Stages Of Treatment Research Articles

Water Treatment Stage Impacts on the Occurrence of Bacteriological Indicators and their Multiple Antibiotic Resistance Index

Water Treatment Stage Impacts on the Occurrence of Bacteriological Indicators and their Multiple Antibiotic Resistance Index

Forensic assessment of maternal deaths from the COVID-19 during the 2021 pandemic

BACKGROUND: According to the literature, the mortality rate from SARS-CoV-2 infection among pregnant women is up to 25%. The high-risk group for the development of severe forms of COVID-19 includes pregnant women with extragenital pathology. Obstetric tactics are determined by the severity of the condition of the mother and fetus, as well as the duration of pregnancy. The decision on early delivery is made as a result of an interdisciplinary medical consultation. Delivery in the midst of the disease is associated with an increase in maternal mortality. According to the literature, including our own research, it has been established that the basis for favorable perinatal outcomes in patients with severe and moderate forms of COVID-19 is: an adequate assessment of the condition of the pregnant woman and fetus (especially at the outpatient stage, where the pregnant woman goes first), early hospitalization, early initiation of intensive care and timely delivery before the onset of irreversible organ changes in pregnant women. AIM: The aim of this study was to analyze the tactics of pregnancy management, delivery and perinatal outcomes, assessing the quality of medical care at the outpatient and hospital stages provided to pregnant women who died in a specialized obstetric hospital from the extremely severe new coronavirus infection COVID-19 (based on the data of commission forensic examinations). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study of pregnancy outcomes was performed in 11 patients who died from complications of extremely severe COVID-19 in a regional specialized obstetric hospital in Russia based on the data of commission forensic examinations performed in the Bureau of Forensic Medical Examination (Saint Petersburg, Russia) in 2021, at gestation periods of 28–34 weeks (n = 7) and 37–39 weeks (n = 4) in the context of assessing the quality of medical care in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. We confirmed the diagnosis of the new coronavirus infection COVID-19 in 10 (90.9%) patients by SARS-CoV-2 RNA identification using polymerase chain reaction in a nasopharyngeal smear on an average of 4.9 ± 3.6 days from the onset of the disease. In one patient, the clinical diagnosis was confirmed postmortem by the detection of SARS-Cov-2 RNA during autopsy (in the trachea, lungs, and spleen). All patients in the hospital underwent a comprehensive anamnestic, clinical and laboratory examination in the amount regulated by the administrative regulations of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation that were relevant at the time of providing medical care. Nine (81.8%) patients sought medical help from a local therapist on 3.1 ± 1.6 days from the onset of the disease and received outpatient treatment for 3.4 ± 1.8 days, two patients not seeing a doctor and receiving outpatient care. The average time before admission to the specialized obstetric hospital was 6.0 ± 2.2 days from the onset of the disease. RESULTS: During the forensic assessment of the medical records of deceased patients, significant defects in the quality of medical care were identified in the framework of this study at the stages of information collection, diagnosis, treatment, and succession. An indirect causal relationship was established between the most significant defects in the quality of medical care and adverse pregnancy outcomes, since the cause of death or critical conditions were individually determined severe complications, rather than defects in medical care, which, nevertheless, does not exclude their significance in the totality of causes of severe maternal outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The data obtained indicate the need for earlier delivery in pregnant women with the new coronavirus infection COVID-19 before the appearance of irreversible changes in patients with progressive respiratory failure, multiple organ failure syndrome, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, and cytokine storm.

On the precipitation and transformation kinetics of precipitation-hardening steel X5CrNiCuNb16-4 in a wide range of heating and cooling rates

In this work, the transformation and dissolution/precipitation behaviour of the soft martensitic, precipitation-hardening steel X5CrNiCuNb16-4 (often referred to as 17–4 PH or AISI 630) has been investigated by various analytical in situ techniques. First, austenite formation during the heating stage of a solution treatment (or austenitization) is examined. Subsequently, a major part of this work evaluates precipitation during cooling from the solution treatment (i.e., the quench-induced precipitation of Cu-rich particles). The following analytical in situ techniques were utilised: synchrotron high-energy X-ray diffraction, synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering, differential scanning calorimetry, and dilatometry. These were complemented by ex situ high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy on as-quenched samples after various cooling rates. The continuous heating transformation and continuous cooling transformation diagrams have been updated. Contrary to previous reports, X5CrNiCuNb16-4 is rather quench sensitive and the final properties after ageing degrade if cooling is done slower than a certain critical cooling rate. Quench-induced Cu-rich precipitation happens in two reactions: a larger, nearly pure Cu face-centred cubic phase forms at higher temperatures, while at medium temperatures, spherical Cu-rich nanoparticles form, which are found to be body-centred cubic at room temperature. The dimensions of the quench-induced particles range from several µm after cooling at 0.0001 K s-1 down to just a few nm after cooling at 1 K s-1. The maximum age hardening potential of X5CrNiCuNb16-4 can be exploited if a fully supersaturated solid solution is reached at cooling rates above the critical cooling rate of about 10 K s-1.

Radiotherapist’s View on the Role of Current Diagnostic Imaging in Pre-Radiation Preparation of Patients with Oligometastatic Disease for Conformal Radiotherapy

Diagnostic imaging of oligometastatic disease is a difficult task, since it requires determining the exact locoregional stage of the underlying disease and assessing the condition of the entire body in terms of possible diffuse spread of distant metastases, which presupposes a fairly frequent combination of various instrumental methods. In each specific case, a more accurate imaging method is chosen depending on the type of tumor, time of diagnosis, possible previously implemented stage of special antitumor treatment, as well as the individual risk of developing distant metastases, the most characteristic for this type of tumor process. Today, along with some diagnostic techniques that were previously constantly used in everyday practice, but are gradually losing their long-standing clinical application, such imaging methods as contrastenhanced computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging, as well as metabolic and specific receptor imaging, for example, CT combined with positron emission tomography with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose, are most commonly performed, alone or in various combinations.

Effects of mini-implant anchorage on mandibular rotation and esthetic outcomes in hyperdivergent skeletal Class II malocclusion treatment

Objectives: This research aimed to investigate the effects of mini-implants (MIs) on mandibular position and changes in lower face height, as well as their relationship with the position of the maxillary molars and incisors in the camouflage treatment of patients with hyperdivergent skeletal Class II malocclusion. Material and Methods: This retrospective study included 27 patients aged 15–38 years. The hyperdivergent patients were diagnosed with skeletal Class II malocclusion and treated with tooth compensation, tooth extraction, posterior repositioning of the maxillary incisors, and anchoring with MIs. Cephalometric analyses of these patients were performed before (T1) and after (T2) treatment. Measurements were taken at each treatment stage and analyzed. Results: Significant correlations were observed in the mandibular position and lower face height (P < 0.05). The GoGnSN angle decreased (−1.05 ± 1.61°), the ANS-Me distance reduced (−1.98 ± 4.76 mm), and the NBaPtGn angle increased (1.67 ± 4.08°). In addition, the vertical height position of the maxillary first molar significantly decreased (6M-FH, −1.61 ± 3.74 mm), while the vertical height position of the maxillary incisor increased (U1-FH, 1.48 ± 2.11 mm). Conclusion: During the camouflaging treatment of patients with hyperdivergent skeletal Class II malocclusion using MIs anchorage, MIs helped intrude the maxillary first molar and extrude the maxillary incisor, leading to a difference in a mandibular counterclockwise rotation. Controlling the rotation of the lower jawbone helps create an improved esthetic for the patient after treatment.

Design method of multi-stage air treatment system with circulating air for high efficiency in year-round working conditions

Owing to the large temperature rise/drop during the fresh air treatment process, the multi-stage treatment systems for fresh air have good energy-saving effects. However, the energy-saving potential of multi-stage treatment systems for circulating air and the design of a multi-stage circulating air treatment (MCAT) system that operates efficiently under variable conditions throughout the year remain unclear. Therefore, this study proposed a multi-condition design method to ensure the annual energy-efficient operation of the circulating air system. Firstly, the appropriate number of air treatment stages (NUM) and heat transfer temperature difference between air and water (Δt) for each single condition are determined and an appropriate heat transfer area is obtained. Subsequently, an MCAT system suitable for multiple working conditions throughout the year is designed by searching for the common values of the appropriate heat transfer area per stage. Finally, three types of buildings and six cities located in different climate zones are selected to explore the adaptability of the appropriate Δt. The results show that (1) for each single working condition, the appropriate ranges of NUM and Δt are 1–2 and 2–6 °C respectively, which can keep the system energy consumption at a low level. (2) There is generally a common range for multiple heat transfer areas per stage designed under different working conditions, and an MCAT system designed based on this common range can achieve energy-efficient operation under multiple annual conditions. (3) In an office building in Beijing, compared to the traditional one-stage air treatment system, the maximum and the annual average energy-saving rates of the MACT system designed based on the multi-condition design method are 16.1 % and 6.3 %, respectively.

Augmenting dermal collagen synthesis through hyaluronic acid-based microneedle-mediated delivery of poly(l-lactic acid) microspheres

Poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA) can stimulate collagen synthesis through a foreign body response. However, inappropriate injection techniques and localized PLLA clustering can lead to complications and adverse events. This study developed a composite microneedle (MN) device comprising an array of PLLA microsphere (PLLA MP)-loaded hyaluronic acid needle tips with a supporting patch (PLLA MP-MN). This device was designed to deliver PLLA MPs precisely and uniformly to the dermis and to provide dual stimulation through MN puncture and MP implantation, thereby enabling the rapid and long-lasting regeneration of dermal collagen. When applied to rat skin, the MN array evenly distributed the PLLA MPs throughout the penetrated regions, which prevented local PLLA overdosing and elicited a milder inflammatory response compared with that induced by intradermal PLLA MP injections. An in vivo efficacy study revealed that MN-mediated delivery of PLLA MPs not only promptly initiated collagen production through microwound-triggered wound-healing cascades in the early treatment stage but also enabled the long-term stimulation of collagen deposition through MP-induced foreign body reactions, thereby significantly enhancing neocollagenesis. This innovative PLLA MP-MN system can augment the benefits and minimize the adverse effects associated with traditional PLLA fillers, providing a safe and reliable anti-aging therapeutic option.

Exploring the impact of baseline platelet count on linezolid-induced thrombocytopenia: a retrospective single-center observation study.

Patients treated with linezolid (LZD) frequently develop thrombocytopenia, and previous studies have identified the risk factors for this condition. However, the relationship between the development of LZD-induced thrombocytopenia and baseline platelet count has varied according to different reports. To explore the relationship between platelet count and the development of LZD-induced thrombocytopenia. Patients who underwent LZD at Hokkaido University Hospital in Japan from September 2008 to March 2023 were included. We collected data on patient characteristics and platelet counts at baseline and during LZD therapy from the electronic medical records. Thrombocytopenia was defined as a decrease in platelet count by 30% or more from baseline, or a platelet level < 100,000/µL. Two hundred and ninety-five patients who received LZD were included in this study, of whom 34.9% developed thrombocytopenia. In the early days of LZD treatment, the thrombocytopenia group showed a nearly 5% decrease in platelet count, while the non-thrombocytopenia group exhibited an increase of over 5%. Additionally, focusing on early onset thrombocytopenia (within 5 days), a baseline platelet count of < 150,000/µL was identified as a risk factor for early thrombocytopenia. Conversely, it was also observed that 24.7% of patients with a baseline platelet count ≥ 150,000/µL still developed early thrombocytopenia. Our findings suggest that while a baseline platelet count of < 150,000/µL is a risk factor for the early onset of thrombocytopenia, vigilant monitoring of platelet counts by clinical pharmacists in the early stages of LZD treatment is essential, regardless of baseline platelet levels.

Experimental study into the sedimentation process of solids of different origin

Sedimentation refers to the first stage of wastewater treatment from mechanical impurities. Its rate depends on the density and particle size of impurities, as well as the density and viscosity of dispersion medium. In industrial sedimentation tanks, particle settling can occur in laminar, transient or turbulent modes. Aim. To establish the criterion equations and their coefficients for sedimentation processes of sand, glass and polyamide granules. Sedimentation of sand particles of 0.001– 0.003 m, spherical glass particles with the diameter of 0.0025–0.004 m and polyamide granules with the volume-surface mean diameter of 0.0022–0.003 m was carried out in a measured glass cylinder filled with distilled water. Each solid particle was measured, then, it came into contact with the water surface by means of tweezers, and released, starting to settle to the bottom of the cylinder under the action of gravity. A stopwatch was used to time the particle passaging between the marks of the measured cylinder. Calculations were performed using dimensional analysis. According to the test results, the dependences of the Reynolds number on the Archimedes number were established for the sedimentation of sand particles and polyamide granules in the transient mode, while spherical glass particles in the turbulent mode. In addition, the criterion equations of the solid particles sedimentation in the liquid were derived. The coefficients for these equations were experimentally determined. The equations and coefficients obtained in the study can be used in the design of settling tanks for mechanical treatment of wastewater to remove sand, glass and polymer particles.

Insights on Microplastic Contamination from Municipal and Textile Industry Effluents and Their Removal Using a Cellulose-Based Approach.

The rampant use of plastics, with the potential to degrade into insidious microplastics (MPs), poses a significant threat by contaminating aquatic environments. In the present study, we delved into the analysis of effluents from textile industries, a recognized major source of MPs contamination. Data were further discussed and compared with a municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent. All effluent samples were collected at the final stage of treatment in their respective WWTP. Laser diffraction spectroscopy was used to evaluate MP dimensions, while optical and fluorescence microscopies were used for morphology analysis and the identification of predominant plastic types, respectively. Electrophoresis was employed to unravel the prevalence of negative surface charge on these plastic microparticles. The analysis revealed that polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyamide were the dominant compounds in textile effluents, with PET being predominant in municipal WWTP effluents. Surprisingly, despite the municipal WWTP exhibiting higher efficiency in MP removal (ca. 71% compared to ca. 55% in textile industries), it contributed more to overall pollution. A novel bio-based flocculant, a cationic cellulose derivative derived from wood wastes, was developed as a proof-of-concept for MP flocculation. The novel derivatives were found to efficiently flocculate PET MPs, thus allowing their facile removal from aqueous media, and reducing the threat of MP contamination from effluents discharged from WWTPs.

Effect of stage gas nitriding on corrosion and wear resistance of Ti6Al4V alloy in physiological environment

The wear and corrosion resistance of the Ti6Al4V alloy after gas nitriding combined with stage heat treatment was studied in the physiological environment. It was shown that nitriding temperature at the first stage of the heat treatment mainly effects on the surface quality and microhardness of the treated alloy. The corrosion behaviour of the nitrided Ti6Al4V alloy was studied in Ringer's solution, which simulates the physiological environment of human body. It was shown that the corrosion resistance of the alloy is enhanced by increasing thickness and TiN content in the nitride layer, and improving surface quality. The tribological characteristics of the nitrided Ti6Al4V alloy in a tribo-pair with PE-UHMW were evaluated in a 10 % aqueous solution of chondroitin sulfate, which simulates the synovial fluid. It was established that reducing nitriding temperature at the first stage of the heat treatment improved the wear resistance of the treated alloy due to decrease of the surface roughness and microhardness.

PHOTOPROTOCOL IN DENTISTRY

Photoprotocol is one of the imaging methods in dentistry, during which a series of photographs of the clinical situation with which the patient turned to the doctor and the stages of treatment are created. The method allows you to visually assess the effectiveness of treatment in the “was — became" format.

Temporary splinting in periodontally mobile teeth: review before application

Introduction Temporary splinting of mobile, periodontally compromised teeth is an important stage in the complex treatment of periodontitis, used to improve mastication, aesthetics, and the prognosis for teeth with pathological mobility. It helps prevent this phenomenon and consolidate the success of conservative and surgical treatment, which also has a positive effect on the patient's psycho-emotional state. Material and methods 12 patients (6 female and 6 male), aged 26–60 years, with pathological teeth mobility due to chronic generalized periodontitis, were included in the study. Temporary splinting was performed using fiberglass threads braided with polyester microfibers, polyethylene fibers, and aramid fibers, and in all clinical cases, it was secured with photo-composite material designed for teeth splinting. Results Temporary splinting is a very important step in periodontitis treatment, and dynamic monitoring is necessary throughout the entire period of splinting. The interval between visits is determined based on the type of splinting, the risk of complications, the severity of periodontitis, systemic and local factors, the level of individual oral hygiene, and the patient's motivation. The interval can be 6 months, 4 months, or, in aggressive forms of periodontitis, 2 months. Conclusions Temporary splinting contributes to the effectiveness of pathogenetic and symptomatic therapy.

Effects of Post-Processing Parameters on 3D-Printed Dental Appliances: A Review.

In recent years, additive manufacturing (AM) has been recognized as a transformative force in the dental industry, with the ability to address escalating demand, expedite production timelines, and reduce labor-intensive processes. Despite the proliferation of three-dimensional printing technologies in dentistry, the absence of well-established post-processing protocols has posed formidable challenges. This comprehensive review paper underscores the critical importance of precision in post-processing techniques for ensuring the acquisition of vital properties, encompassing mechanical strength, biocompatibility, dimensional accuracy, durability, stability, and aesthetic refinement in 3D-printed dental devices. Given that digital light processing (DLP) is the predominant 3D printing technology in dentistry, the main post-processing techniques and effects discussed in this review primarily apply to DLP printing. The four sequential stages of post-processing support removal, washing, secondary polymerization, and surface treatments are systematically navigated, with each phase requiring meticulous evaluation and parameter determination to attain optimal outcomes. From the careful selection of support removal tools to the consideration of solvent choice, washing methodology, and post-curing parameters, this review provides a comprehensive guide for practitioners and researchers. Additionally, the customization of post-processing approaches to suit the distinct characteristics of different resin materials is highlighted. A comprehensive understanding of post-processing techniques is offered, setting the stage for informed decision-making and guiding future research endeavors in the realm of dental additive manufacturing.

Responses of Growth, Enzyme Activity, and Flower Bud Differentiation of Pepper Seedlings to Nitrogen Concentration at Different Growth Stages

The concentration of nitrogen fertilizer is matched with the nutrient requirements in different growth stages of plants, which coordinates their vegetative and reproductive growth. In this study, the influences of nitrogen concentration before and after initiation of flower bud differentiation (first and second stage, respectively) on pepper seedling quality were studied. The chlorophyll a content, sucrose synthase activity, and sucrose phosphate synthase activity of pepper seedlings grown under moderate nitrogen (15 mmol L−1) in the first stage combined with high nitrogen (25.61 mmol L−1) in the second stage were 15.7%, 39.3%, and 34.6% higher than those of the same nitrogen concentration (15 mmol L−1) in the first and second stages treatment, respectively. The regression model also showed that the values of flower bud diameter, shoot fresh weight, root fresh weight, and glutamine synthetase activity of pepper were high under the condition of moderate nitrogen in the first stage and higher nitrogen in the second stage. In addition, the results of comprehensive evaluation showed that moderate nitrogen (15 mmol L−1) in the first stage and high nitrogen (25.61 mmol L−1) in the second stage treatment ranked first, which improved carbon and nitrogen metabolism, increased biomass accumulation, and promoted the flower bud differentiation and flowering of pepper seedlings.

Patterns and predictors of opioid dispensing among older cancer patients from 2008 to 2015.

Understanding factors associated with opioid dispensing in cancer patients is important for developing tailored guidelines and ensuring equitable access to pain management. We examined patterns and predictors of opioid dispensing among older cancer patients from 2008 to 2015. We analyzed data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database linked to Medicare claims. We included the most common cancer types among patients aged 66-95 years. Opioids dispensed within 30 days before and 120 days after cancer diagnosis were assessed. We used logistic regression models to examine trends, adjusted odds ratios (aORs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for opioid dispensing, considering patient demographics, geography, cancer stage, comorbidities, and treatment options. Models were stratified by sex. A total of 211,759 cancer patients aged 66-95 years were included in the study. For cancers combined, non-Hispanic Black men had a significantly lower odds of receiving opioids during the 120 days post-diagnosis (aOR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.84-0.94) compared to non-Hispanic White men. Factors such as pre-diagnosis opioid dispensing, age, geography, cancer stage, comorbidities, and type of cancer treatment were associated with opioid dispensing during the 120 days post-diagnosis. Surgery had the strongest association, with men undergoing surgery being 4.4 times more likely to receive opioids within 120 days post-diagnosis (aOR = 4.41, 95% CI = 4.23-4.60), while women had an odds ratio of 2.72 (95% CI = 2.62-2.83). Chemotherapy and radiotherapy were also positively associated with opioid dispensing, with less pronounced estimates. We observed significant variations in opioid dispensing among cancer patients aged 66-95 years across cancer types and demographic and clinical factors.

The impact of socioeconomic status on overall survival in patients at a radiation oncology center: A retrospective study.

147 Background: There are few reports examining the impact of socioeconomic status (SES), as indicated by the Area Deprivation Index (ADI), on overall survival (OS) in radiation oncology patients, making this an important area of investigation. This study aims to investigate the influence of ADI on OS in radiation oncology patients, while controlling for stage and other relevant variables. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed data from radiation oncology patients treated at a large multi-site single-institution center from October 2006 to January 2024. Demographic and treatment information, including age, gender, race, insurance status, comorbidity index (CCI), mental health disorders (MHD), treatment intent, cancer type, and stage, were collected. The ADI was used to measure SES and was gathered from the Neighborhood Atlas. Kaplan-Meier curves were generated for all patients, with separate curves for different cancer types. The impact of demographic, clinical, and socioeconomic factors on OS was assessed using a Cox proportional hazards multivariable (MVA) logistic regression analysis. The model was stratified by treatment intent, cancer type, stage, insurance status, and CCI. Results: In this comprehensive analysis of 7343 patients, the median follow-up was 12.00 months (IQR: 1.8–36.82). Most patients were breast cancer (30.2%), over 65 years old (60.5%), and had an ADI below the mean (55.5%), indicating lower socioeconomic disadvantage. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that 5-year OS rates were significantly lower for the fourth quartile ADI group (85.1%) compared to the first quartile ADI group (94.0%) (p&lt;0.001). Among different cancer types, significant differences in OS were observed for breast cancer (p=0.002) and miscellaneous (uncategorized) cancers (p=0.005), with lung cancer showing a trend towards significance (p=0.053). The MVA revealed that patients in both the third quartile (hazard ratio (HR)=1.343, 95% CI: 1.029–1.752, p=0.030) and fourth quartile (HR=1.403, 95% CI: 1.075–1.829, p=0.013) of ADI had significantly higher likelihood of mortality compared to those in the first ADI quartile. Conclusions: SES, as measured by ADI, significantly impacts OS in radiation oncology patients. Poorer patients, indicated by higher ADI, exhibited worse survival outcomes despite controlling for cancer type, stage, treatment intent, CCI, MHD, and insurance status. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address socioeconomic disparities in cancer care to improve survival outcomes for disadvantaged populations.

High‐frequency (470 kHz) ultrasonics‐assisted room temperature CO2 stripping and fate of Sono exposed solvent

AbstractBACKGROUNDThe conventional CO2 stripping process in solvent‐based postcombustion CO2 capture (PCCC) process uses heating to strip the CO2 (~120 °C). However, the challenges associated with this method are high energy consumption in degassing the CO2 from solvent, solvent loss and degradation resulting from the high –temperatures, resulting in high energy consumption typical of solvent‐based PCCC. The present study demonstrates the use of bath‐type sonication (470 kHz frequency) to remove CO2 from CO2 loaded 30 wt% Monoethanolamine under controlled temperature conditions. Solvent performance was evaluated following exposure to 2 h conventional heating and 75 h sonication.RESULTSIn a batch sono‐assisted process, CO2 stripping became possible at 17.5 °C compared to 102.2 °C using the conventional method. Increasing the sonication time led decreased carbon loading and increased stripping efficiency. The stripping rate was high at the initial stages of treatment. Evaluation of sono‐exposed solvents exhibited decreased pH during CO2 loading and decreased absorption capacity of the conventionally heated sample.CONCLUSIONThe sono‐assisted method consumes 3.57‐foldless energy than conventional heating. Its CO2 stripping rate was found to be higher within 5 min of sonication. Notably, the maximum temperature reached for the 1 h intervening mode of sonication at 470 kHz was 49.49 °C. The reduction in absorption capacity per hour of conventional heating was 24.5%, whereas for sonication it was &lt;0.4% and solvent loss was 19.7% lower than conventional. There was no significant change in the color, pH and density of the sample. A 20.4% higher surface tension than that of the virgin sample was observed. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).

Changing attachment orientation: Uncovering the role of shifting the emotion regulation tendency.

Changes in the individual's attachment orientation toward greater security are considered an important clinical goal. One promising underlying process of change in attachment orientation is shifting the emotion regulation tendency, in which the individual progresses from overreliance on the self or on the other to regulate emotional arousal. The present study utilized a computational approach to study shifts in the emotion regulation tendency as these manifest in the patient's and therapist's vocally encoded emotional arousal. The study examined whether shifts in the regulation tendency are associated with decreases in the level of insecure attachment and in strengthening of the therapeutic alliance. Shifts in the regulation tendency were examined throughout the early stages of treatment (Sessions 1-4) using 11,710 talk turns within 52 patient-therapist dyads. Findings suggest that shifts in the emotion regulation tendency are associated with greater strengthening of the therapeutic alliance and a decrease in the level of attachment avoidance. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Exploratory Factor Analysis of a Patient-Facing PCBH Adherence Measure: The PPAQ-Patient.

Model adherence indicates the degree to which a program or intervention is delivered as intended. In integrated primary care, where mental health services are embedded into primary care clinics, appraisal of model adherence provides insight into whether these services align with key features of this unique practice environment (e.g., brief, interdisciplinary care). To date, such evaluations have emphasized system and provider factors. This study is a preliminary evaluation of whether a novel patient-facing measure, the Primary Care Behavioral Health Provider Adherence Questionnaire-Patient Version (PPAQ-Patient), can provide insight into adherence to the Primary Care Behavioral Health (PCBH) model of integrated primary care. Survey data were collected from 281 veterans who received PCBH care. Exploratory factor analyses evaluated the data structure. Results suggest that 19 items spanning three temporally-referenced subscales may feasibly capture patient perspectives on PCBH adherence at various stages of treatment. Future work is needed to refine the measure.