bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grafting of Methacrylic Acid to Loomstate Viscose Fabric Using a Potassium Permanganate/Potassium Chlorate System
Authors: Abdel-Hafiz S.A. , Rafie M.H. El , Hassan S.M. , Hebeish A.
Published: April 2023

Loomstate viscose fabric was graft polymerized with methacrylic acid using a KMnO4/KClO3 redox system. The polymerization reaction was studied with respect to graft yield, homopolymer, total conversion and graft efficiency. It was found that the polymerization reaction depends on the concentrations of potassium permanganate, potassium chlorate, and methacrylic acid, as well as on material to liquor ratio, reaction time and temperature of polymerization.
Poly(amido-imide)s Based on Amino Terminated Oligoimides
Authors: Patel Hasmukh S. , Patel Nilesh P.
Published: April 2023

An ammo-terminated oligoimide was prepared by the Michael addition reaction of ethylene bismaleimide (EBM) and 4,4′-diamino diphenyl methane (DDM) at an EBM:DDM molar ratio of 1:2. The poly(amido-imide)s (PAI)s were prepared by condensation of this EBM:DDM oligoimide with various aliphatic bisesters. The resultant PAIs were characterized by elejnental analysis, IR spectral studies, and the number average molecular weight ([Formula: see text]n) estimated by non-aqueous conductometric titration and thermogravimetry. The curing-reaction of an epoxy resin (a diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A (DGEBA)) with PAI was monitored by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (D.S.C.). Glass and carbon fibre reinforced laminates of PAI-epoxy resin were also prepared and characterized.
Mechanical Properties of Matrix-Modified Carbon/Carbon Composites
Authors: Kang Tae Jin , Jeong Yi Woon
Published: April 2023

A phenolic carbon matrix precursor was modified by adding pitch and graphite powders. The carbon yield from thermogravimetric analysis and normal carbonization experiments increased as the powder content increased. The carbon yield from real carbonization experiments was higher than that measured from TGA analysis because of the slower heating rate. The bulk density of carbon-carbon composites made with the different modified matrix systems was in the range of 1.35 x 103 -1.41 x 103 kg/m3. From the 3-point bending test, the effect of matrix modification was confirmed by the changes in the mechanical properties of the greenbody. As the powder content increased, the mechanical properties of the greenbody decreased. After carbonization, the mechanical properties of the carbon-carbon composite showed higher values than those of the carbon-carbon composites made with unmodified matrix precursors.
New Evidence Supporting the Interfacial Model of Electrically Conductive Polymer Composites: I. Conductivity Behaviour of Polyaniline-Poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) Composites
Authors: Tsanov Tihomir , Terlemezyan Levon
Published: April 2023

The change in the conducting properties of polyaniline-poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate (EVA)) composite films was investigated as a function of time. For the first time it was shown that the apparent concentration (ϕc), of polyaniline at which a conductivity jump occurs is not constant during ageing. Moreover, the conductivity behaviour of polyaniline-EVA composites is variable and dynamic during storage. The electrical conductivity of the films of low polyaniline content (up to 2.5 wt. %) increased by several orders of magnitude over a period of eight months. It was supposed that the polyaniline phase undergoes flocculation and that subsequently, a continuous conductive network is formed. The conductivity jump was attributed to dynamic interfacial interactions between the constituents of the polyaniline-EVA composites. A decrease in the average conductivity deviations for the samples of low polyaniline content (<2.5 wt.%) was observed, indicating that improvement of conductive pathways took place within the bulk of the insulating EVA matrix. Hence, the present study supported the dynamic interfacial model (particularly the dispersion/flocculation phase transition) of conductive polymer composites, proposed by Wessling.
A Visco-Plastic Analysis of Bonded Joints under Complex Loading
Authors: Chiu W.K. , Jones R. , Chao M.
Published: April 2023

Adhesively bonded joints are traditionally designed using a single stress/strain curve to describe the mechanical behaviour of the adhesive. This paper addresses the validity of this assumption, given that the properties of film adhesives commonly used in bonded joints (e.g. FM 73) have been shown to demonstrate significant time dependencies both at room and high temperatures. To this end, a series of finite element analysis were conducted where the time dependent properties of the adhesive were modelled using a unified plasticity theory. The findings of this work show that, when performing certification assessments which require statements on the integrity and the durability of adhesively bonded joints subjected to complex load spectra, it may be necessary to consider an analysis which accounts for both time and load history effects.

It is also shown that, for monotonic loading under constant loading rates, the peak stress strain response of the adhesive in a double lap joint follows the Glinka hypothesis for the notch stress-strain response of metals. However, it is shown that this approximation may not be valid for complex loading spectra.
A Review of the Role of Basic Iron(III) Oxide Acting as a Char Forming/Smoke Suppressing/Flame Retarding Additive in Halogenated Polymers and Halogenated Polymer Blends
Authors: Carty Peter , White Stewart
Published: April 2023

The char forming/smoke suppressing action of an inorganic iron(III) compound in halogenated polymers is reviewed. Basic iron(III) oxide is known to enhance the formation of carbonaceous char via a series of cross-linking reactions catalysed by the insitu formation of reactive iron(III) Lewis acids, which results in a substantial reduction in the amount of smoke produced when these polymers are forced to burn in air. The effects of this iron(III) compound acting as a flame retardant are also discussed, although it is less clear how the compound functions as an active flame retardant in these chlorinated polymers.
New Evidence Supporting the Interfacial Model of Electrically Conductive Polymer Composites. 2. Indication of Phase Separation during Ageing of Polyaniline-Poly(ethylene-co-vinylacetate) Composites
Authors: Tsanov Tihomir , Terlemezyan Levon
Published: April 2023

Phase separation in conductive polyaniline-poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) (PANI-EVA) composite films, resulting in formation of PANI enriched (lower side) and PANI deficient (upper side) layers was found during storage of these composites. A distinct difference in the conductivity of the two sides of the films reaching a half order of magnitude was detected. It was shown that phase separation and conductive pathways formation resulted from flocculation of PANI particles during ageing of the films. Subsequently, the total electrical conductivity of the composites of lower PANI content (up to 2.5 wt. %) was substantially enhanced (ca. five orders of magnitude).

The observed conductivity jump and phase separation phenomena have been discussed using mathematical terms. Moreover, for the first time a mathematical interpretation of the evolution in percolation behaviour of PANI-EVA composites over time is presented. Coefficients of correlation (rxy) between average conductivity, σ, (y) and PANI content (x) in the composites were calculated to be ca. 0.85 - 0.99. Besides, the shape of percolation curves (σ vs. PANI content) was found to change during storage of the films. The unstable conducting properties (both conductivity jump and phase separation phenomena) of PANI-EVA composites over time revealed their dissipative nature, and have to be regarded as evidence supporting the dynamic interfacial model of conductive polymer composites.
Time-Dependent Behaviour and Viscoelastic Constitutive Modelling of an Epoxy Polymer
Authors: Xia Zihui , Ellyin Fernand
Published: April 2023

The time-dependent behaviour of a cold cure epoxy polymer was investigated by different types of tests including compression, tension, biaxial loading, strain recovery, stress relaxation, creep and cyclic creep. This epoxy showed nonlinear viscoelastic behaviour since strains were fully recovered after stresses were removed and sufficient time was allowed for the recovery. A linear viscoelastic constitutive model has been extended to the nonlinear regime, and used to simulate the test results. It was found that the model is capable of predicting the observed trends for different types of tests. With one set of specified material constants, the model provides a fairly good prediction for several types of tests. However, this trend may not hold for other types of tests, for which the material constants were not calibrated, although the general trend would be predicted satisfactorily.
Centrifugal Casting of Polyamide 6 I. Influence of Thermal Treatment
Authors: Rusu M. , Ibanescu Constanta , Murariu M. , Bordeianu Alexandrina , Balint S. , Andrei Elena
Published: April 2023

Centrifugal casting combined with anionic polymerisation of ε-caprolactam was used to obtain polyamide 6 tubes. These tubes were thermally treated (7 - 8 hours at 170°C) to improve their properties.

Comparative analysis of thermally treated and untreated products allows the conclusion that the thermal treatments improved the polymers’ crystallinity and the products became more suitable for certain specific applications (such as slide bearings).
Chemical Resistivity of Very Low Density Polyethylene Geomembranes - Sorption/Desorption, Diffusion and Swelling
Authors: Aminabhavi T.M. , Naik H.G.
Published: April 2023

The chemical resistivity testing of very low density polyethylene (VLDPE) geomembranes is important in view of their applications in hazardous waste sites. We present here some useful experimental data on the sorption, desorption, diffusion and swelling of VLDPE with 14 organic liquids at 25, 50 and 70°C. Sorption results were obtained by a gravimetric method, and diffusion coefficients have been calculated using Fick's equation from the initial linear portions of the sorption/desorption curves. Swelling was studied by the measurement of increases in volume, thickness and diameter of the VLDPE geomembrane. The Arrhenius activation parameters have been calculated from the temperature dependence of sorption and diffusion coefficients. Liquid concentration profiles were also calculated from Fick's equation under appropriate initial and boundary conditions. The results of this study may be useful for the application of VLDPE geomembranes in hazardous waste chemical ponds.
Improvements in the Properties of Mechanically Recycled Thermoplastics
Authors: Tall Stefan , Karlsson Sigbritt , Albertsson Ann-Christine
Published: April 2023

It is difficult, costly and in many cases also impossible to acquire a material with a purity comparable to that of a virgin material when plastic waste is being recovered by mechanical recycling. Processing and reprocessing initiate degradation of the plastic, which severely reduces the life-time of recycled plastics. This article summarizes recent advances in studies of the compatibility of mechanically recycled polymeric materials. Two grades (amorphous and crystalline) of EPDM were evaluated as impact modifiers in order to upgrade recycled HDPE. The EPDM elastomers improved the tensile impact strength and elongation at yield. The reduced impact strength and elongation caused by up to 10% PS or PET could be compensated for by adding an amount of amorphous EPDM equal to half the weight of HDPE containing low levels of other polymer. The mechanical compatibility between the most common polymer types, such as ABS, polypropylene, polyethylene and polystyrene is reviewed and complemented by new, previously unpublished results. The mineral-filled PP yields at lower elongations and stress-levels when contaminated with ABS, but the ultimate properties are not severely affected. Some contamination by ABS in polypropylene is tolerable whereas ABS shifts from ductile to brittle failure modes when contaminated with only 6% polypropylene. A computer program for response surface methodology (RSM) is presented and the mechanical compatibility of polyethylene and propylene have been evaluated.
Aggregation Tendency of Particulate Fillers: Determination and Consequences
Authors: Pukánszky Béla , Fekete Erika
Published: April 2023

The agglomeration tendency of 11 commercial CaCO3 fillers with different particle size and specific surface area was investigated with various techniques. Some powder characteristics were measured and also the sedimentation of treated, as well as non-treated fillers were determined in water and toluene. PP composites containing 25 vol% filler were homogenized in an internal mixer. Melting and crystallization, as well as tensile properties were determined on compression moulded plates. Unambiguous determination of aggregation is difficult, since it depends on interaction and experimental conditions. The extent of aggregation is always determined by the relative magnitude of attractive and separating forces under the given sample preparation and/or testing conditions. Observable aggregation begins at 5–7 m2/g specific surface area for the studied fillers, but its extent depends also on their particle size distribution and on surface treatment. Composites with a larger number of aggregates possess inferior mechanical properties, however, the effect depends very much on the characteristics measured.
Effects of Non-Uniform Particle Distributions on Damage Evolution in Pre-Cracked, Particulate Composite Specimens
Authors: Kwon Y.W. , Liu C.T.
Published: April 2023

Particle distribution in a particulate composite, in general, cannot be controlled so that a composite specimen can have a non-uniform particle distribution. This study examines the effects of non-uniform particle distributions in particulate composite specimens made of hard particles embedded in a soft rubbery binder on the crack tip behaviour, using a numerical technique called a micro/macro-approach. This technique couples the micro-level and macro-level analyses. The micro-level analysis uses a three-dimensional unit-cell model and a continuum damage theory at the constituent material level (the particles and the binder) while the macro-level analysis utilizes the finite element method at the smeared composite specimen level. Both analyses are conducted in tandem as damage evolves in the specimens.

The study investigates the damage evolution around the crack tip, the resulting stress variation near the crack tip, and the crack opening displacement for several specimens with different particle distributions. All the specimens have the same average particle volume fraction so that all of them have the same average effective elastic modulus. Every specimen has multiple zones, each of which has a uniform particle distribution. A crack is located in a single zone. The numerical results indicate a possible wide variation of crack tip behaviours, for example, with respect to fracture strength from specimen to specimen, depending on the state of particle volume distribution and the location of the crack.
The Role of Primary Aromatic Amines in Adhesion in Polyethylene-steel Systems
Authors: Starostina I.A. , Stoyanov O.V. , Bogdanova S.A. , Deberdeev R.Ja. , Kurnosov V.V. , Zaikov G.E.
Published: April 2023

The role of primary aromatic amines (PAAs) in the promotion of adhesion between steel and coatings prepared from high density polyethylene has been investigated. PAAs were shown to interact with steel by a donor-acceptor mechanism. The increase in coating adhesion is realized through chemical and physical bond formation between an adhesive and a substrate with the help of the PAA. The free surface energy of the contact to the metal side of the coatings modified with PAA has been shown to increase in parallel with the increase in adhesion. Acid-base interactions have been found to exert primary control over polyethylene's adhesion to steel.
A Comparison of Hospice Care Utilization Between Rural and Urban Children in Appalachia: A Geographic Information Systems Analysis
Authors: Svynarenko Radion , Huang Guoping , Keim-Malpass Jessica , Cozad Melanie J. , Qualls Kerri A. , Stone Sharp Whitney , Kirkland Deb A. , Lindley Lisa C.
Published: April 2023

Long driving times from hospice providers to patients lead to poor quality of care, which may exacerbate in rural and highly isolated areas of Appalachia. This study aimed to investigate geographic patterns of pediatric hospice care across Appalachia. Using person-level Medicaid claims of 1,788 pediatric hospice enrollees who resided in the Appalachian Region between 2011 and 2013. A database of boundaries of Appalachian counties, postal addresses of hospices, and population-weighted county centroids of residences of hospice enrollees driving times from the nearest hospices were calculated. A choropleth map was created to visualize rural/urban differences in receiving hospice care. The average driving time from hospice to child residence was 28 minutes (SD = 26). The longest driving time was in Eastern Kentucky—126 minutes (SD = 32), and the shortest was in South Carolina—11 min (SD = 9.1). The most significant differences in driving times between rural and urban counties were found in Virginia 28 (SD = 7.5) and 5 minutes (SD = 0), respectively, Tennessee—43 (SD = 28) and 8 minutes (SD = 7), respectively; and West Virginia—49 (SD = 30) and 12 minutes (SD = 4), respectively. Many pediatric hospice patients reside in isolated counties with long driving times from the nearest hospices. State-level policies should be developed to reduce driving times from hospice providers.
Be cautious or be cancelled: News audience’s motivations not to participate in online journalism
Authors: Mentzel Nadia , Slot Mijke , Nieuwenhuis Roderick
Published: April 2023

News organizations try to improve the relationship with their audiences by seeking interaction with them - also known as participatory journalism. But not everyone participates; many news consumers do not surpass reading, watching, or listening to news. The explanations for lagging participation are scattered and not yet comprehensively integrated in an overarching overview. This study provides a more in-depth account of the different motivations of Dutch younger (<30) and older (<50) news users not to use the participatory tools that news websites offer. In this paper the motivations of these different groups are uncovered and compared. Our thematic analysis indicates that both groups are mostly driven by similar motivations. The main motivation both generations bring forward is their aversion towards the online community. Reluctance because of expertise (younger audience members) or career implications (older audience members) seem to be the most important difference between the two groups.
Moderators and Mediators of the Relationship of Shared Decision-Making and Satisfaction
Authors: Crijns Tom J , Segina Paxton , Kortlever Joost T P , Thomas Jacob E , Ring David , Reichel Lee , Vagner Gregg , Ramtin Sina
Published: April 2023

Background:Evidence suggests that health literacy, perceived availability of information and guidance to adapt to challenges (informational support), and symptoms of depression all have the potential to mediate or moderate the relationship between patient-rated involvement in decisions and satisfaction with care. If so these could be useful targets for improving patient experience. Methods: We prospectively enrolled 130 new adult patients visiting an orthopedic surgeon over a 4-month period. All patients were asked to complete measures of satisfaction with care (21-item Medical Interview Satisfaction Scale), perceived involvement in decisions (9-item Shared Decision-Making Questionnaire), symptoms of depression (the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information Scale [PROMIS] Depression Computerized Adaptive Test [CAT]), perceived availability of information and guidance to adapt to challenges (PROMIS Informational Support CAT), and the Newest Vital Sign test of health literacy. Results: The strong correlation between satisfaction with care (ρ = 0.60, P < .001) and perceived involvement in decisions was neither mediated nor moderated by health literacy, perceived availability of information and guidance, and symptoms of depression. Conclusions: The observation that patient-rated shared decision-making is strongly related to satisfaction with an office visit, independent of health literacy, perceived support, and symptoms of depression, is consistent with evidence that various measures of patient experience tend to correlate and emphasizes the importance of the patient–clinician relationship. Level of Evidence: Level II, prospective study.
The Adaptive, Pain Sensitive, and Global Symptoms Clusters: Evidence from a Patient-Based Study
Authors: Al-Hamed F.S. , Alonso A.A. , Vivaldi D. , Smith S.B. , Meloto C. B.
Published: April 2023

Objectives:

The largest epidemiologic study conducted about painful temporomandibular disorders (pTMDs) to date identified 3 clusters of individuals with similar symptoms—adaptive, pain sensitive, and global symptoms—which hold promise as a means of personalizing pain care. Our goal was to compare the clinical and psychological characteristics that are consistent with a pTMD clinical examination among patients who are seeking care and assigned to the different clusters.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study used data from the medical records of patients attending Duke Innovative Pain Therapies between August 2017 and April 2021 who received a pTMD diagnosis (i.e., myalgia) and consented to have their data used for research. Data included orofacial and pain-related measures, dental features, and psychological measures. We used the Rapid OPPERA Algorithm to assign clusters to patients and multinomial regression to determine the likelihood (odds ratios [OR] and 95% confidence intervals [CI]) of being assigned to the pain sensitive or global symptoms cluster attributed to each measure.

Results:

In total, 131 patients were included in this study and assigned a cluster: adaptive ( n = 54, 41.2%), pain sensitive ( n = 49, 37.4%), and global symptoms ( n = 28, 21.4%). The PS cluster displayed greater numbers of temporomandibular joint sites (OR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.01 to 1.65) and masticatory (1.48; 1.19 to 1.83) and cervical (1.23; 1.09 to 1.39) muscles with pain evoked by palpation. The GS cluster displayed greater scores of pain catastrophizing (1.04; 1.01 to 1.06) and perceived stress (1.23; 1.03 to 1.46) and was more likely to report persistent pain (16.23; 1.92 to 137.1) of higher impact (1.43; 1.14 to 1.80).

Conclusion:

Our findings support that care-seeking patients with pTMDs who are assigned to the GS cluster display a poorer psychological profile, even though those assigned to the PS cluster display more measures consistent with orofacial pain. Findings also establish the PS cluster as a group that does not display psychological comorbidities despite being hypersensitive.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

This study informs clinicians that patients seeking care for painful temporomandibular disorders, in specific cases of myalgia, can be classified into 1 of 3 groups that display unique profiles of symptoms. Most importantly, it emphasizes the importance of examining patients with painful temporomandibular disorders in a holistic manner that includes assessing symptoms of psychological distress. Patients with greater psychological distress will likely benefit from multidisciplinary treatment strategies that may include psychological treatments.
CSR—HR Beyond Boundaries?
Authors: Prabhakar L.
Published: April 2023

Very often CSR is presumed to be more of philanthropy, focussed more on funding/donations, and so on. Whilst it may be still there and also needed, CSR is much more evolved than that. Done properly, it is as rigorous as running a business project involving a multi-disciplinary approach. Given that this is a NHRD Publication on the theme of CSR and HR, the article attempts to illustrate how a CSR intervention also has the play of HR systems and processes. The article is a personal reflection of my recent transition to Social Investments function after being in the HR function for almost 30+ years, which has helped me to look at how the elements and science of HR contribute significantly to the success of any CSR intervention.
Association of hyperglycemia ratio and ventricular arrhythmia in critically ill patients admitted to the intensive care unit
Authors: Shen Hechen , Wang Song , Zhang Chong , Gao Wenqing , Cui Xiaoqiong , Zhang Qiang , Lang Yuheng , Ning Meng , Li Tong
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The relationship between relative hyperglycemia and ventricular arrhythmia (VA) in critically ill patients admitted to intensive care units (ICU) remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the association between stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR) and VA in this population.

Methods

This retrospective and observational study analyzed data from 4324 critically ill patients admitted to the ICU, obtained from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database. The SHR was calculated as the highest blood glucose level during the first 24 h of ICU admission divided by the admission blood glucose level. Based on the optimal cut-off values under the receiver operating characteristic curve, patients were stratified into high SHR (≥ 1.31) and low SHR (< 1.31) group. To investigate the impact of diabetes mellitus (DM) on the outcome, patients were stratified as low SHR/DM; low SHR/non-DM; high SHR/DM, and high SHR/non-DM. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) and logistic regression analysis were performed to analyze the relationship between SHR and VA.

Results

A total of 4,324 critically ill patients were included in this retrospective and observational study. The incidence of VA was higher in the high SHR group. Multiple-adjusted RCS revealed a “J-shaped” correlation between SHR and VA morbidity. The logistic regression model demonstrated that high SHR was associated with VA. The high SHR/non-DM group had a higher risk of VA than other groups stratified based on SHR and DM. Subgroup analysis showed that high SHR was associated with an increased risk of VA in patients with coronary artery disease.

Conclusion

High SHR is an independent risk factor and has potential as a biomarker of higher VT/VF risk in ICU-admitted patients.
Surgical treatment of rare pediatric cardiac myxomas:12 years clinical experience in a single institution
Authors: Zhao Shengliang , Li Hua , Wu Chun , Pan Zhengxia , Wang Gang , Dai Jiangtao
Published: April 2023

Background

Primary cardiac tumors are rare, and cardiac myxoma (CM) accounts for the majority of these tumors. Most of the reports in the literature are case reports. This study summarizes our clinical experience in the surgical treatment of CM over the past 12 years.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 23 children with CM(8 boys, 15 girls; median age: 8.92 months, range: 2 years 5 months-12 years 9 months; body weight: 11-45 kg, median body weight: 28.21 kg) admitted to our hospital in the previous 12 years, and we statistically analyzed their clinical manifestations and surgical methods.

Results

23 cases underwent myxoma excision under cardiopulmonary bypass(CPB). The follow-up period was 0.2 to 12.6 years (mean:7.2 years). Two patients could not be traced, and the follow-up completion rate was 91.30%. One patient (4.35%) died of myocardial infarction early after surgery with low continuous cardiac output. There were no cerebral embolism, acute heart failure, atrioventricular block and other related complications in 19 cases. A patient with cerebral infarction complicated with right hemiplegia recovered well after rehabilitation treatment. There was no recurrence of CM in 19 cases and all patients recovered after surgery. One patient relapsed 5 years after surgery, and no tumor recurrence was observed after the second surgery. Among the 20 long-term survivors, 13 (65.00%) were NYHA Class I patients and 7(35.00%) were NYHA Class II patients.

Conclusions

Although CM in children is rare, it may cause cerebral infarction and other multi-organ embolism. Once CM is found and removed as soon as possible, it can reduce serious complications. If the complete resection is possible, surgery provides better palliation. Follow-up echocardiographic should be paid attention to after surgery.
Knowledge, attitude, behaviour, and influencing factors of home-based medication safety among community-dwelling older adults with chronic diseases: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Yu-ting Yang , Yong-wei Yang , Miao Yao , Qiong Ye , Meng-yu Wu , Ting Lin
Published: April 2023

Background

Older adults with chronic diseases require long-term medication. However, due to lack of drug knowledge and hypomnesia, older adults with chronic diseases are prone to adverse drug events and increased medical costs. This study aimed to explore the status and influencing factors of home-based medication safety among community-dwelling older adults with chronic diseases in China to provide a basis for follow-up to conduct targeted health education.

Methods

Overall, 427 community-dwelling older adults with chronic diseases participated in this study. The Knowledge, Attitude, and Behaviour of Medication Safety among Older Adults with Chronic Diseases Questionnaire was used to assess their home-based medication safety. Multivariate linear regression was used to identify the factors influencing knowledge, attitude, and behaviour regarding medication safety.

Results

The average score of home-based medication safety among older adults with chronic diseases was 68.26 ± 8.96, indicating that they had a moderate grasp of medication safety. The scoring rate of each subscale was ranked from high to low as follows: behaviour (84.51%), knowledge (63.33%), and attitude (47.39%). Stepwise linear regression analysis showed that medication safety knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours were significantly associated with higher monthly income, adverse drug events, and taking medicine several times a day (p < 0.05). Additional influencing factors included having fewer chronic diseases, being female, higher educational attainment, taking medicines multiple kinds a day, better self-care ability, and non-hospitalisation for chronic illnesses (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Medical staff and community workers should pay attention to the drug safety of older adults with different characteristics and mobilise their enthusiasm for participation to improve their medication self-management ability.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Register: ChiCTR2200060987; reg. date: 15/06/2022.
Relationship between borderline personality features, emotion regulation, and non-suicidal self-injury in depressed adolescents: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen Yang , Fu Wenxian , Ji Sifan , Zhang Wei , Sun Lingmin , Yang Tingting , He Kongliang , Zhou Yongjie
Published: April 2023

Objective

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is common among adolescents and has been linked to mental disorders and suicide in addition to physical injuries. According to the empirical avoidance model, adolescents with NSSI have stronger emotional affect and poorer emotional regulation than those without NSSI, and these constitute core features of borderline personality disorder (BPD). The relationship between borderline personality features, emotional regulation, and NSSI in the population is unclear. This study explored these associations to provide a theoretical basis for the treatment of NSSI in the future.

Methods

Depressed adolescents (n = 1192) were evaluated using Chinese versions of the Function Assessment of Self-mutilation Scale, Emotional Regulation Questionnaire for Children and Adolescents, and Borderline Personality Features Scale for Children.

Results

The majority of depressed adolescents (71.3%, 850/1192) had demonstrated NSSI in the past year, with cutting or scratching being the most common form (57.4%). Pearson correlation analysis with NSSI as a fixed factor (NSSI = 1, no NSSI = 2) revealed a negative correlation between NSSI and borderline personality features (r = -0.314, P < 0.01) but a positive correlation between NSSI and emotional regulation capacity (r = 0.159, P < 0.01), which was positively correlated with the expression suppression dimension (r = 0.079, p < 0.01); however, there was no significant correlation between the cognitive reappraisal dimension and expression suppression (r = 0.022, p > 0.05). The occurrence of NSSI was also positively correlated with borderline personality features in general (r = 0.314, p < 0.01). These results were statistically significant. Emotional regulation played a mediating role between borderline personality traits and NSSI in adolescents with depression (effect value = 0.151).

Conclusion

Borderline personality features and emotional regulation ability were significantly correlated with NSSI in depressed adolescents. Borderline personality symptoms not only directly influenced NSSI risk in adolescents with depression, but also indirectly influenced NSSI risk through emotional regulation.
Canadian public perceptions and experiences with information during the COVID-19 pandemic: strategies to optimize future risk communications
Authors: Theivendrampillai Suvabna , Cooper Jeanette , Lee Taehoon , Lau Michelle Wai Ki , Marquez Christine , Straus Sharon E. , Fahim Christine
Published: April 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the spread of misinformation worldwide. The purpose of this study was to explore perceptions of misinformation and preferred sources of obtaining COVID-19 information from those living in Canada. In particular, we sought to explore the perceptions of East Asian individuals in Canada, who experienced stigma related to COVID-19 messaging.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative thematic analysis study. Interviews were offered in English, Mandarin and Cantonese. Interviewers probed for domains related to knowledge about COVID-19, preferred sources of information, perceived barriers and facilitators of misinformation, and preferences for communication during a health emergency. Interviews were recorded, translated, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a framework approach. Transcripts were independently double-coded until > 60% agreement was reached. This study received research ethics approval.

Results

Fifty-five interviews were conducted. The majority of participants were women (67%); median age was 52 years. 55% of participants were of East-Asian descent. Participants obtained information about COVID-19 from diverse English and non-English sources including news media, government agencies or representatives, social media, and personal networks. Challenges to seeking and understanding information included: encountering misinformation, making sense of evolving or conflicting public health guidance, and limited information on topics of interest. 65% of participants reported encountering COVID-19  misinformation. East Asian participants called on government officials to champion messaging to reduce stigmatizing and racist rhetoric and highlighted the importance of having accessible, non-English language information sources. Participants provided recommendations for future public health communications guidance during health emergencies, including preferences for message content, information messengers, dissemination platforms and format of messages. Almost all participants preferred receiving information from the Canadian government and found it helpful to utilize various mediums and platforms such as social media and news media for future risk communication, urging for consistency across all platforms.

Conclusions

We provide insights on Canadian experiences navigating COVID-19 information, where more than half perceived encountering misinformation on platforms when seeking COVID-19 information . We provide recommendations to inform public health communications during future health emergencies.
A new method for predicting the microvascular invasion status of hepatocellular carcinoma through neural network analysis
Authors: Zheng Jinli , Wei Xiaozhen , Wang Ning , Pu Xingyu , Yang Jiayin , Jiang Li
Published: April 2023

Aims

To determine the relationship between microvascular invasion (MVI) and the clinical features of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and provide a method to evaluate MVI status by neutral network analysis.

Methods

The patients were divided into two groups (MVI-positive group and MVI-negative group). Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were carried out to identify the independent risk factors for MVI positivity. Neural network analysis was used to analyze the different importance of the risk factors in MVI prediction.

Results

We enrolled 1697 patients in this study. We found that the independent prognostic factors were age, NEU, multiple tumors, AFP level and tumor diameter. By neural network analysis, we proposed that the level of AFP was the most important risk factor for HCC in predicting MVI status (the AUC was 0.704). However, age was the most important risk factor for early-stage HCC with a single tumor (the AUC was 0.605).

Conclusion

Through the neutral network analysis, we could conclude that the level of AFP is the most important risk factor for MVI-positive patients and the age is the most important risk factor for early-stage HCC with a single tumor.
Efficacy and safety of Water Vapor Thermal Therapy in the treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia: a systematic review and single-arm Meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Junyi , Wu Weisong , Amier Yirixiatijiang , Li Xianmiao , Wan Wenlong , Liu Chang , Zhang Yucong , Yu Xiao
Published: April 2023

Background

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common chronic condition among men aged 50 or older, causing voiding and obstructive lower urinary tract symptoms. Water vapor thermal therapy (WVTT) using the Rezūm® system is a new minimally invasive surgical technique that is increasingly reported as a treatment for BPH.

Methods

The protocol was submitted to the PROSPERO registry. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library and ClinicalTrials.gov up to July 29, 2022. Quality assessment was carried out by a 20-item checklist form prepared by the Institute of Health Economics (IHE). Double arcsine transformation was performed to stabilize the variance of the original ratio. When I2 > 50%, the random effect model was used to calculate the pooled parameters. Otherwise, the fixed effect model was used. 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. A leave-one-out sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the impact of each study on the pooled outcomes, and finally, Egger’s test was used to assess publication bias.

Results

A total of seven single-arm observational studies and one random controlled trial, including 1015 patients, were included. One year after WVTT, the International Prostate Symptom Score decreased by 11.37 (95% CI: -12.53, -10.21), the IPSS Quality of Life scale decreased by 2.59 (95% CI: -2.92, -2.26), the maximum urine flow rate increased by 5.26 ml/s (95% CI: 4.53, 5.99), and the postvoid residual decreased by 13.18 ml (95% CI: -24.32, -2.03). The most common complication was dysuria, with a pooled incidence of 21% (95% CI: 14%, 29%), and the second most common complication was hematuria, with a pooled incidence of 14% (95% CI: 10%, 18%). The pooled incidence of retreatment was 3% (95% CI: 2%, 5%).

Conclusions

WVTT is an attractive alternative to medication or more invasive surgical procedures and can serve as first-line therapy for men with BPH.
Sexual-related determinants of life satisfaction among married women: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Bahrami Nasim , Hosseini Mobina , Griffiths Mark D. , Alimoradi Zainab
Published: April 2023

Background and aim

Life satisfaction refers to the perceived satisfaction of individuals concerning various aspects of their lives. The present study investigated the predictive role of sexual-related determinants in life satisfaction among married women.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from August to November 2021. A total of 350 married women with at least six months of cohabitation with husbands were included in the study. The study utilized a multi-stage random sampling method from 10 comprehensive health centers in Qazvin, Iran. Scores on the Emotional Intimacy Questionnaire (EIQ), Dyadic Sexual Communication Scale (DSCS), Female Sexual Distress Questionnaire (FSDQ), Female Sexual Quality of Life Scale (FSQLS), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and Life Satisfaction Scale (LSS) were assessed. Data were analyzed using univariable and multivariable linear regression models with a significance level ofp < 0.05.

Results

The mean age of participants was 33.77 years (SD = 9.77) and they had been married for an average of 10.21 years (SD = 9.93). The mean scores on the LSS were 20.16 (out of 35; SD = 6.79). Based on the multivariable linear regression model adjusted for socio-demographic characteristics, the two strongest predictors of life satisfaction among Iranian married women were marital intimacy (β = 0.49,p < 0.001) and sexual functioning (β = 0.17,p = 0.009). Together, these variables explained 45% of variance in life satisfaction.

Conclusion

Given that marital intimacy and sexual functioning were the most significant sexual-related determinants of life satisfaction among married women, designing and implementing interventions which increase women’s marital intimacy and sexual functioning might improve married women’s life satisfaction.
Effects of empowerment education on the self-management and self-efficacy of liver transplant patients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Guo Limin , Li Lezhi , Lu Yanfang , Li Ting , Chen Linjun , Jiang Liya , Zhang Shihan , Yuan Meijiao
Published: April 2023

Background

Despite the increasing survival rates, liver transplant patients experience numerous postoperative complications and encounter significant challenges in long-term self-management. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of empowerment education in enhancing self-management skills and self-efficacy among liver transplant recipients.

Methods

A randomized, single-blind, single-center trial was conducted in China between August 2019 and September 2020, involving liver transplant recipients. The intervention group received 12 weeks of empowerment education, while the control group received 12 weeks of routine education. .The study assessed the patients’ self-management and self-efficacy using the Liver Transplant Recipient Self-Management Questionnaire and the Self-efficacy for Managing Chronic Disease 6-Item Scale. Follow-up assessments were conducted at 1, 3, and 6 months after the intervention.

Results

Eighty-four patients were initially randomized to either the intervention group (n1 = 42) or the routine education group (n2 = 42). Twelve patients were excluded from the analysis due to loss of follow-up or discontinuation of the intervention, leaving 72 patients (n1 = 35, n2 = 37) for the final analysis. The scores for exercise and lifestyle management were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group at 1, 3, and 6 months after the intervention (t = 3.047, 5.875, 8.356, and t = 5.759, 4.681, 11.759, respectively; P < 0.05). At 3 and 6 months after the intervention, the scores for cognitive symptom management, communication with physicians, and self-efficacy were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group (t = 5.609, 6.416, and t = 5.576, 11.601, and t = 6.867, 15.071, respectively; P < 0.001). Within the intervention group, self-management scores increased significantly over time, while within the control group, the scores for communication with physicians, lifestyle, and self-efficacy showed a significant decline from 3 to 6 months after routine health education.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that empowerment education is an effective means of improving the self-management and self-efficacy of liver transplant patients, with better outcomes compared to routine health education. These findings have important implications for nursing practice and provide valuable guidance for clinical education of liver transplant patients.

Trial registration

ChiCTR2200061561.
Facilitators and barriers of the implementation of point-of-care devices for cardiometabolic diseases: a scoping review
Authors: Tenorio-Mucha Janeth , Busta-Flores Patricia , Lazo-Porras María , Vetter Beatrice , Safary Elvis , Moran Andrew E. , Gupta Reena , Bernabé-Ortiz Antonio
Published: April 2023

Background

Point-of-care testing (POCT) devices may facilitate the delivery of rapid and timely results, providing a clinically important advantage in patient management. The challenges and constraints in the implementation process, considering different levels of actors have not been much explored. This scoping review aimed to assess literature pertaining to implementation facilitators and barriers of POCT devices for the diagnosis or monitoring of cardiometabolic diseases.

Methods

A scoping review of the literature was conducted. The inclusion criteria were studies on the inception, planning, or implementation of interventions with POCT devices for the diagnosis or monitoring of cardiometabolic diseases defined as dyslipidemia, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Global Health databases using the OVID searching engine until May 2022. The Consolidated Framework of Implementation Research (CFIR) was used to classify implementation barriers and facilitators in five constructs. Also, patient, healthcare professional (HCP), and organization level was used.

Results

Twenty studies met the eligibility criteria for data extraction. All studies except two were conducted in high-income countries. Some findings are: 1) Intervention: the most widely recognized facilitator was the quick turnaround time with which results are obtained. 2) Outer setting: at the organizational level, the lack of clear regulatory and accreditation mechanisms has hindered the adoption and sustainability of the use of POCT. 3) Inner setting: for HCP, performing POCT during the consultation was both a facilitator and a barrier in terms of time, personnel, and service delivery. 4) Individuals: the implementation of POCT may generate stress and discomfort in some HCP in terms of training and new responsibilities. 5) Process: for patients, it is highly appreciated that obtaining the sample was simple and more comfortable if venipuncture was not used.

Conclusion

This scoping review has described the facilitators and barriers of implementing a POCT device for cardiometabolic conditions using the CFIR. The information can be used to design better strategies to implement these devices and benefit more populations that have low access to cardiometabolic tests.