bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Instream cover and shade mediate avian predation on trout in semi‐natural streams
Authors: Penaluna Brooke E. , Dunham Jason B. , Noakes David L. G.
Published: March 2015

Piscivory by birds can be significant, particularly on fish in small streams and during seasonal low flow when available cover from predators can be limited. Yet, how varying amounts of cover may change the extent of predation mortality from avian predators on fish is not clear. We evaluated size‐selective survival of coastal cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii) in replicated semi‐natural stream sections. These sections provided high (0.01 m2 of cover per m2 of stream) or low (0.002 m2 of cover per m2 of stream) levels of instream cover available to trout and were closed to emigration. Each fish was individually tagged, allowing us to track retention of individuals during the course of the 36‐day experiment, which we attributed to survival from predators, because fish had no other way to leave the streams. Although other avian predators may have been active in our system and not detected, the only predator observed was the belted kingfisher Megaceryle alcyon, which is known to prey heavily on fish. In both treatments, trout >20.4 cm were not preyed upon indicating an increased ability to prey upon on smaller individuals. Increased availability of cover improved survival of trout by 12% in high relative to low cover stream sections. Trout also survived better in stream sections with greater shade, a factor we could not control in our system. Collectively, these findings indicate that instream cover and shade from avian predators can play an important role in driving survival of fish in small streams or during periods of low flow.
Fostering Social and Emotional Skills for Well‐Being and Social Progress
Authors: Miyamoto Koji , Huerta Maria C. , Kubacka Katarzyna
Published: March 2015

Children need a balanced set of cognitive, social and emotional capabilities to adapt to today's demanding, changing and unpredictable world. OECD countries and partner economies recognise the importance on the holistic development of individuals. However, there are big gaps between stakeholders' knowledge, expectations and practices on how to foster such skills. This paper presents evidence on the importance of social and emotional skills; on how policy makers and schools are currently enhancing and monitoring such skills; and, on the existing gaps between knowledge, expectations and practices to mobilise these skills. The paper concludes by pointing ways in which education stakeholders can do more to better develop and mobilise the skills that drive individual's well‐being and social progress. The paper draws on findings and frameworks that are being published in a full OECD report entitled ‘Skills for Social Progress: the Power of Social and Emotional Skills’ in the first half of 2015.
Learning in Retirement and Old Age: an agenda for the 21st century
Authors: Istance David
Published: March 2015

This article is about education and learning for the ‘retired’. In using this term, it is recognised that any such definitions and given age bands cover a wide range of situations and learning needs. Such diversity should closely inform the educational agenda for older adults, and as it is a life phase defined by challenge and change ‘learning to be’ encapsulates much that is essential to that agenda. The international evidence shows how rapidly our societies are ageing, and how much longer is spent in retirement: so rapid is that change and so large the numbers of seniors and the elderly that the active nature of learning represents a critical aspect of response to this major phenomenon. Contrary to a popular image of declining skills and capacities, the evidence reveals a much more nuanced picture of capability among the retired. Comparisons are drawn with the early childhood sector, which had parallel characteristics but which has since moved rapidly upwards among policy priorities. In conclusion, the article argues that ‘active ageing’ rather than ‘lifelong learning’ represents a more promising embracing framework through which to develop learning in retirement and old age.
Unavailability of thymidine kinase does not preclude the use of German comprehensive prognostic index: results of an external validation analysis in early chronic lymphocytic leukemia and comparison with MD Anderson Cancer Center model
Authors: Molica Stefano , Giannarelli Diana , Mirabelli Rosanna , Levato Luciano , Russo Antonio , Linardi Maria , Gentile Massimo , Morabito Fortunato
Published: March 2015

A comprehensive prognostic index that includes clinical (i.e., age, sex, ECOG performance status), serum (i.e., ß2‐microglobulin, thymidine kinase [TK]), and molecular (i.e., IGVH mutational status, del 17p, del 11q) markers developed by the German CLL Study Group (GCLLSG) was externally validated in a prospective, community‐based cohort consisting of 338 patients with early chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) using as endpoint the time to first treatment (TTFT). Because serum TK was not available, a slightly modified version of the model based on seven instead of eight prognostic variables was used. By German index, 62.9% of patients were scored as having low‐risk CLL (score 0–2), whereas 37.1% had intermediate‐risk CLL (score 3–5). This stratification translated into a significant difference in the TTFT [HR = 4.21; 95% C.I. (2.71–6.53); P < 0.0001]. Also the 2007 MD Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC) score, barely based on traditional clinical parameters, showed comparable reliability [HR = 2.73; 95% C.I. (1.79–4.17); P < 0.0001]. A comparative performance assessment between the two models revealed that prediction of the TTFT was more accurate with German score. The c‐statistic of the MDACC model was 0.65 (range, 0.53–0.78) a level below that of the German index [0.71 (range, 0.60–0.82)] and below the accepted 0.7 threshold necessary to have value at the individual patient level. Results of this external comparative validation analysis strongly support the German score as the benchmark for comparison of any novel prognostic scheme aimed at evaluating the TTFT in patients with early CLL even when a modified version which does not include TK is utilized.
Soil mixing and genesis as affected by tree uprooting in three temperate forests
Authors: Šamonil P. , Daněk P. , Schaetzl R. J. , Vašíčková I. , Valtera M.
Published: March 2015

The purpose of this study was to identify general patterns of pedoturbation by tree uprooting in three different, forested landscapes and to quantify post‐disturbance pedogenesis. Specifically, our study illustrates how the effects of ‘tree‐throw’ on soils gradually become diminished over time by post‐uprooting pedogenesis. We studied soil development within 46 pit‐mounds in two regions of the Czech Republic, one on Haplic Cambisols and one on Entic Podzols. A third study site was in Michigan, USA, on Albic Podzols. Uprooting events were dated by using tree censuses, dendrochronology and radiometry. These dates provided information on several chronosequences of pedogenesis in the post‐uprooting pits and mounds, dating back to 1816 AD (dendrochronological dating, Haplic Cambisols), 322 AD (median of calibration age, 14C age = 1720 ± 35 BP, Entic Podzols) and 4077 BC (14C age = 5260 ± 30 BP, Albic Podzols). Post‐uprooting pedogenesis was most rapid in pits and slowest on mounds. Linear chronofunction models were the most applicable for pedogenesis, regardless of whether the soils were in pit or mound microsites. These models allowed us to estimate the time required for horizons in such disturbed sites to obtain the equivalent thicknesses of those in undisturbed sites. These ranged from 5 (O horizon in pits on the Haplic Cambisols) to > 16 000 years (E horizon on mounds on the Albic Podzols). On the Albic Podzols, development of eluvial and spodic horizon thicknesses suggested that pathways involving divergent pedogenesis may occur at these small and localized spatial scales.
UGT1A1 genotype and irinotecan therapy: general review and implementation in routine practice
Authors: Etienne‐Grimaldi Marie‐Christine , Boyer Jean‐Christophe , Thomas Fabienne , Quaranta Sylvie , Picard Nicolas , Loriot Marie‐Anne , Narjoz Céline , Poncet Delphine , Gagnieu Marie‐Claude , Ged Cécile , Broly Franck , Le Morvan Valérie , Bouquié Régis , Gaub Marie‐Pierre , Philibert Laurent , Ghiringhelli François , Le Guellec Chantal ,   Collective work by the Groupe de Pharmacologie Clinique Oncologique (GPCO‐Unicancer) and the French Réseau National de Pharmacogénétique Hospitalière (RNPGx)
Published: March 2015

Irinotecan is a major drug in the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer. Its active form is the SN38 metabolite, which is cleared by the biliary route after glucuronidation by uridine diphosphate–glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 (UGT1A1). UGT1A1 activity exhibits a wide intersubject variability, in part related to UGT1A1 gene polymorphisms. The present review on the impact of the deficient UGT1A1*28 variant on irinotecan efficacy and toxicity was produced by a French joint workgroup comprising the Group of Clinical Onco‐pharmacology (GPCO‐Unicancer) and the National Pharmacogenetics Network (RNPGx). It clearly emerges that for irinotecan doses at least equal to 180 mg/m2, patients homozygous for the UGT1A1*28 allele are at increased risk of developing hematological and/or digestive toxicities. Irinotecan dose reduction is thus recommended in homozygous *28/*28 patients. In addition, this personalized medicine strategy aims to secure high‐dose irinotecan administration (≥240 mg/m2) that have proven to be safe in homozygous *1/*1 patients only. The clinical relevance of this test is discussed in terms of treatment efficacy improvement, as increasing the irinotecan dose appears to be safe in patients not bearing a deficient allele. Best execution practices, cost‐effectiveness, and result interpretation are discussed with the aim of facilitating the implementation of this analysis in clinical practice. The existence of networks of laboratories performing this test in routine hospital treatment, as in France, offers the prospect of widespread screening, thus guaranteeing equal access to safe treatment and optimized therapy for patients receiving irinotecan‐based therapy in advanced colorectal cancer.
Rebamipide suppresses TNF‐α mediated inflammation in vitro and attenuates the severity of dermatitis in mice
Authors: Li Weiwei , Zhao Yunpeng , Xu Xiangling , Ma Weiyuan , Gao Peng , Wang Yan , Liang Ke , Li Ruifeng
Published: March 2015

Rebamipide is a routine drug for the treatment of gastritis in a clinical setting. Recently, it has been shown to protect against various inflammatory diseases, and has provided a potential therapy for these diseases. However, whether rebamipide has a role in dermatitis remains to be elucidated. Here, we found that rebamipide alleviated the inflammatory reaction induced by tumor necrosis factor‐α in RAW264.7, a stable macrophage cell line. Furthermore, rebamipide treatment repressed activation of nuclear factor‐kappaB signaling, a well‐established inflammatory signaling pathway. Moreover, an oxazolone‐induced dermatitis mouse model was established to investigate the role of rebamipide in vivo. PBS control group exhibited typical skin inflammation, whereas treatment with rebamipide remarkably attenuated a dermatitis phenotype in this mouse model. The protective role of rebamipide in dermatitis in vivo was probably due to its inhibition of nuclear factor‐kappaB signaling. Collectively, rebamipide may represent a promising molecular target for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory skin diseases.
Alcohol, Young People and Urban Life
Authors: Wilkinson Samantha
Published: March 2015

Moving beyond the current academic pre‐occupation with the night‐time economy and drinking venues, this paper highlights the specificities of outdoor drinking cultures in streets and parks. Instead of viewing outdoor drinking as morally transgressive – as promoted in the popular press – it is contended that outdoor drinkscapes are distinctly appealing over commercial premises for some young urbanites. Streets and parks enable young people to feel socially and physically unrestricted whilst consuming alcohol; provide a space where young people can drink with friends who are not old enough to consume alcohol in commercial premises; and allow drinkers a chance to consume relatively cheap alcohol. Accounts of young people in urban public spaces are typically one of intergenerational conflict, whereby adults seek to exclude or marginalise young people or, at least, try to control their presence and activities. However, in attempting to understand young people's alcohol consumption experiences in outdoor urban spaces, a series of complex personal geographies emerge in which not only adult–young people relations but also young people–young people relations play an important role. Whilst some progress has been made in exposing the diversity of young people's drinkscapes, it is argued that much of the existing literature renders young people's drinking spaces static, bounded terrains. This paper turns to suggest that the ‘new mobilities paradigm’ can be drawn upon to develop and enrich the geographies of young urbanites' outdoor alcohol consumption experiences. It is argued that the extant literature on alcohol‐related mobilities is predominantly concerned with a ‘pointillist’ understanding of mobility. It is contended that Bissell's () alternative conceptualisation of mobility as a ‘loop’ is a more apt means of capturing the more pointless every night mobilities of many young people; particularly the mobilities of those who are not old enough/choose not to consume alcohol in commercial premises, and choose instead to spend their evenings traversing outdoor drinkscapes. It is also asserted that the embodied, emotional and affective elements of young people's alcohol‐related im/mobilities need to be much more prominent if understandings of the lived experiences of young urbanites' drinking geographies are to be unearthed.
Gentrification, Transit, and Land Use: Moving Beyond Neoclassical Theory
Authors: Revington Nick
Published: March 2015

Despite attention to social equity in the way public transit services are distributed, little work has considered how transportation systems may impact social equity through land use changes, particularly gentrification. Existing research on transportation and land use has been grounded primarily in a neoclassical urban economic perspective. However, the neoclassical framework is limited in its ability to handle issues of social justice such as the gentrification process. Meanwhile, critical gentrification literature has seldom considered the potential influence of transport systems to alter the distribution of accessibility benefits within a city. It is argued that a Marxist approach that considers the roles of capital and class in the gentrification process offers a better understanding of how transit infrastructure matters and contributes to a reinvigoration of transport geography. Finally, some directions for future research are suggested.
FOREIGN OR FAMILIAR? MELINDA ABONJI'S AND MARICA BODROŽIC'S MULTILINGUAL LITERATURE
Authors: Förster Kristina
Published: March 2015

This article examines language mixing in the works of two multilingual authors, Melinda Abonji and Marica Bodrožić, who write in their second language, German. I analyse their different techniques of working with language that ultimately lead to a common result: both authors undermine the binaries of native and foreign language, each in her own particular way. Whereas Abonji describes the different associations that a word for the same object evokes in her two languages, thereby connecting and combining the languages in her text, Bodrožić applies German as protection against emotions and clearly separates her two languages, drawing unexpected connections solely between German words. While Abonji's work is exemplary of a literature that promotes ‘Mehrsprachigkeit’ and ‘Vielstimmigkeit’, Bodrožić confronts the German reader with ‘the unknown’ in the German language itself. By focusing on language as the raw material of the texts and by integrating linguistic research on multilingualism, this article grounds the growing interest in this body of work in its writers’ multilingualism.

Dieser Essay untersucht die Verbindung verschiedener Sprachen in den Werken zweier mehrsprachiger Autorinnen, Melinda Abonji und Marica Bodrožić, die in ihrer Zweitsprache Deutsch arbeiten. Ich untersuche unterschiedliche Methoden der Sprachmischung, die aber letztendlich zu demselben Ergebnis führen: beide Autorinnen untergraben den binären Gegensatz zwischen Mutter‐ und Fremdsprache. Abonji beschreibt unterschiedliche Assoziationen, die Bezeichnungen in ihren zwei Sprachen für ein und denselben Gegenstand in ihr hervorrufen und verbindet und kombiniert die Sprachen in ihrem Werk. Bodrožić setzt die deutsche Sprache als einen Schutzwall gegen Emotionen ein und trennt ihre Erst‐ und ihre Zweitsprache entschieden voneinander. Ihre Sprachspiele beschränken sich auf die deutsche Sprache allein. Während Abonjis Werk exemplarisch für eine Literatur der ‘Mehrsprachigkeit’ und ‘Vielstimmigkeit’ ist, konfrontiert Bodrožić den deutschen Leser mit dem Unbekannten in der deutschen Sprache selbst. Durch linguistische Forschung zur Mehrsprachigkeit untermauert, zeigt mein Fokus auf das Rohmaterial Sprache, dass die Mehrsprachigkeit der Autoren eine grundlegende Rolle für das wachsende Interesse an ihrer Literatur spielt.
Factor XI replacement for inherited factor XI deficiency in routine clinical practice: results of the HEMOLEVEN prospective 3‐year postmarketing study
Authors: Bauduer F. , de Raucourt E. , Boyer‐Neumann C. , Trossaert M. , Beurrier P. , Faradji A. , Peynet J. , Borg J.‐Y. , Chamouni P. , Chatelanaz C. , Henriet C. , Bridey F. , Goudemand J. ,   the French Postmarketing Study Group
Published: March 2015

Factor XI (FXI)‐deficient patients may develop excessive bleeding after trauma or surgery. Replacement therapy should be considered in high‐risk situations, especially when FXI levels are below 20 IU dL−1. HEMOLEVEN is a human plasma‐derived factor XI concentrate available in France since 1992, but there are few data regarding its use by physicians. This prospective study assessed the use, efficacy and safety of HEMOLEVEN in common clinical practice. HEMOLEVEN was evaluated in FXI‐deficient patients in 13 French centres in a 3‐year postmarketing study. Forty‐four patients (30 females, 14 males) received 67 treatments. The median age was 37 years (8 months–91 years). Basal FXI levels were <1 to 51 IU dL−1 (median: 5.5); 29 patients were severely FXI‐deficient (<20 IU dL−1). FXI was administered prophylactically before 43 surgical procedures, 10 invasive procedures, 8 vaginal deliveries, or as curative treatment for six bleeds. The efficacy was assessed as excellent/good in 63, moderate in two and undetermined in two treatments. Seven patients experienced seven adverse effects, including two rated as serious: one sudden massive pulmonary embolism with fatal outcome and one case of inhibitor to FXI. HEMOLEVEN is effective for bleeding prevention in FXI deficiency. However, considering the benefit/risk ratio observed in relation to dosage in this study; firstly, it should be used sparingly due to its potential prothrombotic effect; secondly, new prescription procedures should be defined to adapt the dosage, especially in patients with intrinsic and/or acquired risk factors for thrombosis.
Molecular characterization of epithelioid haemangioendotheliomas identifies novel WWTR1–CAMTA1 fusion variants
Authors: Patel Nimesh R , Salim Alaa A , Sayeed Hadi , Sarabia Stephen F , Hollingsworth Faith , Warren Mikako , Jakacky Jared , Tanas Munir , Oliveira Andre M , Rubin Brian P , Lazar Alexander J , López‐Terrada Dolores , Wang Wei‐Lien
Published: March 2015

Aims

Epithelioid haemangioendothelioma (EHE) is a malignant vascular neoplasm. Subsets have been characterized previously by translocations resulting in either WWTR1–CAMTA1 or YAP1–TFE3 fusion. We sought to develop molecular and immunohistochemical (IHC) assays to aid in the diagnosis and characterization of EHE.

Methods and results

Fifty‐two formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) cases diagnosed between 2002 and 2014 were retrieved from the pathology files of our institutions. Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) assays were optimized to detect WWTR1–CAMTA1 and YAP1–TFE3 fusion transcripts in FFPE tissue and transcription factor E3 (TFE3) protein accumulation was examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC). RNA was extracted from 33 adequate samples, with more recent cases providing a greater yield of high quality RNA. Fourteen of 18 informative cases were positive for WWTR1–CAMTA1 fusion transcripts, four of which showed higher‐grade cytological features termed by some as ‘malignant EHE’. Novel in‐frame fusion transcripts were identified in four cases by direct sequencing. IHC revealed variable nuclear TFE3 staining in six of 17 cases; three with patchy staining showed WWTR1–CAMTA1 fusion. One of 18 informative cases was positive for YAP1–TFE3 fusion and showed strong nuclear TFE3 staining by IHC.

Conclusions

This study confirms the high incidence of WWTR1–CAMTA1 and YAP1–TFE3 rearrangements in EHE and indicates that the staining pattern for TFE3 IHC is critical for specificity.
Cutaneous manifestations of immunoglobulin G4‐related disease: what dermatologists need to know
Authors: Lowe Garrett C. , Bogner Ryan R. , el‐Azhary Rokea A. , Gonzalez‐Santiago Tania M. , Kindle Scott A. , Lehman Julia S. , Gibson Lawrence E.
Published: March 2015

In this review, we summarize the recent literature and use case examples to reach diagnostic criteria for the diagnosis of immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)‐related diseases that may be of relevance to the practicing dermatologist.
Genetic association of interleukin‐2, interleukin‐4, interleukin‐6, transforming growth factor‐β, tumour necrosis factor‐α and blood concentrations of calcineurin inhibitors in Turkish renal transplant patients
Authors: Seyhun Y. , Ciftci H. S. , Kekik C. , Karadeniz M. S. , Tefik T. , Nane I. , Turkmen A. , Oguz F. S. , Aydin F.
Published: March 2015

Cytokines are essential for the control of the immune response as most of the immunosuppressive drugs target cytokine production or their action. The calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) cyclosporine (CsA) and tacrolimus are immunosuppressive drugs widely used after renal transplantation to prevent allograft rejection. They are characterized by large interindividual variability in their pharmacokinetics; therefore, monitoring their blood concentrations is important to predict their optimal dosage following transplantation. Calcineurin inhibitors inhibit the phosphatase activity of calcineurin, thereby suppressing the production of other cytokines such as transforming growth factor (TGF‐β), tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐2, and IL‐4. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between polymorphisms of cytokines and blood concentrations of CNIs in renal transplant patients. The study included 53 CsA‐treated renal transplant patients and 37 tacrolimus‐treated renal transplant patients. Cytokine polymorphisms were analysed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) sequence‐specific primers with the cytokine CTS‐PCR‐sequence‐specific primers Tray Kit; University of Heidelberg. Blood concentrations of CNIs were determined with Cloned Enzyme Donor Immunoassay (CEDIA) method. Patients with TC genotype of TGF‐β at codon 10 had lower CsA blood concentrations than the TT and CC genotypes (P = 0.005) at 1 month in CsA treatment group. The ratio of blood concentration/dose of CsA for patients with TGF‐β1‐codon 10 TC genotype was lower than for patients with TT, CC genotypes, and the dose given to these patients was higher in the first month (P = 0.046). The ratio of blood concentration/dose of CsA for patients with IL‐2‐330 GG genotype was higher than for patients with GT, TT genotypes, and the dose given to these patients was lower at first month and sixth months (P = 0.043, P = 0.035 respectively). The tacrolimus blood concentrations were significantly higher in patients with the genotype GG of IL‐2‐330 (P = 0.012) at the third month. Patients who had the TC genotype TGF‐β codon 10 had lower CsA blood concentrations and this group had higher acute rejection (P = 0.033). These results suggest that the genotyping for TGF‐β‐codon 10, IL‐2‐330 and IL‐6‐174 polymorphisms may help individualized immunosuppressive dosage regiments.
Evaluation of observational research reports published in Turkish nursing journals
Authors: Karaçam Z. , Şen E. , Yildirim B.
Published: March 2015

Aim

The aim of this literature‐based descriptive study was to examine the reporting of the observational research studies published in peer‐reviewed nursing journals in Turkey.

Methods

Eleven peer‐reviewed nursing journals printed on a regular basis in Turkey between 2007 and 2012 were selected. These journals were searched for observational research studies, and 502 studies were selected and examined by using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology Statement.

Results

Of the 502 studies, 495 were cross‐sectional, 3 were cohort, and 4 were case controlled. Summary and introduction and aim sections were sufficient in most of the studies. The methods sections of the reports were mostly not reported: 64.3% of the reports did not indicate eligibility/inclusion criteria; sampling method, 67.0%; possible sources of bias, 99.2%; ways to reach sample size, 92.6%. In the results section, the number of individuals participating in each stage of the studies (44.0%) and in other analyses made (39.2%) was not reported. In the discussion section, a main comment about research findings was partly made (97.4%), and limitations of the studies and possible sources of bias were not written in 99.0% of the studies.

Conclusions

This study clearly revealed that the observational research studies published in nursing journals in Turkey did not fulfil the important criteria and needed to be improved.

Implications for nursing and health policy

Information obtained from this study can contribute to improvement of the quality of reporting observational studies in nursing and thus using obtained findings in practice.
Low Loss, High NA Chalcogenide Glass Fibers for Broadband Mid‐Infrared Supercontinuum Generation
Authors: Zhang Bin , Guo Wei , Yu Yi , Zhai Chengcheng , Qi Sisheng , Yang Anping , Li Lei , Yang Zhiyong , Wang Rongping , Tang Dingyuan , Tao Guangming , Luther‐Davies Barry
Published: March 2015

High‐purity Ge–As–Se and Ge–As–S chalcogenide glasses were prepared by modified physical and chemical purification techniques. Using the purified glasses, step‐index fibers with a small core (~5.5 μm) and large numerical aperture (~1.3) were fabricated. When a 13.5‐cm‐long fiber was pumped with 320 fs pulses at a repetition rate of 10.5 MHz at 4.1 μm, supercontinuum spanning from ~1.8 to ~9.8 μm with a dynamic range of ±10 dB and an average power of ~3 mW was generated.
A meta‐synthesis of factors influencing nursing home staff decisions to transfer residents to hospital
Authors: Laging Bridget , Ford Rosemary , Bauer Michael , Nay Rhonda
Published: March 2015

Aim

To report a meta‐synthesis of qualitative research studies exploring the role of nursing home staff in decisions to transfer residents to hospital.

Background

Nurses and nurse assistants provide the majority of care to residents living in nursing homes and may be the only health workers present when a resident deteriorates. To inform future strategies, it is vital to understand the role of nursing home staff in decisions to transfer to hospital.

Design and review methods

A systematic review identified 17 studies to be included. The process of meta‐synthesis was undertaken using the Joanna Briggs Institute's guidelines.

Data sources

Qualitative research papers published between January 1989–October 2012 were identified in key databases including Cinahl, Embase, Medline and PsycInfo.

Results

Nursing home staff members play a key role in decision‐making at the time of a resident's deterioration. Multiple factors influence decisions to transfer to hospital including an unclear expectation of the nursing home role; limited staffing capacity; fear of working outside their scope of practice; poor access to multidisciplinary support and difficulties communicating with other decision‐makers.

Conclusions

There is a lack of consensus regarding the role of the nursing home when a resident's health deteriorates. Nursing home staff would benefit from a clear prescription of their expected minimum clinical skill set; a staffing capacity that allows for the increased requirements to manage residents on‐site, greater consistency in access to outside resources and further confidence and skills to optimize their role in resident advocacy.
Extended contact through cross‐group romantic relationships
Authors: Paterson Jennifer L. , Turner Rhiannon N. , Conner Mark T.
Published: March 2015

Cross‐group romantic relationships are an extremely intimate and often maligned form of intergroup contact. Yet, according to intergroup contact theory, these relationships have the potential to improve the intergroup attitudes of others via extended contact. This study combines the interpersonal and intergroup literatures to examine the outcomes associated with knowing a partner in a cross‐group romantic relationship. Results suggest that cross‐group romantic partners encounter greater disapproval toward their relationships than same‐group partners and, as a result, their relationships are perceived more negatively. Nevertheless, extended contact with cross‐group partners, controlling for participants' cross‐group friendships and romantic relationships, predicts more positive attitudes toward cross‐group dating and positive intergroup attitudes in general, mediated by perceived ingroup norms toward cross‐group relationships.
Rehabilitating civilian victims of war through psychosocial intervention in Sierra Leone
Authors: Mughal Ushna , Carrasco Diego , Brown Rupert , Ayers Susan
Published: March 2015

This research assessed an intervention (involving drug therapy and psychoeducational counseling) for war trauma in Sierra Leone. We examine the impact of the intervention on symptoms of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and indicators of intergroup emotions and attitudes. Civilian war victims were drawn from a rehabilitation program (Intervention, N=50) or a waiting list Control group (N=50). The rehabilitation program combined general psychiatric treatment with additional life skills support. Those in the Intervention group had significantly lower PTSD symptoms and also scored lower on Intergroup Anxiety and Outgroup Blame, than those in Control. The intervention had an indirect effect on PTSD symptoms through Intergroup Anxiety. The reduction in PTSD in the intervention was greater for participants with a stronger identification with Sierra Leone.
Steap4 attenuates high glucose and S100B‐induced effects in mesangial cells
Authors: Chuang Chao‐Tang , Guh Jinn‐Yuh , Lu Chi‐Yu , Wang Yeng‐Tseng , Chen Hung‐Chun , Chuang Lea‐Yea
Published: March 2015

Six‐transmembrane epithelial antigen of prostate 4 (Steap4)‐knockout mice develop hyperglycaemia and inflammation whereas Steap4 overexpression attenuates atherosclerosis in diabetic mice. Thus, we studied the roles of Steap4 in high glucose (HG, 27.5 mM) or S100B (1 μM, a ligand for the receptor for advanced glycation end‐product or RAGE)‐induced effects in mouse mesangial (MES13) cells. We found that HG‐induced Steap4 protein expression was dependent on S100B. HG increased cell membrane, but not cytosolic, Steap4 protein expression. HG increased protein‐protein interaction between Steap4 and S100B, which was confirmed by mass spectrometry of immunoprecipitated S100B. SP600125, LY294002 and AG490 attenuated S100B‐induced Steap4 protein expression or gene transcriptional activity. A mutation in signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) site 2 of the Steap4 promoter constructs resulted in a marked decrease in HG or S100B‐induced activation of Steap4 gene transcription. Overexpression of Steap4 attenuates HG or S100B‐induced collagen IV, fibronectin and cyclooxygenase 2 protein expression. Overexpression of Steap4 attenuates HG or S100B‐induced transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β). Moreover, overexpression of Steap4 attenuates S100B‐induced signalling. Finally, overexpressing Steap4 attenuated renal expression of fibronectin, S100B, TGF‐β, type IV collagen, p‐Akt, p‐extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 and p‐Stat3 in streptozotocin‐diabetic mice. Thus, overexpression of Steap4 attenuated HG or S100B‐induced effects in MES13 cells and attenuated some of S100B‐induced effects in diabetic mouse kidneys.
ADRA2A is involved in neuro‐endocrine regulation of bone resorption
Authors: Mlakar Vid , Jurkovic Mlakar Simona , Zupan Janja , Komadina Radko , Prezelj Janez , Marc Janja
Published: March 2015

Adrenergic stimulation is important for osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption. Previous research shows that this happens through β2‐adrenergic receptor (AR), but there are conflicting evidence on presence and role of α2A‐AR in bone. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of α2A‐AR and its involvement in neuro‐endocrine signalling of bone remodelling in humans. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry were used to investigate α2A‐AR receptor presence and localization in bone cells. Functionality of rs553668 and rs1800544 single nucleotide polymorphism SNPs located in α2A‐AR gene was analysed by qPCR expression on bone samples and luciferase reporter assay in human osteosarcoma HOS cells. Using real‐time PCR, genetic association study between rs553668 A>G and rs1800544 C>G SNPs and major bone markers was performed on 661 Slovenian patients with osteoporosis. α2A‐AR is expressed in osteoblasts and lining cells but not in osteocytes. SNP rs553668 has a significant influence on α2A‐AR mRNA level in human bone samples through the stability of mRNA. α2A‐AR gene locus associates with important bone remodelling markers (BMD, CTX, Cathepsin K and pOC). The results of this study are providing comprehensive new evidence that α2A‐AR is involved in neuro‐endocrine signalling of bone turnover and development of osteoporosis. As shown by our results the neurological signalling is mediated through osteoblasts and result in bone resorption. Genetic study showed association of SNPs in α2A‐AR gene locus with bone remodelling markers, identifying the individuals with higher risk of development of osteoporosis.
Deep Habits, Price Rigidities, and the Consumption Response to Government Spending
Authors: JACOB PUNNOOSE
Published: March 2015

This paper studies two frictions, good‐specific habit formation and price rigidities, used in theoretical models to generate the crowding‐in of consumption by expansionary government spending observed in the data. Both frictions generate countercyclical price markups, rising wages, and ensuing consumption–leisure substitution to overcome the negative wealth effect of the fiscal expansion. I demonstrate that while they independently
support the rise of consumption, when used together the two frictions exert opposing pressures on the markup and the wage, weakening consumption–leisure substitution. Crucially, when price stickiness is high enough in an economy with “deep” habits, consumption is crowded out by the fiscal expansion.
A prospective study comparing ultrapulse CO2 laser and trichloroacetic acid in treatment of Xanthelasma palpebrarum
Authors: Goel Khushbu , Sardana Kabir , Garg Vijay Kumar
Published: March 2015

Background

Xanthelasma Palpebrarum is a type of xanthoma which presents as cosmetic concern.

Objective

To compare the efficacy of 30% TCA and UpCO2 laser in XP.

Methods and materials

Fifty patients with XP were categorized clinically into three groups. Patients in each group were alternately allocated to 30% TCA (Group A) and laser (Group B). TCA was applied weekly (maximum: 12 sessions), and laser sessions were given monthly (maximum: three sessions). The primary outcome measures were total patients cured, the number of sessions, and mean VAS at the end of treatment. The secondary outcome measures were total duration of treatment, side effects, and recurrence in follow‐up (6 months) (P < 0.05 significant).

Results

In Group A, 14 of 25 and in Group B, 25 of 25 patients achieved complete cure (P < 0.05). The mean VAS was lower for Group A (patient: 4.56 vs. 5.36; physician: 4.64 vs. 5.44) [P < 0.05] with significant difference only for group III patients. Mean number of sessions was less with laser group (1.56 vs. 9.74), except in group I. There was no significant difference in pigmentary changes and recurrence.

Conclusion

For clinically mild lesions, both TCA and laser are good options, but laser is a better option for severe lesions. Recurrence is a concern with both modalities.
HYDROCARBON POTENTIAL OF UPPER CRETACEOUS MARINE SOURCE ROCKS IN THE TERMIT BASIN, NIGER
Authors: Liu Bang , Wan Lunkun , Mao Fengjun , Liu Jiguo , Lü Mingsheng , Wang Yuhua
Published: March 2015

Upper Cretaceous mudstones are the most important source rocks in the Termit Basin, SE Niger. For this study, 184 mudstone samples from the Santonian–Campanian Yogou Formation and the underlying Cenomanian–Coniacian Donga Formation from eight wells were analyzed on the basis of palaeontological, petrographical and geochemical data, the latter including the results of Rock‐Eval, biomarker and stable isotope analyses. Samples from the upper member of the Yogou Formation contain marine algae and ostracods together with freshwater algae (Pediastrum) and arenaceous foraminifera, indicating a shallow‐marine to paralic depositional environment with fresh‐ to brackish waters. Terrestrial pollen and spores are common and of high diversity, suggesting proximity to land. Samples from the lower member contain marine algae and ostracods and arenaceous foraminifera but without freshwater algae, indicating shallow‐marine and brackish‐water settings with less freshwater influence.

The wide range of gammacerane index values, gammacerane/C30 hopane (0.07–0.5) and Pr/Ph ratios (0.63–4.68) in samples from the upper member of the Yogou Formation suggest a low to moderately saline environment with oxic to anoxic conditions. In samples from the lower member, the narrower range of the gammacerane index (0.23∼0.35) and Pr/Ph ratios (0.76–1.36) probably indicate a moderately saline environment with suboxic to relatively anoxic conditions.

Petrographic analyses of the Yogou Formation samples show that organic matter is dominated by terrestrial higher plant material with vitrinite, inertinite and specific liptinites (sporinite, cutinite and resinite). Extracts are characterized by a dominance of C29 steranes over C27 and C28 homologues. Results of pyrolysis and elemental analyses indicate that the organic matter is composed mainly of Type II kerogen grading to mixed Type II‐III and Type III material with poor to excellent petroleum potential. Mudstones from the upper member of the Yogou Formation have higher petroleum generation potential than those from the lower member. Mudstones in the Donga Formation are dominated by Type III organic matter with poor to fair petroleum generation potential.

Geochemical parameters indicate that in terms of thermal maturity the Yogou Formations has reached or surpassed the early phase of oil generation. Samples have Tmax values and 20S/(20S+20R) C29 sterane ratios greater than 435°C and 0.35, respectively. 22S/(22S+22R) ratios of C31 homohopanes range from 0.50 to 0.54.

The results of this study will help to provide a better understanding of the hydrocarbon potential of Upper Cretaceous marine source rocks in the Termit Basin and also in coeval intracontinental rift basins such as the Tenere Basin (Niger), Bornu Basin (Nigeria) and Benue Trough (Nigeria).
DIAGENETIC ALTERATIONS AND RESERVOIR QUALITY EVOLUTION OF LOWER CRETACEOUS FLUVIAL SANDSTONES: NUBIAN FORMATION, SIRT BASIN, NORTH‐CENTRAL LIBYA
Authors: El‐Khatri F. , El‐Ghali M. A. K. , Mansurbeg H. , Morad S. , Ogle N. , Kalin R. M.
Published: March 2015

Lower Cretaceous meandering and braided fluvial sandstones of the Nubian Formation form some of the most important subsurface reservoir rocks in the Sirt Basin, north‐central Libya. Mineralogical, petrographical and geochemical analyses of sandstone samples from well BB6–59, Sarir oilfield, indicate that the meandering fluvial sandstones are fine‐ to very fine‐grained subarkosic arenites (av. Q91F5L4), and that braided fluvial sandstones are medium‐ to very coarse‐grained quartz arenites (av. Q96F3L1). The reservoir qualities of these sandstones were modified during both eodiagenesis (ca. <70°C; <2 km) and mesodiagenesis (ca. >70°C; >2 km). Reservoir quality evolution was controlled primarily by the dissolution and kaolinitization of feldspars, micas and mud intraclasts during eodiagenesis, and by the amount and thickness of grain‐coating clays, chemical compaction and quartz overgrowths during mesodiagenesis. However, dissolution and kaolinitization of feldspars, micas and mud intraclasts resulted in the creation of intercrystalline micro‐ and mouldic macro‐porosity and permeability during eodiagenesis, which were more widespread in braided fluvial than in meandering fluvial sandstones. This was because of the greater depositional porosity and permeability in the braided fluvial sandstones which enhanced percolation of meteoric waters. The development of only limited quartz overgrowths in the braided fluvial sandstones, in which quartz grains are coated by thick illite layers, retained high porosity and permeability (12–23% and 30–600 mD). By contrast, meandering fluvial sandstones underwent porosity loss as a result of quartz overgrowth development on quartz grains which lack or have thin and incomplete grain‐coating illite (2–15% and 0–0.1 mD). Further loss of porosity in the meandering fluvial sandstones occurred as a result of chemical compaction (pressure dissolution) induced by the occurrence of micas along grains contacts. Other diagenetic alterations, such as the growth of pyrite, siderite, dolomite/ankerite and albitization, had little impact on reservoir quality. The albitization of feldspars may have had minor positive influence on reservoir quality through the creation of intercrystalline micro‐porosity between albite crystals.

The results of this study show that diagenetic modifications of the braided and meandering fluvial sandstones in the Nubian Formation, and resulting changes in reservoir quality, are closely linked to depositional porosity and permeability. They are also linked to the thickness of grain‐coating infiltrated clays, and to variations in detrital composition, particularly the amounts of mud intraclasts, feldspars and mica grains as well as climatic conditions.
Is Pornography Use Associated with Sexual Difficulties and Dysfunctions among Younger Heterosexual Men?
Authors: Landripet Ivan , Štulhofer Aleksandar
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Recent epidemiological studies reported high prevalence rates of erectile dysfunction (ED) among younger heterosexual men (≤40). It has been suggested that this “epidemic” of ED is related to increased pornography use. However, empirical evidence for such association is currently lacking.

Aim

This study analyzes associations between pornography use and sexual health disturbances among younger heterosexual men using four large-scale online samples from three European countries.

Methods

The analyses were carried out using a 2011 cross-sectional online study of Croatian, Norwegian, and Portuguese men (Study 1; N = 2,737) and a 2014 cross-sectional online study of Croatian men (Study 2; N = 1,211). Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression were used to explore the associations between pornography use and sexual difficulties.

Main Outcome Measures

In Study 1, erectile difficulties, inability to reach orgasm, and a lack of sexual desire were measured using the Global Study of Sexual Attitudes and Behavior indicators. In Study 2, ED was measured with the abridged International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5). Delayed ejaculation and a decrease of sexual desire were assessed with one-item indicators.

Results

In Study 1, only the relationship between pornography use and ED among Croatian men was statistically significant (χ2[2] = 18.76, P < 0.01). The association was small and inconsistent. Compared with infrequent use of pornography, moderate but not high frequency of pornography use increased the odds of reporting ED (adjusted odds ratio = 0.53, P < 0.01). In Study 2, no significant associations both between either the frequency or the recent dynamics of pornography use and male sexual dysfunctions were observed.

Conclusion

We found little evidence of the association between pornography use and male sexual health disturbances. Contrary to raising public concerns, pornography does not seem to be a significant risk factor for younger men's desire, erectile, or orgasmic difficulties.
Reports on badgers Meles meles in Dutch newspapers 1900–2013: same animals, different framings?
Authors: Runhaar Hens , Runhaar Marjolein , Vink Hans
Published: March 2015

Culling wild badgers Meles meles in an attempt to control the spread of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) infections in domestic cattle has provoked a long and fierce debate in the UK. Research has shown that the controversy over badger culling exists because of fundamental differences in how badgers and their relationship with humans are framed (viewed and described) by various people and groups. However, these different framings pre‐existed the bTB badger culling debate.

In the Netherlands, bTB is absent in cattle. Until the 1980s, the badger population showed a strong decline, due to persecution and increasing road traffic intensity. Since the 1990s, the badger population has increased substantially, which has led to more confrontations with humans (more collisions with vehicles, more damage to crops, etc.). Yet badgers seem far less controversial than in the UK. Moreover, cases of persecution are now seldom reported. This suggests that badger framings in the Netherlands are less extreme than those in the UK, and have become less focused on negative aspects of badgers.

Badger framings can facilitate or hinder badger protection. We identify badger framings in the Netherlands, provide explanations for these framings and how they change over time, and explore the consequences of framings in terms of how humans act towards badgers. We then compare the Dutch badger framings to the UK badger framings.

The paper is based on an analysis of over 1400 reports in almost 1200 articles that were published during the last century in Dutch newspapers.

Dutch badger framings are more nuanced than those in the UK. The specific situation of badger–human interaction appears to have an important influence on badger framings, and thus on the protection of badgers.