bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical and methodological approaches to understanding the concepts of "vitality" and "subjective vitality" in the framework of the conceptual model for the development of subjective vitality of the heads of internal affairs bodies
Authors: Maltseva Tatyana
Published: December 2020

Today, the definition of “subjective vitality” is interpreted in many research works as the experience of a person being full of energy, the vital forces available to her. Therefore, there is a need to consider the relationship and difference in the scientific understanding and development of such ends as “life force” and “subjective vitality”. The concept of “life force”, used in modern literature, is devoid of both a supernatural character and the functions of a natural science fact.

The energy aspect of human functioning is more developed in our opinion in psychological research than in philosophical and natural sciences. For the first time, a description of the energetic component of a personality in line with psychology is found in works performed in line with a psychoanalytic direction. In the dynamic psychology of K. Levin, an approach to the energy component of the personality is described. E. Byrne believed that human energy can be directed inward, towards himself, and outward. From the perspective of describing the nature of vital energy, V. Reich's approach has been developed. According to A. Lowen, a single energy, enclosed in the body, manifests itself both in psychic phenomena and in movements; this energy is bioenergy. In the work of practical psychologists, one can find a difference in understanding of vital energy and energy.
Psychological features of falsehood as a method of coercion of testifying
Authors: Chukanova Evgeniya , Maltseva Tatyana
Published: December 2020

Falsehood is recognized as an integral part of human communications, a unique phenomenon of social reality and socio-cultural traditions. The Criminal Code of the Russian Federation does not specify the concept of the sign “other illegal actions” as a way of committing coercion to testify, and this concept is not disclosed in criminal proceedings either. An overly broad interpretation of this feature found in scientific literature makes it difficult to correctly apply the norms of the Criminal Law. In this regard, the article examines the psychological signs of deception and the possibility of recognizing it as one of the methods of coercion to testify. Based on the psychological and legal analysis of the materials of the judicial and investigative practice, it was concluded that deception cannot be related to other illegal acts of forcing to give evidence, since this method of pressure from the interrogator always allows the interrogated to think over the proposals put forward and make a conscious choice, that is, when deceiving, there is no effect on the freedom of expression of the will of the defendant. In the event that information is received that the interrogators are receiving confessions using deception, the issue of bringing these persons to disciplinary responsibility should be resolved.
Corporate Payout Policy and Credit Risk: Evidence from Credit Default Swap Markets
Authors: Sun Chengzhu , Wang Shujing , Zhang Chu
Published: December 2020

We examine whether and how payout policy affects credit risk using evidence from the credit default swap (CDS) market. CDS spreads increase substantially in response to announcements of dividend cuts, especially during recessions and among firms experiencing financial distress. CDS spreads also react more strongly to permanent and less anticipated dividend cuts. The size of the CDS reaction is more pronounced for financial firms, which are inherently more opaque. In contrast, CDS spreads react weakly to dividend raises and share repurchases. The results show that the information effect of dividend changes dominates the wealth-transfer effect.

This paper was accepted by Kay Giesecke, finance.
Designing Informative Rating Systems: Evidence from an Online Labor Market
Authors: Garg Nikhil , Johari Ramesh
Published: December 2020

Problem definition: Platforms critically rely on rating systems to learn the quality of market participants. In practice, however, ratings are often highly inflated and therefore, not very informative. In this paper, we first investigate whether the platform can obtain less inflated, more informative ratings by altering the meaning and relative importance of the levels in the rating system. Second, we seek a principled approach for the platform to make these choices in the design of the rating system. Academic/practical relevance: Platforms critically rely on rating systems to learn the quality of market participants, and so, ensuring these ratings are informative is of first-order importance. Methodology: We analyze the results of a randomized, controlled trial on an online labor market in which an additional question was added to the feedback form. Between treatment conditions, we vary the question phrasing and answer choices; in particular, the treatment conditions include several positive-skewed verbal rating scales with descriptive phrases or adjectives providing specific interpretation for each rating level. We then develop a model-based framework to compare and select among rating system designs and apply this framework to the data obtained from the online labor market test. Results: Our test reveals that current inflationary norms can be countered by reanchoring the meaning of the levels of the rating system. In particular, positive-skewed verbal rating scales yield substantially deflated rating distributions that are much more informative about seller quality. Further, we demonstrate that our model-based framework for scale design and optimization can identify the most informative rating system and substantially improve the quality of information obtained over baseline designs. Managerial implications: Our study illustrates that practical, informative rating systems can be designed and demonstrates how to compare and design them in a principled manner.
Structural-Functional Design of Financial Activity of Enterprises in the Financial Services Market
Authors:   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Latysheva O. , Kravchenko Yu. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Kolinko D. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Shelikhova V. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy
Published: December 2020

In the article the result of design of business processes is presented in methodology of structural-functional design, that allows to conduct procedure of description for further optimization of business processes. In the article possibilities of the use of modern tool of management financial activity lombards are presented on the basis of structural-functional design. The got results and offered stages of structural-functional models allow to promote efficiency of administrative decisions due to the receipt of instrument of evident reflection of the existent state of all processes and stages of management, determination of resources, regulations, tasks and desirable results. The models and offered algorithms of the use of structural-functional design presented in the article allow to guidance of company to regulate and formalize all procedure of management due to the graphic reflection of resources, results, mechanisms of providing and management for the designed process of enterprise at notation of IDEF0 (Integration Definition for of Function Modeling) of methodology of SADT – diagrams, and also sequence of the stages of the designed process of ARIS (Architecture of Integrated Information Systems) for the further estimation of necessary resources. Due to the use of modern tool of design of business processes in notations of «Integration Definition for of Function Modeling – IDEF0» and «Architecture of Integrated Information Systems – ARIS» possibility of receipt of evident picture of current status of business processes appears on an enterprise, and also them further management on the basis of their description, regulation and adjustments.
The Influence of the Life Cycle of Industrial Enterprise Goods Formation of its Innovative Strategy
Authors:   Donetsk State University of Management, Belikova O. , Burtseva O. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Khoroshykh V. ,   Donetsk State University of Management
Published: December 2020

The article deals with strategic directions of entrepreneurial strategies development in accordance with the product life cycle concept. The approaches of scientists before the formation of stages of the enterprise goods life cycle are considered. On the basis of the analysis of scientific researches the basic characteristics of marketing depending on a stage of life cycle of the goods are generalized. It is found out that at different stages of the life cycle of goods the enterprise makes managerial decisions concerning the main directions of its activity. The directions of the enterprise activity are generalized in accordance with the stages of the product life cycle on such criteria as key strategy, management system, technical development, production, personnel, economics and finance, marketing. The strategic policy of the enterprise in accordance with the product life cycle is studied and generalized. It has been proved that the innovative orientation of the company's activity, which is characterized by innovation, production and marketing potential, is decisive in the development of the company's strategy. The article contains an ABC analysis of the industrial enterprise's activity and draws conclusions about the use of the enterprise's commodity resources. Based on this analysis and the degree to which the enterprise is ready to innovate at different stages of the TLI, conclusions were drawn on the strategic behavior options of the enterprise.
Supply Chain Management: Ways of Streamlining
Authors:   NTU ", Boichenko M. ,   Dnipro University of Technology",   MES of Ukraine
Published: December 2020

Living in a global world, we cannot limit supply chain to only one, two, or even three countries. Hence, supply chain manager’s key function now is to continuously reduce the time of goods flow and minimize the number of chain links making the chain more efficient and cost effective. The article outlines key components of the concept of supply chain management. We regard the management concept itself as planning, management and supply chain development on every stage of creation of goods and services: from raw materials supply to an end user service maintenance. We should streamline supply chain management to exclude all barriers, which different stakeholders may face during the flow. SCM-concept helps control the work of existing processing lines in the supply chain management system, create optimal planning what and when we should deliver, taking into account possible limits of capacity and access to raw materials. Currently, the motor vehicles do the major domestic transportation. Motor transport development is one of the most important aspects of effective economy development. In cross border transportation the share of freight transportation is growing compared to other means of transport. However, domestic motor transport and fuel quality have considerable mismatch of environment properties that lag far behind global requirements. Transport companies inside supply chain have moved beyond conventional services, at the same time they have higher market consolidation, integration, and collaboration with different agents that give new demands to transportation in logistics. The article identifies basic methods of supply chain management. We analyzed impact of modern technologies on logistics and supply chain management: 3D printing, radio frequency identification, unmanned aerial vehicles, connected and autonomous vehicles, and augmented reality. Modern technologies provide small and medium enterprises opportunities to use innovative tools to obtain data-driven analytics, visualization, and processing of cargo. In order to make supply chain management efficient, we should use new technologies, modern devices, and tangible assets of high quality.
Status and Trends in the Development of Financial Support for Social Protection in Ukraine
Authors:   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Voloshinа О. , Kovaleva M. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Bozhenko V. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy
Published: December 2020

The article considers the state and tendencies of development of financial provision of social protection in Ukraine. Modern problems of financing the sphere of social protection of the population in Ukraine are revealed. The importance of understanding the social protection of the population as a system of financial relations necessary to compensate for social risks and ensure social security is substantiated. The essence and features of financial provision of social protection of the population are revealed. The research of directions of budgetary financing of social sphere at the state level is carried out. The financial mechanism of realization of social protection which provides formation of the sources of the financial resources directed on performance of the corresponding programs and actions, and also the substantiated choice of methods, forms and levers of their use is investigated. It is proved that one of the significant obstacles to the effective implementation of social policy in our country is the insufficient level of its financial security in combination with irrational planning, distribution and inefficient use of available financial resources.
The Latest Methods of Improving the System of Social Services in Ukraine
Authors:   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Shubna O. , Denysova Y. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Sanchych A. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Marylova A. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy
Published: December 2020

The article analyzes one of the effective innovative tools used by the united territorial communities in the provision of social services, the social order. It was found that the social order system can promote the development of entrepreneurial activity in the regions. In the case of its widespread use, residents are interested in joining this type of activity, creating business structures or acquiring the status of private entrepreneurs. This contributes to the expansion of employment, training and retraining, the development of the business climate, stimulates the development of civil society through its participation in the process of social procurement and social responsibility. It is determined that in order to provide a social order on a real competitive basis, it is necessary to ensure absolute equality of service providers – state, municipal, private, public, religious, individuals, etc. And this is possible only if the autonomy of utilities, their transition to the status of utilities, which should be provided for in the new law on social services. It is determined that an innovative method of social policy is an integrated approach to the provision of social services, which significantly enhances their effectiveness due to improved coordination of social services. It was found that the key problems that in practice complicate the use of the social order mechanism as an innovative method of improving the provision of social services in OTG, are insufficient regulatory support; opposition from state entities that provide social services; non-acceptance by public authorities of "third sector" organizations as an equal partner for social cooperation, leveling their role in providing social services; lack of relevant experience in joint implementation of tasks related to the provision of social services, low level of professional training of many non-governmental organizations.
The Level of Education is in Ukraine: Research of Dynamics in the Context of Providing of Quality of Labour Force
Authors:   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Gitis T. , Evseichik A. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Spirato A. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy, Andriychuk M. ,   SHEI Donbass State Engineering Academy
Published: December 2020

The level of education, being the most significant sign of the quality of labor force, contributes to ensuring the development of enterprises in production and economic aspects and requires constant attention and research of its dynamics in order to prevent and overcome negative trends. In the article the estimation of level of education is conducted in Ukraine, his dynamics is investigational in the context of providing of height of quality of labour force. It is set that on part of population with higher education Ukraine passes ahead the most developed countries considerably, but in the last few years there are ambiguous changes in the level of formation of labour force. So, the amount of persons having base higher and incomplete higher education grows gradually, and the amount of persons with complete higher education diminishes vice versa. The special attention is deserved by the considerable height of amount of persons, having only base, initial common or does not have education. Also the last years there is gradual reduction of amount of competitors of higher education, reductions of level of participation of young people in the formal and informal types of studies and professional preparation (in particular in rural to locality). On the whole it is necessary to mark some decline of index of general level of formation of labour force in 2019. The presence of tendency of decline of educational level of labour force in Ukraine is conditioned by the row of factors among that it is possible to distinguish the following: limit access to higher education for the certain layers of population of Ukraine (in particular for of scanty means families and habitants of villages); selective form of differentiation of studies that assists inequality between schools; depreciation of meaningfulness of higher education, that it contingently the crisis state of economy of Ukraine; subzero activity and personal interest of leaders of the Ukrainian enterprises are in financing of increase of educational level of personnel. The set circle of factors negatively influencing on the level of formation of labour force of Ukraine requires an immediate removal. Thus a question of increase of level of formation of population must be priority not only for the state but also for business, as exactly private enterprises are the basic "consumers" of labour force, one of major quality signs of that is a level of education.
Forms, Methods and Directions of Digitalization of the Economy
Authors:   Polotsk State University, Pavlov K. , Asadullina N. ,   Tashkent Institute (branch) of Plekhanov Russian University of Economics
Published: December 2020

The article reveals the role and features of the digitalization of the economy, which is an objective prerequisite for the innovative development of the economic system of the state, as well as examines the results and determines the prospects for the implementation of the digital economy in the countries in the post-Soviet space, primarily in the Republic of Uzbekistan. The features of digital representation of information, prerequisites, implementation and consequences of digitalization are considered. The analysis of the relationship between the concepts of “digitization”, “digitalization”, “digital economy”, “digital transformation” is carried out on the basis of studying the specific features of these categories as a process, the application and implementation of its results when building business models. The advanced experience in the development of digitalization in a number of post-Soviet countries has been studied. The forms and methods of assessing the degree of digitalization coverage of individual countries are considered on the example of the Republic of Uzbekistan for obtaining new opportunities for using digital technologies in business, creating information technology platforms, new values, benefits, and providing virtual services. It was proposed to intensify cooperation between IT companies of the countries in such areas as: media content, e-commerce, e-government, digital banking technologies, exchange of experience, development of innovation centers, management of technology parks and development of technological infrastructure. The important role of private business in stimulating the use of the results of the digital economy is indicated. Thus, the article identifies the problems and defines the prospects for the digitalization of the economy in the post-Soviet space, especially on the example of the Republic of Uzbekistan, taking into account the accumulated positive experience and effective examples of the digitalization of public life. The examples considered can be useful for the development of the economies of other countries, including Ukraine.
Methodological Principles of Creating an Integrated System Capital Reproduction
Authors:   Institute of Industrial Economics of the NAS of Ukraine, Minochkina O.
Published: December 2020

In the proposed paper substantiates the problem of organizing the efficient use of resources and controllability of the entire reproduction system, which is associated with the creation of a holistic system of capital reproduction, improving the institutional mechanism for forming a single process of capital functioning. Based on modern capital research, the composition of the capital system is determined. This representation of connections in the capital system and its structures is based on the methodology of institutional political economy. The causes of destructive processes in the socio-economic system are the deviation of the current capital structure from the fundamental one and its significant disproportions. This is due to the lack of management of the capital system and ignoring the laws of architectonics. The point of view on the inclusion of institutional capital in the capital system is substantiated, and author's own position on the concept of «institutional capital» is given. The creation of a holistic system of capital reproduction is associated with the functioning of the property system and institutional mechanisms of its management, in accordance with the concept developed by the author «Property system as a jointly separate resource system» (PS-JSRS). Harmonious social development, subject to ideal proportionality, is associated with compliance with the rule of the golden ratio, which is laid in the basis of the fundamental structure of the capital system. The institutional mechanisms of the PS-JSRS can become the basis for the implementation of strategies for balanced socio-economic development. The introduction of these mechanisms at the national, regional and global levels is able to reproduce the fundamental structure of the capital system of a separate country, region and the whole world. To return the structure of the capital system to the fundamental one, it is necessary to pursue a purposeful state policy (monetary, budgetary, industrial, structural, financial) aimed at overcoming imbalances and approaching equilibrium proportions.
Design of the Strategic Management Process in Ukraine: Problems and Solutions
Authors:   Institute of Industrial Economics of the NAS of Ukraine, Vyshnevskyi О.
Published: December 2020

For Ukraine, the scientific and practical problem associated with the improvement of the design of the strategic management process remains relevant. Therefore, the aim of the work is to systematize the main design problems of the strategic management process and substantiate the directions for their solution. Based on the analysis carried out, there are the following problems associated with the design of the strategizing process and its low operational efficiency: (1) inconsistency of the content of various strategic documents with each other; (2) inconsistency of strategic goals with resources; (3) lack of responsibility for the implementation of strategic documents; (4) inconsistency of strategic documents with the external environment; (5) low culture of strategizing. Improving the process of strategic management in Ukraine is possible by solving the listed problems as follows: (1) coordination of strategies at all levels through the introduction of an appropriate hierarchy, which is based on a national strategy for 25-30 years; (2) subordination of the budgetary system to the strategic management process; (3) inclusion of the implementation of strategic documents of the appropriate level among the key indicators for assessing the performance of civil servants; (4) periodic review of strategic documents, as well as urgent adaptation of strategic plans in the event of unforeseen circumstances that have a significant impact on the implementation of the strategy; (5) increasing the culture of strategic management through the institutionalization of strategic management in the regulatory and legal plane (institutional component), increasing the level of awareness of decision-makers about the opportunities and benefits of strategic management (educational component). For a comprehensive solution of the problems under consideration within the specified areas, the priority is the development (revision) and adoption of the Law "On State Strategic Planning (Management)", and its coordination with other laws (codes) and regulations.
Structural Transformations Management in Old-Industrial Regions of Ukraine: The Concept of Public Policy
Authors:   State Organization ", Snigova O. ,   Institute of Economics and Forecasting of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine"
Published: December 2020

The concept of public policy of structural transformations in old-industrial regions of Ukraine has been grounded. The necessity to separate old-industrial region as an object of public regional policy has been proven, as well as to manage structural changes with the obligatory orientation on the principles of “new regionalism”. This grounding is based on the studies of historical and economic prerequisites of old-industrial regions’ emergence in the world and in Ukraine; on the theoretical generalization of the essence of a category “old-industrial region”, clarification of the characteristics of old-industrial regions, specifying its properties, generated by the regularities of long-time development of these regions at the industrial basis; on the critical generalization of world experience of structural reconstruction old-industrial regions, rethinking this process based on practical faults’ analysis, finding out its causes and evolution of approaches to economic structure of the regions improvement; on the determination of specific features of old-industrial regions (structural and social inertia, endogenous depressiveness, low adapting capacity, low inclusiveness of development) as structure-creating determinants, that set general and specific imperatives of overcoming structural contradictions of its economic development (diversification, smart-specialization, restructuring of “basic” industries of economy of the regions); on finding out of the basic features of post-transformation model of the economy of old-industrial regions of Ukraine – the “post-industrial synthesis” model – as the result of structural changes in its economy. The implementation of the model is indicated by the formation of a number of substantial features (structural lability, social initiative and adaptiveness, territorial cohesion and economic inclusiveness, capacity to endogenous growth).
Evaluation of National Economy’s Development Balance: Structural and Dynamic Aspects
Authors:   Donetsk National Technical University, Kladchenko I.
Published: December 2020

The work is devoted to the grounding of the scientific and methodological aspects and forming the practical recommendations for evaluation of national economy’s development balance. Assessment’s results are aimed at strict explanation of real economic dynamics to find relevant instruments and impact mechanisms to target national economic development to the mainstream. Structural and dynamic approach to the estimation gives an opportunity to neutralize the complexity of national economy as an object for the evaluation by means of building the phase portraits of national economic sectors’ movements in two-dimensional phase space structured with the balanced lines. Practicability of the “balanced growth concept” implementation as a part of the national economy’s balance development evaluating is scientifically proved. Using of the concept’s mechanisms and principles at the macro level of national economic systems’ evolution is proposed. The structural and logical schema of balanced indicators is formed. Empirical research of Ukrainian national economy’s balance development is done during 2008-2012’ period. Matrix of growth quality assessment is built for the main sectors of national economy. The conclusions about security, sustainability and expediency of national economic growth rates, its structural components are made. The national economy’s sectors characterized with the most sustainable and regular behavior according to assessment based on indicators of a Balanced Growth Rate and Sustainable Development Index are picked out. General results of balance and prospects of national economy’s development are formed.
A review of Takotsubo (broken-heart) syndrome
Authors: Younger Holly
Published: December 2020

Background/aims

Approximately 2500 people each year in the UK are affected by Takotsubo syndrome. The syndrome is linked to stress and has a higher incidence in women. With a growing population, the number of cases is set to rise. This article examines risk factors and possible causes of Takotsubo syndrome, such as transient ischaemia, catecholamine levels, oestrogen levels and coronary artery spasm. Issues around accurate diagnosis and treatment options are also discussed.

Methods

A literature review was carried out using online databases such as CINAHL and BNI, incorporating international journals from the year 2000 onwards, to give a broad spectrum of information.

Results

It is clear from the literature review that Takotsubo syndrome is still widely misunderstood, which can lead to misdiagnosis and incorrect treatment. There are many theories as to the cause of Takotsubo syndrome, but no definitive answer.

Conclusions

Further research around Takotsubo syndrome is needed to minimise misdiagnosis. Further studies into ECG and troponin changes associated with Takotsubo syndrome may make it possible for Takotsubo syndrome to be diagnosed on admission and not mistaken for acute coronary syndrome.
Excess winter mortality and stalling international improvements in life expectancy and mortality rates
Authors: Jones Rodney P
Published: December 2020

In the UK, government austerity has been suggested as a major reason for the stalling of life expectancy improvements and age-standardised mortality rates. However, these trends have also been observed in many other countries. Influenza has been suggested as a potential confounding factor, as this condition contributes significantly to excess winter mortality (EWM) rates each year. This study uses calculated EWM rates in 64 countries with more than 12 000 deaths per annum to show that the decade before the financial crash was characterised by lower than average rates of EWM. The observed international stalling in life expectancy may therefore have been happening as early as the year 2000 but may have been partly masked by a decade of lower than usual winter deaths. From a health service perspective, EWM is also a source of winter bed pressures because of the associated medical admissions. The coincidental decade of low EWM rates may have also created a false picture of low winter demand, to which managers will have responded by trimming resources. This will, in part, have contributed to current winter pressures as EWM rates have returned to more ‘normal’ levels.
Improving employee engagement and distributed leadership through lean systems process mapping
Authors: Harris Joanne , Elliott Ian C
Published: December 2020

Background/Aims

Evidence of the impact and effectiveness of lean systems thinking in healthcare settings remains mixed. This study explores the impact of participation in a process mapping activity on employee engagement and distributed leadership in the NHS.

Methods

A qualitative study was undertaken using semi-structured interviews with nine employees within an NHS trust in the north east of England. Questions explored participants' experiences of process mapping. A thematic analysis was then carried out.

Findings

Following the implementation of process mapping, staff appeared more engaged and there was a closer relationship between teams and management. The end result of process mapping was increased employee engagement, greater team working, well-distributed leadership, increased job satisfaction and reduced stress levels.

Conclusions

Participation in process mapping can have a number of positive impacts, including improved team working, reduced staff stress levels and improved relationships between staff and management. Using process mapping could help NHS trusts to implement a more distributed method of leadership.
Is India heading towards a dramatic shift in care away from the hospital?
Authors: Westwood Anjali Raj
Published: December 2020

Anjali Raj Westwood explains how COVID-19 has accelerated the adoption of telemedicine and home healthcare approaches in India, and the potential shift in the structure of healthcare delivery as a result of these developments.
Transgender patients' experiences of health care
Authors: Hobster Kirk , McLuskey John
Published: December 2020

Background:

Transgender individuals can have complex health needs, in both trans and non-trans related health, experiencing higher levels of discrimination and disadvantages in accessing health care. The health needs of the transgender community are not consistent with the wider population, so individuals are often required to research services to meet their needs which can contribute to a reluctance in accessing health care.

Aim:

To analyse existing literature on transgender patients experiences of health care.

Method:

A search was performed of online databases (CINAHL, Medline, AMED, PubMed, ASSIA, PsychINFO, Web of Science and Scopus) and six studies were reviewed and analysed.

Findings:

Three main themes emerged: health professionals' knowledge and attitudes, navigating the system, and vulnerability and avoidance of health care.

Conclusion:

The literature suggests that few encounters with health professionals were positive and that a lack of healthcare knowledge on trans-related issues and discrimination were the leading causes for dissatisfaction when accessing health services.
Quality of life of family caregivers of patients with a stoma: a cross-sectional study from Iran
Authors: Rafiei Hossein , Rashvand Farnoosh , Malmir Sahar
Published: December 2020

Aim:

The family plays a key role in supporting and caring for patients who have a gastrointestinal stoma because of cancer. This study investigated the quality of life of family members caring for such patients.

Methods:

A descriptive study was conducted in 2020 in Iran. The study sample consisted of 250 family members caring for cancer patients with an intestinal stoma. The Caregiver Quality of Life Index–Cancer scale was used to measure quality of life. This scale has 35 questions, which are categorised into four subscales: mental/emotional burden; lifestyle disruption; positive adaptation; and financial concerns. The highest possible total score is 140 (35 in each subscale), and a high score indicates a poor quality of life.

Results:

A total of 250 carers took part in the study. Of these, 143 (57.2%) were men and the average age was 35.1 years. Mean scores of mental/emotional burden, lifestyle disruption, positive adaptation, and financial concerns were 28.4±41, 17.3±3.2, 19.8±28, and 8.6±1.2 respectively. No significant relationship was found between participants' quality of life and demographic variables.

Conclusion:

Carers' quality of life is relatively poor. Carers' quality of life need to be improved and support programmes, devised and delivered by nurses, could have a role in this.
Factors affecting attitudes on the decision to commence nasogastric tube feeding in haemopoietic stem cell transplant patients: a systematic review
Authors: Habens Jocelyn , Morris Emma C , Czuber-Dochan Wladyslawa
Published: December 2020

Nutritional status has been linked to clinical outcomes in patients with cancer, and those being treated with haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) have a significant potential for prolonged periods of poor oral nutrition. This article explores factors affecting the provision of timely nasogastric tube feeding. A preliminary literature search identified a growing evidence-base for the choice and timing of nutritional support therapy. However, existing evidence and personal experience suggest that the use of nasogastric tubes to feed patients is often resisted by both health professionals and patients. This is the first systematic review to explore factors affecting attitudes on the decision to commence nasogastric tube feeding. Wide variation in practice already exists. Therefore, a better understanding of factors that affect the attitudes of health professionals and patients towards nutritional support therapy can facilitate the delivery of optimal nutritional care. The results provide a new perspective on how to achieve the best possible outcomes for patients.
Managing the overlap between mental and physical health
Authors: Chen Fangyue , Ruiz-Mendoza Eladia , Essem Julius
Published: December 2020

The interface between the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and the Mental Health Act 1983 can be complex, particularly in patients with co-existing mental and physical illnesses. The management of these patients requires the involvement of patients, relatives and multidisciplinary teams. This article presents four illustrative patient cases, all of whom suffered from co-existing mental and physical illnesses. In managing these cases, dilemmas had arisen in the provision of treatment encompassing both legal frameworks. These cases helped to emphasise the decision-specific and time-specific nature of assessment of mental capacity, requiring clinicians to assess on a case-by-case basis over a suitable period. Often, principles from both legal frameworks may be applied by the treatment team. These cases help to highlight the significant overlap between mental and physical health, which often cannot be managed independently. This may call for the need to better integrate the current legal frameworks, and the optimal involvement of specialists across both settings.
Þetta er allt mannanna verk: Upplifun stjórnenda á áhrifum jafnlaunavottunar á
kjaraumhverfi
Authors: Hafsteinsdóttir Gerða Björg , Kristjánsdóttir Erla Sólveig , Christiansen Þóra H.
Published: December 2020

Í þessari rannsókn var skyggnst inn í upplifun stjórnenda á áhrifum jafnlaunavottunar á kjaraumhverfi en tekin voru viðtöl við stjórnendur sem hafa reynslu af jafnlaunavottun. Helstu niðurstöður gefa til kynna að viðmælendur upplifðu aukið skrifræði og kerfisvæðingu, tilfærslu ákvörðunarvalds og að jafnlaunavottun sé jafnvel tálsýn. Einnig kom fram að viðmælendur töldu áherslubreytingar gæta í kjarasamningsbundnum rétti launþega til árlegs starfsmannaviðtals, sveigjanleiki vottunarinnar er vannýttur auk þess sem huglægt mat er lagt á frammistöðu starfsfólks og ósamræmi er í úttektaraðferðum vottunaraðila. Þrátt fyrir að jafnlaunavottun virðist réttmæt og áreiðanleg komu í ljós ákveðnir þættir sem geta gert það að verkum að hægt er að uppfylla skilyrði til jafnlaunavottunar þótt kynbundinn launamunur sé til staðar.
Sensitivity of frequency-domain optical measurements to brain hemodynamics: simulations and human study of cerebral blood flow during hypercapnia
Authors: Pham Thao , Blaney Giles , Sassaroli Angelo , Fernandez Cristianne , Fantini Sergio
Published: December 2020

This study characterizes the sensitivity of noninvasive measurements of cerebral blood flow (CBF) by using frequency-domain near-infrared spectroscopy (FD-NIRS) and coherent hemodynamics spectroscopy (CHS). We considered six FD-NIRS methods: single-distance intensity and phase (SDI and SDϕ), single-slope intensity and phase (SSI and SSϕ), and dual-slope intensity and phase (DSI and DSϕ). Cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) was obtained from the relative change in measured CBF during a step hypercapnic challenge. Greater measured values of CVR are assigned to a greater sensitivity to cerebral hemodynamics. In a first experiment with eight subjects, CVRSDϕ was greater than CVRSDI (p < 0.01), whereas CVRDSI and CVRDSϕ showed no significant difference (p > 0.5). In a second experiment with four subjects, a 5 mm scattering layer was added between the optical probe and the scalp tissue to increase the extracerebral layer thickness (L
ec
), which caused CVRDSϕ to become significantly greater than CVRDSI (p < 0.05). CVRSS measurements yielded similar results as CVRDS measurements but with a greater variability, possibly resulting from instrumental artifacts in SS measurements. Theoretical simulations with two-layered media confirmed that, if the top (extracerebral) layer is more scattering than the bottom (brain) layer, the relative values of CVRDSI and CVRDSϕ depend on L
ec
. Specifically, the sensitivity to the brain is greater for DSI than DSϕ for a thin extracerebral layer (L
ec
< 13 mm), whereas it is greater for DSϕ than DSI for a thicker extracerebral layer.
Depth-of-field engineering in coded aperture imaging
Authors: Rai Mani Ratnam , Rosen Joseph
Published: December 2020

Extending the depth-of-field (DOF) of an optical imaging system without effecting the other imaging properties has been an important topic of research for a long time. In this work, we propose a new general technique of engineering the DOF of an imaging system beyond just a simple extension of the DOF. Engineering the DOF means in this study that the inherent DOF can be extended to one, or to several, separated different intervals of DOF, with controlled start and end points. Practically, because of the DOF engineering, entire objects in certain separated different input subvolumes are imaged with the same sharpness as if these objects are all in focus. Furthermore, the images from different subvolumes can be laterally shifted, each subvolume in a different shift, relative to their positions in the object space. By doing so, mutual hiding of images can be avoided. The proposed technique is introduced into a system of coded aperture imaging. In other words, the light from the object space is modulated by a coded aperture and recorded into the computer in which the desired image is reconstructed from the recorded pattern. The DOF engineering is done by designing the coded aperture composed of three diffractive elements. One element is a quadratic phase function dictating the start point of the in-focus axial interval and the second element is a quartic phase function which dictates the end point of this interval. Quasi-random coded phase mask is the third element, which enables the digital reconstruction. Multiplexing several sets of diffractive elements, each with different set of phase coefficients, can yield various axial reconstruction curves. The entire diffractive elements are displayed on a spatial light modulator such that real-time DOF engineering is enabled according to the user needs in the course of the observation. Experimental verifications of the proposed system with several examples of DOF engineering are presented, where the entire imaging of the observed scene is done by single camera shot.
High-quality large-scale electron-beam-written resonant filters for the long-wave infrared region
Authors: Gupta Neelam , Song Junyeob
Published: December 2020

We present new, to the best of our knowledge, large-scale, high-quality spectral filters operating in the long-wave infrared (LWIR) spectral region. We employ high-spatial resolution nanofabrication techniques to achieve large-area (

12

m
m

×
12

m
m

) spectrally tunable notch filters. Filter operation is based on the guided-mode resonance effect. The device structure consists of a germanium waveguide grating on top of a zinc selenide substrate. The filters reflect the incident broadband light at one (or more) narrow spectral bands while fully transmitting the rest. We tune the reflected wavelength by tilting the filter. Filters based on one-dimensional gratings are polarization sensitive. We fabricate prototype filters and characterize their polarization dependence and spectral tuning performance using a tunable quantum cascade laser system that spans the

∼

7
−
13

µ

m

spectral band. We obtain an excellent agreement between the theoretical and experimental results.
Coded-aperture broadband light field imaging using digital micromirror devices
Authors: Liu Jingdan , Zaouter Charlotte , Liu Xianglei , Patten Shunmoogum A. , Liang Jinyang
Published: December 2020

Coded-aperture light field (CALF) imaging can record four-dimensional information of incident light rays with a high angular resolution while retaining a camera’s full pixel count. However, existing systems are limited by either imaging speeds and image contrasts of liquid-crystal spatial light modulators or by severe dispersion to broadband light of digital micromirror devices (DMDs), both of which hinder CALF’s widespread applications. Here, we overcome these limitations by developing dispersion-eliminated (DE) CALF imaging. Using a dual-DMD design to compensate for dispersion in the entire visible spectrum, the DECALF imaging system captures

1280

×

1024

×

5

×

5

(
x
,
y
,
θ
,
φ
)

color light field images at 20 Hz. Using static and dynamic three-dimensional (3D) color scenes, we experimentally demonstrate multi-perspective viewing, digital refocusing, and 3D tracking of the DECALF imaging system. We also apply it to the imaging and analyses of escape behaviors of freely moving normal and disease-model zebrafish.
Effects of probe ellipticity and longitudinal magnetic field on the polarization rotation in a coherently prepared atomic medium
Authors: Das Arpita , Chandra Das Bankim , Bhattacharyya Dipankar , De Sankar
Published: December 2020

The dependencies of the polarization rotation on the probe ellipticity and the longitudinal magnetic field have been studied both experimentally and theoretically in a V-type electromagnetically induced transparency for 87Rb vapour. The angle of rotation varies periodically with the change in the probe ellipticity and non-linearly with the variation of the magnetic field. We have observed that the plane of polarization is rotated maximum for linearly polarized light and have obtained angle of rotation 0.32° ± 0.01° for B = 0.036 ± 0.001 mT while it was 0.0267° ± 0.0002° without magnetic field. Thus our measurement becomes sensitive to the low magnetic field. A four-level system is considered and the corresponding density matrix equations have been solved analytically to explain these observations theoretically with the help of degenerate and non-degenerate magnetic sub-levels.