bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the Effect of α-Fe2O3 Oxides on the BaFe2O4 Pyrosynthesis Temperature - The Digital Processing of TG and DTA Curves
Authors: Ştefan Iulian , Benga Gabriel Constantin , Savu Ionel  Dănuț , Savu Sorin Vasile , Olei Bebe Adrian
Published: September 2021

In the research activities on the barium monoferrite pyrosynthesis, an important place is occupied by TG and DTA analysis. The effects of different hematite (α-Fe2O3) granulations on the BaFe2O4 pyrosynthesis temperature were followed. Four types of commercial hematite powders were used, the difference between them being the fineness of the powder granules and the purity. Only one type of commercial barium carbonate (BaCO3) powder was also used as a barium additive in the BaFe2O4 pyrosynthesis. Each of the 4 types of α-Fe2O3 with BaCO3 were subjected to the homogenization process in a planetary mill for a more intimate mixing of the powders in order to obtain error-free results regarding the pyrosynthesis reaction. To determine BaFe2O4 pyrosynthesis temperature, a derivatograph device was used. All the data obtained with this thermal device were digitally processed in order to extract the two TG and DTA curves. The protective atmosphere in the furnace was nitrogen. BaFe2O4 pyrosynthesis temperatures recorded different values for the four mixtures, depending on the particle size of the α-Fe2O3 powders, protective atmosphere from furnace and the mixing conditions. The effects of Fe2O3 oxides on the BaFe2O4 pyrosynthesis temperature is observed when are used very fine hematite powders in mixtures, obtaining a reduction of pyrosynthesis temperature up to 16% compared to the mixture where the size of the hematite is coarser.
Study on the Effects of Heat Treatments on the Physical and Mechanical Characteristics of 1.4301 Stainless Steel
Authors: Stoicănescu Maria
Published: September 2021

The 1.4301 stainless steel is part of the category of austenitic stainless steels, steels which do no undergo heat treatments in general, as they are intended for hot plastic deformation in particular. The aim of the research presented in this paper was to obtain significantly improved characteristics of the resistance properties in relation to the values obtained under classical conditions, by applying heat treatments. Samples taken from the delivery state material underwent annealing, quenching and ageing heat treatments. Subsequently, the samples thus treated were subjected to tests enabling the determination of the correlations between the heat treatment parameters, the structure and the properties.
The Masteralloy Concept for Sintered Steels - New Impetus for a Classical Approach
Authors: Danninger Herbert , de Oro Calderon Raquel , Geroldinger Stefan , Gierl-Mayer Christian , Dunkley John J.
Published: September 2021

Among the various alloying techniques used in powder metallurgy, the masteralloy concept has been known for a long time. However, its use for production of ferrous precision parts has been hampered by several obstacles such as poor output of the useful fine fractions, high tool wear and slow homogenization kinetics of the alloy elements in the matrix. On the other hand, the masteralloy concept is particularly interesting for introducing cost-effective alloy elements such as Cr, Mn and Si since the masteralloy approach at least alleviates the problems caused by the high oxygen affinity of these elements. In the present study it is shown that recent developments have given a boost to this classical concept, one of these developments being powder manufacturing by high pressure water atomization which dramatically increases the yield of fine masteralloy fractions. The other progress is availability of thermodynamic software that enables defining masteralloy compositions with low melting range and thus fast homogenization also at moderate sintering temperatures. Combined, these new developments open the door for implementation of the masteralloy route in large scale PM parts production.
Oncologic Emergencies
Authors: Brydges Ninotchka , Brydges Garry J.
Published: September 2021

A new cancer diagnosis is expected to affect approximately 1.9 million people in the United States in 2021. A small percentage of these patients will experience an emergent cancer-related complication. Oncologic emergencies may be encountered in emergency departments or require intensive care management. Patients newly diagnosed with cancer are more likely to present with emergencies related to the underlying malignancies. Oncologic emergencies can have various manifestations, ranging from mechanical obstruction due to tumor growth to metabolic derangements due to abnormal secretions from the tumor. Therefore, early identification and treatment of life-threatening oncologic events is critical. Although there are several different types of oncologic emergencies, this article focuses on metabolic emergencies (tumor lysis syndrome and cytoreductive hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy) and structural emergencies (increased intracranial pressure and vena cava thrombus). The purpose of this article is to provide acute care clinicians with an overview of selected oncologic emergencies and their evidence-based management.
Patients With Advanced Cancer Requiring Intensive Care: Reasons for ICU Admission, Mortality Outcomes, and the Role of Palliative Care
Authors: Patel Varsha N. , Stone Stephanie D.
Published: September 2021

Medical advancements in oncology and critical care during the past 2 decades have led to more patients with cancer being admitted to intensive care units. This article discusses the most common reasons for intensive care unit admission and factors associated with mortality among patients with cancer. It also reviews the multiple benefits of palliative care services in caring for critically ill patients with cancer and opportunities for critical care nurses working with these patients.
Severe CMV infection after chemo-immunotherapy with dose- reduced bendamustine and rituximab in an old mantle cell lymphoma patient
Authors: Magliano Gabriele , Cuccaro Annarosa , D'Alo' Francesco , Maiolo Elena , Bellesi Silvia , Hohaus Stefan , Bacigalupo Andrea , Pagano Livio
Published: September 2021

We discuss the case of a 74-year old male patient with mantle cell lymphoma, who faced severe CMV infection after the fifth cycle of first-line chemo-immunotherapy with a dose-reduced bendamustine and rituximab regimen.
PREVALENCE OF SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS AND FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH HIV STATUS AMONG VULNERABLE WOMEN IN NORTHERN UGANDA: BASELINE RESULTS FROM PE ATYE KENA COHORT STUDY
Authors: Segala Francesco Vladimiro , Micheli Giulia , Seguiti Cristina , Pierantozzi Andrea , Lukwiya Robert , Odong Benson , Aloi Francesco , Ochola Emmanuel , Cauda Roberto , De gaetano Donati Katleen , Cingolani Antonella
Published: September 2021

Background and Objectives: HIV infection among vulnerable women (VW) has been attributed to unfavourable power relations and limited access to sexual and reproductive health information and services. Aim of this work is to report sexually-transmitted infections (STI) prevalence and to assess the impact of HIV awareness, demographic and socio-behavioural factors in a rural area of northern Uganda.

Methods: Pe Atye Kena is a longitudinal cohort, intervention study enrolling young women aged 18-49 years old living in the municipality of Gulu, Uganda. HIV, HBV, syphilis serologic tests and electronic comprehensive questionnaire on sexual high-risk behaviours were administered. Statistical analysis was performed by uni- and multivariable regression models.

Results: 461 VW were enrolled (mean age: 29 (SD7.7)). 40 (8.5%) were found to be positive for HIV, 42 (9.1%) for syphilis and 29 (6.3%) for HBV. Older age (> 34 years vs < 24 years; OR 4.95, 95% CI: 1.7 to 14); having done the last HIV test > 12m before the interview (OR 5.21, 95% CI: 2.3 to 11); suspecting the male sexual partner to be HIV+ (OR 2.2; 95% CI: 1.1 to 4.3); not having used condom at first sexual intercourse (OR 2.6; 95% CI 1.3 to 5.15) were all factors associated with an incident HIV diagnosis.

Conclusions: In this cohort, HIV prevalence is high and sexual high-risk behaviors are multifaced; future interventions will be aimed to reduce HIV/STIs misconceptions and to promote a sense of community, self-determination and female empowerment.
Field Efficacy of Larvivorous Fish and Pyriproxyfen Combined with Community Engagement on Dengue Vectors in Cambodia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hustedt John Christian , Doum Dyna , Keo Vanney , Ly Sokha , Sam BunLeng , Chan Vibol , Alexander Neal , Bradley John , Liverani Marco , Prasetyo Didot Budi , Rachmat Agus , Shafique Muhammad , Lopes Sergio , Rithea Leang , Hii Jeffrey
Published: September 2021

Evidence on the effectiveness of low-cost, sustainable biological vector control tools for Aedes mosquitoes is limited. Therefore, the purpose of this trial was to estimate the impact of guppy fish in combination with the larvicide pyriproxyfen (PPF) (Sumilarv® 2MR) and communication for behavioral impact (COMBI) activities to reduce entomological indices in Cambodia. In this cluster randomized, controlled superiority trial, 30 clusters comprised of one or more villages each was allocated in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive either 1) all three interventions (guppies, PPF, and COMBI), 2) two interventions (guppies and COMBI), or 3) control (standard vector control). Entomological surveys among 40 randomly selected households per cluster were carried out quarterly. The primary outcome was the population abundance of adult female Aedes mosquitoes trapped using adult resting collections. In the primary analysis, adult female Aedes abundance and mosquito infection rates was aggregated over follow-up time points to give a single rate per cluster. These data were analyzed by negative binomial regression, yielding abundance ratios (ARs). The number of Aedes females was reduced roughly by half compared with the control in both the guppy, PPF, and COMBI arm (AR = 0.54; 95% CI, 0.34–0.85; P = 0.0073); and the guppy and COMBI arm (AR = 0.49; 95% CI, 0.31–0.77; P = 0.0021). The effectiveness demonstrated and extremely low cost of including fish rearing in community-based health structures suggest they should be considered as a vector control tool as long as the benefits outweigh any potential environmental concerns. Sumilarv® 2MR was also highly accepted and preferred over current vector control tools used in Cambodia.
Intraspecific and Interspecific Phenotypic Differences Confirm the Absence of Cryptic Speciation in Triatoma sordida (Hemiptera, Triatominae)
Authors: Garcia Ariane Cristina Caris , de Oliveira Jader , Cristal Daniel Cesaretto , Delgado Luiza Maria Grzyb , Bittinelli Isadora de Freitas , Galvão Cleber , Britez Nilsa Elizabeth Gonzalez , Carrasco Hernán José , da Rosa João Aristeu , Alevi Kaio Cesar Chaboli
Published: September 2021

Triatoma sordida is an endemic Chagas disease vector in South America, distributed in Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Chromosomal, molecular, isoenzymatic, and cuticular hydrocarbon pattern studies indicate cryptic speciation in T. sordida. Recently, T. rosai was described from specimens from Argentina initially characterized as T. sordida. Although several authors assume that the speciation process that supports this differentiation in T. sordida is the result of cryptic speciation, further morphological and/or morphometric studies are necessary to prove the application of this evolutionary event, because the only morphological intraspecific comparison performed in T. sordida is based on geometric morphometry and the only interspecific comparison made is between T. rosai and T. sordida from Brazil that evaluated morphological and morphometric differences. Based on this, morphological analyses of thorax and abdomen using Scanning Electron Microscopy and morphometric analyses of the head, thorax, and abdomen among T. sordida from Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay, as well as T. rosai, were performed to assess whether the evolutionary process responsible for variations is the cryptic speciation phenomenon. Morphological differences in the thorax and female external genitalia, as well as morphometric differences in the head, thorax, abdomen, pronotum, and scutellum structures, were observed. Based on this, the evolutionary process that supports, so far, these divergences observed for T. sordida populations/T. sordida subcomplex is not cryptic speciation. Moreover, we draw attention to the necessity for morphological/morphometric studies to correctly apply the cryptic species/speciation terms in triatomines.
Status obywatela UE a Europejski Program w zakresie Migracji
Authors: Strąk Katarzyna
Published: September 2021

Przedmiotem tego artykułu jest próba oceny wpływu Europejskiego programu w zakresie migracji z 2015 r. na status obywatela UE. Ocena ta została zrealizowana w kontekście swobody przemieszczania się na podstawie art. 21 TFUE w dwóch obszarach. Pierwszym z nich jest tymczasowe wprowadzenie kontroli na granicach wewnętrznych państw członkowskich UE, drugim – środki przyjmowane przez państwa członkowskie, związane z utrzymaniem porządku publicznego i bezpieczeństwa publicznego, w tym ochroną przed zagrożeniem terrorystycznym. Materiał badawczy jest jednak stosunkowo nieliczny, ogranicza się do wybranych przepisów Kodeksu Granicznego Schengen i wybranych spraw przed Trybunałem Sprawiedliwości UE, w dalszym ciągu w większości przypadków jeszcze nierozstrzygniętych. Mimo to z analizy tej wynika konkretny wniosek. Przepisy unijne, nawet jeśli faktycznie ograniczają sytuację prawną obywateli unijnych, wpisują się w zakres ograniczeń dopuszczalnych. Rzeczywisty wpływ na ograniczenie praw wynikających z posiadania statusu obywatela UE mają przepisy państw członkowskich.

Status of Citizen of the European Union and European Agenda on Migration

The subject of this article is to attempt to assess the impact of the 2015 European Agenda on Migration on the status of an EU citizen. This assessment was carried out in the context of freedom of movement under Article 21 TFEU, within two areas. The first one is the temporary introduction of controls at the internal borders of EU Member States, the second one are measures adopted by Member States and related to the maintenance of public order and public security, including protection against the terrorist threat. The research material is however relatively sparse, limited to selected provisions of the Schengen Borders Code and selected cases before the Court of Justice of the EU, still mostly pending. Nonetheless, one conclusion that emerges from this analysis is that EU rules, even if they actually restrict the legal situation of EU citizens, fall within the scope of acceptable restrictions. The real impact on the limitation of the rights attached to the status of EU citizen is in the Member States’ legislation.
Efficient degradation of doxycycline and ofloxacin in an aqueous environment using Fe and Cu doped TiO2-SiO2 photocatalyst under sunlight
Authors: Rani Sonam , Garg Alok , Singh Neetu
Published: September 2021

Several drugs have sparked interest as potential COVID-19 treatment options. Doxycycline (DOX) has been widely used with other potential agents to reduce COVID-19-induced inflammation. DOX and OFLX, both well-known antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory drugs, were chosen as model pollutants. Fe, Cu-codoped TiO2-SiO2 was synthesised as a novel photocatalyst active under sunlight irradiation to treat model pollutants. The synthesised catalyst samples were meticulously characterised using various techniques to evaluate their morphological, optical, and structural properties. The results of BET analysis showed that the TSFC1 sample has a large specific surface area of 288 m2g-1. Maximum degradation of DOX and OFLX (about 98%) was achieved with the TSFC1 catalyst. The photocatalytic reusability was investigated for up to seven successive cycles, and the composite particles maintained their high photodegradation activity for DOX and OFLX. TFSC1 composite, in particular, demonstrated high catalytic activity as well as excellent recovery potential, and its combination with solar light, silica, and dopants can be introduced as a promising strategy for efficiently destroying both DOX and OFLX antibiotics. This study highlights the feasibility of hybridising doped dual semiconductor nanostructures in implementing solar light-powered pharmaceutical wastewater degradation.
Citrinin u kukuruzu s hrvatskih obiteljskih gospodarstava tijekom petogodišnjeg razdoblja
Authors: Pleadin Jelka , Markov Ksenija , Dergestin Bačun Lidija , Kmetič Ivana , Frece Jadranka , Lešić Tina , Kudumija Nina
Published: September 2021

Mikotoksini učestalo kontaminiraju hranu i hranu za životinje, prvenstveno žitarice i proizvode na bazi žitarica. Citrinin je mikotoksin kojeg sintetiziraju pojedine plijesni iz roda Penicillium, Aspergillus i Monascus, među kojima je P. citrinum njegov najznačajniji producent. S obzirom na nedostatnost podataka o razinama citrinina u žitaricama, u okviru ovog istraživanja analizirane se njegove koncentracije u kukuruzu (n=158) sa obiteljskih poljoprivrednih gospodarstava u Hrvatskoj tijekom petogodišnjeg razdoblja (2017.-2021.). Citrinin je detektiran u 25,3 % uzoraka kukuruza prikupljenih na području cijele Hrvatske tijekom petogodišnjeg razdoblja. Najveća prosječna koncentracija utvrđena je 2016. godine (162,9±162,0 µg/kg) te 2020. godine (154,9±358,8 µg/kg), a najveća koncentracija od 968,6 µg/kg određena je u 2020. godini u uzorku kukuruza uzorkovanom na području južne regije. S obzirom na utvrđenu značajniju kontaminaciju pojedinih uzoraka, može se zaključiti o nužnosti sustavnog nadzora citrinina u hrani i hrani za životinje, kao i definiranju najvećih dopuštenih količina ovog mikotoksina u okviru zakonodavstva.
Spatial and Temporal Analysis of b-value Imaging Characteristics Using High Precision Earthquake Spot in the Sumatran Subduction Zone
Authors: Syukri Muhammad
Published: September 2021

Sumatra is one of the Indonesian regions categorized as active tectonics. The majority of past earthquakes in Sumatra and its surrounding areas have originated from the accumulated stress in the subduction zone, namely the submergence of the Indo-Australian plate against the Eurasian plate. This research was conducted to identify the level of accumulated stress and earthquake-prone areas in the subduction zone of Sumatra Island based on the spatial variation of the b-value, using the least square method. The data used in this study are earthquake parameter data from the International Seismological Center the United States Geological Survey and Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency catalogs from 2005-2019 with a magnitude ≥ 1 and a depth of 0-200 km located 90° to 106°E and -6° to 5.8°S. The results showed that the spatial variation of the b-value in the subduction zone of Sumatra Island in 2005-2009 ranged from 0.31-0.77, the b-value for 2010-2014 ranged from 0.18-1.29. In 2015-2019, the spatial variation of b-values ranged from 0.28-1.2. Earthquake-prone areas are located around Breuh Island, Banyak Islands, and Sipura and Pagai Islands, as evidenced by a low b-value, correlating with a high level of unreleased accumulated stress from the past 15 years, leading to an immense earthquake potential in the next period within the area. This analysis shows very significantly found that high b-value matches with earthquake spots. Detailed spatial and temporal b-value characteristics and its interpretation can advance our comprehension of earthquake occurrence and ideally lead to improved forecasting agility.
Structural Interpretation of Yamama and Naokelekan Formations in Tuba Oil Field Using 2D Seismic Data
Authors: Odeh Belal M.
Published: September 2021

This research includes structure interpretation of the Yamama Formation (Lower Cretaceous) and the Naokelekan Formation (Jurassic) using 2D seismic reflection data of the Tuba oil field region, Basrah, southern Iraq. The two reflectors (Yamama and Naokelekan) were defined and picked as peak and tough depending on the 2D seismic reflection interpretation process, based on the synthetic seismogram and well log data. In order to obtain structural settings, these horizons were followed over all the regions. Two-way travel-time maps, depth maps, and velocity maps have been produced for top Yamama and top Naokelekan formations. The study concluded that certain longitudinal enclosures reflect anticlines in the east and west of the study area representing Zubair and Rumaila fold confined between them a fold consist of two domes represents Tuba fold with the same trending of Zubair and Rumaila structures. The study confirmed the importance of this field as a reservoir of the accumulation of hydrocarbons.
Scientific knowledge - first stage for experiments in the humanities
Authors:   Tiraspol State University, Cernei Andriana
Published: September 2021

In the contemporary society also called the knowledge society, science is the most important form of knowledge development. Knowledge is a specialized area of spiritual production, with its own tools of knowledge, experience and traditions of research activities, an information and communication system, experimental and laboratory equipment, etc. In this sense, scientific knowledge requires the conscious application of specially developed methods, which are based on previous achievements of knowledge. This article makes an incursion into the concept of scientific knowledge, it is proposed to classify scientific knowledge into levels, being revealed the means and methods of scientific knowledge of social phenomena. Also here with reference to these means and methods of scientific knowledge of social phenomena is detailed the module of choice 5B: Experimental methods in humanities in computer science in the twelfth grade, describes the contradictions that have increased attention to this problem, the problem is formulated research, together with the purpose and objectives of the research, mentioning the expected results.
The topicality and importance of museum education in collaboration of educational institution with families in the context of scientific thinking development
Authors:   Technical University of Moldova, Munteanu Angela
Published: September 2021

The article contains a theoretical study, which reflects the importance and possibilities of museum education by reproducing strategies and forms of collaboration of the museum with educational institutions, the family and other socio-cultural actors. At the same time, the author reflects the role of research, development of scientific thinking, formation of moral qualities and the affective-emotional sphere during museum visits. The influence on visitors, museum exhibitions, various themes, the architecture of the museum building, information technologies capitalized in combination with classical forms and methods of education is elucidated.
Faculty and Student Perceptions of a Physical Therapy Professional Behavior Mentoring Program
Authors: Frese Ethel , Cavallo Cheryl , Hawthorne Kelly , Kettenback Ginge , Yemm Barbara
Published: September 2021

Purpose: Mentoring is a process and a relationship between a novice and an expert that fosters intellectual, personal, and professional growth. The purposes and scope of this article are to describe 1) the structured professional development component of a comprehensive mentoring program for students in a physical therapy program; and 2) the perceptions of faculty and students regarding this mentoring program. Method: Faculty and students completed electronic questionnaires developed specifically for each group. Results: Return rate was 54.50% (N=286) for physical therapist students and 100% (N=18) for physical therapy faculty. Student positive ratings regarding the mentoring program exceeded 89.00%. Additionally, 76.75% of the students reported seeking feedback and advice from their faculty mentor to make informed decisions. Students perceived their mentors to be committed to helping them achieve their personal/professional goals (94.96%). Faculty mentors reported that they enjoy being mentors (94.12%), believe they have a responsibility to assist in the professional socialization of mentees (100.00%), and that mentees benefitted from meeting with them regarding professional behavior issues (92.86%). Conclusions: Faculty mentors and student mentees perceive that students benefit from mentoring regarding professional behavior issues and that the mentoring program is valuable and worth the time spent participating in it. We suggest that the process and documents developed by the Program in Physical Therapy may be used as a basis for critical dialogue within other academic units for the purpose of determining the desired professional behavior mentoring system for that particular academic entity.
Designing a Curriculum to Meet the Needs of Caregivers of Patients who had a Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA) Living in Local Communities in Zimbabwe
Authors: Kaseke Farayi , Challender Amelia , Rapport Mary Jane
Published: September 2021

Background: Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA), or stroke, has become an epidemic in Zimbabwe with the incidence rising significantly over the past two decades. Most patients in Zimbabwe who have had a CVA are initially admitted into a hospital for the acute phase of care and later discharged back to the community and into the care of their family. Although caregivers are forced to suddenly take on a critical role in the daily care and rehabilitation of the person who has had a stroke and continues to have disabilities, there is little to prepare someone for these responsibilities at the time the patient returns home or even in the weeks and months following. Caregiver support, which can be extended through education in how to assist the patient with daily routines and mobility, has been shown to improve the quality of life of patients and caregivers. The need to develop a standardized curriculum for use with family and other primary caregivers was identified by faculty involved in health professions education at the University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences. The primary purpose of the curriculum was to meet the needs of caregivers responsible for individuals who had a CVA and returned to live in their local communities in Zimbabwe. Purpose: Thus, the purpose of this paper is to describe the process of curriculum development, from needs assessment through curricular design and evaluation, as an opportunity to demonstrate how physical therapists and other allied health professionals can address community need through curriculum design. Methods: A questionnaire was developed to ascertain curricular content from the people who had a stroke and designated caregivers. Results: Intended outcomes of the curriculum included evidence of (1) decreased caregiver burden among caregivers responsible for people who have survived a stroke and returned to live in their local communities in Zimbabwe; and (2) increased function and health related quality of life of the patient who has had a stroke and of their caregiver over a period of one year. Conclusion: Although this curriculum was designed specifically to meet the needs of caregivers in Zimbabwe, the process for curriculum development and the curriculum content can be adapted in many other countries and for other rehabilitation related situations.
Caregivers of Stroke Survivors: Exploring the Role of Spousal Caregivers through an Occupational Therapy Lens
Authors: Knecht-Sabres Lisa , Kammer Karley , Kilian Matthew , Veverka Kim
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the occupational needs of caregivers of stroke survivors and to identify potential implications for occupational therapy’s role with this population. Methods: Focus groups and a semi-structured interview were used to gather an in-depth perspective on caregivers’ needs and level of participation in valued activities. Interactions were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis included open coding, formulation of categorical patterns, and thematic analysis. Rigor was enhanced through peer review, multiple coders, member checking, and triangulation. Results: Four primary themes emerged: (1) the essential need for additional services and support; (2) the amount of time spent on addressing spouses’ needs resulted in occupational loss; (3) finding new ways to participate in daily life activities; and, (4) an association between the survivor’s level of impairment and the caregiver’s quality of life. Conclusion: Demands of caregiving can lead to changes in roles, responsibilities, and routines. OT practitioners are uniquely qualified to reinstate valued occupations into daily life, formulate balanced routines, and provide client specific supports and resources. OT services could provide strategies to enhance caregivers’ ability to partake in meaningful occupations and resume a balanced lifestyle. More research is needed to determine the occupational needs of caregivers and the effectiveness of caregiver interventions.
Opportunities and Challenges in The Use of an External Interprofessional Reviewing Body in a Curricular Review Process in a Doctor of Physical Therapy Curriculum
Authors: FitzGerald Jill , Hawthorne Kelly
Published: September 2021

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to describe the opportunities and challenges of a curricular review process in an entry-level doctor of physical therapy geriatric curriculum. The curricular review process utilized an external interprofessional reviewing body, in conjunction with an established internal curricular reviewing body, to determine inclusion of Essential Competencies in order to prepare students for best clinical practice in the care of the older adult. Method: The methodology of our curricular review process included both internal and external reviewing bodies but the intent of this article is to highlight how the review process was implemented including an external interprofessional reviewing body. The internal reviewing body involved two faculty members with expertise in geriatrics, the Program Curriculum Committee members, and the faculty members within the entry-level doctor of physical therapy program. The external reviewing body was comprised of the 2012-2014 members of the Faculty Development Collaborative Program in Geriatrics (FDCPG), a national interprofessional learning community representing multiple disciplines involved in the care of older adults. Results: The outcomes of including an external interprofessional reviewing body in the geriatric curricular review process were: the FDCPG justified the need for the review of the Essential Competencies, deemed their role as important in healthcare education, and reported a greater understanding of the role of physical therapists as part of an interprofessional healthcare team. The Program Curriculum Committee created a policy for consideration of other published competencies, including a recommendation for “other necessary consultation” based on our use of an external reviewing body, noting its value. The outcomes of the overall curricular review process included: 53/61 Essential Competencies were identified as already in the curriculum and the remaining 8/61 Essential Competencies were added. Conclusions and Recommendations: The addition of an external interprofessional reviewing body to an already established internal reviewing body within the geriatric curricular review process in an entry-level doctor of physical therapy program produced a curriculum that will hopefully prepare students for best clinical practice in the care of the older adult. This comprehensive curricular review process involved opportunities and challenges yet still can be used across multiple disciplines, across multiple curricular structures, and is in line with the current state of healthcare practice.
Enhancing Entry-Level Physiotherapy Student Learning in Interpreting Radiology – An Action Research Project
Authors: Clark Courtney , Bialocerkowski Andrea
Published: September 2021

Purpose: In Australia, the ability to interpret orthopaedic x-rays is an entry-level skill for physiotherapists. Yet there is a paucity of evidence in the literature which details effective learning and teaching methods to optimise confidence and competence in x-ray interpretation. The aims of this study were to describe the content contained in an orthopaedic radiology module within an Australian 2-year graduate entry Master of Physiotherapy degree; approaches to learning and teaching used in this module; student satisfaction associated with this module over a 2-year period. Method: The University’s framework for quality assurance, which is based on the Plan-Implement-Review-Improve underpinned this action research project. The content of the radiology module was reviewed and feedback was gained from a student focus group and standard university course data. Data were analysed using descriptive content analysis and descriptive statistics to identify areas for improvement. Changes to the module were then developed and implemented, and the effect of these changes were evaluated using a custom-designed survey. Results: It was found that didactic methods of teaching were used in this module that encouraged surface level learning. Students reported feeling stressed during the radiology examination due to the learning tasks and assessment being disconnected, and often reported difficulty transferring knowledge into the clinical placement setting. Constructive alignment was undertaken of learning activities and assessment tasks. An additional non-compulsory tutorial was added to the radiology module, where scaffolding and cooperative learning techniques were used to teach students x-ray interpretation. Students reported that the revised curriculum increased their confidence in interpreting x-rays. Students’ competence in x-ray interpretation also increased based on a significant increase in score on their radiology examination. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study the addition of a tutorial that focused on interpretation of x-ray films to supplement radiology teaching improved entry-level physiotherapy students’ confidence and competence in interpreting x-rays and their perceived preparedness for clinical placement in a small entry-level physiotherapy cohort at a single Australian University.
The Development of Narrative Reasoning: Student Physical Therapists’ Perceptions of Patient Stories
Authors: Nesbit Kathryn , Randall Kenneth , Hamilton Toby
Published: September 2021

Narrative reasoning is an inductive cognitive strategy used to understand patients’ experiences with illness within the biosocial context of their lives. The purpose of this study is to examine the meaning of the patient’s illness experience to physical therapist students and propose a theory of narrative reasoning development in these novice clinicians.The data collected from twenty-one first year physical therapy students consisted of narratives written during their clinical internships describing a patient’s experience with illness and post-internship interviews telling the patient’s story. Data were analyzed in a process of constant comparison, evolving codes, and researcher memoing using both grounded theory and narrative analyses. Themes that emerged in open coding and core categories were validated in selective coding. In the final stage of theoretical coding, relationships between the saturated core categories and relevance to current theory were established. The final result was a model of the development of narrative reasoning, illustrating contributions to current theory. The main themes that emerged from the data related to the novice therapist’s development of narrative reasoning were in four areas: perspective, clinical narrative focus, reflective skills, and therapeutic alliance. The theoretical model advanced by this study is a recursive, spiraling developmental process of narrative reasoning through phases that are influenced by drivers and/or barriers. The process includes co-construction of narrative reasoning through encounters with patients, families, clinical instructors and other team members. Establishing a therapeutic alliance is a pivotal point in the development of narrative reasoning and is based on an empathic perspective and strengthened through a reflective approach. In conclusion, this study contributes to the understanding of the development of narrative reasoning. This model of narrative reasoning in student physical therapists has implications for educational interventions aimed at providing learning experiences that parallel the development of narrative reasoning.
An Initiative to Build Research Capacity within a Physiotherapy Department: Hits and Misses Over a 20-year Period
Authors: Stiller Kathy , Haensel Naomi
Published: September 2021

Purpose: Building research capacity within a busy clinical allied health department is important but can be limited by time, resources and expertise. In 1995, a role was created in our Physiotherapy Department whereby an individual with an interest and expertise in clinical research was identified and a proportion of their workload (12 hours/week) designated to fulfil a research co-ordination role. The aim of this role was to foster research and build research capacity within the Physiotherapy Department. This paper reports the achievements associated with this initiative to highlight its successes, difficulties and failures. Method: A retrospective descriptive review of research and other research-related activities undertaken over a 20-year period within the Physiotherapy Department of an adult, tertiary, public hospital was carried out, with particular attention to successes, difficulties and failures. Results: Since the introduction of a designated research co-ordinator in 1995, there have been 54 major publications in peer-reviewed journals and 91 presentations at a national/international conferences. Successes have included the high number of publications/presentations, the broad range of clinical areas where research has been undertaken, the clinical relevance of the research, the large number of staff involved, collaboration with other hospital departments/universities and staff involvement in post-graduate degrees. Difficulties have included slow recruitment rates to clinical trials, resource issues and lack of career structure for those interested in pursuing research as a career option within the healthcare sector. Failures have been infrequent but have included the need to abandon three studies due to recruitment or personnel issues, and a single instance of the inadvertent use of incorrect data. Conclusions: Identifying a clinician with an interest and expertise in clinical research and quarantining time to enable them to fulfil a broader research co-ordinating role was successful at fostering research and building research capacity within a clinical allied health department.
Supervision in Practice Education and Transition to Practice: Student and New Graduate Perceptions
Authors: Melman Sophie , Ashby Samantha , James Carole
Published: September 2021

Purpose: Transitioning into occupational therapy practice is a complex process in which new graduates develop their skills and professional identity. Evidence suggests this process requires guidance and support through supervision. This study investigated final year students’ and newly graduated occupational therapists’ perceptions and expectations of the role and efficacy of supervision as they transition into practice. Methods: A cross sectional online survey was sent to final year students and newly graduated occupational therapists within Australia and New Zealand, to explore experiences, perceptions, and the content of supervision received in practice. Results: Of 151 participants, 96% received supervision from an experienced occupational therapist and reported it facilitated skill development and enhanced quality of service to clients; however 4% reported they do not receive supervision in practice. The frequency of supervision decreased between students (63% weekly) and new graduates (41% monthly) and perceptions of supervision effectiveness changed over time. Conclusions: The transition to occupational therapy practice is complex and perceptions of the effectiveness of supervision change. Provision of education regarding supervision within undergraduate curriculum, and training for supervisors may alleviate associated stressors. Increasing the frequency of supervision and understanding the supervisory role may support transitioning into practice.
A Comparison of Various Monoclonal Antibodies to the Previous Standard of Care Chemotherapy in the Treatment of Advanced-Stage Melanoma
Authors: Verde Kevin , Johnson Lauren , Clancy Alex , Goldberg Ashley , Monden Aleia , Philip Priya
Published: September 2021

In the year 2015, it is estimated that the number of new cases of invasive melanoma will be 42,670 in males and 31,200 in females.1 Melanoma is treatable with early diagnosis; however, more advanced disease has devastating outcomes. For the past decade, two chemotherapy agents, dacarbazine and temozolomide, have been the treatment of choice for advanced stage III or IV melanoma requiring systemic treatment. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) therapy has been used but with serious side effects. More recently, the focus has shifted to monoclonal antibodies and enzyme inhibitors as the main systemic treatment for advanced cutaneous melanoma. This literature review gathered several studies which looked at the use of monoclonal antibodies, and compared monoclonal antibodies to conventional chemotherapy to assess whether there is a significant difference in tumor response, sustained remissions and side effect profile. An extensive medical literature review was conducted with PubMed and Cochrane databases using the keywords: “monoclonal antibody,” “melanoma,” and “treatment.” This list of articles was further narrowed by specific inclusion and exclusion criteria as well as reviewed for validity and quality using the GRADE system. Seven clinical trials were included in this literature review. One observational study evaluated the overall safety and efficacy of monoclonal antibodies, while another compared monoclonal antibodies versus placebo under the same variables. Three of the research studies were randomized clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of monoclonal antibodies in comparison to chemotherapy. Two retrospective studies assessed patients from expanded access programs who did not meet criteria to participate in a clinical trial. All seven studies had similar inclusion and exclusion criteria and the patients were prognostically similar before starting treatment. Six out of the seven studies demonstrated superiority of monoclonal antibodies advanced-stage melanoma treatment. One study failed to demonstrate a statistically significant survival advantage over traditional chemotherapy. The use of monoclonal antibodies has been demonstrated to be a more specific and effective treatment approach than other therapies tried in the past. While monoclonal antibodies have demonstrated efficacy in first line treatment for advanced stage melanoma, further research is necessary to determine which combination of medications is most beneficial for these patients.
Effectiveness of a Wearable Fitness Tracker: Practice Implications in Allied Health -- a Single Case Study
Authors: Miller Thomas
Published: September 2021

ABSTRACT Purpose: The purpose of this single case study was to examine the effectiveness of utilizing a wearable fitness tracker device in self-monitoring behavior change in complying with prescribed treatment. It was hypothesized that using a wearable self-monitoring device while involved in the treatment of multiple medical conditions will be beneficial to behavioral compliance and behavioral change in an overweight type 2 diabetic, geriatric subject being treated by a multidisciplinary health team utilizing an integrated treatment model. Methods: An exploratory single case study research design is employed to explore those situations in which the intervention, a wearable monitoring device, is employed. This observational case study model was applied to the utility of self-monitoring wearable smart technology marketed as FitBit for self-monitoring activity and exercise over a 36-week period. Results: After the 36-week intervention program, results revealed qualitative improvements in the (1) active minutes, (2) steps taken and (3) miles walked by the subject. In addition, the technology reported on calories burned, sleep hours and minutes logged and liquid consumed during each 24-hour period. The integrated allied health team was able to monitor changes made over time and noted improved time dedicated to exercise, walking and total miles walked. On miles walked per day, the results show that the subject increased miles walked from less than one mile per day to more than 4.6 miles per day which approached the recommended 5 miles per day goal. The calorie monitor aided the subject in changing calorie intake from that which exceeded 3500 per day to the recommended 2500 calories per day. Furthermore, the hours slept per night changed from less than 6.8 per night to 8.1 per day. Conclusions: It was concluded that a 36-week intervention program can be an effective intervention methodology for improved health and well-being as measured by standard healthcare and wellness markers utilizing a wearable fitness tracker device like the Fitbit. While further research is needed with a larger sample, it is therefore recommended that allied health professionals consider the utilization of wearable smart technology as an adjunct to self-monitoring and compliance with treatment planning and follow-up care with allied health care providers.
A Retrospective Review of the After-Hours Social Work Service in a Tertiary-Care Public Hospital in Australia
Authors: Pereira Manoj , Wire Georgina , Stiller Kathy
Published: September 2021

Purpose: After-hours social work (SW) services seem to be provided in many major healthcare centres but there appear to be no data describing these services, in terms of the number of patients seen, their characteristics, types of problems, SW interventions provided, their effectiveness or the impact of providing after-hours services on the provider. The aim of this study was to investigate the patient characteristics and types of interventions provided to patients who received an after-hours SW service and the effect of providing these services on the service-provider. Method: A retrospective review of data collected on patients who had received after-hours SW service for urgent/crisis scenarios over a three-year period in a tertiary-care public hospital in Australia was undertaken, with two illustrative case scenarios. Results: A total of 172 occasions of service were delivered, with most services provided to patients/families in the Emergency Department (ED) or Intensive Care Unit (ICU) following trauma or with a medical condition. Counselling for trauma, grief or loss were the types of interventions most often provided. Interventions were most frequently rated by the SW-provider as highly complex and imperative. At times, providing the after-hours service negatively impacted on the service-provider the following day, with tiredness and hypervigilance most frequently reported. Conclusion: An after-hours SW service within a tertiary-care hospital was provided approximately five times/month, predominantly involving counselling to patients/families in the ED or ICU, and rated as highly complex and imperative. These results provide evidence, albeit anecdotal, that an after-hours SW service is of value in this setting.