bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Spore‐Pollen Assemblage from the Damoguaihe Formation in the Tamutsag Basin, Mongolia and Its Geological Implication
Authors: WANG Liyan , WAN Chuanbiao , SUN Yuewu
Published: February 2014

Based on the palynological data from Well Ta‐19–36 and Well Ta‐19–37 in the Ta'nan Sag, and Well Ta‐22–1 and Well Ta‐21–1 in the Bayin Gobi Sag, a spore‐pollen assemblage from the Damoguaihe Formation is named as Cicatricosisporites minutaestriatus – Aequitriradites spinulosus – Protopinus sp. assemblage in the Tamutsag Basin, Mongolia. The assemblage is characterized by abundant gymnosperm pollen and diverse fern spores, counted 46.35%‐65.57% and 34.43%‐52.58% in percentage respectively. Among the gymnosperm pollen, Pinuspollenites sp. (2.66%‐16.94%), Protopinus sp. (0–11.38%) and Protopicea sp. (0–10.81%) are dominant; and Alisporites sp., Cerebropollenites sp., Podocarpidites sp., and Abietineaepollenites sp. are common. Some important elements, such as Chasmatosporites sp., Callialasporites prominulus, Parvisaccites sp., Parcisporites sp., Jiaohepollis cf. annulatus, J. bellus, J. verus, Polycingulatisporites sp., Schizaeoisporites certus, Classopollis annulatus are seen. Within the fern spores, Osmundacidites wellamanii (0.85%‐4.93%), Appendicisporites sp. (0–4.45%), Baculatisporites comaumensis (0.80%‐2.87%), Cicatricosisporites sp. (0.51%‐2.66%), C. minor (0–2.14%), Foraminisporis asymmetricus (0–2.40%), Aequitriradites sp. (0–2,19%) and Cyathidites minor (0–2.13%) are dominant; and some specie of Densoisporites, Cooksonites, Impardecispora, Pilosisporites, Schizaeosprites, Fixisporites, Leptolepidites, Trilobosporites, Kuylisporites, Klukisporites, Hsuisporites, Couperisporites, Maculatisporites are seen. The angiosperm pollen are rare in the assemblage, characterized by Clavatipollenites sp. (0–0.80%) and Songipollis sp. (0–0.27%). The geological age of the Damoguaihe Formation is assigned to Hauterivian – Barremian of Early Cretaceous according to the palynological data, due to the fact that there existed a lot of diverse spores of the family Schizaeaceae and prosperous gymnosperm saccat pollen which the corpus and sacci are differentiated completely, and the presence of early angiosperm pollen of Clavatipollenites. However, the zircon U‐Pb isotopic dating of the volcanic rocks in the Nantun Formation indicated that the overlying strata of the Nantun Formation, i.e. the Damoguaihe Formation must be younger than 127.0±2,0–137.9±1.5 Ma. This is consistent with the palynological data. Furthermore, the vegetation reconstructed on the palynological data of the Damoguaihe Formation is conifer forest with shrubs and grassland, belonging to the semi‐humid or humid middle to south subtropical climate. Moreover, three new species, namely Biretisporites punctatus sp. nov., Chasmatosporites reticulates sp. nov. and Concentrisporites contractus sp. nov. are described here.
Mesozoic‐Cenozoic Multi‐Stage Intraplate Deformation Events in the Langshan Region and their Tectonic Implications
Authors: ZHANG Jin , LI Jinyi , LI Yanfeng , QI Wenhua , ZHANG Yiping
Published: February 2014

In the Langshan region, northwestern China, marked multi‐stage intraplate deformation events have occurred since the Mesozoic, including (1) northeast‐striking ductile left‐lateral strike slip during the Middle‐Late Triassic, which is closely related to the collision between the North China and the Yangtze plates; (2) top‐to‐the‐southeast thrust with northwest‐southeast trending maximum compression during the Late Jurassic; (3) nearly eastward detachment during the Early Cretaceous; (4) top‐to‐the‐northwest thrust with northwest‐southeast trending maximum compression during the Late Cretaceous and Early Cenozoic; (5) northeast‐striking brittle left‐lateral strike slip with nearly north‐south trending maximum compression; and (6) northwest‐southeast extension during the Middle‐Late Cenozoic. All these deformation events belong to the intraplate deformation across the entire Central Asian region and respond to the tectonic events along the plate boundaries or deep tectonics. The structures developed in early events in the crust were the most important factors controlling the later deformation styles, and few new structures have later developed. Based on previous research and our results, the paleostress inversion in the Langshan region shows that the Mesozoic intraplate deformations in the study region mainly resulted from the tectonic events from the Paleo‐Pacific region and have no or a weak relation to the Tethys region. During the Late Jurassic, the maximum compression from the Mongolia‐Okhotsk region cannot be excluded. The Langshan region is the bridge between southern Mongolia and the western Ordos tectonic belt and is thus important to understand the nature and relationship between both regions.
Provenance of Cored Sediments from Active Margin off Southwestern Taiwan Deduced from Geochemical Constraints
Authors: HUANG Shaowei , CHEN Juchin , LO Chienying , LEE Yungtan , JIANG Weiteh , WANG Yunshuen , CHUNG Sanhsiung
Published: February 2014

The cored sediments sampled by R/V Marion Dufrense in the active margin off southwestern Taiwan on the east side of the Manila Trench are mostly muds consisting mainly of quartz, feldspar, illite, chlorite + kaolinite with a trace amount of montmorillonite. The cored sediments have higher Fe, Ti, Cr, Cs, Li, Ni, and V but lower Ca, Na, Mn, Hf, Nb, Sr, Ta, U and Zr contents when compared with the upper continental crust (UCC, Taylor and McLennan, 1985). The Eu/Eu* ratios of the sediments averaging 0.69 indicate that the recycling effect on the Eu anomaly may be minor and the contribution of mafic source rock was unimportant, which can also be depicted in the La‐Th‐Sc plot (Cullers, 1994) showing a “mixed origin” close to the felsic end member. The chemistry of the cored sediment can be explained by a mixing model designed by Ho and Chen (1996) with four end members i.e., greywacke, shale, quartzite and limestone, which are widely distributed in the Cenozoic formations of southern Taiwan with greywacke as the dominant contributor followed by shale.
The Gol‐e‐Zard Zn‐Pb Deposit, Lorestan Province, Iran: a Metamorphosed SEDEX Deposit
Authors: ZARASVANDI Alireza , SAMETI Mona , SADEGHI Martiya , RASTMANESH Fatemeh , POURKASEB Hooshang
Published: February 2014

The Gol‐e‐Zard Zn‐Pb deposit is one of several sediment‐hosted Zn‐Pb deposits found in the central part of the Sanadaj‐Sirjan Zone, known as the Isfahan‐Malayer belt, western Iran. Mineralization occurs in Upper Triassic to Jurassic phyllites and meta‐sandstones. Sphalerite and galena are the most abundant metallic ores, with minor chalcopyrite. Calcite and quartz are the main gangue minerals. Fissure filling, replacement textures and especially mineralized faults, suggest an epigenetic stage in the Gol‐e‐Zard deposit formation. Geochemical studies of mineralized rocks show high concentrations of Zn, Pb and Cu, (Zn and Pb > 10000 ppm and Cu average 3000 ppm). LREE enrichment (LREE>HREE, La/Lu average 1.44) and positive Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu*>1 average 1.67) indicate reducing conditions during the deposition of deposit. However, some samples do not display negative Ce anomalies, which indicate that localized oxidizing conditions are also present. This study indicates that the Gol‐e‐Zard deposit formed due to circulating hydrothermal fluids in a marine environment. A SEDEX‐type genesis, which is defined by circulating hydrothermal fluids through sediments in a marine environment, and syngenetic precipitation of Zn and Pb sulphides, is suggested for the Gol‐e‐Zard deposit. Emplacement of some granitoid intrusions such as the Aligudarz granitoid intrusion remobilized mineralizing fluids and metamorphosed the Gol‐e‐Zard deposit.
Geochemistry and Zircon U–Pb–Hf Isotopic Systematics of the Sanchahe Quartz Monzonite Intrusion in the North Qinling Tectonic Zone, Central China: Implications for its Petrogenesis and Tectonic Setting
Authors: YAN Ming , LIU Shuwen , LI Qiugen , ZHANG Wanyi , YANG Pengtao , YAN Zhen , WANG Ruiting , WANG Wei , GUO Rongrong
Published: February 2014

The Sanchahe quartz monzonite intrusion is situated in the middle segment of the North Qinling tectonic belt, Central China mainland, and consists chiefly of sanukitoid–like and granodioritic‐monzogranitic rocks. The sanukitoid–like rocks are characterized by quartz monzonites, which display higher Mg# (55.0–59.0), and enrichments in Na2O+K2O (7.28–8.94%), Ni (21–2312 ppm), Cr (56–4167 ppm), Sr (553–923 ppm), Ba (912–1355 ppm) and LREE ((La/Yb)N=9.47–15.3), from negative to slightly positive Eu anomalies (δEu=+0.61 to +1.10), but also depletion in Nb, Ta and Ti. The granodioritic‐monzogranitic rocks diaplay various Mg# of 6.00–53.0, high Na2O+K2O (7.20–8.30%), Sr (455–1081 ppm) and (La/Yb)N (27.6–47.8), with positive Eu anomalies (δEu=1.03–1.57) and depleted Nb, Ta and TL Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA‐ICPMS) zircon U‐Pb isotopic dating reveals that the sanukitoid‐like rocks were emplaced at two episodes of magmatism at 457±3 Ma and 431±2 Ma, respectively. The monzogranites were emplaced at 445±7Ma. Sanukitoid‐like rocks have their ∊Hf(r) values ranging from +0.3 to +15.1 with Hf–depleted mantle model ages of 445 to 1056 Ma, and the monzogranite shows its ∊Hf(t) values ranging from ‐21.6 to +10.8 with Hf–depleted mantle model ages of 635 to 3183 Ma. Petrological, geochemical and zircon Lu–Hf isotopic features indicate that the magmatic precursor of sanukitoid–like rocks was derived from partial melting of the depleted mantle wedge materials that were metasomatized by fluids and melts related to subduction of oceanic slab, subsequently the sanukitoid magma ascended to crust level. This emplaced mantle magma caused partial melting of crustally metamorphosed sedimentary rocks, and mixing with the crustal magma, and suffered fractional crystallization, which lead to formations of quartz monzonites. However, the magmatic precursor of the granodioritic‐monzogranitic rocks were derived from partial melting of subducted oceanic slab basalts. Integrated previous investigation for the adackitic rocks in the south of the intrusion, the Sanchahe intrusion signed that the North Qinling tectonic zone was developed in an early Paleozoic transitionally tectonic background from an island arc to back–arc.
Trace Element Geochemistry of Magnetite from the Fe(‐Cu) Deposits in the Hami Region, Eastern Tianshan Orogenic Belt, NW China
Authors: HUANG Xiaowen , QI Liang , MENG Yumiao
Published: February 2014

Laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA–ICP–MS) was used to determine the trace element concentrations of magnetite from the Heifengshan, Shuangfengshan, and Shaquanzi Fe(–Cu) deposits in the Eastern Tianshan Orogenic Belt. The magnetite from these deposits typically contains detectable Mg, Al, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Zn and Ga. The trace element contents in magnetite generally vary less than one order of magnitude. The subtle variations of trace element concentrations within a magnetite grain and between the magnetite grains in the same sample probably indicate local inhomogeneity of ore–forming fluids. The variations of Co in magnetite between samples are probably due to the mineral proportion of magnetite and pyrite. Factor analysis has discriminated three types of magnetite: Ni–Mn‐V–Ti (Factor 1), Mg–Ai–Zn (Factor 2), and Ga–Co (Factor 3) magnetite. Magnetite from the Heifengshan and Shuangfengshan Fe deposits has similar normalized trace element spider patterns and cannot be discriminated according to these factors. However, magnetite from the Shaquanzi Fe–Cu deposit has affinity to Factor 2 with lower Mg and Al but higher Zn concentrations, indicating that the ore–forming fluids responsible for the Fe–Cu deposit are different from those for Fe deposits. Chemical composition of magnetite indicates that magnetite from these Fe(–Cu) deposits was formed by hydrothermal processes rather than magmatic differentiation. The formation of these Fe(–Cu) deposits may be related to felsic magmatism.
Microchemical Characterization of Natural Gold and Copper Alloys from the Ancient Um Shashoba Gold Mine, South Egypt
Authors: DARWISH Mohamed Abdallah Gad
Published: February 2014

The SEM‐EDX technique was applied to investigate Au, and Cu+Sn alloyed grains in the mineralization of the Um Shashoba mine for achieving further understanding of occurrences, internal structures and microchemistry of Au and Cu alloys and associated minerals, and mineralization type. This study is aiming at the genetic history of ore‐bearing fluid events, geochemical evaluation and exploration significance. The results showed that the mineralization could be considered as a single major episode generated by metamorphic mesothermal solution rich in sulfides and unsaturated respect to Au. It was differentiated into many stages; started with formation of auriferous pyrite that was pseudomorphed by secondary hematite, limonite and goethite. Three phases of Au alloy were precipitated, and Cu+Sn and Ag‐rich alloys were produced respectively and followed by deposition of two generations of barren pyrite. Calcite and ankerite were crystalized, surrounded and partially replaced some of early formed minerals. Finally, barren muscovite recrystallized around and inside both later formed carbonate minerals that were free of any sign of Au in their structures. The processes of deformation, recrystallization, annealing, dissolution, remobilization and re‐precipitation played the most important roles in the genetic history of the mineralization.
Current Progress on the Geological Record of Microbialites and Microbial Carbonates
Authors: CHEN Jitao , LEE Jeong‐Hyun
Published: February 2014

This paper reviews the current progress and problems in the study of microbialites and microbial carbonates. Microbialites and microbial carbonates, formed during growth of microbes by their calcification and binding of detrital sediment, have recently become one of the most popular geological topics. They occur throughout the entire geological history, and bear important theoretical and economic significances due to their complex structures and formative processes. Microbialites are in place benthic microbial buildups, whereas microbial carbonates can be classified into two categories: stabilized microbial carbonates (i.e., carbonate microbialites, such as stromatolites and thrombolites) and mobilized microbial carbonates (i.e., microbial carbonate grains, such as oncoids and microbial lumps). Various texture, structures, and morphologies of microbialites and microbial carbonates hamper the systematic description and classification. Moreover, complex calcification pathways and diagenetic modifications further obscure the origin of some microbialites and microbial carbonates. Recent findings of abundant sponge spicules in previously identified “microbialites” challenge the traditional views about the origins of these “microbialites” and their implications to reef evolution. Microbialites and microbial carbonates did not always flourish in the aftermath of extinction events, which, together with other evidences, suggests that they are affected not only by metazoans but also by other geological factors. Their growth, development, and demise are also closely related to sea‐level changes, due to their dependence on water depth, clarity, nutrient, and sunlight. Detailed studies on microbialites and microbial carbonates throughout geological history would certainly help understand causes and effects of major geological events as well as the coevolution of life and environment.
Lung cancer incidence and mortality in China, 2010
Authors: Zheng Rongshou , Zeng Hongmei , Zhang Siwei , Fan Yaguang , Qiao Youlin , Zhou Qinghua , Chen Wanqing
Published: February 2014

Background

The National Central Cancer Registry of China (NCCR) is responsible for cancer surveillance. Local cancer registries in each province submit data for annual publication. The incidence and mortality of lung cancer in China in 2010 by age, gender, and area is reported in this article.

Methods

In 2013, 145 of 219 population‐based cancer registries' 2010 data were selected after quality evaluation. Classification included Western, Middle, and Eastern areas, and the crude incidence and mortality rates of lung cancer were calculated by age, gender, and urban and rural. Age‐standardized rates were determined by China and World standard population data. The 6th National Population Census data of China was used, combined with the registries' data to estimate the lung cancer burden in China in 2010.

Results

Lung cancer had the highest incidence and mortality in China for men and women. It was estimated that 605 946 lung cancer cases were diagnosed in China in 2010, with a crude incidence rate of 46.08/100 000, and 486 555 patients died from lung cancer, with a crude mortality rate of 37.00/100 000. Age‐standardized rates for incidence were 35.23/100 000 and 35.04/100 000, respectively. Incidence and mortality rates for lung cancer were higher in men and urban areas than those in women and rural areas, reaching a peak for subjects of 80–84 years old.

Conclusion

Lung cancer has the highest incidence and mortality of all cancers in China, especially for males in urban areas. Our findings justify the need to plan and develop effective interventions, such as air pollution control and smoking deterrents, to control and prevent the spread of lung cancer in China.
Up‐regulation of β‐amyloidogenesis in neuron‐like human cells by both 24‐ and 27‐hydroxycholesterol: protective effect of N‐acetyl‐cysteine
Authors: Gamba Paola , Guglielmotto Michela , Testa Gabriella , Monteleone Debora , Zerbinati Chiara , Gargiulo Simona , Biasi Fiorella , Iuliano Luigi , Giaccone Giorgio , Mauro Alessandro , Poli Giuseppe , Tamagno Elena , Leonarduzzi Gabriella
Published: February 2014

An abnormal accumulation of cholesterol oxidation products in the brain of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) would further link an impaired cholesterol metabolism in the pathogenesis of the disease. The first evidence stemming from the content of oxysterols in autopsy samples from AD and normal brains points to an increase in both 27‐hydroxycholesterol (27‐OH) and 24‐hydroxycholesterol (24‐OH) in the frontal cortex of AD brains, with a trend that appears related to the disease severity. The challenge of differentiated SK‐N‐BE human neuroblastoma cells with patho‐physiologically relevant amounts of 27‐OH and 24‐OH showed that both oxysterols induce a net synthesis of Aβ1‐42 by up‐regulating expression levels of amyloid precursor protein and β‐secretase, as well as the β‐secretase activity. Interestingly, cell pretreatment with N‐acetyl‐cysteine (NAC) fully prevented the enhancement of β‐amyloidogenesis induced by the two oxysterols. The reported findings link an impaired cholesterol oxidative metabolism to an excessive β‐amyloidogenesis and point to NAC as an efficient inhibitor of oxysterols‐induced Aβ toxic peptide accumulation in the brain.
Genetic isolation of endangered bird populations inhabiting salt marsh remnants surrounded by intensive urbanization
Authors: Major R. E. , Johnson R. N. , King A. G. , Cooke G. M. , Sladek J. L. T.
Published: February 2014

Urbanization represents the most extreme form of land cover transformation and is expected to restrict dispersal of animals, both because of the structural unsuitability of the novel habitat, as well as through mechanisms associated with human activity, such as disturbance. Fragmentation of populations by urbanization is considered to be a significant threat to several endangered bird populations, although isolation has seldom been demonstrated genetically. The aim of this study was to explore the utility of genetic criteria for identifying at‐risk populations, using a salt‐marsh‐inhabiting bird, the white‐fronted chat Epthianura albifrons, as a case study. DNA was extracted from feathers from 78 individuals from five sites, including two salt marsh remnants situated within the intensively urbanized zone of a city of more than three million people, and three sites up to 500 km distant. Microsatellite markers were used to measure genetic diversity and compare genetic structure between populations. Analyses of population structure demonstrated that the two populations surrounded by intensive urban development were genetically distinct from each other despite being separated by less than 20 km. They were also distinct from larger populations beyond the urban zone that showed much lower levels of genetic differentiation and no evidence of isolation by distance, despite being separated by continuous forest, which is not a recognized habitat for this species. The two endangered populations had low levels of genetic diversity reflected in the number of alleles and heterozygosity. Two immigrants were detected in one of the isolated populations, but their reproductive success was very low and they failed to effect genetic rescue. This study demonstrates that the endangered population satisfies the genetic criteria for listing, and although the population is unlikely to have special evolutionary significance in itself, flagging the population highlights the vulnerability of some coastal fauna to the impacts of urbanization.
A critical role for the melanocortin 4 receptor in stress‐induced relapse to nicotine seeking in rats
Authors: Qi Xiaoli , Yamada Hidetaka , Corrie Lu W. , Ji Yue , Bauzo Rayna M. , Alexander Jon C. , Bruijnzeel Adrie W.
Published: February 2014

Tobacco addiction is characterized by a lack of control over smoking and relapse after periods of abstinence. Smoking cessation leads to a dysphoric state that contributes to relapse to smoking. After the acute withdrawal phase, exposure to stressors increases the risk for relapse. Blockade of melanocortin 4 (MC4) receptors has anxiolytic and antidepressant‐like effects in animal models. The aim of these studies was to investigate the role of MC4 receptors in the dysphoria associated with nicotine withdrawal and stress‐induced reinstatement of nicotine seeking. To study stress‐induced reinstatement, rats self‐administered nicotine for 16 days and then nicotine seeking was extinguished by substituting saline for nicotine. Nicotine seeking was reinstated by intermittent footshock stress. The intracranial self‐stimulation (ICSS) procedure was used to assess the negative mood state associated with nicotine withdrawal. Elevations in the ICSS thresholds are indicative of a dysphoric state. The selective MC4 receptor antagonists HS014 and HS024 prevented stress‐induced reinstatement of extinguished nicotine seeking. Drug doses that prevented stress‐induced relapse did not affect responding for food pellets, which indicates that the drugs did not induce sedation or motor impairments. In the ICSS experiments, the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist mecamylamine elevated the ICSS thresholds of the nicotine‐dependent rats. Pre‐treatment with HS014 or HS024 did not prevent the elevations in ICSS thresholds. These studies indicate that MC4 receptors play a critical role in stress‐induced reinstatement of nicotine seeking, but these receptors may not play a role in the dysphoria associated with acute nicotine withdrawal.
Do local moisture stress responses across tree species reflect dry limits of their geographic ranges?
Authors: Fensham Roderick J. , Bouchard David L. , Catterall Carla P. , Dwyer John M.
Published: February 2014

Under future climate drought‐induced tree mortality may result in the contraction of species ranges and the reorganization of community composition where abundant and peripheral species exchange their patterns of dominance. Predicting these changes will be challenging because the future suitable habitat may be a mismatch for the current bioclimatic envelope because of discrepancies between the realized and fundamental niche. Here we evaluate the extent of the discrepancy, as applied to tree species in relation to their relative field‐recorded drought sensitivities and their observed range‐wide environmental moisture envelopes. The hypothesis tested was that different species levels of drought‐induced damage at sites where they co‐occur will be positively associated with the minimum moisture availability in the most drought‐prone part of each species current geographic range. We tested the hypothesis using drought damage measurements for 13 Australian Myrtaceae (including Eucalyptus) tree species at a site where all co‐occur, together with 120 years of climate data across their geographical ranges. With limited statistical power the results generated only modest support for the hypothesis suggesting limited capacity to predict future distributions under climate change scenarios. In spite of the poor dispersal capacities of Eucalyptus and allied genera, but consistent with knowledge of breeding systems and genetic variability within Eucalyptus, the findings also suggest that many species have a capacity for rapid adaptive response to climate change, including the vicissitudes of the late Quaternary.
Recent studies of genetic dysfunction in pelvic organ prolapse: The role of collagen defects
Authors: Lim Veronica F. , Khoo John K. , Wong Vivien , Moore Kate H.
Published: February 2014

Gynaecologists are becoming increasingly aware that women with a family history of prolapse are at an increased risk of prolapse refractory to treatment. In the past five years, several genetic mutations have been shown to correlate with increased prolapse susceptibility. These mutations can result in disordered collagen metabolism, which weaken the fascial support of the pelvic organs. This review examines the contemporary evidence regarding the role of collagen in prolapse.
Risk factors for Merino ewe mortality on the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Kelly GA , Kahn LP , Walkden‐Brown SW
Published: February 2014

Objective

To measure the association of worm egg count (WEC), body weight (BW) and fat score (FS) with mortality in Merino ewes.

Methods

On six farms, Merino ewes (n = 1440) were yarded at approximately 3‐month intervals for 2 years for a range of experimental measurements. Mortality was defined by failure to present at two consecutive measurement days and at next shearing. Survival analysis was conducted with phenotypic traits measured both as continuous variables and categorised appropriately for industry guidelines.

Results

Overall mortality was 10%, with most deaths occurring in autumn followed by winter. Age class (2006 drop vs mature‐age ewes) did not affect mortality. High WEC, low BW and low FS significantly increased the risk of mortality. WEC > 1200 epg significantly increased risk of mortality in summer (risk ratio 3.76) and autumn (risk ratio 3.61) compared with the reference group. Risk of mortality increased 1.1‐fold for each kilogram unit decrease in BW and 7‐fold for each unit decrease in FS.

Conclusions

Mortality of Merino ewes can be significantly reduced by management methods that reduce WEC, maintain BW and increase the FS. For Merino ewes on the Northern Tablelands of NSW, improved animal welfare and economic benefits may be achieved by maintaining sheep with WEC < 1200 epg, BW > 35 kg and FS > 2.5.
Liver necrosis and photosensitisation in cattle after eating Persicaria lapathifolia (pale knotweed) and Persicaria orientalis (Prince's feather)
Authors: Lugton IW , Woolacott J
Published: February 2014

Cattle deaths in two contemporaneous incidents were attributed to acute intoxication with Persicaria lapathifolia and P. orientalis when the plants were under heat and moisture stress. To our knowledge this is the first confirmed report of acute, fatal hepatic necrosis associated with ingestion of these plants.
Simple benchmark for complex dose finding studies
Authors: Cheung Ying Kuen
Published: February 2014

While a general goal of early phase clinical studies is to identify an acceptable dose for further investigation, modern dose finding studies and designs are highly specific to individual clinical settings. In addition, as outcome‐adaptive dose finding methods often involve complex algorithms, it is crucial to have diagnostic tools to evaluate the plausibility of a method's simulated performance and the adequacy of the algorithm. In this article, we propose a simple technique that provides an upper limit, or a benchmark, of accuracy for dose finding methods for a given design objective. The proposed benchmark is nonparametric optimal in the sense of O'Quigley et al. (2002, Biostatistics 3, 51–56), and is demonstrated by examples to be a practical accuracy upper bound for model‐based dose finding methods. We illustrate the implementation of the technique in the context of phase I trials that consider multiple toxicities and phase I/II trials where dosing decisions are based on both toxicity and efficacy, and apply the benchmark to several clinical examples considered in the literature. By comparing the operating characteristics of a dose finding method to that of the benchmark, we can form quick initial assessments of whether the method is adequately calibrated and evaluate its sensitivity to the dose–outcome relationships.
Stratification of patients with intermediate‐risk prostate cancer
Authors: Jung Jin‐Woo , Lee Jung Keun , Hong Sung Kyu , Byun Seok‐Soo , Lee Sang Eun
Published: February 2014

Objective

To identify an appropriate risk stratification system for intermediate‐risk prostate cancer (PCa).

Patients and Methods

We reviewed the data on 1559 patients who were treated with radical prostatectomy (RP) at our institution between 2005 and 2013 and classified them according to National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) risk groups. For our analyses, intermediate‐risk PCa was designated as unfavourable intermediate‐risk PCa if it met at least one of the following two criteria: biopsy Gleason score 4 + 3 and/or presence of ≥2 intermediate‐risk criteria. All other men with intermediate‐risk PCa were designated as having favourable intermediate‐risk disease. Postoperative outcomes, including biochemical recurrence (BCR)‐free survival, were calculated and compared using the log‐rank test and Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

In multivariable analysis, biopsy Gleason score 4 + 3 and multiple (≥2) intermediate‐risk criteria were observed to be independent predictors of BCR risk among men in the intermediate‐risk group undergoing RP. The favourable intermediate‐risk group had a significantly higher 5‐year BCR‐free survival compared with the unfavourable intermediate‐risk group (87.5 vs 66.5%; P < 0.001). The unfavourable intermediate‐risk group had significantly higher 5‐year BCR‐free survival than the high‐risk group (66.5 vs 47.9%; P < 0.001) while the favourable intermediate‐risk group had significantly lower 5‐year BCR‐free survival than the low‐risk group (87.5 vs 93.5%; P = 0.002).

Conclusions

A marked heterogeneity exists in the biochemical outcomes of contemporary patients with intermediate‐risk PCa who undergo definitive RP. According to biopsy Gleason score and number of intermediate‐risk criteria present, the intermediate‐risk group should be sub‐divided into those with favourable and unfavourable intermediate‐risk disease.
Investing in advocacy for parents with learning disabilities: what is the economic argument?
Authors: Bauer Annette , Wistow Gerald , Dixon Josie , Knapp Martin
Published: February 2014

Accessible Summary

An advocate helps you know your rights and what is expected of you.

An advocate helps you speak up for yourself.

Parents with learning disabilities need advocates when professionals are worried about their children.

There is not much money for advocacy at the moment. Not all parents with learning disabilities can get advocacy.

This is why we tried to find out if it makes sense for the government to spend more money on advocacy.

We found out that advocacy can be good value for money. It can help parents and children. It can mean that social services have to pay less to help parents and their children.

Advocacy can help service users both to understand their rights and choices and also to support them in resolving issues of great significance to their lives. We investigated some of the costs and outcomes of advocacy provided to parents with learning disabilities at risk of having their children taken into care. Through two workshops and a survey, we gathered information about service use and outcomes at case‐ and project‐levels. We used evidence from previous studies to assign unit costs to service use and to value the economic consequences of outcomes. We combined data with simple decision‐modelling techniques. The mean cost of the advocacy intervention was £3040; potential cost savings per case ranged from £720 if we only considered the impact on children's social services, to over £3130 if savings to other public services were considered. Estimated improvements in quality of life and earnings were worth an additional £550. The limitations of our study mean those findings should be interpreted cautiously. Nonetheless, they suggest there is scope for securing better value for money through introducing advocacy for parents with learning disabilities.
Starved human fibroblasts secrete acidic proteins inducing post re‐feeding proliferation and in vitro cell migration: A potential tool for wound healing
Authors: Golpour Monireh , Fattahi Sadegh , Niaki Haleh Akhavan , Hadipoor Abbas , Abedian Zeinab , Ahangarian Gholam Reza , Parsian Hadi , Mosapour Abbas , Khorasani Hamid Reza , Vaziri Hamid Reza , Bijani Ali , Mostafazadeh Amrollah
Published: February 2014

Background Information

There are several reports indicating that starved fibroblasts show higher proliferation rates when re‐fed with foetal bovine serum. We have evidence demonstrating that this phenomenon is related to secretory proteins which may be beneficial to wound healing.

Results

After re‐feeding, 16 and 72 h serum‐starved fibroblasts showed the highest and lowest proliferation rates, 1.59 and 0.51‐fold difference compared to the non‐starved control, respectively (P < 0.05). However, the latest value could be normalised by incubating cells with 16 h‐starved fibroblast cell culture supernatant (16‐SFS), prior to re‐feeding. A strong correlation was found between total protein level in starved fibroblast culture supernatants and post re‐feeding proliferation rates (r2 = 0.90, P < 0.001). Two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis analysis of 16‐SFS confirmed the presence of proteins with relative molecular weights of 10–120 kDa and pI ranging from 4 to 6. A significant difference in calcium influx course was found between 16‐SFS and the negative control (Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium) (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in Ca2+ concentrations after 1 h between non‐starved controls and 16‐SFS‐treated fibroblasts. The scratch test demonstrated that the 16‐SFS is able to induce fibroblast migration.

Conclusions

We concluded that human starved fibroblasts secrete proteins that are able to induce post re‐feeding cell proliferation and fibroblasts migration, probably through the induction of a sustained calcium influx. This is worth being considered as a potential tool for wound healing.
Genotype/phenotype analysis in Chinese laminin‐α2 deficient congenital muscular dystrophy patients
Authors: Xiong H. , Tan D. , Wang S. , Song S. , Yang H. , Gao K. , Liu A. , Jiao H. , Mao B. , Ding J. , Chang X. , Wang J. , Wu Y. , Yuan Y. , Jiang Y. , Zhang F. , Wu H. , Wu X.
Published: February 2014

Laminin‐α2 deficient congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by severe muscular dystrophy, which is typically associated with abnormal white matter. In this study, we assessed 43 CMD patients with typical white matter abnormality and laminin‐α2 deficiency (complete or partial) diagnosed by immunohistochemistry to determine the clinical and molecular genetic characteristics of laminin‐α2 deficient CMD. LAMA2 gene mutation analysis was performed by direct sequencing of genomic DNAs. Exonic deletion or duplication was identified by multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) and verified by high‐density oligonucleotide‐based CGH microarrays. Gene mutation analysis revealed 86 LAMA2 mutations (100%); 15 known and 37 novel. Among these mutations, 73.9% were nonsense, splice‐site or frameshift and 18.8% were deletions of one or more exons. Genetic characterization of affected families will be valuable in prenatal diagnosis of CMD in the Chinese population.
Torsional resonance frequency analysis: a novel method for assessment of dental implant stability
Authors: Tang Yu‐Long , Li Bing , Jin Wei , Li De‐Hua
Published: February 2014

Objectives

To establish and experimentally validate a novel resonance frequency analysis (RFA) method for measurement of dental implant stability by analyzing torsional resonance frequency (TRF).

Material and methods

A numerical study and in vitro measurements were performed to evaluate the feasibility and reliability of the method of torsional RFA (T‐RFA) using a T‐shaped bilateral cantilever beam transducer. The sensitivity of this method was assessed by measuring the TRFs of dental implants with 8 sizes of T‐shaped transducers during polymerization, which simulated the process of bone healing around an implant. The TRFs of the test implants detected using this new method and the bending resonance frequencies (BRFs) measured by Osstell® ISQ were compared. TRFs and BRFs on implant models in polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) blocks with three exposure heights were also measured to assess the specificity of this method.

Results

Finite element analysis showed two bending modes (5333 and 6008 Hz) following a torsional mode (8992 Hz) in the lower rank frequency. During in vitro measurements, a bending formant (mean 6075 Hz) and a torsional formant (mean 10225 Hz) appeared, which were verified by multipoint measurement with invariable excitation frequency in the laboratory. In the self‐curing resin experiments, the average growth rate at all time points of TRFs using the new method with Transducer II was 2.36% and that of BRFs using Osstell® ISQ was 1.97%. In the implant exposure height tests, the mean declined rate of TRFs was 2.06% and that of BRFs using Osstell® ISQ was 12.34%.

Conclusion

A novel method for assessment of implant stability through TRF was established using a T‐shape transducer, which showed high reliability and sensibility. The method alleviated the effects of implant exposure height on the measurements compared with Osstell® ISQ. The application of T‐RFA represents another way in the investigation of dental implant osseointegration.
Clinical pictures
Authors: Finer N.
Published: February 2014

Two cases of panniculus morbidus are presented.
AN EXPERIMENTAL EXAMINATION OF FISHERIES WITH CONCURRENT COMMON POOL AND INDIVIDUAL QUOTA MANAGEMENT
Authors: ANDERSON CHRISTOPHER M. , UCHIDA HIROTSUGU
Published: February 2014

An emerging trend in fisheries management allows different groups of harvesters pursuing the same stock, even under the same management plan, to manage their effort using different rules, so long as each group remains within its “catch share” portion of mortality. Thus harvesters in a single fishery, with a single total allowable catch, concurrently must respond strategically to the behavior not only of those being managed as they are but also of those facing incentives of different management. In a novel quasi‐continuous time experimental environment with a contemporaneous price externality, we explore the effort timing behavior of harvesters managed under common pool (CP) management with that of subjects managed with individual quotas (IQ). Consistent with Nash equilibrium, CP‐managed subjects race‐to‐fish, exerting high levels of effort to secure landings but selling at correspondingly low prices. IQ‐managed subjects in the same fishery hold effort back until the CP fishery closes, and use their quota over the balance of the season at a lower weekly landings level, receiving higher prices. After experiencing both management systems, subjects choose to be in a group with IQ by a 3:1 margin. (JEL Q22, Q28, C73)
EQUIPMENT AND STRUCTURES CAPITAL: ACCOUNTING FOR INCOME DIFFERENCES
Authors: MUTREJA PIYUSHA
Published: February 2014

In this article, I present comparable measures of equipment capital and structures capital stocks for 119 countries. Cross‐country variation in equipment capital‐output ratio is over twice the variation in structures capital and aggregate physical capital. The dispersion in equipment capital has also increased overtime. Using development accounting that incorporates equipment and structures capital, I offer evidence relevant to the debate on the importance of productivity versus factors in accounting for income differences. The new measures of heterogeneous capital reduce the burden on total factor productivity by up to 5%. (JEL O11, O47, E22)
ACCOUNTING FOR THE CYCLICAL DYNAMICS OF INCOME SHARES
Authors: SHAO ENCHUAN , SILOS PEDRO
Published: February 2014

Over the business cycle, labor's share of output is negatively but weakly correlated with output, and it lags output by about four quarters. Profits' share is strongly pro‐cyclical. It neither leads nor lags output, and its volatility is about five times that of output. Those assumptions relate to the structure of aggregate technology and the degree of competition in factor markets. Despite much evidence in favor of time‐varying income shares, macroeconomics still lacks models that can account for their time series facts. This article constructs a model that can replicate those facts. We introduce costly entry of firms in a model with frictional labor markets and find a link between the ability of the model to replicate income shares' dynamics and the ability of the model to amplify and propagate shocks. That link is a weak correlation between the real interest rate and output, a fact in U.S. data but a feature that models of aggregate fluctuations have had difficulty achieving. (JEL E3, E25, J3, E24)
ZONING UNDER SPATIAL PRICE DISCRIMINATION
Authors: BÁRCENA‐RUIZ JUAN CARLOS , CASADO‐IZAGA FRANCISCO JAVIER
Published: February 2014

This paper investigates zoning in a duopoly model of spatial price discrimination. We find that the zone in which the firms are not allowed to locate depends on the bias of the regulator. A bias toward firms is deduced when locations around the central area are forbidden, and a bias toward consumers exists when firms are only allowed to locate at places around the central area. The design of the zoned area guarantees that firms locate optimally and works under simultaneous or sequential choice of locations by the two firms. (JEL L13, R38)
CHARACTERIZING ECONOMIC GROWTH PATHS BASED ON NEW STRUCTURAL CHANGE TESTS
Authors: SOBREIRA NUNO , NUNES LUIS C. , RODRIGUES PAULO M. M.
Published: February 2014

One of the prevalent topics in the economic growth literature is the debate between neoclassical, semi‐endogenous, and endogenous growth theories regarding the model that best describes the data. An important part of this discussion can be summarized in three mutually exclusive hypotheses: the “constant trend,” the “level shift,” and the “slope shift” hypotheses. In this article we propose the characterization of a country's economic growth path according to these break hypotheses. We address the problem in two steps. First, the number and timing of trend breaks is determined using new structural change tests that are robust to the presence, or not, of unit roots, surpassing technical and methodological concerns of previous empirical studies. Second, conditional on the estimated number of breaks and break dates, a statistical framework is introduced to test for general linear restrictions on the coefficients of the suggested linear disjoint broken trend model. We further show how the aforementioned hypotheses, regarding the economic growth path, can be analyzed by a test of linear restrictions on the parameters of the breaking trend model. We apply the methodology to historical per capita gross domestic product for an extensive list of countries. The results support the three alternative hypotheses for different sets of countries. (JEL C22, F43, O40)
Development and pilot testing of an online monitoring tool of depression symptoms and side effects for young people being treated for depression
Authors: Hetrick Sarah E. , Dellosa Maria Kristina , Simmons Magenta B. , Phillips Lisa
Published: February 2014

Aim

To develop and examine the feasibility of an online monitoring tool of depressive symptoms, suicidality and side effects.

Methods

The online tool was developed based on guideline recommendations, and employed already validated and widely used measures. Quantitative data about its use, and qualitative information on its functionality and usefulness were collected from surveys, a focus group and individual interviews.

Results

Fifteen young people completed the tool between 1 and 12 times, and reported it was easy to use. Clinicians suggested it was too long and could be completed in the waiting room to lessen impact on session time. Overall, clients and clinicians who used the tool found it useful.

Conclusions

Results show that an online monitoring tool is potentially useful as a systematic means for monitoring symptoms, but further research is needed including how to embed the tool within clinical practice.
Coping as a predictor of treatment outcome in people at clinical high risk of psychosis
Authors: Kommescher Mareike , Wagner Michael , Pützfeld Verena , Berning Julia , Janssen Birgit , Decker Petra , Bottlender Ronald , Möller Hans‐Jürgen , Gaebel Wolfgang , Maier Wolfgang , Klosterkötter Joachim , Bechdolf Andreas
Published: February 2014

Aim

The concept of coping is relevant to recent models of psychosis, and people with established psychotic disorders have been found to predominately use maladaptive coping strategies. This study aimed to examine the general coping patterns of people at clinical high risk of psychosis (CHR) and to investigate whether pre‐therapy coping behaviour plays a role in predicting responsiveness to early interventions.

Methods

One hundred twenty‐eight help‐seeking CHR outpatients were randomized into two treatment groups: either receiving integrated psychological intervention (IPI), including cognitive behaviour therapy, or supportive counselling (SC) for 12 months. Of those, 91 persons completed a Stress Coping Questionnaire (SCQ) at intake: 45 in the IPI group and 46 in the SC group. General coping behaviour in this sample was analysed and several regressions were conducted separately for each treatment group to examine coping as a predictor of outcome after 12 months of different forms of treatment.

Results

Participants relied significantly more on negative than on positive coping strategies, t(90) = −7.185, P < 0.001, and within the positive strategies, stress control was the most preferred one, t(90) = 10.979, P < 0.001. Several pre‐therapy coping strategies significantly predicted improvement in symptomatic outcome in both treatment groups, explaining between 16% and 25% of variance. The predictive value of coping was higher in the SC group.

Conclusions

Maladaptive coping behaviours were found to emerge in the early stages of psychosis and coping behaviour contributed significantly to the prediction of post‐treatment symptom improvement. These findings indicate a need for psychosocial support and coping strategy enhancement in people at risk of psychosis.