bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Presence of entomobirnaviruses in Chinese mosquitoes in the absence of Dengue virus co‐infection
Authors: Huang Yong , Mi Zhiqiang , Zhuang Lu , Ma Maijuan , An Xiaoping , Liu Wei , Cao Wuchun , Tong Yigang
Published: November 2012

Birnaviruses, including the genus Entomobirnavirus, are socio-economically important viruses. Currently, only Drosophila X virus has been formally assigned to the genus Entomobirnavirus, but two more viruses were recently isolated, Espirito Santo virus (ESV) and Culex Y virus. The host mosquito has been reported to carry many viruses, but seldom entomobirnaviruses. To discover potential pathogens in mosquitoes, we exploited small-RNAs high-throughput sequencing of three mosquito species caught in South China. A virus that genetically likes entomobirnavirus, Mosquito X virus (MXV), was identified from Anopheles sinensis and was 97 % identical to ESV, which co-infects with Dengue virus (DENV). However, the absence of DENV in the A. sinensis suggested the independence of MXV infection from dengue co-infection. Our discovery complements prior research on entomobirnaviruses and proved that MXV may be widespread in mosquitoes on different continents. This work also highlights the applying of high-throughput sequencing of small RNAs to survey viruses carried by insect vectors.
Involvement of Arabidopsis ACYL-COENZYME A DESATURASE-LIKE2 (At2g31360) in the Biosynthesis of the Very-Long-Chain Monounsaturated Fatty Acid Components of Membrane Lipids
Authors: Smith Mark A. , Dauk Melanie , Ramadan Hussein , Yang Hui , Seamons Laura E. , Haslam Richard P. , Beaudoin Frédéric , Ramirez-Erosa Irving , Forseille Li
Published: November 2012

The Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) acyl-coenzyme A (CoA) desaturase-like (ADS) gene family contains nine genes encoding fatty acid desaturase-like proteins. The biological function of only one member of the family, fatty acid desaturase5 (AtADS3/FAD5, At3g15850), is known, and this gene encodes the plastidic palmitoyl-monogalactosyldiacylglycerol Ɗ7 desaturase. We cloned seven members of the gene family that are predicted not to have a chloroplast transit peptide and expressed them in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. All seven have previously undescribed desaturase activity on very-long-chain fatty acid (VLCFA) substrates and exhibit diverse regiospecificity, catalyzing introduction of double bonds relative to the methyl end of the molecule (n-x) at n-6 (AtADS4, At1g06350), n-7 (AtADS1.3, At1g06100 and AtADS4.2, At1g06360), n-9 (AtADS1, At1g06080 and AtADS2, At2g31360) or Ɗ9 (relative to the carboxyl end of the molecule) positions (AtADS1.2, At1g06090 and AtADS1.4, At1g06120). Through forward and reverse genetics it was shown that AtADS2 is involved in the synthesis of the 24:1(n-9) and 26:1(n-9) components (X:Y, where X is chain length and Y is number of double bonds) of seed lipids, sphingolipids, and the membrane phospholipids phosphatidylserine, and phosphatidylethanolamine. Plants deficient in AtADS2 expression showed no obvious phenotype when grown under normal growing conditions, but showed an almost complete loss of phosphatidylethanolamine(42:4), phosphatidylserine(42:4), dihydroxy-monohexosylceramide(42:2)-2, trihydroxy-monohexosylceramide(42:2)-3, and trihydroxy-glycosylinositolphosphoceramide(42:2)-3, lipid species that contain the VLCFA 24:1(n-9), and trihydroxy-glycosylinositolphosphoceramide(44:2)-3, a lipid containing 26:1(n-9). Acyl-CoA profiling of these plants revealed a major reduction in 24:1-CoA and a small reduction in 26:1-CoA. Overexpression of AtADS2 resulted in a substantial increase in the percentage of glycerolipid and sphingolipids species containing 24:1 and a dramatic increase in the percentage of very-long-chain monounsaturated fatty acids in the acyl-CoA pool. Plants deficient in AtADS1 expression had reduced levels of 26:1(n-9) in seed lipids, but no significant changes in leaf phospholipids or sphingolipids were observed. These findings indicate that the 24-carbon and 26-carbon monounsaturated VLCFAs of Arabidopsis result primarily from VLCFA desaturation, rather than by elongation of long chain monounsaturated fatty acids.
Carbonyl–carbonyl and carbonyl–π interactions as directing motifs in the supramolecular structure of carbonyl(3-oxopenta-1,4-diene-1,5-diyl)[tris(3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl-κN2)methane]iridium(III) trifluoromethanesulfonate
Authors: Hernández-Juárez Martín , Salazar-Pereda Veronica , Padilla-Martínez Itzia I. , García-Báez Efrén V.
Published: November 2012

In the title complex salt, [Ir(C5H4O)(C16H22N6)(CO)](CF3O3S), the IrIIIcentre adopts a distorted octahedral geometry with a facial coordination of the tris(3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)methane ligand. The C—C distances of the iridacycle are in agreement with its iridacyclohexa-2,5-dien-4-one nature, which presents a nonsymmetric boat-like conformation with the C—Ir—C vertex more bent than the C—C(=O)—C vertex. The supramolecular architecture is mainly directed by CO...CO and CO...π and Csp3—H...O interactions, the arrangement of which depends on the anion.
The first crystal structure of an alkaline metal salt of thioglucose: potassium 1-thio-β-D-glucoside monohydrate
Authors: Yoshinari Nobuto , Kitani Naoki , Konno Takumi
Published: November 2012

In the crystal structure of the title hydrated salt, poly[(μ2-aqua)(μ4-1-sulfido-β-D-glucoside)potassium], [K(C6H11O5S)(H2O)]nor K+·C6H11O5S−·H2O, each thioglucoside anion coordinates to four K+cations through three of its four hydroxy groups, forming a three-dimensional polymeric structure. The negatively charged thiolate group in each anion does not form an efficient coordination bond with a K+cation, but forms intermolecular hydrogen bonds with four hydroxy groups, which appears to sustain the polymeric structure. The Cremer–Pople parameters for the thioglucoside ligand (Q= 0.575, θ = 8.233° and φ = 353.773°) indicate a slight distortion of the pyranose ring.
Low-dimensional compounds containing bioactive ligands. IV. Unusual ionic forms of 5-chloroquinolin-8-ol
Authors: Vranec Peter , Potočňák Ivan , Repovský Peter
Published: November 2012

Bis(5-chloro-8-hydroxyquinolinium) tetrachloridopalladate(II), (C9H7ClNO)2[PdCl4], (I),catena-poly[dimethylammonium [[dichloridopalladate(II)]-μ-chlorido]], {(C2H8N)[PdCl3]}n, (II), ethylenediammonium bis(5-chloroquinolin-8-olate), C2H10N22+·2C9H5ClNO−, (III), and 5-chloro-8-hydroxyquinolinium chloride, C9H7ClNO+·Cl−, (IV), were synthesized with the aim of preparing biologically active complexes of PdIIand NiIIwith 5-chloroquinolin-8-ol (ClQ). Compounds (I) and (II) contain PdIIatoms which are coordinated in a square-planar manner by four chloride ligands. In the structure of (I), there is an isolated [PdCl4]2−anion, while in the structure of (II) the anion consists of PdIIatoms, lying on centres of inversion, bonded to a combination of two terminal and two bridging Cl−ligands, lying on twofold rotation axes, forming an infinite [–μ2-Cl–PdCl2–]nchain. The negative charges of these anions are balanced by two crystallographically independent protonated HClQ+cations in (I) and by dimethylammonium cations in (II), with the N atoms lying on twofold rotation axes. The structure of (III) consists of ClQ−anions, with the hydroxy groups deprotonated, and centrosymmetric ethylenediammonium cations. On the other hand, the structure of (IV) consists of a protonated HClQ+cation with the positive charge balanced by a chloride anion. All four structures are stabilized by systems of hydrogen bonds which occur between the anions and cations. π–π interactions were observed between the HClQ+cations in the structures of (I) and (IV).
Positive ageing – from the political to the personal
Authors: Robertson Guy
Published: November 2012

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to highlight the corrosive impact of ageism on the health and wellbeing of older people and to propose a practical methodology for addressing the psychological and emotional damage.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines published research from social gerontology on the impact of negative attitudes on longevity and health and then incorporates research from the realm of positive psychology to produce some practical personal development approaches based on a synthesis of the two.

Findings

Negative attitudes, largely fed by societal ageism, can significantly reduce longevity. Altering a person's “explanatory style” can produce significant health and wellbeing benefits. The latter is then proposed as a means of countering the former.

Research limitations/implications

Whilst each element is grounded in robust research evidence, there is as yet no dedicated research to show that the proposed “combined intervention” will have the intended impact.

Practical implications

A methodology is proposed for enabling individuals to examine their negative attitudes towards their own ageing and then use a variety of psychological techniques to ameliorate or replace them with more positive ones, which it is argued, will lead to greater health and wellbeing.

Originality/value

The paper synthesises research from two disparate disciplines (i.e. social gerontology, and psychology) to propose a way of addressing the negative impact of internalised ageist attitudes. The paper offers practical approaches to reverse the psychological and emotional damage caused by prevalent ageism in society. One such transformational programme is outlined.
Making the links: integrating housing, health and care
Authors: Minter Jane
Published: November 2012

Purpose

Using some case examples from Care & Repair England in the UK, this paper aims to focus on the integration of housing help in a hospital setting.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper gives some background on Care & Repair and the development of local housing and hospital linked projects. The broader debate about the role of housing is then considered.

Findings

Key recommendations from the case studies are discussed and the wider debate on improving integration is considered in relation to the UK Government's recent Care and Support White Paper.

Originality/value

The paper considers the role that housing plays in health and social care provision and why people engaged in the sector should continue to work towards better integration of housing, health and social care.
Objection, purpose and normality: three ways in which the courts have inhibited safeguarding
Authors: Hewitt David
Published: November 2012

Purpose

This paper's aim is to consider three ways in which, recently, the English courts have sought to define deprivation of liberty (and, maybe, limit the effect of safeguards against it).

Design/methodology/approach

Two significant decisions of the Court of Appeal were considered, together with one each of the House of Lords and the European Court of Human Rights. Consideration was also given to the context of those decisions, as disclosed in official policy documents and at least one piece of academic research.

Findings

The decisions in question have limited the circumstances that will amount to deprivation of liberty and thereby reduced the scope of the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). The English courts' understanding of false imprisonment is diverging from their understanding of deprivation of liberty. The English courts differ from the European Court of Human Rights in their understanding of the relevance of “purpose” to the question of deprivation of liberty. If the former are correct, the DoLS – and maybe even the Mental Health Act – are redundant.

Originality/value

This is the first time these cases, and this subject, have been analysed in this way; and that these findings have been published together.
The right to take risks
Authors: Faulkner Alison
Published: November 2012

Purpose

Commissioned as part of a Joseph Rowntree Foundation scoping programme, this consultation aims to explore the views of disabled people and service users about risk.

Design/methodology/approach

The consultation reached nine individuals and one focus group, reaching a total of 17 disabled people and service users. Their views were supplemented by the literature.

Findings

The landscape of risk and rights is highly complex. Disabled people and service users have quite different concerns about risk to those of the professionals and the regulatory bodies acting on their behalf. Many people talked of the fear of losing their independence, of asserting their rights and the fear of powerlessness in the face of bureaucracy and (sometimes) uncaring staff.

Research limitations/implications

The profile of rights needs to be raised in an accessible and acceptable way: it is necessary to make the language of rights more commonplace. There is a particular need to reach into mental health and residential care services to find ways of enabling people to have their rights realised. The report has implications for risk assessment and risk management as well as for the regulatory bodies responsible in adult social care. Raising awareness among professionals and policy makers about the risks that service users themselves fear and experience should demonstrate just how important it is that the people whose risk is under consideration are involved in the process.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the views of users of adult social care about risk; their views have rarely been documented.
Inside the Court of Protection
Authors: Brammer Alison
Published: November 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to summarize the work of the Court of Protection.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper outlines the history and range of applications within the jurisdiction of the Court, drawing from the Mental Capacity Act and the Code of Practice. Reference is made to annual reports of the work of the court which profile its workload. Finally there is a review of a line of case law dealing with the question of media attendance and reporting of cases before the court.

Findings

The Court in its current form was established under The Mental Capacity Act, 2005 and is a significant decision‐making body in the UK within adult safeguarding practice concerning adults whose decision‐making capacity is impaired. The implications of several specific cases are discussed.

Originality/value

This paper provides a unique insight into the work of the Court of Protection and the implications of recent decisions by the Court for adult safeguarding.
Thames Valley Police: using metrics to assess the effectiveness of strategic change
Authors: Chesters Jane
Published: November 2012

Purpose

This case study aims to examine the transformation of Thames Valley Police's HR Service.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the journey taken by the Force and transformation of its use of performance measurement to manage continuous improvement in service delivery.

Findings

The study highlights the results of transformation and effective use of Orion Partners' “How Factor” assessment framework to identify further transformation opportunities.

Originality/value

The study is based on original information gained through fieldwork.
Cross‐organisational staff liabilities in integrated care settings
Authors: Mitchell Ed
Published: November 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the implications for integrated care of a recent Court of Appeal judgment about legal obligations owed to staff working in integrated care.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of the law relating to the imposition of duties of care and how that law was applied in the integrated care context.

Findings

It was found that integrated care partners may find themselves with more extensive legal obligations towards the employees of partner organisations than had been anticipated.

Originality/value

The article assesses the first decision of the higher courts about the obligations owed to staff by non‐employing integrated care providers.
Recuperative Care: an example of partnership care which works for patients
Authors: Morrissey Yvonne , Coxon Kirstie , Carpenter Iain
Published: November 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the role of Recuperative Care after hospital discharge.

Design/methodology/approach

A combined qualitative and quantitative study. The quantitative study was a concurrent, parallel, geographically controlled trial of Recuperative Care versus standard NHS hospital rehabilitation. Recuperative Care is rehabilitation in a residential care home with no on‐site medical or nursing staff. A daily programme of exercises and activities to improve independence is provided by two in‐house occupational therapists. The primary outcome measures were discharge destination, domicile 3 and 12 months post‐discharge and mortality. A purposefully selected sample of 20 recuperative care patients was interviewed after discharge.

Findings

There was a small difference of borderline significance in initial discharge destination (slightly more patients were discharged home from recuperative care than from Hospital). However, at 3 months and 12 months there was no significant difference between the groups. A logistic regression analysis suggested the main determinant of outcome was cognitive function. There was no significant difference in mortality between the groups. The qualitative data demonstrated Recuperative Care to be a highly‐rated, positive and sometimes life‐changing experience for patients. The interview data illustrate the aspects of care and characteristics which were beneficial.

Practical implications

Recuperative care is a model of partnership working which has potential to free‐up hospital beds while benefitting patients.

Originality/value

The presentation of the qualitative data aims to highlight those aspects of Recuperative Care which seemed beneficial from a clinical perspective.
Towards integrated care in Taiwan: local issues, international challenges
Authors: Fu Tsung‐hsi , Hughes Rhidian
Published: November 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the extent to which Taiwan's current policy agenda is moving towards an improved system of integrated health and social services. The paper informs debates about integrated care internationally.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study draws on existing literature and policy documents to analyse the progress of integrated care in Taiwan, with wider implications identified internationally.

Findings

For many years Taiwan's health care and social services were separated, however, there is growing momentum for integrated care in politics, policy and practice. There are, however, a number of critical issues that need to be addressed if Taiwan is to realise its ambitions for a truly integrated system.

Research limitations/implications

This is a small case study and overview, with the limited aim of exploring Taiwan's progress in an international context.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to an emerging body of literature on integrated care in Taiwan (some only available in Chinese), which will be of interest to policy makers and planners, not only in East Asia but internationally.
Understanding global patterns of domestic cannabis cultivation
Authors: Barratt Monica J. , Bouchard Martin , Decorte Tom , Asmussen Frank Vibeke , Hakkarainen Pekka , Lenton Simon , Malm Aili , Nguyen Holly , Potter Gary R.
Published: November 2012

Purpose

Unlike other plant‐based drugs, cannabis is increasingly grown within the country of consumption, requires minimal processing before consumption, and can be easily grown almost anywhere using indoor or outdoor cultivation techniques. Developments in agronomic technologies have led to global growth in domestic cultivation, both by cannabis users for self‐ and social‐supply, and by more commercially‐oriented growers. Cross‐national research is needed to better understand who is involved in domestic cultivation, the diversity in cultivation practices and motivations, and cultivators' interaction with the criminal justice system and cannabis control policies.

Design/methodology/approach

The article introduces the Global Cannabis Cultivation Research Consortium (GCCRC), describes its evolution and aims, and outlines the methodology of its ongoing cross‐national online survey of cannabis cultivation.

Findings

Despite differing national contexts, the GCCRC successfully developed a core questionnaire to be used in different countries. It accommodates varying research interests through the addition of optional survey sections. The benefits to forming an international consortium to conduct web‐based survey research include the sharing of expertise, recruitment efforts and problem‐solving.

Research limitations/implications

The article discusses the limitations of using non‐representative online sampling and the strategies used to increase validity.

Originality/value

The GCCRC is conducting the largest cross‐national study of domestic cannabis cultivation to date. The aim is not only to better understand patterns of cannabis cultivation and how they differ between countries but also to build upon online engagement methodology with hidden populations.
How to handle legal highs? Findings from a German online survey and considerations on drug policy issues
Authors: Werse Bernd , Morgenstern Cornelia
Published: November 2012

Purpose

This article aims to discuss the results on prevalence, patterns of use and motivations for the use of legal high products/new psychoactive substances (NPS) and possible consequences for drug policy.

Design/methodology/approach

The main results are derived from a non‐representative quantitative online survey in Germany, focused on persons with experience in legal highs use.

Findings

The general prevalence of legal highs varies considerably in different European countries; generally, it is much lower than the lifetime prevalence of illicit drugs. Almost every legal highs user has experience in the use of illicit drugs. Several types of (repeated) users can be identified. “Herbal incense” products are used by many persons in order to compensate for a limited availability of cannabis or to remain inconspicuous for law enforcement. Current research chemicals (RC) users are mainly experienced drug users who seek to expand the range of drugs being consumed with RCs. Repressive drug policy approaches seem to contribute to the use of legal highs as replacement drugs.

Social implications

Given that many NPS show side effects that are at least as serious as those associated with illicit drugs, and that long‐time risks are unpredictable, repressive drug policy enforcement may lead to increased public health risks regarding drug users.

Originality/value

The survey is the first published quantitative survey focusing on legal highs users. The results have not been published in English yet.
Mental ill health among asylum seekers and other immigrants in Sweden
Authors: Lindgren Julia , Ekblad Solvig , Asplund Maria , Irestig Robert , Burström Bo
Published: November 2012

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to explore mental ill health among newly arrived immigrants to Sweden, in relation to their legal status and previous exposure to threats, violence and separation and to investigate how their health care needs were met.

Design/methodology/approach

Records of health interviews and examinations performed January 1, 2010 to May 31, 2011, in one of six eligible primary health care centers (PHCC) in Stockholm County, Sweden were analysed.

Findings

In total, 555 records were collected and reviewed with regard to: age, sex, legal status (asylum seekers and others), exposure to threats and/or violence, exposure to separation from family member, symptoms or diagnoses, and measures taken. Reported symptoms of mental ill health were labeled mental ill health. Where health interviews led to medical examination, records from these were retrieved to investigate the care offered and given. Reporting symptoms of mental ill health was common (43 percent) among the study population. Exposure to threats and violence and separation was more common among asylum seekers who also tended to be more vulnerable to mental ill health than others who had experienced similar exposure.

Practical implications

The health care system should consider the eco‐social conditions that favor recovery. A more generous policy of access to health care among adult asylum seekers is needed and could be an important part of the social stability during the asylum process and in the integration process.

Originality/value

The study demonstrates the need for more structured studies of mental health among asylum seekers in Sweden.
Realistic expectations with brain computer interfaces
Authors: Mulvenna Maurice , Lightbody Gaye , Thomson Eileen , McCullagh Paul , Ware Melanie , Martin Suzanne
Published: November 2012

Purpose

This paper describes the research underpinning the development and evaluation of a brain computer interface (BCI) system designed to be suitable for domestic use by people with acquired brain injury in order to facilitate control of their home environment. The purpose of the research is to develop a robust and user‐friendly BCI system which was customisable in terms of user ability, preferences and functionality. Specifically the human interface was designed to provide consistent visual metaphors in usage, while applications change, for example, from environmental control to entertainment and communications.

Design/methodology/approach

The research took a user centred design approach involving representative end‐users throughout the design and evaluation process. A qualitative study adopting user interviews alongside interactive workshops highlighted the issues that needed to be addressed in the development of a user interface for such a system. User validation then underpinned prototype development.

Findings

The findings of the research indicate that while there are still significant challenges in translating working BCI systems from the research laboratories to the homes of individuals with acquired brain injuries, participants are keen to be involved in the deign and development of such systems. In its current stage of development BCI is multi‐facetted and uses complex software, which poses a significant usability challenge. This work also found that the performance of the BCI paradigm chosen was considerably better for those users with no disability than for those with acquired brain injury. Further work is required to identify how and whether this performance gap can be addressed.

Research limitations/implications

The research had significant challenges in terms of managing the complexity of the hardware and software set‐up and transferring the working systems to be tested by participants in their home. Furthermore, the authors believe that the development of assistive technologies for the disabled user requires a significant additional level of personalisation and intensive support to the level normally required for non‐disabled users. Coupled with the inherent complexity of BCI, this leads to technology that does not easily offer a solution to both disabled and non‐disabled users.

Originality/value

The research contributes additional findings relating to the usability of BCI systems. The value of the work is to highlight the practical issues involved in translating such systems to participants where the acquired brain injury can impact on the ability of the participant to use the BCI system.
Home modification guidelines as recommended by visually impaired people
Authors: Riazi Abbas , Ying Boon Mei , Bridge Catherine , Dain Stephen J.
Published: November 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an evidence‐base for home modification guidelines for people with visual impairment due to age‐related macular degeneration (AMD), from the perspective of people with AMD, by exploring the home modifications they find useful and would recommend to other people with visual impairment due to AMD as being effective.

Design/methodology/approach

People with impairments may not be aware of their own coping with inability strategies until they are asked to express their strategies. A qualitative approach using semi‐structured individual interviews was used to elicit the perspectives of people with AMD with regards to their preferred home modification interventions. Interviews were recorded and then transcribed verbatim into text for thematical analysis using Nvivo 8.

Findings

In total, 31 individuals (aged 79.1±5.6 years) with AMD and no other ocular diseases were recruited from a low vision clinic or the Macular Degeneration Foundation database in a metropolitan city. Interviewees had not received any formal home modification assessment from a government provider. Nevertheless, 70 per cent of participants stated that they undertook home modifications themselves or with the assistance of family and friends. The most important functional modifications as perceived by the participants concerned the installation of hand rails, non‐slip matting, colour contrasting safety stair nosing, single lever taps, slip resistant flooring, lift chairs and motion sensors that activated pathway lighting. Kitchens, steps and bathrooms were perceived as hazardous locations. Most participants had difficulties with reading fine‐print material on kitchen appliances, washing machines, microwave ovens and remote controls for electronic devices in the home.

Originality/value

An evidence‐base for useful home modifications as suggested by people with visual impairment was perceived to be a valuable resource for other people with visual impairment who may not yet have developed adaptive strategies. Industrial and interior designers and low vision rehabilitation services who aim to improve functionality of the home environment will also find these suggestions useful.
Using QR codes to aid accessibility in a museum
Authors: Haworth Annette , Williams Peter
Published: November 2012

Purpose

This paper describes visitors' reactions to using an Apple iPad or smartphone to follow trails in a museum by scanning QR codes and draws conclusions on the potential for this technology to help improve accessibility at low‐cost.

Design/methodology/approach

Activities were devised which involved visitors following trails around museum objects, each labelled with a QR code and symbolised text. Visitors scanned the QR codes using a mobile device which then showed more information about an object. Project‐team members acted as participant‐observers, engaging with visitors and noting how they used the system. Experiences from each activity fed into the design of the next.

Findings

Some physical and technical problems with using QR codes can be overcome with the introduction of simple aids, particularly using movable object labels. A layered approach to information access is possible with the first layer comprising a label, the second a mobile‐web enabled screen and the third choices of text, pictures, video and audio. Video was especially appealing to young people. The ability to repeatedly watch video or listen to audio seemed to be appreciated by visitors with learning disabilities. This approach can have low equipment‐cost. However, maintaining the information behind labels and keeping‐up with technological changes are on‐going processes.

Originality/value

Using QR codes on movable, symbolised object labels as part of a layered information system might help modestly‐funded museums enhance their accessibility, particularly as visitors increasingly arrive with their own smartphones or tablets.
Personal defence training in a medium secure unit – a pilot study
Authors: Mott Andy , Walton James , Harries Lee , Highfield Penny , Bleetman Anthony , Dobson Paul
Published: November 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the nature and prevalence of violence in a medium secure unit and to evaluate a personal defence training programme for staff working with mentally disordered offenders.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper identifies an existing training gap associated with traditional breakaway techniques and describes a process of piloting a new educational module known as the spontaneous protection enabling accelerated response (SPEAR) system. Structured questionnaires were used to collect demographic data and analyse staff confidence and perceptions of the training module. Clinician confidence in coping with patient aggression was measured before, immediately after and at three months following participation in the new programme.

Findings

A significant change in staff confidence was observed at two time scales after the training had been administered when compared with the pre‐test baseline total scores. Over 90 per cent of staff either agreed or strongly agreed that training in the new personal defence module provided a credible defence against sudden episodes of high‐risk violence.

Originality/value

The paper describes a proposed module of training that may provide a credible tertiary strategy for those frontline clinicians currently exposed to the risk of sudden, spontaneous episodes of close proximity violence where traditional breakaway techniques are likely to be ineffective. This paper would interest managers, trainers and specialist practitioners that are involved in the preparation and delivery of violence reduction initiatives aimed at promoting safer and therapeutic services.
Method and methodological reflections concerning the conduct of interviews with NHS mental healthcare patients/prisoners in HM Prison Service, UK
Authors: Jordan Melanie
Published: November 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to explore qualitative semi‐structured interviews – conducted with NHS mental healthcare patients/prisoners located in one HM Prison Service (HMPS) establishment. The methodological reflections, whilst not directly related to the content of the interviews, seek to offer a debate about interview data in relation to the processes of their creation.

Design/methodology/approach

The dialogue is designed primarily for those who conduct, or have an interest in, mental health‐orientated research, particularly those who undertake studies in secure settings with mental health service users as participants.

Findings

Regarding interview method as a tool for data collection/creation, methodological foci for discussion include the structure of interview questions, participant unfamiliarity with the process, body language and non‐verbal communication, plus discussions concerning conversational turn‐taking and interviewee agency.

Originality/value

This article stems from a small‐scale empirical fieldwork study in one prison setting and offers a debate about interview data in secure settings with mental health service users.
Research watch: recovery as a personal journey: how mental health services are trying to support it
Authors: Holttum Sue
Published: November 2012

Purpose

This Research Watch seeks to summarise two recent research papers at the forefront of research on recovery.

Design/methodology/approach

A search was carried out for research papers with a mental health and social inclusion focus published within the past 12 months.

Findings

The first paper summarises the way 87 different research studies describe recovery from asking people about their recovery experiences. Recovery seems to be about connecting with others, finding hope, being able to think of ourselves positively, finding meaning in life, and control over our lives. The second paper describes two major research projects supporting change in mental health services' approach to recovery in England – ImROC and REFOCUS. It also discusses major challenges, including professional values and training, and highlights the value of disability rights and human rights legislation. A key message is that enabling the full participation necessary for personal recovery requires the support of the wider society and community.

Originality/value

The first paper is the first to pull together numerous studies of recovery as a personal journey rather than cure of symptoms. Services need to know more about this view of recovery, so they can measure all relevant outcomes. The second paper describes two research projects at the forefront of enabling services to support personal recovery.
Beyond the gate: supporting the employment aspirations of offenders with mental health conditions
Authors: Durcan Graham
Published: November 2012

Purpose

Around 90 per cent of offenders have a mental health problem, personality disorder or addiction, and most have two or more such problems. One of the most effective ways of preventing reoffending and improving the life chances of an offender is through achieving and maintaining employment, however very few people leaving prison will have employment on release from prison. This paper aims to focus on these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes an investigation conducted by the Centre for Mental Health into employment opportunities for offenders with mental health problems on release from prison.

Findings

The investigation revealed that, although offenders with mental health problems are less likely than other prisoners to be included in employment programmes, evidenced‐based approaches such as individual placement and support offer huge potential. The investigation identified five principles for employment programmes supporting this group: employers should play an instrumental role in creating opportunities; recruitment should be pragmatic, based on attitude and “character” rather than qualifications or health status; support should be offered to employees and their employers/managers for as long as they need it; opportunities for “pre‐ employment” and “in work” skills development should be linked to real employment opportunities; and criminal justice and other statutory agencies should facilitate effective pathways to real work and skills development.

Practical implications

There is a need to develop more employment programmes for offenders with mental health problems that incorporate evidenced‐based approaches such as individual placement and support, and a number of key principles identified in this investigation.

Originality/value

The investigation that this paper describes is the first to consider as its main focus evidence‐based employment interventions for people with mental health problems leaving prison or engaged with other parts of the criminal justice system.
One charity's approach to perinatal depression and social inclusion
Authors: Beynon Rhian , Wafula Simon
Published: November 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present an example of effective multi‐agency working between the statutory health services and the voluntary sector in the field of perinatal mental health.

Design/methodology/approach

The Perinatal Support Project (PSP) is an example of an innovative voluntary sector solution to the twin problems of perinatal mental health and social exclusion. The paper explores the structure of the PSP in the context of perinatal mental health research before explaining the significance of the role of volunteer “befrienders” in alleviating maternal depression and reducing social isolation. The paper then presents data from the latest independent evaluation into the PSP before calling for more services of this nature.

Findings

The paper highlights the individual success of the PSP model in alleviating maternal depression, improving mother‐baby attachment and reducing social isolation. It attests to the benefits of effective multi‐agency partnerships more generally.

Originality/value

There is a scarcity of truly early interventionist services for vulnerable families. This case study serves as an independently evaluated example of good practice for community practitioners and commissioning groups.
Better Access to Mental Health program: Influence of mental health occupational therapy
Authors: Kohn Milly , Hitch Danielle , Stagnitti Karen
Published: November 2012

Background/aim

The Better Access to Mental Health program has enabled eligible occupational therapists to provide services to people with a mental health condition. No studies have yet reported the influence of occupational therapy under this scheme. The aim of this study was to investigate whether attending an occupational therapist under this initiative influences change in psychological distress of clients as measured by the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10).

Method

A quasi‐experimental pretest–posttest design, using pre‐existing data collected in the process of regular treatment was used. Data from a total of 31 clients (mean = 17.13 years, SD = 3.603) were accessed for this study. Pre‐ and post‐intervention scores on the K10 were used to determine if psychological distress had changed over the course of intervention.

Results

Highly significant improvements (P < 0.001) were found between the K10 pre‐intervention score (mean = 25.68, SD = 9.944) and the K10 post‐intervention score (mean = 21.00, SD = 9.212). Male K10 post‐intervention scores (mean = 17.64, SD = 5.3) significantly improved (P = 0.05), whereas results for females were not statistically significant. Medication use, diagnosis, age, number of sessions and prior contact with health services did not influence the results. Results from specific evidence‐based interventions were not able to be considered in this study.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrate effectiveness of occupational therapy services for adolescents and provide support for the ongoing participation of occupational therapists in this scheme.
Extreme developmental temperatures result in morphological abnormalities in painted turtles (Chrysemys picta): a climate change perspective
Authors: TELEMECO Rory S. , WARNER Daniel A. , REIDA Molly K. , JANZEN Fredric J.
Published: November 2012

Increases in extreme environmental events are predicted to be major results of ongoing global climate change and may impact the persistence of species. We examined the effects of heat and cold waves during embryonic development of painted turtles (Chrysemys picta) in natural nests on the occurrence of abnormal shell morphologies in hatchlings. We found that nests exposed to extreme hot temperatures for >60 h produced more hatchlings with abnormalities than nests exposed to extreme hot temperatures for shorter periods, regardless of whether or not nesting females displayed abnormal morphologies. We observed no effect of extreme cold nest temperatures on the occurrence of hatchlings with abnormalities. Moreover, the frequency of nesting females with abnormal shell morphologies was approximately 2‐fold lower than that of their offspring, suggesting that such abnormalities are negatively correlated with survival and fitness. Female turtles could potentially buffer their offspring from extreme heat by altering aspects of nesting behavior, such as choosing shadier nesting sites. We addressed this hypothesis by examining the effects of shade cover on extreme nest temperatures and the occurrence of hatchling abnormalities. While shade cover was negatively correlated with the occurrence of extreme hot nest temperatures, it was not significantly correlated with abnormalities. Therefore, female choice of shade cover does not appear to be a viable target for selection to reduce hatchling abnormalities. Our results suggest that increases in the frequency and intensity of heat waves associated with climate change might perturb developmental programs and thereby reduce the fitness of entire cohorts of turtles.
Utility of in vitro interferon‐γ release assay in differential diagnosis between intestinal tuberculosis and Crohn's disease
Authors: Lei Yuan , Yi Feng Ming , Zhao Jie , Luckheeram Rishi Vishal , Huang Sha , Chen Min , Huang Mei Fang , Li Jin , Zhou Rui , Yang Gui Fang , Xia Bing
Published: November 2012

Objective

To evaluate the diagnostic utility of interferon‐γ release assay (T‐SPOT.TB) for the differential diagnosis between Crohn's disease (CD) and intestinal tuberculosis (ITB).

Methods

A total of 103 CD and 88 ITB patients, confirmed by histology and anti‐tuberculosis treatment response from 2003 to 2011, were included. Their characteristics and clinical features were recorded. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of IS6110, in vitro T‐SPOT.TB, tuberculin skin test (TST), immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody to MTB (protein chip), serum anti‐Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies (ASCA IgG, chronic inflammatory bowel disease profile) and acid‐fast staining of biopsied colonic tissue specimens were performed. Statistical analysis was conducted to determine their concordance with the diagnosis and its sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV).

Results

Abnormal pulmonary X‐ray, ascites and lesions of both cecum and ascending colon were more associated with ITB, while intestinal surgery and lesions of both ileum and adjacent colon were more commonly seen in CD. Significant diagnostic concordance was found using T‐SPOT.TB (κ = 0.786) by consistency test. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of T‐SPOT.TB were 86%, 93%, 88% and 91%, respectively, and the sensitivity and NPV were significantly higher than other examinations (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

T‐SPOT.TB is a valuable assay in differentiating ITB from CD, particularly in the diagnostic exclusion of ITB based on its high specificity and NPV.
Cheddar: analysis and visualisation of ecological communities in R
Authors: Hudson Lawrence N. , Emerson Rob , Jenkins Gareth B. , Layer Katrin , Ledger Mark E. , Pichler Doris E. , Thompson Murray S. A. , O'Gorman Eoin J. , Woodward Guy , Reuman Daniel C.
Published: November 2012

There has been a lack of software available to ecologists for the management, visualisation and analysis of ecological community and food web data. Researchers have been forced to implement their own data formats and software, often from scratch, resulting in duplicated effort and bespoke solutions that are difficult to apply to future analyses and comparative studies.

We introduce Cheddar – an R package that provides standard, transparent implementations of a wide range of food web and community‐level analyses and plots, focussing on ecological network data that are augmented with estimates of body mass and/or numerical abundance.

The package allows analysis of individual communities, as well as collections of communities, allowing examination of changes in structure through time, across environmental gradients, or due to experimental manipulations. Several commonly analysed food web data sets are included and used in worked examples.

This is the first time these important features have been combined in a single package that helps improve research efficiency and serves as a unified framework for future development.