bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined 13C and 15N isotope analysis on small samples using a near‐conventional elemental analyzer/isotope ratio mass spectrometer setup
Authors: Langel Reinhard , Dyckmans Jens
Published: March 2014

RATIONALE

A high sensitivity elemental analyzer/isotope ratio mass spectrometer setup was developed to allow analysis of 13C and 15N isotopic composition on microgram amounts of C and N, respectively.

METHODS

Increased sensitivity of a conventional elemental analyzer equipped with a low blank autosampler was obtained by decreased carrier gas flow of 35 mL/min. The diameters of the oxidation and reduction reactors and water trap were reduced to 7.8, 7.8 and 4 mm i.d., respectively, to obtain sharp sample peaks in the mass spectrometer. To increase the lifetime of the reduction reactor, a 1:1 He/O2 mixture was used as oxidizing agent in the elemental analyzer.

RESULTS

Sample amounts of 0.6 µg N and 1 µg C were sufficient for accurate isotopic analysis with <1 ‰ standard error after blank correction. One major advantage of the setup is the easy switching between conventional EA and μEA as only consumable parts need to be exchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed setup proved to be suitable to analyze minute amounts of C and N in one analytical run simultaneously. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Joint modeling of two longitudinal outcomes and competing risk data
Authors: Andrinopoulou Eleni‐Rosalina , Rizopoulos Dimitris , Takkenberg Johanna J. M. , Lesaffre Emmanuel
Published: March 2014

Aortic gradient and aortic regurgitation are echocardiographic markers of aortic valve function. Both are biomarkers repeatedly measured in patients with valve abnormalities, and thus, it is expected that they are biologically interrelated. Loss of follow‐up could be caused by multiple reasons, including valve progression related, such as an intervention or even the death of the patient. In that case, it would be of interest and appropriate to analyze these outcomes jointly. Joint models have recently received much attention because they cover a wide range of clinical applications and have promising results. We propose a joint model consisting of two longitudinal outcomes, one continuous (aortic gradient) and one ordinal (aortic regurgitation), and two time‐to‐events (death and reoperation). Moreover, we allow for more flexibility for the average evolution and the subject‐specific profiles of the continuous repeated outcome by using B‐splines. A disadvantage, however, is that when adopting a non‐linear structure for the model, we may have difficulties when interpreting the results. To overcome this problem, we propose a graphical approach. In this paper, we apply the proposed joint models under the Bayesian framework, using a data set including serial echocardiographic measurements of aortic gradient and aortic regurgitation and measurements of the occurrence of death and reoperation in patients who received a human tissue valve in the aortic position. The interpretation of the results will be discussed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiscale Analysis of Processing‐Microstructure‐Mechanical Behavior Interrelationships of UFG Microalloyed Steels
Authors: Muszka Krzysztof , Majta Janusz
Published: March 2014

The processing difficulties and enhanced ductility of UFG (ultrafine‐grained) microalloyed steels are currently one of the most stimulating challenges due to problems in practical applications as structural materials. A key challenge is the ability to represent the real behavior of such modern structural material using multiscale approach. In this study, various processing routes and nonlinear combined hardening model were applied to capture strain path effects that play major role in the deformation process of UFG microalloyed steels. Special emphases are given on the inhomogeneity of the accumulated energy of deformation and resulted microstructure evolution. The hardening model was implemented into a multiscale constitutive model within a crystal plasticity framework. The proposed idea provides a bridge between the dislocation substructure and fine precipitates interactions at the nano‐ and microscale, local stress concentrations on the grain boundaries at the microscale, intragranular stresses at the mesoscale, and material mechanical response at the macroscale. Based on experimental results, in order to fully cover all the analysis scales, the multiscale modeling approach is proposed. The results presented in this study show that a combination of continuum mechanics and dislocation theory can be used successfully to map dislocation strengthening and to build a rheological model for UFG microalloyed steels.
Heart attack!
Authors: Kirby Roger
Published: March 2014

Coronary artery disease is still responsible for the death of one in every five men. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons
Genetic testing comes of age in prostate cancer
Authors: Mackay James
Published: March 2014

In this article, the author aims to correct some of the common misconceptions regarding testing for BRCA genes, particularly the role of male BRCA carriers. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons
Active surveillance for men with low‐risk prostate cancer
Authors: Sturch Paul , Kirby Roger , Challacombe Ben
Published: March 2014

Active surveillance is often advised as an initial management strategy for men with low‐risk localised prostate cancer. In this review the authors examine popular strategies for patient selection, and question whether a more holistic approach could further enhance quality of life and life expectancy. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons
The Power of Student Noticings
Authors: Marchiando Kristen
Published: March 2014

View From the Chalkboard essays share readers' reflections on teaching experiences, advice for new teachers, and perspectives on current issues.
Making Time for Reflection: One Teacher's Quest Toward Deeper Student Understanding
Authors: Kempf Amy
Published: March 2014

View From the Chalkboard essays share readers' reflections on teaching experiences, advice for new teachers, and perspectives on current issues.
Genetic Counselors’ Views and Experiences with the Clinical Integration of Genome Sequencing
Authors: Machini Kalotina , Douglas Jessica , Braxton Alicia , Tsipis Judith , Kramer Kate
Published: March 2014

In recent years, new sequencing technologies known as next generation sequencing (NGS) have provided scientists the ability to rapidly sequence all known coding as well as non‐coding sequences in the human genome. As the two emerging approaches, whole exome (WES) and whole genome (WGS) sequencing, have started to be integrated in the clinical arena, we sought to survey health care professionals who are likely to be involved in the implementation process now and/or in the future (e.g., genetic counselors, geneticists and nurse practitioners). Two hundred twenty‐one genetic counselors— one third of whom currently offer WES/WGS—participated in an anonymous online survey. The aims of the survey were first, to identify barriers to the implementation of WES/WGS, as perceived by survey participants; second, to provide the first systematic report of current practices regarding the integration of WES/WGS in clinic and/or research across the US and Canada and to illuminate the roles and challenges of genetic counselors participating in this process; and third to evaluate the impact of WES/WGS on patient care. Our results showed that genetic counseling practices with respect to WES/WGS are consistent with the criteria set forth in the ACMG 2012 policy statement, which highlights indications for testing, reporting, and pre/post test considerations. Our respondents described challenges related to offering WES/WGS, which included billing issues, the duration and content of the consent process, result interpretation and disclosure of incidental findings and variants of unknown significance. In addition, respondents indicated that specialty area (i.e., prenatal and cancer), lack of clinical utility of WES/WGS and concerns about interpretation of test results were factors that prevented them from offering this technology to patients. Finally, study participants identified the aspects of their professional training which have been most beneficial in aiding with the integration of WES/WGS into the clinical setting (molecular/clinical genetics, counseling and bioethics) and suggested that counseling aids (to assist them when explaining aspects of these tests to patients) and webinars focused on WES/WGS (for genetic counselors and other health care professionals) would be useful educational tools. Future research should permit us to further enhance our knowledge of pitfalls and benefits associated with the introduction of these powerful technologies in patient care and to further explore the roles and opportunities for genetic counselors in this rapidly evolving field.
The trans‐10,cis‐15 18:2: a Missing Intermediate of trans‐10 Shifted Rumen Biohydrogenation Pathway?
Authors: Alves Susana P. , Bessa Rui J. B.
Published: March 2014

The “trans‐10 shifted” biohydrogenation pathway is frequently established in the rumen when high starch diets are fed to ruminants, resulting in the accumulation of trans‐10 18:1 in ruminant products. It has been proposed that the “trans‐10 shifted” biohydrogenation pathway of α‐linolenic acid generates two intermediates, the trans‐10,cis‐15 18:2 and trans‐10,cis‐12,cis‐15 18:3, although none of these have been found in the rumen. We analyzed digestive contents and meat samples from two trials, where animals were fed: a compound feed diet supplemented with 8 % oil blend containing linseed oil (samples A); and a forage based diet supplemented with 6 % linseed oil (samples B). The use of the new SLB‐IL111 chromatographic column allowed the detection of two different 18:2 isomers in each sample trial, which could not be resolved when the CP‐Sil 88 column is used. The two 18:2 isomers were characterized by mass spectrometry using 4,4‐dimethyloxazoline derivatives. However, because they were subject to higher temperatures and present different chromatographic properties compared with the fatty acid methyl esters, we also used the “covalent adduct chemical ionization” technique to confirm the identity of both 18:2 isomers. We detected and identified the 10,15‐18:2 in samples A and the 11,15‐18:2 in samples B. The geometry of both isomers was tentatively assigned as trans,cis taking in account their elution order and biologic plausibility. As far as we know, this is the first time that the trans‐10,cis‐15 18:2 has been found in ruminant digestive contents and meat samples associated with the “trans‐10 shifted” biohydrogenation pathway of α‐linolenic acid.
Evaluation of Groundwater Vulnerability in the Lower Varuna Catchment Area, Uttar Pradesh, India using AVI Concept
Authors: Raju N. Janardhana , Ram Prahlad , Gossel Wolfgang
Published: March 2014

Groundwater vulnerability assessments calculate the sensitivity of quality of groundwater to an imposed contaminant load which is essential element of the aquifer management plans. Seventy five groundwater samples have been analyzed for different chemical parameters to understand the groundwater quality of the lower Varuna river basin, Uttar Pradesh, India. The intrinsic groundwater vulnerability map of the lower Varuna catchment area in the north of the city of Varanasi (India) shows a high dependency on the depth to groundwater. The topmost layer of alluvial silty clay, protects the groundwater against contamination in this urban area, but the retention time in the unsaturated zone can be estimated to several months only. The input dataset is very sparse i.e. groundwater levels were measured twice (pre- and post-monsoon 2009) and the geological map shows only alluvium as the outcrop. Several boreholes in this area show, that the alluvium has a thickness of about 4 m and below that are fine grained sands. The surface information does not allow the development of a risk map since land use changes very fast and contamination areas can not be identified accurately. The vulnerability maps developed in this study have become important tools for environmental planning and predictive management of the groundwater resources in the fast urbanizing region in the Varanasi area.
Delineation of Fresh Aquifers in Tannery Belt for Sustainable Development – A Case Study from Southern India
Authors: Sonkamble Sahebrao , Kumar V. Satish , Amarender B. , Dhunde, P.M. , Sethurama S. , Kumar K. Raj
Published: March 2014

The tannery effluents discharged by the existing units on either side of the Palar river at Ambur town (known for tannery industry), has resulted in vertical and lateral spread of pollution. The study area of 55.3 km2 is situated on a granitic terrain of Archaean age with undulating topography and hillocks. The shallow aquifers, in flood plain and valley fills of the river are highly polluted (with EC: 15340 μS/cm) by tannery effluents making groundwater unfit for any use, hence the local population (20000) face health hazards and shortage of potable water. Hydrogeological, geophysical and in-situ groundwater quality measurement were carried out to demarcate fresh groundwater zones and to delineate lateral and vertical extent of pollution. The results show, brackish aquifer was characterized by low order of resistivity (<20 Ω-m) with a thickness of 8.5 to 28 m located in the flood plains, valley fills, and partially in hard rock formations, whereas the fresh water aquifer resistivity varying from 23 to 216 Ω-m in hard rock. Further, these results were correlated with the water quality data and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) signals. The integrated studies revealed that pollution due to tannery effluents has spread over an area of 33.4 km2 (60.4 %) on either side of the river and only a small area of 21.9 km2 (39.6 %) was identified as fresh groundwater zone, which has to be conserved and exploited in sustainable manner for future generations.
Carbonate Diagenesis of the Upper Jurassic Successions in the West of Binalud - Eastern Alborz (NE Iran)
Authors: Aghaei Ali , Mahboubi Asadollah , Harami Reza Moussavi , Nadjafi Mahdi , Chakrapani Govind Joseph
Published: March 2014

The upper Jurassic carbonate settings in Iran are widely exposed in north and northeastern parts. Five stratigraphic columns were selected in the north eastern Iran. Their thickness ranges from 330 to 500 m. The various diagenetic processes identified include, micritization, cementation, compaction (physical and chemical), dissolution, neomorphism, pyritization, hematitization, silicification and dolomitization, which affected these carbonates. Elemental and stable isotopes analysis indicated that these deposits have undergone both meteoric and burial diagenesis in a relatively open system with moderate water-rock interaction. The positive trend between trace elements and oxygen isotope depletion also support these burial conditions. Lighter δl8O values of the dolomite samples may be related to an increase in temperature during the burial, which correspond to coarser euhedral crystals. Relatively higher δ18O values in finer dolomite crystals indicate their formation at lower burial depths relative to coarser crystals. Petrographic evidences such as coarse euhedral crystals with bright and dull zonation prove this interpretation. Chert nodules also have lighter 18O values relative to carbonate host rock, thus indicating the influence of burial diagenetic processes in their formation. The average environmental palaeotemperature was estimated to be 26°C on the basis of oxygen isotope values of less altered lime-mudstones.
Dichter dran! Neue Möglichkeiten der Vernetzung von Geobasis-, Statistik- und Erdbeobachtungsdaten zur räumlichen Analyse und Visualisierung von Stadtstrukturen mit Dichteoberflächen und -profilen
Authors: Fina Stefan , Krehl Angelika , Siedentop Stefan , Taubenböck Hannes , Wurm Michael
Published: March 2014

In urban research and planning, “density” is one of the most important measures to analyze a city’s structural morphology. Compared to other measures such as “neighborhood mix of uses”, “polycentricity” or “compactness”, density seems to be a rather objective and comprehensible choice. However, when having a closer look at it, it is a rather complex concept with different measurement options. There is no internationally accepted standard for the implementation of density or density measures that would allow for a robust comparison of different countries, regions or cities. This article deals with the analytical opportunities that new geodata options offer with regards to an objective and transparent measurement of cities’ structural and use-related densities. A case study for the city of Cologne demonstrates possible applications based on high-resolution and disaggregated density data.
RELATIVE PRODUCTIVITY, PROFITABILITY AND WATER USE EFFICIENCY OF CROPPING SYSTEMS IN HOT ARID INDIA
Authors: RATHORE V. S. , NATHAWAT N. S. , MEEL B. , YADAV B. M. , SINGH J. P.
Published: March 2014

The choice of an appropriate cropping system is critical to maintaining or enhancing agricultural sustainability. Yield, profitability and water use efficiency are important factors for determining suitability of cropping systems in hot arid region. In a two-year field experiment (2009/10–2010/11) on loam sandy soils of Bikaner, India, the production potential, profitability and water use efficiency (WUE) of five cropping systems (groundnut–wheat, groundnut–isabgol, groundnut–chickpea, cluster bean–wheat and mung bean–wheat) each at six nutrient application rate (NAR) i.e. 0, 25, 50, 75, 100% recommended dose of N and P (NP) and 100% NP + S were evaluated. The cropping systems varied significantly in terms of productivity, profitability and WUEs. Averaged across nutrient application regimes, groundnut–wheat rotation gave 300–1620 kg ha−1and 957–3365 kg ha−1higher grain and biomass yields, respectively, than other cropping systems. The mean annual net returns were highest for the mung bean–wheat system, which returned 32–57% higher net return than other cropping systems. The mung bean–wheat and cluster bean–wheat systems had higher WUE in terms of yields than other cropping systems. The mung bean–wheat system recorded 35–63% higher WUE in monetary terms compared with other systems. Nutrients application improved yields, profit and WUEs of cropping systems. Averaged across years and cropping systems, the application of 100% NP improved grain yields, returns and WUE by 1.7, 3.9 and 1.6 times than no application of nutrients. The results suggest that the profitability and WUEs of crop production in this hot arid environment can be improved, compared with groundnut–wheat cropping, by substituting groundnut by mung bean and nutrients application.
The causal nature of the association between neighborhood deprivation and drug abuse: a prospective national Swedish co-relative control study
Authors: Kendler K. S. , Ohlsson H. , Sundquist K. , Sundquist J.
Published: March 2014

Background

Risk for drug abuse (DA) is strongly associated with neighborhood social deprivation (SD). However, the causal nature of this relationship is unclear.

Method

Three Swedish population-based cohorts were followed up over 5 years for incident registration of DA in medical, legal or pharmacy records. In each cohort, we examined the SD–DA association, controlling carefully for individual socio-economic status (SES) with multiple measures, in the entire sample and among pairs of first cousins, paternal and maternal half-siblings, full siblings and monozygotic (MZ) twins discordant for SD exposure. The number of informative relative pairs ranged from 6366 to 166 208.

Results

In all cohorts, SD was prospectively related to risk for incident DA. In relative pairs discordant for SD exposure, the SD–DA association was similar to that seen in the entire population in cousins, half-siblings, full siblings and MZ twins. Eliminating subjects who were residentially unstable or had DA in the first two follow-up years did not alter this pattern. When divided by age, in the youngest groups, the SD–DA association was weaker in siblings than in the entire population.

Conclusions

Across three cohorts, controlling for individual SES and confounding familial factors, SD prospectively predicted risk for incident DA registration. These results support the hypothesis that the SD–DA association is in part causal and unlikely to result entirely from personal attributes, which both increase risk for DA and cause selection into high SD environments. At least part of the SD–DA association arises because exposure to SD causes an increased risk of DA.
The Distribution of Household Income in China: Inequality, Poverty and Policies
Authors: Li Shi , Sicular Terry
Published: March 2014

This article examines recent trends in inequality and poverty and the effects of distributional policies in China. After a discussion of data and measurement issues, we present evidence on national, as well as rural and urban, inequality and poverty. We critically examine a selection of policies pursued during the Hu–Wen decade that had explicit distributional objectives: the individual income tax, the elimination of agricultural taxes and fees, minimum wage policies, the relaxation of restrictions on rural–urban migration, the minimum living standard guarantee programme, the “open up the west” development strategy, and the development-oriented rural poverty reduction programme. Despite these policies, income inequality in China increased substantially from the mid-1990s through to 2008. Although inequality stabilized after 2008, the level of inequality remained moderately high by international standards. The ongoing urban–rural income gap and rapid growth in income from private assets and wealth have contributed to these trends in inequality. Policies relaxing restrictions on rural–urban migration have moderated inequality. Our review of selected distributional policies suggests that not all policy measures have been equally effective in ameliorating inequality and poverty.
Health-related quality of life in adolescents with congenital heart disease
Authors: Bertoletti Juliana , Marx Giovana C. , Hattge Sérgio P. , Pellanda Lúcia C.
Published: March 2014

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the health-related quality of life of adolescents with congenital heart disease, describing health-related quality of life according to the diagnosis and severity of congenital heart disease, identified by variables such as the presence of symptoms, surgical interventions, use of medication, and residual lesion. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 203 adolescents with congenital heart disease attended at the Pediatric Cardiology ambulatory of a reference hospital in Brazil. The Brazilian version of the questionnaire KIDSCREEN-27 was used for the assessment of health-related quality of life. Information related to the congenital heart disease diagnosis and clinical variables were collected from the medical records of the patients. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between acyanotic and cyanotic groups, as well as for the different diagnosis of congenital heart disease. A trend for better health-related quality of life in the dimension of Psychological Well-Being (p=0.054) was found in the groups with surgical intervention and use of medication. Adolescents that referred a good general health presented significantly better results in all dimensions of health-related quality of life, except for Autonomy and Parent Relation, than those who presented clinical symptoms (p<0.05). Conclusions: Type of congenital heart disease and initial diagnosis did not seem to affect the perception of health-related quality of life, corroborating findings of several studies. Surgical interventions and the use of medication can improve previous clinical status, and therefore it seems to be beneficial in terms of Psychological Well-Being. The presence of clinical symptoms was the variable that caused the largest impact on the perception of health-related quality of life, possibly because of the impairment they bring to the daily lives of these patients.
Soya and isoflavone intakes associated with reduced risk of oesophageal cancer in north-west China
Authors: Tang Li , Lee Andy H , Xu Fenglian , Zhang Taotao , Lei Jun , Binns Colin W
Published: March 2014

Objective

To ascertain the association between soya consumption, isoflavone intakes and oesophageal cancer risk in remote north-west China, where the incidence of oesophageal cancer is known to be high.

Design

Case–control study. Information on habitual consumption of soya foods and soya milk was obtained by personal interview. The intakes of isoflavones were then estimated using the US Department of Agriculture nutrient database. Logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association between soya consumption, isoflavone intakes and oesophageal cancer risk.

Setting

Urumqi and Shihezi, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China.

Subjects

Participants were 359 incident oesophageal cancer patients and 380 hospital-based controls.

Results

The oesophageal cancer patients consumed significantly less (P < 0·001) total soya foods (mean 57·2 (sd 119·0) g/d) and soya milk (mean 18·8 (sd 51·7) ml/d) than the controls (mean 93·3 (sd 121·5) g/d and mean 35·7 (sd 73·0) ml/d). Logistic regression analyses showed an inverse association between intake of soya products and the risk of oesophageal cancer. The adjusted odds were OR = 0·33 (95 % CI 0·22, 0·49) and OR = 0·48 (95 % CI 0·31, 0·74) for consuming at least 97 g of soya foods and 60 ml of soya milk daily (the highest tertiles of consumption), respectively, relative to the lowest tertiles of consumption. Similarly, inverse associations with apparent dose–response relationships were found between isoflavone intakes and oesophageal cancer risk.

Conclusions

Habitual consumption of soya products appears to be associated with reduced risk of oesophageal cancer in north-west China.
DINO (Diet In Nutrients Out) – an integrated dietary assessment system
Authors: Fitt Emily , Cole Darren , Ziauddeen Nida , Pell David , Stickley Elizabeth , Harvey Anna , Stephen Alison M
Published: March 2014

Objective

The current paper describes Diet In Nutrients Out (DINO), an integrated dietary assessment system incorporating dietary data entry and nutritional analysis within one platform for use in dietary assessment in small-scale intervention studies to national surveys.

Design

DINO contains >6000 food items, mostly aggregated composites of branded foods, across thirty-one main food groups divided into 151 subsidiary groups for detailed reporting requirements, with fifty-three core nutrient fields.

Setting

MRC Human Nutrition Research (HNR), Cambridge, UK and MRC Keneba, Gambia.

Subjects

DINO is used across dietary assessment projects at HNR and MRC Keneba.

Results

DINO contains macro- and micronutrients as well as additional variables of current research and policy interest, such as caffeine, whole grains, vitamin K and added sugars. Disaggregated data are available for fruit, vegetables, meat, fish and cheese in composite foods, enabling greater accuracy when reporting food consumption or assessing adherence to dietary recommendations. Portion sizes are categorised in metric and imperial weights, with standardised portion sizes for each age group. Regular reviews are undertaken for portion sizes and food composition to ensure contemporary relevance. A training programme and a checking schedule are adhered to for quality assurance purposes, covering users and data. Eating context questions are integrated to record where and with whom the respondent is eating, allowing examination between these factors and the foods consumed.

Conclusions

An up-to-date quality-assured system for dietary assessment is crucial for nutritional surveillance and research, but needs to have the flexibility to be tailored to address specific research questions.
Menopause – wann und wie therapieren?
Authors: De Geyter Christian , Birkhäuser Martin
Published: March 2014

Die erste Veröffentlichung der Women's Health Initiative (WHI)-Studie zur Wirksamkeit und Risiken einer Hormontherapie in der Menopause hat seit 2002 sowohl die Ärzteschaft als auch die Patientinnen verunsichert. Als Folge dessen wird heute vielen Frauen eine wirksame Hormontherapie enthalten, die zum Erhalt der Lebensqualität und den langfristigen Gesundheit beitragen kann. Die WHI-Studien sowie eine Vielzahl differenziertere Nachuntersuchungen haben dazu beigetragen den Stellenwert, die Wirksamkeit und die Risiken einer Hormontherapie bei der postmenopausalen Frau neu zu definieren und so bestehen heute wieder gute Ansätze für eine ausgewogene und fundierte Behandlung mit Östrogenen. So werden heute wesentlich niedrigere Dosierungen auch bei der Behandlung des klimakterischen Syndroms eingesetzt. Die präventive Wirkung einer konsequenten Östrogenbehandlung auf das osteoporotische Frakturrisiko ist wissenschaftlich unzweifelhaft. Eine Hormontherapie soll, wenn nötig, nicht viele Jahre nach dem Beginn der Menopause gestartet werden sondern früh, also innerhalb des „günstigen Fensters“. Nur so kommt der kardiovaskuläre Schutz der Hormonbehandlung zum Tragen. Darüber hinaus kann heute, anders als vor der WHI-Studie, das Brustkrebsrisiko unter Anwendung einer Hormontherapie genau quantifiziert werden. Deshalb können unter sorgfältiger Abwägung der Vorteile und der möglichen Risiken viele Frauen mit klimakterischen Beschwerden von einer Anwendung eines östrogenhaltigen Präparates profitieren. Hierbei ist der rechtzeitige Einstieg in der Hormonbehandlung entscheidend sowie die Teilnahme an ein Screeningprogramm für Brustkrebs, im Rahmen dessen mindestens alle zwei Jahre eine Mammographie durchgeführt wird.
Lebensqualität von Bewohnerinnen einer Pflegeoase aus der Sicht von Pflegenden und Angehörigen – qualitative Befunde einer Evaluationsstudie
Authors: Brandenburg Hermann , Adam-Paffrath Renate , Güther Helen
Published: March 2014

Eine Pflegeoase (PO) kann als Variante segregativer Versorgung verstanden werden. Konkret geht es um einen dauerhaften Lebensort für Menschen mit schwerer Demenz und sehr hohem Pflegebedarf in einer stationären Einrichtung (Mehrpersonenraum). Pflegende sind während der Tagschichten kontinuierlich präsent. Es stellt sich die Frage, welche Merkmale der Lebensqualität (LQ) in POs erwähnt werden und wie Pflegende und Angehörige dieses Konzept einschätzen. Berichtet werden qualitative Befunde einer zweijährigen Evaluationsstudie von 15 PO-Bewohnerinnen. Die Datenerhebung erfolgte im Rahmen von vier (fünf) Gruppendiskussionen mit acht Pflegenden (15 Angehörigen). Zusätzlich wurden problemzentrierte Interviews durchgeführt. Die Datenauswertung orientierte sich an der Grounded Theory. Im Ergebnis wurde festgestellt, dass LQ in POs vorwiegend am psychophysischen Wohlbefinden festgemacht wurde. Die Einschätzungen von Pflegenden und Angehörigen waren überwiegend positiv und wurden im Rahmen von Festingers sozialpsychologischer 'Theorie der kognitiven Dissonanz' eingeordnet. Dabei wurde erkennbar, dass Vergleichsprozesse im Hinblick auf die Situation vor und nach Einführung einer PO für die Gesamteinschätzung bedeutsam waren. Insgesamt haben wir es mit einer Konstruktion von «Pflegewelten» in Institutionen der Langzeitpflege zu tun.
Variabilität des Pflegeaufwands in SwissDRG-Fallgruppen
Authors: Baumberger Dieter , Bürgin Reto , Bartholomeyczik Sabine
Published: March 2014

Die Pflegeleistungen repräsentieren bei der SwissDRG-Konstruktion eine der Hauptkostenkomponenten. Mehr- und Minderaufwände für die Einzelfälle sollten sich über die DRG-Fallgruppe ausgleichen. Studienergebnisse, die auf mögliche Mängel hinweisen, sind nicht schlüssig auf SwissDRG übertragbar. Die Analyse des Pflegeaufwands mit DRG-Kennzahlen hat zum Zweck, entscheiden zu können, ob eine Entwicklung von pflegespezifischen SwissDRG-Klassifikationskriterien angezeigt ist. Die Fallgruppen wurden mit SwissDRG 0.1, der Pflegeaufwand mit LEP Nursing 2 ermittelt. Es wurden robuste statistische Verfahren eingesetzt. Für die Bewertung der Klassifikationsgüte wurden R2 als Maß der Varianzreduktion und der Homogenitätskoeffizient (HK) eingesetzt. Um schließende Aussagen zu machen, wurden statistische Tests mit der Bootstrap-Methode durchgeführt. Die Stichprobe enthält 213 Fallgruppen mit 73930 Fällen aus 10 Spitälern. Mit R2 = 0,16 ist die Eignung der DRG-Klassifikation für die Erklärung der Variabilität des Pflegeaufwands für alle Fälle und mit R2 = 0,32 für sogenannte Normallieger(innen) beschränkt. In 123 Fallgruppen ist die Homogenität des Pflegeaufwands statistisch signifikant unbefriedigend (HK < 0,67), wovon in 24 signifikant mangelhaft (HK < 0,60). Das Risiko, dass sich Mehr- und Minderaufwände in solchen Fallgruppen nicht ausgleichen (und somit einer Fehlallokation von Finanzmitteln), ist groß. Eine Entwicklung von pflegespezifischen SwissDRG-Klassifikationskriterien zur Verbesserung der Homogenität und Varianzreduktion ist angezeigt.
«Und plötzlich habe ich einen Tumor» – Die Situation von Frau S. und ihrer Familie
Authors: Ries-Gisler Tobias , Spirig Rebecca
Published: March 2014

Hintergrund: Viele Familien, die von terminalen Krankheiten betroffen sind, benötigen professionelle Hilfe und Unterstützung. Informationen sind wichtig, damit die Betroffenen und deren Angehörige mit den krankheitsbedingten Belastungen, dem Verlust der Unbeschwertheit und den Veränderungen in der Familienstruktur umgehen können. Das Calgary Familienpflegemodell mit den spezifischen Instrumenten für Assessment und Interventionen eignet sich, um die Bedürfnisse von Familien eruieren und fachkundige Interventionen anbieten zu können. Fragestellung/Ziel: Mithilfe einer instrumentellen Fallstudie wurde die Situation von Frau S., die an einem inoperablen Adenokarzinom des Kolon leidet, und ihrer Familie bearbeitet. Methode: Mittels eines Familienassessments wurden die verschiedenen Informationen innerhalb des ersten Kontakts geordnet und die Schwerpunkte für die Interventionen gelegt. Ergebnisse: Die Interventionen bei der Familie fokussierten den kognitiven und emotionalen Bereich. Schlussfolgerungen: Die Fallstudie zeigt, wie Pflegende anhand der Vorgaben eines Familienpflegemodells bei der Unterstützung einer Familie systematisch geleitet vorgehen können. Zuhören und das «sich Zeit nehmen» war in diesem Fall sehr wichtig und wurde als sehr wertvoll wahrgenommen.
Natural occurrence of microbial sulphur oxidation by long-range electron transport in the seafloor
Authors: Malkin Sairah Y , Rao Alexandra M F , Seitaj Dorina , Vasquez-Cardenas Diana , Zetsche Eva-Maria , Hidalgo-Martinez Silvia , Boschker Henricus T S , Meysman Filip J R
Published: March 2014

Recently, a novel mode of sulphur oxidation was described in marine sediments, in which sulphide oxidation in deeper anoxic layers was electrically coupled to oxygen reduction at the sediment surface. Subsequent experimental evidence identified that long filamentous bacteria belonging to the family Desulfobulbaceae likely mediated the electron transport across the centimetre-scale distances. Such long-range electron transfer challenges some long-held views in microbial ecology and could have profound implications for sulphur cycling in marine sediments. But, so far, this process of electrogenic sulphur oxidation has been documented only in laboratory experiments and so its imprint on the seafloor remains unknown. Here we show that the geochemical signature of electrogenic sulphur oxidation occurs in a variety of coastal sediment environments, including a salt marsh, a seasonally hypoxic basin, and a subtidal coastal mud plain. In all cases, electrogenic sulphur oxidation was detected together with an abundance of Desulfobulbaceae filaments. Complementary laboratory experiments in intertidal sands demonstrated that mechanical disturbance by bioturbating fauna destroys the electrogenic sulphur oxidation signal. A survey of published geochemical data and 16S rRNA gene sequences identified that electrogenic sulphide oxidation is likely present in a variety of marine sediments with high sulphide generation and restricted bioturbation, such as mangrove swamps, aquaculture areas, seasonally hypoxic basins, cold sulphide seeps and possibly hydrothermal vent environments. This study shows for the first time that electrogenic sulphur oxidation occurs in a wide range of marine sediments and that bioturbation may exert a dominant control on its natural distribution.
Sequential acquisition of multi-dimensional heteronuclear chemical shift correlation spectra with 1H detection
Authors: Bellstedt Peter , Ihle Yvonne , Wiedemann Christoph , Kirschstein Anika , Herbst Christian , Görlach Matthias , Ramachandran Ramadurai
Published: March 2014

RF pulse schemes for the simultaneous acquisition of heteronuclear multi-dimensional chemical shift correlation spectra, such as {HA(CA)NH & HA(CACO)NH}, {HA(CA)NH & H(N)CAHA} and {H(N)CAHA & H(CC)NH}, that are commonly employed in the study of moderately-sized protein molecules, have been implemented using dual sequential 1H acquisitions in the direct dimension. Such an approach is not only beneficial in terms of the reduction of experimental time as compared to data collection via two separate experiments but also facilitates the unambiguous sequential linking of the backbone amino acid residues. The potential of sequential 1H data acquisition procedure in the study of RNA is also demonstrated here.
The role of secondary ammonium cations in controlling the conformation of C3-symmetric acid moieties and its implication for the design of supramolecular capsules
Authors: Adalder Tapas Kumar , Dastidar Parthasarathi
Published: March 2014

The conformation of the carboxymethyl arms of a C3-symmetric tricarboxylic acid was found to be influenced by the acyclic substituents of the secondary ammonium cations in the corresponding salts as revealed by their single crystal structures.
A Pd/CNT-SiC monolith as a robust catalyst for Suzuki coupling reactions
Authors: Yuan Hua , Liu Hongyang , Zhang Bingsen , Zhang Liyun , Wang Haihua , Su Dang Sheng
Published: March 2014

A Pd/CNT-SiC monolith prepared by a simple two-step method exhibits robust catalytic activity and recycling ability in Suzuki coupling reactions.
Study on the cycling performance of LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 electrodes modified by reactive SiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Shin Won-Kyung , Lee Yoon-Sung , Kim Dong-Won
Published: March 2014

The composite polymer electrolyte layer formed by reactive SiO2 nanoparticles on the LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 material provided good cycling characteristics.
High voltage sulphate cathodes Li2M(SO4)2 (M = Fe, Mn, Co): atomic-scale studies of lithium diffusion, surfaces and voltage trends
Authors: Clark John M. , Eames Christopher , Reynaud Marine , Rousse Gwenaëlle , Chotard Jean-Noël , Tarascon Jean-Marie , Islam M. Saiful
Published: March 2014

Atomic-scale insights into the ion diffusion, surface and voltage properties of Li2M(SO4)2 (M = Fe, Mn, Co) materials for lithium-ion batteries using atomistic modelling and DFT.
Voltammetric pH sensor based on an edge plane pyrolytic graphite electrode
Authors: Lu Min , Compton Richard G.
Published: March 2014

A simple sensor for pH determination is reported usingunmodifiededge plane pyrolytic graphite (EPPG) electrodes.
Capillary electrophoresis based on the nucleic acid detection in the application of cancer diagnosis and therapy
Authors: Lian Dong-Sheng , Zhao Shu-Jin
Published: March 2014

This review focuses on capillary electrophoresis-based nucleic acid detection as it is applied to cancer diagnosis and therapy, and provides an introduction to the drawbacks and future developments of analysis with CE.
Determination of total glutathione in earthworms by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection
Authors: Berzas Nevado Juan José , Martín-Doimeadiós Rosa Carmen Rodríguez , Guzmán Bernardo Francisco Javier , Álvarez Carolina Rodríguez
Published: March 2014

Determination of total glutathione in earthworms using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection.
A rapid, site-selective and efficient route to the dual modification of DARPins
Authors: Moody Paul , Chudasama Vijay , Nathani Ramiz I. , Maruani Antoine , Martin Stephen , Smith Mark E. B. , Caddick Stephen
Published: March 2014

Herein we describe a rapid, simple method for dual modification of DARPins by introduction of cysteine mutations at specific positions that results in a vast difference in their thiol nucleophilicity, allowing for sequential modification.
A switchable peptide sensor for real-time lysosomal tracking
Authors: Chen Lei , Wu Junchen , Schmuck Carsten , Tian He
Published: March 2014

A bis-spiropyran functionalized peptide1, which exhibits good cell-permeability, biocompatibility and low cytotoxicity, has been developed for lysosomal tracking.
Highly-dispersed boron-doped graphene nanoribbons with enhanced conductibility and photocatalysis
Authors: Xing Mingyang , Fang Wenzhang , Yang Xiaolong , Tian Baozhu , Zhang Jinlong
Published: March 2014

B-GNRs, prepared by a simple vacuum activation method, have excellent conductivity and photocatalytic activity.
Copper-based coordination polymers from thiophene and furan dicarboxylates with high isosteric heats of hydrogen adsorption
Authors: Yang Jie , Lutz Martin , Grzech Anna , Mulder Fokko M. , Dingemans Theo J.
Published: March 2014

Cu-based coordination polymers containing thiophene (TDC) and furan (FDC) dicarboxylates were prepared and their hydrogen uptake characteristics were investigated.
Model atomistic protrusions favouring the ordering and retention of water
Authors: Raj Pandey Prithvi , Roy Sudip
Published: March 2014

The ordering of water molecules near model linear atomistic protrusions is studied using classical molecular dynamics simulations.
Reactions of trinuclear platinum clusters with electrophiles: ionisation isomerism with [Pt3(μ2-I)(μ-PPh2)2(PPh3)3]I and [Pt3(μ-PPh2)2I2(PPh3)3]. Structures of [Pt3(μ2-Cl)(μ-PPh2)2(PPh3)3]PF6, [Pt3(μ-PPh2)2I2(PPh3)3] and of the Pt–Ag cluster [Pt3{μ3-AgBF4}(μ2-I)(μ-PPh2)2(PPh3)3]BF4
Authors: Archambault Christine , Bender Robert , Braunstein Pierre , Dusausoy Yves , Welter Richard
Published: March 2014

Reactions of the mixed-valence cluster [Pt3(μ-PPh2)3Ph(PPh3)2] with various electrophiles have been investigated.
Exploration of the slow relaxation behavior in the manganese phosphate network
Authors: Li Bo , Jiang Ning , Tian Jumei , Li Tingting , Hou Guixiang , Zhang Jingping
Published: March 2014

The nature of the magnetic relaxation phenomena in the herein prepared [MnII5(HPO4)2(PO4)2(H2O)4]n (1) is investigated.
A simple strategy for in situ fabrication of a smart hydrogel microvalve within microchannels for thermostatic control
Authors: Lin Shuo , Wang Wei , Ju Xiao-Jie , Xie Rui , Chu Liang-Yin
Published: March 2014

A smart hydrogel microvalve isin situfabricated within a microchip and integrated in the flow circulation loop of a micro-heat-exchanging system for thermostatic control.
A biocompatible open-surface droplet manipulation platform for detection of multi-nucleotide polymorphism
Authors: Huang C. J. , Fang W. F. , Ke M. S. , Chou H. Y. E. , Yang J. T.
Published: March 2014

We present a novel and simple method to manipulate droplets applicable to an open-surface microfluidic platform.
Non-faradaic impedance characterization of an evaporating droplet for microfluidic and biosensing applications
Authors: Dak Piyush , Ebrahimi Aida , Alam Muhammad A.
Published: March 2014

We provide a robust numerical/analytical model for real-time on chip characterization of an evaporating droplet for biosensing and microfluidic applications.
Ruthenium polypyridyl complexes as inducer of ROS-mediated apoptosis in cancer cells by targeting thioredoxin reductase
Authors: Luo Zuandi , Yu Lianling , Yang Fang , Zhao Zhennan , Yu Bo , Lai Haoqiang , Wong Ka-Hing , Ngai Sai-Ming , Zheng Wenjie , Chen Tianfeng
Published: March 2014

Ruthenium polypyridyl complexes inhibit cancer growth by targeting TrxR and promote the intracellular ROS generation, ultimately triggering mitochondria-mediated cell apoptosis.
Zinc mediated allylations of chlorosilanes promoted by ultrasound: Synthesis of novel constrained sila amino acids
Authors: Ramesh Remya , Reddy D. Srinivasa
Published: March 2014

A simple, fast and efficient method for allylation and propargylation of chlorosilanes through zinc mediation and ultrasound promotion is reported. As a direct application of the resulting bis-allylsilanes, three novel, constrained sila amino acids are prepared for the first time.
A simple donor–acceptor probe for the detection of Cr3+ cations
Authors: Xu Yunlong , Yang Wen , Shao Jie , Zhou Weiqun , Zhu Wei , Xie Juan
Published: March 2014

A probe exhibits fluorescence enhancement upon exposure to Cr(iii) in a THF–water (v/v = 9/1) Tris–HCl buffer solution. Fluorescence imaging experiments of the exciplex in human glioma cells evidenced its potential application in biological systems.
Bifunctional TiO2/Ag3PO4/graphene composites with superior visible light photocatalytic performance and synergistic inactivation of bacteria
Authors: Yang Xiaofei , Qin Jieling , Jiang Yan , Li Rong , Li Yang , Tang Hua
Published: March 2014

Schematic representation of the synthetic strategy for TiO2/Ag3PO4/GR composites.
Engineering diketopyrrolopyrrole sensitizers for highly efficient dye-sensitized solar cells: enhanced light harvesting and intramolecular charge transfer
Authors: Huang Jin-Hua , Jiang Ke-Jian , Zhang Fang , Wu Wei , Li Shao-Gang , Yang Lian-Ming , Song Yan-Lin
Published: March 2014

Two asymmetric DPP dyes with a D–π–A structure are reported, where DPP is used as a bridge to connect the triphenylamine donor and cyanoacetic acid acceptor.
Bio-inspired carbon nitride mesoporous spheres for artificial photosynthesis: photocatalytic cofactor regeneration for sustainable enzymatic synthesis
Authors: Huang Jianhui , Antonietti Markus , Liu Jian
Published: March 2014

The bio-inspired mesoporous structured graphitic carbon nitride colloids were designed for photocatalytic NADH regeneration for sustainable enzymatic synthesis.
From biomass to high performance solar–thermal and electric–thermal energy conversion and storage materials
Authors: Li Yuanqing , Samad Yarjan Abdul , Polychronopoulou Kyriaki , Alhassan Saeed M. , Liao Kin
Published: March 2014

Carbon aerogel (CA) produced from melon was used to fabricate CA–wax composites, which can achieve solar–thermal and electric–thermal energy conversion effectively, and can store the heat in the composites.
Synthesis and crystal structure of a novel copper(ii) complex of curcumin-type and its application in in vitro and in vivo imaging
Authors: Xu Guoyong , Wang Jiafeng , Liu Tao , Wang Mahong , Zhou Shuangsheng , Wu Baoxing , Jiang Minghua
Published: March 2014

The results of TPEF imaging in a tumor-bearing mouse model demonstrated the potential of the obtained complex for in vivo tumor diagnosis.
Multivalent grafting of hyperbranched oligo- and polyglycerols shielding rough membranes to mediate hemocompatibility
Authors: Neffe Axel T. , von Ruesten-Lange Maik , Braune Steffen , Lützow Karola , Roch Toralf , Richau Klaus , Krüger Anne , Becherer Tobias , Thünemann Andreas F. , Jung Friedrich , Haag Rainer , Lendlein Andreas
Published: March 2014

Multivalent attachment of branched polyethers is a successful strategy in shielding rough surfaces, different from rules established on flat model surfaces.
Synthesis and electroluminescence properties of highly efficient dual core chromophores with side groups for blue emission
Authors: Lee Hayoon , Kim Beomjin , Kim Seungho , Kim Joonghan , Lee Jaehyun , Shin Hwangyu , Lee Ji-Hoon , Park Jongwook
Published: March 2014

We introduced phenyl and naphthyl groups onto various positions of dual cores. Of the synthesized compounds, Na-AP-Na was found to exhibit the highest EL device efficiency of 5.46 cd A−1.