bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating pain-related medication use and contribution to polypharmacy in adults with intellectual disabilities: a systematic review
Authors: Pacitti Christine , Cairns Deborah , Ward Laura , Nicholl Barbara I.
Published: December 2024

Background

Adults with intellectual disability experience more pain than adults without and, despite a higher number of medications being prescribed, may be less likely to receive medication for pain. We conducted a systematic review of existing literature on medication for pain and painful conditions in adults with intellectual disability to explore if there is any association with polypharmacy, multimorbidity or demographic characteristics.

Methods

This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines. Medline, Embase, PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, CINAHL, Cochrane Library and Scopus were searched from January 2000 to 21st October 2024. We included original, peer-reviewed observational, qualitative or mixed-method studies published in English with data on medication for pain or painful conditions in adults with intellectual disability. Two independent reviewers performed study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment; disagreements were resolved by a third reviewer. Adapted Newcastle–Ottawa Scale or the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme for qualitative studies was used for quality assessment of included studies and findings were reported via narrative synthesis. PROSPERO registration: CRD42023415051.

Results

Twenty-seven of 26,170 articles met the eligibility criteria. Adults with intellectual disability were more likely to have simple analgesic medication than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, opioids or adjuvant pain medications than the general population. Psychotropic medications were more commonly prescribed in adults with intellectual disability than medication for pain or painful conditions. Adults with intellectual disability and caregivers reported under-recognition and most likely under-treatment of pain.

Conclusions

Adults with intellectual disability may receive less pharmacological management of pain with analgesics and medication for painful conditions despite the high prevalence of polypharmacy, suggesting pain is under-treated. Better assessment and pharmacological treatment of pain and painful conditions is a key future research priority to address this health inequality and improve quality of life for this vulnerable group of people.
“Holding the line”—relationship building and challenges when nursing adults with a severe eating disorder
Authors: Brinchmann Berit Støre , Moyo Kathrine Rasch , Stavnes Kristin Anne
Published: December 2024

Background

Eating disorders (EDs) are serious psychiatric disorders that may cause great suffering and reduced quality of life. Severe EDs often lead to somatic complications and have a high mortality rate. The most seriously ill patients need hospitalisation, with a need for highly trained nurses.

Methods

The aim of the study was to investigate challenges when nursing adults with a severe ED, and how to succeed in establishing a therapeutic relationship. A qualitative design was chosen, and individual qualitative interviews conducted with twelve nurses. The analytic method was Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis.

Results

Six main themes were developed: entering the patient’s world of experience (with the subthemes: understanding the patient’s anxiety, understanding the patient's rigidity and need for control and understanding the patient's ambivalence), providing somatic nursing, building relationships, ‘holding the line’ (with the subtheme: demanding and rewarding), manoeuvring between rules and frameworks and providing good nursing care during coercive treatment.

Conclusion

Nursing patients with a severe ED is demanding, requiring somatic as well as psychiatric expertise. The nurse must understand the patient's anxiety, rigidity and need for control, and ambivalence. Nursing patients with a severe ED requires clarity, and steadiness and the nurses must cope with resistance. To succeed, teamwork and support from colleagues are needed.
A pair of promising immune checkpoints PSGL-1 and VISTA from immunotolerance to immunotherapy
Authors: Peng Manqing , Lu Xiaofang , Guo Junshuang , Yin Xiangli , Zhang Jing , Li Xin , Zou Yizhou
Published: December 2024

Immune checkpoints are crucial for regulating immune responses and maintaining self-tolerance, as they play a pivotal role in preventing autoimmunity and facilitating tumor immune evasion. This review concentrates on the immune checkpoint molecules PSGL-1 and VISTA. Both molecules are highly expressed in hematopoietic cells, including T cells and myeloid cells. VISTA functions both as a ligand on myeloid cells, where it regulates cytokine production, chemotaxis, and phagocytosis while promoting their differentiation into a tolerogenic phenotype and as a receptor on T cells, where it contributes to T cell quiescence. PSGL-1, which acts as a binding partner for VISTA, further inhibits T-cell activation and fosters tolerance within the acidic tumor microenvironment. Our review provides a comprehensive analysis of the structure, expression, and biological functions of PSGL-1 and VISTA and emphasizes their therapeutic potential in cancer treatment, autoimmune diseases, and transplantation. The dual role of these checkpoints in immune regulation presents novel opportunities for advancing cancer immunotherapy and developing new strategies for managing autoimmune conditions.
Οι αναπαραστάσεις δεσμού σε παιδιά με επιληψία
Authors: Δημάτης Κωνσταντίνος
Published: December 2024

Προηγούμενες μελέτες έχουν δείξει πως τα παιδιά που καλούνται να αντιμετωπίσουν στρεσογόνα γεγονότα ζωής διατρέχουν αυξημένο κίνδυνο να βιώσουν αλλαγές στις προσδοκίες τους (εσωτερικές αναπαραστάσεις) για τη διαθεσιμότητα και ανταπόκριση των προσώπων φροντίδας. Μολονότι η επιληψία θεωρείται μια ιδιαίτερα στρεσογόνα συνθήκη για το παιδί και την οικογένεια του, διαπιστώνει κανείς μια έλλειψη ερευνητικών δεδομένων που να πραγματεύονται την επίπτωση της επιληψίας στη σταθερότητα/μεταβολή των αναπαραστάσεων των παιδιών για το δεσμό. Ο σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης είναι διττός: να διερευνήσει, αφενός, τον αντίκτυπο της διάγνωσης της επιληψίας στη σταθερότητα / μεταβολή των αναπαραστάσεων για το δεσμό με το βασικό πρόσωπο φροντίδας, και να εξετάσει, αφετέρου, το ρόλο που μπορούν να έχουν οι μεταβολές του δεσμού για την ψυχοκοινωνική προσαρμογή των παιδιών με επιληψία. Τριάντα τρία παιδιά (15 αγόρια και 18 κορίτσια) μέσης ηλικίας 6.8 ετών (τ.α. = 1.4) με πρόσφατα διαγνωσμένη επιληψία (ομάδα μελέτης), και 33 υγιή παιδιά, αντίστοιχης ηλικίας και φύλου (ομάδα σύγκρισης), αξιολογήθηκαν δυο φορές (Τ1, Τ2) με μεσοδιάστημα 9-12 μηνών, ως προς τους παράγοντες σωρευτικής επικινδυνότητας, την ποιότητα δεσμού μητέρας-παιδιού, τη σχέση μαθητών-δασκάλων, τα προβλήματα εσωτερίκευσης και τα προβλήματα εξωτερίκευσης (αναφορές μητέρων και δασκάλων). Οι συντελεστές ομοφωνίας Cohen’s κ μεταξύ Τ1 και Τ2, έδειξαν ότι τα παιδιά της ομάδας μελέτης βίωσαν περισσότερες μεταβολές των αναπαραστάσεων του δεσμού με τη μητέρα τους σε σχέση με τα υγιή παιδιά της ομάδας σύγκρισης. Η ανάλυση ρυθμιστικής διαμεσολάβησης κατέδειξε ότι η συσσώρευση ή η απουσία παραγόντων επικινδυνότητας επιδρά αρνητικά ή θετικά στην ασφάλεια στο δεσμό, αντίστοιχα, ενώ η ασφάλεια στο δεσμό προβλέπει με τη σειρά της την ανάπτυξη των προβλημάτων εσωτερίκευσης που αναφέρουν οι μητέρες των παιδιών. Η ανάλυση ρυθμιστικής διαμεσολάβησης έδειξε, επίσης, ότι η επιληψία επιδρούσε αρνητικά στις σχέσεις μαθητών-δασκάλων, γεγονός που προέβλεπε αυξημένη εκδήλωση των προβλημάτων εξωτερίκευσης που ανέφεραν οι εκπαιδευτικοί, αλλά αυτό αφορούσε μόνο στα παιδιά με χαμηλό αίσθημα ασφάλειας στο δεσμό. Τα αποτελέσματα της ρυθμιστικής διαμεσολάβησης συζητιούνται μέσα από το πρίσμα δύο σύγχρονων μοντέλων της αλληλεπίδρασης προσώπου-περιβάλλοντος, του μοντέλου ευαλωτότητας-στρες και του μοντέλου διαφορικής ευαλωτότητας. Τα ευρήματα που απορρέουν από την παρούσα μελέτη φαίνεται να αναδεικνύουν τη σημασία της σταθερότητας / μεταβολής του δεσμού ως μίας κρίσιμης ψυχολογικής διεργασίας για την ψυχοκοινωνική προσαρμογή των παιδιών μετά τη διάγνωση της επιληψίας.
The importance of geoenvironmental education in understanding geological heritage and promoting geoethical awareness
Authors: Ζαφειρόπουλος Γεώργιος
Published: December 2024

Η παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή παρουσιάζει την ανάπτυξη και την εφαρμογή της γεωεκπαιδευτικής μεθόδου αξιολόγησης (GEOAM), η οποία αποτελεί ένα εργαλείο για την αξιολόγηση και την ενίσχυση του εκπαιδευτικού δυναμικού των περιοχών που εμφανίζουν έντονη γεωκληρονομική αξία. Αναγνωρίζοντας τη σημασία της γεωεκπαίδευσης για την προώθηση της αειφόρου ανάπτυξης, της περιβαλλοντικής διαχείρισης και της ευαισθητοποίησης του κοινού για τη γεωλογική κληρονομιά, αυτή η έρευνα προσδιόρισε ένα αξιοσημείωτο κενό στις υπάρχουσες μεθοδολογίες αξιολόγησης, αναφορικά με την εκπαιδευτική και ηθικά αξία που αντανακλούν περιοχές με ιδιαίτερο γεωλογικό και διεπιστημονικό ενδιαφέρον. Η μελέτη ξεκινά με την αξιολόγηση της βασικής γνώσης και των αντιλήψεων για γεωλογικά θέματα μεταξύ των εκπαιδευτικών και των μαθητών μέσω μιας προκαταρκτικής εξέτασης. Μετά από ένα ολοκληρωμένο πρόγραμμα γεωεκπαιδευτικής εκπαίδευσης, ένα post-test με παρόμοιες ερωτήσεις αξιολογεί τον αντίκτυπο του προγράμματος, αποκαλύπτοντας σημαντικές βελτιώσεις στην κατανόηση βασικών γεωλογικών εννοιών και στην εκτίμηση της γεωκληρονομικής αξίας. Μια σειρά δομημένων ερωτηματολογίων συγκεντρώνει εκτενή δεδομένα σχετικά με τη στάση των συμμετεχόντων απέναντι στη γεωεκπαίδευση, τη γεωκληρονομιά, τη γεωδιατήρηση και σχετικά θέματα. Τα βασικά ευρήματα δείχνουν μια γενική συμφωνία σχετικά με τον θετικό αντίκτυπο της γεωεκπαίδευσης στη βιώσιμη ανάπτυξη, την προστασία του περιβάλλοντος και την οικονομική ανάπτυξη. Συγκεκριμένα, οι συμμετέχοντες αναγνωρίζουν τις δυνατότητες των γεωεκπαιδευτικών προγραμμάτων για την ενίσχυση του γεωτουρισμού και τη βελτίωση του βιοτικού επιπέδου στις τοπικές κοινωνίες. Με βάση αυτά τα ευρήματα, αναπτύσσεται μια Μέθοδος Γεωεκπαιδευτικής Αξιολόγησης (GEOAM) που αποτελεί ένα καινοτόμο πλαίσιο για την αξιολόγηση και την προώθηση της γεωεκπαίδευσης, της γεωηθικής ευαισθητοποίησης και των βιώσιμων περιβαλλοντικών πρακτικών. Αυτή η μέθοδος έχει σχεδιαστεί για να παρέχει μια δομημένη προσέγγιση για την αξιολόγηση των εκπαιδευτικών προγραμμάτων, την κατάρτιση εκπαιδευτικών και την ενσωμάτωση των προγραμμάτων σπουδών, στοχεύοντας συγκεκριμένα στη βελτίωση της γνώσης σχετικά με τα γεωλογικά χαρακτηριστικά, την προστασία του περιβάλλοντος και την υπεύθυνη χρήση των φυσικών πόρων. Στο πλαίσιο της διατριβής, η νέα μεθοδολογία GEOAM εφαρμόζεται στην περίπτωση των νησιών του Νοτιοανατολικού Αιγαίου για να αξιολογήσει πως η γεωεκπαίδευση μπορεί να ενσωματωθεί αποτελεσματικά στο εκπαιδευτικό σύστημα, ενισχύοντας τόσο την κατανόηση της γεωλογικής κληρονομικής αξίας όσο και προάγοντας την αειφορία και την περιβαλλοντική ηθική. Η μέθοδος επιδιώκει επίσης να διερευνήσει τις δυνατότητες των γεωεκπαιδευτικών προγραμμάτων για την προώθηση του γεωτουρισμού και τη συμβολή στην οικονομική και περιβαλλοντική ανάπτυξη της περιοχής.
Motivações na Transição para a Monoparentalidade Adotiva
Authors: Pereira-Lima Sibely Joaquina , Féres-Carneiro Terezinha
Published: December 2024

Este trabalho teve como objetivo investigar as motivações na transição para a monoparentalidade adotiva. Foram entrevistados nove mulheres e três homens, entre 38 e 61 anos, dos extratos socioeconômicos médios da região metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro e de três cidades do sul-sudeste brasileiro. Foi utilizado o método de análise de conteúdo em sua vertente categorial. Para atingir os objetivos deste estudo, foram analisadas duas categorias, usando como referencial teórico as teorias psicanalítica e sistêmica de família: além da infertilidade e motivações para o perfil. Os resultados apontaram que a adoção monoparental foi o meio encontrado para realizar o desejo de ter filho(s) na ausência de um parceiro com quem dividir a parentalidade. Identificações com a história individual do adotante ganharam intensidade e, junto ao desejo de transmitir e de cuidar, motivaram a adoção de crianças com perfis preteridos. Observaram-se identificações envolvendo sentimentos de rejeição, e fantasias de reparação de dívida simbólica, cujos relatos demonstraram um trabalho de reflexão e de conscientização. Concluiu-se que identificações entre perfis preteridos, como o dos adotantes e os das crianças abrigadas, podem constituir motivações para a adoção monoparental, enfatizando-se a relevância de um trabalho de conscientização, favorecendo a adoção.
A importância da inserção da temática violência contra as mulheres na graduação em enfermagem
Authors: Santos Claudemir dos , Sousa Ana Inês , Zeitoune Regina Celia Gollner , Queiroz Ana Beatriz Azevedo
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: discutir a inserção da temática violência contra a mulher nos cursos de bacharelado em enfermagem de universidades públicas do estado do Rio de Janeiro. Método: estudo documental de cunho qualitativo, sendo objeto de análise descritiva a ementa e o conteúdo programático das disciplinas de Saúde da Mulher nos cursos de bacharelado em enfermagem no Rio de Janeiro quanto à presença desse conteúdo na formação em enfermagem. Resultados: no que se refere às ementas das disciplinas obrigatórias, ficou evidente que não há de forma explícita o conteúdo que trata da violência contra as mulheres nas seis universidades participantes do estudo. Já nos conteúdos programáticos analisados, percebeu-se que, das doze disciplinas obrigatórias distribuídas nas universidades, apenas quatro citam a temática em discussão. Considerações finais: há uma lacuna da temática na formação. Incluir a violência contra as mulheres no currículo de enfermagem capacita futuros profissionais a lidar com essas situações de forma eficaz e humanizada.
Caracterização sociodemográfica e ecológica da malária entre indígenas da Amazônia paraense de 2013 a 2022
Authors: Caldas Rosinelle Janayna Coêlho , Guimarães Ricardo Coelho , Lima Ingrid Bentes , Andrade Élida Fernanda Rêgo de , Rodrigues Lorena de Kássia Costa , Rodrigues Ivaneide Leal Ataíde , Nogueira Laura Maria Vidal
Published: December 2024

Objetivo: analisar a dinâmica sociodemográfica e ecológica da incidência da malária entre indígenas segundo os distritos sanitários especiais indígenas da Amazônia paraense. Método: estudo epidemiológico, de corte transversal e abordagem quantitativa, realizado com dados secundários do estado do Pará, correspondentes ao período de 2013 a 2022. Os dados são originados do Ministério da Saúde e foram analisados por meio de estatística descritiva, dispensando apreciação do Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa. Resultados: o estudo apontou maior ocorrência de malária entre jovens (n=7.304, 31,3%), no sexo masculino (n=13.137, 56,3%) e em pessoas com ensino fundamental incompleto (n=11.761, 50,4%). Predominou a forma clínica da doença por Plasmodium vivax (n=21.485, 92,1%) e maior proporção de diagnóstico por gota espessa/esfregaço (n=17.358, 74,4%). Houve tendência de crescimento da incidência parasitária anual no Distrito Rio Tapajós (p=0,022). Conclusão: a ocorrência da malária é desigual entre os distritos sanitários indígenas, sendo mais incidente no Rio Tapajós, configurando maior risco de adoecimento.
ANÁLISE "EX-POST-FACTO" DO ESTADO DENOTATIVO CONSUMATIVO DOS PRINCÍPIOS DA DECLARAÇÃO DE DEL RIO EM REGISTRO PESSOAL
Authors: Pereira Raphael do Couto , Pinto Helena Marquini Zuntini , Vitorio Cleber Vinicius Akita , Almeida Josimar Ribeiro de , Ferreira Leticia Cardoso , Cunha Tatiana Santos da , Gurova Tetyana
Published: December 2024

A Declaração do Rio não é assinada sobre seu status legal. No entanto, espera dos governos e da população um forte senso de compromisso com seus princípios juntos, inclusive como determinantes do padrão de educação ambiental. O objetivo deste trabalho é demonstrar por meio de análises “ex post facto”, a relação entre disposição-atitude, hábitos e valores e a associação de respostas à educação ambiental de valores como princípios internalizados no registro. A metodologia de pesquisa adotada foi focada em entrevistas como “rapport”, registrar respostas como fazer recomendações Surveyof Michigan e efeito Zeigarmk. Considerando a relação da causa do tipo II enfocada como variável padrão de pessoal (X) em nível de solidariedade e fator Q para bipolaridade de avaliação, mostram a efetividade (Y) para a Declaração do Rio na amostra típica estudada. É tratado com um assimétrico.
A NATUREZA DOS BENS E SERVIÇOS PARA AVALIAÇÃO SOCIAL DA VIDA
Authors: Pereira Raphael do Couto , Pinto Helena Marquini Zuntini , Vitorio Cleber Vinicius Akita , Almeida Josimar Ribeiro de , Ferreira Leticia Cardoso , Cunha Tatiana Santos da , Gurova Tetyana
Published: December 2024

Uma avaliação de impacto deve abranger os seguintes aspectos: descrever a ação proposta, bem como alternativas; prever a natureza e magnitude dos ‘efeitos ambientais’; prever aspectos humanos, interpretar resultados; e prevenir os efeitos ambientais. Além disso, deve estar disponível uma metodologia para as fases de comunicação (informação ao público e ao executivo) e, conforme o caso, para os procedimentos de fiscalização durante a fase de construção e operação do empreendimento ou ação em causa.
BIOMETRIA DA SINÚSIA ARBÓREA DE FRAGMENTOS FLORESTAIS DO DOMÍNIO TROPICAL ATLÂNTICO (ILHA GRANDE-RJ)
Authors: Pereira Raphael do Couto , Pinto Helena Marquini Zuntini , Vitorio Cleber Vinicius Akita , Almeida Josimar Ribeiro de , Ferreira Leticia Cardoso , Cunha Tatiana Santos da , Gurova Tetyana
Published: December 2024

A agregação das plantas foi analisada através de quatro métodos de determinação do grau de agrupamento, chamados métodos de quadrados. A análise foi efetuada nos estratos inferior e superior, separadamente. O teste falhou para detectar distribuição agrupada apenas para UTF1 e L1, cujos valores de ∝ não foram significativamente diferentes de um. As demais morfoespécies, com exceção do grupo A2 (diversos gêneros) apresentam-se fortemente agrupadas (significantes ao nível de 1%). Quando foram consideradas todas as espécies que ocorreram na área, o índice encontrado também revelou distribuição fortemente agrupada. Efetuada a análise estatística para a escolha do modelo parabólico constatou-se que o modelo de equação log y = bo + b1ci + b2ci², estimava a área basal/ha com maior precisão para todos tipos florestais, exceto para a floresta (Tipo II), conforme mostra a Tabela 3. Para este tipo florestal, o modelo geral 01 ajustou às áreas basais, em relação aos DAPs, comparativamente aos demais modelos.A comparação entre os ajustamentos efetuados pelas funções BETA e MEYER, onde se evidencia o melhor ajustamento da função MEYER. Analisando-se os resíduos verificou-se que a função de MEYER subestimava, também, as frequências das árvores nas classes inferiores de DAPs, porém, abrangendo, apenas, as classes de 40 e 50cm, ou seja, numa amplitude menor que a abrangida pela função BETA.
The disinfection of dental chair suction systems
Authors: Baidya Krishna
Published: December 2024

Krishna Baidya outlines a recent clinical audit initiative at Guys Hospital, London.
Practice made perfect
Authors: Hussey David
Published: December 2024

David Hussey explores the benefits of events for the dental team.
Antimicrobial Stewardship in the Frail Elderly
Authors: Wilson Catherine , Seaton Ronald Andrew
Published: December 2024

Antimicrobial therapy is essential to modern healthcare practice. However, years of injudicious use has contributed to the development of population and individual level harm from antimicrobial resistance. The frail elderly are particularly at risk from infection as well as antimicrobial adverse effects due to multimorbidity, polypharmacy and declining physiological reserve. Diagnosis and management decision making may be challenging in this vulnerable group due to subtle or absent symptoms and signs. Antimicrobial stewardship is the systematic approach to safe and effective use of antimicrobials to optimise outcomes, minimise harm and preserve future therapies. Herein, we consider the significance and importance of antimicrobial stewardship in the frail elderly and suggest ten steps to assist clinicians in the recognition, investigation and management of infection in this group.
Nightingale by the death bed: A review on nurses' role and experiences in death and dying
Authors: Bautista Maria Claire M , Indicar Nicca A , Suarez Rodney F , Narvaez Roison Andro
Published: December 2024

Background:

As nurses care for patients at the end of life, they face situations that affect not only their jobs, but other aspects of their lives. However, there is very little research on the psychological impact of caring for terminally ill patients, the challenges that nurses face and their specific coping strategies have not been the subject of much research.

Aim:

To synthesise the psychological behaviour of nurses working with terminally ill patients and identify their concept of death after caring for terminally ill patients.

Method:

An integrative review.

Results:

A total of 17 articles were deemed eligible, wherein 6 themes were generated: (1) the highs and lows of terminal illness care, (2) challenges faced by nurses caring for the terminally ill, (3) the role of nurses in terminal illness care, (4) coping with the effects, (5) coming face to face with one's mortality, and (6) continuing education in terminal illness care. Coping with the effects has two subthemes: (a) coping strategies used by nurses and (b) the role of professional relationships in coping.

Conclusion:

Nurses need to have a sound mind and body in order for them to be effective when caring for people at the end of life.
The place and importance of palliative care in the fight against COVID-19
Authors: Yildiz Hicran , Budak Serkan
Published: December 2024

Background:

In a pandemic, existing palliative care units may be inadequate and palliative care may need to be provided in other hospital units.

Aims:

To review and improve the palliative care approach applied during a pandemic.

Methods:

Studies published between 2019 and 2020 were examined using the keywords ‘fighting against COVID-19 ‘and ‘organisation’ in the PubMed, Ebsco, ScienceDirect and Web of Science databases.

Findings:

It was determined that the US Mass Critical Care Task Force created a framework for organising palliative care in the fight against the pandemic. It was determined that institutions and organisations implemented practices aligned with this framework during the pandemic. However, due to the evaluation, this framework was limited, and its scope should be expanded.

Conclusions:

The recommendations in this review and indicated in italics will improve the palliative care approach to be applied during the pandemic.
Family caregivers' experiences of accessing information from healthcare professionals in heart failure
Authors: Robinson Jackie , Raphael Deborah , Waterworth Susan , Gott Merryn
Published: December 2024

Background:

With growing reliance on family caregivers to support people with advanced heart failure and to help them die at home, family caregivers need the relevant information to support this. However, evidence has shown that families continue to have deficits in their knowledge of heart failure and what to expect as the disease advances. This can lead to a high level of uncertainty and stress for family.

Aim:

To explore family caregivers experiences of accessing information from healthcare professionals when caring for someone with heart failure.

Method:

A qualitative exploratory study design was adopted using a critical realist approach. The study was conducted in one large urban area of Aotearoa New Zealand. Participants were family caregivers of people who had died between April and November 2019. Data was collected using semi-structured telephone interviews.

Results:

A total of 15 family caregivers participated. A thematic analysis identified three themes related to accessing information from healthcare professionals: 1) gaining access to healthcare professionals 2) developing, understanding and translating information and 3) receiving information in a timely manner.

Conclusions:

Findings highlight the difficulites that family carers of people with heart failure experience in accessing, receiving and understanding the information they require. Further research is needed on supporting healthcare professionals to develop skills in appearing accessible within an environment of ‘busyness’. Furthermore, investigating strategies which will enable healthcare settings to be more responsive and flexible to the needs of family caregivers is needed.
Trends in Korean Medicine Utilization for Chronic Rhinosinusitis Using National Health Insurance Service Data (2012-2022)
Authors: Bae Kwang-Ho , Park Man Young
Published: December 2024

Objectives: Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is often treated with Korean medicine (KM), but comprehensive utilization data is lacking. This study aimed to analyze the patterns of KM use for CRS using National Health Insurance Service data from 2012 to 2022.Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of claims data for CRS patients (International Classification of Diseases code: J32) who visited KM institutions. We examined demographic characteristics, visiting patterns, medical costs, treatment modalities, and concurrent use of Western medicine.Results: Of 138,647 patients (52.2% male, mean age 23.8 years), 41.8% were under 10 years old. Annual patient numbers ranged from 14,595-17,242 (2012-2019), decreasing sharply from 2020. Average costs increased 5% annually. Acupuncture was the most common treatment (661,455, 50.5%). The most frequently prescribed insured herbal medicine was Hyeonggaeyeongyo-tang (48,494, 48.5%). Notably, 87.0% (120,610 patients) concurrently received Western medical treatment, indicating a prevalent integrative approach in CRS management. 77.8% received their initial diagnosis at Western institutions.Conclusion: This comprehensive analysis of KM utilization for CRS in Korea reveals significant patterns in patient demographics, treatment preferences, and integration with Western medicine. The high rate of concurrent KM and Western treatment highlights the integrative nature of CRS management in Korea, providing valuable insights for health policy and clinical practice.
Observation of Scleractinian juveniles' composition, distribution, and density in shallow waters of Kondang Merak Beach, Southern Malang, East Java, Indonesia
Authors: ROSDIANTO ROSDIANTO , LUTHFI OKTIYAS MUZAKY , ARDIANSYAH ANWAN RAHMAT , LUTHFI M. AZUREA BAHRI , ISDIANTO ANDIK , SETYONINGRUM DESY , SETYANTO ARIEF , HIDAYAH LISA NUR , FATHAH AULIA LANUDIA , PUTRI BERLANIA MAHARDIKA , WARDANA NOVAR KURNIA , SUPRIYADI SUPRIYADI
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Rosdianto, Luthfi OM, Ardiansyah AR, Luthfi MAB, Isdianto A, Setyoningrum D, Setyanto A, Hidayah LN, Fathah AL, Putri BM, Wardana NK, Supriyadi. 2024. Observation of Scleractinian juveniles' composition, distribution, and density in shallow waters of Kondang Merak Beach, Southern Malang, East Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 2663-2668. Kondang Merak Waters, a habitat for various hard corals that grow in flat areas of intertidal reefs, serve as a crucial location for understanding the influence of juvenile corals on the dynamics of coral communities in shallow waters. The research was conducted in 2020 in Kondang Merak, which studied the composition and abundance of young corals on natural substrates on shallow reef flats and reef slopes. Quadrant transects measuring 1x1 m were deliberately placed to observe coral juveniles at two research stations. Quadrant transects are placed along a 100-meter line transect. Visible juvenile corals are counted and identified at the genus or species level. The six types of coral juveniles identified are Favites flexuosa, Goniastrea favulus, Goniastrea aspera, Porites lobata, Montipora digitata and Montipora foliosa. The overall density of juveniles is low, ranging from 0.01-0.08 colonies m-2, with the highest density belonging to F. flexuosa and the lowest belonging to M. foliosa. The six species found showed a clustered distribution pattern, except for two species, namely Goniastrea aspera and M. foliosa, which showed a uniform distribution pattern. Coral juveniles have specific strategies depending on biology and environmental factors. This study revealed the distribution and composition of coral juveniles in intertidal areas as representative of dynamic ecosystems in coastal areas.
Ecological perspective to sustainably manage the secondary forest in the lowland of Doberai Peninsula, Indonesia
Authors: MARWA JONNI , UNGIRWALU ANTONI , IMBURI CHRISTIAN SOLEMAN , DJITMAU DONY ARISTONE , MURDJOKO AGUSTINUS , BENU NITHANEL MIKAEL HENDRIK
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Marwa J, Ungirwalu A, Imburi CS, Djitmau DA, Murdjoko A, Benu NMH. 2024. Ecological perspective to sustainably manage the secondary forest in the lowland of Doberai Peninsula, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 2720-2732. This research aims to examine the composition of flora and fauna in secondary forests, with the aim of using the results to provide input for sustainable forest management. Suggestions for proper ecological management have been put forward, as they are crucial for preserving ecosystem functions and protecting species. We revealed that the identified area was a secondary forest with a composition of 225 species and 83 families of vegetation. The distribution was fairly uniform, encompassing 6 life forms: ferns, herbs, lianas, palms, shrubs, and trees. For fauna, the result indicated the presence of 10 species of mammalia, 37 species of aves, 6 species of reptiles, and 4 species of insects. The secondary forest still supports a high species richness of vegetation and fauna. These findings suggest that the secondary forest is undergoing a successional process in which various vegetation, particularly lianas and herbs, compete to gain more sunlight due to increased canopy openness. Forest management must optimize multi-factors, as in this research, and we suggest considering development and conservation, utilization of buffer zones, monitoring vegetation and animal breeding, and reforestation. The balance between development and conservation is critical, offering opportunities for sustainable practices and community involvement.
Semi-distributed fiber-optic water leakage sensor based on Fresnel lens coupling enhancement
Authors: Lu Chunlin , Wang Yulong , Zhang Yanjun , Hou Yulong
Published: December 2024

In order to address the issues of high light loss and low coupling efficiency in quasi-distributed leak monitoring fiber-optic sensors, a micro-focusing Fresnel lens is employed to enhance the power reception of the fiber. First, a simplified method is utilized to derive the Fresnel lens formula, enabling the design of a compact-sized lens with short focal length and superior convergent performance. Second, Trace Pro simulation software is employed for meticulous design and optimization, facilitating prediction of the lens’ performance, light gathering efficiency, and spot uniformity. Finally, the comparison of experimental data between systems with and without the lens shows that, without impairing other sensing properties, the total power of the light’s conductive mode in the fiber can be increased by 65% by this lens, thereby enhancing the signal discrimination ability and enabling the sensor to exhibit higher consistency and reliability when responding to external environmental interference.
Non-invasive glucose extraction by a single polarization rotator system in patients with diabetes: erratum
Authors: Lo Yu-Lung , Chen Yi-Sheng , Wang Po-Yu , Chang Ching-Min , Wei Guan-Ting , Hung Wei-Chun
Published: December 2024

This erratum corrects minor errors and improves the quality of our article's artwork. All results and conclusions remain unaffected. [Biomed. Opt. Express 15, 4909 (2024)10.1364/BOE.529032].
Variational Inference Using High Speed Photonic Neural Networks
Authors: Garofolo James , Shi Taichu , Prucnal Paul , Wu Ben
Published: December 2024

We propose a method of performing variational inference using high speed photonic neural accelerators. This method incurs no slowdown compared to deterministic photonic inference, affecting only the power consumption of existing accelerator architectures.
Integrated All-Optically Controlled FIR Filter and Data Sequence Detector Using WDM Laser Signals
Authors: Idres Samer , Habif Jonathan , Hashemi Hossein
Published: December 2024

We experimentally demonstrate an integrated all-optically controlled two-tap FIR filter and sequence detector. A 1.25 Gbps OOK optical data was used to test the performance. The design is fabricated in a commercial silicon photonics process.
Absolute Absorption Cross Section Measurement of Formaldehyde Using Near-ultraviolet Dual-comb Spectroscopy
Authors: Fürst Lukas , Eber Alexander , Kirchner Adrian , Hruska Emily , Pal Mithun , Bernhardt Birgitta
Published: December 2024

The first broadband ultraviolet dual-comb spectroscopy system is used to analyze the absolute absorption cross section of formaldehyde with high spectral resolution. This enables the determination of the transition strength and fundamental rotational constants.
Pneumatic optical coherence tomography for robotic imaging in tortuous and large luminal organs
Authors: Zhang Tinghua , Xu Chao , Yuan Sishen , Liu Peng , Ren Hongliang , Yuan Wu
Published: December 2024

Endoscopic optical coherence tomography (OCT) faces significant challenges when used in tortuous and large luminal organs because of the lack of steerability. Here, we report a robotic OCT endoscopy based on pneumatic soft actuator.
Nonlinear Properties of Hybrid ZnTe-on-SiN Waveguides
Authors: Stoll Katherine , Bhandari Harish B. , Maksimov Oleg , Hansen Katherine , Kimerling Lionel , Agarwal Anuradha , Serna Samuel
Published: December 2024

A novel ZnTe-on-SiN waveguide system is presented and demonstrates a negligible TPA coefficient with a comparable nonlinear Kerr refractive index to conventional pure silicon to enable efficient nonlinear devices with minimal absorption loss.
Concealment of secret messages into ordinary images using diffractive processors
Authors: Li Yuhang , Bai Bijie , Lee Ryan , Gan Tianyi , Wang Yuntian , Jarrahi Mona , Ozcan Aydogan
Published: December 2024

We present an information-hiding camera that conceals secret messages and information into ordinary images, deceiving human perception. These images are securely decoded by a jointly optimized neural network to retrieve the original message.
Estimation and Comparison of Brainstem Fiber Orientation Via Diffusion MRI Tractography and Polarization Sensitive Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Aguilera-Cuenca Isabella , Hutchinson Elizabeth , Sawyer Travis
Published: December 2024

dMRI-based tractography methods reconstruct neural pathways but often lack detailed microstructural information. This study compares fiber orientation distributions in the human brainstem obtained through Constrained Spherical Deconvolution tractography and Polarization Sensitive Optical Coherence Tomography.
Two Photon Tripartite Entanglement Transfer via Time-Multiplexed Quantum Walks
Authors: Lammers Jonas , Pegoraro Federico , Held Philip , Prasannan Nidhin , Brecht Benjamin , Silberhorn Christine
Published: December 2024

We experimentally study the transfer of multiparticle qubit entanglement towards qubit-qudit entanglement via modal entanglement in a time-multiplexed discrete-time quantum walk. We verified this transfer via the von Neumann entropy and performing steering-like experiments.
Mid-Infrared QCL Core Arrayed Waveguide Gratings
Authors: Karnik Tushar Sanjay , Diehl Laurent , Du Qingyang , Pflüegl Christian , Vakshoori Daryoosh , Hu Juejun
Published: December 2024

We report the fabrication of arrayed waveguide gratings on a quantum cascade laser (QCL) wafer. The waveguides employ a strained InGaAs/InAlAs gain medium as the core material grown on an InP substrate.
Fabrication of Sapphire Nanostructures with Anti-Glare, Dust-Mitigating, and Scratch Resistant Properties
Authors: Chien Kun-Chieh , Kepenekci Mehmet , Tunell Andrew , Chang Chih-Hao
Published: December 2024

This work reports sapphire nanostructures with broadband and omnidirectional antireflection properties. The structures also mitigate dust adhesion and has increased surface scratch resistance and can find applications in protective windows in extreme environment.
Development of highly nonlinear soft glass structured optical fibers based on 3D preform printing with the direct molten glass deposition method
Authors: Buczynski Ryszard , Wienclaw Pawel , Golebiewski Przemyslaw , Stepniewski Grzegorz , Socha Pawel , Pysz Dariusz , Filipkowski Adam. , Burgs Andrzej , Kasztelanic Rafal
Published: December 2024

The 3D glass printing system dedicated to the development of optical fiber preforms is reported. Line-by-line horizontal printing of microstructured fiber preform with heavy metal oxide glass is demonstrated. A proof-of-concept microstructured fiber was fabricated and successfully used for near-infrared octave-spanning supercontinuum generation.
The information aspect of optical metrology with topologically structured light
Authors: Grant T. A. , Vetlugin A. , Plum E. , MacDonald K. F. , Zheludev N. I.
Published: December 2024

We provide a Fisher information theory analysis of the recently demonstrated picometre precision optical metrology of one-dimensional object with topologically structured light. Moreover, we demonstrate extension of this metrology to elementary imaging of complex objects.
Invariant states of complex light through atmospheric turbulence
Authors: Peters Cade , Klug Asher , Forbes Andrew
Published: December 2024

Here we report on the theoretical development and numerical and experimental validation of eigenmodes of atmospheric turbulence for robust transport and reliable free space optical communication.
Deflectometric Eye-tracking on Human Eyes
Authors: Wang Jiazhang , Wang Tianfu , Choi Jiwon , Cossairt Oliver , Willomitzer Florian
Published: December 2024

We introduce a new technique and experiments for deflectometric eye tracking on real human eyes in vivo. Our technique utilizes the teachings of our previous eye-tracking research, combining the captured deflectometric information in a novel fashion.
All-Optical Complex Field Imager
Authors: Li Yuhang , Li Jingxi , Gan Tianyi , Shen Che-Yung , Jarrahi Mona , Ozcan Aydogan
Published: December 2024

We present a diffractive complex field imager that uses an intensity-based optoelectronic sensor array to directly capture both the amplitude and phase images of input fields in a snapshot without digital processing.
No Fundamental Sensing Advantage from Exceptional Point Sensors
Authors: Loughlin Hudson , Sudhir Vivishek
Published: December 2024

We present a theory of quantum noise in exceptional point sensors. We find that these sensors have no sensing advantage relative to traditional sensors limited by fundamental quantum or thermal noise.
High efficiency metasurfaces using Fourier-based shape optimization
Authors: Dainese P. , Marra L. , Cassara D. , Portes A. , Oh J. , Yang J. , Palmieri A. , Rocha J. , Dorrah A. H. , Capasso F.
Published: December 2024

We demonstrate a shape optimization inverse design for metasurfaces that enables high efficiency devices while providing direct control of the structure complexity. Numerical and experimental results are presented.
Single-Mode Regenerative Amplification in Multimode Fiber
Authors: Wise Frank
Published: December 2024

We demonstrate the scaling of femtosecond fiber amplifiers by mode area through regenerative amplification in multimode fiber. Initial results for high-gain amplification will be presented and possible future directions will be described.
Resonant nonlinear optics: upper bounds & optimal quantum-well designs
Authors: Li Hao , Koutserimpas Theodoros T. , Monticone Francesco , Miller Owen D.
Published: December 2024

We establish tight bounds for resonant nonlinear optical susceptibilities based on Thomas-Reiche-Kuhn (TRK) sum rules, and demonstrate that inverse-designed quantum wells (QWs) can approach these bounds within 20%, for second-/third-harmonic generation and sum-frequency generation.
Universal Gate-Based Quantum Computer With Individual Optical Addressing of Neutral Atom Qubits
Authors: Radnaev Alexander G. , team on behalf of Infleqtion’s Sqorpius
Published: December 2024

Infleqtion’s universal quantum computer uses individual optical addressing of neutral atom qubits, an architecture which promises fast gate operations on logical qubits. I will report on gate fidelities and other progress towards fault tolerance.
Imaging Complex Objects Through Heavy Scatter Using Motion in Structured Illumination
Authors: Alexander David W. , Hastings Ryan L. , Webb Kevin J.
Published: December 2024

We demonstrate imaging of complex objects completely obscured by heavily scattering media, with coherent light, object motion, a calibration process, and phase retrieval. Applications include terrestrial imaging through atmospheric turbulence and biological methods.
Tailoring Fano resonance characteristics for GSS4T1-based reconfigurable photonics
Authors: Foteinopoulou Stavroula , Tsitsas Nikolaos L.
Published: December 2024

We present a GSS4T1-based metagrating designed to exhibit a homogeneous-optical-medium response, when GSS4T1 amorphous, or a judicious Fano response, when GSS4T1 crystalline, which enables a negative beam steering that can be switched on and off.
Unity-Order Four-Wave Mixing Efficiencies in an Epsilon-Near-Zero-Based Cavity
Authors: Vaddi Yaswant , Lim Theng-Loo , Alam M. Zahirul , Vangala Shivashankar R. , Upham Jeremy , Hendrickson Joshua R. , Boyd Robert W.
Published: December 2024

We demonstrate four-wave mixing efficiencies up to 18% in an optical nanocavity containing a subwavelength-thick epsilon-near-zero mirror, surpassing silica glass by 7 orders of magnitude. The time-varying nature of the cavity allows ~100 nm idler tunability.
Spectroscopic Assessment of an Edible Oil for Quality Determination
Authors: Mendonca Hazel , Nadumane Sharmila Sajankila , Mazumder Nirmal
Published: December 2024

Edible oils are vital to human nutrition and health. Photo-oxidation occurs when oil is exposed to light. Spectroscopy is one of the convenient methods that can examine the chemical characteristics and parameters of oil.
State field relative phase conditions for all-optical switching using two level systems
Authors: Ramaswamy Aneesh , Malinovskaya Svetlana
Published: December 2024

We demonstrate tunable transparency, with applications to all-optical switching, for a pulse propagating in a medium of two-level systems when the initial atomic coherence and field are in phase.
Excitation Transfer in a Pulsed Trimer of Qubits in a Young’s Double-Slit Configuration
Authors: Aiyejina Abuenameh , Wyke Ethan , Andrews Roger , Greentree Andrew D.
Published: December 2024

We investigate interfering amplitudes in a pulsed trimer system consisting of a pair of source qubits and one detector qubit. We have demonstrated that this system exhibits different interference properties from the Young’s double-slit experiment.
Ag-550 Nanocrystals for Enhanced Optical Manipulation and Wavelength-Dependent Optical Limiting
Authors: Pradhan Amit Kumar , Kumar Suman , Priyam Amiya , Datta Prasanta Kumar
Published: December 2024

We report femtosecond laser-induced nonlinear absorption in Ag-550 nanocrystals, revealing their optical limiting potential under off-resonant excitation and an intriguing decrease in optical transparency with dilution, enhancing their applicability in photonic devices.
Tunable Generation of Vector Vortex Beams using an Optically Active Material
Authors: Karmakar Ankita , Brundavanam Maruthi M.
Published: December 2024

We have proposed and demonstrated a tunable and common-path technique for the generation of optical vector vortex beams using an optically active material.
Spectroscopic and Microscopic Analysis of Rice Varieties: Physico-Chemical Characteristics, Nutraceutical Potential, and Impact on Gut Microbiome
Authors: Rebello Adline Siona , Karnati Manikanth , Govindaraju Indira , Bharath Prasad AS , Nandana B , Mazumder Nirmal
Published: December 2024

This study characterizes Karnataka rice varieties' amylose and resistant starch content followed by microscopy and spectroscopy analysis, selecting a rice variety for its high resistant starch for in vivo analysis on Sprague-Dawley rats' gut microbiota.
Spectroscopic Analysis of Curcumin-Infused Starch Biopolymers
Authors: Kargupta Tilottoma , N Pooja , Shahapur Shreya , Mazumder Nirmal
Published: December 2024

This research shows that curcumin enhances starch-based biopolymers' properties, increasing moisture content and anti-bacterial activity while reducing water solubility. Characterization techniques like XRD, confirm curcumin's beneficial effects.
A Star Shaped Nested PCF for OAM Mode Propagation
Authors: Punia Sushma , Gudipati Jeevani , Saharia Ankur , Bourdine Anton V. , Ismail Yaseera , Singh Ghanshyam , Tiwari Manish
Published: December 2024

This work demonstrates a star-shaped nested Photonic Crystal Fiber (PCF) capable of supporting Orbital Angular Momentum (OAM) modes. The proposed PCF can support 15 OAM modes at 1.55 µm, at the highest purity of 98% .
Effect of Storage Temperature on Carotenoid Content of Citrus Fruits by Portable Raman Spectrometer
Authors: Nidhi  , Fahmawi Safa Mahmoud Saleem , Agarwal Shilpi
Published: December 2024

A portable Raman Spectrometer has been used for analyzing the effect of storage temperature on citrus fruits. The results showed a significant change in the intensity of carotenoid Raman peaks with time.
Generation And Compression of High-Power fs Deep-Ultraviolet Laser Pulse in Noble Gas
Authors: Ran Qiandong , Ahmed Muhammad Zunaied , Li Hao
Published: December 2024

A method to generate ultrafast high-power ultraviolet laser pulse 258 nm through 4th harmonic generation pumped by a 1.2 ps 1030 nm Yb: YAG laser followed by pulse compression to sub-ps in noble gas is proposed. As the focused and extremely short DUV laser pulses only appear at the distal end of optical path, the optical field intensity throughout the rest of optical path is at moderate level, which avoids strong nonlinear absorption and damage of optic elements. The proposed method is to further rise the celling of the maximum fs DUV laser peak intensity traditionally limited by the damage threshold of dispersion and focusing optics element and promote its adoption in wide industry applications.
Dual Symmetric Bound States in the Continuum on Graphene-based Metasurface
Authors: Roy Shuvajit , Rani Sweta
Published: December 2024

A dual symmetric bound state in the continuum (BIC) is proposed on a graphene metasurface. Access to quasi-BIC transmission radiation channels is obtained by perturbing the position and dimension of the etched circles on graphene.
Sensitivity Unveiled: Exploring Molecular Convection through Thermal Lens Spectroscopy
Authors: Sharma Aman , Gupta Sumit Kumar , Goswami Debabrata
Published: December 2024

Thermal lens (TL) spectroscopy, an ultra-sensitive technique utilizing femtosecond lasers, probes molecular properties through nonlinear heating. Our TL experiments reveal the crucial role of convection and suggest optimizations to improve its sensitivity and design.
Enhanced Tukey Window Mask for Speckle Reduction in Digital Holography
Authors: Fu Ruijin , Zhang Yongan , Ye Fei , Gao Zixin , Liu Pei , Zhang Bing
Published: December 2024

To mitigate speckle noise in digitally reconstructed holographic images, we utilized an enhanced Tukey window function mask, thereby effectively circumventing the additional noise problems typically associated with the use of a rectangular window function mask.
Spatial Impulse Response of Ultrasound Transducer Correction Using Deep Learning in Photoacoustic Tomography
Authors: Munjal Isha , Prakash Jaya
Published: December 2024

Photoacoustic tomography (PAT) image quality is degraded by transducer-related distortions. This study employed conventional ℓ1-norm based deconvolution and deep learning based deconvolution to compensate spatial impulse response, achieved 40/81% improvement in terms of SSIM/PSNR over backprojection reconstruction.