bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Iris pigmentation as a quantitative trait: variation in populations of European, East Asian and South Asian ancestry and association with candidate gene polymorphisms
Authors: Edwards Melissa , Cha David , Krithika S. , Johnson Monique , Cook Gillian , Parra Esteban J. 
Published: November 2015

SummaryIn this study, we present a new quantitative method to measure iris colour based on high‐resolution photographs. We applied this method to analyse iris colour variation in a sample of individuals of East Asian, European and South Asian ancestry. We show that measuring iris colour using the coordinates of the CIELAB colour space uncovers a significant amount of variation that is not captured using conventional categorical classifications, such as ‘brown’, ‘blue’ or ‘green’. We tested the association of a selected panel of polymorphisms with iris colour in each population group. Six markers showed significant associations with iris colour in the European sample, three in the South Asian sample and two in the East Asian sample. We also observed that the marker HERC2 rs12913832, which is the main determinant of ‘blue’ versus ‘brown’ iris colour in European populations, is also significantly associated with central heterochromia in the European sample.
A Non‐Reciprocal Autosomal Translocation 64,XX, t(4;10)(q21;p15) in an Arabian Mare with Repeated Early Embryonic Loss
Authors: Ghosh S , Das PJ , Avila F , Thwaits BK , Chowdhary BP , Raudsepp T 
Published: November 2015

ContentsBalanced autosomal translocations are a known cause for repeated early embryonic loss (REEL) in horses. In most cases, carriers of such translocations are phenotypically normal, but the chromosomal aberration negatively affects gametogenesis giving rise to both genetically balanced and unbalanced gametes. The latter, if involved in fertilization, result in REEL, whereas gametes with the balanced form of translocation will pass the defect into next generation. Therefore, in order to reduce the incidence of REEL, identification of translocation carriers is critical. Here, we report about a phenotypically normal 3‐year‐old Arabian mare that had repeated resorption of conceptuses prior to day 45 of gestation and was diagnosed with REEL. Conventional and molecular cytogenetic analyses revealed that the mare had normal chromosome number 64,XX but carried a non‐mosaic and non‐reciprocal autosomal translocation t(4;10)(q21;p15). This is a novel translocation described in horses with REEL and the first such report in Arabians. Previous cases of REEL due to autosomal translocations have exclusively involved Thoroughbreds. The findings underscore the importance of routine cytogenetic screening of breeding animals.
Glacitectonism, subglacial and glacilacustrine processes during a Neoproterozoic panglaciation, north‐east Svalbard
Authors: Fleming Edward J. , Benn Douglas I. , Stevenson Carl T. E. , Petronis Michael S. , Hambrey Michael J. , Fairchild Ian J. 
Published: November 2015

AbstractPalaeoenvironmental reconstruction of Neoproterozoic successions has been the subject of long‐standing debate, particularly concerning the interpretation of diamictites. The Wilsonbreen Formation of north‐east Svalbard is a 130 to 180 m thick diamictite‐dominated glacigenic succession deposited during a late Cryogenian (Marinoan) glaciation. Previous research has highlighted a complex sedimentary architecture with evidence of subaqueous, subglacial and non‐glacial conditions. This study combines well‐established sedimentological techniques with the first sedimentological application of the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility technique in Neoproterozoic glacial sediments, to investigate the origin and palaeoenvironmental significance of glacigenic sediments within the Wilsonbreen Formation. A range of lithofacies occurs within the succession, dominated by massive diamictites, sandstones and conglomerates. Some of these facies display evidence of primary deformation and can be grouped into a Deformed Facies Association; these are interpreted to have been formed through glacitectonic deformation in a subglacial environment. Fabric investigation reveals that this deformation was associated with glacier flow towards the north. In addition, an Undeformed Facies Association records deposition in ice‐proximal and ice‐distal subaqueous environments. Taken together with intervening non‐glacial facies, the glacigenic sediments record a series of advance–retreat cycles, with ice flow involving sliding and sediment shearing below wet‐based ice.
Beliefs about intimate partner violence: A survey of the Swedish general public
Authors: Alfredsson Helen , Ask Karl , von Borgstede Chris 
Published: November 2015

Public interventions are considered to be an important means of preventing intimate partner violence (IPV). What people believe about the nature of IPV is likely to determine their propensity to intervene, but little is known at present about IPV beliefs among the general public. In a survey of 650 Swedish citizens, beliefs about the prevalence and causes of IPV, and viable means of intervention were assessed. Respondents estimated, on average, that IPV occurs in almost one quarter of all intimate relationships in Sweden, and that IPV is particularly prevalent in low‐income groups, among non‐European immigrants, in suburban areas, and in couples under the age of 50 years. Physical violence was believed to be the most frequent form of abuse in male offender–female victim cases, whereas psychological violence was considered most frequent in other combinations of offender and victim gender. Female respondents estimated a higher prevalence of IPV, attributed less blame to IPV victims, and suggested more means of intervention, than did male respondents. The findings are discussed in relation to empirical prevalence estimates, and implications are proposed.
Going the Extra Mile? How Street‐level Bureaucrats Deal with the Integration of Immigrants
Authors: Belabas Warda , Gerrits Lasse 
Published: November 2015

AbstractDutch immigration and integration policies are being interpreted and implemented by local street‐level bureaucrats. We carried out 28 semi‐structured interviews with integration coaches, integration teachers and client managers in order to understand the dilemmas they face, and to explain their subsequent behaviour. The results show that although organizational characteristics such as the bureaucratic burden made street‐level bureaucrats reluctant to enlarge their discretionary space at the expense of policy rules, their willingness to help clients often transcends these boundaries under a combination of three conditions: high client motivation, extreme personal distress of the client, and negative assessment of existing policies and policy instruments (both in terms of fairness and practicality). Furthermore, street‐level bureaucrats were found to be constantly reinterpreting and revising their roles.
One Vote or Many Mexicos? Income, Heterogeneity, and the 2006–2012 Presidential Elections*
Authors: Cortina Jeronimo , Lasala‐Blanco Narayani 
Published: November 2015

ObjectiveThis article investigates the role of income and income heterogeneity on voters’ preferences for the conservative party.MethodsFitting a series of logistic regressions on exit poll data from the 2006 and 2012 Mexican presidential elections.ResultsWe find that heterogeneity mediates the effect of income on the probability of voting for the conservative candidate.ConclusionIn more heterogeneous places, rich voters are more likely to support the candidate on the right than their counterparts in more homogeneous places, while poorer voters are more likely to vote forPartido Accion Nacionalin less heterogeneous places. In more heterogeneous states, voters are more likely to encounter members of other socioeconomic groups who prompt them to vote for the party that better represents their group's interests.
Peak Vertical Force and Vertical Impulse in Dogs With Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture and Meniscal Injury
Authors: Wustefeld‐Janssens Brandan G. , Pettitt Rob A. , Cowderoy Emily C. , Walton Myles B. , Comerford Eithne J. , Maddox Thomas W. , Innes John F. 
Published: November 2015

ObjectiveTo compare the peak vertical force (PVF) and vertical impulse (VI) in dogs with naturally occurring cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) disease with or without concurrent meniscal injury.Study DesignProspective case series.Study PopulationClient‐owned dogs with naturally occurring CCL disease.MethodsDogs with hind limb lameness because of CCL disease that required surgery underwent force plate gait analysis. Force plate analysis was performed at a walking gait (speed 1–1.3 m/s; acceleration ±0.5 m/s2) and data were analyzed using commercial proprietary software. Meniscal injury was diagnosed either by mini‐arthrotomy or arthroscopy. The primary outcome was PVF and the secondary outcome was VI. Comparisons were made between dogs with or without meniscal injury, and dogs with partial or complete CCL rupture.ResultsForty dogs were included. Meniscal injury was present in 18/40 dogs (45%). PVF (P = .003) and VI (P = .01) were significantly lower in dogs with meniscal injury than in dogs without meniscal injury.ConclusionDogs with CCL disease and medial meniscal injury had significantly reduced PVF and VI.
Relation of Elite Rifle Shooters’ Technique-Test Measures to Competition Performance
Authors: Ihalainen Simo , Linnamo Vesa , Mononen Kaisu , Kuitunen Sami 
Published: November 2015

Purpose:To describe the long-term changes in shooting technique in relation to competition performances in elite air-rifle shooters.Methods:Seventeen elite shooters completed simulated air-rifle shooting-competition series in 3 consecutive seasons, participating on 15 ± 7 testing occasions. Shooting score and aiming-point-trajectory variables were obtained with an optoelectronic shooting device, and postural-balance variables were measured with force platform. Shooters’ competition results were collected from all international and national competitions during the 3-y period.Results:Mean test score, stability of hold, aiming accuracy, cleanness of triggering, and postural balance improved during the 3-y period (ANOVA, time, P < .05−.01). Seasonal mean test results in stability of hold (R = −.70, P = .000) and cleanness of triggering (R = −.75, P = .000) were related to competition performances. Changes in stability of hold (R = −.61, P = .000) and cleanness of triggering (R = −.39, P = .022) were also related to the changes in competition performances. Postural balance in shooting direction was more related to cleanness of triggering (R = .57, P = .000), whereas balance in cross-shooting direction was more related to stability of hold (R = .70, P = .000).Conclusion:The shooting-technique testing used in the current study seems to be a valid and useful tool for long-term performance assessment. Stability of hold, cleanness of triggering, and postural balance can be further developed even at the elite level, resulting in improved competition performances.
C5A Protects Macaques from Vaginal Simian-Human Immunodeficiency Virus Challenge
Authors: Veazey Ronald S. , Chatterji Udayan , Bobardt Michael , Russell-Lodrigue Kasi E. , Li Jian , Wang Xiaolei , Gallay Philippe A. 
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT
A safe and effective vaginal microbicide could decrease human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission in women. Here, we evaluated the safety and microbicidal efficacy of a short amphipathic peptide, C5A, in a rhesus macaque model. We found that a vaginal application of C5A protects 89% of the macaques from a simian-human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV-162P3) challenge. We observed no signs of lesions or inflammation in animals vaginally treated with repeated C5A applications. With its noncellular cytotoxic activity and rare mechanism of action, C5A represents an attractive microbicidal candidate.
In Vitro
Activity of Ceftolozane-Tazobactam against Anaerobic Organisms Identified during the ASPECT-cIAI Study
Authors: Armstrong Eliana S. , Farrell David J. , Palchak Melissa , Steenbergen Judith N. 
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT

The
in vitro
activities of ceftolozane-tazobactam, meropenem, and metronidazole were determined against anaerobic organisms isolated from patients with complicated intraabdominal infections (cIAI) in global phase III studies. Ceftolozane-tazobactam activity was highly variable among different species of the
Bacteroides fragilis
group, with MIC
90
values ranging from 2 to 64 μg/ml. More-potent
in vitro
activity was observed against selected Gram-positive anaerobic organisms; however, small numbers of isolates were available, and, therefore, the clinical significance of these results is unknown. Variable activity of ceftolozane-tazobactam against anaerobic organisms necessitates use in combination with metronidazole for the treatment of cIAI.
Susceptibility of Clostridium difficile Isolates of Varying Antimicrobial Resistance Phenotypes to SMT19969 and 11 Comparators
Authors: Freeman Jane , Vernon Jonathan , Vickers Richard , Wilcox Mark H. 
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT

We determined the
in vitro
activity of SMT19969 and 11 comparators, including metronidazole, vancomycin, and fidaxomicin, against 107
C. difficile
isolates of different antimicrobial resistance phenotypes. Fidaxomicin and SMT19969 were the most active. The fidaxomicin and SMT19969 geometric mean MICs were highest in ribotypes known to show multiple resistance. Coresistance to linezolid and moxifloxacin was evident in ribotypes 001, 017, 027, and 356. The high-level ceftriaxone resistance in ribotypes 356 and 018 was location linked.
Human Herpesvirus 6A U14 Is Important for Virus Maturation
Authors: Mori Junko , Tang Huamin , Kawabata Akiko , Koike Masato , Mori Yasuko 
Published: November 2015

ABSTRACT
Human herpesvirus 6A (HHV-6A) U14 is a virion protein with little known function in virus propagation. Here, we elucidated its function by constructing and analyzing U14-mutated viruses. We found that U14 is essential for HHV-6A propagation. We then constructed a mutant virus harboring dysfunctional U14. This virus showed severely reduced growth and retarded maturation. Taken together, these data indicate that U14 plays an important role during HHV-6A maturation.
Genomic and transcriptomic predictors of triglyceride response to regular exercise
Authors: Sarzynski Mark A , Davidsen Peter K , Sung Yun Ju , Hesselink Matthijs K C , Schrauwen Patrick , Rice Treva K , Rao D C , Falciani Francesco , Bouchard Claude 
Published: November 2015

AimWe performed genome-wide and transcriptome-wide profiling to identify genes and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with the response of triglycerides (TG) to exercise training.MethodsPlasma TG levels were measured before and after a 20-week endurance training programme in 478 white participants from the HERITAGE Family Study. Illumina HumanCNV370-Quad v3.0 BeadChips were genotyped using the Illumina BeadStation 500GX platform. Affymetrix HG-U133+2 arrays were used to quantitate gene expression levels from baseline muscle biopsies of a subset of participants (N=52). Genome-wide association study (GWAS) analysis was performed using MERLIN, while transcriptomic predictor models were developed using the R-package GALGO.ResultsThe GWAS results showed that eight SNPs were associated with TG training-response (ΔTG) at p<9.9×10−6, while another 31 SNPs showed p values <1×10−4. In multivariate regression models, the top 10 SNPs explained 32.0% of the variance in ΔTG, while conditional heritability analysis showed that four SNPs statistically accounted for all of the heritability of ΔTG. A molecular signature based on the baseline expression of 11 genes predicted 27% of ΔTG in HERITAGE, which was validated in an independent study. A composite SNP score based on the top four SNPs, each from the genomic and transcriptomic analyses, was the strongest predictor of ΔTG (R2=0.14, p=3.0×10−68).ConclusionsOur results indicate that skeletal muscle transcript abundance at 11 genes and SNPs at a number of loci contribute to TG response to exercise training. Combining data from genomics and transcriptomics analyses identified a SNP-based gene signature that should be further tested in independent samples.
Validation and application of a core set of patient-relevant outcome domains to assess the effectiveness of multimodal pain therapy (VAPAIN): a study protocol
Authors: Kaiser Ulrike , Kopkow Christian , Deckert Stefanie , Sabatowski Rainer , Schmitt Jochen 
Published: November 2015

IntroductionMultimodal pain therapy (MPT) has been established accounting for biopsychosocial consideration in diagnostic and therapy. MPT seems to be effective, but comparability of studies is limited due to diversity of study designs and outcome measurements. The presented study aims to develop acore outcome setconsisting of a minimum of outcome measures deemed necessary for medical and therapeutic decision-making, which must be measured in all clinical trials and non-randomised intervention studies.Methods and analysisThe study consists of several parts. First, the development and recommendation of preliminary core outcome domains will be based on results of a systematic review and structured online surveys. Participants of the expert panel are representatives of methodological, medical, physiotherapeutic, psychotherapeutic profession and patients suffering from chronic pain (n=25). Subsequently, candidate instruments to measure preliminary core outcome domains will be recommended by these experts. Therefore, systematic reviews on measurement properties of preliminary outcome measures will be conducted and finalised in a consensus meeting. Consented instruments and lacking psychometric properties of relevant instruments will be addressed and validated in the following part, a prospective multicentre study in multimodal pain centres on approximately 300 patients with chronic pain. Based on all previous results, a core outcome set for MPT measured in effectiveness studies and daily recordkeeping will be finalised by consensus. Statistical analyses will be performed according to methodological standards (COSMIN).Ethics and disseminationThe methods and procedure of the study are developed in compliance with the ethical principles of the Helsinki Declaration and Good Epidemiologic Practice. Recruitment of study participants will require approval of the study by the responsible ethics committee and signed informed consent from each participant. Pseudonymised data will be used for statistical analysis.
A cross-sectional study of bacterial vaginosis, intravaginal practices and HIV genital shedding; implications for HIV transmission and women's health
Authors: Alcaide Maria L , Chisembele Maureen , Malupande Emeria , Arheart Kristopher , Fischl Margaret , Jones Deborah L 
Published: November 2015

ObjectivesBacterial vaginosis (BV) is associated with an increased risk of HIV transmission, and intravaginal practices (IVP) are an important risk factor for developing BV. The relationship between IVP, BV and HIV lower genital shedding, responsible for HIV transmission, has not been examined in women receiving antiretrovirals in Zambia.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingCommunity Health Center in Lusaka, Zambia.Participants and methodsParticipants were HIV-infected women receiving antiretroviral therapy and engaging in IVP (n=128). Participants completed audio computer-administered self-interviews to assess IVP and underwent a vaginal examination. BV was diagnosed using Nugent criteria. HIV-1 lower genital shedding was assessed by measuring HIV-1 RNA in cervicovaginal lavages.ResultsMost women engaged in IVP daily (114, 89.0%) and 81 (63.3%) of the participants had BV. HIV-1 genital shedding was detected in 18 (14.2%) participants. BV was associated with daily use of IVP (prevalence ratio, PR=4.58, CI 1.26 to 16.64, p=0.02) and weekly use of traditional medicines for IVP (PR=1.33, CI 1.05 to 1.68, p=0.02). The only factor associated with HIV-1 lower genital shedding was plasma viraemia (PR=4.61, CI 2.02 to 10.54, p<0.001). Neither IVP nor BV were associated with HIV shedding.ConclusionsDespite the frequency of IVP and high prevalence of BV, plasma viraemia was the primary factor associated with HIV lower genital shedding. These findings support early initiation of antiretrovirals as an HIV prevention tool. Given adverse health outcomes associated with BV, the association between frequent IVP and BV, and the powerful local norms and traditions encouraging IVP, there is a need for studies assessing culturally tailored interventions to decrease BV in high-prevalence settings.
Association between secure patient–clinician email and clinical services utilisation in a US integrated health system: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Meng Di , Palen Ted E , Tsai Joanne , McLeod Melanie , Garrido Terhilda , Qian Heather 
Published: November 2015

ObjectiveTo assess associations between secure patient–clinician email use and clinical services utilisation over time.DesignRetrospective cohort study between July 2010 and December 2013. Controlling for a utilisation surge around first secure email use, we analysed difference of differences between propensity score-matched groups of secure patient–clinician email users and non-users for utilisation 1–12 months before and 7–18 months after first email (users) or a randomly assigned index date (non-users).SettingUS integrated healthcare delivery system.Participants9345 adults with first secure email use between July 2011 and July 2012 and continuous enrolment for ≥30 months and 9345 adults without secure email use between July 2010 and July 2012 matched to users on demographics, health status, and baseline utilisation.Primary Outcome MeasuresRates of office visits, patient-initiated phone calls, scheduled telephone visits, after-hours clinic visits, emergency department visits, and hospitalisations.ResultsAfter controlling for multiple factors, no statistically significant differences in utilisation between secure email users and non-users occurred. Utilisation transiently increased by 88–237% around first email use. Annual rates of patient-initiated phone calls decreased among secure email users, 0.2 fewer calls per person (95% CI −0.3 to −0.1), from a mean of 4.1 calls per person 1–12 months before first use to a mean of 3.8 calls per person 7–18 months after first use. Rates of patient-initiated phone calls also decreased among non-users, 0.1 fewer calls per person (95% CI −0.2 to 0.0), from a mean of 4.2 calls per person 1–12 months before the index date to mean of 4.1 calls per person 7–18 months after the index date.ConclusionsCompared with non-users, patient use of secure email with clinicians was not associated with statistically significant differences in clinical services utilisation 7–18 months after first use.