bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
HIGHLY EDUCATED BUT IN THE WRONG FIELD?
Authors: Reimer David , Steinmetz Stephanie 
Published: April 2009

ABSTRACT
This paper investigates the impact of gender differences in tertiary education, i.e., field of study and level of tertiary degree, on two selected labour market risks: unemployment and low-status jobs. Using Labour Force Survey data from the year 2000, results of the logistic regression models and non-linear decomposition analyses generally confirm our expectation that the field of study explains a sizable portion of the gender gap in unemployment and low-status jobs in both countries. However, the level of tertiary degree earned explains only part of the female disadvantage behind holding a low-status job in Spain. The analyses also show that compared to men, women with a degree in a predominantly male field of study seem to be systematically disadvantaged in both Germany and Spain, particularly with respect to unemployment. Overall, the analyses reveal that gender differentiation in tertiary education leads to similar outcomes in two very different institutional contexts.
Impact of Finger Rings on Transmission of Bacteria During Hand Contact
Authors: Fagernes Mette , Lingaas Egil 
Published: April 2009

Objective.To investigate the impact of finger rings on the transmission of bacteria from the hands of healthcare workers and the impact on the microflora on the hands of healthcare workers in clinical practice.Design.Our study had a nonequivalent control group posttest-only design (pre-experimental). Healthcare workers who wore finger ring(s) on 1 hand and no ring on the other hand (n = 100) and a control group of healthcare workers who did not wear any rings (n = 100) exchanged standardized hand shakes with an investigator wearing sterile gloves. Samples from the gloved hands of the investigators and the bare hands of the healthcare workers were thereafter obtained by the glove juice technique.Setting.Two Norwegian acute care hospitals.Participants.Healthcare workers (n = 200) during ordinary clinical work.Results.A significantly higher bacterial load (odds ratio, 2.63 [95% confidence interval, 1.28-5.43]; P = .009) and a significantly higher number of bacteria transmitted (odds ratio, 2.43 [95% confidence interval, 1.44-4.13]; P = .001) were associated with ringed hands, compared with control hands. However, a multiple analysis of covariance revealed no statistically significant effect of rings alone. The prevalence of nonfermentative gram-negative bacteria (42% vs 26%) and Enterobacteriaceae (26% vs 13%) was also significantly higher among persons who wore rings than among persons who did not wear rings. However, no statistically significant differences in the incidence of transmission of these pathogens were detected after hand contact. The prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus and incidence of transmission of S. aureus were the same in both groups.Conclusions.Wearing finger rings increases the carriage rate of nonfermentative gram-negative bacteria and Enterobacteriaceae on the hands of healthcare workers. However, no statistically significant differences in the incidence of transmission of nonfermentative gram-negative bacteria or Enterobacteriaceae were detected between the healthcare workers who wore rings and those who did not.
Diel changes in acoustic and catch estimates of krill biomass
Authors: Simard Yvan , Sourisseau Marc 
Published: April 2009

AbstractSimard, Y., and Sourisseau, M. 2009. Diel changes in acoustic and catch estimates of krill biomass. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 1318–1325. Krill-biomass estimates can be compromised by diel variabilities in acoustic backscatter and the catch efficiencies of various nets. This paper describes an effort to quantify these variabilities at fine temporal and spatial scales during a three-day experiment at a fixed location, using high-resolution, stratified Bioness samples and echo-integration, and assuming a fixed distribution of krill orientations. Night-time catches in the krill scattering layer (SL) were 15 times the acoustic estimates. The situation was reversed during daytime, when the acoustic estimates in the SL were 5 times larger than the catches. This collectively resulted in a ±10‐dB gradual diel cycle in the difference of vertically integrated biomass from both sampling methods. Use of a strobe light on the Bioness reduced avoidance of the net by krill and significantly increased (×10) daytime catches in the SL, but had no significant effect on night-time catches. The difference in volume-backscattering strength at 120 and 38 kHz (ΔSv120–38) in the densest parts of the SL agreed with predictions using a target-strength (TS) model and an assumed normal distribution of tilt (mean θ = 11°; s.d. = 4°). The ΔSv120–38 was smaller for lower densities and during night-time. It appears that the θ and, therefore, TS distributions of krill significantly change during their diel vertical migrations. At twilight and at night, when they are feeding and swimming vertically, they exhibit lower mean TS and ΔSv120–38 and react less to strong strobe-light pulses, in contrast to daytime. Diel patterns in TS and net avoidance should be taken into account in krill-biomass assessments that use round the clock acoustic-survey data and multi-frequency TS models for target classification.
Resolving the effect of climate change on fish populations
Authors: Rijnsdorp Adriaan D. , Peck Myron A. , Engelhard Georg H. , Möllmann Christian , Pinnegar John K. 
Published: April 2009

Abstract
Rijnsdorp, A. D., Peck, M. A., Engelhard, G. H., Möllmann, C., and Pinnegar, J. K. 2009. Resolving the effect of climate change on fish populations. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 1570–1583. This paper develops a framework for the study of climate on fish populations based on first principles of physiology, ecology, and available observations. Environmental variables and oceanographic features that are relevant to fish and that are likely to be affected by climate change are reviewed. Working hypotheses are derived from the differences in the expected response of different species groups. A review of published data on Northeast Atlantic fish species representing different biogeographic affinities, habitats, and body size lends support to the hypothesis that global warming results in a shift in abundance and distribution (in patterns of occurrence with latitude and depth) of fish species. Pelagic species exhibit clear changes in seasonal migration patterns related to climate-induced changes in zooplankton productivity. Lusitanian species have increased in recent decades (sprat, anchovy, and horse mackerel), especially at the northern limit of their distribution areas, while Boreal species decreased at the southern limit of their distribution range (cod and plaice), but increased at the northern limit (cod). Although the underlying mechanisms remain uncertain, available evidence suggests climate-related changes in recruitment success to be the key process, stemming from either higher production or survival in the pelagic egg or larval stage, or owing to changes in the quality/quantity of nursery habitats.
The relative frequency response derived from individually separated targets of northeast Arctic cod (Gadus morhua), saithe (Pollachius virens), and Norway pout (Trisopterus esmarkii)
Authors: Pedersen Geir , Korneliussen Rolf J. 
Published: April 2009

Abstract
Pedersen, G., and Korneliussen, R. J. 2009. The relative frequency response derived from individually separated targets of northeast Arctic cod (Gadus morhua), saithe (Pollachius virens), and Norway pout (Trisopterus esmarkii). – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 1149–1154. The concept of relative frequency response r(f) of fish is an important feature used to characterize acoustic targets. It is defined as the volume-backscattering coefficient at a specific frequency f relative to that of a reference frequency. When based on volume backscattering, r(f) reliably distinguishes several acoustic categories if the insonified volumes are reasonably comparable between the frequencies, and that enough samples and targets are measured to constrain stochastic variations in the data within acceptable limits. Therefore, r(f) distinguishes different fish species with swimbladders poorly if they appear as single targets. Using target-strength (TS) data, the acoustic measurements are more spatially comparable, and averaging the TS over an echotrace of a single fish improves the ability to distinguish between different species. Frequency response was estimated using TS data from in situ measurements, collected using Simrad EK60 echosounders with split-beam transducers transmitting simultaneously at 18, 38, 70, 120, and 200 kHz. Selected series with nearly pure catches of northeast Arctic cod (Gadus morhua), saithe (Pollachius virens), and Norway pout (Trisopterus esmarkii) were analysed using a target-tracking algorithm. The frequency response of northeast Arctic cod and saithe did not differ significantly, but at high frequencies, the response of both northeast Arctic cod and saithe differed from that of Norway pout. However, in the latter case, northeast Arctic cod and saithe could be separated, because of their different TS magnitudes.
Modulation of muramyl dipeptide stimulation of cytokine production by blood components
Authors: van Der Meer J H M , Netea M G , Dinarello C A 
Published: April 2009

SummaryMuramyl dipeptide (MDP) is the minimal active fragment of peptidoglycan of the cell wall of Gram-positive bacteria, with potential beneficial effects as a vaccine adjuvant. Peptidoglycans and MDP are recognized by the intracellular receptor NOD2 (nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 2), leading to production of proinflammatory cytokines. In the present study, it is shown that, despite stimulatory effects on isolated human mononuclear cells, MDP does not stimulate production of tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β or interleukin-6 in a whole-blood assay. However, MDP retains synergistic effects on lipopolysaccharide-induced cytokines in whole blood. Screening tests of NOD2 function based on whole-blood stimulation should therefore employ strategies based on the synergistic effects of MDP on Toll-like receptor-induced cytokine production. Plasma was not responsible for the inhibition of MDP in whole blood. The inhibition of MDP stimulation was dependent upon cellular components, with erythrocyte-derived haemoglobin and neutrophils collaborating in the inhibition of MDP effects in whole blood.
A continent under stress: interactions, feedbacks and risks associated with impact of modified land cover on Australia's climate
Authors: MCALPINE C. A. , SYKTUS J. , RYAN J. G. , DEO R. C. , MCKEON G. M. , MCGOWAN H. A. , PHINN S. R. 
Published: April 2009

AbstractGlobal climate change is the major and most urgent global environmental issue. Australia is already experiencing climate change as evidenced by higher temperatures and more frequent and severe droughts. These impacts are compounded by increasing land use pressures on natural resources and native ecosystems. This paper provides a synthesis of the interactions, feedbacks and risks of natural climate variability, climate change and land use/land cover change (LUCC) impacting on the Australian continent and how they vary regionally. We review evidence of climate change and underlying processes resulting from interactions between global warming caused by increased concentration of atmospheric greenhouse gases and modification of the land surface. The consequences of ignoring the effect of LUCC on current and future droughts in Australia could have catastrophic consequences for the nation's environment, economy and communities. We highlight the need for more integrated, long‐term and adaptive policies and regional natural resource management strategies that restore the beneficial feedbacks between native vegetation cover and local‐regional climate, to help ameliorate the impact of global warming.
Driving forces of soil organic carbon evolution at the landscape and regional scale using data from a stratified soil monitoring
Authors: GOIDTS ESTHER , WESEMAEL BAS van , Van OOST KRISTOF 
Published: April 2009

AbstractSoil monitoring programmes face significant challenges as there is an important trade‐off between detecting significant changes in soil properties on the one hand (which can be achieved by minimizing variability by higher sampling density or stratification approaches), and identifying the driving forces responsible for these changes on the other hand (which requires enough variability). This study aims to reconcile these two objectives by identifying the driving forces of soil organic carbon (SOC) evolution over a long period, based on an extensive but stratified soil monitoring programme. Data at both the finest level (questionnaires to the farmers) and the large scale (agricultural census, climate and soil databases for southern Belgium) were used in a cluster analysis, multiple linear regressions and mixed odels in order to discriminate between the driving forces involved. Results indicated that the negative ‘baseline effect’ (i.e. the inversely proportional effect of the initial SOC content on the SOC evolution) was responsible for an important part of the SOC variability. Consequently, the systems are not at steady state when starting the observations, although this assumption is used by most SOC dynamic models. Moreover, the baseline effect resulted in a trend of the soils to converge towards a regional SOC stock which significantly differed according to land use (36.4 t C ha−1 for the plough depth of cropland and 92.2 t C ha−1 for the 0–30 cm layer of grassland). Despite this strong effect, the main driving forces of the SOC decrease of cropland (−0.2 t C ha−1 yr−1) and SOC increase of grassland (+0.2 t C ha−1 yr−1) over a period of 50 years were discriminated. The agricultural management (cropland) and the clay content (grassland), together with the change in precipitation (to a lesser degree for cropland) were highlighted as the predominant factors involved in SOC evolution, when land use change is excluded. The use of questionnaires allowed to better understanding the impact of an intensive agricultural management on the SOC content, as the lowest SOC stocks were associated to the most intensively managed fields. The mixed models partly succeeded in predicting SOC evolution as they presented still large uncertainties after validation (mean error from 3% to 25%, root mean square error of prediction from 21% to 242%). While SOC monitoring schemes are increasingly being implemented, our results will likely apply to those using a similar design. It was shown that this strategy succeeded to reconcile both the SOC change detection and the distinction of the driving forces involved at the regional scale.
Bone mineral density and perceived menopausal symptoms: factors influencing low back pain in postmenopausal women
Authors: Ahn Sukhee , Song Rhayun 
Published: April 2009

AbstractTitle.  Bone mineral density and perceived menopausal symptoms: factors influencing low back pain in postmenopausal women. Aim.  This paper is a report of a study of the relationships between the factors influencing low back pain in postmenopausal women (i.e. menopausal symptoms, bone mineral density, duration of menopause, hormonal therapy, obesity, inactivity during leisure time, parity, osteoarthritis and drinking coffee).Background.  Previous studies have shown that low back pain in postmenopausal women is associated with bone mineral density, menopausal symptoms and lifestyle factors, yet the factors influencing low back pain are not clear and vary with ethnicity.Method.  A survey was conducted with postmenopausal women (n = 134) in Korea in 2006. Bone mineral density in the lumbar spine, back pain status, menopausal symptoms and health habits were assessed.Results.  Participants’ mean age was 59 years. About 70% experienced back pain on more than 1 day during the week prior to the survey and 35% suffered back pain daily. Women with back pain reported more severe menopausal symptoms than those without back pain. Based on bone mineral density scores, 26·9% of the women were considered to be at risk of osteoporosis. However, there was no association between back pain status and fracture risk status. Based on a multiple logistic regression model, menopausal symptoms, drinking coffee and inactivity during leisure time were statistically significant influencing factors for low back pain in this sample.Conclusion.  The prevalence of low back pain in postmenopausal women should be recognized in association with menopausal symptoms and health habits. Further research is needed to develop interventions for the management of low back pain in postmenopausal women.
Hospital discharge planning for frail older people and their family. Are we delivering best practice? A review of the evidence
Authors: Bauer Michael , Fitzgerald Les , Haesler Emily , Manfrin Mara 
Published: April 2009

Aims and objectives.  This paper examined the available evidence concerning hospital discharge practices for frail older people and their family caregivers and what practices were most beneficial for this group.Background.  Hospital discharge practices are placing an increasing burden of care on the family caregiver. Discharge planning and execution is significant for older patients where inadequate practices can be linked to adverse outcomes and an increased risk of readmission.Design.  Literature review.Methods.  A review of English language literature published after 1995 on hospital discharge of frail older people and family carer’s experiences.Results.  Numerous factors impact on the hospital discharge planning of the frail older person and their family carer’s that when categorised focus on the role that discharge planning plays in bridging the gap between the care provided in hospital and the care needed in the community, its potential to reduce the length of hospital stay, the impact of the discharge process on family carer’s and the need for a coordinated health professional approach that includes dissemination of information, clear communication and active support.Conclusion.  The current evidence indicates that hospital discharge planning for frail older people can be improved if interventions address family inclusion and education, communication between health care workers and family, interdisciplinary communication and ongoing support after discharge. Interventions should commence well before discharge.Relevance to clinical practice.  An awareness of how the execution of the hospital discharge plan is perceived by the principal family carer of a frail older person, will allow nurses and others involved with the discharge process to better reconcile the family caregivers’ needs and expectations with the discharge process offered by their facility. The research shows there is a direct correlation between the quality of discharge planning and readmission to hospital.
A modified Mini Nutritional Assessment without BMI can effectively assess the nutritional status of neuropsychiatric patients
Authors: Tsai Alan C , Chou Yuan‐Ti , Chang Tsui‐Lan , Chang‐Lee Shu‐Nu , Tsay Shwu‐Feng 
Published: April 2009

Aim and objectives.  To determine whether a modified version of the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) without body mass index (BMI) can effectively identify individuals at risk of malnutrition among patients with neuropsychiatric disorders.Background.  Neuropsychiatric patients have an additional risk of nutritional disorder due to functional impairments and drug effects. However, their nutritional status is generally neglected. It is important to find a tool that is simple, easy to use and non‐invasive.Design.  The study involved 105 patients in the acute phase of confirmed neuropsychiatric disorders in an area hospital. All subjects were cognitively able to have effective verbal communication.Method.  The study included serum biochemical and anthropometric measurements and an on‐site, in‐person interview using a structured questionnaire to elicit personal data, health condition and answers to questions in the MNA. Subjects’ nutritional statuses were graded with a MNA that adopted population‐specific anthropometric cut‐off points or one further with the BMI question removed and its assigned score redistributed to other anthropometric questions.Results.  Both versions of the modified MNA effectively graded the nutritional status of neuropsychiatric patients and showed good correlations with the major nutritional indicators such as BMI, calf circumference and the length of hospital stay.Conclusions.  The MNA can effectively assess the nutritional status of neuropsychiatric patients and enhance timely detection and intervention of their nutritional disorders. A modified MNA without the BMI question can maintain the full functionality of the tool. The version does not require weight and height measurements and thus will enhance the usefulness of the instrument.Relevance to clinical practice.  Neuropsychiatric patients are a high‐risk group of nutritional disorders. The MNA, especially the one without BMI, has the potential to improve professional efficiency of the primary care workers.
Depressive symptoms increase risk of rehospitalisation in heart failure patients with preserved systolic function
Authors: Song Eun Kyeung , Lennie Terry A , Moser Debra K 
Published: April 2009

Aims.  To examine the impact of depressive symptoms on rehospitalisation for heart failure exacerbation in patients with preserved systolic function.Background.  Depressive symptoms associated with higher risk of rehospitalisation have been primarily demonstrated in heart failure patients with systolic dysfunction (ejection fraction <40%) and the factors influencing rehospitalisation of patients with preserved systolic function (ejection fraction ≥40%) remain unclear.Design.  A prospective, descriptive study design was used.Methods.  The following baseline data were collected from 165 patients with preserved systolic function during an index hospitalisation for heart failure in South Korea: age, gender, body mass index, New York Heart Association functional class, the ratio of mitral velocity to early diastolic velocity of the mitral annulus, comorbidities, history of prior admission and depressive symptoms. Patients were followed monthly for six months after discharge to collect date on all rehospitalisation for heart failure exacerbation. Hierarchical Cox proportional hazards regression was used to identify independent predictors of rehospitalisation. Kaplan–Meier survival curves with log‐rank test were used to determine differences in time to rehospitalisation according to severity of depressive symptoms.Results.  Almost half of the patients (48%) had moderate to severe depressive symptoms. The ratio of mitral velocity to early diastolic velocity of the mitral annulus (hazard ratio = 1·06, 95% confidence interval = 1·02–1·10) and depressive symptoms (hazard ratio = 1·05, 95% confidence interval = 1·02–1·08) independently predicted rehospitalisation after controlling for other risk factors. Moderate and severe depressive symptoms were associated with both a higher rate and shorter time to rehospitalisation.Conclusions.  Moderate to severe depressive symptoms predict early rehospitalisation for heart failure exacerbations in patients with preserved systolic function.Relevance to clinical practice.  Nurses should assess for depressive symptoms in patients with heart failure and refer those with depressive symptoms for treatment to improve outcomes.