bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Types and Characteristics of Volcanostratigraphic Boundaries and Their Oil‐Gas Reservoir Significance
Authors: Huafeng TANG , Phiri CRYTON , Youfeng GAO , Yulong HUANG , Weihua BIAN
Published: March 2015

Just like in sedimentary stratigraphy, the volcanostratigraphic boundary is an important factor for constructing volcanostratigraphic framework. The fundamental factor of volcanostratigraphic boundaries is to classify the types and define their characteristics. Based on field investigation and cross‐wells section analysis of Mesozoic volcanostratigraphy in NE China, 5 types of volcanostratigraphic boundaries have been recognized, namely eruptive conformity boundary (ECB), eruptive unconformity boundary (EUB), eruptive interval unconformity boundary (EIUB), tectonic unconformity boundary (TUB) and intrusive contacts boundary (ICB). Except ICB, the unconformity boundaries can be divided into angular unconformity and paraconformity. The time spans and signs of these boundaries are analyzed by using age data of some volcanic fields that have been published. The time spans of ECB and EUB are from several minutes to years. In lava flows, cooling crust is distributed above and below ECB and EUB; in pyroclastic flows, airfalls and lahars, a fine layer below these boundaries has no discernable erosion at every part of the boundary. EUB may be curved or cross curved and jagged. The scale of ECB/EUB is dependent on the scale of lava flow or pyroclastic flows. The time span of EIUB is from decades to thousands of years. There is also weathered crust under EIUB and sedimentary rock beds overlie EIUB. In most instances, weathered crust and thin sedimentary beds are associated with each other laterally. The boundary is a smooth curved plane. The scale of EIUB is dependent on the scale of the volcano or volcano groups. The characteristics of TUB are similar to EIUB's. The time interval of TUB is from tens of thousands to millions of years. The scale of TUB depends on the scale of the basin or volcanic field. Both the lab data and logging data of wells in the Songliao Basin reveal that the porosity is greatly related to the boundaries in the lava flows. There is a high‐porosity belt below ECB, EUB or EIUB, and the porosity decreases when it is apart from the boundary. The high‐porosity belt below ECB and EUB is mainly contributed by primary porosity, such as vesicles. The high‐porosity belt below EIUB is mainly contributed by primary and secondary porosity, such as association of vesicles and spongy pores, so the area near the boundary in lava flows is a very important target for reservoirs.
A Preliminary Review of Metallogenic Regularity of Copper Deposits in China
Authors: Lijuan YING , Yuchuan CHEN , Denghong WANG , Juxing TANG , Zhenghui CHEN , Chenghui WANG
Published: March 2015

Copper resources in China are rich, but imported copper products are still required. Researches on metallogenic regularity of major types of copper deposits by geologists have involved in worldwide classification, significant copper belts, representative copper deposits, etc. Studies on metallogenic regularity of copper deposits in China also have made achievements with a long‐term work. Combined with latest exploration advances obtained in recent ten years, this review aims to conclude the achievements of researches on copper metallogenic regularity in China. Based on data of 814 copper deposits and other ore (mineralized) occurrences, ten prediction types of copper deposits have been suggested. Porphyry and skarn copper ores are taken as the key targets. Porphyry copper deposits are the most important one which concentrate in Gangdese, Changdu‐Sanjiang, Dexing and East Tianshan. The Cenozoic and Mesozoic are the major metallogenic epochs. Four main metallogenic epochs are been studied based on the copper ore geochronological data including Precambrian Era (Archean and Proterozoic), Paleozoic Era, Mesozoic Era and Cenozoic Era. Based on the study of metallogenic series of ore deposits in China, twenty‐seven metallogenic series of copper deposits are proposed. This is suggested to deepen the study of metallogenic regularity of copper ore and provide the theory guide for copper resources prediction in China.
Incentive Contracts, Market Risk, and Cost of Capital
Authors: Bertomeu Jeremy
Published: March 2015

Should incentive contracts expose the agent to market‐wide shocks? Counterintuitively, I show that market risk cannot be filtered out from the compensation and managed independently by the agent. Under plausible risk preferences, the principal should offer a contract in which performance pay increases following a favorable market shock. In the aggregate, however, the effect of market risk on individual contracts diversifies away and the agency problem does not directly affect the cost of capital. The analysis suggests caution in interpreting changes in cost of capital in terms of the stewardship role of accounting information.
Veno‐venous extracorporeal CO2 removal improves pulmonary hemodynamics in a porcine ARDS model
Authors: MORIMONT P. , GUIOT J. , DESAIVE T. , TCHANA‐SATO V. , JANSSEN N. , CAGNINA A. , HELLA D. , BLAFFART F. , DEFRAIGNE J.‐O. , LAMBERMONT B.
Published: March 2015

Background

Protective lung ventilation is recommended in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) to minimize additional injuries to the lung. However, hypercapnic acidosis resulting from ventilation at lower tidal volume enhances pulmonary hypertension and might induce right ventricular (RV) failure. We investigated if extracorporeal veno‐venous CO2 removal therapy could have beneficial effects on pulmonary circulation and RV function.

Methods

This study was performed on an experimental model of ARDS obtained in eight anaesthetized pigs connected to a volume‐cycled ventilator. A micromanometer‐tipped catheter was inserted into the main pulmonary artery and an admittance micromanometer‐tipped catheter was inserted into the right ventricle. RV–arterial coupling was derived from RV pressure‐volume loops. ARDS was obtained by repeated bronchoalveolar lavage. Protective ventilation was then achieved, and the pigs were connected to a pump‐driven extracorporeal membrane oxygenator (PALP, Maquet, Germany) in order to achieve CO2 removal.

Results

ARDS induced severe hypercapnic acidosis. Systolic pulmonary artery pressure significantly increased from 29.6 ± 1.8 to 43.9 ± 2.0 mmHg (P < 0.001). After the PALP was started, acidosis was corrected and normocarbia was maintained despite protective ventilation. Pulmonary artery pressure significantly decreased to 31.6 ± 3.2 mmHg (P < 0.001) and RV–arterial coupling significantly improved (RV–arterial coupling index = 1.03 ± 0.33 vs. 0.55 ± 0.41, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Veno‐venous CO2 removal therapy enabled protective ventilation while maintaining normocarbia during ARDS. CO2 removal decreased pulmonary hypertension and improved RV function. This technique may be an effective lung‐ and RV‐protective adjunct to mechanical ventilation.
The ultrasound‐assisted paraspinous approach to lumbar neuraxial blockade: a simplified technique in patients with difficult anatomy
Authors: CHIN K. J. , PERLAS A. , CHAN V.
Published: March 2015

Pre‐procedural ultrasound imaging of the spine to identify the interspinous and interlaminar space has been shown to facilitate subsequent performance of lumbar neuraxial blockade. However, adequate visualization of the vertebral canal can be challenging for less‐experienced operators, and particularly in subjects with difficult anatomy. In this case report, we describe a simplified technique of ultrasound‐assisted neuraxial blockade that addresses these limitations and may thus be a useful fallback option. A pre‐procedural scan is performed in which the main ultrasonographic landmarks to be identified are the neuraxial midline and the spinous processes, rather than the posterior and anterior complexes of the vertebral canal. Another key difference is the use of a paraspinous (or paramedian) needle approach rather than a midline approach that is advantageous where the interspinous spaces are narrowed by disease or suboptimal patient positioning. The anatomical basis and technical performance of this novel ultrasound‐assisted paraspinous approach are presented in detail.
Who are with us: MOOC learners on a FutureLearn course
Authors: Liyanagunawardena Tharindu Rekha , Lundqvist Karsten Øster , Williams Shirley Ann
Published: March 2015

Massive open online courses (MOOCs) attract learners with a variety of backgrounds. Engaging them using game development was trialled in a beginner's programming course, “Begin programming: build your first mobile game,” on FutureLearn platform. The course has completed two iterations: first in autumn 2013 and second in spring 2014 with thousands of participants. This paper explores the characteristics of learner groups attracted by these two consecutive runs of the course and their perceptions of the course using pre‐ and post‐course surveys. Recommendations for practitioners are offered, including when the audience is different to the one expected. A MOOC is unlikely to please everyone, especially with such large cohorts. Nevertheless, this course, using game development as a vehicle to teach programming, seems to have offered a balanced learning experience to a diverse group of learners. However, MOOC creators and facilitators should accept that a course cannot be made to please everyone and try to communicate clearly who the intended audience for the course are.
Enhancing FTS (Salirasib) efficiency via combinatorial treatment
Authors: Wolfson Eya , Schmukler Eran , Schokoroy Sari Trangle , Kloog Yoel , Pinkas‐Kramarski Ronit
Published: March 2015

The Ras oncogene transmits signals, which regulate various cellular processes including cell motility, differentiation, growth and death. Since Ras signalling is abnormally activated in more than 30% of human cancers, Ras and its downstream signalling pathways are considered good targets for therapeutic interference. Ras is post‐translationally modified by the addition of a farnesyl group, which permits its attachment to the plasma membrane. Exploiting this knowledge, a synthetic Ras inhibitor, S‐trans, trans‐farnesylthiosalicylic acid (FTS; Salirasib), was developed. FTS resembles the farnesylcysteine group of Ras, and acts as an effective Ras antagonist. In the present review, the effect of FTS in combination with various other drugs, as tested in vitro and in vivo, and its therapeutic potential are discussed. As reviewed, FTS cooperates with diverse therapeutic agents, which significantly improves treatment outcome. Therefore, combinations of FTS with other agents have a potential to serve as anti‐cancer or anti‐inflammatory therapies.
A systematic review of the emotional, behavioural and cognitive features exhibited by school‐aged children experiencing neglect or emotional abuse
Authors: Maguire S. A. , Williams B. , Naughton A. M. , Cowley L. E. , Tempest V. , Mann M. K. , Teague M. , Kemp A. M.
Published: March 2015

Background

Interventions to minimize the long‐term consequences of neglect or emotional abuse rely on prompt identification of these children. This systematic review of world literature (1947–2012) identifies features that children aged 5–14 years experiencing neglect or emotional abuse, as opposed to physical or sexual abuse, may exhibit.

Methods

Searching 18 databases, utilizing over 100 keywords, supplemented by hand searching, 13,210 articles were identified and 111 underwent full critical appraisal by two independent trained reviewers.

Results

The 30 included studies highlighted behavioural features (15 studies), externalizing features being the most prominent (8/9 studies) and internalizing features noted in 4/6 studies. Four studies identified attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) associated features: impulsivity, inattention or hyperactivity. Child difficulties in initiating or developing friendships were noted in seven studies. Of 13 studies addressing emotional well‐being, three highlighted low self‐esteem, with a perception of external control (1), or depression (6) including suicidality (1). A negative internal working model of the mother increased the likelihood of depression (1). In assessing cognition or academic performance, lower general intelligence (3/4) and reduced literacy and numeracy (2) were reported, but no observable effect on memory (3).

Conclusions

School‐aged children presenting with poor academic performance, ADHD symptomatology or abnormal behaviours warrant assessment of neglect or emotional abuse as a potential underlying cause.
Caregiving and 5‐HTTLPR Genotype Predict Adolescent Physiological Stress Reactivity: Confirmatory Tests of Gene × Environment Interactions
Authors: Sumner Jennifer A. , McLaughlin Katie A. , Walsh Kate , Sheridan Margaret A. , Koenen Karestan C.
Published: March 2015

A theory‐driven confirmatory approach comparing diathesis–stress and differential susceptibility models of Gene × Environment (G × E) interactions was applied to examine whether 5‐HTTLPR genotype moderated the effect of early maternal caregiving on autonomic nervous system (ANS) stress reactivity in 113 adolescents aged 13–17 years. Findings supported a differential susceptibility, rather than diathesis–stress, framework. Carriers of one or more 5‐HTTLPR short alleles (SS/SL carriers) reporting higher quality caregiving exhibited approach ANS responses to a speech task, whereas those reporting lower quality caregiving exhibited withdrawal ANS responses. Carriers of two 5‐HTTLPR long alleles (LL carriers) were unaffected by caregiving. Findings suggest that 5‐HTTLPR genotype and early caregiving in interaction are associated with ANS stress reactivity in adolescents in a “for better and for worse” fashion, and they demonstrate the promise of confirmatory methods for testing G × E interactions.
Inflammation but not obesity or insulin resistance is associated with increased plasma fibroblast growth factor 23 concentration in the elderly
Authors: Holecki Michał , Chudek Jerzy , Owczarek Aleksander , Olszanecka‐Glinianowicz Magdalena , Bożentowicz‐Wikarek Maria , Duława Jan , Mossakowska Małgorzata , Zdrojewski Tomasz , Skalska Anna , Więcek Andrzej
Published: March 2015

Background

Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) is a hormone involved in calcium–phosphate homoeostasis. The data of recently published studies suggest that FGF‐23 may also play a role in some metabolic processes beyond mineral metabolism, such as insulin resistance or energy homoeostasis. The aim of the study was to attempt the relationships between plasma cFGF‐23 (C‐terminal) and iFGF‐23 (intact) concentrations and the occurrence of obesity, insulin resistance and inflammation in elderly population.

Materials and methods

The analysis included 3115 elderly subjects (1485 women). During three visits, a questionnaire survey, comprehensive geriatric assessment and anthropometric measurements were performed as well as blood and urine samples were collected by trained nurses. Serum phosphorus, calcium, intact parathormone (iPTH), 25(OH)D3, iFGF‐23 and cFGF‐23, insulin, glucose, albumin (also in urine), creatinine, hs‐CRP, interleukin‐6 and NT‐proBNP concentrations were assessed. HOMA‐IR was calculated according to the standard formula.

Results

Both forms of FGF23, iPTH and 25‐OH‐D3 levels were not related to the occurrence of obesity and insulin resistance. Increase in phosphorus, iPTH and NT‐proBNP concentrations is associated with rise in plasma iFGF23 and cFGF23 levels. Additionally, increase in hs‐CRP explained the elevated plasma iFGF23 levels.

In multiple regression models, circulating iFGF23 and cFGF23 level's variability in elderly population were explained by changes in serum phosphorus, iPTH, eGFR, hs‐CRP and NT‐proBNP levels but not by BMI and HOMA‐IR values.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study shows that increased levels of both circulating Fibroblast growth factor 23 forms in elderly subjects are associated with inflammation but not obesity or insulin resistance per se.
Impact of Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation on Accuracy of Echocardiographic Pulmonary Artery Systolic Pressure Estimation
Authors: Özpelit Ebru , Akdeniz Bahri , Özpelit Emre Mehmet , Tas Sedat , Alpaslan Erkan , Bozkurt Selen , Arslan Abdulla , Badak Özer
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Transthoracic Doppler echocardiography (DE) is recommended for screening and monitorization of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, some recent studies have suggested that Doppler echocardiographic pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) estimates may frequently be inaccurate. Some hemodynamic and echocardiographic factors are known to contribute to discordant results. The aim of this study was to determine whether severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) has any impact on true estimation of PASP by DE.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively identified all PAH patients who underwent right heart catheterization (RHC) and had an echocardiogram within the same hospitalization period. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of severe TR: Group 1 consisted of 36 patients with mild–moderate TR and group 2 of 36 patients with severe TR. For these two groups, the agreement between echocardiographic and catheterization PASP measurements was evaluated by Bland–Altman analysis, separately.

Results

In group 1, the bias for the echocardiographic estimates of the PASP was 2.5 mmHg and 62.5% of the echocardiographic estimates were accurate (≤10 mmHg difference with RHC measurement). In group 2, the bias was 16.25 mmHg and echocardiography was accurate in 37.5% of the patients. To clarify the association between PASP overestimation on DE and the presence of severe TR, regression analysis was performed. Severe TR was found as the only independent predictor of PASP overestimation on echocardiography after multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

The results of the study show that in patients with PAH, the presence of severe TR is associated with an overestimated PASP measurement on echocardiography.
Relationship between Epicardial Adipose Tissue Thickness and Atrial Electromechanical Delay in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Akyel Ahmet , Yayla Kadriye G. , Erat Mehmet , Sunman Hamza , Doğan Mehmet , Çimen Tolga , Aytürk Mehmet , Yeter Ekrem
Published: March 2015

Objectives

Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and atrial electromechanical delay (AEMD) have been shown to be closely linked with atrial fibrillation. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between EAT and AEMD.

Methods

Ninety‐six patients were included in this study. Echocardiographic measurements were performed, and laboratory parameters were recorded. Patients were divided into two groups according to their inter‐AEMD values. Patients with an inter‐AEMD value of <42.6 msec formed group 1 and patients with an inter‐AEMD value of ≥42.6 msec formed group 2.

Results

The EAT thickness (3.7 ± 1.2 vs. 5.0 ± 1.6, P < 0.001) and LAVI (20.4 ± 2.9 vs. 24.5 ± 6.7, P = 0.001) were significantly higher in group 2. There was a significant positive correlation between AEMD parameters with EAT and LAVI. After multivariate logistic regression analysis, EAT (OR: 1.505; 95% CI: 1.056–2.143, P = 0.023) and LAVI (OR: 1.140; 95% CI: 1.018–1.277, P = 0.023) were found as independent predictors of prolonged AEMD.

Conclusions

We found that EAT thickness was closely related with AEMD, and we also found that EAT and LAVI were independent predictors of prolonged AEMD. These findings may be helpful to explain some pathogenic mechanisms in the development of AF.
‘Do you remember the first time?’ Host plant preference in a moth is modulated by experiences during larval feeding and adult mating
Authors: Proffit Magali , Khallaf Mohammed A. , Carrasco David , Larsson Mattias C. , Anderson Peter
Published: March 2015

In insects, like in other animals, experience‐based modulation of preference, a form of phenotypic plasticity, is common in heterogeneous environments. However, the role of multiple fitness‐relevant experiences on insect preference remains largely unexplored. For the multivoltine polyphagous moth Spodoptera littoralis we investigated effects of larval and adult experiences on subsequent reproductive behaviours. We demonstrate, for the first time in male and female insects, that mating experience on a plant modulates plant preference in subsequent reproductive behaviours, whereas exposure to the plant alone or plant together with sex pheromone does not affect this preference. When including larval feeding experiences, we found that both larval rearing and adult mating experiences modulate host plant preference. These findings represent the first evidence that host plant preferences in polyphagous insects are determined by a combination of innate preferences modulated by sensory feedback triggered by multiple rewarding experiences throughout their lifetime.
Colourful male European Serins Serinus serinus are more careful with their plumage
Authors: Leitão Ana V. , Mota Paulo G.
Published: March 2015

Ornamental traits typically advertise individual condition and can be costly to maintain. Plumage maintenance behaviour can increase plumage quality and positively influence female mate preference. We investigated this prediction by performing female mate‐choice trials and measuring male plumage maintenance behaviour in the European Serin Serinus serinus. More colourful males spent more time in plumage maintenance than less colourful males, but this was not correlated with body condition or ectoparasite load. Females preferred more colourful males, although this was not influenced by male plumage maintenance. Our findings highlight the fact that investment in plumage maintenance depends on individual coloration and this may reinforce the honesty of ornamental plumage and convey positive information for mate choice.
Incidence of pulmonary embolism: a comparison of two Australian hospitals
Authors: Shiraev T. P. , Omari A. , Rushworth R. L.
Published: March 2015

In this retrospective observational study, we noted that there were significantly more admissions at the public than the private hospital due to both a principal (1.87 vs 0.83 per 1000, P < 0.001) and secondary diagnosis of pulmonary embolism (PE) (3.10 vs 2.01 per 1000, P = 0.002), with no difference in mortality. There was a highly significant increase in secondary PE diagnoses at the private hospital (R2 = 0.68, β = 0.14, P = 0.003) over the study period. Despite disparate rates of PE between the two hospitals, there was no difference in mortality, suggesting there may be an element of overdiagnosis.
‘First, do no harm’: managing the metabolic impacts of androgen deprivation in men with advanced prostate cancer
Authors: Lomax A. J. , Parente P. , Gilfillan C. , Livingston P. M. , Davis I. D. , Pezaro C.
Published: March 2015

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a standard systemic treatment for men with prostate cancer. Men on ADT may be elderly and have comorbidities that are exacerbated by ADT, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, sedentary lifestyle and osteoporosis. Studies on managing the impacts of ADT have focused on men with non‐metastatic disease, where ADT is given for a limited duration. However, some men with advanced or metastatic prostate cancer will achieve long‐term survival with palliative ADT and therefore also risk morbidity from prolonged ADT. Furthermore, ADT is continued during the use of other survival‐prolonging therapies for men with advanced disease, and there is a general trend to use ADT earlier in the disease course. As survival improves, management of the metabolic effects of ADT becomes important for maintaining both quality and quantity of life. This review will outline the current data, offer perspectives for management of ADT complications in men with advanced prostate cancer and discuss avenues for further research.
An SAO‐based text‐mining approach for technology roadmapping using patent information
Authors: Choi Sungchul , Kim Hongbin , Yoon Janghyeok , Kim Kwangsoo , Lee Jae Yeol
Published: March 2015

A technology roadmap (TRM) links technologies with a company's strategic objectives and so supports acquisition of required technologies in advance of needs. It is a powerful tool for strategic planning and technology management. Because technology is changing rapidly and market competition is fierce, the role of a TRM is becoming increasingly important. To support the role of a TRM, many firms and governments that use roadmapping are becoming interested in reducing costs while retaining objectivity during TRM development. One suggestion to achieve these goals is to use the keyword‐based quantitative approach to creating a TRM, but the information provided by the approach is limited because of the characteristics of keyword information. To solve this limitation, this research uses the concept of ‘function’ to support quantitative analysis for developing a TRM. The concept of function can provide information on the uses and purposes of a technology. To represent a function, a subject–action–object structure is commonly used. The suggested approach allows research and development (R&D) managers to extend the views of product and technology during development of a TRM. In addition, by reducing the time required to develop a TRM, the proposed approach supports quick and accurate decision‐making by R&D managers.
An integrative review of facilitators and barriers influencing collaboration and teamwork between general practitioners and nurses working in general practice
Authors: McInnes Susan , Peters Kath , Bonney Andrew , Halcomb Elizabeth
Published: March 2015

Aim

To identify facilitators and barriers influencing collaboration and teamwork between general practitioners and nurses working in general (family) practice.

Background

Internationally, a shortage of doctors entering and remaining in general practice and an increasing burden of chronic disease has diversified the nurse's role in this setting. Despite a well‐established general practice nursing workforce, little attention has been paid to the ways doctors and nurses collaborate in this setting.

Design

Integrative literature review.

Data sources

CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Life, Cochrane Library, Joanna Briggs Institute Library of Systematic Reviews and Trove (dissertation and theses) were searched for papers published between 2000 and May 2014.

Review methods

This review was informed by the approach of Whittemore and Knafl (2005). All included papers were assessed for methodological quality. Findings were extracted, critically examined and grouped into themes.

Results

Eleven papers met the inclusion criteria. Thematic analysis revealed three themes common to the facilitators of and barriers to collaboration and teamwork between GPs in general practice: (1) roles and responsibilities; (2) respect, trust and communication; and (3) hierarchy, education and liability.

Conclusion

This integrative review has provided insight into issues around role definition, communication and organizational constraints which influence the way nurses and general practitioners collaborate in a team environment. Future research should investigate in more detail the ways doctors and nurses work together in general practice and the impact of collaboration on nursing leadership and staff retention.
Systemic antihistamines – a common outside the guidelines therapeutic strategy in hand eczema management
Authors: Jankowska‐Konsur A. , Reich A. , Szepietowski J.C.
Published: March 2015

Background

Hand eczema (HE) is the most common skin disease affecting hands. Although the current treatment guidelines do not recommend use of systemic antihistamines as routine therapy, they seem to be widely used by physicians handling with this problem.

Objective

The aim of the study was to investigate the attitude to prescribe systemic antihistamines in HE.

Material and methods

A 10‐item questionnaire was distributed among physicians participating in regional dermatological conferences. 127 valid questionnaires were analysed.

Results

A total of 127 physicians participated in the survey. 124 (97.6%) responders prescribe antihistamines in HE and 16 (12.6%) subjects declared routine use of oral antihistamines in the HE management. Significantly more dermatologists than other specialists used antihistamines in the treatment of HE accompanying atopic dermatitis (77.8% vs. 54.5%, P < 0.01) and dermatologists significantly more commonly used antihistamines in HE due to their anti‐inflammatory properties (40.3% vs. 20.0%, P = 0.02). Regarding the type of eczema, antihistamines were prescribed most frequently in acute allergic HE (n = 92, 72.4%) and in HE accompanying atopic dermatitis (n = 86, 67.7%).

Conclusions

Despite the lack of the large, randomized, controlled studies on the effectiveness of the systemic antihistamines in the treatment of HE, this type of therapy seems to be prevalently used among the physicians.
Astrocyte and Microglial Control of Glutamatergic Signalling: A Primer on Understanding the Disruptive Role of Chronic Stress
Authors: Mayhew J. , Beart P. M. , Walker F. R.
Published: March 2015

It is now well established that chronic stress can induce significant structural remodelling of astrocytes and microglia. Until recently, however, the full significance of these morphological disturbances has remained unclear. Clues to the significance of astroglial re‐organisation following stress are beginning to emerge from a compelling literature describing how astrocytes contribute to glutamatergic neurotransmission. The present review briefly summarises these two fields of research, identifies points of overlap and, in doing so, pin‐points future research directions for stress neurobiology. Ultimately, understanding how chronic stress can disrupt the interactions of astrocytes and microglia with neurones has the potential in the future to improve the development of therapeutics designed to treat stress‐related illnesses such as depression.
Coordinated School Health and the Contribution of a District Wellness Coordinator
Authors: Westrich Lisa , Sanchez Monika , Strobel Karen
Published: March 2015

BACKGROUND

A San Francisco Bay Area school health initiative was established in fall 2010 to improve wellness programs in 4 local school districts using the Coordinated School Health (CSH) model. This study examines the role of district‐wide wellness coordinators and the ways in which they contribute to intentional coordination of health and wellness programs and activities in their school districts.

METHODS

This study included 8 schools across 4 school districts. Researchers conducted semistructured interviews and focus groups with district and school staff, students, parents, wellness committee members, and wellness coordinators in 2012 to examine a range of perspectives about the coordination of school health and wellness.

RESULTS

District wellness coordinators' efforts were linked to an increase in (1) awareness of health and wellness, (2) integration of wellness activities within and across schools and districts, and (3) leveraged resources.

CONCLUSIONS

Wellness coordinators are critical to successful CSH efforts. Through intentional and strategic collaboration with key stakeholders, wellness coordinators advance CSH goals of integrating health and wellness programs within and across school districts, reaching more students equitably and leveraging resources.
Food‐Based Science Curriculum Yields Gains in Nutrition Knowledge
Authors: Carraway‐Stage Virginia , Hovland Jana , Showers Carissa , Díaz Sebastián , Duffrin Melani W.
Published: March 2015

BACKGROUND

Students may be receiving less than an average of 4 hours of nutrition instruction per year. Integrating nutrition with other subject areas such as science may increase exposure to nutrition education, while supporting existing academics.

METHODS

During the 2009‐2010 school year, researchers implemented the Food, Math, and Science Teaching Enhancement Resource (FoodMASTER) Intermediate (FMI) curriculum in 18 fourth‐grade classrooms, whereas 16 classrooms served as comparison. FMI is a hands‐on, integrative curriculum for children in grades 3‐5 that uses food as a tool to teach mathematics and science. Researchers developed a 28‐item multiple‐choice questionnaire to assess students' nutrition knowledge in 6 content areas. Students were evaluated at baseline and post‐intervention. Data were analyzed using independent t tests. Analysis of covariance was employed to control for differences at baseline when assessing the effectiveness of the FMI curriculum to increase nutrition knowledge.

RESULTS

A significant improvement was observed in total nutrition knowledge at post‐intervention (adjusting for baseline) between groups (F [1] = 128.95; p < .01) and in all content areas post‐intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings from this study suggest teachers were successfully able to integrate science and nutrition to meet multiple academic standards. More specifically, results showed implementation of the integrative FMI curriculum effectively improved fourth‐graders' nutrition knowledge compared with students not exposed to FMI.
A population‐based cost description study of oral treatment of hospitalized Western Australian children aged younger than 15 years
Authors: Alsharif Alla Talal , Kruger Estie , Tennant Marc
Published: March 2015

Objectives

We sought to analyze the economic cost of a decade of dental hospital admissions in Western Australian children under the age of 15 years and to identify socio‐demographic characteristics associated with these costs.

Methods

This study analyzed the cost of 43,937 child patients under the age of 15 years hospitalized for an oral health–related condition, as determined by principal diagnosis International Classification of Diseases (ICD‐10AM). The Australian Refine Diagnosis Related Group version 5.1 was used to calculate the direct cost. An analysis of costs was broken down by socioeconomic status, primary place of residency, age, gender, insurance status, and Indigenous status.

Results

The total DRG cost of these admissions was approximately AUS$92 million million over 10 years. Most of these funds went toward treating “Dental caries” and “Embedded and impaction” conditions of children under the age of 15 years. Approximately 95 percent of the total cost of hospitalization for oral conditions, over the last decade, accounted for non‐Indigenous children. Since 2000, the direct cost of child hospitalization for oral‐related conditions has increased to reach $13 million AUD in 2009.

Conclusions

This study identified the substantial economic burden of child oral‐related hospitalizations that emphasizes the importance of preventing costly inpatient treatments.
Effects of exercise training on carbohydrate and lipid catabolism in the swimming muscles of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Li D. , Wei X. L. , Lin X. T. , Xu Z. N. , Mu X. P.
Published: March 2015

This study aims to determine the effects of exercise training on carbohydrate and lipid catabolism in the swimming muscles of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) by measuring the levels of related enzymes, lipids and free fatty acids. We designed one control group and two training groups of fish that were exercised at different training intensities [0, 1 and 1.5 body lengths per second (bl/s)]. The fish in the experimental groups were trained for 12 h/day for 4 weeks. Compared with the control group, the 1 and 1.5 bl/s groups showed significantly increased hexokinase and pyruvate kinase activities in red muscle (p < 0.05). In white muscle, pyruvate kinase activity was significantly higher in the 1.5 bl/s group than in the control group (p < 0.05), and hexokinase activity did not significantly differ between the groups. The activities of hormone‐sensitive lipase and carnitine palmitoyltransferase I in both muscle types were significantly lower in the training groups than in the control group (p < 0.05). The plasma‐free fatty acid level decreased (p < 0.05), while the lipid percentages increased in red muscle (p < 0.05) after exercise training. These findings clearly indicated that with exercise training, glycolysis increased and lipid oxidation decreased in the swimming muscle of tilapia.
Women Writers, Nineteenth Century Nursery Rhyme and Lyric Innovation
Authors: Gregory Melissa Valiska
Published: March 2015

From “Twinkle Twinkle, Little Star” to “Mary Had a Little Lamb”, some of the most recognizable children's verse in the English language was written by nineteenth century women poets. A close look at this tradition of original nursery rhyme reveals that it is surprisingly experimental and that it enhances our understanding of the ways in which women writers from this period negotiated the relations between gender, genre and authorship. Indeed, children's verse constitutes important evidence of a tradition of generic innovation and lyric experimentation by women writers, who use juvenile poetry to expand the formal potential of the lyric, adapting the conventions of oral verse to develop a new poetic voice for women. More specifically, women writers of juvenile verse develop a lyric voice capable of expressing the complexities of one of the central aspects of nineteenth century female experience: motherhood. The tradition of original nursery rhyme is dominated by mothers. This is not to say that all women who wrote children's verse were literally mothers but that children's poetry from this period has both a maternal context – women reading to preliterate children – and is voiced by maternal speakers. Through an examination of the collaborative Romantic‐era poets Ann and Jane Taylor and the American poet Eliza Lee Follen, the maternal speaker emerges as of central importance to women's poetry. Not only do women writers use maternal speakers to authorize their entry into the commercial literary marketplace, but these writers also use various aspects of maternal experience, including voice and sound, to push the boundaries of the lyric.
Shakespeare's Feet: Puns, Metre, Meaning
Authors: Stagg Robert
Published: March 2015

This essay attempts to explain one ofShakespeare'sstrangeststage directions, at the end ofCoriolanus. To do so, it looks at one ofShakespeare'smost‐usedpuns: the way a ‘foot’ can be an anatomicalfootor a prosodicfoot. InShakespeare'swriting, thispunningrelationship between anatomical and prosodicfeetspeeds or slowsverse, characterises personages like Iago, and even rescues poetry from the ravages of time. The reason, it transpires, thispunworks so well inShakespeare'swriting is that it speaks to the ways in whichmetreoperates in a manner akin topun: prising multiple interpretations from words in order to prize them.
Genetic rescue of small inbred populations: meta‐analysis reveals large and consistent benefits of gene flow
Authors: Frankham Richard
Published: March 2015

Many species have fragmented distribution with small isolated populations suffering inbreeding depression and/or reduced ability to evolve. Without gene flow from another population within the species (genetic rescue), these populations are likely to be extirpated. However, there have been only ~ 20 published cases of such outcrossing for conservation purposes, probably a very low proportion of populations that would potentially benefit. As one impediment to genetic rescues is the lack of an overview of the magnitude and consistency of genetic rescue effects in wild species, I carried out a meta‐analysis. Outcrossing of inbred populations resulted in beneficial effects in 92.9% of 156 cases screened as having a low risk of outbreeding depression. The median increase in composite fitness (combined fecundity and survival) following outcrossing was 148% in stressful environments and 45% in benign ones. Fitness benefits also increased significantly with maternal ΔF (reduction in inbreeding coefficient due to gene flow) and for naturally outbreeding versus inbreeding species. However, benefits did not differ significantly among invertebrates, vertebrates and plants. Evolutionary potential for fitness characters in inbred populations also benefited from gene flow. There are no scientific impediments to the widespread use of outcrossing to genetically rescue inbred populations of naturally outbreeding species, provided potential crosses have a low risk of outbreeding depression. I provide revised guidelines for the management of genetic rescue attempts.
Blood Oxygen Saturation After Ischemia is Altered With Abnormal Microvascular Reperfusion
Authors: Adingupu Damilola D. , Thorn Clare E. , Casanova Francesco , Elyas Salim , Gooding Kim , Gilchrist Mark , Aizawa Kunihiko , Gates Phillip E. , Shore Angela C. , Strain David W.
Published: March 2015

Objective

We have previously described a distinct abnormality in the cutaneous microcirculation that is characterized by an abnormal reperfusion response following an ischemic stimulus. We investigated the physiological significance of this abnormality; by measuring microvascular perfusion and blood oxygen saturation in groups stratified by three distinct reperfusion responses.

Methods

Cutaneous microvascular reperfusion after four minutes of arterial occlusion above the ankle was measured on the foot using laser Doppler fluximetry and optical reflectance spectroscopy in almost 400 adults. Individuals were stratified into three groups according to the microvascular reperfusion response: normal and two abnormal patterns (DEP and NDEP).

Results

Our main findings were that abnormal microvascular reperfusion responses (DEP and NDEP) had a higher baseline oxygen saturation (p = 0.005), a lower plateau in oxygen saturation (p < 0.0001 and <0.0001, respectively), lower oxygen saturation area under the curve (p < 0.0001 and <0.0001), a longer time to reach oxygen saturation plateau (p = 0.002 and 0.001), and a longer time to initiate an increase in oxygen saturation (p = 0.007 and 0.001) compared to normal. Differences remained after adjustment for confounding variables.

Conclusions

Individuals with abnormal microvascular reperfusion had a markedly altered pattern of oxygen increase during reperfusion. We propose that this may represent dysfunctional microvascular autoregulation that is clinically important in the etiopathology of target organ damage.
The dynamics of the RNA world: insights and challenges
Authors: Kun Ádám , Szilágyi András , Könnyű Balázs , Boza Gergely , Zachar István , Szathmáry Eörs
Published: March 2015

The RNA world hypothesis of the origin of life, in which RNA emerged as both enzyme and information carrier, is receiving solid experimental support. The prebiotic synthesis of biomolecules, the catalytic aid offered by mineral surfaces, and the vast enzymatic repertoire of ribozymes are only pieces of the origin of life puzzle; the full picture can only emerge if the pieces fit together by either following from one another or coexisting with each other. Here, we review the theory of the origin, maintenance, and enhancement of the RNA world as an evolving population of dynamical systems. The dynamical view of the origin of life allows us to pinpoint the missing and the not fitting pieces: (1) How can the first self‐replicating ribozyme emerge in the absence of template‐directed information replication? (2) How can nucleotide replicators avoid competitive exclusion despite utilizing the very same resources (nucleobases)? (3) How can the information catastrophe be avoided? (4) How can enough genes integrate into a cohesive system in order to transition to a cellular stage? (5) How can the way information is stored and metabolic complexity coevolve to pave to road leading out of the RNA world to the present protein–DNA world?
Vestibular stimulation by magnetic fields
Authors: Ward Bryan K. , Roberts Dale C. , Della Santina Charles C. , Carey John P. , Zee David S.
Published: March 2015

Individuals working next to strong static magnetic fields occasionally report disorientation and vertigo. With the increasing strength of magnetic fields used for magnetic resonance imaging studies, these reports have become more common. It was recently learned that humans, mice, and zebrafish all demonstrate behaviors consistent with constant peripheral vestibular stimulation while inside a strong, static magnetic field. The proposed mechanism for this effect involves a Lorentz force resulting from the interaction of a strong static magnetic field with naturally occurring ionic currents flowing through the inner ear endolymph into vestibular hair cells. The resulting force within the endolymph is strong enough to displace the lateral semicircular canal cupula, inducing vertigo and the horizontal nystagmus seen in normal mice and in humans. This review explores the evidence for interactions of magnetic fields with the vestibular system.
A Partnership Development Process Assessment Scale for Public Health Nurses in Japan
Authors: Shigematsu Yukako , Hatano Yoko , Kimura Hitoe
Published: March 2015

Objective

The objective of this study was to develop and test a Partnership Development Process Assessment (PDPA) scale for content and construct validity and internal consistency reliability. This is needed to document and evaluate community health partnership development processes between public health nurses and community‐based organizations in Japan.

Design

The study was conducted in three phases. Ten semi‐structured interviews were conducted to generate items for a new scale. Thirty items were generated and reviewed by an expert panel for content validity and item refinement. A national postal survey of public health nurses was conducted to determine the scale's internal structure, evaluate its reliability, and explore its construct and criterion validity.

Measures

Validity and reliability testing of the PDPA scale using a content validity index and analysis of correlations with an existing scale were performed.

Results

Twenty‐six items were selected and grouped into four factors: activities to share roles to manage community health issues, platform activities to support partnerships, activities to evaluate partnership practices, and activities to share information regarding community health issues. After factor analysis, 23 items were retained.

Conclusion

The PDPA scale is a valid and reliable instrument for public health nurses to assess partnership development activities.
Creating, Synthesizing, and Sharing: The Management of Knowledge in Public Health
Authors: Sibbald Shannon L. , Kothari Anita
Published: March 2015

Objectives

To better understand the applicability of knowledge management (KM) in public health (PH) as a strategy to improve planning and decision making.

Design and Sample

The study was designed as a narrative inquiry; a form of storytelling research. Qualitative data were collected through interviews designed to gain participants’ stories about planning processes. Twenty‐four participants from six PH Units in Ontario, Canada.

Measures

We performed a secondary analysis to better understand the use of KM strategies, techniques, and approaches. Findings were compared to a preliminary KM framework supporting knowledge processes within a dynamic, interactive context.

Results

Analysis showed that while KM strategies are supported informally, it is most often done in an ad hoc manner. Participants acknowledged a gap in their knowledge sharing practices.

Conclusion

PH professionals are ready to apply KM in PH as an approach to facilitate planning and decision making. The proposed KM framework incorporates partnerships to adapt to the realities of PH context. Consideration of KM strategies can improve information organization, partnerships and decision making, as well as contribute to current PH reforms aimed at strengthening the health care system. This presents an opportunity to integrate formalized methods of knowledge use and knowledge sharing among PH employees using a KM approach.