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About 60% of marine vessels' power is consumed to overcome friction resistance between the hull and water. Air lubrication can effectively reduce this resistance and lower fuel consumption, and consequently emissions. This study aims to analyze the use of a gas-injected liquid lubrication system (GILLS) to reduce friction resistance in a real-world scenario. A 3D computational fluid dynamics model is adopted to analyse how a full-scale ship (the Sea Transport Solutions Designed Catamaran ROPAX ferry) with a length of 44.9 m and a width of 16.5 m is affected by its speed and draught. The computational model is based on a volume of fluid model using the k-ꞷ shear stress transport turbulence model. Results show that at a 1.5 m draught and 20 knots cruising speed, injecting 0.05 kg/s of compressed air into each GILLS unit reduces friction resistance by 10.45%. A hybrid model of natural air suction and force-compressed air shows a friction resistance reduction of 10.41%, which is a promising solution with less required external power. The proposed technique offers improved fuel efficiency and can help to meet environmental regulations without engine modifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: The presented results are relevant for any existing or planned MBR installations facing the challenge of removing micropollutants. These findings offer significant opportunities for lowering operational costs and reducing the environmental footprint of quaternary treatment at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). The removal of micropollutants from municipal wastewater is crucial to mitigate negative environmental impacts on aquatic ecosystems. However, existing advanced treatment techniques often require extensive fossil resources to achieve the targeted removal of a broad range of micropollutants. This study presents the combination of Membrane Bioreactors (MBRs) and subsequent Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) filters as a resource-efficient solution. Based on long-term pilot studies at a municipal WWTP in Stockholm, Sweden, this investigation explores the MBR-GAC configuration as a sustainable alternative for quaternary treatment at WWTPs. Results from over three years demonstrate a high removal efficiency of over 80% for targeted pharmaceuticals and other organic micropollutants, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), from the WWTP inlet to the outlet. The synergy between MBR and GAC technologies provides this high removal efficiency with considerably lower resource consumption and cost compared to traditional GAC installations. No breakthrough of micropollutants has been observed to date indicating even better resource efficiency than presented in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When given opportunities for personal glory in individual settings, people high in narcissism excel. However, less is known about narcissists' influence in team contexts. Across two studies (utilizing cross-sectional and two-wave longitudinal designs) involving 706 athletes from 68 teams in total, we tested a conceptual model linking narcissism to task cohesion, via intragroup conflict, moderated by narcissistic group composition. We tested a new sports-oriented measure of intragroup conflict using Bayesian estimation and evaluated our theorizing using a multilevel conditional indirect effect hybrid model. Across both studies, we found that narcissism influenced perceptions of task cohesion via process conflict only, with a negative influence at low narcissistic group composition that was weakened (Study 1) or nullified (Study 2) at high narcissistic team composition. Collectively, these findings offer the first example of how narcissism influences task cohesion in team settings and the contextual effects of narcissistic group composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gastrectomy with lymphadenectomy in combination with perioperative chemotherapy is the cornerstone of modern curative treatment for gastric adenocarcinoma. The primary objective of this study was to assess the influence of textbook outcome, postoperative complications, and readmission on survival in patients who underwent gastric cancer surgery. Methods: Consecutive patients who underwent curative and prophylactic gastric resections from 2014 to 2022 at Christchurch Hospital were identified from the hospital database. Multivariable analyses were performed to assess risk factors for each postoperative outcome. A survival analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of these outcomes on overall survival. Results: Seventy‐seven patients underwent a gastric resection during the study period. Thirteen were prophylactic resections for E‐cadherin gene mutations and 64 were for malignancy. The overall postoperative complication rate was 34%, with an anastomotic leak rate of 8% (n = 6). The 30‐day readmission rate, 30‐day mortality rate and 90‐day mortality rate were 17%, 1%, and 5% respectively. No sociodemographic differences were identified in each outcome. An increasing day‐4 CRP trajectory was observed in patients with an anastomotic leak. Postoperative complications and nodal disease were independent prognostic factors for reduced survival. Conclusions: Textbook outcome, postoperative complications, and readmission are validated quality performance indicators of gastric cancer surgery. Postoperative complications are associated with poor overall survival independent of severity or type. The underlying mechanisms of this influence remain elusive. The aggressive biology of gastric cancer, combined with the surgical morbidity and its negative influence on survival, highlights the importance of ongoing quality improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Narcissism-performance research has focused on grandiose narcissism but has not examined the interaction between its so-called adaptive (reflecting overconfidence) and maladaptive (reflecting a domineering orientation) components. In this research, the authors tested interactions between adaptive and maladaptive narcissism using two motor tasks (basketball and golf in Experiments 1 and 2, respectively) and a cognitive task (letter transformation in Experiment 3). Across all experiments, adaptive narcissism predicted performance under pressure only when maladaptive narcissism was high. In the presence of maladaptive narcissism, adaptive narcissism also predicted decreased pre-putt time in Experiment 2 and an adaptive psychophysiological response in Experiment 3, reflecting better processing efficiency. Findings suggest that individuals high in both aspects of narcissism perform better under pressure thanks to superior task processing. In performance contexts, the terms "adaptive" and "maladaptive"-adopted from social psychology-are oversimplistic and inaccurate. The authors believe that "self-inflated narcissism" and "dominant narcissism" are better monikers for these constructs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to explore the feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy of Happy Homework (HH); an 8-week home-focussed intervention, with the purpose of encouraging children's positive dietary behaviours and engagement in positive physical activity (PA) and sleep behaviours. We randomised four Scottish schools (n = 71 participants; 5 classrooms) to either the HH intervention (n = 2) or usual curriculum control group (n = 2). HH consisted of movement and dietary-focused parent and child tasks. Primary outcome measures were intervention feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy. Secondary outcomes were objectively measured PA via ActiGraph GT3X+, sedentary behaviours (SBs) and sleep duration via activPAL4™ accelerometers and dietary behaviours, fruit and vegetable consumption and screen-time via questionnaires. After controlling for pre-test levels, post intervention stepping time and sleep duration were significantly greater for the HH group in comparison to the control group. The HH group reported eating more fruit and vegetables at post-test than the control group. Participants also reported the intervention to be enjoyable and motivating. These findings provide promising evidence that given a greater sample size, better retention and the prioritisation of health and wellbeing homework, HH could enhance children's health and wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is part of a program of research investigating coaches delivering psychological skills (PS). Here, 3 studies feature an original conceptualization of coaching PS and the development and validation of 2 questionnaires capturing the coaching of PS. The authors conducted a qualitative investigation to establish a conceptual framework that included the fundamental coaching of PS behaviors (CPS-F) and the needs-supportive coaching of PS (CPS-NS). They then tested the factor structure of 2 subsequently developed questionnaires via a Bayesian structural equation modeling approach to confirmatory factor analysis across 2 samples and ran tests of invariance, concurrent, discriminant, and predictive validity. The CPS-F questionnaire showed an excellent fit for a 3-factor model, whereas the CPS-NS demonstrated an excellent single-factor fit. Significant relationships with theoretically related constructs suggested concurrent, discriminant, and predictive validity. The findings are expected to significantly further research into our understanding of coaches coaching PS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite a plethora of research on moral disengagement and antisocial behavior, there is a dearth of literature that explores personality in the context of these undesirable attitudes and behaviors. We provide the first examination of personality, specifically narcissism, as a predictor of moral disengagement and antisocial behavior in sport. Given that narcissism is negatively related to empathy and positively related to feelings of entitlement, it is more likely for narcissists to disengage morally and to behave antisocially. We thus hypothesized that narcissism would predict antisocial behavior via moral disengagement. Across 12 team contact sports (n = 272), bootstrapped mediation analyses confirmed this indirect effect, which remained significant when controlling for motivational climate, social desirability, sex and sport type. Coaches and practitioners would do well to consider the darker side of personality in targeting moral disengagement and its behavioral consequences in team sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent brain imaging research demonstrates that the use of internal visual imagery (IVI) or kinesthetic imagery (KIN) activates common and distinct brain areas. In this paper, we argue that combining the imagery modalities (IVI and KIN) will lead to a greater cognitive representation (with more brain areas activated), and this will cause a greater slalom-based motor performance compared with using IVI alone. To examine this assertion, we randomly allocated 56 participants to one of the three groups: IVI, IVI and KIN, or a math control group. Participants performed a slalom-based driving task in a driving simulator, with average lap time used as a measure of performance. Results revealed that the IVI and KIN group achieved significantly quicker lap times than the IVI and the control groups. The discussion includes a theoretical advancement on why the combination of imagery modalities might facilitate performance, with links made to the cognitive neuroscience literature and applied practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past two decades, researchers have reported positive life skills outcomes for young people participating in sport-based life-skills programs. However, to date, there has been a lack of consideration in the literature regarding the quality of the programs designed and the evaluation methods adopted. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of the life skills literature to: (a) assess the quality of sport-based life skills program design and evaluation methods; and (b) identify characteristics relating to the quality of sport-based life skills programs where authors had evidenced life skills development and transfer. Using the PRISMA guidelines, we searched six databases for relevant research papers and applied inclusion and exclusion criteria to the papers returned, of which 15 papers met the criteria. We conducted two quality assessment exercises (design and evaluation methods) and found three moderate-high quality life skills programs, 11 moderate quality programs, and one low quality program. We present the characteristics (regarding quality) of intervention designs and methods, conclude with recommendations for designing quality sport-based life skills programs, and provide guidelines for researchers to evaluate sport-based life skills programs. Lay summary: Through engaging in sport-based life skills programs, young people can develop transferable skills. However, the quality of these life skills programs is unclear. We assess the quality of the design and evaluation methods of sport-based life skills programs, present the characteristics of moderate-high and moderate quality programs, and offer recommendations for future research and practice. The characteristics identified can be used to aid the development of the content, delivery and evaluation methods within future sport-based life skills programs. The quality assessment tool (QATID) that is embedded within this paper can be used by applied researchers to ensure that the design of their life skills interventions is of high quality. By using the QATID and the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool (MMAT) when designing and evaluating sport-based life skills programs, applied researchers can validate better subsequent claims of program effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research investigating the role or perfectionism in exercise has been limited by both the method of investigation and because it has largely examined the independent effects of different perfectionism dimensions as opposed to how varying within-person combinations of different aspects of perfectionism influence outcomes. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to investigate the role of perfectionism on social physique anxiety (SPA) using the recently established 2×2 model of perfectionism. This model proposes that different forms of perfectionism, such as self-oriented (SOP) and socially prescribed perfectionism (SPP), will interact to influence different outcomes. One hundred and ninety-four college students completed a multi-section inventory comprised of demographics, the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (MPS; Hewitt, P. L., Flett, G. L., Turnbull-Donovan, W., & Mikail, S. F. (1991). The Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale: Reliability, validity, and psychometric properties in psychiatric samples. Psychological Assessment: A Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 3(3), 464), and the Social Physique Anxiety Scale (SPAS; Hart, Leary, & Rajeski, 1989. The measurement of social physique anxiety. Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 11, 94–104. https://doi.org/10.13072/midss.598). In line with the overarching predictions of the model, we obtained a significant interaction between SOP and SPP on SPA. However, in contrast to the specific tenets of the model, the highest levels of SPA were associated with high levels of SOP and high levels of SPP ("mixed perfectionism" in the parlance of the 2×2 model). Thus, while the findings support the utility of considering within person combinations of perfectionism, they do not fully support the predictions the of the 2×2 model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine serum 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D relationship with hepatitis B vaccination (study 1). Then, to investigate the effects on hepatitis B vaccination of achieving vitamin D sufficiency (serum 25(OH)D ≥ 50 nmol/L) by a unique comparison of simulated sunlight and oral vitamin D3 supplementation in wintertime (study 2). Methods: Study 1 involved 447 adults. In study 2, 3 days after the initial hepatitis B vaccination, 119 men received either placebo, simulated sunlight (1.3 × standard-erythema dose, 3 × /week for 4 weeks and then 1 × /week for 8 weeks) or oral vitamin D3 (1000 IU/day for 4 weeks and 400 IU/day for 8 weeks). We measured hepatitis B vaccination efficacy as percentage of responders with anti-hepatitis B surface antigen immunoglobulin G ≥ 10 mIU/mL. Results: In study 1, vaccine response was poorer in persons with low vitamin D status (25(OH)D ≤ 40 vs 41–71 nmol/L mean difference [95% confidence interval] − 15% [− 26, − 3%]; 1,25(OH)2D ≤ 120 vs ≥ 157 pmol/L − 12% [− 24%, − 1%]). Vaccine response was also poorer in winter than summer (− 18% [− 31%, − 3%]), when serum 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)2D were at seasonal nadirs, and 81% of persons had serum 25(OH)D < 50 nmol/L. In study 2, vitamin D supplementation strategies were similarly effective in achieving vitamin D sufficiency from the winter vitamin D nadir in almost all (~ 95%); however, the supplementation beginning 3 days after the initial vaccination did not effect the vaccine response (vitamin D vs placebo 4% [− 21%, 14%]). Conclusion: Low vitamin D status at initial vaccination was associated with poorer hepatitis B vaccine response (study 1); however, vitamin D supplementation commencing 3 days after vaccination (study 2) did not influence the vaccination response. Clinical trial registry number: Study 1 NCT02416895; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT02416895; Study 2 NCT03132103; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03132103. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation examined whether perfectionism might predict whether an athlete would suffer from the 'yips' (a long term movement disorder consisting of involuntary movements that affects the execution of motor skills). A sample of 'yips'-affected individuals from golf, cricket, and darts as well as a sport-matched sample of non 'yips'-affected athletes completed the shortened version of Frost, Marten, Lahart, and Rosenblate's (1990) multidimensional perfectionism scale (FMPS). Results revealed that three aspects of perfectionism (personal standards, organization, and concern over mistakes) were associated with a greater likelihood of suffering from the 'yips', indicating that 'yips' sufferers had an unhealthy perfectionism profile. The results highlight perfectionism as a possible antecedent of the 'yips' experience within sport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research investigating the role or perfectionism in exercise has been limited by both the method of investigation (largely examining independent effects of perfectionism dimensions), and the outcome variables that have been studied (mostly maladaptive outcomes). The purpose of the current study was to investigate the role of perfectionism on exercise behaviour, boredom, and enjoyment using the recently established 2 × 2 model of perfectionism. This model proposes that different forms of perfectionism, such as self-oriented (SOP) and socially prescribed perfectionism (SPP), will interact to influence different outcomes. One hundred and ninety-four college students completed a multi-section inventory comprised of demographics, the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale (MPS; Hewitt, P. L., Flett, G. L., Turnbull-Donovan, W., & Mikail, S. F. [1991]. The Multidimensional perfectionism scale: Reliability, validity, and psychometric properties in psychiatric samples. Psychological Assessment: A Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 3(3), 464–468. doi:10.1037/1040.3.3.464), the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES; Kendzierski, D., & DeCarlo, K. J. [1991]. Physical activity enjoyment scale: Two validation studies. Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, 13, 50–64. doi:10.1123/jsep.13.1.50), and the Godin Leisure Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLETQ; Godin, G., & Shephard, R. J. [1985]. A simple method to assess exercise behaviour in the community. Canadian Journal of Applied Sport Sciences, 10, 141–146. doi:10.1037/t31334-000). Somewhat contrary to the predictions of the 2 × 2 model, we obtained significant interactions between SOP and SPP for boredom in exercise only. More specifically, the highest levels of boredom were associated with high levels of SOP and low levels of SPP ("pure personal standards perfectionism" in the parlance of the 2 × 2 model). In addition, SOP was a significant negative predictor of weekly, mild, moderate, and strenuous exercise minutes and a significant positive predictor of enjoyment. SPP positively predicted mild and moderate exercise. These findings do not offer full support for the use of the 2 × 2 model but we suggest that the model may be better suited for more achievement related environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hernia repair surgery using synthetic mesh is the standard of care in modern surgery. Complications from uro‐gynaecological mesh have been reported in the New Zealand media and there is public concern regarding the use of any mesh for any reason. This study reports long‐term outcomes in inguinal hernia surgery in a large cohort of elective operations using mesh. Methods: A prospective database of patients having inguinal hernia mesh repairs was maintained in a private two surgeon practice from 2002 to 2016. Patient demographics, method of repair, the pre‐operative and post‐operative pain scores and complications following surgery were recorded. Results: A total of 1711 hernia in 1366 patients were repaired from 2002 to 2016. One thousand and forty‐seven repairs were laparoscopic total extraperitoneal (LTEP), 333 were open. Post‐operative pain scores were significantly lower than pre‐operative scores in inguinal hernia repair by any method. Only 22% of patients described no pain pre‐operatively and this rose to 76% post‐operatively; conversely 7.9% described severe pain pre‐operatively and this reduced to 1% post‐operatively. The recurrence rate for open inguinal hernia was zero and for LTEP repair was 0.81%. Conclusion: Inguinal hernia repair using mesh does not appear to produce significant rates of chronic pain long term. Overall, the complications from open or LTEP inguinal hernia repair with mesh are low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two studies explored coach education imagery interventions. In Study 1, 29 performance coaches were randomly assigned to either an imagery workshop group (n = 13) or an imagery-reading comparison control group (n = 16). Pre and post intervention, coaches completed the CEAIUQ (Jedlic, Hall, Munroe-Chandler, & Hall, 2007) and a confidence questionnaire designed for the study. Further, coaches' athletes completed the CIAIUQ (Jedlic et al., 2007) at pre and post intervention. Due to a poor response rate (n = 9), an exploratory case study approach was employed to present the data. Results revealed that, while all coaches found the workshop to be interesting and useful, with certain coaches, encouragement of specific aspects of imagery decreased as did confidence to deliver imagery. To overcome the limitations of Study 1, Study 2 employed a needs based approach. Five elite coaches completed a performance profile related to imagery and the CEAIUQ. Four individualized sessions were then conducted. Inspection of post intervention data indicated that the intervention increased encouragement of imagery use, imagery constructs identified as important by the individual coaches, and, when identified, confidence to deliver imagery. The results are discussed in terms of the importance of coach education from both an applied and research perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two studies examined the interactive effects of different visual imagery perspectives and narcissism on motor performance. In both studies participants completed the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (NPI-40: Raskin & Hall, 1979) and were assigned to either an internal visual imagery or external visual imagery group. Participants then performed a motor task (dart throwing in Study 1 and golf putting in Study 2) under conditions of practice, low self-enhancement, and high self-enhancement. Following completion of the respective tasks, participants were categorized into high and low narcissistic groups based on their NPI-40 scores. In both studies, high narcissists using external visual imagery significantly improved performance from the low to the high self-enhancement condition, whereas high narcissists using internal visual imagery did not. Low narcissists remained relatively constant in performance across self-enhancement conditions, regardless of perspective. The results highlight the importance of considering personality characteristics when examining the effects of visual imagery perspectives on performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the effectiveness of a logbook and paperclip technique on awareness of the use and content of negative self-talk as well as the motivation to change negative self-talk. Participants (n = 73) completed a questionnaire measuring these variables, and were assigned to either a control, paperclip or logbook group. Participants performed three typical training sessions over a three-week period. The logbook group completed a self-talk logbook after each session whereas the paperclip group carried out a paperclip exercise during each session. Upon completion of the training sessions, the questionnaire was readministered. ANCOVAs revealed no significant differences between the groups for motivation to change and awareness of the content of negative self-talk. However, the logbook group had significantly greater awareness of their use of negative self-talk compared with the control group. A qualitative analysis of the logbook group's use of negative self-talk provided insights into the situations that prompted negative self-talk, the content of the self-talk, and also the consequences of using negative self-talk. Collectively, the findings offer some support for the use of the logbook technique in the applied setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research was to amend the Vividness of Movement Imagery Questionnaire (VMIQ; Isaac, Marks, & Russell, 1986) in line with contemporary imagery modality and perspective conceptualizations, and to test the validity of the amended questionnaire (i.e., the VMIQ-2). Study 1 had 351 athletes complete the 3-factor (internal visual imagery, external visual imagery, and kinesthetic imagery) 24-item VMIQ-2. Following single-factor confirmatory factor analyses and item deletion, a 12-item version was subject to correlated traits / correlated uniqueness (CTCU) analysis. An acceptable fit was revealed. Study 2 used a different sample of 355 athletes. The CTCU analysis confirmed the factorial validity of the 12-item VMIQ-2. In Study 3, the concurrent and construct validity of the VMIQ-2 was supported. Taken together, the results of the 3 studies provide preliminary support for the revised VMIQ-2 as a psychometrically valid questionnaire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the effects of perioperative high (80%) versus low (30%) fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) on surgical site infection (SSI) and mortality in adult surgical patients. Background: The routine use of high fraction perioperative oxygen in patients is "standard of care" and recommended by the World Health Organisation; however, whether there is truly any benefit to this therapy has been challenged by some authors. Questions have also been raised about the possibility of harm from oxygen therapy. Method: Randomised control trials comparing high-to-low FiO2 were located by searching MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL and Web of Science. The primary outcomes were SSI up to 15 days and up to any time point postoperatively and mortality up to 30 days. The data were analysed using random effects meta-analysis. Results: Twelve studies involving 10,212 participants were included. At 15 days postoperatively, and at the longest point of post-operative follow-up, there was no statistically significant reduction in the risk of SSI when comparing patients who received a perioperative FiO2 of 30% to those with an FiO2 of 80% (RR 1.41, 95% CI 1.00–2.01, p 0.05 and RR 1.23, 95% CI 1.00–1.51, p 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in mortality between the 30% FiO2 and the 80% FiO2 groups (RR 1.12, 95% CI 0.56–2.22, p 0.76). Conclusion: This meta-analysis showed no statistically significant difference in post-operative SSI or mortality when comparing patients receiving an FiO2 of 80% to those receiving an FiO2 of 30%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present research was to validate German language versions of three inventories in high-risk sports to facilitate future research in the significant population of German speaking high-risk sports participants. We translated the Sensation Seeking, Emotion Regulation and Agency Scale (SEAS), the Risk-Taking Inventory and the Accidents and Close Calls in Sport Inventory into German, then tested the hypothesized factor structures with 719 high-risk sport participants from the European Alps using Bayesian structural equation modelling (BSEM). The final models were all good fits to the data, had good internal consistency and displayed adequate discriminant validity. All inventories displayed the same factor structure as in the English inventories bar the G‑SEAS After inventory in which a three-factor model fitted better than a two-factor model. Possible reasons for this difference include differences in the sample population, translation bias, or cross-cultural differences; however it seems likely that the nuanced approach of BSEM allowed this study to disentangle emotion regulation transfer from agency transfer after participating in high-risk sport where previous attempts using other methods have failed to. This will allow future research in high-risk sport to be conducted beyond English speaking populations and more significantly, facilitate the investigation of differences between the transfer effects of agency and emotion regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance arena provides a multitude of opportunities for lionizing the self. Narcissistic individuals crave admiration and glory, and thus the performance domain constitutes an ideal medium for researchers to explore narcissistic behavior. However, despite its potential relevance and substantial research history within mainstream psychology, narcissism is only now starting to receive interest from researchers in the sport and performance domain. In this article, we aim to raise the relevance of narcissism (and more generally personality) within performance settings and provide a platform for future research in the area. We review research on the relation between narcissism and performance and conclude that narcissists’ performance is contingent upon perceived opportunities for glory. We also offer suggestions for explanatory mechanisms. Further, we examine factors that may influence narcissistic behavior in environments that vary in their opportunity for glory. In addition, as leadership positions present opportunities for glory, we ask whether narcissists make effective leaders. We propose theoretical extensions of the narcissism literature to the performance domain, and we close with a call for greater consideration of the role of personality in performance contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Humans are often required to perform demanding cognitive and motor tasks under pressure. However, in such environments there is considerable interindividual variability in the ability to successfully execute actions. Here, we consider how individual differences in self-reported sensitivity to punishment influence skilled motor performance under pressure and whether this relationship is moderated by the temporal detection of threat.Method: Across two studies, 160 UK participants (Study 1: N = 80, Mage  = 21.6, 52 males; Study 2: N = 80, Mage  = 24.95, 45 males) performed a precision-grip task and received either early or late warning of an upcoming stressful manipulation involving social evaluation and performance-dependent incentives.Results: In both studies, we report an interaction where punishment sensitivity was adaptive for motor performance only when threats were detected early and there was opportunity to prepare for the upcoming stressor. Further, our results suggest that the benefits of punishment sensitivity are likely underpinned by the effective use of cognitive strategies.Conclusion: Heightened sensitivity to punishment is adaptive for performance under pressure, provided threats are detected early and effective cognitive strategies are implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study examined the relationship between exercise imagery and exercise dependence, building on the limitations of previous work that has considered exercise dependence as a single factor construct. Examining the relationship between imagery and separate exercise dependence symptoms is vital to expand what is known about exercise dependence, but also to inform interventions to address exercise dependence. A total of 339 male (n = 99) and female (n = 240) adults completed measures of exercise dependence and imagery. Structural equation modelling revealed that different types of imagery were related to different exercise dependence symptoms. Appearance and health imagery were positively associated with tolerance, reduction in other activities, and lack of control symptoms. Routines imagery was positively associated with intention effects, whereas technique imagery was negatively associated with intention effects. Feelings imagery was positively associated with withdrawal symptoms of exercise dependence. These differential effects highlight the importance of considering exercise dependence multidimensionally; in particular, patterns of exercise imagery use may have important implications for interventions aimed at reducing/preventing exercise dependence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Post‐operative C‐reactive protein (CRP) has been investigated as a predictor of anastomotic leak (AL) following colorectal surgery, but its role in oesophago‐gastric surgery is not yet established. Methods: Clinical data and post‐operative CRP values of patients who underwent elective oesophago‐gastric resection between January 2004 and July 2014 were analysed retrospectively. Only patients with an oesophageal anastomosis were included. AL was defined as leakage of contrast material seen on imaging or a leak confirmed intraoperatively on return to theatre. Results: One hundred and forty‐five patients were identified. Of the 145 patients, 13 (9%) developed AL. The CRP on post‐operative days (POD) 2, 3 and 6 had the greatest diagnostic accuracy, with an area under the curve of 0.82, 0.80 and 0.91 respectively. Using a cut‐off value of 209 mg/L on POD 2, the sensitivity was 100%, the specificity was 61%, the positive predictive value (PPV) was 21% and the negative predictive value (NPV) was 100%. Using a cut‐off value of 190 mg/L on POD 3, the sensitivity was 100%, the specificity was 59%, the PPV was 21% and the NPV was 100%. Using a cut‐off value of 154 mg/L on POD 6, the sensitivity was 100%, the specificity was 78%, the PPV was 29% and the NPV was 100%. Conclusion: Post‐operative CRP is an accurate negative predictive test for the development of AL following oesophago‐gastric surgery. It may help to discriminate between patients with a high risk of leak and those in which AL is unlikely to occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the indirect effects of basic psychological skills (PS) on military endurance through enhanced advanced PS while controlling for fitness. British Army recruits (n= 159) participated in three endurance events for Parachute Regiment selection and completed an adapted Test of Performance Strategies questionnaire (Hardy et al., 2010). Following confirmatory factor analyses, the multiple mediation regression analyses using PROCESS (Hayes, 2013) suggested that goal setting, imagery and relaxation all had positive indirect effects on endurance via activation, with goal setting also impacting on endurance via negative thinking. These data provide some support for basic PS influencing endurance via advanced PS. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background In measuring quality of health-care delivery, digital infrastructure is essential. The aim at this tertiary centre was to create a hospital-wide workflow system that collected data prospectively as part of daily practice. Methods In moving towards an electronic health record, a hospital-wide integrated workflow system was introduced in 2013, which electronically managed the perioperative patient journey while simultaneously facilitating surgical audit. Analysis of its implementation was carried out presenting early outcomes using general surgery as an example. Results Theatre-bookings (44 953) were made with compliance approaching 90% for all services. Of 7179 general surgical operations over 24 months, 5785 (80%) had an operation note created using the new system. Cumulative summation of uptake of synoptic operative reporting ( SOR) for laparoscopic cholecystectomy ( LC) was 81% with documentation being superior in terms of antibiotic use and steps to safe cholecystectomy ( P < 0.001). A LC SOR took 4 min to complete (interquartile ranges 2-5 min, n = 425) and was immediately available on the day of surgery compared to narrative operative reports taking 2 days (interquartile ranges 1-5 days, n = 174) ( P < 0.001). From July 2014 to November 2015, 557 (10%) complications were recorded for 5749 general surgical operations with 99% of complications being reviewed. Conclusion The rapid and sustained uptake of both theatre-bookings and SOR likely reflect high end-user satisfaction with the system. Service metrics indicate a significant improvement in the time of delivery. The ability to seamlessly complete the audit cycle at an individual, department and hospital level has been achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Poor documentation of medical notes and plans not only adversely affects patient management but also has medico-legal implications. A standardized ward round checklist (adhesive proforma sticker, PFS) was introduced at our institution in 2013 to improve documentation by junior doctors. We aimed to examine the current pattern of PFS documentation (2 years after its introduction) and to identify which fields, if any, have been the most problematic to complete. Methods Notes of all current general surgical inpatients admitted to Christchurch Public Hospital on or before the two study days were reviewed. All information written in the PFS, regardless of accuracy, authorship or completeness, was recorded. Documentation of the various PFS fields was classified as well documented (completed in >80% of PFS), inadequate (40-80%) or minimal (<40%). Results Four hundred and seventy-nine PFS were reviewed. Most fields in the PFS were documented to an adequate level (i.e. >80%). Problematic fields identified were dietary plans, diagnosis, national health index number, estimated date of discharge and the patient's first name. Notes of patients on outlying ward contained significantly fewer PFS compared with home-ward patients' notes (0.71 PFS/day versus 1.21 PFS/day, respectively, P < 0.001). Conclusion Our study has shown generally adequate patterns of medical note documentation in the General Surgery service. Certain fields remain challenging to document accurately. The proposed modified PFS was designed to help rectify this; electronic data record may be the step forward, however. It is hoped that other institutions in Australasia would benefit from our experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Individuals higher in narcissism have leader emergent tendencies. The characteristics of their personality suggest, however, that their leadership qualities will decrease over time as a function of group acquaintance. We present data from two studies that provide the first empirical support for this theoretical position within a transformational leadership framework. In Study 1 (N = 112), we tested narcissistic leadership qualities in groups of unacquainted individuals over a 12-week period. In Study 2 (N = 152), we adopted the same protocol with groups of acquainted individuals. In Study 1, narcissism was positively associated with peer-rated leadership during initial group formation but not later. In Study 2, narcissism was not significantly associated with peer-rated leadership during initial group formation and was negatively associated with peer-rated leadership later. In Study 1, transformational leadership mediated the relationship between narcissism and leadership initially but not later on. In Study 2, transformational leadership failed to mediate the relationship between narcissism and leadership throughout the study. Despite enjoying a honeymoon period of leadership, the appeal and attractiveness of the narcissistic leader rapidly wane. This decline is explained in part by their changing transformational leadership qualities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a dialogue between sport and exercise psychologists Rich Neil and Steve Mellalieu of Cardiff Metropolitan University in Wales and Ross Roberts of Bangor University in Wales about injury. Topics covered include their personal reflections of their professional practice, injury rehabilitation process, and responsibilities of a sport psychologist. Challenges they encountered are cited including identifying and working on strategies to improve confidence and mental preparation.

As a result of her hard work and dedication to surgery, Philippa has managed to break down numerous barriers that in the past prevented women from entering surgical training. The impact she has had on female trainees is described by Dr Jessica Vlok (who has worked with Dr Mercer) as follows "Philippa Mercer is an inspirational woman surgeon and has helped me, and many others, on the path through surgical training. [Extracted from the article]

The article presents a case study of a 77-year-old man with a history of progressive dysphagia with weight loss, then was diagnosed with oesophageal adenocarcinoma associated with right-sided aortic arch (RAA). Topics mention including the computer tomography imaging, performing echocardiogram and underwent oesophagectomy.

Background: The success of laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) is dependent on gradual adjustments over time. The aim of this study is to describe that pattern of LAGB adjustments that are required after surgery. Methods: A non-randomized observational study of consecutive LAGB from a single practise. Patients were sourced from a prospective database. Details of each LAGB adjustment were recorded along with weight loss and complications. Results: There were 125 consecutive LAGB between March 2009 and September 2011 (mean age 46.6 ± 11.9 years; 113 female, BMI 42.1 ± 5.9 kg/m). The mean %EBWL was 41.4 ± 19.1 % at 2 years. There was a total of 746 band adjustments with mean 7.1 ± 4.4 per patient. Approximately, a third of patients (34 %) reached optimal volume within 6 months but 49 patients (39 %) still required adjustments beyond a year. Weight loss was maximal prior to the first adjustment (41 % of mean total weight loss). The rate of weight loss decreased down to 1-3 %EBWL between later fills despite repeated increases in band volume. Urgent deflations were required in 63 patients with 24 of these patients having multiple overfills. There were two patients who had gastric prolapse but no other LAGB-related complications occurred in the first 2 years after surgery. Conclusions: LAGB requires a considerable postoperative commitment that may take several months. Overfills are common and may be the result of a false perception that tightening the band will hasten weight loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on motivational climates consistently demonstrates that mastery-focused climates are associated with positive outcomes and ego-involving performance climates lead to maladaptive outcomes. However, the role of personality within such a framework has been largely ignored. To redress this imbalance, we examined the potential role of narcissism in moderating the effects of different motivational climates on leader-inspired extra effort in training. Training is where rugby players spend most of their rugby time and we were keen to examine the combination of personality and climate that might maximise the yield of such training environments. Female rugby players (n = 126) from 15 clubs completed measures of narcissism, motivational climate and effort. Moderated regression analyses revealed that narcissism moderated the relationship between motivational climate and effort. Increases in either performance or mastery climates were associated with increases in effort for narcissists; no such relationship was revealed for low narcissists. The findings demonstrate the importance of considering personality within rugby training environments, as it is clear that not every player will respond the same way to specific training conditions. Coaches who understand this and are able to tailor individualised motivational climates will likely gain the greatest benefits from their different players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report three experiments investigating the hypothesis that use of internal visual imagery (IVI) would be superior to external visual imagery (EVI) for the performance of different slalom-based motor tasks. In Experiment 1, three groups of participants (IVI, EVI, and a control group) performed a driving-simulation slalom task. The IVI group achieved significantly quicker lap times than EVI and the control group. In Experiment 2, participants performed a downhill running slalom task under both IVI and EVI conditions. Performance was again quickest in the IVI compared to EVI condition, with no differences in accuracy. Experiment 3 used the same group design as Experiment 1, but with participants performing a downhill ski-slalom task. Results revealed the IVI group to be significantly more accurate than the control group, with no significant differences in time taken to complete the task. These results support the beneficial effects of IVI for slalom-based tasks, and significantly advances our knowledge related to the differential effects of visual imagery perspectives on motor performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent research has revealed similarities in brain activity during observational learning and motor execution. However, whilst action develops visual, motor and afferent representations during acquisition, action-observation has been proposed to only develop visual-spatial learning via visual representation. In addition, it has been suggested that the vividness of visual representations are determined by imagery ability. Thus, the purpose of the current investigation was to explore the possible moderating role of imagery ability in the effectiveness of observational learning. Participants (n = 40) were assessed on their imagery ability via the Vividness of Movement Imagery Questionnaire-2 (VMIQ-2) and then assigned to one of four groups; high imagery ability and observational learning (HIA-OL), low imagery ability and observational learning (LIA-OL), high imagery ability control (HIA-C) and low imagery ability control (LIA-C). Following group allocation all participants performed a pre-test consisting of five actual practice trials of a novel gymnastics routine. The HIA-OL and LIA-OL groups then participated in a 14 day observational learning intervention whilst the HIA-C and LIA-C groups acted as controls. Following this, participants performed a post test, which was identical in nature to the pre-test, before finally completing the VMIQ-2 again. Performance on both the pre-test and post test was evaluated by two qualified gymnastics judges. Results revealed that gymnastics performance increased from pre-test to post test for both the HIA-OL and LIA-OL groups. However, this effect was greater in the HIA-OL group suggesting that the relationship between observational learning and successful imitation performance is moderated by imagery ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychological skills are typically viewed as beneficial to performance in competition. Conversely, narcissists appear to thrive in competitive environments so should not need psychological skills to the same degree as less narcissistic individuals. To investigate this moderating hypothesis high-standard ice-skaters completed measures of narcissism, psychological skills, and anxiety before performing their competition routine during training. A week later, participants performed the same routine in competition. Performance was operationalized as the difference between competition and training scores. Moderated regression analyses revealed that narcissism moderated the relationship between psychological skills and performance. Psychological skill effectiveness depends on an individual's degree of narcissism. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Nissen fundoplication is a well-established treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with a high success rate and a long-lasting effect. However, the literature reports that a persistent, small group of patients is not fully satisfied with the outcome. Identifying this patient group preoperatively would prevent disappointment for both patients and surgeon. This has proven difficult since dissatisfaction was related to nondisease-related factors instead of typical symptoms of GERD or the objective findings of investigations. We studied our series of patients who underwent laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication to identify predictors of patient dissatisfaction and the impact of surgery on individual symptoms. Methods: All consecutive private patients undergoing Nissen fundoplication were asked to complete a preoperative and postoperative questionnaire concerning symptoms, medication use, and satisfaction. Demographics, investigations, complications, and reinterventions were documented. A standard laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication was performed. Results: Over an 11-year period 222 patients underwent surgery for GERD. The postoperative response rate to the questionnaire was 77.5 %, with dissatisfaction reported by 12.8 % of the patients. Of these dissatisfied patients, only 13.6 % had proven disease recurrence. Both satisfied and dissatisfied patients presented with an inconsistent pattern of symptoms. None of the preoperative symptoms and investigations or the patient's age and gender was predictive of postoperative dissatisfaction. Only postoperative heartburn, regurgitation, and bloating significantly correlated with patient dissatisfaction. Conclusion: Nissen fundoplication has a very high satisfaction rate overall. A small percentage of patients are not fully satisfied and dissatisfaction is associated with reported persistent symptoms and side effects of surgery rather than gender or preoperative symptom pattern, severity of esophagitis, or total 24 h esophageal acid exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]