bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local and Remote Causes of the Equatorial Pacific Cold Sea Surface Temperature Bias in the Kiel Climate Model
Authors: Zhang Yuming , Bayr Tobias , Latif Mojib , Song Zhaoyang , Park Wonsun , Reintges Annika
Published: September 2023

We investigate the origin of the equatorial Pacific cold sea surface temperature (SST) bias and its link to wind biases, local and remote, in the Kiel Climate Model (KCM). The cold bias is common in climate models participating in phases 5 and 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project. In the coupled experiments with the KCM, the interannually varying NCEP/CFSR wind stress is prescribed over four spatial domains: globally, over the equatorial Pacific (EP), the northern Pacific (NP), and the southern Pacific (SP). The corresponding EP SST bias is reduced by 100%, 52%, 12%, and 23%, respectively. Thus, the EP SST bias is mainly attributed to the local wind bias, with small but not negligible contributions from the extratropical regions. Erroneous ocean circulation driven by overly strong winds causes the cold SST bias, while the surface heat flux counteracts it. Extratropical Pacific SST biases contribute to the EP cold bias via the oceanic subtropical gyres, which is further enhanced by dynamical coupling in the equatorial region. The origin of the wind biases is examined by forcing the atmospheric component of the KCM in a stand-alone mode with observed SSTs and simulated SSTs from the coupled experiments. Wind biases over the EP, NP, and SP regions originate in the atmosphere model. The cold EP SST bias substantially enhances the wind biases over all three regions, while the NP and SP SST biases support local amplification of the wind bias. This study suggests that improving surface wind stress, at and off the equator, is a key to improve mean-state equatorial Pacific SST in climate models.
Reducing Corrections Officer Stress by Improving Prison Climate: The Importance of Support and Safety
Authors: St. Louis Stacie , Monteiro Carlos E. , Frost Natasha A.
Published: September 2023

Prior research has identified the importance of social climate in psychiatric and correctional facilities. In studies of corrections officer (CO) stress, organizational measures are typically the strongest correlates. This article combines these research areas, examining the relationship between prison climate and corrections officer stress. Analyzing data from a sample of 239 officers in a northeastern state, findings indicate that prison climate, particularly system maintenance, contributes to both officers’ work-related and generalized stress and anxiety. Perceptions of inmates’ personal growth are also associated with decreased generalized stress and anxiety. Officers should feel supported and safe at work to improve the prison climate and reduce officer stress.
The Material Mix Proportion of Roadside Backfill Body (RBB) Based on Spatiotemporal Law of Ground Pressure: A Case Study
Authors: Zhao Xinyuan , Yang Ke , Li Xinwang , Cheng Lichao
Published: September 2023

The law of ground pressure behavior can accurately guide the material proportion and performance of the roadside backfill body (RBB) in gob-side entry retaining (GER), thereby reducing the waste of materials and the cost of retaining roadway. In this study, a similar material modeling is used to verify the spatiotemporal law of the ground pressure in the engineering case of solid dense backfilling mining in Xingtai Mine, China. Based on that law, the theoretical requirements for the bearing performance of the RBB are proposed. Finally, a material mix proportion that meets the theoretical requirements is obtained by compression test, and the deformation and failure characteristics of the backfill body with that mix proportion are analyzed. The results show that the maximum pressure of the backfill body measured in Xingtai Mine is 5.5 MPa, which is about 40 m away from the coal face; after 40 m, the force on the backfill body will not increase anymore. The physical simulation experiment also proved that the ground pressure behind the coal face increases gradually and tends to be during the backfilling process, which shows certain spatiotemporal characteristics. Through the proportioning experiment, it is determined that the optimal material mix proportion of the RBB is gangue:fly ash:cement = 10:3:1, which meets the theoretical requirement that the strength of the RBB at any position is not less than the ground pressure at that position. The research results provide theoretical support for the field practice of GER in solid dense backfilling mining.
The impact of sales environment competitiveness on salespeople’s inclination towards unethical sales practices: The mediating role of self-control depletion and the moderating role of ethical leadership
Authors: Khan Salim , Shah Syed Jamal , Wang Chunlin , Ibrar Muhammad
Published: September 2023

The study aims to explore the relationship between the sales environment competitiveness and the tendency towards unethical sales practices among salespeople who work in a demanding sales environment. Drawing on the conservation of resources (COR) theory, this study proposes that the perceived sales environment competition leads to self-control depletion, which, in turn, increases the likelihood of unfair sales practices. The study also suggests that ethical leadership can mitigate the aforementioned relationships. Data were collected through self-reported questionnaires from 379 salespeople working in the retail banking sector of Pakistan, using a time-lagged research design and structural equation modelling for analysis. Findings reveal that an increase in perceived sales environment competition leads to a higher probability of unethical sales practices due to self-control depletion. Ethical leadership plays a crucial role in constraining the influence of the perceived sales environment competition on self-control depletion. The study contributes to the sales ethics literature by investigating unethical sales practices from the perspective of sales environment competitiveness in contrast to the prevailing research that largely emphasizes on organizational or individual-level factors. Practically, this study suggests organizational decision makers and managers to consider the influence of a demanding sales environment and the psychological mechanisms that incline salespeople towards unethical sales practices; they should then design the appropriate mechanisms to control this behaviour. For instance, this can be achieved by incentivizing ethical sales practices or fostering a strong ethical culture within the organization to internalize sales ethics. Moreover, this study recommends sales manager to maintain high ethical standards to prevent the negative effect of a competitive sales environment on the ethical behaviour of salespeople.

JEL Classification: M50
Family Carers’ Experiences of Goals of Care Conversations in Acute Hospital Settings
Authors: Vivekananda Kitty , Jayawardene Jayamini S. , O’Connor Moira , Watts Kaaren J. , Leonard Anton D. , Keesing Sharon , Halkett Georgia , Shaw Josephine , Colgan Valerie , Yuen Kevin , Jolly Renate , Towler Simon C. , Chauhan Anupam , Nicoletti Margherita , Johnson Claire E.
Published: September 2023

End-of-life Goals of Care (GoC) discussions aim to support care that is consistent with patients’ preferences and values. This study uses an exploratory qualitative design drawing upon a social constructivist epistemology to examine family carers’ perspectives on GoC within acute Australian hospital settings. Twenty-five family carers of aging inpatients were recruited from six Australian hospitals to participate in recorded, semi-structured interviews. Data were transcribed and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three main themes were developed. Theme 1 explored carers’ experiences of GoC discussions—identifying varying levels of preparedness and carers' hopes for open, two-way discussions initiated by empathic Health Care Professionals (HCPs). Theme 2 examined carers’ unmet needs for time, space, consistency, and support to make careful decisions. Theme 3 identified carers advocating for patients' needs when they could not do it themselves. Preparing carers and normalizing GoC discussions relating to end-of-life care maximizes benefits for patients, carers, and HCPs involved.
Low Dose Buprenorphine Initiation: A Guide for the Inpatient Clinician
Authors: Zimmerman Cara , Clark Seth , Guerra Michael E. , Bratberg Jeffrey , Adams Kathleen K.
Published: September 2023

Low dose buprenorphine initiation (LDBI) is a dosing strategy used to transition patients from full opioid agonists to buprenorphine. The purpose of LDBI is to circumvent obstacles associated with disruption in analgesia, precipitated withdrawal, and prerequisite opioid withdrawal prior to initiating buprenorphine, as not all patients are able to tolerate physical withdrawal symptoms recommended by national guidelines. No literature exists directly comparing traditional buprenorphine initiation to LDBI. Until information on long-term outcomes is available, these dosing strategies should be reserved for patients unable to tolerate traditional buprenorphine initiation. Available published research suggests LDBI strategies will allow some patients to successfully transition to buprenorphine with minimal or no symptoms of withdrawal. Ensuring access to pharmacotherapy during hospital admission is a crucial time for potential intervention and should be considered when appropriate. This narrative review discusses the background of LDBI strategies as well as practical clinical and operational considerations for the inpatient clinician.
Numerical investigation on nucleate bubble departure by electrowetting-on-dielectric in battery cooling plates
Authors: Xu Haolun , Yu Shenghua , Liu Jianjian , Hu Zhiming , Song Mingzhe
Published: September 2023

A thermal management system is necessary to control battery operating temperature in electric vehicles (EV). Typically, the most common way to dissipate heat from the battery pack is to use the cooling plate. The cooling medium in the cooling plate removes the excess heat from the battery pack through boiling heat transfer. This paper proposes an electrowetting-on-dielectric (EWOD) method to enhance the bubble departure in nucleate boiling heat transfer in a cooling plate. In order to investigate the bubble splitting due to the EWOD effect, theoretical models are developed to solve for the electrophoretic force, dielectrophoretic force, and electrostrictive force. The theoretical model coupled a phase field method with an electric conservation model, where the body force acts as an external force due to the electric field. Our preliminary simulation results demonstrated that the EWOD effect can change the apparent contact angle when applied to a certain electric field. The free charge density displays at the dielectric layer interface with water and at the bubble’s interface near the triple contact point. Then two types of simulation case were investigated to apply the voltage in the battery cooling plates. In the first case, a pair of parallel discs are used as the electrodes at the bottom and top of the region. In the second case, the voltage is applied at the top of the nucleate bubble in a rod electrode. The various behavior of bubble dynamics were compared and discussed to indicate the optimized case for enhancing the nucleate bubble departure in the EV battery cooling plates.
Clinical and economic impact of oncology-trained pharmacist integration in an ambulatory cancer clinic
Authors: Mull Ashley , Hawkins Courtney , Punke Alexandra , Parkey Shannon , Mallon Courtney
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Outpatient oncology practice is a growing area of opportunity for pharmacists to provide clinical services and evidence-based care.

Methods

This single-center, retrospective chart review analyzed the clinical and economic benefits of a board-certified oncology pharmacist after integration into the ambulatory oncology clinic setting. Primary outcomes were total cost avoidance for pharmacist interventions and impact on Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) OP-35 measures. Pharmacist interventions were characterized into distinct types which were then assigned a cost avoidance value. Cost avoidance was calculated per hour and then extrapolated to a yearly estimate based on a 40-h work week for one year for one full-time equivalent pharmacist. Data collection for the primary clinical outcome was performed by compiling provider-specific emergency department (ED) and inpatient admission rates for diagnoses specified in CMS OP-35 measures within 30 days after receiving outpatient chemotherapy. The rates for the data collection period were compared to the rates six months prior to pharmacist integration to assess pharmacist impact.

Results

In six months, 516 total interventions were made by the oncology pharmacist. The incidence of ED visits was 3.34% and 1.72% during the pre- and post-pharmacist intervention periods, respectively. The incidence of inpatient admissions was 2.43% and 0.34% pre- and post-pharmacist intervention, respectively. Total cost avoidance was estimated to be US$375,795 and when accounted for the median pharmacist salary at our institution, total cost savings was US$204,437.

Conclusion

The presence of an oncology pharmacist specialist in the ambulatory cancer clinic provided clinical and economic benefits to the cancer clinic.
Geometric structures of micropolar continuum with elastic and plastic deformations based on generalized Finsler space
Authors: Yajima Takahiro , Nagahama Hiroyuki
Published: September 2023

Elasto-plastic deformations of micropolar continuum are discussed by a non-Riemannian geometry. The non-locality of micropolar continuum is described in a second-order vector bundle of displacements and microrotations. With a decomposition of total elasto-plastic field, geometric quantities are divided into the elastic and plastic components independently. Especially, when an intrinsic parallelism of displacements and microrotations holds, integrability conditions of the elasto-plastic field are represented by a torsion tensor or the curvature of nonlinear connection. Then, Burgers and Frank vectors and an energy release rate around crack tips are related to the torsion tensor or the curvature of nonlinear connection. Moreover, the non-locality of microrotation is discussed based on a kink band as a disclination. It is found a generalized expression of Burgers vector which can describe the kink interface including the disclination.
Distinguishing Emotion Regulation Success in Daily Life From Maladaptive Regulation and Dysregulation
Authors: Springstein Tabea , English Tammy
Published: September 2023

Academic Abstract

This paper aims to motivate research on emotion regulation success in naturalistic settings. We define emotion regulation success as achieving one’s emotion regulation goal and differentiate it from related concepts (i.e., maladaptive regulation and dysregulation). As goals vary across individuals and situations, it is insufficient to conceptualize emotion regulation success as maximizing positive affect and minimizing negative affect. Instead, emotion regulation success can be measured through novel approaches targeting the achievement of emotion regulation goals. In addition to utilizing novel data analytic tools (e.g., response surface analyses), future research can make use of informant reports and observing ambulatory behavior or physiology. Considering emotion regulation goals when measuring daily emotion regulation success has the potential to answer key questions about personality, development, and mental health.

Public Abstract

People differ in how they want to feel in daily situations (e.g., excited) and why they want to feel that way (e.g., to make others feel better), depending on factors such as culture or age. Although people manage their emotions to reach these goals, most research assessing emotion regulation success has not taken individual goals into account. When assessing if people successfully regulate their emotions, most research in daily life has been focused on whether people feel more positive or less negative. To help study emotion regulation success in a more thoughtful and inclusive way, we propose a new approach to conceptualizing emotion regulation success that incorporates individual differences in what motivates people to regulate and discuss future research directions and applications.
A Pandora’s box in feline medicine: presenting signs and surgical outcomes in 58 previously hoarded cats with chronic otitis media-interna
Authors: Jacobson Linda S , Janke Kyrsten J , Kennedy Sasha K , Lockwood Gina A , Mackenzie Shawn D , Porter Carl D , Ringwood Patrick B
Published: September 2023

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to report clinical findings, surgical complications and outcomes for previously hoarded cats treated surgically for otitis media-interna (OMI) and to investigate the risk factors for complications and poor outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted of 58 cats from an institutional hoarding environment that underwent ventral bulla osteotomy (VBO).

Results

Inappetence was uncommon at presentation (9/58, 16%) compared with pruritus/alopecia (50%), nasopharyngeal signs (45%), otitis externa (OE) (79%) and otitis interna (OI) (ataxia ± head tilt/head excursions) in 40%. Purulent aural discharge occurred in 36% and polyps in 26%. The tympanic bulla wall was moderately or severely thickened radiographically in 38/108 (35%) ears. Cultures were positive for Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus in 26/48 (54%) cats. Of the 58 cats, 40 (69%) had complications after the first VBO and 19/30 (63%) after the second. Of 101 complications, 56 (55%), from 27/88 (31%) surgeries, were considered serious, including life-threatening perioperative complications in seven, OI in eight, prolonged anorexia in six and worsening of pruritus/alopecia in nine cases. Three cats developed xerostomia (dry mouth) after the second VBO. Pruritus/alopecia, nasopharyngeal signs, OE and purulent aural discharge resolved in a statistically significant proportion of cats but persisted in some. Full resolution of OI was uncommon. OI preoperatively, and surgery performed by a generalist (vs specialist) surgeon, were risk factors for OE at recheck (OI: odds ratio [OR] 4.35; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.21–15.70; P = 0.02; surgery: OR 3.64; 95% CI 1.03–12.87; P = 0.045). No other prognostic indicators were identified. No variables tested were significantly associated with risk of serious complications or euthanasia.

Conclusions and relevance

Surgical management of chronic OMI was successful in most cases but was not benign and not always beneficial. The analysis was unable to identify clinically helpful outcome predictors. Optimal management of chronic feline OMI remains a challenge, particularly for animal shelters. Less invasive approaches and chronic medical management require further investigation.
A single-dose strategy for immunization with live attenuated vaccines is an effective option before treatment initiation in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Carvajal René , Tur Carmen , Martínez-Gómez Xavier , Bollo Luca , Esperalba Juliana , Rodriguez Marta , Pappolla Agustín , Cobo-Calvo Alvaro , Carbonell Pere , Borras-Bemejo Blanca , Río Jordi , Castilló Joaquín , Braga Nathane , Mongay-Ochoa Neus , Rodrigo-Pendás José Ángel , Vidal-Jordana Ángela , Arrambide Georgina , Rodríguez-Acevedo Breogán , Zabalza Ana , Midaglia Luciana , Galán Ingrid , Comabella Manuel , Sastre-Garriga Jaume , Montalban Xavier , Tintoré Mar , Otero-Romero Susana
Published: September 2023

Background:

Mumps-Measles-Rubella (MMR) and Varicella zoster vaccines (VAR) are live attenuated vaccines, usually administered in a two-dose scheme at least 4 weeks apart. However, single-dose immunization schemes may also be effective and can reduce delays in immunosuppressive treatment initiation in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) who need to be immunized.

Objectives:

To evaluate the immunogenicity of a single-dose attempt (SDA) versus the standard immunization scheme (SIS) with VAR and/or MMR in pwMS.

Methods:

Retrospective observational study in pwMS vaccinated against VAR and/or MMR. We compared seroprotection rates and antibody geometric mean titers (GMTs) between the two strategies.

Results:

Ninety-six patients were included. Thirty-one patients received VAR and 67 MMR. In the SDA group, the seroprotection rate was 66.7% (95% confidence interval (CI): 53.3–78.3) versus 97.2% (95% CI: 85.5–99.9) in the SIS ( p < 0.001). For the seroprotected patients, GMTs were similar for both schemes.

Conclusion:

An SDA of VAR and/or MMR vaccines could be sufficient to protect almost two-thirds of patients. Testing immunogenicity after a single dose of VZ and/or MMR could be included in routine clinical practice to achieve rapid immunization.
Multi-objective robust optimization of foam-filled double-hexagonal crash box using Taguchi-grey relational analysis
Authors: Xiong Feng , Wang Zhanfei , Wang Dengfeng , Ji Longbo , Wu Hang , Zou Xihong
Published: September 2023

In this paper, a novel thin-walled double-hexagonal crash box is first proposed and then multi-objective robust optimized for better overall crashworthiness under multi-angle impact loading, using a proposed hybrid method combining aluminum foam-filling and Taguchi-grey relational analysis (GRA). Specifically, the finite element (FE) models of the regularly-shaped double-hexagonal column (DHC) extracted from original irregularly-shaped crash box under multi-angle impact loading, including hollow (H-DHC) and foam-filled (F-DHC), are first built and validated by experiments. On this basis, a comprehensive crashworthiness comparison is conducted to explore relative merits of F-DHC over original H-DHC under multi-angle impact loading. After that, the F-DHC is multi-objective robust optimized for maximizing overall specific energy absorption (SEAθ) and minimizing overall initial peak crushing force (IPCF0) simultaneously under multi-angle impact loading, using a hybrid method of Taguchi-GRA. At last, a bumper-crash box integrated crashworthiness analysis under multi-angle impact loading is executed to further verify the optimization. The optimal F-DHC and the optimized crash box within the optimal F-DHC demonstrate evident improvement of crashworthiness compared to their respective initial designs, indicating aluminum foam-filling combined with Taguchi-GRA could be an effective approach for multi-objective robust optimization of the novel crash box and other similar vehicle structures.
Successful multi-disciplinary management of anti-NMDAR encephalitis during pregnancy
Authors: Crowley Clare Margaret , Liew Nyan Chin , Plans Consol , O’Brien Sinead , Imcha Mendinaro
Published: September 2023

The comorbid presentation of anti-NMDAR encephalitis with ovarian teratomas was first described in 2005. The incidence of anti-NMDAR encephalitis during pregnancy is rare, with 16 cases reported to date. We describe the case of a 31-year-old nulliparous woman who presented with status epilepticus in early pregnancy and was subsequently diagnosed with anti-NMDAR encephalitis. The inter-hospital transfer was required for higher-level care and ventilation. A comprehensive work-up identified anti-NMDAR antibodies in both serum and cerebrospinal fluid. Pelvic imaging showed a unilateral ovarian cyst, proceeding to right salpingo-oophorectomy and cystectomy of a mature cystic teratoma. Post-operatively, she was admitted to the intensive care unit for two months. Immunotherapy was commenced, and clinical status improved. She recovered well and at 35 weeks and 2 days of gestation delivered a live male infant via uncomplicated caesarean section. We discuss the diagnostic steps and multi-disciplinary management to care for this pregnant patient.
Protective and risk factors associated with problem behaviors among disadvantaged children and adolescents in rural China during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Xie Mingjun , Sun Jianing , Nuttall Amy K. , Lin Danhua
Published: September 2023

The global pandemic of COVID-19 has posed critical challenges for child and adolescent health. Prior research, however, has mostly focused on mental health, adult samples, and cross-sectional designs. Using latent change score modeling, this study addressed this gap by examining problem behaviors (operationalized as non-suicidal self-injury behaviors, smartphone addiction, and excessive screen time) under pandemic conditions, by comparing their behaviors before (December 2019) versus during the pandemic (June 2020), among 1,149 disadvantaged children and adolescents from rural China ( Mage = 11.86, SD =1.6, age range = 9 to 16 years; 62% males). Findings observed increases in problem behaviors during the pandemic in comparison to children and adolescents’ pre-pandemic behaviors. Risk and protective factors were associated with changes in these problem behaviors. Specifically, prior adverse experiences were linked to more non-suicidal self-injury behaviors and greater smartphone addiction before the pandemic; children with more exposure to childhood adversities experienced more excessive hours of screen time before the pandemic but fewer increases in screen time amid the pandemic. More pandemic-related stress experiences were associated with behavioral health risk (i.e., more increases in non-suicidal self-injury behaviors and smartphone addiction). For protective factors, family support was associated with fewer increases in non-suicidal self-injury behaviors during the pandemic. Older (relative to younger) children had fewer increases in non-suicidal self-injury behaviors but more increases in excessive screen time amid the pandemic. This study extends the literature by illuminating behavioral changes under pandemic conditions, and contributes uniquely to developmental research more broadly by highlighting risk and protective factors associated with changes in problem behaviors.
Finnish Student Teachers’ Perceptions of Their Leadership Development in a Study Group Intervention to Enhance Their Teacher Leadership
Authors: Alho Janni , Hanhimäki Eija , Eskelä-Haapanen Sirpa
Published: September 2023

This study, conducted within a Finnish teacher education program, examined student teachers’ perceptions of their skills development in a study group intervention designed to enhance their teacher leadership. Data were collected via semi-structured focus group interviews with the student teachers ( n = 15) and examined using qualitative content analysis. Katzenmeyer and Moller’s leadership development for teachers model was utilized as the theoretical framework. The results indicate that through collaboration, the student teachers developed leadership skills, especially in personal assessment and influencing strategies, but need more support to be able to better recognize these skills as leadership skills.
Curating Hope: The Aspirational Self and Social Engagement in Early-Onset Cancer Communities on Social Media
Authors: Hodson Jaigris , O’Meara Victoria
Published: September 2023

Early-onset cancer patients, survivors and caregivers have unique needs in comparison to their older counterparts. As a result, they often turn to social media to find others with similar experiences. This study employs hermeneutic phenomenology to understand the unique needs of early-onset cancer patients and caregivers as they engage with communities related to their illness across different social media platforms. Drawing from such theories as uses and gratifications, context collapse, and aspirational self-presentation, this study shows how people engaging with social media communities related to early-onset cancer employ “affordances-in-practice,” choosing what to post based both on the technical affordances of each platform, and on the audience they imagine to be on each platform. We find that in addition to seeking information and social support, participants in early-onset cancer communities use social media to seek hope. This finding suggests a nuanced reconsideration of the existing dichotomy between online authenticity and the aspirational self on social media platforms like Instagram.
A re-evaluation of stannopalladinite using modern analytical techniques
Authors: Kasatkin Anatoly V. , Vymazalová Anna , Nestola Fabrizio , Gurzhiy Vladislav V. , Agakhanov Atali A. , Škoda Radek , Belakovskiy Dmitry I. , Generalov Mikhail E.
Published: September 2023

An investigation of sample 41647 from the Platinum Placer of Ugol'nyi Ruchei, Norilsk Cu–Ni deposit, Russia, stored in the systematic collection of the Fersman Mineralogical Museum, revealed that it contained a mineral that can be identified as the original stannopalladinite described in 1947. As the literature information on the latter is controversial, the mineral was re-investigated using modern analytical techniques. Stannopalladinite occurs as spherical and ovoid-shaped grains up to 0.08 mm, closely intergrown with tetraferroplatinum as part of flattened, prismatic crystals up to 6 mm long. The micro-indentation hardness of stannopalladinite (VHN, 30 g load) is 244 kg/mm2 (range 233–266, n = 4), corresponding to a Mohs hardness of 4. The calculated density is 9.781 g/cm3. In reflected light, stannopalladinite is pale pink. The bireflectance is noticeable only in oil immersion. In crossed nicols the mineral exhibits strong anisotropy with colour effects changing from reddish purple to greyish blue and polysynthetic twinning of grains. The reflectance curves show distinct anomalous dispersion. The chemical composition (wt.%, electron microprobe data, mean of 11 analyses) is: Cu 8.48, Pd 61.21, Pt 0.89, Sn 25.87, Pb 3.70, total 100.15. The empirical formula calculated on the basis of 4 atoms per formula unit is (Pd2.42Cu0.56Pt0.02)Σ3.00(Sn0.92Pb0.08)Σ1.00. The ideal chemical formula of stannopalladinite is therefore proposed as (Pd,Cu)3Sn instead of Pd3Sn2 used in the official IMA List of Minerals. The strongest powder X-ray diffraction lines are [dobs, Å (I, %) (hkl) ]: 2.292 (42) (231), 2.166 (100) (331), 2.034 (10) (710), 1.916 (15) (141) and 1.851 (15) (630). The powder X-ray data are indexed in the orthorhombic unit cell with a = 14.634(2), b = 8.5253(6), c = 4.5946(3) Å and V = 573.24(7) Å3 (Z = 8). Stannopalladinite can be reliably identified among all other minerals belonging to the binary Pd–Sn and ternary Pd–Cu–Sn systems by a combination of chemical, optical and X-ray data.
Does employer involvement in primary health care enhance return to work for patients with stress-related mental disorders? a cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Beno Anja , Bertilsson Monica , Holmgren Kristina , Glise Kristina , Pousette Anders , Segerfelt Karin , Björk Lisa
Published: September 2023

Background

Stress-related disorders have become a major challenge for society and are associated with rising levels of sick leave. The provision of support to facilitate the return to work (RTW) for this patient group is of great importance. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether a new systematic procedure with collaboration between general practitioners (GPs), rehabilitation coordinators (RCs) and employers could reduce sick leave days for this patient group.

Method

Employed patients with stress-related diagnoses seeking care at primary health care centres (PHCCs) were included in either the intervention group (n = 54), following the systematic intervention procedure, or the control group (n = 58), receiving treatment as usual (TAU). The intervention included a) a training day for participant GPs and RCs, b) a standardised procedure for GPs and RCs to follow after training, c) the opportunity to receive clinical advice from specialist physicians in the research group. Outcome measures for RTW were sick leave days.

Results

The median number of registered gross sick leave days was lower for the control group at six, 12 and 24 months after inclusion, but the difference was not statistically significant. The control group had significantly fewer net sick leave days at three months (p = 0.03) at six months (p = 0.00) and at 12-months follow-up (p = 0.01). At 24 months, this difference was no longer significant.

Conclusions

The PRIMA intervention, which applied a standardized procedure for employer involvement in the rehabilitation process for patients with stress-related disorders, actually increased time to RTW compared to TAU. However, at 24 months, the benefit of TAU could no longer be confirmed. The study was registered on 16/01/2017 (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03022760).
Newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes mellitus in a human immunodeficiency virus-infected patient with antiretroviral therapy-induced immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome: a case report
Authors: Min-ChunYeh  , Chuang Han-Chuan , Weng Shuen-Fu , Hsu Chung-Huei , Huang Chen-Ling , Lin Yu-Pei , Lin Yan-Yu , Hsieh Yu-Shan
Published: September 2023

Background

Diabetes that develops in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients who receive antiretroviral therapy (ART) is usually type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM); however, autoimmune diabetes, such as type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) can also develop in this population. After treatment with ART, patients might experience clinical deterioration following an increase in the CD4 cell count, which is termed immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). Here, we describe an HIV-infected patient on ART who developed T1DMat due to IRIS, highlighting the clinical complexity in diagnosis and treatment.

Case presentation

A 36-year-old man infected with HIV had a nadir CD4 cell count of 15.53/μL before medication, which increased to 429.09/μL after 9 months of regular ART. The fasting serum glucose at 9 months was between 96 mg/dL and 117 mg/dL. After 11 months of ART, the patient was admitted to hospital for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and Graves’ disease (GD). Noninsulin antidiabetics (NIADs) were prescribed following the resolution of DKA. However, poor glycemic control was noted despite well-titrated NIADs. Further investigation demonstrated poor pancreatic beta cell function and elevated anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase (anti-GAD) and anti-tyrosine phosphatase-like insulinoma antigen 2 (anti-IA2) titers. According to the results, he was diagnosed with T1DM and received multiple daily injections(MDI) of insulin. The regimen of MDI was insulin degludec as basal insulin and insulin aspart as prandial insulin. After MDI therapy, his glycemic control was improved.

Conclusion

In this case, T1DM was ascribed to IRIS. Although this phenomenon has been demonstrated in previous case reports, further study is necessary to realize the mechanism of this association. Therefore, we emphasize that when HIV-infected patients on ART experience an unstable blood glucose level and abnormal thyroid function, physicians should consider T1DM and GD associated with ART-induced IRIS to reduce the subsequent complications and more serious endocrine dysfunction.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice of patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis regarding hemodialysis and its complications: a single-center, cross-sectional study in Nanjing
Authors: Xu Fangfang , Zhuang Bing , Wang Zhongxia , Wu Hao , Hui Xin , Peng Hongyan , Bian Xueqin , Ye Hong
Published: September 2023

Background

Good knowledge of and attitudes toward hemodialysis and its complications might be expected to promote good practices and improve adherence. This study investigated, the knowledge, attitude, and practice of patients receiving hemodialysis regarding hemodialysis and its complications.

Methods

This cross-sectional study enrolled patients with uremia who were receiving hemodialysis at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (China) between January 9, 2023, and January 16, 2023. A questionnaire was designed that included the following dimensions: demographic/clinical information, knowledge, attitude, and practice. Correlations between knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were evaluated by Pearson correlation analysis.

Results

The analysis included 493 patients (305 males, 61.87%). The average knowledge, attitude, and practice score was 19.33 ± 7.07 (possible range, 0–31), 28.77 ± 3.58 (possible range, 8–40), and 43.57 ± 6.53 (possible range, 11–55) points, respectively. A higher knowledge score was associated with younger age (P < 0.001), a higher education level (P < 0.001), and not living alone (P < 0.001), while a higher practice score was associated with a shorter history of hemodialysis (P < 0.001). There were positive correlations between the knowledge and practice scores (r = 0.220, P < 0.001) and between the attitude and practice scores (r = 0.453, P < 0.001), although the knowledge and attitude scores were not significantly correlated.

Conclusions

The results provide important insights into the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of patients with uremia in Nanjing (China) regarding hemodialysis and its complications. These findings may facilitate education programs to improve self-care practices in patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis in Nanjing (China).
YouTube online videos as a source for patient education of cervical spondylosis—a reliability and quality analysis
Authors: Wang Hong , Yan Chunyi , Wu Tingkui , Zhang Xiang , He Junbo , Liu Zhihao , Liu Hao
Published: September 2023

Background

Given a prolonged course of Cervical spondylosis (CS) could cause irreversible neurological deficits, it is crucial to disseminate CS-related health information to the public to promote early diagnosis and treatment. YouTube has been widely used to search for medical information. However, the reliability and quality of videos on YouTube vary greatly. Thus, this study aimed to assess the reliability and educational quality of YouTube videos concerning CS and further explore strategies for optimization of patient education.

Methods

We searched YouTube online library for the keywords “cervical spondylosis”, “cervical radiculopathy” and “cervical myelopathy” on January 15, 2023. Ranked by “relevance”, the first 50 videos of each string were recorded. After exclusions, a total of 108 videos were included. All videos were extracted for characteristics and classified based on different sources or contents. Two raters independently evaluated the videos using Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark criteria, Modified DISCERN (mDISCERN) tool, Global Quality Scale (GQS) and Cervical-Spondylosis-Specific Scale (CSSS), followed by statistical analyses. All continuous data were described as median (interquartile range).

Results

All videos had median values for JAMA, mDISCERN, GQS and CSSS scores of were 3.00 (1.00), 3.00 (2.00), 2.00 (1.00) and 7.00 (8.88), respectively. There were significant differences in VPI (P = 0.009) and JAMA (P = 0.001), mDISCERN (P < 0.001), GQS (P < 0.001) and CSSS (P < 0.001) scores among different sources. Videos from academic source had advantages in reliability and quality scores than other sources. VPI (P < 0.001), mDISCERN (P = 0.001), GQS (P < 0.001) and CSSS (P = 0.001) scores also significantly differed among videos of various contents. Spearman correlation analysis indicated VPI was not correlated with either reliability or quality. Multiple linear regression analysis showed a longer duration and an academic source were independent predictors of higher reliability and quality, while a clinical source also led to the higher video quality.

Conclusions

The reliability and educational quality of current CS-related videos on YouTube are unsatisfactory. Users face a high risk of encountering inaccurate and misleading information when searching for CS on YouTube. Longer duration, source of academic or clinician were closely correlated to higher video reliability and quality. Improving the holistic reliability and quality of online information requires the concerted effort from multiple parties, including uploaders, the platform and viewers.
Evaluating outcomes of a three-year case management program for mothers with prenatal substance use according to race/ethnicity, Washington State, 2006–2017
Authors: Stoner Susan A. , Graham J. Christopher , Grant Therese M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Well-designed public health interventions ideally aspire to reduce health disparities between racial and ethnic groups. Yet, there remains virtually no research examining racial/ethnic disparities in interventions for marginalized perinatal populations with substance use disorders (SUD). We sought to examine whether there were racial/ethnic differences at intake, in retention, and in program outcomes among pregnant or postpartum women with prenatal substance use enrolled in a three-year intensive case management intervention. We hypothesized that: (1) at baseline, numerous racial/ethnic disparities in well-being, health, and health care would be observed, and (2) after the three-year intervention few racial/ethnic disparities in maternal and child health and welfare would be found.

Methods

We used self-reported data from 3,165 women aged 18 to 45 years enrolled in the Parent-Child Assistance Program in Washington State between May 10, 2006, and September 21, 2017. We used Fisher-Freeman-Halton Exact Tests and t-tests to compare racial/ethnic groups at program enrollment and exit and logistic regression to examine likelihood of completing the intervention by group, controlling for other factors.

Results

Despite numerous racial/ethnic differences at enrollment, there were no such differences in outcomes among those who finished the program and completed an exit interview. Different racial/ethnic groups received comparable case manager time. American Indians/Alaska Natives were less likely to finish the program (Adjusted Odds = 0.66).

Conclusions

Participants who finished the program achieved comparable outcomes regardless of race/ethnicity. More work is needed to understand why American Indian/Alaska Native women were less likely than the others to finish the program and to close this service gap.
Total hip arthroplasty versus hemiarthroplasty in the treatment of active elderly patients over 75 years with displaced femoral neck fractures: a retrospective study
Authors: Luo Santong , Qin Wupeng , Yu Lizhi , Luo Raoshan , Liang Weiming
Published: September 2023

Background

Femoral neck fractures are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality for older adults. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) and hemiarthroplasty (HA) are widely used in elderly patients with displaced femoral neck fractures (DFNF), but there is still controversy refering to the optimal chose for the management of DFNF in active elderly patients.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study that incorporates medical record review with an outcomes management database. 73 patients who underwent HA and 66 patients who underwent THA were identified from January 2015 to December 2017. Data of age, gender, BMI, comorbidity status, operation time, blood loss, hospitalization time, in-hospital complication were collected and analyzed. Clinical follow-up and radiographic examinations were performed at approximately five years, and hip complications, Harris Hip Score (HHS) and EuroQol-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) were assessed.

Results

Preoperative general data of sex, age, BMI and charlson comorbidity score of THA group(n=55) has no statistically significant difference with that of HA group. Patients treated by THA had significantly longer operation time (105.5 vs 76.7 minutes; P < 0.001), more blood loss (524.1 vs 350.1 ml; P < 0.001) and longer hospitalization time (15.8 vs 13.8 days; P < 0.001). There was no significant differences between two groups in complications (32.7% vs 25.8%, P=0.432). No patients died during the hospitalization. After five years, only 33 patients in the THA group and 34 patents in the HA group were still alive, and the fraction surviving were not statistically significant between two groups (60.0% vs 54.8%, P> 0.05). The differences in hip function in favor of THA appeared to increase after the five-year follow-up, and the difference was significant in terms of the total Harris hip score (81.3 vs 73.1, P < 0.001) as well as in the dimensions of pain (38.9 vs 35.9, P=0.033), function (33.7 vs 29.2, P=0.001), absence of deformity (4.0 vs 3.9, P=0.023) and range of motion (4.6 vs 4.2, P=0.008). There was no significant differences between groups in hip dislocation rate (6.1% vs 0.0%, P=0.239). The erosion rate of hip joint in the THA group was significantly lower than that of the HA group (0.0% vs 26.5%, P=0.002). The health-related quality of life, according to EQ-5D index score, was found to be higher (0.69 vs 0.63, P= 0.001) in the THA group than the HA group after five years.

Conclusion

THA may be a preferred management option for active elderly patients over 75 years. The more extensive surgery of THA is not associated with higher in-hospital complication rate or mortality rate. These patients can benefit from THA in terms of hip function and quality of life.

Trial registration

No.
Interrelationship between dental clinicians and laboratory technicians: a qualitative study
Authors: Ismail Eman H. , Al-Moghrabi Dalya
Published: September 2023

Background

Effective communication among members of the dental team is essential for the delivery of high-quality dental care. However, an in-depth understanding of issues concerning the interrelationship between dental clinicians and laboratory technicians has not been previously undertaken. Therefore, the aim of the study was to explore factors influencing the interrelationship between dental clinicians and laboratory technicians.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with dental clinicians and laboratory technicians using purposeful snowball sampling. Two trained researchers conducted the interviews based on a pre-piloted topic guide. The interviews were conducted via video conferencing platform, audio-recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Field notes were taken during the interviews. Framework Methodology was used to analyze the data.

Results

A total of 20 dental clinicians and laboratory technicians were interviewed. The average interview duration was 37 min. Participants mainly reported negative encounters and highlighted the importance of training and exposure, collaborative learning, and alignment of expectations of both parties in terms of cost of laboratory work, turnaround time, and patient preferences. The relationship between dental clinicians and laboratory technicians depends largely on effective teamwork dynamics and open communication channels. Increased workload, workforce shortage, availability of digital systems, management policies, and financial challenges were emphasized as organizational factors affecting the interrelationship between both groups. Participants highlighted the importance of shadowing, mentorship, education courses, joint discussions, patient-technician rapport, and adoption of digital technology for fostering collaborative practices between the professions.

Conclusions

A multitude of factors influencing the dental clinician-laboratory interrelationship at individual, interpersonal and organizational levels were identified. This study highlights the need to build a transformative relationship underpinned by mutual trust and respect. Such a collaborative relationship will facilitate optimal patient care and successful treatment outcomes. The outcome of this study can help stakeholders identify solutions for enhancing the interrelationship among the dental team, to ultimately improve patient care and efficiency of dental services.