bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atrial Fibrillation and Incident Myocardial Infarction in the Elderly
Authors: O'Neal Wesley T. , Sangal Kunal , Zhang Zhu‐Ming , Soliman Elsayed Z.
Published: November 2014

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been shown to be independently associated with an increased risk of myocardial infarction (MI) in a predominantly middle‐aged population; however, this association has not been examined in older populations.

Hypothesis

AF is associated with MI in older adults.

Methods

A total of 4608 participants (85% white, 40% male) from the Cardiovascular Health Study without evidence of baseline coronary heart disease were included in this analysis. AF cases were identified during the yearly study electrocardiogram, a self‐reported history of a physician diagnosis, or by hospitalization data. Incident MI was identified using medical records with local and central adjudication. Cox regression was used to compute hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between AF and incident MI.

Results

A total of 434 (9.4%) participants had evidence of AF before incident MI. Over a median follow‐up of 12.2 years, a total of 797 (17.3%) participants developed MI. In a multivariable Cox proportional hazards analysis adjusted for socio‐demographics, cardiovascular risk factors, and potential confounders, AF was associated with an increased risk of MI (HR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1.4‐2.2). A significant interaction was detected by race, with black (HR: 3.1, 95% CI: 1.7‐5.6) AF participants having an increased risk of MI compared with whites (HR: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.2‐2.1; P interaction = 0.030).

Conclusions

AF is associated with an increased risk of MI in a population of older adults.
Theoretical Study of the Nontraditional Enol‐Based Photoacidity of Firefly Oxyluciferin
Authors: Pinto da Silva Luís , Esteves da Silva Joaquim C. G.
Published: November 2014

A theoretical analysis of the enol‐based photoacidity of oxyluciferin in water is presented. The basis for this phenomenon is found to be the hydrogen‐bonding network that involves the conjugated photobase of oxyluciferin. The hydrogen‐bonding network involving the enolate thiazole moiety is stronger than that of the benzothiazole phenolate moiety. Therefore, enolate oxyluciferin should be stabilized versus the phenolate anion. This difference in strength is attributed to the fact that the thiazole moiety has more potential hydrogen‐bond acceptors near the proton donor atom than the benzothiazole moiety. Moreover, the phenol‐based excited‐state proton transfer leads to a decrease in the hydrogen‐bond acceptor potential of the thiazole atoms. The ground‐state enol‐based acidity of oxyluciferin is also studied. This phenomenon can be explained by stabilization of the enolate anion through strengthening of a bond between water and the nitrogen atom of the thiazole ring, in an enol‐based proton‐transfer‐dependent way.
Tracking Responses to Items in Measures as a Means of Increasing Therapeutic Engagement in Clients: A Complementary Clinical Approach to Tracking Outcomes
Authors: Cross Simone , Mellor‐Clark John , Macdonald James
Published: November 2014

This article presents a novel clinical application of questionnaire feedback, which focuses on change at the individual question level rather than the total mean or clinical score level. We term the approach ‘Tracking Responses to Items in Measures’ (TRIM) and promote the key aims to be (1) providing both client and practitioner with feedback on areas of positive change that may be masked by numerical feedback, (2) reinforcing client strengths and self‐efficacy, (3) exploring potential extra‐therapeutic factors that may contribute to the lack of change or deterioration on individual questions and (4) establishing a collaborative dialogue relating clients' problems to their goals and the consequent aims of treatment. This paper profiles the clinical origins and technical development of TRIM as a clear, user‐friendly display of item change across sessions using colour codes and illustrates the clinical utility through two clinical vignettes. Although the profile of the TRIM method herein uses the Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation Outcome Measure, we believe the method could easily be used with other measures. These could include Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 and Patient Health Questionnaire 9 used in English National Health Service primary care Improving Access to Psychological Therapies services, or disorder specific measures for particular problems commonly used in National Health Service specialist services. We suggest TRIM is a practical complement to existing feedback systems, especially in work with clients who may be less likely to show empirically meaningful change on mean item or clinical score levels. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

Using outcome questionnaires as conversational tools helps practitioners focus on change at the individual item level rather than the numeric level.

Tracking Responses to Items in Measures helps provide clients and practitioners with feedback on areas of positive change that may be masked by summary score analysis.

Exploring the lack of change or deterioration on particular questions helps practitioners to assess extra‐therapeutic factors that may be compromising change.

Using individual item change profiles as feedback for clients helps validate their progress and reinforce their strengths and self‐efficacy.
Synaptic mechanisms of adenosine A2A receptor‐mediated hyperexcitability in the hippocampus
Authors: Rombo Diogo M. , Newton Kathryn , Nissen Wiebke , Badurek Sylvia , Horn Jacqueline M. , Minichiello Liliana , Jefferys John G.R. , Sebastiao Ana M. , Lamsa Karri P.
Published: November 2014

Adenosine inhibits excitatory neurons widely in the brain through adenosine A1 receptor, but activation of adenosine A2A receptor (A2AR) has an opposite effect promoting discharge in neuronal networks. In the hippocampus A2AR expression level is low, and the receptor's effect on identified neuronal circuits is unknown. Using optogenetic afferent stimulation and whole‐cell recording from identified postsynaptic neurons we show that A2AR facilitates excitatory glutamatergic Schaffer collateral synapses to CA1 pyramidal cells, but not to GABAergic inhibitory interneurons. In addition, A2AR enhances GABAergic inhibitory transmission between CA1 area interneurons leading to disinhibition of pyramidal cells. Adenosine A2AR has no direct modulatory effect on GABAergic synapses to pyramidal cells. As a result adenosine A2AR activation alters the synaptic excitation ‐ inhibition balance in the CA1 area resulting in increased pyramidal cell discharge to glutamatergic Schaffer collateral stimulation. In line with this, we show that A2AR promotes synchronous pyramidal cell firing in hyperexcitable conditions where extracellular potassium is elevated or following high‐frequency electrical stimulation. Our results revealed selective synapse‐ and cell type specific adenosine A2AR effects in hippocampal CA1 area. The uncovered mechanisms help our understanding of A2AR's facilitatory effect on cortical network activity. © 2014 The Authors Hippocampus Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical perceptions of radiation therapy undergraduate competency standards
Authors: Carmichael Mary‐Ann , Bridge Pete
Published: November 2014

Introduction

The multifactorial nature of clinical skills development makes assessment of undergraduate radiation therapist competence level by clinical mentors challenging. A recent overhaul of the clinical assessment strategy at Queensland University of Technology has moved away from the high‐stakes Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) to encompass a more continuous measure of competence. This quantitative study aimed to gather stakeholder evidence to inform development of standards by which to measure student competence for a range of levels of progression.

Methods

A simple anonymous questionnaire was distributed to all Queensland radiation therapists. The tool asked respondents to assign different levels of competency with a range of clinical tasks to different levels of student. All data were anonymous and was combined for analysis using Microsoft Excel.

Results

Feedback indicated good agreement with tasks that specified the amount of direction required and this has been incorporated into the new clinical achievements record that the students need to have signed off. Additional puzzling findings suggested higher expectations with planning tasks than with treatment‐based tasks.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that the amount of direction required by students is a valid indicator of their level and has been adopted into the clinical assessment scheme. Further work will build on this to further define standards of competency for undergraduates.
Implement gesture biometrics to stop online identity fraud
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: November 2014

When students enroll in classes online, how can you verify that they are really who they say they are? Verifying the identity of students who register for online courses presents challenges. And if your institution doesn't do it well, that enables students to behave dishonestly.
High efficiency triple junction thin film silicon solar cells with optimized electrical structure
Authors: Liu Bofei , Bai Lisha , Chen Ze , Zhang Xiaodan , Zhang Dekun , Ni Jian , Huang Qian , Wei Changchun , Sun Jian , Chen Xinliang , Ren Huizhi , Hou Guofu , Wang Guangcai , Zhao Ying
Published: November 2014

We report on improving the performance of pin‐type a‐Si:H/a‐SiGe:H/µc‐Si:H triple‐junction solar cells and corresponding single‐junction solar cells in this paper. Based on wet‐etching sputtered aluminum‐doped zinc oxide (ZnO:Al) substrates with optimized surface morphologies and photo‐electrical material properties, after adjusting individual single‐junction solar cells utilized in triple‐junction solar cells with various optimization techniques, we pay close attention to the optimization of tunnel recombination junctions (TRJs). By means of the optimization of individual a‐Si:H/a‐SiGe:H and a‐SiGe:H/µc‐Si:H double‐junction solar cells, we compensated for the open circuit voltage (Voc) loss at the a‐Si:H/a‐SiGe:H TRJ by adopting a p‐type µc‐Si:H layer with a low activation energy. By combining the optimized single‐junction solar cells and top/middle, middle/bottom TRJs with little electrical losses, an initial efficiency of 15.06% was achieved for pin‐type a‐Si:H/a‐SiGe:H/µc‐Si:H triple‐junction solar cells. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
pH‐responsive near‐infrared emitting conjugated polymer nanoparticles for cellular imaging and controlled‐drug delivery
Authors: Pennakalathil Jousheed , Özgün Alp , Durmaz Irem , Cetin‐Atalay Rengül , Tuncel Dönüs
Published: November 2014

In this article, pH‐responsive near‐infrared emitting conjugated polymer nanoparticles (CPNs) are prepared, characterized, and their stabilities are investigated under various conditions. These nanoparticles have capacity to be loaded with water insoluble, anticancer drug, camptothecin (CPT), with around 10% drug loading efficiency. The in vitro release studies demonstrate that the release of CPTs from CPNs is pH‐dependent such that significantly faster drug release at mildly acidic pH of 5.0 compared with physiological pH 7.4 is observed. Time and dose‐dependent in vitro cytotoxicity tests of blank and CPT‐loaded nanoparticles are performed by real‐time cell electronic sensing (RT‐CES) assay with hepatocellular carcinoma cells (Huh7). The results indicate that CPNs can be effectively utilized as vehicles for pH‐triggered release of anticancer drugs. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2015, 53, 114–122
MRI‐Guided Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma In Vivo: A Preliminary Study for Rectal Wall of Rabbit
Authors: Liu Jiahui , Wang Ruixue , Yuan Hongyang , Cai Wenchao , Wang Xiaoying , Zhang Jue , Fang Jing
Published: November 2014

Traditional methods to treat colorectal cancer require surgeries, which result in large wound surface. In this study, a flexible tubing was introduced as a cold plasma generator and also a magnetic resonance (MR) imaging antenna to guide plasma for rectal wall treatment in vivo. A healthy rabbit was used to test the feasibility of the two‐in‐one technique. The safety of plasma was verified by hematoxylin‐eosin staining to characterize the rectal tissue. Results showed that the tubing could be not only ignited in vivo, but also be tracked accurately by MR images. And after 15 min treatment, there exhibited no unacceptable damage for rectal cells. In conclusion, this combined device could be feasible for the navigated plasma treatment and provide a valuable tool for potential colorectal cancer treatment in the future.
Material modelling as a tool for the quality assurance and product development of heavy plate steels for steel construction
Authors: Walter Peter , Kern Andreas
Published: November 2014

Shorter product development cycles and compliance with exact process parameters during the production of high‐strength heavy plate for heavy machine construction requires fast modelling of mechanical and technological material properties during the actual production process. To this end, the Heavy Plate Unit at ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe AG has used state‐of‐the‐art calculation tools from collections of process data and test value databases. This report describes the step‐by‐step development of the underlying material models, their implementation in practical computer software and their practical application illustrated by some selected examples.
An excel based design tool for end plate connections to Eurocode 3
Authors: Berrais Abbes , Pollitt Kieran
Published: November 2014

The design of moment‐resisting joints can often be a laborious task if performed by manual calculation. This leads to potential rising of unnecessary labour costs when industry approved design tool would otherwise suffice. Steel connection designers are charged with specifying joint components such as plates, welds and bolts required that have structural capacity to transmit the loads which the connection is exposed to. This said connection design and its components need to be economical with regards to cost. However, a balance needs to be reached between the over‐design of the connection leading to excessive capacities, and the finite element design that provides the connection with just what it needs to resist such loads.

The aim of this paper is the description of an Excel based tool for the detailed design of bolted end plate connections between beams and columns in accordance to Eurocode 3. The design tool is practical, user friendly with minimum manual input and relatively transparent such that it provides the user with an easy step‐by‐step guide during the design process.
The grid‐shell of Jinji Lake Mall
Authors: Plieninger Sven , Gebreiter Daniel , Mühlberger Jörg , Justiz Stefan
Published: November 2014

Jinji Lake Mall, a 290,000 m² shopping and entertainment centre, will be centrepiece to a development of several super‐high‐rise buildings by the waterfront of Jinji Lake in Suzhou, China. Visible from the surrounding skyscrapers, the appearance of the “fifth façade” became of paramount importance. In response, the architectural design foresaw a continuous, 35,000 m² free‐form glass roof to cover the four individual buildings of the mall ensemble.

schlaich bergermann and partner consulting engineers were tasked with the structural design of the roof whose shape was inspired by the wings of a phoenix. To alleviate excessive in‐plane stresses in the roof, a rigid triangulated grid was discarded in favour of a more elastic quadrangular frame system, requiring the generation of a quad‐dominant topology on the free‐form surface. The complex interplay between base buildings and roof structure required that all analysis be done on a combined model including roof, tree columns and sub‐structure.

Multi‐resolution mesh modelling stood at the core of a generative work‐flow which mathematically optimized for geometric and structural criteria in the same process. Furthermore, geometrically similar facets were grouped and subsequently assigned the same panel, reducing the unique panel count.
Cyclic behaviour of welded stiffened beam‐to‐column joints – experimental tests
Authors: Čermelj Blaž , Beg Darko
Published: November 2014

Sixteen cyclic tests on full‐strength welded stiffened beam‐to‐column joints were carried out to study their seismic performance. High‐strength steel (HSS) was used for composite columns acting as non‐dissipative elastic members and mild carbon steel (MCS) for the beams acting as dissipative members. Two types of welded full‐strength connections were studied: rib‐stiffened and cover‐plate connections. Additional parameters in the study were: different cyclic loadings and the presence of axial force in the column. Experimental results revealed the good behaviour of the joints in terms of relocation of inelastic action away from the face of the beam‐to‐column connection into the beam section, with correspondingly large ductility, low‐cycle fatigue resistance and minimization of damage in the column.
Ba2PO4I, Sr2PO4I, and Pb2PO4I – A New Structure Type and Three of Its Representatives
Authors: Haberkorn Robert , Bauer Jessica , Kickelbick Guido
Published: November 2014

The compound Pb2PO4I was synthesized via a solid state reaction under inert conditions. None of the known structure types of other compounds of the type M2(P,V,As,Cr)O4(F,Cl,Br,I) provided a similar pattern. Structure solution was carried out by evaluation of an X‐ray diffractogram of polycrystalline powder using the methods simulated annealing and difference Fourier. Pb2PO4I crystallizes in the space group P21/c with the lattice parameters a = 9.0451(1) Å, b = 8.7593(1) Å, c = 8.5740(1) Å, and β = 111.128(1)°. The isotypic compounds Sr2PO4I and Ba2PO4I were synthesized, too. Their crystallographic structure was refined by Rietveld analysis. The structure of the three compounds is described and discussed.
Silicon‐Tin‐Ordering in RE3Rh9Si2Sn3 (RE = Y, Sm, Gd – Lu)
Authors: Voßwinkel Daniel , Niehaus Oliver , Gerke Birgit , Benndorf Christopher , Eckert Hellmut , Pöttgen Rainer
Published: November 2014

The quaternary intermetallic compounds RE3Rh9Si2Sn3 (RE = Y, Sm, Gd – Lu) were obtained from the elements by arc‐melting and investigated by powder X‐ray diffraction. Needle‐shaped single crystals of Ho3Rh9Si2Sn3 and Lu3Rh9Si2Sn3 were grown in bismuth fluxes and their structures were refined from single‐crystal X‐ray diffractometer data: P$\bar{6}$2m, a = 968.3(2), c = 345.6(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0278, 426 F2 values, 22 variables for Ho3Rh9Si2Sn3, and a = 962.4(2), c = 343.1(2) pm, wR2 = 0.0260, 501 F2 values, 23 variables for Lu3Rh9Si2Sn3. The phases RE3Rh9Si2Sn3 adopt a new simple structure type with complete silicon‐tin ordering. The silicon atoms have trigonal prismatic rhodium coordination (239 pm Si–Rh in Ho3Rh9Si2Sn3) and the tin atoms are located in slightly distorted square prisms of rhodium (268–274 pm Sn–Rh in Ho3Rh9Si2Sn3). Magnetic investigations were performed for RE3Rh9Si2Sn3 (RE = Y, Gd – Yb). Except of Y3Rh9Si2Sn3, all investigated compounds exhibit Curie‐Weiss paramagnetism, but ferromagnetic ordering could only be observed for samples containing Gd – Er as rare earth metal. 119Sn Mössbauer spectroscopic measurements were carried out on Gd3Rh9Si2Sn3. A single resonance at an isomer shift of 1.52(1) mm·s–1 clearly underlines that tin is not part of the polyanionic network and therefore not of a stannide character. Representative 29Si solid state NMR spectroscopy investigations were carried out on the diamagnetic yttrium compound Y3Rh9Si2Sn3. The spectrum indicates the existence of only one distinct Si site consistant with the refined single crystal data.
Do the CIS member states share foreign policy preferences?
Authors: Hansen Flemming Splidsboel
Published: November 2014

Relying on a large quantitative data set from the United Nations General Assembly voting records in the years 1992–2013, this study analyses developments in the foreign policy preferences of the member states of the Commonwealth of Independent States [CIS]. It finds that the general level of disagreement between the member states as a whole has increased significantly and that policies have become more radicalised, causing member states to hold directly opposing views still more often. It also finds that a majority of member states, led by Russia, have converged on the foreign policy mean, causing the core of the organisation to become still denser. This suggests that the CIS will undergo a future development where member states will travel along increasingly different trajectories. This research has important implications for our understanding of the CIS and of the policies of the individual member states.
miR‐96 promotes osteogenic differentiation by suppressing HBEGF–EGFR signaling in osteoblastic cells
Authors: Yang Mingfu , Pan Yong , Zhou Yue
Published: November 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non‐coding RNAs with important roles in various biological and pathological processes, including osteoblast differentiation. Here, we identified miR‐96 as a positive regulator of osteogenic differentiation in a mouse osteoblastic cell line (MC3T3‐E1) and in mouse bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells. Moreover, we found that miR‐96 down‐regulates post‐transcriptional expression of heparin‐binding EGF‐like growth factor (HB‐EGF) by specifically binding to the 3′untranslated region of HB‐EGF mRNA. Furthermore, in MC3T3‐E1 cells, miR‐96‐induced HB‐EGF down‐regulation suppressed the phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1 (ERK1) and AKT, which both lie downstream of EGFR activation. Taken together, miR‐96 promotes osteogenic differentiation by inhibiting HB‐EGF and by blocking the HB‐EGF–EGFR signaling pathway in osteoblastic cells.
Gestational syphilis and stillbirth in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Arnesen Lauren , Martínez Gerardo , Mainero Luis , Serruya Suzanne , Durán Pablo
Published: November 2014

Objective

To measure the association between gestational syphilis and stillbirth in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Methods

In a retrospective study, data on stillbirth and gestational syphilis extracted from the Sistema Informático Perinatal database were analyzed for deliveries in 11 countries between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2012. Potential confounders were examined, and binary logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association between gestational syphilis and stillbirth.

Results

Among 368 151 deliveries, 3875 (1.1%) were by women with a positive syphilis test, and 1461 (0.4%) were stillbirths. Among the stillbirths, 29 (2.0%) were delivered by women with a positive syphilis test. After controlling for country, congenital anomalies, gestational age at labor, maternal age, and previous stillbirth, gestational syphilis was significantly associated with stillbirth (odds ratio 1.88, 95% confidence interval 1.25–2.83;P= 0.002).

Conclusion

Gestational syphilis contributes to stillbirth in Latin America and the Caribbean. Interventions targeting gestational syphilis are highly cost‐effective and should be implemented across the region.
N‐terminal targeting of androgen receptor variant enhances response of castration resistant prostate cancer to taxane chemotherapy
Authors: Martin Sarah K. , Banuelos Carmen A. , Sadar Marianne D. , Kyprianou Natasha
Published: November 2014

Taxane‐based chemotherapy is an effective treatment for castration‐resistant‐prostate cancer (CRPC) via stabilization of microtubules. Previous studies identified that the inhibitory effect of microtubule‐targeting chemotherapy on androgen receptor (AR) activity was conferred by interfering with AR intracellular trafficking. The N‐terminal domain (NTD) of AR was identified as a tubulin‐interacting domain that can be effectively targeted by the novel small molecule inhibitor, EPI. Taken together this evidence provided the rationale that targeting AR nuclear translocation and activity via a combination of an antagonist of the AR NTD and taxane‐based chemotherapy may enhance the therapeutic response in CRPC. The present study investigated the anti‐tumor efficacy of a combination of EPI with Docetaxel chemotherapy, in cell models of CRPC, harboring the AR splice variants in addition to the full length AR. Our findings demonstrate that there was no significant effect on the androgen‐mediated nuclear transport of AR variants and AR transcriptional activity by Docetaxel. The therapeutic response to Docetaxel was enhanced by inhibition of the NTD of AR (by EPI) through cycling of epithelial‐mesenchymal‐transition (EMT) to mesenchymal‐epithelial‐transition (MET) among prostate cancer epithelial cells. These results support that transient “programming” of EMT by the AR NTD inhibitor, potentially drives the sensitivity of prostate tumors with differential distribution of AR variants to microtubule‐targeting chemotherapy. This study is of major significance in dissecting mechanisms to overcome taxane resistance in advanced CRPC.
PRICING A MOTOR EXTENDED WARRANTY WITH LIMITED USAGE COVER
Authors: Musakwa Fidelis T.
Published: November 2014

Providers of motor extended warranties with limited usage often face difficulty evaluating the impact of usage limits on warranty price because of incomplete usage data. To address this problem, this paper employs a non-parametric interval-censored survival model of time to accumulate a specific usage. This is used to develop an estimator of the probability that a provider is on risk at a specific time in service. The resulting pricing model is applied to a truck extended warranty case study. The case study demonstrates that interval-censored survival models are ideal for use in pricing motor extended warranties with limited usage cover. The results also suggest that employing a usage rate distribution to forecast the number of vehicles on risk can be misleading, especially on an extended warranty with a relatively high usage limit.
Dietary energy density: estimates, trends and dietary determinants for a nationally representative sample of the Irish population (aged 5–90 years)
Authors: O'Connor Laura , Walton Janette , Flynn Albert
Published: November 2014

Higher dietary energy density (DED) has been reported to be associated with weight gain, obesity and poorer dietary quality, yet nationally representative estimates that would allow tracking of secular trends and inter-country comparisons are limited. The aims of the present study were to calculate DED estimates for the Irish population and to identify dietary determinants of DED. Weighed/semi-weighed food records from three cross-sectional surveys (the National Children's Food Survey, the National Teens’ Food Survey and the National Adult Nutrition Survey) were collated to estimate habitual dietary intakes for a nationally representative sample of the Irish population, aged 5–90 years (n2535). DED estimates, calculated using the total diet method, the food only method and a novel method, including foods and solids in beverages, were 3·70 (sd1·09), 7·58 (sd1·72) and 8·40 (sd1·88) kJ/g, respectively. Determinants of DED did not vary by the calculation method used. Variation in the intakes of fruit, vegetables and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) across consumer groups contributed to the largest variance in DED estimates, followed by variation in the intakes of potatoes, fresh meat, bread, chips, ready-to-eat breakfast cereals, and confectionery. DED estimates were inversely associated with age group and consistently lower for females than for males. The inverse association of DED with age group was explained by higher intakes of vegetables, fruit, fish, potatoes, fresh meat and brown bread and lower intakes of SSB, chocolate confectionery, ready-to-eat breakfast cereals and savoury snacks in older age groups. Females consumed, on average, 1·5 times more fruit and vegetables combined when compared with males, largely explaining the sex differences in DED estimates. Current DED estimates for adults were similar to those calculated in a previous survey, carried out 10 years earlier. These estimates and determinants serve as a baseline for comparison for other works and public health campaigns.
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss as the first manifestation of chronic myeloid leukaemia: case report
Authors: Diao M , Tian F , Sun J
Published: November 2014

Background:

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss rarely occurs in patients with chronic myeloid leukaemia.

Case report:

We present a case report of a patient who presented with sudden sensorineural hearing loss as the first manifestation of chronic myeloid leukaemia, and review the mechanisms responsible for sudden sensorineural hearing loss in leukaemic patients.

Results:

A 31-year-old female presented to our clinic with unilateral sudden sensorineural hearing loss and tinnitus. Pure tone audiometry revealed profound sensorineural hearing loss in the left ear at all frequencies. During an investigation into her hearing loss, the patient was found to have chronic myeloid leukaemia.

Conclusion:

Every case of sudden sensorineural hearing loss must be carefully evaluated, and haematological disorders must be considered in the differential diagnosis of sudden hearing loss.
Special issue: Physics of Dusty Plasmas
Authors: Avinash K.
Published: November 2014

This special issue of JPP features selected contributions from the 7th International Conference on the Physics of Dusty Plasmas (ICPDP 2014), held in New Delhi, India March 3–7, 2014.
XXIV.—Conditions for the Ergodicity of Non-homogeneous Finite Markov Chains
Authors: Mott J. L.
Published: November 2014

Synopsis

In this note we study the asymptotic behaviour of a product of matrices where Pj is a matrix of transition probabilities in a non-homogeneous finite Markov chain. We give conditions that (i) the rows of P(n) tend to identity and that (ii) P(n) tends to a limit matrix with identical rows.
ECONOMIC EVALUATION OF DIAGNOSTIC LOCALIZATION FOLLOWING BIOCHEMICAL PROSTATE CANCER RECURRENCE
Authors: Barocas Daniel A. , Bensink Mark E. , Berry Kristin , Musa Zahra , Bodnar Carolyn , Dann Robert , Ramsey Scott D.
Published: November 2014

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess potential cost-effectiveness of using a prostate cancer specific functional imaging technology capable of identifying residual localized disease versus small volume metastatic disease for asymptomatic men with low but detectable prostate specific antigen (PSA) elevation following radical prostatectomy.

Methods: Markov modeling was used to estimate the incremental impact on healthcare system costs (2012 USD) and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) of two alternative strategies: (i) using the new diagnostic to guide therapy versus (ii) current usual care—using a combination of computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and bone scan to guide therapy. Costs were based on estimates from literature and Medicare reimbursement. Prostate cancer progression, survival, utilities, and background risk of all-cause mortality were obtained from literature. Base-case diagnostic sensitivity (75 percent), specificity (90 percent), and cost (USD 2,500) were provided by our industry partner GE Healthcare.

Results: The new diagnostic strategy provided an average gain of 1.83 (95 percent uncertainty interval [UI]: 1.24–2.64) QALYs with added costs of USD 15,595 (95 percent UI: USD -6,330–44,402) over 35 years. The resulting incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was USD 8,516/QALY (95 percent UI: USD -2,947–22,372). Results were most influenced by the utility discounting rate and test performance characteristics; however, the new diagnostic provided clinical benefits over a wide range of sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusion: This analysis suggests a diagnostic technology capable of identifying whether men with biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy have localized versus metastatic disease would be a cost-effective alternative to current standard work-up. The results support additional investment in development and validation of such a diagnostic.
Macrofungi of Sitka spruce in Scotland
Authors: Alexander Ian , Watling Roy
Published: November 2014

Synopsis

Eighty-four potentially mycorrhizal macrofungi have been recorded with Sitka spruce in Scotland. They derive primarily from the native flora of birch and pine and many are fungi with a wide host range. Specific mycorrhizal associates do not occur. In its native range hypogeous fungi are important but these are largely absent from Scotland. The regularly encountered mycorrhizal flora is less abundant and less diverse than that of Norway spruce or European larch and reflects the importation of Sitka spruce by seed and the ecological conditions to which it gives rise. The saprotrophic macrofungi are species which are widespread and common in a range of vegetation types.
X-ray powder diffraction data for methylene bis(thiocyanate) CH2(SCN)2, a microbicide for water-treatment purposes
Authors: Delgado Gerzon E. , Fernández Lis E. , Coronel Angelina C. , Varetti Eduardo L.
Published: November 2014

X-ray powder diffraction data, unit-cell parameters, and space group for methylene bis(thiocyanate) (C3H2N2S2) are reported [a = 6.6888(4) Å, b = 8.0616(6) Å, c = 11.089(1) Å, β = 105.33(1), Z = 4, unit-cell volume V = 576.68(7) Å3, with M20 = 56.0 and F30 = 43.8 (0.0079, 87)]. All measured lines were indexed and are consistent with the monoclinic I2/c space group.
Host–guest adsorption behavior of deuterated methane and molecular oxygen in a porous rare-earth metal–organic framework
Authors: Ogilvie Stephen H. , Duyker Samuel G. , Southon Peter D. , Peterson Vanessa K. , Kepert Cameron J.
Published: November 2014

The yttrium-based metal–organic framework, Y(btc) (btc = 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylate), shows moderate uptake of methane (0.623 mmol g−1) and molecular oxygen (0.183 mmol g−1) at 1 bar and 308 K. Neutron powder-diffraction data for the guest-free, CD4-, and O2-loaded framework reveal multiple adsorption sites for each gas. Both molecular guests exhibit interactions with the host framework characterised by distances between the framework and guest atoms that range from 2.83 to 4.81 Å, with these distances identifying interaction most commonly between the guest molecule and the carboxylate functional groups of the benzenetricarboxylate bridging ligand of the host.
Predicting the accuracy of mineral phase analysis by X-ray diffraction using Monte Carlo modelling
Authors: O'Dwyer Joel N. , Tickner James R. , Roach Greg J.
Published: November 2014

Rapid, on-line measurement of feedstock mineralogy is a highly attractive technology for the mineral processing industry. A Monte Carlo particle transport-based modelling technique has been developed to help design and predict the measurement performance of on-line energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDXRD) analysers. The accuracy of the technique was evaluated by performing quantitative phase analysis on a suite of fifteen synthetic potash ore samples. The diffraction profile of each sample was measured with a laboratory EDXRD analyser and an equivalent profile was simulated in the Monte Carlo package. Linear regression analysis was used to determine the mineral abundances in each sample from both the measured and modelled profiles. Comparison of the results showed that the diffraction profiles and measurement accuracies obtained by simulation agree very well with the measured data.
Atrioventricular valve repair along with Fontan completion
Authors: Gil-Jaurena Juan M. , González-López María T. , Pérez-Caballero Ramón , Pita Ana
Published: November 2014

Atrioventricular valve regurgitation is widely known as a risk factor for Fontan completion in patients with univentricular physiology. To date, indications and timing for atrioventricular valve repair remain unclear and different surgical techniques have been advocated. Since 2013, 50 consecutive patients underwent extracardiac Fontan completion in our institution. Atrioventricular valve repair, by avoiding the use of a prosthetic ring, was performed as a concomitant procedure in three of them, with excellent short-term results. Beating-heart repair was performed in one of the patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome as the underlying disease. Valve repair when moderate or severe regurgitation is present may be performed at a low risk. Both the staged approach of atrioventricular valve repair followed by the Fontan as a separate operation and the combined approach of simultaneous atrioventricular valve repair and Fontan have a role in the management of these complex patients. We highlight the importance of the use of “easy and simple” surgical techniques for repairing the atrioventricular valve in order to provide a better life prognosis in Fontan patients.
Difunctionalized N-Confused Porphyrins: Synthesis, Fluorescence, and Electrochemical Studies
Authors: Das Sudipta , Balsukuri Naresh , Kesavan Praseetha E. , Gupta Iti
Published: November 2014

Seven di-substituted N-confused porphyrins (NCPs) 9–15 bearing two aryl functional groups (cis-A2B2 type) were synthesized in 4–7 % yields via [3+1] approach. The corresponding five 5,10-diaryl-substituted symmetrical tripyrranes 1–5 were prepared and condensed with 2,4-bis(hydroxypentaflurophenyl)pyrrole 6. Two outer N-methyl type A2B2 NCPs 14 and 15 were also prepared via a similar approach using a new key precursor 8. All the porphyrins 9–15 were characterized by high-resolution mass spectrometry, NMR, infrared spectroscopy, UV–visible spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry. Fluorescence studies of 9–15 showed blue-shifted emission maxima and lower Stokes shifts values when compared with N-confused tetraphenylporphyrin (NCTPP). Electrochemical studies indicated easier oxidation of N-methyl NCPs 14 and 15 when compared with remaining NCPs 9–13.
Conservation genetics of the water mouse, Xeromys myoides Thomas, 1889
Authors: Benfer David , Baker Andrew M. , Ball Tina , Gynther Ian , Janetzki Heather , Fuller Susan
Published: November 2014

The water mouse, Xeromys myoides, is currently recognised as a vulnerable species in Australia, inhabiting a small number of distinct and isolated coastal regions of Queensland and the Northern Territory. An examination of the evolutionary history and contemporary influences shaping the genetic structure of this species is required to make informed conservation management decisions. Here, we report the first analysis undertaken on the phylogeography and population genetics of the water mouse across its mainland Australian distribution. Genetic diversity was assessed at two mitochondrial DNA (Cytochrome b, 1000 bp; D-loop, 400 bp) and eight microsatellite DNA loci. Very low genetic diversity was found, indicating that water mice underwent a recent expansion throughout their Australian range and constitute a single evolutionarily significant unit. Microsatellite analyses revealed that the highest genetic diversity was found in the Mackay region of central Queensland; population substructure was also identified, suggesting that local populations may be isolated in this region. Conversely, genetic diversity in the Coomera region of south-east Queensland was very low and the population in this region has experienced a significant genetic bottleneck. These results have significant implications for future management, particularly in terms of augmenting populations through translocations or reintroducing water mice in areas where they have gone extinct.
Voluntary simplification as an alternative to collapse
Authors: Alexander Samuel
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– This paper aims to re-examine Tainter’s dismissal of the voluntary simplification strategy. Joseph Tainter argues that “sustainability” is about problem-solving and that problem-solving increases social complexity. But he also argues that social complexity requires energy and resources, and this implies that solving problems, including environmental problems, usually demands increases in energy and resource consumption, not reductions. For this reason Tainter argues that voluntary simplification – the strategy of choosing to reduce consumption – is not an available means of solving the problems of civilisation.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper briefly outlines Tainter’s theory of diminishing returns on complexity and lays out his arguments against voluntary simplification. The critical sections of the paper examine those arguments and find certain ambiguities in them that open up space of voluntary simplification.

Findings

– Part of my disagreement with Tainter turns on differing notions of “sustainability.” Whereas Tainter seems to use sustainability to mean sustaining the existing civilisation, the author uses sustainability to mean changing the form of civilisation through voluntary simplification, insofar as that is required for humanity to operate within the carrying capacity of the planet. By exposing the indeterminate, value-laden nature of what constitutes a “problem” and what constitutes an appropriate “solution,” it becomes clear that some societal problems can be dissolved rather than solved, that problems have various solutions and that a society’s available energy supply can be redistributed to achieve voluntary simplification while still solving existing and ongoing problems.

Originality/value

– Given that Tainter seems to accept that his own conception of sustainability will eventually lead to collapse, the author feels he is wrong to be so dismissive of voluntary simplification as a strategy for potentially avoiding collapse. It is, the author argues, our only alternative to collapse, and if that is so, voluntary simplification ought to be given our most rigorous attention and commitment, even if the chances of success do not seem high at all. This paper provides a new analysis of the voluntary simplification strategy and shows that it holds more promise than Tainter appreciates.
Sense-making and acting for descent futures: human and cultural pathways
Authors: Floyd Joshua
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– This paper aims to make the case for continued opportunity for high levels of human well-being under descent conditions characterised by declining economic throughput and socio-political complexity.

Design/methodology/approach

– Relationships between assumptions about human well-being formed within a modern industrial context, the guiding narratives attending these, and the broader cultural influence of ideas from the evolutionary sciences are examined. Alternative ways of making sense of these relationships are explored. The experiences of societies guided by cultural narratives based on different premises to those most influential in industrial societies are reviewed for their implications for human well-being under descent conditions.

Findings

– Human experiences of well-being are principally a function of the sources of meaning and associated narratives by which members of a culture make sense of their situation, as these determine the nature of the material and energetic conditions required to live well. Under descent conditions, the narrative of progress that has supported viable societies during the 300-year period of industrial expansion is unlikely to continue serving humanity well. Collective participation in the renewal of guiding cultural narratives is a primary target for efforts to provide continued opportunities for high quality of life to all members of humanity.

Practical implications

– The findings point towards specific characteristics of cultural sense-making narratives that may support viable human societies under descent conditions.

Social implications

– By moving beyond the default assumption that descent automatically implies decline in human well-being, a barrier may be lowered to more open and mature society-wide engagement in conversations about the present human predicament and effective ways of responding to it.

Originality/value

– New connections are identified between perspectives based on biological evolutionary theory and the continued influence of the idea of progress in establishing default assumptions about prospects for human well-being under descent conditions. Experiences of non-industrial societies are taken as the basis for identifying opportunities for human well-being under far more modest material and energetic conditions than those available to the portion of humanity that presently enjoys benefits of industrial development that outweigh the attendant costs.
Young offenders with mental health problems in transition
Authors: Campbell Sarah , Abbott Stephen , Simpson Alan
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– Disproportionately high numbers of young people in the British criminal justice system also have mental health problems. Relevant services often struggle to meet such complex needs, particularly as children become adults. The purpose of this paper is to discover the qualities of services valued by such young offenders.

Design/methodology/approach

– Semi-structured interviews with 15 young offenders with mental health problems.

Findings

– The young people valued continuity and sufficient time to develop trust in staff. From staff who showed concern and respect, and whose approach was informal, young people could accept help, advice and, when necessary, confrontation. They gained insight into themselves and how to modify their behaviour; knowledge about opportunities for work and education; and help with life skills.

Research limitations/implications

– The sample was small and likely to have been skewed towards those who are readiest to engage with services. Young people's views were not compared with their histories or actual service use.

Practical implications

– Other research indicates that helping relationships that demonstrate the qualities that client's value have more successful outcomes than those primarily reflecting professionals’ values. In a time of resource constraints, it seems unlikely that staff will be able to provide more contact and continuity than at present. This would be a precondition of working in accordance with the values of the young people reported here, especially when bridging the discontinuities between children's and adult services.

Originality/value

– Young offenders with mental health problems are rarely given a voice, particularly their views of what helps them.
The Sanctuary Model® and Community Meeting
Authors: Clarke Annaley , Royes Michelle
Published: November 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to review the purpose of the Community Meeting and how it fits within the Sanctuary Model®, it will outline the tools theoretical underpinnings and finally how the tool is used in other trauma models specifically Therapeutic Communities.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper draws the key literature together related to the Community Meeting within the Sanctuary Model®, making links to theoretical influences between the Community Meeting, Trauma Theory and Attachment Theory. Finally it provides a comparison of the Community Meeting within Therapeutic Communities and the Sanctuary Model®.

Findings

– The paper detailed how the Community Meeting tool is underpinned by the norms and theories of the Sanctuary Model®. It detailed the direct link between healing from trauma and building attachments to the Community Meeting. It found the similarities of the Community Meeting within both Therapeutic Communities and the Sanctuary Model® in that they always included all participants and occurring regularly in circular groups. However, it noted the distinct differences including in Therapeutic Communities the Community Meeting forms a significant intervention, whereas within the Sanctuary Model®, the Community Meeting supports the broader intervention of the model for all members of the community including staff and clients.

Originality/value

– The Sanctuary Model® is gaining international interest and as such, critical consideration of its theoretical influences, similarities and differences with existing models is critical to understanding the model.