bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Grape Seed Extract and Urolithiasis: Protection Against Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Alomair Manar Khalid , Alobaid Amjad Abdullah , Almajed Marwah Abdulaziz Ali , Alabduladheem Lama Salman , Alkhalifah Essraa Abdulrahman , Mohamed Maged Elsayed , Younis Nancy Safwat 
Published: March 2023

Background Grape seed extract (GSE) has demonstrated various pharmacological actions. Urolithiasis is the occurrence of calculus in the renal system. The present study evaluated the anti-urolithic effect of GSE on ethylene glycol (EG) and ammonium chloride (AC)-induced experimental urolithiasis in rats. Materials and Methods Rats were assigned into six groups; Normal control and Normal + GSE, in which rats received standard drinking water and GSE orally daily, respectively; Urolithiatic animals received EG with AC in drinking water for 28 days; Urolithiatic animals + GSE, in which rats were administered EG with AC in drinking water and GSE 100 and 200 mg/kg orally; and Urolithiatic + cystone, where rats received EG with AC in drinking water and 750 g/kg of cystone as a standard drug orally. Results Urolithiatic animals showed a significant decrease in excreted magnesium and citrate and antioxidant enzymes, whereas they exhibited amplified oxalate crystal numbers, urinary excreted calcium, phosphate, oxalate ions, uric acid, intensified renal function parameters, lipid peroxidation, and inflammatory mediators. Management with GSE and cystone significantly augmented urolithiasis inhibitors (excreted magnesium and citrate) and amplified the antioxidant enzymes’ activities. GSE reduced oxalate crystal numbers and urolithiasis promoters, including excreted calcium, oxalate, phosphate, and uric acid excretion, lessened renal function parameters, and declined lipid peroxidation and the inflammatory mediators. Conclusion GSE could protect against EG-induced renal stones as evidenced by mitigated kidney dysfunction, histological alterations, and oxalate crystal formation. This action may be related to the antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory activities of the extracts.
Investigation of the Relationship Between Xenophobic Attitude and Intercultural Sensitivity Level in Health Education Students
Authors: Yıldız Metin , Yildirim Mehmet Salih , Elkoca Ayşe , Varol Ela , Aydin Muhammet Ali , Dege Gökhan 
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Intercultural sensitivity and xenophobia levels of health education students can affect the care they give to the patient. It is important to know the level of intercultural sensitivity and xenophobia of students receiving health education and to determine the relationship between them. The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between xenophobic attitudes and intercultural sensitivity among university students. Methods: This quantitative cross-sectional research was conducted in between January and June 2022 with health education students. The study conducted with health education students at Gumushane University and Agri Ibrahim Cecen University. Child Development, Nursing, Emergency Management Services/Technicians, Nutrition and Dietetics, Elderly care, Social services, Medical Laboratory Techniques, and Disabled Care studying at these universities were included in the study. Students who received health education and wanted to participate voluntarily in the study were included. Students aged 18 and over, studying in the health education department of the university, studying in the 1, 2, 3, 4th classes and volunteering to participate in the study were included in the study. The Introductory Information Form, the Xenophobia Scale, and the Intercultural Sensitivity Scale were used to collect the research data. Results: This study was conducted with 789 students. According to our study, a significant negative correlation was found between the students’ xenophobia scale and the intercultural sensitivity scale total score means ( p < .05). Intercultural sensitivity has a negative and significant effect on the level of xenophobia (β = -0.116; t (787) = -3.283, p = .001). A significant difference was found between the students’ Xenophobia Scale total score mean and gender, department, and grade ( p < .05) as was the case between Intercultural Sensitivity Scale total score mean and gender, department, grade, immigrant acquaintance, and foreign language knowledge (English language) level ( p < .05). Discussion: Intercultural sensitivity has a negative and significant effect on the level of xenophobia. It can negatively affect the level of caregiving of students receiving health education. It is thought that intercultural sensitivity will be developed by including course content in the curriculum to increase students’ intercultural effectiveness and awareness levels and to reduce xenophobic prejudices.
Prevalence of Personality Disorders in Adults With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Authors: Adamis Dimitrios , Kasianenko Dmytro , Usman Memoona , Saleem Faisal , Wrigley Margo , Gavin Blánaid , McNicholas Fiona 
Published: March 2023

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of PDs according to Millon’s evolution-based model among adult ADHD outpatients. Method: Cross-sectional study of consecutive patients referred to an adult ADHD clinic. PDs were evaluated with Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory–III (MCMI-III). Results: One-hundred-eighty-one participants had valid MCMI-III, of whom147 were diagnosed with ADHD. Mean age: 32.97, SD:11.56, females: 74 (50.3%). Among the 147 participants with ADHD, 29 (19.7%) did not meet criteria for any PD, 43 (29.3%) met the criteria for one PD, 34 (23.1%) for two PDs and the rest three or more. Most common PD was Dependent ( n = 58) followed by Depressive ( n = 45). Inattentive sub-type was associated with dependent PD, while combined type with antisocial, negativistic (passive/aggressive) and sadistic PD. Conclusion: Particular personality profiles were more common with different ADHD subtypes. Given the developmental origins of PD, further research may help identify possible links with childhood difficulties.
Impact of COVID-19 on social work field education: Perspectives of Canadian social work students
Authors: Au Cara , L. Drolet Julie , Kaushik Vibha , Charles Grant , Franco Monica , Henton Jesse , Hirning Marina , McConnell Sheri , Nicholas David , Nickerson Amanda , Ossais Jessica , Shenton Heather , Sussman Tamara , Verdicchio Gabriela , Walsh Christine A. , Wickman Jayden 
Published: March 2023

Social work field education has experienced major disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while also embracing new opportunities to grow. The Transforming the Field Education Landscape research partnership developed a cross-sectional web-based survey with closed- and open-ended questions to understand student perceptions of COVID-19’s impacts on social work field education. The survey opened during the first wave of the pandemic from July 8 to 29, 2020 and was completed by 367 Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) students across Canada. Quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Respondents experienced reduced practicum hours and placements terminating early or moving online. Students were concerned about gaining adequate experience for future job prospects. They were generally positive about academic institutional responses to COVID-19 but described financial challenges with tuition costs and a lack of paid practica. Respondents were mostly satisfied with practicum supervision. They experienced negative impacts of COVID-19 on mental health with isolation and remote learning and described a lack of institutional mental health support. Students were concerned with missing direct practice skills, while some students reported more flexible hours, access to online events beyond their region, and increased research experience. They expressed a need for practicum flexibility and accommodation. Recommendations include an increase in flexibility and accommodations for practicum students, exchanges of promising and wise field education practices, and accessible postsecondary mental health supports. Professional development opportunities should support graduates who missed learning opportunities in their practicum.
Empowerment in old age: A ladder of user participation in social services for older people
Authors: Kam Ping Kwong 
Published: March 2023

Summary This article indicates how to achieve empowerment in old age by promoting user participation in social services for older people. Common empowerment strategies include promoting community and political participation, the seniors’ power movement, and policy advocacy. More effective strategies for empowering older people need to be identified and explored to respond effectively to increasing global aging problems. The article discusses user participation in social services for older people as another valuable strategy and presents the values and core beliefs for promoting user participation in social services for older people. Theoretical advances It proposes a ladder of user participation to provide social workers with clear guidelines for creating suitable channels for involving older people in meaningful and greater participation. The proposed ladder comprises seven levels including (1) being consulted and giving feedback; (2) increasing opportunities for service users to make choices; (3) involvement in daily service management and implementation; (4) assisting in running programs and activities; (5) assuming an active role in groups and projects; (6) working in partnership and sharing power; and (7) involvement in decision-making and control over services. Applications It provides examples of effective ways of promoting the ladder of user participation in centers for older people at each level and discusses principles of practice in implementation.
Some Durability Aspects of Thermoplastics for Oilfield Flexible Pipes
Authors: Campion Robert , Morgan Glyn , Samulak Michael 
Published: March 2023

Some initial mechanical property, fatigue, high pressure (HP) methane permeation and explosive decompression data are reported for plasticized PVDF thermoplastics before and after various exposures in two fluids. The exposures were for different times and elevated temperatures, and were usually performed at 5000psi (345 bar). The fluids were a 97/3 methane/carbon-dioxide mixture saturated with water vapour, and 100% methanol, both of which induce some physical or physico-chemical changes in the material, but negligible chemical change. Thus measurements were made using reasonable simulations of fluids which could be met in oil production flexible pipe service. Effects of ‘extra’ plasticisation by absorbed gas, deplasticisation of actual plasticizer, and ageing, are shown for some combinations. Arrhenius-type plots for HP methane permeation, allowing predictions of rates at other temperatures, and showing hydrostatic compaction effects, have been obtained: HP methane permeation rate is reduced by prior exposure to the methane/carbon-dioxide gas, but is increased in the presence of methanol.
Nucleation of Impact Modified Filled Polypropylene
Authors: Shanks Robert A. 
Published: March 2023

Nucleation of polypropylene is important in determining its mechanical properties. Nucleation in polypropylene is nearly always found to be heterogeneous. Control is best achieved by addition of a nucleant. Addition of a filler can provide nucleation, as well as enhancing stiffness. Formation of blends with other polymers can change nucleation depending on the partition of the nucleant between polypropylene and the other polymer, and the nucleant activity of the interface with the other polymer. Other crystalline forms can be obtained, depending on the crystallisation conditions and additives. For instance alpha and beta forms, and transcrystallinity occur. This paper reviews the interplay of these variables on polypropylene morphology and properties.
New Electrically Conducting Polymeric Fillers
Authors: Bandara A.J. , Curley J. 
Published: March 2023

Conducting polymers have been known since the early 1940s. They have been made by incorporating a randomly dispersed conducting filler into a polymer matrix to form conducting composites. The traditional fillers are carbon black, graphite, and metal powders etc. Over the past two decades, a multitude of intrinsically conducting polymers have been developed, such as poly(p-phenylene vinylene), poly(p-phenylene sulfide), polypyrrole, polythiophene, and polyquinoline (ladder polymers). The structural features which endow conductivity also cause processing problems which make the direct use of these polymers difficult. It is essential to overcome these problems and one solution is to use the conducting polymers as particulate fillers for otherwise insulating plastics. A variety of novel intrinsically conducting polymers have been synthesised and this paper reports the electrical conductivity of the filled systems. Another method of producing conducting composites has been investigated, involving immersing polymer films containing monomers such as pyrrole or aniline into various aqueous oxidant solutions. One advantage of this method is that highly transparent conducting films can be prepared.
High Performance Environments: The Case for Polymeric Flexible Hoses*
Authors: Simmons David 
Published: March 2023

The connecting elements, particularly hoses, in fluid power systems often endure most stress. The demands on hoses are increasing, requiring improved performance in difficult operating environments. The various factors in high performance environments are examined: pressure, temperature, aggressive fluids, abrasion resistance, service lifetime, small installation and operating space and offshore conditions. Following an analysis of the various elements in thermoplastic hose construction, the ability of thermoplastic hoses to fulfil the demanding factors in high performance environments is discussed. It is concluded that thermoplastic hoses provide the optimum solutions to many application problems.
Can the microcystic, elongated and fragmented pattern of invasion influence the evaluation of the depth of myometrial invasion in low-grade endometrioid endometrial cancer using imaging techniques?
Authors: Cubo-Abert Montserrat , Rodríguez-Mías Nuria-Laia , Bradbury Melissa , Pérez-Hoyos Santiago , Vera Marta , García-Jiménez Ángel , Gómez-Cabeza Juan-José , Capell-Morell Montserrat , Pérez-Benavente Maria-Assumpció , Díaz-Feijoo Berta , Gil-Moreno Antonio 
Published: March 2023

Objectives: The microcystic, elongated and fragmented pattern of invasion can be associated with an underestimation of the depth of myometrial invasion by imaging techniques. We aimed to evaluate the influence of microcystic, elongated and fragmented pattern of invasion in the diagnostic performance of transvaginal ultrasound scan and magnetic resonance imaging for the prediction of the depth of myometrial invasion in low-grade endometrioid endometrial carcinomas. Methods: Prospective and consecutive study including all low-grade (G1-G2) endometrioid endometrial carcinomas diagnosed between October 2013 and July 2018 in a tertiary hospital. Preoperative staging was performed with transvaginal ultrasound scan and/or magnetic resonance imaging followed by surgical staging. Final histology was considered as the reference standard. Sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy for the prediction of depth of myometrial invasion was calculated for both imaging techniques. The STARD 2015 guidelines were used. Results: A total of 136 patients were consecutively included. Transvaginal ultrasound scan was performed in 132 patients and magnetic resonance imaging in 119 patients. The diagnostic accuracy of transvaginal ultrasound scan for the prediction of depth of myometrial invasion in the microcystic, elongated and fragmented negative group (82% (95% confidence interval = 73–88)) was higher compared to the microcystic, elongated and fragmented positive group (61% (95% confidence interval = 36–83)). The diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging was also higher in the microcystic, elongated and fragmented negative group (80% (95% confidence interval = 71–87)) compared to the microcystic, elongated and fragmented positive (47% (95% confidence interval = 21–73)). Conclusions: In low-grade endometrioid endometrial carcinomas with a positive microcystic, elongated and fragmented pattern of invasion, the evaluation of the depth of myometrial invasion using transvaginal ultrasound scan and magnetic resonance imaging may be underestimated.
Diagnostic accuracy of pleural fluid to serum carcinoembryonic antigen ratio and delta value for malignant pleural effusion: findings from two cohorts
Authors: Jiang Meng-Ping , Wen Jian-Xun , Hai Ling , Jiang Ting-Wang , Huang Jin-Hong , Chen Hong , Wang Ya-Fei , Zheng Wen-Qi , Hu Zhi-De , Yan Li 
Published: March 2023

Background: Pleural fluid (PF) carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a widely used diagnostic marker for malignant pleural effusion (MPE). Recent studies revealed that PF to serum CEA was also a promising diagnostic parameter for MPE. Objective: We aimed to investigate whether PF to serum CEA ratio and delta CEA (PF minus serum CEA) provided added value to PF CEA in diagnosing MPE. Methods: Patients with pleural effusion in a retrospective cohort (BUFF) and a prospective cohort (SIMPLE) were included. The clinical characteristics of the patients were extracted from their medical records. The diagnostic value of CEA ratio and delta CEA was estimated by a receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve, net reclassification improvement (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI). Results: A total of 148 patients in the BUFF cohort and 164 patients in the SIMPLE cohort were enrolled. The BUFF cohort had 46 MPE patients and 102 benign pleural effusion (BPE) patients, and the SIMPLE cohort had 85 MPE patients and 79 BPE patients. In both cohorts, MPE patients had significantly higher PF CEA, serum CEA, CEA ratio, and delta CEA. The area under ROC curves (AUCs) of PF CEA, CEA ratio, and delta CEA were 0.78 (95% CI: 0.67–0.88), 0.80 (95% CI: 0.72–0.89) and 0.83 (95% CI: 0.75–0.91) in the BUFF cohort, and 0.89 (95% CI: 0.83–0.94), 0.86 (95% CI: 0.80–0.92), and 0.84 (95% CI: 0.78–0.91) in the SIMPLE cohort. The differences between the AUCs of PF CEA, CEA ratio, and delta CEA did not reach statistical significance. The continuous NRI and IDI of CEA ratio and delta CEA were <0. Conclusion: CEA ratio and delta value cannot provide added diagnostic value to PF CEA. The simultaneous determination of serum and PF CEA should not be adopted in clinical practice.
The Nature of Rehabilitation Programs to Improve Musculoskeletal, Biomechanical, Functional, and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Athletes With ACL Reconstruction: A Scoping Review
Authors: Poretti Kelly , Ghoddosi Navid , Martin Joel , Eddo Oladipo , Cortes Nelson , Clark Nicholas C. 
Published: March 2023

Context: After anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR), athletes commonly undergo prolonged rehabilitation (eg, 9-12 months), but few actually return to preinjury sports activities. The nature (composition, configuration) of an ACL rehabilitation program (ACL-RP) is an important factor in determining rehabilitation outcomes; however, details about the nature of ACL-RPs are reported inconsistently in research studies. To guide future research reporting to support clinical translation and implementation of ACL-RPs, it is necessary to describe the nature, reporting, and outcomes of ACL-RPs in the current literature. Objective: The purpose of this scoping review was to understand the nature and reporting of various ACL-RPs that address musculoskeletal, biomechanical, functional, or patient-reported outcome measures in adult and pediatric athletes with ACLR. Data Sources: Articles were selected from searches in 5 electronic databases (PubMed, EbscoHost [MEDLINE, SportDiscus, CINAHL Plus], PROQuest, Cochrane, and Embase). Study Selection: Studies were included if they evaluated a post-ACL-RP that implemented strength, balance, plyometric, change of direction running, and/or agility running and included self-reported physical function, quality of life, or pain outcomes. Study Design: Scoping review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Level of Evidence: Level 4. Data Extraction: Data were extracted and synthesized to evaluate the reporting of acute program variables (APVs) and exercise descriptors (EDs); 17 studies were included in the final synthesis. Results: Studies reported between 0% and 67% of the APVs and EDs combined. Only 2 studies were considered to have adequate reporting of both APVs and EDs. Conclusion: Inadequate reporting of APVs and EDs in past studies restricts the translation and implementation of existing research-based ACL-RPs to present-day clinical contexts.
Pattern of anti-epileptic medications nonadherence and associated factors at ambulatory clinic of Jimma Medical Center, Southwestern Ethiopia: A prospective observational study
Authors: Bayane Yadeta Babu , Senbeta Birbirsa Sefera 
Published: March 2023

Objective: This study is designed to assess the pattern of nonadherence, and associated factors among ambulatory patients with epilepsy at Jimma Medical Center, Southwestern Ethiopia, from November 2020 to April 2021. Methods: A hospital-based prospective observational study was employed. A consecutive sampling method was used to recruit study participants. Nonadherence was assessed by the Hill–Bone compliance to the high blood pressure therapy scale. A threshold of 18 scores was used to classify adherence status. Epi-Data manager version 4.6 was used for data entry and all statistical analysis was performed by Statistical Package for Social Science 25.0. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to explore associated factors. Results: A survey included 334 patients with epilepsy. One hundred twenty-two (36.52%) of the study participants were found to be non-adherent. The factors associated with nonadherence were poor involvement of the patient in the therapeutic decision (adjusted odds ratio = 1.74; 95% confidence interval: 1.04–2.90; p = 0.034), per month income of lesser than1000 Ethiopian birr (adjusted odds ratio = 2.66; 95% confidence interval: 1.03–6.84; p = 0.042), recent seizure episodes (adjusted odds ratio = 1.97; 95% confidence interval: 1.20–3.23; p = 0.007), adverse drug reaction (AOR = 2.13; 95% confidence interval: 1.31–3.47; p = 0.002), and negative medication belief (adjusted odds ratio = 1.28; 95% confidence interval: 1.53–2.25; p = 0.043). Conclusions: In our setting, the magnitude of nonadherence was substantially high. Hence, providing regular health-related information about the disease and treatment, supplying free antiepileptic drugs, routine assessment of adverse drug reactions, and a multidisciplinary approach involving patients may improve adherence.