bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vestibular Schwannoma Stereotactic Radiosurgery in Octogenarians: Case Series
Authors: Head Jeffery R. , Bin-Alamer Othman , Wei Zhishuo , Waite Kaitlin , Agrawal Nishant , Mallela Arka N. , Faramand Andrew , Gersey Zachary C. , Niranjan Ajay , Lunsford L. Dade , Abou-Al-Shaar Hussam
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

The management of octogenarians with vestibular schwannomas (VS) has received little attention. However, with the increase in octogenarian population, more effort is needed to clarify the value of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) in this population. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of SRS in this patient age group.

METHODS:

A retrospective study of 62 patients aged 80 years or older who underwent single-session SRS for symptomatic VS during a 35-year interval was performed. The median patient age was 82 years, and 61.3% were male. SRS was performed as planned adjuvant management or for delayed progression after prior partial resection in 5 patients.

RESULTS:

SRS resulted in a 5-year tumor control rate of 95.6% with a 4.8% risk of adverse radiation effects (ARE). Tumor control was unrelated to patient age, tumor volume, Koos grade, sex, SRS margin dose, or prior surgical management. Four patients underwent additional management including 1 patient with symptomatic progression requiring surgical resection, 2 patients with symptomatic hydrocephalus requiring cerebrospinal fluid diversion, and 1 patient whose tumor-related cyst required delayed cyst aspiration. Three patients developed ARE, including 1 patient with permanent facial weakness (House-Brackmann grade II), 1 who developed trigeminal neuropathy, and 1 who had worsening gait disorder. Six patients had serviceable hearing preservation before SRS, and 2 maintained serviceable hearing preservation after 4 years. A total of 44 (71%) patients died at an interval ranging from 6 to 244 months after SRS.

CONCLUSION:

SRS resulted in tumor and symptom control in most octogenarian patients with VS.
Contemporary Trends in Minimally Invasive Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Utilization in the Medicare Population by Specialty
Authors: Hersh Andrew M. , Jimenez Adrian E. , Pellot Karolina I. , Gong Jung Ho , Jiang Kelly , Khalifeh Jawad M. , Ahmed A. Karim , Raad Micheal , Veeravagu Anand , Ratliff John K. , Jain Amit , Lubelski Daniel , Bydon Ali , Witham Timothy F. , Theodore Nicholas , Azad Tej D.
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction constitutes a leading cause of pain and disability. Although surgical arthrodesis is traditionally performed under open approaches, the past decade has seen a rise in minimally invasive surgical (MIS) techniques and new federally approved devices for MIS approaches. In addition to neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons, proceduralists from nonsurgical specialties are performing MIS procedures for SI pathology. Here, we analyze trends in SI joint fusions performed by different provider groups, along with trends in the charges billed and reimbursement provided by Medicare.

METHODS:

We review yearly Physician/Supplier Procedure Summary data from 2015 to 2020 from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for all SI joint fusions. Patients were stratified as undergoing MIS or open procedures. Utilization was adjusted per million Medicare beneficiaries and weighted averages for charges and reimbursements were calculated, controlling for inflation. Reimbursement-to-charge (RCR) ratios were calculated, reflecting the proportion of provider billed amounts reimbursed by Medicare.

RESULTS:

A total of 12 978 SI joint fusion procedures were performed, with the majority (76.5%) being MIS procedures. Most MIS procedures were performed by nonsurgical specialists (52.1%) while most open fusions were performed by spine surgeons (71%). Rapid growth in MIS procedures was noted for all specialty categories, along with an increased number of procedures offered in the outpatient setting and ambulatory surgical centers. The overall RCR increased over time and was ultimately similar between spine surgeons (RCR = 0.26) and nonsurgeon specialists (RCR = 0.27) performing MIS procedures.

CONCLUSION:

Substantial growth in MIS procedures for SI pathology has occurred in recent years in the Medicare population. This growth can largely be attributed to adoption by nonsurgical specialists, whose reimbursement and RCR increased for MIS procedures. Future studies are warranted to better understand the impact of these trends on patient outcomes and costs.
Etiology and Prevention of Common Injuries in Golf
Authors: Hasley Ike B. , Ostby Timothy D. , Fjosne Christopher M. , Jelsing Elena J.
Published: June 2023

Golf is a popular sport played by individuals of varying age and skillsets. The golf swing is unique and complex, creating potential for various musculoskeletal injuries in both amateur and professional golfers. Understanding the basic biomechanics of the golf swing and its relation to injury etiology can assist the health care provider in recognizing and preventing musculoskeletal injuries secondary to golf. Most injuries occur in the upper limb and the lumbar spine. This review describes musculoskeletal pathologies seen in golfers with respect to anatomic area and golf swing biomechanics, while summarizing effective prevention strategies and swing modifications to address these potential injuries.
Disponibilidade para aprendizagem interprofissional em cursos de saúde em uma faculdade do nordeste brasileiro
Authors: Feitosa Cleyton Anderson Leite , Gomes Neciula de Paula Carneiro Porto , Silva Reneide Muniz da
Published: June 2023

Objetivo: verificar a disponibilidade dos estudantes dos cursos de saúde, de instituição de ensino superior do nordeste brasileiro, para o aprendizado interprofissional e as práticas colaborativas como fundamento de estratégias formativas. Método: o estudo trata de uma pesquisa descritiva-analítica e de caráter quantitativo com universo composto por 356 estudantes de cursos de saúde, como enfermagem, farmácia, fisioterapia, odontologia, educação física, nutrição e psicologia. Foi aplicado o questionário online Readiness Interprofessional Learning Scalel , com 27 questões sociodemográficas e vivência acadêmica com tabulação e análise no Software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 13.0. Foram realizados os testes de Kolmogorov-Smirnov e Mann-Whitney. Resultados: dos 349 estudantes participantes, destaca-se que 14,6% afirmaram ter participado de atividades extracurriculares diversas juntamente com estudantes de outros cursos, e 5,7% ter participado de forma compartilhada, interagindo com estudantes de outros cursos em estágio curricular. Conclusao: Os estudantes apresentam disponibilidade positiva para a Educação Interprofissional, tornando propício para as Instituições de Ensino Superior realizarem adaptações curriculares.
Book-tax conformity and earnings management: recent research
Authors: Floropoulos Stylianos , Tsipouridou Maria , Spathis Charalambos
Published: June 2023

Corporations use two different sets of financial statements which have mirror-image goals, firms want to maximize book income reported to investors, while minimizing the taxable income reported to the tax authorities. The dual nature of corporate profit reporting may be creating a lose-lose situation, less meaningful profit numbers for capital markets and lowered corporate tax revenue for the government. Defenders of the book-tax divide argue that a unified system cannot accommodate these differing objectives, while supporters of the book-tax conformity claim that a tax-based book income can restore the integrity of the financial accounting system. The study reviews the arguments of high vs. low book-tax conformity. It also reviews prior research that examines the association between book-tax conformity and earnings management.

 

JEL Classification: H2, M4, M40, M41

Key words: book-tax conformity, earnings management, book income, tax income, tax incentives
The Impact of Subjectivity on Financial Accounting
Authors: Papadeas Panagiotis
Published: June 2023

In this paper it is attempted to explore current trends in Financial Accounting, that connect research endeavors in the relatively new branch of Behavioral Finance, with the impact of subjectivity on the accounting cycle of each fiscal year, as well as on the preparation of financial statements.

The investigation of subjective factors in Financial Accounting expands its scope, while the systematic utilization of its two-way relationship with the field of Neurofinance (unbiased data) may create a broader framework of knowledge for the further improvement of the investment process, through an understanding of the methodology required by accounting operations and rules up until the preparation of financial statements. By extension, a better understanding of how financial markets operate will be beneficial not only for governments wishing to promote savings incentives and responsible management, but also for supervisory authorities seeking to ensure that the market for personal financial services operates rationally and without bias.  

 

Keywords: Behavioral Finance, Neurofinance, Financial Accounting

JEL Classification: D87, G41, M41
Financialisation, sustainable finance and innovative financing for development mechanisms: the greek case study for crowdfunding and green bonds
Authors: Boufounou Paraskevi , Dellis Konstantinos
Published: June 2023

In this study we look at the potential of these novel financial instruments namely the Innovative Financing for Development Mechanisms (IFDMs). Bearing in mind the adverse financial conditions in many emerging and advanced economies, the high risk associated to innovative activities and intangible assets, the growing levels of private and public debt and the need to address sustainability on top of economic growth, these instruments are of pivotal importance. We consider the Greek economy as a case study and elaborating on the structure and functioning of crowdfunding and green bonds, we identify the potential given the current financial adversities, but also highlight the need for a comprehensive global governance and legislation built around those tools, concluding that these innovative forms of finance although currently at a premature level compared to regional averages,  could play a considerable part in the rejuvenation of the domestic financial system in this time of need

 

EL Classifications: G20, G21, G23, O10, O16.

Key words: Financialization, Sustainable Development, Crowdfunding, Green Bonds

 

This work was financially supported by the Department of Economics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Can the commodity futures be used as effective diversifiers for pension funds investment portfolios? A literature review
Authors: Eleftheriadis Ioardanis , Anastasovitis Ioannis
Published: June 2023

We examine from theoretical point of view whether commodity futures can produce diversification benefits for the pension funds’ investment portfolios. These asset tools have been classified in the alternative investments and as a result they are subjected to worldwide pension regulative restrictions. Reviewing the relative scientific literature of pension funds’ investment strategy and risk management, there is evidence that pension funds’ trustees might take advantage of commodity futures preference, mainly because of their a) returns’ low or negative correlation with these of other traditional options (bonds and stocks) and b) hedging positive properties against the inflation risk, resulting in the optimization of portfolios’ risk-return ratio.   

JEL Classifications: G23, Q02.

Key words: Pension funds, Risk Diversification, Alternative Assets, Commodity Futures
Improvised and Self-taught Bookkeeping: Evidence from a WWII Captive’s Diary
Authors: Diakomihalis Mihail
Published: June 2023

This paper aims to contribute to the existing literature on the issue of the accounting utility not for business reasons but for non-accountants and from the point of view of everyday life financial needs and human survival. In addition, this paper aims to reveal conclusions from the application of accounting by an ordinary essentially illiterate person, including that self-taught accounting is connected to the principles of accounting and modern application experience.

Applying a qualitative-determinative analysis of a handwritten bookkeeping Diary, revealed that several accepted accounting principles were applied, even instinctively, by the illiterate young person.

The improvised bookkeeping suggests that basic accounting knowledge derives from the specific needs of the individual and is configured according to specific circumstances of time and place and to the ease of understanding basic accounting theory and skills. The choice to use accounting, and the sanctuary and therapeutic value of accounting as bulwark in the worst possible circumstances reveals another option of social dimension of accounting.

The accounting application as a means of finding structure and guidance in an unknown world and within a tragic environment helped extremely to turn the young refugee’s disaster to a success story.

The few pages from the hand-written diary of an ex WWII captive is the quite unique and interesting material this paper is constructed on and consist an undoubtable original documentation, but at the same time the scarcity of the few saved pages comprises the main research limitation.

The elements considered by an “Illiterate” in the accounting field, most significant, as well as the way in which these principles were registered, should be considered in Accounting Education.

 

EL Classifications: D030, D100, M490

Key words: Accounting history, Bookkeeping, Accounting principles, Qualitative analysis
Integrated Reporting and IFRS 3: an empirical study to Cost of Equity through Firm Risk and Investor Protection
Authors: Pavlopoulos Athanasios , Iatridis George Emmanuel
Published: June 2023

This study examines the relation of cost of equity associated with the disclosure quality of IFRS 3 and the Integrated Reporting (IR) compliance. Employing an IR sample composed of 498 non-financial firms that use IR either mandatorily or voluntarily from 2011 to 2019, we investigate the impact of IR and IFRS 3 disclosure quality on the cost of equity. Based on Breuer et al. (2018) and Chava (2014) we suggest two distinct channels through which IR and IFRS 3 can influence the cost of equity: firm risk and investor base. In companies with strong legal, cultural, and political factors, our results show that the cost of equity falls when a firm invests in IR and at the same time provides high levels of IFRS 3 information.  Moreover, we find that higher IFRS 3 disclosure score lowers firms’ risk in companies with high IR compliance. We interpret the negative relation at higher levels of disclosure as evidence that investors consider firms with low levels of IR informativeness to be riskier. Finally, we find that the negative impact of IFRS 3 disclosure quality and of IR compliance to cost of equity is more intense when firms’ risk is low.

 

JEL Classification: C 33; G17; G32; L2; M14.

Keywords: integrated reporting, IFRS 3, accounting disclosure quality, cost of equity, firm risk and investor protection
Social and solidarity economy initiatives in circular economy: the case of second-hand clothing in Greece
Authors: Paraschi Dionisia Evgenia , Arvanitidis Paschalis
Published: June 2023

Mainstream approaches to circular economy focus on the economic and the environmental dimensions disregarding the social element of sustainable development. Proper integration of the social dimension requires the adoption of a different consumption culture and of economic behavior in general, all of which fall within the mentality of the social and solidarity economy. This perspective places due attention to social responsibility (articulated through cooperation, solidarity, sharing with, and caring for others) aiming to serve the collective interest and to increase social value and wealth. Yet, the literature that explores the links between social and solidarity economy, sustainable development and circular economy remains limited.  Aiming to contribute to this literature and to advance the social dimension of CE, the current work analyzes and evaluates specific CE initiatives specialized in the reuse of used clothing in Greece, employing the perspective of social and solidarity economy. These are: a collectivity, a social enterprise, and a non-profit organization. The research assesses their effectiveness and longevity discussing also their attachment to the ideals of social and solidarity economy. It finds that the examined initiatives are all successful and satisfy to a certain degree the values and principles of social and solidarity economy, providing a sound basis to expand and enrich the concept and the approach of circular economy with due emphasis on the social dimension.

 

Keywords: Circular economy, social and solidarity economy, reuse, second-hand clothing, sustainable development

JEL codes: B52, B55, D02, L31, O17, O35, Q56
A Two-Phase Optimal Portfolio Selection Using Sharpe Index Model Applied to the Athens Stock Exchange
Authors: Nastas Vasileios , Boufounou Paraskevi
Published: June 2023

Although in literature numerous multivariate models have been applied for optimal portfolio selection based on either market or accounting stock characteristics, whereby plenty of technical and/or fundamental criteria have been proposed, the problem is yet to be solved. This paper enhances a two-phased analysis that combines both fundamental and technical criteria, to overcome the aforementioned shortcomings. Initially, the fundamental characteristics of 25 stocks from 11 industries/sectors with the largest market capitalization, are compared to the performance of the Athens Stock Exchange FTSE/XA Large CAP Index, and hence two scoring tables are formed using different benchmarks, where the best performing stocks are selected. Subsequently, for these stocks, based on weekly data covering a 3-year period, the Sharpe Index Model is applied, and the best performing portfolio is selected. The estimated Sharpe Index Model (SIM) reveals that there are several opportunities to optimize return and diversify risk in an efficient manner, outperforming the FTSE Large Cap Index.

 

JEL Classifications: D53, G11, G12, G17, G23

Key words: Risk & Return, Technical Analysis, Fundamental Analysis, Sharpe Index Model
Measurement of speech in individuals with selective mutism: A systematic review
Authors: Toma Yuria , Matsuda Soichiro
Published: June 2023

Background: The main characteristic of selective mutism (SM) is the failure to speak in specific social situations. Thus, assessing speech across social contexts is important for confirming a diagnosis of SM and for differentiating it from other disorders. The purpose of this review was to organize how the core symptom of SM, a lack of speech in specific social situations, has been assessed in previous studies.

Methods: A systematic search of articles was conducted in three databases, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and PubMed and reviews of surveys or experimental studies that reported empirical data on individuals with SM were performed. We excluded review, qualitative, epidemiological, and intervention studies. The study summarized the diagnostic criteria, methods of confirming SM diagnosis, distinction of SM from other disorders, and methods of speech assessment.

Results: A total of 447 articles were screened, where 60 articles were considered eligible. The results demonstrate that different interviews and questionnaires were used to establish the diagnosis of SM. However, the majority of interviews and questionnaires lacked validation. Only two (2/60) articles used validated methods of speech assessment to confirm SM diagnosis. Moreover, a consensus was lacking on the assessment method for differentiating SM from other disorders across studies. Specifically, 17 studies measured speech and are not intended for diagnosis. The majority of studies (16/17) used the questionnaire to assess the severity of the SM condition, and only one study conducted behavioral observation. Assessment methods based on the measurement of speech in real-life situations for individuals with SM were not established.

Conclusion: We have the limitation that we did not review intervention studies. However, this systematic review revealed the problem that speech assessment methods for surveys or experimental studies of SM were not established. Future studies should establish methods of speech assessment across social situations to assess SM symptoms.
Ethical dimensions of zoonotic disease research: Perspectives of traditional livestock keepers in Zambia
Authors: Zulu Victor Chisha , Syakalima Michelo , Ali Joseph
Published: June 2023

Background: With the increase in zoonotic disease research using livestock belonging to traditional livestock keepers (LKs) as research subjects, careful attention to both animal and livestock keeper interests is critically important in Zambia and other similar contexts.

Methods: The study aimed to explore ethics-related challenges during zoonotic disease research among LKs where their livestock are included as research subjects. The study was implemented in the Southern province of Zambia in July 2020.  Three focus group discussions  (FGDs) involving 30 adult male LKs living in livestock-wildlife interface areas where zoonotic diseases are likely to occur, were carried out. The FGDs were done in the local language and audio recorded. Thematic analysis was done using field notes and translated and transcribed recorded interviews. 

Results: The study found that trust between the researchers and LKs when their livestock are used as research subjects was very cardinal and depended on the continual presence of the local veterinary assistant (VA) during the conduct of research. 

Conclusions: The LKs could be considered a vulnerable population when their livestock were used as research subjects as, being resource poor, they were looking to researchers to provide benefits yet not fully understanding the research, and thus did not worry so much about consent procedures, bringing into question the validity of the oral consent obtained. The study also found that opportunities to strengthen trust and enhance the research experience could be exploited by researchers conducting research that is locally relevant and desired, being aware of procedural preferences for entering into livestock keeping communities, adequate disclosure of research procedures, respecting conventions and traditional cultural beliefs, and returning results of research. The findings of this study can be used by both researchers as they carry-out zoonotic disease research and by Research Ethics Committees.
Practical considerations for a TB controlled human infection model (TB-CHIM); the case for TB-CHIM in Africa, a systematic review of the literature and report of 2 workshop discussions in UK and Malawi
Authors: Gordon Stephen B. , Sichone Simon , Chirwa Anthony E. , Hazenberg Phoebe , Kafuko Zacharia , Ferreira Daniela M. , Flynn JoAnne , Fortune Sarah , Balasingam Shobana , Biagini Giancarlo A. , McShane Helen , Mwandumba Henry C , Jambo Kondwani , Dheda Keertan , Raj Sharma Nimisha , Robertson Brian D. , Walker Naomi F , Morton Ben ,   TB Controlled Human Infection Model Development Group
Published: June 2023

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major challenge in many domains including diagnosis, pathogenesis, prevention, treatment, drug resistance and long-term protection of the public health by vaccination. A controlled human infection model (CHIM) could potentially facilitate breakthroughs in each of these domains but has so far been considered impossible owing to technical and safety concerns.

Methods: A systematic review of mycobacterial human challenge studies was carried out to evaluate progress to date, best possible ways forward and challenges to be overcome. We searched MEDLINE (1946 to current) and CINAHL (1984 to current) databases; and Google Scholar to search citations in selected manuscripts. The final search was conducted 3rd February 2022. Inclusion criteria: adults ≥18 years old; administration of live mycobacteria; and interventional trials or cohort studies with immune and/or microbiological endpoints. Exclusion criteria: animal studies; studies with no primary data; no administration of live mycobacteria; retrospective cohort studies; case-series; and case-reports. Relevant tools (Cochrane Collaboration for RCTs and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for non-randomised studies) were used to assess risk of bias and present a narrative synthesis of our findings.

Results: The search identified 1,388 titles for review; of these 90 were reviewed for inclusion; and 27 were included. Of these, 15 were randomised controlled trials and 12 were prospective cohort studies. We focussed on administration route, challenge agent and dose administered for data extraction. Overall, BCG studies including fluorescent BCG show the most immediate utility, and genetically modified Mycobacteria tuberculosis is the most tantalising prospect of discovery breakthrough.

Conclusions: The TB-CHIM development group met in 2019 and 2022 to consider the results of the systematic review, to hear presentations from many of the senior authors whose work had been reviewed and to consider best ways forward. This paper reports both the systematic review and the deliberations.

Registration: PROSPERO (CRD42022302785; 21 January 2022).
The genome sequence of a soldierfly, Nemotelus nigrinus (Fallén, 1817)
Authors: Sivell Olga , Mitchell Ryan , Sivell Duncan ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: June 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual female Nemotelus nigrinus (a soldierfly; Arthropoda; Insecta; Diptera; Stratiomyidae). The genome sequence is 722.2 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 5 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 18.94 kilobases in length.
O efektywnym uprawianiu historiografii. Rozważania na marginesie pracy Aleksandry Ziober
Authors: Żojdź Karol
Published: June 2023

W artykule omówiono najnowszą pracę na temat postaw litewskich elit wobec elekcji Władysława IV i Michała I. Krytyce poddana została m.in. metodologia zastosowana na potrzeby publikacji oraz dobór bezkrólewi. Recenzowana książka stała się również pretekstem, aby przywołać tezę o dynamiczności układów klientalnych w Rzeczypospolitej oraz podkreślić specyfikę relacji patron–klient w Wielkim Księstwie Litewskim.
From the Palace of Ryswick to the Sultan’s Seraglio: The Ottoman Translation and Interpretation of a Christian European Peace Treaty
Authors: Poulios Konstantinos
Published: June 2023

The inclusion of peace treaty articles between Christian powers in an Ottoman historical work of the late seventeenth century is unquestionably distinctive. The article presents an Ottoman translation of the Treaty of Ryswick (1697) concluded between the French king and the German emperor. This translation is included by the late seventeenth – early eighteenth-century Ottoman historian and palace official Silāḥdār Fındıklılı Meḥmed Aġa in his historical work called ‘The Book of Victory’ (Nuṣretnāme). With this unique text as its basis, the article will first attempt to place the translation in its historical context and explain the possible reasons for its inclusion by Silahdar in his history. Secondly, to morphologically evaluate the text to bring to the fore the translation strategies adopted and to explore the reception and the degree of understanding by the Ottoman side of the basic terms and linguistic topoi of a Christian European peace treaty. And lastly, to analyse the specific interpretation ascribed to the Ryswick agreement by the Ottoman leadership.
Palliative care competencies and education needs of nurses and healthcare assistants involved in the provision of supportive palliative care
Authors: White Lynn , Agbana Sharon , Connolly Michael , Guerin Suzanne , Larkin Philip
Published: June 2023

Background:

This paper investigates the palliative care competencies (knowledge, behaviours, attitudes) and education needs of nurses and healthcare assistants (HCAs) who provide supportive (Level 2) palliative care.

Methods:

A mixed-methods study using a sequential exploratory design was used, with findings integrated across sources. Qualitative focus groups were conducted in 2018 with a sample of staff (n=11, all female; nurses=4; HCAs=7) providing supportive palliative care in a single service setting. A quantitative survey, also conducted in 2018, explored the issue with a wider sample within the same setting (n=36; nurses=18; HCAs=18; female=32).

Results:

Qualitatively, communication was highlighted as an important domain of the competence framework, with many participants acknowledging that the ability to communicate effectively is essential. Quantitatively, participants scored in the lower range for competency variables. A significant difference was observed between HCAs and nurses on measures of knowledge (t= -2.718; df=30; p<.05) and behaviour (t=-3.576; df=30; p<.05), with HCAs scoring significantly higher than nurses. In relation to education, while some participants report being indecisive regarding engaging in education/training, others highlighted the benefit of education, especially its ability to impact on their practice.

Conclusion:

This research contributes to understanding palliative care competencies among nurses and HCAs working in palliative care, and has important implications for the education and training of nurses and HCAs working in Level 2 palliative care in Ireland.
Spirituality and the HCA: the personal, cultural and community aspects
Authors: Barber Chris
Published: June 2023

This series of articles will explore the intersections of spirituality and the delivery of contemporary health care across several healthcare and nursing environments, with regard to both patient and service user groups. This seventh article will pick up on issues either raised briefly, or not covered, in earlier articles.
Determination of the JAK2 V617F mutation in thrombosis patients
Authors:   Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand., Magmuang Sutada , Singdong Roongrudee ,   Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand., Chareonsirisuthigul Takol ,   Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand., Rerkamnuaychoke Budsaba ,   Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand., Sommaluan Suchada ,   Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand., Sae-chua Dollawat ,   Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand., Siriboonpiputtana Teerapong ,   Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand., Puavilai Teeraya ,   Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Published: June 2023

Background: Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) gene mutation causes uncontrolled myeloproliferation independent of cytokines and abnormal formation of the endogenous erythroid colony. JAK2 mutations were frequently observed in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), especially in polycythemia vera (PV) and essential thrombocythemia (ET). MPNs represent a risk factor for the development of thrombosis that is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in patients. Materials and methods: We aimed to study the correlation between JAK2 mutation and thrombosis. Thirty-nine patients with a clinical diagnosis of thrombocytosis and Budd-Chiari syndrome were collected to determine the JAK2 V617F mutation. Genomic DNA from all specimens was amplified and detected the presence of JAK2 V617F mutation by AS-PCR. Results: We demonstrated JAK2 V617F mutation in both patients with a clinical diagnosis of thrombocytosis and Budd-Chiari syndrome. We found that 11 of 37 (29.7%) thrombocytosis patients had a JAK2 V617F mutation. Moreover, one of two patients who represented as Budd-Chiari syndrome was positive for JAK2 V617F mutation. In addition, JAK2 V617F mutation was associated with thrombosis. However, further study in large series is needed to support this finding. Conclusion: Determination of the JAK2 V617F mutation may be helpful for screening latent or occult MPNs patients who have an occurrence of thrombosis to adjust the appropriate treatment for good patient outcomes.
AVALIAÇÃO DO USO DE EXTRATOS DE MAMONA (RICINUS COMMUNIS L.) COMO BIOINSETICIDA NO COMBATE À LAGARTA DO MARACUJÁ (Dione Juno Juno)
Authors: Luiz Jacio Santos Torres  , Jucelho Dantas da Cruz
Published: June 2023

A cultura do maracujá ( Passiflora spp.) é de grande importância para a agricultura baiana, principalmente para a agricultura familiar, uma vez que, segundo dados da Embrapa, a Bahia em 2018 teve uma produção de 160.902 toneladas da fruta, o que lhe conferiu o cargo de maior produtor nacional, apesar de possuir uma produtividade relativamente baixa. Tal fato demonstra a importância de novos estudos para a cultura, uma vez que no Estado da Bahia as condições edafoclimáticas são bastante favoráveis à expansão dessa fruteira (Araújo et al, 2008).
Intuitive pathways into racist beliefs
Authors: Latif Mehr , Simi Pete , Blee Kathleen , DeMichele Matthew
Published: June 2023

In this article, we present empirical evidence on the cognitive processes underlying racist beliefs and judgement. We draw on 47 life history interviews with former members of White supremacist groups to better understand how social interactions and stimuli from the wider environment inform cognitive pathways or how people think. While we examine both deliberate and intuitive pathways to racist belief, we focus on the intuitive ways that extreme racist beliefs are cognitively processed before, during and after an individual is involved in the White supremacist movement. In doing so, we fill a critical gap in the literature by providing an empirical analysis of intuition. We illustrate the analytic contributions of our approach, and we conclude by drawing on our evidence to elucidate three puzzles, including: (1) why racist beliefs persist; (2) how people draw on implicit beliefs to make explicit judgements; and (3) how explicit beliefs become encoded in intuitive pathways.
Dynamic measurement of 3D displacements using dual-camera lensless Fourier transform digital holography
Authors: Pan Yun , Wang Kaifu
Published: June 2023

Dynamic 3D displacement field measurement is an effective means to
characterize the electrical performance stability and structural
soundness of microsystems. Combining off-axis lensless Fourier
transform multiplexed digital holography and multi-illumination
profilometry, a dual-wavelength dual-camera optical setup with a
multi-illumination system is developed to simultaneously acquire four
phase images with different sensitivity vectors, as well as the object
shapes. Meanwhile, the shared reference wave in off-axis lensless
Fourier holography gives a convenient way for sensitivity vector
modification and phase image registration, which are based on the
stereo checkerboard calibration method. The dynamic 3D displacement
fields and the strain maps of an energized integrated circuit board
reveal that the inhomogeneous thermal expansion may cause some damage
to chips, such as pin desoldering and microstructure fracture.
Tunable backward terahertz-wave parametric oscillator centered at a high frequency of 0.87 THz with injection seeding
Authors: Muldera Joselito E. , Nawata Kouji , Takida Yuma , Yadav Deepika , Minamide Hiroaki
Published: June 2023

We report the first demonstration of a frequency tunable backward THz-wave parametric oscillator (BW-TPO) centered at a high frequency of 0.87 THz using a slant-stripe-type magnesium oxide-doped periodically poled lithium niobate (PPLN) crystal as the nonlinear medium. Down-converted THz and idler beams generate upon excitation of the PPLN with a sub-nanosecond pulsed source of λ = 1064.44 nm. The resulting first idler has a wavelength of 1067.75 nm, equivalent to an oscillation frequency of 0.872 THz as per the spectral line separation from the pump. We also present angle tuning of the BW-TPO frequency ranging from 0.836–0.905 THz through PPLN rotation. The threshold pump intensity for BW-TPO is determined to be 5.6 GW/cm2 while obtaining a conversion efficiency as high as 12.3% at a pump energy (intensity) of 15.25 mJ (8.90 GW/cm2). A reduction of the BW-TPO threshold energy and improved pump-to-idler energy conversion efficiency resulted from injection seeding with a CW laser at the same wavelength as the first idler. The THz output is also directly proportional to seed power.
Single capture bright field and off-axis digital holographic microscopy: publisher’s note
Authors: Picazo-Bueno José Ángel , Barroso Álvaro , Ketelhut Steffi , Schnekenburger Jürgen , Micó Vicente , Kemper Björn
Published: June 2023

This publisher’s note contains corrections to Opt. Lett.
48, 876 (2023)10.1364/OL.478674.
Clamped and sideband-resolved silicon optomechanical crystals
Authors: Kolvik Johan , Burger Paul , Frey Joey , Van Laer Raphaël
Published: June 2023

Optomechanical crystals (OMCs) are a promising and versatile platform for transduction between mechanical and optical fields. However, the release from the substrate used in conventional suspended OMCs also complicates manufacturing and severely reduces thermal anchoring. This may be improved by attaching the OMCs directly to the substrate. Previous work towards such clamped, i.e., non-suspended, OMCs suffers from weak interaction rates and insufficient lifetimes. Here, we present a class of clamped OMCs realizing—for the first time, to our knowledge—optomechanical interactions in the resolved-sideband regime required for quantum transduction. Our approach leverages high-wavevector mechanical modes outside the continuum. We observe a record zero-point optomechanical coupling rate of g0/(2π)≈0.50MHz along with a sevenfold improvement in the single-photon cooperativity of clamped OMCs. Our devices operate at frequencies commonly used in superconducting qubits. This opens an avenue using clamped OMCs in both classical and quantum communications, sensing, and computation through scalable mechanical circuitry that couples strongly to light.
Spatial dynamics of malaria transmission
Authors: Wu Sean L. , Henry John M. , Citron Daniel T. , Mbabazi Ssebuliba Doreen , Nakakawa Nsumba Juliet , Sánchez C. Héctor M. , Brady Oliver J. , Guerra Carlos A. , García Guillermo A. , Carter Austin R. , Ferguson Heather M. , Afolabi Bakare Emmanuel , Hay Simon I. , Reiner Robert C. , Kiware Samson , Smith David L.
Published: June 2023

The Ross-Macdonald model has exerted enormous influence over the study of malaria transmission dynamics and control, but it lacked features to describe parasite dispersal, travel, and other important aspects of heterogeneous transmission. Here, we present a patch-based differential equation modeling framework that extends the Ross-Macdonald model with sufficient skill and complexity to support planning, monitoring and evaluation for Plasmodium falciparum malaria control. We designed a generic interface for building structured, spatial models of malaria transmission based on a new algorithm for mosquito blood feeding. We developed new algorithms to simulate adult mosquito demography, dispersal, and egg laying in response to resource availability. The core dynamical components describing mosquito ecology and malaria transmission were decomposed, redesigned and reassembled into a modular framework. Structural elements in the framework—human population strata, patches, and aquatic habitats—interact through a flexible design that facilitates construction of ensembles of models with scalable complexity to support robust analytics for malaria policy and adaptive malaria control. We propose updated definitions for the human biting rate and entomological inoculation rates. We present new formulas to describe parasite dispersal and spatial dynamics under steady state conditions, including the human biting rates, parasite dispersal, the “vectorial capacity matrix,” a human transmitting capacity distribution matrix, and threshold conditions. An R package that implements the framework, solves the differential equations, and computes spatial metrics for models developed in this framework has been developed. Development of the model and metrics have focused on malaria, but since the framework is modular, the same ideas and software can be applied to other mosquito-borne pathogen systems.
Self-management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in pregnancy and breastfeeding experiences among women in Thailand: Study protocol
Authors: Phonyiam Ratchanok , Baernholdt Marianne , Hodges Eric A.
Published: June 2023

Women with type 2 diabetes mellitus are at a higher risk of pregnancy complications. Although traditional beliefs and practices influence diabetes management and breastfeeding, recommendations integrating Thai cultural beliefs in maternal care are lacking. The purpose of this study is to describe diabetes self-management in pregnancy and breastfeeding experiences in women with preexisting type 2 diabetes mellitus from Thailand. A convergent parallel mixed-methods study will be conducted. Data will be collected from 20 pregnant women with preexisting type 2 diabetes mellitus in Thailand who are either primigravida or multigravida, aged 20–44 years old, speak the Thai language, and provide consent. The National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities Framework’s sociocultural and behavioral domains guides the research aims. Data will be collected two times. The first time is during pregnancy (T1); study participants will complete questionnaires and engage in an interview about diabetes self-management, breastfeeding confidence, and breastfeeding intention. The second time is at 4–6 weeks postpartum (T2); study participants will be interviewed about their breastfeeding experiences. We will review and extract maternal health outcomes including body mass index, gestational weight gain, and glycated hemoglobin for T1 as well as fasting plasma glucose for T2. Qualitative data will be analyzed using directed content analysis. Quantitative data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics. Data sources will be triangulated with relative convergence in the results. This proposed study is significant because the findings will be used as a preliminary guide to developing a culturally tailored approach to enhance health outcomes of Thai women with diabetes in pregnancy and postpartum periods.
Factors associated with occupational asthma among food industry workers: A systematic review
Authors: Md Zamri Ahmed Syahmi Syafiq , Saruddin Muhammad Zulhilmie , Harun Amin , Abd. Aziz Siti Fatimah , Aizad Za’bah Abi Khairul , Dapari Rahmat , Hassan Mohd Rohaizat , Che Dom Nazri , Syed Abdul Rahim Syed Sharizman
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Occupational asthma (OA) is a type of Work-Related Asthma characterised by variable airflow limitation and/or inflammation due to causes and conditions attributable to a particular occupational environment, and not to stimuli encountered outside the workplace. There is an increasing need to extend the depth of knowledge of OA to better manage this condition, especially among food industry workers who are affected by it.

Objective

This systematic review aimed to determine the factors associated with occupational asthma among food industry workers by electronically collecting articles from two databases (Medline and Scopus).

Methods

This systematic review was prepared in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses) updated guideline. Two independent reviewers screened the titles and abstracts of the collected data, which were then stored in Endnote20 based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The included articles have been critically appraised to assess the quality of the studies using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT).

Result

The search yielded 82 articles from Medline and 85 from SCOPUS, resulting in 167 unique hits. Only 22 articles have been included in the full-text assessment following a rigorous selection screening. Of the 22 articles identified, five were included in the final review. Several factors were found to have contributed to occupational asthma among food industry workers. They were classified into two categories: (1) work environment-related factors; and (2) individual factors.

Conclusion

Several work environment and individual-related factors were found to be associated with OA among food industry workers. A better understanding of the development of the disease and its potential risk factors is needed because it can affect worker’s quality of life. Pre-employment and periodic medical surveillance should be conducted to assess and detect any possible risk of developing occupational asthma among workers.
News Corp’s policy on the separation of news and comment contradicts a core Press Council principle
Authors: Muller Denis
Published: June 2023

There is a conflict between the general principle of the Australian Press Council concerning the separation of news from comment and the editorial policy of News Corporation (News Corp) which allows its journalists to mix the two so that readers might see what the newspaper’s view is on the matter being reported. This article argues that this policy is a crucial part of the machinery that enables the Murdoch press to prosecute feuds, intimidate politicians and engage in hyper-partisan campaigning without regard for truth or consequences. It further argues that the Press Council is compromised in dealing with it by its reliance on News Corp as the single biggest provider of its funding. The argument is reinforced by the Council’s incapacity to answer straightforward questions about how it accommodates the conflict between its principle and News Corp’s policy.
A conversation about journalism: A role for universities?
Authors: Simons Margaret
Published: June 2023

Many people would say that journalism is in crisis. In Australia, we regularly see front pages in our newspapers that show scant regard for the facts and are clearly partisan. Two former prime ministers have called for a Royal Commission into the media. Incursions on media freedom are frequent, and Australia has dropped down the scale on measures of media freedom. Meanwhile, repeated attempts to improve self-regulation have created only cynicism. Meanwhile lawyers, doctors and even builders have professional associations in which industry practice and ethics can be discussed. No such body exists for journalists. Social media contains plenty of criticism of journalism, but most are poorly informed and the profession reacts defensively. In this article, I will argue that some of the ideas about journalism that we teach, and measure the profession against, are not as historically well based as we like to think. Journalism has been many things since the profession was created, not all of them good. Now, though, there is the potential for a conversation with the public about what we want journalism to be. What role might universities play in advancing such a conversation? And what outcomes should we seek?