bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BOTANIC URBANISM: The Technopolitics of Controlled Environments in Singapore's Gardens by the Bay
Authors: McNeill Donald
Published: November 2021

This article examines the development of Singapore's Gardens by the Bay, a parkland and botanical gardens complex on a reclaimed land platform which opened in 2012. It provides three readings of the development based on different types of technopolitical governance. First, it discusses the significance of the location of the Gardens on one of Singapore's reclaimed land platforms, part of the ‘terraforming’ strategies of the government's land development process. Second, it situates the project within the state's complex botanical relationship with colonial and postcolonial knowledge circuits, and suggests that this is part of the governance challenge of ‘acclimatizing’ to the tropical climate. Third, it suggests that the Gardens are part of an ‘exhibitionary complex’ based on engaging publics with the state's ability to harness science to provide a controlled, ordered polity. To illustrate this, the article brings together the political discourse of two Singaporean prime ministers with a discussion of the architectural design and environmental engineering of the project, and the curatorial practices of the state's National Parks Board. The article demonstrates the complex interplay of environmental, architectural and botanical engineering with state strategies of both citizen engagement and tourist attraction, and the importance of the practice of exhibition within urban megaprojects.
Geochemical Characterizations of Source and Depositional Environment of Hydrocarbons in the Lake Albert Rift Basin
Authors: YU Yixin , PENG Wenxu , SHI Shengbao , SUN Hefeng , LU Man , SHANG Peng , ROBINSON Delores , LU Yuehan
Published: November 2021

Despite the upsurge in hydrocarbon exploration in the Lake Albert Rift Basin (LARB) over the past three decades, systematic characterization of hydrocarbon compositions remains lacking, leading to uncertainties in source rock and oil generation determination. We characterized crude oil compositions and oil sand samples in the northern and southern subbasins of LARB. The relative abundance of normal and branched linear alkanes, hopanes, steranes, and aromatic hydrocarbon suggest that northern and southern hydrocarbons were deposited in anoxic to suboxic lacustrine environments and share similar biological source compositions (i.e., a mixture of plants and aquatic algae and bacteria). Relative to southern samples, northern samples show more negativeδ13C values for oils, saturates and aromatics, indicating longer migration paths, and exhibit higher MPI‐1, DNR‐1 and 4‐/1‐MDBT ratios, indicating higher maturity. Between the two possible sets of source rocks (upper Miocene and Jurassic strata), the positiveδ13C values of saturated hydrocarbons (average = –20.5‰) suggest that the upper Miocene lacustrine shale is the most likely candidate. Oleanane index (<5% in our samples) does not exclude either source rock possibility, and C28/C29regular sterane (average = 0.63) may be biased by high terrestrial inputs in a lacustrine setting. Together, our data show that northern and southern oils originate from the same source rocks but different oil kitchens. Given the similar geochemical characteristics of southern and northern oils, previous exploration successes in the northern subbasin likely suggest similar potential in the southern sector, while other elements influencing exploration success must be also evaluated.
The FinTech Dividend: How Much Money Is FinTech Likely to Mobilize for Sustainable Development?
Authors: Michael Bryane , Latkovska Tamara
Published: November 2021

FinTech offers a new way to mobilize resources for all kinds of uses – including for funding sustainable development. Roughly 3%–13% of funding required for the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)– or around $50 billion to $125 billion ‐‐ could come from a ‘FinTech Dividend.’ Such a dividend derives from the use of FinTech platforms to increase savings and investment (overall), channel resources into publicly‐funded as well as privately‐funded SDG‐related activities and policies, and encourage the use of internet platforms, which deliver novel goods and services that relate to the seventeen SDGs. Less than half of UN members have FinTech laws and policies – making FinTech a ripe area for right‐regulating. Unfortunately, in areas like institutional reform – no amount of money can guarantee achieving the SDGs, without wider legal and administrative reforms. And no clear data about the exact policies needed to help grow an economy (or pay for SDG spending) serve as any guide. With total investment in FinTech stuck at around $150 billion to $200 billion – the hoped for deluge of FinTech dollars on SDG activities may remain a trickle for years to come.
Onset of pulmonary Epstein–Barr virus‐positive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma in a patient with silicosis
Authors: Ogata Ryosuke , Soda Hiroshi , Tanaka Yasuhiro , Senju Hiroaki , Shimada Midori , Yamashita Koki , Nakashima Shota , Umemura Asuka , Yoshida Masataka , Hara Takuya , Jinnai Saeko , Iwasaki Keisuke , Fukuda Yuichi , Yamaguchi Hiroyuki , Mukae Hiroshi
Published: November 2021

How Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‐positive diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) occasionally occurs following chronic inflammation remains to be elucidated. The case of a 57‐year‐old man who developed pulmonary EBV‐positive DLBCL from underlying silicosis lesions is presented. Immunohistochemical examination of the resected silicosis lesions showed predominant helper T cells and M1/M2 macrophages, with a lack of B cells, regulatory T cells, and resident memory T cells. Two years later, EBV‐positive DLBCL emerged unexpectedly from the silicosis. The imbalance of the immune cells in the microenvironment, at least in part, may help explain how chronic inflammation contributes to EBV‐positive DLBCL.
Current status of total neoadjuvant therapy for locally advanced rectal cancer
Authors: Feng Wei , Yu Bin , Zhang Zhenya , Li Juan , Wang Yuxiang
Published: November 2021

Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) plus total mesorectal excision (TME) has been the standard regimen for treatment of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC), because it significantly reduces the rate of local recurrence and enables sphincter preservation. However, distant metastasis remains the major reason for treatment failure, and the value of postoperative chemotherapy is still controversial. Recent studies have examined the use of total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT), defined as induction and/or consolidation chemotherapy (CONCT) with radiotherapy (RT) or nCRT prior to surgery. The results indicated that TNT may increase the rates of chemotherapy compliance and pathological complete response (pCR), and probably improve the success rate of sphincter preservation surgery. TNT may also improve disease‐free survival and overall survival, and even reduce the rate of relapse. Here, we critically appraise the existing literature on three different TNT schemes used for LARC patients.
Carl Schmitt Reads Hannah Arendt's Eichmann in Jerusalem: Archival Perspectives on Convergences and Divergences
Authors: Graf Sinja
Published: November 2021

Scholarly interpretations have analyzed theoretical tensions and overlaps between Carl Schmitt and Hannah Arendt and Arendt's reception of Schmitt. Schmitt's engagement with Arendt, however, is left understudied. Based on new evidence from the Carl Schmitt archive, this essay provides a first‐time analysis of Schmitt's reading of Arendt's Eichmann in Jerusalem. The article argues that Schmitt's recognition of convergences and divergences between his and Arendt's political thought illuminates two important questions concerning the relationship between law and politics: the capacity of law to capture political violence, and the character of community as a source of law and jurisdiction. The analysis specifically foregrounds Schmitt's attention to Arendt's theorization of territory and humanity, two concepts key to his own political philosophy that Arendt deployed radically differently. Overall, the article demonstrates that Schmitt's reading of Eichmann invests the book with a unique theoretical topography that remains inaccessible to studies of their published works alone.
Discrimination as a Moderator of the Effects of Acculturation and Cultural Values on Mental Health Among Pregnant and Postpartum Latina Women
Authors: Fox Molly
Published: November 2021

It is important to consider how identity, culture, and social adversity influence maternal mental health among Latina women both because this community faces unique cultural stressors and also because factors that undermine women's mental health during pregnancy and postpartum could have injurious consequences that cascade across generations. This study uses data from a questionnaire administered to Latina pregnant and postpartum women in Southern California, examining cultural orientation, discrimination, and mental health. Results demonstrate mental health benefits for both American and Latino cultural orientations, but the latter's benefit of lower anxiety was only apparent with high discrimination. American and Latino cultural values systems had opposite relationships with depression, with the latter protective and also positively associated with happiness. More traditional gender roles values were associated with greater perceived stress and lower happiness. Different aspects of familism had opposite effects as obligation was associated with less anxiety and referent (defining oneself communally with kin) with more. Results suggest that social adversity and cultural identity and values influence maternal psychology. This study makes a unique contribution by integrating anthropological and biopsychosocial methods and theories towards addressing an issue of public‐health importance. [cultural stressors, minority health disparities, perinatal, mood disorders, Latino health]
Impact of establishing a specialized hepatobiliary unit on liver resections in a non‐specialized tertiary centre in regional Australia
Authors: Yeh John , Palamuthusingam Pranavan , Cameron Donald , Avramovic John
Published: November 2021

Background

In April 2018, a dedicated hepatobiliary unit was established in a tertiary hospital in North Queensland. Changes included the employment of a hepatobiliary‐trained surgeon, centralized referrals, and formalized multidisciplinary team meetings. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of establishing a hepatobiliary unit on outcomes after liver resection, in a regional centre where such procedures were previously performed by non‐specialist general surgeons.

Methods

Adult patients who underwent elective liver resection in Townsville from 2013 to 2020 were included in the study. Outcomes after liver resection were collected across two study periods – before and after the hepatobiliary unit was established. The primary end points were a before and after comparison of the 90‐day morbidity and mortality and the R1 margin rates.

Results

Across the two study periods, 76 and 77 patients, respectively, underwent liver resection. Rates of R1 resection, 90‐day mortality and major complications were not significantly different between the two study periods. Primary tumours (14.5% before versus 50.6% after) and cirrhosis (1.3% before versus 14.3% after) were significantly higher in the latter period, as was the median length of stay (4 days before versus 6 days after). Annual surgical volume increased by 75% in the period after 2018 compared to the 5 years preceding it.

Conclusion

Establishing a centralized hepatobiliary unit in a tertiary regional centre resulted in increased surgical volume and case complexity, with no change in early outcomes after liver resection. Overall, this dedicated unit improved the accessibility of a subspecialty surgical service in regional Australia.
Lumbar spinal fusion surgery outcomes in a cohort of injured workers in the Victorian workers' compensation system
Authors: McMillan Janine S. , Jones Kyle , Forgan Leonard , Busija Ljoudmila , Carey Roy P. L. , de Silva Andrea M. , Phillips Mark G.
Published: November 2021

Background

Lumbar spinal fusion (LSF) outcomes for workers' compensation patients are worse than for the general population. The objectives were to examine the long‐term work capacity, opioid prescription and mental health outcomes of injured workers who have undergone LSF surgery in Victoria, Australia, and to identify demographic and pre‐ and post‐operative characteristics associated with these outcomes.

Methods

Retrospective study of 874 injured workers receiving elective LSF from 2008 to 2016 in the Victorian workers' compensation system. WorkSafe Victoria's claims data were used to infer outcomes for recovery. Association of demographics, pre‐surgery and surgery variables with outcomes were modelled using multivariate multinomial logistic regression analyses.

Results

Twenty‐four months after LSF surgery, 282 (32.3%) of the 874 injured workers had substantial work capacity, 388 (44.4%) were prescribed opioids, and 330 (37.8%) were receiving mental health treatment.

Opioid prescription and limited work capacity before surgery were independent strong predictors of opioid prescription, reduced work capacity and mental health treatment 24 months after LSF. Pre‐operative mental health treatment was associated with the use of mental health treatment at 24 months. Other predictors for poor outcomes included a greater than 12‐month duration from injury to surgery, LSF re‐operation and common law or impairment benefit lodgement before surgery.

Conclusion

An association between pre‐operative factors and post‐operative outcomes after LSF in a Victorian workers' compensation population was identified, suggesting that pre‐operative status may influence outcomes and should be considered in LSF decisions. The high opioid use indicates that opioid management before and after surgery needs urgent review.
The TransMedics Organ Care System for the liver receives FDA pre‐market approval
Authors: Chang Donald D. , Han Jason J.
Published: November 2021

The Federal Drug Administration grants pre‐market approval to TransMedics Organ Care System Liver, a platform designed to prolong donor organ viability via ex vivo perfusion in preparation for transplant
Anticipating the potential impacts of Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans on Neotropical salamander diversity
Authors: García‐Rodríguez Adrián , Basanta M. Delia , García‐Castillo Mirna G. , Zumbado‐Ulate Héctor , Neam Kelsey , Rovito Sean , Searle Catherine L. , Parra‐Olea Gabriela
Published: November 2021

Emergent infectious disease caused by the fungal pathogens Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) and Batrachochytrium salamandrivorans (Bsal) represents one of the major causes of biodiversity loss in amphibians. While Bd has affected amphibians worldwide, Bsal remains restricted to Asia and Europe, but also could be a major threat for salamanders in the Western hemisphere, including the 320 bolitoglossine species described. Here, we predict the suitable areas for Bsal in the Neotropics and assess its potential impact on bolitoglossine diversity. For this, we determined the geographic patterns of taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity for bolitoglossines and modeled the potential distribution of Bsal in the Neotropics. We identified which species and regions could be at risk from an eventual introduction of Bsal in the region, quantified the degree of overlap between regions of high diversity and the suitable conditions for the pathogen, and considered species IUCN Red List status, and geographic range size. We found that regions of high taxonomic, phylogenetic, and functional diversity are concentrated in the Trans‐Mexican Volcanic Belt, Sierra Madre Oriental, the southern portion of Sierra Madre del Sur and the mountains of Oaxaca in México, as well as the Chiapan‐Guatemalan highlands, and the Cordilleras of Costa Rica and Panama. Alarmingly, the regions of high diversity for bolitoglossines and over 75% of the ranges of the more threatened species could be affected by Bsal. Given the unknown vulnerability of these species, we strongly recommend measures to avoid the introduction of Bsal in the continent.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Understanding the self in relation to others: Infants spontaneously map another's face to their own at 16–26 months
Authors: Kampis Dora , Grosse Wiesmann Charlotte , Koop Sarah , Southgate Victoria
Published: November 2021

The current study probed whether infants understand themselves in relation to others. Infants aged 16–26 months (n = 102) saw their parent wearing a sticker on their forehead or cheek, depending on experimental condition, placed unwitnessed by the child. Infants then received a sticker themselves, and their spontaneous behavior was coded. Regardless of age, from 16 months, all infants who placed the sticker on their cheek or forehead, placed it on the location on their own face matching their parent's placement. This shows that infants as young as 16 months of age have an internal map of their face in relation to others that they can use to guide their behavior. Whether infants placed the sticker on the matching location was related to other measures associated with self‐concept development (the use of their own name and mirror self‐recognition), indicating that it may reflect a social aspect of children's developing self‐concept, namely their understanding of themselves in relation and comparison to others. About half of the infants placed the sticker on themselves, while others put it elsewhere in the surrounding, indicating an additional motivational component to bring about on themselves the state, which they observed on their parent. Together, infants’ placement of the sticker in our task suggests an ability to compare, and motivation to align, self and others.
Sport fish home range responses to a littoral coarse woody habitat addition in a north‐temperate lake
Authors: Smith Quinnlan C. , Sass Greg G. , Hrabik Thomas R. , Shaw Stephanie L. , Raabe Joshua K.
Published: November 2021

Behavioural responses of fishes to littoral zone habitat enhancements are relatively understudied in diverse fish communities but are critical for understanding overall fish community responses. To advance knowledge on effects of coarse woody habitat (CWH) littoral zone enhancements, we initiated a long‐term study on Sanford Lake, Vilas County, Wisconsin, where 160 trees were added to the littoral zone of the lake in 2018. We tested for short‐term home range responses in muskellunge (Esox masquinongy), smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) and walleye (Sander vitreus) to this CWH addition. We used radio telemetry data collected premanipulation (2017) and postmanipulation (2018 and 2019) to construct annual home range estimates for each species. Limited kernel density (LKD) estimates, which partially exclude terrestrial areas, were used for estimating 50% and 95% home ranges. Over the course of the three years, average home ranges for each study species increased suggesting a behavioural response to the CWH addition. Muskellunge had the greatest home range estimate increase, followed by smallmouth bass and then walleye. Muskellunge and smallmouth bass had similar home ranges, which were larger than walleye home ranges. Increased home ranges across species could be a searching or deviation from premanipulation equilibrium home range response as a result of the CWH serving as a prey fish refuge, which may make them relatively inaccessible to predators. Our results suggest that fish behavioural responses to CWH additions may be species‐specific and should be taken into consideration prior to implementing littoral habitat enhancements in diverse fish communities.
Large‐scale Victorian manufacturers: Reconstructing the lost 1881 UK employer census
Authors: Hannah Leslie , Bennett Robert
Published: November 2021

This study presents the first available—and near‐complete—list of large UK manufacturers in 1881, by complementing the employer data from that year's population census (recovered by the British Business Census of Entrepreneurs project) with employment and capital estimates from other sources. The 438 largest firms with 1 000 or more employees accounted for around one‐sixth of manufacturing output. Examples can be found in most industries. Exploiting powered machinery, intangible assets, new technologies, and venture capital and generally operating in competitive markets, their exports approximately equalled domestic sales. The more capital‐intensive firms accessed stock markets, more—and in larger firms—than in follower economies. Some alleged later causes of UK decline relative to the US or Germany cannot be observed in 1881. Indeed, contemporary overseas observers—capitalist and socialist—correctly recognized the distinctive features of UK manufacturing as its exceptional development of quoted corporations, professional managers, and ‘modern’, scalable, factory production.
Treatments for objective and subjective cognitive functioning in young people with depression: Systematic review of current evidence
Authors: Daglas‐Georgiou Rothanthi , Bryce Shayden , Smith Gabriel , Kaur Manreena , Cheng Nicholas , De Rozario Magdalene , Wood Stephen J. , Allott Kelly
Published: November 2021

Aim

Cognitive deficits are recognized features of depressive disorders in youth aged 12–25. These deficits are distressing, predict functional impairment and limit the effectiveness of psychological therapies. Cognitive enhancement using behavioural, biochemical or physical treatments may be useful in young people with depression, but studies have not been synthesized. The aim was to systematically review the evidence for treatments for objective and subjective cognitive functioning, and their acceptability and functional outcomes in people aged 12–25 with depression.

Method

Three electronic databases were searched for articles using pre‐specified criteria. Pharmacological treatments were not eligible. Risk of bias was rated using the Cochrane Collaboration's revised risk‐of‐bias tool. Dual full‐text article screening, data extraction and quality ratings were completed.

Results

Twelve studies were included for review (median participant age: 20.39 years), five of which were randomized‐controlled trials (RCTs). Sample sizes were generally small (median = 23; range: 9–46). Eight studies investigated behavioural treatments including aerobic exercise, cognitive training and education or strategy‐based methods. Four studies examined repetitive transcranial magnetic brain stimulation (rTMS). Most behavioural treatments revealed preliminary evidence of improved cognitive function in youth depression. Consent rates were greatest for exercise‐ and education‐based approaches, which may indicate higher acceptability levels. Findings from rTMS trials were mixed, with only half showing cognitive improvement. Functional outcomes were reported by three behavioural treatment trials and one rTMS trial, with functional improvement reported only in the former. Some concern of risk of bias was found in each RCT.

Conclusion

Behavioural treatments, such as exercise, cognitive training and education/strategy‐focused techniques, show encouraging results and appear to be acceptable methods of addressing cognitive deficits in youth depression based on participation rates. Brain stimulation and biochemical treatments (e.g., nutrient‐based treatment) require further investigation.
Mindfulness is associated with reduced barriers to exercise via decreasing psychological distress in help‐seeking young adults: A cross‐sectional brief report
Authors: Dash Sarah , Bourke Matthew , Parker Alexandra G. , Trott Emma , Pascoe Michaela C.
Published: November 2021

Aim

Mental illness is common among young people. Exercise has benefits for mental health; however, young people experience a range of barriers to engaging in physical activity, one of which is psychological distress. Mindfulness is a modifiable factor that can reduce distress and may, in turn, reduce perceived barriers to physical activity. The aim of this work was to explore associations between dispositional mindfulness, psychological distress and barriers to engaging in physical activity.

Methods

We used cross‐sectional survey data from young adults aged 15–25 years who attended youth mental health services (headspace centres). Demographic, mindfulness, exercise barriers and wellbeing data were collected.

Results

Mediation analysis showed that greater dispositional mindfulness reduced perceived barriers to exercise via reductions in psychological distress among 88 help‐seeking young Australians.

Conclusion

Interventions to increase dispositional mindfulness may be helpful in reducing psychological distress and lessening barriers to exercise engagement, therefore promoting mental health among young people experiencing mental health symptoms.
Oral prednisolone achieves measurable concentrations in equine synovial fluid within 3 hours of administration: Preliminary observations
Authors: Ramey D. W. , Knych H. K.
Published: November 2021

Background

Clinical and anecdotal evidence exists for the use of orally administered prednisolone in the treatment of osteoarthritis in human patients; however, prednisolone is not commonly prescribed by this route of administration in horses for the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Objectives

This preliminary study tested the hypothesis that orally administered prednisolone could be detected in equine synovial fluid 3 h after administration.

Study design

Pre/post study.

Methods

Six horses were used in this study. Blood was drawn pre‐prednisolone administration to assure that all horses were prednisolone free. Three hours after being given 400 mg prednisolone per os, an additional blood sample was taken, as well as samples from the radiocarpal (RC) and tibiotarsal (TT) joints. Samples were frozen and sent to the laboratory for the determination of the presence of prednisolone using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Prednisolone appeared in measurable concentrations in the blood (Mean = 92.655 ng/mL; SD = 54.95 ng/mL) and synovial fluid (RC Mean = 28.44 ng/mL; SD = 20.58 ng/mL and TT Mean = 20.33; SD = 15.67 ng/mL) of all horses when tested 3 h after administration.

Main limitations

This study did not test for any possible therapeutic effects of oral prednisolone in osteoarthritis. It did not attempt to establish a therapeutic dosage for the medication, nor did it attempt to establish the pharmacokinetics of the medication.

Conclusions

Orally administered prednisolone appears in equine blood and synovial fluid at 3 h post‐administration. Since it appears in joint fluid at concentrations that have been shown to be therapeutic for other corticosteroids, orally administered prednisolone may have potential value as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of equine osteoarthritis.
Nutritional considerations for the management of equine pituitarypars intermediadysfunction
Authors: Galinelli Nicolas C. , Bailey Simon R. , Bamford Nicholas J. , Harris Pat A.
Published: November 2021

Pituitarypars intermediadysfunction (PPID) is a common endocrine disorder affecting equids. To help achieve and maintain healthy body condition, whilst reducing the risk of dietary associated laminitis, appropriate nutritional management is key. This review proposes a stepwise approach to building an individual nutritional plan for equines with PPID. Starting with considerations relating to current and desired body condition and muscle mass, it highlights the importance of providing appropriate amounts and forms of energy, carbohydrate and protein, with further practical considerations regarding the feeding of animals that are often aged and may have particular clinical sequelae to PPID. The next important step is to determine the degree of insulin dysregulation (ID), as this is a major factor associated with an increased risk of laminitis. Animals with ID should be fed low non‐structural carbohydrate (NSC) providing feeds/feedstuffs as well as fresh or preserved forage with NSC content <10‐12% on a DM basis. Finally, adjustments need to be made according to life stage and activity level.
Effective stepparenting: Empirical evidence of what works
Authors: Ganong Lawrence , Coleman Marilyn , Sanner Caroline , Berkley Steven
Published: November 2021

Objective

We sought to identify research evidence about stepparents' childrearing behaviors that contribute to stepchildren's physical, cognitive, social, and emotional well‐being to draw best practices guidelines for stepfamily interventions.

Background

Stepparents' relationships with stepchildren are important predictors of individual, relational, and stepfamily well‐being and effective family functioning. Most researchers have examined problems in step‐relationships, but knowing what stepparents do that works in helping their stepchildren develop can help inform professionals who support and educate stepfamily members.

Method

We analyzed the results of 67 research studies containing empirical evidence of effective childrearing of stepchildren by stepparents to extract evidence‐based statements about what stepparents do that “works” to enhance the positive development of stepchildren.

Results

We found that researchers examined two broad topics: (a) developing positive stepparent–stepchild relationships, and (b) developing clear roles for stepparents.

Conclusions

On the basis of this review, we found that stepparents developed close relationships with stepchildren by spending time together, engaging in one‐on‐one activities, having fun together, working together, caregiving, giving tangible support, advocating for stepchildren, communicating positive messages, conveying vulnerability, talking every day, and leaving discipline to parents early in relationships. A variety of stepparent roles are effective, if they meet stepfamily members' needs. Flexibility in role performance is linked to more satisfying relationships. Stepchildren's receptivity to stepparents is also important in effective stepparenting.

Implications

Family professionals can help stepparents strategize about engaging in relationship‐building behaviors tailored for their stepchildren. Family professionals also can assist stepfamilies negotiate roles for stepparents that are accepted by all stepfamily members.
Invasive forest pathogens affect the characteristics, microbial colonisation, and decomposition of leaf litter in streams
Authors: Ferreira Verónica , Pazianoto Laryssa H. R. , Solla Alejandro
Published: November 2021

Invasive tree pathogens threaten forests worldwide, but their effects on streams are poorly understood. Nevertheless, tree infections that lead to changes in the characteristics of litter inputs to streams may affect stream communities and ecosystem processes.

We studied cross‐ecosystem effects derived from Phytophthora cinnamomi, Phytophthora ×alni, and Ophiostoma novo‐ulmi infection on Castanea sativa (chestnut), Alnus lusitanica (alder), and Ulmus minor (elm) trees, respectively, by assessing physical and chemical characteristics of senescent leaves from healthy, symptomatic, and highly symptomatic individuals. Leaf litter from the three health statuses per tree species was then incubated in laboratory microcosms and the effects of tree infection on microbial decomposers and leaf litter decomposition were assessed.

Tree infection significantly affected leaf litter characteristics, microbial decomposers and leaf litter decomposition, and the health status of trees conditioned these effects differently depending on the tree species. In C. sativa, leaf litter of highly symptomatic trees had higher toughness, higher polyphenolic concentration and slower decomposition than leaf litter of symptomatic and healthy trees. In A. lusitanica, leaf litter of highly symptomatic trees had higher phosphorus concentration, lower carbon:phosphorus ratio and faster decomposition than leaf litter of symptomatic and healthy trees. Finally, in U. minor, leaf litter of highly symptomatic trees had higher nitrogen concentration and lower carbon:nitrogen ratio than leaf litter of healthy trees, and faster decomposition than leaf litter of symptomatic and healthy trees. Effects of changes in litter characteristics on litter decomposition were mediated by changes in microbial decomposer colonisation and activity.

The composition of the aquatic hyphomycetes communities associated with C. sativa and U. minor litter varied depending on the tree health status. Most striking was the two‐fold higher aquatic hyphomycetes species richness in litter of U. minor trees infected with O. novo‐ulmi than in litter of healthy U. minor trees.

Tree infection alters the nutritional quality of leaf litter, potentially affecting the functioning of aquatic ecosystems strongly dependent on riparian litter inputs.
Recent geohistorical research on boundary‐making. Challenging conventional narratives on borders and modern state‐building
Authors: Puente‐Lozano Paloma , García‐Álvarez Jacobo
Published: November 2021

The paper aims at providing an overview of recent scholarship from the last 3 decades on boundary‐making, borders, and the territorial shaping of modern states between the eighteenth and the twentieth centuries. Scholarship in various languages (namely English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, and Italian) and from various fields of inquiry will be reviewed in order to highlight their shared themes and common concerns from a comparatist, transdisciplinary, and international perspective. We contend that the field has seen an improvement in knowledge about boundary‐making, methodological changes, and a widening of primary sources and research materials. As a result, conventional narratives on state‐building, as well as the accompanying understanding of boundary lines as the mere result of institutional imposition by central state agencies, have been nuanced and enriched. We claim that expanding on these remarkable outcomes of recent scholarship on boundary‐making would help to further bridge the gap between traditional/geohistorical and postmodern/contemporary approaches to border studies.
Transnational education: The importance of aligning stakeholders' motivations with the form of cross‐border educational service delivery
Authors: Healey Nigel Martin
Published: November 2021

There is currently renewed interest in transnational education (TNE) amongst UK universities as a means of taking education to the 98% of tertiary students worldwide who are geographically immobile. In this discourse, the home universities are characterised as the dominant players, seeking strategic opportunities to commercially expand into foreign markets. This paper argues that, in contrast, there are four key stakeholders in TNE—the home university, the partner organisation, the host government and students in the host country—and a TNE partnership is shaped by their relative power and motivations. The paper finds that unless the motivations of stakeholders are broadly aligned to the form of TNE partnership, it is unlikely to succeed. It highlights the fluid nature of these motivations which change over time—often slowly, but sometimes abruptly when there is a change in university strategy or policy on the part of the host government.
Dietary strategies for chronic spontaneous urticaria: an evidence‐based review
Authors: Podder Indrashis , Jaiswal Saurabh , Das Anupam
Published: November 2021

Although the relationship between diet and chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) remains elusive, several patients seek dietary modifications as they are easy and cost‐effective. Adequate patient education and counseling are crucial as modified diets may be beneficial for a subset of antihistamine refractory CSU patients, and no modality currently exists to identify these patients. Elimination of food items based exclusively on patient history may lead to unnecessary restrictions in most cases resulting in nutritional deficiencies and impaired quality of life. Several dietary strategies have been tried till date with varying rates of success and evidence. This review highlights the various dietary strategies along with their levels of evidence, which may help the treating dermatologists and physicians to counsel CSU patients and make evidence‐based treatment decisions. There is grade A recommendation for the elimination of food additives (artificial pseudoallergens), personalized diets, vitamin D supplementation, Diamine oxidase supplementation and probiotics (in children), grade B recommendation for dietary elimination of red meat, fish and their products, natural pseudoallergens (fruits, vegetables, and spices), and low‐histamine diet, while dietary elimination of gluten (with concomitant celiac disease) has grade C recommendation. Notably, elimination diets should be continued for at least 3 consecutive weeks to assess their effectiveness.
Ketogenic diet‐induced prurigo pigmentosa: a rising association
Authors: Shahrigharahkoshan Shaghayegh , AlHalees Zeinah , Pehr Kevin
Published: November 2021

Prurigo pigmentosa (PP) is an uncommon inflammatory dermatosis first described in 1971. It is characterized by recurrent crops of pruritic erythematous papulovesicles that resolve with a macular reticulated hyperpigmentation. The exact etiology is yet to be determined, however with the expanded application of the ketogenic diet (KD) in recent years, conditions accompanied with ketosis are more commonly being described in association with PP. Antibiotics as well as resolution of ketosis can effectively treat the dermatitis. Given the publicity and growing popularity of the ketogenic diet and numerous references to the “Keto‐Rash” on social media, we reviewed the KD‐induced PP cases to raise awareness of this increasingly recognized entity and provide an update to clinicians, particularly dermatologists, regarding this possible side effect of KD.
Definitive weekly hypofractionated radiotherapy in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma: response rates and outcomes in elderly patients unfit for surgery
Authors: De Felice Francesca , Musio Daniela , De Falco Dario , Grapulin Lavinia , Magnante Anna Lisa , Caiazzo Rossella , Bulzonetti Nadia , Tombolini Vincenzo
Published: November 2021

Introduction

The optimal definitive radiotherapy (RT) scheme in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) remains controversial, especially in elderly patients.

Methods

Data of elderly patients with cSCC lesion(s) treated with weekly hypofractionated RT (8 Gy per week per 7‐8 weeks) were analyzed.

Results

Eighteen patients (median age 89 years) with 23 cSCC lesions have been identified including nine males (50%) and nine females (50%). The most common tumor localization was the head and neck region (n = 21; 91.3%), and the majority of lesions (n = 15; 65.2%) was stage ≥ III. At diagnosis, pain and bleeding were ascribed in 13 (56.5%) and eight (34.8%) cSCC, respectively. Compliance with weekly hypofractionated RT was excellent. The overall response rate at 12 weeks after treatment was 95.7%. Bleeding and pain relief were achieved in all cases. Severe toxicity was not recorded. The 1‐year overall survival was 66.0%. The 1‐year progression‐free survival was 58.7%.

Conclusions

Weekly hypofractionated RT provides a safe, efficient, and cost‐effective treatment in elderly cSCC patients with minimal side effects.
Impact of wood species on microbial community composition, beer chemistry and sensory characteristics during barrel‐ageing of beer
Authors: Bossaert Sofie , Winne Valérie , Van Opstaele Filip , Buyse Jasper , Verreth Christel , Herrera‐Malaver Beatriz , Verstrepen Kevin J. , De Rouck Gert , Crauwels Sam , Lievens Bart
Published: November 2021

Barrel‐ageing of conventionally fermented beers is becoming increasingly popular in recent years, but only very little is known about the underlying process. In this study, we show that wood species significantly affects the bacterial community composition, beer chemistry and sensory characteristics throughout 38 weeks of barrel‐ageing. Whereas the microbial communities of oak‐ and acacia‐aged beer became dominated by Pediococcus damnosus and Brettanomyces bruxellensis, beer aged in oak barrels also contained a large fraction of Acetobacter sp. (29.34%) and to a lesser extent Paenibacillus sp. (2.74%) that were almost undetected in acacia‐aged beer. Oak barrels also imparted substantial concentrations of eugenol, lactones and vanillin, while acacia‐aged beer contained high concentrations of total polyphenols and β‐glucan, which also translated into different sensory perceptions. Altogether, our results provide novel insights into the barrel‐ageing process of beer, and may pave the way for a new generation of beers with a noteworthy flavour complexity.
Retrospective case–control study exploring pretransplant predictors for loss of kidney transplant function or death among indigenous kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Khanal Namrata , Lawton Paul D. , Cass Alan , McDonald Stephen P.
Published: November 2021

Background

The factors affecting the outcomes among Indigenous kidney transplant recipients is not fully understood. We conducted a retrospective case control study to identify risk factors beyond those explained by the ANZDATA registry.

Aim

To identify the risk factors for loss of kidney transplant function or death among Indigenous kidney transplant recipients.

Methods

Cases were defined as all Indigenous Australian kidney transplant recipients from 1 January 2005 to 31 December 2015 from the major hospitals in the Northern Territory (NT) and South Australia (SA) who experienced graft loss (including patient death) up to 2‐years post‐transplant. Controls (matched 4:1) were defined as all indigenous kidney transplant recipients during the same period with functioning transplants at 2‐years post‐transplant operation. Matching was done on gender and diabetes status. Regression analysis adjusted for age was used for comparing cases and controls.

Results

There were 17 cases and 68 matched controls. Among cases, the odds ratio for more than one hospital admission episode (compared with ≤1 episode) in the 2‐year pretransplant period was 6.2 (95% confidence interval, 1.2–32.5). However, there were no significant differences in the frequency of comorbidities at renal replacement therapy start, cardiovascular intervention pretransplant, pretransplant infection screening, age and gender of the donors, frequency of admission episodes where an infection was documented, the total length of inpatient stay or admission to intensive care unit during pretransplant hospital admission between cases and controls.

Conclusion

Early graft loss was associated with a higher frequency of hospital admissions in the 2‐years pretransplant period. In contrast, other measured factors in the pretransplant period did not predict these adverse outcomes.
The influence of a self‐determination theory grounded clinical placement on nursing student's therapeutic relationship skills: A pre‐test/post‐test study
Authors: Perlman Dana , Moxham Lorna , Patterson Christopher , Tapsell Amy , Keough Emily
Published: November 2021

For undergraduate nursing students, an integral mode of learning is their clinical placements. Learning within the clinical setting is influenced by factors such as the facilitators, peers, unit, or department the student is placed on. What is not known is the role of a social context that is grounded in Self‐Determination Theory and how this influences the development of therapeutic relationship skills among undergraduate nursing students. The aim of this study was to examine the role of autonomy support in the professional learning of undergraduate nursing students. This study employed a two‐group pre‐test and post‐test design, with undergraduate nursing students placed in either an autonomy‐supportive group or a comparison group in an Australian context. Therapeutic relationship skills were assessed at the beginning and end of their compulsory mental health clinical placement. Participants were 210 (n = 210) Australian undergraduate nursing students. Using a tertile split, 140 students were placed into one of two groups based on their perception of autonomy support at the post‐test time point. Pre‐ and post‐test therapeutic relationship data were collected for both groups. A repeated measures analysis of variance was used to examine whether engagement in different clinical placements would illicit significant differences in therapeutic relationship skills. Undergraduate nursing students who were engaged in the autonomy‐supportive setting had significantly higher scores associated with the therapeutic relationship subscales: Positive Collaboration and Positive Clinical Input. The importance of the social context is underscored, which is strongly influenced by the educational leader, typically referred to as a nurse facilitator.
A qualitative study exploring adolescents' perspective about Mental Health First Aid Training Programmes promoted by nurses in upper secondary schools
Authors: Costa Tiago Filipe Oliveira , Sampaio Francisco Miguel Correia , Sequeira Carlos Alberto da Cruz , Lluch Canut María Teresa , Moreno Poyato Antonio Rafael
Published: November 2021

Mental Health First Aid Training Programmes are educational interventions that aim to disseminate basic first aid skills in the community. Adolescents in the context of their secondary school education are a particularly appropriate population for literacy promotion interventions. This study explores adolescents’ perspectives on Mental Health First Aid Training Programmes promoted by nurses in Portuguese upper secondary schools. A qualitative and exploratory study was conducted. Data were collected through semi‐structured interviews with 12 adolescents who participated voluntarily and with the consent of their parents. Data were analysed using content analysis. Fourteen themes were identified around three main areas: (i) Relevance of training programmes, (ii) Content of training programmes and (iii) Intervention methods of training programmes. The results obtained indicate that adolescents consider Mental Health First Aid Training Programmes in school relevant and necessary. Adolescents identified the content they deemed most appropriate and how it could be taught. These results can guide the development of training programmes. Nurses should take the lead in implementing these interventions in schools. Adolescents can take a more active role in mental health issues by improving their literacy.