bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Models of the rapid post‐rift subsidence in the eastern Qiongdongnan Basin, South China Sea: implications for the development of the deep thermal anomaly
Authors: Shi Xiaobin , Jiang Haiyan , Yang Jun , Yang Xiaoqiu , Xu Hehua
Published: December 2015

The Qiongdongnan Basin is one of the largest Cenozoic rifted basins on the northern passive margin of the South China Sea. It is well known that since the Late Miocene, approximately 10 Ma after the end of the syn‐rift phase, this basin has exhibited rapid thermal subsidence. However, detailed analysis reveals a two‐stage anomalous subsidence feature of the syn‐rift subsidence deficit and the well‐known rapid post‐rift subsidence after 10.5 Ma. Heat‐flow data show that heat flow in the central depression zone is 70–105 mW m−2, considerably higher than the heat flow (<70 mW m−2) on the northern shelf. In particular, there is a NE‐trending high heat‐flow zone of >85 mW m−2 in the eastern basin. We used a numerical model of coupled geothermal processes, lithosphere thinning and depositional processes to analyse the origin of the anomalous subsidence pattern. Numerical analysis of different cases shows that the stretching factor βs based on syn‐rift sequences is less than the observed crustal stretching factor βc, and if the lithosphere is thinned with βc during the syn‐rift phase (before 21 Ma), the present basement depth can be predicted fairly accurately. Further analysis does not support crustal thinning after 21 Ma, which indicates that the syn‐rift subsidence is in deficit compared with the predicted subsidence with the crustal stretching factor βc. The observed high heat flow in the central depression zone is caused by the heating of magmatic injection equivalently at approximately 3–5 Ma, which affected the eastern basin more than the western basin, and the Neogene magmatism might be fed by the deep thermal anomaly. Our results suggest that the causes of the syn‐rift subsidence deficit and rapid post‐rift subsidence might be related. The syn‐rift subsidence deficit might be caused by the dynamic support of the influx of warmer asthenosphere material and a small‐scale thermal upwelling beneath the study area, which might have been persisting for about 10 Ma during the early post‐rift phase, and the post‐rift rapid subsidence might be the result of losing the dynamic support with the decaying or moving away of the deep thermal source, and the rapid cooling of the asthenosphere. We concluded that the excess post‐rift subsidence occurs to compensate for the syn‐rift subsidence deficit, and the deep thermal anomaly might have affected the eastern Qiongdongnan Basin since the Late Oligocene.
Nephrogenic syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis secondary to an activating mutation in the arginine vasopressin receptor AVPR2
Authors: Powlson Andrew S. , Challis Benjamin G. , Halsall David J. , Schoenmakers Erik , Gurnell Mark
Published: December 2015

Context

Nephrogenic syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis (NSIAD), resulting from activating mutations in the arginine vasopressin receptor type 2 (AVPR2), is a rare cause of hyponatraemia. However, its true prevalence may be underestimated and it should be considered in the investigation of unexplained hyponatraemia, with implications for management and targeted gene testing.

Objective

We describe a structured approach to the investigation of hyponatraemia in a young patient, which allowed a diagnosis of NSIAD to be made. We review current knowledge of NSIAD and use a structural modelling approach to further our understanding of the potential mechanisms by which the causative mutation leads to a constitutively active AVPR2.

Design

Clinical and biochemical investigation of hyponatraemia; a formal water load test with measurement of arginine vasopressin levels (AVP); sequencing of AVPR2; and computed structural modelling of the wild‐type and constitutively activated mutant receptors.

Results

A 38‐year‐old man presented with intermittent confusion and nausea associated with hyponatraemia and a biochemical picture consistent with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Adrenocortical and thyroid function and an acute intermittent porphyria screen were normal. Cross‐sectional imaging of the head, chest and abdomen did not identify an underlying cause and so we proceeded to a water load test. This demonstrated a marked inability to excrete a free water load (just 15% of a 20 ml/kg oral load by 240 min postingestion), with the onset of hyponatraemia (Na+ 125 mmol/l, urine osmolality 808 mOsm/kg). However, AVP levels were low throughout the test (0·4–0·9 pmol/l), consistent with a diagnosis of NSIAD. AVPR2 sequencing revealed a previously described hemizygous activating mutation (p.Arg137Cys). Through structural modelling of AVPR2, we suggest that disruption of a hydrogen bond between residues Thr269 and Arg137 may promote stabilization of the receptor in its active conformation. Since diagnosis, the patient has adhered to modest fluid restriction and remained well, with no further episodes of hyponatraemia.

Conclusion

NSIAD should be considered in young patients with unexplained hyponatraemia. A water load test with AVP measurement is a potentially informative investigation, while AVPR2 sequencing provides a definitive molecular genetic diagnosis and a rationale for long‐term fluid restriction.
How Does Regulation Affect the Relation Between Family Control and Reported Cash Flows? Comparative Evidence from India and the United States
Authors: Nagar Neerav , Sen Kaustav
Published: December 2015

Manuscript Type

Empirical.

Research Question/Issue

We conduct a two‐country study to understand (i) how family and non‐family firms engage in classification shifting to manage reported operating cash flows in each country; (ii) how this behavior varies between the two countries; and (iii) how corporate governance regulation introduced independently in each country moderates the observed behavior.

Research Findings/Insights

We find that family ownership has different effects on quality of cash flow reporting in the two countries. Furthermore, country‐level regulation moderates these effects differently. In particular, (i) firms in both countries engage in manipulating operating cash flows, but the evidence is stronger in the United States; (ii) family firms in India engage in more shifting than non‐family firms, but this is not observed in the United States; and (iii) family (non‐family) firms in India increase (reduce) shifting, whereas only non‐family firms in the United States increase shifting after regulation. Since non‐family firms in India raise more external capital than family firms after regulation, we infer that family firms in India reacted to this competition for capital and resorted to shifting.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

Most studies assume that the incentives for family firm behavior are the same in different market settings. However, factors such as efficiency of public capital markets, enforcement of corporate laws and regulations, and other institutional practices can cause differences in family firm behavior across different market settings. We investigate the behavior of family and non‐family firms in each of these markets and study how a feature of the national governance system, regulatory design, moderates this behavior.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

Our findings should be useful to global investors and regulators in both emerging and developed markets. The results indicate how similar regulation in the two different settings can trigger differences in the behavior of firms.
Validated computed cleansing score for video capsule endoscopy
Authors: Klein Amir , Gizbar Moshe , Bourke Michael J , Ahlenstiel Golo
Published: December 2015

Background and Aim

Diagnostic yield of video capsule endoscopy may be hampered by intestinal content or air bubbles. A major limitation in video capsule‐related study is the lack of a validated objective score for bowel preparation quality. We aimed to design and validate a computed small bowel preparation score for research and clinical use.

Methods

Two experienced physicians reached a consensus regarding bowel preparation quality based on known criteria used in previous studies and their confidence of an accurate medical interpretation of the procedure. A computed algorithm based on the pixels in the color bar was created and validated. Concordance between the gastroenterologists’ agreement (gold standard) and the computed analysis was assessed.

Results

Of 85 videos studied, 44 (52%), 13 (15%) and 28 (33%) had adequate, borderline and inadequate bowel preparation, respectively, according to the gastroenterologists’ agreement. Computer analysis restricted to adequate and inadequate cases yielded accurate classification of bowel preparation in 65/72 cases (90% agreement, sensitivity 95%, specificity 82%, total accuracy 90%, Kappa 0.79). When adding the borderline definition, the computer analysis correctly classified 71/85 of the cases, yielding an overall agreement of 84% (Kappa 0.72). Minute‐by‐minute analysis of 10 cases also yielded an agreement of 91.4%.

Conclusion

The present study introduces a user‐friendly computer analysis‐based small bowel preparation score, which demonstrated excellent concordance with the physician's assessment. This score holds promise as a standardization tool in research and clinical practice of video capsule endoscopy. Further validation is warranted.
Inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases and toxicity of gold and platinum nanoparticles in L929 fibroblast cells
Authors: Hashimoto Masanori , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Sasaki Jun‐Ichi , Kawai Koji , Kawakami Hayato , Iwasaki Yasuhiko , Imazato Satoshi
Published: December 2015

This study evaluated the inhibition of matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) and cellular responses elicited by gold (Au) and platinum (Pt) nanoparticles (NPs). The interaction of MMP‐1 and NPs was evaluated using an MMP assay kit. The cultured L929 cells were exposed to various concentrations of NPs. The cellular responses to NPs were examined using a cytotoxicity assay (that evaluated cell viability and lactic dehydrogenase production), real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR), and transmission electron microscopy. Both types of NPs, when used at concentrations above 10 μg ml−1, inhibited MMP‐1 activity. No cytotoxic effects were found when the cells were exposed to AuNPs. In contrast, PtNPs, at both 100 and 400 μg ml−1, induced cytotoxicity. No inflammatory responses (production of interleukin‐6 and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha) to NPs were identified by RT‐qPCR. The negative surface charge of NPs (COOH−) binds to the Zn2+ of the MMP active center by chelation, leading to MMP inhibition. Gold nanoparticles are plausible candidates for MMP inhibitors in resin‐bonding materials because they effectively inhibit MMP‐1 activity without cytotoxic or inflammatory effects.
Defining and predicting outcomes of non‐surgical periodontal treatment: a 1‐yr follow‐up study
Authors: Baelum Vibeke , López Rodrigo
Published: December 2015

This study reports on 1‐yr outcomes of non‐surgical periodontal therapy and compares predictive models resulting from different definitions of treatment success. A total of 149 participants, 30–70 yr of age, provided clinical periodontal data and data on sociodemographic status, health status, symptoms, and oral health‐care behaviors at baseline. One week later, clinical attachment level and probing pocket depth were recorded again in 148 patients. Participants underwent non‐surgical periodontal therapy, including scaling and root planing, during three to four clinical sessions. Three and 12 months later, clinical attachment level, probing pocket depth, and bleeding on probing (BOP) were recorded in 141 and 137 participants, respectively. Using test–retest data, patients were classified as having ‘downhill’, ‘stable’, or ‘improved’ results on three clinical attachment level and three probing pocket depth outcomes, and their classification was found to vary considerably according to outcome. Although the predictors of treatment outcome varied depending on the variable chosen to represent the treatment outcome, some predictors were more commonly noted as predicting improvement, namely a high baseline percentage of sites with subgingival calculus and the presence of suppuration at baseline. The latter was, however, also predictive for tooth loss during the study. Our findings underline the need for uniformity in defining the outcomes in trials of periodontal therapy.
Magnetite as a precursor for green rust through the hydrogenotrophic activity of the iron‐reducing bacteria Shewanella putrefaciens
Authors: Etique M. , Jorand F. P. A. , Ruby C.
Published: December 2015

Magnetite (FeIIFeIII2O4) is often considered as a stable end product of the bioreduction of FeIII minerals (e.g., ferrihydrite, lepidocrocite, hematite) or of the biological oxidation of FeII compounds (e.g., siderite), with green rust (GR) as a mixed FeII‐FeIII hydroxide intermediate. Until now, the biotic transformation of magnetite to GR has not been evidenced. In this study, we investigated the capability of an iron‐reducing bacterium, Shewanella putrefaciens, to reduce magnetite at circumneutral pH in the presence of dihydrogen as sole inorganic electron donor. During incubation, GR and/or siderite (FeIICO3) formation occurred as secondary iron minerals, resulting from the precipitation of FeII species produced via the bacterial reduction of FeIII species present in magnetite. Taking into account the exact nature of the secondary iron minerals and the electron donor source is necessary to understand the exergonic character of the biotic transformation of magnetite to GR, which had been considered to date as thermodynamically unfavorable at circumneutral pH. This finding reinforces the hypothesis that GR would be the cornerstone of the microbial transformations of iron‐bearing minerals in the anoxic biogeochemical cycle of iron and opens up new possibilities for the interpretation of the evolution of Earth's history and for the understanding of biocorrosion processes in the field of applied science.
Assessment of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate pulpotomy in mature permanent teeth with carious exposures
Authors: Taha N. A. , Ahmad M. B. , Ghanim A.
Published: December 2015

Aim

To assess the outcome of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) complete pulpotomy in permanent teeth with carious exposures.

Methodology

Fifty‐two permanent molar teeth with fully developed roots and vital pulps in 43 patients aged 11–51 years were included. Preoperative pulpal and periapical diagnosis was established. After informed consent, each tooth was anaesthetized, isolated with dental dam and disinfected with 5% NaOCl before caries excavation; subsequently, a full pulpotomy was performed. Haemostasis was achieved, and Grey MTA (Angelus, Londrina, Brazil) was placed as the pulpotomy agent; a moist cotton pellet was placed, and the tooth was temporized with the intermediate restorative material (IRM). Permanent restorations were placed 1 week later if the tooth was asymptomatic, and a postoperative periapical radiograph was taken. Clinical and radiographic evaluation was completed at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year and 3 years postoperatively.

Results

Clinical signs and symptoms suggestive of irreversible pulpitis were established in 44/52 teeth, and periapical rarefaction was present in 14 teeth. Immediate failure occurred in one tooth. The recall rate ranged from 92% at 3 months to 80.3% at 3 years, with an overall 100% clinical and 97.5% radiographic success during the first year, and 92.7% success at 3 years. All cases with periapical rarefaction were associated with improvement in the periapical index (PAI) score. Two cases had new periapical rarefaction associated with dislodgment of the permanent restoration. A hard tissue barrier was detected radiographically in 5 cases and canal narrowing in 7 cases.

Conclusion

MTA full pulpotomy was a successful treatment option for cariously exposed pulps in mature permanent molar teeth.
Clinical procedures for revitalization: current knowledge and considerations
Authors: Galler K. M.
Published: December 2015

Revitalization or regenerative treatment approaches in teeth with incomplete root formation and pulp necrosis have become part of the therapeutic endodontic spectrum and should be considered as an alternative to conventional apexification. Ideally, regenerative endodontic procedures allow not only for a resolution of pain, inflammation and periapical lesions, but also for the formation of an immunocompetent tissue inside the root canal which can reconstitute the original biological structure and function of dental pulp and thus lead to an increase in root length, and thickness and strength of previously thin, fracture‐prone dentine walls. Common features of regenerative procedures performed in immature teeth with pulp necrosis include (i) minimal or no instrumentation of the dentinal walls, (ii) disinfection with irrigants, (iii) application of an intracanal medicament, (iv) provocation of bleeding into the canal and creation of a blood clot, (v) capping with calcium silicate, and (vi) coronal seal. Although case reports and case series provide promising results, the protocol for regenerative endodontic treatment is not fully established; questions remain regarding the terminology, patient selection and informed consent as well as procedural details, especially on the choice of irrigants, intracanal medicaments and materials for cavity sealing. Animal studies document repair rather than regeneration, which opens the discussion on prognosis and outcome, especially the biological versus the patient‐based outcome. This review will provide an overview of the current state of regenerative endodontic therapies, discuss open questions and provide recommendations based on the recent literature.
The manufacturing–services dynamic in economic development
Authors: KUCERA David , RONCOLATO Leanne
Published: December 2015

This article addresses the debate on services‐led growth in which services are variously portrayed as a substitute for or as a leading or lagging complement to manufacturing. Following a survey of related empirical studies, it applies growth decomposition methods to data for 18 countries in Asia and Latin America for 1980–2005, focusing on manufacturing and services that make intensive use of information and communication technology. By grouping the countries into four categories according to aggregate labour productivity and employment growth, the authors seek to identify common structural characteristics of better and worse performing countries. They also consider the viability of the services‐led growth path in India in particular.
Social security and firm performance: The case of Vietnamese SMEs
Authors: LEE Sangheon , TORM Nina
Published: December 2015

This article investigates how social security provision – a key determinant of formality – impacts on small and medium‐sized firm performance in Viet Nam. Based on enterprise census data covering all registered firms from 2006 to 2011, the authors find that firms which increase their social security coverage by 10 per cent experience a revenue gain of 1.4–2.0 per cent per worker and a profit gain of up to 1.8 per cent, depending on the survival time of the firm. However, given the time lag between “investment” (in social security contributions) and returns (enhanced firm performance), specific policy measures such as initial social insurance subsidies for small firms could increase participation in mandatory schemes.
Nicastrin is required for amyloid precursor protein (APP) but not Notch processing, while anterior pharynx‐defective 1 is dispensable for processing of both APP and Notch
Authors: Hu Chen , Zeng Linlin , Li Ting , Meyer Michael A. , Cui Mei‐Zhen , Xu Xuemin
Published: December 2015

The γ‐secretase complex is composed of at least four components: presenilin 1 or presenilin‐2, nicastrin (NCT), anterior pharynx‐defective 1 (Aph‐1), and presenilin enhancer 2. In this study, using knockout cell lines, our data demonstrated that knockout of NCT, as well as knockout of presenilin enhancer 2, completely blocked γ‐secretase‐catalyzed processing of C‐terminal fragment (CTF)α and CTFβ, the C‐terminal fragments of β‐amyloid precursor protein (APP) produced by α‐secretase and β‐secretase cleavages, respectively. Interestingly, in Aph‐1‐knockout cells, CTFα and CTFβ were still processed by γ‐secretase, indicating Aph‐1 is dispensable for APP processing. Furthermore, our results indicate that Aph‐1 as well as NCT is not absolutely required for Notch processing, suggesting that NCT is differentially required for APP and Notch processing. In addition, our data revealed that components of the γ‐secretase complex are also important for proteasome‐ and lysosome‐dependent degradation of APP and that endogenous APP is mostly degraded by lysosome while exogenous APP is mainly degraded by proteasome.

image

There are unanswered questions regarding the roles of each component of the γ‐secretase complex in amyloid precursor protein (APP) and Notch processing. The most relevant, novel finding of this study is that nicastrin (NCT) is required for APP but not Notch processing, while Aph‐1 is not essential for processing of both APP and Notch, suggesting NCT as a therapeutic target to restrict Aβ formation without impairing Notch signaling.
Efficacy of fermented green tea on peripheral skin temperature: a randomized and placebo‐controlled clinical study
Authors: Lee Eunyoung , Lee Bum‐jin , Ha Jaehyoun , Shin Hyun‐jung , Chung Jin‐oh
Published: December 2015

Background

This study was aimed at assessing the therapeutic efficacy of green tea on peripheral skin for cold hypersensitive subjects, who had the feeling of cold hands and feet at cold temperatures, one of the most common complaints in Asian women.

Methods

This randomized and placebo‐controlled clinical study included 60 female Korean subjects who had the feeling of cold hands and feet at cold temperatures. The subjects were randomly assigned into two groups to receive fermented green tea or a placebo (hot water).

Results

The skin temperature of the hands and feet was measured using digital infrared thermography at the baseline and at 15, 30, 45, and 60 min after the oral administration of the tea or placebo. The skin temperature of the hands and feet of the fermented green tea‐administered group was significantly higher than that of the placebo‐administered group. The temperature difference between the finger and the dorsum of the hand was significantly lower in the fermented green tea‐administered group than that in the placebo group.

Conclusions

Fermented green tea is helpful for cold hypersensitivity. This is the first clinical study to evaluate the efficacy of fermented green tea on peripheral skin in subjects having the feeling of cold hands and feet at cold temperatures by infrared thermography. However, further studies are necessary to evaluate the long‐term effects of the fermented green tea for cold hypersensitivity and to elucidate the underlying physiological mechanism.
First Degree Price Discrimination Goes to School
Authors: Waldfogel Joel
Published: December 2015

Personalized pricing is widely discussed but seldom observed, making studies of its efficacy rare. Yet, first degree price discrimination is common in the pricing of higher education, and I use data on prices and the characteristics of students admitted to a professional graduate program at a public university to estimate a matriculation demand function. I then derive linear pricing functions that maximize revenue for a target number of students. By allowing these functions to depend on progressively richer sets of observables, I explore the effect of personalization of pricing on profit. Tailoring prices to a one‐dimensional measure of student quality would raise revenue by 2.2 per cent above the revenue with uniform pricing. Pricing based on both student quality and state residency raises revenue by 8.4 per cent, and further tailoring based on available observables raises prices 9.0 per cent above the maximum revenue under uniform pricing. Pricing that obeys current statutory tuition limits raises revenue less but still by just over half as much. I also infer the welfare weights that the pricing process implicitly attaches to student characteristics.
Using Forward Contracts to Reduce Regulatory Capture
Authors: Höffler Felix , Kranz Sebastian
Published: December 2015

Optimal incentive regulation uses transfers. If the regulator is corruptible, the regulated firm can benefit by manipulating the regulator's assessment regarding the distribution of payoff relevant variables, which determine the structure and size of optimal transfers. We show how substituting outcome‐contingent transfers by an obligation to sell simple financial contracts to well informed financial investors can reduce the scope for manipulation. A possible application would be an electricity transmission network operator whose actions can affect electricity prices. In a simple moral hazard model, first‐best outcomes can be implemented by forcing the network operator to auction off forward contracts on the electricity price. We study the optimal mixture of financial instruments and regulatory transfers given different informational assumptions and imperfections of financial markets.
Platform Pricing at Sports Card Conventions
Authors: Jin Ginger Zhe , Rysman Marc
Published: December 2015

We study a new data set of U.S. sports card conventions from the perspective of the pricing theory of two‐sided markets. Conventions are two‐sided because organizers must set fees to attract both consumers and dealers. We present several findings: first, consumer pricing decreases with competition, but pricing to dealers is insensitive to competition and in longer distances even increases with competition. Second, when consumer price is zero (and thus constrained), dealer price decreases more strongly with competition. These results are compatible with existing models of two‐sided markets, but are difficult to explain without such models.
The Intergenerational Transmission of Automobile Brand Preferences
Authors: Anderson Soren T. , Kellogg Ryan , Langer Ashley , Sallee James M.
Published: December 2015

We document a strong correlation in the brand of automobile chosen by parents and their adult children, using data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics. This correlation could represent transmission of brand preferences across generations, or it could result from correlation in family characteristics that determine brand choice. We present a variety of empirical specifications that lend support to the former interpretation and to a mechanism that relies at least in part on state dependence. We then discuss implications of intergenerational brand preference transmission for automakers’ product‐line strategies and for the strategic pricing of vehicles to different age groups.
Interpreting the effects of landscape connectivity on community diversity
Authors: Brudvig Lars A.
Published: December 2015

Landscape connectivity is considered a key factor regulating species diversity of natural and managed landscapes, yet the influence of connectivity relative to other factors remains poorly resolved. In this issue of Journal of Vegetation Science, Jakobsson and colleagues illustrate how grassland plant species richness is more strongly affected by the age and management of grassland patches than by connectivity.
The plant GABA signaling downregulates horizontal transfer of the Agrobacterium tumefaciens virulence plasmid
Authors: Lang Julien , Gonzalez‐Mula Almudena , Taconnat Ludivine , Clement Gilles , Faure Denis
Published: December 2015

In the tumor‐inducing (Ti) Agrobacterium tumefaciens, quorum sensing activates the horizontal transfer of the virulent Ti plasmid. In pure culture, this process can be impaired by the A. tumefaciens BlcC lactonase, whose expression is induced by gamma‐aminobutyrate (GABA). It was therefore hypothesized that host GABA content might modulate quorum sensing and virulence gene dissemination during A. tumefaciens infection.

We examined GABA metabolism and transport in Arabidopsis thaliana tumors combining transcriptomic, metabolomic and histological approaches. In addition, using genetically modified plants and bacteria, we evaluated the impact of plant host GABA content on Ti plasmid dissemination.

The results showed that GABA and free proline, which acts as an antagonist of GABA uptake in A. tumefaciens, accumulated in wild‐type tumors relative to uninfected plant tissues. Moreover, comparisons of tumors induced on Col‐0 and her1 plants showed that the increase in the plant GABA : proline ratio was associated with both the upregulated expression of the blcC gene and the decreased dissemination of Ti plasmid in tumor‐colonizing A. tumefaciens populations.

This work demonstrates experimentally that the variation in the GABA content in plant tumors can interfere with the dissemination of A. tumefaciens Ti plasmids, and therefore highlights plant GABA content as an important trait in the struggle against pathogenic bacteria.
Genome‐wide dissection of the maize ear genetic architecture using multiple populations
Authors: Xiao Yingjie , Tong Hao , Yang Xiaohong , Xu Shizhong , Pan Qingchun , Qiao Feng , Raihan Mohammad Sharif , Luo Yun , Liu Haijun , Zhang Xuehai , Yang Ning , Wang Xiaqing , Deng Min , Jin Minliang , Zhao Lijun , Luo Xin , Zhou Yang , Li Xiang , Liu Jie , Zhan Wei , Liu Nannan , Wang Hong , Chen Gengshen , Cai Ye , Xu Gen , Wang Weidong , Zheng Debo , Yan Jianbing
Published: December 2015

Improvement of grain yield is an essential long‐term goal of maize (Zea mays) breeding to meet continual and increasing food demands worldwide, but the genetic basis remains unclear.

We used 10 different recombination inbred line (RIL) populations genotyped with high‐density markers and phenotyped in multiple environments to dissect the genetic architecture of maize ear traits.

Three methods were used to map the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) affecting ear traits. We found 17–34 minor‐ or moderate‐effect loci that influence ear traits, with little epistasis and environmental interactions, totally accounting for 55.4–82% of the phenotypic variation. Four novel QTLs were validated and fine mapped using candidate gene association analysis, expression QTL analysis and heterogeneous inbred family validation.

The combination of multiple different populations is a flexible and manageable way to collaboratively integrate widely available genetic resources, thereby boosting the statistical power of QTL discovery for important traits in agricultural crops, ultimately facilitating breeding programs.
Phenological asynchrony in plant–butterfly interactions associated with climate: a community‐wide perspective
Authors: Donoso Isabel , Stefanescu Constantí , Martínez‐Abraín Alejandro , Traveset Anna
Published: December 2015

Although much information has been accumulated on the effects of climate change on particular species worldwide, research aimed at assessing how such change influences biotic interactions from a community‐wide perspective is still in its infancy. We contribute to filling in this gap by analyzing a 17‐year (1996–2012) dataset that includes records of flower‐visitation interactions between 12 butterfly species and 17 plant species in a coastal wetland area in northeastern Iberian Peninsula. We assessed the extent to which temporal asynchronies between plants and adult butterflies are influenced by different climatic variables that affect both plant and insect phenologies. Temperature and degree of aridity at various monthly summaries were used as predictors of the plant–butterfly phenological asynchrony. We identified the seasonal window with the greatest effect on asynchronies for two butterfly generations (spring and summer), and assessed whether the magnitude of asynchrony is associated with the level of butterfly specialization. We used generalized linear mixed models considering a total of 39 plant–butterfly interactions. Average asynchrony was higher in the spring generation and dry conditions during winter lead to decreased temporal overlap with flowers in this butterfly generation, whereas dry conditions in the spring lead to decreased temporal overlap in the summer butterfly generation. The magnitude of the effect was consistently small at the community level (all interactions pooled). Moreover, no clear climatic trend over the study time frame was detected. Finally, specialized and generalized butterflies in their resource use as adults were similarly vulnerable to asynchronies, in contrast to previous predictions of greater mutualistic disruptions in species with narrower niches. We conclude that a least in the Mediterranean region, phenological asynchronies might be more affected by aridity level than by temperature itself, and thus the former can be a key climatic trait to make better predictions in this region.
Validity of sidestream endtidal carbon dioxide measurement in critically ill, mechanically ventilated children
Authors: van der Heijden Hylke H. A. C. M. , Truin Gerben J. , Verhaeg Joyce , van der Pol Peggy , Lemson Joris
Published: December 2015

Introduction

Capnography is used to monitor the endtidal carbon dioxide tension (EtCO2) in exhaled gas. Sidestream capnography has great potential to monitor mechanically ventilated pediatric patients, given the continuous sampling from the endotracheal tube into a gas sensor. However, hemodynamic and respiratory impairments may reduce reliability and validity of sidestream capnography to monitor arterial carbon dioxide tension (PaCO2) in critically ill, mechanically ventilated children.

Methods

In 47 mechanically ventilated pediatric patients (aged 0–14 years, median age 17.2 months), a total of 341 consecutive measurements of PaCO2, EtCO2, respiratory and hemodynamic parameters were performed, and capnogram shape was determined. Validity was assessed with the Bland–Altman limit of agreement (loa), mixed models were used to adjust for variation between patients, and potential confounders were considered with multivariable analyses.

Results

EtCO2 (mean 4.50 ± 0.96 kPa) underestimated PaCO2 (mean 5.37 ± 0.87) considerably, resulting in a loa of 0.87 kPa [95% confidence interval (95% CI) −1.03;2.77] and 42.2% percentage error. The association improved significantly b = 0.54 [95 %CI = 0.45;0.64, P < 0.001] when corrected for individual differences. The association between EtCO2 and PaCO2 was not influenced by any of the potential confounders.

Conclusions

Sidestream capnography in mechanically ventilated infants and children seems moderately reliable and valid when corrected for individual differences. Therefore, it could only be used with caution for trend estimation in the individual patient.
Tracheal extubation in children with difficult airways: a descriptive cohort analysis
Authors: Jagannathan Narasimhan , Shivazad Armin , Kolan Michael
Published: December 2015

Background

Tracheal extubation in children with difficult airways may be associated with an increased risk of perioperative adverse events.

Aims

The aim of this study was to describe the exubation techniques used/ success rates/ adverse events related to tracheal extubation practices in children with difficult airways.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of tracheal extubation practices in the difficult airway population over a 78‐month period was performed. Difficult airway was defined as a Cormack and Lehane Grade 3 view or greater, and/or tracheal intubation requiring ≥3 attempts, and/or the need for an alternate device to direct laryngoscopy for successful tracheal intubation, and/or difficult mask ventilation. Reasons for difficult airway, demographic/surgical data, technique(s) for tracheal extubation, success/failure of tracheal extubation, and adverse events were recorded. A failed tracheal extubation was defined as any adverse event related to the airway occurring within 6 h of extubation requiring reintubation.

Results

A total of 519 patients were reported to have a difficult airway during this study period in a tertiary care pediatric center. Of these, 137 patients (26%) met inclusion criteria. Tracheal extubation was successfully performed in 130 patients (95%). The majority of tracheal exubations were performed without the use of additional airway adjuncts straight onto anesthesia face mask (121/137; 88%). Extubation failure occurred in seven cases (5%). Among the failed extubations, 6/7 children (85%) had evidence of severe upper airway obstruction and were <10 kg in weight. Of these children, one child required emergency tracheostomy, and two children (one with tracheal stenosis and other with spinal muscular atrophy) suffered from hypoxemic cardiac arrest and anoxic brain damage, respectively, and eventually died.

Conclusions

In the studied population of children with difficult airways handled in a tertiary center environment, the majority of tracheal extubations could be performed without the use of airway adjuncts. In a minority of patients, tracheal extubation was associated with severe adverse outcomes.
A Randomized, Double‐blind, Placebo‐controlled Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Pregabalin for Postherpetic Neuralgia in a Population of Chinese Patients
Authors: Liu Quanzhong , Chen Haibo , Xi Liyan , Hong Zhen , He Li , Fu Yi , Fang Hong , Shang Ningxiu , Yan Ping , Fan Dongsheng
Published: December 2015

Background and purpose

Currently, there are limited options for treatment of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) patients in China. While pregabalin is an effective treatment option for PHN in several countries, there is limited information on its efficacy in Chinese patients.

Methods

This was an 8‐week, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial in Chinese patients with PHN randomized (1:1) to pregabalin 300 mg/day or placebo. Primary efficacy endpoint was change from baseline in mean pain score (Daily Pain Rating Scale; 0 = ‘no pain’ to 10 = ‘worst possible pain’). Secondary efficacy endpoints included change from baseline in overall pain intensity score, by visual analog scale (VAS; 0 = ‘no pain’ to 100 = ‘worst possible pain’) and daily sleep interference score (0 = ‘pain does not interfere with sleep’ to 10 = ‘completely interferes’).

Results

A total of 220 patients were randomized and received treatment (111 pregabalin and 109 placebo). Improvement in mean pain score with pregabalin was significantly greater than placebo, least squares mean difference (95% CI), −0.71 (−1.08, −0.34); P = 0.0002. Improvements in VAS and sleep interference score at endpoint were significantly greater with pregabalin than placebo, least squares mean difference (95% CI), −8.18 (−11.99, −4.37); P < 0.0001, and −0.54 (−0.93, −0.14); P = 0.0079, respectively. Adverse events were consistent with current product labeling, with dizziness the most commonly reported adverse event (24.3% of pregabalin‐treated patients).

Conclusion

Pregabalin improved measures of pain and sleep, and is well tolerated in Chinese patients with PHN. These results may inform physicians treating patients with PHN in China.
Photosynthetic responses to chilling in a chilling‐tolerant and chilling‐sensitive Miscanthus hybrid
Authors: Friesen P. C. , Sage R. F.
Published: December 2015

Miscanthus is a C4 perennial grass being developed for bioenergy production in temperate regions where chilling events are common. To evaluate chilling effects on Miscanthus, we assessed the processes controlling net CO2 assimilation rate (A) in Miscanthus x giganteus (M161) and a chilling‐sensitive Miscanthus hybrid (M115) before and after a chilling treatment of 12/5 °C. The temperature response of A and maximum Rubisco activity in vitro were identical below 20 °C in chilled and unchilled M161, demonstrating Rubisco capacity limits or co‐limits A at cooler temperatures. By contrast, A in M115 decreased at all measurement temperatures after growth at 12/5 °C. Rubisco activity in vitro declined in proportion to the reduction in A in chilled M115 plants, indicating Rubisco capacity is responsible in part for the decline in A. Pyruvate orthophosphate dikinase activities were also reduced by the chilling treatment when assayed at 28 °C, indicating this enzyme may also contribute to the reduction in A in M115. The maximum extractable activities of PEPCase and NADP‐ME remained largely unchanged after chilling. The carboxylation efficiency of the C4 cycle was depressed in both genotypes to a similar extent after chilling. ΦP:ΦCO2 remained unchanged in both genotypes indicating the C3 and C4 cycles decline equivalently upon chilling.
Wind increases leaf water use efficiency
Authors: Schymanski Stanislaus J. , Or Dani
Published: December 2015

A widespread perception is that, with increasing wind speed, transpiration from plant leaves increases. However, evidence suggests that increasing wind speed enhances carbon dioxide (CO2) uptake while reducing transpiration because of more efficient convective cooling (under high solar radiation loads). We provide theoretical and experimental evidence that leaf water use efficiency (WUE, carbon uptake per water transpired) commonly increases with increasing wind speed, thus improving plants' ability to conserve water during photosynthesis. Our leaf‐scale analysis suggests that the observed global decrease in near‐surface wind speeds could have reduced WUE at a magnitude similar to the increase in WUE attributed to global rise in atmospheric CO2 concentrations. However, there is indication that the effect of long‐term trends in wind speed on leaf gas exchange may be compensated for by the concurrent reduction in mean leaf sizes. These unintuitive feedbacks between wind, leaf size and water use efficiency call for re‐evaluation of the role of wind in plant water relations and potential re‐interpretation of temporal and geographic trends in leaf sizes.
Low bone mineral density in achondroplasia and hypochondroplasia
Authors: Matsushita Masaki , Kitoh Hiroshi , Mishima Kenichi , Kadono Izumi , Sugiura Hiroshi , Hasegawa Sachi , Nishida Yoshihiro , Ishiguro Naoki
Published: December 2015

Background

Achondroplasia (ACH) and hypochondroplasia (HCH) are the most common form of short‐limb skeletal dysplasias caused by activated fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) signaling. Although decreased bone mass was reported in gain‐of‐function mutation in Fgfr3 mice, both disorders have never been described as osteoporotic. In the present study, we evaluated bone mineral density (BMD) in ACH and HCH patients.

Methods

We measured spinal BMD (L1–L4) in 18 ACH and four HCH patients with an average age of 19.8 ± 7.5 years (range, 10–33 years). BMD Z‐score in each individual was calculated for normalizing age and gender. Correlation between body mass index (BMI) and BMD was analyzed. Moreover, BMD and Z‐score were compared between ACH patients and HCH patients.

Results

The average BMD of ACH/HCH patients was 0.805 ± 0.141 g/cm2 (range, 0.554–1.056 g/cm2), resulting in an average Z‐score of −1.1 ± 0.8 (range, −2.4 to 0.6) of the standard value. A slightly positive correlation was observed between BMI and BMD (r = 0.45; P = 0.13). There was no significant difference in BMD and Z‐score between ACH and HCH patients.

Conclusion

Spinal BMD was reduced in ACH/HCH patients, and was mildly correlated with individual BMI. We should carefully monitor BMD and examine osteoporosis‐related symptoms in adolescent and adult ACH/HCH patients. © 2016 Japan Pediatric Society.
Physical activity participation by adults with cystic fibrosis: An observational study
Authors: Cox Narelle S. , Alison Jennifer A. , Button Brenda M. , Wilson John W. , Morton Judith M. , Holland Anne E.
Published: December 2015

Background and objective

Studies in children with cystic fibrosis (CF) suggest greater physical activity (PA) is associated with a slower rate of decline in respiratory function. In adults with CF, objectively measured PA time and its relationship to long‐term clinical outcomes of respiratory function and need for hospitalization are unknown.

Methods

PA measured objectively (SenseWear armband), pulmonary function, exercise capacity (Modified Shuttle Test‐25) and CF‐related quality of life (CFQ‐R) were assessed in 65 adults (34 male; mean age 28 years) with CF during a stable phase. A sub‐group of these participants undertook additional measurement of PA at hospital discharge for a respiratory exacerbation.

Results

Median daily habitual moderate‐vigorous PA (MVPA) time was 31‐min (IQR:15–53). Participants who accumulated ≥30‐min MPVA daily experienced fewer hospital days (P = 0.04), better exercise capacity and higher FEV1 at 12 months (P ≤ 0.001). Daily, fewer females than males accrued ≥30‐min MVPA (P = 0.02). Compared with those who did not, participants who accumulated 30‐min MVPA in bouts ≥10‐min (n = 21) recorded better FEV1 (P = 0.02) and exercise capacity (P = 0.006), and reduced hospital admissions (P = 0.04) and hospital days (P = 0.04) at 12 months. MVPA participation declined significantly 1 month post‐hospital discharge (median 12 min (4–34); P = 0.04).

Conclusion

Adults with CF are able to achieve recommended MVPA targets of 30mins/day; however, a significant gender difference in activity time is apparent. Greater time in MVPA is related to more positive clinical outcomes over 12 months. Whether increasing PA levels can improve clinical outcomes in adults with CF warrants further investigation.

See Editorial, page 404
Inspiratory capacity‐to‐total lung capacity ratio and dyspnoea predict exercise capacity decline in COPD
Authors: Ramon Maria A. , Ferrer Jaume , Gimeno‐Santos Elena , Donaire‐Gonzalez David , Rodríguez Esther , Balcells Eva , de Batlle Jordi , Benet Marta , Guerra Stefano , Sauleda Jaume , Ferrer Antoni , Farrero Eva , Gea Joaquim , Barberà Joan A. , Agustí Alvar , Rodriguez‐Roisin Robert , Antó Josep M. , Garcia‐Aymerich Judith ,   PAC‐COPD Study Group
Published: December 2015

Background and objective

Exercise capacity decline is a predictor of mortality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Static pulmonary hyperinflation is a key determinant of exercise performance, but its effect on the longitudinal decline in exercise capacity remains unknown. We aimed to study the relationship between the inspiratory capacity‐to‐total lung capacity (IC/TLC) ratio and exercise capacity decline in COPD.

Methods

We measured IC/TLC and other relevant clinical and functional variables in 342 clinically stable patients with COPD. The 6‐min walk distance (6MWD) was determined at recruitment and after a mean ± SD of 1.7 ± 0.3 years. The annual rate of change in 6MWD was calculated. Multiple imputation to account for losses during follow up was implemented, and multivariate regression was used to analyze predictive factors of 6MWD decline.

Results

Mean decline rate in the 6MWD was 21.9 ± 34.1 m/year. In the bivariate analysis, patients with lower levels of IC/TLC had greater 6MWD decline (−27.4 ± 42.5, −24.9 ± 36.5 and −13.4 ± 39.9 m/year in the first, second and third tertile of IC/TLC, respectively; P‐for‐trend = 0.018). From other potential risk factors considered, dyspnoea, health status, serum C‐reactive protein and Borg dyspnoea score at the end of the exercise test were related to exercise capacity decline. In the multivariate regression model, only IC/TLC (β = 0.7 m/year per each percentage unit of IC/TLC; P = 0.007) and dyspnoea (mMRC ≥ 2) (β = −14.6 m/year; P = 0.013) were associated with the annual rate of 6MWD change.

Conclusion

IC/TLC and dyspnoea in clinically stable patients with COPD predict their exercise capacity decline and may help to guide early therapeutic interventions.