bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post‐Fire Comparisons of Forest Floor and Soil Carbon, Nitrogen, and Mercury Pools with Fire Severity Indices
Authors: Kolka Randy , Sturtevant Brian , Townsend Phil , Miesel Jessica , Wolter Peter , Fraver Shawn , DeSutter Tom
Published: June 2014

Forest fires are important contributors of C, N, and Hg to the atmosphere. In the fall of 2011, a large wildfire occurred in northern Minnesota and we were able to quickly access the area to sample the forest floor and mineral soil for C, N, and Hg pools. When compared with unburned reference soils, the mean loss of C resulting from fire in the forest floor and the upper 20 cm of mineral soil was 19.3 Mg ha−1, for N the mean loss was 0.17 Mg ha−1, and for Hg the mean loss was 9.3 g ha−1. To assess the influence of fire severity on the forest floor and mineral soils, we used an established method that included a soil burn severity index and a tree burn severity index with a gradient of severity classes. It was apparent that the unburned reference class had greater forest floor C, N, and Hg pools and higher C/N ratios than the burned classes. The C/N ratios of the 0‐ to 10‐ and 10‐ to 20‐cm mineral soils in the unburned reference class were also greater than in the burned classes, indicating that a small amount of C was lost and/or N was gained, potentially through leaching unburned forest floor material. However, with a couple of exceptions, the severity classes were unable to differentiate the forest floor and mineral soil impacts among soil burn and tree burn severity indices. Developing burn severity indices that are reflective of soil elemental impacts is an important first step in scaling ecosystem impacts both within and across fire events.
Soil and Sediment Carbon and Nitrogen in Mississippi Alluvial Valley and Interior Flatwoods Bottomlands
Authors: Hatten Jeff , Sloan Jonathan , Frey Brent , Straub Jacob , Kaminski Richard , Ezell Andrew
Published: June 2014

Bottomland forests occur in floodplains of rivers and streams and are particularly dominant in the southeastern United States. Red oak (Quercus spp.) dominated sites in these systems are important for many wildlife species, remove pollutants, and accumulate C and nutrients. We examined red oak stands at six study sites in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley and Interior Flatwoods physiographic regions. We measured the hydroperiod at one location per site and degree of hydrologic connection to a major river, deposition of sediment and particulate C and N, and soil C and N (to 50 cm) at 10 to 20 locations within each site. Sources of organic matter appeared to change with hydrologic connection. Connected sites accumulated sediment C and N derived from eroded soil (0.05–0.23 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 and 2–15 kg N ha−1 yr−1), while disconnected sites were more likely to transfer C and N from within their respective floodplains (0.03–0.05 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 and 2–3 kg N ha−1 yr−1). In connected floodplains, sediment and soil characteristics were frequently correlated with distance to and discharge of the nearest stream. In disconnected floodplains, the distance to and discharge of the nearest stream was important in explaining soil and sediment characteristics, but the depth of mottling was frequently more important. Deposition of N and C was highest on sites within the floodplains connected to their major river. Accumulation of C appeared negligible, while accumulation of particulate N may be an important input of N to these systems.
Linking zebra mussel invasion and waterborne commerce in the USA
Authors: Oliver Matthew E.
Published: June 2014

The zebra mussel, a non-indigenous species in North American freshwater ecosystems, has received significant attention over the past two decades as a costly and damaging invader. In the USA, federal-, state-, and local-level policies designed to control and/or prevent the spread of this species remain flawed, in that they do not everywhere account for (or enforce regulations over) all potential anthropogenic dispersal pathways. Ballast water discharge is well-known as an important vector in the dispersal of aquatic invasive species in general, but for the zebra mussel its effects as a source of transmission have rarely been investigated. This article uses simple econometric techniques to measure the relationship between zebra mussel invasion in US states and domestic commercial navigation. Coefficient estimates suggest that incoming waterborne shipments from invaded states are an important determinant of the level of zebra mussel invasion in the receiving state. In designing a comprehensive framework for combating the spread of zebra mussels across US freshwater ecosystems, policy-makers may need to more carefully consider the monitoring and treatment of commercial ships' ballast water discharges as potentially effective strategies.
The periurban water security problem: a case study of Hyderabad in Southern India
Authors: Prakash Anjal
Published: June 2014

The 2011 Census of India produced some interesting facts about the process of urbanisation in India. For the first time since Independence, the absolute increase in population is more in urban than in rural areas. The increase in urban areas has put pressure on the basic infrastructure, including access to water for both urban and periurban locations. Most Indian cities have formal water supply for only a few hours a day and only in limited areas. The question is – where are the remaining water requirements coming from? For much of India's ‘water history’, the focus has been on large-scale surface-water projects to provide access, focusing more on irrigation and neglecting sources within the city and the periurban areas. Over time an enormous informal groundwater market has arisen in several cities to bridge the demand–supply gap. This water demand is met through supplies of water through informal water markets. Water is sourced from the periurban regions, which are usually richer in surface water and groundwater. This paper focuses on the change process as witnessed by periurban areas with a case study of Hyderabad. This paper presents an overview of a trend that is leading to immense water insecurities due to a combination of issues.
Scenarios for environmental sanitation in Brazil
Authors: Heller Léo , Rodrigues Ludmila Alves , Silveira Rogério Braga
Published: June 2014

Public sector planning, especially in developing countries, is both a theoretical and methodological challenge that is particularly important with regard to the field of environmental sanitation. This field is dominated by a technical vision that often ignores the complexity of the real world and the human dimension influenced by its actions, as opposed to a strategic one. This paper discusses the preparation of the Brazilian National Basic Sanitation Plan (Plano Nacional de Saneamento Básico – PLANSAB) with a particular focus on its future scenario construction phase, which was primarily based on Situational Strategic Planning and prospective methods. Three scenarios were developed in a participatory process that consisted of several steps and involved various social actors, including governmental officials and authorities, informed by a team of experts in charge of the whole planning process. During the process, 10 extrinsic and intrinsic factors influencing the sector were considered, which led to the generation of a set of macro directives, strategies and targets for the expansion of access to water supply, sanitation, solid waste management and urban storm water management over the next 20 years. PLANSAB was able to overcome many of the criticisms that are typically raised with regard to traditional planning, although, as with any political process, it will not be immune from inertial factors that may create obstacles during the implementation phase.
Analyzing the potential of community water systems: the case of AguaClara
Authors: González Rivas Marcela , Beers Karim , Warner Mildred E. , Weber-Shirk Monroe
Published: June 2014

Successful maintenance of water provision has as much to do with the ongoing governance of these systems as the technology that goes into building them. This governance generally occurs at the community level. Most water systems are small and located in areas where there is generally not the profitability necessary to entice private investment. Understanding how community management can improve is therefore essential to solving water provision problems around the world. This paper develops a three part framework for analyzing water projects through a focus on technology, management and governance. The framework draws on research on collective action and various forms of capital as they relate to technology (natural and physical capital), management (financial and human capital) and governance (social and political capital). We demonstrate the usefulness of the framework by studying AguaClara, a program that has helped seven Honduran communities build eight water treatment plants and set up functioning systems of governance.
A policy option for valuing irrigation water in the dry areas
Authors: Yigezu Yigezu A. , Aw-Hassan Aden , Shideed Kamil , Sommer Rolf , El-Shater Tamer
Published: June 2014

Participants at the international conference on policies for water and food security in the dry areas, held in June 2013, agreed that, given the fast pace of depletion of groundwater, the issue of water valuation in the dry areas is no longer one of whether or not, but rather of how. Policies that have been or are perceived to have adverse effects on the cost of agricultural production or food prices in the dry areas are often not well received and have historically led to popular uprisings. As a result, despite clear evidence of misuse of irrigation water by many farmers, governments have been avoiding the idea of water pricing. This government stance is mainly based on the assumption that policies that aim at valuing water will necessarily affect farmers negatively. Using a case study from Syria and applying a simple optimization model, this paper provides empirical evidence that a policy which introduces a penalty for excessive application of irrigation water would compel farmers to adopt water saving technologies. By so doing, the policy will not only lead to groundwater conservation but also to Pareto-optimal distribution of benefits (i.e., a situation where nobody loses and at best some or all gain).
Cyclin D1 Represses Gluconeogenesis via Inhibition of the Transcriptional Coactivator PGC1α
Authors: Bhalla Kavita , Liu Wan-Ju , Thompson Keyata , Anders Lars , Devarakonda Srikripa , Dewi Ruby , Buckley Stephanie , Hwang Bor-Jang , Polster Brian , Dorsey Susan G. , Sun Yezhou , Sicinski Piotr , Girnun Geoffrey D.
Published: June 2014

Hepatic gluconeogenesis is crucial to maintain normal blood glucose during periods of nutrient deprivation. Gluconeogenesis is controlled at multiple levels by a variety of signal transduction and transcriptional pathways. However, dysregulation of these pathways leads to hyperglycemia and type 2 diabetes. While the effects of various signaling pathways on gluconeogenesis are well established, the downstream signaling events repressing gluconeogenic gene expression are not as well understood. The cell-cycle regulator cyclin D1 is expressed in the liver, despite the liver being a quiescent tissue. The most well-studied function of cyclin D1 is activation of cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4), promoting progression of the cell cycle. We show here a novel role for cyclin D1 as a regulator of gluconeogenic and oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) gene expression. In mice, fasting decreases liver cyclin D1 expression, while refeeding induces cyclin D1 expression. Inhibition of CDK4 enhances the gluconeogenic gene expression, whereas cyclin D1–mediated activation of CDK4 represses the gluconeogenic gene-expression program in vitro and in vivo. Importantly, we show that cyclin D1 represses gluconeogenesis and OxPhos in part via inhibition of peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC1α) activity in a CDK4-dependent manner. Indeed, we demonstrate that PGC1α is novel cyclin D1/CDK4 substrate. These studies reveal a novel role for cyclin D1 on metabolism via PGC1α and reveal a potential link between cell-cycle regulation and metabolic control of glucose homeostasis.
Fractalkine (CX3CL1) Is Involved in the Early Activation of Hypothalamic Inflammation in Experimental Obesity
Authors: Morari Joseane , Anhe Gabriel F. , Nascimento Lucas F. , de Moura Rodrigo F. , Razolli Daniela , Solon Carina , Guadagnini Dioze , Souza Gabriela , Mattos Alexandre H. , Tobar Natalia , Ramos Celso D. , Pascoal Vinicius D. , Saad Mario J. , Lopes-Cendes Iscia , Moraes Juliana C. , Velloso Licio A.
Published: June 2014

Hypothalamic inflammation is a common feature of experimental obesity. Dietary fats are important triggers of this process, inducing the activation of toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4) signaling and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Microglia cells, which are the cellular components of the innate immune system in the brain, are expected to play a role in the early activation of diet-induced hypothalamic inflammation. Here, we use bone marrow transplants to generate mice chimeras that express a functional TLR4 in the entire body except in bone marrow–derived cells or only in bone marrow–derived cells. We show that a functional TLR4 in bone marrow–derived cells is required for the complete expression of the diet-induced obese phenotype and for the perpetuation of inflammation in the hypothalamus. In an obesity-prone mouse strain, the chemokine CX3CL1 (fractalkine) is rapidly induced in the neurons of the hypothalamus after the introduction of a high-fat diet. The inhibition of hypothalamic fractalkine reduces diet-induced hypothalamic inflammation and the recruitment of bone marrow–derived monocytic cells to the hypothalamus; in addition, this inhibition reduces obesity and protects against diet-induced glucose intolerance. Thus, fractalkine is an important player in the early induction of diet-induced hypothalamic inflammation, and its inhibition impairs the induction of the obese and glucose intolerance phenotypes.
β-Cell Function, Incretin Effect, and Incretin Hormones in Obese Youth Along the Span of Glucose Tolerance From Normal to Prediabetes to Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Michaliszyn Sara F. , Mari Andrea , Lee SoJung , Bacha Fida , Tfayli Hala , Farchoukh Lama , Ferrannini Ele , Arslanian Silva
Published: June 2014

Using the hyperglycemic and euglycemic clamp, we demonstrated impaired β-cell function in obese youth with increasing dysglycemia. Herein we describe oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)-modeled β-cell function and incretin effect in obese adolescents spanning the range of glucose tolerance. β-Cell function parameters were derived from established mathematical models yielding β-cell glucose sensitivity (βCGS), rate sensitivity, and insulin sensitivity in 255 obese adolescents (173 with normal glucose tolerance [NGT], 48 with impaired glucose tolerance [IGT], and 34 with type 2 diabetes [T2D]). The incretin effect was calculated as the ratio of the OGTT-βCGS to the 2-h hyperglycemic clamp-βCGS. Incretin and glucagon concentrations were measured during the OGTT. Compared with NGT, βCGS was 30 and 65% lower in youth with IGT and T2D, respectively; rate sensitivity was 40% lower in T2D. Youth with IGT or T2D had 32 and 38% reduced incretin effect compared with NGT in the face of similar changes in GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) in response to oral glucose. We conclude that glucose sensitivity deteriorates progressively in obese youth across the spectrum of glucose tolerance in association with impairment in incretin effect without reduction in GLP-1 or GIP, similar to that seen in adult dysglycemia.
Macrophage HIF-2α Ameliorates Adipose Tissue Inflammation and Insulin Resistance in Obesity
Authors: Choe Sung Sik , Shin Kyung Cheul , Ka Sojeong , Lee Yun Kyung , Chun Jang-Soo , Kim Jae Bum
Published: June 2014

In obesity, adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) play a key role in mediating proinflammatory responses in the adipose tissue, which are associated with obesity-related metabolic complications. Recently, adipose tissue hypoxia has been implicated in the regulation of ATMs in obesity. However, the role of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-2α, one of the major transcription factors induced by hypoxia, has not been fully elucidated in ATMs. In this study, we demonstrate that elevation of macrophage HIF-2α would attenuate adipose tissue inflammation and improve insulin resistance in obesity. In macrophages, overexpression of HIF-2α decreased nitric oxide production and suppressed expression of proinflammatory cytokines through induction of arginase 1. HIF-2α–overexpressing macrophages alleviated proinflammatory responses and improved insulin resistance in adipocytes. In contrast, knockdown of macrophage HIF-2α augmented palmitate-induced proinflammatory gene expression in adipocytes. Furthermore, compared with wild-type mice, Hif-2α heterozygous-null mice aggravated insulin resistance and adipose tissue inflammation with more M1-like ATMs upon high-fat diet (HFD). Moreover, glucose intolerance in HFD-fed Hif-2α heterozygous-null mice was relieved by macrophage depletion with clodronate treatment, implying that increase of proinflammatory ATMs is responsible for insulin resistance by haplodeficiency of Hif-2α upon HFD. Taken together, these data suggest that macrophage HIF-2α would counteract the proinflammatory responses to relieve obesity-induced insulin resistance in adipose tissue.
IRS1 G972R Missense Polymorphism Is Associated With Failure to Oral Antidiabetes Drugs in White Patients With Type 2 Diabetes From Italy
Authors: Prudente Sabrina , Morini Eleonora , Lucchesi Daniela , Lamacchia Olga , Bailetti Diego , Mercuri Luana , Alberico Federica , Copetti Massimiliano , Pucci Laura , Fariello Stefania , Giusti Laura , Cignarelli Mauro , Penno Giuseppe , De Cosmo Salvatore , Trischitta Vincenzo
Published: June 2014

This study tried to replicate in a large sample of white patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) from Italy a previously reported association of the IRS1 G972R polymorphism with failure to oral antidiabetes drugs (OAD). A total of 2,409 patients from four independent studies were investigated. Case subjects (n = 1,193) were patients in whom, because of uncontrolled diabetes (i.e., HbA1c >8%), insulin therapy had been added either on, or instead of, maximal or near-maximal doses of OAD, mostly metformin and sulfonylureas; control subjects (n = 1,216) were patients with HbA1c <8% in the absence of insulin therapy. The IRS1 G972R polymorphism was typed by TaqMan allele discrimination. In all samples, individuals carrying the IRS1 R972 risk variant tended to be more frequent among case than control subjects, though reaching statistical significance only in one case. As no IRS1 G972R-by-study sample interaction was observed, data from the four samples were analyzed together; a significant association was observed (allelic odds ratio [OR] 1.30, 95% CI 1.03–1.63). When our present data were meta-analyzed with those obtained in a previous study, an overall R972 allelic OR of 1.37 (1.12–1.69) was observed. This study confirms in a large and ethnically homogeneous sample that IRS1 G972R polymorphism is associated with failure to OAD among patients with T2D.
GLP-1 Secretion Is Increased by Inflammatory Stimuli in an IL-6–Dependent Manner, Leading to Hyperinsulinemia and Blood Glucose Lowering
Authors: Kahles Florian , Meyer Christina , Möllmann Julia , Diebold Sebastian , Findeisen Hannes M. , Lebherz Corinna , Trautwein Christian , Koch Alexander , Tacke Frank , Marx Nikolaus , Lehrke Michael
Published: June 2014

Hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia are both predictors for adverse outcome in critically ill patients. Hyperinsulinemia is induced by inflammatory stimuli as a relevant mechanism for glucose lowering in the critically ill. The incretine hormone GLP-1 was currently found to be induced by endotoxin, leading to insulin secretion and glucose lowering under inflammatory conditions in mice. Here, we describe GLP-1 secretion to be increased by a variety of inflammatory stimuli, including endotoxin, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-6. Although abrogation of IL-1 signaling proved insufficient to prevent endotoxin-dependent GLP-1 induction, this was abolished in the absence of IL-6 in respective knockout animals. Hence, we found endotoxin-dependent GLP-1 secretion to be mediated by an inflammatory cascade, with IL-6 being necessary and sufficient for GLP-1 induction. Functionally, augmentation of the GLP-1 system by pharmacological inhibition of DPP-4 caused hyperinsulinemia, suppression of glucagon release, and glucose lowering under endotoxic conditions, whereas inhibition of the GLP-1 receptor led to the opposite effect. Furthermore, total GLP-1 plasma levels were profoundly increased in 155 critically ill patients presenting to the intensive care unit (ICU) in comparison with 134 healthy control subjects. In the ICU cohort, GLP-1 plasma levels correlated with markers of inflammation and disease severity. Consequently, GLP-1 provides a novel link between the immune system and the gut with strong relevance for metabolic regulation in context of inflammation.
Common Genetic Variants Highlight the Role of Insulin Resistance and Body Fat Distribution in Type 2 Diabetes, Independent of Obesity
Authors: Scott Robert A. , Fall Tove , Pasko Dorota , Barker Adam , Sharp Stephen J. , Arriola Larraitz , Balkau Beverley , Barricarte Aurelio , Barroso Inês , Boeing Heiner , Clavel-Chapelon Françoise , Crowe Francesca L. , Dekker Jacqueline M. , Fagherazzi Guy , Ferrannini Ele , Forouhi Nita G. , Franks Paul W. , Gavrila Diana , Giedraitis Vilmantas , Grioni Sara , Groop Leif C. , Kaaks Rudolf , Key Timothy J. , Kühn Tilman , Lotta Luca A. , Nilsson Peter M. , Overvad Kim , Palli Domenico , Panico Salvatore , Quirós J. Ramón , Rolandsson Olov , Roswall Nina , Sacerdote Carlotta , Sala Núria , Sánchez María-José , Schulze Matthias B. , Siddiq Afshan , Slimani Nadia , Sluijs Ivonne , Spijkerman Annemieke M.W. , Tjonneland Anne , Tumino Rosario , van der A Daphne L. , Yaghootkar Hanieh ,   The RISC Study Group,   The EPIC-InterAct Consortium, McCarthy Mark I. , Semple Robert K. , Riboli Elio , Walker Mark , Ingelsson Erik , Frayling Tim M. , Savage David B. , Langenberg Claudia , Wareham Nicholas J.
Published: June 2014

We aimed to validate genetic variants as instruments for insulin resistance and secretion, to characterize their association with intermediate phenotypes, and to investigate their role in type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk among normal-weight, overweight, and obese individuals. We investigated the association of genetic scores with euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp– and oral glucose tolerance test–based measures of insulin resistance and secretion and a range of metabolic measures in up to 18,565 individuals. We also studied their association with T2D risk among normal-weight, overweight, and obese individuals in up to 8,124 incident T2D cases. The insulin resistance score was associated with lower insulin sensitivity measured by M/I value (β in SDs per allele [95% CI], −0.03 [−0.04, −0.01]; P = 0.004). This score was associated with lower BMI (−0.01 [−0.01, −0.0]; P = 0.02) and gluteofemoral fat mass (−0.03 [−0.05, −0.02; P = 1.4 × 10−6) and with higher alanine transaminase (0.02 [0.01, 0.03]; P = 0.002) and γ-glutamyl transferase (0.02 [0.01, 0.03]; P = 0.001). While the secretion score had a stronger association with T2D in leaner individuals (Pinteraction = 0.001), we saw no difference in the association of the insulin resistance score with T2D among BMI or waist strata (Pinteraction > 0.31). While insulin resistance is often considered secondary to obesity, the association of the insulin resistance score with lower BMI and adiposity and with incident T2D even among individuals of normal weight highlights the role of insulin resistance and ectopic fat distribution in T2D, independently of body size.
White Matter Integrity Disruptions Associated With Cognitive Impairments in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Zhang Junying , Wang Yunxia , Wang Jun , Zhou Xiaoqing , Shu Ni , Wang Yongyan , Zhang Zhanjun
Published: June 2014

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with a twofold increased risk of dementia and can affect many cognitive abilities, but its underlying cause is still unclear. In this study, we used a combination of a battery of neuropsychological tests and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to explore how T2DM affects white matter (WM) integrity and cognition in 38 T2DM patients and 34 age-, sex-, and education-matched normal control subjects. A battery of neuropsychological tests was used to assess a wide range of cognitive functions. Tract-based spatial statistics combined with region of interest–wise (ROI-wise) analysis of mean values of DTI metrics in ROIs was used to compare group differences of DTI metrics on WM skeletons to identify severely disrupted WM tracts in T2DM. We found that T2DM patients showed 1) various cognitive impairments, including executive function, spatial processing, attention, and working memory deficits; 2) widespread WM disruptions, especially in the whole corpus callosum, the left anterior limb of the internal capsule (ALIC.L), and external capsule (EC); and 3) a positive correlation between executive function and WM integrity in the ALIC.L and the left EC. In conclusion, T2DM patients show various cognitive impairments and widespread WM integrity disruptions, which we attribute to demyelination. Moreover, executive dysfunction closely correlates with WM abnormalities.
Metabolic Syndrome, Prediabetes, and Brain Abnormalities on MRI in Patients With Manifest Arterial Disease: The SMART-MR Study
Authors: Tiehuis Audrey M. , van der Graaf Yolanda , Mali Willem P.T.M. , Vincken Koen , Muller Majon , Geerlings Mirjam I.
Published: June 2014

OBJECTIVE

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors leading to atherosclerosis and diabetes. Diabetes is associated with both structural and functional abnormalities of the brain. MetS, even before diabetes is diagnosed, may also predispose to cerebral changes, probably through shared mechanisms. We examined the association of MetS with cerebral changes in patients with manifest arterial disease.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Cross-sectional data on MetS and brain MRI were available in 1,232 participants with manifest arterial disease (age 58.6 ± 10.1 years; 37% MetS). Volumes of brain tissue, ventricles, and white matter hyperintensities (WMH) were obtained by automated segmentation and expressed relative to intracranial volume. Infarcts were distinguished into lacunar and nonlacunar infarcts.

RESULTS

The presence of MetS (n = 451) was associated with smaller brain tissue volume (B −0.72% [95% CI −0.97, −0.47]), even in the subgroup of patients without diabetes (B −0.42% [95% CI −0.71, −0.13]). MetS was not associated with an increased occurrence of WMH or cerebral infarcts. Impaired glucose metabolism, abdominal obesity, and elevated triglycerides were individual components associated with smaller brain volume. Obesity and hypertriglyceridemia remained associated with smaller brain volume when patients with diabetes were excluded. Hypertension was associated with an increased occurrence of WMH and infarcts.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with manifest arterial disease, presence of MetS is associated with smaller brain volume, even in patients without diabetes. Screening for MetS and treatment of its individual components, in particular, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and obesity, may prevent progression of cognitive aging in patients with MetS, even in a prediabetic stage.
No Effect of High-Dose Vitamin D Supplementation on Glycemic Status or Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Subjects With Prediabetes
Authors: Sollid Stina Therese , Hutchinson Moira Y.S. , Fuskevåg Ole M. , Figenschau Yngve , Joakimsen Ragnar M. , Schirmer Henrik , Njølstad Inger , Svartberg Johan , Kamycheva Elena , Jorde Rolf
Published: June 2014

OBJECTIVE

In observational studies, low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations have been associated with insulin resistance and other risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We present 1-year data from an ongoing 5-year trial in 511 individuals with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and/or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) randomly assigned to 20,000 IU/week vitamin D3 or placebo. An oral glucose tolerance test was performed at baseline and after 1 year.

RESULTS

Mean baseline serum 25(OH)D was 59.9 nmol/L and 61.1 nmol/L in the vitamin D and placebo groups, respectively, and increased by 45.8 nmol/L and 3.4 nmol/L, respectively. With adjustment for baseline concentrations, no differences in measures of glucose metabolism, insulin secretion or sensitivity, blood pressure, or hs-CRP were found after 1 year. There was a slight, but significant decrease in total and LDL cholesterol in the vitamin D group compared with the placebo group, but as there was also a decrease in HDL cholesterol, the change in the total/HDL cholesterol ratio did not differ significantly. Only analyzing subjects with 25(OH)D <50 nmol/L did not change the results.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that vitamin D supplementation does not improve glycemic indices, blood pressure, or lipid status in subjects with IFG and/or IGT.
Metabolite Traits and Genetic Risk Provide Complementary Information for the Prediction of Future Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Walford Geoffrey A. , Porneala Bianca C. , Dauriz Marco , Vassy Jason L. , Cheng Susan , Rhee Eugene P. , Wang Thomas J. , Meigs James B. , Gerszten Robert E. , Florez Jose C.
Published: June 2014

OBJECTIVE

A genetic risk score (GRS) comprised of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and metabolite biomarkers have each been shown, separately, to predict incident type 2 diabetes. We tested whether genetic and metabolite markers provide complementary information for type 2 diabetes prediction and, together, improve the accuracy of prediction models containing clinical traits.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Diabetes risk was modeled with a 62-SNP GRS, nine metabolites, and clinical traits. We fit age- and sex-adjusted logistic regression models to test the association of these sources of information, separately and jointly, with incident type 2 diabetes among 1,622 initially nondiabetic participants from the Framingham Offspring Study. The predictive capacity of each model was assessed by area under the curve (AUC).

RESULTS

Two hundred and six new diabetes cases were observed during 13.5 years of follow-up. The AUC was greater for the model containing the GRS and metabolite measurements together versus GRS or metabolites alone (0.820 vs. 0.641, P < 0.0001, or 0.820 vs. 0.803, P = 0.01, respectively). Odds ratios for association of GRS or metabolites with type 2 diabetes were not attenuated in the combined model. The AUC was greater for the model containing the GRS, metabolites, and clinical traits versus clinical traits only (0.880 vs. 0.856, P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Metabolite and genetic traits provide complementary information to each other for the prediction of future type 2 diabetes. These novel markers of diabetes risk modestly improve the predictive accuracy of incident type 2 diabetes based only on traditional clinical risk factors.
Predicting the Duration of Concrete Operations Via Artificial Neural Network and by Focusing on Supply Chain Parameters
Authors: Maghrebi Mojtaba , Sammut Claude , Waller Travis S.
Published: June 2014

Being able to precisely predict the duration of concrete operations can help construction managers to organize sites and machineries more efficiently, especially when there is limited space for equipment on site. Currently there is no theoretical method for estimating the duration of the concrete pouring process. Normally, the maximum capacity of pumping facilities on construction sites is not used, and concrete pumps are idle for a considerable time as a result of the arrival of concrete trucks being delayed. In the light of this issue, this paper considers the supply chain parameters of Ready Mixed Concrete (RMC) as a means of solving this problem. Artificial Neural Network (ANN) is hired for modelling/predicting the productivity of a concrete operation. The proposed model is tested with a real database of an RMC in the Sydney metropolitan area that has 17 depots and around 200 trucks. Results show that there is an improvement in the achieved results when these are compared to the results of relevant studies that only considered the construction parameters for predicting the productivity of concrete operations
The effect of biodegradable direct covers on the root development, yield and quality of cucumber
Authors: Zawiska Izabela , Siwek Piotr
Published: June 2014

The results of three years (2009-2011) of field studies using two types of biodegradable nonwoven covers (aromatic polyester IBWCH 75 g m-2 and polylactic acid PLA 54 g m-2) on the yield, quality and root development of cucumber are presented. Seeds of parthenocarpic cucumber (‘Mirabelle’ F1) were sown directly into the field at the beginning of May/June and covered with nonwoven field covers. A plot that remained uncovered served as the control. The covers were kept in place until the first flowers appeared. Cucumbers were harvested every three days for 5-6 weeks. Fruits were evaluated for dry matter, soluble sugars and nitrate content. After the last harvest, whole plants were harvested and evaluated for weight, surface area, total length and average diameter of the roots. The experiment showed that the covers increased the marketable yield of cucumber in 2009 and 2010 (regardless of the type of polymer), but did not influence the yield in 2011. In 2011 the fruits from the covered plots had higher levels of soluble sugars and dry matter in comparison to the control. The covers did not influence root development.
Fundamental Basis for the Conservation of Biodiversity of the Black Sea-Kazak H Steppes
Authors: Demina Olga , Bragina Tatiana
Published: June 2014

The paper presents new approaches for assessing the conservation value of plant communities based on the use of quantitative criteria contained in databases and eco-floristic classification of steppe vegetation in the Don basin (Rostov region). The Black Sea and Kazakhstan steppes have significant potential for environmental protection. Analysis of biodiversity levels has been facilitated by descriptions of plant communities and quantitative indicators of major faunal groups of soil invertebrates (macrofauna) in the Tobol-Turgai basin (Kostanay region, Kazakhstan). As the structure of soil invertebrate communities is closely associated with vegetation, its assessment can provide insight into the degree of preservation or the depth of disturbance of ecosystems such as those found in the Black Sea and Kazakhstan steppes.
Dry Grasslands of Southern Europe: Syntaxonomy, Management and Conservation
Authors: Apostolova Iva , Dengler Jürgen , Di Pietro Romeo , Gavilán Rosario G , Tsiripidis Ioannis
Published: June 2014

The Mediterranean area is a natural biodiversity hotspot that has also been influenced by humans for millennia. Especially the grasslands of Southern Europe have long been known for their diversity and beauty. However, several gaps remain in our knowledge about these grasslands, e.g. for some regions such as the southern Balkans, or taxonomic groups such as cryptogams. Here we introduce a Special Issue with contributions from the 9th European Dry Grassland Group meeting held in Prespa, Greece, 2012. The topic of this meeting was “Dry grasslands of Europe: grazing and ecosystem services” with special focus on Southern European regions. The Special Issue, apart from this Editorial, consists of eight contributions arranged according to the three major topics: syntaxonomy (5 articles), management (2) and conservation (1). The classification papers include descriptions of four new associations and four subassociations. Data about management practices are provided as well. We conclude that dry grassland vegetation in Southern Europe exhibits transitions between different higher syntaxa and thus requires further studies at broader scales to allow better understanding at the supranational scale.
Analysis and Synthesis of Chaotic Circuits using Memristor Properties
Authors: Hruboš Zdeněk , Gotthans Tomáš
Published: June 2014

This paper provides an innovative practical realization of a memristor based chaotic circuit. The first part discusses the mathematical analysis of the proposed system, including calculation of an eigenvalues, bifurcation diagram and largest Lyapunov exponents. Another parts deal with circuitry realization and the influence of parasitic properties of active elements. The circuit simulations obtained by PSpice environment and the practical measurement results on a breadboard are presented in the last part of this paper. The main aim of this work is an innovative realization of the memristor based chaotic circuit with one type of energy-storage element (linear passive capacitor) and with simpler construction in comparison to other circuits. The next contribution consists in verification of designed circuit with respect to influence of parasitic properties of active elements to chaos destruction.
Electromagnetic Fields Produced by Inclined Return Stroke Channel
Authors: Nemamcha Abdelmalek , Houabes Mourad
Published: June 2014

In this paper further theoretical investigations to understand and elucidate recently raised questions on the characteristics of lightning return-strokes curried out. Using Antenna Theory (AT) model, which is extended to take into account the channel inclination, the electromagnetic fields expressions for vertical dipole are completed, and an inclined channel is properly modeled, vertical electric and azimuthally magnetic fields are computed at different distances (close, intermediate and far distance ranges). The computations show that amplitudes and wave forms of the electromagnetic fields at close and intermediate lightning environment are considerably affected by the channel inclination.
Detection of Power Grid Harmonic Pollution Sources based on Upgraded Power Meters
Authors: Petković Predrag , Stevanović Dejan
Published: June 2014

The paper suggests a new and efficient method for location of nonlinear loads on a grid. It is based on measuring of distortion power. The paper reviews different definitions of distortion power and proves that the method is feasible independently on particular definition. The obtained results of simulation and measurement confirm the effectiveness and applicability of the method. The proposed solution is suitable for software update of existing electronic power-meters or can be implement as hardware upgrade.
Identification of Pedestrian Bridge Dynamic Response trough Field Measurements and Numerical Modelling: Case Studies
Authors: Manolis George D. , Athanatopoulou-Kyriakou Asimina , Dragos Kosmas D. , Arabatzis Argyris , Lavdas Alexandros , Karakostas Christos Z.
Published: June 2014

In this work, we develop a technique for performing system identification in typical pedestrian bridges, using routine equipment at a minimal configuration, and for cases where actual structural data are either sparse or absent. To this end, two pedestrian bridges were examined, modelled and finally instrumented so as to record their dynamic response under operational conditions. More specifically, the bridges were numerically modelled using the finite element method (FEM) according to what was deduced to be their current operating status, while rational assumptions were made with respect to uncertain structural properties. Next, results from field testing using a portable accelerometer unit were processed to produce response spectra that were used as input to a structural identification software program, which in turn yielded the excited natural frequencies and mode shapes of the bridges. The low level of discrepancy is given between analytical and experimental results, the latter are used for a final calibration of the numerical models.
Factors Influencing Company Relations with Market Stakeholders, in the Face of Crises in Company Development
Authors: Olszewska Barbara , Piwoni-Krzeszowska Estera
Published: June 2014

Crises in company development are a particular subset of management crises. They emerge on various stages of company development, as a result of gradual depletion of effective management solutions. Crisis situations in companies have varied impact on company stakeholders. The paper presents results of empirical studies of factors influencing company relations with market stakeholders and those that facilitate the process of restoring and maintaining any relations that suffered in the course of crises in company development. The authors’ intention was to identify such factors and evaluate their importance, in relation to various stages of company development and the associated types of crisis situations faced by companies. Empirical studies suggest that certain factors may facilitate conflict resolution in matters concerning company relations with market stakeholders, and that the impact of these factors varies depending on the phase of organizational development and the type of the associated crisis situation. It must be noted, that one of the most important factors to influence problem resolution is the perceived honesty of the exchange participants. Moreover, research suggests that opinions on the significance of organizational dependence of exchange participants in the resolution of problems in relations with market stakeholders are varied.
Increased alcohol use over the past 20 years among the oldest old in Sweden
Authors: Kelfve Susanne , Agahi Neda , Mattsson Alexander Darin , Lennartsson Carin
Published: June 2014

Aims

Increased alcohol consumption among old people, reported in many countries, will likely present a major challenge to public health and policy in the future. In Sweden, current knowledge about old people's alcohol consumption is incomplete because of limited historical data and a dearth of nationally representative studies. We describe the frequency of alcohol consumption among the oldest old in Sweden over a 20-year period by sex, age, education, living situation, mobility and Activities of Daily Living.

Methods

We used repeated cross-sectional survey data from the Swedish Panel Study of Living Conditions of the Oldest Old (SWEOLD), conducted in 1992, 2002 and 2011. The samples were nationally representative of the Swedish population aged 77+, with response rates of 95.4%, 84.4% and 86.2% (total n=2007). Self-reported consumption frequency was measured with the question “How often do you drink alcoholic beverages, such as wine, beer or spirits?”

Results

Frequency of alcohol consumption increased among the oldest old from 1992 to 2011. The proportion reporting no or less-than-monthly alcohol consumption decreased, whereas the proportion reporting weekly consumption increased. This was true for men, women and most age and educational groups. The period change in consumption frequency was not explained by changes in demographic factors, living situation or functional capacity during the study period.

Conclusions

Alcohol use increased among the oldest old in Sweden during the 20-year study period. More liberal attitudes toward alcohol could contribute to the increased use. The increase in weekly alcohol consumers suggests an increase in the number of older risk consumers.
Room for Action? How Service Managers in Three Scandinavian Cities Experience their Possibilities to Develop their Services
Authors: Næss Ole , Opedal Ståle , Nesvåg Sverre M.
Published: June 2014

Background

The study is based on the ongoing public debate concerning a limited scope for local service development in alcohol and drug treatment-related services - and that the main cause of local “paralysis” is to be found in health policy micromanagement of these services. It is argued that business management models place too much emphasis on financial control and performance measurement and that this leads to less interest in quality improvement in the provision of services.

Design

23 interviews with service managers in three Nordic urban municipalities, Stavanger, Umeå and Aarhus.

Results

The article documents comprehensive local service development, demonstrating that the main conditions for innovation are management commitment and interdisciplinary co-operation in the practice field.

Conclusions

In all three municipalities the services develop in a hybrid innovation model that combines New Public Management-inspired solutions with technical co-operation in horizontal networks. Results show that NPM-inspired solutions to alcohol and drug treatment services do not necessarily hinder the consideration of local professionalism and flexibility in the development.
Urban Geography Evolving: Toward an Evolutionary Urban Geography
Authors: Weaver Russell C.
Published: June 2014

Despite growing interest in the application of evolutionary concepts to research questions in human geography, the literature is largely characterised by metaphors or analogies that are disconnected from a broader evolutionary theoretical framework. This paper takes initial steps toward developing such a framework for the subfield of urban geography by defining critical elements and relationships from Darwinian and multilevel selection theories. It then synthesises those components in an application to the issues of urban blight and disorder, to demonstrate how an evolutionary understanding of urban spatial phenomena - an “evolutionary urban geography” - can produce new insights for managing complex processes.
Small Border Traffic and Cross-Border Tourism Between Poland and the Kaliningrad Oblast of the Russian Federation
Authors: Anisiewicz Renata , Palmowski Tadeusz
Published: June 2014

Polish and Russian cross-border cooperation is governed by lawful agreements. The enlargement of the Schengen Area had a significant impact on Kaliningrad Oblast relations and cross-border cooperation with its neighbours. The introduction of visas between Poland and Russia hindered and restricted local border trade which had for years been the only measure mitigating social and economic problems of the cross-border regions. Nevertheless, border traffic between Poland and Kaliningrad grew steadily, to exceed four million in 2012.

Poland and Russia, supported by Germany, applied to the EU for small border traffic to cover the entire territory of the Oblast. According to the European Commission, the proposed solution would be a European exception. The agreement on small border traffic came into force on July 27, 2012, covering the entire area of the Kaliningrad Oblast and selected Polish poviats of Pomerania and Warmia-Mazuria voivodeships. Towards the end of the first quarter of 2013, the number of Poles crossing the border showed a rising tendency, and starting from the second through the third quarter of 2013, the number of Russians coming to Poland grew more dynamically.

The visits of Kaliningrad residents, apart from commercially oriented ones, also include recreation, tourism, medical tourism visits, etc. Kaliningrad citizens looking for leisure, recreation and entertainment come to participate in great sporting and cultural events in Gdańsk, Sopot and Gdynia. The local self governments of poviats covered by small border traffic noted a clear upturn in the economies and trade of their regions.

The development of cross-border cooperation, including small border traffic, has not resulted in attracting a substantial number of Polish tourists to the Kaliningrad Oblast, but it has provided such a possibility. This region is quite expensive for the average Pole. However, as scientists from Kaliningrad projected, with the easing of the visa system and the development of transport and tourist infrastructure the role of tourism shows a growing trend.