Minimal Contact Time Research Articles

External Focus Affects Drop Jump Performance: Focusing on Different Aims and Words of Instruction.

Attentional focus strategies eliciting external focus of attention effectively enhance drop jump (DJ) performance, however, their effects vary depending on the words used for the instructions. We aimed to examine the effects of different words on DJ performance using instructions eliciting external focus to minimize contact time (CT) or maximize jump height (JH). Twenty collegiate athletes performed DJs from a 30-cm platform after receiving one of the four instructions: two instructions (COND 1 and 2) about minimizing CT, and two instructions (COND 3 and 4) about maximizing JH. The reactive strength index (RSI), CT, JH, relative peak vertical ground reaction force (vGRF), and leg stiffness (kvert) were compared between conditions using repeated-measures analysis of variance. There was no significant main effect of conditions on the RSI, relative peak vGRF, and kvert (p > 0.05). CT was significantly shorter under CONDs 1 and 2 than COND 3 (p < 0.05); JH was significantly higher under COND 3 than CONDs 1 and 2 (p < 0.05), and under COND 4 than COND 1 (p < 0.05). When using attentional focus strategies in DJ, it is necessary to use different words and purposes according to the players' tasks.

Association of the intrinsic foot muscles and plantar fascia with repetitive rebound jumping and jump landing in adolescent athletes: An ultrasound-based study

BackgroundThe characteristics of foot structure in adolescents and adults are different, affecting sports performance and leading to the progression of foot and lower extremity disorders. Research questionThis study aimed to investigate the relationship between the intrinsic foot muscles (IFM) and plantar fascia morphology and the repetitive rebound jumping and jump landing ability in adolescent athletes. MethodsA total of 60 adolescent athletes (35 boys and 25 girls) participated in this study. B-mode ultrasonography was used to obtain images of the IFM and plantar fascia morphology [thickness and cross-sectional area (CSA) of the abductor hallucis (AbH), flexor hallucis brevis (FHB), flexor digitorum brevis (FDB), and thickness of the plantar fascia]. The repetitive rebound jump performance was evaluated using the Optojump™ system. Participants were instructed to jump five times continuously with one leg, jumping as high as possible with minimal ground contact time. The jump landing was assessed by measuring the dynamic posture stability index (DPSI) using forward one-legged jump landings. ResultsThe thickness and CSA of the AbH and FDB were positively correlated with the jump height and reactive jump index. The DPSI score was significantly correlated with the thickness of the AbH, but not with other IFMs or plantar fascia. In the multiple regression analysis, only the thickness of the FDB was associated with the jump height and reactive jump index, indicating that FDB thickness might facilitate adolescent athletes to jump higher with minimal contact time in repetitive rebounding movements. SignificanceThe IFM (especially FDB) should be focused on when examining sports performance in adolescent athletes.

Is a hybrid of online and face-to-face services feasible for audiological rehabilitation post COVID-19? Findings from three public health patients.

BackgroundThe global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has pushed many audiologists to incorporate remote service delivery methods to adhere to mandatory health and safety protocols. The use of tele-audiology for audiological rehabilitation may provide a sustainable, cost-effective modality to suit the existing need, particularly in low-resourced countries.ObjectivesThis study aimed to investigate the feasibility of implementing a hybrid tele-rehabilitation programme in a South African public health context. An online auditory training (AT) programme was used to determine (1) compliance, (2) clinical benefit, (3) participant experience and (4) costs.MethodA convergent mixed methods design with a feasibility approach was utilised. Data collection was done through questionnaires, in-booth assessments, online AT, and face-to-face interviewing. Participants undertook online AT over 4 weeks. For pre- and post-online AT, the Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit (APHAB), QuickSIN, entrance and exit questionnaires, interviews and a system usability scale were administered.ResultsKey findings of this study included (1) a high compliance rate (84.82%) with minimal clinician contact time at 3 h 25 min over 5–6-weeks; (2) improvement in perceived hearing aid (HA) benefit, and improvement in listening skills; (3) reported positive experiences; and (4) minimal programme costs at an average of R1350.00 per participant.ConclusionThe results showed positive indicators that the use of hybrid tele-rehabilitative strategies may provide a viable alternative to the traditional face-to-face modality. The hybrid approach showed clinical benefits, cost-effectiveness, minimal contact time as well as COVID-19 compliance. Further large-scale research is still needed.

Remotely Delivered Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention Using an Ad Libitum Plant-Based Diet: Pilot Acceptability, Feasibility, and Preliminary Results.

BackgroundMany traditional lifestyle interventions use calorie prescriptions, but most individuals have difficulty sustaining calorie tracking and thus weight loss. In contrast, whole food plant-based diets (WFPBDs) have previously shown significant weight loss without this issue. However, most WFPBD interventions are face-to-face and time-intensive, and do not leverage gold standard behavioral strategies for health behavior change.ObjectiveThis open pilot trial was the first to evaluate the feasibility of a fully featured, remotely delivered behavioral weight loss intervention using an ad libitum WFPBD.MethodsOver 12 weeks, participants (N=15) with overweight or obesity received a newly designed program that integrated behavioral weight loss and a WFPBD prescription via weekly web-based modules and brief phone coaching calls. Assessments were performed at baseline, midtreatment (6 weeks), and after treatment (12 weeks).ResultsThe intervention was rated as highly acceptable (mean 4.40 out of 5, SE 0.18), and attrition was low (6.7%). In all, intention-to-treat analyses revealed that 69% (10.4/15) of the participants lost 5% of their weight (mean –5.89, SE 0.68 kg). Predefined benchmarks for quality of life were met.ConclusionsA pilot digital behavioral weight loss intervention with a non–energy-restricted WFPBD was feasible, and the mean acceptability was high. Minimal contact time (80-150 minutes of study interventionist time per participant over 12 weeks) led to clinically relevant weight loss and dietary adherence for most participants (10.4/15, 69% and 11.8/15, 79%, respectively), and quality of life improvements (reliable change indices >1.53). We hope that this work will serve as a springboard for future larger scale randomized controlled studies evaluating the efficacy of such programs for weight loss, dietary change, and quality of life.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT04892030; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04892030

Non-resident definitive host presence is sufficient to sustain avian schistosome populations

To control swimmer’s itch in northern Michigan inland lakes, USA, one species of bird, the common merganser (Mergus merganser), has been relocated from several lakes since 2015. Relocation efforts are driven by a desire to reduce the prevalence of the swimmer’s itch-causing parasite Trichobilharzia stagnicolae. The intention of this state-sponsored control effort was to interrupt the life cycle of T. stagnicolae and reduce parasite egg contribution into the environment from summer resident mergansers such that infections of the intermediate snail host Stagnicola emarginata declined. Reduced snail infection prevalence was expected to substantially reduce the abundance of the swimmer’s itch-causing cercarial stage of the parasite in water. With no official programme in place to assess the success of this relocation effort, we sought to study the effectiveness and impact of the removal of a single definitive host from a location with high definitive host and parasite diversity. This was assessed through a comprehensive, lake-wide monitoring study measuring longitudinal changes in the abundance of three species of avian schistosome cercariae in four inland Michigan lakes. Environmental measurements were also taken at these lakes to understand how they can affect swimmer’s itch incidence. This study demonstrates that the diversity of avian schistosomes at the study lakes would likely make targeting a single species of swimmer’s itch-causing parasite meaningless from a swimmer’s itch control perspective. Our data also suggest that removing the common merganser is not an effective control strategy for the T. stagnicolae parasite, likely due to contributions of the parasite made by non-resident birds, possibly migrants, in the autumn and spring. It appears likely that only minimal contact time between the definitive host and the lake ecosystem is required to contribute sufficient parasite numbers to maintain a thriving population of parasite species with high host specificity.

Leg stiffness and muscle power vs manometer in sportswomen with symptoms of stress urinary incontinence

BackgroundPelvic floor muscle training can cure or alleviate stress urinary incontinence. This study aimed to evaluate maximum voluntary contractions of the pelvic floor muscle in sportswomen and verify the association with leg stiffness and muscle power, both maximal and submaximal. MethodsThe sample consisted of 41 sportswomen between 18 and 42 years of age. Pelvic floor muscle strength was measured by the manometer. The sportswomen were instructed to perform 3 maximum voluntary contractions of the perineum, held for 3 seconds. Maximal and submaximal leg stiffness and muscle power were measured with a force platform, in two conditions: 1st condition was the sub-maximal, double leg hop test, which was performed allowing sportswomen to self-select their preferred frequency and 2nd condition was the maximal double leg hop test, which was performed asking athletes to maximize hop height and minimize contact time on the top of the force platform for 6 consecutive hops. FindingsMaximal and submaximal leg stiffness values increase with increasing age, weight, height, and body mass index, showing positive and significant (p <0.05) or close correlations. There are strong positive correlations between maximal and submaximal leg stiffness (r = 0.759) and between maximal and submaximal muscle power. Maximum voluntary contractions values decrease with increasing leg stiffness: the correlation is significant with maximal leg stiffness. InterpretationMaximum voluntary contractions values decrease with increasing leg stiffness and increase with increasing muscle power values. If the training program aims to increase muscle power, it may also increase maximum voluntary contractions.

Therapist-supported online remote behavioural intervention for tics in children and adolescents in England (ORBIT): a multicentre, parallel group, single-blind, randomised controlled trial

SummaryBackgroundExposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a form of behavioural therapy for tics; however, its effectiveness remains uncertain. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of internet-delivered, therapist-supported, and parent-assisted ERP for treatment of tics in children and young people with Tourette syndrome or chronic tic disorder.MethodsThis multicentre, parallel group, single-blind, randomised controlled trial was conducted across two study sites in England. Participants were recruited via 16 patient identification centres, two study sites in England (Nottingham and London), or online self-referral. Eligible participants were aged 9–17 years, had Tourette syndrome or chronic tic disorder, had not received behavioural therapy for tics in the past 12 months or were about to start, and had a Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) Total Tic Severity Score (TTSS) of more than 15 or more than 10 if they had only motor or vocal tics. Patients were excluded if they had started or stopped medication for tics within the past 2 months; had current alcohol or substance dependence, psychosis, suicidality, anorexia nervosa, or suspected moderate to severe intellectual disability; or presented an immediate risk to self or others; or the parent or carer was unable to speak, read, or write in English. Eligible patients were randomly assigned (1:1) by masked outcome assessors to receive 10 weeks of online, remotely delivered, therapist-supported ERP or psychoeducation (active control). Outcome assessors, statisticians, health economists, the trial manager, and the chief investigator were masked to group allocation. Patients were not directly informed of their allocation, but this could be established from the content once treatment commenced and the patients were not, therefore, considered masked to treatment. The primary outcome was YGTSS-TTSS 3 months after randomisation, and analysis was done in all randomised patients for whom data were available for each timepoint and outcome. Safety analysis was by intention to treat. Longer term follow-up is ongoing. This trial is registered with ISRCTN (ISRCTN70758207) and ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03483493).FindingsBetween May 8, 2018, and Sept 30, 2019, we assessed 445 candidates for inclusion in the study. 221 potential participants were excluded (90 did not meet inclusion criteria, 84 declined to participate, and 47 unable to contact family). 224 participants were enrolled and randomly assigned to ERP (n=112) or psychoeducation (n=112). The enrolled patients were mostly male (n=177; 79%) and of White ethnicity (n=195; 87%). 11 patients were lost to follow-up 3 months after randomisation in the ERP group, compared with 12 patients in the psychoeducation group. Mean YGTSS-TTSS at 3 months after randomisation was 23·9 (SD 8·2) in the ERP group and 26·8 (7·3) in the psychoeducation group. The mean total decrease in YGTSS-TTSS at 3 months was 4·5 (16%, SD 1·1) in the ERP group versus 1·6 (6%, 1·0) in the psychoeducation group. The estimated mean difference in YGTSS-TTSS change between the groups adjusted for baseline and site was –2·29 points (95% CI –3·86 to –0·71) in favour of ERP, with an effect size of –0·31 (95% CI –0·52 to –0·10). Two serious adverse events occurred (one collapse and one tic attack), both in the psychoeducation group, neither of which were related to study treatment.InterpretationERP is an effective behavioural therapy for tics. Remotely delivered, online ERP with minimal therapist contact time represents an efficient public mental health approach to improve access to behavioural therapy for tics in children and adolescents.FundingNational Institute for Health Research and Health and Technology Assessment.

Contribution of Plantar Fascia and Intrinsic Foot Muscles in a Single-Leg Drop Landing and Repetitive Rebound Jumps: An Ultrasound-Based Study.

The plantar fascia and intrinsic foot muscles (IFM) modulate foot stiffness. However, it is unclear whether the corresponding ultrasonography findings reflect it. This study aimed to examine the effect of the plantar fascia and IFM morphologies on force attenuation during landing and reactivity when jumping in healthy adults (n = 21; age, 21–27 years). Thickness, cross-sectional area (CSA), and hardness of the plantar fascia, abductor hallucis (AbH), and flexor hallucis brevis (FHB) muscles were measured using ultrasonography. Single-leg drop landing and repetitive rebound jumping tests assessed the ground reaction force (GRF) and reactive jump index (RJI), respectively. The CSA of FHB was negatively correlated with maximum vertical GRF (r = −0.472, p = 0.031) in the single-leg drop landing test. The CSA of AbH was negatively correlated with contact time (r = −0.478, p = 0.028), and the plantar fascia thickness was positively correlated with jump height (r = 0.615, p = 0.003) and RJI (r = 0.645, p = 0.002) in the repetitive bound jump test. In multivariate regression analysis, only the plantar fascia thickness was associated with RJI (β = 0.152, 95% confidence interval: 7.219–38.743, p = 0.007). The CSA of FHB may contribute to force attenuation during landing. The thickness of the plantar fascia and CSA of AbH may facilitate jumping high with minimal contact time.

Chlorhexidine: An effective anticovid mouth rinse.

Context:Dentists across the globe are witnessing a completely unforeseen and uncertain professional situation during these times of COVID-19 pandemic. There is conflicting evidence regarding the effectiveness of routinely used mouthwashes and especially Chlorhexidine, to reduce the viral load in oral cavity and the aerosols during oral procedures.Aims:Comparative evaluation of the effectiveness of the current 'gold standard' chlorhexidine and povidone iodine as a control agent, through an in-vitro analysis.Settings and Design:In-vitro laboratory analysis.Methods and Material:All the experiments for analysis of antiviral efficacy of chlorhexidine digluconate (2%)and povidone iodine(1%), against SARS-CoV-2 virus were performed in the BSL3 facility at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Institute of Microbial Technology, using the VeroE6 cell lines. The analysis of the virus inactivation was based on quantification of viral RNA (Cycle threshold (Ct) profile) present in the culture supernatant using Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription PCR (qRT-PCR).Statistical Analysis Used:Descriptive analysis (Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, version 15.0 for Windows).Results:Chlorhexidine digluconate in 0.2% concentration inactivated more than 99.9% of SARS CoV 2 virus, in minimal contact time of 30 seconds, which was considered better efficacy than povidone-iodine utilized for 30 and 60 seconds. Subtle differences were observed in the activity of both the compounds in terms of percent inactivation of virus, though a greater relative change in Ct values was observed for chlorhexidine.Conclusions:Within the limitations of the present study, it can be concluded that Chlorhexidine digluconate in 0.2% concentration inactivated SARS CoV 2 in minimal contact time i.e 30 secs, however both compounds tested i.e Chlorhexidine and povidone-iodine were found to have antiviral activity against SARS CoV2 virus.

Therapist-Supported Online Remote Behavioural Intervention for Tics (ORBIT) in Children and Adolescents: A Single-Blind Randomised Controlled Trial

Background: Behaviour therapy is an effective treatment in children and adolescents with tic disorders but is rarely available. Online delivery could widen access to therapy. We evaluated the efficacy of internet-delivered, therapist-supported and parent-assisted Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for tics. Methods: Multi-centre, parallel group, single-blind, randomised controlled trial. Eligible participants were aged 9-17 years with Tourette syndrome/chronic tic disorder, who had not received behaviour therapy for tics within 12 months, and had a Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) Total Tic Severity Score (TTSS) of >15, or >10 if motor or vocal tics only. Participants were recruited via 16 patient identification centres, two study sites, or online self-referral, and were randomised (1:1) by blinded outcome-assessors to receive either 10 weeks of ERP or psychoeducation (active control). The primary outcome was YGTSS-TTSS at 3 months’ post-randomisation, analysis was by intention-to-treat. The mean cost per patient for the intervention and health care costs were calculated. Registrations are ISRCTN (ISRCTN70758207) and ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03483493). Findings: Between 8 th May 2018 and 30 th September 2019, 224 participants were enrolled; 112 to ERP and 112 to psychoeducation. The ERP intervention reduced YGTSS-TTSS by 2 . 29 points (95% CI: ‑3 . 86 to -0 . 71) compared to the psychoeducation group at 3 months, an effect that increased by 6 months post-randomisation (-2 . 64, 95% CI: -4 . 56 to -0 . 73). The average therapist time spent supporting the intervention was 2 . 5 hours. The additional cost per participant of the ERP intervention compared to psychoeducation was £159 (95% CI -£53 to £370). There were two unrelated serious adverse events, both in the psychoeducation group. Interpretation: Online-delivered, therapist-supported ERP therapy is clinically effective at reducing tics, with minimal therapist contact time. Online delivery could improve access to evidence-based treatment for tics in children and adolescents. Trial Registration: Registrations are ISRCTN (ISRCTN70758207) and ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03483493). Funding: National Institute for Health Research, Health and Technology Assessment (HTA) Declaration of Interest: All authors have completed the ICMJE uniform disclosure from. Aside from receiving funding from NIHR to support their salaries CLH, LM, EBD, RJ, KK, BJB, CS, CM, ES, PA, TM, IS, JK, RH, MLN, AE, LRC, NK, SB, CG, EM declare no conflict of interests. CH declares he was Principal Investigator on a grant from the National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme to conduct an Evidence Synthesis on the treatments for tics and Tourette syndrome in children and young people’ HTA Project:10/142/01. DM-C reports personal fees from Elsevier, personal fees from UpToDate Inc. outside the submitted work. Ethical Approval: Ethical and Health Research Authority (HRA) approval was received from North West Greater Manchester Research Ethics Committee on 23 March 2018 (ref.:18/NW/0079). The published trial protocol is available online15 and was approved by an independent trial steering committee (TSC) and data monitoring committee (DMC). Two substantial amendments were made and can be found in the appendix p1. The trial was prospectively registered with the ISRCTN (ISRCTN70758207) and ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03483493).

A systematic review on disinfection, airborne precautions and biomedical waste management for prevention of infection by SARS-CoV-2: Current evidences and adoptable practices in healthcare settings

The emergence and spread of the novel corona virus SARS-CoV-2 causing pneumonia and severe respiratory tract infections has put the whole world in grave situation. The pandemicity is because the virus is highly contagious with very high transmissibility and spread from person to person by infected respiratory droplets and contacts. As no specific drug or vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 are available in the market, so preventive measures that break the chain of transmission are the mainstay to prevent COVID-19 infections. The present systematic review article highlights the current updates on preventive measures in the context of disinfection practices, droplet precautions, airborne precautions and biomedical waste management based on various research articles, national guidelines by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Central Pollution Control Board, Government of India and international guidelines by WHO, CDC. Search was conducted in Medline, Embase and Google Scholar with articles published in English language from 1st January 2020 to 20th July 2020 and were taken for reviewing. A systematic review protocol was developed based on PRISMA checklist and the PRISMA statement and was conducted to synthesise adoptable best practices based on current evidences. Three disinfectants have become most important to combat this novel corona virus, which are 70-85% ethanol, 0.1% sodium hypochlorite for routine environmental disinfection and 0.5% sodium hypochlorite for large spillage management and >0.5% hydrogen peroxide with a minimal contact time of 1 minute for all three disinfectants. Fogging of unoccupied rooms and testing laboratories can be done by 2% hydrogen peroxide solution. UV radiation at 240-260 nm have wide applications in routine terminal disinfection of unoccupied rooms and biosafety cabinets and also used for decontamination of N95 masks for reuse. Based on available evidences from WHO and ICMR it is suggested to take respiratory droplets and contact precautions in every health care settings taking care of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases, and airborne precautions are recommended when aerosol generating procedures are performed. According to CDC droplets and contact precautions are essential in routine health care settings and airborne precautions are essential when aerosol generating procedures are performed and are also recommended when taking care of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases depending on resource availability. Whether airborne precaution is essential for all settings is debatable and is still unclear based on available evidences. Proper handling of biomedical waste, segregation at source and disposal as per classification along with proper disposal of PPE after doffing can help in preventing the disease in community and among health care providers. Evidence on the modes of transmission of COVID-19 from dead bodies to individuals is yet to be established. Steps to be followed are based on Government Guidelines. However scholarly article depicting desirable and undesirable effects of dead body handling strategy is lacking.

95. CAUTI and CLABSI in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients

BackgroundPatients hospitalized for suspected or confirmed COVID-19 often require high levels of support, including supplemental oxygen or ventilation, intravenous fluids and pressors, prone positioning, and strict input/output monitoring. Increased utilization of invasive devices such as indwelling urinary catheters and central venous catheters may be needed in this population. Staff minimize contact time with COVID-19 patients. We hypothesized higher rates of device infection in patients with COVID-19.Table 1 MethodsThis is a retrospective cohort study at a 555-bed safety net hospital. 4 units (125 beds) primarily cared for patients with confirmed infection. Other units did not accept patients until COVID status was deemed negative, except Labor & Delivery and a designated mixed unit. Indwelling urinary catheter and central venous catheter (CVC) device days are tracked in all inpatient areas. CLABSI and CAUTI surveillance is performed using NHSN definitions. The first hospitalized COVID-19 case at our hospital occurred late March 2020. April - May 2020 was considered the initial pandemic phase for our institution. Device utilization for the 6 months prior (October 2019 – March 2020) was compared to initial pandemic phase. Device infection rates were also compared. Within the initial pandemic phase, utilization and infection rates were stratified by COVID-19 vs non-COVID-19 areas.ResultsMedian indwelling urinary catheter usage increased during the initial pandemic period by 36% (998 to 1355 catheter days, p=0.13); CVC usage increased 25% (997 to 1246 CVC days, p=0.13). Hospital-wide, median CAUTI rates remained constant (2.9 and 2.7 infections/1000 catheter days, p=1.00). CLABSI rates increased significantly (0.0 and 1.6 infections/1000 CVC days, p=0.008). CAUTI rates were 83% higher, and CLABSI rates were 65% higher in COVID-19 areas compared to non-COVID-19 areas (Table 1). Urine culture and blood culture ordering were 69% higher and 73% higher in COVID-19 areas, respectively.ConclusionUtilization of both indwelling urinary catheters and CVC increased during the initial phase of the pandemic. Hospitalized COVID-19 patients appear to be at higher risk of both CAUTI and CLABSI. Patient care protocols, device utilization and culture ordering all require further investigation.Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

Acoustic Waves for Active Reduction of Contact Time in Droplet Impact

Minimizing droplet impact contact time is critical for applications such as self-cleaning, antierosion or anti-icing. Recent studies have used the texturing of surfaces to split droplets during impact or inducing asymmetric spreading, but these require specifically designed substrates that cannot be easily reconfigured. A key challenge is to realize an effective reduction in contact time during droplet impingement on a smooth surface without texturing but with active and programmable control. Our experimental results show that surface acoustic waves (SAWs), generated at a location distant from a point of droplet impact, can be used to minimize contact time by as much as 35% without requiring a textured surface. Additionally, the ability to switch on and off the SAWs means that a reduction in droplet impact contact time on a surface can be controlled in a programmable manner. Moreover, our results show that, by applying acoustic waves, the impact regime of the droplet on the solid surface can be changed from deposition or partial rebound to complete rebound. To study the dynamics of droplet impact, we develop a numerical model for multiphase flow and simulate different droplet impingement scenarios. Numerical results reveal that the acoustic waves can be used to modify and control the internal velocity fields inside the droplet. By breaking the symmetry of the internal recirculation patterns inside the droplet, the kinetic energy recovered from interfacial energy during the retraction process is increased, and the droplet can be fully separated from the surface with a much shorter contact time. Our work opens up opportunities to use SAW devices to minimize the contact time, change the droplet impact regime, and program or control the droplet's rebounding on smooth or planar and curved surfaces, as well as rough or textured surfaces.

Saudi Arabian Society of Echocardiography Recommendations for Echocardiography Service During Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Outbreak.

We are summarizing the recommendations for the use of Echocardiography in patients during COVID-19 pandemic. The patient risk for COVID-19 should be assessed according to the Saudi CDC guidelines. Echocardiography should only be performed of considered appropriate and will likely alter the clinical decision. In COVID-19 suspected/confirmed patients, echocardiography study should be performed bedside and in infection control approved area with airborne precaution. Limited focused imaging is recommended to minimize contact time. A dedicated machine for COVID-19 suspected/confirmed cases is recommended. Transesophageal echocardiography is considered an aerosol generating procedure; therefore, an alternative modality should be strongly considered. In COVID-19 suspected/confirmed patients, a transesophageal echocardiogram should be done only under strict airborne precaution. In low risk patient for COVID-19, Transesophageal echocardiography should be done with a minimum of droplet precaution, however; N95 respirator is preferred to surgical mask in this situation.

Applying Behavioral Theory to Increase Mindfulness Practice Among Adolescents: an Exploratory Intervention Study Using a Within-Trial RCT Design

For mindfulness programs to have sustained benefits, participants should continue to practice mindfulness independently. Behavioral theories have been used to predict and change other health behaviors, but have rarely been applied to mindfulness practice. This research aimed to identify predictors/determinants of sustained mindfulness practice after a school-based mindfulness program (Study 1) and to develop and test a booster intervention to increase mindfulness practice (Study 2). These studies were embedded in a larger trial evaluating a school-based mindfulness program involving 12–15 year-olds (Healthy Learning Mind, HLM). Study 1 examined theory-based predictors of mindfulness practice among participants in Batch 1 of the HLM trial (n = 310). These findings were used to develop a brief motivational booster intervention, which Study 2 evaluated in a within-trial cluster-randomized controlled trial in Batch 3 of the HLM trial (HLM Only arm n = 177; HLM + booster arm n = 152). In Study 1, 40% of youths reported having practiced mindfulness at a 6-month follow-up. The perception that peers were practicing mindfulness exercises predicted mindfulness practice (β = .497, p = .002), and a key self-reported reason for non-practice was that they did not find mindfulness useful. The booster intervention (designed to specifically target these descriptive norms and outcome expectations) demonstrated some positive trends in the determinants of mindfulness practice, but did not increase mindfulness practice. The limited effectiveness of the booster intervention might be explained by the minimal contact time of the booster intervention or its delivery in the later lessons of HLM. This study demonstrates how behavior change theories can be applied to help promote independent mindfulness practice outside of intervention settings.

Impact of Herbal Extracts in Biocontroling of Four Human Pathogenic Bacteria-an in-vitro Study

Plants are among the most prominent resources of herbal remedies. The principal advantages of herbal plants in a number of diseases are usually their safeness over antibiotics. The existing research was aimed to examine the antibacterial action associated with crude concentrate of Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi), Syzygium aromaticum (Clove), and Azadirachta indica (Neem) against four human pathogenic bacteria spp. collected from IMTECH. The crude extract of three plants was prepared by pulverizing dried plant material followed by ethanolic extraction in 500 mL of ethyl alcohol. Antimicrobial action of crude extract was analysed by applying agar well diffusion approach against S. aureus MTCC 96, B. subtilis MTCC 441, L. casei MTCC 1423, and E. coli MTCC 1302 In-vitro. MIC and MBC as also determined in present study by applying varios concentration of plant extract against pathogenic bacteria. The extract of Tulsi, Clove, and Neem showed antibacterial activity against the Gram-positive S. aureus MTCC 96, B. subtilis MTCC 441, L. casei MTCC 1423 and Gram-negative E. coli MTCC 1302. Clove extract recorded with the maximum antibacterial activity towards all pathogens during well diffusion (13-17 mm zone of inhibition), minimum inhibitory concentration (7. 5%w/v-15%w/v), and minimum bactericidal concentration (7. 5%w/v-15%w/v) assays. Tulsi and Neem extracts even shown a remarkable area of growth inhibition (10-13mm and 9-11mm, respectively), minimal inhibitory concentration (15%w/v-30%w/v) and minimal bactericidal concentration (7. 5%w/v-20%w/v). Almost all three extracts was furthermore analyzed for their efficiency as antiseptic by means of minimum contact time parameter. It was fond that clove extract required minimum time to exert the antiseptic effect on selected pathogens (1 min at 20%w/v concentration) while other two chosen extracts showed antiseptic effect at 15% and 20%w/v concentration with minimal contact time 1 min. At last, It can be concluded that the ethanol extract of tulsi, clove and neem is effectively potent as natural antiseptics against human pathogens.

Efficacy of chemical disinfectants for the containment of the salamander chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans.

The recently emerged chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal) causes European salamander declines. Proper hygiene protocols including disinfection procedures are crucial to prevent disease transmission. Here, the efficacy of chemical disinfectants in killing Bsal was evaluated. At all tested conditions, Biocidal®, Chloramine-T®, Dettol medical®, Disolol®, ethanol, F10®, Hibiscrub®, potassium permanganate, Safe4®, sodium hypochlorite, and Virkon S®, were effective at killing Bsal. Concentrations of 5% sodium chloride or lower, 0.01% peracetic acid and 0.001–1% copper sulphate were inactive against Bsal. None of the conditions tested for hydrogen peroxide affected Bsal viability, while it did kill Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). For Bsal, enzymatic breakdown of hydrogen peroxide by catalases and specific morphological features (clustering of sporangia, development of new sporangia within the original sporangium), were identified as fungal factors altering susceptibility to several of the disinfectants tested. Based on the in vitro results we recommend 1% Virkon S®, 4% sodium hypochlorite and 70% ethanol for disinfecting equipment in the field, lab or captive setting, with a minimal contact time of 5 minutes for 1% Virkon S® and 1 minute for the latter disinfectants. These conditions not only efficiently target Bsal, but also Bd and Ranavirus.

Reliability of bounce drop jump parameters within elite male rugby players.

The aims of the study were to investigate the number of familiarization sessions required to establish reliability of the bounce drop jump (BDJ) and subsequent reliability once familiarization is achieved. Seventeen trained male athletes completed 4 BDJs in 4 separate testing sessions. Force-time data from a 20 cm BDJ was obtained using two force plates (ensuring ground contact <250 ms). Subjects were instructed to "jump for maximal height and minimal contact time" while the best and average of four jumps were compared. A series of performance variables were assessed in both eccentric and concentric phases including jump height, contact time, flight time, Reactive Strength Index (RSI), peak power, rate of force development (RFD) and actual dropping height (ADH). Reliability was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of variation (CV) while familiarization was assessed using a repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). The majority of DJ parameters exhibited excellent reliability with no systematic bias evident, while the average of 4 trials provided greater reliability. With the exception of vertical stiffness (CV: 12.0%) and RFD (CV: 16.2%), all variables demonstrated low within subject variation (CV range: 3.1-8.9%). Relative reliability was very poor for ADH, with heights ranging from 14.87-29.85 cm. High levels of reliability can be obtained from the BDJ with the exception of vertical stiffness and RFD, however, extreme caution must be taken when comparing DJ results between individuals and squads due to large discrepancies between actual drop height and platform height.

Effect of Ozone Dissolution Systems on Ozone Exposure and Bromate Formation

Pilot‐scale data were generated to improve operational guidance for fine bubble diffusion (FBD) and sidestream addition (SSA) systems with respect to unaccounted‐for ozone exposure—i.e., concentration times time (C × T), and bromate formation during ozone dissolution. In FBD systems, results showed significant ozone dissolution C × T (0.31–2.85 mg‐min/L) and bromate formation (0.8–9.1 µg/L) occurring in the bubble column, which is not included in regulatory compliance C × T calculations. Utilities may consider taking contactors out of service to minimize contact time and corresponding bromate formation in the dissolution zone. In SSA systems, ozone dosages (7.2–18.6 mg/L) were transferred to approximately 20% of the overall plant flow for ~5 s, which produced bromate (2.6–5.7 µg/L). As the contact time exceeded the design guidance in the sidestream flow (&gt;30 s), bromate formation became far more significant (40–140 µg/L). When the sidestream flow is operated with short contact times (~5 s), bromate formation can be minimized.

False Safety Behavior Elimination Therapy: A randomized study of a brief individual transdiagnostic treatment for anxiety disorders

In response to the ever-growing number of CBT based therapy protocols, transdiagnostic approaches to anxiety treatment, based on models of anxiety emphasizing common elements across anxiety disorders, have been increasingly explored. The aim of the current study was to test the efficacy of an individually administered, brief (5-session) transdiagnostic treatment for anxiety disorders. The current treatment (called F-SET) focuses chiefly on the elimination of anxiety maintaining behaviors and cognitive strategies (so-called “safety” aids) among individuals suffering from a range of anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD) and panic disorder (PD). Patients (N=28; mean age=28.5years; 75% female; 71% White) were randomly assigned to F-SET or waitlist control conditions. Participants were assessed prior to, immediately after, and 1-month following treatment. In addition to independent assessments of diagnostic status, standardized self-report measures and assessor ratings of severity and distress associated with anxiety symptoms were used. Participants in the F-SET condition experienced significantly less anxiety (Cohen’s d=2.01) and depression (Cohen’s d=2.16) than those in the WL condition. Mediational analysis showed that change in avoidance strategies mediated the group changes in anxiety symptoms. The results from the current study are an important first step in identifying a simpler, focused form of CBT that can be delivered with minimal therapist training, at a low cost and with minimal client contact time.