bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efavirenz alters mitochondrial respiratory function in cultured neuron and glial cell lines
Authors: Funes Haryes A. , Blas-Garcia Ana , Esplugues Juan V. , Apostolova Nadezda
Published: April 2015

Background

The NNRTI efavirenz is among the most widely employed antiretroviral drugs. Although it is considered safe, efavirenz has been linked with several adverse effects including neurological manifestations, which appear in the majority of the patients on efavirenz-containing regimens. The molecular mechanisms responsible for these manifestations are not understood, but mounting evidence points to altered brain bioenergetics.

Methods

We evaluated the effect of short-term efavirenz treatment on the mitochondrial respiratory function of cultured glioblastoma and differentiated neuroblastoma cell lines using a Seahorse Extracellular Flux Analyzer.

Results

Incubation with efavirenz provoked a significant and concentration-dependent decrease in basal respiration and specifically in ATP production-coupled O2 consumption in both SH-SY5Y and U-251MG cells, with the effect being more pronounced in the latter. In contrast, efavirenz did not alter mitochondrial proton leakage in either of the cell types. Efavirenz led to a decrease in the respiratory control ratio as well as to a reduction in the maximal respiration rate and spare respiratory capacity in both U-251MG and SH-SY5Y cells, the former cells being more susceptible.

Conclusions

These findings reveal that efavirenz specifically alters mitochondrial respiration, which is of relevance for a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for the efavirenz-associated neurological effects that have been recorded in clinical situations.
Number of genes controlling a quantitative trait in a hybrid zone of the aposematic frogRanitomeya imitator
Authors: Vestergaard Jacob S. , Twomey Evan , Larsen Rasmus , Summers Kyle , Nielsen Rasmus
Published: April 2015

The number of genes controlling mimetic traits has been a topic of much research and discussion. In this paper, we examine a mimetic, dendrobatid frogRanitomeya imitator, which harbours extensive phenotypic variation with multiple mimetic morphs, not unlike the celebratedHeliconiussystem. However, the genetic basis for this polymorphism is unknown, and not easy to determine using standard experimental approaches, for this hard-to-breed species. To circumvent this problem, we first develop a new protocol for automatic quantification of complex colour pattern phenotypes from images. Using this method, which has the potential to be applied in many other systems, we define a phenotype associated with differences in colour pattern between different mimetic morphs. We then proceed to develop a maximum-likelihood method for estimating the number of genes affecting a quantitative trait segregating in a hybrid zone. This method takes advantage of estimates of admixture proportions obtained using genetic data, such as microsatellite markers, and is applicable to any other system where a phenotype has been quantified in an admixture/introgression zone. We evaluate the method using extensive simulations and apply it to theR. imitatorsystem. We show that probably one or two, or at most three genes, control the mimetic phenotype segregating in aR. imitatorhybrid zone identified using image analyses.
Using populations of human and microbial genomes for organism detection in metagenomes
Authors: Ames Sasha K. , Gardner Shea N. , Marti Jose Manuel , Slezak Tom R. , Gokhale Maya B. , Allen Jonathan E.
Published: April 2015

Identifying causative disease agents in human patients from shotgun metagenomic sequencing (SMS) presents a powerful tool to apply when other targeted diagnostics fail. Numerous technical challenges remain, however, before SMS can move beyond the role of research tool. Accurately separating the known and unknown organism content remains difficult, particularly when SMS is applied as a last resort. The true amount of human DNA that remains in a sample after screening against the human reference genome and filtering nonbiological components left from library preparation has previously been underreported. In this study, we create the most comprehensive collection of microbial and reference-free human genetic variation available in a database optimized for efficient metagenomic search by extracting sequences from GenBank and the 1000 Genomes Project. The results reveal new human sequences found in individual Human Microbiome Project (HMP) samples. Individual samples contain up to 95% human sequence, and 4% of the individual HMP samples contain 10% or more human reads. Left unidentified, human reads can complicate and slow down further analysis and lead to inaccurately labeled microbial taxa and ultimately lead to privacy concerns as more human genome data is collected.
Accrual reliability, earnings persistence, and stock prices: revisited
Authors: Dey R. Mithu , Lim Lucy
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to replicate Richardson et al.’s (2005) study on how accrual components’ reliability affects earnings persistence and whether investors anticipate the lower earnings persistence through stock return. In this study, the authors use more recent data to examine whether the previous results still hold.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors run the analysis using Richardson et al.’s (2005) design of ordinary least squares and report the results using Fama and Macbeth’s (1973) procedures.

Findings

– The results corroborate Richardson et al.’s (2005) conclusions that lower reliability of total accrual (accrual components) leads to lower earnings persistence.

Originality/value

– This study replicates Richardson et al. (2005) using more recent US data. The results in this paper confirm the general conclusion in the original study: less reliable accruals lead to lower earnings persistence.
Processes of vulnerability in England? Place, poverty and susceptibility
Authors: Lewis James , A.V. Lewis Sarah
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to emphasise how vulnerability is not only “place-based” and to explore by example how vulnerability to hazards in England may comprise additional economic, social and psychological contributors to poverty. The mutuality of poverty and vulnerability is demonstrated, as are examples of susceptibility of the vulnerable to stigmatic disregard and cruelty.

Design/methodology/approach

– “Place-based” vulnerability is exemplified by coastal vulnerabilities and causes of their increase. Poverty and its causes are explained, followed by examples of possible contributors, indicators and consequences in incomes, living costs and debt; housing welfare and homelessness; food, nutrition, health and mental ill-health. Susceptibility to stigmatic behaviours exacerbate personal vulnerabilities.

Findings

– Dynamics of mutual inter-relationships between poverty and vulnerability are demonstrated. Behavioural responses to either condition by individuals and by society at large, to which those who are vulnerable or in poverty are susceptible, are described in the present and from history.

Research limitations/implications

– Findings form a “theoretical reality” upon which some measures may follow. An additional need is identified for long-term social field research to follow adults’ and childrens’ experiences, and consequences of poverty in vulnerable situations.

Practical implications

– Vulnerability accrues irrevocably between disasters, the results of which may be exposed by disaster impacts.

Social implications

– Recognition of linkages between economic and social vulnerability and disasters is essential for subsequent action to reduce the impact of disasters upon society.

Originality/value

– Though vulnerability has been explored for many years, the dynamics of its contributing processes require further explanation before their wider comprehension is achieved.
Evaluation of an Australian nursing partnership to improve disaster response capacity
Authors: Mitchell Marion , Mackie Benjamin , M. Aitken Leanne , C. McKinnon Loretta
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to evaluate a partnership with specialized nurses from geographically disparate hospitals to provide critical support in national disasters.

Design/methodology/approach

– The Australian Government established the National Critical Care Trauma Response Centre (NCCTRC) within Royal Darwin Hospital (RDH). A partnership with the Princess Alexandra Hospital (PAH) occurred to support RDH during national disasters. PAH nurses undertook two-week rotations to RDH in readiness for deployment. PAH, NCCTRC and RDH nurses’ perceptions of the efficacy of the nurse rotations were explored in surveys and focus groups.

Findings

– PAH nurses felt they were well equipped for practice in RDH and the partnership developed professional reciprocity with the PAH nurses feeling respected, valued and part of the RDH team. This finding of adequate preparation and effective integration was consistent with the perceptions of senior staff from the participating organizations.

Originality/value

– This unique partnership created a well-prepared team to provide support in a national disaster.
Disaster logistics in small island developing states: Caribbean perspective
Authors: Thompson Denise D.P.
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to review the current state of disaster logistics among Caribbean small island developing states that are Caribbean Community (CARICOM) members, and, based on those findings propose a coherent logistics framework that could influence the development of a robust system that can effectively respond to disasters in the region.

Design/methodology/approach

– Consisted of a series of in-depth interviews with national and regional disaster managers in the Caribbean. Secondary sources augmented the interviews. Data analysis conformed to Pope, et al. guidelines for qualitative research. There are limitations to this approach, but, the lack of existing research on the region and the need for information on the topic justify the approach.

Findings

– The main findings show the lack of a coherent and integrated logistics strategy. Missing or weak components like transportation and distribution infrastructure, a procurement strategy, inadequate port facilities and insufficient human resources undermine the overall logistics performance. Although limitations of small island status further weigh on the development and implementation of a regional logistics approach is possible. The paper proposes one.

Research limitations/implications

– The proposed framework has implications for disaster management and disaster policy in the Caribbean. From a disaster policy perspective it suggests important logistics governance decisions including funding, scalability issues and formalized agreements that must be made collectively.

Practical implications

– From a management perspective the shows how to strengthen the regional response mechanism (RRM), builds efficiency in response and provides redundancies in the regional logistics system.

Originality/value

– This paper’s value lies in its focus on a region that is often omitted in academic literature, but is disaster-prone. Importantly, the research proposes a workable framework on which to build a robust logistics infrastructure and improve logistics capacity based on primary research.
Mitigation of road traffic crash hazard in Pakistan
Authors: Masood Rafi Muhammad , Hashmat Lodi Ashar , Arsalan Effendi Muhammad
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– Road traffic crashes (RTCs) result in creating significant social and economic hazard for affectees, their families and society. The purpose of this paper is to present studies which were conducted to study the patterns of RTCs in Karachi which is a metropolitan city of Pakistan. The studies were conducted on one of the busiest roads in the city named as Shara-e-Faisal. The influence and contribution of different factors in RTCs has been studied and hazardous road sections of Shara-e-Faisal have been identified. Based on the data analysis, an evaluation model has been suggested to reduce the hazard of RTCs on Shara-e-Faisal. The objective of the presented studies is to increase the present level of safety of road travel by reducing crashes on Shara-e-Faisal.

Design/methodology/approach

– Existing data of RTCs in Karachi have been analysed for the presented studies. For this purpose, Shara-e-Faisal was divided in sections of 1 km length to study the vehicle crash pattern. Location surveys were conducted to record physical conditions of this road. A cluster analysis was carried out to identify hazardous sections of the road. An evaluation model has been suggested in the end to reduce the hazard of RTCs by identifying hazardous road sections of Shara-e-Faisal.

Findings

– The analysis of the data revealed that the crashes were higher over weekend and on Monday. Male population, particularly young people, and motorcycle riders were the largest affectees of RTCs. In general, more daytime crashes were recorded as compared to nighttime crashes. The crashes in the mid block of the road and those involving rear-end collisions were higher. The hazardous road locations were related to poor road conditions. Statistical analysis indicated that alternate routes were required to reduce the RTC hazard on Shara-e-Faisal.

Research limitations/implications

– The paper is a small, but an original, contribution to identify a potential hazard which is faced by the community in the city. This is the first attempt (to the best of authors’ knowledge) to address the issue of RTCs in Karachi from an engineering view point.

Practical implications

– The suggested model can be employed by the authorities as a guideline to mitigate the hazard of road crashes in the country.

Originality/value

– The paper provides valuable information on the road traffic incidents, their pattern and contributing factors in one of the largest metropolis of Pakistan. The suggested model can become helpful in reducing RTCs in Pakistan.
Network performance assessment for collaborative disaster response
Authors: Guo Xuesong , Kapucu Naim
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to propose a modified network performance assessment method to address issues of coordination among organizations in the context of disaster response.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study introduces affiliation networks to map disaster response system integrated with task/function and unit identifications. The study also assesses performance in two successive procedures including ineffective networks identification and assessment on organizational effectiveness.

Findings

– The study emphasizes problems in the current emergency management system in China with a focus on Sichuan earthquake experience. Specifically, some problems with the traditional central planning and control mechanisms in coordination across boundaries are highlighted, including participants’ inexact perception of information or resource accessibility, confusion of functional designation of organizations.

Originality/value

– The study builds network performance assessment method to other contexts where different emergency management systems exist and modifies them to facilitate quick complex networks evaluation. The theoretical insights from affiliation networks and cognitive accuracy provide additional contributions to the literature.
Does Belgrade (Serbia) need heat health warning system?
Authors: B. Stanojević Gorica , B. Spalević Aleksandra , M. Kokotović Vlasta , N. Stojilković Jelena
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether is Belgrade (Serbia) suitable candidate for introduction of Heat Health Warning System (HHWS). Belgrade has high population density, considerable share of built up area and lot of multi floor buildings that are factors of heat-health vulnerability.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors analyzed the impact of weather conditions on human health in Belgrade during the summer 2007 that was extremely warm in Southeastern Europe and Serbia. Daily cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and respiratory mortality counts were used in Poisson regression model with air temperature as predictor variable. Also, three different heat wave indices (Warm Spell Duration Index, apparent temperature and index based on daily minimum temperature) were tested in order to estimate their ability to capture episodes with mortality higher than expected.

Findings

– The temperature has the highest influence on cerebrovascular and cardiovascular mortality, while slightly modifies respiratory mortality. According to regression equation, a 1°C increase in mean daily temperature is associated with a 4.6 percent (p<0.0001), 2.2 percent (p<0.0001) and 1.6 percent (insignificant for p<0.10) increase in cerebrovascular, cardiovascular and respiratory mortality, respectively.

Originality/value

– Even thought the Law recognizes the heat wave as natural hazard, there is no concrete measures and action for prevention of excess mortality. It is shown that extreme temperature had numerous social consequences on city's residents in the summer 2007. Given the results the authors got, it is recommended that the HHWS should be implemented in health protection plans in Belgrade.
As simple as that?: tween credibility assessment in a complex online world
Authors: Subramaniam Mega , Taylor Natalie Greene , St. Jean Beth , Follman Rebecca , Kodama Christie , Casciotti Dana
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to focus on disadvantaged tweens’ (ages 11 through 13) strategies for making predictive and evaluative judgments of the credibility of health information online. More specifically, this paper identifies the features of Google search results pages and web sites that signal credibility (or lack thereof) to this population and the reasons behind their perceptions.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors employed an ethnographic approach (using various types of data collection methods) targeted to generate in-depth descriptions of tweens making predictive and evaluative judgments of credibility, focussing on the ways in which these tweens naturally assess the credibility of online information.

Findings

– The research has yielded novel findings concerning the types of factors that influence disadvantaged tweens’ credibility assessment strategies, such as limited English-language vocabularies, lack of familiarity with perhaps otherwise well-known sources, and forced reliance on (and/or general preference for) non-textual modalities, such as audio and video.

Practical implications

– The findings indicate a need for implementing digital literacy programs in a naturalized setting, building on tweens’ existing heuristics and thereby resulting in strategies that are simultaneously compatible with their natural inclinations within the online environment and likely to consistently lead them to accurate credibility-related judgments.

Originality/value

– This study provides novel insights into how disadvantaged tweens interact with online health information in a natural context, and offers invaluable information regarding the ways in which credibility assessment processes should be facilitated within formal or informal digital literacy programs.
Beyond traditional publishing models
Authors: Pecoskie Jen (J.L.) , Hill Heather
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the state of contemporary publishing, specifically the realms of fanfiction and self-publishing, for the ways in which readership is represented in conjunction with authors and publishers within the publication process. The structure of this process is then compared with Robert Darnton’s communications circuit in order to propose a new model for the publication. As the publication process has a profound impact on the teaching and practice of collection development and reader studies in LIS, the discipline must be aware of any changes to the publication process.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using the case study approach, this research examines the cultural product,Fifty Shades of Grey(FSOG). Evidence included fanfiction and self-published manuscripts, reader reception of these texts, and a timeline of how the texts developed.

Findings

– Evidence gathered from the case study illustrate a variety of players and infrastructure present in the development and trajectory ofFSOG. Throughout the entire development of the cultural product, readers were found to be active agents in the publication process promoting strong connections between reader and author. Findings focus on the themes of textual development and their publicity.

Originality/value

– Proposes a new model for the publication process that includes fanfiction and self-publishing.
Microwave assisted one-pot synthesis of pyrazoloquinazolinone derivatives and their application on printing of synthetic fabrics
Authors: Elgemeie G.H. , Ahmed K.A. , Ahmed E.A. , Helal M.H. , Masoud D.M.
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to synthesize some novel 2-amino-6,6-dimethyl-9-phenyl-3-(phenyldiazenyl)-6,7-dihydropyrazolo-[5,1-b]quinazolin-8(5H)-one derivatives by multi-component one-pot reaction using a microwave as a new tool for green chemistry.

Design/methodology/approach

– An equimolor from arylazopyrazole, 5,5-dimethyl-1,3-cyclohexanedione (dimedone) and benzaldehyde derivatives was dissolved in Dimethylformamide (DMF) to be irradiated in a microwave for 15 minutes; after completion of the reaction, as indicated by Thin layer chromatograph (TLC), the reaction mixture was poured into ice water, filtered and then crystallized with an appropriate solvent.

Findings

– The structure of the synthesized dyes was established and confirmed for the reaction products on the basis of their elemental analysis and spectral data (MS, IR and 1H-NMR). These prepared dyes were used to print polyester and polyamide fabrics using synthetic thickener in the printing paste for the silk screen technique. The synthesized dyes are superior in terms of yield, purity, color strength and fastness properties and will lead to valuable achievements for commercial production.

Originality/value

– An efficient method for synthesis of pyrazoloquinazolinone dyes was designed. The novel procedure features short reaction time, moderate yields and simple workup. The authors studied its application in printing polyester and polyamide fabrics.
Development of technology to industrialise the production of 80000 MTPY epoxy resins
Authors: Hu Fang
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to establish a technology that is suitable for the production of the 80,000 MTPY series of epoxy resins on an industrial scale.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper introduces the synthesis and processing of epoxy resins, including liquid epoxy resins (DGEBA) (E-51 and E-44), brominated bisphenol A-based epoxy resins (EX-23-80A), semisolid epoxy resins based on DGEBA (E-39D) and solid epoxy resins based on DGEBA (E-21). The study analyses the theoretical raw materials of epoxy resins per tonne, and lists an example of a distributed control system (DCS) to explain that the production process of 80,000 MTPY epoxy resins can be automated.

Findings

– A two-step method was used to produce either E-51 or E-44 sequentially in the pre-reactor, the reactor, the recycling kettle, refining kettle (1), the refining kettle (2) and the desensitizing kettle or the falling-film evaporator. An advancement process was adopted to manufacture EX-23-80A, E-39D and E-21 using E-51 as a raw material in the predominating kettle and the mixing kettle, the adding kettle (1) and the adding kettle (2), separately. All the processes were controlled automatically by DCS to yield the products.

Originality/value

– The results support the assertion that the technology developed by the authors
'
company to produce 80,000 MTPY epoxy resins results in fewer side reactions and higher yield production.
Investigation on the properties of rubber composites containing modified clay
Authors: El-Sabbagh Salwa H , Mahmoud Doaa S. , Zawrah M. F. , Ahmed Nivin M. , Sabaa Magdy W.
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the efficiency of organobentonite (OB) as reinforcing filler in acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR). The composites were prepared using different loadings of OB and studying in details their properties. A series of OB was modified using surfactant N-cetyl-N, N, N-trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) with concentrations 0.5, 1 and 2 cation exchange capacity (CEC) of bentonite.

Design/methodology/approach

– The different bentonites were characterized using different analytical and spectro-photometric techniques, such as infra red, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscopy, while rubber vulcanizate rheological, morphological, swelling and thermal properties were examined using different standard instrumental testing and methods.

Findings

– The study revealed that the modification of bentonite using CTAB showed significant enhancement on NBR properties, and the optimum filler loading was 12 phr for both 0.5CEC OB and 2CEC OB. These modified bentonites improved reinforcing properties to NBR vulcanizates. Also, results showed that composites exhibited remarkable improvements in tensile strength, elongation at break and hardness in the presence of modified bentonite and also an increase in thermal stability.

Research limitations/implications

– Na-B cannot be applied in rubber matrix without modification because it is incompatible with it.

Practical implications

– The modified bentonite is considered as efficient reinforcing filler which can replace other fillers because it has lower surface energy and improved intercalating behaviour in rubber matrix.

Originality/value

– These papered bentonites are cheap with relatively high purity, which make rubber/clay composites emerge as new class of material and can be used in different fields other than rubber.
Green supplier selection using an AHP-Entropy-TOPSIS framework
Authors: Freeman James , Chen Tao
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to focus on development of a green supplier selection model using an index system based on a combination of traditional supplier and environmental supplier selection criteria. Strategies that balance economic and environmental performance are increasingly sought after as enterprises that increasingly focus on the sustainability of their operations. Green supply chain management (GSCM) in particular, enables the integration of environmentally friendly suppliers into the supply chain to be systematised to fit with specific environmental regulations and policies. More persuasively, GSCM allows enterprises to improve profits whilst lowering impacts on the global environment.

Design/methodology/approach

– A two-phase survey approach was adopted for the research. For the first phase, semi-structured interviews with senior management representatives of the case company – a Chinese-based electronic machinery manufacturer – were used to determine green supplier selection criteria. For the second phase, a two-part questionnaire survey was undertaken, the first part providing the data for an analytic hierarchy process (AHP) analysis of the first-phase criteria and the second with collecting data for an Entropy weight analysis. The resultant AHP and Entropy weights were then combined to form compromised weights – which, using technique for order preference by similarity to the ideal solution (TOPSIS) methodology, were translated into preferential rankings of suppliers.

Findings

– Senior managers were found to rank traditional criteria more highly than environmental alternatives – the implication being that for the company, concerned, it may take some time before environmental awareness is fully assimilated into GSCM practice.

Originality/value

– The paper moves us a significant step closer to the application more widely, of innovative AHP-Entropy/TOPSIS methodology to real-world SCM problems.
Sensory and Quality Evaluation of Traditional Compared with Power Ultrasound Processed Corn (Zea Mays) Tortilla Chips
Authors: Janve Bhaskar , Yang Wade , Sims Charles
Published: April 2015

Power ultrasound reduces the traditional corn steeping time from 18 to 1.5 h during tortilla chips dough (masa) processing. This study sought to examine consumer (n = 99) acceptability and quality of tortilla chips made from the masa by traditional compared with ultrasonic methods. Overall appearance, flavor, and texture acceptability scores were evaluated using a 9‐point hedonic scale. The baked chips (process intermediate) before and after frying (finished product) were analyzed using a texture analyzer and machine vision. The texture values were determined using the 3‐point bend test using breaking force gradient (BFG), peak breaking force (PBF), and breaking distance (BD). The fracturing properties determined by the crisp fracture support rig using fracture force gradient (FFG), peak fracture force (PFF), and fracture distance (FD). The machine vision evaluated the total surface area, lightness (L), color difference (ΔE), Hue (°h), and Chroma (C*). The results were evaluated by analysis of variance and means were separated using Tukey's test. Machine vision values of L, °h, were higher (P < 0.05) and ΔE was lower (P < 0.05) for fried and L, °h were significantly (P < 0.05) higher for baked chips produced from ultra‐sonication as compare to traditional. Baked chips texture for ultra‐sonication was significantly higher (P < 0.05) on BFG, BPD, PFF, and FD. Fried tortilla chips texture were higher significantly (P < 0.05) in BFG and PFF for ultra‐sonication than traditional processing. However, the instrumental differences were not detected in sensory analysis, concluding possibility of power ultrasound as potential tortilla chips processing aid.
Vildagliptin as add‐on therapy to insulin improves glycemic control without increasing risk of hypoglycemia in Asian, predominantly Chinese, patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Ning Guang , Wang Weiqing , Li Ling , Ma Jianhua , Lv Xiaofeng , Yang Ming , Wang Wei , Woloschak Michael , Lukashevich Valentina , Kothny Wolfgang
Published: April 2015

Background

The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of vildagliptin added onto insulin with or without metformin in an Asian, predominantly Chinese, population with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

In this 24‐week, multicenter, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial, patients with T2DM inadequately controlled (HbA1c 7.5%–11.0%) on stable therapy with long‐acting, intermediate‐acting, or premixed insulin, with or without concomitant metformin, were randomized to receive vildagliptin 50 mg b.i.d. or placebo.

Results

Of 293 patients randomized, 146 received vildagliptin and 147 received placebo treatment. At baseline, the overall mean age of patients was 58.1 years, mean T2DM duration was 11.3 years, and mean HbA1c was 8.7%. The adjusted mean (±SE) change in HbA1c at Week 24 in the vildagliptin and placebo groups was −1.08 ± 0.12% and −0.38 ± 0.12%, respectively (between‐treatment difference −0.70 ± 0.16%; P < 0.001). The between‐group difference in fasting plasma glucose was −0.43 ± 0.38 mmol/L (P = 0.259). Significantly, more patients achieved HbA1c <7.0% with vildagliptin than with placebo (23.6% vs 11.2%; P = 0.006). The incidence of adverse events in the vildagliptin and placebo groups was 43.8% and 46.3%, whereas that of serious adverse events was 3.4% and 6.8%, respectively. The frequency of hypoglycemia was lower in the vildagliptin than placebo group (2.7% vs 5.4%).

Conclusion

The addition of vildagliptin 50 mg b.i.d. significantly improved glycemic control without an increased risk of hypoglycemia in Asian, predominantly Chinese, patients with T2DM inadequately controlled on insulin, with or without metformin.
Geochemistry, Geochronology, Sr‐Nd Isotopic Compositions of Jiang Tso Ophiolite in the Middle Segment of the Bangong‐ Nujiang Suture Zone and Their Geological Significance
Authors: Qiangtai HUANG , Jianfeng LI , Zhourong CAI , Lianze XIA , Yajuan YUAN , Huichuan LIU , Bin XIA
Published: April 2015

The Jiang Tso ophiolite, situated in the middle segment of the Bangong‐ Nujiang Suture Zone, is a part of the easternmost Qieli Lake ophiolite subzone and is close to the south of Pung Lake ophiolite. The rock association of Jiang Tso ophiolite is relatively complete and is mainly composed of metamorphic peridotite, gabbro and diabase. Comparing with N‐MORB, the ophiolite is high in Mg and low in Ti, K, Na, P, and is depleted in Nb, Ta, Hf, Th and enriched in Rb, Sr and Ba. Geochemical characteristics of the Jiang Tso ophiolite indicate it is of a supra‐subduction zone type formed in the spreading ridge of back arc basin. The SHRIMP U‐Pb dating of zircons from the gabbro yielded a weighted average age of 188.1±4.1 Ma (MSWD=1.4), indicating the Jiang Tso ophiolite was formed in the late stage of early Jurassic. The Sr, Nd isotopic compositions show that the Tethyan mantle domain is the depleted mantle (DM), with enriched mantle domain II (EM II). They have the same Sr, Nd isotopic composition with the India Ocean MORB type.
Formation of the Yalong Downstream Terraces in the SE Tibetan Plateau and Its Implication for the Uplift of the Plateau
Authors: Zexin HE , Xujiao ZHANG , Yansong QIAO , Shuyan BAO , Chunyu LU , Xiangli HE
Published: April 2015

The Yalong River is an important river that runs across the abruptly changing terrain of the SE Tibetan Plateau. The terraces and Quaternary sediments in its valleys preserve the information of tectonic uplift, climate changes, and landform evolution since the Middle Pleistocene. Based on geomorphological, sedimentological, and chronological investigations, 6–8 terraces are identified in the lower reaches of Yalong catchment and its tributary—the Anning River. The electron spin resonance (ESR) or optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) data on the alluvial sediments in the upper portion of terraces indicate that they formed in 1.10, 0.90, 0.72, 0.06–0.04, 0.03–0.02, and 0.01 Ma. Tectonic uplift and the climatic cycle controlled the formation of the Yalong River terraces. The former dominated the dissection depths and incision rates, whereas the latter controlled the transformation between accumulation, which developed during the glacial period, and incision, which developed during the glacial‐interglacial transition. The Yalong downstream incised rapidly from 1.10 to 0.72 Ma and rapidly from 0.06 Ma until the present; the terraces developed during these two periods. The incision rates in space during the two periods indicate the uplifting extent of the Jinpingshan area, which decreases toward the east and the south. The results reveal two rapidly uplifting stages in the SE Tibetan Plateau, including an accelerated uplifting since 0.06 Ma. Since the Middle Pleistocene, the tectonic uplift of the SE and NE parts of the Tibetan Plateau is synchronous, according to the same development stages of the river terraces of the Yalong downstream and the Yellow River in the Lanzhou area of the NE Tibetan Plateau. The difference in the horizontal displacement between the Xianshuihe Fault and the Anninghe Fault bend resulted in the rapid uplift of the Jinpingshan area. The incision rate for the spatial distribution of the Yalong downstream is the geomorphological response of crustal shortening and uplift differences in the SE margin block of the Tibetan Plateau. The southeastward diffusion process of the Tibetan Plateau was recorded.
Application of the Material Balance Method in Paleoelevation Recovery: A Case Study of the Longmen Mountains Foreland Basin on the Eastern Margin of the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhaokun YAN , Yong LI , Haibing LI , Shunli DONG , Guohua ZHAO , Jingbo LI , Fensheng LI , Liang YAN , Lilong ZHENG
Published: April 2015

We applied the material balance principle of the denudation volume and sedimentary flux to study the denudation‐accumulation system between the Longmen Mountains (Mts.) and the foreland basin. The amount of sediment in each sedimentation stage of the basin was estimated to obtain the denudation volume, erosion thickness and deposit thickness since the Late Triassic Epoch, to enable us to recover the paleoelevation of the provenance and the sedimentary area. The results show the following: (1) Since the Late Triassic Epoch, the elevation of the surface of the Longmen Mts. has uplifted from 0 m to 2751 m, and the crust of the Longmen Mts. has uplifted by 9.8 km. Approximately 72% of the materials introduced have been denuded from the mountains. (2) It is difficult to recover the paleoelevation of each stage of the Longmen Mts. foreland basin quantitatively by the present‐day techniques and data. (3) The formation of the Longmen Mts. foreland basin consisted of three stages of thrust belt tectonic load and three stages of thrust belt erosional unload. During tectonic loading stages (Late Triassic Epoch, Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous, Late Cretaceous–Miocene), the average elevation of Longmen Mts. was lower (approximately 700–1700 m). During erosional unloading stages (Early and Middle Jurassic, Middle Cretaceous and Jiaguan, Late Cenozoic), the average elevation of Longmen Mts. was high at approximately 2000–2800m.
Status and Trends in Research on Deep‐Water Gravity Flow Deposits
Authors: Tian YANG , Yingchang CAO , Yanzhong WANG , Ya LI , ShaoMin ZHANG
Published: April 2015

Deep‐water gravity flows are one of the most important sediment transport mechanisms on Earth. After 60 years of study, significant achievements have been made in terms of classification schemes, genetic mechanisms, and depositional models of deep‐water gravity flows. The research history of deep‐water gravity flows can be divided into five stages: incipience of turbidity current theory; formation of turbidity current theory; development of deep‐water gravity flow theory; improvement and perfection of deep‐water gravity flow theory; and comprehensive development of deep‐water gravity flow theory. Currently, three primary classification schemes based on the sediment support mechanism, the rheology and transportation process, and the integration of sediment support mechanisms, rheology, sedimentary characteristics, and flow state are commonly used. Different types of deep‐water gravity flow events form different types of gravity flow deposits. Sediment slump retransportation mainly forms muddy debris flows, sandy debris flows, and surge‐like turbidity currents. Resuspension of deposits by storms leads to quasi‐steady hyperpycnal turbidity currents (hyperpycnal flows). Sustainable sediment supplies mainly generate muddy debris flows, sandy debris flows, and hyperpycnal flows. Deep‐water fans, which are commonly controlled by debris flows and hyperpycnal flows, are triggered by sustainable sediment supply; in contrast, deep‐water slope sedimentary deposits consist mainly of debris flows that are triggered by the retransportation of sediment slumps and deep‐water fine‐grained sedimentary deposits are derived primarily from fine‐grained hyperpycnal flows that are triggered by the resuspension of storm deposits. Harmonization of classification schemes, transformation between different types of gravity flow deposit, and monitoring and reproduction of the sedimentary processes of deep‐water gravity flows as well as a source‐to‐sink approach to document the evolution and deposition of deep‐water gravity flows are the most important research aspects for future studies of deep‐water gravity flows study in the future.
Establishing and maintaining social connectivity: An understanding of the lived experiences of older adults residing in regional and rural communities
Authors: Buys Laurie , Burton Lorelle , Cuthill Michael , Hogan Anthony , Wilson Bruce , Baker Douglas
Published: April 2015

Objective

To better understand how to plan for an ageing demographic that resides in ever‐changing community typologies.

Design

Semi‐structured in‐depth interviews.

Setting

Community settings in rural and regional towns in Queensland.

Participants

Twenty‐two people aged over 65 years living in regional and rural Australia.

Interventions

Qualitative study of social connectedness.

Main outcome measure(s)

Thematic qualitative analysis.

Results

Formal and informal social contact, through family, friends and social groups, was found to be important to the everyday lives of the participants.

Conclusions

Social connections for older adults are important in maintaining independence and community engagement.
Phenotyping asthma, rhinitis and eczema in MeDALL population‐based birth cohorts: an allergic comorbidity cluster
Authors: Garcia‐Aymerich J. , Benet M. , Saeys Y. , Pinart M. , Basagaña X. , Smit H. A. , Siroux V. , Just J. , Momas I. , Rancière F. , Keil T. , Hohmann C. , Lau S. , Wahn U. , Heinrich J. , Tischer C. G. , Fantini M. P. , Lenzi J. , Porta D. , Koppelman G. H. , Postma D. S. , Berdel D. , Koletzko S. , Kerkhof M. , Gehring U. , Wickman M. , Melén E. , Hallberg J. , Bindslev‐Jensen C. , Eller E. , Kull I. , Lødrup Carlsen K. C. , Carlsen K.‐H. , Lambrecht B. N. , Kogevinas M. , Sunyer J. , Kauffmann F. , Bousquet J. , Antó J. M.
Published: April 2015

Background

Asthma, rhinitis and eczema often co‐occur in children, but their interrelationships at the population level have been poorly addressed. We assessed co‐occurrence of childhood asthma, rhinitis and eczema using unsupervised statistical techniques.

Methods

We included 17 209 children at 4 years and 14 585 at 8 years from seven European population‐based birth cohorts (MeDALL project). At each age period, children were grouped, using partitioning cluster analysis, according to the distribution of 23 variables covering symptoms ‘ever’ and ‘in the last 12 months’, doctor diagnosis, age of onset and treatments of asthma, rhinitis and eczema; immunoglobulin E sensitization; weight; and height. We tested the sensitivity of our estimates to subject and variable selections, and to different statistical approaches, including latent class analysis and self‐organizing maps.

Results

Two groups were identified as the optimal way to cluster the data at both age periods and in all sensitivity analyses. The first (reference) group at 4 and 8 years (including 70% and 79% of children, respectively) was characterized by a low prevalence of symptoms and sensitization, whereas the second (symptomatic) group exhibited more frequent symptoms and sensitization. Ninety‐nine percentage of children with comorbidities (co‐occurrence of asthma, rhinitis and/or eczema) were included in the symptomatic group at both ages. The children's characteristics in both groups were consistent in all sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

At 4 and 8 years, at the population level, asthma, rhinitis and eczema can be classified together as an allergic comorbidity cluster. Future research including time‐repeated assessments and biological data will help understanding the interrelationships between these diseases.
Chimeric globalism: Global health in the shadow of the dengue vaccine
Authors: NADING ALEX M.
Published: April 2015

A laboratory‐engineered, “chimeric” dengue fever vaccine entered late‐stage clinical trials in the late 2000s. One possible way of interpreting the arrival of a technology like this is to see it as the end point of a unified global project. Alternatively, it can be understood as a “cosmopolitical event.” Instead of reflecting unity, cosmopolitical events magnify social and technical differences, and they afford space to contemplate alternative forms of life. Drawing on fieldwork with dengue researchers in Puerto Rico, Nicaragua, and Cuba, I argue that the chimera appeared at a liminal moment in dengue science. It prompted researchers to contemplate how the divergent logics of pharmaceutical capital, humanitarianism, and biosecurity shaped their work as well as to imagine how that work might otherwise proceed. I conclude by suggesting that attention to cosmopolitical events puts the anthropology of global health into closer conversation with analyses of other global phenomena. [global health, biosecurity, science and technology, cosmopolitics, genetic engineering, dengue, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation]
Clinical manifestations and risk factors of anastomotic leakage after low anterior resection for rectal cancer
Authors: Yun Jung‐A , Cho Yong Beom , Park Yoon Ah , Huh Jung Wook , Yun Seong Hyeon , Kim Hee Cheol , Lee Woo Yong , Chun Ho‐Kyung
Published: April 2015

Background

Anastomotic leakage is a common complication that can be associated with catastrophic consequences. However, the risk factors and incidence of anastomotic leakage vary considerably among clinical studies because of the lack of a standardized definition, clinical course and appropriate treatment options. The aim of this study was to identify and classify the clinical manifestations and treatment of anastomotic leakage and analyse the possible risk factors after low anterior resection.

Methods

From January 2009 to June 2010, 632 patients underwent low anterior resection for primary colorectal cancer at Samsung Medical Center. Patients with only one colorectal anastomosis were included from this prospectively collected medical database.

Results

The overall leakage rate was 6.0% (n = 38). In cases of generalized leakage, the patients that selected surgical management, regardless of having protective enterostomy and time of occurrence, had better outcomes. Protective enterostomy did not have a preventive effect and was not associated with a lower rate of anastomotic leakage. However, protective enterostomy confined the inflammation to only the pelvic cavity (P = 0.045) and no surgical intervention was initially needed. Male gender (P = 0.021, relative risk (RR) = 2.680, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.164–6.171) and side‐to‐end/J pouch‐to‐end anastomosis (P = 0.012, RR = 2.696, 95% CI = 1.249–5.818) were significant risk factors that affected anastomotic leakage.

Conclusion

Surgical management is the best choice for generalized leakage. A protective enterostomy diminished the occurrence of generalized leakage and consequent surgical management; therefore, fragile patients at high risk for anastomotic leakage are recommended to undergo protective enterostomy.