bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-organization of chemoattractant waves inDictyosteliumdepends on F-actin and cell–substrate adhesion
Authors: Fukujin Fumihito , Nakajima Akihiko , Shimada Nao , Sawai Satoshi
Published: June 2016

In the social amoebaDictyostelium discoideum, travelling waves of extracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) self-organize in cell populations and direct aggregation of individual cells to form multicellular fruiting bodies. In contrast to the large body of studies that addressed how movement of cells is determined by spatial and temporal cues encoded in the dynamic cAMP gradients, how cell mechanics affect the formation of a self-generated chemoattractant field has received less attention. Here, we show, by live cell imaging analysis, that the periodicity of the synchronized cAMP waves increases in cells treated with the actin inhibitor latrunculin. Detail analysis of the extracellular cAMP-induced transients of cytosolic cAMP (cAMP relay response) in well-isolated cells demonstrated that their amplitude and duration were markedly reduced in latrunculin-treated cells. Similarly, in cells strongly adhered to a poly-l-lysine-coated surface, the response was suppressed, and the periodicity of the population-level oscillations was markedly lengthened. Our results suggest that cortical F-actin is dispensable for the basic low amplitude relay response but essential for its full amplification and that this enhanced response is necessary to establish high-frequency signalling centres. The observed F-actin dependence may prevent aggregation centres from establishing in microenvironments that are incompatible with cell migration.
Structure of a heterogeneous, glycosylated, lipid-bound,in vivo-grown protein crystal at atomic resolution from the viviparous cockroachDiploptera punctata
Authors: Banerjee Sanchari , Coussens Nathan P. , Gallat François-Xavier , Sathyanarayanan Nitish , Srikanth Jandhyam , Yagi Koichiro J. , Gray James S. S. , Tobe Stephen S. , Stay Barbara , Chavas Leonard M. G. , Ramaswamy Subramanian
Published: June 2016

Macromolecular crystals for X-ray diffraction studies are typically grownin vitrofrom pure and homogeneous samples; however, there are examples of protein crystals that have been identifiedin vivo. Recent developments in micro-crystallography techniques and the advent of X-ray free-electron lasers have allowed the determination of several protein structures from crystals grownin cellulo. Here, an atomic resolution (1.2 Å) crystal structure is reported of heterogeneous milk proteins grown inside a living organism in their functional niche. Thesein vivo-grown crystals were isolated from the midgut of an embryo within the only known viviparous cockroach,Diploptera punctata. The milk proteins crystallized in space groupP1, and a structure was determined by anomalous dispersion from the native S atoms. The data revealed glycosylated proteins that adopt a lipocalin fold, bind lipids and organize to form a tightly packed crystalline lattice. A single crystal is estimated to contain more than three times the energy of an equivalent mass of dairy milk. This unique storage form of nourishment for developing embryos allows access to a constant supply of complete nutrients. Notably, the crystalline cockroach-milk proteins are highly heterogeneous with respect to amino-acid sequence, glycosylation and bound fatty-acid composition. These data present a unique example of protein heterogeneity within a singlein vivo-grown crystal of a natural protein in its native environment at atomic resolution.
Two polymorphs oftrans-[3-(3-nitrophenyl)oxiran-2-yl](phenyl)methanone
Authors: Greenberg Fred H. , Nazarenko Alexander Y.
Published: June 2016

The title compound, C15H11NO4, crystallizes in two polymorphic forms, centrosymmetric monoclinic and chiral orthorhombic. The geometry of the molecules in the two polymorphs is slightly different, possibly due to intermolecular interactions. There are no classical hydrogen bonding in these two structures. However, a number of C—H...O intermolecular interactions, involving both O atoms of the nitro as well the benzoyl groups, stabilize the crystal structures.
Osklen: the aesthetics of social change
Authors: Poldner Kim , Ivanova Olga , Branzei Oana
Published: June 2016

Subject area

Sustainable fashion.

Study level/applicability

Bachelor Degree/Master Degree, Master of Business Administration (MBA), PhD.

Case overview

The case focuses on Osklen, one of the world’s first eco-fashion brands, founded in 1989 by Oskar Metsavaht. For the past 26 years, Osklen had become Brazil’s foremost sustainable luxury venture, and since 2012, under first minority and then majority corporate ownership, pursued an aggressive global expansion strategy. The dilemma of the case juxtaposes Osklen’s creative aesthetics, which leverage unique Brazilian beauty in nature and heritage, with the financial pressures of global expansion. The tension is exacerbated by the 2015 corruption scandal, which decelerated the Brazilian economy and reduced consumer spending on sustainable luxuries in Osklen’s home market; it also risked compromising the appeal of Brazilian brands elsewhere. The case explores the complex interconnections between local and global aspects of sustainability and brings forward the environmental, social and cultural aspects of brands and business to the foreground. The case also illustrates how economic crises impact brands from the initial creative inspiration to the prospects of global expansion.

Expected learning outcomes

Students will master tools for strategic analysis (VRIN framework and scenario planning) to a company evolving in an emerging economy. They will learn about the ways to consider and communicate sustainability. Students will be exposed to the importance of aesthetics and multi-sensoriality in business activities.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

CSS 11: Strategy
Performance-based pay: alternative interpretations of the Portsmouth Block Mills’ savings
Authors: Wilson James M.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe and analyse a historic performance-based pay system used in 1803-1810 to reward Marc Isambard Brunel for his innovative engineering designs used in the Portsmouth Block Mills. This was used to ensure that Brunel would continue his work on the project once the design was complete to resolve any problems and make any desirable improvements to the machines and the system as a whole.

Design/methodology/approach

This research analyses archived correspondence between the project’s initiators: the Navy Board and Samuel Bentham along with the Admiralty as well as Marc Brunel. Basic financial analyses are applied to the historic cost and investment data.

Findings

The scheme was well designed and successfully kept Brunel involved in the implementation and operational phases of the project. However, there were numerous problems that delayed the project’s completion, thereby creating additional work for Brunel and also delaying and reducing his payments. Brunel was alienated by these developments.

Research limitations/implications

This research has exploited the archived data as fully as possible, and although there are no known deficiencies in the records, it would be desirable to have more complete and detailed information on the investment in, and operations of, the factory.

Practical implications

Reward systems should be designed and implemented so that events outside management’s and worker’s control should not disadvantage either group.

Originality/value

Detailed information about the operations and financial performance of an early factory are analysed in depth. These reveal how management and an innovative engineer interacted regularly over several years with numerous insights on their day-to-day relations.
Identifying critical links in urban traffic networks: a partial network scan algorithm
Authors: Yang Xinfeng , Liu Lanfen , Li Yinzhen , He Ruichun
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– Critical links in traffic networks are those who should be better protected because their removal has a significant impact on the whole network. So, the purpose of this paper is to identify the critical links of traffic networks.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper proposes the definition of the critical link for an urban traffic network and establishes mathematical model for determining critical link considering the travellers’ heterogeneous risk-taking behavior. Moreover, in order to improve the computational efficiency, the impact area of a link is quantified, a partial network scan algorithm for identifying the critical link based on the impact area is put forward and the efficient paths-based assignment algorithm is adopted.

Findings

– The proposed algorithm can significantly reduce the search space for determining the most critical links in traffic network. Numerical results also demonstrate that the structure of efficient paths has significant impact on identifying the critical links.

Originality/value

– This paper identifies the critical links by using a bi-level programming approach and proposes a partial network scan algorithm for identifying critical links accounting for travellers’ heterogeneous risk-taking behavior.
Extended and experimenting: library learning commons service strategy and sustainability
Authors: King Jennifer Gunter
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to share a compelling example of a library’s willingness to develop and design itself as an open-ended process.

Design/methodology/approach

– The case study provides a historical review of the library’s founding design, and an overview of the process and approach to redesign. The study contextualizes the library within current academic library research and literature.

Findings

– This paper explores the research, engagement and planning process behind the library’s exploration of new models and service configurations. The project was an engaged, inclusive, transparent, library-led process. The commons reestablishes the library as the “nerve center” of the campus.

Originality/value

– The paper offers an update to a 1969 report, and later book by Robert Taylor on the Harold F. Johnson Library at Hampshire College, designed as a prototype of an academic library. This paper will be of value to academic librarians, administrators, and historians.
Bank concentration, institutional quality, and economic growth
Authors: Abuzayed Bana , Al-Fayoumi Nedal
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This study aims to examine the influence of institutional quality on the relationship between economic growth and banking sector concentration.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample of our study covers 15 Middle East and North African (MENA) countries over the period 1996-2010. The results are estimated based on static and dynamic panel data analysis.

Findings

The results reveal a positive and significant relationship between economic growth and each banking concentration and institutional quality. The results support the argument that banking concentration and institutional quality are matters for growth in MENA countries. The results also indicate that the interaction variable between concentration and institutional quality is negative and significant.

Research limitations/implications

Building on Petersen and Rajans’ (1995) argument, this study suggests that in the absence of an appropriate level of institutional quality, banks in MENA region can depend on their market power to protect their benefits. This can be achieved by building long-term relationships with their borrowers to provide continuing credit and subsequently enhancing economic growth.

Practical implications

Under the low level of institutional quality in MENA countries, regulators and decision-makers should thoroughly think before imposing any policy that aims to restrict banking market power because such action could harm the economy.

Social implications

In developing countries, banking concentration may have a positive impact on the economy. This outcome may lead to an improvement in the standard of living for the society.

Originality/value

This is the first known study, to the best of our knowledge, that examines the role of institutional quality in shaping the relationship between economic growth and banking concentration in MENA countries. The authors opted to select MENA countries’ data because they generally reflect an institutional setting similar to many developing countries. Therefore, the results could be applicable in many developing economies and will encourage other researchers to investigate this proposition.
New product and emerging business growth in Kwara State
Authors: Oladele Seun , Oladele Femi
Published: June 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of new product on growth of emerging businesses (EBs) through sales volume and market share.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study surveyed 137 EBs in Kwara State. Two hypotheses were formulated and tested using correlation and regression analyses.

Findings

– Results show that service industry is dominant among EBs while the manufacturing industry trails. Many EBs are aware of the complexities of new product, its development and contribution to increasing sales volume, market share and ensuring competitive advantage with apparent infrastructural deficiencies. Test results show that there is a significant positive relationship and effect on sales volume and market share.

Originality/value

– Encouraging EBs to step up and focus on improving product/service portfolio to transform their fortune is explored giving focus to the benefits of increasing sales volume and market share.
Duration to Admission and Hospital Transfers Affect Facility Rankings from the Postacute 30‐Day Rehospitalization Quality Measure
Authors: Graham James E. , Prvu Bettger Janet , Fisher Steve R. , Karmarkar Amol M. , Kumar Amit , Ottenbacher Kenneth J.
Published: June 2016

Objective

To examine changes in facility‐level risk‐standardized rehospitalization rankings for postacute inpatient rehabilitation facilities after modifying two model parameters.

Data Sources

We used national Medicare enrollment, claims, and assessment data to study 522,260 patients discharged from inpatient rehabilitation in fiscal years 2010–2011.

Study Design

We calculated risk‐standardized 30‐day unplanned rehospitalization rates for 1,135 inpatient rehabilitation facilities using four approaches. The first model replicated the current postacute risk‐standardization methodology and included patients discharged from acute hospitals up to 30 days prior to postacute admission and excluded patients transferred directly back to acute hospitals following rehabilitation. Our alternative models excluded patients with delayed admissions (>1 day between acute discharge and postacute admission) and counted direct transfers back to acute as rehospitalizations.

Principal Findings

Excluding patients with delayed admissions and counting direct transfers back to acute care as rehospitalizations substantially impacted rankings of more than half the postacute providers: 29 percent had better and 27 percent had worse quintile rankings.

Conclusions

Changing the timeframes for duration to admission and rehospitalization will have profound effects on postacute provider quality performance ratings. Reporting rehospitalization rates is an important issue with the explicit goal of improving the quality of postacute care. Research is needed to understand and minimize potential unintended consequences of this quality metric.
Expansion of the MANAGE Database with Forest and Drainage Studies
Authors: Harmel Daren R. , Christianson Laura E. , McBroom Matthew W. , Smith Douglas R. , Higgs Kori D.
Published: June 2016

The “Measured Annual Nutrient loads from AGricultural Environments” (MANAGE) database was published in 2006 to expand an early 1980s compilation of nutrient export (load) data from cultivated and pasture/range land at the field or farm scale. Then in 2008, MANAGE was updated with 15 additional studies, and nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) concentrations in runoff were added. Since then, MANAGE has undergone significant expansion adding N and P water quality along with relevant management and site characteristic data from: (1) 30 runoff studies from forested land uses, (2) 91 drainage water quality studies from drained land, and (3) 12 additional runoff studies from cultivated and pasture/range land uses. In this expansion, an application timing category was added to the existing fertilizer data categories (rate, placement, formulation) to facilitate analysis of 4R Nutrient Stewardship, which emphasizes right fertilizer source, rate, time, and place. In addition, crop yield and N and P uptake data were added, although this information was only available for 21 and 7% of studies, respectively. Inclusion of these additional data from cultivated, pasture/range, and forest land uses as well as artificially drained agricultural land should facilitate expanded spatial analyses and improved understanding of regional differences, management practice effectiveness, and impacts of land use conversions and management techniques. The current version is available at www.ars.usda.gov/spa/manage-nutrient.
iNEXT: an R package for rarefaction and extrapolation of species diversity (Hill numbers)
Authors: Hsieh T. C. , Ma K. H. , Chao Anne
Published: June 2016

Hill numbers (or the effective number of species) have been increasingly used to quantify the species/taxonomic diversity of an assemblage. The sample‐size‐ and coverage‐based integrations of rarefaction (interpolation) and extrapolation (prediction) of Hill numbers represent a unified standardization method for quantifying and comparing species diversity across multiple assemblages.

We briefly review the conceptual background of Hill numbers along with two approaches to standardization. We present an R package iNEXT (iNterpolation/EXTrapolation) which provides simple functions to compute and plot the seamless rarefaction and extrapolation sampling curves for the three most widely used members of the Hill number family (species richness, Shannon diversity and Simpson diversity). Two types of biodiversity data are allowed: individual‐based abundance data and sampling‐unit‐based incidence data.

Several applications of the iNEXT packages are reviewed: (i) Non‐asymptotic analysis: comparison of diversity estimates for equally large or equally complete samples. (ii) Asymptotic analysis: comparison of estimated asymptotic or true diversities. (iii) Assessment of sample completeness (sample coverage) across multiple samples. (iv) Comparison of estimated point diversities for a specified sample size or a specified level of sample coverage.

Two examples are demonstrated, using the data (one for abundance data and the other for incidence data) included in the package, to illustrate all R functions and graphical displays.
Transumbilical laparoscopic appendectomy performed by residents is safe and feasible
Authors: Endo Kazuhiro , Kujirai Dai , Maeda Hinako , Ishida Takashi , Terauchi Toshiaki , Kimata Masaru , Shinozaki Hiroharu , Lefor Alan Kawarai , Sata Naohiro
Published: June 2016

Introduction

The aim of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of single‐incision transumbilical laparoscopy‐assisted appendectomy performed by surgical residents and attending surgeons.

Methods

We reviewed the clinical outcomes of 131 transumbilical laparoscopy‐assisted appendectomies performed from January 2011 to June 2014. During the study period, 13 residents and 6 board‐certified attending surgeons performed the procedures. For all operations performed by residents and attending surgeons, we reviewed and compared gender, age, BMI, body temperature, white blood cell count, C‐reactive protein serum level, and the presence of a fecalith or abscess. Clinical outcomes including operative time, estimated blood loss, need for additional ports, conversion to open surgery, intraoperative complications, postoperative complications, and postoperative hospital stay were compared between the two groups.

Results

The mean preoperative white blood cell count in the resident‐operated group was significantly higher than in the attending‐operated group (14.0 vs 10.8 ×103/mm3, P = 0.007). There were no other significant differences in clinical variables between the two groups. Outcomes show that estimated blood loss was significantly higher (23.4 vs 9.8 mL, P = 0.031) and operative time tended to be longer (86.0 vs 72.0 min, P = 0.056) in the resident‐operated group. No other significant differences were observed.

Conclusion

Transumbilical laparoscopy‐assisted appendectomy performed by residents is feasible and safe. It is an acceptable as a part of routine surgical training.
Hunger Reduction in China: An Analysis of Contextual Factors
Authors: Islam M. Rezaul
Published: June 2016

In recent times, China has significantly reduced hunger in its populace. The main objective of this paper was to analyze some of the contextual socioeconomic factors contributing to the reduction of hunger in China, using Qualitative Interpretative Meta‐Synthesis (QIMS). The results revealed that China has followed a broad‐based and multispectral approach to reduce hunger. Factors, such as poverty alleviation; social safety nets for disadvantaged villagers; agricultural development and land reforms; regional development and equity in development activities; infrastructural development; and political‐economic reform and sustainable growth were influential in reducing hunger in China. Poverty is attributed as one of the principal contributors and is interlinked with many other dimensions. The findings of this paper are a useful guide to the Chinese government, policy‐makers, international organizations, and development practitioners.
Treatment outcomes and secondary cancer incidence in young patients with hairy cell leukaemia
Authors: Getta Bartlomiej M. , Woo Kaitlin M. , Devlin Sean , Park Jae H. , Abdel‐Wahab Omar , Saven Alan , Rai Kanti , Tallman Martin S.
Published: June 2016

Repeated therapy of hairy cell leukaemia (HCL) with treatments that have potential long‐term toxicities has raised concerns regarding increased risk for younger patients. We compared clinical outcomes and disease complications in 63 patients with HCL aged ≤40 years at diagnosis with 268 patients >40 years treated at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. The rate of complete remission following initial therapy was 87% and 83% (P = 0·71) and estimated 10‐year overall survival was 100% and 82% (P = 0·25) in younger and older patients, respectively. Younger patients required therapy earlier and had a significantly shorter time between first and second therapy (median: 63 months vs. 145 months) (P = 0·008). Younger patients required significantly more lines of therapy during follow‐up. The 10‐year cumulative incidence of secondary malignancies in young and old patients was 0·205 and 0·287, respectively (P = 0·22). The incidence of secondary cancers in patients aged >40 years at diagnosis increased with the number of treatments for HCL (P = 0·018). These results highlight that young patients with HCL have shorter responses to treatment and require more lines of therapy to maintain disease control, while attaining similar long‐term survival. This has implications in the design of future clinical trials given our findings that secondary malignancies increase with more chemotherapy exposure.
Dose‐escalation study of tabalumab with bortezomib and dexamethasone in Japanese patients with multiple myeloma
Authors: Iida Shinsuke , Ogiya Daisuke , Abe Yasunobu , Taniwaki Masafumi , Asou Hiroya , Maeda Kaijiro , Uenaka Kazunori , Nagaoka Soshi , Ishiki Tsuyoshi , Conti Ilaria , Tobinai Kensei
Published: June 2016

B‐cell activating factor (BAFF) promotes the survival and adhesion of multiple myeloma (MM) cells. Tabalumab (LY2127399) is an anti‐BAFF monoclonal antibody. This phase 1, multicenter, open‐label, nonrandomized, dose‐escalation study evaluated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and efficacy of tabalumab in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone in Japanese patients with relapsed or refractory MM (RRMM). Sixteen patients received intravenous i.v. tabalumab 100 mg (Cohort 1, n = 4) or i.v. tabalumab 300 mg (Cohort 2, n = 12) in combination with oral dexamethasone 20 mg/day and i.v. or s.c. bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2. All patients had treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAE) possibly related to study treatment; the most common TEAE were thrombocytopenia (81.3%), lymphopenia (43.8%) and increased alanine aminotransferase (43.8%). Two (20.0%) dose‐limiting toxicities were observed, both in Cohort 2 (tabalumab 300 mg), which was below the predefined cutoff for tolerability (<33%). The pharmacokinetics of tabalumab were similar when bortezomib was coadministered i.v. versus s.c. The overall response rate was 56.3%, suggesting that the combined treatment was effective. In conclusion, combined treatment with these three agents was well tolerated in this population of Japanese patients with RRMM. The study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01556438).
Mother–Child Interaction: Links Between Mother and Child Frontal Electroencephalograph Asymmetry and Negative Behavior
Authors: Atzaba‐Poria Naama , Deater‐Deckard Kirby , Bell Martha Ann
Published: June 2016

It is well accepted that parent–child interactions are bidirectional by nature, yet not much is known about the psychophysiological activity underlying these interactions. This study examined, during a parent–child interaction, how a child's negativity statistically predicted maternal frontal electroencephalograph (EEG) asymmetry and how a mother's negativity statistically predicted child frontal EEG asymmetry. Thirty‐four mother–child dyads participated in the study. Maternal and child behaviors and physiology were measured during a puzzle task. Results indicated that mothers whose children exhibited more challenging behaviors during the dyadic interaction displayed more right (relative to left) asymmetry, as did children whose mothers were high in negativity during the interaction. These findings suggest that mothers and children react to each other's signals not only behaviorally but also physiologically.
Impact of rare variants in ARHGAP29 to the etiology of oral clefts: role of loss‐of‐function vs missense variants
Authors: Savastano C.P. , Brito L.A. , Faria Á.C. , Setó‐Salvia N. , Peskett E. , Musso C.M. , Alvizi L. , Ezquina S.A.M. , James C. , GOSgene  , Beales P. , Lees M. , Moore G.E. , Stanier P. , Passos‐Bueno M.R.
Published: June 2016

Non‐syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (NSCL/P) is a prevalent, complex congenital malformation. Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) on NSCL/P have consistently identified association for the 1p22 region, in which ARHGAP29 has emerged as the main candidate gene. ARHGAP29 re‐sequencing studies in NSCL/P patients have identified rare variants; however, their clinical impact is still unclear. In this study we identified 10 rare variants in ARHGAP29, including five missense, one in‐frame deletion, and four loss‐of‐function (LoF) variants, in a cohort of 188 familial NSCL/P cases. A significant mutational burden was found for LoF (Sequence Kernel Association Test, p = 0.0005) but not for missense variants in ARHGAP29, suggesting that only LoF variants contribute to the etiology of NSCL/P. Penetrance was estimated as 59%, indicating that heterozygous LoF variants in ARHGAP29 confer a moderate risk to NSCL/P. The GWAS hits in IRF6 (rs642961) and 1p22 (rs560426 and rs4147811) do not seem to contribute to the penetrance of the phenotype, based on co‐segregation analysis. Our data show that rare variants leading to haploinsufficiency of ARHGAP29 represent an important etiological clefting mechanism, and genetic testing for this gene might be taken into consideration in genetic counseling of familial cases.
Differential gene expression pattern in biopsies with renal allograft pyelonephritis and allograft rejection
Authors: Oghumu Steve , Nori Uday , Bracewell Anna , Zhang Jianying , Bott Cherri , Nadasdy Gyongyi M. , Brodsky Sergey V. , Pelletier Ronald , Satoskar Abhay R. , Nadasdy Tibor , Satoskar Anjali A.
Published: June 2016

Differentiating acute pyelonephritis (APN) from acute rejection (AR) in renal allograft biopsies can sometimes be difficult because of overlapping clinical and histologic features, lack of positive urine cultures,and variable response to antibiotics. We wanted to study differential gene expression between AR and APN using biopsy tissue. Thirty‐three biopsies were analyzed using NanoString multiplex platform and PCR (6 transplant baseline biopsies, 8 AR, 15 APN [8 culture positive, 7 culture negative], and 4 native pyelonephritis [NP]). Additional 22 biopsies were tested by PCR to validate the results. CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, and IDO1 were the top differentially expressed genes, upregulated in AR. Lactoferrin (LTF) and CXCL1 were higher in APN and NP. No statistically significant difference in transcript levels was seen between culture‐positive and culture‐negative APN biopsies. Comparing the overall mRNA signature using Ingenuity pathway analysis, interferon‐gamma emerged as the dominant upstream regulator in AR and allograft APN, but not in NP (which clustered separately). Our study suggests that chemokine pathways in graft APN may differ from NP and in fact resemble AR, due to a component of alloreactivity, resulting in variable response to antibiotic treatment. Therefore, cautious addition of steroids might help in resistant cases of graft APN.
Basal insulin peglispro versus insulin glargine in insulin‐naïve type 2 diabetes: IMAGINE 2 randomized trial
Authors: Davies M. J. , Russell‐Jones D. , Selam J.‐L. , Bailey T. S. , Kerényi Z. , Luo J. , Bue‐Valleskey J. , Iványi T. , Hartman M. L. , Jacobson J. G. , Jacober S. J. ,   for the IMAGINE 2 Study Investigators
Published: June 2016

Aims

To compare, in a double‐blind, randomized, multi‐national study, 52‐ or 78‐week treatment with basal insulin peglispro or insulin glargine, added to pre‐study oral antihyperglycaemic medications, in insulin‐naïve adults with type 2 diabetes.

Material and methods

The primary outcome was non‐inferiority of peglispro to glargine with regard to glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) reduction (margin = 0.4%). Six gated secondary objectives with statistical multiplicity adjustments focused on other measures of glycaemic control and safety. Liver fat content was measured using MRI, in a subset of patients.

Results

Peglispro was non‐inferior to glargine in HbA1c reduction [least‐squares (LS) mean difference: −0.29%, 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.40, −0.19], and had a lower nocturnal hypoglycaemia rate [relative rate 0.74 (95% CI 0.60, 0.91); p = .005), more patients achieving HbA1c <7.0% without nocturnal hypoglycaemia [odds ratio (OR) 2.15 (95% CI 1.60, 2.89); p < .001], greater HbA1c reduction (p < .001), and more patients achieving HbA1c<7.0% [OR 1.97 (95% CI 1.57, 2.47); p < .001]. Total hypoglycaemia rate and fasting serum glucose did not achieve statistical superiority. At 52 weeks, peglispro‐treated patients had higher triglyceride (1.9 vs 1.7 mmol/L). alanine transaminase (34 vs 27 IU/L), and aspartate transaminase levels (27 vs 24 IU/L). LS mean liver fat content was unchanged with peglispro at 52 weeks but decreased 3.1% with glargine [difference: 2.6% (0.9, 4.2); p = .002]. More peglispro‐treated patients experienced adverse injection site reactions (3.5% vs 0.6%, p < .001).

Conclusions

Compared with glargine at 52 weeks, peglispro resulted in a statistically superior reduction in HbA1c, more patients achieving HbA1c targets, less nocturnal hypoglycaemia, no improvement in total hypoglycaemia, higher triglyceride levels, higher aminotransferase levels, and more injection site reactions.
An elephant trunk appearance—what is the diagnosis?
Authors: Khanna Roopali , Raja Deepchandh , Goel Pravin K.
Published: June 2016

Coronary cameral fistula is a rare congenital cardiac abnormality. An 18‐year‐old boy presented with features of right heart volume overload. Clinical examination was suggestive of hyperdynamic circulation with continuous murmur in precordium. 2D echocardiography showed dilated right coronary artery, and 3D echocardiography added information in tracing the track of the fistula which was consistent with the diagnosis of right coronary cameral fistula draining into the right ventricle. Coronary angiograms revealed an unusually dilated right coronary artery giving the appearance of an “elephant trunk” and with a fistulous tract into the right ventricle. Considering the higher risks of surgery in such difficult cases, we performed a successful transcatheter closure of the fistula using an Amplatzer vascular plug.
Sparse pallidal connections shape synchrony in a network model of the basal ganglia
Authors: Schwab Bettina C. , van Wezel Richard J. A. , van Gils Stephan A.
Published: June 2016

Neural synchrony in the basal ganglia, especially in the beta frequency band (13–30 Hz), is a hallmark of Parkinson's disease and considered as antikinetic. In contrast, the healthy basal ganglia show low levels of synchrony. It is currently unknown where synchrony and oscillations arise in the parkinsonian brain and how they are transmitted through the basal ganglia, as well as what makes them dependent on dopamine. The external part of the globus pallidus has recently been identified as a hub nucleus in the basal ganglia, possessing intrinsic inhibitory connections and possibly also gap junctions. In this study, we show that in a conductance‐based network model of the basal ganglia, the combination of sparse, high‐conductance inhibitory synapses and sparse, low‐conductance gap junctions in the external part of the globus pallidus could effectively desynchronize the whole network. However, when gap junction coupling became strong enough, the effect was impeded and activity synchronized. In particular, sustained periods of beta coherence occurred between some neuron pairs. As gap junctions can change their conductance with the dopamine level, we suggest pallidal gap junction coupling as a mechanism contributing to the development of beta synchrony in the parkinsonian basal ganglia.
Macromechanics study of stable fatigue crack growth in Al–Cu–Li–Mg–Ag alloy
Authors: Akhtar N. , Wu S. J.
Published: June 2016

This study was made on a fresh variety of Al–Li base alloy to investigate the role of ageing precipitates and microstructure dimensions in the fatigue crack growth resistance. The fatigue crack growth rate was measured in three different states of the material (i.e. base metal in T8 condition, friction stir weld and laser beam weld in full‐aged condition). Metallurgical analysis showed that the base metal in T8 temper is precipitation hardened by an equivalent amount of δ′ (AL3Li), T1 (AI2CuLi) and θ′ (AI2Cu) precipitates. The friction stir weld retained the morphology of strengthening precipitate; however, coarsening of Cu containing precipitates has occurred. On the other hand, laser beam weld showed a different type of CuAl phase morphology, which is characteristic of cast metal. The results of fatigue tests confirmed that fatigue crack growth resistance largely depends on microstructural features, specifically the strengthening phases. The fatigue crack resistance was in the order of base metal > laser beam weldment > friction stir weldment. The CuAl phase played a vital role in the crack closure of the laser beam weldment, thus enhancing the fatigue life as compared with the friction stir weldment, which was evident from the plot between log of da/dN (crack growth in each cycle) and log of ΔK (stress intensity range).
Assessing the potential to decrease the Gulf of Mexico hypoxic zone with MidwestUSperennial cellulosic feedstock production
Authors: VanLoocke Andy , Twine Tracy E. , Kucharik Christopher J. , Bernacchi Carl J.
Published: June 2016

The goal of this research was to determine the changes in streamflow, dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) leaching and export to the Gulf of Mexico associated with a range of large‐scale dedicated perennial cellulosic bioenergy production scenarios within in the Mississippi–Atchafalaya River Basin (MARB). To achieve this goal, we used Agro‐IBIS, a vegetation model capable of simulating the biogeochemistry of row crops, miscanthus and switchgrass, coupled withTHMB, a hydrology model capable of simulating streamflow andDINexport. Simulations were conducted at varying fertilizer application rates (0–200 kg N ha−1) and fractional replacement (5–25%) of current row crops with miscanthus or switchgrass across theMARB. The analysis also includes two scenarios where miscanthus and switchgrass (MRXandMRS, respectively) each replace the ca. 40% of maize production currently devoted to ethanol. Across the scenarios, there were minor reductions in runoff and streamflow throughout theMARB, with the largest differences (ca. 6%) occurring for miscanthus at the highest fractional replacement scenarios in drier portions of the region. However, differences in totalMARBdischarge at the basin outlet were less than 1.5% even in theMRXscenario. Reductions inDINexport were much larger on a percentage basis than reductions in runoff, with the highest replacement scenarios decreasing long‐term meanDINexport by ca. 15% and 20% for switchgrass and miscanthus, respectively. Fertilization scenarios show that significant reductions inDINleaching are possible even with application rates of 100 and 150 kg N ha−1for switchgrass and miscanthus, respectively. These results indicate that, given targeted management strategies, there is potential for miscanthus and switchgrass to provide key ecosystem services by reducing the export ofDIN, while avoiding hydrologic impacts of reduced streamflow.
Drug–Drug Interactions in Headache Medicine
Authors: Ansari Hossein , Ziad Sanaz
Published: June 2016

Background

The main treatments in a majority of headache patients are pharmacologic therapies. As a result, it is imperative to have strong background in pharmacotherapy used to treat headaches in order to provide optimal therapy and avoid drug interactions. One of the main reasons for failure of pharmacologic treatment of headaches is drug–drug interactions (DDIs). While there are many distinct pathways and mechanisms in which DDIs can occur, most occur through alterations within the cytochrome P450 pathways (CYP). Drugs that cause induction, inhibition, or are simply substrates for these pathways are responsible for many of the DDIs.

Aim/Results

We review and discuss the important and potential DDIs of commonly used headache medication often encountered in clinical practice. We divide the drugs into two classes, abortive and preventive. Within each group we select the most commonly used drugs and provide a detailed discussion of the mechanisms of interaction for each. Also included are commonly used herbal supplements, which can interact with headache medications.

Conclusion

Drug–drug‐interactions are a major concern when developing a treatment regimen for patients suffering from headaches. There is a growing need for physician attention to the pharmacokinetics of drugs to improve the quality of patient care. It is vital that prescribing physicians be aware of the DDIs associated with the commonly prescribed headache medications to optimize patient care and therapy results.
Dialysis Headache: A Narrative Review
Authors: Sousa Melo Eduardo , Carrilho Aguiar Filipe , Sampaio Rocha‐Filho Pedro Augusto
Published: June 2016

Background

Patients with chronic kidney disease who need dialysis often have poor quality of life. Dialysis headache is a frequent complication of hemodialysis and is often a challenge for nephrologists, neurologists, and headache specialists.

Method

This was a narrative review.

Results

The prevalence of dialysis headache varies between 27% and 73%. Among the characteristics of this headache are the pulsatile pattern, frontal location, moderate to severe intensity, and onset a few hours after the beginning of dialysis. The headache may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The physiopathology of hemodialysis headache is still not completely understood. Some factors that seem to be associated with it are variations in urea, sodium, magnesium, blood pressure, and weight levels. The hematoencephalic barrier has an important role. Variations in electrolyte and urea levels occur in the systemic circulation during hemodialysis, but the cerebral concentrations of these substances are stable over the first few hours of the procedure. The flow of free water through the hematoencephalic barrier may lead to cerebral edema. Other potential pathophysiological factors include nitric oxide, calcitonin gene‐related peptide, and substance P. There are recommendations for maintenance of volume and control over electrolytes and blood pressure and avoidance of caffeine for prevention of hemodialysis headache. However, there are no controlled studies of prophylactic or abortive hemodialysis headache treatment.

Conclusion

Despite its prevalence, hemodialysis headache has been poorly studied, thus making it difficult to understand the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in its genesis. Current clinical management practices are therefore necessarily empiric with minimal to no evidence base.
Performance of novel virtual parenchymal perfusion software visualizing embolized areas of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Miyayama Shiro , Yamashiro Masashi , Nagai Keiichi , Yokka Akira , Yoshida Miki , Sakuragawa Naoko
Published: June 2016

Aim

To evaluate the performance of novel virtual parenchymal perfusion (VPP) software in conventional transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (cTACE) for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Methods

VPP was retrospectively applied to 43 hepatocellular carcinomas treated with cTACE. The virtual embolized area (VEA) was estimated after positioning a virtual injection point on images of non‐selective cone‐beam computed tomography during hepatic arteriography, at the same position in superselective cTACE. The real embolized area (REA) was defined as the area where iodized oil was retained on 1‐week computed tomography after cTACE. Three dimensions across the tumor (maximum [a] and minimum [b] in the axial and craniocaudal [c]) directions, and the volume of the VEA and REA were compared using linear regression analysis. It was also evaluated whether an adequate safety margin ≥5 mm could be predicted by VPP.

Results

The mean lengths of a, b, and c of the VEA and REA were 54.6 ± 15.9 mm (range 24.9–91.0 mm) and 55.0 ± 15.7 mm (range 23.9–92.8 mm; r = 0.9448, P < 0.001), 35.4 ± 11.7 mm (range 16.1–66.0 mm) and 35.4 ± 13.2 mm (range 12.2–69.2 mm; r = 0.9369, P < 0.001), and 42.1 ± 11.6 mm (range 25.0–75.7 mm) and 42.9 ± 11.7 mm (range 25.7–78.7 mm; r = 0.9092, P < 0.001), respectively. The mean volume of the VEA and REA was 71.8 ± 44.8 mL and 75.5 ± 46.9 mL, respectively (r = 0.9913, P < 0.0001). VPP showed no safety margins in seven tumors, including all three actually embolized without safety margins.

Conclusion

The VEA estimated using VPP showed a good correlation with the REA of cTACE.
Effectiveness and response predictors of omalizumab in a severe allergic asthma population with a high prevalence of comorbidities: the Australian Xolair Registry
Authors: Gibson P. G. , Reddel H. , McDonald V. M. , Marks G. , Jenkins C. , Gillman A. , Upham J. , Sutherland M. , Rimmer J. , Thien F. , Katsoulotos G. P. , Cook M. , Yang I. , Katelaris C. , Bowler S. , Langton D. , Robinson P. , Wright C. , Yozghatlian V. , Burgess S. , Sivakumaran P. , Jaffe A. , Bowden J. , Wark P. A. B. , Yan K. Y. , Kritikos V. , Peters M. , Hew M. , Aminazad A. , Bint M. , Guo M.
Published: June 2016

Background

Severe asthma is a high impact disease. Omalizumab targets the allergic inflammatory pathway; however, effectiveness data in a population with significant comorbidities are limited.

Aims

To describe severe allergic asthma, omalizumab treatment outcomes and predictors of response among the Australian Xolair Registry participants.

Methods

A web‐based post‐marketing surveillance registry was established to characterise the use, effectiveness and adverse effects of omalizumab (Xolair) for severe allergic asthma.

Results

Participants (n = 192) (mean age 51 years, 118 female) with severe allergic asthma from 21 clinics in Australia were assessed, and 180 received omalizumab therapy. They had poor asthma control (Asthma Control Questionnaire, ACQ‐5, mean score 3.56) and significant quality of life impairment (Asthma‐related Quality of Life Questionnaire score 3.57), and 52% were using daily oral corticosteroid (OCS). Overall, 95% had one or more comorbidities (rhinitis 48%, obesity 45%, cardiovascular disease 23%). The omalizumab responder rate, assessed by an improvement of at least 0.5 in ACQ‐5, was high at 83%. OCS use was significantly reduced. The response in participants with comorbid obesity and cardiovascular disease was similar to those without these conditions. Baseline ACQ‐5 ≥ 2.0 (P = 0.002) and older age (P = 0.05) predicted the magnitude of change in ACQ‐5 in response to omalizumab. Drug‐related adverse events included anaphylactoid reactions (n = 4), headache (n = 2) and chest pains (n = 1).

Conclusion

Australian patients with severe allergic asthma report a high disease burden and have extensive comorbidity. Symptomatic response to omalizumab was high despite significant comorbid disease. Omalizumab is an effective targeted therapy for severe allergic asthma with comorbidity in a real‐life setting.
Building nursing and midwifery leadership capacity in the Pacific
Authors: Rumsey M. , Catling C. , Thiessen J. , Neill A.
Published: June 2016

Aim

The Australian Award Fellowship Program aimed to strengthen nursing and midwifery leadership and capacity in developing countries in the Pacific.

Background

It is necessary to build an optimal global health workforce, and leadership and mentorship are central to this need. This is especially important in small island states such as the Pacific who have limited capacity and resources.

Introduction

This health system strengthening program addressed quality improvement in education, through the mentorship of potential nursing and midwifery leaders in the South Pacific Region.

Methods

Program participants between 2013 and 2015 were interviewed. Data were audio‐taped, transcribed and analysed thematically using an inductive process.

Results

Thirty‐four nurses and midwives from 12 countries participated. There were four main themes arising from the data which were: having a country‐wide objective, learning how to be a leader, negotiating barriers and having effective mentorship.

Discussion

Our study showed that participants deemed their mentorship from country leaders highly valuable in relation to completing their projects, networking and role modelling. Similar projects are described.

Limitations

The limitation of this study was its small size. There is a need to continue to build the momentum of the program and Fellows in each country in order to build regional networks.

Conclusions and implications for nursing and midwifery

The Program has provided beneficial leadership education and mentorship for nurses and midwives from Pacific countries. It has provided a platform to develop quality improvement projects in line with national priorities.

Implications for health policy

Global aid programs and the recipients of the program would benefit from comparable health strengthening approaches to nursing and midwifery in similar developing countries.