bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Somatic retrotransposition in human cancer revealed by whole-genome and exome sequencing
Authors: Helman Elena , Lawrence Michael S. , Stewart Chip , Sougnez Carrie , Getz Gad , Meyerson Matthew
Published: May 2014

Retrotransposons constitute a major source of genetic variation, and somatic retrotransposon insertions have been reported in cancer. Here, we applied TranspoSeq, a computational framework that identifies retrotransposon insertions from sequencing data, to whole genomes from 200 tumor/normal pairs across 11 tumor types as part of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Pan-Cancer Project. In addition to novel germline polymorphisms, we find 810 somatic retrotransposon insertions primarily in lung squamous, head and neck, colorectal, and endometrial carcinomas. Many somatic retrotransposon insertions occur in known cancer genes. We find that high somatic retrotransposition rates in tumors are associated with high rates of genomic rearrangement and somatic mutation. Finally, we developed TranspoSeq-Exome to interrogate an additional 767 tumor samples with hybrid-capture exome data and discovered 35 novel somatic retrotransposon insertions into exonic regions, including an insertion into an exon of the PTEN tumor suppressor gene. The results of this large-scale, comprehensive analysis of retrotransposon movement across tumor types suggest that somatic retrotransposon insertions may represent an important class of structural variation in cancer.
Heritability and genetic basis of protein level variation in an outbred population
Authors: Parts Leopold , Liu Yi-Chun , Tekkedil Manu M. , Steinmetz Lars M. , Caudy Amy A. , Fraser Andrew G. , Boone Charles , Andrews Brenda J. , Rosebrock Adam P.
Published: May 2014

The genetic basis of heritable traits has been studied for decades. Although recent mapping efforts have elucidated genetic determinants of transcript levels, mapping of protein abundance has lagged. Here, we analyze levels of 4084 GFP-tagged yeast proteins in the progeny of a cross between a laboratory and a wild strain using flow cytometry and high-content microscopy. The genotype of trans variants contributed little to protein level variation between individual cells but explained >50% of the variance in the population’s average protein abundance for half of the GFP fusions tested. To map trans-acting factors responsible, we performed flow sorting and bulk segregant analysis of 25 proteins, finding a median of five protein quantitative trait loci (pQTLs) per GFP fusion. Further, we find that cis-acting variants predominate; the genotype of a gene and its surrounding region had a large effect on protein level six times more frequently than the rest of the genome combined. We present evidence for both shared and independent genetic control of transcript and protein abundance: More than half of the expression QTLs (eQTLs) contribute to changes in protein levels of regulated genes, but several pQTLs do not affect their cognate transcript levels. Allele replacements of genes known to underlie trans eQTL hotspots confirmed the correlation of effects on mRNA and protein levels. This study represents the first genome-scale measurement of genetic contribution to protein levels in single cells and populations, identifies more than a hundred trans pQTLs, and validates the propagation of effects associated with transcript variation to protein abundance.
Colouration mechanism of underglaze copper-red decoration porcelain (AD 13th–14th century), China
Authors: Zhu Jian , Duan Huiping , Yang Yimin , Guan Li , Xu Wei , Chen Dongliang , Zhang Jing , Wang Lihua , Huang Yuying , Wang Changsui
Published: May 2014

Underglaze copper-red decoration,i.e.the copper colourant used to paint diversified patterns on the surface of a body and then covered by transparent glaze and fired at high temperature in a reductive firing environment, is famous all over the world. However, the red colouration mechanism generated by underglaze copper remains unclear. In particular, the fact that the edges of the red patterns are orange has been ignored in previous research. Here, non-destructive analysis has been carried out on a precious fragment of early underglaze red porcelain using synchrotron radiation X-ray fluorescence, X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy (XANES) and reflection spectrometry techniques. The results suggest that the copper content in the red region is higher than that in the orange region, and other colour generation elements do not have obvious content difference, indicating that the colour generation effect of the underglaze red product is related to the copper content. XANES analysis shows that the valence states of copper in the red and orange regions are similar and metal copper contributes to their hues. The results of reflection spectrometry demonstrate that tiny orange hues could be attributed to the Mie scatting effect. Therefore, light-scattering effects should be considered when researching the colouration mechanism of underglaze red.
Characterization of thrombogenic, endothelial and inflammatory markers in supraventricular tachycardia: a study in patients with structurally normal hearts
Authors: Schultz Carlee D , Rangneker Geetanjali , Lim Han S , Fraudeau Angelique , Young Glenn , Roberts‐Thomson Kurt , John Bobby , Worthley Matthew , Sanders Prashanthan , Willoughby Scott R
Published: May 2014

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) are at an increased risk of thromboembolism and stroke primarily from the development of thrombi within the left atrium. Pathological changes in blood constituents and atrial endothelial damage promote left atrial thrombus formation. It is not known whether factors predisposing to left atrial thrombus formation in AF are disease specific or also evident within the normal heart. The present study examined whether there are differences in platelet reactivity, endothelial function and inflammation in blood samples obtained from intracardiac and peripheral sites in subjects within structurally normal hearts. Sixteen patients with diagnosed left‐sided supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) undergoing a routine elective electrophysiological study and ablation were investigated. Blood samples were taken simultaneously from the femoral vein, right atrium and left atrium, immediately following trans‐septal puncture and prior to heparin bolus administration. Between peripheral and atrial sample sites, patients with SVT showed no change in platelet reactivity or aggregation (P‐selectin (CD62P) P = 0.91; platelet‐derived soluble CD40 ligand P = 0.9), thrombus formation (thrombin–antithrombin complex; P = 0.55), endothelial function (von Willebrand factor P = 0.75; asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) P = 0.97; nitric oxide P = 0.61), or inflammation (vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 P = 0.59; intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) P = 0.69). However, SVT patients had lower ADMA and ICAM‐1 levels than AF patients. The present study demonstrates, for the first time, that SVT subjects with structurally normal hearts have consistent haemostatic function between atrial and peripheral sites. These results suggest that the atria of SVT patients do not contain predisposing thrombogenic, endothelial or inflammatory factors that promote and/or initiate thrombus formation.
Fecal microbiota transplantation in treating Clostridium difficile infection
Authors: Brown William R
Published: May 2014

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is an increasingly common and severe international health problem. Customary treatment of this infection, usually with antibiotics, is often ineffective and its recurrence is common. In recent years the treatment of recurrent or refractory CDI by the transfer of stool from an uninfected person, so called fecal “microbiota transplantation” has become recognized as effective and generally safe. The effectiveness of this novel treatment is incompletely defined but is likely to be due to its correction of the intestinal dysbiosis that characterizes the disease. Practical methods for the administration of the transplantation have been described. This review summarizes the current reported experiences with fecal microbiota transplantation in the treatment for CDI.
Efficacy of metformin‐based oral antidiabetic drugs is not inferior to insulin glargine in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetic patients with severe hyperglycemia after short‐term intensive insulin therapy
Authors: Cheng Qingfeng , Yang Shumin , Zhao Changhong , Wang Zhihong , Feng Zhengping , Li Rong , Ye Peng , Zhang Suhua , Deng Huacong , Zhou Bo , Long Jian , Gong Lilin , Qing Hua , Luo Cheng , Li Qifu
Published: May 2014

Background

Insulin therapy should be strongly considered in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients with severe hyperglycemia. However, whether insulin be continued or patients switched to an oral antidiabetic drug (OAD) after short‐term intensive insulin therapy (ITT) is not clear.

Methods

After ITT for 10–14 days, 47 patients were randomized into either a glargine (n = 21) or metformin‐based OAD (n = 26) group for a 6‐month intervention. After these 6 months, patients in the glargine group were switched to metformin‐based OAD therapy, whereas treatment in the OAD group was unchanged. Patients were followed‐up for another 6 months.

Results

At the end of the 6‐month intervention, HbA1c was similarly reduced in both the glargine (from 11.81 ± 1.70% to 6.48 ± 0.79%; P < 0.001) and OAD (from 11.71 ± 1.89% to 6.16 ± 0.52%; P < 0.001) groups. At the end of 12 months, HbA1c was at comparable and near optimal levels in both groups. Similar increases were seen in homeostatic model assessment of β‐cell function in the two groups after 6 months. There were no significant differences between the two groups in insulin sensitivity improvement, hypoglycemic episodes, weight change, treatment satisfaction and quality of life after the 6‐month intervention.

Conclusions

The effects of metformin‐based OAD therapy on glycemic control and improvements in β‐cell function are not inferior to glargine in newly diagnosed T2D patients with severe hyperglycemia after short‐term ITT. Considering the superiority of metformin in terms of safety, cost, and convenience, metformin‐based OAD therapy is strongly recommended for these patients.
Endospore‐enriched sequencing approach reveals unprecedented diversity of Firmicutes in sediments
Authors: Wunderlin Tina , Junier Thomas , Roussel‐Delif Ludovic , Jeanneret Nicole , Junier Pilar
Published: May 2014

We present a method for the physical isolation of endospores from environmental samples allowing the specific targeting of endospore‐forming bacteria for sequencing (endospore‐enriched community). The efficiency of the method was tested on lake sediment samples. After 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, the composition in the endospore‐enriched community was compared with the community from untreated control samples (whole community). In the whole community, Firmicutes had a relative abundance of 8% and 19% in the two different lake sediments. In contrast, in the endospore‐enriched community, Firmicutes abundance increased to 90.6% and 83.9%, respectively, confirming the efficiency of the endospore enrichment. The relative abundance of other microbial groups that form spore‐like resisting states (i.e. actinobacteria, cyanobacteria and myxococcales) was below 2% in the endospore‐enriched community, indicating that the method is adapted to true endospores. Representatives from two out of the three known classes of Firmicutes (Bacilli and Clostridia) were detected and supposedly asporogenic groups (e.g. Ethanoligenes and Trichococcus) could be detected. The method presented here is a leap forward for ecological studies of endospore‐forming Firmicutes. It can be applied to other types of samples in order to reveal the diversity and metabolic potential of this bacterial group in the environment.
Pazopanib diminishes non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) growth and metastases in vivo
Authors: Zhao Honglin , Yang Fan , Shen Wang , Wang Yuli , Li Xuebing , You Jiacong , Zhou Qinghua
Published: May 2014

Background

Anti‐angiogenesis has been demonstrated to have a critical role in lung cancer pathogenesis. Here, we characterized the effect of the small‐molecule angiogenesis inhibitor pazopanib on non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells.

Methods

NSCLC cells were tested for viability and migration after incubation with varying concentrations of pazopanib. Further, the phosphorylation status of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase, protein kinase B, and MEK were assessed in vitro. For in vivo testing, mice grafted with NSCLC cell lines L9981 and A549 were treated orally with pazopanib.

Results

Pazopanib inhibits signaling pathways in tumor cells, thus blocking NSCLC cell growth and migration in vitro and inducing tumor cell arrest at G0/G1 phase. We show that pazopanib could inhibit tumor cell growth, decrease metastases, and prolong survival in two mouse xenograft models of human NSCLC.

Conclusion

These preclinical studies of pazopanib show the possibility of clinical application and, ultimately, improvement in patient outcome.
Active management of the third stage of labor with and without controlled cord traction: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Du Yongming , Ye Man , Zheng Feiyun
Published: May 2014

Objective

To determine the specific effect of controlled cord traction in the third stage of labor in the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage.

Data sources

We searched PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science (inception to 30 October 2013).

Study selection

Randomized controlled trials comparing controlled cord traction with hands‐off management in the third stage of labor were included.

Results

Five randomized controlled trials involving a total of 30 532 participants were eligible. No significant difference was found between controlled cord traction and hands‐off management groups with respect to the incidence of severe postpartum hemorrhage (relative risk 0.91, 95% confidence interval 0.77–1.08), need for blood transfusion (relative risk 0.96, 95% confidence interval 0.69–1.33) or therapeutic uterotonics (relative risk 0.94, 95% confidence interval 0.88–1.01). However, controlled cord traction reduced the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage in general (relative risk 0.93, 95% confidence interval 0.87–0.99; number‐needed‐to‐treat 111, 95% confidence interval 61–666), as well manual removal of the placenta (relative risk 0.70, 95% confidence interval 0.58–0.84) and duration of the third stage of labor (mean difference −3.20, 95% confidence interval −3.21 to −3.19).

Conclusions

Controlled cord traction appears to reduce the risk of any postpartum hemorrhage in a general sense, as well as manual removal of the placenta and the duration of the third stage of labor. However, the reduction in the occurrence of severe postpartum hemorrhage, need for additional uterotonics and blood transfusion is not statistically significant.
Social power, product conspicuousness, and the demand for luxury brand counterfeit products
Authors: Bian Xuemei , Haque Sadia , Smith Andrew
Published: May 2014

The aim of this article is twofold: (1) to achieve a better understanding of the psychological determinants of the demand for luxury brand counterfeit products (LBCP) through exploring the effects of social power; (2) to extend power literature by identifying boundary conditions of the relationship between social power and compensatory consumption identified by Rucker and Galinsky (, J. Consum. Res., 35, 257–267) and Rucker and Galinsky (, J. Exp. Soc. Psychol., 45, 549–555). Findings from three experiments demonstrate that social power holds key insights into understanding consumers' purchase propensity for LBCP; product conspicuousness moderates the effects of social power on purchase propensity for status products; these moderation effects are only observed when the status products are LBCP but not genuine products. This article, therefore, contributes to the literature regarding the demand for counterfeits as well as the social power and compensatory consumption literature.
Teaching laparoscopic radical prostatectomy during the primary surgeon's early learning curve – analysis of our first 207 cases
Authors: Luke Serge , Delprado Warick , Louie‐Johnsun Mark
Published: May 2014

Objective

To assess the feasibility of introducing laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) training during the primary surgeon's early learning curve in a regional Australian centre.

Patients and methods

From a prospective single surgeon database perioperative, oncological and functional outcome data was collected from the first 207 consecutive patients who underwent LRP immediately after a 12‐month LRP Fellowship in a high‐volume centre by the primary surgeon (M.L.J.). A training case was defined as the successful completion of at least two of 10 steps by a training Fellow. Perioperative and oncological outcomes were compared in training and non‐training cohorts and overall learning curve was assessed by comparing consecutive 50‐patient cohorts.

Results

In all, 31% of cases were training cases with a median (range) of 7 (2–10) steps of 10 steps performed by the training Fellow. Operative times were significantly longer in training cases (mean 269 vs 209 min; P < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in perioperative outcomes of length of stay (2.7 vs 2.6 days), transfusion rates (3.1% vs 2.1%), major complication (Clavien >3a) rates (1.6% vs 2.1%) or positive surgical margins (PSMs: pT2 2.8% vs 15.3% and pT3 52.0% vs 45.1%) between training and non‐training groups, respectively. Overall, there were two open conversions (1.0%).

Conclusion

Despite the challenging learning curve, LRP training can be commenced safely with a stepwise modular approach, even when the primary surgeon is in their early learning curve. Perioperative outcomes including PSMs and major complications were unaffected by trainee involvement.
Evolution of shockwave lithotripsy (SWL) technique: a 25‐year single centre experience of >5000 patients
Authors: Jagtap Jitendra , Mishra Shashikant , Bhattu Amit , Ganpule Arvind , Sabnis Ravindra , Desai Mahesh
Published: May 2014

Objective

To assess the impact of various treatment optimisation strategies in shockwave lithotripsy (SWL) used at a single centre over the last 25 years.

Patients and Methods

In all, 5017 patients treated between 1989 and 2013 were reviewed and divided into groups A, B, C and D for the treatment periods of 1989–1994 (1561 patients), 1995–2000 (1741), 2001–2006 (1039) and 2007–2013 (676), respectively. The Sonolith 3000 (A and B) and Dornier compact delta lithotripters (C and D) were used. Refinements included frequent re‐localisation, limiting maximum shocks and booster therapy in group B and Hounsfield unit estimation, power ramping and improved coupling in group D. Parameters reviewed were annual SWL utilisation, stone and treatment data, retreatment, auxiliary procedures, complications and stone‐free rate (SFR).

Results

The SFR with Dornier compact delta was significantly higher than that of the Sonolith 3000 (P < 0.001). The SFR improved significantly from 77.58%, 81.28%, 82.58% to 88.02% in groups A, B, C, and D, respectively (P < 0.001). There was a concomitant decrease in repeat SWL (re‐treatment rate: A, 48.7%; B, 33.4%; C, 15.8%; and D, 10.1%; P < 0.001) and complication rates (A, 8%; B, 6.4%; C, 4.9%; and D, 1.6%; P < 0.001). This led to a rise in the efficiency quotient (EQ) in groups A–D from 50.41, 58.94, 68.78 to 77.06 (P < 0.001).The auxiliary procedure rates were similar in all groups (P = 0.62).

Conclusion

In conclusion, improvement in the EQ together with a concomitant decrease in complication rate can be achieved with optimum patient selection and use of various treatment optimising strategies.
Dysregulation of the suppressor of cytokine signalling 3–signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 pathway in the aetiopathogenesis of Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Vartoukian S R , Tilakaratne W M , Seoudi N , Bombardieri M , Bergmeier L , Tappuni A R , Fortune F
Published: May 2014

The suppressor of cytokine signalling 3 (SOCS3) negatively regulates the Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT-3)/interleukin (IL)-17 pathway. The proinflammatory cytokine IL-17 is over-expressed in Sjögren's syndrome (SS) and is a key factor in its pathogenesis. We hypothesized that IL-17 over-expression in SS results from ineffective regulation by SOCS3. The expression of SOCS3 was analysed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from SS cases, sicca controls (SC) and healthy controls (HC) and tissue samples from SS, SC and healthy salivary glands (HSG). PBMC and salivary gland tissue from SS and controls were dual-immunostained for SOCS3 and IL-17. IL-6-stimulated PBMC from SS and controls were evaluated for time-dependent STAT-3 activation and SOCS3 induction, and for IL-17 expression. Immunoblotting revealed greater levels of SOCS3 in PBMC from SS than SC (P = 0·017) or HC (P < 0·001). Similarly, the proportion of salivary-gland tissue cells staining for SOCS3 was significantly higher in SS than SC (P = 0·029) or HSG (P = 0·021). The cells in PBMC/salivary gland samples from controls predominantly expressed either SOCS3 or IL-17. However, there was a high frequency of SOCS3/IL-17 co-expression within cells of SS samples. IL-6-stimulation of PBMC from SS cases revealed prolonged activation of STAT-3 with reduced negative regulation by SOCS3, and enhanced expression of IL-17. This study showed that SOCS3 expression is up-regulated in SS. However, the absence in SS of the normal inverse relationship between SOCS3 and pSTAT-3/IL-17 indicates a functional disturbance in this signalling cascade. Consequently, a reduction in function, rather than a reduction in expression of SOCS3 accounts for the unregulated expression of IL-17 in SS, and may play a crucial role in aetiopathogenesis.
Electrophysiological evidence of heterogeneity in visual statistical learning in young children with ASD
Authors: Jeste Shafali S. , Kirkham Natasha , Senturk Damla , Hasenstab Kyle , Sugar Catherine , Kupelian Chloe , Baker Elizabeth , Sanders Andrew J. , Shimizu Christina , Norona Amanda , Paparella Tanya , Freeman Stephanny F.N. , Johnson Scott P.
Published: May 2014

Statistical learning is characterized by detection of regularities in one's environment without an awareness or intention to learn, and it may play a critical role in language and social behavior. Accordingly, in this study we investigated the electrophysiological correlates of visual statistical learning in young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) using an event‐related potential shape learning paradigm, and we examined the relation between visual statistical learning and cognitive function. Compared to typically developing (TD) controls, the ASD group as a whole showed reduced evidence of learning as defined by N1 (early visual discrimination) and P300 (attention to novelty) components. Upon further analysis, in the ASD group there was a positive correlation between N1 amplitude difference and non‐verbal IQ, and a positive correlation between P300 amplitude difference and adaptive social function. Children with ASD and a high non‐verbal IQ and high adaptive social function demonstrated a distinctive pattern of learning. This is the first study to identify electrophysiological markers of visual statistical learning in children with ASD. Through this work we have demonstrated heterogeneity in statistical learning in ASD that maps onto non‐verbal cognition and adaptive social function.
Safety, efficacy and weight effect of two 11β‐HSD1 inhibitors in metformin‐treated patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Heise T. , Morrow L. , Hompesch M. , Häring H.‐U. , Kapitza C. , Abt M. , Ramsauer M. , Magnone M.‐C. , Fuerst‐Recktenwald S.
Published: May 2014

Aims

We assessed safety and efficacy of two selective 11β‐HSD1 inhibitors (RO5093151/RO‐151 and RO5027383/RO‐838) in this randomized, controlled study in metformin‐treated patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Patients either received placebo (N = 21), RO‐151 BID 5 mg (N = 24) or 200 mg (N = 20) or RO‐838 QD 50 mg (N = 21) or 200 mg (N = 24) for 28 days. Metabolic assessments comprising of nine‐point plasma glucose profiles, oral glucose tolerance tests and determination of metabolic biomarkers including insulin, C‐peptide, glucagon, HbA1c and lipids were done at baseline and end of treatment.

Results

Despite the short treatment duration, both RO‐151 and RO‐838 showed trends for improved HbA1c and consistent reductions in body weight (–0.86 to –1.67 kg) exceeding those observed with placebo (–0.28 kg, p = 0.019 for 200 mg RO‐151 vs. placebo). Insulin sensitivity parameters (e.g. HOMA‐IR and Matsuda‐Index) improved non‐significantly with 200 mg RO‐151. Lipid parameters did not consistently improve with either compound, but RO‐838 led to non‐significant increases in triglycerides and VLDL‐cholesterol versus placebo. Both compounds were well tolerated and showed inhibitory effects on 11β‐HSD1 activity based on urinary corticosteroid excretion. As reported for other 11β‐HSD1‐inhibitors increased concentrations of ACTH and adrenal androgen precursors were found with RO‐151, but not with RO‐838.

Conclusions

Slight metabolic improvements were seen, in particular with RO‐151 high dose, however, the observed changes often did not reach statistical significance and were not clearly dose dependent. Studies of longer duration are needed to further investigate potential benefits and risks of these compounds.
Vitamin D deficiency is independently associated with the extent of coronary artery disease
Authors: Verdoia Monica , Schaffer Alon , Sartori Chiara , Barbieri Lucia , Cassetti Ettore , Marino Paolo , Galasso Gennaro , De Luca Giuseppe
Published: May 2014

Background

Vitamin D (25‐OH D3) deficiency represents a rising social and economic problem in Western countries. Vitamin D has been recently reported to modulate inflammatory processes, endothelium and smooth muscle cell proliferation and even platelet function, thus potentially modulating atherothrombosis. Great interest has been addressed on its impact on cardiovascular outcome, with contrasting results. The aim of current study was to evaluate the relationship between 25‐OH D3 and the extent of coronary artery disease (CAD) in a consecutive cohort of patients undergoing coronary angiography.

Materials and methods

Patients undergoing elective coronary angiography were included in a cross‐sectional study. Fasting samples were collected for 25‐OH D3 levels assessment. Significant CAD was defined as at least 1 vessel stenosis > 50%, while severe CAD as left main and/or trivessel disease, as evaluated by quantitative coronary angiography.

Results

Hypovitaminosis D was observed in 70·4% of 1484 patients. Patients were divided according to vitamin D tertiles (< 9·6; 9·6–18·4; ≥ 18·4). Lower vitamin D levels were associated with age, female gender (P < 0·001), renal failure (P = 0·05), active smoking (P = 0·001), acute coronary syndrome at presentation (P < 0·001), therapy with calcium antagonists (P = 0·02) and diuretics (P < 0·001), less beta‐blockers (P = 0·02) and statins (P = 0·001) use. Vitamin D was directly related to haemoglobin (P < 0·001) and inversely with platelet count (P = 0·002), total and low‐density‐lipoprotein cholesterol (P = 0·002 and P < 0·001) and triglycerides (P = 0·01). Vitamin D did not influence angiographic features of coronary lesions, but was associated with higher prevalence of left main or right CAD (P = 0·03). Vitamin D deficiency was significantly associated with higher prevalence of CAD (adjusted OR [95%CI] = 1·32[1·1–1·6], P = 0·004) and severe CAD (adjusted OR [95%CI] = 1·18[1–1·39], P = 0·05).

Conclusion

Hypovitaminosis D was observed in the vast majority of patients undergoing coronary angiography. Vitamin D deficiency is significantly associated with the prevalence and extent of CAD, especially for patients with values < 10 ng/mL. Therefore, future large studies are needed to evaluate whether vitamin D supplementation may prevent CAD and its progression.
Bunter quartzites: remarkable journeys in time and space
Authors: Radley Jonathan D. , Coram Robert A.
Published: May 2014

Quartzite pebbles and cobbles, commonly known as Bunter quartzites, are widely dispersed throughout southern Britain. They can be traced back to Early Triassic pebble beds outcropping in the Wessex Basin and the English Midlands. Derived fossils within the quartzites confirm that most, if not all, were derived from Ordovician and Devonian terrains, over what is now the general region of the Armorican peninsula of north‐west France. In Early Triassic times that area of ancient rocks formed part of a chain of young Variscan mountains which were subject to a monsoonal climate, and shed vast quantities of eroded quartzite. Ultimately, this debris was transported northwards into what is now southern Britain, by the Budleighensis river system.
Citizen expectations of ‘academic entrepreneurship’ in health research: public science, practical benefit
Authors: Miller Fiona A. , Painter‐Main Michael , Axler Renata , Lehoux Pascale , Giacomini Mita , Slater Barbara
Published: May 2014

Background

Responsiveness to citizens as users of technological innovation helps motivate translational research and commercial engagement among academics. Yet, retaining citizen trust and support for research encourages caution in pursuit of commercial science.

Objectives

We explore citizen expectations of the specifically academic nature of commercial science [i.e. academic entrepreneurship (AE)] and the influence of conflict of interest concerns, hopes about practical benefits and general beliefs.

Design, setting and participants

We conducted a cross‐sectional national opinion survey of 1002 Canadians online in 2010.

Results

Approval of AE was moderate (mean 3.2/5, SD 0.84), but varied by entrepreneurial activity. Concern about conflict of interests (COI) was moderate (mean 2.9/5, SD 0.86) and varied by type of concern. An ordinary least‐squares regression showed that expectations of practical benefits informed support for AE, specifically that academic–industry collaboration can better address real‐world problems; conflict of interest concerns were insignificant.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that citizens support AE for its potential to produce practical benefits, but enthusiasm varies and is reduced for activities that may prioritize private over public interests. Further, support exists despite concern about COI, perhaps due to trust in the academic research context. For user engagement in research priority setting, these findings suggest the need to attend to the commercial nature of translational science. For research policy, they suggest the need for governance arrangements for responsible innovation, which can sustain public trust in academic research, and realize the practical benefits that inform public support for AE.
Overweight and dental caries: the association among German children
Authors: Qadri Ghalib , Alkilzy Mohammed , Feng You‐Shan , Splieth Christian
Published: May 2014

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between iso‐body mass index (iso‐BMI) and both dental caries status and caries increment among German school children.

Methods

Six hundred and ninety‐four students (age range 9–12 years, mean 10.34 ± 0.56, 48% females) were recruited from the fifth grade of 18 primary schools. Weight, height, and oral health data number of decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) as well as parent/legal guardian questionnaire (measuring SES) were collected during school dental examination at baseline and after one and a half‐year follow‐up. The body mass index (BMI) was calculated using the international classification system for childhood overweight and obesity (iso‐BMI). Statistical analyses were performed using Poisson regression models.

Results

Iso‐BMI was significantly associated with dental caries prevalence and severity in the permanent dentition (P = 0.039). Low‐normal weight children had a lower mean DMFT (0.56) than did overweight/obese children (0.70). In addition, a border‐line significant association was found between overweight/obese children and caries increment (P = 0.055).

Conclusion

Although iso‐BMI was associated with dental caries prevalence and severity, the association between caries increment and iso‐BMI did not reach a statistical significance. Overweight/obese children however acquired more additional carious lesions during the follow‐up period than children with low‐normal weight.
Effectiveness of seasonal influenza vaccinations against laboratory‐confirmed influenza‐associated infections among Singapore military personnel in 2010–2013
Authors: Ho Hin Peow , Zhao Xiahong , Pang Junxiong , Chen Mark I.‐C. , Lee Vernon J. M. , Ang Li Wei , Lin Raymond V. Tzer Pin , Gao Christine Q. , Hsu Li Yang , Cook Alex R.
Published: May 2014

Background

Limited information is available about seasonal influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE) in tropical communities.

Objectives

Virus subtype‐specific VE was determined for all military service personnel in the recruit camp and three other non‐recruit camp in Singapore's Armed Forces from 1 June 2009 to 30 June 2012.

Methods

Consenting servicemen underwent nasal washes, which were tested with RT‐PCR and subtyped. The test positive case and test negative control design was used to estimate the VE. To estimate the overall effect of the programme on new recruits, we used an ecological time series approach.

Results

A total of 7016 consultations were collected. The crude estimates for the VE of the triavalent vaccine against both influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and influenza B were 84% (95% CI 78–88%, 79–86%, respectively). Vaccine efficacy against influenza A(H3N2) was markedly lower (VE 33%, 95% CI −4% to 57%). An estimated 70% (RR = 0·30; 95% CI 0·11–0·84), 39% (RR = 0·61;0·25–1·43) and 75% (RR = 0·25; 95% CI 0·11–0·50) reduction in the risk of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, influenza A(H3N2) and influenza B infections, respectively, in the recruit camp during the post‐vaccination period compared with during the pre‐vaccination period was observed.

Conclusions

Overall, the blanket influenza vaccine programme in Singapore's Armed Forces has had a moderate to high degree of protection against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and influenza B, but not against influenza A(H3N2). Blanket influenza vaccination is recommended for all military personnel.
A 3‐year prospective study of the epidemiology of acute respiratory viral infections in hospitalized children in Shenzhen, China
Authors: He Ying , Lin Guang‐Yu , Wang Qiong , Cai Xiao‐Ying , Zhang Yin‐Hui , Lin Chuang‐Xing , Lu Chang‐Dong , Lu Xue‐Dong
Published: May 2014

Background

The epidemiology of local viral etiologies is essential for the management of viral respiratory tract infections. Limited data are available in China to describe the epidemiology of viral respiratory infections, especially in small–medium cities and rural areas.

Objectives

To determine the viral etiology and seasonality of acute respiratory infections in hospitalized children, a 3‐year study was conducted in Shenzhen, China.

Methods

Nasopharyngeal aspirates from eligible children were collected. Influenza and other respiratory viruses were tested by molecular assays simultaneously. Data were analyzed to describe the frequency and seasonality.

Results

Of the 2025 children enrolled in the study, 971 (48·0%) were positive for at least one viral pathogen, in which 890 (91·7%) were <4 years of age. The three most prevalent viruses were influenza A (IAV; 35·8%), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV; 30·5%) and human rhinovirus (HRV; 21·5%). Co‐infections were found in 302 cases (31·1%), and dual viral infection was dominant. RSV, HRV and IAV were the most frequent viral agents involved in co‐infection. On the whole, the obvious seasonal peaks mainly from March to May were observed with peak strength varying from 1 year to another.

Conclusions

This study provides a basic profile of the epidemiology of acute respiratory viral infection in hospitalized children in Shenzhen. The spectrum of viruses in the study site is similar to that in other places, but the seasonality is closely related to geographic position, different from that in big cities in northern China and neighboring Hong Kong.
Stepwise Progression: The Past, Present, and Possible Future of Empirical Research on Law in the United States and the United Kingdom
Authors: Adler Michael , Simon Jonathan
Published: May 2014

The article distinguishes empirical research on law from other modes of legal enquiry. It charts the changing fortunes of empirical research on law in the United States and the United Kingdom and accounts for the differences between them. In both countries, the development has been uneven and intermittent rather than gradual and linear, with a number of important differences in trajectories, in particular: the number of growth spurts; their timing; the present position; and whether the rise and fall of activity refers to research on civil and criminal justice or on civil justice alone. The different trajectories are explained in terms of path dependency (the fact that developments in the present are shaped by developments in the past); sequential development (emphasizing the importance of timing and that developments in one institution may be contingent on developments in another); and institutional responsiveness (an institution's capacity to respond to opportunities in its external environment).
The Shifting Balance of Power in the Regulatory State: Structure, Strategy, and the Division of Labour
Authors: Feaver Donald , Sheehy Benedict
Published: May 2014

The objective of this article is to examine the structural change in government that has enabled the politically strategic changes in governance seen in many OECD countries over the past several decades. In so doing, the legal structures and political strategies underlying the regulatory state are explained. Drawing upon classical theories of the division of labour, two distinct divisions of labour – one legal, the other political – are identified that provide insight into the relationship between the legal structure and political strategies underpinning the emergence of the regulatory state. The implications of this article are that it provides a description of how the executive branch has been able to shift the balance of power significantly in its favour while at the same time divesting itself of its core constitutional tasks of governing the administrative arm of government.
The New Puritanism: The Resurgence of Contractarian Citizenship in Common Law Welfare States
Authors: Larkin Philip M.
Published: May 2014

In common law jurisdictions, legislative reforms to their welfare states are frequently framed in terms of their innovative nature. However, such legislative reforms, on the contrary, may be representative of a more historical ‘puritan’ view of welfare and citizenship, the doctrines of which originate in the aftermath of the sixteenth‐century Protestant Reformation, and which developed in the following centuries. The core values of this era have always remained within welfare legislation and policy in common law states, and appear to have experienced a resurgence in recent times. These puritan values manifest themselves within welfare legislation under certain distinct themes, which will be expanded upon. The extent to which values of puritan Christianity renders welfare legislation in common law welfare states distinct from that of other welfare states is also a theme which is examined. In addition, the utility of this ‘puritan’ approach towards welfare law and policy is also discussed.
China's Exchange Rate and Financial Repression: The Conflicted Emergence of the RMB as an International Currency
Authors: McKinnon Ronald , Schnabl Gunther
Published: May 2014

Instability in the world dollar standard, as most recently manifested in the US Federal Reserve's near‐zero interest rate policy, has caused consternation in emerging markets with naturally higher interest rates. China has been provoked into speeding RMB “internationalization”; that is, opening up domestic financial markets to reduce its dependence on the US dollar for invoicing trade and making international payments. However, despite rapid percentage growth in offshore financial markets in RMB, the Chinese authorities are essentially trapped into maintaining exchange controls (reinforced by financial repression in domestic interest rates) to avoid an avalanche of foreign capital inflows that would threaten inflation and asset price bubbles by driving nominal interest rates on RMB assets down further. Because a floating (appreciating) exchange rate could attract even more hot money inflows, the People's Bank of China should focus on keeping the yuan/dollar rate stable so as to encourage naturally high wage increases to help balance China's international competitiveness. However, further internationalization of the RMB, as with the proposed Shanghai pilot free trade zone, is best deferred until world interest rates rise to more normal levels.
Dynamic Transition of Exchange Rate Regime in China
Authors: Yoshino Naoyuki , Kaji Sahoko , Asonuma Tamon
Published: May 2014

The paper considers the optimal transition path for China's exchange rate regime. How can China successfully make the shift from the current dollar peg regime to a more desirable regime, whether a basket peg or a floating regime? To answer this question, we develop a dynamic small open economy general equilibrium model. We construct four transition policies based on a basket peg or a floating regime and compare the welfare gains of these policies relative to maintaining the dollar peg regime. Two main results are derived from the quantitative analysis using Chinese data from 1999Q1 to 2010Q4. First, following a gradual adjustment to a basket peg regime is the most appropriate path for China to take, with minimal welfare losses associated with the shift in the exchange rate regime. Second, a sudden shift to the basket peg is the second best solution, and is superior to a sudden shift to floating because the monetary authority can efficiently determine optimal weights to attach to currencies in the basket to achieve policy goals once they adopt a basket peg regime.
Risk Attitudes and Self‐employment in China
Authors: Hu Feng
Published: May 2014

Using the 2006 wave of the Chinese General Social Survey, the present paper examines the effect of risk attitudes on the likelihood of entrepreneurship in China. Our results show that risk attitudes have a nonlinear effect on the likelihood of being entrepreneurs. Risk neutral people are most likely to be entrepreneurs, while both risk averse and risk seeking people prefer to work for wages. When we further divide entrepreneurs into necessity and opportunity entrepreneurs, we find only a marginal difference in risk attitudes between wage workers and necessity entrepreneurs, while less risk averse individuals tend to be opportunity entrepreneurs. Our results have important policy implications for the government's efforts to promote entrepreneurial activities.
Estimates of genetic parameters associated with lactation feed intake and reproductive performance in purebred and F1 sows
Authors: Yoder C.L. , Duttlinger V.M. , Baas T.J.
Published: May 2014

Daily feed intake during lactation was recorded in parity records from purebred Yorkshire (n = 1587), Landrace (n = 2197) and reciprocal cross F1 (n = 6932) females, and lactation feed intake (LFI) curves were predicted using a mixed model. Evaluation of the difference in feed intake between two consecutive days of lactation resulted in the following classifications: three periods for purebreds, days 1–6, days 7–10 and days 11–18, and two periods for F1 sows, days 1–5 and days 6–18. Average rate of change in intake (ARC), average daily intake (ADI) and variation from predicted LFI values (VAR) were computed for each period of lactation. Gibbs sampling was used to estimate genetic (co)variance components for LFI metrics and reproductive performance traits. Genetic variance estimates for each LFI metric were obtained with univariate animal models, and covariance estimates were estimated with bivariate models. Heritability estimates for ADI, ARC and VAR metrics computed over the duration of lactation were 0.37, 0.24, and 0.16, respectively. Heritability estimates were highly variable across periods of lactation for ARC (0.03–0.17), ADI (0.09–0.36) and VAR (0.04–0.18) metrics in purebred and F1 populations. Genetic correlations between LFI metrics and reproductive traits were relatively low, although LFI metrics later in lactation were more highly correlated with reproductive performance.
Ficus insipida subsp. insipida (Moraceae) reveals the role of ecology in the phylogeography of widespread Neotropical rain forest tree species
Authors: Honorio Coronado Eurídice N. , Dexter Kyle G. , Poelchau Monica F. , Hollingsworth Peter M. , Phillips Oliver L. , Pennington R. Toby
Published: May 2014

Aim

To examine the phylogeography of Ficus insipida subsp. insipida in order to investigate patterns of spatial genetic structure across the Neotropics and within Amazonia.

Location

Neotropics.

Methods

Plastid DNA (trnH–psbA; 410 individuals from 54 populations) and nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS; 85 individuals from 27 populations) sequences were sampled from Mexico to Bolivia, representing the full extent of the taxon's distribution. Divergence of plastid lineages was dated using a Bayesian coalescent approach. Genetic diversity was assessed with indices of haplotype and nucleotide diversities, and genetic structure was examined using spatial analysis of molecular variance (SAMOVA) and haplotype networks. Population expansion within Amazonia was tested using neutrality and mismatch distribution tests.

Results

trnH–psbA sequences yielded 19 haplotypes restricted to either Mesoamerica or Amazonia; six haplotypes were found among ITS sequences. Diversification of the plastid DNA haplotypes began c. 14.6 Ma. Haplotype diversity for trnH–psbA was higher in Amazonia. Seven genetically differentiated SAMOVA groups were described for trnH–psbA, of which two were also supported by the presence of unique ITS sequences. Population expansion was suggested for both markers for the SAMOVA group that contains most Amazonian populations.

Main conclusions

Our results show marked population genetic structure in F. insipida between Mesoamerica and Amazonia, implying that the Andes and seasonally dry areas of northern South America are eco‐climatic barriers to its migration. This pattern is shared with other widespread pioneer species affiliated to wet habitats, indicating that the ecological characteristics of species may impact upon large‐scale phylogeography. Ficus insipida also shows genetic structure in north‐western Amazonia potentially related to pre‐Pleistocene historical events. In contrast, evident population expansion elsewhere in Amazonia, in particular the presence of genetically uniform populations across the south‐west, indicate recent colonization. Our findings are consistent with palaeoecological data that suggest recent post‐glacial expansion of Amazonian forests in the south.