bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of patients with multiple brain metastases
Authors: Arnaout Mohamed M. , Hoz Samer , Lee Angle , Taha Mahmoud
Published: September 2024

Metastases in the brain are a devastating and common cancer with a poor prognosis. Physicians, on the other hand, may help their patients by suspecting, recognizing, and treating them correctly. It is predicted that between 8 and 10% of cancer patients may develop brain metastases, resulting in roughly 200,000 new cases of brain metastases per year. Single and multiple metastases can share clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic features. In the majority of brain metastasis, cancer cells move through the blood to the brain. The cerebellum is responsible for 15% of instances; whereas, the brainstem is responsible for 5%. The severity and speed with which the symptoms appear might vary substantially. In addition to the history and physical examination, CT and MRI with contrast give a safe, more sensitive diagnosis. The treatment is primarily palliative, although vigorous therapy in carefully selected patients can prolong the median survival time to about a year. Generally, the prognosis is guarded. Medical treatment includes corticosteroids and antiepileptic. Whole-brain irradiation, SRS, and chemotherapeutic agents are the most common adjuvant therapies. The neurosurgical approach to the management of such lesions has been greatly improved over the last few decades. Hereby, an updated review for the management of multiple brain metastasis.
Relationship between the rumen microbiome and liver transcriptome in beef cattle divergent for feed efficiency
Authors: Keogh Kate , Kenny David A. , Alexandre Pamela A. , Waters Sinead M. , McGovern Emily , McGee Mark , Reverter Antonio
Published: September 2024

Background

Feed costs account for a high proportion of the variable cost of beef production, ultimately impacting overall profitability. Thus, improving feed efficiency of beef cattle, by way of determining the underlying genomic control and selecting for feed efficient cattle provides a method through which feed input costs may be reduced whilst also contributing to the environmental sustainability of beef production. The rumen microbiome dictates the feed degradation capacity and consequent nutrient supply in ruminants, thus potentially impacted by feed efficiency phenotype. Equally, liver tissue has been shown to be responsive to feed efficiency phenotype as well as dietary intake. However, although both the rumen microbiome and liver transcriptome have been shown to be impacted by host feed efficiency phenotype, knowledge of the interaction between the rumen microbiome and other peripheral tissues within the body, including the liver is lacking. Thus, the objective of this study was to compare two contrasting breed types (Charolais and Holstein-Friesian) divergent for residual feed intake (RFI) over contrasting dietary phases (zero-grazed grass and high-concentrate), based on gene co-expression network analysis of liver transcriptome data and microbe co-abundance network of rumen microbiome data. Traits including RFI, dry matter intake (DMI) and growth rate (ADG), as well as rumen concentrations of volatile fatty acids were also included within the network analysis.

Results

Overall, DMI had the greatest number of connections followed by RFI, with ADG displaying the fewest number of significant connections. Hepatic genes related to lipid metabolism were correlated to both RFI and DMI phenotypes, whilst genes related to immune response were correlated to DMI. Despite the known relationship between RFI and DMI, the same microbes were not directly connected to these phenotypes, the Succiniclasticum genus was however, negatively connected to both RFI and ADG. Additionally, a stepwise regression analysis revealed significant roles for both Succiniclasticum genus and Roseburia.faecis sp. in predicting RFI, DMI and ADG.

Conclusions

Results from this study highlight the interactive relationships between rumen microbiome and hepatic transcriptome data of cattle divergent for RFI, whilst also increasing our understanding of the underlying biology of both DMI and ADG in beef cattle.
Preoperative variables affecting outcome of cochlear implant
Authors: Mosaed Nashwa Ameer Mahmoud , Mohamed Enass Sayed , Youssif Mostafa , Mohamed Hanan A. , Eloseily Amira Mohammad
Published: September 2024

Background

Cochlear implants made a great impact in the management of severe-to-profound hearing loss in both children and adults. Its greatest impact is in helping children born with a profound hearing loss and implanted early to attend mainstream education and using spoken language to communicate. However, the final outcome in pediatric implantation is not predictable as there are large number of factors which will affect the outcome of cochlear implantation. Studying these determinants increases the ability of clinicians to offer educated preoperative prognosis and might potentially allow for manipulation of variables in an attempt to achieve the best possible outcome.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the preoperative factors affecting the audiological, speech, and language outcomes achieved by the recipients of cochlear implants.

Methodology

A total of 39 children with severe-to-profound sensory neural hearing loss were implanted with cochlear implants. Children had received their implants before age of 5 years. Tests of receptive, expressive language quotient, aided cortical auditory-evoked potential using speech stimulus, aided free field audiometry, and aided speech reception thresholds were administered. Characteristics of the child and the family (age before implant and duration of implant use, cause of hearing loss, preimplant use of hearing aids and language therapy, and sociodemographic characteristics of their families) were the preoperative variables. These variables were considered predictors of audiological and language outcomes achieved by children and were determined using statistical analysis by univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

Age of the studied children at time of cochlear implantation was statistically significant predictor for CI outcome as regard receptive language quotient and also for N1 latency. Hearing age of the studied children was a statistically significant predictor for CI outcome as regards P1 latency.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, two most important factors affecting outcome of cochlear implantation were the age at implantation and the hearing age. Other factors were important but did not affect the outcome significantly.
Microscopic versus endoscopic stapes surgery—a meta-analysis study
Authors: Mikahail Peter Milad , Fawaz Samia Ahmed , Elbagory Mahmoud Mohamed , Mady Ossama Mustafa
Published: September 2024

Background

The traditional approach for viewing middle ear structures during ear surgery is still the microscope, which provides both hands’ flexibility and binocular vision. The requirement for a clear, direct vision of the working zone is its primary disadvantage. The procedure was modified for the microscope by using an end-aural approach, drilling the bone canal, and then moving the patient and surgeon. However, the microscope has successfully demonstrated that it is the preferred tool for stapedectomy.

Objective

To compare endoscopic and microscopic interventions in stapes surgery regarding intraoperative and postoperative outcomes.

Patients and methods

The review was a meta-analytic and systematic review that included randomized controlled trials (RCT), case series, and retrospective studies which studied the comparison of microscopic and endoscopic stapes surgery; 15 articles published between 2014 and 2020 were included in our study.

Data sources

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched for studies published up to 2020. The inclusion criteria comprised randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and case–control studies comparing microscopic and endoscopic stapes surgeries.

Results

Our results showed that the injury to the chorda tympani nerve was significantly higher in the microscopic group versus the endoscopic group. And also, as regards the operative times, it was significantly longer in the microscopic group versus the endoscopic group. But there is no significant difference as regards pain, dizziness, perforation of the tympanic membrane, delayed conductive hearing and postoperative air–bone gap improvement, and taste disturbance between both groups.

Conclusion

Technologically, safely, and promisingly, endoscopic stapes procedures are possible. All things considered, our research shows that both microscopic and endoscopic stapes surgery yields good audiological outcomes. A little amount of data, however, points to a decreased likelihood of chorda tympani injury and taste disturbance when using an endoscope. With comparable side effects to microscopic stapes surgery (pain, tympanic membrane perforation, taste disturbance, dizziness, and delayed conductive hearing), endoscopic stapes surgery seems like a feasible substitute. Endoscopic stapes surgery was found to need shorter operating times. In comparison to endoscopic groups, the postoperative air–bone gap increased considerably in the microscopic group. All of the studies consistently indicated better sight with the endoscope. This meta-analysis of the available data bolsters the application of endoscopic methods in stapes surgery.
Functions of membrane proteins in regulating fruit ripening and stress responses of horticultural crops
Authors: Chen Daoguo , Liu Yuhan , Chen Yong , Li Boqiang , Chen Tong , Tian Shiping
Published: September 2024

Fruit ripening is accompanied by the development of fruit quality traits; however, this process also increases the fruit’s susceptibility to various environmental stresses, including pathogen attacks and other stress factors. Therefore, modulating the fruit ripening process and defense responses is crucial for maintaining fruit quality and extending shelf life. Membrane proteins play intricate roles in mediating signal transduction, ion transport, and many other important biological processes, thus attracting extensive research interest. This review mainly focuses on the functions of membrane proteins in regulating fruit ripening and defense responses against biotic and abiotic factors, addresses their potential as targets for improving fruit quality and resistance to environmental challenges, and further highlights some open questions to be addressed.
“I would have to walk around to find the best Wi-Fi connection…”: qualitatively exploring challenges associated with rapid rollout of telehealth in Canadian long-term care homes
Authors: Cole Tyler R. , Crooks Valorie A. , Sorensen Janice , Jamal Sherin , Mithani Akber , Hung Lillian , Snyder Jeremy C. , Youngren Catherine
Published: September 2024

Background

Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, long-term care (LTC) homes in British Columbia, Canada, restricted visitation to ensure the safety of their residents against transmission of the novel coronavirus. As such, these LTC homes had to quickly implement a rapid rollout of telehealth services to maintain physician care for residents while avoiding the infection risk of in-person visits amidst lockdown measures. The abrupt transition from traditional in-person physician care to telehealth presented significant challenges. Investigating these challenges is pivotal to the development of strategies for sustained telehealth use for physician services in LTC homes. This analysis is part of a broader qualitative, utilization-focused evaluation study of telehealth services rapidly implemented for physician care in LTC homes within the Fraser Health Authority region of British Columbia. The evaluation has aimed to consider integral factors such as telehealth challenges, facilitators, preferences, and continued use. Semi-structured interviews and focus groups were conducted with 70 physicians, staff, residents, and family caregivers across 27 different LTC homes in the region. All interviews and focus groups were transcribed verbatim and were analyzed using a thematic approach to identify common barriers surrounding the rapid rollout of telehealth in LTC across relevant groups.

Results

From the data, four challenges were identified: connectivity challenges (e.g., inconsistent or no Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity), device challenges (e.g., lack of accessible devices and software issues), privacy challenges (e.g., lack of private space to support telehealth use), and informational challenges (e.g., lack of electronic medical record access). All challenges posed barriers to telehealth access for both care provider and recipient groups in LTC settings.

Conclusions

The challenges identified in this analysis are supported by existing literature, which is significant given the different contexts within which such research has been undertaken. Collectively, this knowledge base can support evidence-informed improvements to telehealth for physician care in LTC settings. Future research should capture the perspectives of diverse cultural groups, LTC residents with cognitive impairments, and those who provide and receive care in rural settings.
Spatiotemporal instability and optical filament formation in metamaterials
Authors: Bani Wellstandfree K. , Sabeer V. , Ali A. K. Shafeeque , Abolaban Fouad A.
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the spatiotemporal instability in artificial metamaterials, with a focus on generating ultrashort pulses or light filaments. We identify the parametric regions where the metamaterial exhibits spatiotemporal instability, enabling the generation of ultrashort pulses. Our approach involves modeling nonlinear pulse propagation in the metamaterial using a (3+1)-dimensional nonlinear Schrödinger equation and performing a standard linear stability analysis to explore the spatiotemporal instability. Leveraging the engineering freedom to tailor the material parameters, we numerically demonstrate the generation of ultrashort pulses through spatiotemporal instability.
Comparative transcriptomic analysis of articular cartilage of post-traumatic osteoarthritis models
Authors: Gilbert Sophie J. , Soul Jamie , Hao Yao , Lin Hua , Piróg Katarzyna A. , Coxhead Jonathan , Patel Krutik , Barter Matt J. , Young David A. , Blain Emma J.
Published: September 2024

Animal models of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) recapitulate the pathological changes observed in human PTOA. Here, skeletally mature C57Bl6 mice were subjected to either rapid-onset non-surgical mechanical rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or to surgical destabilisation of the medial meniscus (DMM). Transcriptome profiling of micro-dissected cartilage at day 7 or day 42 following ACL or DMM procedure, respectively, showed that the two models were comparable and highly correlative. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis identified similarly enriched pathways that were overrepresented by anabolic terms. To address the transcriptome changes more completely in the ACL model, we also performed small RNA sequencing, describing the first microRNA profile of this model. miR-199-5p was amongst the most abundant, yet differentially expressed, microRNAs, and its inhibition in primary human chondrocytes led to a transcriptome response that was comparable to that observed in both human ‘OA damaged vs intact cartilage’ and murine DMM cartilage datasets. We also experimentally verified CELSR1, GIT1, ECE1 and SOS2 as novel miR-199-5p targets. Together, these data support the use of the ACL rupture model as a non-invasive companion to the DMM model.
The identification of high-performing antibodies for FUS (Uniprot ID: P35637) for use in western blot, immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry
Authors: Alshalfie Walaa , Biddle Michael , Fotouhi Maryam , Jones Carolyn , Ayoubi Riham , You Zhipeng , Southern Kathleen , McPherson Peter S. , Virk Harvinder , Laflamme Carl ,   NeuroSGC/YCharOS/EDDU collaborative group
Published: September 2024

RNA-binding protein Fused-in Sarcoma (FUS) plays an essential role in various cellular processes. Mutations in the C-terminal domain region, where the nuclear localization signal (NLS) is located, causes the redistribution of FUS from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. In neurons, neurotoxic aggregates are formed as a result, contributing to neurogenerative diseases. Well-characterized anti-FUS antibodies would enable the reproducibility of FUS research, thereby benefiting the scientific community. In this study, we characterized ten FUS commercial antibodies for Western Blot, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence using a standardized experimental protocol based on comparing read-outs in knockout cell lines and isogenic parental controls. We identified many high-performing antibodies and encourage readers to use this report as a guide to select the most appropriate antibody for their specific needs.
Effects of a single oral dose of azithromycin in laboring women on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the microbiome: a protocol for the Antimicrobial Resistance Sub-Study of the A-PLUS trial
Authors: Kim Jean H. , Babineau Denise , Moore Janet L. , Subramaniam Akila , Tita Alan , Chomba Elwyn , Mwenchanya Musaku , Lokangaka Adrien , Tshefu Antoinette , Patel Archana , Das Prabir , Goudar Shivaprasad S. , Tikmani Shiyam Sunder , Ahmed Imran , Saleem Sarah , Esamai Fabian , Mazariegos Manolo , Billah Sk Masum , Haque Rashidul , Goldenberg Robert L. , Bauserman Melissa , Bucher Sherri , Krebs Nancy F. , Derman Richard J. , Petri Jr William A. , Koso-Thomas Marion , Hemingway-Foday Jennifer J. , Aceituno Anna , McClure Elizabeth M. , Ward Doyle V. , Leal Sixto , Carlo Waldemar A. , Hibberd Patricia L. ,   A-PLUS AMR Study Group
Published: September 2024

Background The Azithromycin Prevention in Labor Use Study (A-PLUS), a large, multi-national randomized trial, was performed to evaluate the improvement of maternal and newborn outcomes following a single dose of azithromycin (AZ) given during labor. However, the immediate and long-term impact of this single dose on the microbiome and the development or prevalence of antimicrobial resistance are unknown. We designed a sub-study to assess AZ resistance of bacterial isolates from clinical infections and of three target bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli) from the serial surveillance of the nasopharynx and rectum. Additionally, the serially surveilled samples will be evaluated for changes to the microbiome and the resistome of the nasopharynx and rectum. Methods and Analysis As part of the large, randomized APLUS trial, maternal and neonatal clinical infections were monitored for up to 42 days postpartum, and samples collected for culture using site-specific routine methods. For this sub-study, cultured bacterial isolates will be assessed for AZ resistance using an antibiotic susceptibility method. Additionally, a random subset of maternal-neonatal dyads from the main trial will be selected for serial surveillance with aseptic swab collections of the nasopharynx and the rectum at baseline, and subsequently at 1-week, 6-weeks, 3-months, 6-months, and 12-months postpartum. The serial samples will undergo selective culturing of sentinel bacterial species and screened for AZ resistance. An additional set of serial samples will be stored for future microbiome and resistome analyses. Ethics and Dissemination The study protocol was reviewed, and ethics approval obtained from all the relevant ethical review boards at each research site. All participants will provide informed written consent prior to their enrollment. Results of the trial will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, presentations at relevant conferences, and at dissemination meetings with the ministries of health and local stakeholders at each research site. Trial Registration NCT03871491.
Sufficiency in European Climate Policies, four country NECPs analysed
Authors: OLESEN Gunnar Boye , Vikkelsø Ann
Published: September 2024

Backgrounds Sufficiency, a concept acknowledged by the International Panel of Climate Change (IPCC), is often not included in climate-mitigation strategies. Its elements are, however, well known in different policy areas. Thus, there are good reasons to elevate sufficiency to a central element of national and international sustainability strategies. Methods This article, through the lens of the FULFILL project, aims to elucidate sufficiency and evaluate its integration into climate strategies via the National Energy and Climate Plans (NECPs) of four European countries: Denmark, France, Germany, and Italy. This shall offer insights into the current status of sufficiency policies and identify the best practices and areas for improvement. The analysis is based on the studies of sufficiency policies, identifying specific sufficiency measures. This leads to the development of a comprehensive overview and comparative analysis of how the four analysed countries incorporate sufficiency within their NECPs and to proposals for additional national sufficiency policies. The analysis focuses on policies that regulate social, infrastructural, and regulatory conditions that influence individual and collective behaviours. Results The article presents a clear and comprehensive analysis of the current tole of sufficiency policies in NECPs and their unused potential. Sufficiency policies are introduced in the countries analysed, but far from their potential to mitigate climate change. It also shows that existing sufficiency policies are primarily aiming at changing consumption and not to reduce consumption, such as reduced transport, reduced size of buildings. Another result is that some sufficiency policies are only introduced on local level by municipalities. Conclusion The conclusion is that some sufficiency policies are already integrated in national climate policies but their potentials are far from exhausted while other policies are hardly used, in particular policies to reduce consumption. This gives a large potential to increase sufficiency measures to strengthen climate policies and actions.
Problems and Prospects for the Production of Freight Transport in Russia
Authors: Baublis Yuriy
Published: September 2024

The article discusses the problems and prospects for the production of freight transport as a branch of the automotive industry in the coming years. The goal is to identify problems and highlight prospects for the production of freight transport in Russia. Objectives: to conduct a brief overview of the freight transport segment of the Russian automotive industry, analyze the dynamics of production in the freight segment in recent years, identify the main problems in the production of freight vehicles, highlight the main prospects for the development of the studied segment of the Russian automotive industry in the coming years. Conclusions: Conclusions were drawn about the positive dynamics of production and sales of freight road transport in Russia in 2023, despite the crisis years for the industry in 2020-2022; leadership of the KAMAZ company in the Russian market in the segment of domestic freight transport; serious import dependence and high competition from Chinese companies as key problems for Russian truck manufacturers; positive forecasts for the development of freight transport production in Russia, taking into account existing production capacities at some Russian enterprises, intensified efforts of the state and automakers to reduce dependence on imports, the state’s understanding of the need to increase financing of the industry, expanding the need for freight vehicles with an increase in the share of cargo transportation across Russia along highways.
The Algorithm of Managerial Decision-Making in State and Municipal Government
Authors: Yarovova V. , Savina Irina
Published: September 2024

The article examines the problems of choosing the optimal management solution in the implementation of state and municipal management. One of the options offered as a solution is to use the method of assessing profitability and risk in assessing the objectives of municipal development programs
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Latest Advances in Treatment
Authors: Szpernalowska Anna , Matshaba Vimbisoyashe Ivy , Mrugała Karolina , Choinka Martyna , Kalisiak Jakub , Mataczyńska Anna , Paprocki Michał
Published: September 2024

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition marked by deficits in social communication and the presence of restricted, repetitive behaviours. Despite the global prevalence of ASD, its diagnosis and treatment remain challenging due to the absence of specific biomarkers and the heterogeneity of symptoms. ASD is incurable and current management options aim to minimize the symptoms and maximize the patients’ ability to function. There is no one standardized treatment for ASD at present, recommended medical interventions involve various therapies which include cognitive behavioral therapy alongside additional personalized pharmacological symptomatic treatments. New approach for ASD management includes sensory integration therapy (SIT) as well as dietary interventions, like gluten-free, casein-free and ketogenic diets. Other innovative treatment strategies are targeted at gut microbiome and include probiotic treatment and fecal microbiota transplant. In this review possible genetic variants associated with ASD are discussed as well as their influence on the manifestation and management of clinical symptoms. For a better understanding on how genetic variables impact drug effectiveness in individuals and the importance of pharmacogenetics in ASD. This paper aims to explore the available and possible treatment options as well the genetic components associated with ASD. In summary, this paper reviews the current and emerging treatment options for ASD.
How Does a Health Insurance Program Covering 500 Million Poor Impact Credit Market Outcomes?
Authors: Tantri Prasanna
Published: September 2024

I study the impact of the world’s largest publicly funded health insurance plan for the poor on credit markets. India launched a health insurance plan that covered 500 million beneficiaries. The fact that opposition-ruled states did not implement the program for political reasons allows me to compare border districts of implemented and nonimplemented states within a difference-in-differences framework. I find that loan delinquency reduced significantly in implemented districts. Increased liquidity for loan repayment seems to be the mechanism at work. I rule out the federal-level ruling party’s influence as an explanation.

This paper was accepted by Kay Giesecke, finance.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.01039 .
Study on the Percieved Concept about Therapeutic Communication of Nurses working in Psychiatric Ward
Authors: Yim Hyun Bin , Koh OkJa , Cho Hee , Kim Hee Kyung , Chang Sung Ok , Shon Jeong Nam
Published: September 2024

This study was designed to identify the characteristics and properties about therapeutic communication.The subjects of this study were 20 nurses working in psychiatric ward.Th6 data were gathered through interview from March 2nd. to May 30th in 1996.The data were subject*s descriptions about therapeutic communication and analysed by content analysis.The result were as follows :1. The characteristics of therapeutic communi cation are identified as formal relation, patienfs problem centered communication, professional area, active attitude in mutual relation, encouraging patient’s expression, sufficiently allocated time, purpose to solve patienfs problem, progressive phases in relation, active and facillitative coping skill of therapist in dealing patienfs problem.2. The description of therapeutic communication is follows : Due to analyses of data, the data were divided into six categories : motive in relation, mutual position in relation, preliquiste condition, content characteristics, the structure of mileu, result of relation.Ifs motive are good intention to help patient and professionality to deal patient’s problem.In mutual relation, therapist leads communication with professional responsibility to solve patienfs problem through systematic and individualized approach.The preliquistes of therapeutic communication are patient's capability to have mutual relation, active attitude in relation, rapport in patient-therapist relation, therapist’s professional capability in counselling.The content’s characteristics of therapeutic communication are encourage of patient’s expression, exploration of patient’s subjectivity, planned communication pursueing formation of insight and emotional ventilation in patient.The environmental mileu of therapeutic communi cation is professional and formal authority based situation in interview, is situation that therapist deal with patienfs problem with responsibility, and patient depends on therapist in solving his problem.The results of therapeutic communication are ad vance in therapist-patient relationship, reinforce ment in emotional alliance in relation, patienfs emotional catharsis, patient's insight and absence of patienfs problematic behaviors.3. The barriers of therapeutic communication in nursing situation.Due to analyses of interview about nurses’s experience of therapeutic communication, nurses’s therapeutic communication in clinical setting is super ficial, non - planed, non—clarified purpose in communication and it was different from perception of therapeutic communication they have.The reasons of nurses’s difficulties in appling therapeutic communication in practice were workoverloading, unwillingness, lack of knowledge and skill, lack of ability in emotional control, absence of nursing system about nurse —patient communication.
Concept Analysis and Development of Comfort
-Application of Hybrid Model Method-
Authors: Chang Sung Ok , Lee SookJa
Published: September 2024

This study is an attempt to analyze and develop the concept of comfort by applying the Hybrid Model suggested by Schwarz — Barcott and Kim.The data were collected from December 15, 1996 to January 30, 1997. The subjects of the study were seven persons including in—patients and out patients of general hospital who were experiencing recovering process after acute and chronic disease diagnosis. Qualitative research methods of in—depth interview and participant observation were used for data collection. Data—analysis progressed according to the 3 phases suggested by the Hybrid Model. For each case, in—depth interview data and participant observation data were in cluded and the attributes of comfort revealed in these data were analyzed. Finally, by summarizing the results from each case, the attributes of comfort, its dimensions, definition, and processes observed in the field were suggested.According to the results of the study, the follow ing new definition of comfort is suggested :Comfort is a subjective experience of all human beings and active process pursuing integrity in congnitive threat and psychp social and physical stable state which each individual can act on free will through experience that strengthen his /her adaptation process. Comfort accompany such subconcepts : ease, relaxation, satisfaction, new ness, hope, confidence, stability and hardness.
A Concept Analysis of Collaboration
Authors: Lee Pyung Sook , Lee Ji Soon , Kim Hee Kyung , Chang Hae Kyung , Oh Won Oak
Published: September 2024

Nowadays health care team members have to collaborate with one another to care and cure the clints in order to obtain their optimal status of health. But we don’t know exactly how to collaborate with health care team members yet.Therefore focus in this article is to extract the critical attributes of collaboration and make on operational definition.This study uses process of Walker and Avant*s concept analysis to define the concept of collaboration.The concept of collaboration can be defined as followes.Collaboration is a work in partnership on an equal footling base on knowledge and profession with health care team member’s trust and respect, which is contributed to profession.Attributes of collaboration were defined as :1) Work in partnership 2) Participate and try hard willingly 3) Share planning and decision—making jointly 4) Contribute to profession 5) Take the responsibility 6) Work on equall footling 7) Share trust and respect one another 8) Own power jointly base on knowledge and expertise Model case, contrary case, borderline case, related case and invented case were described.Antecedents and consequeces of collaboration were explored. Antecedents consist of personal and environmental factor.Personal factors consist of that :1) Health care team members have the firm attribute of understanding and acceptance about the role and the status of professional.And they are sure of their ability in the area of speciality.2) They have past experience of collaboration 3) They have perception of self, communication technique, trust and respect of one another.Environmental factors consist of that :1) Orgarnization is horizental and equall.2) Organization has vale of structure in consist of autonomy equalty and independence.In regard to the consequences of collaboration, it is expected that collaboration has a consedence, self-worth, achivement and coherence in organization, which has a positive outcome of nursing care.
Mathematical model for inverse freeform design of a point-to-point two-reflector system
Authors: Braam P. A. , ten Thije Boonkkamp J. H. M. , Anthonissen M. J. H. , Beltman R. , IJzerman W. L.
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we discuss a mathematical model for inverse freeform design of an optical system with two reflectors in which light transfers from a point source to a point target. In this model, the angular light intensity emitted from the point source and illuminance arriving at the point target are specified by distributions. To determine the optical mapping and the shape of the reflectors, we use the optical path length and take energy conservation into account, through which we obtain a generated Jacobian equation. We express the system in both spherical and stereographic coordinates, and solve it using a sophisticated least-squares algorithm. Several examples illustrate the algorithm’s capabilities to tackle complicated light distributions.
Generation of pseudo-nondiffracting symmetrical Layer beams using cylindrical lenses
Authors: Dušek Martin , Figura Sebastian , Gayde Jean-Christophe , Šulc Miroslav
Published: September 2024

The pseudo-nondiffracting behavior of optical caustic beams makes them potentially useful in precise component alignment at CERN. This paper introduces an innovative method for generating one and two-dimensional symmetrical Airy-like beams, known as Layer beams, utilizing a specific configuration of plano-convex cylindrical lenses. Simulations and experimental results have validated this method, demonstrating its potential for scalable and cost-effective beam production with tunable properties, making it practical for a wide range of scientific applications.
Graphene-enhanced dielectric-metal hybrid structure for high performance LSPR sensing
Authors: Li Lixia , Wu Siyuan , Jin Mingdeng , Zheng Yang , Liu Yufang
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we introduce what we believe to be a novel hybrid localized surface plasmonic resonance (LSPR) sensing structure that integrates silver nanodisks (Ag-disks), a zinc sulfide (ZnS) layer, and two-dimensional graphene material as a critical intermediary. By exciting the LSPR between the Ag-disks and the surface of the ZnS film, two sensing channels can be achieved in visible spectra. The sensing performance of the proposed sensor is experimentally investigated from two aspects: bulk refractive index and surface sensitivities. As a result, the bulk refractive index sensitivity of 271 nm/RIU is obtained, which is 56 percent higher than that of the sensor without the graphene nanosheets. Furthermore, in terms of surface sensitivity, the sensor with graphene also demonstrates a heightened response to the tiny change in the surface environment. The enhancement is attributed to the graphene-assisted near-field enhancement, which improves the excitation efficiency of LSPR. This work provides a theoretical basis feasible approach for the design of dual channel sensor and paves the way for the experimental exploration of LSPR sensing devices integrated with the 2D materials.
Experimental study towards the development of highly sensitive opto-mechanical sensors based on FSBS in telecom optical fibers
Authors: Álvarez-Ocampo C. , Delgado-Pinar M. , Díez A. , Cruz J. L. , Andrés M. V.
Published: September 2024

The development of applications based on forward-stimulated Brillouin scattering (FSBS) in optical fibers has experienced a considerable increase in recent years, particularly in the area of fiber optic sensors. In this work, we present an experimental investigation to explore the limits of this physical mechanism in telecom optical fibers, whose results we think are of interest for the design of sensors in different areas. Specifically, we studied on the capability of the conventional probing method to detect FSBS in very short optical fibers, and the potential of FSBS to detect tiny diameter changes in the optical fiber. An experiment is presented that demonstrates the feasibility of FSBS as a physical mechanism to back the development of fiber optic sensors based on the mass microbalance concept.
High-Q integrated lithium tantalate microring resonators for on-chip comb generation
Authors: Cai JiaChen , Wang Pi-Yu , Li Jin , Chen BoWen , Zhou Liping , Ke Xinjian , Yang Bingcheng , Yi Ailun , Wang Chengli , Zhang Jiaxiang , Dong Chun-Hua , Wan Shuai , Ou Xin
Published: September 2024

Lithium tantalate on insulator (LTOI), taking advantage of high cost-effectiveness, ultra-low optical loss, and prominent electro-optic (EO) coefficient, shows great potential as an integrated waveguide-based optical platform for commercialization. Further research on monolithic nonlinear source generators with tunable features is crucial in its early stages. Here, we fabricate low-loss microring resonators (intrinsic Q value above 4 × 106) via universal subtractive manufacturing. Both Kerr and EO combs are realized based on X-cut LTOI high-Q resonators. Specifically, we elucidate the complicated synergy caused by a photorefractive (PR) effect and thermo-optic modulation, observing the soliton step using the facile laser scanning technique. Furthermore, the preliminary experimental result of the static EO comb is also exploited in a 20 GHz free spectral range (FSR) LTOI microring resonator, verifying the versatility of this unique photonic platform for on-chip microcomb generation.
All-dielectric ellipsoidal tetramer metasurface sensor with multi-resonances from the bound states in the continuum
Authors: Hao Yazheng , Yang Rui
Published: September 2024

We demonstrate an all-dielectric tetramer metasurface that achieves high-precision refractive index sensing through the excitation of toroidal dipole, magnetic dipole, and electric quadrupole modes, driven by bound states in the continuum (BIC). The metasurface exhibits exceptional performance, with a quality factor of 4.65 × 104, a sensitivity parameter of 649 nm/RIU, and a figure of merit of 1.51 × 104 RIU−1, achieved by optimizing symmetry and lattice perturbations in periodic silicon tetramer ellipsoidal nanodisks on a SiO2 substrate. Additionally, the sensor effectively distinguishes analytes with extinction coefficient differences as small as 0.01 through enhanced broadband absorption. This innovation demonstrates substantial potential for label-free sensing applications in microfluidic chip integration.
Fringe photometric stereo
Authors: Zhang Geyou , Liu Kai , Qu Shangcheng , Zhu Ce
Published: September 2024

In fringe projection profilometry (FPP), a high spatial frequency of fringe typically indicates powerful error suppression capability; however, it complicates phase unwrapping, necessitating a greater number of patterns and thus compromising the real-time performance of scanning. In this letter, we report a fringe photometric stereo (FPS) to completely bypass phase unwrapping for recovering the continuous 3D surface. We reveal the linear mapping relationship between the phase gradient and depth gradient, thereby facilitating the computation of depth gradients from phase gradients. Thus, we can employ depth gradients to reconstruct high-quality 3D profiles. Experimental results demonstrate that our FPS surpasses traditional phase-shifting profilometry in mitigating Gaussian noise. Our approach enables high-quality and unambiguous 3D reconstruction using single-frequency fringe patterns, relying solely on a camera and a projector without the need for dual, multiple, or light field cameras, thereby paving a path to high-speed and precision 3D imaging.
Health literacy and its determinants among higher education students in the Alentejo region of southern Portugal—A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Rosário Jorge , Dias Sara Simões , Dias Sónia , Pedro Ana Rita
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The capacity of higher education students to comprehend and act on health information is a pivotal factor in attaining favourable health outcomes and well-being. Assessing the health literacy of these students is essential in order to develop targeted interventions and provide informed health support. The aim of this study was to identify the level of health literacy and to analyse its relationship with determinants such as socio-demographic variables, chronic disease, perceived health status, and perceived availability of money for expenses among higher education students in the Alentejo region of southern Portugal.

Methodology

An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted between 22 June and 12 September 2023. An online structured questionnaire consisting of the Portuguese version of the European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire—16 items (HLS-EU-PT-Q16), including socio-demographic data, presence of chronic diseases, perceived health status, and availability of money for expenses. Data were analysed using independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, post-hoc Gabriel’s test, and multivariate logistic regression analyses at a significance level of 0.05. Regression models were used to investigate the relationship between health literacy and various determinants. The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of the University of Évora, and all participants gave written informed consent.

Results

Analysis of the HLS-EU-PT-Q16 showed that 82.3% of the 1228 students sampled had limited health literacy. The mean health literacy score was 19.3 ± 12.8 on a scale of 0 to 50, with subscores of 19.4 ± 13.9 for health care, 19.1 ± 13.1 for disease prevention, and 19.0 ± 13.7 for health promotion. Significant associations were found between health literacy and several determinants. Higher health literacy was associated with the absence of chronic diseases. Regression analysis showed that lower health literacy was associated with not attending health-related courses, not living with a health professional, perceiving limited availability of money for expenses, and having an unsatisfactory health status.

Conclusion

This study improves the understanding of health literacy levels among higher education students in Alentejo, Portugal, and identifies key determinants. Higher education students in this region had relatively low levels of health literacy, which may have a negative impact on their health outcomes. These findings highlight the need for interventions to improve health literacy among higher education students and to address the specific needs of high-risk subgroups in the Alentejo.
Enhancing seniors’ dental care access: Analyzing the impact of government insurance in Canada
Authors: Zhang Qi
Published: September 2024

A crucial policy question for the government is whether publicly funded insurance programs effectively improve access to care. Using 2015 and 2018 Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) data, we first estimated the effect of government dental insurance for seniors on promoting regular care access and lowering cost barrier. When controlling for individual heterogeneity, we found that having government coverage is associated with significantly lower probability of reporting avoidance of dental care due to cost compared to having no coverage. This effect is comparable with other types of insurance. However, the impact of the government program on regular access to dental care is modest. Secondly, using a portion of data collected in Alberta, we found that the government plan does not increase the overall coverage rate. Moreover, switching from an employer-based plan to government-provided coverage for seniors reduces the probability of regular access to care and increases the probability of experiencing cost barrier. This finding indicates that without expansion of overall coverage rate, the current government dental program may not be generous enough to offset the negative impact of leaving the employer-based plan.
Evidence of validity of a Jealousy Scale in Peruvian youth and adults: An item response theory approach
Authors: Ventura-León José , Lino-Cruz Cristopher , Tocto-Muñoz Shirley , Sánchez-Villena Andy Rick , Martinez-Munive Renzo , Casiano-Valdivieso Kenia , Talledo-Sánchez Karim
Published: September 2024

Introduction/Objective: In romantic relationships, jealousy can influence how individuals feel emotionally and interact with their partners. This study analysed the metric properties of the Brief Jealousy Scale (BJS) in young adults from Peru using current methods. Method: A total of 297 individuals were selected to participate in the study. They averaged 26.52 years of age (with a variation of 7.75 years), and 74.10% were women. The study used a technique called Item Response Theory (IRT) with a two-parameter model to confirm the structure and reliability of the BJS. Result: The BJS demonstrated high reliability and fit through goodness-of-fit indices. DIF analysis indicated slight gender biases in some items, reflecting differences in the perception of jealousy between men and women. Conclusions: The study highlights the importance and usefulness of the Jealousy Scale in relationships, as it helps to understand relationship dynamics and guides interventions. Future studies should address issues such as participant selection and study design and examine whether the scale can be used in different cultures.