bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of type 2 diabetes susceptibility loci with peripheral nerve function in a Chinese population with diabetes
Authors: Lu Jingyi , Luo Yi , Wang Jie , Hu Cheng , Zhang Rong , Wang Congrong , Jia Weiping
Published: June 2016

Aims/Introduction

Previous studies have suggested a possible relationship between type 2 diabetes mellitus susceptibility loci and diabetic complications. The present study aimed to investigate the associations between type 2 diabetes mellitus loci with peripheral nerve function in a Chinese population with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Materials and Methods

A total of 1,900 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients were recruited in the study. We selected ten single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from ten type 2 diabetes mellitus susceptibility genes previously confirmed in Chinese patients. Genotyping was carried out by using a MassARRAY Compact Analyzer. Peripheral nerve function was evaluated by nerve conduction studies in all participants. The composite Z‐scores for nerve conduction parameters including conduction velocity (CV), amplitude and latency were calculated, respectively.

Results

Rs5219 of KCNJ11 (E23K, G→A) was identified to be associated with all the parameters obtained from nerve conduction studies (Z‐score of CV: β = 0.113, P = 0.01; Z‐score of amplitude: β = 0.133, P = 0.01; Z‐score of latency: β = −0.116, P = 0.01) after adjustment for covariates including age, duration and glycated hemoglobin. Specifically, each copy of the A allele was related to better outcomes. CDKAL1 rs7756992 and TCF7L2 rs7903146 correlated with the composite Z‐score of amplitude (P = 0.028 and P = 0.016, respectively), but not CV (P = 0.393 and P = 0.281, respectively) or latency (P = 0.286 and P = 0.273, respectively). There were no significant associations between the other seven SNPs and peripheral nerve function.

Conclusions

Rs5219 at KCNJ11 (E23K) was associated with peripheral nerve function in a Chinese population with type 2 diabetes mellitus, suggesting shared genetic factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetic polyneuropathy in this population.
On the Issue of Item Selection in Computerized Adaptive Testing With Response Times
Authors: Veldkamp Bernard P.
Published: June 2016

Many standardized tests are now administered via computer rather than paper‐and‐pencil format. The computer‐based delivery mode brings with it certain advantages. One advantage is the ability to adapt the difficulty level of the test to the ability level of the test taker in what has been termed computerized adaptive testing (CAT). A second advantage is the ability to record not only the test taker's response to each item (i.e., question), but also the amount of time the test taker spends considering and answering each item. Combining these two advantages, various methods were explored for utilizing response time data in selecting appropriate items for an individual test taker.

Four strategies for incorporating response time data were evaluated, and the precision of the final test‐taker score was assessed by comparing it to a benchmark value that did not take response time information into account. While differences in measurement precision and testing times were expected, results showed that the strategies did not differ much with respect to measurement precision but that there were differences with regard to the total testing time.
Making Decisions Better: an evaluation of an educational intervention
Authors: Thomson Carrie Louise , Maskrey Neal , Vlaev Ivo
Published: May 2016

Rationale, aims and objectives

Despite the widespread inclusion of consultation skills in undergraduate healthcare curricula, patient–doctor interactions are often an imparting of evidence or information rather than an exchange. Evidence‐based practice may be further enhanced by increasing explicit understanding of decision‐making processes used by healthcare professionals and patients.

This exploratory investigation evaluated the impact of an educational intervention on understanding of decision‐making processes and practice. The effect of session schedule was assessed to inform the future delivery strategy of such approaches.

Methods

Three groups of primary care health professionals (n = 85) completed questionnaires using Likert scales to assess strength of agreement with decision‐making statements exploring four themes – Theory, Applied Theory, Practice and Joint Practice – pre‐intervention and post‐intervention. Responses were analysed, firstly to assess the impact of the intervention on understanding of decision‐making processes and practice across all participants and then by group to determine the effect of session schedules on outcome measures.

Results

Overall agreement with the decision‐making statements significantly increased after the learning set (Mean = −0.162, SD = 0.355); t(64) = −3.666, p < 0.001).

Multivariate analysis on effect of session schedule only found significant interactions for the theme ‘Joint Practice’ with group (p < 0.025) and 3‐way interaction of Group and Main role. (p < 0.048). No consistent positive impact of longer session schedule was found.

Conclusion

Participation in the learning sessions significantly improved self‐reported understanding of decision‐making processes and application to clinical practice. The extended learning sessions did not provide additional benefits over and above 2 half days or 1 whole day learning sessions.
The freshwater artisanal fishery of Patos Lagoon
Authors: Ceni G. , Fontoura N. F. , Cabral H. N.
Published: June 2016

In this study data relative to the fishery in the freshwater area of the Patos Lagoon are analysed, and the dynamics, fishing gears used and catches evaluated. The results reveal the existence of two fishery strategies: forbidden mesh size gillnets (FMG; <35 mm; square measure) and allowed mesh size gillnets (AMG; ≥35 mm; square measure). In total, 31 species were caught (AMG = 27 and FMG = 24), but selectivity due to mesh size was significant (P < 0·001). The FMG may be very harmful since it captures individuals of most species below size at first maturity, including the target species, the armoured catfish Loricariichthys anus (61% of the total catch). In addition, this gear is used throughout the year, including the closed season (CS; November to January), when the target species is reproducing. Target species for the AMG are larger in size, comprising mainly the mullet Mugil liza, the marine catfish Genidens barbus and the whitemouth croaker Micropogonias furnieri. AMS gillnets were not used during the CS. The use of FMG reveals the need for effective fishery law enforcement and the need for additional studies to assess the status of populations of the exploited species.
Fishes and aquatic habitats of the Orinoco River Basin: diversity and conservation
Authors: Lasso C. A. , Machado‐Allison A. , Taphorn D. C.
Published: June 2016

About 1000 freshwater fishes have been found so far in the Orinoco River Basin of Venezuela and Colombia. This high ichthyological diversity reflects the wide range of landscapes and aquatic ecosystems included in the basin. Mountain streams descend from the high Andes to become rapid‐flowing foothill rivers that burst out upon vast savannah flatlands where they slowly make their way to the sea. These white‐water rivers are heavily laden with sediments from the geologically young Andes. Because their sediment deposits have formed the richest soils of the basin, they have attracted the highest density of human populations, along with the greatest levels of deforestation, wildfires, agricultural biocides and fertilizers, sewage and all the other impacts associated with urban centres, agriculture and cattle ranching. In the southern portion of the basin, human populations are much smaller, where often the only inhabitants are indigenous peoples. The ancient rocks and sands of the Guiana Shield yield clear and black water streams of very different quality. Here, sediment loads are miniscule, pH is very acid and fish biomass is only a fraction of that observed in the rich Andean tributaries to the north. For each region of the basin, the current state of knowledge about fish diversity is assessed, fish sampling density evaluated, the presence of endemic species and economically important species (for human consumption or ornamental purposes) described and gaps in knowledge are pointed out. Current trends in the fishery for human consumption are analysed, noting that stocks of many species are in steep decline, and that current fishing practices are not sustainable. Finally, the major impacts and threats faced by the fishes and aquatic ecosystems of the Orinoco River Basin are summarized, and the creation of bi‐national commissions to promote standardized fishing laws in both countries is recommended.
Ecological Network Analysis of Embodied Energy Exchanges Among the Seven Regions of China
Authors: Zhang Yan , Zheng Hongmei , Chen Bin , Yu Xiangyi , Hubacek Klaus , Wu Ruilin , Sun Xiaoxi
Published: May 2016

Regional economic development in China has resulted in an unbalanced distribution of resources and frequent exchanges of resources and products among regions. Therefore, it is necessary to understand these regional differences to support national planning to improve sustainability. In this research, we used energy data and a multiregional input‐output table for China in 2002 to analyze the domestic trade among the 30 provinces and seven regions of China. We also quantified the embodied energy flows and their patterns by means of ecological network analysis and looked at different types of relationships between the regions, such as mutualistic or competing relationships. The results show that the flows connected with the Northern and Eastern regions ranked first, and those connected with the Southwestern and Northwestern regions were the smallest. Based on the flows among provinces and regions, we determined the relationships among them. Results show that more than 95% of the total relationships among the regions were exploitation, with only one competition relationship. The Eastern region received the largest input and the highest benefits from their energy exchanges with other regions. Our study of the regional flows and relationships among the regions and provinces provides useful information on the flows and consumption of embodied energy in China, thereby providing insights into the sustainability of these flows and how to promote sustainable development through regional cooperation.
Mechanisms of homeostatic plasticity in the excitatory synapse
Authors: Fernandes Dominique , Carvalho Ana Luísa
Published: May 2016

Brain development, sensory information processing, and learning and memory processes depend on Hebbian forms of synaptic plasticity, and on the remodeling and pruning of synaptic connections. Neurons in networks implicated in these processes carry out their functions while facing constant perturbation; homeostatic responses are therefore required to maintain neuronal activity within functional ranges for proper brain function. Here, we will review in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrating that several mechanisms underlie homeostatic plasticity of excitatory synapses, and identifying participant molecular players. Emerging evidence suggests a link between disrupted homeostatic synaptic plasticity and neuropsychiatric and neurologic disorders.

image

Hebbian forms of synaptic plasticity, such as long‐term potentiation (LTP), induce long‐lasting changes in synaptic strength, which can be destabilizing and drive activity to saturation. Conversely, homeostatic plasticity operates to compensate for prolonged activity changes, stabilizing neuronal firing within a dynamic physiological range. We review mechanisms underlying homeostatic plasticity, and address how neurons integrate distinct forms of plasticity for proper brain function.

This article is part of a mini review series: “Synaptic Function and Dysfunction in Brain Diseases”.
Involving users and carers in the assessment of preregistration nursing students' clinical nursing practice: a strategy for patient empowerment and quality improvement?
Authors: Haycock‐Stuart Elaine , Donaghy Eddie , Darbyshire Chris
Published: June 2016

Aims and objectives

To examine (1) nursing lecturers' and (2) preregistration nursing students' perspectives of user and carer involvement in the formal assessment of preregistration nursing students' clinical practice.

Background

The involvement of service users and carers in the assessment of clinical practice in nursing education is a recent phenomenon. The Nursing and Midwifery Council Standards in the UK clearly reflect a shift in thinking from paternalistic approaches to person‐centred approaches. This shift in thinking includes service user and carer involvement in student nursing assessment and there is evidence that this is being developed in several countries.

Design

Located in the interpretive paradigm, data from a two‐staged, multicentre qualitative study are presented.

Methods

Interpretive analysis of semi‐structured, one to one interviews with nursing lecturers (n = 15) and focus groups with nursing students (n = 51) across 11 Higher Educational Institutions.

Results

There is a strong commitment for working alongside service users and carers in the education and training of nursing students; however, involving service users and carers in formal practice assessment is identified as more challenging compared with other areas of service user/carer involvement. Service user/carers should provide feedback/review or comment, but not necessarily formal, summative ‘assessment’.

Conclusions

The evidence base for involving users and carers in assessment is limited. Involvement of users and carers in providing feedback to nursing students is welcomed. However, concerns exist about the preparedness of users and carers for formal clinical assessment.

Relevance to clinical practice

Discussion and clarification with clinical mentors and user and carer groups is necessary to understand if they agree with the policy direction of user and carer involvement in the assessment of nursing students. Quality assurance concerns are raised by students and lecturers when involving user and carer in assessing nursing students' clinical skills. Mentors are seen as key to this process, but little is known about their perspectives.
Differences in Family Norms for Men and Women Across Europe
Authors: Rijken Arieke J. , Liefbroer Aart C.
Published: May 2016

The authors examined double standards regarding divorce among parents with young children and regarding having children within nonmarital cohabitation across Europe. Whether people disapprove more of men or of women engaging in these behaviors is not a priori clear. The authors formulated arguments in both directions and expected double standards to vary cross‐nationally by the level of socioeconomic gender equality in a country. They conducted multilevel analyses on a sample of about 44,000 individuals nested in 25 countries, obtained from the European Social Survey (2006). Double standards were measured with a split‐ballot design. The findings indicated that men were generally more disapproved of than women when displaying the family behaviors under study. Overall, women endorsed both double standards, whereas men endorsed only the double standard regarding divorce. However, substantial cross‐national differences in the double standards exist. The higher the level of socioeconomic gender equality, the larger these double standards in favor of women.
Entrepreneurship as a Platform for Pursuing Multiple Goals: A Special Issue on Sustainability, Ethics, and Entrepreneurship
Authors: Markman Gideon D. , Russo Michael , Lumpkin G. T. , Jennings P. Devereaux (Dev) , Mair Johanna
Published: June 2016

The great challenge of sustainability is addressed by firms with varying levels of social and environmental responsibility and performance. Though traditionally, firms sought a balance, we argue that this is not enough. Rather, we advocate that the natural environment be the foundation on which society resides and the economy operates. Sustainable, ethical, entrepreneurial (SEE) enterprises are moving in this direction, seeking to regenerate the environment and drive positive societal changes rather than only minimizing harm. We also note that sustainability is justified and motivated by ethical considerations and pioneered by entrepreneurial engagement. The eight articles included in this Special Issue draw from cross‐disciplinary scholarship to elaborate how SEE enterprises approach sustainability through new organizational forms, business models and innovation, and new governance mechanisms. They also emphasize the roles of institutional forces and logics, government policies and social movements for promoting or impeding sustainable practices. Collectively, they reveal new and compelling insights while spotlighting the great questions for SEE enterprise that await study.
Impact of physical exercise/activity on vascular structure and inflammation in pediatric populations: A literature review
Authors: Cayres Suziane Ungari , Agostinete Ricardo Ribeiro , de Moura Mello Antunes Barbara , Lira Fabio Santos , Fernandes Rômulo Araújo
Published: June 2016

Purpose

To describe the effects of physical exercise/activity on the vascular architecture of children and adolescents, as well as to identify the effects of inflammation and sedentary behaviors on this relationship.

Methods

Potentially relevant articles were identified in the databases MEDLINE and PubMed covering the period from 2000 to 2015. No language restrictions were applied.

Results

Thirteen articles were found that included obese boys and girls in their samples (aged 9–19). Six interventional studies assessed inflammation and in five of these, physical exercise decreased inflammation. In 10 studies, vascular architecture was affected by physical exercise/activity.

Conclusions

The impact of physical exercise on vascular architecture and inflammation seems relevant, but has been mainly investigated in obese groups.

Practical Implications

Health professionals should act together in organized interventions in schools, targeting the promotion of higher physical activity levels in children and adolescents.
Comparison of a single‐channel EEG sleep study to polysomnography
Authors: Lucey Brendan P. , Mcleland Jennifer S. , Toedebusch Cristina D. , Boyd Jill , Morris John C. , Landsness Eric C. , Yamada Kelvin , Holtzman David M.
Published: June 2016

An accurate home sleep study to assess electroencephalography (EEG)‐based sleep stages and EEG power would be advantageous for both clinical and research purposes, such as for longitudinal studies measuring changes in sleep stages over time. The purpose of this study was to compare sleep scoring of a single‐channel EEG recorded simultaneously on the forehead against attended polysomnography. Participants were recruited from both a clinical sleep centre and a longitudinal research study investigating cognitively normal ageing and Alzheimer's disease. Analysis for overall epoch‐by‐epoch agreement found strong and substantial agreement between the single‐channel EEG compared to polysomnography (κ = 0.67). Slow wave activity in the frontal regions was also similar when comparing the single‐channel EEG device to polysomnography. As expected, Stage N1 showed poor agreement (sensitivity 0.2) due to lack of occipital electrodes. Other sleep parameters, such as sleep latency and rapid eye movement (REM) onset latency, had decreased agreement. Participants with disrupted sleep consolidation, such as from obstructive sleep apnea, also had poor agreement. We suspect that disagreement in sleep parameters between the single‐channel EEG and polysomnography is due partially to altered waveform morphology and/or poorer signal quality in the single‐channel derivation. Our results show that single‐channel EEG provides comparable results to polysomnography in assessing REM, combined Stages N2 and N3 sleep and several other parameters, including frontal slow wave activity. The data establish that single‐channel EEG can be a useful research tool.
Target rocks, impact glasses, and melt rocks from the Lonar crater, India: Highly siderophile element systematics and Sr‐Nd‐Os isotopic signatures
Authors: Schulz Toni , Luguet Ambre , Wegner Wencke , van Acken David , Koeberl Christian
Published: June 2016

The Lonar crater is a ~0.57‐Myr‐old impact structure located in the Deccan Traps of the Indian peninsula. It probably represents the best‐preserved impact structure hosted in continental flood basalts, providing unique opportunities to study processes of impact cratering in basaltic targets. Here we present highly siderophile element (HSE) abundances and Sr‐Nd and Os isotope data for target basalts and impactites (impact glasses and impact melt rocks) from the Lonar area. These tools may enable us to better constrain the interplay of a variety of impact‐related processes such as mixing, volatilization, and contamination. Strontium and Nd isotopic compositions of impactites confirm and extend earlier suggestions about the incorporation of ancient basement rocks in Lonar impactites. In the Re‐Os isochron plot, target basalts exhibit considerable scatter around a 65.6 Myr Re‐Os reference isochron, most likely reflecting weathering and/or magma replenishment processes. Most impactites plot at distinctly lower187Re/188Os and187Os/188Os ratios compared to the target rocks and exhibit up to two orders of magnitude higher abundances of Ir, Os, and Ru. Moreover, the impactites show near‐chondritic interelement ratios ofHSE. We interpret our results in terms of an addition of up to 0.03% of a chondritc component to most impact glasses and impact melt rocks. The magnitude of the admixture is significantly lower than the earlier reported 12–20 wt% of extraterrestrial component for Lonar impact spherules, reflecting the typical difference in the distribution of projectile component between impact glass spherules and bulk impactites.
A comparison of self‐reported quality of life for an Australian haemodialysis and haemodiafiltration cohort
Authors: Hill Kathleen E , Kim Susan , Crail Susan , Elias Tony J , Whittington Tiffany
Published: June 2016

Aims

Haemodiafiltration (HDF) has been widely studied for evidence of superior outcomes in comparison with conventional haemodialysis (HD), and there is increasing interest in determining if HDF confers any benefit in relation to quality of life. Studies have been conducted with randomized incident patients; however, little is known regarding HDF and quality of life for prevalent patients. This study examined and compared self–reported quality of life at two time points, 12 months apart in a cohort of satellite HD and HDF patients, using a disease specific questionnaire to determine if HDF conferred an advantage.

Methods

A longitudinal study with a linear mixed‐effect model measuring quality of life in a cohort of 171 patients (HD, n = 85, HDF, n = 86) in seven South Australian satellite dialysis centres.

Results

Factors associated with significant reduction across the Kidney Disease Quality Of Life™ domains measured were younger age (‐ 20 to ‐ 29) and comorbid diabetes (‐ 4.8 to ‐ 11.1). HDF was not associated with moderation of this reduction at either time point (P > 0.05). Baseline physical functioning was reported as very low (median 33.9) and further reduced at time point two. In addition, dialysing for more than 12 h per week in a satellite dialysis unit was associated with reduced quality of life in relation to the burden of kidney disease (‐ 13.69).

Conclusion

This study has demonstrated that younger age and comorbid diabetes were responsible for a statistically significant reduction in quality of life, and HDF did not confer any advantage.
The incidence rate and characteristics of clinically diagnosed defecatory disorders in the community
Authors: Noelting J. , Eaton J. E. , Choung R. S. , Zinsmeister A. R. , Locke G. R. , Bharucha A. E.
Published: June 2016

Background

Defecatory disorders (DD) are defined by clinical and objective features of impaired rectal evacuation. The epidemiology of DD in the population is unknown, partly because many constipated patients do not undergo anorectal tests. Our objectives were to estimate the incidence rate and clinical features of DD in the community.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of all patients older than 16 years in Olmsted County, MN, who had constipation and underwent anorectal manometry from 1999 through 2008. Criteria for diagnosing DD were constipation for 6 months or longer and one of the following: (i) abnormal rectal balloon expulsion test; (ii) reduced or increased perineal descent; or (iii) two or more abnormal features with defecography or surface electromyography.

Key Results

Of 11 112 constipated patients, 516 had undergone anorectal tests; 245 of these (209 women, 36 men) had a DD. The mean (±SD) age at diagnosis was 44 years (±18) among women and 49 years (±19) among men. The overall age‐ and sex‐adjusted incidence rate per 100 000 person‐years was 19.3 (95% CI: 16.8–21.8). The age‐adjusted incidence per 100 000 person‐years was greater (p < 0.0001) in women (31.8, 95% CI: 27.4–36.1) than in men (6.6, 95% CI: 4.4–8.9). Prior to the diagnosis of DD, nearly 30% of patients had irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), 48% had a psychiatric diagnosis, 18% had a history of abuse, and 21% reported urinary and/or fecal incontinence.

Conclusions & Inferences

Among constipated patients, DD are fourfold more common in women than men and often associated with IBS and psychiatric diagnoses.
Multiplex PCR genotyping for five bacterial blight resistance genes applied to marker‐assisted selection in rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: Yap Ruishen , Hsu Yu‐Chia , Wu Yong‐Pei , Lin Yann‐Rong , Kuo Chei‐Wei
Published: June 2016

Bacterial blight (BB) is the most economically damaging disease of rice in Asia and other parts of the world. In this study, a multiplex PCR genotyping method was developed to simultaneously identify genotypes of five BB resistance genes, Xa4, xa5, Xa7, xa13 and Xa21. The resistance R alleles were amplified using five functional markers (FMs) to generate amplicons of 217, 103, 179, 381 and 595 bp in IRBB66. Amplicons of 198, 107, 87, 391 and 467 bp corresponded to susceptible alleles in Taiwanese japonica rice cultivars. In backcross breeding programmes, the multiplex PCR assay was integrated into selection from a population using BB resistance donor IRBB66 crossed to rice cultivar ‘Tainung82’. Two plants with homozygosity for Xa4, xa5, Xa7, xa13 and Xa21 were selected from 1100 BC2F2 plants. In addition, the five BB resistance genes were also accurately identified in F2 populations. This multiplex PCR method provides a rapid and efficient method for detecting various BB resistance genes, which will assist in pyramiding genes to improve durability of BB resistance in Taiwanese elite rice cultivars.
Infection process of Phoma koolunga on stem and leaf tissue of resistant and susceptible field pea (Pisum sativum)
Authors: Tran H. S. , You M. P. , Khan T. N. , Barbetti M. J.
Published: June 2016

This study investigates the infection process of Phoma koolunga on field pea (Pisum sativum) stems and leaves using different susceptible and resistant pea genotypes for each tissue, viz. 05P778‐BSR‐701 (resistant) and 06P830‐(F5)‐BSR‐5 (susceptible) for stems and ATC 866 (resistant) and ATC 5347 (susceptible) for leaves. On both resistant and susceptible genotypes, light and scanning electron microscopy showed P. koolunga conidia infect stem and leaf tissues directly via appressoria or stomatal penetration, but with more infections involving formation of appressoria on stems than on leaves. On leaves of the resistant genotype, at 72 h post‐inoculation, P. koolunga penetrated more frequently via stomata (5.2 conidia per 36 893 μm2) than by formation of appressoria (1.8 conidia); yet no such difference was observed on stems of the resistant genotype. In contrast, at the same time point, the number of conidia infecting the susceptible genotype by formation of appressoria on either stems (135 conidia) or leaves (11.3 conidia) was significantly greater than via stomata (8 and 7.3 conidia, stems and leaves, respectively). Mean germ tube length of germinating P. koolunga conidia on both stems (29.8 μm) and leaves (32.9 μm) of the resistant genotype was less than on the susceptible genotype (40.5 and 63.7 μm, stem and leaves, respectively). In addition, there were differences in the number of germ tubes emerging from conidia on resistant and susceptible genotypes. These are the first insights into the nature of leaf and stem resistance mechanisms operating in field pea against P. koolunga.
The Problem of Secondary Effects
Authors: Engelhardt Jeff
Published: June 2016

This paper argues that two principles held by many metaphysicians and philosophers of mind are inconsistent: (1) there is no systematic overdetermination, and (2) some causal effects are also determined by their metaphysical grounds. Call this “The Problem of Secondary Effects.” After introducing the problem and noting philosophical theories that face it, the paper offers further clarification by considering three potential strategies for solving it. All fail. An approach that sacrifices ‘secondary effects’ is briefly sketched as a solution.
Wealth Inequality: Historical Trends and Cross‐National Differences
Authors: Kus Basak
Published: June 2016

This article provides an overview of the recent literature on wealth inequality from a comparative and historical perspective. I first discuss how the stock, composition, and distribution of wealth changed from the 18th century onwards. In the second part of the paper, I move on to the causal questions: What factors drive wealth inequality? Why does the distribution of wealth vary across nations? In the third and concluding section I briefly discuss the socio‐political challenges posed by increasing wealth inequality, and identify several key questions for research going forward.
The Environmental Psychology of the Ecological Citizen: Comparing Competing Models of Pro‐Environmental Behavior*
Authors: Jagers Sverker C. , Martinsson Johan , Matti Simon
Published: May 2016

Objectives

The overall objective of this article is to contribute to the identification of underlying factors causing individuals’ pro‐environmental behavior (PEB).

Methods

This is done by the amalgamation of an empirically‐derived theory originating in the behavioral science research—the value‐belief‐norm (VBN) theory (e.g., Stern et al., 1999)—and a rather recently developed theory in political science—the ecological citizenship (EC) model (e.g., Dobson, 2003). Using survey data, this article empirically tests the explanatory power of these two theories, both separately and as a joint model.
Cost of hospitalisation for non‐communicable diseases in India: are we pro‐poor?
Authors: Tripathy J. P. , Prasad B. M. , Shewade H. D. , Kumar A. M. V. , Zachariah R. , Chadha S. , Tonsing J. , Harries A. D.
Published: June 2016

Objectives

To estimate out‐of‐pocket (OOP) expenditure due to hospitalisation from NCDs and its impact on households in India.

Methods

The study analysed nationwide representative data collected by the National Sample Survey Organisation in 2014 that reported health service utilisation and healthcare‐related OOP expenditure by income quintiles and by type of health facility (public or private). The recall period for inpatient hospitalisation expenditure was 365 days. Consumption expenditure was collected for a recall period of 1 month. OOP expenditure amounting to >10% of annual consumption expenditure was termed as catastrophic. Weighted analysis was performed.

Results

The median expenditure per episode of hospitalisation due to NCDs was USD 149 – this was ~3 times higher among the richest quintile compared to poorest quintile. There was a significantly higher prevalence of catastrophic expenditure among the poorest quintile, more so for cancers (85%), psychiatric and neurological disorders (63%) and injuries (63%). Mean private‐sector OOP hospitalisation expenditure was nearly five times higher than that in the public sector. Medicines accounted for 40% and 27% of public‐ and private‐sector OOP hospitalisation expenditure, respectively.

Conclusion

Strengthening of public health facilities is required at community level for the prevention, control and management of NCDs. Promotion of generic medicines, better availability of essential drugs and possible subsidisation for the poorest quintile will be measures to consider to reduce OOP expenditure in public‐sector facilities.
Comparison of two automated mononuclear cell collection systems in patients undergoing extracorporeal photopheresis: a prospective crossover equivalence study
Authors: Del Fante Claudia , Scudeller Luigia , Martinasso Alberto , Viarengo Gianluca , Perotti Cesare
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) is an effective cell therapy employed in several diseases, including graft versus host disease (GVHD) and organ rejection. When ECP is performed using an off‐line technique, mononuclear cell (MNC) collection by leukapheresis is necessary for further manipulation (addition of 8‐methoxypsoralen and ultraviolet A irradiation before reinfusion to the patient). We report the results of the first crossover equivalence study on yield and purity of MNCs collected from patients undergoing ECP with two different automated systems: MNC and CMNC (working with intermittent and continuous‐flow collection, respectively), released by Terumo BCT.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Fifty‐one patients (15 males and 36 females) with GVHD or chronic lung allograft dysfunction were consecutively enrolled and randomly assigned to MNC collection alternatively by the CMNC or MNC system within each ECP cycle (two procedures) in two consecutive cycles. ECP procedures were performed using the off‐line technique, according to our internal protocol, processing 1.5 blood volumes.

RESULTS

A total of 204 ECP procedures were evaluated. The MNC system showed a higher MNC concentration capacity than the CMNC (mean difference, −13.46; 95% confidence interval, −21.05 to −5.47; p < 0.001). Collection efficiency was higher with the CMNC system as well as total MNC bag content, while MNC bag purity was equivalent for both systems. Platelet loss was higher with the CMNC. Equivalence was shown for MNC purity and anticoagulant infused to the patient.

CONCLUSION

CMNC and MNC systems offer different advantages in different clinical conditions, and both are safe and efficient in collecting MNCs for ECP.
MODELLING OF THE ELECTRICITY GENERATION FROM LIVING PLANTS
Authors: Ying Ying Choo , Dayou Jedol
Published: May 2016

Electricity can be harvested from living plants by generating reaction between the plant and a pair of different metals. It has great potential in sustainable energy production because it offers a green approach to harvest energy from sources that are abundantly available. Previous investigation has shown that electrochemistry process is accountable for its mechanism of energy production. In this paper, the behavior of the ions flow in the electrodes-plant system is modelled and illustrated. For this purpose, energy harvesting system consists of Zn-Cu electrodes and aloe Vera was used where the electrodes were immersed in the aloe Vera leaf. It was hypothesized that during the energy harvesting process, oxidations of zinc atoms occur when an external load is connected between the two electrodes. For 72 hours of harvesting process, the zinc electrode experienced a mass loss of 3.2mg compared to electrochemistry prediction which is 0.0853mg when 1MΩ load was used. However, using a lower load resistor (1kΩ), the measured mass loss of the zinc increased to 6.7mg compared to the prediction which is 4.0452mg. This means that there is an increase of efficiency when a lower load resistance is used, which is 60.4% for 1kΩ, compared to 2.67% when using 1MΩ. This shows that the electrochemistry process is influenced by the load connected to the system. This finding improvises a better understanding on the energy production mechanism of the system.
CRUSHING MECHANISMS OF CYLINDRICAL WINDING KENAF FIBER REINFORCED COMPOSITES
Authors: Ismail Al Emran
Published: May 2016

This paper presents the crushing behavior of cylindrical kenaf fiber reinforced composites subjected to axial compressive loading. Lack of information available on the study of cylindrical composites fabricated using kenaf yarn fibers where it is wound around the cylindrical mold. There are two important parameters are used during the composite fabrications namely fiber orientations (00, 50 and 100) and number of layers (1, 2 and 3 layers). These composite tubes are crushed axially and forces versus displacement curves are recorded. Then, the specific energy absorptions and force ratios are determined. As expected, increasing the number of layers increased the specific energy absorptions but it is not significantly affected the force ratio even different fiber orientations are used. During progressive collapses, most of the failures mechanisms observe are localized buckling with large wall fragmentations.
IMPROVEMENT AND CHARACTERIZATION OF SABKHA SOIL OF SAUDI ARABIA: A REVIEW
Authors: Arifuzzaman Md , Habib Mohammad A. , Al-Turki Mohammed K. , Khan M. I. , Ali M. M.
Published: May 2016

Sabkha is an inferior and indigenous type of soil which forms widely in the Arabian Gulf and in many parts of Saudi Arabia, especially in the coastal areas. Several studies over the last 25 years have been conducted to develop a better understanding and characterization of Sabkha soil and to improve its strength and durability. Different studies from different perspectives, different geographical locations, and particular types were discussed with specific treatment for its improvement. The main purpose of this study is to conclude Saudi Arabian Sabkha Soil characteristics, its associated problems, and to recapitulate the current technologies and practices for the improvement of it. The relative advantages and some of the drawbacks of currently available techniques have also been discussed. Scope and future development regarding this field have also been summarized. Preloading technique was found to be effective for stabilization and consolidation of Sabkha soil over longer period of time. Another study revealed characterizing Saudi Arabian Sabkha soil using seismic refraction technique. Other comparative research was studied which focused on the improvement of Sabkha soil for road construction using geotextile and cement additives. The results suggest that both of the techniques have similar effect on the improvement of subgrade but the geotextile application is more economical as compared to others. Geotextile (grade A-400) with greater strength and thickness exhibits higher load carrying capability which leads to less deformation settlement on the subgrade.
AROMATIC BIOMARKER FROM BROWN COAL, SANGATTA COALFIELD, EAST BORNEO OF MIDDLE MIOCENE TO LATE MIOCENE AGE
Authors: Zetra Yulfi , B. Sosrowidjojo Imam , Perry Burhan R. Y.
Published: May 2016

A section of the Sangatta coalfield in the Balikpapan formation located in Kutai Basin, East Borneo, Indonesia, is the Inul area, located North of Pinang Dome. This section of the coalmine has coals with low calories (ca. 4379 cal/g), which is why they cannot be used optimally yet. The reasons of using low calorie coals are besides from being used as a mixing ingredient for the blending process of high calorie coals, they are also used to diversify the coals through the process of coal liquefaction (coal to liquid). In order for the coal liquefaction to be processed correctly, there needs to be a study on the geochemistry organics through coal biomarker analysis, particularly on the hydrocarbon aromatic fractions, so that the origins of the coal organic compounds could be known. Biomarker analysis on the aromatic hydrocarbon fraction shows the existence of naphthalene compound groups with sesquiterpenoids skeleton, phenanthrene with diterpenoids, sesterpenoids skeleton and triterpenoids aromatic pentacyclic. The existence of cadalene compound, triterpene pentacyclic monoaromatic, -triaromatic, -tetraaromatic, -pentaaromatic and triterpenoid C-ring cleaved hydrocarbon with oleanane, ursane and lupane skeletons indicated that the source of coal organic compounds were derived from b-amyrin which were produced by Angiospermae plants. The coal biomarkers distribution, particularly the high abundance of triterpenoid pentacyclic triaromatic compound, confirmed the low maturity of the coals which is predicted to profit from the process of liquefaction due to the high contents of their aromatic fractions.
Vision 20/20: Molecular‐guided surgical oncology based upon tumor metabolism or immunologic phenotype: Technological pathways for point of care imaging and intervention
Authors: Pogue Brian W. , Paulsen Keith D. , Samkoe Kimberley S. , Elliott Jonathan T. , Hasan Tayyaba , Strong Theresa V. , Draney Daniel R. , Feldwisch Joachim
Published: May 2016

Surgical guidance with fluorescence has been demonstrated in individual clinical trials for decades, but the scientific and commercial conditions exist today for a dramatic increase in clinical value. In the past decade, increased use of indocyanine green based visualization of vascular flow, biliary function, and tissue perfusion has spawned a robust growth in commercial systems that have near‐infrared emission imaging and video display capabilities. This recent history combined with major preclinical innovations in fluorescent‐labeled molecular probes, has the potential for a shift in surgical practice toward resection guidance based upon molecular information in addition to conventional visual and palpable cues. Most surgical subspecialties already have treatment management decisions partially based upon the immunohistochemical phenotype of the cancer, as assessed from molecular pathology of the biopsy tissue. This phenotyping can inform the surgical resection process by spatial mapping of these features. Further integration of the diagnostic and therapeutic value of tumor metabolism sensing molecules or immune binding agents directly into the surgical process can help this field mature. Maximal value to the patient would come from identifying the spatial patterns of molecular expression in vivo that are well known to exist. However, as each molecular agent is advanced into trials, the performance of the imaging system can have a critical impact on the success. For example, use of pre‐existing commercial imaging systems are not well suited to image receptor targeted fluorophores because of the lower concentrations expected, requiring orders of magnitude more sensitivity. Additionally the imaging system needs the appropriate dynamic range and image processing features to view molecular probes or therapeutics that may have nonspecific uptake or pharmacokinetic issues which lead to limitations in contrast. Imaging systems need to be chosen based upon objective performance criteria, and issues around calibration, validation, and interpretation need to be established before a clinical trial starts. Finally, as early phase trials become more established, the costs associated with failures can be crippling to the field, and so judicious use of phase 0 trials with microdose levels of agents is one viable paradigm to help the field advance, but this places high sensitivity requirements on the imaging systems used. Molecular‐guided surgery has truly transformative potential, and several key challenges are outlined here with the goal of seeing efficient advancement with ideal choices. The focus of this vision 20/20 paper is on the technological aspects that are needed to be paired with these agents.
Guidelines by the AAPM and GEC‐ESTRO on the use of innovative brachytherapy devices and applications: Report of Task Group 167
Authors: Nath Ravinder , Rivard Mark J. , DeWerd Larry A. , Dezarn William A. , Thompson Heaton H. , Ibbott Geoffrey S. , Meigooni Ali S. , Ouhib Zoubir , Rusch Thomas W. , Siebert Frank‐André , Venselaar Jack L. M.
Published: June 2016

Although a multicenter, Phase III, prospective, randomized trial is the gold standard for evidence‐based medicine, it is rarely used in the evaluation of innovative devices because of many practical and ethical reasons. It is usually sufficient to compare the dose distributions and dose rates for determining the equivalence of the innovative treatment modality to an existing one. Thus, quantitative evaluation of the dosimetric characteristics of innovative radiotherapy devices or applications is a critical part in which physicists should be actively involved. The physicist's role, along with physician colleagues, in this process is highlighted for innovative brachytherapy devices and applications and includes evaluation of (1) dosimetric considerations for clinical implementation (including calibrations, dose calculations, and radiobiological aspects) to comply with existing societal dosimetric prerequisites for sources in routine clinical use, (2) risks and benefits from a regulatory and safety perspective, and (3) resource assessment and preparedness. Further, it is suggested that any developed calibration methods be traceable to a primary standards dosimetry laboratory (PSDL) such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology in the U.S. or to other PSDLs located elsewhere such as in Europe. Clinical users should follow standards as approved by their country's regulatory agencies that approved such a brachytherapy device. Integration of this system into the medical source calibration infrastructure of secondary standard dosimetry laboratories such as the Accredited Dosimetry Calibration Laboratories in the U.S. is encouraged before a source is introduced into widespread routine clinical use. The American Association of Physicists in Medicine and the Groupe Européen de Curiethérapie‐European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (GEC‐ESTRO) have developed guidelines for the safe and consistent application of brachytherapy using innovative devices and applications. The current report covers regulatory approvals, calibration, dose calculations, radiobiological issues, and overall safety concerns that should be addressed during the commissioning stage preceding clinical use. These guidelines are based on review of requirements of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, U.S. Department of Transportation, International Electrotechnical Commission Medical Electrical Equipment Standard 60601, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, European Commission for CE Marking (Conformité Européenne), and institutional review boards and radiation safety committees.
Unidirectional acoustic probe based on the particle velocity gradient
Authors: Yu Shiduo , Fernández Comesaña Daniel , Carrillo Pousa Graciano , Yang Yixin , Xu Lingji
Published: June 2016

This paper presents the foundations of a unidirectional acoustic probe based on the particle velocity gradient. Highly directional characteristics play a key role in reducing the influence of undesired acoustic sources. These characteristics can be achieved by using multiple acoustic sensors in a spatial gradient arrangement. Two particle velocity sensors possessing the figure eight directivity pattern were used in a first-order gradient configuration to yield a unidirectional probe that can reject most excitations originating from both sides and the rear. The effects of key parameters are thoroughly discussed, and the proposed theory is validated in practice.