bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pedestrian navigation using inertial sensors and altitude error correction
Authors: Liu Wen , Zhang Yingjun , Yang Xuefeng , Xing Shengwei
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The aim of this article is to present a PIN (pedestrian inertial navigation) solution that incorporates altitude error correction, which eliminates the altitude error accurately without using external sensors. The main problem of PIN is the accumulation of positioning errors due to the drift caused by the noise in the sensors. Experiment results show that the altitude errors are significant when navigating in multilayer buildings, which always lead to localization to incorrect floors.

Design/methodology/approach

– The PIN proposed is implemented over an inertial navigation systems (INS) framework and a foot-mounted IMU. The altitude error correction idea is identifying the most probable floor of each horizontal walking motion. To recognize gait types, the walking motion is described with angular rate measured by IMU, and the dynamic time warping algorithm is used to cope with the different dimension samples due to the randomness of walking motion. After gait recognition, the altitude estimated with INS of each horizontal walking is checked for association with one of the existing in a database.

Findings

– Experiment results show that high accuracy altitude is achieved with altitude errors below 5 centimeters for upstairs and downstairs routes in a five floors building.

Research limitations/implications

– The main limitations of the study is the assumption that accuracy floor altitude information is available.

Originality/value

– Our PIN system eliminates altitude errors accurately and intelligently, which benefits from the new idea of combination of gait recognition and map-matching. In addition, only one IMU is used which is different from other approach that use external sensors.
Sensor innovations helping unmanned vehicles rapidly growing smarter, smaller, more autonomous and more powerful for navigation, mapping, and target sensing
Authors: Bloss Richard
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to review recent developments in sensors for application in unmanned vehicles.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study included in-depth interviews with exhibitors of sensors and sensor integrators at trade shows and contact with providers of such devices to the industry.

Findings

– Sensor innovation has made giant leaps in producing much smaller and smarter sensors to address unmanned vehicle requirements.

Practical implications

– Developers of unmanned vehicles of all types may be surprised at the sensor innovations and new applications to which sensors are being applied in this rapidly advancing field.

Originality/value

– A review of some of the latest sensor innovations and applications that one might have seen if they had been on the exhibition floor at the recent trade shows, followed industrial publications or announcements from sensor developers.
Complex conductivity reconstruction in multiple frequency electrical impedance tomography for fabric-based pressure sensor
Authors: Yang C.L. , Mohammed A. , Mohamadou Y , Oh T. I. , Soleimani M.
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The aim of this paper is to introduce and to evaluate the performance of a multiple frequency complex impedance reconstruction for fabric-based EIT pressure sensor. Pressure mapping is an important and challenging area of modern sensing technology. It has many applications in areas such as artificial skins in Robotics and pressure monitoring on soft tissue in biomechanics. Fabric-based sensors are being developed in conjunction with electrical impedance tomography (EIT) for pressure mapping imaging. This is potentially a very cost-effective pressure mapping imaging solution in particular for imaging large areas. Fabric-based EIT pressure sensors aim to provide a pressure mapping image using current carrying and voltage sensing electrodes attached on the boundary of the fabric patch.

Design/methodology/approach

– Recently, promising results are being achieved in conductivity imaging for these sensors. However, the fabric structure presents capacitive behaviour that could also be exploited for pressure mapping imaging. Complex impedance reconstructions with multiple frequencies are implemented to observe both conductivity and permittivity changes due to the pressure applied to the fabric sensor.

Findings

– Experimental studies on detecting changes of complex impedance on fabric-based sensor are performed. First, electrical impedance spectroscopy on a fabric-based sensor is performed. Secondly, the complex impedance tomography is carried out on fabric and compared with traditional EIT tank phantoms. Quantitative image quality measures are used to evaluate the performance of a fabric-based sensor at various frequencies and against the tank phantom.

Originality/value

– The paper demonstrates for the first time the useful information on pressure mapping imaging from the permittivity component of fabric EIT. Multiple frequency EIT reconstruction reveals spectral behaviour of the fabric-based EIT, which opens up new opportunities in exploration of these sensors.
Amplification systems of weak interaction biosensors: applications and prospects
Authors: Wang Xingya , Pang Guangchang
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to provide a detailed review of weak interaction biosensors and several common biosensor methods for magnifying signals, as well as judiciously guide readers through selecting an appropriate detecting system and signal amplification method according to their research and application purpose.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper classifies the weak interactions between biomolecules, summarizes the common signal amplification methods used in biosensor design and compares the performance of different kinds of biosensors. It highlights a potential electrochemical signal amplification method: the G protein signaling cascade amplification system.

Findings

– Developed biosensors which, based on various principles, have their own strengths and weaknesses have met the basic detection requirements for weak interaction between biomolecules: the selectivity, sensitivity and detection limit of biosensors have been consistently improving with the use of new signal amplification methods. However, most of the weak interaction biosensors stop at the research stage; there are only a minority realization of final commercial application.

Originality/value

– This paper evaluates the status of research and application of weak interaction biosensors systematically. The G protein signaling cascade amplification system proposal offers a new avenue for the research and development of electrochemical biosensors.
Development of planar electromagnetic sensor array for nitrate and sulphate detection in natural water sources
Authors: Mohamad Nor Alif Syarafi , Md Yunus Mohd Amri , Nawawi Sophan Wahyudi , Ibrahim Sallehuddin , Rahmat Mohd Fua'ad
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to determine the contamination level in natural water resources because the tremendous development in the agriculture sector has increased the amount of contamination in natural water sources. Hence, the water is polluted and unsafe to drink.

Design/methodology/approach

– Three types of sensor arrays were suggested: parallel, star and delta. The simulation of all types of sensor array was carried out to calculate the sensors’ impedance value, capacitance and inductance during their operation to determine the best sensor array. The contamination state was simulated by altering the electrical properties values of the environmental domain of the model to represent water contamination.

Findings

– The simulation results show that all types of sensor array are sensitive to conductivity, σ, and permittivity, ɛ (i.e. contaminated water). Furthermore, a set of experiments was conducted to determine the relationship between the sensor’s impedance and the water’s nitrate and sulphate contamination. The performance of the system was observed where the sensors were tested, with the addition of distilled water with different concentrations of potassium nitrate and potassium sulphate. The sensitivity of the developed sensors was evaluated and the best sensor was selected.

Practical implications

– Based on the outcomes of the experiments, the star sensor array has the highest sensitivity and can be used to measure nitrate and sulphate contaminations in water.

Originality/value

– The star sensor array presented in this paper has the potential to be used as a useful low-cost tool for water source monitoring.
Research on double T-shape MEMS bionic vector hydrophone and its application in obstacle avoidance sonar
Authors: Linxian Liu , Wendong Zhang , Guojun Zhang , Linggang Guan , Chenyang Xue , Hui Zhang , Nan Xue
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to develop a novel MEMS vector hydrophone with the key features of smaller size, better consistency, higher sensitivity and directional reception, and to develop a highly effective and economical obstacle avoidance sonar system. Currently, the typical vector hydrophones are resonant vector hydrophones based on the accelerometer, which greatly increases the volume and constrains the detection sensitivity. Also, because the system is composed of a number of devices, its size is difficult to be reduced.

Design/methodology/approach

– A novel double T-shape MEMS vector hydrophone is proposed with a fish’s lateral line organs as prototypes. The structure size and layout location of the piezoresistors were determined by simulation analysis, and the double T-shape microstructure was fabricated integrally by MEMS manufacturing technology, after which, the acoustic package of the microstructure was completed and the prototype was produced. Finally, the packaged hydrophone was calibrated in a standing wave field in the first-class national-defense underwater acoustic calibration station of China. Also, the design and test of an obstacle avoidance sonar system based on the vector hydrophone were completed.

Findings

– The calibration data show that the double T-shape vector hydrophone has a flat frequency response curve, exhibits a sensitivity of −180 dB (1 kHz, 0 dB reference 1 V/uPa) and shows a good directivity pattern in the form of an “8” shape. The test results of the obstacle avoidance sonar system further verify the feasibility of detecting underwater acoustic signals.

Research limitations/implications

– The next work is to increase the sensitivity by optimizing the microstructure and to realize orientation by organizing array.

Practical implications

– The hydrophone has the advantages of smaller size, lower cost and directional reception. It can be used to develop highly effective and economical obstacle avoidance sonar system, thus solving the problems of water transport efficiency and traffic safety. The hydrophone has broad application prospects and a huge market potential in the civilian fields.

Originality/value

– The MEMS technology and innovative bionic microstructure enable the miniaturization and low cost of the hydrophone. The hydrophone is easy to form array and can narrow the array aperture greatly. So, the hydrophone can be widely used in civil sonar systems.
Energy harvesting: a review of recent developments
Authors: Bogue Robert
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to provide details of recent energy harvesting developments.

Design/methodology/approach

– Following an introduction, this paper first considers mechanical and biomechanical energy harvesting developments. It then discusses hybrid harvesting technologies and self-powered sensors and concludes with a brief discussion.

Findings

– Energy harvesting is the topic of a major research effort and growing commercial activities. Several advanced technologies are being used to develop sophisticated devices to harvest individual or combined energy sources. These developments are expected to play a central role in many emerging sensor markets.

Originality/value

– This paper provides technical details of a selection of recently reported energy harvesting developments.
Effect of aligning conductive particles on the piezoresistivity of composites
Authors: Xiao Huigang , Liu Min , Jiang Jinbao
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of alignment of conductive particles on the piezoresistivity of composite based on a theoretical model. The piezoresistivity of composite is associated with the characteristics of conductive network formed by the conductive particles distributed in the composite, which can be changed through aligning the conductive particles.

Design/methodology/approach

– The orientations of the tunnel resistors formed by each two adjacent conductive particles are dependent on the aligned level of the conductive particles, and different orientations induce different deformations for a tunnel resistor under external strain, which determines the piezoresistivity of the composites. To investigate the resistance behavior of composites with various characteristics of conductive networks, a piezoresistivity model is developed in this paper by considering the aligned level of conductive particles.

Findings

– The results obtained from the proposed piezoresistivity model indicate that the sensitivity and stability of composites can be enhanced through aligning the conductive particles. Also, the piezoresistivity of composites filled with randomly distributed conductive particles is isotropic, and it turns to be anisotropic when the conductive particles are aligned.

Originality/value

– The change and its mechanism of the piezoresistivity upon the aligned level of conductive particles have been pointed out in this paper based on the proposed model. The achievement of this paper will help the people understand, predict and optimize the piezoresistivity of composites, and provide a new approach to design a strain sensor based on the piezoresistivity.
Perceptions of family functioning in adolescents who self‐harm
Authors: Palmer Elizabeth , Welsh Patrick , Tiffin Paul Alexander
Published: January 2015

This study compares the self‐reported family functioning of 21 adolescents presenting at four UK medical wards with self‐harming behaviour with those obtained from a sample of adolescents drawn from the local community. Adolescents hospitalized for self‐harm reported that their families were more dysfunctional than healthy controls on the family perceptions scale. However, this difference was not observed when covariates such as emotional and behavioural distress were controlled for. Poor levels of agreement between adolescents and adult family members in relation to family perceptions were also observed. The findings suggest that adolescents who engage in significant self‐harm perceive impairments in their family functioning. These reported impairments may be the result of concurrent emotional and behavioural distress or some form of interaction between family functioning and distress. A comprehensive family assessment to detect absolute changes and disparities in perceived family functioning may therefore help guide family interventions in this context.

Practitioner points

Adolescents who are hospitalized for self‐harm report significant impairments in family functioning compared with healthy controls.

Adolescent and adult family members appear to disagree on the degree of impaired family functioning.

A comprehensive family assessment may therefore help guide family interventions in hospitalized adolescents.
Developing a model of sustained change following multisystemic therapy: young people's perspectives
Authors: Paradisopoulos Daphne , Pote Helen , Fox Simone , Kaur Pinder
Published: January 2015

Multisystemic therapy (MST) is an empirically validated, family and community‐based intervention for young people presenting with antisocial and offending behaviour. This qualitative study aimed to explore young people's experiences of MST and learn what had helped them to sustain positive outcomes over time. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with eight young people at an average of 14 months after MST (range: 5–21 months). A constructivist version of grounded theory was employed to analyse the data, leading to the development of a model of sustained change in MST. Themes from the model included therapeutic alliance, increases in systemic awareness, recognizing responsibility, positive peer relationships, acknowledging and celebrating success, continued use of specific strategies (for example, worry boxes) and the identification and creation of a preferred future. This research presents an understanding of how change may be sustained after MST, highlighting systemic, developmental and individual factors in relation to this. Clinical implications and a proposed model of sustained change in MST are discussed.

Practitioner points

The therapeutic alliance was perceived by young people as central to the process of change and sustained change following MST

Young people's contribution to sustaining therapeutic gains at follow up, alongside caregivers, highlighted the importance of actively engaging them in therapy

Peer relationships were identified as relevant to sustaining change, particularly in relation to shared values and goals for the future
Negotiating Language, Meaning and Intention: Strategy Infrastructure as the Outcome of Using a Strategy Tool through Transforming Strategy Objects
Authors: Belmondo Cécile , Sargis‐Roussel Caroline
Published: January 2015

This research examines how managers collectively use strategy tools in local contexts. Building on a practice approach, we argue that the situated use of formal strategy tools is a process of negotiation, materially mediated by provisional strategy objects. We conceptualize strategy tools and objects as having three aspects: language, meaning and intention. Managers use strategy tools successfully if they ultimately create an accepted strategy infrastructure; this final strategy object materializes the (maybe partial) agreement across all three aspects. We theoretically define three processes according to the primary focus of negotiation and illustrate them with empirical vignettes: abstraction/specification, contextualization/de‐contextualization and distortion/conformation. We propose a process model of the collective use of strategy tools that integrates the three processes of negotiation and the shifting roles of provisional strategy objects, namely boundary, epistemic and activity. This research thus offers three theoretical contributions. First, it contributes to the material turn of strategy theory by providing a unified conceptualization of strategy tools, objects and infrastructure. Second, the model offers a basis for analyzing how macro‐level formal strategy tools get collectively adapted at a micro‐level through negotiation processes and transformations of strategy objects. Third, our research explains why some strategy tools are used but their outputs are not.
Materializing Strategy: The Role of Comprehensiveness and Management Controls in Strategy Formation in Volatile Environments
Authors: Thomas Lisa , Ambrosini Véronique
Published: January 2015

Drawing on theMintzbergian perspective of strategy formation and strategy as practice literature we explore management controls (MCs) and comprehensiveness as antecedents to how strategy materializes in volatile environments. We focus on middle managers (MMs) since their role in strategy formation is well acknowledged. We contribute to the literature by arguing thatMCsare central to strategy formation due to their role in shaping emergence of strategy and supporting implementation of deliberate strategies, with formal (process and output) and informal (professional) controls being salient micro‐mechanisms in how strategy materializes in volatile environments. Specifically we argue that process control may hamper the materialization of strategy but that output and professional control aid it. We also develop the literature by arguing that comprehensiveness embeds both formally planned and emergent aspects in strategy formation, the latter enabled by top management championing and information availability which shapesMMs' predisposition to strategizing. With a quantitative study we test our hypotheses regarding championing, information availability and comprehensiveness; and comprehensiveness, andMCsand implementation performance. Our results show that comprehensiveness, output and professional controls positively influenceMMs' implementation performance and, together, our antecedents reinforce each other in the materialization of strategy, hence providing an empirical contribution to the literature.
Materializing Strategy: The Blurry Line between Strategy Formulation and Strategy Implementation
Authors: Leonardi Paul M.
Published: January 2015

In order to materialize strategy – to bring it into existence both theoretically and practically – strategy makers must have an appreciation for the material through which their strategy will be implemented. In this paper, I argue that a lens that focuses on the materiality of strategy making helps scholars to understand that strategy formulation and strategy implementation are not two distinct sets of activities that occur in sequence. Instead, effective strategies can only be made if executives and other strategy makers begin to think about the kinds of technologies that will enable workers to implement their strategy. I illustrate the importance of this line of thinking through a brief case of an attempt to develop new strategy at a mid‐sized US‐based plumbing fixture company.
The Layered Materiality of Strategizing: Epistemic Objects and the Interplay between Material Artefacts in the Exploration of Strategic Topics
Authors: Werle Felix , Seidl David
Published: January 2015

In this paper we examine the role of different material artefacts in the exploration of novel strategic topics. We conceptualize strategic topics as epistemic objects that become instantiated in multiple material artefacts, i.e. partial objects, which not only represent the epistemic object but also energize and direct the exploration process. Based on a longitudinal case study of a company that (in collaboration with other companies) explored the strategic topic of ‘flexible production’, we develop a new typology of material artefacts in terms of their relation to the strategic topic. We describe the layered nature of materiality, differentiating between different types of objectual and non‐objectual material artefacts, and show how their interplay shapes the dynamics of the strategizing process. In particular, we explain how the constellation of material artefacts can lead to a shift of the strategic topic itself. We offer a conceptual model that captures the mechanisms in the dynamic interplay of different types of material artefacts and their effect on the process of exploration.
Returns and Information Transmission Dynamics in Public and Private Real Estate Markets
Authors: Ling David C. , Naranjo Andy
Published: January 2015

This paper examines U.S. public and private commercial real estate returns at the aggregate level and by the four major property types over the 1994–2012 time period. Returns are carefully adjusted for differences between public and private markets in financial leverage, property type focus and management fees. Unconditionally, we find that passive portfolios of unlevered core real estate investment trusts (REITs) outperformed their private market benchmark by 49 basis points (annualized) over the 1994–2012 sample period. Our baseline vector autoregression results suggest that REIT returns do not embed additional commercial real‐estate‐specific information useful in predicting private market returns. These results strongly suggest that equity REIT returns react to fundamental (latent) asset pricing information more quickly than private market returns given their greater liquidity and price revelation. REITs therefore serve as a fundamental information transmission channel to private market returns when asset pricing variables are omitted.
Qualitative study of patients and health‐care professionals' views on the efficacy of the nutrition as medication oral nutrition supplement program
Authors: Lambert Kelly , Potter Jan , Lonergan Maureen , Tapsell Linda , Charlton Karen E.
Published: January 2015

Aim

The use of concentrated oral nutrition supplements dispensed in small volumes throughout the day at medication rounds is a common nutrition support strategy. Often termed ‘Nutrition as Medication’ or NAM, it is associated with excellent rates of patient consumption. However, administration of NAM has been described as suboptimal. The aim of the present study was to identify and explore factors influencing the efficacy of the NAM program from a qualitative perspective. This included exploring issues relating to knowledge, administration and patient consumption from a patient and health professional perspective.

Methods

Semistructured interviews with patients (n = 7) and eight focus groups with nursing, medical, pharmacy and dietetic staff (n = 63) were conducted. Interviews were conducted in the workplace and were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed from a realist theoretical position using the thematic framework approach.

Results

Five themes were identified that impact on the efficacy of the NAM program. These include the need for clear role delineation among health professionals regarding responsibility for each aspect of NAM. Other themes that emerged included misconceptions about the importance and relevance of the treatment; perceptions of poor palatability and issues associated with the logistics of providing the supplements within the hospital setting.

Conclusions

Dietitians should be aware that there are a range of factors that influence the efficacy of the NAM strategy, including the knowledge and values of individual health professional staff. In addition, increased awareness is required by dietitians regarding the structural barriers to administration and receiving of NAM at the ward level.
Dispersion in the Presence of Acetic Acid or Ammonia Confers Gliadin‐Like Characteristics to the Glutenin in Wheat Gluten
Authors: Murakami Tetsuya , Kitabatake Naofumi , Tani Fumito
Published: January 2015

Spray‐dried gluten has unique properties and is commercially available in the food industry worldwide. In this study, we examined the viscoelastic properties of gluten powder prepared by dispersion in the presence of acetic acid or an ammonia solvent and then followed by lyophilization instead of a spray drying. Mixograph measurements showed that the acid‐ and ammonia‐treated gluten powders had marked decreases in the time to peak dough resistance when compared with the control gluten powder. The integrals of the dough resistance and bandwidth for 3 min after peak dough resistance decreased in both treated gluten powders. Similar phenomena were observed when gliadin was supplemented to gluten powders. Basic and acidic conditions were applied to the acid‐ and ammonia‐treated gluten powders, respectively, and the viscoelastic behaviors were found to depend on the pH in the gluten dispersion just before lyophilization. These behaviors suggest that gluten may assume a reversible change in viscoelasticity by a fluctuation in pH during gluten dispersion. SDS‐PAGE showed that the extractable proteins substantially increased in some polymeric glutenins including the low molecular weight‐glutenin subunit (LMW‐GS) when the ammonia‐treated gluten powder was extracted with 70% ethanol. In contrast, the extractable proteins markedly increased in many polymeric glutenins including the high molecular weight‐glutenin subunit and/or the LMW‐GS when the acid‐treated gluten powder was extracted with 70% ethanol. It thus follows that the extractability of polymeric glutenin to ethanol increases similarly to gliadin when gluten is exposed to an acidic or a basic pH condition; therefore, glutenin adopts gliadin‐like characteristics.
Microbial Quality of Industrial Liquid Egg White: Assumptions on Spoiling Issues in Egg‐Based Chilled Desserts
Authors: Techer Clarisse , Daoud Amina , Madec Marie‐Noëlle , Gautier Michel , Jan Sophie , Baron Florence
Published: January 2015

As a 1st step, this study aimed at investigating the microbial quality of liquid egg white in a French egg processing company. Thirty raw and 33 pasteurized liquid egg white samples were analyzed. Pasteurization was globally found efficient on mesophilic contaminants (1.7 ± 1.6 and 0.8 ± 0.9 log CFU/mL in raw and pasteurized samples, respectively), including for the control of Salmonella. However, Gram‐positive enterococci were still detected in the pasteurized samples. As a 2nd step, a representative bacterial collection was built for exploring the spoilage issue in egg‐based chilled desserts. Custard cream was chosen as growth medium since this food is widely used for the production of French chilled desserts. All of the 166 isolates of the bacterial collection were shown to be able to grow and to induce spoilage of the custard cream at refrigeration temperature (10 °C). Several spoilage types were highlighted in the custard cream, on the basis of changes regarding pH, consistency, production of holes or gas. As a 3rd step, bacterial enzymatic activities were explored on custard cream‐based agar media. The bacterial collection was reduced to 43 isolates, based on further selection regarding the genera and the spoilage types previously highlighted. Albeit to different degrees, all these isolates were able to produce proteases. A large part of these isolates also expressed lipolytic and amylolytic activities. This study emphasizes the need to control egg white contamination and especially with Gram‐positive heat‐resistant Enterococi, in order to guarantee the shelf life of egg‐based chilled desserts.
Is modern external beam radiotherapy with androgen deprivation therapy still a viable alternative for prostate cancer in an era of robotic surgery and brachytherapy: A comparison of Australian series
Authors: Wilcox Shea William , Aherne Noel J. , McLachlan Craig Steven , McKay Michael J. , Last Andrew J. , Shakespeare Thomas P.
Published: January 2015

Introduction

We compare the results of modern external‐beam radiotherapy (EBRT), using combined androgen deprivation and dose‐escalated intensity‐modulated radiotherapy with MRI‐CT fusion and daily image guidance with fiducial markers (DE‐IG‐IMRT), with recently published Australian series of brachytherapy and surgery.

Methods

Five‐year actuarial biochemical disease‐free survival (bDFS), metastasis‐free survival (MFS) and prostate cancer‐specific survival (PCaSS) were calculated for 675 patients treated with DE‐IG‐IMRT and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Patients had intermediate‐risk (IR) and high‐risk (HR) disease. A search was conducted identifying Australian reports from 2005 onwards of IR and HR patients treated with surgery or brachytherapy, reporting actuarial outcomes at 3 years or later.

Results

With a median follow‐up of 59 months, our 5‐year bDFS was 93.3% overall: 95.5% for IR and 91.3% for HR disease. MFS was 96.9% overall (99.0% IR, 94.9% HR), and PCaSS was 98.8% overall (100% IR, 97.7% HR). Prevalence of Grade 2 genitourinary and gastrointestinal toxicity at 5 years was 1.3% and 1.6%, with 0.3% Grade 3 genitourinary toxicity and no Grade 3 gastrointestinal toxicity. Eight reports of brachytherapy and surgery were identified. The HDR brachytherapy series' median 5‐year bDFS was 82.5%, MFS 90.0% and PCaSS 97.9%. One surgical series reported 5‐year bDFS of 65.5% for HR patients. One LDR series reported 5‐year bDFS of 85% for IR patients.

Conclusions

Modern EBRT is at least as effective as modern Australian surgical and brachytherapy techniques. All patients considering treatment for localised prostate cancer should be referred to a radiation oncologist to discuss EBRT as an equivalent option.
The role of forest structure and human occupation in structuring mammal assemblages in oligotrophic ecosystems ofCentralAmazonia
Authors: Tardio Bruno Marchena Romão , Da Silveira Ronis
Published: January 2015

Large mammals are vulnerable to extinction, and respond directly to ecological gradients within the forest and to the intensity of forest product use by humans. In this study, we evaluated the effects of differences in forest structure and human occupation history on the composition of medium and large‐sized mammal assemblages of theterra‐firmeforests of theAnavilhanasNationalPark, one of the most oligotrophicAmazonian ecosystems. Mammal surveys were conducted along 11 linear transects of 4 km, six of which were located in areas once inhabited by people and managed until the year that the park was created (over 30 years ago), and five in areas that were not inhabited at that time. We detected 469 individuals of 26 species during diurnal and nocturnal sampling, and 11 additional species outside transects. Human occupation history was strongly related to forest structure components. Fruit biomass, canopy cover and tree size were strongly associated with uninhabited areas, and influenced the structure of mammal assemblages. A direct relationship between diet category and species size was observed. Large frugivore‐herbivores and carnivores were more closely associated with areas with more fruit, larger trees and greater canopy cover. In contrast, small arboreal frugivore‐omnivores associated more closely with open canopy and smaller trees. Our study indicated that the effects of human occupation history on forest structure are still evident three decades after the removal of local people from the park. This long‐term effect can be explained by the low resilience of theAnavilhanas environments, demonstrating the fragility of mammal assemblages in face of anthropogenic variation in forest structure in the oligotrophic ecosystems of theNegroRiver basin.
Sectoral and poverty impacts of agricultural policy adjustments in Colombia
Authors: Argüello Ricardo , Valderrama‐Gonzalez Daniel
Published: January 2015

We aim to assess the sectoral and poverty impacts of changes in agricultural policy in Colombia. For this, we use an agriculture specialized static computable general equilibrium model, together with a microsimulation model that allows employment to shift between sectors. Results indicate that the sectoral impact from policy changes tends to be small and that it considerably varies across crops. The macro model yields some gains in wages and capital rents, a relatively larger increase in land rents, and limited labor reallocation, together leading to small poverty impacts as calculated through the microsimulation model. The incidence of rural poverty decreases by less than 1% and the same happens to the poverty gap. In addition, poverty reductions are concentrated among households near the middle of the income distribution.
A Clinical and Molecular Analysis of Branchio‐Oculo‐Facial Syndrome Patients in Russia Revealed New Mutations in TFAP2A
Authors: Meshcheryakova Tatiana I. , Zinchenko Rena A. , Vasilyeva Tatiana A. , Marakhonov Andrey V. , Zhylina Svetlana S. , Petrova Nika V. , Kozhanova Tatiana V. , Belenikin Maxim S. , Petrin Alexander N. , Mutovin Gennady R.
Published: January 2015

Branchio‐oculo‐facial syndrome (BOFS, OMIM# 113620) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder characterised by branchial cleft sinus defects, ocular anomalies and facial dysmorphisms, including lip or palate cleft or pseudocleft, and is associated with mutations in the TFAP2A gene. Here, we performed clinical analysis and mutation diagnostics in seven BOFS patients in Russia. The phenotypic presentation of BOFS observed in three patients showed high heterogeneity, including variation in its main clinical manifestations (linear loci of cervical cutaneous aplasia, ocular anomalies and orofacial cleft). In certain other cases, isolated ocular anomalies, or an orofacial cleft with accessory BOFS symptoms, were observed. In five BOFS patients, conductive hearing loss was diagnosed. Direct sequencing of the coding region of the TFAP2A gene revealed missense mutations in four BOFS patients. One patient was observed to have a previously described mutation (p.Arg251Gly), while three patients from two families were found to have novel mutations: p.Arg213Ser and p.Val210Asp. These novel mutations were not present in healthy members of the same family and therefore should be classified as de novo.
Sports‐related eye injuries: the current picture
Authors: Leivo Tiina , Haavisto Anna‐Kaisa , Sahraravand Ahmad
Published: January 2015

Purpose

This study aims to represent the epidemiologies, findings, treatments, use of resources, outcomes and protective‐eyewear‐use recommendations in sports‐related eye injuries by sport type.

Methods

The study population is comprised of all new eye injury patients in 1 year in Helsinki University Eye Hospital. Data were collected from patient questionnaires and hospital records. The follow‐up period was 3 months.

Results

149/1151 (12.9%) of eye injuries were sports‐related. Thirty two percent were related to floorball (type of hockey played on a mat with a stick and a ball); football, tennis and ice hockey were the next most common eye‐injury‐causing sports. Relatively, the most dangerous sports were rink bandy, (bandy played on ice hockey rink with a stick and a ball) (0.50 injuries in 12 months/1000 participants, CI 0.10–1.46), floorball (0.47, CI 0.34–0.62) and tennis (0.47, CI 0.26–0.77). Contusion was the primary diagnosis in 77% of cases; 41% of contusion patients had severe, mainly retinal findings. The number of outpatient visits was 459; inpatient days 25 and major surgeries 31. One hundred and eight patients were estimated to need life‐long follow‐up. Seventeen patients had a permanent functional impairment, 4 in ice hockey, 3 in floorball, 2 each in tennis and badminton.

Conclusion

Compared to a previous study, ice hockey eye injuries are increasing and relatively severe, and a third of these injuries occurred despite visor use. Floorball eye injury incidence has significantly declined, mainly due to recently enforced mandatory protective eyewear for younger age groups. Based on these findings, we recommend, in floorball, that protective eyewear should be mandatory in all age groups. Universally in ice hockey, the proper use of a visor should be emphasised.
Macular pigment optical density in a healthy Chinese population
Authors: Ji Yuying , Zhang Xiongze , Wu Kunfang , Su Yu , Zuo Chengguo , Chen Hui , Li Meng , Wen Feng
Published: January 2015

Purpose

To measure the macular pigment optical density (MPOD) values in a healthy Chinese population using the one‐wavelength reflectometry method and to investigate the relationships of MPOD with age, sex, body mass index (BMI), smoking and lens opacities.

Methods

A total of 441 healthy participants, aged 3–81 years old (242 male and 199 female subjects), were enrolled in this study. Demographic and lifestyle data were recorded based on physical examinations and questionnaires. Lens opacities were measured according to the Lens Opacities Classification System III (LOCS III). MPOD values were measured at 7° of eccentricity, using the one‐wavelength reflectometry method (Visucam 200; Carl Zeiss Meditec). MPOD values were reported in parameters including ‘max’ and ‘mean’ optical density (OD). The original MPOD values without automated correction were used for analysis.

Results

The average values were 0.303 ± 0.097 d.u. (initials of density units) for the max OD and 0.109 ± 0.031 d.u. for the mean OD. A significant inverse relationship was found between age and MPOD (for max OD, β = −0.716, p < 0.001; for mean OD, β = −0.669, p < 0.001). Participants with no lens opacities had higher MPOD values than those with moderate lens opacities (p < 0.001). The MPOD values were not associated with sex, BMI or smoking status.

Conclusion

MPOD within 7° of eccentricity, as measured by one‐wavelength reflectometry, was found to decrease with increasing age in a healthy Chinese population, and lens opacities had an impact on these measurements. These results provide a reference value for future studies in the Chinese population.
The combined effects of alcohol consumption and body mass index on hepatic steatosis in a general population sample of European men and women
Authors: Lau K. , Baumeister S. E. , Lieb W. , Meffert P. J. , Lerch M. M. , Mayerle J. , Völzke H.
Published: January 2015

Background

Research on the association between alcohol consumption and hepatic steatosis revealed conflictive results.

Aim

To investigate the associations between average daily alcohol consumption and binge drinking with hepatic steatosis, and to analyse combined effects of average daily alcohol consumption and binge drinking with body mass index (BMI) on hepatic steatosis.

Methods

Data from the population‐based Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP) conducted in north‐east Germany comprising 4009 adults were used. Alcohol consumption was assessed by self‐report. Serum carbohydrate‐deficient transferrin (CDT) was analysed as biomarker for alcohol consumption. Hepatic steatosis was diagnosed by ultrasonography.

Results

Analyses revealed a dose–response relationship between average daily alcohol consumption and hepatic steatosis in men starting with a consumption of 20 g of alcohol per day [adjusted odds ratio (OR) compared to abstainers 1.53; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.15–2.05]. Using CDT as alternative exposure variable confirmed these results. Binge drinking was associated with hepatic steatosis in men (adjusted OR of binge drinkers compared to nonbinge drinkers 1.36, 95% CI 1.06–1.74). The likelihood of having hepatic steatosis increased in men and women with increasing levels of average daily alcohol consumption in combination with overweight or obesity. Similarly, binge drinking in combination with overweight or obesity enhanced the likelihood of having hepatic steatosis.

Conclusions

Overweight or obesity substantially enhanced the effect of high levels of average daily alcohol consumption and binge drinking on hepatic steatosis in the present study population. This finding underlines the necessity to screen for multiple risk factors in the prevention of hepatic steatosis.
Research Review: Independent living programmes: the influence on youth ageing out of care (YAO)
Authors: Yelick Anna
Published: January 2015

Independent living programmes (ILPs) aid in promoting productive outcomes for youth ageing out of care (YAO). This narrative review aimed to determine if sufficient evidence exists to substantiate statements regarding the effectiveness of ILPs based upon outcome studies published from January 2006 through December 2012. Are current ILPs effectively promoting independent living and productive outcomes among youth leaving foster care, relative to similar youth who do not participate in an ILP? Six studies published in English, in the USA and in peer‐reviewed journals included non‐experimental design (n = 1), quantitative designs (n = 2), mixed methods design (n = 2) and randomized design (n = 1). Five outcomes addressing education, employment, housing, mental health, and living skills emerged. Weak evidence that ILPs effectively aid YAO exists. Additionally, inconsistencies exist in methodology. Finally, differences in important components in the ILPs exist, making comparisons difficult.
Molecular electronic spectroscopy: from often neglected fundamental principles to limitations of state‐of‐the‐art computational methods
Authors: Mustroph Heinz , Ernst Steffen , Senns Bianca , Towns Andrew D.
Published: January 2015

The creation of the first synthetic dyes not only stimulated the hunt for new colorants but also drove the search for rules correlating the constitution of organic compounds with their colour. Dye chemistry additionally facilitated the development of molecular electronic spectroscopy as well as theories of molecular electronic structure and electronic transitions. Powerful quantum chemical computational tools are now available for the prediction of the electronic structure and spectroscopic characteristics of organic compounds. Such methods are thus useful in designing new functional colorants and aiding interpretation of their properties. However, without a deep appreciation of the principles and assumptions behind the calculations, one runs the risk of misunderstanding what can be achieved as well as becoming confused about how the outputted electronic and vibronic transition data correspond to observed absorption spectra. This review therefore aims to cover fundamentals of electronic spectroscopy that are often overlooked and enable the dye chemist using modern computational methods to comprehend the subtle differences in the types of transition energy value that such software can generate. In addition, the limitations of these methods in predicting absorption maxima and intensities of real‐world colorants will be discussed in the context of physical influences on absorption band position and shape, for example from the perspective of different forms of the Franck–Condon principle. In essence, the goal of this review is to clarify, in terms that practical dye chemists will understand, what computational methods can predict and how valid these predictions are compared with reality.
A new image‐based unlevelness index
Authors: Solymanian Tayebe , Torkamani Azar Farah , Amirshahi Seyed Hossein
Published: January 2015

A new quantitative unlevelness index based on the Fourier transformation frequency component is introduced for evaluation of the degree of unlevelness of a set of dyed fabrics with different surface colour uniformities. A series of dyed denims with different degrees of unlevelness were prepared, and the degree of uneven appearance of fabrics was ranked by a group of observers. The surfaces of fabrics were imaged by a conventional scanner, and the Fourier transform was employed to compute the spectrum of desired images. It was found that the low‐frequency components of the computed matrix were stronger than the others, while its DC component, which related to the mean of the desired image, was too large. By this method, it was demonstrated that the fraction of the sum of the maximum of the second to sixth columns of the Fourier components of the captured image to the maximum of the first column component varied with the degree of unlevelness of the desired surfaces. The performance of the method was compared with five spectral and image based instrumental levelness–unlevelness indices, as well as those reported by visual ranking. Based on the results, the Fourier transformation method and the singular value decomposition technique show the best agreement with visual evaluation results, but the singular value decomposition method requires a longer computation time.
Combining dyeing and wrinkle‐resistance finishing of cotton in a one‐step process using a hemicyanine fluorescent dye
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhang Yan , Qin Chuanxiang , Chen Guoqiang
Published: January 2015

Combining dyeing and wrinkle‐resistance finishing of cotton in a one‐step process using a hemicyanine fluorescent dye DHEASPBr‐C2 was investigated in this paper. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, a fixation test, extraction with boiling N,N‐dimethylformamide, and a colour fastness test certified that DHEASPBr‐C2 was linked to the cotton fibre through covalent bonds. The results showed that dyed cotton fabric using DHEASPBr‐C2 had an obvious fluorescent effect in the range 550–700 nm, and the emission peak location was 588–590 nm. In addition, the dyed fabric met the EN471:2003 standard for chromaticity and could be used in high‐visibility warning clothing.