bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Whetstones from Bronze Age Hill Forts of North‐Eastern Italy
Authors: Bernardini F. , De Min A. , Lenaz D. , Cuevas A. Mendoza , Nuviadenu C. K. , Tuniz C. , Kokelj E. Montagnari
Published: September 2014

A group of Bronze Age whetstones from protohistoric hill forts, locally called castellieri, of eastern Friuli Venezia Giulia (north‐eastern Italy) has been studied using different techniques, including non‐destructive methods such as X‐ray computed microtomography and portable X‐ray fluorescence, in order to characterize the raw material and define its origin. The obtained results suggest that small pebbles of reddish subarkose and quartz arenites collected from the gravel deposits of the Isonzo River, perhaps deriving from Val Gardena Formation outcrops, were exploited for the production of the studied artefacts during the Bronze Age. These data complement our knowledge about the lithic raw materials exploitation strategies during the ancient phase of the castellieri culture, almost exclusively based on local rock types.
Characteristics of persons convicted for offences relating to animal hoarding in New South Wales
Authors: Joffe M , O'Shannessy D , Dhand NK , Westman M , Fawcett A
Published: September 2014

Objective

To highlight the characteristics of persons convicted for offences related to animal hoarding in New South Wales, Australia, document the outcomes of cases and compare them with overseas studies.

Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Records of finalised prosecutions for offences relating to animal hoarding between 2005 and 2011 were examined. Data recorded included: the age of each subject at the first offence, sex, postcode, occupation, living conditions, number of charges, number of prosecutions, title of each charge, number and species of live animals, whether animals needed veterinary attention, the medical conditions that the animals suffered, whether dead animals were on the property, how animals were obtained, veterinary and legal costs accrued and case outcomes. The data were analysed to obtain frequencies and relative frequencies for categorical variables and summary statistics for quantitative variables. Observed frequencies were compared using Chi‐square test with the expected frequencies calculated based on the Australian Bureau of Statistics data for NSW.

Results

The number of persons included was 29. Most were female (72.4%) and 23 were 40–64 years of age at their first offence. Almost one‐third identified themselves as breeders, eight as pensioners and four as unemployed. Most resided in inner regional Australia (45%), 28% lived in major cities and 28% lived in outer regional Australia. Dogs were the species hoarded in 80% of cases. Animals requiring veterinary attention were identified in all cases. Dead animals were found on premises in 41.4% of cases.

Conclusions

Persons prosecuted for charges relating to animal hoarding in NSW have similar characteristics to those of previous studies, although the outcomes may be different. More farm animals and horses were hoarded in NSW and hoarders in NSW were more likely to live in inner regional and outer regional areas (rural areas) than animal hoarders in the USA.
Targeting oncogenic interleukin‐7 receptor signalling with N‐acetylcysteine in T cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Mansour Marc R. , Reed Casie , Eisenberg Amy R. , Tseng Jen‐Chieh , Twizere Jean‐Claude , Daakour Sarah , Yoda Akinori , Rodig Scott J. , Tal Noa , Shochat Chen , Berezovskaya Alla , DeAngelo Daniel J. , Sallan Stephen E. , Weinstock David M. , Izraeli Shai , Kung Andrew L. , Kentsis Alex , Look A. Thomas
Published: September 2014

Activating mutations of the interleukin‐7 receptor (IL7R) occur in approximately 10% of patients with T cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (T‐ALL). Most mutations generate a cysteine at the transmembrane domain leading to receptor homodimerization through disulfide bond formation and ligand‐independent activation of STAT5. We hypothesized that the reducing agent N‐acetylcysteine (NAC), a well‐tolerated drug used widely in clinical practice to treat acetaminophen overdose, would reduce disulfide bond formation, and inhibit mutant IL7R‐mediated oncogenic signalling. We found that treatment with NAC disrupted IL7R homodimerization in IL7R‐mutant DND‐41 cells as assessed by non‐reducing Western blot, as well as in a luciferase complementation assay. NAC led to STAT5 dephosphorylation and cell apoptosis at clinically achievable concentrations in DND‐41 cells, and Ba/F3 cells transformed by an IL7R‐mutant construct containing a cysteine insertion. The apoptotic effects of NAC could be rescued in part by a constitutively active allele of STAT5. Despite using doses lower than those tolerated in humans, NAC treatment significantly inhibited the progression of human DND‐41 cells engrafted in immunodeficient mice. Thus, targeting leukaemogenic IL7R homodimerization with NAC offers a potentially effective and feasible therapeutic strategy that warrants testing in patients with T‐ALL.
Preventing leptin resistance by blocking angiotensin II AT1 receptors in diet‐induced obese rats
Authors: Müller‐Fielitz Helge , Lau Margot , Geißler Cathleen , Werner Lars , Winkler Martina , Raasch Walter
Published: September 2014

Background and Purpose

AT1 receptor blockers (ARBs) represent an approach for treating metabolic syndrome due to their potency in reducing hypertension, body weight and onset of type 2 diabetes. The mechanism underlying ARB‐induced weight loss is still unclear.

Experimental Approach

Leptin resistance tests (LRTs) in diet‐induced obese or lean rats were conducted to determine whether telmisartan (8 mg·kg−1·day−1, 14 days) enhances leptin sensitivity. Phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (pSTAT3) staining was performed in hypothalami to determine leptin transport across the blood–brain barrier.

Key Results

Telmisartin reduced weight gain, food intake and plasma leptin but blood pressure remained unchanged. The 24 h profiles of plasma leptin after saline injections were similar in controls and telmisartan‐treated rats, but after leptin injections were higher in controls and slightly lower in telmisartan‐treated animals. After telmisartan, energy intake during LRT was lower in leptin‐ than in saline‐pretreated rats, but remained unchanged in controls, irrespectively of whether rats received saline or leptin. Leptin minimized the gain in body weight during LRT in telmisartan‐treated rats as compared with saline‐treated animals. pSTAT3 staining was reduced in cafeteria diet‐fed rats as compared with chow‐fed rats but this was normalized by telmisartan. Telmisartin reduced hypothalamic mRNA levels of the orexigenic peptides melanin‐concentrating hormone and prepro‐orexin.

Conclusions and Implications

Rats fed a cafeteria diet develop leptin resistance after 2 weeks. Leptin sensitivity was preserved by telmisartan treatment even in rats fed a cafeteria diet. This pleiotropic effect is not related to the hypotensive action of telmisartan.
The impact of restraint reduction meetings on the use of restrictive physical interventions in English residential services for children and young people
Authors: Deveau R. , Leitch S.
Published: September 2014

Aim

The aim was to examine the impact of post restraint reduction meetings upon the frequency and restrictiveness of restraint use in English children's residential services.

Background

Attention has been drawn to the misuse, overuse and safety of some techniques used to physically restrain children in residential services. Successful interventions to reduce restraints have been reported, mostly from the USA.

Results

Demonstrate a significant overall reduction in both, frequency and restrictiveness of restraints; the greatest percentage decrease in the most restrictive floor restraints. Whilst five services reduced both frequency and restrictiveness, five services showed some increases in frequency and/or restrictiveness of restraints employed.

Conclusions

Restraint reduction is most effectively reduced through employing multiple strategies and that post restraint reduction meetings maybe one useful component. Organisations seeking to promote restraint reduction meetings need to allocate sufficient priority and resources to support these.
Genetic and Environmental Etiologies of the Longitudinal Relations Between Prereading Skills and Reading
Authors: Christopher Micaela E. , Hulslander Jacqueline , Byrne Brian , Samuelsson Stefan , Keenan Janice M. , Pennington Bruce , DeFries John C. , Wadsworth Sally J. , Willcutt Erik , Olson Richard K.
Published: September 2014

The present study explored the environmental and genetic etiologies of the longitudinal relations between prereading skills and reading and spelling. Twin pairs (n = 489) were assessed before kindergarten (M = 4.9 years), post‐first grade (M = 7.4 years), and post‐fourth grade (M = 10.4 years). Genetic influences on five prereading skills (print knowledge, rapid naming, phonological awareness, vocabulary, and verbal memory) were primarily responsible for relations with word reading and spelling. However, relations with post‐fourth‐grade reading comprehension were due to both genetic and shared environmental influences. Genetic and shared environmental influences that were common among the prereading variables covaried with reading and spelling, as did genetic influences unique to verbal memory (only post‐fourth‐grade comprehension), print knowledge, and rapid naming.
Infants’ and Young Children's Imitation of Linguistic In‐Group and Out‐Group Informants
Authors: Howard Lauren H. , Henderson Annette M. E. , Carrazza Cristina , Woodward Amanda L.
Published: September 2014

Although children can use social categories to intelligently select informants, children's preference for in‐group informants has not been consistently demonstrated across age and context. This research clarifies the extent to which children use social categories to guide learning by presenting participants with a live or video‐recorded action demonstration by a linguistic in‐group and/or out‐group model. Participants’ (N = 104) propensity to imitate these actions was assessed. Nineteen‐month‐olds did not selectively imitate the actions of the in‐group model in live contexts, though in‐group preferences were found after watching the demonstration on video. Three‐year‐olds selectively imitated the actions demonstrated by the in‐group member regardless of context. These results indicate that in‐group preferences have a more nuanced effect on social learning than previous research has indicated.
Is frequency of tooth brushing a risk factor for periodontitis? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zimmermann Heiko , Zimmermann Nils , Hagenfeld Daniel , Veile Annette , Kim Ti‐Sun , Becher Heiko
Published: September 2014

Objectives

The epidemiology of periodontitis regarding oral‐hygiene practices particularly the frequency of tooth brushing has been the subject of relatively few dedicated studies. This paper provides a systematic review of available relevant epidemiological studies and a meta‐analysis of the effect of tooth brushing frequency on periodontitis. To review and to quantify the risk for periodontitis associated with frequency of tooth brushing.

Methods

Systematic literature search was conducted in nine online resources (PUBMED, ISI and 7 additional databases). Related and cross‐referencing publications were reviewed. Papers published until end of March 2013 reporting associations between tooth brushing frequency and periodontitis were considered. A meta‐analysis was performed to quantify this association.

Results

Fourteen studies were identified. The test of heterogeneity for cross‐sectional studies was not significant (P = 0.31). A fixed‐effects model yielded a significant overall odds ratio estimate of 1.41 (95%CI: 1.25–1.58, P < 0.0001) for infrequent compared to frequent tooth brushing. For all fourteen studies, there was a slight indication for heterogeneity (I² = 48%, P = 0.02) and the corresponding result with a random‐effects model was 1.44 (95%CI: 1.21–1.71, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

There are relatively few studies evaluating the association between tooth brushing frequency and periodontitis. A clear effect was observed, indicating that infrequent tooth brushing was associated with severe forms of periodontal disease. Further epidemiological studies are needed to precisely estimate the effect of key risk factors for periodontitis and their interaction effects.
Aberrant interleukin‐1 signalling does not increase susceptibility of mice to NOD2‐dependent uveitis
Authors: Lee Ellen J , Allensworth Jordan J , Clowers Jenna S , Rosenzweig Holly L
Published: September 2014

Background

NOD2 is the genetic cause of Blau syndrome, an autoinflammatory disease that manifests as coincident uveitis and arthritis. Since dysregulation of IL‐1 signalling is considered a pathogenic mechanism in a number of related autoinflammatory conditions, we examined the extent to which unimpeded interleukin (IL)‐1 signalling influences NOD2‐dependent inflammation of the eye versus the joint.

Methods

Mice deficient for IL‐1R antagonist (IL‐1Ra) were administered the NOD2 agonist muramyl dipeptide (MDP) by systemic (intraperitoneal) or local (intraocular and/or intra‐articular) injections. NOD2‐deficient mice received an intraocular injection of recombinant IL‐1β. Uveitis was evaluated by intravital videomicroscopy and histopathology, and arthritis was assessed by near‐infrared imaging and histopathology. Ocular levels of IL‐1α, IL‐1β and IL‐1Ra were quantified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

IL‐1Ra deficiency did not render mice more responsive to systemic exposure of MDP. Despite the increased production of IL‐1R agonists IL‐1α and IL‐1β in response to intraocular injection of MDP, deficiency in IL‐1Ra did not predispose mice to MDP‐triggered uveitis, albeit intravascular cell rolling and adherence were exacerbated. NOD2 expression was dispensable for the potential of IL‐1 to elicit uveitis. However, we find that IL‐1Ra does play an important protective role in arthritis induced locally by MDP injection in the joint.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the complexity of NOD2 activation and IL‐1 signalling effects that can be compounded by local environmental factors of the target organ. These observations may impact how we understand the molecular mechanisms by which NOD2 influences inflammation of the eye versus joint, and consequently, treatment options for uveitis versus arthritis.
p40 is a more specific marker than p63 for cutaneous poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Alomari Ahmed K. , Glusac Earl J. , McNiff Jennifer M.
Published: September 2014

Background

Poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin may pose a diagnostic challenge for pathologists. p40 is a recently introduced antibody that recognizes specific p63 protein isoforms and has shown superior results labeling non‐cutaneous SCC. We hypothesize that p40 may improve diagnostic accuracy of poorly differentiated SCC.

Methods

Twelve cases of poorly differentiated SCC were stained with p63, p40 and cytokeratin MNF116. Control cases included nine atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX), five cutaneous leiomyosarcoma (LMS) and three giant cell tumors of soft tissue (GCTST).

Results

All 12 cases labeled with p63 and p40 and 11/12 were positive with MNF116. Whereas p40 labeled fewer cells, it showed exclusive nuclear staining, with no staining of cytoplasm or of background cells, in contrast to p63. Six of nine AFX and 2 of 3 GCTST showed scattered nuclear staining with p63 but were negative with p40. Additionally, one LMS showed focal staining with MNF116 but was negative with p40.

Conclusion

For the diagnosis of cutaneous poorly differentiated SCC, p40 appears equally sensitive to MNF116 and p63. While labeling fewer cells, p40 labels without confounding staining of tumor cytoplasm or background cells. More importantly, p40 appears to be more specific for SCC than p63 and MNF116, each of which occasionally labels non‐squamous tumors.
Comedonal graft‐vs‐host disease: a distinct clinical expression of a lichenoid follicular GVHD
Authors: Llamas‐Velasco Mar , Solano‐López Morel Guillermo Enrique , Gruber‐Wackernagel Alexandra , Concha‐Garzón Maria Jose , Requena Luis , Cerroni Lorenzo
Published: September 2014

We report two cases of chronic follicular graft‐vs‐host disease (GVHD) that resemble closed and open acne‐like comedones. We propose the term ‘comedonal GVHD’ for this variant. A 47‐year‐old man presented with multiple 2–4‐mm acne‐like follicular papules in facial areas on day 82 status post bone marrow transplantation. A biopsy showed follicular infundibular dilation with keratotic plugs, hypergranulosis and vacuolar alteration (hydropic degeneration) of the basal layer, with dyskeratotic (apoptotic) keratinocytes, scattered lymphocytes and vascular ectasia of the superficial dermal plexus. We diagnosed chronic follicular lichenoid GVHD. The second patient was a 53‐year‐old female. On day 420 after transplantation, she presented with generalized dark to grayish, confluent, indurated lesions with confluent papules and unevenly distributed comedo‐like lesions. Skin biopsy showed sclerotic dermis and also dilated follicular infundibula with keratotic plugging, hypergranulosis and vacuolar alteration (hydropic degeneration) of the basal layer of the epidermis. We established the diagnosis of chronic sclerodermoid GVHD with follicular lichenoid involvement. The presence of open and closed comedones on the trunk and facial region of an adult raises several differential diagnosis but in our patients, histopathologic study demonstrated typical features of GVHD, which led to this diagnoses despite the peculiar clinical findings.
Drop‐outs from Swiss Universities: an empirical analysis of data on all students between 1975 and 2008
Authors: Wolter Stefan C. , Diem Andrea , Messer Dolores
Published: September 2014

This study presents in‐depth empirical analyses of drop‐outs from all Swiss universities for the entire student population between 1975 and 2008. The results show that most identifiable factors associated with a greater or lesser probability of dropping out are identical to those found in a recent Systematic Review (Larsen et al., 2013). The main findings are that: first, since the 1970s, there has been a marked trend towards falling drop‐out rates which is largely due to female students who, today, have lower drop‐out rates than their male counterparts; secondly, not only are there different drop‐out rates for specific subjects of study, but there are also differences in baccalaureate profiles, which indicates that the skills acquired prior to entering university have a great impact on successful study; thirdly, students who change their first subject choice are at great risk of dropping out. No firm conclusions can yet be drawn about the Bologna reform but, based on the subjects which changed to the Bachelor/Master system between 2001 and 2003, no reduction in drop‐out rates can be found as a result of the reform.
Current symptomatology in multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica
Authors: Muto M. , Mori M. , Sato Y. , Uzawa A. , Masuda S. , Uchida T. , Kuwabara S.
Published: September 2014

Background and objectives

Several symptoms and signs are characteristic of multiple sclerosis (MS) such as Lhermitte's sign, Uhthoff's phenomenon and painful tonic seizure. Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is another inflammatory disease of the central nervous system, and most of the opticospinal form of MS is thought to be NMO. This study aimed to investigate the frequencies of symptoms and signs, previously regarded as characteristic of MS, in NMO and MS patients.

Methods

Consecutive Japanese NMO‐plus patients [NMO (n = 30) or partial NMO (n = 18)] and MS patients (n = 128) seen at Chiba University Hospital between 2011 and 2012 were investigated for the frequencies of symptoms and signs characteristic of MS. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors that distinguished NMO‐plus from MS.

Results

Univariate analyses revealed that tonic seizures, Lhermitte's sign, persistent pain, fatigue and girdle sensation were more frequent in NMO‐plus patients than in MS patients. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that paroxysmal itching, Uhthoff's phenomenon, Lhermitte's sign and girdle sensation were more characteristic of NMO‐plus than of MS.

Conclusions

Several classical MS symptoms and signs are more frequent in NMO patients than MS patients, which may be caused by the differences in the severity of inflammation, and localization and extensiveness of demyelinated lesions.
Prospective, non‐randomised, open‐label study of homeopathic Zingiber officinale (ginger) in the treatment of acne vulgaris
Authors: Miglani Anjali , Manchanda Raj K
Published: September 2014

Background

Zingiber officinale (ginger) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, including homeopathy. Studies carried out so far have validated some of the ethno‐medicinal observations.

Objective

To determine the effectiveness of homeopathic Z. officinale for the treatment of acne vulgaris and to identify its prescribing indications.

Methods

A prospective, non‐randomised open‐label study was conducted on human participants with acne vulgaris. Homeopathic Z. officinale was prescribed in different potencies (6C up to 1M) over a period of 6 months. Outcomes included changes in lesion counts, Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) score, and Acne‐Specific Quality of Life (Acne‐QoL) score. Data were analysed using paired t‐tests, Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests and Pearson's correlation tests.

Results

Thirty‐two participants enrolled in the study; data for 31 participants were analysed. Statistically significant (P<0.001) changes in lesion counts, GAGS scores and Acne‐QoL scores were observed.

Conclusion

Homeopathic Z. officinale demonstrates encouraging results in the treatment of facial acne. Further investigation, using a randomised placebo‐controlled trial design and a larger sample size is now required to draw firmer conclusions about the effectiveness of this intervention.
Are ecologists conducting research at the optimal scale?
Authors: Jackson Heather Bird , Fahrig Lenore
Published: September 2014

Aim

The spatial extent (scale) at which landscape attributes are measured has a strong impact on inferred species–landscape relationships. Consequently, researchers commonly measure landscape variables at multiple scales to select one scale (the ‘scale of effect’) that yields the strongest species–landscape relationship. Scales of effect observed in multiscale studies may not be true scales of effect if scales are arbitrarily selected and/or are too narrow in range. Miscalculation of the scale of effect may explain why the theoretical relationship between scale of effect and species traits, e.g. dispersal distance, is not empirically well supported.

Location

World‐wide.

Methods

Using data from 583 species in 71 studies we conducted a quantitative review of multiscale studies to evaluate whether research has been conducted at the true scale of effect.

Results

Multiple lines of evidence indicated that multiscale studies are often conducted at suboptimal scales. We did not find convincing evidence of a relationship between observed scale of effect and any of 29 species traits. Instead, observed scales of effect were strongly positively predicted by the smallest and largest scales evaluated by researchers. Only 29% of studies reported biological reasons for the scales evaluated. Scales tended to be narrow in range (the mean range is 0.9 orders of magnitude) and few (the mean number of scales evaluated is four). Many species (44%) had observed scales of effect equal to the smallest or largest scale evaluated, suggesting a better scale was outside that range. Increasing the range of scales evaluated decreased the proportion of species with scales of effect equal to the smallest or largest scale evaluated.

Main conclusions

To ensure that species–landscape relationships are well estimated, we recommend that the scales at which landscape variables are measured range widely, from the size of a single territory to well above the average dispersal distance.
Characteristics of tiger nut milk: effects of milling
Authors: Kizzie‐Hayford Nazir , Jaros Doris , Schneider Yvonne , Rohm Harald
Published: September 2014

A standard method for the extraction of tiger nut milk has been introduced. It has been shown that, although milling duration improves the yield of tiger nut milk solids and its nutrient composition, there is a quantifiable loss of nutrient in the pressing residue during milk extraction. Milling duration improved the colloidal stability of the milk against creaming during 16 h of storage. A higher milling intensity resulted in the aggregation of biological polymers which resulted in colloidal destabilisation. Milling improved the lightness and stability and reduced browning rate of the tiger nut milk during storage. This report is important for the production of tiger nut milk of consistent and comparable characteristics. Milling has been introduced as a processing method for the qualitative and quantitative modulation of the properties of tiger nut milk. It is recommended to develop further strategies to improve the colloidal stability of tiger nut milk as a beverage.
Association study of MICA gene polymorphisms with rheumatoid arthritis susceptibility in south Tunisian population
Authors: Achour Y. , Kammoun A. , Ben Hamad M. , Mahfoudh N. , Chaabane S. , Marzouk S. , Keskes L. , Gaddour L. , Bahloul Z. , Maalej A.
Published: September 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I chain‐related gene A (MICA) polymorphisms, important in natural killer (NK) cell function, in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A transmembrane (TM) alanine‐encoding GCT repeats, termed A4, A5, A5.1, A6 and A9 in the MICA gene, and single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs): the Met129Val polymorphism (rs1051792) and the nonsynonymously coding SNP (rs1051794) were genotyped in 142 patients with RA and 123 unrelated healthy individuals using, respectively, PCR fluorescent method, nested PCR‐RFLP and allele specific PCR (ASP). Association was assessed based on the χ2 test, genotype relative risk (GRR) and odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Our results show a trend of association of the different MICA genotypes G/G, G/A and A/A (P = 0.029) which did not attain the significance after Bonferroni's correction (pc = 0.08). Although, we revealed a significant association of the genotype A/A of MICA‐250 in patients with RA compared to healthy controls (pc = 0.033). In contrast, no significant differences between alleles and genotypes frequencies were found either with MICA‐TM or MICA met129 val (P > 0.05) in our sample. Moreover, stratification of patients with RA according to clinical and immunological data for the different polymorphisms studied shows a significant association of both MICA‐250 G allele (pc = 0.0075) and MICA‐250 GG genotype (pc = 0.008) and both allelic (val) (pc = 0.021) and genotypic (val/val) distribution (pc = 0.0095) for MICA met129 val in the RF‐positive subgroup compared to RF‐negative patients with RA. In contrast, we found a strong association of the MICA‐TM A9 allele in RF‐negative patients with RA (pc = 0.0003). This study indicates the involvement of the MICA‐250 polymorphism in the genetic susceptibility and severity to RA and suggests that variations in MICA‐TM and MICA met129 val may have an effect on RA severity in our south Tunisian sample.
Lost in activation? The governance of activation policies in Europe
Authors: Heidenreich Martin , Graziano Paolo R.
Published: September 2014

Over the past two decades, activation has become a rather fashionable European trend for policies in the area of welfare and work, facilitating the job inclusion especially of the long‐term unemployed and other disadvantaged groups. The activation paradigm implies important challenges for related policy fields and the organisational provision of individualised, client‐centred training, skills development and counselling services. The main aim of this Supplement is to shed new light on the ways through which activation strategies have been translated in policies and new governance arrangements. More specifically, the five articles in this Supplement deal with two essential challenges of current activation policies: (i) the tightrope walk between cost‐effectiveness and comprehensive support; and (ii) the different facets and combinations of systemic coordination, collaboration, marketisation, decentralisation and individualisation.
Acne:in vivomorphologic study of lesions and surrounding skin by means of reflectance confocal microscopy
Authors: Manfredini M. , Mazzaglia G. , Ciardo S. , Farnetani F. , Mandel V. D. , Longo C. , Zauli S. , Bettoli V. , Virgili A. , Pellacani G.
Published: September 2014

Background

Acne vulgaris is a common disease of the pilosebaceous unit, clinically showing alteration of the keratinization process leading to comedos formation and subsequent inflammatory process.

Objective

To characterize the morphology of acne lesions and pilosebaceous units by means ofin vivoreflectance confocal microscopy, in order to non‐invasively define the microscopic alterations occurring during the acne process.

Methods

A set of standardized clinical pictures and a set of reflectance confocal images were acquired from 25 volunteers, presenting mild‐to‐moderate acne, and 10 healthy volunteers, using Vivascope 3000®, and 10 mosaics on apparently normal skin were acquired by 5 acne patients and 5 healthy volunteers by Vivascope 1500®, and evaluated by experts.

Results

Confocal microscopy enabled to identify morphological aspects characterizing different types of acne lesions. Apparently normal skin of acne patients, compared with healthy skin of patients with no history of acne, revealed peculiar confocal features, such as bright rings around hair follicle that may represent the early events in acne lesion formation.

Conclusion

The fast and reliable characterization of acne lesions and identification of subclinical alterations in acne‐prone skin through confocal examination, corresponding to infundibular hyper‐keratinization, may have important clinical consequences in the assessment of acne severity, therapeutic decisions and treatment efficacy monitoring.
State Experiences Implementing Youth Sports Concussion Laws: Challenges, Successes, and Lessons for Evaluating Impact
Authors: Lowrey Kerri McGowan , Morain Stephanie R.
Published: September 2014

Over the past decade, a flurry of media stories devoted to sports-related concussions have drawn attention to the previously “silent epidemic” of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in athletes. From 2001 to 2009, the annual number of sports-related TBI emergency department visits in individuals age 19 and under climbed from 153,375 to 248,414, an increase of increase of 62 percent. Multiple head injuries place youth athletes at risk for serious health conditions, including cerebral swelling, brain herniation, and even death — postconcussive conditions that have collectively (and controversially) been referred to as “second impact syndrome.” Studies have shown that children and teens — and girls, in particular — are more likely to sustain a concussion and have a longer recovery time than adults. Recent research also suggests that even subconcussive hits in children and adolescents may result in longer-term health effects such as decreased cognitive functioning, increased rates of depression, memory problems, and mild cognitive impairment (a pre-Alzheimer’s condition).
Perceived Coach Support and Concussion Symptom-Reporting: Differences between Freshmen and Non-Freshmen College Football Players
Authors: Baugh Christine M. , Kroshus Emily , Daneshvar Daniel H. , Stern Robert A.
Published: September 2014

Concussion is a form of traumatic brain injury that has been defined as a “trauma-induced alteration in mental status that may or may not involve loss of consciousness.” Terms such as getting a “ding” or getting your “bell rung” are sometimes used as colloquialisms for concussion, but inappropriately downplay the seriousness of the injury. It is estimated that between 1.6 and 3.8 million concussions occur annually in the United States as a result of participation in sports or recreational activities. To date, there are no objective, biological markers for concussion; rather, the current diagnosis of concussion is dependent upon symptom reporting by the athlete. In the acute phase, concussions can result in a broad spectrum of symptoms that can be transient or last for days, weeks, or even months. Symptom prolongation is generally referred to as post-concussion syndrome.
Loss of Possession: Concussions, Informed Consent, and Autonomy
Authors: Robeson Richard , King Nancy M. P.
Published: September 2014

The principle of informed consent is so firmly established in bioethics and biomedicine that the term was soon bowdlerized in common practice, such that engaging in the informed decision-making process with patients or research subjects is now often called “consenting” them. This evolution, from the original concept to the rather questionable coinage that makes consent a verb, reveals not only a loss of rhetorical precision but also a fundamental shift in the potential meaning, value, and implementation of the informed consent process. Too often, the sharing of information has been replaced by the mere acquisition of agreement with the authority ostensibly offering a choice.

Scholars of informed consent agree that its salience and its legitimacy derive from a fiduciary duty to inform, in order to respect, protect, and promote autonomous decision making by those to whom the duty is owed.
Comparing topical hydrocortisone cream with Hai's Perianal Support in managing symptomatic hemorrhoids in pregnancy: A preliminary trial
Authors: Lim Soo Soo , Yu Chye Wah , Aw Lin Da
Published: September 2014

Aim

The prevalence of hemorrhoids among pregnant women is high in late pregnancy. This study was to evaluate the efficacy between drug treatment with Procort (topical hydrocortisone cream 1%) and mechanical treatment with a Hai's Perianal Support (HPS) toilet seat device in managing symptomatic hemorrhoids during the third trimester of pregnancy.

Methods

A prospective randomized controlled study was conducted on 23 pregnant women with gestation above the 28th week and presented with symptomatic hemorrhoids. Pre‐ and post‐interventional assessment was carried out to obtain data on symptoms of pain, itching, swelling, discomfort and bleeding associated with hemorrhoids. The control group was treated with topical hydrocortisone cream 1% and the test group was provided and taught to use a HPS, a posterior perineal support toilet seat device (Colorec).

Results

The results showed improvement in symptoms of pain, swelling, bleeding, itching and discomfort in both the test and control groups. However, statistically significant differences were found on symptoms of pain, swelling and discomfort between the test and control groups. There was also a statistically significant difference in well‐being and overall improvement between the test and control groups.

Conclusion

HPS has to a certain extent significantly reduced the symptoms of hemorrhoids in pregnancy and improved the well‐being of pregnant women in comparison with topical treatment with hydrocortisone cream. However, more clinical trials need to be carried out to recomfirm the role of HPS in hemorrhoids in pregnancy.
Role of osteoprotegerin gene variants in early‐onset severe pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Yang Yan , Liu Xijing , Jia Jin , Bai Yi , Dai Li , Wang Tao , Zhou Bin , Zhang Lin , Zhou Rong
Published: September 2014

Aim

The aim of this study was to detect the role of osteoprotegerin (OPG) gene variants in early‐onset severe pre‐eclampsia.

Material and Methods

The associations of 163A/G (rs3102735) and 950T/C (rs2073617) polymorphisms of OPG with pre‐eclampsia (60 cases of early‐onset severe pre‐eclampsia and 91 cases of late‐onset pre‐eclampsia), as well as with the clinical manifestations of individuals, were evaluated.

Results

Data showed lower frequencies of TC and TC + CC genotypes and C allele of 950T/C in the early‐onset group than those of the control and late‐onset groups (P = 0.003; P = 0.002; P = 0.005; P = 0.031; P = 0.021; P = 0.022). However, no significant differences were found in genotype and allele frequencies between the late‐onset and control groups. Moreover, no significant differences were observed in the genotype and allele frequencies of 163A/G polymorphism among the three groups. In the early‐onset group, 950T/C TC + CC genotype carriers exhibited significantly lower systolic blood pressure ([147.25 ± 11.89] mmHg) and 24‐h urine protein ([2.46 ± 0.92] g) than the TT carriers ([165.88 ± 20.39] mmHg, [3.64 ± 0.81] g) (P = 0.003; P = 0.001, respectively). Serum creatinine was significantly higher in women with the 163A/G AG + GG genotypes ([82.31 ± 11.66] μmol/L) than in those with the AA genotype ([71.90 ± 16.85] μmol/L) (P = 0.003).

Conclusion

This study implicates that OPG gene variants may be associated with early‐onset severe pre‐eclampsia.
Hints for alternative stable states from long‐term vegetation dynamics in an unmanaged heathland
Authors: Ransijn Johannes , Kepfer‐Rojas Sebastian , Verheyen Kris , Riis‐Nielsen Torben , Schmidt Inger Kappel
Published: September 2014

Questions

How does heathland vegetation composition change during ca. 100 yr of succession in the absence of management? Is succession divergent or mono‐directional? Do soil conditions and land‐use history explain the variation in vegetation dynamics? Is there evidence for alternative stable states?

Location

Nørholm hede, a 350‐ha heathland in southwest Denmark that was abandoned in 1895 and left to develop naturally via succession.

Methods

Permanent vegetation inventory plots were established and have been revisited 11 times between 1921 and 2012. Soil conditions were recorded in 2012. We used clustering, linear mixed models, linear models, ANOVA and multivariate techniques (redundancy analysis and principal response curves) to investigate changes in the plant community and how differences in plant community composition related to soil conditions and disturbance history.

Results

Ericaceous dwarf shrubs dominated most of the heathland initially. A dominance shift from dwarf shrubs to grasses occurred on about half of the plots. The other half of the plots remained dominated by dwarf shrubs, although Empetrum nigrum expanded at the expense of Calluna vulgaris. Lichen cover decreased dramatically across all plots. The divergent successional pattern was not explained by nutrient concentrations. Grasses mainly expanded in areas where they already had a substantial presence, and this initial presence was largely correlated with historical soil disturbance. Plots where dwarf shrubs remained dominant had a relatively thick O‐horizon.

Conclusions

Vegetation dynamics during heathland succession were not deterministically determined by soil conditions. Grass and tree expansion occurred slowly and dwarf shrub dominance was stable for more than 100 yr on large parts of the heath, even in the absence of management. Management actions that disturb stable dwarf shrub vegetation may enhance grass and tree colonization.
Changes in home range sizes and population densities of carnivore species along the natural to urban habitat gradient
Authors: Šálek Martin , Drahníková Lucie , Tkadlec Emil
Published: September 2014

With rapid development and the spread of urbanized land, there is an increasing need to understand species' responses to urban conditions. Carnivores are considered to be sensitive to urbanization; however, there is ample evidence that some carnivore species successfully inhabit urban areas, and human‐modified habitats have recently been recognized as an important refuge for several species.

Despite the increasing number of studies on urban carnivore ecology, no comprehensive cross‐species comparisons have been made in order to assess the effects of urbanization on the spatial ecology of carnivores and their population densities. Such a review could provide interesting insight into how some carnivore species respond to increasing urbanization. Specifically, we examine changes in population density and home range size of eight carnivore species that occur along the natural–urban environmental gradient.

Using data from 411 articles, we provide evidence that the home range size of carnivores decreases in six out of eight species, and population density increases in three out of six species along the natural–urban habitat gradient. The density‐dependent pattern of variation in home range size is consistent in all species studied.

Our results emphasize the remarkable ability of some carnivore species to adapt to novel environments through their behavioural flexibility and life history adaptations. We outline ideas for future research that could be adopted in addressing this phenomenon, namely comparative approaches and detailed studies of biotic and abiotic conditions along natural–urban gradients.
The evolutionary ecology of C4plants
Authors: Christin Pascal‐Antoine , Osborne Colin P.
Published: September 2014

C4photosynthesis is a physiological syndrome resulting from multiple anatomical and biochemical components, which function together to increase theCO2concentration around Rubisco and reduce photorespiration. It evolved independently multiple times and C4plants now dominate many biomes, especially in the tropics and subtropics. The C4syndrome comes in many flavours, with numerous phenotypic realizations of C4physiology and diverse ecological strategies. In this work, we analyse the events that happened in a C3context and enabled C4physiology in the descendants, those that generated the C4physiology, and those that happened in a C4background and opened novel ecological niches. Throughout the manuscript, we evaluate the biochemical and physiological evidence in a phylogenetic context, which demonstrates the importance of contingency in evolutionary trajectories and shows how these constrained the realized phenotype. We then discuss the physiological innovations that allowed C4plants to escape these constraints for two important dimensions of the ecological niche – growth rates and distribution along climatic gradients. This review shows that a comprehensive understanding of C4plant ecology can be achieved by accounting for evolutionary processes spread over millions of years, including the ancestral condition, functional convergence via independent evolutionary trajectories, and physiological diversification.

ContentsSummary765I.Introduction765II.Which properties are common to all C4plants?767III.What is unique to C4plants?768IV.What happened before C4physiology?768V.What happened during the transition to C4photosynthesis?770VI.What happened after C4evolution?771VII.Contingency and the ecological diversity of C4plants773VIII.Conclusions777Acknowledgements777References777
Root structural and functional dynamics in terrestrial biosphere models – evaluation and recommendations
Authors: Warren Jeffrey M. , Hanson Paul J. , Iversen Colleen M. , Kumar Jitendra , Walker Anthony P. , Wullschleger Stan D.
Published: September 2014

There is wide breadth of root function within ecosystems that should be considered when modeling the terrestrial biosphere. Root structure and function are closely associated with control of plant water and nutrient uptake from the soil, plant carbon (C) assimilation, partitioning and release to the soils, and control of biogeochemical cycles through interactions within the rhizosphere. Root function is extremely dynamic and dependent on internal plant signals, root traits and morphology, and the physical, chemical and biotic soil environment. While plant roots have significant structural and functional plasticity to changing environmental conditions, their dynamics are noticeably absent from the land component of process‐based Earth system models used to simulate global biogeochemical cycling. Their dynamic representation in large‐scale models should improve model veracity. Here, we describe current root inclusion in models across scales, ranging from mechanistic processes of single roots to parameterized root processes operating at the landscape scale. With this foundation we discuss how existing and future root functional knowledge, new data compilation efforts, and novel modeling platforms can be leveraged to enhance root functionality in large‐scale terrestrial biosphere models by improving parameterization within models, and introducing new components such as dynamic root distribution and root functional traits linked to resource extraction.

ContentsSummary59I.Introduction59II.Current representation of root function in models62III.Recommendations for leveraging root knowledge into models69IV.Conclusions73Acknowledgements73References73
Effects of temperature and drought manipulations on seedlings of Scots pine provenances
Authors: Taeger S. , Sparks T. H. , Menzel A.
Published: September 2014

Rising temperatures and more frequent and severe climatic extremes as a consequence of climate change are expected to affect growth and distribution of tree species that are adapted to current local conditions. Species distribution models predict a considerable loss of habitats for Pinus sylvestris. These models do not consider possible intraspecific differences in response to drought and warming that could buffer those impacts. We tested 10 European provenances of P. sylvestris, from the southwestern to the central European part of the species distribution, for their response to warming and to drought using a factorial design. In this common‐garden experiment the air surrounding plants was heated directly to prevent excessive soil heating, and drought manipulation, using a rain‐out shelter, permitted almost natural radiation, including high light stress. Plant responses were assessed as changes in phenology, growth increment and biomass allocation. Seedlings of P. sylvestris revealed a plastic response to drought by increased taproot length and root–shoot ratios. Strongest phenotypic plasticity of root growth was found for southwestern provenances, indicating a specific drought adaptation at the cost of overall low growth of aboveground structures even under non‐drought conditions. Warming had a minor effect on growth but advanced phenological development and had a contrasting effect on bud biomass and diameter increment, depending on water availability. The intraspecific variation of P. sylvestris provenances could buffer climate change impacts, although additional factors such as the adaptation to other climatic extremes have to be considered before assisted migration could become a management option.
A multifaceted investigation of the link between mental fatigue and task disengagement
Authors: Hopstaken Jesper F. , van der Linden Dimitri , Bakker Arnold B. , Kompier Michiel A. J.
Published: September 2014

Mental fatigue is often characterized by reduced motivation for effortful activity and impaired task performance. We used subjective, behavioral (performance), and psychophysiological (P3, pupil diameter) measures during an n‐back task to investigate the link between mental fatigue and task disengagement. After 2 h, we manipulated the rewards to examine a possible reengagement effect. Analyses showed that, with increasing fatigue and time‐on‐task, performance, P3 amplitude, and pupil diameter decreased. After increasing the rewards, all measures reverted to higher levels. Multilevel analysis revealed positive correlations between the used measures with time‐on‐task. We interpret these results as support for a strong link between task disengagement and mental fatigue.