bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effects of cost-based contractor selection on construction project performance
Authors: Olaniran Olugbenga Jide 
Published: November 2015

Purpose
– This paper aims to present the outcome of a study conducted on the impact that cost-based contractor selection (CBCS) might have on construction project performance. Several criteria are normally used to select construction contractors, competitiveness of the quoted prices of the prospective contractors is one such important criterion. However, choosing contractors solely on the basis of the quoted price may cause poor performance in the construction project.

Design/methodology/approach
– A quantitative approach was adopted. A critical review of the literature was conducted to develop 50 survey questions relating to the problems that CBCS might have on construction project performance.

Findings
– Analysis of close data obtained from the survey of construction experts showed the nature of project performance problems associated with the CBCS to be project time delays and non-compliance with construction standards. The major reason they occurred was found to be the reduced profit margin for contractors.

Research limitations/implications
– The research sample size is small and restricted to construction professionals in Brunei.

Practical implications
– The study findings present updated information to construction professionals about the inherent impacts of choosing contractors based on cost. Furthermore, this study enhances the approach of selecting contractors within the construction industry.

Originality/value
– The study made strong and unique arguments about the problems associated with choosing construction contractors based on cost. This study contributes to the body of knowledge relevant to the management of construction projects.
Looking in the mirror
Authors: Wells Paul 
Published: November 2015

Purpose
– There is a widely held stereotypical view that accounting is structured, precise, compliance-driven and repetitive. Drawing on social psychology theory, this paper aims to examine how accountants may contribute to these stereotypical perceptions.

Design/methodology/approach
– Individual perception data were collected through questionnaires and interviews with accountants from the corporate, public practice and not-for-profit sectors, along with “Chartered Accountants” who no longer work as accountants.

Findings
– These findings suggest that, contrary to results from an earlier study, the targets of the accounting stereotype contribute to the stereotype formation and maintenance and that increased exposure to accountants may serve only to confirm and reinforce the accounting stereotype.

Research limitations/implications
– There are a small number of participants in this study, and this limits the ability to generalise the findings.

Practical implications
– These findings have important implications for the profession in how it communicates and promotes the role of the accountant in society. Failure to address the issues identified may lead the stereotype to become self-fulfilling. This may result in the recruitment of future accountants who lack the required skills and capabilities. This could lead to the loss of non-compliance-related accounting work to other business professionals.

Originality/value
– This study responds to criticism that little is known about how and why the accounting stereotype is formed and how contact with an accountant may increase stereotypicality. Additionally, this paper proposes a strategy to reduce stereotypicality through contact with accountants.
Making sense of government budgeting: an internal transparency perspective
Authors: Lapsley Irvine , Ríos Ana-María 
Published: November 2015

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is an investigation of internal transparency in government budgeting.Design/methodology/approach– A case study which uses mixed methods – documentary analysis, some observation and elite interviews.Findings– Politicians do not want transparency. Despite the way in which the idea of transparency in government is beyond open challenge, this study reveals the manner in which politicians can inhibit and limit transparency through political will and action.Research limitations/implications– These findings raise serious challenges for policymakers who design government budgeting systems. They should raise concerns among other interested parties, including the media, the electorate and oversight bodies.Practical implications– Are government budgets rigorously scrutinised? This evidence suggests not. This has major implications for accountants in government and for those who seek to use this information.Social implications– This research needs to be extended beyond the case of a government body – the Scottish Parliament – which was designed for and committed to transparency in its activities. For those public service organisations which have no such commitment, is public accountability achievable?Originality/value– This study uses a novel lens of three levels of transparency as devised by Biondi and Lapsley (2014). It focuses on an emergent field of internal transparency in government budgeting.
Characterisation of Lactobacillus helveticus strains isolated from home‐made dairy products in Iran
Authors: Nejati Fatemeh , Babaei Mahdi , Taghi‐Zadeh Alam 
Published: November 2015

The aims of this study were the isolation and characterisation of a number of lactobacilli strains from traditional dairy products. Fifteen home‐made samples were pour‐plated onto MRS and predominant colonies were randomly picked up. Nine isolated lactobacilli were grouped using rep‐PCR fingerprinting, and partial sequencing of 16S‐rRNA of group's representatives confirmed them as Lactobacillus helveticus. Detection of two CEP (prtH and prtH2) genes and examination of acidification and growth in milk revealed intradiversity among isolates. The findings indicate the possibility of isolating novel wild strains of L. helveticus from home‐made products and emphasises on the necessity of both genetic and technological characterisation for deeper differentiation of strains.
Extremophile microbiomes in acidic and hypersaline river sediments of Western Australia
Authors: Lu Shipeng , Peiffer Stefan , Lazar Cassandre Sara , Oldham Carolyn , Neu Thomas R. , Ciobota Valerian , Näb Olga , Lillicrap Adam , Rösch Petra , Popp Jürgen , Küsel Kirsten 
Published: November 2015

SummaryWe investigated the microbial community compositions in two sediment samples from the acidic (pH ∼3) and hypersaline (>4.5% NaCl) surface waters, which are widespread in Western Australia. In West Dalyup River, large amounts of NaCl, Fe(II) and sulfate are brought by the groundwater into the surface run‐off. The presence of K‐jarosite and schwertmannite minerals in the river sediments suggested the occurrence of microbial Fe(II) oxidation because chemical oxidation is greatly reduced at low pH. 16S rRNA gene diversity analyses revealed that sequences affiliated with an uncultured archaeal lineage named Aplasma, which has the genomic potential for Fe(II) oxidation, were dominant in both sediment samples. The acidophilic heterotrophs Acidiphilium and Acidocella were identified as the dominant bacterial groups. Acidiphilium strain AusYE3‐1 obtained from the river sediment tolerated up to 6% NaCl at pH 3 under oxic conditions and cells of strain AusYE3‐1 reduced the effects of high salt content by forming filamentous structure clumping as aggregates. Neither growth nor Fe(III) reduction by strain AusYE3‐1 was observed in anoxic salt‐containing medium. The detection of Aplasma group as potential Fe(II) oxidizers and the inhibited Fe(III)‐reducing capacity of Acidiphilium contributes to our understanding of the microbial ecology of acidic hypersaline environments.
Risk factors in Australian bond returns
Authors: Bianchi Robert J. , Drew Michael E. , Roca Eduardo , Whittaker Timothy 
Published: November 2015

AbstractThis study examines the risk factors in Australian bond returns. The study quantifies bond liquidity and estimates a liquidity risk factor in the Australian setting. We develop a three‐factor asset pricing framework that uses term, default and liquidity risk factors to explain the variation of Australian bond returns. Our findings corroborate the US evidence on the pervasiveness of these risk factors faced by bond investors. The three‐factor model developed in this study has practical applications when calculating the cost of debt, evaluating the performance of an active bond fund manager and hedging underlying risk in a bond portfolio.
Old lesbians: Gendered histories and persistent challenges
Authors: Waite Helen 
Published: November 2015

AimThis article provides an overview of how gender and historical contexts influence the well‐being of old lesbians. It aims to inform the practice of aged care providers in addressing the needs of these women.MethodsThe lived experience of old lesbians is examined using feminist methodology with a focus on hegemonic femininity, social structures and cultural life.ResultsOld lesbians being selectively ‘open’, their use of health services and desire for lesbian‐specific aged care are all influenced by lesbophobia, a complex of discriminations. The age women began living as lesbian and fluidity of orientation, are central to understanding their particular needs. Many old lesbians have created social groups and intentional communities where there is support and freedom.ConclusionThe current ‘inclusivity’ approach is insufficient for culturally appropriate aged care for old lesbians. Developing practices that meet their needs requires better understanding of lesbians' different life courses and why they created lesbian cultures.
Enhanced Fibroblast Cellular Ligamentization Process to Polyethylene Terepthalate Artificial Ligament by Silk Fibroin Coating
Authors: Jiang Jia , Ai Chengchong , Zhan Zufeng , Zhang Peng , Wan Fang , Chen Jun , Hao Wei , Wang Yaxian , Yao Jinrong , Shao Zhengzhong , Chen Tianwu , Zhou Liang , Chen Shiyi 
Published: November 2015

AbstractArtificial ligaments utilized in reconstruction of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are usually made of polyethylene terepthalate (PET) because of its good mechanical properties in vivo. However, it was found that the deficiencies in hydrophilicity and biocompatibility of PET hindered the process of ligamentization. Therefore, surface modification of the PET is deemed as a solution in resolving such problem. Silk fibroin (SF), which is characterized by good biocompatibility and low immunogenicity in clinical applications, was utilized to prepare a coating on the PET ligament (PET+SF) in this work. At first, decrease of hydrophobicity and appearance of amino groups were found on the surface of artificial PET ligament after coating with SF. Second, mouse fibroblasts were cultured on the two different kinds of ligament in order to clarify the possible effect of SF coating. It was proved that mouse fibroblasts display better adhesion and proliferation on PET+SF than PET ligament according to the results of several technical methods including SEM observation, cell adhesive force and spread area test, and mRNA analysis. Meanwhile, methylthiazolyldiphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide and DNA content tests showed that biocompatibility of PET+SF is better than PET ligament. In addition, collagen deposition tests also indicated that the quantity of collagen in PET+SF is higher than PET ligament. Based on these results, it can be concluded that SF coating is suggested to be an effective approach to modify the surface of PET ligament and enhance the “ligamentization” process in vivo accordingly.
13C Breath Tests Are Feasible in Patients With Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Devices
Authors: Bednarsch Jan , Menk Mario , Malinowski Maciej , Weber‐Carstens Steffen , Pratschke Johann , Stockmann Martin 
Published: November 2015

AbstractTemporary extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been established as an essential part of therapy in patients with pulmonary or cardiac failure. As physiological gaseous exchange is artificially altered in this patient group, it is debatable whether a
13C‐breath test can be carried out. In this proof of technical feasibility report, we assess the viability of the
13C‐breath test LiMAx (maximum liver function capacity) in patients on ECMO therapy. All breath probes for the test device were obtained directly via the membrane oxygenator. Data of four patients receiving liver function assessment with the
13C‐breath test LiMAx while having ECMO therapy were analyzed. All results were compared with validated scenarios of the testing procedures. The LiMAx test could successfully be carried out in every case without changing ECMO settings. Clinical course of the patients ranging from multiorgan failure to no sign of liver insufficiency was in accordance with the results of the LiMAx liver function test. The
13C‐breath test is technically feasible in the context of ECMO. Further evaluation of
13C‐breath test in general would be worthwhile. The LiMAx test as a
13C‐breath test accessing liver function might be of particular predictive interest if patients with ECMO therapy develop multiorgan failure.
Serum interferon‐inducible protein 10 levels predict hepatitis B s antigen seroclearance in patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Wong G. L.‐H. , Chan H. L.‐Y. , Chan H.‐Y. , Tse C.‐H. , Chim A. M.‐L. , Lo A. O.‐S. , Wong V. W.‐S. 
Published: November 2015

SummaryBackgroundHepatitis B s antigen (HBsAg) seroclearance is regarded as the optimal virological end‐point.AimTo investigate the dynamic changes in serum cytokine levels around the time of HBsAg seroclearance.MethodsThis was a case–control study. Consecutive patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) who lost HBsAg were matched with those remained positive for HBsAg with same age, gender, HBeAg status and presence of cirrhosis in 1:2 ratio. Relevant serum cytokines [interleukin (IL)‐2, IL‐3, IL‐4, IL‐7, IL‐9, IL‐10, IL‐12, IL‐15, IL‐21 interferon‐γ, tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), granulocyte macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) and interferon‐inducible protein 10 (IP‐10)] were assayed at the time (Year 0) and 3 years before (Year −3) HBsAg seroclearance.ResultsSeventy‐one and 142 CHB patients who did and did not achieve HBsAg seroclearance were included. Mean age was 48 ± 11 years; 76% were male, 20% had positive HBeAg, 99 (46%) patients received anti‐viral therapy, and mean baseline HBV DNA was 3.78 ± 2.28 log IU/mL vs. 4.36 ± 2.13 log IU/mL respectively (P = 0.05). In those who achieved HBsAg seroclearance, serum IL‐15 and GM‐CSF levels decreased significantly from Year −3 to Year 0 (P = 0.017 and 0.05 respectively). When compared to controls, only serum IP‐10 level was significantly lower at Year 0 than at Year −3 in patients with HBsAg seroclearance. Lower serum IP‐10 level at Year 0 was the only factor associated with HBsAg seroclearance. There was no correlation between serum IP‐10 and HBsAg levels around the time of HBsAg seroclearance.ConclusionLower serum IP‐10 level at Year 0 was the only factor associated with HBsAg seroclearance.
Review article: insights into colonic protein fermentation, its modulation and potential health implications
Authors: Yao C. K. , Muir J. G. , Gibson P. R. 
Published: November 2015

SummaryBackgroundBeneficial effects of carbohydrate fermentation on gastrointestinal health are well established. Conversely, protein fermentation generates harmful metabolites but their relevance to gastrointestinal health is poorly understood.AimTo review the effects of increased protein fermentation on biomarkers of colonic health, factors influencing fermentative activity and potential for dietary modulation to minimise detrimental effects.MethodsA literature search was performed in PubMed, Medline, EMBASE and Google scholar for clinical and pre‐clinical studies using search terms – ‘dietary protein’, ‘fermentation’, ‘putrefaction’, ‘phenols’, ‘sulphide’, ‘branched‐chain fatty acid’, ‘carbohydrate fermentation’, ‘gastrointestinal’.ResultsHigh protein, reduced carbohydrate diets alter the colonic microbiome, favouring a potentially pathogenic and pro‐inflammatory microbiota profile, decreased short‐chain fatty acid production and increased ammonia, phenols and hydrogen sulphide concentrations. These metabolites largely compromise the colonic epithelium structure, causing mucosal inflammation but may also directly modulate the enteric nervous system and intestinal motility. Increased protein fermentation as a result of a high‐protein intake can be attenuated by addition of oligosaccharides, resistant starch and nonstarch polysaccharides and a reduction in total protein or specifically, aromatic and sulphur‐containing amino acids. These factors may have clinical importance as novel therapeutic approaches to problems, in which protein fermentation may be implicated, such as malodorous flatus, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis and prevention of colorectal cancer.ConclusionsThe direct clinical relevance of excessive protein fermentation in the pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome, malodorous flatus and ulcerative colitis are underexplored. Manipulating dietary carbohydrate and protein intake have potential therapeutic applications in such settings and warrant further clinical studies.
A Population Pharmacokinetic–Pharmacodynamic Meta‐Analysis of Vortioxetine in Patients with Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Naik Himanshu , Chan Serena , Vakilynejad Majid , Chen Grace , Loft Henrik , Mahableshwarkar Atul R. , Areberg Johan 
Published: November 2015

AbstractVortioxetine is approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). This analysis aimed to develop pharmacokinetic (PK) and PK/Efficacy models to evaluate the exposure–response relationship for vortioxetine in patients with MDD. PK data from 10 MDD and two generalized anxiety disorder studies of vortioxetine (3160 patients), and efficacy data [Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS)] from seven MDD studies (2537 patients), were used for the development of PK and PK/Efficacy models. One‐ and two‐compartment models were evaluated as structural PK models, and linear and nonlinear (Emax) models were used to describe the relationship between average vortioxetine concentration at steady‐state (Cav) and change in MADRS score from baseline (ΔMADRS). The impact of selected covariates on the PK and efficacy parameters of vortioxetine was also investigated. PK of vortioxetine was best characterized by a two‐compartment model with first‐order absorption and elimination. Mean estimates for oral clearance (CL/F) and volume of distribution for the central compartment of vortioxetine were 42 L/hr and 2920 L. Creatinine clearance, height and geographic region had statistically significant effects on vortioxetine CL/F, but the effect of each of these covariates was not considered clinically relevant, as they lead to ±26% change in area under the curve or Cmax of vortioxetine. An Emax model best described the relationship between ΔMADRS and Cav. Half‐maximal effective concentration (EC50) and Emax estimates were 24.9 ng/mL and 7.0. No identified covariates, except region, had clinically meaningful effects on vortioxetine efficacy. These PK/Efficacy models adequately characterized the vortioxetine exposure–response relationship.
Pharmacokinetics of the Experimental Non‐Nucleosidic DNA Methyl Transferase Inhibitor N‐Phthalyl‐l‐Tryptophan (RG 108) in Rats
Authors: Schneeberger Yvonne , Stenzig Justus , Hübner Florian , Schaefer Andreas , Reichenspurner Hermann , Eschenhagen Thomas 
Published: November 2015

AbstractDNA methyl transferase (DNMT) inhibitors can re‐establish the expression of tumour suppressor genes in malignant diseases, but might also be useful in other diseases. Inhibitors in clinical use are nucleosidic cytotoxic agents that need to be integrated into the DNA of dividing cells. Here, we assessed the in vivo kinetics of a non‐nucleosidic inhibitor that is potentially free of cytotoxic effects and does not require cell division. The non‐specific DNMT inhibitor N‐phthalyl‐l‐tryptophan (RG 108) was injected subcutaneously in rats. Blood was drawn 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 24 hr after injection and RG 108 in plasma was measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Trough levels and area under the curve (AUC) were significantly higher with multiple‐dose administration and cytochrome inhibition. In this group, time to maximal plasma concentration (tmax, mean ± S.D.) was 37.5 ± 15 min., terminal plasma half‐life was approximately 3.7 h (60% CI: 2.1–15.6 h), maximal plasma concentration (Cmax) was 61.3 ± 7.6 μM, and AUC was 200 ± 54 μmol·h/l. RG 108 peak levels were not influenced by cytochrome inhibition or multiple‐dose administration regimens. Maximal tissue levels (Cmax in μmol/kg) were 6.9 ± 6.7, 1.6 ± 0.4 and 3.4 ± 1.1 in liver, skeletal and heart muscle, respectively. We conclude that despite its high lipophilicity, RG 108 can be used for in vivo experiments, appears safe and yields plasma and tissue levels in the range of the described 50% inhibitory concentration of around 1 to 5 μM. RG 108 can therefore be a useful tool for in vivo DNMT inhibition.
Effect of Hepatic or Renal Impairment on the Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Tolerability of Ponesimod, a Selective S1P1 Receptor Modulator
Authors: Guérard Nicolas , Zwingelstein Christian , Hoch Matthias , Dingemanse Jasper 
Published: November 2015

AbstractPonesimod, a selective S1P1 receptor modulator, is a potential therapeutic agent for autoimmune disorders. The impact of hepatic or renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics, safety and tolerability of ponesimod and its inactive metabolites, ACT‐204426 and ACT‐338375, was evaluated. Two separate single‐centre, open‐label studies with 32 (hepatic study) and 24 (renal study) male and female individuals were conducted. Hepatic impairment was based on the Child–Pugh classification, and renal impairment was determined by creatinine clearance using the Cockcroft–Gault equation. Individuals with severe hepatic or renal impairment were to be matched (sex and body mass index) with healthy individuals. All individuals received a single dose of 10 mg ponesimod. For ponesimod, the ratio of geometric means of AUC0–∞ for individuals with severe hepatic impairment versus healthy individuals was 3.07 (90% CI: 2.19, 4.32). For severely renally impaired individuals versus healthy individuals, this ratio was 1.14 (0.82, 1.58). Cmax and tmax values of ponesimod were comparable across all groups in both studies. Exposure to metabolites was increased in individuals with moderate or severe hepatic impairment as compared to healthy individuals. During the course of these studies, there were no clinically relevant abnormalities related to vital signs, 12‐lead electrocardiograms and clinical laboratory values. Sixteen adverse events (AEs) were reported, 12 of them of mild intensity. No AEs were considered to be treatment related. Overall, ponesimod was well tolerated. In individuals with renal function impairment, dose adjustment is not warranted, whereas the dose should be reduced in individuals with moderate and severe hepatic impairment.