bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Going around in a Circle: A Norwegian Study of Suicidal Experiences in Old Age
Authors: Holm Anne Lise , Lyberg Anne , Berggren Ingela , Åström Sture , Severinsson Elisabeth
Published: December 2014

Depression has repeatedly been found to be a risk factor for completed suicide, particularly when coupled with a pervasive sense of hopelessness. The aim of this study was to evaluate depressed older persons’ suicidal experiences. Data were collected by means of individual in-depth interviews with nine informants living in two districts of Norway. A hermeneutic analysis was performed. One main theme: Going around in a circle and two themes: being alone without meaning in life and struggling to achieve reconciliation emerged from the analysis. An important implication for mental healthcare practice is the need to develop a person’s ability to shape and take control of her/his life. The healthcare organisation must be committed to a plan that sets out strategies enabling suicidal individuals to avoid the negative experience of meaninglessness. It was concluded that suicidal depressed elderly persons need help to escape from their desperate situation. More research is urgently required in order to prevent suicide in depressed elderly persons whose emotional pain is unbearable.
Methylation ofDLEC1Promoter Is a Predictor for Recurrence in Chinese Patients with Gastric Cancer
Authors: Ye Xiaobing , Feng Gang , Jiao Nanlin , Pu Chun , Zhao Guohai , Sun Guoping
Published: December 2014

Purpose. To investigate promoter methylation in the deleted in lung and esophageal cancer 1 (DLEC1) gene in Chinese patients with gastric cancer.Methods. A total of 227 patients with gastric cancer were enrolled. The methylations of the promoter regions ofDLEC1and ACTB were determined using quantitative methylation-specific PCR. TheDLEC1methylation was compared to the clinicopathological variables of gastric cancer.Results.DLEC1methylation was not associated with the clinicopathological variables of gastric cancer. Patients withDLEC1-hypermethylated gastric cancer had significantly higher recurrence rate than those withDLEC1-hypomethylated gastric cancer (P=0.025;hazard ratio=2.43).Conclusions. Methylation of DELC1 promoter may be a valuable predictor for recurrence in Chinese patients with gastric cancer.
Anticoagulation Strategies in Venovenous Hemodialysis in Critically Ill Patients: A Five-Year Evaluation in a Surgical Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Sponholz Christoph , Bayer Ole , Kabisch Björn , Wurm Karin , Ebert Katharina , Bauer Michael , Kortgen Andreas
Published: December 2014

Renal failure is a common complication among critically ill patients. Timing, dosage, and mode of renal replacement (RRT) are under debate, but also anticoagulation strategies and vascular access interfere with dialysis success. We present a retrospective, five-year evaluation of patients requiring RRT on a multidisciplinary 50-bed surgical intensive care unit of a university hospital with special regard to anticoagulation strategies and vascular access. Anticoagulation was preferably performed with unfractionated heparin or regional citrate application (RAC). Bleeding and suspected HIT-II were most common causes for RAC. In CVVHD mode filter life span was significantly longer under RAC compared to heparin or other anticoagulation strategies (P=0.001). Femoral vascular access was associated with reduced filter life span (P=0.012), especially under heparin anticoagulation (P=0.015). Patients on RAC had higher rates of metabolic alkalosis (P=0.001), required more transfusions (P=0.045), and showed higher illness severity measured by SOFA scores (P=0.001). RRT with unfractionated heparin represented the most common anticoagulation strategy in this study population. However, patients with bleeding risk and severe organ dysfunction were more likely placed on RAC. Citrate provided longer filter life spans regardless of vascular access site. Attention has to be paid to metabolic disturbances.
Effects of Glucomannan-Enriched, Aronia Juice-Based Supplement on Cellular Antioxidant Enzymes and Membrane Lipid Status in Subjects with Abdominal Obesity
Authors: Kardum Nevena , Petrović-Oggiano Gordana , Takic Marija , Glibetić Natalija , Zec Manja , Debeljak-Martacic Jasmina , Konić-Ristić Aleksandra
Published: December 2014

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of a 4-week-long consumption of glucomannan-enriched, aronia juice-based supplement on anthropometric parameters, membrane fatty acid profile, and status of antioxidant enzymes in erythrocytes obtained from postmenopausal women with abdominal obesity. Twenty women aged 45–65 with a mean body mass index (BMI) of 36.1 ± 4.4 kg/m2and waist circumference of 104.8 ± 10.1 cm were enrolled. Participants were instructed to consume 100 mL of supplement per day as part of their regular diet. A significant increase in the content of n-3 (P<0.05) polyunsaturated fatty acids in membrane phospholipids was observed, with a marked increase in the level of docosahexaenoic fatty acid (P<0.05). Accordingly, a decrease in the n-6 and n-3 fatty acids ratio was observed (P<0.05). The observed effects were accompanied with an increase in glutathione peroxidase activity (P<0.05). Values for BMI (P<0.001), waist circumference (P<0.001), and systolic blood pressure (P<0.05) were significantly lower after the intervention. The obtained results indicate a positive impact of tested supplement on cellular oxidative damage, blood pressure, and anthropometric indices of obesity.
MMPI-2: Cluster Analysis of Personality Profiles in Perinatal Depression—Preliminary Evidence
Authors: Meuti Valentina , Marini Isabella , Grillo Alessandra , Lauriola Marco , Leone Carlo , Giacchetti Nicoletta , Aceti Franca
Published: December 2014

Background. To assess personality characteristics of women who develop perinatal depression.Methods. The study started with a screening of a sample of 453 women in their third trimester of pregnancy, to which was administered a survey data form, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory 2 (MMPI-2). A clinical group of subjects with perinatal depression (PND, 55 subjects) was selected; clinical and validity scales of MMPI-2 were used as predictors in hierarchical cluster analysis carried out.Results. The analysis identified three clusters of personality profile: two “clinical” clusters (1 and 3) and an “apparently common” one (cluster 2). The first cluster (39.5%) collects structures of personality with prevalent obsessive or dependent functioning tending to develop a “psychasthenic” depression; the third cluster (13.95%) includes women with prevalent borderline functioning tending to develop “dysphoric” depression; the second cluster (46.5%) shows a normal profile with a “defensive” attitude, probably due to the presence of defense mechanisms or to the fear of stigma.Conclusion. Characteristics of personality have a key role in clinical manifestations of perinatal depression; it is important to detect them to identify mothers at risk and to plan targeted therapeutic interventions.
Evaluation of a Community Reintegration Outpatient Program Service for Community-Dwelling Persons with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Zinman Alana , Digout Nicole , Bain Patricia , Haycock Sylvia , Hébert Debbie , Hitzig Sander L.
Published: December 2014

Objective.To evaluate the effectiveness of a community reintegration outpatient (CROP) service for promoting well-being and community participation following spinal cord injury (SCI).Participants.Community-dwelling adults(N=14)with traumatic and nontraumatic SCI.Interventions.The CROP service is a 12-week (1 × week; 120 minutes) interprofessional closed therapeutic education service.Main Outcome Measure(s).Moorong Self-Efficacy Scale (MSES); Impact on Participation and Autonomy (IPA); Positive Affect and Negative Affect Scale (PANAS); Coping Inventory of Stressful Situations (CISS); World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF); semistructured qualitative interviews.Methods.Twenty-one participants were recruited from two subsequent CROP services, with only 14 persons completing all data assessments. Data were collected at baseline (week 0), at exit (week 12), and at a three-month follow-up. Semistructured interviews were conducted at exit.Results.Self-efficacy (MSES) and positive affect (PANAS) improved from baseline to exit(P<.05), but the changes were not maintained at follow-up. Qualitative analysis identified four major themes related to therapeutic benefits: (1) role of self; (2) knowledge acquisition; (3) skill application; and (4) group processes.Conclusions.Participation in a therapeutic education service has the potential to improve well-being in persons with SCI, but there is a need to identify strategies to maintain long-term gains.
Whole-Exome Sequencing Reveals Frequent Genetic Alterations in BAP1, NF2, CDKN2A, and CUL1 in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Guo Guangwu , Chmielecki Juliann , Goparaju Chandra , Heguy Adriana , Dolgalev Igor , Carbone Michele , Seepo Sara , Meyerson Matthew , Pass Harvey I.
Published: December 2014

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive neoplasm associated with asbestos exposure. Although previous studies based on candidate gene approaches have identified important common somatic mutations in MPM, these studies have focused on small sets of genes and have provided a limited view of the genetic alterations underlying this disease. Here, we performed whole-exome sequencing on DNA from 22 MPMs and matched blood samples, and identified 517 somatic mutations across 490 mutated genes. Integrative analysis of mutations and somatic copy-number alterations revealed frequent genetic alterations in BAP1, NF2, CDKN2A, and CUL1. Our study presents the first unbiased view of the genomic basis of MPM. Cancer Res; 75(2); 264–9. ©2014 AACR.
Agr2 Mediates Paracrine Effects on Stromal Fibroblasts That Promote Invasion by Gastric Signet-Ring Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Tsuji Tadahiro , Satoyoshi Rika , Aiba Namiko , Kubo Takanori , Yanagihara Kazuyoshi , Maeda Daichi , Goto Akiteru , Ishikawa Kazuo , Yashiro Masakazu , Tanaka Masamitsu
Published: December 2014

Agr2 is a disulfide isomerase residing in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which physiologically regulates protein folding and mediates resistance to ER stress. Agr2 is overexpressed in adenocarcinomas of various organs, where it participates in neoplastic transformation and metastasis, therefore acts as a pro-oncogenic protein. Besides its normal localization in the ER, Agr2 is also found in the serum and urine of cancer patients, although the physiological significance of extracellular Agr2 is poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrated that extracellular Agr2 can activate stromal fibroblasts and promote fibroblast-associated cancer invasion in gastric signet-ring cell carcinoma (SRCC), where Agr2 is highly expressed. Agr2 secreted from SRCC cells was incorporated by the surrounding gastric fibroblasts and promoted invasion by these cells. In turn, activated fibroblasts coordinated the invasive behavior of fibroblasts and cancer cells. Our findings suggested that Agr2 drives progression of gastric SRCC by exerting paracrine effects on fibroblasts in the tumor microenvironment, acting also to increase the growth and resistance of SRCC cells to oxidative and hypoxic stress as cell autonomous effects. Cancer Res; 75(2); 356–66. ©2014 AACR.
AMG 925 Is a Dual FLT3/CDK4 Inhibitor with the Potential to Overcome FLT3 Inhibitor Resistance in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Li Cong , Liu Liqin , Liang Lingming , Xia Zhen , Li Zhihong , Wang Xianghong , McGee Lawrence R. , Newhall Katie , Sinclair Angus , Kamb Alexander , Wickramasinghe Dineli , Dai Kang
Published: December 2014

Resistance to FLT3 inhibitors is a serious clinical issue in treating acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). AMG 925, a dual FLT3/CDK4 inhibitor, has been developed to overcome this resistance. It is hypothesized that the combined inhibition of FLT3 and CDK4 may reduce occurrence of the FLT3 resistance mutations, and thereby prolong clinical responses. To test this hypothesis, we attempted to isolate AML cell clones resistant to AMG 925 or to FLT3 inhibitors. After a selection of over 8 months with AMG 925, we could only isolate partially resistant clones. No new mutations in FLT3 were found, but a 2- to 3-fold increase in total FLT3 protein was detected and believed to contribute to the partial resistance. In contrast, selection with the FLT3 inhibitors sorafenib or AC220 (Quizartinib), led to a resistance and the appearance of a number of mutations in FLT3 kinase domains, including the known hot spot sites D835 and F691. However, when AC220 was combined with the CDK4 inhibitor PD0332991 (palbociclib) at 0.1 μmol/L or higher, no resistance mutations were obtained, indicating that the CDK4-inhibiting activity of AMG 925 contributed to the failure to develop drug resistance. AMG 925 was shown to potently inhibit the FLT3 inhibitor–resistant mutation D835Y/V. This feature of AMG 925 was also considered to contribute to the lack of resistance mutations to the compound. Together, our data suggest that AMG 925 has the potential to reduce resistance mutations in FLT3 and may prolong clinical responses. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(2); 375–83. ©2014 AACR.
Immunoprevention of Human Papillomavirus–Associated Malignancies
Authors: Wang Joshua W. , Hung Chein-fu , Huh Warner K. , Trimble Cornelia L. , Roden Richard B.S.
Published: December 2014

Persistent infection by one of 15 high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) types is a necessary but not sufficient cause of 5% of all human cancers. This provides a remarkable opportunity for cancer prevention via immunization. Since Harald zur Hausen's pioneering identification of hrHPV types 16 and 18, found in approximately 50% and 20% of cervical cancers, respectively, two prophylactic HPV vaccines containing virus-like particles (VLP) of each genotype have been widely licensed. These vaccines are beginning to affect infection and HPV-associated neoplasia rates after immunization campaigns in adolescents. Here, we review recent progress and opportunities to better prevent HPV-associated cancers, including broadening immune protection to cover all hrHPV types, reducing the cost of HPV vaccines especially for developing countries that have the highest rates of cervical cancer, and immune-based treatment of established HPV infections. Screening based upon George Papanicolaou's cervical cytology testing, and more recently detection of hrHPV DNA/RNA, followed by ablative treatment of high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN2/3) have substantially reduced cervical cancer rates, and we examine their interplay with immune-based modalities for the prevention and eventual elimination of cervical cancer and other HPV-related malignancies. Cancer Prev Res; 8(2); 95–104. ©2014 AACR.
A tribo Pisonieae Meisner (Nyctaginaceae) no Brasil
Authors: Antonio Furlan , Giulietti Ana Maria
Published: December 2014

Nesta revisão taxonômica da tribo Pisonieae (Nyctaginaceae) no Brasil foram utilizadas as técnicas tradicionais em trabalhos taxonômicos, envolvendo a análise de cerca de 3000 espécimes depositados em herbários nacionais e estrangeiros, aliada a coletas e observações de campo. A maioria das espécies da tribo Pisonieae é neotropical, exceto o gênero Pisonia que apresenta distribuição pantropical. Todas as espécies brasileiras são dióicas. Um estudo de morfologia floral comparada mostra as diferenças genéricas em plantas estaminadas, pistiladas e com frutos. Pelas descontinuidades florais apresentadas, considerou-se os gêneros Guapira e Neea como distintos, em oposição ao tratamento sistemático de Heimerl publicado em 1934. São reconhecidas no país 30 espécies incluídas  nos gêneros Guapira, Neea e Pisonia: Guapira areolata (Heimerl) Lundell, G. campestris (Netto) Lundell, G. graciliflora (Mart. ex J.A.Schmidt) Lundell, G. hirsuta (Choisy) Lundell, G. laxa (Netto) Furlan, G. nitida (Mart. ex J.A.Schmidt) Lundell, G. noxia (Netto) Lundell, G. obtusata (Jacq.) Little, G. opposita (Vell.) Reitz, G. pernambucensis (Casar.) Lundell, G. venosa (Choisy) Lundell, Neea duckei (Huber) Furlan, N. floribunda Poepp. & Endl., N. hermaphrodita S.Moore, N. hirsuta Poepp. & Endl., N. laxa Poepp. & Endl., N. macrophylla Poepp. & Endl., N. madeirana Standl., N. obovata Spruce ex Heimerl, N. oppositifolia Ruiz & Pav., N. ovalifolia Spruce ex J.A.Schmidt, N.parviflora Poepp. & Endl., N. pendulina Heimerl, N. theifera Oerst., N. uleana (Heimerl) Furlan, N. verticillata Ruiz & Pav., Pisonia aculeata L., P. ambigua Heimerl e P. zapallo Griseb. São apresentadas chaves de identificação para os gêneros e espécies, bem como descrições, ilustrações, mapas de distribuição e comentários taxonômicos para os táxons estudados. Guapira foi delimitado com 12 espécies distribuídas principalmente na região Sudeste do Brasil, enquanto Neea inclui 15 espécies com ocorrência predominante na região Norte do Brasil e em Pisonia foram definidas três espécies concentradas na região Sul do pais. Neste trabalho foram propostas  três combinações novas e 56 nomes foram reduzidos a sinonímia, permanecendo 15 nomes como duvidosos e 42 lectótipos são propostos.
Strategy for Identifying Repurposed Drugs for the Treatment of Cerebral Cavernous Malformation
Authors: Gibson Christopher C. , Zhu Weiquan , Davis Chadwick T. , Bowman-Kirigin Jay A. , Chan Aubrey C. , Ling Jing , Walker Ashley E. , Goitre Luca , Delle Monache Simona , Retta Saverio Francesco , Shiu Yan-Ting E. , Grossmann Allie H. , Thomas Kirk R. , Donato Anthony J. , Lesniewski Lisa A. , Whitehead Kevin J. , Li Dean Y.
Published: December 2014

Background—

Cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) is a hemorrhagic stroke disease affecting up to 0.5% of North Americans that has no approved nonsurgical treatment. A subset of patients have a hereditary form of the disease due primarily to loss-of-function mutations in
KRIT1, CCM2
, or
PDCD10.
We sought to identify known drugs that could be repurposed to treat CCM.

Methods and Results—

We developed an unbiased screening platform based on both cellular and animal models of loss of function of
CCM2
. Our discovery strategy consisted of 4 steps: an automated immunofluorescence and machine-learning–based primary screen of structural phenotypes in human endothelial cells deficient in CCM2, a secondary screen of functional changes in endothelial stability in these same cells, a rapid in vivo tertiary screen of dermal microvascular leak in mice lacking endothelial
Ccm2
, and finally a quaternary screen of CCM lesion burden in these same mice. We screened 2100 known drugs and bioactive compounds and identified 2 candidates, cholecalciferol (vitamin D
3
) and tempol (a scavenger of superoxide), for further study. Each drug decreased lesion burden in a mouse model of CCM vascular disease by ≈50%.

Conclusions—

By identifying known drugs as potential therapeutics for CCM, we have decreased the time, cost, and risk of bringing treatments to patients. Each drug also prompts additional exploration of biomarkers of CCM disease. We further suggest that the structure-function screening platform presented here may be adapted and scaled to facilitate drug discovery for diverse loss-of-function genetic vascular disease.
Null Mutation of the Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate–Oxidase Subunit
p67

phox

Protects the Dahl-S Rat From Salt-Induced Reductions in Medullary Blood Flow and Glomerular Filtration Rate
Authors: Evans Louise C. , Ryan Robert P. , Broadway Elizabeth , Skelton Meredith M. , Kurth Theresa , Cowley Allen W.
Published: December 2014

Null mutations in the
p67

phox

subunit of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate–oxidase confer protection from salt sensitivity on Dahl salt-sensitive rats. Here, we track the sequential changes in medullary blood flow (MBF), glomerular filtration rate (GFR), urinary protein, and mean arterial pressure in SS
p67

phox

null rats and wild-type littermates during 21 days of 4.0% NaCl high-salt (HS) diet. Optical fibers were implanted in the renal medulla and MBF was measured in conscious rats by laser Doppler flowmetry. Separate groups of rats were prepared with femoral venous catheters and GFR was measured by the transcutaneous assessment of fluorescein isothiocyanate-sinistrin disappearance curves. Mean arterial blood pressure was measured by telemetry. In wild-type rats, HS caused a rapid reduction in MBF, which was significantly lower than control values by HS day-6. Reduced MBF was associated with a progressive increase in mean arterial pressure, averaging 170±5 mm Hg by HS salt day-21. A significant reduction in GFR was evident on day-14 HS, after the onset of hypertension and reduced MBF. In contrast, HS had no significant effect on MBF in SS
p67

phox

null rats and the pressor response to sodium was blunted, averaging 150±3 mm Hg on day-21 HS. GFR was maintained throughout the study and proteinuria was reduced. In summary, when
p67

phox

is not functional in the salt-sensitive rats, HS does not cause reduced MBF and salt-sensitive hypertension is attenuated, and consequently renal injury is reduced and GFR is maintained.
Modification of the Relationship Between Blood Pressure and Renal Albumin Permeability by Impaired Excretory Function and Diabetes
Authors: Fotheringham James , Odudu Aghogho , McKane William , Ellam Timothy
Published: December 2014

In animal models, reduced nephron mass impairs renal arteriolar autoregulation, increasing vulnerability of the remaining nephrons to elevated systemic blood pressure (BP). A feature of the resulting glomerular capillary hypertension is an increase in glomerular permeability. We sought evidence of a similar remnant nephron effect in human chronic kidney disease. In participants from the United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 1999 to 2010 (N=23 710), we examined the effect of reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) on the relationship between brachial artery BP and albumin permeability. Renal albumin permeability increased exponentially with systolic BP >110 mm Hg, and this association was modified by independent interactions with both excretory impairment and diabetes mellitus. Each 10 mm Hg increase in systolic BP was accompanied by an increase in fractional albumin excretion of 1.10-, 1.11-, 1.17-, 1.22-, and 1.38-fold for participants with eGFR≥90, 90>eGFR≥60, 60>eGFR≥45, 45>eGFR≥30, and eGFR<30 mL/min/1.73 m
2
, respectively, adjusted for age, sex, race, antihypertensive use, eGFR category, diabetes mellitus, smoking, history of cardiovascular disease, body mass index, and C-reactive protein. A 10 mm Hg systolic BP increment was associated with increases in fractional albumin excretion of 1.10- and 1.21-fold in nondiabetic and diabetic participants, respectively. Using urine albumin creatinine ratio as an alternative measure of albumin leak in eGFR-adjusted analyses gave the same conclusions. Our findings are consistent with the presence of a remnant nephron effect in human kidney disease. Future trials should consider the nephroprotective benefits of systolic BP lowering in kidney disease populations stratified by eGFR.
A review of the Tychobythinus algiricus species group from North Africa (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae)
Authors: Sabella Giorgio , VIGLIANISI FABIO MASSIMO , D’Urso Vera , Nouira Said
Published: December 2014

The species belonging to the Tychobythinus algiricus group are revised and the group is characterized and defined. Tychobythinus algiricus (Raffray, 1871) is redescribed, illustrated and its distribution and its synonymic framework discussed, establishing that Tychobythinus occidentalis Besuchet, 1962 is a junior synonym of Tychobythinus algiricus (syn. nov.). A key for species identification is provided.
Climatology of Extreme Daily Precipitation in Colorado and Its Diverse Spatial and Seasonal Variability
Authors: Mahoney Kelly , Ralph F. Martin , Wolter Klaus , Doesken Nolan , Dettinger Michael , Gottas Daniel , Coleman Timothy , White Allen
Published: December 2014

The climatology of Colorado’s historical extreme precipitation events shows a remarkable degree of seasonal and regional variability. Analysis of the largest historical daily precipitation totals at COOP stations across Colorado by season indicates that the largest recorded daily precipitation totals have ranged from less than 60 mm day−1 in some areas to more than 250 mm day−1 in others. East of the Continental Divide, winter events are rarely among the top 10 events at a given site, but spring events dominate in and near the foothills; summer events are most common across the lower-elevation eastern plains, while fall events are most typical for the lower elevations west of the Divide. The seasonal signal in Colorado’s central mountains is complex; high-elevation intense precipitation events have occurred in all months of the year, including summer, when precipitation is more likely to be liquid (as opposed to snow), which poses more of an instantaneous flood risk. Notably, the historic Colorado Front Range daily rainfall totals that contributed to the damaging floods in September 2013 occurred outside of that region’s typical season for most extreme precipitation (spring–summer). That event and many others highlight the fact that extreme precipitation in Colorado has occurred historically during all seasons and at all elevations, emphasizing a year-round statewide risk.
Psychometric Properties of the School Attitude Assessment Survey–Revised With International Baccalaureate High School Students
Authors: Dedrick Robert F. , Shaunessy-Dedrick Elizabeth , Suldo Shannon M. , Ferron John M.
Published: December 2014

In two studies ( ns = 312 and 1,149) with 9- to 12-grade students in pre–International Baccalaureate (IB) and IB Diploma programs, we evaluated the reliability, factor structure, measurement invariance, and criterion-related validity of the scores from the School Attitude Assessment Survey–Revised (SAAS-R). Reliabilities of the five SAAS-R subscale scores were good (αs > .80) for pre-IB (Grades 9-10) and IB students (Grades 11-12). Study 1 model fit indices for the five-factor SAAS-R model from confirmatory factor analyses showed greater misfit than those previously reported by McCoach and Siegle. In contrast, Study 2 fit indices for the five-factor model with pre-IB and IB students were similar to values reported by McCoach and Siegle. Tests of measurement invariance in Study 2 using multigroup confirmatory factor analysis identified three items within the Motivation/Self-Regulation subscale that differed in their item intercepts (i.e., uniform differential item functioning) with pre-IB students endorsing these items more strongly compared with IB students. Based on these results along with evidence of criterion-related validity as reflected in the moderate statistical relations between the SAAS-R subscales and students’ GPAs, the SAAS-R shows promise as a research tool that can be used to examine the psychological factors associated with pre-IB and IB students’ academic achievement.
The influence of acculturation on mental health and specialized mental healthcare for non-western migrants
Authors: Nap Annelies , van Loon Annelies , Peen Jaap , van Schaik Digna JF , Beekman Aartjan TF , Dekker Jack JM
Published: December 2014

Background:

The level of acculturation of migrants varies and is associated with variations in mental health. However, this association is complex and may differ among migrant groups.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to explore the association between acculturation, mental health and treatment effect.

Methods:

In a longitudinal cohort study of patients treated in specialized mental health facilities, different dimensions of acculturation (skills, social integration, traditions, norms/values and feelings of loss) were explored for Moroccan, Turkish and Surinamese migrants in the Netherlands. Furthermore, the associations between acculturation status and symptom levels, quality of life, care needs and effects of mental health treatment were examined. Data were analyzed with analysis of covariance, correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis.

Results:

Acculturation status differed among migrant groups. Turkish migrants showed most original culture maintenance (traditions, norms/values), Surinamese migrants showed most participation in Dutch society (skills, social integration), while Moroccan migrants were situated in between. Higher cultural adaptation was associated with less need for care, lower symptom levels and a higher quality of life. Participation significantly predicted lower symptom levels ( p < .001) and higher quality of life ( p < .001) 6 months after the start of treatment.

Conclusion:

This study confirms that acculturation status is associated with symptom levels, quality of life and perceived need for care of migrants. Moreover, participation in Dutch society appears to be a favorable factor for treatment effect. It is of importance for professionals in clinical practice to be attentive to this.
When Does Informal Enforcement Work?
Authors: Aakre Stine , Helland Leif , Hovi Jon
Published: December 2014

We study experimentally how enforcement influences public goods provision when subjects face two free-rider options that roughly parallel the nonparticipation and noncompliance options available for countries in relation to multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs). Our results add to the MEA literature in two ways. First, they suggest that compliance enforcement will fail to enhance compliance in the absence of participation enforcement. Second, they indicate that compliance enforcement will boost compliance significantly in the presence of participation enforcement. Our results also add to the experimental literature on public goods provision, again in two ways. First, they reveal that previous experimental findings of enforcement boosting cooperation are valid only in settings with forced (or enforced) participation. Second, they show that subjects’ willingness to allocate costly punishment points is significantly stronger when the enforcement system permits punishment of both types of free riding than when it permits punishment of only one type.
There’s no sex in your violence: Patriarchal translation in Ezekiel 16 and 23
Authors: Bibb Bryan
Published: December 2014

Ezekiel 16 and 23 describe shocking scenes of sexual debauchery and gendered violence, which the prophet uses to personify God’s judgment of Jerusalem and Samaria. In turning these chapters into Scripture, translators have filtered out offensive terminology as much as possible, but they have amplified the patriarchal bias within the text. They have chosen patriarchal language for sexually active women (“whore!” “harlot!” “slut!”) and preserved the pornographic presentation of God’s humiliation—violent and sexual—of his faithless wife, which is a troubling revenge fantasy. This softening and reframing of the biblical text makes our theological reading more natural, and our critical resistance to the text more difficult. If we consider Ezekiel 16 and 23 to be pornographic and violent—and unacceptable as an image of God’s dealings with humanity—we must interpret these oracles carefully, perhaps reading against the text in order to resist this damaging subtext and reading with those whom the text abuses and silences.
Jesus Didn’t Teach Us to Juggle
Authors: Henderson Andrea K.
Published: December 2014

Growing research suggests that work–family conflict is harmful to individual well-being. However, few studies have examined this relationship among African Americans, as well as what cultural institutions and practices may help in dealing with the stress of work–family conflict. This study suggests that religion may be an important resource for African Americans in the face of work–family conflict. Using data from the National Survey of Religion and Family Life, a telephone survey of working-age U.S. adults, this study outlines a series of arguments linking work–family conflict, religious involvement, and life satisfaction among African Americans. The results suggest some support for religious involvement in moderating—or buffering—the harmful effects of work–family conflict on the life satisfaction of African Americans. Study limitations are identified and several promising directions for future research are discussed.
Beneficial yet crappy: Journalists and audiences on obstacles and opportunities in reader comments
Authors: Bergström Annika , Wadbring Ingela
Published: December 2014

Reader comments have been a growing part of user-generated content on news sites for some 10 years now. Although activity is still relatively low, interest among the public is generally high; however, journalists still show a general resistance to audience participation. The aim of our study is to examine attitudes to reader comments from two different perspectives: the public’s and the journalists’. The findings derive from one Swedish survey from each group, both of which had a response rate of about 60%. The main result shows that a large proportion of the public does not have any opinion on reader comments, but when they do, support is widespread. Furthermore, journalists have stronger opinions and are rather critical towards reader comments.
Structural adjustment programmes and regional development in Australia
Authors: Beer Andrew
Published: December 2014

Australia’s economy has experienced profound change over the last decade in response to the opportunities generated by the expansion of the mining industry, the strength of the Australian dollar and ongoing competition within global markets. The new economic environment has, however, resulted in the decline of some established industries and the loss of employment from high profile enterprises, including Bluescope Steel, Bridgestone Tyres, General Motors Holden and Mitsubishi Motors. Large-scale redundancies have resulted in government structural adjustment packages that seek to reduce unemployment and encourage the economic revitalisation of the affected region. Such arrangements have been criticised. Despite these concerns, structural adjustment measures are commonly used across Australia and, depending upon definition, more than $88 bn was committed to these programmes by the Australian Government over the period 2000–12. New programmes continue to be rolled out, while other industries call for support. This paper evaluates the outcomes of structural adjustment programmes in Australia and considers the use of such measures relative to other developed economies, including those in Europe. It considers the impact of these schemes on the target communities, including those made unemployed, and whether there is the possibility of identifying better solutions to the challenges confronting communities undergoing change.
Glomerular Collagen V Codeposition and Hepatic Perisinusoidal Collagen III Accumulation in Canine Collagen Type III Glomerulopathy
Authors: Rørtveit R. , Reiten M. R. , Lingaas F. , Sveri S. B. , Brech A. , Espenes A. , Jansen J. H.
Published: December 2014

Collagen type III glomerulopathy, also known as collagenofibrotic glomerulopathy, is a rare renal disease of unknown pathogenesis. The disease occurs in humans and animals and is characterized by massive glomerular accumulations of collagen type III. In the present study, we describe a Drever dog litter affected by an early onset variant of this glomerular disease, where 4 of 9 puppies developed renal failure within 50 days of age. Necropsy specimens of kidney from the 4 affected cases were studied by light microscopy, electron microscopy, and immunohistochemistry, and characteristic lesions compatible with a diagnosis of collagen type III glomerulopathy were found. In addition, 2 cases showed atypical epithelium in the collecting ducts of the medulla, so-called adenomatoid change. Immunohistochemistry of renal specimens from collagen type III glomerulopathy-affected dogs ( n = 10) originating from two different dog strains, the Drever dogs and a mixed-breed strain, demonstrated that the deposited glomerular collagen is composed of a mixture of collagen III and collagen V. The distribution of the collagen V corresponded to the localization of collagen III; however, differences in staining intensity showed that collagen type III is the dominating component. Immunohistochemistry for collagen III ( n = 9) and a transmission electron microscopic study ( n = 1) showed hepatic perisinusoidal collagen type III deposition in affected cases from both dog strains. This is the first report documenting glomerular accumulations of collagen type V and perisinusoidal liver collagen III deposition in canine collagen type III glomerulopathy.
Humanities Promotion Policy in Korea
Authors: Song Ki Dong , Ra Eunjong
Published: December 2014

This paper presents the Humanities promotion policies implemented by the Korean government in the last years. It underlines the growing importance given to these disciplines in the current context of Korea's economic development. It explains why a background in the humanities is seen as a critical tool to enhance the national capacity of compete on global scale. The main actions and programmes for the upcoming years are presented here, along with medium- and long-term plans.
Finite element analysis of the mechanical behaviour of insulated rail joints due to impact loadings
Authors: Mandal Nirmal K
Published: December 2014

Insulated rail joints (IRJs) are safety-critical components in the signalling system of rail corridors. They are subjected to dynamic loads generated by heavy rolling-stock/track- system interactions and degrade faster than the other components of the rail track. Degraded IRJs diminish the reliability of the signalling system, thus posing a serious threat to the safety of rail operations. Therefore, there is a pressing need to closely examine the failure mechanisms of the end posts made of insulated material and inserted into the discontinuity in the rail at IRJs with a view to improving their service life, reliability and efficiency. Only a limited literature is available that examines different materials for IRJ end posts, and these primarily focus on contact pressure and contact stress distributions in the vicinity of the end post, disregarding the damage to the rail ends and end post materials. In this paper, a detailed three-dimensional finite element analysis procedure is carried out to quantify plastic deformation and material damage to the end post and railhead materials of IRJs due to a wheel load above that of the shakedown limit of rail steel. A modified Hertzian contact pressure distribution is considered in this simulation. A 5 mm thickness of an end post is considered at the discontinuity in the rail, which is required to form the six-bolt IRJ. Three popular IRJ end post materials are considered in this study: fibreglass, polyhexamethylene adipamide, and polytetrafluoroethylene. A total of 2000 cycles of a 174 kN dynamic wheel load (in pressure format over the wheel/rail contact patch) are applied on the top of the rail’s surface in the vicinity of the IRJ. Equivalent plastic deformations along with vertical and longitudinal plastic strains for unloaded conditions are presented. The strain plots depict damage of end post materials and ratchetting failure of rail ends. The ratchetting failure modes follow the established trend of decay in ratchetting rate in successive wheel load cycles. Comparisons of strain and stress on the railhead surface and in the railhead sub-surface considering all three different end post materials are put forward. Out of the three end post materials, fibreglass is the optimal material considering the ratchetting mode for the damage of the railhead material.
Forest continuity and conservation value in Western Europe
Authors: Bradshaw Richard HW , Jones Claire S , Edwards Sarah J , Hannon Gina E
Published: December 2014

Long forest continuity has often been linked with high conservation value in western European Quercus and Fagus woodlands, but this assumption of long continuity has rarely been tested. Birks discussed the antiquity of bryophyte-rich Quercus woodland in western United Kingdom, presenting evidence that the modern plant communities developed during the late Holocene influenced by human activities. We use pollen data from forest hollows to show that the modern communities within ancient woodlands are all significantly influenced by recent human disturbance. A short period of deforestation in Johnny’s Wood, Cumbria, UK dates from the late 19th century and is not of Viking age as previously thought. The brief opening of the forest is associated with the local loss of Tilia cordata and Taxus baccata, but a rich bryophyte community exists today. Rich lichen floras of high conservation interest growing on Fagus sylvatica in south-western Sweden occur despite a recent history of human disturbance and local immigration of Fagus as recently as the 9th century ad. Wistman’s Wood, Cornwall, UK had a diverse tree flora until the 11th century ad and then experienced heavy browsing and grazing until ad 1850, after which time the present Quercus woodland developed with its associated flora of high conservation value. Most western European forests today have long and diverse histories of anthropogenic disturbance and current conservation values incorporate both natural and cultural features. Pollen studies with high spatial resolution demonstrate that simple temporal concepts like ‘natural baselines’ and the continuity of forest cover underestimate the complexity of the past. Long forest continuity may be of importance for the local survival of higher plants, but for the insects, fungi, lichens and bryophytes that are so valued in contemporary European temperate and boreal forests, habitat diversity maintained by dynamic processes would appear to be of greater significance.
The role of fire in the mid-Holocene arrival and expansion of lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta var. latifolia Engelm. ex S. Watson) in Yukon, Canada
Authors: Edwards Mary , Franklin-Smith Leanne , Clarke Charlotte , Baker Joanna , Hill Sian , Gallagher Katherine
Published: December 2014

In north-west Canada, Pinus contorta (lodgepole pine) has been migrating northwards and westwards for millennia. Its regeneration is currently enhanced by fire, which may act as a trigger for local population expansion. Using Holocene charcoal records from four small (<10 ha) lakes in southern Yukon, we investigated the relationship between long-term Pinus population dynamics and fire. Fossil stomata extracted from dated lake sediments indicate pine was present at low densities in southern Yukon forests by ~6000 cal. yr BP. At each site, the main population expansion (indicated by an increase in Pinus pollen from <5% to values as high as 60%) occurred 2000–>4000 years after the first local appearance of Pinus, suggesting a long period of stasis at low densities. Population increases – based on pollen accumulation rates (PARs) – occurred at different times at the four sites. Estimated expansion periods were ~2500–800 years, and population doubling times were ~150–600 years, similar to previous estimates. Estimated fire return intervals (FRIs) fluctuated over time. At all sites, the Pinus expansion began during a phase with a relatively short FRI, but only one difference between the mean FRIs before and during the Pinus rise was statistically distinguishable. Nor was the subsequent higher abundance of pine associated with shorter FRIs. It is unlikely that regional pine expansion is primarily linked to changes in climate or a climate-mediated fire regime, although expansion may have been triggered at individual sites during a period of high fire frequency. The long period of stasis at low population densities suggests intrinsic control of population growth; possibly Pinus expansion was initially constrained by lowered reproductive fitness (Allee effect) and/or interaction with local site-based factors.
From landscape description to quantification: A new generation of reconstructions provides new perspectives on Holocene regional landscapes of SE Sweden
Authors: Åkesson Christine , Nielsen Anne Birgitte , Broström Anna , Persson Thomas , Gaillard Marie-José , Berglund Björn E
Published: December 2014

The development since the beginning of the 20th century of the pollen-analytical theory and method as a palaeoecological tool for describing landscape development is outlined with reference to southern Scandinavia. Numerical methods applied since the 1980s are discussed. The aim of this paper is to provide a new perspective on the landscape development and human impact during the Holocene by applying the Regional Estimates of VEgetation Abundance from Large Sites (REVEALS) model to the pollen records from the reference site Lake Färskesjön in SE Sweden. The model was applied both to a previously published record (core 1956, entire Holocene until ad 1600) and a newly collected dataset (core 2013, the last 3000 years). The comparison between the REVEALS estimates of vegetation cover and historical landscape maps indicate that traditional, uncorrected pollen percentages significantly underestimate the degree of landscape openness created by long-term farming and pasturing, but that the degree of underestimation varies over time, depending on the species composition of both the forest and the open-land communities. The REVEALS reconstructions are also a useful tool for the quantification of past land-use changes that may have affected the nutrient loading to the Baltic Sea.
Palaeoenvironmental changes in Central Europe (NE Poland) during the last 6200 years reconstructed from a high-resolution multi-proxy peat archive
Authors: Gałka Mariusz , Miotk-Szpiganowicz Grażyna , Marczewska Miriam , Barabach Jan , van der Knaap Willem O , Lamentowicz Mariusz
Published: December 2014

Peat deposits from an ombrotrophic bog (north-eastern Poland) were analysed to reconstruct peatland development and environmental changes. This paper presents reconstructions of hydrological changes and plant succession over the last 6000 years. The methods included the high-resolution analysis of plant macrofossils, pollen and testate amoebae, supported by radiocarbon dating. Three main phases were identified in the history of the bog and surrounding woodland vegetation: 4000–400 BC, 400 BC–AD 1700 and AD 1700–2011. Except for terrestrialisation and the fen-to-bog transition phase, the development of bog vegetation was mainly dependent on the climate until approximately AD 1700. The dominant taxon in Gązwa bog was Sphagnum fuscum/rubellum. Woodland development was significantly affected by human activity at several time periods. The most visible human activity, manifested by the decline of deciduous species, occurred ca. 350 BC, ca. AD 250, ca. AD 1350 and after AD 1700. These events correspond to phases of human settlement in the area. During 400–300 BC, the decline of deciduous trees, primarily Carpinus, coincided with an increase in indicators of human activity and fire frequency. At ca. AD 200, Carpinus and Tilia abundance decreased, corresponding to an increased importance of cereals ( Secale and Triticum). Since ca. AD 1350, the impact of Teutonic settlement is apparent, and after AD 1700, deciduous forests largely disappeared.