bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What Role Can the G20 Play in Global Energy Governance? Implications for China's Presidency
Authors: Andrews‐Speed Philip , Shi Xunpeng
Published: December 2015

The prevailing architecture of global energy governance is fragmented, uncoordinated and failing to yield the required outcomes. This article examines the argument that the Group of 20 (G20) can provide a leadership role to improve the quality of global energy governance. Energy has characteristics of a global public good and the energy system resembles a complex adaptive system. These observations imply that the global governance of energy should be polycentric and this, in turn, entails a high level of coordination and trust between governing actors. Clubs and networks are institutions that can usefully enhance coordination and trust. In this respect, the G20 can be seen as a club at the hub of networks that can play a key role in improving the global governance of energy and China's presidency of the G20 in 2016 provides a unique opportunity for the G20 to prove its worth.
The Creation of the Economic Society of Australia's National Economic Panel and Polling Platform
Authors: Chan Tom C. H. , Cardak Buly A.
Published: December 2015

The Economic Society of Australia (ESA) embarked upon a plan to create a National Economic Panel (NEP) and an online public policy polling platform in late 2013. In early October 2015, the outcome of the first poll of the ESA NEP was released with a question on the best way to reform Australia's goods and services tax. The results created great interest and set the stage for a significant contribution by the ESA and NEP to ongoing policy discourse in Australia. This paper documents the reasons for the formation of the ESA NEP, some of the details of its creation, how the ESA NEP evolved into the National Economic Forum joint venture with the Monash Business School and what plans the ESA has for the ESA NEP in the future.
Boxing and Martial Arts Company, A Tax Case
Authors: Mindzak Justin , Zeng Tao
Published: December 2015

A tax case is developed examining a private Canadian sports company. This case simulates a real‐world start‐up company in the area of Canadian Controlled Private Corporation taxation. The client, Boxing and Martial Arts Co., is a medium‐sized, rapidly growing sports promotion business. It operates in an environment where cash payments are common, especially towards foreign workers. Students must research issues involving tax deductions and revenue recognition. The learning objectives include: reinforcing taxation concepts that most students learn in introductory courses (i.e., revenue recognition, allowable business expenses) as well as improving students’ tax research skills for more complex issues (e.g., international tax treaties).
Methods for sampling sequential annual bone growth layers for stable isotope analysis
Authors: Turner Tomaszewicz Calandra N. , Seminoff Jeffrey A. , Avens Larisa , Kurle Carolyn M.
Published: December 2015

Stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope analysis (SIA) has proven useful in addressing fundamental questions in ecology such as reconstructing trophic interactions, habitat connections and climate regime shifts. The temporal scales over which SIA can be used to address ecological problems vary depending on the protein turnover times of the analysed tissue. Hard, inert tissues, such as teeth, bones and mollusc shells, grow in regular intervals (i.e. daily or annually), and sequential sampling of these growth layers provides a time series of isotopic patterns. As a result, SIA on these tissues is useful for elucidating behaviour and ecology of animals over time, especially those with cryptic life‐history stages, such as marine turtles that retain growth layers in their humerus bones. To date, there exists no standard protocol for the sequential sampling of cortical bone samples taken from fresh, modern samples for SIA.

We tested two different methods, micromilling untreated bone cross sections and biopsy coring bone cross sections processed for skeletochronology, for sequentially sampling individual growth layers from marine turtle humerus bones.

We present a standard protocol for sequential bone growth layer sampling for SIA, facilitating direct comparison of future studies. We recommend using the micromilling sampling technique on untreated bone cross sections, as it facilitated higher precision sampling of growth layers that were not affected by chemical processing, and minimized sample handling, thereby reducing chances for contamination.

This is the first study to present a standardized method to sequentially sample annual bone growth layers for stable isotope analysis and facilitates direct comparison among future studies.
A pedigree gone bad: increased offspring survival after using DNA‐based relatedness to minimize inbreeding in a captive population
Authors: Hammerly S. C. , de la Cerda D. A. , Bailey H. , Johnson J. A.
Published: December 2015

Captive breeding programs often use a pedigree to identify breeding pairs that maintain genetic diversity and limit inbreeding. However, unintentional breeding of closely related individuals can occur when errors exist in the pedigree and may subsequently result in inbreeding depression. In this study, a DNA‐based approach was used to identify parentage assignment errors in the captive pedigree of the critically endangered Attwater's prairie‐chicken Tympanuchus cupido attwateri, and tested whether clutch survival increased using DNA‐relatedness values for assigning breeding pairs instead of the pedigree and mean kinship. Parentage assignment error was observed in each year surveyed ranging from 2.4 to 7.3%. After correcting identified errors prior to the 2013 breeding season, 11 of 38 assigned pedigree‐based breeding pairs still possessed DNA‐based relatedness coefficients (rDNA) ≥0.125 suggesting that additional errors remained in the pedigree. Two approaches were used to prevent breeding among close relatives in 2013 and 2014. Assigned pedigree‐based breeding pairs in 2013 that possessed rDNA ≥0.125 were reassigned unrelated breeding partners, while all individuals in 2014 were used to identify the minimum overall rDNA for the breeding population without reference to the pedigree other than to verify founder representation. Both years resulted in a significant reduction in mean parental relatedness among chicks (P < 0.001) and a significant increase in the proportion of the clutch surviving to 5 weeks post‐hatch (P ≤ 0.006) compared to 2012 when breeding pairs were assigned using only the pedigree. No significant difference in the proportion of the clutch surviving was observed between 2013 and 2014 (P > 0.300). These results have important implications for the captive management of endangered species, and highlight the importance of periodically evaluating for pedigree errors. To what degree pedigree errors limit fitness in other endangered species captive populations deserves further attention.
The opioid peptide beta‐endorphin stimulates acrosome reaction in human spermatozoa
Authors: Urizar‐Arenaza I. , Estomba H. , Muñoa‐Hoyos I. , Matorras R. , Esposito A. , Candenas L. , Pinto F. M. , Valdivia A. , Irazusta J. , Subirán N.
Published: December 2015

The acrosome reaction occurs in vivo following sperm capacitation and is essential for the acquisition of sperm fertilization ability. However, little is known about the molecular identity of the physiological acrosome reaction regulators. In addition to progesterone, which is produced by cumulus oophorus cells and known to regulate acrosome reaction by activating the specific calcium channel CatSper, endogenous opioid peptides such as beta‐endorphin and met‐enkephalin are present at high concentrations in the follicular fluid suggesting that the opioid system may be involved in the mechanisms regulating the acrosome reaction in humans. By using Reverse Transcription‐PCR, western blot and immunofluorescence approaches, we described the presence and localization of the beta‐endorphin precursor, pro‐opiomelanocortinin the middle section and in flagellum of human spermatozoa, and inside the seminiferous tubules of human testis. Flow cytometry and intracellular calcium analyses showed that beta‐endorphin causes an inversely dose‐dependent increase in the percentage of acrosome‐reacted sperm cells by a calcium‐independent protein kinase C pathway. These findings are important for future studies of sperm physiology and provide new insight into the function of the opioid system as a target of fertility management.
Polymorphous granular cells in the lung of the primitive fish, the bichir Polypterus senegalus
Authors: Zaccone Daniele , Icardo Jose Manuel , Kuciel Michał , Alesci Alessio , Pergolizzi Simona , Satora Leszek , Lauriano Eugenia Rita , Zaccone Giacomo
Published: December 2015

This study describes the distribution and the coexpression of specific neurochemical markers in both neuroendocrine‐like cells (NEC‐like) and polymorphous granular cells (PGCs) that populate the mucociliated epithelium of the lung in the air‐breathing fish Polypterus senegalus, using confocal immunohistochemistry. Using confocal immunohistochemistry, we determined the coexpression of specific neurochemical markers. Colocalization studies showed that 5HT is coexpressed with calbindin and nNOS and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) is coexpressed with nNOS in the PGCs. This study also shows for the first time the simultaneous occurrence of piscidin 1 and 5HT in the PGCs. The function of these cells being equivalent to ones found in fish gill subepithelial parenchyma is still not known. Due to the importance of piscidin 1 in local immune defence, more research is to be useful to understand a possible interaction of PGCs with immune response in the bichir lung. In fact, the capacity of PGCs to produce NO and other neuroactive substances found in immune cells of fish may represent a primitive form of immunoregulation of innate immunity and specifically antimicrobial function as NO induction and respiratory burst activity are correlated with immune response.
The effect of LCZ696 (sacubitril/valsartan) on amyloid‐β concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid in healthy subjects
Authors: Langenickel Thomas H. , Tsubouchi Chiaki , Ayalasomayajula Surya , Pal Parasar , Valentin Marie‐Anne , Hinder Markus , Jhee Stanford , Gevorkyan Hakop , Rajman Iris
Published: December 2015

Aims

LCZ696 (angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor) is a novel drug developed for the treatment of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Neprilysin is one of multiple enzymes degrading amyloid‐β (Aβ). Its inhibition may increase Aβ levels. The potential exists that treatment of LCZ696, through the inhibition of neprilysin by LBQ657 (an LCZ696 metabolite), may result in accumulation of Aβ. The aim of this study was to assess the blood–brain‐barrier penetration of LBQ657 and the potential effects of LCZ696 on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) concentrations of Aβ isoforms in healthy human volunteers.

Methods

In a double‐blind, randomized, parallel group, placebo‐controlled study, healthy subjects received once daily LCZ696 (400 mg, n = 21) or placebo (n = 22) for 14 days.

Results

LCZ696 had no significant effect on CSF AUEC(0,36 h) of the aggregable Aβ species 1–42 or 1–40 compared with placebo (estimated treatment ratios 0.98 [95% CI 0.73, 1.34; P = 0.919] and 1.05 [95% CI 0.82, 1.34; P = 0.702], respectively). A 42% increase in CSF AUEC(0,36 h) of soluble Aβ 1–38 was observed (estimated treatment ratio 1.42 [95% CI 1.05, 1.91; P = 0.023]). CSF levels of LBQ657 and CSF Aβ 1–42, 1–40, and 1–38 concentrations were not related (r2 values 0.022, 0.010, and 0.008, respectively).

Conclusions

LCZ696 did not cause changes in CSF levels of aggregable Aβ isoforms (1–42 and 1–40) compared with placebo, despite achieving CSF concentrations of LBQ657 sufficient to inhibit neprilysin. The clinical relevance of the increase in soluble CSF Aβ 1–38 is currently unknown.
Involvement of CC Chemokine Receptor 1 and CCL3 in Acute and Chronic Inflammatory Pain in Mice
Authors: Llorián‐Salvador María , González‐Rodríguez Sara , Lastra Ana , Fernández‐García María Teresa , Hidalgo Agustín , Menéndez Luis , Baamonde Ana
Published: December 2015

Chemokines are chemotactic cytokines whose involvement in nociceptive processing is being increasingly recognized. Based on the previous description of the involvement of CC chemokine receptor type 1 (CCR1) in pathological pain, we have assessed the participation of CCR1 and its endogenous ligands CCL3 and CCL5 in hyperalgesia and allodynia in mice after acute inflammation with carrageenan and chronic inflammation with complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). The subcutaneous administration of the CCR1 antagonist J113863 (3–30 mg/kg; 30 min. before) dose dependently inhibited carrageenan‐ and CFA‐evoked thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia produced by CFA, but not by carrageenan. The maximal dose of J113863 did not modify the increase in paw thickness induced by carrageenan or CFA. An almost ten times augmentation of CCL3 levels was detected by ELISA assays in both carrageenan and CFA paws, but not in spinal cords of inflamed mice, whereas CCL5 concentrations remained unaltered. Accordingly, a marked increase of CCL3 mRNA expression was observed in inflamed paws, with CCL3 protein detected in neutrophils and macrophages by immunohistochemical experiments. The intraplantar administration of an anti‐CCL3 antibody (0.3–3 μg) blocked thermal hyperalgesia in carrageenan‐ and CFA‐inflamed mice as well as CFA‐evoked mechanical allodynia. Our data suggest that the increased concentrations of CCL3 present in inflamed tissues can be involved in acute and chronic inflammatory hyperalgesia as well as in chronic mechanical allodynia, and that these hypernociceptive symptoms can be counteracted by its neutralization with an antibody or by the blockade of CCR1 receptors.
Galanin inhibits GLP‐1 and GIP secretion via the GAL1 receptor in enteroendocrine L and K cells
Authors: Psichas Arianna , Glass Leslie L , Sharp Stephen J , Reimann Frank , Gribble Fiona M
Published: December 2015

Background and Purpose

Galanin is a widely expressed neuropeptide, which in the gut is thought to modulate gastrointestinal motility and secretion. We aimed to elucidate the poorly characterised mechanisms underlying the inhibitory effect of galanin and the potential involvement of G‐protein coupled inwardly rectifying potassium, Kir3, (GIRK) channels in glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1) and glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) secretion.

Experimental Approach

Purified murine L and K cells were analysed for expression of galanin receptors and GIRK subunits. Hormone secretion was measured from primary murine intestinal cultures. Intracellular cAMP was monitored in primary L cells derived from mice expressing the Epac2camps sensor under the control of the proglucagon promoter.

Key Results

Galanin receptor 1 (GAL1, Galr1) and GIRK channel 1 (Kir3.1, Kcnj3) and 4 (Kir3.4, Kcnj5) mRNA expression was highly enriched in K and L cells. Galanin and a selective GAL1 receptor agonist (M617) potently inhibited GLP‐1 and GIP secretion from primary small intestinal cultures. In L cells, galanin significantly inhibited the forskolin‐induced cAMP response. The GIRK1/4 activator ML297 significantly reduced glucose‐stimulated and IBMX‐stimulated GLP‐1 secretion but had no effect on GIP. The GIRK blocker tertiapin‐Q did not impair galanin‐mediated GLP‐1 inhibition.

Conclusions and Implications

Galanin, acting via the GAL1 receptor and Gi‐coupled signalling in L and K cells, is a potent inhibitor of GLP‐1 and GIP secretion. Although GIRK1/4 channels are expressed in these cells, their activation does not appear to play a major role in galanin‐mediated inhibition of incretin secretion.
Dose modifications in Asian cancer patients with hepatic dysfunction receiving weekly docetaxel: A prospective pharmacokinetic and safety study
Authors: Syn Nicholas Li‐Xun , Wang Lingzhi , Wong Andrea Li‐Ann , Soe Mu‐Yar , Chuah Benjamin , Chan Daniel , Tan Sing‐Huang , Soo Ross Andrew , Lee Soo‐Chin , Goh Boon‐Cher , Yong Wei‐Peng
Published: December 2015

Hepatic dysfunction may modify the safety profile and pharmacokinetics of docetaxel in cancer patients, but no validated guideline exists to guide dose modification necessitated by this uncommon comorbidity. We carried out the first prospective study of a personalized dosage regimen for cancer patients with liver dysfunction treated with docetaxel. Weekly dosages were stratified by hepatic dysfunction classification as such: Category 1, normal; Category 2, mild – alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, and/or alanine aminotransferase ≤5× upper limit of normal (ULN), and total bilirubin within normal range; and Category 3, moderate – any alkaline phosphatase, and aspartate aminotransferase or alanine aminotransferase ≤5–10× ULN, and/or total bilirubin ≤1–1.5× ULN. Category 1, 2 and 3 patients received starting dosages of 40, 30, and 20 mg/m2 docetaxel, respectively. Pharmacokinetics were evaluated on day 1 and 8 of the first treatment cycle, and entered into a multilevel model to delineate interindividual and interoccasion variability. Adverse event evaluation was carried out weekly for two treatment cycles. We found that docetaxel clearance was significantly different between patient categories (P < 0.001). Median clearance was 22.8, 16.4, and 11.3 L/h/m2 in Categories 1, 2, and 3, respectively, representing 28% and 50% reduced clearance in mild and moderate liver dysfunction patients, respectively. However, docetaxel exposure (area under the concentration–time curve) and docetaxel‐induced neutropenia (nadir and the maximum percentage decrease in neutrophil count) were not significantly different between categories. Median area under the concentration–time curve was 1.74, 1.83, and 1.77 mg·h/L in Categories 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The most common Grade 3/4 toxicity was neutropenia (30.0%). An unplanned comparison with the Child–Pugh and National Cancer Institute Organ Dysfunction Working Group grouping systems suggests that the proposed classification system appears to more effectively discriminate patients by docetaxel clearance and dose requirements. (ClinicalTrials.gov registration no. NCT00703378).
Cross‐Cultural Perspectives on Declarative and Nondeclarative Memory From Infancy to Early Childhood
Authors: Kolling Thorsten , Graf Frauke , Knopf Monika
Published: December 2015

Extending studies on memory development in childhood that focus primarily on participants from Western, educated, industrialized, rich, and democratic societies and, to a minor extent, from non‐Western societies, in this article, we explore how cultural contexts influence the development of declarative and nondeclarative memory from infancy to childhood. Results show that nondeclarative memory in infants and children growing up in different cultures (Western middle class vs. Cameroonian Nso) develops more similarly than declarative memory. Against the background of these findings, we present ideas to guide cross‐cultural memory research in infants and preverbal children.
The response to nasal allergen provocation with grass pollen is reduced in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis and grass sensitization
Authors: Calus L. , Devuyst L. , Van Zele T. , De Ruyck N. , Derycke L. , Bachert C. , Gevaert P.
Published: December 2015

Background

The majority of grass pollen–sensitized rhinitis patients develops allergic symptoms when exposed to the causal allergen and shows a positive nasal allergen provocation test (NAPT). Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) patients, also characterized by eosinophilic inflammation and local IgE production, can suffer from comorbid inhalant allergy, but may show a different response to allergens.

Objective

We aimed to explore the allergic response to grass pollen allergens by NAPT in grass pollen–sensitized CRSwNP patients.

Methods

Twelve grass pollen–sensitized CRSwNP patients underwent NAPT with grass pollen and were compared with 12 grass pollen allergic rhinitis patients, 12 control patients and 12 CRSwNP patients without grass pollen sensitization. A positive NAPT was based on change in nasal airflow and symptoms. Further, VAS scores of different symptoms were noted before and after NAPT. Biomarkers such as total IgE, grass pollen–specific IgE and tryptase were measured in serum and nasal secretions.

Results

NAPT was positive in 6 of 12 of the grass pollen–sensitized CRSwNP patients, and another four patients developed allergic symptoms not fulfilling the criteria of positivity. In contrast, all patients with allergic rhinitis developed a positive provocation test, whereas in the control group one of the patients and in the non‐sensitized CRSwNP group two of the patients developed a positive provocation test.

Conclusion and clinical relevance

These results show that allergen exposure induces an attenuated clinical response in patients with CRSwNP and sensitization to grass pollen as compared with grass pollen allergic rhinitis patients.
Subtype prediction in primary aldosteronism: measurement of circadian variation of adrenocortical hormones and 24‐h urinary aldosterone
Authors: Kobayashi Hiroki , Haketa Akira , Ueno Takahiro , Suzuki Ryo , Aoi Noriko , Ikeda Yukihiro , Tahira Kazunobu , Hatanaka Yoshinari , Tanaka Sho , Otsuka Hiromasa , Abe Masanori , Fukuda Noboru , Soma Masayoshi
Published: December 2015

Objective

Currently, adrenal venous sampling (AVS) is the only reliable method to distinguish unilateral from bilateral hyperaldosteronism in primary aldosteronism (PA). However, AVS is costly and time‐consuming compared with simple blood tests. In this study, we conducted a retrospective study to determine whether circadian variation in plasma adrenocortical hormone levels (i.e. aldosterone, cortisol and ACTH) and a 24‐h urinary aldosterone could contribute to the clinical differentiation between unilateral hyperaldosteronism (UHA) and bilateral hyperaldosteronism (BHA).

Design

In 64 patients who were diagnosed with PA and underwent AVS, 32 and 22 patients were diagnosed with UHA and BHA, respectively. Plasma adrenocortical hormone levels at 0:00, 6:00, 12:00 and 18:00 and 24‐h urinary aldosterone under a condition of 6 g daily dietary sodium chloride intake were measured.

Results

Baseline plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) and 24‐h urinary aldosterone level in patients with UHA were significantly higher than in patients with BHA, particularly at 6:00. The area under the ROC curve for PAC at 0:00, 6:00, 12:00 and 18:00 and 24‐h urinary aldosterone to discriminate UHA and BHA was 0·839 [95% confidence interval (CI); 0·73−0·95], 0·922 (95% CI; 0·85−1·00), 0·875 (95% CI; 0·78−0·97), 0·811 (95% CI; 0·69−0·93), 0·898 (95% CI; 0·81−0·99), respectively.

Conclusions

PAC at different blood sampling times and 24‐h urinary aldosterone level may be diagnostically helpful in discriminating between UHA and BHA. We believe that these tests could reduce the number of unnecessary AVS procedures.
Impact of diabetes mellitus on the ocular surface: a review
Authors: Misra Stuti L , Braatvedt Geoffrey D , Patel Dipika V
Published: December 2015

Although diabetes mellitus is reaching epidemic proportions worldwide, ocular surface complications are still largely believed to be uncommon. Although these complications are not often sight threatening, the general well‐being of patients and the cost of their health care can be respectively compromised and added by them. Over the last decade, an association of ocular surface complications (in particular reduced corneal sub‐basal nerve density and corneal sensitivity) with peripheral neuropathy has emerged, which could help recognize the development of peripheral complications at an earlier stage and also provide research opportunities for examining new treatment modalities of diabetic neuropathies. The ocular surface complications of diabetes mellitus and their association with peripheral neuropathy are reviewed by this report.
Long‐term clinical results of posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens implantation to correct myopia
Authors: Lee Jongsoo , Kim Younghee , Park Saekwang , Bae Jungae , Lee Seunguk , Park Youngmin , Lee Jonghun , Lee Ji‐Eun
Published: December 2015

Background

The aim of this study was to determine whether implantable collamer lens (ICL) implantation to correct myopia is an effective and safe surgical option even after long‐term follow up.

Design

A retrospective observational study was carried out.

Participants

A total of 281 eyes of 145 myopic patients were included in the study.

Methods

Patients underwent ICL implantation and had the follow‐up period of at least 5 years (87 ± 18.9 months).

Main Outcome Measures

Outcome measures included uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuities, refraction for the evaluation of efficacy, safety, stability and predictability, ICL vault and adverse events.

Results

The final mean logMAR uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuities were 0.02 ± 0.19 and −0.12 ± 0.13, respectively. The mean efficacy and safety indices were 1.04 ± 0.32 and 1.20 ± 0.26. The mean spherical equivalent decreased from −8.74 ± 2.27 diopter (D) to −0.58 ± 0.72 D, and there was high predictability with 69.8% and 87.2% having a postoperative refraction within 0.5 D and 1.0 D, respectively. The mean postoperative vault was changed from 2.53 ± 0.6 to 2.00 ± 0.7. Six (2.1%) eyes developed cataract, and the mean endothelial cell loss was 7.8 ± 8.3%. Increased intraocular pressure was found in two (0.7%) eyes that required the exchange of lenses with different sizes.

Conclusions

Implantable collamer lens implantation to correct myopia was an effective and safe surgery with high predictability and stability during long‐term follow up. Slight myopic shift and cataract formation related with change in vault should be further evaluated.
Measurement properties of multidimensional patient‐reported outcome measures in neurodisability: a systematic review of evaluation studies
Authors: Janssens Astrid , Rogers Morwenna , Gumm Rebecca , Jenkinson Crispin , Tennant Alan , Logan Stuart , Morris Christopher
Published: December 2015

Aim

To identify and appraise the quality of studies that primarily assessed the measurement properties of English language versions of multidimensional patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) when evaluated with children with neurodisability, and to summarize this evidence.

Method

MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO,CINAHL,AMED, and the National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database were searched. The methodological quality of the papers was assessed using theCOnsensus‐based Standards for selection of health MeasurementINstruments checklist. Evidence of content validity, construct validity, internal consistency, test–retest reliability, proxy reliability, responsiveness, and precision was extracted and judged against standardized reference criteria.

Results

We identified 48 studies of mostly fair to good methodological quality: 37 papers for seven genericPROMs (CHIP,CHQ,CQoL,KIDSCREEN, PedsQL,SLSS, andYQOL), seven papers for two chronic–genericPROMs (DISABKIDSand Neuro‐QOL), and four papers for three preference‐based measures (HUI,EQ‐5D‐Y, andCHSCS‐PS).

Interpretation

On the basis of this appraisal, theDISABKIDSappears to have more supportive evidence in samples of children with neurodisability. The overall lack of evidence for responsiveness and measurement error is a concern when using these instruments to measure change, or to interpret the findings of studies in which thesePROMs have been used to assess change.
Open Data on a Closed Shop? Assessing the potential of transparency initiatives with a focus on efforts to strengthen capacity development support
Authors: Keijzer Niels
Published: December 2015

Despite strong political commitment, actual gains in improving accountability in development co‐operation have been limited. Main reasons for this include the low level of transparency and high number of actors, as well as the limitations of the self‐reported and input‐oriented OECD reporting system. Efforts through the International Aid Transparency Initiative (IATI) and related transparency initiatives are ill‐equipped to change this given their decision to adhere to the same system. This article uses the specific area of support to capacity development to illustrate this. While further disaggregation of reporting on technical co‐operation could respond to a transparency gap, overcoming the accountability gap requires moving beyond promoting ‘supply‐side’ reform and re‐engaging in efforts to promote collective action.
Detection of Left Atrium Myopathy Using Two‐Dimensional Speckle Tracking Echocardiography in Patients with End‐Stage Renal Disease on Dialysis Therapy
Authors: Hassanin Noha , Alkemary Alkhateeb
Published: December 2015

Background

Left atrium (LA) deformation analysis by two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) has recently been proposed to evaluate left ventricular (LV) filling pressure in dialysis patients.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to study the LA function in dialysis patients using two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography correlated to prevalence of atrial fibrillation, echocardiographically pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, and right ventricle systolic pressure.

Methods

Hundred adult patients aged 49.3 ± 13.9 years on regular hemodialysis and 40 healthy individuals were enrolled in the study. Left ventricular dimensions, ejection fraction, and mass index were studied. Left atrium volume index (LAVI) was calculated by dividing left atrium volumes by body surface area. Left ventricle filling pressure was evaluated according to E/E'. Left atrium global systolic strain (LASS) was studied using 2DSTE. Left atrium stiffness was calculated noninvasively based on the ratio of E/E' to LASS. Right ventricle systolic pressure was estimated with the Bernoulli equation formula.

Results

Left atrium diameter, left ventricle indexed mass, mitral (E/E'), and LA stiffness were increased in dialysis group 4.4 ± 0.2 cm, 126.5 ± 24.6 g/m2, 16.9 ± 4.4, and 0.5 ± 0.1, respectively, P < 0.001 for all. Left atrium systolic strain was significantly decreased in dialysis patients (26.6 ± 1.9 vs. 33.7 ± 2.1%, P < 0.001). Left atrium stiffness was significantly higher in dialysis patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) compared to those without AF.

Conclusion

Assessment of LA deformation parameters predicts LV diastolic dysfunction and right ventricle systolic pressure in dialysis patients. Left atrium function in dialysis patients was impaired before the occurrence of left atrium dilatation.
Double‐Orifice Tricuspid Valve: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Dabirian Mozhdeh , Nabati Maryam , Jalalian Rozita , Shokri Mojtaba
Published: December 2015

Duplication of an atrioventricular valve is a rare congenital anomaly that usually involves the mitral rather than the tricuspid valve (TV). Isolated appearances of a double‐orifice TV (DOTV) are extremely rare and in most cases are associated with other congenital anomalies. We report a rare case of an HIV‐seropositive male with a DOTV, divided right atrium and Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome admitted to our hospital with palpitations and dyspnea. After medical therapy, the patient's symptoms were alleviated. We summarized the characteristics of the DOTV and reviewed the literature.
Spontaneous Tricuspid Valve Chordal Rupture in Idiopathic Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Rodrigues Ana Clara Tude , Afonso José E. , Cordovil Adriana , Monaco Claudia , Piveta Rafael , Cordovil Rodrigo , Fischer Claudio H. , Vieira Marcelo , Lira‐Filho Edgar , Morhy Samira S.
Published: December 2015

Rupture of tricuspid valve is unusual, occurring mainly in the setting of blunt trauma or endomyocardial biopsy. Spontaneous tricuspid valve chordal rupture is particularly rare. We report herein a case of a patient with severe pulmonary hypertension, on the lung transplantation waiting list, who presented with spontaneous chordal rupture, exacerbation of tricuspid insufficiency and worsening of clinical status. Diagnosis and treatment, along with possible mechanisms for this complication, are discussed.
Evaluation of Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction with Early Systolic Dysfunction Using Two‐Dimensional Speckle Tracking Echocardiography in Canine Heart Failure Model
Authors: Wu Wei‐Chun , Ma Hong , Xie Rong‐Ai , Gao Li‐Jian , Tang Yue , Wang Hao
Published: December 2015

Background

This study evaluated the role of two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) for predicting left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction in pacing‐induced canine heart failure.

Methods

Pacing systems were implanted in 8 adult mongrel dogs, and continuous rapid right ventricular pacing (RVP, 240 beats/min) was maintained for 2 weeks. The obtained measurements from 2DSTE included global strain rate during early diastole (SRe) and during late diastole (SRa) in the longitudinal (L‐SRe, L‐SRa), circumferential (C‐SRe, C‐SRa), and radial directions (R‐SRe, R‐SRa). Changes in heart morphology were observed by light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy at 2 weeks.

Results

The onset of LV diastolic dysfunction with early systolic dysfunction occurred 3 days after RVP initiation. Most of the strain rate imaging indices were altered at 1 or 3 days after RVP onset and continued to worsen until heart failure developed. Light and transmission electron microscopy showed myocardial vacuolar degeneration and mitochondrial swelling in the left ventricular at 2 weeks after RVP onset. Pearson's correlation analysis revealed that parameters of conventional echocardiography and 2DSTE showed moderate correlation with LV pressure parameters, including (r = 0.58, P < 0.01), L‐SRe (r = −0.58, P < 0.01), E/L‐SRe (r = 0.65, P < 0.01), and R‐SRe (r = 0.53, P < 0.01). ROC curves analysis showed that these indices of conventional echocardiography and strain rate imaging could effectively predict LV diastolic dysfunction (area under the curve: 0.78; L‐SRe 0.84; E/L‐SRe 0.80; R‐SRe 0.80).

Conclusion

2DSTE was a sensitive and accurate technique that could be used for predicting LV diastolic dysfunction in canine heart failure model.
THE CHARITY OF THE EXTREMELY WEALTHY
Authors: Coupe Tom , Monteiro Claire
Published: December 2015

In this article, we show that, compared to billionaires who have inherited their wealth, billionaires who have made their own wealth are more likely to sign the Giving Pledge and more likely to be in the Million Dollar Gifts list or the Philanthropy Top 50 list of big givers. If they give, self‐made billionaires also tend to donate more money. We explore several possible explanations for this correlation between the origin of billionaires' wealth and their charitable giving, and present evidence that suggests that self‐made billionaires tend to spend more money, both by giving money away and by buying expensive items. (JEL D03, H40)
Bumetanide reduces seizure progression and the development of pharmacoresistant status epilepticus
Authors: Sivakumaran Sudhir , Maguire Jamie
Published: December 2015

Objective

We investigated the role of chloride homeostasis in seizure progression and development of pharmacoresistant status epilepticus (SE) by pharmacologically targeting the Na‐K‐Cl cotransporter (NKCC1) with bumetanide. We also investigated the ability of bumetanide to restore the efficacy of diazepam followingSE.

Methods

Kainic acid (KA)–inducedSEin vivo and 0‐Mg2+‐induced seizure‐like events (SLEs) in vitro were monitored using electroencephalography (EEG) recordings in freely moving adult male mice and extracellular field potential recordings in acute entorhinal cortex‐hippocampus slices, respectively. The ability of bumetanide to decrease epileptiform activity and prevent the development of pharmacoresistance to diazepam followingSEwas evaluated.

Results

Bumetanide treatment significantly reducedKA‐induced ictal activity in vivo andSLEs in vitro. In addition, bumetanide restored the efficacy of diazepam in decreasing ictal activity followingSEin both the in vivo and in vitro models.

Significance

Our data demonstrate an anticonvulsant effect of bumetanide onKA‐induced seizures in adult mice, suggesting a role for chloride plasticity in seizure progression. These data also demonstrate that the erosion of inhibition during seizure progression could underlie the development of pharmacoresistantSEand implicate a role for chloride plasticity in this process.
Letter to the Editor. Epiduroscopy of the lumbosacral vertebral canal in the horse: Technique and endoscopic anatomy
Authors: Josephson E.
Published: December 2015

See article by Prange et al.
Drought stress limits the geographic ranges of two tree species via different physiological mechanisms
Authors: Anderegg Leander D. L. , HilleRisLambers Janneke
Published: December 2015

Range shifts are among the most ubiquitous ecological responses to anthropogenic climate change and have large consequences for ecosystems. Unfortunately, the ecophysiological forces that constrain range boundaries are poorly understood, making it difficult to mechanistically project range shifts. To explore the physiological mechanisms by which drought stress controls dry range boundaries in trees, we quantified elevational variation in drought tolerance and in drought avoidance‐related functional traits of a widespread gymnosperm (ponderosa pine – Pinus ponderosa) and angiosperm (trembling aspen – Populus tremuloides) tree species in the southwestern USA. Specifically, we quantified tree‐to‐tree variation in growth, water stress (predawn and midday xylem tension), drought avoidance traits (branch conductivity, leaf/needle size, tree height, leaf area‐to‐sapwood area ratio), and drought tolerance traits (xylem resistance to embolism, hydraulic safety margin, wood density) at the range margins and range center of each species. Although water stress increased and growth declined strongly at lower range margins of both species, ponderosa pine and aspen showed contrasting patterns of clinal trait variation. Trembling aspen increased its drought tolerance at its dry range edge by growing stronger but more carbon dense branch and leaf tissues, implying an increased cost of growth at its range boundary. By contrast, ponderosa pine showed little elevational variation in drought‐related traits but avoided drought stress at low elevations by limiting transpiration through stomatal closure, such that its dry range boundary is associated with limited carbon assimilation even in average climatic conditions. Thus, the same climatic factor (drought) may drive range boundaries through different physiological mechanisms – a result that has important implications for process‐based modeling approaches to tree biogeography. Further, we show that comparing intraspecific patterns of trait variation across ranges, something rarely done in a range‐limit context, helps elucidate a mechanistic understanding of range constraints.
How State Capacity Varies within Frontier States: A Multicountry Subnational Analysis
Authors: Foa Roberto Stefan , Nemirovskaya Anna
Published: December 2015

While there is a growing literature on state formation and the rise of state capacity over time, this literature typically deals with differences between countries, neglecting the fact that state formation also occurs differentially within a country over time. This article examines legacies of state formation spatially, by looking at variation within “frontier” states—countries that in recent centuries have extended rule over new territories adjacent to their core regions. Frontier zones are found to have ongoing lower levels of public order and deficient public goods provision. Several theories are examined to explain this discrepancy, including internal resettlement, costs of monitoring and enforcement, and the relationship between settlers and the indigenous population. It is argued that the formation of strong social institutions among settlers leads to resistance to attempts to impose governance over frontier regions, and to “select for” lower fiscal capacity and lower provision of public goods.
MicroRNA‐31 is a positive modulator of endothelial–mesenchymal transition and associated secretory phenotype induced by TGF‐β
Authors: Katsura Akihiro , Suzuki Hiroshi I. , Ueno Toshihide , Mihira Hajime , Yamazaki Tomoko , Yasuda Takahiko , Watabe Tetsuro , Mano Hiroyuki , Yamada Yoshitsugu , Miyazono Kohei
Published: December 2015

Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) plays central roles in endothelial–mesenchymal transition (EndMT) involved in development and pathogenesis. Although EndMT and epithelial–mesenchymal transition are similar processes, roles of microRNAs in EndMT are largely unknown. Here, we report that constitutively active microRNA‐31 (miR‐31) is a positive regulator of TGF‐β‐induced EndMT. Although the expression is not induced by TGF‐β, miR‐31 is required for induction of mesenchymal genes including α‐SMA, actin reorganization and MRTF‐A activation during EndMT. We identified VAV3, a regulator of actin remodeling and MRTF‐A activity, as a miR‐31 target. Global transcriptome analysis further showed that miR‐31 positively regulates EndMT‐associated unique secretory phenotype (EndMT‐SP) characterized by induction of multiple inflammatory chemokines and cytokines including CCL17, CX3CL1, CXCL16, IL‐6 and Angptl2. As a mechanism for this phenomenon, TGF‐β and miR‐31 suppress Stk40, a negative regulator of NF‐κB pathway. Interestingly, TGF‐β induces alternative polyadenylation (APA)‐coupled miR‐31‐dependent Stk40 suppression without concomitant miR‐31 induction, and APA‐mediated exclusion of internal poly(A) sequence in Stk40 3′UTR enhances target efficiency of Stk40. Finally, miR‐31 functions as a molecular hub to integrate TGF‐β and TNF‐α signaling to enhance EndMT. These data confirm that constitutively active microRNAs, as well as inducible microRNAs, serve as phenotypic modifiers interconnected with transcriptome dynamics during EndMT.
Efficacy of antimicrobial solutions against polymicrobial root canal biofilm
Authors: Ruiz‐Linares M. , Aguado‐Pérez B. , Baca P. , Arias‐Moliz M. T. , Ferrer‐Luque C. M.
Published: December 2015

Aim

To evaluate the antibiofilm activity of 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), 2% chlorhexidine (CHX), 2% alexidine (ALX) and 0.2% cetrimide (CTR) alone and in combination on mature polymicrobial root canal biofilms on human dentine using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM).

Methodology

Twenty‐eight human dentine specimens were infected for 21 days with microbial samples collected from infected root canals of three volunteers. Antibiofilm activity of the irrigating solutions was evaluated after 3 min of contact time under CLSM. For quantification purposes, bioimage_L software was used. The variables evaluated were the log10 of total biovolume (μm3) and percentage of live cells (green) population. Statistical analysis of both variables was performed using an anova test and a post hoc Duncan test to determine significant clusters amongst groups. The variable green population percentage was previously subjected to the normalized Anscombe transformation.

Results

The NaOCl group had a total biovolume and percentage of live cells significantly lower than the other groups (P ˂ 0.001). The addition of 0.2% CTR significantly increased the antimicrobial effect of 2% CHX (P ˂ 0.001). There were no significant differences between 0.2% CTR, 2% ALX and the combination of both (P ˂ 0.05).

Conclusions

Overall, 2.5% NaOCl dissolved and killed bacteria significantly more efficiently when used against polymicrobial mature biofilm on human dentine. Cetrimide improved the antimicrobial activity of chlorhexidine and alexidine.
Morphological characterization and molecular mapping of an irradiation‐induced Speckled mutant in the silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Tan D. , Tong X.‐L. , Hu H. , Wu S.‐Y. , Li C.‐L. , Xiong G. , Xiang Z.‐H. , Dai F.‐Y. , Lu C.
Published: December 2015

Speckled (Spc), an X‐ray‐induced lethal mutant of Bombyx mori, exhibits a mosaic dark‐brown‐spotted larval epidermis in both sexes and egg‐laying problems only in females. Here, we report the morphological characterization and molecular mapping of the Spc mutant. Morphological investigations revealed that the epidermal ultrastructure of the small, dark‐brown spots was more dense than that of the white regions in both Spc/+ mutants and wild type, and that the lethality of the Spc/Spc mutants occurred during early embryogenesis. Furthermore, the ovarioles and ovipositor were disconnected in approximately 85.5% of Spc/+ females, a further 2.5% had a connection between the ovarioles and ovipositor that was too narrow to lay eggs. The remaining females showed a normal connection similar to that of the wild type. We successfully narrowed down the location of the Spc mutation to a region on chromosome 4 that was ∼1041 kb long. Gene‐prediction analysis identified 25 candidate genes in this region. Chromosome structure analysis indicated that a ∼305 kb deletion was included in the mapping region. Temporal and spatial reverse transcription PCR (RT‐PCR) analysis showed that several genes in the mapped region are associated with the Spc mutant. Although the genes responsible for the Spc mutation were not definitively identified, our results further the current understanding of the complex mechanism underlying the multiple morphological defects in Spc mutants.
Randomised Trials for the Fitbit Generation
Authors: Dempsey Walter , Liao Peng , Klasnja Pedja , Nahum-Shani Inbal , Murphy Susan A.
Published: December 2015

Data from activity trackers and mobile phones can be used to craft personalised health interventions. But measuring the efficacy of these “treatments” requires a rethink of the traditional randomised trial. By Walter Dempsey, Peng Liao, Pedja Klasnja, Inbal Nahum-Shani and Susan A. Murphy
Modelling Calls and Effects
Authors: Zelin Andrew
Published: December 2015

“All our agents are busy” is a phrase call centre customers dread. But basic statistical models can help customer service managers ensure staff supply meets caller demand. Andrew Zelin explains
Novel Three‐Dimensional Extrusion of Multilayered Ceramic/Camphene Mixture for Gradient Porous Ceramics
Authors: Choi Ik‐Jun , Moon Young‐Wook , Koh Young‐Hag , Kim Hyoun‐Ee
Published: December 2015

This study proposes an innovative way of creating porous ceramics with a unique gradient porous structure using three‐dimensional extrusion of a multilayered ceramic/camphene feed rod, denoted as “3D‐Exm”. This 3D‐Exm technique utilizes the wall slip phenomenon during the extrusion process, which can create a gradient core/shell structure with a gradual change in the core/shell thickness ratio. In addition, the microstructure of ceramic filaments can be tuned through the use of the camphene as a pore‐forming agent. Porous alumina ceramics produced using a bilayered feed rod comprised of the alumina/camphene mixtures with the relatively high (ϕH = 40 vol%) and low ceramic contents (ϕL = 10 vol%) showed a gradual change in porosity in the intermediate region between the relatively dense (porosity = ~3 vol%) and highly porous regions (porosity = ~85 vol%).