatic Brain Injury Initiative Study
Authors: Dengler Bradley A. , Meister Melissa , Aderman Michael , Malvasi Steven R. , Ross Jeremy D. , Fu Adele , Haight Thaddeus , Bartanusz Viktor , Kambe Charles , Boulter Jason H. , Cameron Kenneth L.
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

The objective of this study was to determine the utility of the pupillary light reflex use as a biomarker of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).

METHODS:

This prospective cohort study was conducted at The US Military Academy at West Point. Cadets underwent a standard battery of tests including Balance Error Scoring System, Sports Concussion Assessment Tool Fifth Edition Symptom Survey, Standard Assessment of Concussion, and measure of pupillary responses. Cadets who sustained an mTBI during training events or sports were evaluated with the same battery of tests and pupillometry within 48 hours of the injury (T1), at the initiation of a graded return to activity protocol (T2), and at unrestricted return to activity (T3).

RESULTS:

Pupillary light reflex metrics were obtained in 1300 cadets at baseline. During the study period, 68 cadets sustained mTBIs. At T1 (<48 hours), cadets manifested significant postconcussion symptoms (Sports Concussion Assessment Tool Fifth Edition P < .001), and they had decreased cognitive performance (Standardized Assessment of Concussion P < .001) and higher balance error scores (Balance Error Scoring System P < .001) in comparison with their baseline assessment (T0). The clinical parameters showed normalization at time points T2 and T3. The pupillary responses demonstrated a pattern of significant change that returned to normal for several measures, including the difference between the constricted and initial pupillary diameter (T1 P < .001, T2 P < .05), dilation velocity (T1 P < .01, T2 P < .001), and percent of pupillary constriction (T1 P < .05). In addition, a combination of dilation velocity and maximum constriction velocity demonstrates moderate prediction ability regarding who can return to duty before or after 21 days (area under the curve = 0.71, 95% CI [0.56-0.86]).

CONCLUSION:

This study's findings indicate that quantitative pupillometry has the potential to assist with injury identification and prediction of symptom severity and duration.
Effects of ganciclovir combined with recombinant human interferon-α on clinical efficacy and immune function in children with infectious mononucleosis
Authors: Sun Ling , Bi Jing , Zhen Weina , Wang Meiying , Song Haobin
Published: June 2024

Objective: To evaluate the effects of ganciclovir combined with recombinant human interferon on clinical efficacy and immune function of children with infectious mononucleosis(IM).
Methods: This was a retrospective study. Children (n=120) with IM hospitalized in Beijing Children’s Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University Baoding Hospital from January 2020 to January 2022 were selected and randomly divided into study group and control group((n=60). Patients in the control group were treated with ganciclovir by intravenous infusion, and patients in the study group were given ganciclovir+recombinant human interferon-α1b. The time for eliminating clinical symptoms, the levels of inflammatory cytokines, immune function condition and T-lymphocyte subsets between the two groups were compared and analyzed.
Results: After treatment, the time for body temperature returned to normal, time for recovery from cervical lymphadenopathy, time for recovery from hepatosplenomegaly and time for disappearance of angina and oral mucosal congestion in the study group were significantly shorter than those in the control group(p= 0.00); after treatment, the levels of TNF-a and IL-6 in the study group were significantly lower than those in the control group; the indexes of CD3+ and CD8+ in the study group were significantly lower than those in the control group; after treatment, the levels of CD4+ and CD4+/CD8+ in the study group were significantly higher than those in the control group.
Conclusion: Ranciclovir combined with recombinant human interferon-α1b, rapid improvements of clinical symptoms, significantly decreased inflammatory cytokines, improved T-lymphocyte function and no significant increase in adverse drug reactions were found in children with IM.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.7.8705
How to cite this: Sun L, Bi J, Zhen W, Wang M, Song H. Effects of ganciclovir combined with recombinant human interferon-α on clinical efficacy and immune function in children with infectious mononucleosis. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(7):---------.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.7.8705
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Research on evaluation indicators of healthspan for veterans: A single-center exploratory study
Authors: Zhu Jianbo , Zhang Jingda , Liu Tongbo , Zhang Yong , Xu Guogang
Published: June 2024

Objective: To explore a definition of healthspan that based on actual situation of veterans is of significance for improving their health status and life quality.
Methods: This was a retrospective study. Based on the medical data of veterans from the Chinese PLA General Hospital. Total of 1,421 subjects were enrolled to this study, among which 441 deceased cases were further analyzed. The indicators of healthspan of the subjects was calculated from four dimensions (the status of chronic diseases, physical function, social function and psychological function). The risk factors for death were analyzed in a population cohort from 2008 to 2021 (including 763 subjects, among which 372 were deceased).
Results: The average lifespan and adjusted healthspan of the subjects were 93.3 years and 75.1 years, respectively. The four dimensions of healthspan were: adjusted healthspan without chronic diseases was 76.3 years, social function-related healthspan was 88.8 years, physical function-related healthspan was 91.5 years, and psychological function-related healthspan was 92.7 years. By analyzing the cohort in 2008, it was inferred that the main risk factors for the death of veterans were poor nutritional status, renal function injury, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and aging.
Conclusions: This study proposed four dimensions related to “healthspan” for Chinese veterans (adjusted healthspan without chronic diseases, physical function-related healthspan, social function-related healthspan, and psychological function-related healthspan). Besides, poor nutritional status, renal function injury, and high blood pressure were the most important risk factors affecting the death of veterans.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.7.8714
How to cite this: Zhu J, Zhang J, Liu T, Zhang Y, Xu G. Research on evaluation indicators of healthspan for veterans: A single-center exploratory study. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(7):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.7.8714
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
A case study on the assessment of sustaining evidence-based practice changes and outcomes using the Nursing Quality Indicators for Reporting and Evaluation® (NQuIRE®) data system
Authors: Naik Shanoja , Loft Maureen , Autea Maricris , Medeiros Christina , Singla Shina , Kim Sunghoo Paul , Shire Fatima , McConnell Heather , Grinspun Doris
Published: June 2024

Background In 2003, the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) established the Best Practice Spotlight Organization® (BPSO ®) designation, a pivotal knowledge translation strategy. This initiative aimed to support the Best Practice Guidelines (BPGs) implementation, enable rapid learning and sustainability of evidence-based practice changes. Evaluating the sustainability of evidence-based practice changes is crucial for fidelity of the BPG implementation. Despite existing strategies to acknowledge sustained improvements in practices, there are currently no clear criteria or guidelines available for evaluating sustainability. This article introduces a systematic approach to evaluate the sustainability of BPG implementation outcomes. Methods A mixed methods approach is used to develop criteria to evaluate the sustainability of practice changes and outcomes associated with BPG implementation. This process aims to guide future data reporting frequencies by BPSOs. This approach includes collecting and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data from BPSOs; conducting an environmental scan to determine any existing methods to assess sustainability; and facilitating internal and external expert discussions to provide feedback on the proposed criteria. Results A numerical measure is developed to estimate the number of observations or data submission months required for achieving data saturation and stability or sample size adequacy. A case study is conducted to illustrate the application of the proposed method based on data collected during the implementation of the Assessment and Management of Pain (2013) BPG at an acute care hospital in Ontario, Canada illustrates sustainability of the following practice change and related outcome: consistent pain assessments by healthcare providers and improved patient satisfaction with pain management. Conclusions Monitoring sustainability is a crucial step in BPG implementation. Optimized reporting informs resource allocation and changes to implementation activities. The case study underscores the benefits of using control charts for evaluating practice sustainability and facilitating meaningful data collection by BPSOs for quality improvement.
The transition to nuclear energy in Bangladesh: The interplay between climate-related urgency and geopolitical factors
Authors: Badal Ushan Ara
Published: June 2024

One of the significant issues in contemporary international politics is to examine the contexts of energy usage of different countries, keeping in mind the looming climate threat. Energy transition not only highlights the central role of energy usage but also exposes the vulnerability caused by it. Given the context, Bangladesh has adopted nuclear technology to meet its economic demand and environmental requirements. As a middle-income country, eyeing to graduate to a developing nation by 2041, its choice of exploring nuclear energy has exposed the country to the question of the rationality of the decision. Nuclear energy has a distinguished history that accommodates several debates about its safety and sustainability. Though many developed countries are planning for a nuclear phase-out, Bangladesh’s decision merits attention and explanation to embrace such a stand. Often, the economic priorities have been attached to Bangladesh’s decision for the energy transition, while the discussion about nuclear energy in Bangladesh ignores the geopolitical purposes and international political agenda. This paper, therefore, aims to explore the internal and external climate-related urgency, and geopolitical concerns responsible for such a transition, which have remained unexplored in the existing literature.
Economías de guerra en escenarios de posacuerdos: drogas en Colombia y los desafíos de la paz liberal
Authors: Vargas Meza Ricardo
Published: June 2024

El texto se organiza en dos grandes partes: en primer lugar, se presenta una descripción de la actual situación, desde los cambios en la demanda mundial de cocaína hasta el papel de Colombia en ese contexto. Enseguida se aborda el escenario de las relaciones con Estados Unidos frente al tema de las drogas en el período más reciente, y los desafíos que implica el logro de transformaciones razonables, lo que supone una perspectiva nacional del problema. Luego, se da una observación general sobre el mercado internacional de cocaína y se concentra el análisis sobre las preguntas que levanta la nueva geopolítica de las drogas y, dentro de ella, las implicaciones para Colombia, tomando como un caso particular la desconocida situación de Brasil en relación con el suministro de cocaína desde suelo colombiano. El segundo gran tema es el complejo vínculo seguridad/desarrollo, el cual ha tenido muy poca atención en Colombia. Se abordan enseguida los desafíos para un cambio de la economía ilegal a partir de una síntesis de la historia del desarrollo alternativo. Como medio de contrastación del caso colombiano, se describe la experiencia de Tailandia en desarrollo alternativo y luego los retos que se propuso el acuerdo para el fin del conflicto de La Habana. Enseguida, se observan los principales problemas del vínculo desarrollo/seguridad a escala conceptual y en la realidad colombiana, con énfasis en el asesinato de líderes sociales. Finalmente, se extraen algunas conclusiones.
Getting a Break in Bargaining: An Upside of Time Delays
Authors: Desai Preyas , Jindal Pranav
Published: June 2024

This paper studies the impact of nonstrategic seller-induced delays on the buyer’s willingness to pay in price negotiations.
“It Takes More Than a Pill to Kill”: Bounded Accountability in Disciplining Professional Misconduct Despite Heightened Transparency
Authors: Kaynak Ece , Rahman Hatim A.
Published: June 2024

Existing theory suggests that professionals are ineffective at regulating the work of their peers, especially when it comes to disciplining misconduct, because of professional norms of collegiality. In response, transparency measures have been put in place over the years to increase accountability toward key external audiences, such as the public, and to ensure that professionals hold guilty peers accountable for misconduct. Few studies, however, have sufficiently investigated how professionals discipline peer misconduct in the face of transparency measures. We gained access to a state medical board’s internal deliberations about how to discipline physicians guilty of overprescribing opioids, endangering public health. We found that even in the most egregious cases, the board predominantly refrained from implementing stringent disciplinary action despite extensive transparency measures. Our data allow us to theorize what we call bounded accountability, which refers to individuals charged with holding guilty actors accountable for their misconduct instituting only limited discipline. We found four mechanisms that constrained the exercise of accountability: information asymmetries between regulatory bodies, bureaucratic inefficiencies of the disciplinary apparatus, shared professional beliefs among decision makers, and interpersonal emotions between decision makers and the guilty professionals whom they are put in charge of disciplining. We found that these mechanisms operated at the field, occupational, organizational, and interpersonal levels, respectively. Utilizing a highly consequential study context, our findings suggest that when professional misconduct is disciplined by members of the same occupation, bounded accountability is the most likely outcome, even with extensive transparency measures in place.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/orsc.2023.17932 .
Pendampingan Sinergis pada Pelaku UMKM dalam Pendaftaran Sertifikat Halal melalui Mekanisme Self-Declare di Kawasan Gerbang Kertasusila
Authors: Triastuti Warlinda Eka , Arief Irfan Syarief , Effendi Mohammad Khoirul , Siswantoro Nurhadi , Pribadi Sri Rejeki Wahyu , Sujiatanti Septia Hardy , Ariesta Rizky Chandra , Putranto Teguh , Ningrum Eva Oktavia , Hamzah Afan
Published: June 2024

Program Sertifikasi Halal Gratis (SEHATI) merupakan program pemerintah pada tahun 2022 yang tertuang dalam Keputusan Kepala BPJPH No.33 Tahun 2022 sebagai program percepatan sertifikasi halal bagi pelaku usaha UMKM. Kegiatan Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat Abmas ITS ini dilakukan untuk mendorong pertumbuhan ekonomi UMKM sebagai prioritas utama ekonomi Masyarakat, diperkuat peraturan Undang-Undang Nomor 20 Tahun 2021 tentang Jaminan Produk halal yang mewajibkan setiap pelaku usaha untuk wajib memiliki sertifikasi halal dimana Usaha Mikro Kecil dan Menengah (UMKM) memiliki peran krusial dalam peningkatan ekonomi lokal guna pencipataan kesejahteraan masyarakat desa beberapa Kota dan Kabupaten di Jawa Timur Surabaya, Sidoarjo, Nganjuk, Kediri, dan Mojokerto. Proses sertifikasi halal dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode self-declare dan pendampingan kepada pelaku UMKM di Jawa Timur yang dilakukan bertahap dengan total 68 UMKM yang memperoleh fasilitas dalam pendaftaran sertifikasi halal secara gratis dan sebanyak 39 UMKM yang telah memperoleh sertifikat halal. Beberapa produk yang telah mendapatkan sertifikat halal antara lain Martha’s Salad, Sanra Cookies, Pecel Mbok Yem, Es Boba Satu Hati, dan beberapa produk lainnya.
How nurses can apply spiritual care to improve the daily lives of people with learning disabilities and their families
Authors: Argles Ishmay Jessica Slechta , Arrey Sally
Published: June 2024

Background:

Most UK nursing research into spirituality overlooks its daily application in certain specialties, notably learning disability nursing.

Aims:

To explore spirituality over the lifespans of people with learning disabilities and how spiritual care affects their quality of life. To provide practical examples for nurses on how to apply spiritual care in their daily practice.

Methods:

A literature review conducted between January 2002 and July 2022) following recommendations from the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). Thomas and Harden's (2008) approach to thematic synthesis was used to structure 10 full-text articles into three key themes.

Findings:

The three key themes were: the role of the nurse, the impacts on the individual, and family/carer perspectives.

Conclusion:

The nursing role in using spiritual care encompasses care planning an individual's spiritual activities, facilitating meaningful time alone, nurturing values such as self-acceptance, building therapeutic relationships, and advocating for progression in existing social structures and legislation.
Muscle dysmorphia: an under-recognised aspect of body dissatisfaction in men
Authors: Watters Sarah , Higgins Agnes
Published: June 2024

Although men and women both experience eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, there are differences in the way their eating disorder may present. Body dissatisfaction or body dysmorphia in men may be more related to a drive for muscularity as opposed to thinness. Muscle dysmorphic disorder (also known as muscle dysmorphia) is a form or subtype of body dysmorphia that is characterised by an extreme desire for muscularity and a preoccupation with the idea that one's physique is too small or not sufficiently muscular. It is more common in men than women and is associated with body image distortion, excessive exercise routines, muscularity-orientated disordered eating and the use of appearance- and performance-enhancing drugs such as anabolic androgenic steroids. Risk factors for muscle dysmorphic disorder include social pressure (including to conform to gender stereotypes) and low self-esteem. The condition has negative psychological, physical, relational and financial effects. Nurses can play a role in health promotion as well as in the assessment, care and referral of men with muscle dysmorphic disorder.
Skin integrity preservation using a nurse-constructed silicone adhesive Foley catheter
Authors: Van Houten Cathleen T , Mann Carrie L , Misiti Natalya , Qualls Brandon W
Published: June 2024

Aims:

Skin breakdown is common in the intensive care unit (ICU). This pilot evaluation aimed to determine whether a nurse-constructed urinary catheter securement device using a silicone adhesive could reduce the complications of blistering and other skin breakdowns in a high-risk ICU population with Foley catheters.

Design:

A prospective, non-randomised performance improvement study using a convenience sample was carried out.

Subjects and setting:

The study sample consisted of 29 patients with urethral Foley catheters and any degree of thigh oedema in a surgical ICU at an academic quarternary medical center.

Methods:

Patients were fitted with a standard acrylic-adhesive catheter securement device on one thigh and a nurse-constructed device on the contralateral thigh. At the beginning of each 12-hour shift, the nurse moved the Foley catheter from one securement device to the other; the nurse recorded the assessment findings at the end of the shift.

Results:

The average age of the 29 patients was 61±16 (range 20–87) years. Visible skin compromise occurred in 21% of the time with the standard acrylic securement device; an equal percentage of men and women developed skin breakdown. Oedema status was a significant factor related to skin breakdown. There was no visible damage to the skin associated with the nurse-constructed silicone-adhesive device.

Conclusions:

A silicone adhesive urinary catheter securement device causes less skin damage than one with acrylic adhesive. One-step application, pain-free and atraumatic removal, and reliable securement are essential considerations in product development.
Clinical placement insights: expectations and responsibilities
Authors: Wanogho Aghogho
Published: June 2024

Final-year student Aghogho Wanogho explains what student nurses can expect during their clinical placements and how to make the most of them as opportunities for growth and learning
Maritime Strategies International: ammonia and methanol set to be cornerstones of H2 economy
Authors: Nicoll Stuart
Published: June 2024

To enable the global transition to clean energy, the seaborne trade in renewable hydrogen must grow significantly. This article examines the policy changes needed to achieve this, and the role that ammonia and methanol could play as key ‘hydrogen carriers’.
Íslenskir blaðamenn í breyttum heimi: Aukin áhersla á klassísk gildi en undir vaxandi þrýstingi
Authors: Guðmundsson Birgir , Ólafsson Jón Gunnar , Jóhannsdóttir Valgerður
Published: June 2024

Í þessari grein er fjallað um rannsókn á viðhorfum íslenskra blaðamanna til hlutverks síns í samfélaginu og upplifun þeirra af utanaðkomandi þrýstingi á störf sín. Fjölmiðlaumhverfið á Íslandi hefur gengið í gegnum miklar breytingar á undanförnum árum sem hafa, eins og í öðrum löndum, breytt því hvernig fréttir eru búnar til, þeim dreift og hvernig lesendur nálgast fréttir og jafnframt vakið spurningar um hlutverk fjölmiðla. Vaxandi samkeppni um athygli fólks, áhrif netsins, samfélagsmiðla og áhrifamikilla tæknifyrirtækja hafa meðal annars leitt til fjárhagserfiðleika á íslenskum fjölmiðlamarkaði, gjaldþrota og uppsagna. Markmið rannsóknarinnar er að kanna hvort og þá hvernig þessar breytingar hafa haft áhrif á viðhorf blaðamanna til þess hvert þeir telja vera hlutverk sitt í samfélaginu og jafnframt hvort þeir telja utanaðkomandi þrýsting á dagleg störf sín hafa aukist. Rannsóknin felst í spurningakönnun sem lögð var fyrir blaðamenn vorið 2021 (n=239) og eigindlegum viðtölum við þrjátíu blaðamenn. Spurningakönnunin er hluti af alþjóðlegri samanburðarrannsókn, Worlds of Journalism Study (WJS), sem miðar að því að kortleggja starfsaðstæður blaðamanna, viðhorf og vinnuaðferðir þeirra. Niðurstöðurnar eru bornar saman við WJS könnunina frá árinu 2012 (n=209). Niðurstöður sýna að íslenskir blaðamenn leggja meiri áherslu á það nú en áratug áður að hlutverk þeirra sé fyrst og fremst að veita hlutlægar upplýsingar um það sem gerist í samfélaginu og að veita valdhöfum aðhald. Um leið er ljóst að þeir telja að utanaðkomandi þrýstingur á dagleg störf sín hafi aukist. Það á einkum við um blaðamenn á einkareknum miðlum, en síður um félaga þeirra á Ríkisútvarpinu.
Vinnumenning sem grefur undan jafnréttismarkmiðum lögreglu: fjölgun kvenna í starfsumhverfi sem litað er af kynbundinni áreitni
Authors: Steinþórsdóttir Finnborg Salome , Pétursdóttir Gyða Margrét
Published: June 2024

Í stefnumótun stjórnvalda á sviði kynjajafnréttismála lögreglu er lögð áhersla á að fjölga konum meðal lögreglumanna og í áhrifa- og stjórnunarstöðum lögreglumanna. Til að ná settum markmiðum hefur sjónum verið beint að fjölgun kvenna meðal lögreglunema en lítt verið hugað að brotthvarfi kvenna og neikvæðum þáttum í karllægri vinnumenningar lögreglunnar. Markmið rannsóknarinnar er að skoða hvernig stjórnvöldum miðar að því að ná settum markmiðum og greina möguleg áhrif kynbundinnar áreitni á þessi markmið, en slík áreitni hefur fengið litla athygli í rannsóknum. Rannsóknin byggir á tölulegum gögnum frá lögreglunni og spurningalistakönnun sem lögð var fyrir allt starfsfólk lögreglu árið 2022. Niðurstöðurnar sýna að þrátt fyrir að konum hafi fjölgað meðal lögreglumanna síðastliðin ár þá hefur konum ekki fjölgað í áhrifa- og stjórnunarstöðum líkt og miðað var að. Auk þess er óvíst hvort að markmiðið um fjölgun kvenna náist, en kynjabilið hefur aukist í lögreglunáminu og vísbendingar eru um óeðlilegt brotthvarf meðal kvenna. Stór hluti kvenna verður fyrir kynbundinni áreitni í starfi sínu og þá oftast af hendi karlkyns samstarfsmanna og karlkyns yfirmanna. Því drögum við þá ályktun að vinnumenning lögreglu grafi undan markmiðum stjórnvalda, því á sama tíma og áhersla stjórnvalda er að fjölga konum í lögreglunni að þá er umhverfið sem bíður þeirra til þess fallið að ýta þeim út aftur. Til að vinna gegn þessu þurfa stjórnvöld að bregðist við með aðgerðum sem stuðla að inngildandi starfsumhverfi fyrir allt starfsfólk lögreglu.
Theoretical generation and manipulation of concentric rings by light waves on scattering from a collection of anisotropic particles
Authors: Feng Ying , Liu Chang , Wu Hao , Wang Tao
Published: June 2024

A theoretical method is proposed for generating far-zone scattered fields with concentric ring-like intensity distribution by properly controlling the distribution characteristics of particles. As an example, a collection of anisotropic Gaussian-centered determinate particles with quasi-homogeneous distribution is discussed. The results show that the number and size of concentric rings can be flexibly adjusted by controlling the structural parameters of the collection of particles. In addition, by adjusting the effective length of each particle’s scattering potential in different directions, a conversion of the distribution of the scattered field from the concentric ring to the crescent lobe can be achieved.
Unwrapping non-locality in the image transmission through turbid media
Authors: Kazemzadeh Mohammadrahim , Collard Liam , Pisano Filippo , Piscopo Linda , Ciraci Cristian , De Vittorio Massimo , Pisanello Ferruccio
Published: June 2024

Achieving high-fidelity image transmission through turbid media is a significant challenge facing both the AI and photonic/optical communities. While this capability holds promise for a variety of applications, including data transfer, neural endoscopy, and multi-mode optical fiber-based imaging, conventional deep learning methods struggle to capture the nuances of light propagation, leading to weak generalization and limited reconstruction performance. To address this limitation, we investigated the non-locality present in the reconstructed images and discovered that conventional deep learning methods rely on specific features extracted from the training dataset rather than meticulously reconstructing each pixel. This suggests that they fail to effectively capture long-range dependencies between pixels, which are crucial for accurate image reconstruction. Inspired by the physics of light propagation in turbid media, we developed a global attention mechanism to approach this problem from a broader perspective. Our network harnesses information redundancy generated by peculiar non-local features across the input and output fiber facets. This mechanism enables a two-order-of-magnitude performance boost and high fidelity to the data context, ensuring an accurate representation of intricate details in a pixel-to-pixel reconstruction rather than mere loss minimization.
Converting evanescent waves into propagating waves by hyper-hemi-microsphere
Authors: Wang Haojie , Shi Wenxuan , Wang Jiajie , Zhou Xikang , Li Ping
Published: June 2024

Hyper-hemi-microspheres (HHMS) have shown promise in enhancing super-resolution imaging when combined with conventional optical microscopy. To offer actionable guidance for optimizing HHMS and hold broad applicability in the field of super-resolution imaging, the mechanism underpinning the enhanced imaging facilitated by HHMS is revealed by deriving the conversion and transmission conditions for evanescent waves. This is achieved by elucidating the intricate interplay between evanescent wave conversion and factors including refractive index, thickness, and surroundings of HHMS. Using the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method, influences of various HHMS properties on the conversion and transmission process are analyzed in detail. To fully harness the potential of HHMS in super-resolution imaging, the immersion conditions are elucidated.
Hidden symmetry-induced effective moving double-zero-index metamaterials
Authors: Jing Yuhao , Xiong Zhongfei , Chen Yuntian , Zhang Ruo-Yang , Chan C. T.
Published: June 2024

Materials possessing an effective zero refractive index are often associated with Dirac-like cone dispersion at the center of the Brillouin zone (BZ). It has been reported the presence of hidden symmetry-enforced triply degenerate points [nexus points (NP)] away from the Brillouin zone center with the stacked dielectric photonic crystals. The spin-1 Dirac-like dispersion in the xy plane near the nexus point suggests a method for achieving zero refractive index materials. The stacked photonic crystals at the nexus points can be deemed as an effective moving double-zero-index medium (MDZIM) traveling with a speed relative to the laboratory reference. The ability of this moving double-zero-index medium to enable perfect wave tunneling across barriers without reflection has been demonstrated, dependent on the incident waves’ specific angular orientations.
Humans can infer social preferences from decision speed alone
Authors: Bavard Sophie , Stuchlý Erik , Konovalov Arkady , Gluth Sebastian
Published: June 2024

Humans are known to be capable of inferring hidden preferences and beliefs of their conspecifics when observing their decisions. While observational learning based on choices has been explored extensively, the question of how response times (RT) impact our learning of others’ social preferences has received little attention. Yet, while observing choices alone can inform us about the direction of preference, they reveal little about the strength of this preference. In contrast, RT provides a continuous measure of strength of preference with faster responses indicating stronger preferences and slower responses signaling hesitation or uncertainty. Here, we outline a preregistered orthogonal design to investigate the involvement of both choices and RT in learning and inferring other’s social preferences. Participants observed other people’s behavior in a social preferences task (Dictator Game), seeing either their choices, RT, both, or no information. By coupling behavioral analyses with computational modeling, we show that RT is predictive of social preferences and that observers were able to infer those preferences even when receiving only RT information. Based on these findings, we propose a novel observational reinforcement learning model that closely matches participants’ inferences in all relevant conditions. In contrast to previous literature suggesting that, from a Bayesian perspective, people should be able to learn equally well from choices and RT, we show that observers’ behavior substantially deviates from this prediction. Our study elucidates a hitherto unknown sophistication in human observational learning but also identifies important limitations to this ability.
Widespread fungal–bacterial competition for magnesium lowers bacterial susceptibility to polymyxin antibiotics
Authors: Hsieh Yu-Ying Phoebe , Sun Wanting , Young Janet M. , Cheung Robin , Hogan Deborah A. , Dandekar Ajai A. , Malik Harmit S.
Published: June 2024

Fungi and bacteria coexist in many polymicrobial communities, yet the molecular basis of their interactions remains poorly understood. Here, we show that the fungus Candida albicans sequesters essential magnesium ions from the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa. To counteract fungal Mg2+ sequestration, P. aeruginosa expresses the Mg2+ transporter MgtA when Mg2+ levels are low. Thus, loss of MgtA specifically impairs P. aeruginosa in co-culture with C. albicans, but fitness can be restored by supplementing Mg2+. Using a panel of fungi and bacteria, we show that Mg2+ sequestration is a general mechanism of fungal antagonism against gram-negative bacteria. Mg2+ limitation enhances bacterial resistance to polymyxin antibiotics like colistin, which target gram-negative bacterial membranes. Indeed, experimental evolution reveals that P. aeruginosa evolves C. albicans-dependent colistin resistance via non-canonical means; antifungal treatment renders resistant bacteria colistin-sensitive. Our work suggests that fungal–bacterial competition could profoundly impact polymicrobial infection treatment with antibiotics of last resort.