bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proton pump inhibitor treatment is associated with the severity of liver disease and increased mortality in patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Dultz G. , Piiper A. , Zeuzem S. , Kronenberger B. , Waidmann O.
Published: December 2014

Background

Proton pump inhibitors (PPI) are widely used in patients with liver diseases. Within the last years, there have been concerns about the PPI use as they may promote infections in patients with cirrhosis.

Aim

As there are sparse data of the prognostic relevance of PPI treatment, to perform a prospective study investigating the relation of PPI treatment and overall survival (OS) in cirrhotic individuals.

Methods

Patients with cirrhosis were enrolled and followed prospectively. The primary end point was OS. PPI treatment and additional clinical and laboratory data were assessed at the day of the study inclusion. The time until the end point death was assessed and the individual risks were calculated with Cox regression analyses.

Results

A total of 272 patients were included and 213 individuals (78.3%) were on PPI treatment. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, PPI treatment was associated with higher MELD scores (P = 0.027) and ascites (P = 0.039). In a multivariate Cox regression model, PPI use was an independent predictor of mortality (hazard ratio 2.330, 95% confidence interval 1.264–4.296, P = 0.007) in addition to the model of end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score, hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatic decompensation.

Conclusions

PPI use is an independent risk factor for mortality in patients with cirrhosis. Although a causative role for increased mortality in patients taking PPI is still missing, the prescription of PPI in cirrhotics should be considered carefully taking into account its potential adverse effects.
Corporate Cash Holding in Asia
Authors: Horioka Charles Yuji , Terada‐Hagiwara Akiko
Published: December 2014

In this paper, we analyze the determinants of corporate saving in the form of changes in cash holdings for 11 Asian economies using firm‐level data from the Oriana Database for the 2002–2011 period. We find some evidence that cash flow has a positive impact on the change in cash holdings (i.e. that the cash flow sensitivity of cash is positive) and that the positive impact of cash flow on the change in cash holdings is larger and more significant in the case of smaller and presumably more constrained firms than in the case of larger and presumably less constrained firms in both developed and developing economies. Both of these findings corroborate the importance of financial constraints in Asian firms. In addition, we find that the cash flow sensitivity of cash declined after the global financial crisis and that Tobin's q has a positive impact on the change in cash holdings, especially in the case of larger and presumably unconstrained firms.
Empirical Research in Continuous Disclosure
Authors: Di Lernia Cary
Published: December 2014

Empirical analysis has much to offer the world of continuous disclosure, and with the emergence of larger datasets on which to perform such analyses empirical studies have begun to bear some interesting fruit. This commentary discusses recent work and areas for future development in this space.
Review of Post‐CLERP 9 Australian Auditor Independence Research
Authors: Carey Peter John , Monroe Gary S. , Shailer Greg
Published: December 2014

The Corporate Law Economic Reform Program (Audit Reform & Corporate Disclosure) Act 2004 (CLERP 9) added substantial new provisions pertaining to auditor independence, and followed in the wake of financial reporting scandals during 2000 to 2003. Many of the regulatory changes were framed in the earlier Ramsay Report, which drew on independence concerns raised in the academic literature. This review paper reviews Australian academic research investigating auditor independence, framed by our conceptual understanding of auditor independence, to assess what we have learned about the impact of CLERP 9 on auditor independence. Our review of Australian auditor independence research published post‐CLERP 9 reveals little evidence of the impact of the regulatory changes on auditor behaviour (independence in fact) and perceptions (independence in appearance). We conclude there are substantial needs for further research on the impact of the CLERP 9 amendments on auditor independence and any enduring independence issues. We identify particular areas for future research that may better inform policy development and argue that the prospect of high‐quality relevant research will increase if regulatory agencies, the accounting profession and audit practitioners engage more with academics in the research process. We identify several ways in which this might occur.
The financial benefits of a firm's affiliation with the UN Global Compact
Authors: Coulmont Michel , Berthelot Sylvie
Published: December 2014

Since it was first introduced 13 years ago in 2000, the UN Global Compact has become the world's largest voluntary corporate responsibility initiative. The benefits for companies that have voluntarily affiliated with the UN Global Compact have been little documented from an empirical perspective, especially regarding the integration of this information by capital markets. This study attempts to address this question, drawing on a sample of French companies listed on the SBF 250 index. Results suggest that, within the French context at least, investors significantly value a firm's affiliation with the UN Global Compact. In addition, the firms affiliated are those that appear to present the least risk.
Psychological Aspects of Individualized Choice and Reproductive Autonomy in Prenatal Screening
Authors: Hewison Jenny
Published: December 2014

Probably the main purpose of reproductive technologies is to enable people who choose to do so to avoid the birth of a baby with a disabling condition. However the conditions women want information about and the ‘price’ they are willing to pay for obtaining that information vary enormously. Individual women have to arrive at their own prenatal testing choices by ‘trading off’ means and ends in order to resolve the dilemmas facing them. We know very little about how individuals make these trade‐offs, so it is difficult to predict how new technologies will affect their choices and preferences. Uptake decisions can be expected to change, especially in the group of women who now are put off by some aspect of the current screening approach, where the avoidance of miscarriage risk may have provided a kind of ‘psychological shelter’, protecting a lot of people from having to make other decisions. Technologies such as Pre‐implantation Genetic Diagnosis may remove a second ‘psychological shelter’ because they offer the means of avoiding the birth of an affected child without terminating a pregnancy.

Even if new technologies will make some decisions easier in terms of their cognitive demands, they will also create new dilemmas and decision making will not necessarily become less stressful in emotional terms. Key challenges concern information and decision‐making.
Structural apelin analogues: mitochondrial ROS inhibition and cardiometabolic protection in myocardial ischaemia reperfusion injury
Authors: Pisarenko Oleg , Shulzhenko Valentin , Studneva Irina , Pelogeykina Yulia , Timoshin Alexander , Anesia Rodica , Valet Philippe , Parini Angelo , Kunduzova Oksana
Published: December 2014

Background and Purpose

Mitochondria‐derived oxidative stress is believed to be crucially involved in cardiac ischaemia reperfusion (I/R) injury, although currently no therapies exist that specifically target mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The present study was designed to evaluate the potential effects of the structural analogues of apelin‐12, an adipocyte‐derived peptide, on mitochondrial ROS generation, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and metabolic and functional recovery to myocardial I/R injury.

Experimental Approach

In cultured H9C2 cardiomyoblasts and adult cardiomyocytes, oxidative stress was induced by hypoxia reoxygenation. Isolated rat hearts were subjected to 35 min of global ischaemia and 30 min of reperfusion. Apelin‐12, apelin‐13 and structural apelin‐12 analogues, AI and AII, were infused during 5 min prior to ischaemia.

Key Results

In cardiac cells, mitochondrial ROS production was inhibited by the structural analogues of apelin, AI and AII, in comparison with the natural peptides, apelin‐12 and apelin‐13. Treatment of cardiomyocytes with AI and AII decreased cell apoptosis concentration‐dependently. In a rat model of I/R injury, pre‐ischaemic infusion of AI and AII markedly reduced ROS formation in the myocardial effluent and attenuated cell membrane damage. Prevention of oxidative damage by AI and AII was associated with the improvement of functional and metabolic recovery after I/R in the heart.

Conclusions and Implications

These data provide the evidence for the potential of the structural apelin analogues in selective reduction of mitochondrial ROS generation and myocardial apoptosis and form the basis for a promising therapeutic strategy in the treatment of oxidative stress‐related heart disease.
Steric parameters, molecular modeling and hydropathic interaction analysis of the pharmacology of para‐substituted methcathinone analogues
Authors: Sakloth F , Kolanos R , Mosier P D , Bonano J S , Banks M L , Partilla J S , Baumann M H , Negus S S , Glennon R A
Published: December 2014

Background and Purpose

There is growing concern over the abuse of certain psychostimulant methcathinone (MCAT) analogues. This study extends an initial quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) investigation that demonstrated important steric considerations of seven 4‐ (or para‐)substituted analogues of MCAT. Specifically, the steric character (Taft's steric ES) of the 4‐position substituent affected in vitro potency to induce monoamine release via dopamine and 5‐HT transporters (DAT and SERT) and in vivo modulation of intracranial self‐stimulation (ICSS). Here, we have assessed the effects of other steric properties of the 4‐position substituents.

Experimental Approach

Definitive steric parameters that more explicitly focus on the volume, width and length of the MCAT 4‐position substituents were assessed. In addition, homology models of human DAT and human SERT based upon the crystallized Drosophila DAT were constructed and docking studies were performed, followed by hydropathic interaction (HINT) analysis of the docking results.

Key Results

The potency of seven MCAT analogues at DAT was negatively correlated with the volume and maximal width of their 4‐position substituents, whereas potency at SERT increased as substituent volume and length increased. SERT/DAT selectivity, as well as abuse‐related drug effects in the ICSS procedure, also correlated with the same parameters. Docking solutions offered a means of visualizing these findings.

Conclusions and Implications

These results suggest that steric aspects of the 4‐position substituents of MCAT analogues are key determinants of their action and selectivity, and that the hydrophobic nature of these substituents is involved in their potency at SERT.
Synergistic anti‐tumour effects of tetrandrine and chloroquine combination therapy in human cancer: a potential antagonistic role for p21
Authors: Mei Liufeng , Chen Yicheng , Wang Zhimeng , Wang Jian , Wan Jiali , Yu Chunrong , Liu Xin , Li Wenhua
Published: December 2014

Background and Purpose

Tetrandrine, a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid isolated from the Chinese medicinal herb Stephaniae tetrandrae, has a long history in Chinese clinical applications to treat diverse diseases. Tetrandrine induced apoptosis or, at low concentrations, autophagy of human hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Here we have tested the effects of inhibitors of autophagy such as chloroquine, on the response to low concentrations of tetrandrine in cancer cells.

Experimental Approach

Cultures of several cancer cell lines, including Huh7, U251, HCT116 and A549 cells, were exposed to tetrandrine, chloroquine or a combination of these compounds. Cell viability and content of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured and synergy assessed by calculation of the combination index. Western blot and RT‐PCR assays were also used along with fluorescence microscopy and histochemical techniques.

Key Results

Combinations of tetrandrine and chloroquine were more cytotoxic than the same concentrations used separately and these effects showed synergy. Such effects involved increased ROS generation and were dependent on caspase‐3 but independent of Akt activity. Blockade of tetrandrine‐induced autophagy with 3‐methyladenine or bafilomycin‐A1 induced apoptosis in cancer cells. Lack of p21 protein (p21−/− HCT116 cells) increased sensitivity to the apoptotic effects of the combination of tetrandrine and chloroquine. In a tumour xenograft model in mice, combined treatment with tetrandrine and chloroquine induced ROS accumulation and cell apoptosis, and decreased tumour growth.

Conclusions and Implications

The combinations of tetrandrine and chloroquine exhibited synergistic anti‐tumour activity, in vitro and in vivo. Our results suggest a novel therapeutic strategy for tumour treatment.
Open to a Select Few? Matching Partners and Knowledge Content for Open Innovation Performance
Authors: Bengtsson Lars , Lakemond Nicolette , Lazzarotti Valentina , Manzini Raffaella , Pellegrini Luisa , Tell Fredrik
Published: December 2014

The purpose of the paper is to illuminate the costs and benefits of crossing firm boundaries in inbound open innovation (OI) by determining the relationships among partner types, knowledge content and performance. The empirical part of the study is based on a survey of OI collaborations answered by R&D managers in 415 Italian, Finnish and Swedish firms. The results show that the depth of collaboration with different partners (academic/consultants, value chain partners, competitors and firms in other industries) is positively related to innovation performance, whereas the number of different partners and size have negative effects. The main result is that the knowledge content of the collaboration moderates the performance outcomes and the negative impact of having too many different kinds of partners. This illustrates how successful firms use selective collaboration strategies characterized by linking explorative and exploitative knowledge content to specific partners, to leverage the benefits and limit the costs of knowledge boundary crossing processes.
Modifications of Recognition Memory Processes in Preterm Children: An Event‐Related Potential Study
Authors: Kipp Kerstin H. , Mecklinger Axel , Brunnemann Nicole , Shamdeen Mohammed G. , Meng‐Hentschel Juliane , Gortner Ludwig
Published: December 2014

Prematurity may cause hippocampal compromise. Therefore, hippocampus‐dependent memory processes (recollection‐based retrieval) may be more impaired than hippocampus‐independent processes (familiarity‐based retrieval). The memory of 18 children born preterm with reduced hippocampal volumes, without neonatal complications (weeks of gestation < 34, weight < 1,600 g), and 15 controls (8–10 years) was tested using an item recognition task. While groups were equal in memory performance, dissociation was found: The event‐related potential (ERP) correlate of familiarity was intact in the preterm group, whereas the correlate of recollection was attenuated. A follow‐up experiment ruled out that this was due to general cognitive deficits. Furthermore, gestational age correlated with the ERP index of recollection. Thus, recognition memory in preterm children may be characterized by a compensation of attenuated recollection by familiarity.
Should aldosterone suppression tests be conducted during a particular phase of the menstrual cycle, and, if so, which phase? Results of a preliminary study
Authors: Ahmed Ashraf H. , Gordon Richard D. , Ward Gregory , Wolley Martin , Kogovsek Cynthia , Stowasser Michael
Published: December 2014

Background

As renin and aldosterone levels vary during the menstrual cycle, and are critical criteria for interpretation of aldosterone suppression tests to confirm or exclude primary aldosteronism, outcome of testing may vary depending on the menstrual cycle phase. We assessed the effect of timing within the menstrual cycle on levels of renin, aldosterone and female sex steroids during fludrocortisone suppression testing (FST).

Methods

In 22 women undergoing FST who experienced regular menstrual cycles, renin (measured as both plasma renin activity and direct renin concentration), aldosterone (mass spectrometry) and cortisol, progesterone, oestradiol, LH and FSH (immunoassay) levels were compared, relative to phase of cycle. Aldosterone levels were compared to those in age‐matched males undergoing FST.

Results

Progesterone (P < 0·0001) and aldosterone (P = 0·006) levels were higher in nine women (after one of 10 was excluded with anovulatory cycle) studied during the luteal phase than in the 12 studied during the follicular phase. All studied during the luteal phase had positive FST, and all three with negative FST were studied during the follicular phase. There were no significant differences in other parameters measured except FSH, which was higher (P = 0·02) during the follicular phase. Aldosterone was higher (P = 0·01) in women studied in the luteal (but not follicular) phase compared to men.

Conclusion

The menstrual cycle may affect the outcome of FST and other suppression testing used to diagnose primary aldosteronism. Larger patient numbers and preferably restudy of the same patient in both phases should clarify this and determine the optimum time in the cycle for testing.
Resonance frequency analysis of implants placed with osteotome sinus floor elevation in posterior maxillae
Authors: Qian Shu‐Jiao , Gu Ying‐Xin , Mo Jia‐Ji , Qiao Shi‐Chong , Zhuang Long‐Fei , Lai Hong‐Chang
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To test the reliability and validity of implant stability quotient (ISQ) values used for assessment of the condition of bone‐to‐implant interface in the osteotome sinus floor elevation (OSFE) model and to evaluate the influence of residual bone height (RBH) on ISQ values.

Material and methods

Forty‐six Straumann® tissue‐level SLA implants (Φ4.8 mm*8 mm, wide neck, standard plus) placed in 39 patients applying OSFE without grafting were included in the study. Patients were assigned to three groups based on the RBH with one implant per patient randomly chosen: (1) 2 ≤ RBH < 4 mm (n = 14); (2) 4 ≤ RBH < 6 mm (n = 15); (3) 6 ≤ RBH < 8 mm (n = 10). ISQ values were determined with Osstell ISQ® at 0, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 weeks postoperation. The reliability of RFA measurements was tested by the degree of dispersion of ISQ values at each time point, and the validity was tested by linear correlation between ISQ and RBH. ISQ values were then compared among groups at all observed time points.

Results

The implants achieved a mean ISQ value of 63.6 immediately after surgery and reached a higher ISQ level of 70 after 20 weeks with a dip at 4 weeks. A higher degree of dispersion of ISQ values was observed immediately after surgery compared to the other time points. No significant correlations were found between RBH and ISQ values and no significant difference in ISQ values among groups at all the time points.

Conclusion

Within the limits of the study, it may be implied that ISQ values are not able to assess the condition of bone‐to‐implant interface and the role of single RFA measurement in determining loading protocol is questionable.
The Challenges of Red Wolf Conservation and the Fate of an Endangered Species Recovery Program
Authors: Murray Dennis L. , Bastille‐Rousseau Guillaume , Adams Jennifer R. , Waits Lisette P.
Published: December 2014

Endangered red wolves (Canis rufus) receive intense conservation efforts in the United States, and to date, population recovery has been challenged by hybridization with closely related coyotes (C. latrans) and illegal human‐caused mortality. Ongoing review of the red wolf program in the single recovery area in North Carolina prompted us to compare demography (survival, recruitment) and cause of death of red wolves and coyotes/hybrids. In most respects, canids had similar demographic rates, although sterilization was effective in controlling coyote reproduction. Comparison of previous (1999‐2007) to contemporary (2009‐2014) causes of death revealed that shooting mortality consistently accounted for ∼25% of wolf mortality. As evidenced by the lack of coyote deaths from strife with wolves, and stationary/declining wolf numbers during the last 15 years, current conditions are inadequate to establish a viable self‐sustaining wolf population. Accordingly, the program review should determine whether: (1) banning coyote hunting will sufficiently benefit wolf survival or recruitment; (2) the wolf population should be considered conservation‐reliant under revised recovery goals; or (3) the recovery program in North Carolina should be abandoned.
Geographic differences in the associations between impaired glucose regulation and cardiovascular risk factors among young adults
Authors: Oya J. , Vistisen D. , Christensen D. L. , Faurholt‐Jepsen D. , Mohan V. , Ramachandran A. , Chew S. K. H. , Shaw J. E. , Jørgensen M. E.
Published: December 2014

Aims

To assess geographic differences in the association between BMI, blood pressure and lipid levels with impaired glucose regulation among young adults from various geographical regions.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study including data from 6987 participants aged ≤ 30 years from India, Singapore, Australia, Greenland, Kenya and Tanzania. Impaired glucose regulation was determined by the 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test. For each geographical region, BMI, blood pressure and lipids were examined and compared between participants with normal glucose tolerance and those with impaired glucose regulation. Multiple logistic regression models were used to assess the association between risk factors and impaired glucose regulation.

Results

Indian and East African people had a higher prevalence of impaired glucose regulation compared with participants from other regions, despite their lower BMI. Compared with the other regions, blood pressure was lower among Indian and Singaporean people but higher in those from Greenland. Greenlanders had the highest, while Indian and East‐African people, had the lowest level of HDL cholesterol. BMI was positively associated with impaired glucose regulation in all regions, and there were no statistically significant geographic differences. In the Indian, Singaporean and Australian participants, there was a positive association between blood pressure and impaired glucose regulation. Triglycerides were positively associated with and HDL cholesterol had no association with impaired glucose regulation in all geographical regions.

Conclusions

Higher BMI and triglyceride levels were positively associated with prevalent impaired glucose regulation in all geographical regions. There were geographic differences in the association between impaired glucose regulation and blood pressure and lipids, probably reflecting environmental and genetic factors.
Anagliptin and sitagliptin as add‐ons to metformin for patients with type 2 diabetes: a 24‐week, multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, active‐controlled, phase III clinical trial with a 28‐week extension
Authors: Jin S.‐M. , Park S. W. , Yoon K.‐H. , Min K. W. , Song K.‐H. , Park K. S. , Park J.‐Y. , Park I. B. , Chung C. H. , Baik S. H. , Choi S. H. , Lee H. W. , Lee I.‐K. , Kim D.‐M. , Lee M.‐K.
Published: December 2014

We conducted a 24‐week, multicentre, double‐blind, randomized study with a 28‐week extension to compare the efficacy and safety of anagliptin and sitagliptin as an add‐on to metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes. Patients inadequately controlled on metformin were randomized to either anagliptin (100 mg twice daily, n = 92) or sitagliptin (100 mg once daily, n = 88). The primary endpoint was the change in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) from baseline to week 24. The mean changes in HbA1c were −0.85 ± 0.70% (p < 0.0001) for anagliptin and −0.83 ± 0.61% (p < 0.0001) for sitagliptin, with a mean difference of −0.02% (95% confidence interval of difference, −0.22 to 0.18%). In both groups, the fasting proinsulin : insulin ratio significantly decreased from baseline, with improved insulin secretion. Safety profiles were similar in each group. In conclusion, the non‐inferiority of the efficacy of anagliptin to sitagliptin as an add‐on therapy was established with regard to efficacy and safety.
EMPLOYMENT DYNAMICS OF IMMIGRANTS VERSUS NATIVES: EVIDENCE FROM THE BOOM‐BUST PERIOD IN SPAIN, 2000–2011
Authors: Carrasco Raquel , García‐Pérez J. Ignacio
Published: December 2014

This article studies whether the durations in unemployment and employment for immigrants and natives respond differently to changes in economic conditions and to the receipt of unemployment benefits. Using Spanish administrative data for the period 2000–2011, we estimate multi‐spell duration models that disentangle unobserved heterogeneity from true duration dependence. Our findings suggest that immigrants are more sensitive to changes in economic conditions both in terms of unemployment and employment hazards. The effect of the business cycle is not constant but decreases with duration at a higher rate among immigrants. We provide evidence that the higher job separation rates and lower capital‐labor complementarity of immigrants are mechanisms that are possibly compatible with these results. We also find evidence of a disincentive effect of unemployment benefits on unemployment duration, which is stronger for immigrants, but only at the beginning of the unemployment spell, especially under good economic conditions. Finally, unemployment benefits increase job match quality only for native workers with temporary contracts. (JELJ64, J61, C23, C41, J65)
Social Context Modulates Predator Evasion Strategy In Guppies
Authors: Fischer Eva K. , Schwartz Adina J. , Hoke Kim L. , Soares Daphne
Published: December 2014

Social context is a powerful mediator of behavioral decisions across animal taxa, as the presence of conspecifics comes with both costs and benefits. In risky situations, the safety conferred by the presence of conspecifics can outweigh the costs of competition for resources. How the costs and benefits of grouping influence decisions among alternative antipredator behaviors remains largely unexplored. We took advantage of the Trinidadian guppy (Poecilia reticulata) to examine the influence of social context on alternative behavioral responses to threats. We compared the frequency of active (startle) versus passive (freeze) responses to sudden acoustic stimuli in the presence and absence of conspecifics. We found that fish were relatively less likely to startle and more likely to freeze when in a group than when alone, indicating that immediate social context modulates predator evasion strategy in guppies. We suggest that these social context‐dependent changes reflect trade‐offs between survival and energy expenditure. To our knowledge, an effect of immediate social environment on startle probability has not been previously demonstrated in a teleost.
Radio Geopolitics
Authors: Weir Patrick
Published: December 2014

Radio is a central technology in both the production and maintenance of the modern world. It continues to be, though, both a medium and a force, not only accessible to the senses but also largely insensible. This article seeks to draw together and reconceptualise geographical approaches to the role of radio in geopolitics. The article proceeds in three sections: The first seeks to briefly situate radio within the broader context of geopolitics and technology. The second shows how the geopolitical status of radio has always been characterised by a shifting topography of human and non‐human elements. The final section looks to the nascent literature on assemblage within geopolitics and international relations that argues for the importance of non‐human objects, infrastructures and forces in the study of geopolitics and, drawing on my own work, offers some speculations as to how research into radio might be conducted in the light of these theoretical developments.
Civic Design: Incorporating Urbanity and Sustainability from the Roots of Chilean Society
Authors: Inzulza‐Contardo Jorge , Cruz‐Gambardella Camilo
Published: December 2014

Good city making is defined as a practice that incorporate citizens and civic life as essential variables, in order to rebuild the idea that the city is one of the structural elements that support society as a construct. However, the accelerated changes that many cities in the world have undergone during the past 40 years, have contributed to detract value from urbanity and sustainability as two fundamental aspects of civic life and compromising the role that the city used to play in the development of communal life. This article discusses the ways in which cities are being developed today focusing on the standardisation of urban production undertaken with consequential impact on the socio spatial structure. The main components of civic design are defined and the relationship with the concept of neighbourhood as a primary unit of urban intervention on multiple levels. Empirically, contemporary urban development and growth dynamics resulting from the paradigm shift that the city of Santiago, Chile has undergone since the second half of the 20th century, are critically discussed using Independencia and San Miguel as two key inner neighbourhoods. Finally, reflections on how to address the most relevant aspects of this accelerated socio spatial change through civic design are given as a way to recover the sense of urbanity and sustainability and then reincorporating them to the structure of society.
Imagining a Critical Geopolitical Cartography
Authors: Moore Anna W. , Perdue Nicholas A.
Published: December 2014

While maps have long been influential in the dissemination of geopolitical ideas, the critical geopolitical project often frames maps as evidence of the discourse it seeks to displace. As a result, very few maps appear on the pages of the field's most prominent journals. This paper explores this phenomenon and argues that novel approaches to mapping may actually strengthen critical geopolitical scholarship. We argue that scholars can learn much from contemporary approaches in critical cartography to provide geopolitical analysis with new, informative visualizations. We demonstrate this argument with an alternative cartographic representation of Kashmir. This paper makes two key contributions to critical geopolitics: (i) that alternative cartographic representations are well suited to aid in critiques of normative geopolitical ideas and (ii) that the map presented in this paper is but one way to illustrate emerging critical geopolitical scripts. Our hope is that this brief intervention to ‘take back the map’ will encourage like‐minded scholars to (re)consider the merits of maps in articulating geopolitical narratives.
Pharmacological Trials in Migraine: It's Time to Reappraise Where the Headache Is and What the Pain Is Like
Authors: Barbanti Piero , Egeo Gabriella
Published: December 2014

Most pharmacological trials deal with migraine as if it were a clinically homogeneous disease, and when detailing its characteristics, they usually report only the presence, or absence, of aura and attack frequency but provide no information on pain location, a non‐trivial clinical detail. The past decade has witnessed growing emerging evidence suggesting that individuals with unilateral pain, especially those with associated unilateral cranial autonomic symptoms, are more responsive than others to trigeminal‐targeted symptomatic and preventive therapy with drugs such as triptans or botulinum toxin. A simple way for migraine research treatment to take a step forward might be to step back, reappraise, and critically evaluate easily obtainable patient‐reported clinical findings along with current knowledge on pain features.
Time to initiation of antiretroviral therapy in HIV‐infected patients diagnosed with an opportunistic disease: a cohort study
Authors: Deconinck L , Yazdanpanah Y , Gilson RJ , Melliez H , Viget N , Joly V , Sabin CA
Published: December 2014

Objectives

The aim of the study was to identify factors associated with the time between opportunistic disease (OD) diagnosis and antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation in HIV‐infected patients presenting for care with an OD, and to evaluate the outcomes associated with any delay.

Methods

A multicentre cohort study was undertaken in London, Paris and Lille/Tourcoing. The medical records of patients diagnosed from 2002 to 2012 were reviewed.

Results

A total of 437 patients were enrolled in the study: 70% were male, the median age was 40 years, 42% were from sub‐Saharan Africa, 68% were heterosexual, the median CD4 count was 40 cells/μL, and the most common ODs were Pneumocystis pneumonia (37%), tuberculosis (24%), toxoplasmosis (12%) and Kaposi's sarcoma (11%). Of these patients, 400 (92%) started ART within 24 weeks after HIV diagnosis, with a median time from OD diagnosis to ART initiation of 30 [interquartile range (IQR) 16–58] days. Patients diagnosed between 2009 and 2012 had a shorter time to ART initiation than those diagnosed in earlier years [hazard ratio (HR) 2.07; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.58–2.72]. Factors associated with a longer time to ART initiation were a CD4 count ≥ 200 cells/μL (HR 0.30; 95% CI 0.20–0.44), tuberculosis (HR 0.40; 95% CI 0.30–0.55) and diagnosis in London (HR 0.62; 95% CI 0.48–0.80). Patients initiating ‘deferred’ ART (by ≥ 30 days) exhibited no difference in disease progression or immunovirological response compared with patients who had shorter times to ART initiation. Patients in the ‘deferred’ group were less likely to have ART modifications (HR 0.69; 95% CI 0.48–1.00) and had shorter in‐patient stays (mean 14.2 days shorter; 95% CI 8.9–19.5 days) than patients in the group whose ART was not deferred.

Conclusions

The time between OD diagnosis and ART initiation remains heterogeneous and relatively long, particularly in individuals with a high CD4 count or tuberculosis or those diagnosed in London. Deferring ART was associated with fewer ART modifications and shorter in‐patient stays.
Residual Stress Analysis of Commercial Float Glass Using Digital Photoelasticity
Authors: Vivek Ramakrishnan , Ramesh Krishnamurthi
Published: December 2014

Residual stresses are generated in float glass at the time of manufacturing due to thermal gradients created during the cooling process. The quantification of these residual stresses is important in glass industries as they affect their cutting quality. Photoelasticity can be used for residual stress analysis of glasses, as glass exhibits stress‐induced birefringence. In this study, a methodology involving carrier fringes in conjunction with digital photoelasticity is used to quantify the residual stress in float glass. The results are verified by six‐step phase‐shifting technique (a subset of ten‐step phase‐shifting method) using an automatic polariscope. Finally, to demonstrate the utility of the proposed method, the residual stress is measured in float glasses of different thicknesses. A method for approximate estimation of residual stress which does not require sophisticated digital image acquisition and processing systems is also reported.
Factors influencing women's attitudes towards midwifery: Tool validation
Authors: Al‐Rajabi Omaymah , Al‐Hadid Lourance , Subih Maha
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this study was to validate a tool that explores the factors influencing women's opinion of and attitudes towards midwifery. A descriptive, cross‐sectional design was used. The sample consisted of 526 Jordanian women. Cluster sampling was used to ensure a representative sample; then, convenience sampling was performed. The instrument asked non‐identifying demographic questions and covered factors reported in literature to influence women's attitudes towards and views of the profession. The resulting instrument consisted of five factors explained by 29 items. These factors were women's general view of midwives, midwife duties, professional ethics, media influence and demotivating factors associated with working as a midwife. Although the instrument is valid and reliable, it needs further testing in other studies. Taking the factors reported on by the present study into account in public policy‐making could promote better understanding of midwifery and improve its status in the community.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcome of the Capsular Warning Syndrome: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Camps-Renom Pol , Delgado-Mederos Raquel , Martínez-Domeño Alejandro , Prats-Sánchez Luís , Cortés-Vicente Elena , Simón-Talero Manuel , Arboix Adrià , Ois Ángel , Purroy Francisco , Martí-Fàbregas Joan
Published: December 2014

Background

The capsular warning syndrome is defined as recurrent transient lacunar syndromes that usually precede a capsular infarction. Several aspects regarding the clinical management are controversial. We report the clinical and radiological characteristics of a multicenter series of patients with capsular warning syndrome, as well as their functional outcome during the follow-up.

Aims

We sought to describe the clinico-radiological spectrum of the capsular warning syndrome and to report the functional outcomes and recurrences of these patients during the follow-up.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter study that collected clinical and radiological data from patients with capsular warning syndrome during 2003–2013. Capsular warning syndrome was defined as the succession of three or more motor or sensory-motor lacunar syndromes within a period of 72 h, with complete recovery between them. We recorded the functional outcome (favorable when Rankin scale score ≤2) and recurrences during follow-up.

Results

Our study included 42 patients whose mean age was 66·4 ± 10 years; 71·4% of them were men. The mean number of episodes before a permanent neurological impairment occurred or before a complete recovery of symptoms was 5·1 ± 2·3. Up to 30 patients (71·2%) had an acute infarct visible on the neuroimaging (computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging). The internal capsule was the most frequent infarct location (50%), but other locations were noted. Twelve patients (28·6%) received thrombolysis in the acute phase. A favorable outcome was observed in 39 patients (92·9%). After a mean follow-up of 35 ± 29 months, only one patient suffered a recurrent ischemic stroke.

Conclusions

Capsular warning syndrome preceded an ischemic infarction in 71·2% of patients. In addition to the internal capsule, other locations were noted. The most effective treatment remains unclear. The functional prognosis is favorable in most patients and recurrences are rare.
A Critical Evaluation of U–Pb Calibration Schemes Used in SIMS Zircon Geochronology
Authors: Jeon Heejin , Whitehouse Martin J.
Published: December 2014

Precision and accuracy in SIMS zircon geochronology strongly depend on the method of determination of the interelement ion ratios (e.g., 206Pb/238U) from the measured secondary ion ratios (206Pb+/238U+). Six possible U–Pb calibrations (Pb/U–UO2/U, Pb/U–UO/U, Pb/U–UO2/UO, Pb/UO–UO2/U, Pb/UO–UO/U, Pb/UO–UO2/UO) based on simple power law relationships, and Pb/UO2‐related one‐ and two‐ (a power law) dimensional ones were compared using data acquired on the 91500 zircon reference material from one hundred measurement sessions, to determine the most statistically reliable scheme. Taking advantage of U oxide species (UO and UO2) over atomic U, due to their similar energy distribution to Pb and higher intensities, the data calibrated with Pb/UO–UO2/UO showed the smallest mean uncertainties and dispersions, and provided the best‐fit calibration curve consistently. Although it was demonstrated with Temora 2 that the unknown zircon age was not changed significantly by different calibrations, its precision could be improved using the Pb/UO–UO2/UO calibration in zircon geochronology.
Local Fracture Toughness of Si3N4 Ceramics Measured using Single‐Edge Notched Microcantilever Beam Specimens
Authors: Tatami Junichi , Katayama Masaki , Ohnishi Masahiro , Yahagi Tsukaho , Takahashi Takuma , Horiuchi Takahiro , Yokouchi Masahiro , Yasuda Kouichi , Kim Do Kyung , Wakihara Toru , Komeya Katsutoshi
Published: December 2014

Local fracture toughness gives us useful and important information to understand and improve mechanical properties of bulk ceramics. In this study, the local fracture toughness of silicon nitride (Si3N4) ceramics was directly measured using single‐edge notched microcantilever beam specimens prepared by the focused ion beam technique. The measured fracture toughness of grain boundary of the Si3N4 ceramics is higher than the fracture toughness of SiAlON glass, which exists in the grain boundaries of Si3N4 ceramics. It is also shown that the fracture toughness of grain boundary depends on the rare earth oxide added as a sintering aid, which is expected in terms of the difference in the grain‐boundary structure. The fracture toughness of a single β‐Si3N4 grains is higher than the grain‐boundary fracture toughness. It was also higher than the value estimated from ab initio calculations and surface energy, which means that any dissipative energy should be included in the fracture toughness of a grain in spite of the brittle fracture in Si3N4. The fracture toughness of polycrystals of Si3N4 ceramics measured using single‐edge notched microcantilever beam specimens is intermediate between those of grains and grain boundaries, and it agrees with the estimated initial value of the Rcurve, KI0, in Si3N4 ceramics.
Energy Transfer Study on Dense Eu3+/Tb3+‐Coactivated Oxyfluoride Borogermanate Scintillating Glasses
Authors: Sun Xin‐Yuan , Ye Zi‐Piao , Zhang Zhi‐Jun , Liu Li‐Wan , Chen Dan‐Ping , Zhao Jing‐Tai
Published: December 2014

Tb3+‐, Eu3+‐activated, and Eu3+/Tb3+‐coactivated oxyfluoride borogermanate scintillating glasses with the density of about 6.50 g/cm3 were successfully synthesized by a melt‐quenching method. The structure and optical properties including transmittance, photoluminescence (excitation and emission spectra), photoluminescence decay, and X‐ray excited luminescence behaviors were studied in detail. Our results reveal that the energy‐transfer efficiency from Tb3+ to Eu3+ ions increases with an increase in Eu3+ concentration. The energy‐transfer mechanism is also discussed by Dexter's and Reisfeld's semiexperimental methods.
Compatibility Issues of Yttria‐Stabilized Zirconia Solid Oxide Membrane in the Direct Electro‐Deoxidation of Metal Oxides
Authors: Mukherjee Abhishek , Campagnol Nicolo’ , Van Dyck Joris , Fransaer Jan , Blanpain Bart
Published: December 2014

Direct electro‐deoxidation of metal oxides has become quite popular in the production of metals and alloys. In this process, metal oxide cathode is directly reduced to a metal in a molten CaCl2 salt bath. The anode material used is graphite. Over the years, graphite is reported to cause numerous process difficulties. Recently, based on the solid oxide membrane technology, yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) has been tested as oxygen ion conducting membrane for the anode. The success of using a membrane implies its long‐term stability in the bath. In this paper, it is seen that YSZ chemically degrades in a static melt of CaCl2 or CaCl2–CaO. The degradation occurs by leaching of yttria into solution leading to the formation of monoclinic zirconia which, being porous, reacts with the molten electrolyte to form calcium zirconate. However, on application of voltage, YSZ degrades via a different mechanism. The metallic calcium produced during electrolysis increases the electronic conductivity of the salt, apparently leading to the electrochemical reduction of zirconia to ZrO2−x. As a result, localized pores are formed which allow the infiltration of salts. Addition of yttria to the salt is seen to prevent both the chemical and electrochemical degradation of the membrane.
Health professionals’ decision‐making in wound management: a grounded theory
Authors: Gillespie Brigid M. , Chaboyer Wendy , St John Winsome , Morley Nicola , Nieuwenhoven Paul
Published: December 2014

Aim

To develop a conceptual understanding of the decision‐making processes used by healthcare professionals in wound care practice.

Background

With the global move towards using an evidence‐base in standardizing wound care practices and the need to reduce hospital wound care costs, it is important to understand health professionals’ decision‐making in this important yet under‐researched area.

Design

A grounded theory approach was used to explore clinical decision‐making of healthcare professionals in wound care practice.

Methods

Interviews were conducted with 20 multi‐disciplinary participants from nursing, surgery, infection control and wound care who worked at a metropolitan hospital in Australia. Data were collected during 2012–2013. Constant comparative analysis underpinned by Strauss and Corbin's framework was used to identify clinical decision‐making processes.

Findings

The core category was ‘balancing practice‐based knowledge with evidence‐based knowledge’. Participants’ clinical practice and actions embedded the following processes: ‘utilizing the best available information’, ‘using a consistent approach in wound assessment’ and ‘using a multidisciplinary approach’. The substantive theory explains how practice and evidence knowledge was balanced and the variation in use of intuitive practice‐based knowledge versus evidence‐based knowledge. Participants considered patients’ needs and preferences, costs, outcomes, technologies, others’ expertise and established practices. Participants’ decision‐making tended to be more heavily weighted towards intuitive practice‐based processes.

Conclusion

These findings offer a better understanding of the processes used by health professionals’ in their decision‐making in wound care. Such an understanding may inform the development of evidence‐based interventions that lead to better patient outcomes.
Chemical Response of the Toxic Dinoflagellate Karenia mikimotoi Against Grazing by Three Species of Zooplankton
Authors: Dang Lin‐Xi , Li Yue , Liu Fei , Zhang Yong , Yang Wei‐Dong , Li Hong‐Ye , Liu Jie‐Sheng
Published: December 2014

We investigated the toxicity of Karenia mikimotoi toward three model grazers, the cladoceran Moina mongolica, the copepod Pseudodiaptomus annandalei, and the crustacean Artemia salina, and explored its chemical response upon zooplankton grazing. An induction experiment, where K. mikimotoi was exposed to grazers or waterborne cues from the mixed cultures revealed that K. mikimotoi might be toxic or nutritionally inadequate toward the three grazers. In general, direct exposure to the three grazers induced the production of hemolytic toxins and the synthesis of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Both EPA and the hemolytic toxins from K. mikimotoi decreased the survival rate of the three grazers. In addition, the survival rates of M. mongolica, P. annandalei, and A. salina in the presence of induced K. mikimotoi that had previously been exposed to a certain grazer were lower than their counterparts caused by fresh K. mikimotoi, suggesting that exposure to some grazers might increase the toxicity of K. mikimotoi. The chemical response and associated increased resistance to further grazing suggested that K. mikimotoi could produce deterrents to protect against grazing by zooplankton and that the substances responsible might be hemolytic toxins and EPA.