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Background: The concept of recovery capital refers to the sum of resources that a person has available to initiate and continue a recovery process. This concept has not been greatly explored with people with persistent substance use disorder (SUD), whose recovery is often quite long. Method: We conducted 19 qualitative interviews with 19 people (9 men, 10 women) with persistent SUD to understand the personal strengths they use in their recovery. A gender-differentiated thematic analysis of the transcripts was conducted. Findings: The analysis paints a portrait of people who, despite their difficulties, managed to use their skills and develop new ones to confront their problems: introspection, perseverance, self-belief, knowledge about recovery, etc. For women in particular, the ability to assert themselves appears to have been a survival tool in their trajectory. For most of the participants, material and financial resources were most lacking in their recovery process. Faced with a precarious financial situation, several women spoke of the need to get organized and be proactive in finding ways to support themselves. Conclusion: Contrary to a deficit-focused perspective, the concept of recovery capital leads us to focus on what is going well in these people's lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this research is to explore the life experiences of schizophrenic families in accompanying the recovery process. Methods: This study uses a qualitative method with descriptive phenomenology to explain phenomena from family experiences. The number of the participants was eight families who had family members with schizophrenia. Sampling was determined by purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using the Colaizzi method. Results: The results of this study show four themes that emerged including (1) psychological burden on the family, (2) families needing support in the recovery process, (3) obstacles due to social stigma, and (4) family gratitude for being able to pass the test patiently. Conclusion: The schizophrenia family’s journey in the recovery process is very long. They are required to endure in assisting the recovery process. Experiences felt by the family include feelings, obstacles, and hopes that arise in carrying out their role to assist the recovery process which aims to improve the health of schizophrenia patients. The findings from this study provide insight for nurses to be able to pay attention to family psychological problems by strengthening families through home visits and health promotion related to the recovery process of survivor schizophrenia.

Abstract Background Almost all paramedics encounter workplace violence (WPV) during their careers. The most common form of WPV is verbal, and the perpetrator is usually the patient. It is known that paramedics suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health problems, and WPV is one of the reasons behind that. Nevertheless, little is known about the recovery processes paramedics have had after encountering WPV. The research question was: What kind of recovery processes have paramedics had after encountering WPV? Methods A qualitative, narrative interview study was done. Data was collected in individual interviews with Finnish paramedics (n = 18). Paramedics were from different parts of Finland, and their ages varied from 24 to 49 years. They had been working in EMS for an average of 10.5 years (range 1.5 to 25 years). Interviews were conducted with a narrative approach, which enabled paramedics to narrate their experiences and speak on their own terms about the subject to the extent of their choosing. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Ten recovery process themes were identified: Strong psychological and physical reactions in a short time frame, Questioning one’s profession and actions, Various support structures aided in recovery, Dysfunctional processes hindered recovery, Personal resources provided support, The support of the workcommunity as a lifeline, Left to cope alone, Permanent changes to work routines, Resulting in professional growth and Eternal crack in the shell. Conclusions Many internal and external factors affect paramedics’ recovery processes. While some receive adequate help, others struggle to get appropriate support, especially from their organization and supervisors. The findings of this study suggest that clear protocols should be established to help paramedics recover after encountering WPV and that an individual aspect should be kept in mind, as not everybody reacts in the same way.

Abstract Background Sick-leave rates are high due to stress-related illnesses, but little is still known about the process of recovery from these conditions. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of the recovery process, 6 to 10 years after treatment in people previously diagnosed with exhaustion disorder (ED), focusing on facilitators and barriers for the process of recovery from ED, and recovery activities experienced as helpful during the recovery process. Method Thirty-eight participants (average age: 52 years, 32 females) previously diagnosed with ED were interviewed with semi-structured interviews 6–10 years after undergoing treatment. The interviews were analyzed with thematic analysis. Results Three themes resulted from the analysis. The first theme, “A long and rocky road”, summarizes the fluctuating path to feeling better and emphasizes barriers and facilitators that affected the process of recovery, with a focus on external life events and the participants’ own behaviors. Facilitators were changing workplace, receiving support, a reduction in stressors, and changed behaviors. Barriers were a poor work environment, caregiver responsibilities, negative life events and lack of support. The second theme “Recovery activities are needed every step of the way” describes how both the need for recovery activities and the types of activities experienced as helpful changed during the recovery process, from low-effort recovery activities for long periods of time to shorter and more active recovery activities. Recovery activities were described as important for self-care but hard to prioritize in everyday life. The last theme, “Reorienting to a new place”, captures the struggle to cope with the remaining impact of ED, and how internal facilitators in terms of understanding and acceptance were important to reorient and adjust to a new way of functioning. Conclusions Recovering from ED is a long and ongoing process where recovery activities are needed every step of the way. Our results highlight the importance of supporting personal recovery and long-term behavioral change, addressing individual stressors that may perpetuate the condition, and adjusting recovery activities according to where the person is in the recovery process. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT0073772 . Registered on March 8, 2017. This study was pre-registered on Open Science Framework (osf.io).

Background: Social media have become integral in adolescents' lives, presenting both opportunities and risks, especially concerning psychiatric issues like eating disorders, prevalent in this vulnerable age group. Methods: This qualitative study employed semi-structured interviews with seven adolescent girls (aged 15–17) diagnosed with eating disorders. Interviews covered seven predefined topics, recorded and transcribed for thematic analysis. Results: Participants identified four key themes: exposure to selective content, biased interpretation, behavioural adaptation, and evolving perspectives during recovery. They highlighted social media's role in exacerbating body dissatisfaction and altering behaviours related to eating disorders. Conclusions: This research underscores the critical need for awareness and guidance in adolescents' social media use to mitigate negative impacts, emphasizing the potential link between exposure to specific content and cognitive-behavioural changes in those with eating disorders. Further investigation is warranted to deepen our comprehension of these dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Almost all paramedics encounter workplace violence (WPV) during their careers. The most common form of WPV is verbal, and the perpetrator is usually the patient. It is known that paramedics suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health problems, and WPV is one of the reasons behind that. Nevertheless, little is known about the recovery processes paramedics have had after encountering WPV. The research question was: What kind of recovery processes have paramedics had after encountering WPV? Methods: A qualitative, narrative interview study was done. Data was collected in individual interviews with Finnish paramedics (n = 18). Paramedics were from different parts of Finland, and their ages varied from 24 to 49 years. They had been working in EMS for an average of 10.5 years (range 1.5 to 25 years). Interviews were conducted with a narrative approach, which enabled paramedics to narrate their experiences and speak on their own terms about the subject to the extent of their choosing. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Ten recovery process themes were identified: Strong psychological and physical reactions in a short time frame, Questioning one's profession and actions, Various support structures aided in recovery, Dysfunctional processes hindered recovery, Personal resources provided support, The support of the workcommunity as a lifeline, Left to cope alone, Permanent changes to work routines, Resulting in professional growth and Eternal crack in the shell. Conclusions: Many internal and external factors affect paramedics' recovery processes. While some receive adequate help, others struggle to get appropriate support, especially from their organization and supervisors. The findings of this study suggest that clear protocols should be established to help paramedics recover after encountering WPV and that an individual aspect should be kept in mind, as not everybody reacts in the same way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sick-leave rates are high due to stress-related illnesses, but little is still known about the process of recovery from these conditions. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of the recovery process, 6 to 10 years after treatment in people previously diagnosed with exhaustion disorder (ED), focusing on facilitators and barriers for the process of recovery from ED, and recovery activities experienced as helpful during the recovery process. Method: Thirty-eight participants (average age: 52 years, 32 females) previously diagnosed with ED were interviewed with semi-structured interviews 6–10 years after undergoing treatment. The interviews were analyzed with thematic analysis. Results: Three themes resulted from the analysis. The first theme, "A long and rocky road", summarizes the fluctuating path to feeling better and emphasizes barriers and facilitators that affected the process of recovery, with a focus on external life events and the participants' own behaviors. Facilitators were changing workplace, receiving support, a reduction in stressors, and changed behaviors. Barriers were a poor work environment, caregiver responsibilities, negative life events and lack of support. The second theme "Recovery activities are needed every step of the way" describes how both the need for recovery activities and the types of activities experienced as helpful changed during the recovery process, from low-effort recovery activities for long periods of time to shorter and more active recovery activities. Recovery activities were described as important for self-care but hard to prioritize in everyday life. The last theme, "Reorienting to a new place", captures the struggle to cope with the remaining impact of ED, and how internal facilitators in terms of understanding and acceptance were important to reorient and adjust to a new way of functioning. Conclusions: Recovering from ED is a long and ongoing process where recovery activities are needed every step of the way. Our results highlight the importance of supporting personal recovery and long-term behavioral change, addressing individual stressors that may perpetuate the condition, and adjusting recovery activities according to where the person is in the recovery process. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT0073772. Registered on March 8, 2017. This study was pre-registered on Open Science Framework (osf.io). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This qualitative case study examines the decision-making process of a family that experienced a natural disaster in Palu. The participants of the study were Mr. FP, the head of the family, and his wife, Mrs. VP. Primary data was collected through in-depth interviews with FP and VP conducted by relatives who witnessed the family's gradual recovery. Additionally, supporting data was gathered through data mining, including pre -and post-disaster photographs. The family, like many others, faced an unpredictable and devastating event that not only resulted in the loss of their main source of livelihood but also inflicted deep trauma. The study aimed to delve into this family's experiences when confronted with an unexpected disaster, exploring the impact they faced, the recovery process they undertook, and the factors influencing their decision-making, with particular emphasis on the head of the family. The head of the family played a vital role in family dynamics, making their decision-making process of great importance. The primary objective of this research was to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of family members, particularly the head of the family, as they navigate the challenges of post-disaster recovery, specifically focusing on decision-making in economics and finances. By comprehending their experiences and decisions, the study sought to shed light on how families can rebuild their lives, particularly in terms of achieving economic and financial stability. Narrative analysis was employed in this study, as it allowed for an exploration of the experiences and decision-making of natural disaster survivors in a subjective and unrestrictive manner. This analysis enabled the capturing of the narratives shared by Mr. FP and Mrs. VP, the main informants, and facilitated the interpretation of supporting documents. Consequently, the collected data yielded rich and in-depth insights, further strengthening the findings of this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the Recovery Process Inventory (RPI), developed by Jerrell et al., in assessing the recovery process of individuals with mental illnesses receiving treatment in psychiatric clinics and community mental health centers. Methods: The research data were collected using a Demographic Information Form, RPI, and Recovery Assessment Scale. The study data were gathered through face-to-face interviews with 250 individuals who consented to participate and were receiving treatment at a psychiatric clinic and a community mental health center between August 01, 2019, and July 31, 2020. The participants had an average age of 40.99±13.063 with a standard deviation. Regarding the participants' gender, 36% were female and 64% were male. As for marital status, 30.8% were married, 54% were single, 12.8% were divorced, and 2.4% were widowed. The validity and reliability assessment of the scale encompassed analyses of language, content, face validity, construct validity, and reliability. Results: The analysis results indicated that the RPI consisted of six factors, with eigenvalues above 1. The identified six factors were found to collectively account for a significant portion of the total variance and variance related to the scale items. The inventory was considered valid. The internal consistency coefficient (Cronbach's alpha) of the RPI was calculated as 0.828, indicating a reliable level of measurement. Conclusion: The Turkish adaptation of the RPI, consisting of 26 items and six subscales, was determined to be a valid and reliable inventory. The inventory can be utilized to assess the recovery processes of psychiatric patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an actual economic context, the demand for scandium has grown due to its applications in top technologies. However, further development of new technologies will lead to an increase in the market for Sc related to such technologies. The present study aims to improve and upgrade existing technology in terms of efficient scandium recovery, proposing a new material with selective adsorptive properties for scandium recovery. To highlight the impregnation of Amberlite XAD7HP resin with tri-n-octylphosphine oxide extractant by the solvent-impregnated resin method, the obtained adsorbent material was characterized by physico-chemical techniques. Further, the specific surface of the adsorbent and the zero-point charge of the adsorbent surface have been determined. Different parameters, such as initial concentration, adsorbent amount, contact time, or temperature, have been studied. The initial pH effect was investigated when a maximum adsorption capacity of 31.84 mg g−1 was obtained at pH > 3, using 0.1 g of adsorbent and a contact time of 90 min and 298 K. An attempt was made to discuss and provide a clear representation of the studied adsorption process, proposing a specific mechanism for Sc(III) recovery from aqueous solutions through kinetic, thermodynamic, and equilibrium studies. Adsorption/desorption studies reveal that the prepared adsorbent material can be reused five times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this research is to explore the life experiences of schizophrenic families in accompanying the recovery process. Methods: This study uses a qualitative method with descriptive phenomenology to explain phenomena from family experiences. The number of the participants was eight families who had family members with schizophrenia. Sampling was determined by purposive sampling. Data were collected through in‑depth interviews and analyzed using the Colaizzi method. Results: The results of this study show four themes that emerged including (1) psychological burden on the family, (2) families needing support in the recovery process, (3) obstacles due to social stigma, and (4) family gratitude for being able to pass the test patiently. Conclusion: The schizophrenia family’s journey in the recovery process is very long. They are required to endure in assisting the recovery process. Experiences felt by the family include feelings, obstacles, and hopes that arise in carrying out their role to assist the recovery process which aims to improve the health of schizophrenia patients. The findings from this study provide insight for nurses to be able to pay attention to family psychological problems by strengthening families through home visits and health promotion related to the recovery process of survivor schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth in the consumption of electronic products in recent years has resulted in increasing electronic device waste. At the same time, there is a decrease in the availability of raw metals required to produce electronic boards. Recycling through the recovery of precious and critical metals contained in electronic board waste is a solution, but the processes need to be safer for the environment. This paper presents the steps that lead to investment in the development of an eco-friendly and cost-effective process for recovering precious metals from end-of-life electronic telecommunications cards. Social organizations can also become involved in the recycling of electronic cards, thus enabling the integration of marginalized people into society. We examine the case of a non-profit organization whose mission is to help people living with mental health problems through the recycling of end-of-life telecommunication devices. This recycling process must operate within constraints specific to this organization and to the employment of people with mental health issues. The literature review showed that considering ecological and economic factors, the hydrometallurgical process appeared to be a logical choice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamin C may have positive effects on wound healing and improve quality of life and the recovery process. A systematic review was done to study the effects of vitamin C on the healing of wounds and thereby hasten rehabilitation. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials on the effects of vitamin C were searched for using PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Cochrane Library. Data was collected, analyzed, and assessed for risks of bias using Cochrane review protocols and tools. A total of 24 trials were procured, but after excluding 21 that did not meet the criteria, only three trials could be analyzed. Overall, addition of vitamin C was noted to have 3.94 times likelihood of acquiring quicker recovery process as compared to placebo (OR 3.99, 95% CI 2.06 to 7.73), but there was no difference in pain (p > 0.05). Overall quality of evidence was good, with low risk of bias. Evidence shows that vitamin C promotes wound healing by hastening recovery and attaining high leucocyte ascorbic acid levels. It is recommended to use vitamin C for wound healing while waiting for more RCTs to strengthen this evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study sought to explore the meaning of the recovery process and its stages from the perspective of people attending a mental health day hospital. Methods: A descriptive exploratory qualitative study was carried out. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with people attending a mental health day hospital. The data were analysed deductively by means of content analysis. Results: The participants described the recovery process as a process based on three pillars; the attitude towards recovery, hardship, and the effort required throughout the process. Regarding the stages of recovery, for the participants in the first stage of the process (Moratorium), the search for hope was the most important element. In the second stage (Awareness), the reestablishment of their identity, through the acceptance of the consequences derived from the mental health problem, together with being able to feel full and fulfilled, were the most outstanding elements. In the third stage (Preparation), participants highlighted the search for meaning in life, facing their fears and the process with an open mind. Finally, the last two stages (Rebuilding and Growth) were related to taking responsibility and empowerment for recovery. Conclusions: The results of this study provide insight into the perception of the recovery process and its stages in people attending a mental health day hospital. These findings may contribute to aligning the nurse–patient perspective, helping nurses to understand the key elements of patients according to their stage of recovery, and thus be able to subsequently individualise interventions. Patient and Public Contribution: This study was based on interviews with 15 patients receiving treatment at an adult mental health day hospital. This study would not have been possible without their participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recovery of Ukraine will require the involvement of as many actors and resources as possible. Higher education institutions will play a significant role in the recovery of the country and its regions and communities. Educational institutions can participate in the recovery process both by training the required personnel and by directly participating in the development of relevant policies, programmes and strategic documents, analysing the needs and capabilities of local communities, providing advice and expert assistance in their areas of expertise, etc. There are already scientific publications and case studies that demonstrate the role of higher education institutions in recovery processes. Moreover, special attention is paid to displaced higher education institutions as those with specific experience and knowledge. The purpose of the article is to determine the role of displaced higher education institutions in the recovery and restoration of the country and its regions using the example of the twice displaced Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University. For this purpose, the article uses such methods as observation, analysis and synthesis. In addition, a survey was conducted among the staff and students of Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University regarding the role of the displaced higher education institution in the recovery process, the results of which are summarised in the article. Ukraine has experience in relocating higher education institutions, some of which were relocated twice in 2014 and 2022. The article examines the case of the Volodymyr Dahl EUNU and reveals the main activities and projects implemented by the university after the first and second relocations aimed at recovery and development of territorial communities. In particular, the institutionalised practices of participation of Volodymyr Dahl EUNU in the recovery processes are presented. The survey of academic staff and students of the university showed the distribution of opinions on the role of higher education institutions in the recovery of the community, the region and the country as a whole, and also identified the specific role of displaced HEIs in such processes. The study revealed the willingness and existence of active practices of participation of the academic staff and students in the recovery of socio-economic systems of various levels, as well as their readiness and conditions for joining such activities. The results of the survey conducted among the academic staff and students of the Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University show that the respondents are aware of the role of educational institutions in the recovery and restoration of communities, regions and the country as a whole, as well as their readiness to return to the liberated territories to restore them together with the university.

Purpose: We conducted muscle synergy and gait analyses in a monoplegic patient whose gait function improved through training, to explore the possibility of using these parameters as indicators of training. Case presentation: A 49-year-old male had monoplegia of the right lower limb caused by infarction of the left paracentral lobule. After 2 months of training, he was able to walk and returned to work. Methods: Consecutive analyses were done after admission. Muscle synergy analysis: during walking, surface electromyograms of gluteus maximus, quadriceps femoris, adductor femoris, hamstrings, tibialis anterior, medial/lateral gastrocnemius, and soleus on both sides were recorded and processed for non-negative matrix factorization (NNMF) analysis. Gait analysis: markers were placed at foot, and walking movements were video recorded as changes in position of the markers. Results: Compared with three muscle synergies detected on the non-paretic side, two muscle synergies were extracted on the paretic side at admission, and the number increased to three and then four with progress in rehabilitation training. Changes in weighting and activity of the muscle synergies were greater on the non-paretic side than on the paretic side. With training, the knee joint flexor and the ankle dorsiflexor activities on the paretic side and the gluteus maximus activity on the non-paretic side increased during swing phase as shown by weight changes of muscle synergies, and gait analysis showed increased knee joint flexion and ankle joint dorsiflexion during swing phase in the paretic limb. On the non-paretic side, however, variability of muscle activity was observed, and three or four muscle synergies were extracted depending on the number of strides analyzed. Conclusion: The number of muscle synergies is considered to contribute to motor control. Rehabilitation training improves gait by increasing the number of muscle synergies on the paretic side and changing the weights of the muscles constituting the muscle synergies. From the changes on the non-paretic side, we propose the existence of compensatory mechanisms also on the nonparetic side. In muscle synergy analysis, in addition to the filters, the number of strides used in each analysis set has to be examined. This report highlights the issues of NNMF as analytical methods in gait training for stroke patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The condition known as chronic fatigue syndrome or myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) is poorly understood. Simplified medical models tend to neglect the complexity of illness, contributing to a terrain of uncertainty, dilemmas and predicaments. However, despite pessimistic pictures of no cure and poor prognosis, some patients recover. Purpose: This study's purpose is to provide insight into people's experiences of suffering and recovery from very severe CFS/ME and illuminate understanding of how and why changes became possible. Methods: Fourteen former patients were interviewed about their experiences of returning to health. A narrative analysis was undertaken to explore participants' experiences and understandings. We present the result through one participant's story. Results: The analysis yielded a common plotline with a distinct turning point. Participants went through a profound narrative shift, change in mindset and subsequent long-time work to actively pursue their own healing. Their narrative understandings of being helpless victims of disease were replaced by a more complex view of causality and illness and a new sense of self-agency developed. Discussion: We discuss the illness narratives in relation to the disease model and its shortcomings, the different voices dominating the stories at different times in a clinically, conceptually, and emotionally challenging area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction This study sought to explore the meaning of the recovery process and its stages from the perspective of people attending a mental health day hospital. Methods A descriptive exploratory qualitative study was carried out. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with people attending a mental health day hospital. The data were analysed deductively by means of content analysis. Results The participants described the recovery process as a process based on three pillars; the attitude towards recovery, hardship, and the effort required throughout the process. Regarding the stages of recovery, for the participants in the first stage of the process (Moratorium), the search for hope was the most important element. In the second stage (Awareness), the reestablishment of their identity, through the acceptance of the consequences derived from the mental health problem, together with being able to feel full and fulfilled, were the most outstanding elements. In the third stage (Preparation), participants highlighted the search for meaning in life, facing their fears and the process with an open mind. Finally, the last two stages (Rebuilding and Growth) were related to taking responsibility and empowerment for recovery. Conclusions The results of this study provide insight into the perception of the recovery process and its stages in people attending a mental health day hospital. These findings may contribute to aligning the nurse–patient perspective, helping nurses to understand the key elements of patients according to their stage of recovery, and thus be able to subsequently individualise interventions. Patient and Public Contribution This study was based on interviews with 15 patients receiving treatment at an adult mental health day hospital. This study would not have been possible without their participation.

This research effort is dedicated to develop and test a mathematical approach to estimate the optimal aircraft age to make decisions about its withdrawn from service, market relocation, or starting its retirement and decommissioning processes. Our method consists of a cost-benefit financial analysis based on the expected revenue from the aircraft returning to operations and the aircraft recovery process to support end-of-life decisions. The core contribution of this research is the possibility of systematically analyse opportunities to return parked aircraft to active service, considering reasonable scenarios of operating revenue improvements or operating cost reductions, postponing the aircraft retirement and decommissioning decision. It is important to highlight that only financial concerns of the end-of-life aircraft problem were analysed. Considering this managerial context, the estimation of the aircraft parking and retirement costs, the recovery of the operating revenues from its market relocation and the recovered values from its disassembly and dismantling may influence these companies' aircraft fleet planning in a well-supported manner. This research intends to fulfill the gaps in the literature regarding commercial aircraft costs and revenues incurred during its end-of-life phase, aiming to estimate how much they affect its total cost of ownership, considering aircraft owners' and operators' decision-making contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Social media have become integral in adolescents’ lives, presenting both opportunities and risks, especially concerning psychiatric issues like eating disorders, prevalent in this vulnerable age group. Methods: This qualitative study employed semi-structured interviews with seven adolescent girls (aged 15–17) diagnosed with eating disorders. Interviews covered seven predefined topics, recorded and transcribed for thematic analysis. Results: Participants identified four key themes: exposure to selective content, biased interpretation, behavioural adaptation, and evolving perspectives during recovery. They highlighted social media’s role in exacerbating body dissatisfaction and altering behaviours related to eating disorders. Conclusions: This research underscores the critical need for awareness and guidance in adolescents’ social media use to mitigate negative impacts, emphasizing the potential link between exposure to specific content and cognitive-behavioural changes in those with eating disorders. Further investigation is warranted to deepen our comprehension of these dynamics.

Background: The recovery process of people with Schizophrenia in Indonesia is still not optimal. The lack of success in the recovery process is indicated by the relapse rate in people with schizophrenia, which is still high. Aims: This literature review aims to describe the views of ODS, families, and health workers in the ODS recovery process in Indonesia. Methods: A literature search was carried out using Google Scholar and also The databases PubMed and CINAHL with the keywords Schizophrenia OR psychosis AND family OR Caregiver OR relatives OR care OR spouse OR sibling OR parents AND psychiatrist AND mental health nurse AND mental health professionals AND Perspective OR Perceived AND Recovery AND Indonesia with free-full text criteria in English and Indonesian, and publication time has no limitations. Results: Based on a literature review of 13 articles, different views were obtained between survivors, families, and mental health professionals. Conclusion: The results of these findings recommend that mental health policymakers consider the views of survivors, families, and health workers regarding recovery in survivors to produce appropriate strategies to help survivors achieve a state of recovery. Received: 21 November 2023, Revised: 21 December 2023, Accepted: 25 December 2023.

Background The condition known as chronic fatigue syndrome or myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) is poorly understood. Simplified medical models tend to neglect the complexity of illness, contributing to a terrain of uncertainty, dilemmas and predicaments. However, despite pessimistic pictures of no cure and poor prognosis, some patients recover. Purpose This study’s purpose is to provide insight into people’s experiences of suffering and recovery from very severe CFS/ME and illuminate understanding of how and why changes became possible. Methods Fourteen former patients were interviewed about their experiences of returning to health. A narrative analysis was undertaken to explore participants’ experiences and understandings. We present the result through one participant’s story. Results The analysis yielded a common plotline with a distinct turning point. Participants went through a profound narrative shift, change in mindset and subsequent long-time work to actively pursue their own healing. Their narrative understandings of being helpless victims of disease were replaced by a more complex view of causality and illness and a new sense of self-agency developed. Discussion We discuss the illness narratives in relation to the disease model and its shortcomings, the different voices dominating the stories at different times in a clinically, conceptually, and emotionally challenging area.

Morita therapy (MT) has been re-evaluated and has attracted much attention internationally to date. However, it is not known what kinds of experiences inpatients with mood disorders undergo during the process of recovery through MT. The purpose of this study was therefore to empirically clarify what subjective experiences influence the recovery from depression when it is treated with MT. Patients with mood disorders who were admitted to the Jikei University Center for Morita Therapy were included. Successive assessments of depression were performed using rating scales. Semi-structured interviews were conducted at the time of discharge regarding factors contributing to improvement, and were analyzed using qualitative data analysis methods to identify factors contributing to the recovery from depression among inpatients treated with MT. There were 24 subjects, 19 of whom completed treatment. The completers had significantly lower severity of depression severity upon discharge. Remarkably, qualitative analysis revealed that nine categories of experiences contributed to recovery from depression. In particular, experiences of "isolation bed-resting of MT", "getting stuck in doing things one's way", "identifying maladaptive behavior patterns", "modifying maladaptive behavior patterns", "restoring self-evaluation", and "change in negative emotions" were considered as the key experiences for recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We hypothesized that fine finger motor functions are controlled by the ipsilesional hemisphere, and that gross motor functions are compensated for by the contralesional hemisphere after brain injury in humans. The purpose of this study was to compare finger movements before and after hemispherotomy that defunctionated the ipsilesional hemisphere for patients with hemispherical lesions. We statistically compared Brunnstrom stage of the fingers, arm (upper extremity), and leg (lower extremity) before and after hemispherotomy. Inclusion criteria for this study were: 1) hemispherotomy for hemispherical epilepsy; 2) a ≥ 6-month history of hemiparesis; 3) post-operative follow-up ≥ 6 months; 4) complete freedom from seizures without aura; and 5) application of our protocol for hemispherotomy. Among 36 patients who underwent multi-lobe disconnection surgeries, 8 patients (2 girls, 6 boys) met the study criteria. Mean age at surgery was 6.38 years (range, 2–12 years; median, 6 years; standard deviation, 3.5 years). Paresis of the fingers was significantly exacerbated (p = 0.011) compared to pre-operatively, whereas that of the upper limbs (p = 0.07) and lower limbs (p = 0.103) was not. Finger movement functions tend to remain in the ipsilesional hemisphere after brain injury, whereas gross motor movement functions such as those of the arms and legs are compensated for by the contralesional hemisphere in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing demand for manganese and rapid depletion of high-grade manganese ores grow attention to other resources. However, environmental impacts and techno-economic issues are the main challenges regarding manganese extraction from low-grade ores. This study investigated the environmental impacts of manganese recovery from low-grade ores and the synthesis of magnetic manganese ferrite. Two methods of synthesis were selected, a high-temperature synthesis using a furnace and a low-temperature method where the aging process compensates for the absence of a high-temperature regime. Life cycle analysis was conducted through the collected data to quantify and compare the environmental impacts. The high-temperature synthesis method surpassed the other process in almost all environmental categories adopted in the TRACI model. Additionally, sodium hydroxide has almost the highest contribution in both synthesis methods, while in the recovery process, electricity was the major contributor to all environmental categories. Besides electricity, sulfuric acid and sulfur dioxide play essential roles in the environmental impacts of the recovery process. Therefore, the low-temperature synthesis of manganese ferrite as a novel method is cost-effective and warrants the least environmental footprint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an actual economic context, the demand for scandium has grown due to its applications in top technologies. However, further development of new technologies will lead to an increase in the market for Sc related to such technologies. The present study aims to improve and upgrade existing technology in terms of efficient scandium recovery, proposing a new material with selective adsorptive properties for scandium recovery. To highlight the impregnation of Amberlite XAD7HP resin with tri-n-octylphosphine oxide extractant by the solvent-impregnated resin method, the obtained adsorbent material was characterized by physico-chemical techniques. Further, the specific surface of the adsorbent and the zero-point charge of the adsorbent surface have been determined. Different parameters, such as initial concentration, adsorbent amount, contact time, or temperature, have been studied. The initial pH effect was investigated when a maximum adsorption capacity of 31.84 mg g−1 was obtained at pH > 3, using 0.1 g of adsorbent and a contact time of 90 min and 298 K. An attempt was made to discuss and provide a clear representation of the studied adsorption process, proposing a specific mechanism for Sc(III) recovery from aqueous solutions through kinetic, thermodynamic, and equilibrium studies. Adsorption/desorption studies reveal that the prepared adsorbent material can be reused five times.

This article presents a therapeutic-group held at a closed-ward, for people coping with psychotic-disorders. Psychotic people generally have difficulty organizing their thoughts and expressing their internal worlds. Moreover, the therapists needed a different and creative way to create relationships and to have insights about the participants. We created a theme group that used the verbal-affective metaphoric instrument of literature. The use of literature leads to the dissipation of fear and suspicion and gradual familiarity in the relationship, and also to a strong therapeutic process and to the creation of a change. Additionally, the therapists were able to understand in a different perspective, the participants and their experience, but at the same time to be an observer from the side. The use of this instrument in therapy facilitated, the creation of a relationship, the ability to share insights and the beginning of a recovery process in a better and customized way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building on the literatures on service failure and crisis seriousness, we develop a framework to understand the effects of a specific type of service crisis (i.e., data breaches) and organizational recovery resources on the reactions of the stock market. To do so, we conduct an event study analysis with a sample of 217 data breach announcements, as our empirical context. Our analyses reveal that a firm suffers from negative abnormal stock returns when either the outcome of the breach (e.g., the breach of financial data) or its causal process (e.g., hacker attack) indicates a high level of seriousness. Moreover, considering organizational recovery resources, we find that in the case of financial data breaches, age, size, profitability, liquidity, and brand familiarity are the primary resources that can help a firm's recovery. For hacker attacks, these organizational recovery resources include size, profitability, and liquidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgae are used in flocculation processes because biopolymers are released into the culture medium. Microalgal cell growth under specific conditions (temperature, pH, luminosity, nutrients, and salinity) provides the production and release of exopolysaccharides (EPS). These biopolymers can be recovered from the medium for application as bioflocculants or used directly in cultivation as microalgae autoflocculants. The optimization of nutritional parameters, the control of process conditions, and the possibility of scaling up allow the production and industrial application of microalgal EPS. Therefore, this review addresses the potential use of EPS produced by microalgae in bioflocculation. The recovery, determination, and quantification techniques for these biopolymers are also addressed. Moreover, other technological applications of EPS are highlighted.

Highlights: The recovery process of the retention capacity is described using an exponential decline curve. The recovery rate is represented by the half-life of the water content after a storm (T50), and T50 varies with the seasonal variations in the weather conditions and vegetation coverage. During the wet season, T50 affects the rainwater retention performance of green roofs; during the dry season, the actual retention capacity, rather than T50, affects the performance. Green roofs need to quickly recover their water retention capacity between rainfall events to maintain their rainwater retention performance. In this study, the authors observed the rainwater retention, recovery process, and plant eco-physiological performance of green roofs with four local vegetation species under a typical subtropical monsoon climate for two years. The half-life of the water content after each rainfall (T50) was used to describe the recovery rate. The results indicate that (1) the decline in the water content after rainfall can be well described by an exponential decline curve (R2 > 0.7), and the average T50 of green roofs with Plectranthus prostratus Gürke was the shortest among the four plants; (2) the T50 in the wet season was significantly shorter than that in the dry season (p < 0.01) because of the seasonal variations in the weather conditions and eco-physiological activity, such as vegetation coverage and transpiration; (3) the rainwater retention of green roofs for rainfall events in the wet season was significantly lower than that in the dry season due to a relatively short antecedent dry period; (4) plants with a high maximum photosynthetic capacity, a strong root system, drought resistance, and large vegetation coverage were recommended as green roof plants. Above all, P. prostrates was found to be the best choice in the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This longitudinal study aimed to evaluate olfactory perception in patients with first time mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) 2–4 weeks (baseline) and 6 months (follow-up) following their trauma. At baseline, we enrolled 107 participants (54 healthy controls; 53 patients with mTBI). Thirty-nine healthy controls and 32 patients with mTBI returned for follow-up. We assessed odor detection (yes/no paradigm) and odor perception with a self-reported evaluation of intensity and pleasantness of four common odorants, by using an olfactometer, i.e., a computer controlled automated odor presentation device. At baseline, patients with mTBI showed significantly more difficulty detecting odors; however, they perceived them as more intense and less pleasant. These effects vanished at follow-up. These results suggest that patients with mTBI suffer from altered olfactory detection and perception in the first weeks following their trauma. This may have an impact on eating behavior and quality of life. Further, our data suggest recovery of olfactory function within the first six months following a head trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commercially available low-cost polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/polyethylene glycol (PEG) were used to develop nanocomposites containing different amounts of graphene using the solution casting technique. The shape-memory performance of the developed films was investigated using multiple types of actuations, including thermal heating and microwave (MW) irradiation for triggering the shape-memory effects (SMEs). The bending test was used to quantitatively characterize SMEs of PVA/PEG nanocomposites. The results show that the developed PVA/PEG blend and its nanocomposites show shape recoverability under both thermal and MW irradiation actuation. The nanocomposite containing 0.2 wt% graphene exhibits the best shape-memory performance. The maximal recovery ratio (Rr) is nearly 100% within 8 s. However, for the specimens with higher graphene loadings of 0.5 and 1.0 wt%, the Rr values are significantly lower with incomplete recovery (Rr ≈ 45%). The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image of PVA/PEG/0.2 shows good uniformity and dispersion of graphene, while at higher loadings graphene sheets agglomerate. The nanocomposites also show positive results when subjected to water-induced shape recovery tests. The recovery data were fit using a sigmoidal-logistic-1 model with correlation factors of 0.999. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis were used to evaluate the SMEs. The nanocomposites show improved thermal stability compared to that of the blend without graphene as indicated by the increase (by 10–30 °C) in the values of the degradation temperature. This study identified novel and flexible graphene-based SMP materials with a potential for a range of applications, such as actuations, tissue regeneration, wearable sensors, and thermal management The highlight of this study is using graphene to introduce additional cross-linked points in PVA/PEG composites to improve the shape memory properties under multiple types of actuations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following a radiological or nuclear emergency, workers, responders and the public may be internally contaminated with radionuclides. Screening, monitoring and assessing any internal contamination and providing necessary medical treatment, especially when a large number of individuals are involved, is challenging. Experience gained and lessons learned from the management of previous incidents would help to identify gaps in knowledge and capabilities on preparedness for and response to radiation emergencies. In this paper, eight large-scale and five workplace radiological and nuclear incidents are reviewed cross 14 technical areas, under the broader topics of emergency preparedness, emergency response and recovery processes. The review findings suggest that 1) new strategies, algorithms and technologies are explored for rapid screening of large populations; 2) exposure assessment and dose estimation in emergency response and dose reconstruction in recovery process are supported by complementary sources of information, including ‘citizen science’; 3) surge capacity for monitoring and dose assessment is coordinated through national and international laboratory networks; 4) evidence-based guidelines for medical management and follow-up of internal contamination are urgently needed; 5) mechanisms for international and regional access to medical countermeasures are investigated and implemented; 6) long-term health and medical follow up programs are designed and justified; and 7) capabilities and capacity developed for emergency response are sustained through adequate resource allocation, routine non-emergency use of technical skills in regular exercises, training, and continuous improvement.

• The effect of gamma rays on two experimental fiber-optic cables was studied. • The cables were irradiated using the dose of 80.5 kGy and rate of 5.5 Gy/h. • The cables were irradiated using the dose of 65.5 kGy and rate of 0.94 Gy/h. • MM fibers after irradiation have lower optical losses at 1300 nm than 850 nm. • SM fiber with the lowest influence of gamma rays had losses of 3.5 dB at 1310 nm. This paper reports on our study of the effect of gamma-ray irradiation on two types of experimental fiber-optic cables. The first type of cable, CTFS, had a jelly-filling compound, whereas the second type, CTDS, was without the jelly. The cables contained three multi-mode (A, B, C) and five single-mode (D, E, F, G, H) optical fibers. The study was performed using two gamma-irradiation facilities with 60Co sources for slow long-term irradiation with the dose of 80.5 kGy at the low dose rate of 5.5 Gy/h and with the dose of 65.5 kGy at the higher dose irradiation rate of 0.94 kGy/h. After the irradiation with the dose of 80.5 kGy, the C fiber in the CTDS cable had the optical loss of 5.91 dB; 140 days after the gamma treatment at the wavelength of 1300 nm, it was 4.96 dB. The lowest optical losses for a single-mode fiber after irradiation with the dose of 65.5 kGy were found for the D fiber in the cable CTFS, namely 3.26 dB at 1490 nm and 3.49 dB at 1310 nm. In the fiber E in the CTDS cable, the optical loss was 3.62 dB at 1550 nm. In the fiber F in the CTDS cable, it was 3.86 dB at 1310 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgae are used in flocculation processes because biopolymers are released into the culture medium. Microalgal cell growth under specific conditions (temperature, pH, luminosity, nutrients, and salinity) provides the production and release of exopolysaccharides (EPS). These biopolymers can be recovered from the medium for application as bioflocculants or used directly in cultivation as microalgae autoflocculants. The optimization of nutritional parameters, the control of process conditions, and the possibility of scaling up allow the production and industrial application of microalgal EPS. Therefore, this review addresses the potential use of EPS produced by microalgae in bioflocculation. The recovery, determination, and quantification techniques for these biopolymers are also addressed. Moreover, other technological applications of EPS are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recovery of troubled IT projects is a vital issue for many organizations. Understanding how leadership and project complexity affect a recovery process could enable organizations to do a better job in recovering troubled projects. A few studies have examined the relationship between leadership and project management. However, the recovery process and project complexity have not been integrated into the relationship between leadership and project recovery. Change leadership, leadership effectiveness, and project complexity are empirically determined to be positively associated with the recovery process based on quantitative data collected from 166 IT project team members. Leadership effectiveness is the variable that impacts the recovery process the most. And, the recovery process significantly affects product success and process success of troubled projects. The findings imply that organizations should focus more on leadership effectiveness to improve recovery processes. To facilitate the process and product success of a project recovery, organizations should rely on a recovery process that includes multiple optional remedies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article deals with relational aspects of mental disorders. The author takes into account the influence of mental illness on intersubjectivity and interpersonal relations in three aspects: (1) “attitude to the illness,” that is, changes in the functioning of the subject and difficulties in dealing with the experience of mental illness; (2) “dialogical relationship” in the form of difficulties in maintaining social cognition and entering into relationships with others; (3) “social consensus,” that is, difficulties in adapting to the social world and a common sense deficit. The analysis is made with reference to phenomenological research in contemporary philosophy of psychiatry. The result of this study is a reconstruction of a “different existence,” in other words, presentation of the transformation of the life-world and the specific way of inhabiting the world of a person in a mental crisis. Symptoms and experience of the illness are presented in the light of human possibilities of transformation. The analysis emphasizes the role of patients’ subjectivity and their efforts to find the meaning of a painful situation. The study of subjective aspects of disorders aims to reveal their consequences for understanding how to deal with mental crisis and to understand the positive aspects of the recovery process.

In the aftermath of a disaster, the recovery process has long-term, multi-dimensional, and interactive aspects. To clarify the recovery conditions and victims' perceptions in the process, a long-term perspective and surveys are needed. This study explores trends and relationships in victims' recovery perceptions for the long-term recovery process after the Great East Japan Earthquake. We identify the factors that affect the recovery perception of living condition on the relationships among respondents' perceptions and attributes. The relationships of victims' perceptions at different time points are also highlighted in the analysis. To illustrate these relationships, we used panel data that were acquired in the survey waves in March 2012 and February to March 2016. The survey areas are Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, and Kesennuma City, Miyagi Prefecture, both in the Tohoku region of Japan. The survivors in these cities suffered tremendous damage following the Great East Japan Earthquake. The surveys were conducted by postal questionnaires. While the means of the recovery perceptions increased between one and five years after the earthquake, some respondents still reported a low level of recovery even five years later. The result of path analyses indicated that the recovery perceptions of dwelling condition, work, and dietary life were vital factors for the perceptions of living condition at both times of one year and five years after the earthquake. Additionally, recovery perceptions regarding work and family income one year after the earthquake largely affected the recovery perceptions of four years later. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami are one of the most catastrophic natural disasters that took place in Japan. The disaster caused widespread destruction to the estuarine and coastal areas along the northeastern region of Japan. The Abukuma River mouth, among many estuaries in Miyagi Prefecture, suffered major damage from the tsunami in which the sand spit and the sand terrace were severely eroded. The present study aims to provide a better comprehension of the morphology of the Abukuma River mouth within a decade after the 2011 tsunami based on the collected datasets of imagery and offshore bathymetry surveys. The consecutive changes of the sand terrace and sand spit indicate their connection influencing the morphological recovery in the Abukuma River mouth. About a year after the tsunami, the sand terrace re-appeared by a flood event and became the sediment source to recover the sand spit under the intrusion process. When the sand spit almost recovered and achieved a stable configuration, the sediment from the sand terrace into the river was restricted. As a result, more sediment from the sand terrace was expected to be transported to the downdrift area under the dominant wave condition in the Abukuma River mouth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To describe the experience of Adventure Therapy (AT) in young adults with first-episode psychosis, and how it relates to their recovery process. Method: We conducted individual, semi-structured interviews with 15 participants, immediately following, and six months after a four-day adventure expedition. A thematic analysis was performed on all transcripts. Results: One overarching theme emerged from our analysis: a new or renewed experience of being in relation with oneself and with others. Under this broad theme, there were five key themes: (a) experiencing intense, yet contained emotions; (b) developing new perceptions of one's abilities, qualities, or interests; (c) gaining new insights about oneself through the feedback of others; (d) experiencing positive social interactions; and (e) openly sharing with others one's personal experience with psychosis. Various expressions of the impacts of AT on daily life and the recovery process also emerged, such as an increase in self-confidence. Conclusions: Since the recovery process has been conceived of as resting, in part, on a readjustment of one's relation with oneself, others, and the world, AT appears to combine those factors pertaining to recovery. Therefore, the use of AT as an adjunct treatment in early intervention for psychosis could be effective in supporting recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: The video monitoring system used in this study can be applied for monitoring coastal processes of erosion and recovery and thus can be useful in designing beach protection/prevention plans for damage by storm waves. Once a beach is eroded by storm waves, it is generally recovered under milder wave conditions. To prevent or reduce damage, it is therefore important to understand the characteristics of the site-specific recovery process. Here, we present the results, based on a data set from a video monitoring system and wave measurements, of the recovery process in a pocketed beach located inside a bay where the shoreline retreated harshly (~12 m, on average, of beach width) during Typhoon TAPAH (T1917) in September 2019. It took about 1.5 years for the beach to be recovered to the level before the typhoon. During this period, the erosion and accretion were repeated, with the pattern highly related to the wave power ( P w ); most of the erosion occurred when P w became greater than 30 kWatt/m, whereas the accretion prevailed when P w was no greater than 10 kWatt/m. The recovery pattern showed discrepancies between different parts of the beach. The erosion during storm events was most severe in the southern part, whereas the northern shoreline did not significantly change even during TAPAH (T1917). In contrast, the recovery process occurred almost equally at all locations. This discrepancy in the erosion/accretion process was likely due to human intervention, as a shadow zone was formed in the northern end due to the breakwaters, causing disequilibrium in the sediment transport gradient along the shore. The results in this study could be applied in designing the protection plans from severe wave attacks by effectively estimating the size of coastal structures and by correctly arranging the horizontal placement of such interventions or beach nourishment. Although the application of these results should be confined to this specific site, the method using wave energy parameters as criteria can be considered in other areas with similar environments, for future planning of beach protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The recent nationally implemented clinical pathways for the treatment of substance use problems in Norway require mapping and assessing of patients' needs, challenges, and resources. However, there is a lack of tools for systematically mapping and assessing patients' social situations and social networks as part of the national guidelines. The aim of this article is to present a tool developed to map and assess the patient's social situation, and to propose approaches for promoting multiple psychological senses of community (MPSOC) through clinical pathways for treating substance use problems. Methods: The proposed tool and approaches are developed based on findings in a previous in-depth collaborative study of MPSOC and recovery among people with substance use problems who received help and services from Norwegian municipalities. Findings: The findings suggest that multiple communities (geographical, relational and ideal) and senses of communities (within and outside treatment) simultaneously can influence individual recovery processes from problematic substance use in both positive as well as negative ways. As such, these community dimensions are of central importance to include in mapping and assessing of patients' social situations, as well as in the promotion of MPSOC through clinical pathways. Conclusions: The suggested tool and approaches can increase the likelihood of achieving key aims of the national clinical pathways. Most important, mapping, assessing and promoting MPSOC through clinical pathways may promote long-term recovery processes and positive recovery capital for persons with substance use problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic mechanical relaxation is a fundamental tool to understand the mechanical and physical properties of viscoelastic materials like glasses. Mechanical spectroscopy shows that the high-entropy bulk metallic glass (La30Ce30Ni10Al20Co10) exhibits a distinct β-relaxation feature. In the present research, dynamic mechanical analysis and thermal creep were performed using this bulk metallic glass material at a temperature domain around the β relaxation. The components of total strain, including ideal elastic strain, anelastic strain, and viscous-plastic strain, were analyzed based on the model of shear transformation zones (STZs). The stochastic activation of STZ contributes to the anelastic strain. When the temperature or external stress is high enough or the timescale is long enough, the interaction between STZs induces viscous-plastic strain. When all the spectrum of STZs is activated, the quasi-steady-state creep is achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green roofs need to quickly recover their water retention capacity between rainfall events to maintain their rainwater retention performance. In this study, the authors observed the rainwater retention, recovery process, and plant eco-physiological performance of green roofs with four local vegetation species under a typical subtropical monsoon climate for two years. The half-life of the water content after each rainfall (T50) was used to describe the recovery rate. The results indicate that (1) the decline in the water content after rainfall can be well described by an exponential decline curve (R2 > 0.7), and the average T50 of green roofs with Plectranthus prostratus Gürke was the shortest among the four plants; (2) the T50 in the wet season was significantly shorter than that in the dry season (p < 0.01) because of the seasonal variations in the weather conditions and eco-physiological activity, such as vegetation coverage and transpiration; (3) the rainwater retention of green roofs for rainfall events in the wet season was significantly lower than that in the dry season due to a relatively short antecedent dry period; (4) plants with a high maximum photosynthetic capacity, a strong root system, drought resistance, and large vegetation coverage were recommended as green roof plants. Above all, P. prostrates was found to be the best choice in the study.

In this study, Ta powder was produced from Ta scarp via chemical processes using Mg and Ca powders. Initially, tantalum scraps were converted to tantalum oxide (Ta2O5) at 1100 °C in an oxygen atmosphere. Tantalum oxide was then reduced to Tantalum powder with Mg in a vacuum environment at 950 to 1200 °C for 3 hours. The obtained Ta powders further were reacted with Ca at 950 °C for 5 hours in a vacuum atmosphere. The powders were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), as well as conducting oxygen content measurement. The results showed that the average particle size of the produced Ta powders was around 58 nm with oxygen contents of 250 ppm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2011 Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami caused significant damage along the coastal region in Miyagi Prefecture. In the Natori River of Miyagi Prefecture, the recovery process of the estuarine morphology has been observed since the tsunami arrived. In this study, detailed analyses of collected aerial photographs and beach topography in front of the river mouth were conducted to evaluate whether the river mouth has reached a new equilibrium. The shoreline analysis suggests that the river mouth has obtained an equilibrium state after 2014 in which the sediment volume can be preserved within the littoral system. In addition, the convergence process to the stable topography was detected by the first spatial and temporal eigenfunctions obtained from the empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis of the beach profiles. From the results, it can be concluded that the river mouth has obtained a new equilibrium of morphology after the tsunami. As the recurrence of the tsunami can be expected in the next several centuries, the findings of this study can be useful for long-term coastal and riverine management against future disasters in this river mouth, and other coastal regions that are prone to large-scale disasters in the near future.

In several European countries, patients with chronic pain conditions are high consumers of physicians' and physiotherapists' health services in primary health care. This study aimed to explore how patients in a Norwegian context make sense of their long-term use of physiotherapy. Narrative interviews were conducted with six long-term users. The data material was subjected to a narrative analysis with a focus on the stories' content and how health professionals and informants were inscribed in the stories. The stories provide rich and varied information about the informants' experiences with prior and present health services inscribed in their experiences of illness and recovery. The narrative's introduction portrays a shared illness narrative, centered around negative experiences as illustrated by the theme 'A long time searching for explanations and solutions to recover'. The narrative's plot describes a gradually ascending story of recovery where abilities overshadowed disabilities, as the informants are 'Learning their own meaningful ways to proceed'. The narrative has no definite ending, but instead depicts an 'Uncertainty about future and own ability to reverse relapse'. The shared narrative's storyline is that 'It takes time, but recovering makes it worthwhile'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Benign gallbladder diseases have become a high-prevalence condition not only in China but also worldwide. The main types of benign gallbladder diseases include gallbladder polyps, acute and chronic cholecystitis, and gallstones, with gallstones being the most common, accounting for over 70% of cases. Although the mortality rate of benign gallbladder diseases is low, they carry obvious potential risks. Studies have shown that an increased incidence of benign gallbladder diseases can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and gallbladder cancer, resulting in a substantial disease burden on patients and their families., Aim: To assess the medical utility of the Configuration-Procedure-Consequence (CPC) three-dimensional quality evaluation model in modulating the prognosis of laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients., Methods: A total of 98 patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy in our hospital from February 2020 to January 2022 were selected as the subjects. According to the random number table method, they were divided into a study group and a control group, with 49 patients in each group. The control group received routine perioperative care, while the study group had the addition of the CPC three-dimensional quality evaluation. The postoperative recovery-related indicators (time to first flatus, time to oral intake, time to ambulation, hospital stay), stress indicators (cortisol and adrenaline levels), distinctions in anxiety and depression status, and the incidence of perioperative complications were compared., Results: The time to first flatus, time to oral intake, time to ambulation, and hospital stay of the study group patients were obviously lower than those of the control group patients, with statistical significance ( P < 0.05). On the 1 st day after admission, there were no obvious distinctions in cortisol and adrenaline levels in blood samples, as well as in the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) scores between the study group and the control group ( P > 0.05). However, on the 3 rd day after surgery, the cortisol and adrenaline levels, as well as SAS and SDS scores of the study group patients, were obviously lower than those of the control group patients ( P < 0.05). The study group had 2 cases of incisional infection and 1 case of pulmonary infection, with a total incidence of complications of 6.12% (3/49), which was obviously lower than the 20.41% (10/49) in the control group ( P < 0.05)., Conclusion: Implementing the CPC three-dimensional quality evaluation model for patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy can help accelerate their perioperative recovery process, alleviate perioperative stress symptoms, mitigate anxiety, depression, and other adverse emotions, and to some extent, reduce the incidence of perioperative complications., Competing Interests: Conflict-of-interest statement: We declare that we have no conflict of interest., (©The Author(s) 2024. Published by Baishideng Publishing Group Inc. All rights reserved.)