bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managed trade: The US–Mexico sugar suspension agreements
Authors: Carter Colin A. , Saitone Tina L. , Schaefer K. Aleks
Published: June 2019

Under the 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement, Mexican sugar producers were ultimately granted free access to the US sugar market, while all other suppliers, including US refiners, were subject to supply quotas. Following a surge in imports of Mexican sugar, the American Sugar Coalition initiated anti‐dumping and countervailing duty (ADCVD) proceedings against Mexico in early 2014. In December 2014, the ADCVD cases were halted as a result of two suspension agreements negotiated between the US and Mexico. This paper contributes to a small number of empirical studies that have estimated the impact of suspension agreements. We measure the impacts of the ADCVD filings and the suspension agreements on US domestic raw and refined prices, the raw‐to‐refined margin and the quantity and composition of sugar imports from Mexico. Results suggest US raw sugar prices increased by 3¢ per lb. (14%) under ADCVD proceedings, equivalent to an ad valorem tariff between 40% and 50%, while the suspension agreements increased US raw sugar prices by 5¢ (70% tariff equivalent). US refined sugar prices increased by similar amounts under the ADCVD proceedings and the suspension agreements (4.5¢ per lb.). Ultimately, both the ADCVD proceedings and the suspension agreements significantly reduced sugar imports from Mexico. US sugar refiner economic welfare hinges critically on the quantity and composition of raw sugar imports. As such, refiner revenue, following the ADCVD filings and suspension agreements, is estimated to have declined by 16%, relative to a free trade environment.
Return migration after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster: the impact of institutional and individual factors
Authors: Do Xuan Bien
Published: June 2019

This paper explores two groups of factors, individual and institutional, that have influenced return migration since the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident in Japan on 11 March 2011. Based on an analysis of statistical data on evacuees, a questionnaire completed by 289 people who migrated, and 19 semi‐structured interviews with disaster‐affected people, the research found (apropos of institutional factors) that while the lifting of the government's evacuation order has had no immediate effect on return decisions, the termination of monetary compensation and housing subsidies has had a significant bearing on them. As for individual factors, a strong sense of attachment to home and the possession of property, job obligations, and having family members in the home location are key determinants of return decisions. Moreover, the paper suggests that there could be differing opinions among Japanese government officials and evacuees regarding radiation exposure risk and the degree to which infrastructure and social services have been rehabilitated.
The effects of corruption on the human capital accumulation process: Evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Thi Hoa Truong
Published: June 2019

This study aims to identify the effects of corruption on the human capital accumulation process in Vietnamese provinces/cities. I employ labour quality assessments of firms as a proxy for human capital and divide human capital accumulation into the following two processes: an educational process and a process through which educational outcomes and worker training transform into labour quality. The estimation results have some notable implications for the Vietnamese context. Corruption has both negative and positive effects on human capital. On the one hand, corruption reduces the positive effect of local government spending on educational achievements and worsens labour quality. On the other hand, the prevalence of corruption in provinces/cities increases the advantages of local schools in the competition to obtain funds from the central government; hence, corruption enhances educational achievements in those regions. The results of this study indicate that corruption adversely affects human capital overall.
Report of Bursaphelenchus crenati Rühm, 1956 (Nematoda: Parasitaphelenchinae) from Belarus and Russia with a diagnostic key and phylogeny of the Sexdentati group
Authors: Ryss Alexander Yu. , Polyanina Kristina S. , Petrov Alexander V. , Sazonov Alexander A. , Mandelshtam Michail Yu. , Subbotin Sergei A.
Published: June 2019

The endoparasitic nematode, Bursaphelenchus crenati, in beetle tunnels of Hylesinus crenatus from the ash Fraxinus excelsior L. with signs of ash dieback, is recorded for the first time in Central Russia and Belarus. Third‐stage dauer juveniles were extracted from the bark beetle, H. crenatus, and cultured on Botrytis cinerea. Morphological, morphometric and molecular analyses of these populations are presented here. Some morphological differences of dauers and adults were found between Belarusian and Russian populations, which may be attributed to seasonal variations. For description of new Bursaphelenchus species, it is recommended to indicate not only the number of lateral incisures but also the number of bands. Recommendations are made to classify the male caudal papillae of Bursaphelenchus into two groups: papilliform and gland papillae with separate numerals. Emended diagnosis, tabular diagnostic polytomous key for the species of Sexdentati group with lists of their vectors and plants, is given. Phylogenetic relationships between some species of the Sexdentati group are also presented based on the analysis of partial 18S, ITS and 28S rRNA gene sequences.
Scapulohumeral arthrodesis in four Shetland ponies
Authors: Kadic L. , Brunsting J. , Vanderperren K. , Martens A.
Published: June 2019

Four Shetland ponies were presented with severe osteoarthritis of the scapulohumeral joint to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Ghent University over a period of 4 years. Ponies were treated with internal fixation using locking compression plates (LCPs) applied cranially across the scapulohumeral joint. Although two ponies developed mild complications, all ponies were more comfortable in the limb within a few hours following arthrodesis.
Are lipid‐lowering drugs associated with a risk of cataract? A pharmacovigilance study
Authors: Despas Fabien , Rousseau Vanessa , Lafaurie Margaux , De Canecaude Claire , Durrieu Geneviève , Bagheri Haleh , Montastruc François , Montastruc Jean‐Louis
Published: June 2019

Some reports have raised concerns regarding a potential risk of cataracts associated with statins. However, clinical and observational studies evaluating the risk led to conflicting results. We assessed whether lipid‐lowering drugs (LLD) use is associated with an increased risk of cataract using the WHO's Individual Case Safety Reports database, VigiBase®. We performed a disproportionality analysis with all reports between 1/1/1988 and 12/31/2018 to measure the reporting risk of ‘cataract’ in patients ≥45 years. Primary analysis compared LLD users to non‐users. To mitigate some potential confounding bias, we performed several sensitivity analyses excluding reports (i) with an association of at least two LLD, (ii) with antidiabetic and glucocorticoids and (iii) with lovastatin. We also analyzed the data according to the different classes of age limiting the period of study to years 2002–2012. We identified 14 664 reports of cataract (3 049 in LLD users, 66% women, 66 ± 20 years). Statins (84%, atorvastatin, simvastatin, rosuvastatin and lovastatin) were mostly reported, followed by fibrates (5.7%), nicotinic acid (3%), bile acid sequestrants (2%), herbal cholesterol and triglyceride reducers (2%) and others (ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors, 15%). LLD users were associated with a greater risk of reports than non‐users (ROR 2.47, 95% CI 2.37–2.57). This association was also found for statins in general, fibrates, bile sequestrants, nicotinic acid, herbal drugs and others. Similar trends were observed in sensitivity analyses (except for fibrates and nicotinic acid after exclusion of reports with at least two LLD or in older patients ≥75 years). Using a large real‐life database (>18.5 million reports), we found a signal of cataract for LLD as a whole and statins, bile sequestrants and herbal drugs in particular. The signal disappeared for fibrates and nicotinic acid in older patients. No definite conclusions can be made for ezetimibe or PCSK9 inhibitors (evolocumab and alirocumab). This suggests that a decrease in cholesterol could be important in the pathophysiology of cataract in patients exposed to the main LLD.
Co‐production for service improvement: Developing a training programme for mental health professionals to enhance medication adherence in Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Service Users
Authors: Gault Iris , Pelle Julia , Chambers Mary
Published: June 2019

Aim

To co‐produce consensus on the key issues important in educating mental health‐care professionals to optimize mental health medication adherence in Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) groups.

Objectives

To identify perceptions of factors enabling or disabling medication adherence. To achieve consensus on content and delivery of an educational intervention for mental health‐care professionals.

Methods

Data were collected from 2016 to 2018. Using individual interviews and a consensus workshop with carers and service users (SUs treated under the 1983 Mental Health Act 1983/revised 2007 for England and Wales), the experience of taking prescribed mental health medication and perspectives on adherence were explored. Data were analysed using 2‐stage qualitative coding via the software tool NVivo version 11 to analyse transcribed data and to produce the main explanatory categories.

Results

SU and carer participants' perspectives substantially altered the original research design. The need to educate students rather than trained professionals was emphasized, and they suggested that educational content should be packaged in a contemporary manner (a virtual reality experience). Findings indicated that education should focus upon understanding the impact of taking prescribed antipsychotic medication on both SUs and carers.

Discussion

The importance of effective communication between health professionals, SUs and carers and a willingness to learn about and appreciate how BAME culture influences perception of mental illness and mental well‐being were highlighted.

Conclusion

In working co‐productively, researchers need to be flexible and adaptable to change.
Psychological hardiness predicts successful selection in a law enforcement special operations assessment and selection course
Authors: Soccorso Cara N. , Picano James J. , Moncata Samuel J. , Miller Caroline D.
Published: June 2019

We studied the predictive effects of psychological hardiness on successful selection in a United States federal tactical law enforcement assessment and selection (A&S) program. Seventy‐one male experienced law enforcement personnel participated in a week‐long, physically and psychologically rigorous A&S course. Dispositional Resilience Scale (DRS‐15) Total Hardiness scores predicted selection in this select sample. Age and cognitive ability moderated the predictive effects of psychological hardiness such that hardiness predicted selection in younger candidates and candidates with higher cognitive ability. Similar findings were obtained for DRS Commitment. DRS‐15 Control facet also differentiated selection in this sample but the predictive effects did not hold when age and cognitive ability were controlled. Findings extend the application of the DRS‐15 to law enforcement personnel selection and highlight the importance of examining moderating effects of psychological hardiness.
Roles of cell migration and invasion mediated by Twist in endometriosis
Authors: Li Juanqing , Ma Junyan , Fei Xiangwei , Zhang Tao , Zhou Jianhong , Lin Jun
Published: June 2019

Aim

To investigate the roles of cell migration and invasion mediated by Twist in endometriosis.

Methods

The protein levels and locations of Twist, N‐cadherin and E‐cadherin were measured by Western blot and immunohistochemistry in ectopic endometrium and eutopic endometrium of ovarian endometriosis as well as normal endometrium of nonendometriosis patients. The messenger RNA (mRNA) expressions of Twist, N‐cadherin and E‐cadherin in these tissues were measured by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Stable overexpression of Twist in eutopic endometrial stromal cells was transfected with a plasmid‐mediated delivery system. The protein and mRNA expressions of N‐cadherin and E‐cadherin were detected by western blot and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. The changes of migration and invasion of endometrial stromal cells were explored by transwell.

Results

Levels of protein and mRNA of Twist and N‐cadherin showed the highest expression in ectopic endometrium of ovarian endometriosis, while lowest in normal endometrium of nonendometriosis patients. On the contrary, the expression of E‐cadherin showed highest in normal endometrium of nonendometriosis patients. The overexpression of Twist after transfection significantly upregulated the protein and mRNA expression of N‐cadherin, while downregulated the protein and mRNA expression of E‐cadherin. There is significant difference between groups. For transwell, the overexpression of Twist in eutopic endometrial stromal cell significantly promoted cell migration and invasion.

Conclusion

Twist might be related with the increase of migration and invasion in endometrial stromal cells, mediated by epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition.
Subclinical atherosclerosis and its progression are modulated by PLIN2 through a feed‐forward loop between LXR and autophagy
Authors: Saliba‐Gustafsson P. , Pedrelli M. , Gertow K. , Werngren O. , Janas V. , Pourteymour S. , Baldassarre D. , Tremoli E. , Veglia F. , Rauramaa R. , Smit A.J. , Giral P. , Kurl S. , Pirro M. , de Faire U. , Humphries S.E. , Hamsten A. ,   the IMPROVE Study Group, Gonçalves I. , Orho‐Melander M. , Franco‐Cereceda A. , Borén J. , Eriksson P. , Magné J. , Parini P. , Ehrenborg E.
Published: June 2019

Background

Hyperlipidaemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and atherosclerosis is the underlying cause of both myocardial infarction and stroke. We have previously shown that the Pro251 variant of perilipin‐2 reduces plasma triglycerides and may therefore be beneficial to reduce atherosclerosis development.

Objective

We sought to delineate putative beneficial effects of the Pro251 variant of perlipin‐2 on subclinical atherosclerosis and the mechanism by which it acts.

Methods

A pan‐European cohort of high‐risk individuals where carotid intima‐media thickness has been assessed was adopted. Human primary monocyte‐derived macrophages were prepared from whole blood from individuals recruited by perilipin‐2 genotype or from buffy coats from the Karolinska University hospital blood central.

Results

The Pro251 variant of perilipin‐2 is associated with decreased intima‐media thickness at baseline and over 30 months of follow‐up. Using human primary monocyte‐derived macrophages from carriers of the beneficial Pro251 variant, we show that this variant increases autophagy activity, cholesterol efflux and a controlled inflammatory response. Through extensive mechanistic studies, we demonstrate that increase in autophagy activity is accompanied with an increase in liver‐X‐receptor (LXR) activity and that LXR and autophagy reciprocally activate each other in a feed‐forward loop, regulated by CYP27A1 and 27OH‐cholesterol.

Conclusions

For the first time, we show that perilipin‐2 affects susceptibility to human atherosclerosis through activation of autophagy and stimulation of cholesterol efflux. We demonstrate that perilipin‐2 modulates levels of the LXR ligand 27OH‐cholesterol and initiates a feed‐forward loop where LXR and autophagy reciprocally activate each other; the mechanism by which perilipin‐2 exerts its beneficial effects on subclinical atherosclerosis.
The microstructural, melting, rheological, and sensorial properties of high‐overrun frozen desserts
Authors: VanWees Samantha R. , Rankin Scott A. , Hartel Richard W.
Published: June 2019

Air incorporated during dynamic freezing influences the development of the microstructure and the final texture of frozen desserts. Frozen desserts were manufactured with 100–175% overrun from a constant ice cream mix formulation. Microstructural elements (fat, air, and ice phases) of the frozen desserts were then investigated and related to the melting, rheological, and sensory properties of the product. Mean ice crystal and air cell size were found to decrease with increasing overrun, and the extent of fat destabilization increased. Frozen desserts manufactured with higher overrun had slower drip‐through rate and better shape retention after melting at ambient conditions, demonstrating that fat destabilization and the interplay of fat, air, and serum phases affect the melting behavior. Structural elements also influenced the rheological behavior, as measured by oscillatory thermo‐rheometry. Frozen desserts had similar rheological properties at temperatures below the freezing point due to the presence of ice, and the values of G′ and G″ (solid‐like and viscous‐like character, respectively) increased with increasing overrun above the freezing point, corresponding to a more solid‐like structure. Slight differences in sensory denseness and breakdown were detected, but sensory texture was not significantly different for the frozen desserts studied. This study provided insights into the role of air in ice cream and frozen desserts, and its influence on product texture.
What are natural concepts? A design perspective
Authors: Douven Igor , Gärdenfors Peter
Published: June 2019

Conceptual spaces have become an increasingly popular modeling tool in cognitive psychology. The core idea of the conceptual spaces approach is that concepts can be represented as regions in similarity spaces. While it is generally acknowledged that not every region in such a space represents a natural concept, it is still an open question what distinguishes those regions that represent natural concepts from those that do not. The central claim of this paper is that natural concepts are represented by the cells of an optimally designed similarity space.
Nurses’ application of the components of family nursing conversations in home health care: a qualitative content analysis
Authors: Broekema Susanne , Paans Wolter , Roodbol Petrie F. , Luttik Marie Louise A.
Published: June 2019

Aim

The purpose of this study was to describe how nurses apply the components of family nursing conversations in their home healthcare practice.

Method

A qualitative content analysis with a deductive approach was conducted. Home healthcare nurses conducted family nursing conversations with families from their practice. Families were selected based on three nursing diagnoses: risk of caregiver role strain, caregiver role strain or interrupted family processes. Nurses audio‐recorded each conversation and completed a written reflection form afterwards. Transcripts of the audio‐recorded conversations were analysed in Atlas.ti 8.0 to come to descriptions of how nurses applied each component. Nurses’ reflections on their application were integrated in the descriptions.

Results

A total of 17 conversations were audio‐recorded. The application of each component was described as well as nurses’ reflections on their application. Nurses altered or omitted components due to their clinical judgment of families’ needs in specific situations, due to needs for adjustment of components in the transfer from theory to practice or due to limited skill or self‐confidence.

Conclusion

All of the components were applied in a cohesive manner. Nurses’ application of the components demonstrates that clinical judgment is important in applying them. Further training or experience may be required to optimise nurses’ skill and self‐confidence in applying the components. This study demonstrates the applicability of the family nursing conversations components in home health care, allowing exploration of the working mechanisms and benefits of family nursing conversations for families involved in long‐term caregiving in future studies.
Resilience, life satisfaction, care burden and social support of mothers with a child with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: a comparative study
Authors: Baran Gülbeyaz , Arda Sürücü Hamdiye , Hülya Üzel Veysiye
Published: June 2019

The study aimed to make comparison between the resilience, life satisfaction, care burden and social support of mothers with a child with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and those with a healthy child. The study was carried out using the comparative and descriptive methods, and the study group included mothers with ALL children hospitalised in the Paediatric Haematology Clinic of a university hospital (n = 51) and those with healthy children who applied to a family health centre (n = 53). While collecting the data, Personal Information Form, Resilience Scale for Adults, Life Satisfaction Scale, Zarit Care Burden Scale and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support Scale were used. The data were statistically analysed using the SPSS program, percentages, mean scores, standard deviations, Mann–Whitney U test and pearson correlation. For the comparison of the personal information about the mothers with ALL children and about those with healthy children, chi‐square or student t test for independent groups depending on the data set was used. When the mothers with ALL children were compared with those with healthy children, it was found that the methods with ALL children had statistically lower mean scores for life satisfaction (13.92 ± 6.26, p < 0.001) and resilience (17.90 ± 7.09, p < 0.001) and statistically higher mean scores for care burden (42.23 ± 16.54, p < 0.05). In this study, when the mothers of ALL children were compared with those of healthy children, it was found that the former had lower levels of resilience and life satisfaction and higher levels of care burden.
Mental health in medical students: time to act
Authors: Awad Fady , Awad Mina , Mattick Karen , Dieppe Paul
Published: June 2019

Background

Mental health problems are prevalent amongst medical students. However, many students delay seeking medical help or support from the medical school for a variety of reasons, including a fear of facing fitness to practice proceedings. Tackling this problem of awareness and delayed presentation will need a strong and dedicated focus at all stages, with prevention being of great importance.

Methods

A conference dedicated to mental health and well‐being was organised for students of all years. The first part of the conference centred on well‐being dilemmas and the second part focused on discussing important issues in small group sessions.

Results

Students were divided into eight groups and each group suggested improvements to the course that they felt would improve mental health and well‐being. The main suggestions raised were: reassurance that the disclosure of mental health problems would not automatically result in fitness to practice proceedings; separate academic and pastoral roles of tutors; open up the topic of mental health and well‐being more frequently during the programme; improve knowledge about the availability of support services; and have mentors who are at an earlier stage in postgraduate training (e.g. junior doctors).

Discussion

It is necessary to tackle the prevalent myths about this topic. Many students are unaware of the support services available. This conference has therefore sought to increase awareness of the topic. An approach is also now needed to identify those who need extra help. The authors strongly advocate opening up this topic throughout the course in the context of a dedicated conference, for example.

Many students are unaware of the support services available

The authors strongly advocate opening up this topic throughout the course in the context of a dedicated conference …
Bovine leptospirosis in abattoirs in Uganda: Molecular detection and risk of exposure among workers
Authors: Alinaitwe Lordrick , Kankya Clovice , Allan Kathryn J. , Rodriguez‐Campos Sabrina , Torgerson Paul , Dreyfus Anou
Published: June 2019

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease reported worldwide. In Uganda, seropositivity has been reported in both humans and domesticated animals, including cattle. However, it remains unknown whether cattle are shedding leptospires and thus acting as potential source for human leptospirosis. We conducted this cross‐sectional study in two cattle abattoirs in Kampala, Uganda between June and July 2017. Kidney and urine samples from 500 cattle sourced from across the country were analysed by real‐time PCR to establish the prevalence of Leptospira‐positive cattle and risk of exposure to abattoir workers. The species of infecting Leptospira was determined by amplification of secY gene and compared to reference sequences published in GenBank. Of 500 cattle tested, 36 (7.2%) had Leptospira DNA in their kidneys (carriers), 29 (5.8%) in their urine (shedders); with an overall prevalence (kidney and/or urine) of 8.8%. Leptospira borgpetersenii was confirmed as the infecting species in three cattle and Leptospira kirschneri in one animal. Male versus female cattle (OR = 3, p‐value 0.003), exotic versus local breeds (OR = 21.3, p‐value 0.002) or cattle from Western Uganda (OR = 4.4, p‐value 0.001) and from regions across the border (OR = 3.3, p‐value 0.032) versus from the central region were more likely to be Leptospira‐positive. The daily risk of exposure of abattoir workers to ≥1 (kidney and/or urine) positive carcass ranged from 27% (95% credibility interval 18.6–52.3) to 100% (95% CI 91.0–100.0), with halal butchers and pluck inspectors being at highest risk. In conclusion, cattle slaughtered at abattoirs in Uganda carry and shed pathogenic Leptospira species; and this may pose occupation‐related risk of exposure among workers in these abattoirs, with workers who handle larger numbers of animals being at higher risk.
Música y conflicto armado: representaciones de identidad, memoria y resistencia en el compilado musical Tocó cantar: una travesía contra el olvido
Authors: Molina Bohórquez Laura Rocío
Published: June 2019

El objetivo principal de esta investigación fue analizar las representaciones de identidad, memoria y resistencia presentes en el compilado musical de cuarenta y cinco canciones Tocó cantar: una travesía contra el olvido de 2015 producido por el Centro Nacional de Memoria Histórica y así explorar la complejidad de la relación música-conflicto armado. Mediante un análisis del discurso —basado en la semiótica de Charles Sanders Peirce— se estudió la construcción de sentido generada por la relación entre las letras y los materiales sonoros no verbales de las canciones. La dimensión cultural del compilado se incorporó a la investigación por medio de la realización de cuarenta y cinco entrevistas con personas involucradas en la preproducción, producción y difusión del compilado. Finalmente, en dos grupos focales, se indagó su recepción y la relación entre su dimensión visual (librillo) y sonora. Se concluyó que las representaciones de identidad, memoria y resistencia derivadas del compilado son diversas y en algunos casos complejizan las simplificaciones que promueven los discursos difundidos acerca del conflicto armado. Por otra parte, la relación entre las letras, lo sonoro no verbal y la dimensión visual son esenciales para la construcción de significados y para las representaciones de memoria, identidad y resistencia. Por tanto, contrario a lo que se planteó en el momento de hacer la convocatoria para el compilado y lo que proponen investigaciones similares (que se han enfocado en el análisis de las letras y en las dimensiones políticas, culturales e históricas en que se desarrollan las canciones), la dimensión sonora no verbal cumple un papel fundamental en la construcción de sentido y en su recepción.
Simplified Kinematics of Continuum Robot Equilibrium Modulation via Moment Coupling Effects and Model Calibration
Authors: Wang Long , Del Giudice Giuseppe , Simaan Nabil
Published: June 2019

Recently, a new concept for continuum robots capable of producing macro-scale and micro-scale motion has been presented. These robots achieve their multi-scale motion capabilities by coupling direct actuation of push-pull backbones for macro-motion with indirect actuation whereby the equilibrium pose is altered to achieve micro-scale motion. This paper presents a first attempt at explaining the micro-motion capabilities of these robots from a modeling perspective. This paper presents the macro- and micro-motion kinematics of a single-segment continuum robot by using statics coupling effects among its subsegments. Experimental observations of the micro-scale motion demonstrate a turning point behavior which could not be explained well using the current modeling methods. We present a simplistic modeling approach that introduces two calibration parameters to calibrate the moment coupling effects among the subsegments of the robot. It is shown that these two parameters can reproduce the turning point behavior at the micro-scale. The instantaneous macro- and micro-scale kinematics Jacobians and the calibration parameters identification Jacobian are derived. The modeling approach is verified against experimental data showing that our simplistic modeling approach can capture the experimental motion data with the RMS position error of 5.82 μm if one wishes to fit the entire motion profile with the turning point. If one chooses to exclude motions past the turning point, our model can fit the experimental data with an accuracy of 4.76 μm.
Design
and Analysis of a Multimodal Grasper Having Shape Conformity and Within-Hand Manipulation With
Adjustable Contact Forces
Authors: Govindan Nagamanikandan , Thondiyath Asokan
Published: June 2019

This paper presents the design, analysis, and testing of a novel multimodal grasper having the capabilities of shape conformation, within-hand manipulation, and a built-in compact mechanism to vary the forces at the contact surface. The proposed grasper has two important qualities: versatility and less complexity. The former refers to the ability to grasp a range of objects having different geometrical shape, size, and payload and perform in-hand manipulations such as rolling and sliding, and the latter refers to the uncomplicated design, and ease of planning and control strategies. Increasing the number of functions performed by the grasper to adapt to a variety of tasks in structured and unstructured environments without increasing the mechanical complexity is the main interest of this research. The proposed grasper consists of two hybrid jaws having a rigid inner structure encompassed by a flexible, active gripping surface. The flexibility of the active surface has been exploited to achieve shape conformation, and the same has been utilized with a compact mechanism, introduced in the jaws, to vary the contact forces while grasping and manipulating an object. Simple and scalable structure, compactness, low cost, and simple control scheme are the main features of the proposed design. Detailed kinematic and static analysis are presented to show the capability of the grasper to adjust and estimate the contact forces without using a force sensor. Experiments are conducted on the fabricated prototype to validate the different modes of operation and to evaluate the advantages of the proposed concept.
Condensation Heat Transfer and Flow Properties of R134a Refrigerant in Rectangular Minichannel: A Numerical Study
Authors: Li Wei , Lyu Di , Zhang Jingzhi , Sherif S. A.
Published: June 2019

This study numerically investigated the condensation heat transfer and flow characteristics of refrigerant R134a in a rectangular minichannel. Three-dimensional simulations were carried out at different mass fluxes, vapor qualities, and gravity conditions using the volume-of-fluid (VOF) model, a turbulence model, and a phase transition model. The effects of various parameters on the surface heat transfer coefficient and the frictional pressure gradient are investigated. The condensation process was found to be enhanced due to the increase of vapor quality and mass flow rate, while the frictional pressure gradient was found to decrease with the decrease of vapor quality and mass flow rate. Simulation results revealed that the liquid film tends to accumulate along the corner of the cross section of the minichannel. Furthermore, the thickness of the liquid film was found to increase with the decrease of mass flux and vapor quality.
Oscillatory Fouling in Condensers in Cooling Tower Systems
Authors: Li Wei
Published: June 2019

Oscillatory fouling in condensers using cooling tower water was recognized in 1980s, but it had not yet been theoretically analyzed. Without careful theoretical analysis, it is easy to think that oscillatory fouling phenomenon is generated from experimental uncertainty. The new analysis is to split the fouling rate into a mean variable and a fluctuating variable. The mean variable exhibits an asymptotic behavior, and the fluctuating variable exhibits an oscillatory behavior. A theoretical analysis based on the relationship of continuity is used to present fouling oscillatory behavior along the space and time dimensions simultaneously to provide the intuitive understanding in physical mechanisms driving the phenomenon. A series of long-term cooling tower water fouling tests were conducted: fouling data collected in two copper helically ribbed tubes with the same internal and external diameters and different inside geometric parameters at the same water velocity in condenser in practical cooling tower conditions present oscillatory behavior. The frequencies of the fluctuation are the same for the two tested tube geometries. The spatial and the temporal oscillatory fouling behaviors presented in the experimental results are predicted by the theoretical analysis.
Immune-Mediated Control of a Dormant Neurotropic RNA Virus Infection
Authors: Miller Katelyn D. , Matullo Christine M. , Milora Katelynn A. , Williams Riley M. , O’Regan Kevin J. , Rall Glenn F.
Published: June 2019

Viral infections of neurons are often not cytopathic; thus, once-infected neurons survive, and viral RNAs can be detected long after apparent viral control. These RNAs are generally considered viral fossils, unlikely to contribute to central nervous system (CNS) disease. Using a mouse model of measles virus (MV) neuronal infection, we show that MV RNA is maintained in the CNS of infected mice long after acute control and in the absence of overt disease. Viral replication is suppressed by the adaptive immune response; when these immune cells are depleted, viral protein synthesis recurs, inducing a CNS disease that is distinct from that observed during acute infection. The studies presented here provide the basis for understanding how persistent RNA infections in the CNS are controlled by the host immune response, as well as the pathogenic consequences of noncytolytic viral control.
Chikungunya Virus Vaccine Candidates with Decreased Mutational Robustness Are AttenuatedIn Vivoand Have Compromised Transmissibility
Authors: Carrau Lucía , Rezelj Veronica V. , Noval María G. , Levi Laura I. , Megrian Daniela , Blanc Herve , Weger-Lucarelli James , Moratorio Gonzalo , Stapleford Kenneth A. , Vignuzzi Marco
Published: June 2019

Chikungunya fever is a debilitating disease that causes severe pain to the joints, which can compromise the patient’s lifestyle for several months and even in some grave cases lead to death. The etiological agent is chikungunya virus, an alphavirus transmitted by mosquito bite. Currently, there are no approved vaccines or treatments against the disease. In our research, we developed novel live attenuated vaccine candidates against chikungunya virus by applying an innovative genomic design. When tested in the insect and mammalian host, the vaccine candidates did not cause disease, elicited strong protection against further infection, and had low risk of reversion to pathogenic phenotypes.
Considering the methodological limitations in the evidence base of antidepressants for depression: a reanalysis of a network meta-analysis
Authors: Munkholm Klaus , Paludan-Müller Asger Sand , Boesen Kim
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To investigate whether the conclusion of a recent systematic review and network meta-analysis (Ciprianiet al) that antidepressants are more efficacious than placebo for adult depression was supported by the evidence.

Design

Reanalysis of a systematic review, with meta-analyses.

Data sources

522 trials (116 477 participants) as reported in the systematic review by Ciprianiet aland clinical study reports for 19 of these trials.

Analysis

We used the Cochrane Handbook’s risk of bias tool and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach to evaluate the risk of bias and the certainty of evidence, respectively. The impact of several study characteristics and publication status was estimated using pairwise subgroup meta-analyses.

Results

Several methodological limitations in the evidence base of antidepressants were either unrecognised or underestimated in the systematic review by Ciprianiet al. The effect size for antidepressants versus placebo on investigator-rated depression symptom scales was higher in trials with a ‘placebo run-in’ study design compared with trials without a placebo run-in design (p=0.05). The effect size of antidepressants was higher in published trials compared with unpublished trials (p<0.0001). The outcome data reported by Ciprianiet aldiffered from the clinical study reports in 12 (63%) of 19 trials. The certainty of the evidence for the placebo-controlled comparisons should be very low according to GRADE due to a high risk of bias, indirectness of the evidence and publication bias. The mean difference between antidepressants and placebo on the 17-item Hamilton depression rating scale (range 0–52 points) was 1.97 points (95% CI 1.74 to 2.21).

Conclusions

The evidence does not support definitive conclusions regarding the benefits of antidepressants for depression in adults. It is unclear whether antidepressants are more efficacious than placebo.
Does changed referral options affect the use of MRI for patients with low back pain? Evidence from a natural experiment using nationwide data
Authors: Jensen Morten Sall , Olsen Kim Rose , Morsø Lars , Søndergaard Jens , Schiøttz-Christensen Berit
Published: June 2019

Objectives

This study reports lumbar MRI referral patterns in the Region of Southern Denmark (RSD) and investigates the hypothesis that we will see an increase in imaging rates (MRI rates) following new referral options to lumbar MRI in the RSD in comparison with the other regions in Denmark from 2010 to 2013.

Design

A difference-in-difference (DD) analysis, using general practitioners (GPs) in other regions as control, was used to test if the new referral options had an effect on the MRI rates.

Setting

In 2010, RSD introduced organisational changes affecting the referral options for lumbar MRI. First, the possibility for direct referral to lumbar MRI was introduced GPs, and second, the region gathered all local spine departments into one specialist hospital called the Spine Centre.

Participants

We retrieved all lumbar MRIs performed on patients aged 18+ performed on Danish hospitals from 2008 to 2013 using the registries from Statistics Denmark. We use sociodemographic information from all Danish citizens aged 18+ aggregated to GP level. Primary and secondary outcome measures: lumbar MRI scans per 1000 capita enlisted with a GP (MRI rates) were calculated based on GPs patient list. Four referral types were made to describe changes in referral patterns.

Results

In total 183 389 patients received 240 760 lumbar MRIs in the period. The use of the direct referral option by GPs in the RSD increased by 115% in the period from 2010 to 2013 and accounted for 34% of all referrals (n=6545) in 2013. MRI rates were significantly higher in RSD following the organisational changes (DD 1.389(0.925–1.852) lumbar MRI per 1.000 enlisted with a GP).

Conclusions

Introduction of organisational changes in RSD as direct referral to lumbar MRI from GPs and chiropractors as well as establishing a Spine Centre increase the lumbar MRI rate in comparison with other regions in Denmark.
Impact of gastrointestinal conditions, restrictive diets and mental health on health-related quality of life: cross-sectional population-based study in Australia
Authors: Stocks Nigel P , Gonzalez-Chica David , Hay Phillipa
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To assess the relationship between gastrointestinal conditions, restrictive diets, mental health and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Design

Cross-sectional population-based face-to-face survey.

Setting

South Australia.

Participants

A representative sample of 2912 consenting adults (48.9±18.1 years; 50.9% females) investigated in 2015.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Participants self-reported diagnosis of gastrointestinal conditions, mental health and current use of restrictive diets. The physical component score (PCS) and mental component score (MCS) of HRQoL were investigated (Study Short Form 12 V.1 questionnaire). Linear regression models were used to test the associations, adjusting for (1) sociodemographic variables, (2) mental health status and (3) lifestyle and body mass index.

Results

The prevalence of restrictive diets (36.1%; 95% CI 33.9 to 38.3) was higher among those with any self-reported gastrointestinal condition (60.7% vs 31.3% for those without these conditions; p<0.001). PCS was lower among those with a gastrointestinal condition (mean difference=−3.4; 95% CI −4.5 to −2.4) or on a restrictive diet (mean difference=−1.9; 95% CI −2.7 to −1.1), with a similar pattern, but with a smaller effect, observed for MCS. Being on a restrictive diet did not modify the relationship between having a gastrointestinal condition and reduced HRQoL. However, having a gastrointestinal condition was associated with a 2.4 points lower PCS (95% CI −3.5 to −1.3) among those without a mental health problem, while for those affected by a mental health condition this reduction was greater (mean difference=−5.9; 95% CI −8.7 to −3.1). For MCS, there was no evidence of interaction between mental health and gastrointestinal conditions.

Conclusions

One-third of Australian adults are restricting their diet, and this is associated with lower HRQoL. Being on a restrictive diet was not associated with a better HRQoL among individuals with a gastrointestinal condition. Mental health problems were associated with a stronger adverse relationship between gastrointestinal diseases and physical HRQoL. Health professionals should be alert to these associations when trying to improve health outcomes for patients.
Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale: validation study in a Portuguese sample
Authors: Faria Anjos Joana , Heitor dos Santos Maria João , Ribeiro Maria Teresa , Moreira Sergio
Published: June 2019

Objective

The objective of this paper was to evaluate the structural validity and convergent validity of the first Portuguese version of the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC).

Settings

The data sets come from two studies conducted in Portugal, respectively, from the Resilience Effect in Coping with Trauma (RECT) project and from the Health Impact Assessment of Employment Strategies (HIAES) project.

Participants

The sample is composed of 476 participants from the RECT project and 405 participants from the HIAES project. In both projects, convenience samples were used.

Measures

The original CD-RISC items were translated to Portuguese and were used in a survey along with additional psychosocial and biomedical measures.

Results

Independent exploratory factorial analysis (EFA) with each of the two samples revealed that the best solution in both samples had three factors consistent with the self-efficacy, spirituality and social support factors from the original scale. A Confirmatory factor analysis using the two samples together and specifying the three factors from the EFA revealed a good overall fit and, comparatively, better fit than a model specified with the five factors from the original scale. The study of the convergent validity revealed that bivariate correlations between the three factors and validated measures of stress, life satisfaction, mental health and physical health are globally consistent with previous research.

Conclusions

This study makes available to the broad Community of Portuguese Language Countries a validated measure of resilience extensively used for research and intervention. The results encourage future studies using this translated version of CD-RISC to explore further the three-factor structure found here and to test the convergent validity with new samples.
Carrier prevalence and risk factors for colonisation of multiresistant bacteria in Danish emergency departments: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Skjøt-Arkil Helene , Mogensen Christian Backer , Lassen Annmarie Touborg , Johansen Isik S , Chen Ming , Petersen Poul , Andersen Karen V , Ellermann-Eriksen Svend , Møller Jørn M , Ludwig Marc , Fuglsang-Damgaard David , Nielsen Finn Erland , Petersen Dan B , Jensen Ulrich S , Rosenvinge Flemming S
Published: June 2019

Objectives

The aim of this study was to describe the carrier prevalence and demographic variation of four different multiresistant bacteria (MRB) among acute patients in Danish emergency departments (EDs): methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA), carbapenemase-producing enterobacteria (CPE), extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing enterobacteria (ESBL) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), and to analyse the association of MRB carriage to a range of potential risk factors.

Design

Multicentre descriptive and analytic cross-sectional survey.

Setting

Eight EDs and four clinical microbiology departments in Denmark.

Participants

Adults visiting the ED.

Main outcome measures

Swabs from nose, throat and rectum were collected and analysed for MRSA, ESBL, VRE and CPE. The primary outcome was the prevalence of MRB carriage, and secondary outcomes relation to risk factors among ED patients.

Results

We included 5117 patients in the study. Median age was 68 years (54–77) and gender was equally distributed. In total, 266 (5.2%, 95% CI 4.6 to 5.8) were colonised with at least one MRB. No significant difference was observed between male and female patients, between age groups and between university and regional hospitals. Only 5 of the 266 patients with MRB were colonised with two of the included bacteria and none with more than two. CPE prevalence was 0.1% (95% CI 0.0 to 0.2), MRSA prevalence was 0.3% (95% CI 0.2 to 0.5), VRE prevalence was 0.4% (95% CI 0.3 to 0.6) and ESBL prevalence was 4.5% (95% CI 3.9 to 5.1). Risk factors for MRB carriage were previous antibiotic treatment, previous hospital stay, having chronic respiratory infections, use of urinary catheter and travel to Asia, Oceania or Africa.

Conclusion

Every 20th patient arriving to a Danish ED brings MRB to the hospital. ESBL is the most common MRB in the ED. The main risk factors for MRB carriage are recent antibiotic use and travel abroad.

Trial registration number

NCT03352167;Post-results.