bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Resin Composite and Biodentine Cervical Marginal Elevation on the Marginal Gap of Two Computer-Aided Design/Computer-Aided Manufacture Endocrown Materials: In Vitro Study
Authors: Alqahtani Waleed , Yousuf Salah A. , Metwally Mohamed F. , Haggag Khaled M. , Barakat Ali , Alghamdi Abdelrahman , Almadani Roua Mohammed Y. , Hamed Alsalmi Hajer Aiydh , Mohammed Khamis Adnan Madani
Published: December 2023

Objective: This study is the impact of resin composite and bio dentine cervical marginal elevation on vertical marginal gap using two CAD/CAM endo-crowns. Materials and Methods: 32 molars were employed, separated into two main groups: Group R, which included 16 molar teeth
elevated distally with resin composite each; and Group B, which included 16 molar teeth elevated distally with dentine. The prepared teeth were then restored using endo-crown restorations. There were 2 equal subgroups for each main group (Vita MarkII and Lava Ultimate endo-crowns; n
= 8). The samples underwent thermocycling (TC) after the restorations were bonded using dual-cure resin cement. A digital microscope was used to measure the vertical marginal gap. Results: A significant difference in the vertical marginal gap following thermocycling in all groups, except
for the Resin composite. The polymer-based group demonstrated better marginal adaptation than other groups. The marginal accuracy produced by the marginal elevation approach, which involves placing a composite filling and dentine in the proximal box before the insertion of ceramic indirect
restorations, is comparable to those of ceramics implanted in dentine without margin elevation. Conclusion: The margin elevation technique ensures that the margins created with these materials are as precise as those placed directly in dentin.
Size-Dependent Mechanical Property Measurement of 1,2-dioleoyl-SN-3-phosphocholine Liposome Using Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Kwak Jinsung , Kwak Jong Hyeok , Kim Gyeong Rip
Published: December 2023

Most studies have reported on the effects of bending rigidity using giant unilamellar liposomes. However, few studies have been conducted on nanosized liposomes. We studied the properties of DOPC liposomes of various sizes using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Two different topographies
(convex and planar) of DOPC liposomes on a mica surface were observed in the tapping mode in the fluid. The topographic change of the liposomes could be attributed to the interaction force between the AFM tip and the liposome. Small DOPC liposomes (below 1 μm) showed a bending modulus
(kbend) ranging between 10−18 and 10−20 J. The bending modulus was found to be size-dependent; it decreased as DOPC liposome size increased. In this study, images of unilamellar DOPC liposomes were obtained in the contact mode. The bending
moduli of lipid vesicles from 100 to 1300 nm were measured using an AFM force curve. The bending modulus tended to increase as liposome size decreased. From experimental and theoretical perspectives, we showed that the value of the bending modulus is proportional to 1.5 power of the radius
of the liposome.
Assessment of Enamel Demineralization Following the Use of Different Orthodontic Bracket Materials, Etchants, and Adhesive Systems: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Zawawi Rahaf , Almosa Naif
Published: December 2023

The aim of this study was to assess enamel demineralization depth following the use of different bracket materials, etchants, and adhesive systems. Ninety-nine extracted human premolars were assigned to nine groups (eight experimental and one control), each including 11 specimens. The
experimental groups were bonded to either metal or ceramic brackets and prepared using a total-or self-etchant with a pre-coated or flash-free adhesive system. All specimens were immersed in an artificial demineralization solution for 7 days at pH 4.5 and 37 °C. The brackets were debonded,
and the specimens were sectioned buccolingually at the right and left sides of the bracket base margins. Scanning electron microscopy was used to assess the demineralization depth using ImageJ software. Significantly deeper enamel demineralization was observed in all bonded teeth compared
to non-bonded teeth (p < 0.001). The adhesive system had no significant effect on the demineralization depth. Metal brackets caused significantly deeper enamel demineralization than ceramic brackets (p <0.005). The use of the total-etch surface treatment caused deeper demineralization
compared to that of the self-etch treatment. In conclusion, bonded teeth exhibit deeper enamel demineralization than non-bonded teeth. Metal brackets contribute to deeper demineralization than ceramic brackets. The total-etch surface treatment caused deeper demineralization than self-etch
when combined with metal brackets and a pre-coated adhesive system.
Fluid and Virtual Teams
Authors: Driskell Tripp , Funke Gregory , Tolston Michael , Capiola August , Driskell James E.
Published: December 2023

Numerous contemporary work teams encompass both virtuality, marked by geographically dispersed members relying on technology for communication, and fluidity, involving the rapid assembly of members with limited prior experience for immediate, time-sensitive tasks. Instances include global virtual teams, military command and control teams, and similar contexts in which rapidly assembled distributed teams are prevalent. However, research on fluid virtual teams remains scarce. In this article, we expound upon the concept of team fluidity, explain how fluid virtual contexts influence team dynamics, and explore the implications for effectively supporting fluid virtual teams.
I Wrote Well Today: Practical Progress-Monitoring Approaches for Teachers of Students With Emotional and Behavioral Disorders
Authors: Filderman Marissa J. , Austin Christy R.
Published: December 2023

Students with and at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) struggle to acquire and develop writing skills. To support their students’ unique needs, it is important for teachers to monitor student writing progress to make instructional decisions based on data. In this article we describe methods for progress monitoring focused on writing skills. We describe a feasible system for continuous progress monitoring. We also address setting and monitoring goals for students with and at risk for EBD.
A father nevertheless: Self-confident but resigned fathers with children in foster care
Authors: Adolfsson Päivi , Lindstedt Helena , Janeslätt Gunnel , Jöreskog Karin
Published: December 2023

This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences of nine fathers with neurodevelopmental disabilities with children in foster care, including their fathering role, visits and formal and informal support. Systematic text condensation was the analysis method used. The respondents’ experience of fatherhood revealed two categories: I accept my situation and I am frustrated. Though self-confident, the fathers expressed ambivalence between acceptance and frustration with their role. The study shows that more should be done to provide adapted support for these vulnerable fathers with children in foster care, although they seldom demand such support. Social workers and professionals from the rehabilitation team within the healthcare service should be aware of gendered settings, specifically norms of masculinity. Increased efforts from the social workers may reduce the risks of detachment in parenthood because engaged and informed fathers are in the children’s best interests.
Influence of Crystal Disorder on the Forced Oxidative Degradation of Vortioxetine HBr
Authors: Modhave Dattatray , Barrios Brenda , Iyer Jayant , Paudel Amrit
Published: December 2023

The present study investigates the impact of the solid-state disorder of vortioxetine hydrobromide (HBr) on oxidative degradation under accelerated conditions. A range of solid-state disorders was generated via cryogenic ball milling. The solid-state properties were evaluated by calorimetry, infrared-, and Raman spectroscopies. While salt disproportionation occurred upon milling, no chemical degradation occurred by milling. The amorphous fraction remained physically intact under ambient storage conditions. Subsequently, samples with representative disordered fractions were mixed with a solid oxidative stressor (PVP-H2O2 complex) and were compressed to compacts. The compacts were exposed to 40°C/75% RH for up to 6 h. The sample was periodically withdrawn and analyzed for the physical transformations and degradation. Two oxidative degradation products (DPs) were found to be formed, for which dissimilar relations to the degree of disorder and kinetics of formation were observed. The degradation rate of the major DP formation obtained by fitting the exponential model to the experimental data was found to increase up to a certain degree of disorder and decrease with a further increase in the disordered fraction. In contrast, the minor DP formation kinetics was found to increase monotonically with the increase in the disorder content. For the similar crystallinity level, the degradation trend (rate and extent) differed between the single-phase disorder generated by milling and physically mixed two-phase systems. Overall, the study demonstrates the importance of evaluating the physical and chemical (in)stabilities of the disordered solid state of a salt form of a drug substance, generated through mechano-activation.

Graphical Abstract
Effects of Apex Size on Dissolution Profiles in the USP II Paddle Apparatus
Authors: Yoshida Hiroyuki , Morita Tokio , Abe Yasuhiro , Inagaki Aoi , Tomita Naomi , Izutsu Ken-ichi , Sato Yoji
Published: December 2023

The use of apex vessels may solve coning problems associated with dissolution testing. However, excessive dissolution acceleration can reduce the discriminatory power. This study aimed to clarify how different apex vessel sizes affect the dissolution behavior of cone-forming formulations. Five apex vessels with different heights, centralities, and compendial vessels were used. The paddle rotation speed at which the coning phenomenon resolved was measured using standard particles of different densities. Three model formulations—USP prednisone tablets, atorvastatin calcium hydrate tablets, and levofloxacin fine granules—were selected, and dissolution tests were conducted at 30–100 revolutions per minute (rpm). Compared to the compendial vessels, the disappearance of standard particles at the apex base at lower paddle speeds in apex vessels was observed. Standard particles tended to remain in the center of the apex vessels and disappear at rotational speeds comparable to those of the compendial vessels. Dissolution increased in an apex height-dependent manner in the model formulations, except for the atorvastatin calcium hydrate tablets at 50 rpm. For levofloxacin fine granules, dissolution was also improved by reducing the paddle agitation speed to 30 rpm in the compendial vessels. Differences in apex centrality by 3 mm did not affect the dissolution rate. Our results indicate that apex vessels with low apex heights have a mount-resolving effect, but the degree of dissolution improvement by avoiding the coning phenomenon depends on the formulation characteristics used in the dissolution tests.

Graphical abstract
Magical Monsters: Hybrids and Witchcraft in Early Modern Art
Authors: Tal Guy
Published: December 2023

Studies of early modern images of witchcraft interpret the motif of hybrid creatures as representations of demonic incarnations intended in part to demonstrate the artists’ inventive prowess and capacity for phantasia. This article broadens the scope of analysis by arguing that the hybrid functions as a prolific site of reflection on the symbolic analogy between art and witchcraft, highlighting the common creativity attributed to the artist and the magician both. A comparative analysis of Italian, German, and Dutch images produced in the long sixteenth century identifies three distinctive aspects of the hybrid: as the offspring of Circe's magic of transformation in the works of Pellegrino Tibaldi and Annibale Carracci, as the figurative expression of witchcraft-associated features in Jacques de Gheyn II's engraving, and as an artistic invention in a theatrical design after Raffaello Gualterotti and an engraved grotesque ornament by Heinrich Aldegrever.
Wage Rigidity and Employment Outcomes: Evidence from Administrative Data
Authors: Ehrlich Gabriel , Montes Joshua
Published: December 2023

This paper examines the relationship between downward nominal wage rigidity and employment outcomes using linked employer-employee data. Wage rigidity prevents 27.1 percent of counterfactual wage cuts, with a standard deviation of 19.2 percent across establishments. An establishment with the sample-average level of wage rigidity is predicted to have a 3.3 percentage point higher layoff rate, a 7.4 percentage point lower quit rate, and a 2.0 percentage point lower hire rate. Estimating a structural model by indirect inference implies that the cost of a nominal wage cut is 33 percent of an average worker’s annual compensation. (JEL E24, J23, J31, J63, M51)
Monetary Policy When the Phillips Curve Is Quite Flat
Authors: Beaudry Paul , Hou Chenyu , Portier Franck
Published: December 2023

This paper highlights how the presence of a monetary policy cost channel can offer new insights into the relation between monetary policy and inflation when the Phillips curve is quite flat. For instance, we highlight a key condition whereby lax monetary policy can push the economy to a low-inflation trap, and we discuss how, under the same condition, standard policy rules targeting inflation may need to be modified. In the empirical part of the paper, we explore the relevance of the condition that gives rise to these observations. The results support the key condition we emphasize. (JEL E24, E31, E43, E52)
Deep transverse friction massage in the management of adhesive capsulitis: A systematic review
Authors: Khan Shahid , Arsh Aatik , Khan Sargand , Ali Shahid
Published: December 2023

Objectives: To review published clinical trials which assessed the effects of deep transverse friction massage on pain and range of motion in patients with adhesive capsulitis.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Literature search was performed in MEDLINE, AMED, EMBASE, HMIC, CINAHL, PEDRO, and SPORTDiscus. Two independent reviewers performed screening of the articles retrieved from different databases. Clinical trials published in English language from the earliest record to March 2022 that reported effects of deep transverse friction massage/Cyriax’s friction massage on pain and/or range of motion in patients with diagnosis of adhesive capsulitis were included. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme was used for quality assessment of the included studies.

Results: A total of six studies reporting on 226 adhesive capsulitis patients were included in the systematic review. All the six studies were randomized controlled clinical trials. On the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool, four of the six studies had a score of 8/11, while the other two studies received a score of 7/11 and 6/11. Out of these six trials, four reported that pain was significantly (P<0.05) improved in the deep transverse friction massage group as compared to the control group. Regarding range of motion outcome, five studies showed that range of motion was significantly (P<0.05) improved in the deep transverse friction massage group while only one study showed non-significant results.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that deep transverse friction massage significantly relieves pain and improves the range of motion in individuals with adhesive capsulitis.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7218

How to cite this: Khan S, Arsh A, Khan S, Ali S. Deep transverse friction massage in the management of adhesive capsulitis: A systematic review. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):526-533. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7218

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Actual problems of teacher training for the system of additional education
Authors: Nikitaeva M. , Kozlova M.
Published: December 2023

The article analyzes the current problems associated with the training of teaching staff for the system of additional education. The need to develop new teaching methods is emphasized, especially in the field of digital educational space, which can help teachers work in rapidly changing realities.
Features of the development of cognitive interest of younger students through group work at the lessons of literary reading
Authors: Guschina Galina , Torpakova Elena
Published: December 2023

Based on the results of the author's research, the article identifies the main problems and features of the cognitive interest of younger students, and identifies methods and means of its development. The general significance of cognitive interest in the structure of the educational environment of elementary school is substantiated and the key directions of the teacher's activity in the use of group forms of work in literary reading lessons are formulated.
The Idea of a ‘Just City’ – a Concept of an Aggregate Measure of Development in Polish Cities
Authors: Antczak Elżbieta , Rzeńca Agnieszka , Sobol Agnieszka
Published: December 2023

The subject of the article is the ‘just city’ concept. Justice, greening and making cities productive in the long term are the main axes of the integrated development of modern cities. The main goal of the paper is to discuss and assess the degree of justice in the development of 66 Polish cities with poviat rights in 2010, 2015, 2018, and 2020. Based on previous research and available data, an aggregate measure of a just city is proposed. A dynamic method of zero unitarization is used. The analysis shows that between 2010 and 2020, there was an increase in the level of justice in urban development (the average yearly rate of change was 2.5%). Only seven cities recorded a decline. There was also a slight and decreasing variation in cities in terms of the urban justice. One can even speak of an equalization of inequality here.
From pathogenesis to current treatment of the cutaneous psoriasis - a literature review
Authors: Jakubowska Wiktoria , Pisera Piotr , Kiełkowicz Aleksandra , Pactwa Filip , Popińska Zuzanna , Ślusarczyk Daniel , Żmuda Bartłomiej , Żuberek Michał
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that can be divided into several subtypes based on the areas of the body occupied by the lesions and the severity of the disease. The overall prevalence of psoriasis ranges from 0 to 11,8%. The disease occurs with equal frequency in both sexes. PsO cannot be completely cured, so many patients experience stigma and have diminished self-esteem due to the characteristic appearance of the lesions.

 

Aim of the study:

The purpose of the study is to summarize the available knowledge about classification and options for psoriasis treatment. The options in diagnosis and treatment, including the latest methods, were described and summarized.

 

Materials and methods:

Literature available in the PubMed database was reviewed using the following keywords: “Psoriasis”, “Nail Psoriasis”, “Psoriasis Vulgaris”, “Psoriasis Treatment”, “New Psoriasis Treatment”, “Psoriasis Classification”, “Biologic Therapy for Psoriasis”, “Systemic Therapy for psoriasis”.

 

Conclusions:

Psoriasis is a genetic skin condition mediated by the immune system. The underlying mechanisms entail intricate interactions between the innate and adaptive immune system. There are various indices for assessing the severity of psoriasis, the most commonly used of which is PASI(Psoriasis Area and Severity Index). Retinoids, cyclosporine and methotrexate are the non-biologic therapies most frequently employed for moderate to severe psoriasis treatment, while topical therapy, which includes mainly corticosteroids and vitamin D analogues, is a successful approach for effectively managing mild psoriasis.
Anxiety disorders pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods of therapy
Authors: Truchta Monika , Mańkowska Aleksandra , Jabłońska Wiktoria , Wardęszkieiwcz Marta , Kasprzak Amelia , Markowiak Szymon , Świercz Maciej , Kolano Agata , Pejas Anna
Published: December 2023

Introduction and purpose: Anxiety disorders are a heterogeneous cluster of common mental health disorders typically characterized by hyperarousal, excessive fear and worry. Unfortunately, a large portion of the world's population does not have access to traditional mental health care, this is influenced by the paucity of available psychiatric services, particularly in many low- and middle-income countries. This article will discuss how patients suffering from depression or anxiety disorders turn to non-pharmacological and unconventional interventions such as exercise, yoga, meditation, aromatherapy or music therapy.

The aim of study: The purpose of this literature review was to assemble and analyse the available data about anxiety disorders.

Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in Pubmed database was carried out using following keywords: Anxiety disorders; depression; mental illness; alternative treatment methods.

Description of the State of Knowledge: Pathologically increased anxiety is found not only in anxiety disorders per se, but also in most other types of mental illness. The first-line methods are pharmacotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Of particular interest is the use of physical activity and exercise in the treatment of anxiety disorders. This treatment is inexpensive and has few undesired effects. Exercises such as yoga, meditation, tai chi or qi gong are becoming more and more popular.

Summary: Anxiety disorders can now be treated effectively. Current research focuses on individualized forms. We hope that even more effective methods of therapy will be developed than those currently available.

Keywords: Anxiety disorders; depression; mental illness; alternative treatment methods.
A Defence of the Traditional Chronology of 542–545, Again
Authors: Whitby Michael
Published: December 2023

The chronology of the campaigns of the years 542–545 has been the subject of debate, with Michael Whitby defending the traditional interpretation that Procopius’ long account of the bubonic plague concealed the end of the year 542, whereas Geoffrey Greatrex has championed the chronology of Kislinger and Stathakopoulos, which locates Khusro’s march to Adarbiganon and the Roman defeat at Anglon in late 542 and the siege of Edessa in 543, with Procopius failing to note the end of a year during peace negotiations in 544–545. Considerations of the progress of Khusro I’s invasion in 542 in light of his probable speed of march, and the distances he had to cover, coupled with the relatively slow advance of bubonic plague over large land masses and Procopius’ practice in arranging his material, point to the missing year-end, being that of 542/543. While the new chronology cannot absolutely be ruled out, the assumptions on which it is based are shaky.
Influence of External Factors on the Strength of Firefighting Hoses Used in Fire Protection Units
Authors: Karolina Dwórska  , Leszek Jurecki  , Mateusz Jakubowski  , Maksymilian Żurawski  , Łukasz Pastuszka
Published: December 2023

Aim: The purpose of this article is to review information on firefighting hoses in terms of their division and the materials used in their production, and to determine if and how external factors affect their strength and durability. Introduction: Firefighting hoses are one of the most important products of technical equipment of Fire Protection Units. Since they are an indispensable element during rescue and firefighting operations, conducting research on the strength of fire hoses is needed and extremely important from the point of view of fire protection. Project and methods: Technological advances in the area of using various types of materials for fire hoses over time have had (and continue to have) a significant impact on the undertaking of rescue and firefighting operations, the speed with which these operations are carried out, as well as their effectiveness. Therefore, at the beginning of the article, a historical outline of the fire hoses used for firefighting in various countries around the world over the years was made. In the following part of the article, the influence of external factors on the adhesive strength of firefighting hoses used in fire protection units in Poland was analysed. The effect of exposure to a 3% foam solution of a fire extinguishing agent on hose tape samples placed in this solution was tested, depending on the time of direct contact of the samples with this agent. The effect of UV exposure (under wetting and drying conditions) on the hose tape samples was also studied, with time intervals of different lengths. Results: When testing the exposure of the hose tape samples to UV light (for 90 minutes, at 38 ± 3°C, without water spray, followed by water exposure for 30 minutes, at 50 ± 10% humidity), decreasing trends were observed for the average values of delamination strengths. Tests were also made on a series of samples exposed to a 3% solution of aqueous foam extinguishing agent on the hose tape, both externally and internally. Declining trends were observed for the mean values of adhesive strengths (after 3 and 6 weeks). The impact of factors such as exposure to UV radiation, as well as the impact of the foam extinguishing agent solution negatively affects the hose tape, reducing its strength. The article was prepared on the basis of the authors’ own research results, as well as available sources, both national and foreign, based on the available literature on the raised issues. Keywords: firefighting hose, fire hose strength, adhesion, UV, foam extinguishing agent
Experiences of Psychiatric Nurses Working in a Closed Psychiatric Unit during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kim Ji Young , Kim Hyun Kyung
Published: December 2023

Purpose: This study aimed to understand the experiences of psychiatric nurses providing care for inpatients with mental illness during the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: Data were collected from 18 April to 10 July 2023. Eleven psychiatric nurses in closed psychiatric units were recruited using purposive and snowball sampling. In-depth individual interviews were conducted for data collection, and reflexive thematic analysis was used for data analysis and the development of themes. Results: The five resulting themes were as follows: ‘prioritizing infection control over psychiatric nursing duties’, ‘increased burden of nursing care due to the complexities of mental illness’, ‘challenges in closed wards due to staffing shortages and susceptibility to infection’, ‘providing optimal psychiatric nursing care with limited resources’, and ‘change and growth of psychiatric nurses through the pandemic crisis’. Conclusion: Training in infection control and crisis response should be provided to psychiatric nurses in preparation for future pandemic crises. Facility and personnel support, guidelines, and patient education strategies that account for psychiatric characteristics should be provided. In addition, stress management and burnout prevention programs for psychiatric nurses are needed.
The Effects of Integrated Neurofeedback and Salutogenesis Nursing Intervention to Relieve Post-COVID-19 Symptoms in Late Adolescents
Authors: Cho Youngkyung , Park Wanju
Published: December 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of integrated neurofeedback and salutogenesis nursing intervention to relieve the neurocognitive function and mental health of late adolescents with post-COVID-19 symptoms. Methods: This was a randomized controlled trial study. The participants were 61 late adolescents in experimental, control 1, and control 2 groups who had post-COVID-19 symptoms. The variables were evaluated using quantitative electroencephalography and a computerized neurocognitive battery at pre-post time points in all groups. The experimental group received 10 sessions of individual training for 5 weeks. Results: The integrated neurofeedback and salutogenesis nursing intervention were effective for stress coping (F=3.41, p=.040), sense of coherence (F=0.67, p=.041), state of tension in closed eyes (H=0.39, p=.023), state of tension in opened eyes (H=0.14, p=034), SMR wave in closed eyes (H=6.19, p=045), SMR wave in opened eyes (H=6.02, p=049), memory (F=1.96, p=.015), attention (F=1.64, p=.020), depression, and anxiety (F=0.89, p=.041) in late adolescents. Conclusion: The findings revealed that integrated neurofeedback and salutogenesis nursing intervention could be effective in reducing neurocognitive and psychiatric functions. Therefore, the integrated neurofeedback and salutogenesis nursing intervention could be a nursing intervention to support the recovery of post-COVID-19 late adolescents in the developmental stage.
Psychological Experience of Correctional Officers’ Treatment of Mentally Ill Prisoners: Phenomenological Study
Authors: Jung Hyun-Ok
Published: December 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to find out the meaning of the psychological experience of correctional officers’ treatment of mentally ill prisoners and describe its essential structure.Methods: The Colazzi's phenomenological research methodology was used. Nine correctional officers participated in this study. To collect data, in-depth individual interviews were conducted from September 4 to October 3, 2023.Results: Four clusters of themes were identified; “feeling daunted by unawareness of mental illness”, “darkness caused by the tangle of vines inside the correctional facility walls”, “determined to overcome and face it head-on”, and “warmth emanating from the custody of mentally ill prisoners.”.Conclusion: Through the psychological experiences of correctional officers in dealing with individuals with mental illness, it was possible to understand the demands of knowledge, attitudes, and skills related to mental illness, as well as psychological and mental stress. It is necessary to establish an educational program and crisis response protocol for correctional officers to cultivate knowledge, attitudes, and skills related to mental illness, and to activate the mental health promotion program currently being implemented in correctional facilities.
Mental Health Status among Individuals with Spouses Residing in Long-term Care Facilities: Using Propensity Score Matching
Authors: Chu Hyeon Sik , Kim Dasom
Published: December 2023

Purpose: The number of older adults with dementia who reside in long-term care institutions has significantly grown. When older adults with dementia are institutionalized, their spouses, who were providing care at home, may experience chronic mental health conditions. This study examined and compared the mental health status of older adults who institutionalized their spouses with dementia in long-term care institutions versus that of older adults who reside with their spouses in their homes.Methods: The analysis included 95 spouses of institutionalized individuals and 285 control group participants, drawn from 63,617 participants of the 2018 Korean Community Health Survey.Results: The results showed that the spouses of institutionalized individuals with dementia had more depressive symptoms, poorer sleep quality, and experienced greater stress than those in the control group.Conclusion: It is necessary to provide supportive care, for alleviating depressive symptoms, poor sleep quality, and stress, to individuals whose spouses are residing in long-term care facilities. For a spouse caregiver, navigation help and education on the changing roles after an older adult’s admission to a long-term care facility would be necessary.
A Concept Analysis of Spiritual Self-Care in Hospice Team Members by Hybrid Model
Authors: Jang Sunhee , Lee Sungju , Kim Minyeong
Published: December 2023

Purpose: The study aimed to clarify the concept of spiritual self-care in hospice team members. Methods: To analyze the concept of spiritual self-care of hospice care team, the study was carried out using Schwartz-Barcott and Kim's hybrid model including theoretical, fieldwork and final analytic stages. In the theoretical stage, 'spirituality', 'spiritual well-being', 'spiritual health', 'spiritual care', and 'self-care' were set as search terms, and the resulting 107 related works of domestic and international literature were analyzed. In the field survey stage, data were collected from nurses and spiritual experts with more than 5 years of experience in spiritual self-care.Results: The concept of spiritual self-care is to realize the meaning and purpose of life while constantly maintaining relationships with oneself, neighbors, communities, and the absolute, utilize transcendence and internal resources, strengthen professional competence, maintain work-life balance, and achieve spiritual well-being. It was identified as a dynamic state to realize. The quality attributes of the concept of spiritual self-care were found to have 5 attributes and 15 indicators. Conclusion: The attributes and indicators derived through this study will be helpful in understanding the concept of hospice team members' spiritual self-care. In addition, as a way to continuously grow and train professional hospice team members, it can be used to develop a spiritual self-care assessment tool and an educational program to prevent burnout.
Should Australian states enact statutes that explicitly ban unconsented intimate exams performed by medical students for educational reasons?
Authors: Emmerich Nathan , Watkins Zoe
Published: December 2023

While the practice now seems to be relatively uncommon, in the recent past some medical doctors have instructed their students to perform intimate exams on unconscious patients without first securing their informed consent. Concern about the issue has led some American states to introduce legislation explicitly banning such exams. We consider if Australian states should do the same. Noting that there is little substantive evidence suggesting that the practice continues in Australia, we argue that the creation of specific laws lacks justification; such exams already contravene existing health law, which prohibits the conduct of any physical exam without first ensuring the patient’s consent. Furthermore, even if the practice continues, additional legislation will do little to address the more fundamental issue; a culture that considers the practice morally acceptable. We therefore argue that professional bodies, including student organisations, should issue formal position statements that not only reject such exams unequivocally, but also offer guidelines for best practice. Teaching hospitals and medical schools should adopt similar policies on the matter and ensure that these are discussed at relevant junctures in the curricula. Such policies should ensure accountability by setting out clear reporting lines that establish clear sanctions for those who instruct medical students to perform such exams.
Radiation effect on silicon photonics chips for space quantum key distribution
Authors: Chen Zhao-Yuan , Liu Yan-Fei , Chen Cheng , Gao Yang , Zheng Hao
Published: December 2023

Quantum communication satellites have potential for applications in future quantum networks. Photonics integrated chips, due to their compact and lightweight nature, are well-suited for satellite deployment. However, the harsh radiation environment of space can cause permanent damage to these chips, resulting in degraded performance or complete loss of functionality. In this work, we conducted a series of radiation experiments to evaluate the effects of γ rays and high energy protons on quantum key distribution transmitter chips. The results suggest that the insertion loss of the chip is slightly reduced by about 1.5 dB after 100 krad (Si) γ ray irradiation, and further reduced by about 0.5 to 1 dB after 2.39 × 1011/cm2 proton radiation. The half-wave voltages, extinction ratios, and polarization angles are not changed significantly within the measurement error range. Our work proves the feasibility of deploying quantum constellations utilizing terminals based on photonics chips.
Fast fiber nonlinearity compensation method for PDM coherent optical transmission systems based on the Fourier neural operator
Authors: Huang Junling , Yi Anlin , Yan Lianshan , He Xingchen , Jiang Lin , Yang Hui , Luo Bin , Pan Wei
Published: December 2023

Fiber nonlinearity compensation (NLC) is likely to become an indispensable component of coherent optical transmission systems for extending the transmission reach and increasing capacity per fiber. In this work, we introduce what we believe to be a novel fast black-box neural network model based on the Fourier neural operator (FNO) to compensate for the chromatic dispersion (CD) and nonlinearity simultaneously. The feasibility of the proposed approach is demonstrated in uniformly distributed as well as probabilistically-shaped 32GBaud 16/32/64-ary quadrature amplitude modulation (16/32/64QAM) polarization-division-multiplexed (PDM) coherent optical communication systems. The experimental results demonstrate that about 0.31 dB Q-factor improvement is achieved compared to traditional digital back-propagation (DBP) with 5 steps per span for PDM-16QAM signals after 1600 km standard single-mode fiber (SSMF) transmission at the optimal launched power of 4 dBm. While, the time consumption is reduced from 6.04 seconds to 1.69 seconds using a central processing unit (CPU), and from 1.54 seconds to only 0.03 seconds using a graphic processing unit (GPU), respectively. This scheme also reveals noticeable generalization ability in terms of launched power and modulation format.
Si/Ge phototransistor with responsivity >1000A/W on a silicon photonics platform
Authors: Gao Yuxuan , Das Ranjan , Xie Yanran , Guo Feng , Mascher Peter , Knights Andrew P.
Published: December 2023

In this article, we report a Si/Ge waveguide phototransistor with high responsivity and low dark current under low bias voltages, due to an engineered electric field distribution. The photodetector consists of n-i-p-i-n doping regions and shows a responsivity of 606 A/W at 1 V bias, and 1032 A/W at 2.8V bias with an input optical power of −50 dBm, and dark current of 4 µA and 42 µA respectively. This is achieved by placing two p+-doped regions in the silicon slab region beneath the Ge epitaxial layer. A measured small signal −3 dB bandwidth of 1.5 GHz with a −80 dBc/Hz phase noise response at 1 KHz frequency offset were demonstrated experimentally.
Edge smoothing optimization method in DMD digital lithography system based on dynamic blur matching pixel overlap technique
Authors: Huang Shengzhou , Ren Bowen , Tang Yuanzhuo , Wu Dongjie , Pan Jiani , Tian Zhaowei , Jiang Chengwei , Li Zhi , Huang Jinjin
Published: December 2023

Due to digital micromirrors device (DMD) digital lithography limited by non-integer pixel errors, the edge smoothness of the exposed image is low and the sawtooth defects are obvious. To improve the image edge smoothness, an optimized pixel overlay method was proposed, which called the DMD digital lithography based on dynamic blur effect matching pixel overlay technology. The core of this method is that motion blur effect is cleverly introduced in the process of pixel overlap to carry out the lithography optimization experiment. The simulation and experimental results showed that the sawtooth edge was reduced from 1.666 µm to 0.27 µm by adopting the 1/2 dynamic blur effect to match pixel displacement superposition, which is far less than half of the sawtooth edge before optimization. The results indicated that the proposed method can efficiently improve the edge smoothness of lithographic patterns. We believe that the proposed optimization method can provide great help for high fidelity and efficient DMD digital lithography microfabrication.
Can a spatially anisotropic random scatterer produce a rotationally symmetric scattered momentum flow in the far zone?
Authors: Ding Yi
Published: December 2023

The question is examined as to whether the far-zone distribution of the electromagnetic momentum of the light generated by scattering on a spatially anisotropic random medium can be the same in every azimuthal angle of scattering. We show that the rotationally symmetric distribution of the scattered momentum flow in the far zone may be realized, provided that the structural parameters of both the scattering medium and the incident light source are chosen appropriately, when a polychromatic electromagnetic plane wave is scattered by an anisotropic, Gaussian, Schell-model medium. We derive the necessary and sufficient conditions for producing such a distribution. It is found that the scatterers have the same effective widths (σ
x
, σ
y
) but different effective correlation widths (μ
x
, μ
y
), yet all of them have the ability to produce rotationally symmetric distributions of the scattered momentum flow in the far zone. The same is true of the media having the same (μ
x
, μ
y
) but different (σ
x
, σ
y
). It is also found that the realization of the rotationally symmetric scattered momentum flow is independent of the spectral degree of polarization of the incident light source–the rotationally symmetric distribution of the scattered momentum flow is always realizable regardless of whether the incident light field is fully polarized, partially polarized or completely unpolarized. Our results have potential practical applications in optical mircromanipulation such as optical trapping of particles, especially when the optical forces used to manipulate the particles are required to be rotationally symmetric.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Female Genital Mutilation / Cutting among healthcare providers in two public hospitals in Egypt: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Hamdy Ahmed , Aboushady Ahmed Taha , Abd El Moty Hatem Ibrahim , ELShobary Mohammed Omar Mostafa , Bassiouny Yasmin , Hegazy Amira Aly
Published: December 2023

Female Genital Mutilation / Cutting (FGM/C), also known as female circumcision, is a human rights violation and is still happening to date. Every woman or girl has the right to be protected from this harmful practice. Egypt has adopted a multi-layered strategy to end FGM/C nationwide. Even though considerable progress has been made throughout the country, the practice and inequality still exist. In 2021, The Egyptian Family Health Survey results showed a decrease in the prevalence of circumcision among ever-married women, reaching about 86%, compared to 92% in the latest public estimate of the Demographic Health Survey 2015, where 87% of all women between 15 and 49 years old are circumcised, of which 42.4% reported being circumcised by a healthcare professional (HCP) compared to a reported 47% in 2021. This study aimed to assess healthcare providers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices in two public hospitals in 2 governorates in Egypt using a validated questionnaire conducted among HCPs in Cairo (Urban) and Gharbia (Rural) governorates. A pre-tested questionnaire comprising 38 close-ended questions was used. The study population included 223 HCPs in Cairo and Gharbia governorates, of which 63.7% were women and 36.3% were men, with an average age of 42 years (42±5). 49.8% of the respondents are from an urban area. In the knowledge domain, the highest consequence identified was reduced sexual feelings. In attitudes, almost 63% believed that FGM/C should continue, while 65% agreed that the HCPs have a role in eliminating FGM/C. Almost 4% of our respondents have performed an FGM before, 45% had FGM in their household, and 62% would perform FGM on their daughters. HCPs’ integration within the communities allows them to play a crucial role in preventing the practice. It is of utmost importance to compensate for the gap in the curricula of medical schools through informal learning activities and continuing medical education programs for sexual and reproductive health and rights and human rights, as legislation and law enforcement alone cannot eliminate FGM/C from society.
COVID-19 in Pakistan: A national analysis of five pandemic waves
Authors: Ahmad Taimoor , Abdullah Mujahid , Mueed Abdul , Sultan Faisal , Khan Ayesha , Khan Adnan Ahmad
Published: December 2023

Objectives

The COVID-19 pandemic showed distinct waves where cases ebbed and flowed. While each country had slight, nuanced differences, lessons from each wave with country-specific details provides important lessons for prevention, understanding medical outcomes and the role of vaccines. This paper compares key characteristics from the five different COVID-19 waves in Pakistan.

Methods

Data was sourced from daily national situation reports (Sitreps) prepared by the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) in Islamabad. We use specific criteria to define COVID-19 waves. The start of each COVID-19 wave is marked by the day of the lowest number of daily cases preceding a sustained increase, while the end is the day with the lowest number of cases following a 7-days decline, which should be lower than the 7 days following it. Key variables such as COVID-19 tests, cases, and deaths with their rates of change to the peak and then to the trough are used to draw descriptive comparisons. Additionally, a linear regression model estimates daily new COVID-19 deaths in Pakistan.

Results

Pakistan saw five distinct waves, each of which displayed the typical topology of a complete infectious disease epidemic. The time from wave-start to peak became progressively shorter, and from wave-peak to trough, progressively longer. Each wave appears to also be getting shorter, except for wave 4, which lasted longer than wave 3. A one percent increase in vaccinations decreased deaths by 0.38% (95% CI: -0.67, -0.08) in wave 5 and the association is statistically significant.

Conclusion

Each wave displayed distinct characteristics that must be interpreted in the context of the level of response and the variant driving the epidemic. Key indicators suggest that COVID-19 preventive measures kept pace with the disease. Waves 1 and 2 were mainly about prevention and learning how to clinically manage patients. Vaccination started late during wave 3 and its impact on hospitalizations and deaths became visible in wave 5. The impact of highly virulent strains Alpha/B.1.1.7 and Delta/B.1.617.2 variants during wave 3 and milder but more infectious Omicron/B.1.1.529 during wave 5 are apparent.