bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted axillary dissection after neoadjuvant systemic therapy in patients with node‐positive breast cancer
Authors: Kanesalingam Kavitha , Sriram Nina , Heilat Ghaith , Ng E ‐Ern , Meybodi Farid , Elder Elisabeth , Brennan Meagan , French James
Published: December 2019

Background

Over the last decade, neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NAST) has gained considerable popularity and its use has been extended to include breast cancer patients with operable node‐positive disease. It may no longer be necessary to commit patients who are node‐positive at presentation to axillary dissection if they become clinically node‐negative after completing NAST. Targeted axillary dissection (TAD) is a technique where the marked pre‐NAST positive node is excised along with the sentinel nodes and its response to chemotherapy is assessed and thus helps guide further treatment to the axilla.

Methods

The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of marking positive axillary nodes with a clip and removing the clipped node after neoadjuvant treatment. We also assessed the concordance of the sentinel node with the clipped node.

Results

We prospectively evaluated 37 clinically and/or radiologically node‐positive patients who underwent NAST. The overall identification rate of the clipped node was 78%. The identification rate was 100% if the clipped node was localized preoperatively and was much lower at 68% in patients who did not have the clipped node localized. The clipped node was not retrieved as the sentinel node in 14% of patients.

Conclusion

We present the first Australian series on the feasibility of TAD. TAD is a feasible option in patients having NAST and with every new technique there is a learning curve. With the increasing experience globally and the refinement in marking and localization techniques, the accuracy of performing TAD will likely continue to improve.
Cancer stem‐like cells with hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal phenotype leading the collective invasion
Authors: Quan Qianghua , Wang Xudong , Lu Chunyang , Ma Wenzong , Wang Yugang , Xia Guoliang , Wang Chao , Yang Gen
Published: December 2019

Collective invasion of cancer cells is the key process of circulating tumor cell (CTC) cluster formation, and greatly contributes to metastasis. Cancer stem‐like cells (CSC) have a distinct advantage of motility for metastatic dissemination. To verify the role of CSC in the collective invasion, we performed 3D assays to investigate the collective invasion from cancer cell spheroids. The results demonstrated that CSC can significantly promote both collective and single‐cell invasion. Further study showed that CSC prefer to move outside and lead the collective invasion. More interestingly, approximately 60% of the leader CSC in collective invasion co–expressed both epithelial and mesenchymal genes, while only 4% co–expressed in single invasive CSC, indicating that CSC with hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal phenotype play a key role in cancer cell collective invasion.
Endobronchial ultrasound‐guided mediastinal lymph node forceps biopsy in patients with negative rapid‐on‐site‐evaluation: A new step in the diagnostic algorithm
Authors: Mehta Ravindra M. , Aurangabadbadwalla Rohan , Singla Abhinav , Loknath Chakravarthi , Munavvar Mohammed
Published: December 2019

Background

Endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) provides a high diagnostic yield in lung cancer, but the yield for benign conditions and lymphoma is lower. The material obtained by EBUS‐TBNA is limited by the lack of histopathological samples in some cases. The current ‘expanded’ aims of mediastinal lymph node (MLN) sampling are both an accurate diagnosis and adequate material for ‘targeted’ processing in malignant and benign disease. The sample obtained with the 21/22G EBUS needle may not be sufficient in all situations.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of a novel technique for EBUS‐guided MLN forceps biopsy (EBUS‐TBFB) when EBUS‐TBNA with rapid on‐site‐evaluation (ROSE) failed to provide a diagnosis. In addition, the technical aspects and safety of EBUS‐TBFB were studied.

Methods

About 30 consecutive patients with enlarged MLN, with a negative EBUS‐TBNA ROSE were included. EBUS‐TBFB was done by the method described below. The histopathology and complications were recorded.

Results

Adequate samples for analysis were obtained in all the patients with both EBUS‐TBNA and EBUS‐TBFB. In patients with a non‐diagnostic EBUS‐ROSE, EBUS‐TBFB led to positive diagnostic results in an additional 8/30 patients (27%). Mild bleeding was noted in two patients who underwent EBUS‐TBFB, which resolved with conservative management. The procedure was safe with no major complications.

Conclusion

In patients with a negative EBUS‐ROSE, EBUS‐TBFB using this technique is safe and augments the diagnostic yield. EBUS‐TBFB adds to the armamentarium of EBUS, especially in benign aetiologies of MLN enlargement.
First report of Sydowia polyspora causing disease on Pinus pinea shoots
Authors: Silva Ana Cristina , Henriques Joana , Diogo Eugénio , Ramos Ana Paula , Bragança Helena
Published: December 2019

The fungus Sydowia polyspora is frequently isolated from conifers worldwide and is considered a pathogen on several hosts. Stone pine (Pinus pinea) is one of the most important forestry species throughout the Mediterranean basin due to the value of the edible pine nut. Stone pines showing tip dieback, needles with tan‐ to yellow‐coloured lesions and shoot death, observed in stands in Portugal, were sampled for analysis. Fungal colonies covered with cream‐coloured spore masses, were consistently obtained. Morphological and phylogenetic analyses of the ITS rDNA region enabled identification of these isolates as S. polyspora. Inoculation tests showed that the fungus caused lesions on excised P. pinea shoots. The symptoms observed might have a negative effect on pine nut production, and thus, evaluation of the impact of this disease is of relevance to future research. This paper is the first to report S. polyspora causing disease on P. pinea.
No effect of tDCS of the primary motor cortex on isometric exercise performance or perceived fatigue
Authors: Wrightson James Graeme , Twomey Rosie , Yeung Samuel Tin Yan , Millet Guillaume Yves
Published: December 2019

Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) of the primary motor cortex has been reported to improve isometric exercise performance without changing corticospinal excitability. One possible cause for this may be the previous use of relatively high (2 mA) current intensities, which have inconsistent effects on corticospinal excitability. The present pre‐registered study aimed to replicate previously reported ergogenic effects of 2 mA tDCS and examine whether 1 mA anodal tDCS both improved isometric exercise performance and perceived fatigue, and more reliably altered corticospinal excitability. On three separate occasions, participants performed a sustained submaximal isometric knee extension until failure after receiving either 1, 2 mA or sham anodal tDCS. Corticospinal excitability of the knee extensors was measured using transcranial magnetic stimulation immediately before and after tDCS. Rating of fatigue was recorded throughout the isometric exercise. Neither 1 nor 2 mA tDCS improved exercise performance, or reduced perceived fatigue, compared with sham stimulation. There was also no effect of tDCS on the corticospinal excitability of the knee extensors. We found no effect of tDCS on either exercise performance, perceived fatigue or corticospinal excitability. This study adds to the growing body of literature reporting no ergogenic effect of tDCS. Large pre‐registered replications of previously reported effects are now required before tDCS can be considered an effective method to improve exercise performance.
The importance of caveolins and caveolae to dermatology: Lessons from the caves and beyond
Authors: Egger Andjela N. , Rajabi‐Estarabadi Ali , Williams Natalie M. , Resnik Sydney R. , Fox Joshua D. , Wong Lulu L. , Jozic Ivan
Published: December 2019

Caveolae are flask‐shaped invaginations of the cell membrane rich in cholesterol and sphingomyelin, with caveolin proteins acting as their primary structural components that allow compartmentalization and orchestration of various signalling molecules. In this review, we discuss how pleiotropic functions of caveolin‐1 (Cav1) and its intricate roles in numerous cellular functions including lipid trafficking, signalling, cell migration and proliferation, as well as cellular senescence, infection and inflammation, are integral for normal development and functioning of skin and its appendages. We then examine how disruption of the homeostatic levels of Cav1 can lead to development of various cutaneous pathophysiologies including skin cancers, cutaneous fibroses, psoriasis, alopecia, age‐related changes in skin and aberrant wound healing and propose how levels of Cav1 may have theragnostic value in skin physiology/pathophysiology.
Heterogeneity effects on mixed‐mode I/II stress intensity factors and fracture path of laboratory asphalt mixtures in the shape of SCB specimen
Authors: Aliha M.R.M. , Ziari Hassan , Mojaradi Barat , Sarbijan Majid Jebalbarezi
Published: December 2019

Edge cracked semi‐circular shape specimen subjected to three point bend loading is a favourite test specimen for determining fracture toughness of asphalt mixtures. However, in the vast majority of previous experimental works, the homogeneous medium assumption has been considered for determining the stress intensity factor and geometry factors of asphalt mixtures tested with this test configuration. As a more realistic model and in order to consider the effects of heterogeneity on corresponding values of stress intensity factors, the asphalt mixture was modelled as a two‐phase aggregate/mastic heterogeneous mixture and its fracture behaviour was investigated using numerical models of asymmetric semi‐circular bend (ASCB) specimens. The generation and packing algorithm was employed to randomly distribute the aggregates with different shapes and sizes inside the mastic part. The effect of the mechanical properties of asphalt mixture (elastic modulus and the Poisson's ratios of aggregates and mastic), coarse aggregates distribution and crack length were studied on modes I and II geometry factors by means of extensive two‐dimensional finite element analyses. Moreover, the effect of the elastic modulus of asphalt mixture components was evaluated on the fracture path using the maximum tangential stress criterion. It was shown that crack tip location, elastic modulus of aggregates and mastic are the most important affecting parameters on the magnitude of modes I and II geometry factors. It was also shown that the geometry factors are not sensitive to the Poisson's ratios of aggregates and mastic. In addition, fracture cracking path is affected by the elastic modulus of the asphalt mixture components such that, depending on the difference between the stiffness of stiffer coarse aggregates and softer mastic part, the crack may propagate either through the aggregates, mastic or interface of aggregate/mastic.
Trophic niche segregation allows range‐extending coral reef fishes to co‐exist with temperate species under climate change
Authors: Kingsbury Kelsey M. , Gillanders Bronwyn M. , Booth David J. , Nagelkerken Ivan
Published: December 2019

Changing climate is forcing many terrestrial and marine species to extend their ranges poleward to stay within the bounds of their thermal tolerances. However, when such species enter higher latitude ecosystems, they engage in novel interactions with local species, such as altered predator–prey dynamics and competition for food. Here, we evaluate the trophic overlap between range‐extending and local fish species along the east coast of temperate Australia, a hotspot for ocean warming and species range extensions. Stable isotope ratios (δ15N and δ13C) of muscle tissue and stomach content analysis were used to quantify overlap of trophic niche space between vagrant tropical and local temperate fish communities along a 730 km (6°) latitudinal gradient. Our study shows that in recipient temperate ecosystems, sympatric tropical and temperate species do not overlap significantly in their diet—even though they forage on broadly similar prey groups—and are therefore unlikely to compete for trophic niche space. The tropical and temperate species we studied, which are commonly found in shallow‐water coastal environments, exhibited moderately broad niche breadths and local‐scale dietary plasticity, indicating trophic generalism. We posit that because these species are generalists, they can co‐exist under current climate change, facilitating the existence of novel community structures.
The interplay between work engagement, workaholism, emotional exhaustion and job satisfaction in academics: A person‐centred approach to the study of occupational well‐being and its relations with job hindrances and job challenges in an Italian university
Authors: Guidetti Gloria , Viotti Sara , Converso Daniela
Published: December 2019

The aim of this study was to analyse the occupational well‐being of academics by using a person‐centred approach. Data was collected by an online self‐report questionnaire involving the academic population of a large Italian university. Cluster analysis showed the presence of four significantly different clusters, that were labelled engaged‐satisfied, engaged‐workaholic, exhausted‐workaholic and detached. Multivariate analysis of variances showed significant differences between clusters regarding well‐being dimensions, and the perception of work demand on academics as sources of hindrance or challenge. The findings of this study suggested, for the first time, the existence of a well‐being typology within the academic context, considering aspects, such as workaholism, that have been rarely taken into account. Moreover, it has been shown that the well‐being profile can influence the way in which academics perceived academic work demands, highlighting the potentialities of analysing well‐being profile in order to identify employees who are more or less at risk.
Flodoard of Rheims and the historiography of the tenth‐century West
Authors: Roberts Edward
Published: December 2019

Flodoard of Rheims is one of the most important authors of tenth‐century Europe, and the only contemporary historian to document the momentous struggles between kings and nobles in Francia in the wake of the demise of the Carolingian Empire. Flodoard's era stands at the center of major historiographical debates concerning the nature of political and social change and the origins of European institutions. Yet, despite his singularity, his substantial histories have received little attention from scholars examining the profound transformations of the period. Exploring this discrepancy, this article offers an overview of Flodoard's career and reviews how his histories have been invoked in some of the great scholarly debates about tenth‐century Europe. It further proposes to recontextualize Flodoard and to reread his histories from the bottom up in order to gain a subtler understanding of how one contemporary perceived and represented the dramatic events and changes taking place around him.
Phase formation and lattice distortion of Lu2O3‐doped ZrO2 in comparison with Y2O3‐doped ZrO2
Authors: Park Min‐sung , Kim Buyoung , Kim Taewoo , Hong Eunpyo , Lee Heesoo
Published: December 2019

Lu2O3 and Y2O3 doping of 8, 11, and 18 mol% in ZrO2 were prepared by solid solution reaction, aiming to study the phase stabilization of Lu2O3‐doped ZrO2 and Y2O3‐doped ZrO2 in terms of phase formation and lattice distortion. The Rietveld refinement results indicated that Lu2O3‐doped ZrO2 and Y2O3‐doped ZrO2 followed the same trend in terms of cubic phase fraction, increasing from 25%–30% (8 mol%) to 95%–100% (11 and 18 mol%). This phase formation was confirmed by observing the same diffraction ring pattern observed for the Lu2O3‐doped ZrO2 and Y2O3‐doped ZrO2. The Vickers hardness of the Lu2O3‐doped ZrO2 was 4.3% higher than that of Y2O3‐doped ZrO2 at 8 mol%, but 9.7% and 14.8% lower at 11 and 18 mol%, respectively. This was likely caused by the lattice distortion effect of Y2O3 doping overpowering the field strength difference between Lu3+ and Y3+.
Improving the physical properties of fish gelatin by high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) and ultrasonication (US)
Authors: Sezer Purlen , Okur Ilhami , Oztop Mecit Halil , Alpas Hami
Published: December 2019

In this study, it was aimed to improve the physical properties of fish gelatin by using high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) and ultrasonication (US). Gelatin solutions were exposed to different pressures and ultrasonication separately and gelled afterwards. The physicochemical measurements based on gel strength, turbidity and rheology experiments showed that HHP treatment on fish and bovine gelatin stabilized the gelatin network by organising the structure and reducing the free volume. Both processing methods (HHP and US) increased the gel strength significantly (P < 0.05) compared with non‐treated samples. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results indicated that conformations of amino acids changed after the treatments. Furthermore, US treatment was shown to destroy the gelatin network, change the gelation mechanism and decreased the degree of aggregation. Both treatments improved the gel characteristics as gel strength, gelling and melting temperatures of the fish gelatin. At the end, the best combination for fish gelatin among HHP and US treatments was found as 400 MPa–10 °C–15 min pressurisation.
Environmental sustainability of orthopedic devices produced with powder bed fusion
Authors: Cappucci Grazia Maria , Pini Martina , Neri Paolo , Marassi Marta , Bassoli Elena , Ferrari Anna Maria
Published: December 2019

Additive manufacturing consists in melting metallic powders to produce objects from 3D data, layer upon layer. Its industrial applications range from automotive, biomedical (e.g., prosthetic implants for dentistry and orthopedics), aeronautics and others. This study uses life cycle assessment to evaluate the possible improvement in environmental performance of laser‐based powder bed fusion additive manufacturing systems on prosthetic device production. Environmental impacts due to manufacturing, use, and end of life of the designed solution were assessed. In addition, two powder production technologies, gas atomization (GA) and plasma atomization (PA), were compared in order to establish the most sustainable one. Production via traditional subtractive technologies and the additive manufacturing production were also compared. 3D building was found to have a significant environmental advantage compared to the traditional technology. The powder production process considerably influences on a damage point of view the additive manufacturing process; however, its impact can be mitigated if GA powders are employed.
The development process of self‐acceptance among Chinese women with breast cancer
Authors: Chen Shuang‐Qin , Sun Ning , Ge Wei , Su Ji‐Er , Li Qian‐Ru
Published: December 2019

Aim

The development process of self‐acceptance in breast cancer survivors is a dynamic process that is poorly understood. The objective of the present study was to explore and delineate the dynamic progression toward self‐acceptance in Chinese women with breast cancer.

Methods

Data were collected through individual in‐depth face‐to‐face interviews with 20 women who had undergone treatment for breast cancer at the breast center in a large tertiary care hospital in Ningbo, China between September 2016 and June 2017. Data analysis occurred through the open, axial, and selective coding stages of grounded theory and used the constant comparative method.

Results

Based on the interviewer responses, one core category, three categories, and seven subcategories were identified that pertained to the process of self‐acceptance in Chinese women with breast cancer. The core category of self‐acceptance was normalization, returning to the pre‐illness state with an identity and image that conformed to the cultural norm. To reach normalization, women progressed through a crisis stage, a compromise stage, and a managing impressions stage.

Conclusion

This study proposes that self‐acceptance in breast cancer survivors is a dynamic and active process. Findings will inform the development of interventions that will provide structure and support to Chinese women with breast cancer.
Reduced association between dendritic cells and corneal sub‐basal nerve fibers in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome
Authors: Klitsch Alexander , Evdokimov Dimitar , Frank Johanna , Thomas Dominique , Saffer Nadine , Meyer zu Altenschildesche Caren , Sisignano Marco , Kampik Daniel , Malik Rayaz A. , Sommer Claudia , Üçeyler Nurcan
Published: December 2019

In our study, we aimed at investigating corneal langerhans cells (LC) in patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) and small fiber neuropathy (SFN) as potential contributors to corneal small fiber pathology. We enrolled women with FMS (n = 134) and SFN (n = 41) who underwent neurological examination, neurophysiology, prostaglandin analysis in tear fluid, and corneal confocal microscopy (CCM). Data were compared with those of 60 age‐matched female controls. After screening for dry eye disease, corneal LC were counted and sub‐classified as dendritic (dLC) and non‐dendritic (ndLC) cells with or without nerve fiber association. We further analyzed corneal nerve fiber density (CNFD), length (CNFL), and branch density (CNBD). Neurological examination indicated deficits of small fiber function in patients with SFN. Nerve conduction studies were normal in all participants. Dry eye disease was more prevalent in FMS (17%) and SFN (28%) patients than in controls (5%). Tear fluid prostaglandin levels did not differ between FMS patients and controls. While corneal LC density in FMS and SFN patients was not different from controls, there were fewer dLC in association with nerve fibers in FMS and SFN patients than in controls (P < .01 each). Compared to controls, CNFL was lower in FMS and SFN patients (P < .05 each), CNFD was lower only in FMS patients (P < .05), and CNBD was lower only in SFN patients (P < .001). There was no difference in any CCM parameter between patients with and without dry eyes. Our data indicate changes in corneal innervation and LC distribution in FMS and SFN, potentially based on altered LC signaling.
Ovule morphogenesis and structure in Menispermaceae, focusing on the development of the single fertile ovule and its systematic significance
Authors: Wang Lu , Yan Xiao‐Ling , Zhang Xiao‐Hui , Ren Yi
Published: December 2019

Menispermaceae is one of the core groups of Ranunculales. The single fertile ovule in each ovary in Menispermaceae varies greatly in integument number, micropyle formation, and integument lobe. However, data regarding ovule morphogenesis in the family are very limited. In this study, we document ovule development of selected species in the Menispermaceae using scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy. Ovule development in Menispermaceae shows the following characteristics. Two ovules are initiated in a young carpel, one of them degenerates gradually and the other develops into a fertile ovule in subsequent stages. Bitegmic in Sinomenium Diels. and Cocculus DC. and unitegmic in Stephania Lour. The formation of unitegmy is probably due to integumentary shifting. The annularly initiated inner integument is of dermal origin and has 2–3 cell layers in the family, but the semi‐annularly initiated outer integument is of both dermal and subdermal origin. Both inner and outer integument are cup‐shaped at maturity. The cup‐shaped outer integument is formed due to the outer integument's extension to the concave (adaxial) side of the funiculus. The obturator is well developed and consists of 2–3 cell layers in Cocculus or 9–11 cell layers in Stephania. Ovule development of Menispermaceae suggests some common characteristics between Cocculus and Sinomenium, and derived unitegmy supports molecular data that indicate Stephania is one of the late‐diverging lineages in the family. Integument lobations are present. The sterile ovule shows variations in the degeneration process. These results will provide evidence for exploring the evolution of ovules in Ranunculales.
Parental responsibility for pediatric ventricular assist devices: Views of families on the acceptability of hospital discharge
Authors: Crowe Lisa , Simpson Emma , Reinhardt Zdenka , Rankin Judith
Published: December 2019

Background

Paracorporeal pediatric VAD therapy requires hospital residency due to device and patient factors. Discharge home is potentially possible with a mobile driving unit. This study aimed to investigate family views on hospital discharge of a child on VAD.

Methods

Qualitative methodologies were adopted. We undertook 24 interviews of families who had a transplanted child previously on a VAD, and participant observations of two families who were current VAD patients residing in hospital.

Results

Families experienced overwhelming emotions as they spent time adjusting to the diagnosis, the need for transplant, family separation, and financial concerns. Despite many parents being partially/fully trained on the VAD, the majority would be reluctant to be discharged, fearing emergencies, high burden of care needs, and social isolation. Three families with a child on a Berlin Heart expressed willingness to reside in the hospital accommodation at least part‐time, to facilitate private family time. One child on HeartWare was discharged home, with another going through the discharge process. Discharge was not acceptable to most families if this meant downgrading their child's transplant listing urgency status.

Conclusion

Parents and children on VAD value independence and some private family time but not at the perceived expense of safety. Families preferred their child on VAD to remain resident in hospital even if mobility is improved with a mobile driving device. Parental education should acknowledge the high burden on families, risks of a remote setting and offer intermediate residency options. It cannot be assumed families want hospital discharge.
The association of frailty with oral cleaning habits and oral hygiene among elderly home care clients
Authors: Tuuliainen Eveliina , Nihtilä Annamari , Komulainen Kaija , Nykänen Irma , Hartikainen Sirpa , Tiihonen Miia , Suominen Anna Liisa
Published: December 2019

Background

Increasing numbers of frail elderly people living at home but dependent on supportive care will face complex oral health challenges.

Objectives

To investigate the associations of frailty status with oral cleaning habits and oral hygiene taking into account the effects of preventive oral health intervention among home care clients aged 75 or over.

Methods

Data were gathered by interviews and clinical oral examinations at baseline and after a 6‐month follow‐up. Frailty status was evaluated at baseline using the abbreviated comprehensive geriatric assessment (aCGA) scale, which consists of 15 questions from three different domains: cognitive status, functional status and depression. A total of 231 home care clients completed the aCGA at baseline and the interview and clinical oral examination both at baseline and after the follow‐up.

Results

Using the aCGA classification with at least one score in the ≥2 domain, 62% of clients were classified as frail at baseline. They had poorer oral cleaning habits and hygiene, and they had lost more teeth than nonfrail participants. Multivariate analysis showed that being frail at baseline was statistically significantly associated with a lower frequency of toothbrushing and denture cleaning (OR = 0.4, 95% CI = 0.1–0.9 and OR = 0.3, 95% CI = 0.1–0.8) at baseline, but not after the follow‐up. Membership in the intervention group was associated with better oral cleaning at the follow‐up. However, among the frail participants, toothbrushing frequency was still significantly lower and oral hygiene poorer than among the nonfrail group.

Conclusions

Oral cleaning habits of frail elderly people were slightly improved as a result of external support, which had a positive effect on oral hygiene. Individual preventive actions in the context of oral health and hygiene should be integrated into the daily care plan of home care clients with the first signs of frailty.
Change in basic need frustration in relation to perfectionism, anxiety, and performance in elite junior performers
Authors: Haraldsen Heidi M. , Solstad Bård Erlend , Ivarsson Andreas , Halvari Hallgeir , Abrahamsen Frank E.
Published: December 2019

The present study examined whether there were different growth profiles in basic need frustration in elite junior performers over a nine‐month period. Subsequently, we examined whether the identified growth profiles differed in their levels of perfectionistic strivings and evaluative concerns measured at baseline and, additionally, whether they were associated with higher or lower levels of anxiety and perceived performance level in the end of the period. A sample of 259 (Mage = 17.31; SDage = 0.97) elite junior performers from sports and performing arts completed an online questionnaire to report their self‐ratings of the study variables. The analyses were conducted using growth mixture modeling in Mplus 8.0. Two main contrasting growth profiles were identified in each of the basic need frustration. Perfectionistic strivings were overall higher than evaluative concerns, but did not differ between the growth profiles. Conversely, evaluative concerns differed significantly between the identified growth profiles. Higher levels of evaluative concerns were associated with the most maladaptive growth profiles. Indeed, elite junior performers, who experienced moderate and increasing levels of competence and autonomy frustration, reported higher levels of anxiety and lower levels of perceived performance level than those who reported low and decreasing levels of competence and autonomy frustration. Based on these findings, evaluative concerns and basic need frustration appear to play key roles in the development of maladaptive motivational processes over time.
Understanding donation frequency: insights from current plasma donors
Authors: Thorpe Rachel , Masser Barbara M. , Nguyen Lilly , Davison Tanya E.
Published: December 2019

Background and Objectives

Encouraging existing plasma donors to donate more frequently is a key objective for blood donation services committed to expanding yield through voluntary non‐remunerated plasmapheresis donation. This requires an understanding of donors’ perspectives on their current donation practice and how this relates to their knowledge and beliefs about the need for plasma. To explore this, Australian plasma donors were interviewed about how they arrived at the frequency at which they donate.

Materials and Methods

Semi‐structured telephone interviews were conducted with 105 Australian plasmapheresis donors.

Results

Key themes identified were as follows: fitting donation into busy lives and how ideas about being an ongoing donor and the institutional context shaped their perspective on frequency; perceptions of the impact of donation on health; and wanting to make a greater contribution.

Conclusion

Experienced plasma donors work to maintain a donation practice in the context of busy lives often by adopting a flexible approach to donation frequency. Their knowledge of the contribution their donations make is key to their continued donation, yet most identified constraints to donating more frequently. Health concerns were a particular concern for some, and more research is needed to understand donors’ perspectives on the impact of donating on their health.
Using an Integrated Multidimensional Scaling and Clustering Method to Reduce the Number of Scenarios Based on Flow-Unit Models Under Geological Uncertainties
Authors: Mahjour Seyed Kourosh , Correia Manuel Gomes , Santos Antonio Alberto de Souza dos , Schiozer Denis José
Published: December 2019

Understanding the role of geological uncertainties on reservoir management decisions requires an ensemble of reservoir models that cover the uncertain space of parameters. However, in most cases, high computation time is needed for the flow simulation step, which can have a negative impact on a suitable assessment of flow behavior. Therefore, one important point is to choose a few scenarios from the ensemble of models while preserving the geological uncertainty range. In this study, we present a statistical solution to select the representative models (RMs) based on a novel scheme of measuring the similarity between 3D flow-unit models. The proposed method includes the integration of multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis (IMC). IMC can be applied to the models before the simulation process to save time and costs. To check the validity of the methodology, numerical simulation and then uncertainty analysis are carried out on the RMs and full set. We create an ensemble of 200 3D flow-unit models through the Latin Hypercube sampling method. The models indicate the geological uncertainty range for properties such as permeability, porosity, and net-to-gross. This method is applied to a synthetic benchmark model named UNISIM-II-D and proves to offer good performance in reducing the number of models so that only 9% of the models in the ensemble (18 selected models from 200 models) can be sufficient for the uncertainty quantification if appropriate similarity measures and clustering methods are used.
Empirical modeling and Monte Carlo simulation of secondary electron yield reduction of laser drilled microporous gold surfaces
Authors: Iqbal Asif , Ludwick Jonathan , Fairchild Steven , Cahay Marc , Gortat Daniel , Sparkes Martin , O’Neill William , Back Tyson C. , Zhang Peng
Published: December 2019

This work investigates secondary electron yield (SEY) mitigation from a metal surface with a microporous array fabricated using the laser drilling technique. We propose a general empirical model to fit the experimentally measured SEY of a flat gold surface for normal and oblique incidences of primary electrons. Using this empirical model, we develop a two-dimensional Monte Carlo (MC) simulation scheme to determine the effective SEY of a microporous array. It is found that the SEY from a porous surface is significantly reduced compared to that of the flat surface. By taking into account all the generations of secondary electrons inside a well, our MC results are found to be in very good agreement with the experimental data. The dependence of the SEY on the aspect ratio of the micropores and porosity of the surface is examined. A simple empirical formula has been proposed to evaluate the effective SEY of the gold microporous array for pores of arbitrary aspect ratios.
Channel distortion on target scattering amplitude in shallow water
Authors: Zhang Ting , Yang T. C. , Xu Wen
Published: December 2019

Bistatic acoustic scattering uses echo returns from a target to estimate the scattered intensity or amplitude as a function of angle and frequency (acoustic color) for target classification. In a shallow water waveguide, the echo return from a target at a distance, such as a mine, is modified by the waveguide and deviates significantly from that at close range or in free space. The channel effect or distortion on the echo return is studied using simulated data. A simple frequency domain signal processing method is proposed to equalize the channel effect. The frequency and angle distribution of the estimated scattering function is compared with that of the original function. It is found to be an adequate representation of the original function with a high correlation coefficient (∼0.88).
Generation of vortex waves in non-coaxial cylindrical waveguides
Authors: Pilipchuk Artem S. , Pilipchuk Alina A. , Sadreev Almas F.
Published: December 2019

A non-coaxial waveguide composed of a cylindrical resonator of radius R and cylindrical waveguides with the radii r1 and r2, respectively, is considered. The radii satisfy the inequality r1<r2<R. The conversion from the channel with zero orbital angular momentum (OAM) into the channels with non-zero OAM is achieved by shifting the center lines of the waveguides relative to the center line of the cylindrical resonator. The center lines of input and output waveguides are shifted relative to each other by the angle Δϕ in order to twist the output acoustic wave. The conversion efficiency of the input wave with zero OAM into the output wave with non-zero OAM as dependent on the frequency, length of the resonator, and Δϕ is considered, and the domains where the efficiency can reach almost 100% are found.
Genome-Resolved Metagenomics Extends the Environmental Distribution of the
Verrucomicrobia
Phylum to the Deep Terrestrial Subsurface
Authors: Nixon Sophie L. , Daly Rebecca A. , Borton Mikayla A. , Solden Lindsey M. , Welch Susan A. , Cole David R. , Mouser Paula J. , Wilkins Michael J. , Wrighton Kelly C.
Published: December 2019

The
Verrucomicrobia
phylum of bacteria is widespread in many different ecosystems; however, its role in microbial communities remains poorly understood.
Verrucomicrobia
are often low-abundance community members, yet previous research suggests they play a major role in organic carbon degradation. While
Verrucomicrobia
remain poorly represented in culture collections, numerous genomes have been reconstructed from metagenomic data sets in recent years. The study of genomes from across the phylum allows for an extensive assessment of their potential ecosystem roles. The significance of this work is (i) the recovery of a novel genus of
Verrucomicrobia
from 2.3 km in the subsurface with the ability to withstand the extreme conditions that characterize this environment, and (ii) the most extensive assessment of ecophysiological traits encoded by
Verrucomicrobia
genomes to date. We show that members of this phylum are specialist organic polymer degraders that can withstand a wider range of environmental conditions than previously thought.
Paleosalinity assessment and its influence on source rock deposition in the western Pearl River Mouth Basin, South China Sea
Authors: Quan Yongbin , Liu Jianzhang , Hao Fang , Cai Zhongxian , Xie Yuhong
Published: December 2019

Paleosalinity is an important environmental feature but it is difficult to evaluate. In the present study, paleosalinity was assessed during the deposition of three sets of source rocks in the western Pearl River Mouth Basin, South China Sea, utilizing four different kinds of methods, i.e., saturated hydrocarbon biomarkers, strontium abundance, non-pollen microalgae assemblies, and carbon-sulfur relationships.

Results show that the second member of the Eocene Wenchang Formation (E2w2) was deposited in a freshwater environment and the Oligocene Zhuhai Formation (E3z) was deposited in a shallow marine environment. The Oligocene Enping Formation (E3e), which was believed to be deposited in a freshwater environment, was actually deposited in a brackish water environment. Mechanisms of salinity increase during the non-marine E3e deposition were mainly deep hydrothermal fluid input through the south boundary fault and episodic marine transgressions, not evaporation. The effect of salinity on organic matter content and type was investigated. Results show that salinity has no significant influence on total organic carbon (TOC) and hydrogen index (HI) of the E2w2, which was caused by the balance between freshwater algae and euryhaline algae. TOC and HI decrease with increasing salinity for samples from the E3z, which is contrary to the conventional hypothesis that marine transgressions promote source rock deposition. The decrease of TOC with carbon/sulfur ratios for samples from the E3e actually reflect the influence of thermal maturity but thermal maturity only plays the second role in HI. The effect of salinity on HI during the E3e deposition can be divided into two stages. During the first stage, the increase of salinity was mainly caused by deep hydrothermal fluid input without an oxygen level increase. HI values, therefore, remained relatively stable. During the secondary stage, the increase of salinity was mainly caused by marine transgressions which increased the oxygen level and as a consequence, HI decreased sharply with increasing salinity.

This study provides a long-term salinity evolution of the western Pearl River Mouth Basin and suggests that salinity is an important factor controlling source rock deposition. In addition, this study presents an example that goes against conventional wisdom that marine transgressions promote source rock deposition in a shallow marine environment. This study also suggested that marine transgressions had already begun at the end of the early Oligocene.
Trends in long-stay admissions to a UK paediatric intensive care unit
Authors: Kanthimathinathan Hari Krishnan , Plunkett Adrian , Scholefield Barnaby R , Pearson Gale A , Morris Kevin P
Published: December 2019

Objective

Prolonged admission to a paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) consumes significant healthcare resource. An increase in the number of long-stay admissions and bed utilisation has been reported elsewhere in the world but not in the UK. If an increasing trend of long-stay admissions is evident, this may have significant implications for provision of paediatric intensive care in the future.

Design/setting/patients

We retrospectively analysed prospectively collected data from Birmingham Children’s Hospital, UK, over a 20-year period from 1998 to 2017. PICU admissions, bed-days, length of stay and mortality trends were analysed and reported over four different epochs (1998–2002, 2003–2007, 2008–2012 and 2013–2017) for long-stay admissions (PICU length of stay ≥28 days) and others. Differences in patient demographics, diagnostic categorisation and hospital utilisation were also analysed.

Results

In total, 24 203 admissions accounted for 131 553 bed-days over the 20-year period. 705 (2.9%) long-stay admissions accounted for 42 312 (32%) bed-days. Proportion of long-stay admissions and corresponding bed-days increased from 1.6% and 20.5% in 1998–2002 to 4.5% and 42.6%, respectively, in 2013–2017 (p<0.001). Long-stay patients had a significantly higher number of hospital admissions (median: 4 vs 2, p<0.001) per patient and overall hospital length of stay (median: 98 vs 15, p<0.001) bed-days compared with other patients. Long-stay admissions were associated with significantly higher crude mortality (23% vs 6%, p<0.001) compared with other admissions.

Conclusions

A significant increase in the proportion of prolonged PICU admissions with disproportionately high resource utilisation and mortality is evident over two decades.
Are inequities decreasing? Birth registration for children under five in low-income and middle-income countries, 1999–2016
Authors: Bhatia Amiya , Krieger Nancy , Beckfield Jason , Barros Aluisio J D , Victora Cesar
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Although global birth registration coverage has improved from 58% to 71% among children under five globally, inequities in birth registration coverage by wealth, urban/rural location, maternal education and access to a health facility persist. Few studies examine whether inequities in birth registration in low-income and middle-income countries have changed over time.

Methods

We combined information on caregiver reported birth registration of 1.6 million children in 173 publicly available, nationally representative Demographic Health Surveys and Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys across 67 low-income and middle-income countries between 1999 and 2016. For each survey, we calculated point estimates and 95% CIs for the percentage of children under 5 years without birth registration on average and stratified by sex, urban/rural location and wealth. For each sociodemographic variable, we estimated absolute measures of inequality. We then examined changes in non-registration and inequities between surveys, and annually.

Results

14 out of 67 countries had achieved complete birth registration. Among the remaining 53 countries, 39 countries successfully decreased the percentage of children without birth registration. However, this reduction occurred alongside statistically significant increases in wealth inequities in 9 countries and statistically significant decreases in 10 countries. At the most recent survey, the percentage of children without birth registration was greater than 50% in 16 out of 67 countries.

Conclusion

Although birth registration improved on average, progress in reducing wealth inequities has been limited. Findings highlight the importance of monitoring changes in inequities to improve birth registration, to monitor Sustainable Development Goal 16.9 and to strengthen Civil Registration and Vital Statistics systems.
Randomised controlled trial to evaluate the influence of mHealth and eHealth skin cancer prevention education among young organ transplant recipients: the HIPPOlino intervention study
Authors: Böttcher Silke , Buck Christoph , Zeeb Hajo , Laschewski Gudrun , Hauer Carolin , Wagner Gunnar , Sachse Michael Max
Published: December 2019

Objectives

To determine whether a multicomponent sun protection intervention programme (mHealth) for young organ transplant recipients (OTR) leads to a higher increase of preventive knowledge and behavioural change than an e-learning education programme (eHealth).

Design

Randomised controlled trial with one preintervention baseline survey and three follow-up surveys after 6 weeks, 6 and 12 months. Comparison of two different intervention schedules with a control group (CG).

Setting

Multicomponent sun protection trainings in Germany, the Netherlands and Austria between June 2013 and September 2015.

Participants

137 OTRs (5–22 years of age, 61 females/76 males) participated in the study.

Interventions

(A) Intervention group 1 (IG1): personal training with subsequent forwarding of individual ultraviolet index-dependent sun protection recommendations via short message service (SMS); (B) intervention group 2 (IG2): e-learning training without SMS; (C) CG: regular information letters, online training after 1 year.

Outcome measures

Key questions were used to form a knowledge and a behavioural score. Behavioural strategies and knowledge were quantified through self-administered questionnaires.

Results

Analyses 6 weeks after the intervention showed a higher knowledge increase in both IG compared with the CG (IG1 to CG: OR 12.64, 95% CI 4.20 to 38.20; IG2 to CG: OR 2.59, 95% CI 0.95 to 7.04). Sun protection behaviour improved slightly but not significantly in both IG (IG1 to CG: OR 2.56, 95% CI 0.93 to 7.00; IG2 to CG: OR 1.22, 95% CI 0.45 to 3.32). One year after the intervention, no behavioural changes were observed in either IG compared with the CG. IG1 but not IG2 still scored significantly higher in sun protection knowledge than the CG 1 year after intervention (IG1 to CG: OR 4.46, 95% CI 1.48 to 13.43; IG2 to CG: OR 1.41, 95% CI 0.51 to 3.93).

Conclusions

This multicomponent sun protection programme provides a promising strategy to increase sun protection knowledge and possibly also protective behaviour in young OTR.

Trial registration number

DRKS00011393.