bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The MDM2 polymorphism SNP309 is associated with clinical characteristics and outcome in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Hedström Gustav , Thunberg Ulf , Amini Rose‐Marie , Zainuddin Norafiza , Enblad Gunilla , Berglund Mattias
Published: May 2014

Introduction

The murine double minute 2 (MDM2) gene encodes a regulatory protein of the p53 pathway. A single nucleotide polymorphism (T to G change) at position 309 (SNP309) in the promotor region of MDM2 affects the transcription activity of MDM2 and has been found to be a negative prognostic marker in several cancers.

Patients and methods

In this study, the MDM2 SNP309 polymorphism was analysed in 201 patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma and analysed in relation to clinical characteristics and prognosis.

Results

Patients homozygous for SNP309T had a significantly longer overall survival, lymphoma‐specific survival and disease‐free survival (P = 0.002; 0.004 and 0.006 respectively) compared to patients carrying a G allele. The longer overall survival was seen in the subgroup of patients not treated with Rituximab, however, not for Rituximab‐treated patients (P = 0.01 and 0.2 respectively). The group homozygous for the T allele also had lower age at diagnosis, a tendency towards lower aaIPI and a significantly lower proportion of patients with p53 aberrations compared to the group including at least one G allele. However, the survival differences persisted even after removal of cases with known p53 aberrations from the analysis.

Conclusion

Polymorphism in MDM2 SNP309 could be correlated to some clinical characteristics and for patients not treated with immunotherapy, a G allele was correlated to poor survival, whereas no survival differences were found for patients treated with Rituximab. Herewith, we provide additional information about Diffuse large B‐cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) biology and highlight the importance of evaluation of molecular markers in relation to treatment.
Spoken Spanish Language Development at the High School Level: A Mixed‐Methods Study
Authors: Moeller Aleidine J. , Theiler Janine
Published: May 2014

Communicative approaches to teaching language have emphasized the centrality of oral proficiency in the language acquisition process, but research investigating oral proficiency has been surprisingly limited, yielding an incomplete understanding of spoken language development. This study investigated the development of spoken language at the high school level over five consecutive years, involving more than 1,500 students representing 23 school districts. Quantitative Standards‐Based Measure of Proficiency speaking scores and student‐produced qualitative spoken samples (n > 6,000 samples) contributed to an understanding of the development of spoken language. Hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) revealed a consistent growth trajectory of spoken language development, and results indicated that 18–30% of the variance in student outcomes may be attributed to the teacher variable.
Climate sensitivity across marine domains of life: limits to evolutionary adaptation shape species interactions
Authors: Storch Daniela , Menzel Lena , Frickenhaus Stephan , Pörtner Hans‐O.
Published: May 2014

Organisms in all domains, Archaea, Bacteria, and Eukarya will respond to climate change with differential vulnerabilities resulting in shifts in species distribution, coexistence, and interactions. The identification of unifying principles of organism functioning across all domains would facilitate a cause and effect understanding of such changes and their implications for ecosystem shifts. For example, the functional specialization of all organisms in limited temperature ranges leads us to ask for unifying functional reasons. Organisms also specialize in either anoxic or various oxygen ranges, with animals and plants depending on high oxygen levels. Here, we identify thermal ranges, heat limits of growth, and critically low (hypoxic) oxygen concentrations as proxies of tolerance in a meta‐analysis of data available for marine organisms, with special reference to domain‐specific limits. For an explanation of the patterns and differences observed, we define and quantify a proxy for organismic complexity across species from all domains. Rising complexity causes heat (and hypoxia) tolerances to decrease from Archaea to Bacteria to uni‐ and then multicellular Eukarya. Within and across domains, taxon‐specific tolerance limits likely reflect ultimate evolutionary limits of its species to acclimatization and adaptation. We hypothesize that rising taxon‐specific complexities in structure and function constrain organisms to narrower environmental ranges. Low complexity as in Archaea and some Bacteria provide life options in extreme environments. In the warmest oceans, temperature maxima reach and will surpass the permanent limits to the existence of multicellular animals, plants and unicellular phytoplankter. Smaller, less complex unicellular Eukarya, Bacteria, and Archaea will thus benefit and predominate even more in a future, warmer, and hypoxic ocean.
Progressive loss of myogenic differentiation in leiomyosarcoma has prognostic value
Authors: Demicco Elizabeth G , Boland Genevieve M , Brewer Savannah Kari J , Lusby Kristelle , Young Eric D , Ingram Davis , Watson Kelsey L , Bailey Marshall , Guo Xiangqian , Hornick Jason L , van de Rijn Matt , Wang Wei‐Lien , Torres Keila E , Lev Dina , Lazar Alexander J
Published: May 2014

Aims

Well‐differentiated leiomyosarcomas show morphologically recognizable smooth muscle differentiation, whereas poorly differentiated tumours may form a spectrum with a subset of undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas. The expression of certain muscle markers has been reported to have prognostic impact. We investigated the correlation between the morphological spectrum and the muscle marker expression profile of leiomyosarcoma, and the impact of these factors on patient outcomes.

Methods and results

Tissue microarrays including 202 non‐uterine and 181 uterine leiomyosarcomas with a spectrum of tumour morphologies were evaluated for expression of immunohistochemical markers of muscle differentiation. Poorly differentiated tumours frequently lost one or more conventional smooth muscle markers [smooth muscle actin, desmin, h‐caldesmon, and smooth muscle myosin (P < 0.0001)], as well as the more recently described markers SLMAP, MYLK, and ACTG2 (P < 0.0001). In primary tumours, both desmin and CFL2 expression predicted improved overall survival in multivariate analyses (P = 0.0111 and P = 0.043, respectively). Patients with muscle marker‐enriched tumours (expressing all four conventional markers or any three of ACTG2, CFL2, CASQ2, MYLK, and SLMAP) had improved overall survival (P < 0.05) in univariate analyses.

Conclusions

Morphologically and immunohistochemically, poorly differentiated leiomyosarcomas can masquerade as undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas with progressive loss of muscle markers. The expression of muscle markers has prognostic significance in primary leiomyosarcomas independently of tumour morphology.
Triassic warm subduction in northeastTurkey: Evidence from theAğvanis metamorphic rocks
Authors: Topuz Gültekin , Okay Aral I. , Altherr Rainer , Schwarz Winfried H. , Sunal Gürsel , Altınkaynak Lütfi
Published: May 2014

Within theTethyan realm, data for the subduction history of thePermo–TriassicTethys in the form of accretionary complexes are scarce, coming mainly from northwestTurkey andTibet. Herein we present field geological, petrological and geochronological data on aTriassic accretionary complex, the Ağvanis metamorphic rocks, from northeastTurkey. TheAğvanis metamorphic rocks form aSSE–NNWtrending lozenge‐shaped horst, ∼20 km long and ∼6 km across, bounded by the strands of the activeNorthAnatolianFault close to the collision zone between theEasternPontides and theMenderes–TaurusBlock. The rocks consist mainly of greenschist‐ to epidote‐amphibolite‐facies metabasite, phyllite, marble and minor metachert and serpentinite, interpreted as a metamorphic accretionary complex based on the oceanic rock types and ocean island basaltic, mid‐ocean ridge basaltic and island‐arc tholeiitic affinities of the metabasites. This rock assemblage was intruded by stocks and dikes ofEarlyEocene quartz diorite, leucogranodiorite and dacite porphyry. Metamorphic conditions are estimated to be 470–540°Cand ∼0.60–0.90 GPa.Stepwise40Ar/39Ar dating of phengite–muscovite separates sampled outside the contact metamorphic aureoles yielded steadily increasing age spectra with the highest incremental stage corresponding to age values ranging from ∼180 to 209 Ma, suggesting that the metamorphism occurred at ≥ 209 Ma. Thus, theAğvanis metamorphic rocks represent the vestiges of theLateTriassic or slightly older subduction in northeastTurkey. EstimatedP–Tconditions indicate higher temperatures than those predicted by steady state thermal models for average subduction zones, and can best be accounted for by a hot subduction zone, similar to the present‐dayCascadia. Contact metamorphic mineral assemblages around anEarlyEocene quartz diorite stock, on the other hand, suggest that the present‐day erosion level was at depths of ∼14 km during theEarlyEocene, indicative of reburial of the metamorphic rocks. Partial disturbance of white‐micaAr–Ar age spectra was probably caused by the reburial coupled with heat input by igneous activity, which is probably related to thrusting due to the continental collision betweenEasternPontides and theMenderes–TaurusBlock.
Crystal Structure and Dielectric Properties of Bi2((Mg1/3Nb2/3)1‐xTix)2O7 Ceramics
Authors: Dong Siyuan , Fan Xiaojian , Wang Xiaoli
Published: May 2014

Bi2((Mg1/3Nb2/3)1‐xTix)2O7 ceramics with 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.4 were synthesized using solid‐state reaction method and could be sintered densely at low temperature under 950 °C. The crystal structure is pure cubic pyrochlore for the compositions with 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.3. When x > 0.3, it transforms from orthorhombic weberite into cubic pyrochlore with the increase in sintering temperature. Permittivity of cubic pyrochlore Bi2((Mg1/3Nb2/3)1‐xTix)2O7 ceramics with 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.2 is ~160. In addition, the ceramics have very low dielectric loss (<4 × 10−4) and tunable temperature coefficient of capacitance from −300 to −500 ppm/°C with the increase in Ti content. These merits make the compositions be potential candidates for multilayer ceramic capacitors and low‐temperature co‐fired ceramics.
Preparation and Microwave Absorption Properties of Ti3AlC2 Synthesized by Pressureless Sintering TiC/Ti/Al
Authors: Shi Yimin , Luo Fa , Liu Yi , Zhou Wancheng , Zhang Xinhui
Published: May 2014

The Ti3AlC2 powders were synthesized by pressureless sintering method at 1250–1400°C. It was found the powders synthesized at 1350°C had a higher purity. Dielectric and microwave absorption properties of the Ti3AlC2 powders were investigated in the frequency range from 8.2 to 12.4 GHz. The complex permittivity of the Ti3AlC2/paraffin decreased with increasing calcining temperature and decreasing Ti3AlC2 content. The minimum reflection loss of the Ti3AlC2/paraffin shifted to the lower‐frequency region by increasing the thickness. For the single‐layer Ti3AlC2/paraffin mixture with 70 wt% Ti3AlC2 content, the reflection loss values exceeding −10 dB were achieved when the thickness is 2.8 mm.
Milling, Sintering and Crystallization of 11BaO‐25CaO‐64SiO2 Glass Powder
Authors: Fest Sarah , Reinsch Stefan , Mueller Ralf
Published: May 2014

The crystallization of 11BaO‐25CaO‐64SiO2 mol% glass powders and related effects of glass powder milling have been studied by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). Glass powders were made by ZrO2 crushing with subsequent sieving or sedimentation or alternatively made by milling with agate, corundum and tungsten carbide. Although surface crystallization was detectable during late sintering, all powders fully sintered. Wollastonite was found as primary crystal phase followed by cristobalite and sanbornite precipitation. The latter crystallization steps caused a second DTA‐peak for fine powders. DTA‐peak temperatures shifted to lower temperature with decreasing particle size in any case. No significant effects of milling materials on DTA‐peak temperatures were evident. As an exception, however, milling in agate caused strongly decreased temperatures of the second DTA‐peak. This observation can be explained by the progressive mechanical damaging, which results from the required prolonged milling time with agate due to its small materials density, and the fact that diamond made scratches did promote surface crystallization of cristobalite. The present study thus shows that even for glass powders with excellent sinterability, milling can affect microstructure evolution.
Conflict of roles: A conflict of ideas? The unsettled relations between care team staff and independent mental health advocates
Authors: McKeown Mick , Ridley Julie , Newbigging Karen , Machin Karen , Poursanidou Konstantina , Cruse Kaaren
Published: May 2014

Drawing on a national study of independent mental health advocacy, we explored the social relations of independent advocacy. The study was commissioned by the Department of Health (England), and involved a case study design covering eight different geographies and service configurations, and interviews or focus groups with a total of 289 stakeholders across two phases of inquiry. This paper focused on the analysis of qualitative data relevant to the relationship between mental health‐care services and independent advocacy services, drawn from interviews with 214 participants in phase two of the study. Discussion of these particular findings affords insights into the working relations of independent advocacy within mental health services beset by reorganizational change and funding cuts, and increasing levels of legally‐sanctioned compulsion and coercion. We offer a matrix, which accounts for the different types of working relationships that can arise, and how these are associated with various levels of understanding of independent advocacy and appreciation for the value of advocacy. The discussion is framed by the wider literature on advocacy and the claims by practitioners, such as nurses, for an advocacy role as part of their professional repertoire.
High‐Precision Fe and Mg Isotope Ratios of Silicate Reference Glasses Determined In Situ by Femtosecond LA‐MC‐ICP‐MS and by Solution Nebulisation MC‐ICP‐MS
Authors: Oeser Martin , Weyer Stefan , Horn Ingo , Schuth Stephan
Published: May 2014

In this study, a technique for high precision in situ Fe and Mg isotope determinations by femtosecond‐laser ablation‐multi collector‐ICP‐MS (fs‐LA‐MC‐ICP‐MS) was developed. This technique was employed to determine reference values for a series of common reference glasses that may be used for external standardisation of in situ Fe and Mg isotope determinations in silicates. The analysed glasses are part of the MPI‐DING and United States Geological Survey (USGS) reference glass series, consisting of basaltic (BIR‐1G, BCR‐2G, BHVO‐2G, KL2‐G, ML3B‐G) and komatiitic (GOR128‐G and GOR132‐G) compositions. Their Fe and Mg isotope compositions were determined by in situ fs‐LA‐MC‐ICP‐MS and by conventional solution nebulisation multi‐collector ICP‐MS. We determined δ56Fe values for these glasses ranging between ‐0.04‰ and 0.10‰ (relative to IRMM‐014) and δ26Mg values ranging between ‐0.40‰ and ‐0.15‰ (relative to DSM‐3). Our fs‐LA‐MC‐ICP‐MS results for both Fe and Mg isotope compositions agreed with solution nebulisation analyses within analytical uncertainties. Furthermore, the results of three USGS reference glasses (BIR‐1G, BHVO‐2G and BCR‐2G) agreed with previous results for powdered and dissolved aliquots of the same reference materials. Measurement reproducibilities of the in situ determinations of δ56Fe and δ26Mg values were usually better than 0.12‰ and 0.13‰ (2s), respectively. We further demonstrate that our technique is a suitable tool to resolve isotopic zoning in chemically‐zoned olivine crystals. It may be used for a variety of different applications on isotopically‐zoned minerals, e.g., in magmatic or metamorphic rocks or meteorites, to unravel their formation or cooling rates.
Two‐Phase LaLuZr2O7 Transparent Ceramic with High Transparency
Authors: Wang Zhengjuan , Zhou Guohong , Qin Xianpeng , Zhang Fang , Ai Jianping , Liu Peng , Wang Shiwei
Published: May 2014

Two‐phase LaLuZr2O7 transparent ceramic was fabricated via vacuum sintering using powders obtained by a simple sol–gel combustion method. These two phases are pyrochlore and defective fluorite phase with different chemical components. The in‐line transmittance of LaLuZr2O7 transparent ceramic is 73.4% at 1100 nm, showing an excellent optical performance. LaLuZr2O7 transparent ceramic is a promising candidate for scintillator host due to its high density (6.82 g/cm3).
Structural and Optical Properties of Erbium and Ytterbium Codoped Germanoniobophosphate Glasses
Authors: de Mello Laura B. , Sigoli Fernando A. , Mazali Italo Odone
Published: May 2014

A series of glasses with compositions of 20Na2O–30Nb2O5–(5−y−z)Al2O3–30P2O5–(15−x)TiO2–xGeO2–yEr2O3–zYb2O3, where x = (0; 5; 10; 15), y = (0; 1), z = (0; 2) mol%, were investigated with respect to their structural, optical, and luminescence properties. The coordination of the germanium(IV) ion is normally reported as being mainly tetrahedral. However, results of this study suggest that the germanium(IV) ion may have an octahedral coordination and that TiO2 is substituted. This proposition can be done mainly by 31P MAS‐NMR spectroscopy, which spectra show predominantly pyrophosphate chains in the different glasses, without changes in their polymerization after substitution. A similar coordination of germanium can also be identified by the photoluminescence behavior of the different codoped samples, which shows similar erbium(III) emission decay lifetimes (5 ms), and Judd–Ofelt intensity parameters. It was found that the upconversion emission process involved 1.5 photons. Regarding the thermal behavior, it is noted that the glasses containing higher proportions of GeO2 exhibit higher thermal stability and are therefore more resistant to devitrification when compared to compositions containing more TiO2.
Inter‐Arm Blood Pressure Difference in Hospitalized Elderly Patients—Is It Consistent?
Authors: Grossman Alon , Weiss Avraham , Beloosesky Yichayaou , Morag‐Koren Nira , Green Hefziba , Grossman Ehud
Published: May 2014

Inter‐arm blood pressure difference (IAD) is recognized as a risk factor for cardiovascular mortality. Its reproducibility in the elderly is unknown. The authors determined the prevalence and reproducibility of IAD in hospitalized elderly patients. Blood pressure was measured simultaneously in both arms on two different days in elderly individuals hospitalized in a geriatric ward. The study included 364 elderly patients (mean age, 85±5 years). Eighty‐four patients (23%) had systolic IAD >10 and 62 patients (17%) had diastolic IAD >10 mm Hg. A total of 319 patients had two blood pressure measurements. Systolic and diastolic IAD remained in the same category in 203 (64%) and 231 (72%) patients, respectively. Correlations of systolic and diastolic IAD between the two measurements were poor. Consistency was not affected by age, body mass index, comorbidities, or treatment. IAD is extremely common in hospitalized elderly patients, but, because of poor consistency, its clinical significance in this population is uncertain.
The effect of habitat on modern shark diversification
Authors: Sorenson L. , Santini F. , Alfaro M. E.
Published: May 2014

Sharks occupy marine habitats ranging from shallow, inshore environments to pelagic, and deepwaters, and thus provide a model system for testing how gross habitat differences have shaped vertebrate macroevolution. Palaeontological studies have shown that onshore lineages diversify more quickly than offshore taxa. Among onshore habitats, coral reef‐association has been shown to increase speciation rates in several groups of fishes and invertebrates. In this study, we investigated whether speciation rates are habitat dependent by generating the first comprehensive molecular timescale for shark divergence. Using phylogenetic comparative methods, we rejected the hypothesis that shelf (i.e. onshore) lineages have higher speciation rates compared to those occupying deepwater and oceanic (i.e. offshore) habitats. Our results, however, support the hypothesis of increased speciation rates in coral reef‐associated lineages within the Carcharhinidae. Our new timetree suggests that the two major shark lineages leading to the extant shark diversity began diversifying mostly after the end‐Permian mass extinction: the squalimorphs into deepwater and the galeomorphs into shelf habitats. We suggest that the breakdown of the onshore–offshore speciation rate pattern in sharks is mediated by success in deepwater environments through ecological partitioning, and in some cases, the evolution of morphological novelty.
Does relaxed predation drive phenotypic divergence among insular populations?
Authors: Runemark A. , Brydegaard M. , Svensson E. I.
Published: May 2014

The evolution of striking phenotypes on islands is a well‐known phenomenon, and there has been a long‐standing debate on the patterns of body size evolution on islands. The ecological causes driving divergence in insular populations are, however, poorly understood. Reduced predator fauna is expected to lower escape propensity, increase body size and relax selection for crypsis in small‐bodied, insular prey species. Here, we investigated whether escape behaviour, body size and dorsal coloration have diverged as predicted under predation release in spatially replicated islet and mainland populations of the lizard speciesPodarcis gaigeae. We show that islet lizards escape approaching observers at shorter distances and are larger than mainland lizards. Additionally, we found evidence for larger between‐population variation in body size among the islet populations than mainland populations. Moreover, islet populations are significantly more divergent in dorsal coloration and match their respective habitats poorer than mainland lizards. These results strongly suggest that predation release on islets has driven population divergence in phenotypic and behavioural traits and that selective release has affected both trait means and variances. Relaxed predation pressure is therefore likely to be one of the major ecological factors driving body size divergence on these islands.
Evolution of alternative male morphotypes in oxyurid nematodes: a case of convergence?
Authors: Jorge F. , Perera A. , Roca V. , Carretero M. A. , Harris D. J. , Poulin R.
Published: May 2014

Male dimorphism has been reported across different taxa and is usually expressed as the coexistence of a larger morph with exaggerated male traits and a smaller one with reduced traits. The evolution and maintenance of male dimorphism are still poorly understood for several of the species in which it has been observed. Here, we analyse male dimorphism in several species of reptile parasitic nematodes of the genus Spauligodon, in which a major male morph (exaggerated morph), which presents the traditional male morphological traits reported for this taxon, coexists with a minor morph with reduced morphological traits (i.e. reduced genital papillae) resembling more closely the males of the sister genus Skrjabinodon than Spauligodon major males. Because of the level of uncertainty in the results of ancestral state reconstruction, it is unclear if the existence of male dimorphism in this group represents independent instances of convergent evolution or an ancestral trait lost multiple times. Also, although the number of major males per host was positively correlated with the number of females, the same did not hold true for minor males, whose presence was not associated with any other ecological factor. Nevertheless, the existence of male dimorphism in Spauligodon nematodes is tentatively interpreted as resulting from alternative reproductive tactics, with differences in presence and number of individuals as indicators of differences in fitness, with the lower numbers of minor males per host likely maintained by negative frequency‐dependent selection.
Evaluation of different screw fixation techniques and screw diameters in sagittal split ramus osteotomy: finite element analysis method
Authors: Sindel A. , Demiralp S. , Colok G.
Published: May 2014

Sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) is used for correction of numerous congenital or acquired deformities in facial region. Several techniques have been developed and used to maintain fixation and stabilisation following SSRO application. In this study, the effects of the insertion formations of the bicortical different sized screws to the stresses generated by forces were studied. Three‐dimensional finite elements analysis (FEA) and static linear analysis methods were used to investigate difference which would occur in terms of forces effecting onto the screws and transmitted to bone between different application areas. No significant difference was found between 1·5‐ and 2‐mm screws used in SSRO fixation. Besides, it was found that ‘inverted L’ application was more successful compared to the others and that was followed by ‘L’ and ‘linear’ formations which showed close rates to each other. Few studies have investigated the effect of thickness and application areas of bicortical screws. This study was performed on both advanced and regressed jaws positions.
Relationship between frontal craniofacial morphology and horizontal balance of lip‐closing forces during lip pursing
Authors: Mizuno R. , Yamada K. , Murakami M. , Kaede K. , Masuda Y.
Published: May 2014

The objectives of this study were to quantitatively evaluate the relationship between frontal craniofacial morphology and the horizontal balance of the lip‐closing forces (LCF) generated during maximum voluntary pursing‐like movements in patients with mandibular deviation. Thirty‐one subjects (median age 25·4 ± 8·9 years) without a history of orthodontic treatment were randomly selected from among the orthodontic patients who visited our hospital. Lip‐closing forces was recorded in eight directions during maximum voluntary pursing‐like lip‐closing movements. The subjects were divided into the deviation (two males and 11 females) and non‐deviation groups (four males and 14 females). There was no significant difference in the total LCF between the deviation and non‐deviation groups. In the deviation group, the mean LCF value on the deviation side of the upper lip was significantly lower than that detected on the non‐deviation side of the upper lip, while the mean LCF value for the deviation side of the lower lip was significantly higher than that for the non‐deviation side of the lower lip. In contrast, no significant difference in upper or lower lip LCF was detected between the deviation and non‐deviation sides in the non‐deviation group. The difference in the LCF generated in the lower lip between the deviation and non‐deviation sides was significantly positively correlated with mandibular menton deviation and significantly negatively correlated with the difference in maxillary height between the deviation and non‐deviation sides. These results suggest that the horizontal balance of the upper and lower lip LCF produced during pursing‐like lip‐closing movements in patients with mandibular deviation is related to frontal craniofacial morphology.
Low birthweight and elevated levels of lipoprotein(a) in prepubertal children
Authors: Rodríguez‐Moran Martha , Guerrero‐Romero Fernando
Published: May 2014

Aim

To evaluate whether healthy prepubertal children with low birthweight (LBW) exhibited higher serum levels of lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) than did those with normal birthweight (NBW).

Methods

A total of 350 healthy children aged 6 to 9 years and in Tanner stage 1 were enrolled in a community‐based cross‐sectional study. Family history of hypertension, diabetes or cardiovascular disease (CVD) in parents and grandparents; active smoking; a diagnosis of acute or chronic illness; and intake of vitamins or nutritional supplements were exclusion criteria. The cut‐off point for Lp(a) was 0.79 μmol/L.

Results

LBW was identified in 51 (14.6%) children. In total, 42 (12.0%) children had elevated Lp(a) levels, with 25 (49.0%) and 17 (5.7%) in the LBW and NBW groups, respectively (P < 0.0005). None of the children had adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Average body mass index (BMI) (17.1 ± 3.3 and 18.8 ± 3.9, P = 0.001), glucose levels (4.5 ± 0.5 and 4.8 ± 0.4 mmol/L, P = 0.007), insulin levels (67.4 ± 45.1 and 86.1 ± 54.9 pmol/L, P = 0.02), and Lp(a) levels (0.52 ± 0.21 and 1.40 ± 0.49 μmol/L, P < 0.0005) were higher in the children with LBW than in the children with NBW. A multivariate analysis adjusted by age, sex, raw BMI, BMI standard deviation score and insulin level showed a significant association between LBW and elevated levels of Lp(a) (odds ratio 8.02, 95% confidence interval 7.3–21.3; P < 0.0005).

Conclusions

LBW was shown to be strongly associated with elevated serum levels of Lp(a).
Innovation Performance in New Product Development Teams in China's Technology Ventures: The Role of Behavioral Integration Dimensions and Collective Efficacy
Authors: Liu Jingjiang , Chen Jiyao , Tao Yi
Published: May 2014

In emerging markets, technology ventures increasingly rely on new product development (NPD) teams to generate creative ideas and to mold these innovative ideas into streams of new products or services. However, little is known about how behavioral integration (a behavioral team process) and collective efficacy (a motivational team process) jointly facilitate or inhibit team innovation performance in emerging markets—especially in China, the world's largest emerging‐market setting with collectivist and high power distance cultures. Drawing on social cognitive theory and behavioral integration research, this article elucidates the relationships between behavioral integration dimensions (i.e., collaborative behavior, information exchange, and joint decision‐making) and innovation performance and also examines how collective efficacy moderates these relationships in China's NPD teams.

Results from a sample of 96 NPD teams in China's technology ventures reveal that information exchange is positively associated with innovation performance. Collaborative behavior positively but marginally influences innovation performance, whereas joint decision‐making does not relate to innovation performance. Moreover, collective efficacy demonstrates an important moderating role. Specifically, both collaborative behavior and joint decision‐making are more positively associated with innovation performance when collective efficacy is higher. In contrast, information exchange is less positively associated with innovation performance when collective efficacy is higher.

This study makes important theoretical contributions to the literature on team innovation and behavioral integration in emerging markets by offering a better understanding of how behavioral and motivational team processes jointly shape innovation performance in China's NPD teams. This study also extends social cognitive theory by identifying collective efficacy as a boundary condition for the overall effectiveness of behavioral integration dimensions. In particular, this study highlights the condition under which behavioral integration dimensions facilitate or inhibit NPD team innovation performance in China.
Sexual Dysfunction in Men Seeking Treatment for Opioid Dependence: A Study from India
Authors: Venkatesh Kandappan , Mattoo Surendra K. , Grover Sandeep
Published: May 2014

Introduction

There is limited literature on opioid dependence patients for the prevalence of sexual dysfunction as assessed by validated questionnaires.

Aim

To study the prevalence and specified demographic and clinical correlates of sexual dysfunction in men seeking treatment for opioid dependence by using multiple validated instruments.

Methods

Men with opioid dependence for at least 1 year as per DSM-IV (confirmed by Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview) (OD group, N = 100) and matched healthy controls (HC group, N = 50) were evaluated for sexual dysfunction.

Main Outcome Measures

Arizona Sexual Experience Questionnaire (ASEX), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire Short-Form (CSFQ-14).

Results

In men seeking treatment for opioid dependence sexual dysfunction was recorded in 48% by ASEX, and in at least one of the domains in 92% by IIEF and in 90% by CSFQ; in comparison with the healthy controls, the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients with opioid dependence was significantly higher by each measure.

Conclusions

Compared with healthy controls, sexual dysfunction rates are higher in patients seeking treatment for opioid dependence.
A systematic review of interventions to promote physical activity in the preschool setting
Authors: Temple Melissa , Robinson Jennifer C.
Published: May 2014

Purpose

Conduct a systematic review of school‐based interventions to promote physical activity in preschoolers.

Design and Methods

A systematic search of literature between 2002 and 2014 in nine electronic databases and reference lists was conducted using the terms physical activity combined with environment, children, or interventions.

Results

Fourteen articles were identified. Interventions were environmental, cognitive/behavioral, or a combination. Positive interventions involving preschool children included manipulation of the playground with the number of children playing at one time, markings, or equipment, and goal setting and reinforcement.

Practice Implications

More research is needed to determine interventions to promote physical activity in preschool children.
Postglacial climate changes and rise of three ecotypes of harbour porpoises, Phocoena phocoena, in western Palearctic waters
Authors: Fontaine Michaël C. , Roland Kathleen , Calves Isabelle , Austerlitz Frederic , Palstra Friso P. , Tolley Krystal A. , Ryan Sean , Ferreira Marisa , Jauniaux Thierry , Llavona Angela , Öztürk Bayram , Öztürk Ayaka A. , Ridoux Vincent , Rogan Emer , Sequeira Marina , Siebert Ursula , Vikingsson Gísli A. , Borrell Asunción , Michaux Johan R. , Aguilar Alex
Published: May 2014

Despite no obvious barriers to gene flow in the marine realm, environmental variation and ecological specializations can lead to genetic differentiation in highly mobile predators. Here, we investigated the genetic structure of the harbour porpoise over the entire species distribution range in western Palearctic waters. Combined analyses of 10 microsatellite loci and a 5085 base‐pair portion of the mitochondrial genome revealed the existence of three ecotypes, equally divergent at the mitochondrial genome, distributed in the Black Sea (BS), the European continental shelf waters, and a previously overlooked ecotype in the upwelling zones of Iberia and Mauritania. Historical demographic inferences using approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) suggest that these ecotypes diverged during the last glacial maximum (c. 23–19 kilo‐years ago, kyrbp). ABC supports the hypothesis that the BS and upwelling ecotypes share a more recent common ancestor (c. 14 kyrbp) than either does with the European continental shelf ecotype (c. 28 kyrbp), suggesting they probably descended from the extinct populations that once inhabited the Mediterranean during the glacial and post‐glacial period. We showed that the two Atlantic ecotypes established a narrow admixture zone in the Bay of Biscay during the last millennium, with highly asymmetric gene flow. This study highlights the impacts that climate change may have on the distribution and speciation process in pelagic predators and shows that allopatric divergence can occur in these highly mobile species and be a source of genetic diversity.
Effects of new mutations on fitness: insights from models and data
Authors: Bataillon Thomas , Bailey Susan F.
Published: May 2014

The rates and properties of new mutations affecting fitness have implications for a number of outstanding questions in evolutionary biology. Obtaining estimates of mutation rates and effects has historically been challenging, and little theory has been available for predicting the distribution of fitness effects (DFE); however, there have been recent advances on both fronts. Extreme‐value theory predicts the DFE of beneficial mutations in well‐adapted populations, while phenotypic fitness landscape models make predictions for the DFE of all mutations as a function of the initial level of adaptation and the strength of stabilizing selection on traits underlying fitness. Direct experimental evidence confirms predictions on the DFE of beneficial mutations and favors distributions that are roughly exponential but bounded on the right. A growing number of studies infer the DFE using genomic patterns of polymorphism and divergence, recovering a wide range of DFE. Future work should be aimed at identifying factors driving the observed variation in the DFE. We emphasize the need for further theory explicitly incorporating the effects of partial pleiotropy and heterogeneity in the environment on the expected DFE.
Continuing challenges in influenza
Authors: Webster Robert G. , Govorkova Elena A.
Published: May 2014

Influenza is an acute respiratory disease in mammals and domestic poultry that emerges from zoonotic reservoirs in aquatic birds and bats. Although influenza viruses are among the most intensively studied pathogens, existing control options require further improvement. Influenza vaccines must be regularly updated because of continuous antigenic drift and sporadic antigenic shifts in the viral surface glycoproteins. Currently, influenza therapeutics are limited to neuraminidase inhibitors; novel drugs and vaccine approaches are therefore urgently needed. Advances in vaccinology and structural analysis have revealed common antigenic epitopes on hemagglutinins across all influenza viruses and suggest that a universal influenza vaccine is possible. In addition, various immunomodulatory agents and signaling pathway inhibitors are undergoing preclinical development. Continuing challenges in influenza include the emergence of pandemic H1N1 influenza in 2009, human infections with avian H7N9 influenza in 2013, and sporadic human cases of highly pathogenic avian H5N1 influenza. Here, we review the challenges facing influenza scientists and veterinary and human public health officials; we also discuss the exciting possibility of achieving the ultimate goal of controlling influenza's ability to change its antigenicity.
Symposium report: the prevention of obesity and NCDs: challenges and opportunities for governments
Authors: Lobstein Tim , Brinsden Hannah
Published: May 2014

This paper is written as a briefing document with the aim of providing support to policy‐makers and government officials tackling obesity and related non‐communicable diseases. It is based on a symposium Obesity and non‐communicable diseases: Learning from international experiences convened by the International Association for the Study of Obesity (now the World Obesity Federation) and its policy section, the International Obesity TaskForce (now World Obesity – Policy and Prevention). The symposium discussed a wide range of proposals to tackle the consumption of unhealthy food products, including interventions in the market through fiscal policies and marketing restrictions, measures to strengthen public health legislation and measures to limit agri‐food company lobbying activities. It recognized the need for government leadership and action in order to reduce preventable deaths while improving economic performance and identified a need for governments to take a systems wide approach to tackling obesity and to work with civil society, especially to monitor the drivers of disease and to hold all stakeholders accountable for progress.
Meta‐analysis on night shift work and risk of metabolic syndrome
Authors: Wang F. , Zhang L. , Zhang Y. , Zhang B. , He Y. , Xie S. , Li M. , Miao X. , Chan E. Y. Y. , Tang J. L. , Wong M. C. S. , Li Z. , Yu I. T. S. , Tse L. A.
Published: May 2014

This study aims to quantitatively summarize the association between night shift work and the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS), with special reference to the dose–response relationship with years of night shift work. We systematically searched all observational studies published in English on PubMed and Embase from 1971 to 2013. We extracted effect measures (relative risk, RR; or odd ratio, OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) from individual studies to generate pooled results using meta‐analysis approach. Pooled RR was calculated using random‐ or fixed‐effect model. Downs and Black scale was applied to assess the methodological quality of included studies. A total of 13 studies were included. The pooled RR for the association between ‘ever exposed to night shift work’ and MetS risk was 1.57 (95% CI = 1.24–1.98, pheterogeneity = 0.001), while a higher risk was indicated in workers with longer exposure to night shifts (RR = 1.77, 95% CI = 1.32–2.36, pheterogeneity = 0.936). Further stratification analysis demonstrated a higher pooled effect of 1.84 (95% CI = 1.45–2.34) for studies using the NCEP‐ATPIII criteria, among female workers (RR = 1.61, 95% CI = 1.10–2.34) and the countries other than Asia (RR = 1.65, 95% CI = 1.39–1.95). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the results. No evidence of publication bias was detected. The present meta‐analysis suggested that night shift work is significantly associated with the risk of MetS, and a positive dose–response relationship with duration of exposure was indicated.
Staged Treatment of Proximal Tibial Fracture Using External Locking Compression Plate
Authors: Ebraheim Nabil A. , Carroll Trevor , Hanna Maged , Zhang Jingwei , Liu Jiayong
Published: May 2014

Objective

To share our preliminary clinical success and failure with using an external locking compression plate (LCP) for proximal tibial fractures, further refine the indications for this procedure and review relevant published reports.

Methods

The current study reports two cases of proximal tibial fracture treated with external LCP as the second stage of a two‐stage treatment. One patient was a 59‐year‐old man with a closed proximal tibial/fibular fracture caused by falling on ice while getting out of his car, and another patient was a 42‐year‐old male smoker with right comminuted proximal tibia, tibial plateau and proximal fibular fractures. The outcomes were evaluated by radiographs and weight bearing status.

Results

In the first case, the fracture healed uneventfully whereas the second case required further open‐reduction with internal fixation because correct alignment could not be achieved with an external LCP.

Conclusion

Correct alignment of proximal tibial fractures followed by use of an external LCP can achieve favorable outcomes.
Tumor‐to‐background Ratio to Predict Response to Chemotherapy of Osteosarcoma Better than Standard Uptake Values
Authors: He Jin‐peng , Hao Yun , Li Mi , Wang Jiang , Guo Feng‐jin
Published: May 2014

Objective

According to the current treatment protocol of the Cooperative Osteosarcoma Study, it is mandatory to determine the histological response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy treatment before surgical removal of the tumor, particularly if a limb salvage procedure is planned. The aim of this systematic, retrospective study was to evaluate the ability of 2‐(18F) fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose positron‐emission tomography/computed tomography to predict chemotherapy response of osteosarcoma and to identify a simple promising method for noninvasive evaluation of neoadjuvant chemotherapy response in osteosarcoma.

Methods

The PubMed database was searched to identify and analyze relevant published reports. In particular, correlations between tumor‐to‐background ratio (TBR), standard uptake value (SUV) and histological response to chemotherapy were assessed.

Results

It was found that good responses are achieved in patients with TBR after chemotherapy (TBR2)/TBR before chemotherapy (TBR1) < 0.470 (positive predictive value [PPV] = 92.31%, negative predictive value [NPV] = 82.76%, sensitivity [S] = 87.80%, specificity [SP] = 88.89%), whereas poor responses occur in patients with SUV after chemotherapy/before chemotherapy (SUV2/SUV1) > 0.396 (PPV = 73.68%, NPV = 73.33%, S = 63.64%, SP = 81.48%).

Conclusion

Changes in TBR are better predictors of chemotherapy response than SUV in osteosarcoma patients. Therefore, we believe that choice of surgical strategy is optimally based on changes in TBR.
Femoral Stress and Strain Changes post‐Hip, ‐Knee and ‐Ipsilateral Hip/Knee Arthroplasties: a Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Sun Zhen‐hui , Liu Yue‐ju , Li Heng
Published: May 2014

Objective

To identify the optimal ratio of free femur for minimizing the risks of periprosthetic fracture.

Methods

Three dimensional models of the femur with hip and knee stem elongation were constructed. With the distal femoral condylar surface fixed in a three dimensional model, the femoral head loading was performed according to the methods described by Huiskes and van Rietbergen in the models of hip replacement, knee replacement with or without hip stem or knee stem elongation. The maximum principal stress (MPS) and maximum principal elastic strain (MPES) of the femur were recorded and their relationships to the free femur ratio were analyzed using Pearson's correlation analysis.

Results

There were no obvious changes in MPS and MPES with hip stem elongation from 100 to 180 mm. In ipsilateral hip and knee replacement, the MPS and MPES had a tendency to decrease with knee and hip stem elongation. The MPS and MPES were mainly located in the anterior medial side of the middle to distal femur post‐hip replacement and distalized with stem elongation. When the knee stem had been elongated more than 120 mm, the stress and strain concentrated strongly in the middle of the femoral shaft. There was a positive correlation between MPS and MPES to the free femur ratio (P < 0.01); however, no optimal ratio of free femur that would minimize the risks of periprosthetic fracture was identified.

Conclusion

Positive correlations were found between implant free femur and stress and strain changes in total knee arthroplasty, total hip arthroplasty and ipsilateral hip and knee replacement.
Extensively Coated Non‐modular Stem Used in Two‐stage Revision for Infected Total Hip Arthroplasty: Mid‐term to Long‐term Follow‐up
Authors: Shen Bin , Huang Qiang , Yang Jing , Zhou Zong‐ke , Kang Peng‐de , Pei Fu‐xing
Published: May 2014

Objective

To determine the rate of curing the infection and mid‐ to long‐term outcomes of using extensively coated non‐modular stems in two‐stage revision for infected total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods

The clinical data of 33 patients (33 hips) in whom extensively coated non‐modular stems had been used in two‐stage revision THA for deep infection were retrospectively analyzed. All operations received two‐stage reimplantation, which included resection arthroplasty, thorough debridement, insertion of a hand‐molded antibiotic‐impregnated cement spacer with stainless steel reinforcement, a course of intravenous antibiotics, and delayed reimplantation. Microorganism‐specific antibiotics had been chosen according to the results of microbiological studies performed postoperatively. All patients received i.v. antimicrobial therapy for 4 weeks and oral antibiotics to which their organisms were sensitive for a further 6 weeks. Harris hip score (HHS) and plain X‐ray films were used to perform clinical and radiological evaluations.

Results

During follow‐up for a minimum of 5 years, no reinfection or loosening were found. Cultures of samples taken during the second stage were all negative for infection. The mean HHS improved from 42 preoperative to 89 at the final follow‐up. All granular bones had fused well with the host bones by 12 months after the surgery.

Conclusion

Using extensively coated non‐modular stems combined with intramedullary allografts in two‐stage revision for treating infected THAs can achieve satisfactory outcomes.