bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Warming enhances the stimulatory effect of algal exudates on dissolved organic carbon decomposition
Authors: Wyatt Kevin H. , Rober Allison R.
Published: August 2019

The current paradigm in peatland ecology is that the organic matter inputs from plant photosynthesis (e.g. moss litter) exceed that of decomposition, tipping the metabolic balance in favour of carbon (C) storage. Here, we investigated an alternative hypothesis, whereby exudates released by microalgae can actually accelerate C losses from the surface waters of northern peatlands by stimulating dissolved organic C (DOC) decomposition in a warmer environment expected with climate change. To test this hypothesis, we evaluated the biodegradability of fen DOC in a factorial design with and without algal DOC in both ambient (15°C) and elevated (20°C) water temperatures during a laboratory bioassay.

When DOC sources were evaluated separately, decomposition rates were higher in treatments with algal DOC only than with fen DOC only, indicating that the quality of the organic matter influenced degradability. A mixture of substrates (½ algal DOC + ½ fen DOC) exceeded the expected level of biodegradation (i.e. the average of the individual substrate responses) by as much as 10%, and the magnitude of this effect increased to more than 15% with warming.

Specific ultraviolet absorbance at 254 nm (SUVA254), a proxy for aromatic content, was also significantly higher (i.e. more humic) in the mixture treatment than expected from SUVA254 values in single substrate treatments.

Accelerated decomposition in the presence of algal DOC was coupled with an increase in bacterial biomass, demonstrating that enhanced metabolism was associated with a more abundant microbial community.

These results present an alternative energy pathway for heterotrophic consumers to breakdown organic matter in northern peatlands. Since decomposition in northern peatlands is often limited by the availability of labile organic matter, this mechanism could become increasingly important as a pathway for decomposition in the surface waters of northern peatlands where algae are expected to be more abundant in conditions associated with ongoing climate change.
Cortical Hyper‐Excitability in Migraine in Response to Chromatic Patterns
Authors: Haigh Sarah M. , Chamanzar Alireza , Grover Pulkit , Behrmann Marlene
Published: August 2019

Objective

Individuals with migraine exhibit heightened sensitivity to visual input that continues beyond their migraine episodes. However, the contribution of color to visual sensitivity, and how it relates to neural activity, has largely been unexplored in these individuals.

Background

Previously, it has been shown that, in non‐migraine individuals, patterns with greater chromaticity separation evoked greater cortical activity, regardless of hue, even when colors were isoluminant. Therefore, to investigate whether individuals with migraine experienced increased visual sensitivity, we compared the behavioral and neural responses to chromatic patterns of increasing separation in migraine and non‐migraine individuals.

Methods

Seventeen individuals with migraine (12 with aura) and 18 headache‐free controls viewed pairs of colored horizontal grating patterns that varied in chromaticity separation. Color pairs were either blue‐green, red‐green, or red‐blue. Participants rated the discomfort of the gratings and electroencephalogram was recorded simultaneously.

Results

Both groups showed increased discomfort ratings and larger N1/N2 event‐related potentials (ERPs) with greater chromaticity separation, which is consistent with increased cortical excitability. However, individuals with migraine rated gratings as being disproportionately uncomfortable and exhibited greater effects of chromaticity separation in ERP amplitude across occipital and parietal electrodes. Ratings of discomfort and ERPs were smaller in response to the blue‐green color pairs than the red‐green and red‐blue gratings, but this was to an equivalent degree across the 2 groups.

Conclusions

Together, these findings indicate that greater chromaticity separation increases neural excitation, and that this effect is heightened in migraine, consistent with the theory that hyper‐excitability of the visual system is a key signature of migraine.
Long‐Term Care Crisis in The Netherlands and Migration of Live‐in Care Workers: Transnational Trajectories, Coping Strategies and Motivation Mixes
Authors: Bruquetas‐Callejo María
Published: August 2019

The crisis of the welfare state has generated a powerful pulling effect for contemporary intra‐European migration flows. This article focuses on the migration of live‐in care workers from Central and East European countries to the Netherlands, following the Dutch care reform. It explores the motivations and strategies of live‐in migrant carers (LIMC) engaging in transnational mobility, aiming to understand how their agency is structured in multiple contexts. I am especially interested in transnational coping strategies and in how migrants pursue specific motivation mixes combining need and self‐realization. The article draws on in‐depth interviews with LIMC workers, triangulated with data from LIMC providers, family carers and other stakeholders. Participants use the LIMC jobs to cope with home and host country constraints, reconcile work and private life, and keep family ties. Continuous mobility is a strategic choice, which makes tough working conditions bearable and enables the achievement of long‐term goals.
The Care/Security Nexus of the Humanitarian Border: Assisted Return in Norway
Authors: Bendixsen Synnøve
Published: August 2019

While Assisted Return and deportation are frequently viewed as two different return policies, the first represented as humanitarian and the latter as enforcement, this article argues that there is a continuum between these policies and that they form part of humanitarian border enforcement. Drawing on policy document analysis and interviews with NGOs and with irregular migrants, the article provides a two‐level analysis by examining how AR is presented from the Norwegian governmental perspective and how it is experienced from the Afghan migrant perspectives. The article argues that the government bases its AR policy on the need to maintain the credibility and sustainability of the asylum system, as part of fighting crime, while presenting it as a humanitarian solution. For irregular migrants, however, the experienced lack of proper asylum procedures delegitimizes return policies. Overall, the performative aspects of humanitarianism in return policies contribute to depoliticizing return.
The validity and utility of violence risk assessment tools to predict patient violence in acute care settings: An integrative literature review
Authors: Ghosh Manonita , Twigg Di , Kutzer Yvonne , Towell‐Barnard Amanda , De Jong Gideon , Dodds Mary
Published: August 2019

To examine risk assessment tools to predict patient violence in acute care settings. An integrative review of the literature. Five electronic databases – CINAHL Plus, MEDLINE, OVID, PsycINFO, and Web of Science were searched between 2000 and 2018. The reference list of articles was also inspected manually. The PICOS framework was used to refine the inclusion and exclusion of the literature, and the PRISMA statement guided the search strategy to systematically present findings. Forty‐one studies were retained for review. Three studies developed or tested tools to measure patient violence in general acute care settings, and two described the primary and secondary development of tools in emergency departments. The remaining studies reported on risk assessment tools that were developed or tested in psychiatric inpatient settings. In total, 16 violence risk assessment tools were identified. Thirteen of them were developed to assess the risk of violence in psychiatric patients. Two of them were found to be accurate and reliable to predict violence in acute psychiatric facilities and have practical utility for general acute care settings. Two assessment tools were developed and administered in general acute care, and one was developed to predict patient violence in emergency departments. There is no single, user‐friendly, standardized evidence‐based tool available for predicting violence in general acute care hospitals. Some were found to be accurate in assessing violence in psychiatric inpatients and have potential for use in general acute care, require further testing to assess their validity and reliability.
Rare chemical burns: Review of the Literature
Authors: Akelma Hakan , Karahan Zeki A.
Published: August 2019

There are many chemicals that can cause burns. Although they are generally acidic and basic in nature, there are more than one million known chemical compounds, of which 300 have been declared highly hazardous chemical substances by the National Fire Protection Society. Chemical burns account for approximately 10.7% of all burn injuries and 30% of deaths because of burns. Chemicals can be classified as acid, alkali, organic, and inorganic compounds. Acids act by denaturing and coagulating proteins. Alkaline burns cause deeper burns than acid burns.
The effect of music intervention on patients with cancer‐related pain: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Yangöz Şefika Tuğba , Özer Zeynep
Published: August 2019

Aim

To synthesize the effect of music intervention on patients with cancer‐related pain in randomized controlled trials.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials following Cochrane methods.

Data resources

Systematic searches were conducted in Science Direct, Web of Science, Springer Link, Networked Digital Library of Theses & Dissertations, Ovid, CINAHL, Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Proquest, Council of Higher Education National Thesis Center, ULAKBIM Turkish National Databases for studies published in English and Turkish without year limitation. The review period covered 1978–March 2018.

Review methods

The risk of bias of eligible studies was evaluated by two researchers using the Cochrane Collaboration tool.

Results

Six studies with 593 participants met the inclusion criteria. Music intervention was generally applied by the passive listening method, which ranged from 30–60 min and 1–3 sessions. No significant publication bias was found in the main outcomes. As a result of the meta‐analysis, it was found that music interventions have a moderate effect on cancer‐related pain.

Conclusion

Music intervention can have a positive effect on the management of cancer pain. The studies reported no adverse events. Nurses can use music intervention to manage cancer‐related pain.

Impact

The meta‐analysis addressed the effect of music intervention on cancer‐related pain. The statistical result indicates that music intervention was moderately effective in cancer‐related pain. The findings of this study will contribute to the application of effective music intervention by nurses and will provide guidance for the development of studies related to the effect of music intervention on cancer‐related pain.
Qualitative evidence syntheses: Assessing the relative contributions of multi‐context and single‐context reviews
Authors: Booth Andrew , Mshelia Suleiman , Analo Chukwudi V. , Nyakang'o Sarange Brenda
Published: August 2019

Aims

To examine the strengths and weaknesses of multi‐context (international) qualitative evidence syntheses in comparison with single‐context (typically single‐country) reviews. We compare a multi‐country synthesis with single‐context syntheses on facility‐based delivery in Nigeria and Kenya.

Design

Discussion paper.

Background

Qualitative evidence increasingly contributes to decision‐making. International organizations commission multi‐context reviews of qualitative evidence to gain a comprehensive picture of similarities and differences across comparable (e.g., low‐ and middle‐income) countries. Such syntheses privilege breadth over contextual detail, risking inappropriate interpretation and application of review findings. Decision‐makers value single‐context syntheses that account for the contexts of their populations and health services. We explore how findings from multi‐ and single‐context syntheses contribute against a conceptual framework (adequacy, coherence, methodological limitations and relevance) that underpins the GRADE Confidence in Evidence of Reviews of Qualitative Evidence approach.

Data sources

Included studies and findings from a multi‐context qualitative evidence synthesis (2001–2013) and two single‐context syntheses (Nigeria, 2006–2017; and Kenya, 2002–2016; subsequently updated and revised).

Findings

Single‐context reviews contribute cultural, ethnic and religious nuances and specific health system factors (e.g., use of a voucher system). Multi‐context reviews contribute to universal health concerns and to generic health system concerns (e.g., access and availability).

Implications for nursing

Nurse decision‐makers require relevant, timely and context‐sensitive evidence to inform clinical and managerial decision‐making. This discussion paper informs future commissioning and use of multi‐ and single‐context qualitative evidence syntheses.

Conclusion

Multi‐ and single‐context syntheses fulfil complementary functions. Single‐context syntheses add nuances not identifiable in the remit and timescales of a multi‐context review.

Impact

This study offers a unique comparison between multi‐context and single country (Nigeria and Kenya) qualitative syntheses exploring facility‐based birth.

Clear strengths and weaknesses were identified to inform commissioning and application of future syntheses.

Characteristics can inform the commissioning of single‐ and multi‐context nursing‐oriented reviews across the world.
Long term assessment of root coverage stability using connective tissue graft with or without an epithelial collar for gingival recession treatment. A 12‐year follow‐up from a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Barootchi Shayan , Tavelli Lorenzo , Di Gianfilippo Riccardo , Byun Ho‐Young , Oh Tae‐Ju , Barbato Luigi , Cairo Francesco , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: August 2019

Aim

To evaluate the long term root coverage outcomes of coronally advanced flap plus a connective tissue graft with (CAF + CTG) or without an epithelial collar (CAF + ECTG), and evaluate the adjacent treated sites included in the flap.

Methods

Seventeen of the original 20 subjects included in the randomized clinical trial were available at 12 years (43 sites). Mean root coverage (mRC), keratinized tissue width (KTW), gingival thickness (GT) on the grafted and adjacent sites were evaluated and compared with baseline and 6 months.

Result

There was a reduction in the mRC at all sites: 16.52% in the CAF + CTG (p > .05), 19.42% in the CAF + ECTG (p < .05) and 34.12% in the CAF‐alone (adjacent treated sites) group (p < .05). No significant differences were observed within the groups for changes in KTW, GT and clinical attachment level (CAL) (p > .05). Keratinized tissue width at baseline and at 6 months was found to be predictors for the stability of the gingival margin in the long term.

Conclusions

CAF + CTG and CAF + ECTG were found equally efficacious in maintaining the levels of the gingival margin with a small amount of relapse over the period of 12 years while CAF‐alone sites showed a greater gingival recession (GR) reoccurrence.
Distinct developmental trajectories of body mass index and diabetes risk: A 5‐year longitudinal study of Chinese adults
Authors: Dai Haijiang , Li Fei , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Wang Jiangang , Chen Zhiheng , Yuan Hong , Lu Yao
Published: August 2019

Aims/Introduction

This longitudinal study aimed to explore whether distinct developmental trajectories of body mass index (BMI) would be predictive of diabetes risk in general Chinese adults.

Materials and Methods

A total of 4,519 participants aged >18 years who were free of diabetes in 2011 (baseline of the current analysis) were enrolled in this study. All participants completed a medical examination every year during 2011–2016, and BMI levels were measured two to six (average 5.6) times. Group‐based trajectory modeling was applied to identify BMI trajectories over time. New‐onset diabetes was confirmed in 2016.

Results

During 2011–2016, four distinct BMI trajectories were identified according to BMI range and changing pattern over time: “low” (19.6%), “moderate” (33.4%), “moderate‐high” (33.4%) and “high” (13.6%). A total of 168 (3.7%) new‐onset diabetes cases were confirmed in 2016. Compared with the “low” BMI trajectory, participants in the “high” BMI trajectory were at significantly higher risk for new‐onset diabetes (adjusted relative risk 3.24, 95% confidence interval 1.27–8.24). Notably, BMI trajectories based on the first four or three annual BMI tests yielded similar results. By contrast, no significant correlation was found between categories of baseline BMI and new‐onset diabetes in 2016 after multivariate adjustment.

Conclusions

The present results show that distinct BMI trajectories, even identified using just four or three annual BMI tests, are significantly associated with new‐onset diabetes. Monitoring BMI trajectories over time might provide an important approach to identify subpopulations at higher risk for developing diabetes.
First isolation of Flavobacterium psychrophilum associated with reports of moribund wild European eel (Anguilla anguilla) in Scotland
Authors: Soares Sílvia M. C. , Walker Amanda , Elwenn Svenja A. , Bayliss Sion , Garden Alison , Stagg Hannah E. B. , Munro Eann S.
Published: August 2019

In late April 2015, the River Dee Trust informed Marine Scotland Science, Fish Health Inspectorate (FHI), that there had been observations of dead and moribund European eels on the River Dee. Later in May, the Spey Fishery Board also reported a number of moribund European eels in a rotary screw smolt trap on the River Spey. In total, 10 cases involving moribund eels were investigated in 2015 and one case in 2016. In addition, a health screen was conducted to investigate the potential presence of Flavobacterium psychrophilum in healthy eels and Atlantic salmon from the River Dee in 2015. Externally, the diseased eels demonstrated white patches in different locations of the body. In all cases, F. psychrophilum was detected by bacterial isolation and/or molecular methods. Three isolates were further characterized by whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) as belonging to sequence type 15 (ST15). Histological examination of diseased European eels revealed lesions at the level of the integument. The pathogen screen for F. psychrophilum in wild healthy fish tested negative by PCR. Further investigation is required to understand the pathogenicity of this bacterium on the health of eels and the potential impact on the wild salmonid population.
Baseline and kinetics of serum hepatitis B virus RNA predict response to pegylated interferon‐based therapy in patients with hepatitis B e antigen‐negative chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Limothai Umaporn , Chuaypen Natthaya , Poovorawan Kittiyod , Chotiyaputta Watcharasak , Tanwandee Tawesak , Poovorawan Yong , Tangkijvanich Pisit
Published: August 2019

Serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) RNA has emerged as a novel biomarker of treatment response. This study aimed to investigate the role of this marker in predicting long‐term outcome of patients with hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)‐negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB) receiving pegylated interferon (PEG‐IFN)‐based therapy. Serial serum samples from 91 patients with HBeAg‐negative CHB previously treated with PEG‐IFN alone or combined with entecavir in a randomized trial were retrospectively analysed. HBV RNA quantification was examined by droplet digital PCR. At the end of 3 years post‐treatment follow‐up, maintained virological response (MVR, HBV DNA < 2000 IU/mL), and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) clearance were achieved in 37.4% (34/91) and 7.7% (7/91), respectively. Baseline serum HBV RNA concentrations correlated with HBV DNA and covalently closed circular DNA but did not correlate with HBsAg levels. Multiple regression analysis showed that pre‐treatment HBV RNA and HBsAg were independently associated with MVR and HBsAg clearance. Baseline HBV RNA (cut‐off 2.0 log10 copies/mL) had a positive predictive value (PPV) and a negative predictive value in predicting MVR of 80.8% and 80.0%, respectively. At the same cut‐off value, PPV and NPV for predicting HBsAg clearance were 30.8% and 95.4%, respectively. At week 12 during therapy, HBV RNA level ≥ 2 log10 copies/mL displayed high NPVs of achieving MVR and HBsAg clearance (95% and 100%, respectively). In conclusion, the measurement of HBV RNA prior to PEG‐IFN‐based therapy could identify patients with high probability of MVR. In addition, HBV RNA kinetics may serve as a promising “stopping rule” in patients infected with HBV genotypes B or C.
See, Touch, and Feel: Enhancing Young Children's Empathy Learning Through a Tablet Game
Authors: Wu Ling , Kim Minkang
Published: August 2019

Ongoing research is providing new insights into the biological rudiments of empathy and its neurobiological underpinnings. There is also growing awareness that tablet technology, when used educationally and ethically, can aid adolescents and young‐adults' empathic learning. However, there has been little attempt globally to translate this new knowledge into the learning and teaching of empathy in early years education. This small‐scale study aimed at enhancing 3–6‐year‐olds' empathy by designing a tablet game and evaluating its developmental impact by combining teachers' observation with pre‐electroencephalogram (EEG) and post‐EEG. Children in one Australian preschool, were invited to (1) attend to and perceive emotionally salient events in a story, (2) actively share the emotions of the characters identified, and (3) take others' perspectives, reasoning why a given emotion arises within the context. Repeated measures analysis of both EEG and observation data indicate that interacting with the tablet game enhanced participating preschoolers' empathic learning.
Genomic signatures and co‐occurrence patterns of the ultra‐small Saccharimonadia (phylum CPR/Patescibacteria) suggest a symbiotic lifestyle
Authors: Lemos Leandro N. , Medeiros Julliane D. , Dini‐Andreote Francisco , Fernandes Gabriel R. , Varani Alessandro M. , Oliveira Guilherme , Pylro Victor S.
Published: August 2019

The size of bacterial genomes is often associated with organismal metabolic capabilities determining ecological breadth and lifestyle. The recently proposed Candidate Phyla Radiation (CPR)/Patescibacteria encompasses mostly unculturable bacterial taxa with relatively small genome sizes with potential for co‐metabolism interdependencies. As yet, little is known about the ecology and evolution of CPR, particularly with respect to how they might interact with other taxa. Here, we reconstructed two novel genomes (namely, Candidatus Saccharibacter sossegus and Candidatus Chaer renensis) of taxa belonging to the class Saccharimonadia within the CPR/Patescibacteria using metagenomes obtained from acid mine drainage (AMD). By testing the hypothesis of genome streamlining or symbiotic lifestyle, our results revealed clear signatures of gene losses in these genomes, such as those associated with de novo biosynthesis of essential amino acids, nucleotides, fatty acids and cofactors. In addition, co‐occurrence analysis provided evidence supporting potential symbioses of these organisms with Hydrotalea sp. in the AMD system. Together, our findings provide a better understanding of the ecology and evolution of CPR/Patescibacteria and highlight the importance of genome reconstruction for studying metabolic interdependencies between unculturable Saccharimonadia representatives.
Photosynthesis across African cassava germplasm is limited by Rubisco and mesophyll conductance at steady state, but by stomatal conductance in fluctuating light
Authors: De Souza Amanda P. , Wang Yu , Orr Douglas J. , Carmo‐Silva Elizabete , Long Stephen P.
Published: August 2019

Sub‐Saharan Africa is projected to see a 55% increase in food demand by 2035, where cassava (Manihot esculenta) is the most widely planted crop and a major calorie source. Yet, cassava yield in this region has not increased significantly for 13 yr. Improvement of genetic yield potential, the basis of the first Green Revolution, could be realized by improving photosynthetic efficiency. First, the factors limiting photosynthesis and their genetic variability within extant germplasm must be understood.

Biochemical and diffusive limitations to leaf photosynthetic CO2 uptake under steady state and fluctuating light in 13 farm‐preferred and high‐yielding African cultivars were analyzed. A cassava leaf metabolic model was developed to quantify the value of overcoming limitations to leaf photosynthesis.

At steady state, in vivo Rubisco activity and mesophyll conductance accounted for 84% of the limitation. Under nonsteady‐state conditions of shade to sun transition, stomatal conductance was the major limitation, resulting in an estimated 13% and 5% losses in CO2 uptake and water use efficiency, across a diurnal period. Triose phosphate utilization, although sufficient to support observed rates, would limit improvement in leaf photosynthesis to 33%, unless improved itself.

The variation of carbon assimilation among cultivars was three times greater under nonsteady state compared to steady state, pinpointing important overlooked breeding targets for improved photosynthetic efficiency in cassava.
Brain flexibility associated with need for cognition contributes to creative achievement
Authors: He Li , Zhuang Kaixiang , Li Yu , Sun Jiangzhou , Meng Jie , Zhu Wenfeng , Mao Yu , Chen Qunlin , Chen Xiaoyi , Qiu Jiang
Published: August 2019

Advances in graph‐theoretic models of networks have made it possible to investigate the topological properties of the human brain across time and space. Brain flexibility is defined as the frequency with which brain regions switch between different functional modules over time and has been shown to correlate with higher‐order cognitive functions. Need for cognition (NFC) refers to a personality trait to engage in and enjoy effortful cognitive endeavors and usually has a positive effect on diverse cognitive activities (e.g., creativity), which may also be closely related to brain flexibility. Here, we tested whether the flexibility of a large‐scale brain network associated with NFC facilitated creative achievement. Robust correlation analyses showed that NFC correlates with the flexibility of the insula, the medial prefrontal cortex, and the putamen at the node level. Several large‐scale brain networks whose flexibility also correlated with NFC, including the default mode network, salience network, subcortical network, ventral attention network, and control network, imply that higher NFC individuals may exhibit better cognitive abilities, such as executive control, salient detection, spontaneous thought, and motivation function. Interestingly, only global flexibility acted as a mediator in the relationship between NFC and creative achievement, suggesting that the mediating mechanism may involve an interaction between distinct regions or large‐scale networks across the entire brain instead of the functional characteristic of local regions. Together, we demonstrate that the higher NFC is, the more flexible the brain, which may provide a potential insight into the acquisition of creative achievement.
Deep and Proximate Determinants of the World Income Distribution
Authors: Fiaschi Davide , Lavezzi Andrea Mario , Parenti Angela
Published: August 2019

This paper studies the deep and proximate determinants of the evolution of the cross‐country distribution of GDP per worker in the period 1960–2008 by a novel method based on an information criterion. We find that countries of our sample follow three distinctive growth regimes identified by two deep determinants, namely life expectancy at birth in 1960 and the share of Catholics in 1965, and that each regime is characterized by non‐linearities. Growth regimes appear to be the main cause of the increased inequality and polarization, while technological catch‐up, proxied by the initial level of GDP per worker, acts in the opposite direction. Finally, human capital marginally reduces polarization, while investment rates and employment growth have no distributional effect.
An extreme wave event in eastern Yucatán, Mexico: Evidence of a palaeotsunami event during the Mayan times
Authors: Lario Javier , Spencer Chris , Bardají Teresa , Marchante Ángel , Garduño‐monroy Victor H. , Macias Jorge , Ortega Sergio
Published: August 2019

The Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, has typically been considered a tectonically stable region with little significant seismic activity. The region though, is one that is regularly affected by hurricanes. A detailed survey ofca100 km of the eastern Yucatán and Cozumel coast identified the presence of ridges containing individual boulders measuring >1 m in length. The boulder ridges reach 5 m in height and their origin is associated with extreme wave event activity. Previously modelled tsunami waves from known seismically active zones in the region (Muertos Thrust Belt and South Caribbean Deformed Belt) are not of sufficient scale in the area of the Yucatán Peninsula to have produced the boulder ridges recorded in this study. The occurrence of hurricanes in this region is more common, but two of the most destructive (Hurricane Gilbert 1988 and Hurricane Wilma 2005) produced coastal waves too small to have created the ridges recorded here. In this paper, a new tsunami model with a source area located on the Motagua/Swan Island Fault System has been generated that indicates a tsunami event may have caused the extreme wave events that resulted in the deposition of the boulder ridges.
Gatekeeping disability income support: A conceptual model
Authors: McAllister Ashley
Published: August 2019

In most developed countries, disability income support caseloads are on the rise. Little empirical knowledge exists, however, about how policy‐makers design these programmes, contributing to caseload growth. This article specifically explores how the boundary between who is eligible and who is not for disability income support is drawn in Australia and Canada. Forty‐five interviews were conducted between March 2012 and September 2013 with informants who were or are currently involved in designing disability income support in these jurisdictions. Analysis followed the fundamental steps of grounded theory. Findings revealed that the informants describe this process as “gatekeeping,” which can be subdivided into two stages: (a) establishing the gate (definition of disability) and (b) operating the gate (who interprets the definition and how). I present the results using a conceptual model I developed, deconstructing each stage of the process of gatekeeping into discrete units of analysis. The model is useful for future comparative studies, providing a historical perspective and allows policy researchers to concentrate on specific aspects of the process in detail, which could lead to finding solutions to the challenges related to disability income support.
Phylogenomic analysis of UDP‐dependent glycosyltransferases provides insights into the evolutionary landscape of glycosylation in plant metabolism
Authors: Wilson Alexander E. , Tian Li
Published: August 2019

Glycosylated metabolites generated by UDP‐dependent glycosyltransferases (UGTs) play critical roles in plant interactions with the environment as well as human and animal nutrition. The evolution of plant UGTs has previously been explored, but with a limited taxon sampling. In this study, 65 fully sequenced plant genomes were analyzed, and stringent criteria for selection of candidate UGTs were applied to ensure a more comprehensive taxon sampling and reliable sequence inclusion. In addition to revealing the overall evolutionary landscape of plant UGTs, the phylogenomic analysis also resolved the phylogenetic association of UGTs from free‐sporing plants and gymnosperms, and identified an additional UGT group (group R) in seed plants. Furthermore, lineage‐specific expansions and contractions of UGT groups were detected in angiosperms, with the total number of UGTs per genome remaining constant generally. The loss of group Q UGTs in Poales and Brassicales, rather than functional convergence in the group Q containing species, was supported by a gene tree of group Q UGTs sampled from many species, and further corroborated by the absence of group Q homologs on the syntenic chromosomal regions in Arabidopsis thaliana (Brassicales). Branch‐site analyses of the group Q UGT gene tree allowed for identification of branches and amino acid sites that experienced episodic positive selection. The positively selected sites are located on the surface of a representative group Q UGT (PgUGT95B2), away from the active site, suggesting their role in protein folding/stability or protein–protein interactions.
Quality of red blood cell and platelet concentrates after transportation by a pneumatic tube system
Authors: Kobayashi Kiyoko , Ebihara Yasuhiro , Asami Ikuko , Kinoshita Hiromi , Tanazawa Takashi , Taji Yoshitada , Ishida Akaru , Ikebuchi Kenji
Published: August 2019

Background and objectives

Pneumatic tube systems (PTSs) are used in some hospitals to transport patients’ specimens. We investigated the feasibility of applying PTS for blood products for transfusion in our hospital.

Materials and methods

We transported red blood cells (RBCs) and platelet concentrates (PCs) by the PTS and measured biomarkers such as red cell haemolysis and platelet dysfunction before and after one‐way transportation, in addition, after one‐way transportation for three consecutive times by PTS.

Results

Using 25 RBCs, K, free Hb, Hb, LD, AST and pH were compared before and after transportation. There were no significant differences. Haemolysis rates ranging between 0·13% and 0·35% were acceptable under the guideline. Using 6 PCs, platelet concentration, aggregation and activation function were examined. There were no significant differences before and after transportation. Positive rates of CD62P ranging between 3·1% and 11·4% showed no remarkable changes after the transportation. After the third consecutive transportation, LD and AST were slightly increased. However, haemolysis rate changed from 0·16% to 0·21%, again stayed in guideline level. As for platelet products, platelet aggregation activities to collagen (approximately 80%) did not change significantly.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that PTS is feasible for transporting them since one‐ and three‐time transportation by PTS does not appear to influence the important quality of RBCs and PCs. In our hospital, we have applied PTS for the transportation of blood products without major troubles such as loss of products or transfusion‐related adverse events.
FLEXURAL STRENGTH TEST OF PRECAST INDUSTRIALISED BUILDING SYSTEM BEAM-CORBEL CONNECTION
Authors: Yip Chun-Chieh , Wong Jing-Ying , Lim Xiao-Phen
Published: August 2019

Industrialised Building Systems (IBS) involves offsite fabrication in a systematic and controlled environment. The aim of this research is to determine the structural performance of newly enhanced column corbel support for IBS industry application. However, there is no solid data to support the industry in producing safe and reliable IBS structure with newly enhanced prototype. Hence, the objectives of this research paper are to identify failure behaviour, flexural strength, maximum deflection and ductility of the IBS beam to column corbel connection. Scaled 1:5 IBS beams with column supports were prepared according to Buckingham and Similitude Theorem. Result contribution of five specimens were obtained from the flexural strength test. The scaled beam has maximum flexural resistance of 2.2 kNm and deflection of 7 mm. The projected flexural resistance for full scale beam is 1265.6 kNm with ultimate load deflection of 35 mm. Failure behaviours such as shear cracking, flexural cracking and concrete crushing have been identified. The average ductility of the specimen was 3.23 which is higher than 3.0 from PCI design handbook. The newly improved specimen has the load bearing improvement of 32%. Thus, this research has positive outcome that could improve the confident level of the industry user toward this product.
ISOLATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF MICROALGAE FROM HIGH NITRATE LANDFILL LEACHATE
Authors: Nordin Norazela , Samsudin Syakirah , Yusof Norjan
Published: August 2019

This study aims to isolate and identify microalgae capable of growing in high nitrate (N-NO3-) landfill leachate. Source of isolation was collected from a landfill leachate treatment plant and identified according to morphological characteristics and analysis of partial 18S and 28S rRNA genes. The isolates, identified as Chlorella vulgaris UPSI-JRM01 and Tetradesmus obliquus UPSI-JRM02 were capable of growing at high N-NO3- concentration of nitrified landfill leachate, which is up to 1500 mg/L. The biomass productivities of Chlorella vulgaris and Tetradesmus obliquus were 36.28 mg/L/day and 40.49 mg/L/day, with 44% and 37% N-NO3- removal, respectively. The biomass of Chlorella vulgaris and Tetradesmus obliquus consisted of 17.72% and 16.32% lipid and, 21.93% and 25.43% carbohydrate, respectively. The protein contents (>50%) were higher than lipid and carbohydrate contents for both microalgal species. The newly isolated microalgae species will be useful for future applications of high NO3- wastewater treatment and microalgae biomass production.
Exploring the Researcher’s Motivations for University Governance Some Configurations in the African Context
Authors: TIOUMAGNENG André
Published: August 2019

The University governance is constantly in crisis in many developing countries especially in Africa. This article is built around the idea that this question cannot be addressed without a prior reflection on the personal expectations that determine the researchers´ commitment in their work. Our objective is to contribute to better understanding the researchers’ motivations when they decide to publish articles, to write or supervise theses. The study considers the field of Management Sciences where the conceptual debate concerning the value of research rarely mentions what the researcher earn for himself. Data were collected through comprehensive interviews with 55 researchers of two Cameroonian Universities. The analysis puts forth five configurations of motivations that are likely to inspire the deepen reflections on local Universities governance reform.
Factors associated with breast cancer screening participation among women in mainland China: a systematic review
Authors: Wu Zijing , Liu Yu , Li Xiaohan , Song Bing , Ni Cuiping , Lin Frances
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Although detecting breast cancer at an early stage through screening has been clearly shown to be an effective strategy, the screening participation rate in China remains low. This systematic review sought to synthesise the current evidence to identify factors associated with breast cancer screening participation among women in mainland China.

Design

This study was a systematic review.

Data sources

Studies were collected from PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, EMBASE and three major Chinese databases, specially China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chongqing VIP and Wanfang Data.

Eligibility criteria

All included papers were original research studies with a longitudinal or cross-sectional study design that considered associated factors of breast cancer screening participation among women in mainland China.

Data extraction and synthesis

Study selection, data extraction and quality assessment were conducted independently by two reviewers, involving a third to help reach a consensus when necessary. Primary outcomes of interest included factors associated with breast cancer screening participation.

Results

A total of 19 studies were included in this review. Based on these studies, geographical region, a personal history of breast disease, past screening behaviours for breast disease, physical examination and the availability of medical specialists/equipment for breast examination were consistently associated with participation in breast cancer screening, while residential area, ethnicity and attitude towards breast cancer screening appeared to be associated with participation in breast cancer screening. There were additionally some factors with even more limited evidence with which to ascertain their association with screening participation.

Conclusions

There exists a wide range of factors that influence breast cancer screening participation in mainland China. These findings could help to inform future research and policy efforts.
Introduction and adoption of innovative invasive procedures and devices in the NHS: an in-depth analysis of written policies and qualitative interviews (the INTRODUCE study protocol)
Authors: Cousins Sian , Richards Hollie , Zahra Jesmond , Elliott Daisy , Avery Kerry , Robertson Harry F , Paramasivan Sangeetha , Wilson Nicholas , Mathews Johnny , Tolkien Zoe , Main Barry G , Blencowe Natalie S , Hinchliffe Robert , Blazeby Jane M
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Innovation is key to improving outcomes in healthcare. Innovative pharmaceutical products undergo rigorous phased research evaluation before they are introduced into practice. The introduction of innovative invasive procedures and devices is much less rigorous and phased research, including randomised controlled trials, is not always undertaken. While the innovator (usually a surgeon) may introduce a new or modified procedure/device within the context of formal research, they may also be introduced by applying for local National Health Service (NHS) organisation approval alone. Written policies for the introduction of new procedures and/or devices often form part of this local clinical governance infrastructure; however, little is known about their content or use in practice. This study aims to systematically investigate how new invasive procedures and devices are introduced in NHS England and Wales.

Methods and analysis

An in-depth analysis of written policies will be undertaken. This will be supplemented with interviews with key stakeholders. All acute NHS trusts in England and Health Boards in Wales will be systematically approached and asked to provide written policies for the introduction of new invasive procedures and devices. Information on the following will be captured: (1) policy scope, including when new procedures should be introduced within a formal research framework; (2) requirements for patient information provision; (3) outcome reporting and/or monitoring. Data will be extracted using a standardised form developed iteratively within the study team. Semistructured interviews with medical directors, audit and governance leads, and surgeons will explore views regarding the introduction of new invasive procedures into practice, including knowledge of and implementation of current policies.

Ethics and dissemination

In-depth analysis of written policies does not require ethics approval. The University of Bristol Ethics Committee (56522) approved the interview component of the study. Findings from this work will be presented at appropriate conferences and will be published in peer-reviewed journals.
Using patient-reported outcomes to manage postoperative symptoms in patients with lung cancer: protocol for a multicentre, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Dai Wei , Zhang Yuanqiang , Feng Wenhong , Liao Xiaoqing , Mu Yunfei , Zhang Rui , Wei Xing , Wu Chuanmei , Xie Shaohua , Li Qiang , Shi Qiuling
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Surgery is one of the primary treatments for lung cancer. The postoperative symptom burden experienced by patients with lung cancer is substantial, seriously delaying their recovery from surgery and impairing their quality of life. Patient-reported outcome (PRO)-based symptom management is increasingly regarded as an optimal model for patient-centred care. Currently, clinical trial-based evidence involving early-phase (immediately after surgery for up to 1 month) symptom management of lung cancer is lacking. We propose a randomised trial to evaluate the effect of a PRO-based symptom-monitoring programme with overthreshold alerts and responses for postoperative recovery in patients with lung cancer.

Methods and analysis

The study will recruit 160 patients with lung cancer from six hospitals. The patients will be randomly allocated to the intervention group or control group in a ratio of 1:1. Patients in the intervention group will receive PRO-based symptom management from the specialists when their reported target symptom (pain, coughing, fatigue, disturbed sleep and shortness of breath) scores reach the preset threshold (score ≥4). Patients in the control group will not generate alerts and will follow the standard procedures for symptom management. All patients will receive symptom assessments via the MD Anderson Symptom Inventory—lung cancer module on the day before surgery, daily after surgery and twice a week after discharge until 4 weeks or the start of postoperative oncological treatment. The primary outcome—mean symptom threshold events—will be compared between the intervention and control group via independent sample Student’s t-test.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Sichuan Cancer Hospital on 22 November 2018 (No. SCCHEC-02-2018-045). This manuscript is based on V.2.0, 9 May 2019 of the protocol. The study results will be disseminated in publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at academic conferences.

Trials registration number

ChiCTR1900020846.
Neuroimaging biomarkers of psychogenic erectile dysfunction: protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Yin Tao , Li Zhengjie , Xiong Jing , Lan Lei , Sun Ruirui , Ren Feiqiang , Zhang Peihai
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the most common male sexual disorder that severely impacts the sexual performance and quality of life of men. As the main subtype of ED, psychogenic ED (pED) has been demonstrated to be a genitourinary disease and also associated with alterations in both brain structure and function. However, the scattered neuroimaging evidence from individual studies has not yet been integrated, and the central pathological alterations associated with pED remain unclear. The objective of this systematic review is to integrate and assess the evidence of the impact of pED on brain structure and function.

Methods and analysis

Five databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, China Biology Medicine Database and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI)) will be systematically searched from inception to 1 October 2019 (the anticipated completion date of this review), with language restricted to English and Chinese. Studies focusing on the structural or functional alterations in patients with pED will be retrieved. The study selection process will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline and quality assessment will be conducted with a customised checklist. After data extraction, a qualitative review will be performed to synthesise the structural and functional brain alterations as well as the correlations between the altered cerebral structures and functions and the clinical characteristics of patients with pED. If the collected data make it feasible, an activation likelihood estimation meta-analysis will also be launched.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required as primary data will not be collected. This review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019117206.