bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robustness and Unpredictability for Double Arbiter PUFs on Silicon Data: Performance Evaluation and Modeling Accuracy
Authors: Alamro Meznah A. , Mursi Khalid T. , Zhuang Yu , Aseeri Ahmad O. , Alkatheiri Mohammed Saeed
Published: May 2020

Classical cryptographic methods that inherently employ secret keys embedded in non-volatile memory have been known to be impractical for limited-resource Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs) have emerged as an applicable solution to provide a keyless means for secure authentication. PUFs utilize inevitable variations of integrated circuits (ICs) components, manifest during the fabrication process, to extract unique responses. Double Arbiter PUFs (DAPUFs) have been recently proposed to overcome security issues in XOR PUF and enhance the tolerance of delay-based PUFs against modeling attacks. This paper provides comprehensive risk analysis and performance evaluation of all proposed DAPUF designs and compares them with their counterparts from XOR PUF. We generated different sets of real challenge–response pairs CRPs from three FPGA hardware boards to evaluate the performance of both DAPUF and XOR PUF designs using special-purpose evaluation metrics. We show that none of the proposed designs of DAPUF is strictly preferred over XOR PUF designs. In addition, our security analysis using neural network reveals the vulnerability of all DAPUF designs against machine learning attacks.
An Optimized Balance of Plant for a Medium-Size PEM Electrolyzer: Design, Control and Physical Implementation
Authors: Caparrós Mancera Julio José , Segura Manzano Francisca , Andújar José Manuel , Vivas Francisco José , Calderón Antonio José
Published: May 2020

The progressive increase in hydrogen technologies’ role in transport, mobility, electrical microgrids, and even in residential applications, as well as in other sectors is expected. However, to achieve it, it is necessary to focus efforts on improving features of hydrogen-based systems, such as efficiency, start-up time, lifespan, and operating power range, among others. A key sector in the development of hydrogen technology is its production, renewable if possible, with the objective to obtain increasingly efficient, lightweight, and durable electrolyzers. For this, scientific works are currently being produced on stacks technology improvement (mainly based on two technologies: polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) and alkaline) and on the balance of plant (BoP) or the industrial plant (its size depends on the power of the electrolyzer) that runs the stack for its best performance. PEM technology offers distinct advantages, apart from the high cost of its components, its durability that is not yet guaranteed and the availability in the MW range. Therefore, there is an open field of research for achievements in this technology. The two elements to improve are the stacks and BoP, also bearing in mind that improving BoP will positively affect the stack operation. This paper develops the design, implementation, and practical experimentation of a BoP for a medium-size PEM electrolyzer. It is based on the realization of the optimal design of the BoP, paying special attention to the subsystems that comprise it: the power supply subsystem, water management subsystem, hydrogen production subsystem, cooling subsystem, and control subsystem. Based on this, a control logic has been developed that guarantees efficient and safe operation. Experimental results validate the designed control logic in various operating cases, including warning and failure cases. Additionally, the experimental results show the correct operation in the different states of the plant, analyzing the evolution of the hydrogen flow pressure and temperature. The capacity of the developed PEM electrolysis plant is probed regarding its production rate, wide operating power range, reduced pressurization time, and high efficiency.
Optimizing AC Resistance of Solid PCB Winding
Authors: Nguyen Minh Huy , Fortin Blanchette Handy
Published: May 2020

At high frequency, power losses of a winding due to eddy currents becomes significant. Moreover, the skin and proximity AC resistances are influenced by the width of printed circuit board (PCB) conductors and distance between the adjacent tracks which causes many difficulties to design windings with lowest AC resistances. To clarify this phenomenon, this paper focuses on modeling the influence of skin and proximity effects on AC resistance of planar PCB winding, thereby providing guidelines to reduce the winding AC resistance. An approximate electromagnetic calculation method is proposed and it shows that when the winding proximity AC to DC ratio ( F p r o x i m i t y ) is equal to 1 3 the AC on DC ratio caused by skin effect ( F s k i n ) , the winding is optimized and it has lowest AC resistance. 3-D finite element simulations of 3, 7 and 10-Turn windings, which are divided into 3 groups with the same footprint, are presented to investigate the lowest AC resistance when the track width varies from 3 mm to 5 mm and the frequency range is up to 700 kHz. In order to verify the theoretical analysis and simulation results, an experiment with 3 simulated groups, (9 prototypes in total) is built and has a very good fit with simulation results. Experimental results show that at the optimal width, the AC resistance of the windings can be reduced up to 16.5 % in the frequency range from 200 kHz to 700 kHz.
Experimental Investigation of an Electrical Model for Sodium–Nickel Chloride Batteries
Authors: Di Rienzo Roberto , Simonte Gianluca , Biagioni Ian , Baronti Federico , Roncella Roberto , Saletti Roberto
Published: May 2020

This work describes the experimental characterization of a commercial sodium–nickel chloride battery and the investigation on a state-of-the-art model that represents the battery behavior. This battery technology is considered very promising but it has not fully been exploited yet. Besides improvements on the technological side, accurate models of the battery should be found to allow the realization of Battery Management Systems with advanced functions. This achievement may extend the battery exploitation to its best. The paper describes the experimental set-up and the model parameter identification process, and discusses the identified parameters and the model validation tests. The comparison between model simulations and experiments shows that the model is rather accurate for low-current rates, but it loses accuracy and it is not able to reproduce with fidelity the battery behavior at low states of charge or at high current rates. Further research efforts and refinements of the model are necessary to make available a sodium–nickel chloride battery model accurate in any operating condition.
When Urban Environment Is Restorative: The Effect of Walking in Suburbs and Forests on Psychological and Physiological Relaxation of Young Polish Adults
Authors: Janeczko Emilia , Bielinis Ernest , Wójcik Roman , Woźnicka Małgorzata , Kędziora Wojciech , Łukowski Adrian , Elsadek Mohamed , Szyc Katarzyna , Janeczko Krzysztof
Published: May 2020

Background and Objectives: Physical activity, recreation and walks successfully counteract negative symptoms of stress in people, especially in large cities, and have many positive psychological and physiological effects. There are many studies showing that contact with nature plays an important role in the regeneration of the human body. The city is not without green enclaves such as forests, parks or greenery along the streets. However, it is not entirely clear how the different physical characteristics of the urban space affect mood improvement, increase of positive feelings, vitality level, etc. Materials and Methods: In the study, two urban environments (apartment and green suburbs) were used, as well as two forests (coniferous and deciduous) to measure the impact of these environments on human physiological and psychological relaxation during a walk in a randomized experiment. The participants of the experiment were 75 young adult Poles studying in the largest Polish agglomeration, Warsaw. Before each experiment, the physiological and psychological state of the participant was measured indoors (pre-test). Four psychological questionnaires were used in the project (Profile of Mood States; Positive and Negative Affect Schedule; Restorative Outcome Scale; Subjective Vitality Scale), and physiological measurements (heart rate, blood pressure) before and after the short walking program were evaluated. Results: As a result of the analyses, it was shown that both staying in an urban environment with greenery and staying in a forest environment have a positive effect on the physiological and psychological relaxation of the subjects. A short walk in the suburbs was no less attractive than a walk in the forest in fall. The above indicates that various places with urban vegetation can be successfully used for recreation, just as in a forest where forest bathing is practiced. This indicates that different places with urban greenery can be successfully used for recreation, as can the forests where forest bathing is carried out.
Incorporating Landscape Character in Cork Oak Forest Expansion in Sardinia: Constraint or Opportunity?
Authors: Vogiatzakis Ioannis N. , Griffiths Geoffrey H. , Zomeni Maria
Published: May 2020

Cork oak (Quercus suber) is a declining woodland species across the island of Sardinia, despite its former economic importance for wine production and its significance for biodiversity. In particular, cork oak forests (COFs) on the island have seen a 29% decrease in the past 45 years. A spatial GIS model was developed to determine suitability for the expansion of cork oak forests on the island. The model uses a set of simple spatial decision rules based on principles of landscape ecology and expert opinion to assign a suitability score for pure cork oak forests to every land use parcel in Sardinia. These rules include the type of existing land parcel, its size, distance to existing cork oak forest, and the area of seminatural habitats in its neighborhood. This was coupled with a map of landscape types to assist with the development of policy for the protection of cork oak forests across Sardinia. The results show that there is an area of 116,785 ha potentially suitable for cork oak forest expansion in Sardinia, with the largest area of potential habitat on granitic mountains. There is a substantial overall agreement (Cohen’s kappa = 0.61) between the suitability map produced and the historical reference map. The model is flexible and can be rerun to reflect changes in policy relating to agri-environmental targets for habitats and species.
Neither Denied nor Exposed: Fixing WebRTC Privacy Leaks
Authors: Fakis Alexandros , Karopoulos Georgios , Kambourakis Georgios
Published: May 2020

To establish peer-to-peer connections and achieve real-time web-based communication, the Web Real-Time Communication (WebRTC) framework requires address information of the communicating peers. This means that users behind, say, Network Address Translation (NAT) or firewalls normally rely on the Interactive Connectivity Establishment (ICE) framework for the sake of negotiating information about the connection and media transferring. This typically involves Session Traversal Utilities for NAT (STUN)/Traversal using Relays around NAT (TURN) servers, which assist the peers with discovering each other’s private and public IP:port, and relay traffic if direct connection fails. Nevertheless, these IP:port pieces of data can be easily captured by anyone who controls the corresponding STUN/TURN server, and even more become readily available to the JavaScript application running on the webpage. While this is acceptable for a user that deliberately initiates a WebRTC connection, it becomes a worrisome privacy issue for those being unaware that such a connection is attempted. Furthermore, the application acquires more information about the local network architecture compared to what is exposed in usual HTTP interactions, where only the public IP is visible. Even though this problem is well-known in the related literature, no practical solution has been proposed so far. To this end, and for the sake of detecting and preventing in real time the execution of STUN/TURN clandestine, privacy-invading requests, we introduce two different kinds of solutions: (a) a browser extension, and (b) an HTTP gateway, implemented in C++ as well as in Golang. Both solutions detect any WebRTC API call before it happens and inform accordingly the end-user about the webpage’s intentions. We meticulously evaluate the proposed schemes in terms of performance and demonstrate that, even in the worst case, the latency introduced is tolerable.
DPIA in Context: Applying DPIA to Assess Privacy Risks of Cyber Physical Systems
Authors: Henriksen-Bulmer Jane , Faily Shamal , Jeary Sheridan
Published: May 2020

Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) seamlessly integrate physical objects with technology, thereby blurring the boundaries between the physical and virtual environments. While this brings many opportunities for progress, it also adds a new layer of complexity to the risk assessment process when attempting to ascertain what privacy risks this might impose on an organisation. In addition, privacy regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), mandate assessment of privacy risks, including making Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) compulsory. We present the DPIA Data Wheel, a holistic privacy risk assessment framework based on Contextual Integrity (CI), that practitioners can use to inform decision making around the privacy risks of CPS. This framework facilitates comprehensive contextual inquiry into privacy risk, that accounts for both the elicitation of privacy risks, and the identification of appropriate mitigation strategies. Further, by using this DPIA framework we also provide organisations with a means of assessing privacy from both the perspective of the organisation and the individual, thereby facilitating GDPR compliance. We empirically evaluate this framework in three different real-world settings. In doing so, we demonstrate how CI can be incorporated into the privacy risk decision-making process in a usable, practical manner that will aid decision makers in making informed privacy decisions.
Bacillus subtilis Fermentation of Malva verticillata Leaves Enhances Antioxidant Activity and Osteoblast Differentiation
Authors: Moon Keumok , Lee Seola , Cha Jaeho
Published: May 2020

Malva verticillata, also known as Chinese mallow, is an herbaceous plant with colorful flowers and has been used as a medicine for thousands of years. This study investigated this herb for potential antioxidant activity or an association with osteoblast differentiation. M. verticillate leaves were fermented with B. subtilis MV1 at 30 °C for 7 days to enhance their biological activities. The resultant aqueous extract (MVW) and the fermented leaves (MVB) were measured for antioxidant and osteoblast differentiation. The results showed that the total phenolic, flavonoid, and antioxidant activity, as well as the osteoblast differentiation of the MVB increased (2 to 6 times) compared with those of the MVW. MVB induced phosphorylation of p38, extracellular signal-regulated kinase in C3H10T1/2 cells, and the phosphorylation was attenuated via transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) inhibitors. Moreover, runt-related transcription factor 2 and osterix in the nucleus increased in a time-dependent manner. The messenger RNA expression of alkaline phosphatase and bone sialoprotein increased about 9.4- and 65-fold, respectively, compared to the non-treated cells. MVB stimulated C3H10T1/2 cells in the osteoblasts via TGF-β signaling. Thus, fermented M. verticillata extract exhibited enhanced antioxidant activity and osteoblast differentiation.
Influence of Meat Spoilage Microbiota Initial Load on the Growth and Survival of Three Pathogens on a Naturally Fermented Sausage
Authors: Patarata Luis , Novais Margarida , Fraqueza Maria João , Silva José António
Published: May 2020

Meat products are potential vehicles for transmitting foodborne pathogens like Salmonella, S. aureus, and L. monocytogenes. We aimed to evaluate (1) the effect of the meat’s initial natural microbiota on Salmonella, S. aureus, and L. monocytogenes growth and survival in a batter to prepare a naturally fermented sausage, made with and without curing salts and wine (2) the effect of a lactic acid bacteria (LAB) starter culture and wine on the survival of the three pathogens during the manufacturing of a naturally fermented sausage made with meat with a low initial microbial load. The results revealed that the reduced contamination that is currently expected in raw meat is favorable for the multiplication of pathogens due to reduced competition. The inhibitory effect of nitrite and nitrate on Salmonella, S. aureus, and L. monocytogenes was confirmed, particularly when competition in meat was low. In any attempt to reduce or eliminate nitrite from naturally fermented sausages, the use of LAB starters should be considered to ensure an unfavorable competition environment for pathogens. In the experiment with naturally fermented sausage, chouriço, the reduction in aw strongly inhibited the challenged pathogens, particularly when a LAB starter culture and wine were used.
Colorimetric Sensor Array for Monitoring, Modelling and Comparing Spoilage Processes of Different Meat and Fish Foods
Authors: Magnaghi Lisa Rita , Capone Federica , Zanoni Camilla , Alberti Giancarla , Quadrelli Paolo , Biesuz Raffaela
Published: May 2020

Meat spoilage is a very complex combination of processes related to bacterial activities. Numerous efforts are underway to develop automated techniques for monitoring this process. We selected a panel of pH indicators and a colourimetric dye, selective for thiols. Embedding these dyes into an anion exchange cellulose sheets, i.e., the commercial paper sheet known as “Colour Catcher®” commonly used in the washing machine to prevent colour run problems, we obtained an array made of six coloured spots (here named Dye name-CC@). The array, placed over the tray containing a sample of meat or fish (not enriched at any extend with spoilage products), progressively shows a colour change in the six spots. Photos of the array were acquired as a function of time, RGB indices were used to follow the spoilage, Principal Component Analysis to model the data set. We demonstrate that the array allows for the monitoring the overall spoilage process of chicken, beef, pork and fish, obtaining different models that mimic the degradation pathway. The spoilage processes for each kind of food, followed by the array colour evolution, were eventually compared using three-way PCA, which clearly shows same degradation pattern of protein foods, altered only according to the different substrates.
Modeling and Forecasting Medium-Term Electricity Consumption Using Component Estimation Technique
Authors: Shah Ismail , Iftikhar Hasnain , Ali Sajid
Published: May 2020

The increasing shortage of electricity in Pakistan disturbs almost all sectors of its economy. As, for accurate policy formulation, precise and efficient forecasts of electricity consumption are vital, this paper implements a forecasting procedure based on components estimation technique to forecast medium-term electricity consumption. To this end, the electricity consumption series is divided into two major components: deterministic and stochastic. For the estimation of deterministic component, we use parametric and nonparametric models. The stochastic component is modeled by using four different univariate time series models including parametric AutoRegressive (AR), nonparametric AutoRegressive (NPAR), Smooth Transition AutoRegressive (STAR), and Autoregressive Moving Average (ARMA) models. The proposed methodology was applied to Pakistan electricity consumption data ranging from January 1990 to December 2015. To assess one month ahead post-sample forecasting accuracy, three standard error measures, namely Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), were calculated. The results show that the proposed component-based estimation procedure is very effective at predicting electricity consumption. Moreover, ARMA models outperform the other models, while NPAR model is competitive. Finally, our forecasting results are comparatively batter then those cited in other works.
Distinct Tumor Microenvironments Are a Defining Feature of Strain-Specific CRISPR/Cas9-Induced MPNSTs
Authors: Scherer Amanda , Stephens Victoria R. , McGivney Gavin R. , Gutierrez Wade R. , Laverty Emily A. , Knepper-Adrian Vickie , Dodd Rebecca D.
Published: May 2020

The tumor microenvironment plays important roles in cancer biology, but genetic backgrounds of mouse models can complicate interpretation of tumor phenotypes. A deeper understanding of strain-dependent influences on the tumor microenvironment of genetically-identical tumors is critical to exploring genotype–phenotype relationships, but these interactions can be difficult to identify using traditional Cre/loxP approaches. Here, we use somatic CRISPR/Cas9 tumorigenesis approaches to determine the impact of mouse background on the biology of genetically-identical malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) in four commonly-used inbred strains. To our knowledge, this is the first study to systematically evaluate the impact of host strain on CRISPR/Cas9-generated mouse models. Our data identify multiple strain-dependent phenotypes, including changes in tumor onset and the immune microenvironment. While BALB/c mice develop MPNSTs earlier than other strains, similar tumor onset is observed in C57BL/6, 129X1 and 129/SvJae mice. Indel pattern analysis demonstrates that indel frequency, type and size are similar across all genetic backgrounds. Gene expression and IHC analysis identify multiple strain-dependent differences in CD4+ T cell infiltration and myeloid cell populations, including M2 macrophages and mast cells. These data highlight important strain-specific phenotypes of genomically-matched MPNSTs that have implications for the design of future studies using similar in vivo gene editing approaches.
Assessing Ecosystem Services of Atmospheric Calcium and Magnesium Deposition for Potential Soil Inorganic Carbon Sequestration
Authors: Mikhailova Elena A. , Zurqani Hamdi A. , Post Christopher J. , Schlautman Mark A.
Published: May 2020

Many soil regulating ecosystem services (ES) are linked to Earth’s atmosphere, but associated monetary values often are unknown or difficult to quantify. Atmospheric deposition of calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+) are abiotic flows (wet, dry, and total) from the atmosphere to land surfaces, which potentially can become available to sequester carbon (C) as soil inorganic carbon (SIC). However, these processes typically have not been included in economic valuations of ecosystem services. The primary objective of this study was to demonstrate an approach for valuing non-constrained potential SIC sequestration from atmospheric Ca2+ and Mg2+ deposition based on the concept of the avoided social cost of carbon dioxide emissions (SC-CO2). Maximum monetary values associated with the non-constrained potential SIC sequestration were compiled for the contiguous United States (U.S.) by soil order, land resource region (LRR), state, and region using available deposition data from the National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NRSP-3). For the entire contiguous U.S., an average annual monetary value for the non-constrained potential SIC sequestration due to atmospheric Ca2+ and Mg2+ deposition was $135M (i.e., $135 million U.S. dollars, where M = million = 106). Mollisols, Alfisols, and Entisols were soil orders with the highest average annual monetary values for non-constrained potential SIC sequestration. When normalized by land area, however, Vertisols had the highest average annual monetary values followed by Alfisols and Mollisols for non-constrained potential SIC sequestration. From a more agricultural perspective, the LRRs with the highest average annual monetary values for non-constrained potential SIC sequestration were the Western Range and Irrigated Region (D), the Central Feed Grains and Livestock Region (M), and the Central Great Plains Winter Wheat and Range Region (H). When normalized by area, the LRRS with the highest average annual monetary values were the Southwest Plateaus and Plains Range and Cotton Region (I) and the Florida Subtropical Fruit, Truck Crop and Range Region (U). Among the U.S. states, the highest average annual monetary values for non-constrained potential SIC sequestration were Texas, Kansas, and New Mexico, but when normalized by area the highest values by state were Kansas, Iowa, and Texas. Geographical regions in the contiguous U.S. with the highest average annual monetary values for non-constrained potential SIC sequestration were the South Central, Midwest, and West; when normalized by area, the highest values by region were South Central, Midwest, and Northern Plains. Constraints on maximum monetary values, based on physical, chemical, biological, economic, social, and political limitations, need to be considered and quantified to obtain more precise and accurate accounting of the ES associated with SIC sequestration due to atmospheric Ca2+ and Mg2+ deposition.
Effectiveness of the “Mente Sana [Healthy Mind]” Cognitive Training Program for Older Illiterate Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Palo Villegas Yaneth del Rosario , Pomareda Vera Andrea Elena , Rojas Zegarra María Elena , Calero M. Dolores
Published: May 2020

Aging can lead to functional and cognitive alterations, sometimes limiting older adults in their social development, especially illiterate groups of older adults who receive poor attention from healthcare systems. In this context, the present investigation proposes the cognitive training program “MENTE SANA [HEALTHY MIND]” to improve the cognitive functions of illiterate older adults in Arequipa (Peru). It is a type of quasi-experimental research with a pre-test/post-test design with a homogenous control group. The sample was made up of adults 60 years old and above and of female gender. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test was used to detect the level of cognitive decline in illiterate older adults. The 50-sessions program was applied to all the older adults with mild cognitive impairment that were selected for the study, on a daily basis. It was found that the tested group improved their cognitive functions compared to the control group. These results help to propose adapted cognitive training programs for illiterate people.
Hospital Nurses’ Perception of Death and Self-Reported Performance of End-of-Life Care: Mediating Role of Attitude towards End-of-Life Care
Authors: Park Hyo-Jin , Lee Yun-Mi , Won Mi Hwa , Lim Sung-Jun , Son Youn-Jung
Published: May 2020

Few studies have explored how nurses in acute care hospitals perceive and perform end-of-life care in Korea. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of nurses’ perceptions of death on end-of-life care performance and analyze the mediating role of attitude towards end-of-life care among hospital nurses. This cross-sectional study included a total of 250 nurses who have had experience with end-of-life care from four general hospitals in Korea. We used the Korean validated tools with the View of Life and Death Scale, the Frommelt Attitudes Toward Care of the Dying (FATCOD) scale, and the performance of end-of-life care. Hierarchical linear regression and mediation analysis, applying the bootstrapping method. The results of hierarchical linear regression showed that nurses’ positive perceptions of death and attitude towards end-of-life care were significantly associated with their performance of end-of-life care. A mediation analysis further revealed that nurses’ attitude towards end-of-life care mediates the relationship between the perceptions of death and performance of end-of-life care. Our findings suggest that supportive and practical death educational programs should be designed, based on nurses’ professional experience and work environment, which will enable them to provide better end-of-life care.
Global Scope of Hospital Pharmacy Practice: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ahmed Abousheishaa Aya , Hatim Sulaiman Ahmad , Zaman Huri Hasniza , Zaini Syahrir , Adha Othman Nurul , bin Aladdin Zulhilmi , Chong Guan Ng
Published: May 2020

The pharmacy profession has undergone tremendous changes over the past few decades. Pharmacists’ roles have expanded their boundaries to encompass more patient-centered services. However, the degree to which these roles are practised may vary. This scoping review is aimed at describing the extent and range of the professional pharmacy services offered in hospital pharmacies across different countries and the barriers underlying inappropriate or incomplete implementation of these services. Studies published in the English language between 2015 and 2019 were retrieved from the following databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, EBSCO Discovery Service, and Web of Science. A thematic analysis across the included studies produced two main themes. “Scope of practice” comprised three subthemes: pharmaceutical care practice, clinical pharmacy practice, and public health services and “Multiple levels of influence” comprised five subthemes: individual, interpersonal, institutional, community, and public policy-related factors. The hospital pharmacy services across countries ranged from traditional drug-centered pharmacy practice to a more progressive, clinically oriented practice. In some countries, there is an apparent inadequacy in the clinical pharmacy services provided compared to other clinical settings. Understanding the current pharmacy practice culture across different health care systems is an essential step towards improving the profession.
Disrespect and Abuse Experienced by Women during Childbirth in Midwife-Led Obstetric Units in Tshwane District, South Africa: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Malatji Refilwe , Madiba Sphiwe
Published: May 2020

The disrespect and abuse (D&A) of women during childbirth is common and a great concern in midwifery-led obstetric units (MOUs) in South Africa. This paper used the seven chapters of the Respectful Maternity Care Charter as a framework to explore women’s experiences of care during childbirth and examine the occurrence of D&A during childbirth in MOUs. Five focus group interviews were conducted with postnatal women aged 18 to 45 years selected purposively from MOUs in Tshwane District in South Africa. The discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a thematic approach and NVivo11 computer software. D&A of women was common during labor and childbirth. Verbal abuse in the form of shouting, labeling, judging, and rude remarks was the common form of D&A. Some of the women were abandoned and neglected, which resulted in their giving birth without assistance. Furthermore, the midwives violated their rights and denied them care such as pain relief medication, birth companions during childbirth, and access to ambulance services. Midwives are at the center of the provision of maternity care in MOUs in South Africa. Therefore, there is a need to strengthen interventions to adopt and implement policies that promotes respectful, nonabusive care during childbirth in MOUs.
Effects of a Rehabilitation Programme with a Nasal Inspiratory Restriction Device on Exercise Capacity and Quality of Life in COPD
Authors: Arnedillo Aurelio , Gonzalez-Montesinos Jose L. , Fernandez-Santos Jorge R. , Vaz-Pardal Carmen , España-Domínguez Carolina , Ponce-González Jesús G. , Cuenca-García Magdalena
Published: May 2020

Objective: The objective was to assess the effects of a nasal restriction device for inspiratory muscle training, called Feelbreathe®, added to a rehabilitation program (RP) on exercise capacity, quality of life, dyspnea and inspiratory muscle strength in patients with stable COPD. Methods: Patients were randomized into three groups, one performed a supervised RP using the Feelbreathe® device (FB group), the second group developed the same RP with oronasal breathing without FB (ONB group) and the third was the control group (CG). We evaluated inspiratory muscle strength (PImax), dyspnea (mMRC), quality of life (CAT) and exercise capacity (6MWT) before and after 8-week of RP. Results: A total of 16 patients completed the study, seven in FB group, five in ONB group and four in the CG. After the RP, the FB group showed a significant increase in PImax (93.3 ± 19.1 vs. 123.0 ± 15.8 mmHg) and in the 6MWT distance (462.9 ± 71.8 m vs. 529.1 ± 50.1 m) and a decrease in the CAT score (9.7 ± 6.5 vs. 5.9 ± 6.0) and in the mMRC dyspnea score. FB provides greater improvement in PImax, dyspnea, quality of life and 6MWT than ONB. Conclusions: The Feelbreathe® device provides greater improvements in quality of life, dyspnea, exercise capacity and inspiratory muscle strength compared to patients that did not use it.
A Simple Monte Carlo Framework to Assess Suicide Risk in Adolescents: A Study at a High School in Colombia
Authors: Nino-Ruiz Elias David , Trejos-Herrera Ana Maria , Exposito-Concepcion Maria Yaquelin , Rodriguez-Giraldo Marjorie , Consuegra-Ortega Randy Steven , Guevara-Novoa Claudia
Published: May 2020

It is very common to perform statistical tests to obtain insights about populations based on samples. For instance, in the context of psychology, when a set of instruments are applied to individuals, psychologists typically look for an explanation of particular psychological constructs (variables), such as personality, intelligence, or emotional functioning. It is common to cross statistical information from the results of different psychological tests to measure certain variables or to confirm prior beliefs. Here, we estimate the Joint Probability Density Function of suicide-related vulnerability and protective factors to assess suicide risk in adolescents. A Markov Chain Monte Carlo Method is employed to move away from the typical Gaussian assumption on data. This allows us to estimate probabilities of the development of suicidal ideation based on samples (which form a Markov chain). We employ our proposed statistical method at a high school in Colombia. The results reveal that adolescents can develop suicidal ideation as a consequence of the following factors, together with their corresponding probabilities: poor school performance 52%, low academic expectations 27%, school integration problems 68%, risky eating behaviors (binge-purge) 42%, risky eating behaviors (compensatory measurements) 21%, risky eating habits (restriction) 22%, and low family functionality 16%.
Optimizing the Interaction of Exercise Volume and Metformin to Induce a Clinically Significant Reduction in Metabolic Syndrome Severity: A Randomised Trial
Authors: Ramos Joyce S. , Dalleck Lance C. , Keith Caitlin E. , Fennell Mackenzie , Lee Zoe , Drummond Claire , Keating Shelley E. , Fassett Robert G. , Coombes Jeff S.
Published: May 2020

Insulin resistance is a central mediating factor of the metabolic syndrome (MetS), with exercise training and metformin proven antidotes to insulin resistance. However, when the two therapies are combined there is conflicting data regarding whether metformin blunts or improves exercise training-induced adaptations. The volume of exercise (duration, intensity, and frequency) on the interaction of exercise training and metformin has yet to be investigated. The aim of this study is therefore to explore the impact of a combination of different exercise volumes and metformin on MetS severity. This is a secondary analysis of data from one of the sites of the ‘Exercise in Prevention of Metabolic Syndrome’ (EX-MET) study. Ninety-nine adults with MetS were randomized into a 16-week exercise program completing either: (i) moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) at 60–70% of peak heart rate (HRpeak) for 30 min/session (n = 34, 150 min/week); (ii) high-volume high-intensity interval training (HIIT) consisting of 4 × 4 min bouts at 85–95% HRpeak, interspersed with 3 min of active recovery at 50–70% HRpeak (n = 34, 38 min/session, 114 min/week); or (iii) low volume HIIT, 1 × 4 min bout of HIIT at 85–95% HRpeak (n = 31, 17 min/session, 51 min/week). Metformin intake was monitored and recorded throughout the trial. MetS severity was calculated as z-scores derived from MetS risk factors assessed at pre- and post-intervention. Sixty-five participants had complete pre- and post-intervention data for MetS z-score, of which 18 participants (28%) were taking metformin. Over the 16-week intervention, a similar proportion of participants clinically improved MetS severity (Δ ≥ −0.87) with metformin (8/18, 44%) or without metformin (23/47, 49%) (p = 0.75). While there were no between-group differences (p = 0.24), in those who did not take metformin low-volume HIIT had more likely responders (10/15, 67%) compared to MICT (6/16, 38%) and high-volume HIIT (7/16, 44%). In those taking metformin, there was a lower proportion of participants who clinically improved MetS severity following high-volume HIIT (1/6, 17%) compared to MICT (2/4, 50%) and low-volume HIIT (5/8, 63%), but with no between-group difference (p = 0.23). Moreover, in those who performed high-volume HIIT, there was a statistically significantly higher proportion (p = 0.03) of likely non-responders with improved MetS severity in participants taking metformin (4/6, 67%) compared to those not taking metformin (3/16, 19%). In individuals with MetS, the effect of high volume HIIT on MetS severity may be blunted in those taking metformin. These findings need to be confirmed in a larger study.
Impact of Gender Inequalities in the Causes of Mortality on the Competitiveness of OECD Countries
Authors: Gavurova Beata , Ivankova Viera , Rigelsky Martin , Suhanyi Ladislav
Published: May 2020

The aim of the present study is to quantify the relations between gender inequalities in mortality by selected causes of mortality and between competitiveness of Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries. Data for the analyses were obtained from OECD databases and the World Economic Forum (Global Competitiveness Index), for the years 2011–2016, for all 36 countries. The methods of descriptive analysis, analysis of differences in causes of mortality by gender characteristics, regression analysis, relationship analysis of gender inequalities in causes of mortality and competitiveness, and cluster analysis were used for the statistical data processing. Based on the research findings, it can be concluded that gender inequality occurs in most of the examined mortality groups of diagnoses, while it was most significant in the case of mortality due to neoplasms. The impacts of mortality on competitiveness are significant. In assessing gender inequalities in causes of mortality, significant impacts were seen in most mortality causes, but the most significant impact was identified within mortality due to neoplasms. Emphasis should be placed on men when reducing inequalities. Health and health equity should be supported by national governments, and health equity should be one of the key performance indicators of the country.
Validity, Reliability, and Usefulness of My Jump 2 App for Measuring Vertical Jump in Primary School Children
Authors: Bogataj Špela , Pajek Maja , Hadžić Vedran , Andrašić Slobodan , Padulo Johnny , Trajković Nebojša
Published: May 2020

There is a persistent need in sport science for developing a measuring tool that is affordable, portable, and easy to use. We aimed to examine the concurrent validity and test–retest reliability of the My Jump 2 app compared to a validated OptoJump instrument for measuring jump performance during the squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), and CMJ free arms (CMJAM) in primary school children. A total of 48 participants (11–14 years age), volunteered to participate in this research. The jumps were recorded with a validated OptoJump photoelectric cell system and a concurrent device (iPhone X through My Jump 2 app) at the same time. The participants repeated the testing procedure after two weeks to assess the reliability of the measurements (ICC). Systematic bias between sessions and tools was evaluated using the paired samples t-test and Bland and Altman analysis. High test–retest reliability (ICC > 0.89) was observed for all measures’ in-between conditions. Very large correlations in the total sample were observed between the My Jump 2 app and OptoJump for SJ (r = 0.97, p = 0.001), CMJ (r = 0.97, p = 0.001), and CMJAM (r = 0.99, p = 0.001). Bland and Altman’s plot depicting limits of agreement for the total sample between the OptoJump and My Jump 2 show that the majority of data points are within the 95% CIs. The results of this study suggest that My Jump 2 is a valid, reliable, and useful tool for measuring jump performance in primary school children.
The Effects of Multifaceted Ergonomic Interventions on Musculoskeletal Complaints in Intensive Care Units
Authors: Coskun Beyan Ayse , Dilek Banu , Demiral Yucel
Published: May 2020

Working at intensive care units (ICUs) is considered a risk factor for developing musculoskeletal complaints (MSC). This study was conducted between January 2017 and June 2019 in two ICUs of a university hospital. It was designed as a pre- and post-assessment of the intervention group (IG) (N = 27) compared with a control group (CG) (N = 23) to determine the effects of a multifaceted ergonomics intervention program in reducing MSC. The IG (N: 35) received a multifaceted ergonomic intervention program, which was implemented by an ERGO team over an 18 month period. Four ergonomic interventions were planned as follows: individual level interventions such as training; stretching exercises and motivation meetings; administrative intervention such as a daily 10 min stretching exercises break; engineering interventions such as lifting and usage of auxiliary devices. The CG (N:29) did not receive any intervention. Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire (CMDQ) was used to assess MSC in both groups. At the start of the intervention, both groups were similar concerning the number of visits to doctors due to MSC, the number of sick leave days, and total CMDQ scores (p > 0.05 for all). Two factor repeated ANOVA measures were performed for between-groups and within-group analyses. The mean of the initial CMSDQ total scores in both groups increased significantly in the 18th month (p < 0.001). However, the interaction effect of group and time (between and within factors) was not significant (p = 0.992). Work-related MSC is a common occupational health problem among nurses. This study showed that individual-level interventions are not likely to succeed in eliminating manual patient lifting by nurses. Our results suggested that interventions without administrative measures might have limited success
The Effect of Physical Activity and High Body Mass Index on Health-Related Quality of Life in Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Marcos-Delgado Alba , Fernández-Villa Tania , Martínez-González Miguel Ángel , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Corella Dolores , Castañer Olga , Martínez J. Alfredo , Alonso-Gómez Ángel M. , Wärnberg Julia , Vioque Jesús , Romaguera Dora , López-Miranda José , Estruch Ramon , Tinahones Francisco J , Lapetra José , Serra-Majem J. LLuís , García-Molina Laura , Tur Josep A. , de Paz José Antonio , Pintó Xavier , Delgado-Rodríguez Miguel , Matía-Martín Pilar , Vidal Josep , Vázquez Clotilde , Daimiel Lidia , Ros Emilio , Babio Nancy , Gimenez-Alba Ignacio M , Toledo Estefanía , Zomeño María Dolores , Zulet M. A. , Vaquero-Luna Jessica , Pérez-López Jessica , Pastor-Morel Ana , Galmes-Panades Aina M , García-Rios Antonio , Casas Rosa , Bernal-López María Rosa , Santos-Lozano José Manuel , Becerra-Tomás Nerea , Ortega-Azorin Carolina , Vázquez-Ruiz Zenaida , Pérez-Vega Karla Alejandra , Abete Itziar , Sorto-Sánchez Carolina , Palau-Galindo Antoni , Galilea-Zabalza Iñigo , Muñoz-Martínez Júlia , Martín Vicente
Published: May 2020

The main objective of this study was to examine the relationship between the level of physical activity (PA) and the degree of obesity with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS) who participated in the Predimed-Plus study. A total of 6875 subjects between 55 and 75 years of age with MetS were selected and randomized in 23 Spanish centers. Subjects were classified according to categories of body mass index (BMI). PA was measured with the validated Registre Gironí del Cor (REGICOR) questionnaire and subjects were classified according to their PA level (light, moderate, vigorous) and the HRQoL was measured with the validated short-form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire. By using the ANOVA model, we found a positive and statistically significant association between the level of PA and the HRQoL (aggregated physical and mental dimensions p < 0.001), but a negative association with higher BMI in aggregated physical dimensions p < 0.001. Furthermore, women obtained lower scores compared with men, more five points in all fields of SF-36. Therefore, it is essential to promote PA and body weight control from primary care consultations to improve HRQoL, paying special attention to the differences that sex incurs.
Gender Differences in Factors Influencing Self-Efficacy Toward Pregnancy Planning among College Students in Korea
Authors: Kang Saem Yi , Kim Hae Won
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study was to examine factors influencing college students’ self-efficacy toward pregnancy planning by gender using the health belief model (HBM). Utilizing a comparative descriptive design, a total of 819 college students were recruited. A survey was administered to gather information on health beliefs related to pregnancy planning, self-efficacy toward pregnancy planning, fertility knowledge, and general characteristics. The main variables were compared by gender. The factors influencing self-efficacy toward pregnancy planning were identified using hierarchical regression analysis. Female students (476) had lower self-efficacy toward pregnancy planning than male students (343). The significant factors influencing self-efficacy toward pregnancy planning in female students were: depression (β = −0.09, p = 0.030), fertility knowledge (β = 0.08, p = 0.025), barriers (β = −0.57, p < 0.001), and cues to action (β = 0.16, p < 0.001), whereas the corresponding factors in male students were benefits (β = 0.12, p = 0.020), barriers (β = −0.44, p < 0.001), and cues to action (β = 0.16, p = 0.001). The present study confirmed the suitability of the HBM as a conceptual framework for identifying factors influencing self-efficacy toward pregnancy planning. Based on the findings of this study, gender-based similarities and differences in factors influencing self-efficacy should be considered when taking steps to promote self-efficacy toward pregnancy planning among college students.