bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidative stress is a potential cost of breeding in male and female northern elephant seals
Authors: Sharick Jeffrey T. , Vazquez‐Medina Jose P. , Ortiz Rudy M. , Crocker Daniel E.
Published: September 2014

The trade‐off between current reproductive effort and survival is a key concept of life‐history theory. A variety of studies support the existence of this trade‐off, but the underlying physiological mechanisms are not well understood. Oxidative stress has been proposed as a potential mechanism underlying the observed inverse relationship between reproductive investment and life span. Prolonged fasting is associated with oxidative stress including increases in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), oxidative damage and inflammation.

Northern elephant seals (NES) undergo prolonged fasts while maintaining high metabolic rates during breeding. We investigated NES of both sexes to assess oxidative stress associated with extended breeding fasts. We measured changes in the plasma activity or concentrations of markers for oxidative stress in 30 adult male and 33 adult female NES across their 1–3 month breeding fasts. Markers assessed included a pro‐oxidant enzyme, several antioxidant enzymes, markers for oxidative damage to lipids, proteins and DNA and markers for systemic inflammation.

Plasma xanthine oxidase (XO), a pro‐oxidant enzyme that increases production of oxidative radicals, and several protective antioxidant enzymes increased over breeding in both sexes. Males showed increased oxidative damage to lipids and DNA and increased systemic inflammation, while oxidative damage to proteins declined across breeding. In contrast, females showed no oxidative damage to lipids or DNA or changes in inflammation but showed increases in oxidative damage to proteins. XO activity, antioxidant enzymes, oxidative damage markers and inflammatory markers were strongly correlated in males but these relationships were weaker or non‐existent in females.

Northern elephant seals provide evidence for oxidative stress as a physiological cost of reproduction in a capital breeding mammal. Both sexes strongly up‐regulated antioxidant defences during breeding. Despite this response, and in contrast to similar duration non‐breeding fasts in previous studies on conspecifics, there was evidence of oxidative damage to tissues. These data demonstrate the utility of using plasma markers to examine oxidative stress but also suggest the necessity of measuring a broad suite of plasma markers to assess systemic oxidative stress.
Determining the major Bt refuge crops for cotton bollworm in North China
Authors: Ye Le‐Fu , Fu Xue , Ouyang Fang , Xie Bao‐Yu , Ge Feng
Published: September 2014

Evaluation of the effectiveness of refuge strategies involved in cotton bollworm Bt resistance management would be aided by technologies that allow monitoring and quantification of key factors that affect the process under field conditions. We hypothesized that characterization of stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes in adult bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) moths may aid in determining the larval host that they developed upon. We found moths reared from larvae fed on peanut, soybean or cotton, respectively, could be differentiated using isotopic analyses that also corresponded to their respective larval host origins. These techniques were then used to classify feral second‐generation bollworm moths caught in Bt cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) fields into different populations based on their isotopic signatures. In 2006–2007 feral moths captured in Bt cotton fields predominantly correlated with the peanut (Arachis hypogea) having served as their larval host, indicating this is the most important refuge crop for Bt‐susceptible bollworm individuals (providing 58%−64% individuals) during independent moth peaks for the second generation in North China. The remaining feral moths correlated with soybean (Glycine max) (0−10%); other C3 plant (20%−22%) and non‐C3 plant (12%−14%) host types also provided some Bt‐sensitive moths. Field observations showed that peanut constitutes the primary refuge crop contributing to sustaining Bt‐susceptible moths dispersing into cotton in North China. These results suggest that peanut may be a more effective refuge to sustain Bt‐susceptible bollworm individuals and reduce the risk of development of a Bt‐resistant biotype.
No Sustained Impact of Intermittent Extracorporeal Liver Support on Thrombocyte Time Course in a Randomized Controlled Albumin Dialysis Trial
Authors: Klammt Sebastian , Mitzner Steffen R , Reisinger Emil C , Stange Jan
Published: September 2014

Reduction of platelets is a common finding in patients with liver disease and can be aggravated by extracorporeal therapies, e.g. artificial liver support. The impact of extracorporeal albumin dialysis on the time count and time course of platelets in liver failure patients was evaluated in a randomized controlled clinical trial. Mean thrombocyte reduction during a single extracorporeal liver support therapy was −15.1% [95%CI: −17.7; −12.5]. No differences were found between treatments of patients with a more reduced platelet count (<100 GPT/L: −15.6% [−19.5; −11.7%]; n = 43) compared to patients with normal or slightly decreased thrombocytes (−14.6% [−18.3%; −11.0%]; n = 43; P = 0.719). The variation of platelet count within 24 h after onset of extracorporeal therapy treatment was less, albeit significant (−3.5% [−6.3%; −0.7%], P < 0.016). Absolute thrombocyte variability was comparable between both groups (with extracorporeal therapy −5.6 GPT/L [−9.7; −1.4], without extracorporeal therapy −1.3 GPT/L [−7.3; 4.7]; P = 0.243), whereas relative decrease of thrombocytes within a 24‐h period of extracorporeal therapy was greater than the changes in patients without extracorporeal therapy (−3.5% [−6.3%; −0.7%] vs. 2.0% [−2.0%; 5.9%]; P = 0.026]. Within a period of two weeks after enrollment, no significant differences of platelet count were observed either between the two groups or in the time course (Pgroup = 0.337, Ptime = 0.277). Reduction of platelets during intermittent extracorporeal liver support was less pronounced within a 24‐h period as before and after a single treatment and was comparable to variations in the control group without extracorporeal therapy.
Validity of a Checklist for Hemodialysis Patients Based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health
Authors: Tsutsui Hideyo , Ojima Toshiyuki , Tsuruta Yoshinari , Kato Sawako , Yasuda Yoshinari , Oshida Yoshiharu
Published: September 2014

In 2009, we reported a “100‐category checklist” for hemodialysis (HD) patients based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the validity and reliability of this checklist. The present study included 100 participants who had been on HD for at least 5 years when they were interviewed using the checklist. Subjects were asked whether they had experienced problems in each category since starting HD treatment. Categories for which more than 25% of subjects answered “yes” were extracted as problem categories. Additionally, the Kidney Disease Quality of Life (KDQOL) instrument was administered to the study subjects. Content validity was evaluated using the frequency and percentage of subjects who had a problem in each category. Criterion validity was performed based on correlation of the findings from the “100‐category checklist” categories with the findings of the KDQOL. Construct validity was assessed based on the number of problem categories extracted as external criteria in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), anemia, and secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT). For reliability evaluation, we used Cronbach's coefficient alpha. Content validity showed that 54 were identified as problem categories. Criterion validity showed that 45 categories in all components correlated significantly with each subscale of the KDQOL. Construct validity showed that CTS, anemia, and SHPT contributed to an increased number of problems associated with HD. Cronbach's coefficient alpha of the “100‐category checklist” was 0.86. This study confirmed the validity and reliability of the “100‐category checklist”.
Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy During Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Patients Treated in Medical Intensive Care Unit: Technical Considerations
Authors: Seczyńska Bożena , Królikowski Wiesław , Nowak Ilona , Jankowski Miłosz , Szułdrzyński Konstanty , Szczeklik Wojciech
Published: September 2014

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is used as a salvage therapy in refractory acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Although technological progress in the ECMO systems improved the survival rate, prognosis is still significantly worsened by acute kidney injury (AKI), particularly if renal replacement therapy (RRT) is required. There are no exact guidelines recommending which techniques of ECMO and continuous RRT (CRRT) should be used for management of AKI coexisting with respiratory or circulatory failure, and how to combine them. The aim of this review is to describe methods of CRRT and ECMO simultaneous application, and to present advantages of various technical approaches versus possible complications.
Multicenter Study of Pegylated Interferon α‐2a Monotherapy for Hepatitis C Virus‐Infected Patients on Hemodialysis: REACH Study
Authors: Kikuchi Kan , Akiba Takashi , Nitta Kosaku , Masakane Ikuto , Ando Ryoichi , Izumi Namiki , Atsukawa Masanori , Yamazaki Chikao , Kato Fumi , Hotta Naoki , Tominaga Yoshihiro , Orito Etsuro , Hora Kazuhiko , Nagasawa Masaki , Kasahara Hiroshi , Kawaguchi Masanori , Kimura Hiroyuki , Ikebe Norisato , Kawanishi Hideki , Moriishi Misaki , Shigemoto Kenichiro , Harada Takashi , Hirakata Hideki , Watanabe Hiroshi , Nosaki Tsuyoshi , Tsubouchi Hirohito , Imawari Michio , Akizawa Tadao
Published: September 2014

Many studies have reported poor vital prognosis in hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐infected dialysis patients. The rate of HCV‐infected dialysis patients in Japan is as high as 9.8%, and antiviral therapy is believed to be important for improving vital prognosis. We conducted a multicenter study to examine the administration method for pegylated interferon α‐2a (PEG‐IFNα‐2a) monotherapy in HCV‐infected dialysis. We studied 56 patients: 14 with low viral loads (HCV RNA < 5.0 log IU/mL) were treated with 90 μg PEG‐IFNα‐2a weekly, 42 with high viral loads (HCV RNA ≥ 5.0 log IU/mL) were treated with 135 μg PEG‐IFNα‐2a weekly. We examined the sustained virological response (SVR), factors affecting the SVR, and treatment safety. The overall SVR rate was 39% (22/56); that for genotype 1, genotype 2, low viral loads, and high viral loads was 29%, 67%, 93%, and 21%, respectively. From receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the HCV RNA cutoff values likely to achieve SVR for genotypes 1 and 2 were <5.7 log IU/mL (SVR rate: 64% 9/14) and <6.5 log IU/mL (SVR rate: 88% 7/8), respectively. If there was HCV RNA negativation at 4 weeks (rapid virological response), the SVR rate was 94% (16/17), whereas it was 6% (1/16) if there was HCV RNA positivity at 24 weeks. The rate of treatment discontinuation from adverse events or aggravated complications was 25% (14/56). High SVR rates can potentially be achieved with PEG‐IFN monotherapy by identifying the target patients, based on virus type and viral load before initiating treatment and by modifying therapy during treatment according to responsiveness.
Therapeutic Applications of Mesothelial Cell Sheets
Authors: Kawanishi Kunio , Nitta Kosaku , Yamato Masayuki , Okano Teruo
Published: September 2014

Mesothelial cells are an integral part of the peritoneum and play an important role in maintaining its structural and functional properties. In recent years a number of studies on mesothelial cells have been performed to evaluate the localization, secretional properties and the ability of regeneration and transdifferentiation of these cells. They are also involved in the repair of the peritoneum damage following surgery or peritonitis. Mesothelial cells produce several cytokines, growth factors and extracellular matrix components, possessing anti‐inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Based on previous research, cell sheet engineering has made it possible to transplant cells that retain the cells' function, and stacking different cells in layers has also become possible. Arranging blood vessels between the cell layers is a problem when stacking cells in layers. Whether adequate blood flow can be obtained for the cell layers to survive long‐term is the difference between success and failure. Mesothelial cell transplantation for peritoneal regeneration needs to be performed under conditions in which the surface area of the visceral peritoneum is large and the mesothelial cell damage area is small. In this article we explain cell sheet engineering as one of the technologies for transplanting cells with a variety of intercellular adhesion and cell membrane molecules maintained intact, and its application to peritoneal regeneration.
Proportion of tadalafil‐treated patients with clinically meaningful improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia – integrated data from 1 499 study participants
Authors: Nickel John Curtis , Brock Gerald B. , Herschorn Sender , Dickson Ruth , Henneges Carsten , Viktrup Lars
Published: September 2014

Objectives

To evaluate the proportion of patients achieving clinically meaningful improvement of lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH‐LUTS) with tadalafil using two definitions of response.

Patients and Methods

Post hoc integrated analysis of four placebo‐controlled studies in men (aged ≥45 years; International Prostate Symptom Score [IPSS] of ≥13; maximum urinary flow rate [Qmax] of ≥4 to ≤15 mL/s) with BPH‐LUTS randomised to tadalafil 5 mg (752 patients) or placebo (747) for 12 weeks after a 4‐week placebo run‐in. Responders were defined as having a total IPSS improvement of ≥3 points or ≥25% from randomisation to endpoint (Week 12). Response status was calculated per patient, and relative benefit and odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) of tadalafil vs placebo was calculated using a logistic Generalised Mixed Model for Repeated Measures.

Results

Tadalafil 5 mg once daily resulted in a significantly greater proportion of patients achieving a ≥3‐point IPSS improvement (71.1% and 56.0% for tadalafil and placebo patients, respectively [OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.5, 2.4; P < 0.001]) and achieving a ≥25% improvement in total IPSS randomisation to endpoint (61.7% and 45.5% for tadalafil and placebo patients, respectively [OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.6, 2.5; P < 0.001]).

Conclusion

About two‐thirds of tadalafil‐treated patients achieve a clinically meaningful improvement in BPH‐LUTS symptoms, based on two different definitions of responder status.
Hybrid Data Visualization Based on Depth Complexity Histogram Analysis
Authors: Lindholm S. , Falk M. , Sundén E. , Bock A. , Ynnerman A. , Ropinski T.
Published: September 2014

In many cases, only the combination of geometric and volumetric data sets is able to describe a single phenomenon under observation when visualizing large and complex data. When semi‐transparent geometry is present, correct rendering results require sorting of transparent structures. Additional complexity is introduced as the contributions from volumetric data have to be partitioned according to the geometric objects in the scene. The A‐buffer, an enhanced framebuffer with additional per‐pixel information, has previously been introduced to deal with the complexity caused by transparent objects. In this paper, we present an optimized rendering algorithm for hybrid volume‐geometry data based on the A‐buffer concept. We propose two novel components for modern GPUs that tailor memory utilization to the depth complexity of individual pixels. The proposed components are compatible with modern A‐buffer implementations and yield performance gains of up to eight times compared to existing approaches through reduced allocation and reuse of fast cache memory. We demonstrate the applicability of our approach and its performance with several examples from molecular biology, space weather and medical visualization containing both, volumetric data and geometric structures.
Semi‐Regular Triangle Remeshing: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: Payan F. , Roudet C. , Sauvage B.
Published: September 2014

Semi‐regular triangle remeshing algorithms convert irregular surface meshes into semi‐regular ones. Especially in the field of computer graphics, semi‐regularity is an interesting property because it makes meshes highly suitable for multi‐resolution analysis. In this paper, we survey the numerous remeshing algorithms that have been developed over the past two decades. We propose different classifications to give new and comprehensible insights into both existing methods and issues. We describe how considerable obstacles have already been overcome, and discuss promising perspectives.
Maxillary sinus augmentation by crestal access: a retrospective study on cavity size and outcome correlation
Authors: Spinato Sergio , Bernardello Fabio , Galindo‐Moreno Pablo , Zaffe Davide
Published: September 2014

Objective

Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) and radiographic outcomes of crestal sinus elevation, performed using mineralized human bone allograft, were analyzed to correlate results with maxillary sinus size.

Material and methods

A total of 60 sinus augmentations in 60 patients, with initial bone ≤5 mm, were performed. Digital radiographs were taken at surgical implant placement time up to post‐prosthetic loading follow‐up (12–72 months), when CBCT evaluation was carried out. Marginal bone loss (MBL) was radiographically analyzed at 6 months and follow‐up time post‐loading. Sinus size (BPD), implant distance from palatal (PID) and buccal wall (BID), and absence of bone coverage of implant (intra‐sinus bone loss – IBL) were evaluated and statistically evaluated by ANOVA and linear regression analyses.

Results

MBL increased as a function of time. MBL at final follow‐up was statistically associated with MBL at 6 months. A statistically significant correlation of IBL with wall distance and of IBL/mm with time was identified with greater values in wide sinuses (WS ≥ 13.27 mm) than in narrow sinuses (NS < 13.27 mm).

Conclusions

This study is the first quantitative and statistically significant confirmation that crestal technique with residual ridge height <5 mm is more appropriate and predictable, in terms of intra‐sinus bone coverage, in narrow than in WS.
Maximizing the phylogenetic diversity of seed banks
Authors: Griffiths Kate E. , Balding Sharon T. , Dickie John B. , Lewis Gwilym P. , Pearce Tim R. , Grenyer Richard
Published: September 2014

Ex situ conservation efforts such as those of zoos, botanical gardens, and seed banks will form a vital complement to in situ conservation actions over the coming decades. It is therefore necessary to pay the same attention to the biological diversity represented in ex situ conservation facilities as is often paid to protected‐area networks. Building the phylogenetic diversity of ex situ collections will strengthen our capacity to respond to biodiversity loss. Since 2000, the Millennium Seed Bank Partnership has banked seed from 14% of the world's plant species. We assessed the taxonomic, geographic, and phylogenetic diversity of the Millennium Seed Bank collection of legumes (Leguminosae). We compared the collection with all known legume genera, their known geographic range (at country and regional levels), and a genus‐level phylogeny of the legume family constructed for this study. Over half the phylogenetic diversity of legumes at the genus level was represented in the Millennium Seed Bank. However, pragmatic prioritization of species of economic importance and endangerment has led to the banking of a less‐than‐optimal phylogenetic diversity and prioritization of range‐restricted species risks an underdispersed collection. The current state of the phylogenetic diversity of legumes in the Millennium Seed Bank could be substantially improved through the strategic banking of relatively few additional taxa. Our method draws on tools that are widely applied to in situ conservation planning, and it can be used to evaluate and improve the phylogenetic diversity of ex situ collections.

Maximizar la Riqueza Filogenética de los Bancos de Semillas
Holter ECG monitoring of sympathovagal fluctuation during bronchoscopy
Authors: Ali Abdellah Hamed Khalil , Toba Hiroaki , Sakiyama Shoji , Yamamoto Ryo , Takizawa Hiromitsu , Kenzaki Koichiro , Kondo Kazuya , Tangoku Akira
Published: September 2014

Background and Aims

The changes of autonomic nervous activity during bronchoscopic procedures are closely related to the development of cardiovascular complications. We aimed to evaluate the changes of autonomic nervous activity during bronchoscopic procedures using R‐R interval variability from electrocardiograms (ECGs) obtained during diagnostic bronchoscopy.

Methods

Twenty‐four patients who underwent bronchoscopy were included. Continuous ECG was recorded prior to, during and after the bronchoscopic procedure. Time and frequency domain analyses of heart rate variability were performed.

Results

Heart rate increased significantly after pre‐medication compared with that before pre‐medication and increased further during bronchoscopy. The coefficient of variation (CVRR) values after pre‐medication and during bronchoscopy were significantly higher than those before pre‐medication (P = 0.031 and P = 0.041, respectively). The low frequency (LF) power decreased during bronchoscopy. LF powers obtained after bronchoscopy were significantly lower than those obtained before bronchoscopy (P < 0.041). The high‐frequency (HF) power was found to be decreased during bronchoscopy. In particular, HF powers obtained after bronchoscopy were significantly lower than those obtained before bronchoscopy (P < 0.019). Although the LF/HF ratios increased after pre‐medication, they decreased temporarily during the bronchoscope insertion.

Conclusions

This study shows for the first time that Holter ECG monitoring during diagnostic bronchoscopy was associated with activation of cardiac sympathetic and withdrawal of cardiac parasympathetic regulation, which may contribute to the occurrence of cardiac events during bronchoscopic procedures. So, Holter ECG monitoring during bronchoscopic procedures may confer reduction in cardiovascular events.
Conservation implications of omitting narrow‐ranging taxa from species distribution models, now and in the future
Authors: Platts Philip J. , Garcia Raquel A. , Hof Christian , Foden Wendy , Hansen Louis A. , Rahbek Carsten , Burgess Neil D.
Published: September 2014

Aim

Species distribution modelling (SDM) is commonly used to predict spatial patterns of biodiversity across sets of taxa with sufficient distributional records, while omitting narrow‐ranging species due to statistical constraints. We investigate the implications of this dichotomy for conservation priority setting in Africa, now and in the future.

Location

Sub‐Saharan Africa (excluding islands).

Methods

We use multivariate ordination to characterize climatic niches of 733 African amphibians, distinguishing between species eligible for large‐scale correlativeSDM(≥ 10 records at 1° resolution) and those omitted due to insufficient records. Species distributions are projected under current and future climates using simple niche envelopes. Empirical priorities are derived separately on the eligible and omitted sets and compared with three existing large‐scale conservation schemes.

Results

Of the 733 amphibian species, 400 have too few records for correlativeSDM, including 92% of those threatened with extinction (VU/EN/CR). Omitted species typically occupy topographically complex areas with cooler, wetter and less seasonal climates, which are projected to experience lower rates of climatic change. Priorities derived from omitted species have greater congruence with existing conservation schemes. Under future climate, priorities for eligible species shift towards those for omitted species. Similarly, while omitted species often lose climate space at 1° resolution, persistent populations tend to coincide with existing conservation schemes.

Main conclusions

Under current climate, statistical restrictions onSDMsystematically downplay important sites for narrow‐ranging and threatened species. This issue spans taxonomic groups and is only partially mitigated by modelling at finer scales. Effective biodiversity conservation, now and in the future, relies on our capacity to project geographic determinants of all species, and thus, a wider range of approaches is essential. We conclude, however, that future persistence among narrow‐ and wide‐ranging species alike will be highest within sites already identified for conservation investment and that the focus on these sites ought to be maintained.
Telecommunications in Israeli field hospitals deployed to three crisis zones
Authors: Finestone Aharon S. , Levy Gadi , Bar‐Dayan Yaron
Published: September 2014

A field hospital overseas requires various types of communication equipment. This study presents the communications equipment used by three Israeli field hospital delegations to earthquake sites at Adapazari, Turkey, in 1999, Port‐au‐Prince, Haiti, in 2010 and Minamisanriku, Japan, in 2011. The delegations to Turkey and Haiti were relatively large (105–230 personnel) and were on the site early (three to four days after each event). The 55‐person delegation to Japan arrived later and was established as an outpatient community hospital. Standard military VHF radios were the only effective tool up to 5 km, until cellular coverage was regained (1–2 weeks after each event). International communication was good. While short‐wave communication (telephone and Internet) was used in Turkey, a direct satellite channel was set up in Haiti. In Japan, BGAN Inmarsat provided efficient Wi‐Fi for all needs. Motorola walkie talkies were not efficient beyond the immediate vicinity. This paper recommends continued use of military‐specification equipment alongside newer modalities, particularly in situations where infrastructure is damaged.
Nation‐building policies in Timor‐Leste: disaster risk reduction, including climate change adaptation
Authors: Mercer Jessica , Kelman Ilan , do Rosario Francisco , de Deus de Jesus Lima Abilio , da Silva Augusto , Beloff Anna‐Maija , McClean Alex
Published: September 2014

Few studies have explored the relationships between nation‐building, disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation. Focusing on small island developing states, this paper examines nation‐building in Timor‐Leste, a small island developing state that recently achieved independence. Nation‐building in Timor‐Leste is explored in the context of disaster risk reduction, which necessarily includes climate change adaptation. The study presents a synopsis of Timor‐Leste's history and its nation‐building efforts as well as an overview of the state of knowledge of disaster risk reduction including climate change adaptation. It also offers an analysis of significant gaps and challenges in terms of vertical and horizontal governance, large donor presence, data availability and the integration of disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation for nation‐building in Timor‐Leste. Relevant and applicable lessons are provided from other small island developing states to assist Timor‐Leste in identifying its own trajectory out of underdevelopment while it builds on existing strengths.
The time process of post‐earthquake recovery: the Yao'an earthquake in China
Authors: Wang Ying , Li Juan , Chen Hao , Zou Zhenhua
Published: September 2014

Post‐disaster recovery is a constantly changing and developing process. The authors conducted three real‐name follow‐up surveys at 1, 12 and 18 months after the Yao'an earthquake, which had a surface wave magnitude of 6.0. They also calculated recovery ratios at different times and drew post‐earthquake domestic life recovery curves. Based on the recovery curves, the time trajectory of domestic life recovery takes on an approximate S‐type development and change process. The recovery time process of domestic life can be divided into four periods: emergency period (weeks 0–2(5)), early recovery period (weeks 2(5)–24), rapid recovery period (weeks 24–34) and late recovery period (weeks 34–60(80)).
Learning from UK disaster exercises: policy implications for effective emergency preparedness
Authors: Kim Hakkyong
Published: September 2014

With a view towards suggesting improvements to the official UK Guidance for disaster exercises, this paper critically examines a representative sample of recent disaster management exercises in the United Kingdom to determine how they are planned, conducted and assessed. Personal observations and in‐depth qualitative interviews were used to study three representative multi‐agency disaster exercises in the UK: (1) the Hitachi 395 Evacuation Workshop and Exercise Twin Bore, (2) Exercise Saxon Shore and (3) Exercise Operation Safe Return. The research demonstrates that disaster exercises in the UK generally consist of four main approaches: (1) disaster response and adaptability, (2) building‐block approach, (3) citizen participation and (4) discussion‐based debriefs. While the data demonstrates that each of these approaches has significant merit, it also elucidates key improvements that should be made to the official UK guidance and reflected in future exercises. In particular, the research suggests that the Guidance should highlight the importance of adaptability at the scene of a disaster, advance a building‐block methodology to organising exercises and reiterate the need for better debriefings of volunteer participants.
Interhemispheric functional interactions between the subthalamic nuclei of patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Hohlefeld F. U. , Huchzermeyer C. , Huebl J. , Schneider G.‐H. , Brücke C. , Schönecker T. , Kühn A. A. , Curio G. , Nikulin V. V.
Published: September 2014

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by widespread neural interactions in cortico‐basal‐ganglia networks primarily in beta oscillations (approx. 10–30 Hz), as suggested by previous findings of levodopa‐modulated interhemispheric coherence between the bilateral subthalamic nuclei (STN) in local field potential recordings (LFPs). However, due to confounding effects of volume conduction the existence of ‘genuine’ interhemispheric subcortical coherence remains an open question. To address this issue we utilized the imaginary part of coherency (iCOH) which, in contrast to the standard coherence, is not susceptible to volume conduction. LFPs were recorded from eight patients with PD during wakeful rest before and after levodopa administration. We demonstrated genuine coherence between the bilateral STN in both 10–20 and 21–30 Hz oscillations, as revealed by a non‐zero iCOH. Crucially, increased iCOH in 10–20 Hz oscillations positively correlated with the worsening of motor symptoms in the OFF medication condition across patients, which was not the case for standard coherence. Furthermore, across patients iCOH was increased after levodopa administration in 21–30 Hz oscillations. These results suggest a functional distinction between low and high beta oscillations in STN‐LFP in line with previous studies. Furthermore, the observed functional coupling between the bilateral STN might contribute to the understanding of bilateral effects of unilateral deep brain stimulation. In conclusion, the present results imply a significant contribution of time‐delayed neural interactions to interhemispheric coherence, and the clinical relevance of long‐distance neural interactions between bilateral STN for motor symptoms in PD.
Factors contributing to the yield of asymmetric bilateral implantation of intracranial electrodes
Authors: Lee Ricky W. , Mandrekar Jay , Worrell Gregory A. , Cascino Gregory D. , Wetjen Nicholas M. , Meyer Fredric B. , Wirrell Elaine C. , Marsh W. Richard , So Elson
Published: September 2014

Objective

To determine the outcome of implanting fewer electrodes over the hemisphere with less supporting presurgical localizing data.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed our epilepsy surgery database at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, between January 1, 1999, and December 31, 2011, to identify patients who had an asymmetric number of electrode contacts implanted in each hemisphere for seizure localization. We scored each presurgical noninvasive data point (0, 0.5, or 1) to predict the likelihood of identifying seizure onset in the hemisphere with fewer intracranial electrode contacts (HFEC). An aggregate score was obtained for each patient.

Results

Thirteen (37%) of 35 patients had HFEC‐onset seizures on intracranial electroencephalography (iEEG). The following factors predicted HFEC‐onset seizures: (1) temporal lobe epilepsy (p = 0.02); (2) interictal scalp electroencephalographic discharges at the HFEC (p = 0.04); and (3) both interictal and ictal scalp EEG discharges at the HFEC (p = 0.01). The median (range) aggregate score was 2 (1–3) for patients with HFEC‐onset seizures recorded on iEEG and 1 (0–3) for patients without HFEC‐onset seizures (p = 0.001). Using this scoring model, the odds ratio of identifying HFEC‐onset seizures on iEEG was 6.4 for each one‐point increment in the aggregate score. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for this model was 0.84, suggesting excellent ability of the aggregate score to discriminate between patients with and without HFEC‐onset seizures on iEEG.

Significance

Implanting electrodes on the basis of limited supporting presurgical data may be useful in selected patients, especially those with temporal lobe epilepsy, interictal scalp discharges involving the HFEC, or both interictal and ictal scalp discharges involving the HFEC. In addition, our proposed scoring system may be helpful in selecting patients with complicated epilepsy for implantation of an asymmetric number of intracranial electrodes in the hemispheres.
Prevalence and risk factors of obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia and diabetes mellitus before and after adult living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Hara Yasuyuki , Kawagishi Naoki , Nakanishi Wataru , Tokodai Kazuaki , Nakanishi Chikashi , Miyagi Shigehito , Ohuchi Noriaki
Published: September 2014

Aim

The development of metabolic abnormalities after liver transplantation (LTx) contributes to cardiovascular events and mortality. We analyzed the prevalence and risk factors of obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia and diabetes mellitus (DM) after adult living donor liver transplantation.

Methods

Fifty‐four adult recipients with a minimum follow up of 6 months receiving living donor liver transplantation between 2001 and 2012 at the Tohoku University Hospital were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The prevalence of hypertension increased from 18.5% before transplantation to 35.2% post‐transplantation, and new‐onset hypertension after transplantation was 57.9% of post‐transplant hypertension. Univariate analysis showed that risk factors of post‐transplant hypertension were age (>50 years, P = 0.0023), pretransplant body mass index (BMI) of 25 or more (P = 0.0123), pretransplant hypertension (P = 0.0012) and cyclosporin A (61.5% vs tacrolimus 25.0%, P = 0.0248). The incidence of obesity, dyslipidemia and DM did not change from before to after transplantation. LTx was curative in 77.8% of cases of pretransplant dyslipidemia and 20% of cases of pretransplant DM. Primary biliary cirrhosis cases comprised 85.7% of cases of pretransplant dyslipidemia that were cured by LTx. In univariate analysis, pretransplant BMI of 25 or more was the only risk factor of post‐transplant dyslipidemia (P = 0.0098). The incidence of new‐onset DM after transplantation was 20%. Risk factors of post‐transplant DM were male sex (P = 0.0156), pretransplant DM (P < 0.0001), alcohol abuse (P = 0.0248) and mycophenolate mofetil (P = 0.0181) by univariate analysis.

Conclusion

The prevalence of hypertension increased after LTx and pretransplant obesity was associated with several post‐transplant metabolic abnormalities.
Compromise and attraction effects in food choice
Authors: Carroll Ryall , Vallen Beth
Published: September 2014

Food choices are being implicated as a key driver in the rising rates of obesity, as well as associated with other health problems that impact both individuals and society as a whole (Cawley and Meyerhoefer). Calorie listings, whether provided on menus or packaged goods, increase consumer's awareness of the calories in potential food choices and, as a result, make consumers more likely to evaluate a product relative to others in the choice set based on this attribute (e.g. choosing a higher or lower calorie option). In this research, we explore whether the provision of calorie information, when presented in the context of other food options, will result in (1) compromise effects, whereby individuals select intermediate (or middle) options in a choice set, and (2) attraction effects, whereby individuals gravitate towards items that are similar to others but also dominate these items in the choice set. In two experimental studies we find evidence for the compromise effect and the attraction effect. These findings extend work demonstrating that the context in which food decisions occur can impact choice, and builds on existing knowledge regarding the consequences of providing calorie information for food items. Although most work has shown that making calories salient has a beneficial impact on the accuracy of consumer calorie estimates and food choice, in this work we show that the compromise and attraction effects – two well‐established findings in decision‐making literature – can actually shift consumers to either higher or lower calorie options. This carries important implications for consumers making choices in information‐rich choice environments.
Does a money‐is‐all attitude cause alienation? A cross‐cultural comparison of Korea, the US and Sweden
Authors: Kim Sunwoo
Published: September 2014

Money is increasingly being attributed more value in society, although a money‐is‐all attitude decreases social relationships and increases alienation in modern, industrialized societies. This research investigated the influence of this money‐is‐all attitude on alienation based on a cross‐cultural comparison of Korea, the US and Sweden. The money‐is‐all attitude was defined as a perspective in which money is regarded as an indicator of achievement or success.

Self‐administered online surveys were conducted with consumers ranging between the ages of 20 to 49 in Korea, the US and Sweden. The money‐is‐all attitude and alienation seemed to be more pervasive in Korea than in the US or Sweden. The money‐is‐all attitude was the factor with the strongest influence on alienation when controlling for socio‐demographic factors. Furthermore, participation in sports activities was an important factor in decreasing alienation levels. The findings of this research imply that materialistic ways of thinking increase alienation and that money cannot contribute to human happiness and well‐being. In addition, active participation in social activities can decrease alienation.

The research results suggest that a materialistic, money‐is‐all attitude negatively influences alienation across cultures; in addition, in the US, an affluent consumption‐based country, the money‐is‐all attitude had more explanatory power for alienation than in Sweden and Korea. A change in values to overcome the money‐is‐all attitude is required and the concepts of sufficiency and mindfulness are suggested as alternative life perspectives for the pursuit of well‐being.
Renal parenchymal histopathology predicts life‐threatening chronic kidney disease as a result of radical nephrectomy
Authors: Sejima Takehiro , Honda Masashi , Takenaka Atsushi
Published: September 2014

The preoperative prediction of post‐radical nephrectomy renal insufficiency plays an important role in the decision‐making process regarding renal surgery options. Furthermore, the prediction of both postoperative renal insufficiency and postoperative cardiovascular disease occurrence, which is suggested to be an adverse consequence caused by renal insufficiency, contributes to the preoperative policy decision as well as the precise informed consent for a renal cell carcinoma patient. Preoperative nomograms for the prediction of post‐radical nephrectomy renal insufficiency, calculated using patient backgrounds, are advocated. The use of these nomograms together with other types of nomograms predicting oncological outcome is beneficial. Post‐radical nephrectomy attending physicians can predict renal insufficiency based on the normal renal parenchymal pathology in addition to preoperative patient characteristics. It is suggested that a high level of global glomerulosclerosis in nephrectomized normal renal parenchyma is closely associated with severe renal insufficiency. Some studies showed that post‐radical nephrectomy severe renal insufficiency might have an association with increased mortality as a result of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, such pathophysiology should be recognized as life‐threatening, surgically‐related chronic kidney disease. On the contrary, the investigation of the prediction of mild post‐radical nephrectomy renal insufficiency, which is not related to adverse consequences in the postoperative long‐term period, is also promising because the prediction of mild renal insufficiency might be the basis for the substitution of radical nephrectomy for nephron‐sparing surgery in technically difficult or compromised cases. The deterioration of quality of life caused by post‐radical nephrectomy renal insufficiency should be investigated in conjunction with life‐threatening matters.
The missing component in rail charging modeling—access charges principle selection
Authors: Bugarinović Mirjana , Dimitrijević Branka , Bošković Branislav
Published: September 2014

The motive of this research is the fact that until now no universal model of access charges (AC) has been defined. In the process of modeling, the AC principle is one of the key elements for defining the AC. In this paper, a model for the AC principle selection based on the analytic network process (ANP) approach is proposed. The developed model presents the objectives of the identified stakeholders through the established criteria from three different perspectives: the government influence, railway market environment, and efficiency of network use. Based on the results of a research, network structure of the ANP method can successfully resolve the dependence and conflicts among evaluation criteria for the AC principle selection. The proposed ANP‐based model can become a tool for evaluation and ranking of the AC principle as shown in the case study of the Serbian Railways. This paper is based on real data.
Maximum cut‐clique problem: ILS heuristics and a data analysis application
Authors: Martins Pedro , Ladrón Antonio , Ramalhinho Helena
Published: September 2014

This paper focuses on iterated local search heuristics for the maximum cut‐clique (MCC, or clique neighborhood) problem. Given an undirected graph G = (V,E) and a clique C of G, the cut‐clique is the set of edges running between C and V\C, establishing the cut (C,V\C). The MCC in G is to find a clique with the largest number of edges in the neighborhood of the clique, also known as the maximum edge‐neighborhood clique. This problem has been recently introduced in the literature together with a number of applications, namely, in cell biology instances. However, it has only been addressed so far by exact methods.
In this paper, we introduce the first approximate algorithms for tackling the MCC problem, compare the results with the exact methodologies, and explore a new application within marketing analysis, which provide a new alternative perspective for mining market basket problems.
Three Layer Perovskite‐Like Structured Pr3Ti2TaO11Ferroelectrics with Super‐High Curie Point
Authors: Chen Chen , Jiang Qinghui , Wei Xiaoyong , Abrahams Isaac , Yan Haixue , Reece Mike J.
Published: September 2014

Pr3Ti2TaO11was prepared by co‐precipitation and subsequent solid‐state reaction at 1300°C. The compound has a perovskite‐like layered structure belonging to space groupPmc21with unit cell parametersa = 3.8689(3) Å,b = 20.389(2) Å,c = 5.5046(5) Å. Second harmonic generation results confirm the structure ofPr3Ti2TaO11as being noncentrosymmetric. Dense and textured ceramics were prepared by spark plasma sintering. Analysis of theX‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy results showed thatPr3Ti2TaO11ceramics have ann = 3 (type II) heteroblock structure consisting of alternatingn = 2 and 4 octahedral oxide layers. High‐resolution electron microscopy revealed the layered structure to be highly disordered, with faulting of the heteroblock structure and the coexistence of an = 4 phase on a fine scale (nm), which was evident as a broadening of theX‐ray diffraction peaks of the ceramics.Pr3Ti2TaO11ceramic exhibits a super‐high Curie point (1415 ± 5°C). A small, but measurable piezoelectric constantd33between 0.1 and 0.2 pC/N was detected for the samples poled above 900°C under an electric field of 100–200 V/cm.
‘It's One of the Hardest Jobs in the World’: The Experience and Understanding of Qualified Nurses Who Work with Individuals Diagnosed with Both Learning Disability and Personality Disorder
Authors: Lee Amy , Kiemle Gundi
Published: September 2014

Background

This study examines the experiences of qualified nurses working with individuals diagnosed with both intellectual disability and personality disorder (PD) in a medium‐secure forensic intellectual disability setting. Potential training needs are highlighted, as well as other ways in which services could better support staff to work effectively with this client group.

Method

In‐depth, semi‐structured interviews were used to explore the nine participants’ experiences; the narratives were analysed with interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA).

Results

Four master themes emerged from (i) disorder overriding disability; (ii) resilience; (iii) ambivalence towards label and (iv) knowledge.

Conclusion

The findings highlight that for these participants, the clients' intellectual disability appeared to be lost under the complexity of the PD diagnosis. The clinical implications are discussed in terms of developing training, supervision and support.
Greenhouse Gas Emission Estimates of U.S. Dietary Choices and Food Loss
Authors: Heller Martin C. , Keoleian Gregory A.
Published: September 2014

Dietary behavioral choices have a strong effect on the environmental impact associated with the food system. Here, we consider the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with production of food that is lost at the retail and consumer level, as well as the potential effects on GHG emissions of a shift to dietary recommendations. Calculations are based on the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) food availability data set and literature meta‐analysis of emission factors for various food types. Food losses contribute 1.4 kilograms (kg) carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2‐eq) capita−1day−1 (28%) to the overall carbon footprint of the average U.S. diet; in total, this is equivalent to the emissions of 33 million average passenger vehicles annually. Whereas beef accounts for only 4% of the retail food supply by weight, it represents 36% of the diet‐related GHG emissions. An iso‐caloric shift from the current average U.S. diet to USDA dietary recommendations could result in a 12% increase in diet‐related GHG emissions, whereas a shift that includes a decrease in caloric intake, based on the needs of the population (assuming moderate activity), results in a small (1%) decrease in diet‐related GHG emissions. These findings emphasize the need to consider environmental costs of food production in formulating recommended food patterns.