bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of the commercial effect of a Colombia-Israel FTA: Trade overview and partial equilibrium analysis, 2004-2014
Authors: Venegas Calle Stella Del Pilar , De la Peña Cárdenas Nicolás
Published: December 2019

The study presents the quantitative effects of a total tariff tax exemption between Colombia and Israel. Tariff reduction simulations are carried out using a partial equilibrium model based on the SMART methodology. Before the model, some indicators are presented to show an overview of the degree of complementarity, similarity and comparative advantages revealed. The results show that the commercial effect is very low for both countries and that there are minimum potential risks. However, several opportunities of new exports for specific sectors are identified.
Atención en salud de mujeres con lesiones precursoras de cáncer de cuello uterino: evidencia cualitativa de la fragmentación del sistema de salud en Colombia
Authors: Arrivillaga Marcela , Malfi Ruiz Dalis , Medina Marisol
Published: December 2019

El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar las trayectorias de atención en salud de mujeres con lesiones precursoras de cáncer de cáncer de cuello uterino, que han experimentado barreras de acceso a los servicios, y que fueron tamizadas en un programa de prevención del departamento del Cauca, Colombia. Se realizó un estudio de tipo cualitativo, de alcance descriptivo-interpretativo, seleccionando 16 mujeres mediante muestreo de casos típicos, y aplicando como criterio de selección el tiempo empleado desde el lugar de residencia hasta el centro de atención en salud de mediana complejidad más cercano. Se efectuó análisis de contenido, acompañado de análisis cuantitativos de índole descriptivo para identificar brechas en tiempo entre el tamizaje y la atención Todas las mujeres entrevistadas, independientemente de su lugar de residencia, se enfrentaron a un proceso fragmentado de atención en salud con atributos de desarticulación entre actores, en dependencia de los contratos entre aseguradores y prestadores de servicios, afectación negativa de la oportunidad y la continuidad entre el tamizaje, el diagnóstico y el tratamiento, reprocesos en la atención, elevación del gasto en salud y desatención de las necesidades específicas. Los hallazgos ponen en cuestión la implementación de programas de tamizaje y el sentido de los mismos en relación con los procesos de atención siguientes. La prevención efectiva, con disminución de las tasas de morbi-mortalidad de este tipo de cáncer, podrá alcanzarse solo al reducir las brechas en disponibilidad y acceso real a los servicios de salud.
Compromiso organizacional y tipo de contrato laboral en hospital del seguro social (Lima, Perú), 2017
Authors: Fabián Palomino Sonia Margot
Published: December 2019

El Sector Salud del Perú ha disminuido los nombramientos y contratos indefinidos y, por el contrario, ha aumentado las vinculaciones laborales inestables y con menos beneficios al trabajador. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la relación entre el compromiso organizacional y el tipo de contrato laboral. Estudio observacional, correlacional, transversal y prospectivo en el Hospital I Octavio Mongrut Muñoz, del subsector EsSalud (Seguridad Social) de Lima, Perú. Participaron 170 trabajadores, 86 trabajadores con contrato inestable y 84 con contrato estable, muestra obtenida proporcionalmente. Se utilizó el inventario de Compromiso Organizacional creado por Meyer y Allen. Se recolectaron los datos y se procesó en el programa estadístico SPSS versión 24. Los datos de variables cuantitativas se analizaron con la correlación de Spearman y la U de Mann Whitney; los datos de variables cualitativas y ordinales, con la prueba de chi cuadrado y correlación de Tau-C de Kendall. Resultados: el 65,3% de los trabajadores del hospital tienen un compromiso organizacional de nivel medio. En los trabajadores con contrato inestable hay un mayor porcentaje de compromiso organizacional afectivo y normativo en nivel medio. En los trabajadores con contrato estable existe diferencia en el compromiso organizacional entre trabajadores con contrato indeterminado y nombrados. Conclusión: no se encontró relación significativa entre compromiso organizacional y tipo de contrato del trabajador; sin embargo, se observa que los trabajadores de contrato estable tienen mayor puntuación en comparación a los de contrato inestable.
Índices de Privação Socioeconômica e de Ruralidade: ferramentas para o planejamento e pesquisa em Saúde em nível dos municípios brasileiros
Authors: De Oliveira Mendes Tamires Carneiro , Dell'Olmo Marc Marí- , Pratsb Uribe Albert , Costa Lima Kenio , Barbosa De Lima André Luiz , Borrell Carmeb , Rodríguez Sanz Maica
Published: December 2019

O presente estudo ecológico visa construir e disponibilizar índices socioeconômicos dos municípios do Brasil, analisá-los espacialmente e compará-los com a Esperança de vida. A partir de dados secundários do ano 2010, construiu-se os índices em três etapas: teórica; análise estatística uni e bivariada, e Análise de Componentes Principais; e aplicação dos índices por meio de análise espacial e comparação com a Esperança de vida. Foram selecionadas 13 variáveis, que compuseram dois índices: Privação Socioeconômica (IPS) e Ruralidade (IR), sendo o IPS o de maior relação com a Esperança de vida, dividindo espacialmente o país em dois: uma porção inferior de maior vantagem socioeconômica e uma superior mais vulnerável. A IR complementa a IPS, mostrando que os municípios de maior privação socioeconômica e mais rurais têm menor esperança de vida. Assim, o IPS e o IR destacaram 2149 municípios de maior necessidade de atenção, localizados, especialmente, nas regiões Norte e Nordeste.
A Generic Algorithm for Planning the Year-Round Solar Energy Harvest/Storage to Supply Solar-Based Stable Power
Authors: Alfulayyih Yasir M. , Li Peiwen , Gwesha Ammar Omar
Published: December 2019

An algorithm and modeling are developed to make precise planning of year-round solar energy (SE) collection, storage, and redistribution to meet a decided demand of electrical power fully relying on solar energy. The model takes the past 10 years’ data of average and worst-case sky coverage (clouds fraction) condition of a location at a time interval (window) of per 6 min in every day to predict solar energy and electrical energy harvest. The electrical energy obtained from solar energy in sunny times must meet the instantaneous energy demand and also the need for energy storage for nighttime and overcast days, so that no single day will have a shortage of energy supply in the entire year and yearly cycles. The analysis can eventually determine a best starting date of operation, a least solar collection area, and a least energy storage capacity for cost-effectiveness of the system. The algorithm provides a fundamental tool for the design of a general renewable energy harvest and storage system for non-interrupted year-round power supply. As an example, the algorithm was applied for the authors’ local city, Tucson, Arizona of the U.S. for a steady power supply of 1 MW.
Numerical Modeling of Coupled Fluid Flow and Geomechanical Stresses in a Petroleum Reservoir
Authors: Gudala Manojkumar , Govindarajan Suresh Kumar
Published: December 2019

A fully coupled hydro and geomechanical model has been used to predict the transient pressure disturbance, reservoir deformation, and effective stress distribution in both homogeneous and heterogeneous reservoirs. The heterogeneous reservoir is conceptualized by explicitly considering the spatial distributions of porosity and permeability as against assuming it as constant values. The finite element method was used in the coupled model in conjunction with the poroelasticity. Transient pressure disturbance is significantly influenced by the overburden during the production in both homogeneous and heterogeneous reservoirs for all the perforation schemes. Perforation scheme 2 provides the optimum reservoir performance when compared with other three schemes in terms of transient pressure distribution and reservoir subsidence. It also has the ability to overcome both the water and gas coning problems when the reservoir fluid flow is driven by both gas cap and water drive mechanisms. A Biot–Willis coefficient is found to significantly influence both the pressure and stress distribution right from the wellbore to the reservoir boundary. Maximum effective stresses have been generated in the vicinity of the wellbore in the reservoir at a high Biot–Willis coefficient of 0.9. Thus, the present work clearly projects that a Biot–Willis coefficient of 0 cannot be treated to be a homogeneous reservoir by default, while the coupled effect of hydro and geomechanical stresses plays a very critical role. Therefore, the implementation of the coupled hydro and geomechanical numerical models can improve the prediction of transient reservoir behavior efficiently for the simple and complex geological systems effectively.
Dynamics of Necking and Fracture in Ductile Porous Materials
Authors: Zheng Xinzhu , N’souglo Komi E. , Rodríguez-Martínez Jose A. , Srivastava Ankit
Published: December 2019

The onset of necking in dynamically expanding ductile rings is delayed due to the stabilizing effect of inertia, and with increasing expansion velocity, both the number of necks incepted and the number of fragments increase. In general, neck retardation is expected to delay fragmentation as necking is often the precursor to fracture. However, in porous ductile materials, it is possible that fracture can occur without significant necking. Thus, the objective of this work is to unravel the complex interaction of initial porosity and inertia on the onset of necking and fracture. To this end, we have carried out a series of finite element calculations of unit cells with sinusoidal geometric perturbations and varying levels of initial porosity under a wide range of dynamic loading conditions. In the calculations, the material is modeled using a constitutive framework that includes many of the hardening and softening mechanisms that are characteristics of ductile metallic materials, such as strain hardening, strain rate hardening, thermal softening, and damage-induced softening. The contribution of the inertia effect on the loading process is evaluated through a dimensionless parameter that combines the effects of loading rate, material properties, and unit cell size. Our results show that low initial porosity levels favor necking before fracture, and high initial porosity levels favor fracture before necking, especially at high loading rates where inertia effects delay the onset of necking. The finite element results are also compared with the predictions of linear stability analysis of necking instabilities in porous ductile materials.
An Origami-Based Medical Support System to Mitigate Flexible Shaft Buckling
Authors: Sargent Brandon , Butler Jared , Seymour Kendall , Bailey David , Jensen Brian , Magleby Spencer , Howell Larry
Published: December 2019

This paper presents the development of an origami-inspired support system (the OriGuide) that enables the insertion of flexible instruments using medical robots. Varying parameters of a triangulated cylindrical origami pattern were combined to create an effective highly compressible anti-buckling system that maintains a constant inner diameter for supporting an instrument and a constant outer diameter throughout actuation. The proposed origami pattern is composed of two repeated patterns: a bistable pattern to create support points to mitigate flexible shaft buckling and a monostable pattern to enable axial extension and compression of the support system. The origami-based portion of the device is combined with two rigid mounts for interfacing with the medical robot. The origami-based portion of the device is fabricated from a single sheet of polyethylene terephthalate. The length, outer diameter, and inner diameter that emerge from the fold pattern can be customized to accommodate various robot designs and flexible instrument geometries without increasing the part count. The support system also adds protection to the instrument from external contamination.
Optimization of the Rotational Asymmetric Parallel Mechanism for Hip Rehabilitation With Force Transmission Factors
Authors: Zhang Wuxiang , Zhang Wei , Ding Xilun , Sun Lei
Published: December 2019

An asymmetric three-degree-of-freedom parallel mechanism is adopted in rehabilitation robots for assisting patients suffering from stroke or trauma in the hip. It is necessary to keep its kinematic singularity out of the workspace of human normal gait and increase the output power efficiency. Therefore, a novel method is proposed to optimize geometrical parameters of the mechanism. To describe the kinematic singularity in a better way, the improved force transmission indexes based on previous methods are proposed using the reciprocal product and mobility condition of the closed-loop mechanism. The indexes mainly represent the force transmission performance of unactuated parts of subchains and moving platform. Together with the driving force transmission indexes and geometrical constraints, the multiobjective optimization model is established. The differential evolution algorithm, which is widely applied to mechanism optimization, is used to achieve optimal results. The Jacobian matrix singularity and output power efficiency along giving trajectory before and after optimization are compared to verify the effectiveness of the method.
Dynamic Point-To-Point Trajectory Planning for Three Degrees-of-Freedom Cable-Suspended Parallel Robots Using Rapidly Exploring Random Tree Search
Authors: Xiang Sheng , Gao Haibo , Liu Zhen , Gosselin Clément
Published: December 2019

This paper proposes a dynamic point-to-point trajectory planning technique for three degrees-of-freedom (DOFs) cable-suspended parallel robots. The proposed technique is capable of generating feasible multiple-swing trajectories that reach points beyond the footprint of the robot. Tree search algorithms are used to automatically determine a sequence of intermediate points to enhance the versatility of the planning technique. To increase the efficiency of the tree search, a one-swing motion primitive and a steering motion primitive are designed based on the dynamic model of the robot. Closed-form expressions for the motion primitives are given, and a corresponding rapid feasibility check process is proposed. An energy-based metric is used to estimate the distance in the Cartesian space between two points of a dynamic point-to-point task, and this system’s specific distance metric speeds up the coverage. The proposed technique is evaluated using a series of Monte Carlo runs, and comparative statistics results are given. Several example trajectories are presented to illustrate the approach. The results are compared with those obtained with the existing state-of-the-art methods, and the proposed technique is shown to be more general compared to previous analytical planning techniques while generating smoother trajectories than traditional rapidly exploring randomized tree (RRT) methods.
Demonstrating the Cosmic Distance Ladder with Cepheids
Authors: Pasachoff Jay M. , Mativi Jason W.
Published: December 2019

To span the great distance from our solar system to the farthest clusters of galaxies in our universe, astronomers break down the distance indicators into steps. The nearest ones are measured geometrically, with what is known as parallax. Among the objects whose distances are thus directly measured are a rare type of star known as a Cepheid variable. Henrietta Leavitt about a hundred years ago discovered, by looking at a number of such stars in the Small Magellanic Cloud, that the brighter the star, the longer its period. This secondary indicator can be used in nearby galaxies to calibrate as a standard candle a specific type of supernova (Type Ia, from explosions of white-dwarf stars), whose peak intensities are so bright that they can be seen throughout the observable universe.
“Free-Fall Demonstrations” in the High School Laboratory
Authors: Bozzo G.
Published: December 2019

As soon as children can see, they observe that objects fall freely. From a young age, we spontaneously construct interpretative models to understand this everyday phenomenon. Over the last three decades, numerous experiments have been developed to help students understand physics concepts regarding free fall. Although there are many “good” educational experiments (e.g., Refs. 3-5), few can be replicated in secondary school laboratories, and most require that students and teachers have advanced experimental skills. Here, we report a collection and sequence of experiments (see Fig. 1) for teaching high school students some core concepts related to the physics of free fall. By using procedures that can be implemented by novices without prior laboratory abilities and by integrating new technologies such as smartphones and free software (Tracker®) for video analysis, this paper presents readers with experimental demonstrations that are useful for secondary school laboratories.
A Purely Geometrical Method of Locating a Smartphone Accelerometer
Authors: Larnder Chris Isaac
Published: December 2019

In a paper (posthumously) co-authored by Isaac Newton himself, the primacy of geometric notions in pedagogical expositions of centripetal acceleration has been clearly asserted. In the present paper we demonstrate how this pedagogical prerogative can inform the design of an experiment involving an accelerometer-equipped smartphone rotating uniformly in a horizontal plane. Specifically, the location of the sensor itself within the body of the smartphone will be determined using a technique that is purely geometrical in nature, relying on nothing more than the notion that centripetal accelerations are centrally pointing. The complete absence of algebraic manipulations obliges students to focus exclusively on the development of their geometrical reasoning abilities. In particular, it provides a healthy challenge for those algebraically accomplished students for whom equations, calculations, and data tables represent a means of avoiding a direct confrontation with the imposing spectre of material that is otherwise purely conceptual in nature.
Replacing Lab Report Grading by Online Lab Quizzes
Authors: Xiong-Skiba P. , Buckner S. , Little C. , Kovalskiy A.
Published: December 2019

This paper reports our work on replacing lab report grading by post-online lab quizzes using Desire2Learn (D2L, an online course management software), specifically, how we circumvent some of the limitations imposed by D2L and the outcomes.
What Exactly Are the New Definitions of Kilogram and Other SI Units?
Authors: Lopac Vjera , Hrupec Dario
Published: December 2019

On November 16, 2018, at the 26th meeting of the General Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM), a resolution was adopted that introduced historical changes into the International System of Units (SI). This decision, effective from May 20, 2019, established that the SI units of measurement will be defined by means of a set of seven fixed numerical values of natural constants. The kilogram, the basic unit of mass, is no longer defined by a standard prototype, but relies on the Planck constant h. The definitions of the base SI units ampere, kelvin, and mole will also change. This will accomplish the long-term dream of scientists who have been claiming that measurement systems should be based on natural units. In this paper we derive the natural units as combinations of the seven defining natural constants and determine the numerical relations between the natural units and the units of SI.
Approximate analytic solution of the potential flow around a rectangle
Authors: Kim Eunice J. , Kim Ildoo
Published: December 2019

In undergraduate classes, the potential flow that goes around a circular cylinder is designed to complement the understanding of the mathematical technique to handle the Laplace equation with Neumann boundary conditions and the physical concept of multipole expansion. The simplicity of the standard problem is suited for the introductory level; however, it has a drawback. The discussion of higher order multipoles is often missed because the exact analytical solution contains only the dipole term. In this article, we present a modified problem of the potential flow around a rectangle as an advanced problem. Although the exact solution of this case is intractable, the approximate solution can be obtained by the discretization and the optimization using multiple linear regression. The suggested problem is expected to deepen the students' insight into the concept of multipoles and also provides an opportunity to discuss the formalism of the regression analysis, which in many physics curricula is lacking even though it has a significant importance in experimental physics.
Determination of permeability using a classic Darcy water column
Authors: Wadsworth Fabian B. , Vossen Caron E. J. , Schmid Diana , Colombier Mathieu , Heap Michael J. , Scheu Bettina , Dingwell Donald B.
Published: December 2019

Permeability is a macroscopic property of materials with a percolating pore phase, such as many rocks and filters. We describe a simple experiment for the empirical determination of permeability using a low-cost method similar to that used by Darcy. We advocate the use of controlled cylindrical sintered filters, for which there is theoretical constraint of the permeability as a function of porosity, against which empirical results can be compared. The methodology presented here provides a step-by-step approach to laboratory experiments and numerical techniques for fitting a linear equation to data and is appropriate for undergraduate Physics, Earth Science, or Engineering courses.
Physical Activity and Health-Related Quality of Life in People With Back Pain: A Population-Based Pooled Study of 27,273 Adults
Authors: Alzahrani Hosam , Cheng Sonia W.M. , Shirley Debra , Mackey Martin , Stamatakis Emmanuel
Published: December 2019

Background: To investigate the association between moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in people with back pain. Methods: The sample comprised adults aged 16 years and older who participated in the Welsh Health Survey (2011–2015). The HRQoL was evaluated using the 36-item short form. Participants were categorized into 4 groups based on minutes per week of MVPA: inactive (no MVPA), insufficiently active (<150 min/wk), sufficiently active (≥150 and <300 min/wk), and very active (≥300 min/wk). The authors investigated the association between MVPA and HRQoL using generalized linear models and multiple linear regression. Results: Of the 74,578 adults in the survey cohorts, 27,273 participants diagnosed with back pain were included in the analyses. Consistent direct curvilinear associations between MVPA and HRQoL were demonstrated for all 36-item short form domains (P < .001), in both the minimally and fully adjusted models, with the highest scores observed for sufficiently active and very active participants. Compared with the inactive group, those who were insufficiently active; sufficiently active; and very active had an average difference of 6.31 (95% confidence interval, 5.70–6.92), 7.72 (95% confidence interval, 7.04–8.41), and 8.00 (95% confidence interval, 7.12–8.89) points in the overall HRQoL, respectively. Conclusion: The authors found a consistent direct curvilinear association between MVPA and HRQoL.
Improvements in Match-Related Physical Performance of Professional Soccer Players After the Application of an on-Field Training Program for Hamstring Injury Rehabilitation
Authors: Jiménez-Rubio Sergio , Navandar Archit , Rivilla-García Jesús , Paredes-Hernández Víctor , Gómez-Ruano Miguel-Ángel
Published: December 2019

Context: Although there are multiple, validated return-to-play programs following hamstring strain injuries, no studies have evaluated their changes in match performance parameters. Objectives: The aim of this study was twofold as follows: (1) to determine the changes in match-based physical performance parameters in professional soccer players before and after sustaining a hamstring strain injury and undergoing a soccer-specific rehabilitation program and (2) to observe the progress of these performance parameters 6 to 10 weeks after the player returned from injury. Design: Prospective, quasi-experimental longitudinal study. Setting: Soccer playing and training grounds. Participants: Nineteen players suffering a hamstring strain injury from 2 male professional teams playing in the Spanish professional football league (La Liga) were followed during the 2015–2016, 2016–2017, and 2017–2018 seasons. Intervention: Participation in on-field training program following a hamstring injury. Main Outcome Measures: Match global positioning system data were collected in the following stages: prior to injury (PRE), after return to play (RTP), program, and 6 to 10 weeks following RTP (C2). Peak velocities and distances ran at sprint velocities showed most likely improvements in C2 versus PRE, and very likely improvements in RTP versus PRE. Results: The distances ran at high and very high intensities, the average velocity, and work-to-rest ratio showed very likely improvements in C2 versus RTP and likely improvements in RTP versus PRE. Likely improvements were observed for all variables in C2 versus RTP. The authors’ results showed an improvement of physical performance during competitive match after RTP, compared with PRE. There was a steady progression in the progress, and in 8 months following RTP, there was no injury reported in the players. Conclusions: The current findings may indicate that the hamstring muscle complex not only recovered completely from the injury but could also withstand a greater training and match load reducing the risk of reinjury.
The Effect of Total Motion Release on Functional Movement Screen Composite Scores: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Strauss Alex T. , Parr Austin J. , Desmond Daniel J. , Vargas Ashmel T. , Baker Russell T.
Published: December 2019

Context: The Functional Movement Screen (FMS™) provides clinicians with objective criteria to assess movement patterns and overall movement quality. A relationship between low FMS™ composite scores and increased risk of injury has been reported, and researchers have begun to test the effect of interventions to improve FMS™ composite scores. Total Motion Release (TMR®), a novel active movement intervention, has been found to produce improvements in range of motion, as well as patient-reported pain and dysfunction. The effect of TMR® on movement patterns or movement quality is unknown. Objective: To assess the effect of a single treatment application of TMR® on FMS™ composite scores in participants with low baselines FMS™ composite scores. Design: Single-blind randomized controlled study. Setting: Athletic training laboratory. Participants: Twenty-four participants (12 males and 12 females) with FMS™ composite scores of 13 or lower were randomly assigned to either a treatment group or control group. The FMS™ screening procedure was completed on all participants in a pretest and posttest design. Interventions: In between FMS™ testing sessions, participants assigned to the treatment group completed the TMR® FAB 6-treatment protocol, whereas the control group participants did not receive an intervention. Following the treatment period (ie, 20 min), participants again completed the FMS™. Main Outcome Measure: FMS™ composite scores. Results: The improvement in FMS™ composite scores was significantly better (P ≤ .001, Cohen’s d = 1.69) in the TMR® group (mean change = 3.7 [2.2]) compared with the control group (mean change = 0.7 [1.2]). Conclusions: A single application of the TMR® FAB 6 protocol produced immediate acute improvements in FMS™ composite scores in a young, physically active population compared with no intervention. Clinical Relevance: Research evidence exists to suggest impaired or dysfunctional movement patterns or movement quality increases risk of injury. The FMS™ is commonly utilized to assess movement quality and risk of injury. This study provides initial evidence that the use of TMR® rapidly produces acute improvements in movement quality, as measured by the FMS™.
Attenuated Lactococcus lactis and Surface Bacteria as Tools for Conditioning the Microbiota and Driving the Ripening of Semisoft Caciotta Cheese
Authors: Calasso Maria , Minervini Fabio , De Filippis Francesca , Ercolini Danilo , De Angelis Maria , Gobbetti Marco
Published: December 2019

This study provides in-depth knowledge of the effects of attenuated starters and surface bacterial strains on the microbiota and related metabolic activities during cheese ripening. The use of attenuated
Lc. lactis
strongly impacted the microbiota assembly of caciotta cheese. This led to improved biochemical and sensory features compared to conventional cheese. Among surface bacterial strains,
Le. lactis
played a key role in the metabolic activities involved in cheese ripening. This resulted in an improvement of the sensory quality of caciotta cheese. The use of attenuated lactic acid bacteria and the surface adjunct
Le. lactis
could be a useful biotechnology to improve the flavor formation of caciotta cheese.
Small Molecules Produced by Commensal Staphylococcus epidermidis Disrupt Formation of Biofilms by Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Glatthardt Thaís , Campos Juliana Curityba de Mello , Chamon Raiane Cardoso , de Sá Coimbra Thiago Freitas , Rocha Giulia de Almeida , de Melo Marília Alves Figueira , Parente Thiago Estevam , Lobo Leandro Araujo , Antunes Luis Caetano Martha , dos Santos Kátia Regina Netto , Ferreira Rosana Barreto Rocha
Published: December 2019

S. aureus
is a leading agent of infections worldwide, and its main virulence characteristic is the ability to produce biofilms on surfaces such as medical devices. Biofilms are known to confer increased resistance to antimicrobials and to the host immune responses, requiring aggressive antibiotic treatment and removal of the infected surface. Here, we investigated a new source of antibiofilm compounds, the skin microbiome. Specifically, we found that a commensal strain of
S. epidermidis
produces molecules with antibiofilm activity, leading to a significant decrease of
S. aureus
biofilm formation and to a reduction of previously established biofilms. The molecules potentiated the activity of antibiotics and affected the expression of hundreds of
S. aureus
genes, including those associated with biofilm formation. Our research highlights the search for compounds that can aid us in the fight against
S. aureus
infections.
Unusually deep earthquakes in the central Sierra Nevada (California, USA): Foundering ultramafic lithosphere?
Authors: Ryan Jamie , Frassetto Andrew M. , Hurd Owen , Jones Craig H. , Unruh Jeffrey , Zandt George , Gilbert Hersh , Owens Thomas J.
Published: December 2019

Using a network of temporarily deployed broadband seismometers, we characterize an unusual region of crustal earthquakes in the west-central Sierra Nevada, California (USA). We locate 131 earthquakes, which occurred from 3.1 to 47.1 km deep during June 2005 to May 2006. We detect more events, at greater depths, than are present in the Northern California Seismic Network catalog during this period. Most of the events occur at depths of 20–35 km and cluster into two distinct groups. In addition, some of the events appear to be repeating due to the similarity of their waveforms and locations. We calculate focal mechanisms for 52 of these events, and about half exhibit reverse faulting, which represents a state of horizontal compressional stress that is distinct from the regional stress field. From first arrivals, we calculate a one-dimensional model of crustal P-wavespeeds, which resolves a gradational increase from 5.8 km/s near the surface to 6.7 km/s at 35 km depth. The events overlie a significant variation in the character of the Moho, and two long-period events occur near the seismically imaged Moho at nearly 40 km depth. We suggest that these earthquakes could be the seismogenic response of the crust to active foundering of mafic-ultramafic lithosphere and resultant asthenospheric upwelling beneath the central Sierra Nevada.
Higher oxygen saturation with hydroxyurea in paediatric sickle cell disease
Authors: van Geyzel Lisa , Arigliani Michele , Inusa Baba , Singh Bethany , Kozlowska Wanda , Chakravorty Subarna , Bossley Cara J , Ruiz Gary , Rees David , Gupta Atul
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is one of the most common inherited diseases worldwide. It is associated with lifelong morbidity and reduced life expectancy. Hydroxyurea (HU) has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of vaso-occlusive episodes in SCD. Hypoxaemia and intermittent nocturnal oxygen desaturations occur frequently in children with SCD and contribute to the associated morbidity, including risk of cerebrovascular disease.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of HU on oxygen saturation (SpO2) overnight and on daytime SpO2 spot checks in children with SCD.

Methods

A retrospective review of children with SCD and respiratory problems who attended two UK tertiary sickle respiratory clinics and were treated with HU. Longitudinal data were collected from 2 years prior and up to 3 years after the commencement of HU.

Results

Forty-three children, 23 males (53%) with a median age of 9 (range 1.8–18) years were included. In the 21 children who had comparable sleep studies before and after starting HU, mean SpO2 was higher (95.2% from 93.5%, p=0.01) and nadir SpO2 was higher (87.2% from 84.3%, p=0.009) when taking HU. In 32 of the children, spot daytime oxygen saturations were also higher (96.3% from 93.5%, p=0.001).

Conclusion

Children with SCD had higher oxygen saturation overnight and on daytime spot checks after starting HU. These data suggest HU may be helpful for treating persistent hypoxaemia in children with SCD pending more evidence from a randomised clinical trial.
Long-term functional outcomes of different subtypes of primary congenital glaucoma
Authors: Chaudhary Richard Sher , Gupta Amisha , Sharma Ajay , Gupta Shikha , Sofi Rayees Ahmad , Sundar Dheepak , Sihota Ramanjit , Somarajan Bindu I , Singh Abhishek , Sangwan Rahul , Gupta Viney
Published: December 2019

Aim

To analyse long-term visual outcomes across different subtypes of primary congenital glaucoma (PCG).

Methods

Patients with PCG with a minimum of 5-year follow-up post surgery were included in the study. Snellen visual acuity recordings taken at their last follow-up were analysed. We evaluated the results using Kaplan-Meier curves to predict the probability of maintaining good vision (as defined by a visual acuity of 6/18 or better) in our patients after 30-year follow-up. The results were also analysed to determine whether there were any differences in the long-term visual acuities with time between the neonatal and infantile PCG. We also analysed the reasons for poor visual outcomes.

Results

We assessed a cohort of 140 patients with PCG (235 eyes) with an average follow-up of 127±62.8 months (range 60–400 months). Overall, the proportion of eyes with good visual acuity was 89 (37.9%), those with fair visual acuity between 6/60 and 6/18 was 41 (17.4%), and those with poor visual acuity (≤6/60) was 105 (44.7%). We found a significant difference (p=0.047) between neonatal and infantile patients with PCG whereby the neonatal cohort fared worse off in terms of visual morbidity. On Kaplan-Meier analysis, the cumulative probability of survival of a visual acuity of 6/18 or better was more among the infantile PCG in comparison to the neonatal PCG (p=0.039) eyes, and more among the bilateral than the unilateral affected eyes (p=0.029). Amblyopia was the most important cause for poor visual acuity as shown on a Cox proportional-hazards regression model.

Conclusions

Long-term visual outcomes of infantile are better than neonatal PCG. Eyes with unilateral have worse visual outcomes compared with those with bilateral PCG because of the development of dense amblyopia.
Dry cupping in the treatment of individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain: a protocol for a placebo-controlled, randomised, double-blind study
Authors: Silva Hugo Jário de Almeida , Saragiotto Bruno T , Silva Rodrigo Scattone , Lins Caio Alano de Almeida , de Souza Marcelo Cardoso
Published: December 2019

Background

Low back pain is a very prevalent condition in the population and cupping therapy has been presented as a frequently used non-pharmacological treatment in this population. However, there is a lack of well-designed studies that evaluate the effects of this technique. This protocol describes a placebo-controlled, randomised, double-blind study that aims to evaluate the effect of dry cupping therapy on pain, physical function, trunk range of motion, quality of life and psychological symptoms in individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain.

Methods and analysis

Ninety individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain, aged from 18 to 59 years, will be randomised into two groups: intervention group, which will be submitted to dry cupping therapy application with two suctions; and placebo group which will undergo placebo dry cupping therapy. Both applications will occur bilaterally in parallel to the vertebrae from L1 to L5. The application will be performed once a week for 8 weeks. The volunteers will be evaluated before the treatment (T0), immediately after the first intervention (T1), after 4 weeks of intervention (T4) and after 8 weeks of intervention (T8). The primary outcome will be pain intensity, and secondary outcomes will be physical function, lumbar range of motion, patient expectation, overall perception of effect, quality of life and psychological factors.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol has been approved by the Ethics Committee of FACISA/UFRN (number: 3639814). The results of the study will be disseminated to participants through social networks and will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal and scientific meetings.

Trial registration number

NCT03909672.
Effectiveness and acceptability of cognitive–behavioural therapy based interventions for maternal peripartum depression: a systematic review, meta-analysis and thematic synthesis protocol
Authors: Pettman Danelle , O'Mahen Heather , Skoog Svanberg Agneta , von Essen Louise , Axfors Cathrine , Blomberg Oscar , Woodford Joanne
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Peripartum depression is a common mental health difficulty associated with a range of negative impacts for the mother, infant and wider family. This review will examine the effectiveness of cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) based interventions for peripartum depression. Secondary aims are to explore the effect of CBT-based interventions targeted at peripartum depression on novel secondary outcomes and moderators potentially associated with effectiveness. To date, there has been little examination of effect on important secondary outcomes (eg, anxiety, stress and parenting), nor clinical and methodological moderators. Further, this review aims to explore the acceptability of CBT-based interventions for women with peripartum depression and examine important adaptations for this population.

Methods and analysis

Electronic databases (e.g., MEDLINE; ISI Web of Science; CINAHL; CENTRAL; Prospero; EMBASE; ASSIA; PsychINFO; SCOPUS; And Swemed+) will be systematically searched. Database searches will be supplemented by expert contact, reference and citation checking, and grey literature. Primary outcomes of interest will be validated measures of symptoms of depression. A proposed meta-analysis will examine: (1) the overall effectiveness of psychological interventions in improving symptoms of depression (both self-reported and diagnosed major depression) in the peripartum period; (2) the impact of interventions on secondary outcomes (eg, anxiety, stress and parenting); (3) clinical and methodological moderators associated with effectiveness. A thematic synthesis will be conducted on qualitative data exploring the acceptability of CBT-based intervention for postpartum depression including participants’ experience and perspectives of the interventions, satisfaction, barriers and facilitators to intervention use, intervention relevance to mothers’ situations and suggestions for improvements to tailor interventions to the peripartum client group.

Ethics and dissemination

Formal ethical approval is not required by the National Ethical Review Board in Sweden as primary data will not be collected. The results will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed publication and inform the development of a new psychological intervention for peripartum depression. This study including protocol development will run from March 2019 to March 2020.
Comparison of the effects of static stretching on range of motion and jump height between quadriceps, hamstrings and triceps surae in collegiate basketball players
Authors: Takeuchi Kosuke , Tsukuda Fumiko
Published: December 2019

Objectives

The purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of static stretching (SS) on the range of motion and vertical jump height between the quadriceps, hamstrings and triceps surae in collegiate basketball players.

Methods

Fourteen male collegiate basketball players (20.2±0.7 years, 179.0±5.0 cm, 71.9±8.3 kg) underwent 5 min of SS for the quadriceps, hamstrings and triceps surae, in random order. Before and after each stretch, the range of motion (ROM) and vertical jump height were measured.

Results

ROM of the quadriceps, hamstrings and triceps surae were increased without any difference of relative change in the range. The vertical jump height showed no change after SS of the quadriceps and hamstrings, while it decreased after SS of the triceps surae (p<0.05).

Conclusion

These results suggested that SS for the triceps surae may have a large impact on jump performance.
Sexually transmitted infection testing awareness, uptake and diagnosis among urban refugee and displaced youth living in informal settlements in Kampala, Uganda: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Logie Carmen Helen , Okumu Moses , Mwima Simon , Kyambadde Peter , Hakiza Robert , Kibathi Irungu Peter , Kironde Emmanuel
Published: December 2019

Background

Sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention needs among urban refugee and displaced youth are understudied. The study objective was to explore factors associated with the STI prevention cascade (STI services awareness, testing, diagnosis) among urban refugee and displaced youth in Kampala, Uganda.

Methods

We implemented a cross-sectional survey with youth aged 16–24 years in informal settlements in Kampala. We conducted bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses to identify social ecological (intrapersonal, interpersonal, community) level factors associated with STI testing services awareness, lifetime STI testing, and lifetime STI diagnosis.

Results

Participants (n=445; mean age 19.3, SD 2.6, years) included young women (n=333, 74.8%) and young men (n=112, 25.2%). Less than half (43.8%) were aware of community STI services. One-quarter (26.1%) reported lifetime STI testing. Of these, 39.5% reported a lifetime STI diagnosis. In multivariable analyses among young women, age, lifetime sex partners, and lower adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRH)-related stigma were associated with STI services awareness; and age, lower adolescent SRH-related stigma, and food security were associated with STI testing. Among young men, time in Uganda and lower HIV-related stigma were associated with STI services awareness; and age, condom self-efficacy, and increased adolescent SRH-related stigma were associated with testing. Lifetime sex partners, lower condom self-efficacy, and lower adolescent SRH-related stigma were associated with lifetime STI diagnosis.

Conclusions

Social ecological factors including stigma (adolescent SRH-related, HIV-related) were associated with STI testing and diagnosis among young urban refugees. Gender, age and stigma-tailored strategies can advance the STI prevention cascade among urban young refugees.
Assessing vulnerability to panic: a systematic review of psychological and physiological responses to biological challenges as prospective predictors of panic attacks and panic disorder
Authors: Robinaugh Donald J , Ward Meredith J , Toner Emma R , Brown Mackenzie L , Losiewicz Olivia M , Bui Eric , Orr Scott P
Published: December 2019

Background

Cognitive–behavioural theories of panic disorder posit that panic attacks arise from a positive feedback loop between arousal-related bodily sensations and perceived threat. In a recently developed computational model formalising these theories of panic attacks, it was observed that the response to a simulated perturbation to arousal provided a strong indicator of vulnerability to panic attacks and panic disorder. In this review, we evaluate whether this observation is borne out in the empirical literature that has examined responses to biological challenge (eg, CO2inhalation) and their relation to subsequent panic attacks and panic disorder.

Method

We searched PubMed, Web of Science and PsycINFO using keywords denoting provocation agents (eg, sodium lactate) and procedures (eg, infusion) combined with keywords relevant to panic disorder (eg, panic). Articles were eligible if they used response to a biological challenge paradigm to prospectively predict panic attacks or panic disorder.

Results

We identified four eligible studies. Pooled effect sizes suggest that there is biological challenge response has a moderate prospective association with subsequent panic attacks, but no prospective relationship with panic disorder.

Conclusions

These findings provide support for the prediction derived from cognitive–behavioural theories and some preliminary evidence that response to a biological challenge may have clinical utility as a marker of vulnerability to panic attacks pending further research and development.

Trial registration number

135908.
Experiences with counselling to people who wish to be able to self-determine the timing and manner of one’s own end of life: a qualitative in-depth interview study
Authors: Hagens Martijn , Snijdewind Marianne C , Evenblij Kirsten , Onwuteaka-Philipsen Bregje D , Pasman H Roeline W
Published: December 2019

Background

In the Netherlands, Foundation De Einder offers counselling to people who wish to be able to self-determine the timing and manner of their end of life.

Aim

This study explores the experiences with counselling that counselees receive(d) from counsellors facilitated by Foundation De Einder.

Methods

Open coding and inductive analysis of in-depth interviews with 17 counselees.

Results

Counselling ranged from solely receiving information about lethal medication to combining this with psychological counselling about matters of life and death, and the effects for close ones. Counselees appreciated the availability of the counsellor, their careful and open attitude, feeling respected and being reminded about their own responsibility. Some counselees felt dependent on the counsellor, or questioned their competency. Most counselees collected lethal medication. This gave them peace of mind and increased their quality of life, but also led to new concerns. Few were inclined to use their self-collected medication. Counselling contributed to thinking about if, when and how counselees would like to end their life.

Conclusion

Having obtained means to end their lives can offer people feelings of reassurance, which can increase their quality of life, but can also give rise to new concerns. Next to providing information on (collecting) lethal medication, counsellors can play an important role by having an open non-judgemental attitude, providing trustworthy information and being available. These positively valued aspects of counselling are also relevant for physicians taking care of patients who wish to self-determine the timing and manner of their end of life.