bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
MinT-trial: Mindfulness versus cognitive behavioural therapy in Tinnitus patients: protocol for a randomised controlled, non-inferiority trial
Authors: Rademaker Maaike Maartje , Stegeman Inge , Lieftink Arno , Somers Metten , Stokroos Robert , Smit Adriana L 
Published: February 2020

IntroductionChronic subjective tinnitus is a condition that affects 5.1% to 42.7% of the population, depending on the definition and studied population. Evidence-based treatment options are limited. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) has been proven effective to improve quality of life and to diminish tinnitus distress. Positive short-term effects of mindfulness-based interventions on tinnitus distress have been reported; however, the longer term effects remain to be studied.Methods and analysisWe designed a monocentre randomised controlled, non-inferiority trial to compare the effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) and CBT in chronic tinnitus patients. Fifty-four patients (≥32 on the Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI), suffering from tinnitus for at least 6 months) will be included in the trial and randomised into one of two intervention groups. One group will receive MBCT, the other group will receive CBT. Our primary objective is to determine whether MBCT is non-inferior to (as good as) CBT on tinnitus distress (TFI) in chronic tinnitus patients at 12 months follow-up after end of therapy. Non-inferiority will be declared if the mean decrease in TFI score for MBCT is no worse than the mean decrease in TFI score in CBT, with statistical variability, with a margin of 13 points. Most secondary objectives (tinnitus severity of problem, tinnitus intrusiveness, quality of life, anxiety, depression, symptoms of psychopathology, perceived tinnitus complaints, coping style (mostly validated questionnaires)) are expected to show non-inferiority to MBCT compared with CBT. We expect a significant difference between MBCT and CBT for mindfulness awareness.Ethics and disseminationThis research protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the UMC Utrecht (NL67838.041.18, V.4, April 2019). The trial results will be made accessible to the public in a peer-review journal.Trial registration numberNL7745.
Factors that influence the risk of falling after spinal cord injury: a qualitative photo-elicitation study with individuals that use a wheelchair as their primary means of mobility
Authors: Singh Hardeep , Scovil Carol Y , Yoshida Karen , Oosman Sarah , Kaiser Anita , Craven Catharine , Jaglal Susan , Musselman Kristin E 
Published: February 2020

IntroductionFalls are a concern for wheelchair users with spinal cord injury (SCI). Falls can negatively impact the physical and psychological well-being of fallers. To date, the perspectives of wheelchair users with lived experiences of SCI on the contributors to falls has been understudied. Information about factors that influence fall risk would guide the development of effective fall prevention strategies.ObjectivesTo gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influenced the risk of falling as perceived by wheelchair users with SCI.DesignA qualitative study using photo-elicitation interviews.SettingA Canadian SCI rehabilitation hospital and the participants’ home/community environments.ParticipantsTwelve wheelchair users living in the community with chronic SCI.MethodsParticipants captured photographs of situations, places or things that they perceived increased and decreased their risk of falling. Semistructured photo-elicitation interviews were conducted to discuss the content of the photographs and explore perceptions of fall risk factors. A hybrid thematic analysis and the Biological, Behavioural, Social, Economic, and Environmental model were used as a framework to organise/synthesise the data.ResultsOverall, the findings indicated that the risk of falling was individualised, complex and dynamic to each person’s life situation. Four main themes were revealed in our analysis: (1) Falls and fall risk caused by multiple interacting factors; (2) Dynamic nature of fall risk; (3) Single factors were targeted to reduce falls and fall-related injuries; and (4) Fall prevention experiences and priorities.ConclusionsEach wheelchair user encountered numerous fall risk factors in their everyday lives. Information from this study can be used to set priorities for fall prevention. Fall prevention initiatives should consider a wheelchair user’s fall risks in a holistic manner, acknowledging that a person’s current situation, as well as anticipating their fall risks and fall prevention needs, will change over time.
Analysis of conference abstracts of prosthodontic randomised-controlled trials presented at IADR general sessions (2002–2015): a cross-sectional study of the relationship between demographic characteristics, reporting quality and final publication
Authors: Chen Junsheng , Cao Yubin , Wang Meijie , Gan Xueqi , Li Chunjie , Yu Haiyang 
Published: February 2020

ObjectivesTo analyse the relationship between demographic characteristics, reporting quality and final publication rate of conference abstracts of prosthodontic randomised-controlled trials (RCTs) presented at International Association for Dental Research (IADR) general sessions (2002–2015).DesignA cross-sectional study on conference abstracts.MethodsConference abstracts of prosthodontic RCTs presented at IADR general sessions (2002–2015) were obtained. Literature search was performed in multiple databases to confirm the final publication status of conference abstracts. Two investigators independently extracted the data including conference date, origin, presentation type, exact p value, number of centres, institution type, overall conclusion, subspecialty, publication time and journal. The reporting quality of abstracts was assessed by two investigators according to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials statement. The relationship between demographic characteristics, reporting quality and final publication was analysed by χ2test.Setting, participants and interventionsNot applicable.Primary and secondary outcome measuresFinal publication rate, demographic characteristics and reporting quality of conference abstracts of prosthodontic RCTs presented at IADR general sessions (2002–2015).ResultsOf the 340 prosthodontic RCT abstracts, 43.24% were published. The mean time to final publication was 22.86 months. Europe contributed the most number of abstracts but Asia and Australia had the highest publication rate. Oral presentation, multicentre trial and complete denture and overdenture subspecialty were associated with a higher publication rate. Reporting quality of eligibility criteria of participants, random assignment and primary outcome results for each group correlated with a higher final publication rate.ConclusionsOver half of conference abstracts of prosthodontic RCTs presented at IADR general sessions (2002–2015) were unpublished. Oral presentation and multiple centres were associated with higher publication rates. Abstracts’ reporting quality addressing participant recruitment, assignment and primary results correlated with trials’ validity and applicability. Conference attendees may refer to this research to identify valid and applicable prosthodontic trials but should treat and apply results cautiously.
Impact of preconception vaginal microbiota on women’s risk of spontaneous preterm birth: protocol for a prospective case-cohort study
Authors: Lokken Erica M , Mandaliya Kishorchandra , Srinivasan Sujatha , Richardson Barbra A , Kinuthia John , Lannon Sophia , Jaoko Walter , Alumera Hudson , Kemoli Arthur , Fay Emily , John-Stewart G , Fredricks David N , McClelland R Scott 
Published: February 2020

IntroductionBacterial vaginosis (BV) and vaginal microbiota disruption during pregnancy are associated with increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth (SPTB), but clinical trials of BV treatment during pregnancy have shown little or no benefit. An alternative hypothesis is that vaginal bacteria present around conception may lead to SPTB by compromising the protective effects of cervical mucus, colonising the endometrial surface before fetal membrane development, and causing low-level inflammation in the decidua, placenta and fetal membranes. This protocol describes a prospective case-cohort study addressing this hypothesis.Methods and analysisHIV-seronegative Kenyan women with fertility intent are followed from preconception through pregnancy, delivery and early postpartum. Participants provide monthly vaginal specimens during the preconception period for vaginal microbiota assessment. Estimated date of delivery is determined by last menstrual period and first trimester obstetrical ultrasound. After delivery, a swab is collected from between the fetal membranes. Placenta and umbilical cord samples are collected for histopathology. Broad-range 16S rRNA gene PCR and deep sequencing of preconception vaginal specimens will assess species richness and diversity in women with SPTB versus term delivery. Concentrations of key bacterial species will be compared using quantitative PCR (qPCR). Taxon-directed qPCR will also be used to quantify bacteria from fetal membrane samples and evaluate the association between bacterial concentrations and histopathological evidence of inflammation in the fetal membranes, placenta and umbilical cord.Ethics and disseminationThis study was approved by ethics committees at Kenyatta National Hospital and the University of Washington. Results will be disseminated to clinicians at study sites and partner institutions, presented at conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals. The findings of this study could shift the paradigm for thinking about the mechanisms linking vaginal microbiota and prematurity by focusing attention on the preconception vaginal microbiota as a mediator of SPTB.
Sobre gratuidad, inclusión y acceso a la Educación Superior
Authors: Giolito Eugenio 
Published: February 2020

En su tercer año de vigencia, la gratuidad en la Educación Superior sigue siendo un tema permanente de debate en cuanto a su alcance y sus efectos en términos de acceso e inclusión de los sectores más vulnerables. Recordemos que para el presente año 2018, el porcentaje de alumnos con gratuidad se ha extendido a los estudiantes provenientes de familias del 60% de menores ingresos. Asimismo, se han sumado cinco nuevas instituciones (tres centros de formación técnica (CFT), un instituto profesional (IP) y una universidad, que dan un total de: 33 universidades, 6 IP y 7 CFT suscritos a la gratuidad. Continuar leyendo...
¿Qué hago yo en este buque?
Authors: Saavedra Eduardo 
Published: February 2020

El anuncio del Gobierno de vender sus acciones de empresas sanitarias abre un debate ideológico: las variadas explicaciones entregadas a la opinión pública sólo ponen en tela de juicio su rol como inversionista en empresas cuyo control está desde hace tiempo en empresarios privados. Estamos frente a un debate antiguo respecto a si cabe algún rol del Estado como empresario –o en este caso como inversionista– en mercados en donde el sector privado puede perfectamente operar. Continuar leyendo...
Parasite commonality at Swamp Deer (Mammalia: Artiodactyla: Cervidae: Rucervus duvaucelii duvaucelii) and livestock interface
Authors: Talukdar Animesh , Pandav Bivash , Nigam Parag 
Published: February 2020

Interactions between wildlife and livestock have increased over time with increased anthropogenic pressure on limited available natural habitats. These interactions have resulted in sharing of pathogens between the species resulting in impacting the wild animals’ fitness and reproduction and further influencing their abundance and diversity. The spatial overlap between Swamp Deer and livestock was studied at Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve (JJCR), Uttarakhand and Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary (KWLS), Uttar Pradesh in India, having different levels of interaction with livestock. The prevalence, load and commonality of gastro-intestinal parasites in the species was studied through coprological examination. Parasitic ova of Strongyle sp., Trichostrongylus sp., Fasciola sp., and Moniezia sp. Amphistomes were encountered in swamp deer and livestock from both the sites. The parasitic species richness and prevalence however, varied between JJCR and KWLS. The study recorded significant differences between the parasitic load in Swamp Deer with the eggs per gram of 487.5±46.30 at JJCR and 363.64±49.97 at KWLS at varying levels of livestock interactions.
Molecular detection of Murshidia linstowi in a free-ranging dead elephant calf
Authors: Hota Sourabh Ranjan , Sahoo Sonali , Dash Manojita , Pahari Avishek , Mohanty Bijayendranath , Sahoo Niranjana 
Published: February 2020

Gastrointestinal helminths are ubiquitous in both domestic and wild animals. Infections are often sub-clinical except in circumstances of destabilization of host-parasite equilibrium by innate or environmental factors. The present case deals with microscopic and molecular diagnosis of Murshidia linstowi recovered from an elephant. A post-mortem examination of a free-ranging juvenile male elephant calf that had died of electrocution in Athagarh Wildlife Division revealed the presence of slender, whitish nematodes in the stomach. No gross lesions were noticed either in the site of predilection or any other internal organs. The average length of the parasites was 3.8cm. These parasites were collected for further gross as well as microscopic examination following routine parasitological techniques. Temporary mounts prepared after cleaning the nematodes in lactophenol were observed under a microscope. Morphological features such as a well-developed mouth collar, large and globular buccal capsule with fine tubercles, cone shaped oesophageal funnel, short bursa having indistinctly divided lobes and closely apposed ventral rays and stout spicules with club shaped tips bent dorsally corroborated with that of M.linstowi (male). Amplification of the rDNA from the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region using universal nematode primers NC2 and NC5 revealed a product size of 870bp. The PCR product was subjected to sequencing followed by NCBI-BLAST which revealed 98% homology with M. linstowi. A phylogenetic study showed a maximum similarity with M.linstowi recovered from elephants in Kenya. This particular nematode species belonging to the family Strongylidae and sub-family Cyathostominae appears to be the first documented report in India.
Gynochthodes cochinchinensis (DC.) Razafim. & B. Bremer (Morindeae: Rubioideae: Rubiaceae): an addition to the woody climbers of India
Authors: Kamila Pradeep Kumar , Das Prabhat Kumar , Mallia Madhusmita , Kalidass Chinnamadasamy , Pati Jagayandatta , Panda Pratap Chandra 
Published: February 2020

Gynochthodes cochinchinensis (Rubiaceae), a woody climber, is reported here as a new addition to Indian flora from Similipal Biosphere Reserve, Odisha. The species resembles its closely allied taxon Gynochthodes umbellata, but can be distinguished from it by a number of distinct morphological characters. A detailed description, notes on habitat, ecology and distribution are provided in this paper with color photographs for easy identification.
The State of Wildlife and Protected Areas in Maharashtra: News and Information from the Protected Area Update 1996-2015
Authors: Singh L.A.K. 
Published: February 2020

The State of Wildlife and Protected Areas in Maharashtra: News and Information from the Protected Area Update 1996-2015
ISBN: 978-81-923269-3-1 (First print 2019).
Edited by Pankaj Sekhsaria
Published by the Duleep Matthai Nature Conservation Trust, Kalpavriksh, and Rainfed Books.
Pages: xii+235pp, 100 line-drawings; Price Rs. 400/-
Clouds around the World: How a Simple Citizen Science Data Challenge Became a Worldwide Success
Authors: Colón Robles Marilé , Amos Helen M. , Dodson J. Brant , Bouwman Jeffrey , Rogerson Tina , Bombosch Annette , Farmer Lauren , Burdick Autumn , Taylor Jessica , Chambers Lin H. 
Published: February 2020

AbstractCitizen science is often recognized for its potential to directly engage the public in science, and is uniquely positioned to support and extend participants’ learning in science. In March 2018, the Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE) Program, NASA’s largest and longest-lasting citizen science program about Earth, organized a month-long event that asked people around the world to contribute daily cloud observations and photographs of the sky (15 March–15 April 2018). What was considered a simple engagement activity turned into an unprecedented worldwide event that garnered major public interest and media recognition, collecting over 55,000 observations from 99 different countries, in more than 15,000 locations, on every continent including Antarctica. The event was called the “Spring Cloud Challenge” and was created to 1) engage the general public in the scientific process and promote the use of the GLOBE Observer app, 2) collect ground-based visual observations of varying cloud types during boreal spring, and 3) increase the number and locations of ground-based visual cloud observations collocated with cloud-observing satellites. The event resulted in roughly 3 times more observations than during the historic and highly publicized 2017 North American total solar eclipse. The dataset also includes observations over the Drake Passage in Antarctica and reports from intense Saharan dust events. This article describes how the challenge was crafted, outreach to volunteer scientists around the world, details of the data collected, and impact of the data.
Trusting Other Vehicles’ Automatic Emergency Braking Decreases Self-Protective Driving
Authors: Kinosada Yasunori , Kobayashi Takashi , Shinohara Kazumitsu 
Published: February 2020

Objective We focused on drivers in close proximity to vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). We examined whether the belief that an approaching vehicle is equipped with automatic emergency braking (AEB) influences behavior of those drivers. Background In addition to benefits of ADAS, previous studies have demonstrated negative behavioral adaptation, that is, behavioral changes after introduction of ADAS, by its users. However, little is known about whether negative behavioral adaptation can occur for nonusers in close proximity to vehicles with ADAS. Method Experienced (Experiment 1) and novice (Experiment 2) drivers drove a simulator vehicle without ADAS and tried to pass through intersections. We manipulated participants’ belief about whether an approaching vehicle had AEB and time-to-arrival of the approaching vehicle. Participants kept constant speed or pressed the brake pedal before entering each intersection. In Experiment 2, participants rated their trust in AEB by a questionnaire after driving. Results In both experiments, belief about the approaching vehicle’s AEB did not influence braking probability; however, belief delayed initiation of braking. The effect of belief on braking latency was only observed when trust in AEB was higher in Experiment 2. Conclusion Negative behavioral adaptation can occur for nonusers in close proximity to users of AEB, and trust in AEB plays an important role. Application When evaluating the effect of ADAS, the possible behavioral change of surrounding nonusers as well as users should be taken into account. To establish consumers’ trust accurately, advertisements (e.g., TV commercials) must carefully consider their messages.
The patients have a story to tell: Informed consent for people who use illicit opiates
Authors: McCall Jane , Phillips J Craig , Estafan Andrew , Caine Vera 
Published: February 2020

Background: There is a significant discourse in the literature that opines that people who use illicit opiates are unable to provide informed consent due to withdrawal symptoms and cognitive impairment as a result of opiate use. Aims: This paper discusses the issues related to informed consent for this population. Ethical considerations: Ethical approval was obtained from both the local REB and the university. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Method: This was a qualitative interpretive descriptive study. 22 participants were interviewed, including 18 nurses, 2 social workers and 2 clinic support workers. The findings were analyzed using thematic analysis, which is a way of systematically reducing the complexity of the information to arrive at generalized explanations. Results: The staff at the clinic were overwhelming clear in their judgment that people who use opiates can and should be able to participate in research and that their drug use is not a barrier to informed consent. Conclusions: It is important to involve people who use opiates in research. Protectionist concerns about this population may be overstated. Such concerns do not promote the interests of research participants. People who use heroin need to be able to tell their story.
Occurrence and removal of illicit drugs in different wastewater treatment plants with different treatment techniques
Authors: Deng Yanghui , Guo Changsheng , Zhang Heng , Yin Xingxing , Chen Like , Wu Daishe , Xu Jian 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Background
As a class of contaminants of emerging concern (CECs), illicit drugs should be taken into account in the water management because of their social and public health risks. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are usually considered as the source and sink of contaminants, and drug residues are observed in their effluents due to the inefficient removal of CECs. In this study, wastewater samples were collected from eight WWTPs in Changzhou City for assessment of the abuse of 12 illicit drugs in the city by wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) method.

Results
Drug concentrations ranged from < LOD-51.62 ng/L to < LOD-22.44 ng/L in influent and effluent samples, respectively. The highest removal rate of drugs was 79.0% in the WWTP which used sequencing batch reactor activated sludge (SBR) process method, while the lowest was found in the WWTP using anoxic oxic (A/O) process (47.0%), indicating that the drug removal rates were closely related to the treatment techniques. WBE method was applied to estimate the population normalized illicit drugs consumption. It demonstrated that methamphetamine (METH) was the most abused drug in Changzhou City, ranging from 0.16 to 20.65 mg/d/1000 inh, while other target drugs ranged from < LOD-1.52 mg/d/1000 inh. Consumption of cocaine (COC) and ecstasy was very low among the samples.

Conclusion
Overall, this research suggests that drug removal rates varied in different WWTPs and the SBR process is the best for removing illicit drugs. All target drugs were incompletely removed in wastewater treatment plants. WBE can be readily used to monitor the abuse of drugs in those regions, compared with traditional monitoring models.