bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil‐mediated effects of invasive ungulates on native tree seedlings
Authors: Kardol Paul , Dickie Ian A. , St. John Mark G. , Husheer Sean W. , Bonner Karen I. , Bellingham Peter J. , Wardle David A.
Published: February 2014

Invasive browsing ungulates can have strong impacts on the structure and composition of forest ecosystems, particularly where ungulates are not native ecosystem components as in New Zealand. Ungulate impacts on plant communities have been considered mostly from an above‐ground perspective. However, understanding below‐ground effects of these invasive herbivores is critical as they may drive feedbacks to above‐ground ecosystem components.

We measured growth responses of seedlings of five common tree species in a greenhouse experiment in soils collected from 26 plots fenced to exclude invasive ungulates for at least 17 years and from paired, unfenced control plots. We then further investigated soil‐mediated effects of ungulates on one tree species, Melicytus ramiflorus, by partitioning these effects into soil abiotic and biotic components, as well as measuring arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) root infection.

Biomass of seedlings of all five species was greater in soils from within exclosures, although this was only significant for two species. These soil‐mediated effects were partially driven by changes in physical and chemical soil properties; soil bulk densities were lower inside exclosures than in controls.

Effects of invasive ungulates on seedling biomass of M. ramiflorus were positively related to effects on per cent AMF root infection. The biomass of M. ramiflorus seedlings was positively related to the AMF infection of its roots, which in turn was related to greater organic matter content and lower bulk density of soils from within exclosures. Results for M. ramiflorus indicated that soil‐mediated effects of ungulates on seedling biomass were of abiotic origin, but were mediated by the biotic soil component, that is, through effects on AMF.

Synthesis. Invasive herbivores may potentially impact on plant performance and community structure not only directly but also indirectly through influencing soil abiotic and biotic properties. Our results show that shifts in plant–soil interactions and feedbacks represent important but understudied pathways by which invasive ungulates can have wide‐ranging impacts on forest ecosystems. Future studies should consider the importance of soil‐mediated effects of invasive ungulates relative to direct effects of herbivory.
Policing Urban Natures: Conservation Officer Work in Ottawa and Toronto, Canada
Authors: Walby Kevin , Hurl Chris
Published: February 2014

Drawing on the results of interviews and access to information requests, we explore conservation officer work in two urban regions in one Canadian province (Ontario). Specifically, we examine the work of the federal‐level National Capital Commission (NCC) in Ottawa and the provincial‐level Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). Applying Jessop, Brenner and Jones's model of socio‐spatial relations, we show how nature plays a different role in NCC and TRCA policing depending on the places their conservation officers work in, the kinds of territorial boundary maintenance in which they engage, the scaling of their activities in various jurisdictions, and the policing networks that they are part of. In assessing the place of nature in conservation officers' work, we contribute to debates about how the boundary between nature and the urban is produced through regulatory practices.
The Determinants of Firm Profitability Differences in EU Food Processing
Authors: Hirsch Stefan , Schiefer Jan , Gschwandtner Adelina , Hartmann Monika
Published: February 2014

This paper decomposes the variance in EU food industry return‐on‐assets into year, country, industry and firm effects using a hierarchical linear model (HLM). The HLM approach accounts for some of the methodological drawbacks of conventional approaches of variance decomposition such as anova and components of variance and additionally allows the estimation of the impact of covariates within each effect level. The results for selected EU countries show that firm effects are far more important than industry structure in determining food industry profitability. In particular, firm size and industry concentration are drivers of profitability while firm risk and age as well as industry growth have a negative influence.
Self‐reported Resilience of European Farms With and Without the CAP
Authors: Peerlings Jack , Polman Nico , Dries Liesbeth
Published: February 2014

Firms are able to survive only if they adapt appropriately in response to disturbances. The ability of a farm to continue after a disturbance is defined as resilience. To analyse the resilience of EU farms we explore exit and the number of adaptation strategies that farmers follow under two scenarios. The current CAP will be continued in the base scenario, while it will be abolished in scenario 2. The outcomes show that under both scenarios large, more specialised farms with young farm heads are most resilient, and small more diversified farms headed by old farmers are least resilient.
Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Young French Male Prisoners
Authors: Gaïffas Anne , Galéra Cédric , Mandon Virginie , Bouvard Manuel P.
Published: February 2014

While forensic studies have reported higher than community rates of mental disorders in imprisoned populations, few studies have focused on attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in these subjects. The aim of this study was to investigate ADHD prevalence among young French male prisoners. A specific diagnostic interview (Conners' Adult ADHD Diagnostic Interview for DSM‐IV, CAADID) was used. Correlations between ADHD, subsyndromal ADHD, and criminal features were investigated. 11% of young male prisoners among 93 male subjects aged 18–35 years met the criteria for actual ADHD, and 17% met those for childhood ADHD. Considering ADHD and subsyndromal ADHD, prevalence was about 43% in adulthood. ADHD and subsyndromal ADHD in adulthood were significantly associated with a higher number of imprisonments and a younger age at first arrest. It could be advisable to better identify subjects with ADHD symptoms among prison populations.
Assessing the longitudinal associations and stability of smoking and depression syndrome over a 4‐year period in a community sample with type 2 diabetes 在一个社区2型糖尿病样本中进行的为期4年的吸烟与抑郁综合征之间的纵向相关性以及稳定性的评估
Authors: Clyde Matthew , Smith Kimberley J. , Gariépy Geneviève , Schmitz Norbert
Published: February 2014

Background

The aim of the present study was to investigate the stability and longitudinal association between depression and smoking status within a community sample with type 2 diabetes (T2D) while controlling for sociodemographic and disease‐related variables.

Methods

Adults with T2D were recruited and agreed to be followed‐up via random digit dialing for the Montreal Diabetes Health Study. At baseline, 1614 individuals were classified as never (n = 592), former (n = 690), light (≤10 cigarettes a day; n = 128) and moderate–heavy (11+ cigarettes a day; n = 204) smokers. Depression was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 and individuals were classified as either “none” or having depression syndrome. Generalized estimating equations were used to test the association between depression syndrome and current smoking status while controlling for other demographic and health‐related variables.

Results

Prevalence rates of smoking and depression showed mild to substantial agreement over time. Depression syndrome was significantly associated with moderate–heavy smoking in the fully adjusted model using cross‐sectional (all four waves; odds ratio [OR] 1.46; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08–1.99; P < 0.05) and longitudinal (controlling for depression at baseline; OR 1.54; 95% CI 1.02–2.31; P < 0.05) data.

Conclusions

Smoking and depression prevalence rates appear to be stable over time in our community sample with T2D. Moderate–heavy smoking is strongly associated with elevated depression, both in cross‐sectional and longitudinal models. Persistent moderate–heavy smokers may be at increased risk of both physical and mental health complications. This burden is even greater for those with T2D.
Genome‐ and transcriptome‐assisted development of nuclear insertion/deletion markers for Calanus species (Copepoda: Calanoida) identification
Authors: Smolina I. , Kollias S. , Poortvliet M. , Nielsen T. G. , Lindeque P. , Castellani C. , Møller E. F. , Blanco‐Bercial L. , Hoarau G.
Published: February 2014

Copepods of the genus Calanus are key zooplankton species in temperate to arctic marine ecosystems. Despite their ecological importance, species identification remains challenging. Furthermore, the recent report of hybrids among Calanus species highlights the need for diagnostic nuclear markers to efficiently identify parental species and hybrids. Using next‐generation sequencing analysis of both the genome and transcriptome from two sibling species, Calanus finmarchicus and Calanus glacialis, we developed a panel of 12 nuclear insertion/deletion markers. All the markers showed species‐specific amplicon length. Furthermore, most of the markers were successfully amplified in other Calanus species, allowing the molecular identification of Calanus helgolandicus, Calanus hyperboreus and Calanus marshallae.
Factors Controlling Low Uranium and Thorium Concentrations in the Çayirhan Bituminous Shales (ÇBS) in the Beypazari (Ankara) Area, Turkey
Authors: PEHLIVANLI Berna Yavuz , KOÇ Çükrü , SARI Ali , ENGIN Hilal
Published: February 2014

In this study uranium and thorium contents and depositional characteristics of Çayirhan bituminous shales (ÇBS), west of Ankara (central Anatolia), are investigated. Samples used were collected from boreholes opened by Park Holding Ltd. A total of 25 samples were taken from bituminous shale levels in boreholes drilled at 6 different locations in the study area. The Hirka formation which hosts bituminous shale deposits is a volcano sedimentary sequence and all lithofacies indicate that a lacustrine environment where the water level was continuously changed. In addition to hydrocarbon generation potential, bituminous shales also accumulate significant amount of radioactive elements such as uranium and thorium. The average uranium and thorium concentrations of ÇBS (1.83/2.62 ppm) are much lower than averages of UC, NASK and PAAS (uranium: 2.70/2.66/3.10 ppm; thorium: 8.50/12.30/14.60 ppm). Low uranium contents in comparison to those of similar lacustrine environments might be attributed to that waters of depositional environment of ÇBS contain low concentration of dissolved uranium and redox conditions were of oxic and dioxic character. Correlation data indicate that U and Th have a similar source and are associated predominantly with clays and phosphates and dominantly with organic material. Radioactive elements in the basin might be derived from Paleozoic granites and metamorphites (e.g. gneiss, schist) which comprise the basement and volcanism which was active in the region throughout the Miocene period. These elements are probably associated with uraniferous phosphate minerals (e.g. autunite, torbernite) which occur in granite, gneiss and schist. ÇBS with average TOC content of 10.96 % shows very good/perfect source rock potential. Positive correlations between Gamma‐Ray values and U, Th and K concentrations imply that radioactivity might be originated from these three elements.
Prevalence of osteoarthritis in rural areas of Iran: a WHO‐ILAR COPCORD study
Authors: Tehrani‐Banihashemi Arash , Davatchi Fereydoun , Jamshidi Ahmad‐Reza , Faezi Tahereh , Paragomi Pedram , Barghamdi Mozhgan
Published: February 2014

Aim

To estimate the prevalence of osteoarthritis (OA) of different joints in rural areas of Iran.

Methods

From five villages of Tuyserkan County, 1565 individuals were randomly selected and were interviewed to complete the Community Oriented Programme for Control of the Rheumatic Diseases (COPCORD) Core Questionnaire. Among these cases 1192 cases with rheumatic complaints were examined by a rheumatologist and laboratory and radiology tests were performed if necessary for the diagnosis. Definition of OA in various joints, were based on American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria.

Results

About 20% of the study population had OA in at least one of their joints. Prevalence of OA in the knee joint was 19.34%, in hand joins was 2.66% and in the neck was 2.21%. The most common findings on physical examination of patients with knee OA, hand OA and neck OA were bony crepitus (88.9%), Heberden's nodes (73.2%) and pain on movement (59.9%), respectively.

Conclusions

This study revealed that OA in rural areas of Iran was more frequent in comparison with urban areas of Iran. Moreover, the prevalence of OA in rural areas of Iran was higher in comparison with prevalence of OA in rural areas of other Asian countries. Similar to previous studies OA was more frequently detected in the knee joint.
Clinical and autoantibody profile in systemic sclerosis: baseline characteristics from a West Malaysian cohort
Authors: Sujau Ibrahim , Ng Chin Teck , Sthaneshwar Pavai , Sockalingam Sargunan , Cheah Tien Eang , Yahya Fariz , Jasmin Raja
Published: February 2014

Aim

To evaluate the clinical and antibody profile of systemic sclerosis (SSc) in a Malaysian cohort.

Methods

Consecutive patients with SSc in University Malaya Medical Centre from March to November 2012 were included in this study. In addition to clinical characterization, all subjects underwent autoantibody testing using Euroline immunoblot assay. The association between clinical features and autoantibody profile was evaluated.

Results

There were 31, predominantly Chinese (45.2%), subjects. Limited cutaneous disease was the most common subtype (71%). Raynaud's phenomenon was the most commonly observed feature (83.9%). Nine (29%) had esophageal dysmotility symptoms and 23 (74.2%), including all patients with diffuse SSc, had symptoms of gastro‐esophageal reflux disease (GERD). Restrictive pattern on pulmonary function test and evidence of lung fibrosis were seen in more than 70% of patients. Echocardiographic evidence of pulmonary arterial hypertension was seen in 58.1%. Telangiectasia, calcinosis, digital ulcers, digital pulp loss or pitting were seen more commonly in the diffuse subtype. The two most prevalent autoantibodies were anti‐Scl‐70 and anti‐Ro‐52. The presence of anti‐Scl‐70 was significantly associated with restrictive lung disease (P = 0.05). Anti‐Ro‐52 was associated with control subjects with other autoimmune diseases (P = 0.043). The presence of anti‐PM‐Scl‐75 was associated with overlap syndrome (P = 0.032). Patients with anticentromere antibodies were more likely to have vasculitic rash (P = 0.012).

Conclusion

In Malaysia, SSc most commonly affects the Chinese. Limited cutaneous is more common than diffuse subtype. Features of CREST (calcinosis, Reynaud disease, esophageal dysmotility, sclerodactyly, telangiectasia) are more commonly observed in the diffuse cutaneous subgroup. Anti‐Scl‐70 and anti‐Ro‐52 antibodies are promising biomarkers for pulmonary involvement in SSc.
The Climatic Challenge to Global Justice
Authors: Pellegrino Gianfranco , Di Paola Marcello
Published: February 2014

How should we think of justice when the evil we can do to one another is not visible nor immediate, but rather impalpable and causally, spatially and temporally dispersed? What does justice demand, when our actions and institutions do not directly sabotage the life prospects of others but rather do so derivatively, by sabotaging the very eco‐systems in which such lives are or will be lived? In a globalized, resource‐depleted, overpopulated, rapidly changing, ecologically deteriorating world, what is owed to the billions of spatiotemporally distant people who are paying or shall pay the costs of the last 200 years of heavy industry, globalized trade and enthusiastic economic growth? And is that a question we can answer from within or by extending our present theories, or do we rather need to find new ways of thinking about what is just and unjust, once the level of our reflections becomes planetary and intergenerational?
Nationally Based Data: Challenges for Global Governance (and Global Policy)
Authors: Coicaud Jean‐Marc , Tahri Ibrahim
Published: February 2014

The current statistical picture of the world is probably the best it has ever been. But it also entails major limitations. In this article we show the limitations by focusing on three key areas: security, economy of development and the environment, and argue that they undermine the performance of global governance, and the possibility of global policy. In particular they do not allow taking the full measure and managing optimally the changes underway at the global level. To overcome this state of affairs, upgrading statistical capabilities is critical. To achieve this objective, the article suggests, among other ideas: adjusting and adapting the conceptualization, collection and implementation of statistical data to a world that is on its way to becoming global; improving the conditions of compilation of statistical data in developing countries; and investing in institution‐building and innovation, in developed and developing countries, and in national and international organizations.
Designing a Global Trading System to Maximize Innovation
Authors: Atkinson Robert
Published: February 2014

‘Innovation mercantilism’ is on the rise with the result: less global innovation. Policy makers should: create an Innovation Trade Agreement whereby tariffs on all innovation products are eliminated; make development aid contingent upon nations renouncing innovation mercantilist policies; empower multinational firms to fight back by providing antitrust exemptions for cooperation to resist forced technology transfer requirements; develop new multilateral own trade agreements with real measures to stop innovation mercantilism; and develop cooperative international agreements to better support innovation and R&D.
Income Inequality, Financial Systems, and Global Imbalances: A Theoretical Consideration
Authors: Sheng Li
Published: February 2014

This paper illustrates the effects of two major macroeconomic factors on global imbalances with regard to China as a growing giant in the global economy. The country has observed a continuous drop in the labor income share of GDP and a considerable rise in income inequality, giving rise to a savings glut and high investment rates. China's inflation, housing bubble, and capital losses in foreign markets are attributable to its rushed transition to market‐based financing and its inherent vulnerability to international capital flows. The US is also experiencing a rise in inequality, although this rise is associated with a decline in savings as a fundamental cause of its current account deficit, whereas its exorbitant privilege from the dollar's reserve currency status is accompanied by increasing difficulties posed by the Triffin dilemma. It is shown that global imbalances may be less related to misaligned exchange rates than to distorted wage differences.
Food security: the challenge of increasing wheat yield and the importance of not compromising food safety
Authors: Curtis T. , Halford N. G.
Published: February 2014

Current wheat yield and consumption is considered in the context of the historical development of wheat, from early domestication through to modern plant breeding, the Green Revolution and wheat's place as one of the world's most productive and important crops in the 21st Century. The need for further improvement in the yield potential of wheat in order to meet current and impending challenges is discussed, including rising consumption and the demand for grain for fuel as well as food. Research on the complex genetics underlying wheat yield is described, including the identification of quantitative trait loci and individual genes, and the prospects of biotechnology playing a role in wheat improvement in the future are discussed. The challenge of preparing wheat to meet the problems of drought, high temperature and increasing carbon dioxide concentration that are anticipated to come about as a result of climate change is also reviewed. Wheat yield must be increased while not compromising food safety, and the emerging problem of processing contaminants is reviewed, focussing in particular on acrylamide, a contaminant that forms from free asparagine and reducing sugars during high temperature cooking and processing. Wheat breeders are strongly encouraged to consider the contaminant issue when breeding for yield.
Genetic analysis of dTSPO, an outer mitochondrial membrane protein, reveals its functions in apoptosis, longevity, and Aβ42‐induced neurodegeneration
Authors: Lin Ran , Angelin Alessia , Da Settimo Federico , Martini Claudia , Taliani Sabrina , Zhu Shigong , Wallace Douglas C.
Published: February 2014

The outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM) protein, the translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO), formerly named the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBR), has been proposed to participate in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. To clarify the TSPO function, we identified the Drosophila homolog, CG2789/dTSPO, and studied the effects of its inactivation by P‐element insertion, RNAi knockdown, and inhibition by ligands (PK11195, Ro5‐4864). Inhibition of dTSPO inhibited wing disk apoptosis in response to γ‐irradiation or H2O2 exposure, as well as extended male fly lifespan and inhibited Aβ42‐induced neurodegeneration in association with decreased caspase activation. Therefore, dTSPO is an essential mediator of apoptosis in Drosophila and plays a central role in controlling longevity and neurodegenerative disease, making it a promising drug target.
Glyoxalase I reduces glycative and oxidative stress and prevents age‐related endothelial dysfunction through modulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase phosphorylation
Authors: Jo‐Watanabe Airi , Ohse Takamoto , Nishimatsu Hiroaki , Takahashi Masao , Ikeda Yoichiro , Wada Takehiko , Shirakawa Jun‐ichi , Nagai Ryoji , Miyata Toshio , Nagano Tetsuo , Hirata Yasunobu , Inagi Reiko , Nangaku Masaomi
Published: February 2014

Endothelial dysfunction is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly in elderly people. Studies have demonstrated the role of glycation in endothelial dysfunction in nonphysiological models, but the physiological role of glycation in age‐related endothelial dysfunction has been poorly addressed. Here, to investigate how vascular glycation affects age‐related endothelial function, we employed rats systemically overexpressing glyoxalase I (GLO1), which detoxifies methylglyoxal (MG), a representative precursor of glycation. Four groups of rats were examined, namely young (13 weeks old), mid‐age (53 weeks old) wild‐type, and GLO1 transgenic (WT/GLO1 Tg) rats. Age‐related acceleration in glycation was attenuated in GLO1 Tg rats, together with lower aortic carboxymethyllysine (CML) and urinary 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) levels. Age‐related impairment of endothelium‐dependent vasorelaxation was attenuated in GLO1 Tg rats, whereas endothelium‐independent vasorelaxation was not different between WT and GLO1 Tg rats. Nitric oxide (NO) production was decreased in mid‐age WT rats, but not in mid‐age GLO1 Tg rats. Age‐related inactivation of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) due to phosphorylation of eNOS on Thr495 and dephosphorylation on Ser1177 was ameliorated in GLO1 Tg rats. In vitro, MG increased phosphorylation of eNOS (Thr495) in primary human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs), and overexpression of GLO1 decreased glycative stress and phosphorylation of eNOS (Thr495). Together, GLO1 reduced age‐related endothelial glycative and oxidative stress, altered phohphorylation of eNOS, and attenuated endothelial dysfunction. As a molecular mechanism, GLO1 lessened inhibitory phosphorylation of eNOS (Thr495) by reducing glycative stress. Our study demonstrates that blunting glycative stress prevents the long‐term impact of endothelial dysfunction on vascular aging.
Keratin gel improves poor scarring following median sternotomy
Authors: Jina N. Hamesh , Marsh Clive , Than Martin , Singh Harsh , Cassidy Sharon , Simcock Jeremy
Published: February 2014

Background

Linear hypertrophic scarring is a common surgical problem that can be difficult to manage. This article evaluates median sternotomy wounds that have often been reported to scar poorly resulting in hypertrophic scar formation.

Methods

This study is a single‐blinded, open‐labelled pilot study of 20 patients using keratin gel as the intervention and aqueous cream as the control, which are each applied to a different half of the wound daily over 6 months. We use the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) and the Manchester Scar Score (MSS) to assess the scarring.

Results

At the 6‐month assessment the MSS, patient‐POSAS and observer‐POSAS were 12.00, 16.70 and 15.00 in the treatment half and 12.58, 17.85 and 16.55 in the control half respectively. Overall, we found that there was a decrease in all score scales after 6 months (P = 0.005). Furthermore, in the subset of patients with poor scarring, decreases in the MSS, patient‐POSAS and observer‐POSAS were statistically significant (P = 0.025, <0.01 and 0.01) with scores of 12.22, 17.33 and 15.33 in the treatment half and 14.22, 23.67 and 22.33 in the control half respectively.

Conclusion

In patients who scar more poorly than average, there were significant improvements in scarring. This demonstrates a simple, well‐tolerated intervention that reduces problematic scarring following surgery.
Surgery of primary tumour has survival benefit in metastatic breast cancer with single‐organ metastasis, especially bone
Authors: Rhu Jinsoo , Lee Se Kyung , Kil Won Ho , Lee Jeong Eon , Nam Seok Jin
Published: February 2014

Background

Surgery for the primary breast tumour is usually not recommended in metastatic breast cancer (MBC); however, some reports have suggested a benefit of locoregional treatment. We designed this study to evaluate the efficacy of locoregional surgery in MBC.

Methods

Data for patients diagnosed with MBC at Samsung Medical Center between 1995 and 2011 were retrospectively collected. We compared the survival benefit of all treatment modalities using Cox regression analysis. Subgroup analyses based on number of metastases were performed to delineate the indication for each treatment.

Results

Among 262 patients, 40 (15.3%) underwent surgery. Other treatments included chemotherapy (n = 213, 81.3%), radiotherapy (n = 138, 52.7%), hormone therapy (n = 118, 45.0%) and HER2/neu receptor (HER2)‐targeted therapy (n = 37, 14.1%). Cox regression analysis showed that surgery (hazard ratios (HR) = 0.51, P < 0.01), hormone therapy (HR = 0.31, P < 0.01) and HER2‐targeted therapy (HR = 0.33, P < 0.01) were associated with improved survival, whereas presence of three or more metastatic organs (HR = 1.62, P = 0.03) was associated with poor survival. In patients with metastasis to a single organ, surgery (HR = 0.43, P < 0.01), chemotherapy (HR = 0.62, P = 0.05), hormone therapy (HR = 0.39, P < 0.01) and HER2‐targeted therapy (HR = 0.39, P = 0.02) had a survival benefit. Furthermore, for patients with bone‐only metastasis, surgery (HR = 0.37, P = 0.02), chemotherapy (HR = 0.42, P < 0.01), hormone therapy (HR = 0.22, P < 0.01) and HER2‐targeted therapy (HR = 0.09, P = 0.02) showed a survival benefit. However, only hormone therapy and HER2‐targeted therapy had a survival benefit in MBC with metastasis to multiple organs.

Conclusion

Surgical control of the primary breast tumour should be considered as a locoregional therapy in combination with systemic therapy in MBC with metastasis to a single organ, especially bone‐only metastasis.
Welcoming the World? Hospitality, Homonationalism, and the London 2012 Olympics
Authors: Hubbard Phil , Wilkinson Eleanor
Published: February 2014

In an era of intense “entrepreneurial” city marketing, overt attempts to court LGBT consumers and investors have been made not solely through the promotion of lesbian and gay arts festivals, pride celebrations and “specialised” cultural events, but also through “mainstream” mega‐events. This paper explores this with reference to London's 2012 Olympics, an event which welcomed LGBT spectators, volunteers and participants through a series of initiatives proclaiming the Games as distinctively “gay friendly”. Considering this in the light of queer critiques—particularly those concerning homonationalism—we argue that this marketing of London as sexually diverse relied on the effacement of certain sexual practices and spaces not easily accommodated within normative, Western models of sexual citizenship, tolerance and equality. In conclusion, it is argued that the Olympics represented a moment when particular ideas of sexual cosmopolitanism were deployed to regulate, order and normalise the variegated sexual landscapes of a world city.
Hydatidiform mole: age‐related clinical presentation and high rate of severe complications in older women
Authors: Mangili Giorgia , Giorgione Veronica , Gentile Cinzia , Bergamini Alice , Pella Francesca , Almirante Giada , Candiani Massimo
Published: February 2014

Objective

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate differences in clinical presentation of hydatidiform mole between women ≥40 years and younger women.

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

A tertiary referral unit in northern Italy.

Population

Three hundred and sixty‐five women with hydatidiform mole were divided into group A (<40 years, 318 cases) and group B (≥40 years, 47 cases).

Methods

Clinical presentation between groups A and B was analyzed, also considering partial hydatidiform mole and complete hydatidiform mole.

Main outcome measures

Differences in clinical presentation according to woman's age.

Results

In group B the diagnosis of hydatidiform mole at ≥12 gestational weeks was more frequent (p < 0.001) and the detection of ultrasound features was higher (p < 0.05) than in group A. Vaginal bleeding (p < 0.05), increased uterine volume (p < 0.0001) and hyperemesis (p < 0.05) occurred more frequently in group B. In the women with complete hydatidiform mole, group B women presented with vaginal bleeding (p < 0.001), increased uterine volume (p < 0.05) and hyperemesis (p < 0.05) more frequently than group A women. Complete hydatidiform mole was more commonly diagnosed after 12 weeks of gestation in group B (p < 0.0001). In women ≥50 years, an increased rate of disease‐related complications was detected.

Conclusions

The clinical features of hydatidiform mole in women ≥40 years are different from those seen in younger women. Failures in the early detection of hydatidiform mole in older women may expose them to a higher rate of severe complications.
Substantial Early Loss of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Following Transplantation in Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Martens Andreas , Rojas Sebastian V. , Baraki Hassina , Rathert Christian , Schecker Natalie , Zweigerdt Robert , Schwanke Kristin , Rojas‐Hernandez Sara , Martin Ulrich , Saito Shunsuke , Schmitto Jan D. , Haverich Axel , Kutschka Ingo
Published: February 2014

The limited success of cardiac stem cell therapy has lately generated discussion regarding its effectiveness. We hypothesized that immediate cell loss after intramyocardial injection significantly obscures the regenerative potential of stem cell therapy. Therefore, our aim was to assess the distribution and quantity of induced pluripotent stem cells after intramyocardial delivery using in vivo bioluminescence analysis. In this context, we wanted to investigate if the injection of different cell concentrations would exert influence on cardiac cell retention. Murine‐induced pluripotent stem cells were transfected for luciferase reporter gene expression and transplanted into infarcted myocardium in mice after left anterior descending coronary artery ligation. Cells were delivered constantly in aqueous media (15 μL) in different cell concentrations (group A, n = 10, 5.0 × 105 cells; group B, n = 10, 1.0 × 106 cells). Grafts were detected using bioluminescence imaging. Organ explants were imaged 10 min after injection to quantify early cardiac retention and cell biodistribution. Bioluminescence imaging showed a massive early displacement from the injection site to the pulmonary circulation, leading to lung accumulation. Mean cell counts of explanted organs in group A were 7.51 × 104 ± 4.09 × 103 (heart), 6.44 × 104 ± 2.48 × 103 (left lung), and 8.06 × 105 ± 3.61 × 103 (right lung). Respective cell counts in group B explants were 1.69 × 105 ± 7.69 × 104 (heart), 2.11 × 105 ± 4.58 × 103 (left lung), and 3.25 × 105 ± 9.35 × 103 (right lung). Applying bioluminescence imaging, we could unveil and quantify massive early cardiac stem cell loss and pulmonary cell accumulation following intramyocardial injection. Increased injection concentrations led to much higher intracardiac cell counts; however, pulmonary biodistribution of transplanted cells still persisted. Therefore, we recommend applying tissue engineering techniques for cardiac stem cell transplantations in order to improve cardiac retention and limit biodistribution.
Expression of TIM‐3 on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the peripheral blood and synovial fluid of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Li Shufeng , Peng Dayong , He Yeteng , Zhang Hu , Sun Huaqiang , Shan Shiying , Song Yuanlin , Zhang Shuzhen , Xiao Hong , Song Haihan , Zhang Ming
Published: February 2014

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by a chronic inflammatory process that targets the synovial lining of diarthrodial joints. TIM‐3 plays a key role in the negative regulation of the immune response. In this study, we investigated the expression of TIM‐3 on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells from systemic (peripheral blood) and local (synovial fluid) perspectives of RA. Level of TIM‐3+ cells from peripheral blood and synovial fluid of patients as well as peripheral blood of healthy controls was measured by flow cytometry. Results showed that TIM‐3 expression was significantly increased in both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in the peripheral blood of RA (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, patients revealed even higher expression of TIM‐3 in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in synovial fluid than in peripheral blood. When comparing TIM‐3 level with the severity of RA, we identified that the percentage of TIM‐3 on both peripheral CD4+ and peripheral CD8+ T cells was negatively correlated with disease activity score 28 (DAS28) of the patients. Similarly, TIM‐3 on synovial fluid CD4+ and CD8+ T cells also revealed inverse correlation with DAS28 of the cases. Our data demonstrate a negative correlation between TIM‐3 and the disease progression of RA.
Two plasmid‐encoded genes of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli strain K798 promote invasion and survival within HEp‐2 cells
Authors: Burska Urszula L. , Fletcher Jonathan N.
Published: February 2014

Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) are considered to be extracellular pathogens, inducing attaching and effacing lesions following their attachment to the surface of eukaryotic cells; however, in vitro and in vivo invasion by EPEC has been reported in several studies. A cloned 4.6 kb fragment of EPEC plasmid pLV501 has been shown to facilitate invasion of E. coli K‐12, and here we further investigate the nature of this process. Two of the three complete open reading frames contained within the plasmid fragment have been cloned to E. coli, and in HEp‐2 adherence assays both tniA2 and pecM were shown to be expressed during the first 3 h of infection from a plac promoter. Escherichia coli transformants carrying pecM alone or in combination with tniA2 were able to both survive intracellularly and escape eukaryotic cells to re‐establish themselves within the medium, whereas those bacterial cells carrying tniA2 alone could not be isolated from within HEp‐2 cells after 24 h of infection, but were present in the previously sterile medium surrounding the cells. Bacteria carrying pecM and tniA2 adhered to HEp‐2 cells with sites of adhesion characterized by underlying actin polymerization. The invasive potential conferred by these genes may give EPEC strains a survival advantage during prolonged infection.
Surprisingly complex life: Sue Leung's story
Authors: Prendergast Gerard , Ma Savini , Tsui Yan Ming Elizabeth
Published: February 2014

Introduction

While numerous studies relating to the lives of intellectually challenged people have been published previously, most have been from the caregiver's perspective and lack an insider's view. In addition, none of them were conducted in a Chinese context. Our purpose is to fill this gap by studying the life of Sue Leung, an intellectually disabled Chinese woman in Hong Kong.

Methods

Using a narrative approach that combined interviews and observational data collected over an extended time period, the research sought a holistic understanding of her life, how she interacts with others and the challenges and difficulties she faces.

Results

Sue Leung's life proved to be complex with social, spiritual, psychological, sexual and financial dimensions. Her story, in which she herself and other mentally impaired people are the actors, reflects to some degree the world of mentally impaired people, at least in Hong Kong. Their world is just as complex as that of anyone else. Violence, dangers, romances, friendships and goodwill also exist in that world.

Discussion

Sue Leung's story has helped to unravel the various dimensions of her life and enabled a deeper understanding of the challenges and difficulties a mildly intellectually disabled woman has to face in her life in Hong Kong. Social implications are discussed, and recommendations are made for future research.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: the relationship between chronic Salmonella typhi carrier status and gall‐bladder cancer
Authors: Nagaraja V. , Eslick G. D.
Published: February 2014

Background

Carcinoma of the gall‐bladder is the fifth commonest gastrointestinal tract cancer and is endemic in several countries. An association of chronic typhoid carriage and carcinoma of the gall‐bladder has been reported.

Aim

To clarify whether chronic Salmonella typhi carrier state is associated with carcinoma of the gall‐bladder.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted using MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, Current Contents, Cochrane library, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Web of Science. Original data were abstracted from each study and used to calculate a pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

Results

Of the articles selected, only 17 studies met full criteria for analysis. The overall OR for chronic S. typhi carrier state was 4.28(95% CI: 1.84–9.96). Most of the studies were from South Asia especially India and China. When a subgroup analysis was performed according to region, a significant association was observed in South‐East Asia (OR: 4.13, 95% CI: 2.87–5.94, P value <0.01). Chronic S. typhi carrier state was associated with carcinoma of the gall‐bladder based on detection methods of S. typhi antibody levels (OR: 3.52, 95% CI: 2.48–5.00, P value <0.01) and even more so on culture (OR: 4.14, 95% CI: 2.41–7.12, P value <0.01). The association was prominent in controls without gallstones (OR: 5.86, 95% CI: 3.84–8.95, P value <0.01) when compared with controls with gallstones (OR: 2.71, 95% CI: 1.92–3.83, P value <0.01).

Conclusions

Chronic S. typhi carrier state is an important risk factor among patients with carcinoma of the gall‐bladder. Given the high risk associated with this carrier state, management options should include either elective cholecystectomy or careful monitoring using ultrasound.
Review article: next generation diagnostic modalities in gastroenterology – gas phase volatile compound biomarker detection
Authors: Arasaradnam R. P. , Covington J. A. , Harmston C. , Nwokolo C. U.
Published: February 2014

Background

The detection of airborne gas phase biomarkers that emanate from biological samples like urine, breath and faeces may herald a new age of non‐invasive diagnostics. These biomarkers may reflect status in health and disease and can be detected by humans and other animals, to some extent, but far more consistently with instruments. The continued advancement in micro and nanotechnology has produced a range of compact and sophisticated gas analysis sensors and sensor systems, focussed primarily towards environmental and security applications. These instruments are now increasingly adapted for use in clinical testing and with the discovery of new gas volatile compound biomarkers, lead naturally to a new era of non‐invasive diagnostics.

Aim

To review current sensor instruments like the electronic nose (e‐nose) and ion mobility spectroscopy (IMS), existing technology like gas chromatography‐mass spectroscopy (GC‐MS) and their application in the detection of gas phase volatile compound biomarkers in medicine – focussing on gastroenterology.

Methods

A systematic search on Medline and Pubmed databases was performed to identify articles relevant to gas and volatile organic compounds.

Results

E‐nose and IMS instruments achieve sensitivities and specificities ranging from 75 to 92% in differentiating between inflammatory bowel disease, bile acid diarrhoea and colon cancer from controls. For pulmonary disease, the sensitivities and specificities exceed 90% in differentiating between pulmonary malignancy, pneumonia and obstructive airways disease. These sensitivity levels also hold true for diabetes (92%) and bladder cancer (90%) when GC‐MS is combined with an e‐nose.

Conclusions

The accurate reproducible sensing of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) using portable near‐patient devices is a goal within reach for today's clinicians.
Coincidental metabolic syndrome increases the risk of liver fibrosis progression in patients with chronic hepatitis B – a prospective cohort study with paired transient elastography examinations
Authors: Wong G. L.‐H. , Chan H. L.‐Y. , Yu Z. , Chan A. W.‐H. , Choi P. C.‐L. , Chim A. M.‐L. , Chan H.‐Y. , Tse C.‐H. , Wong V. W.‐S.
Published: February 2014

Background

Metabolic syndrome is a known risk factor of cirrhosis in chronic hepatitis B (CHB).

Aim

To investigate the effects of coincidental metabolic syndrome on liver fibrosis progression in treatment‐naïve CHB patients.

Methods

A total of 1466 CHB patients underwent liver stiffness measurement (LSM) by transient elastography in 2006–2008; 663 patients remained treatment‐naïve and had second LSM in 2010–2012. Liver fibrosis progression was defined as an increase in LSM ≥30% at the second assessment. The impact of coincidental metabolic syndrome and its factors on liver fibrosis progression were evaluated after adjustment for viral load and hepatitis activity.

Results

At baseline, the mean age was 43 ± 12 years, 55% were males, serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) was 44 ± 40 IU/L, HBV DNA was 4.0 ± 2.0 log IU/mL and LSM was 6.3 ± 3.6 kPa. Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed in 80 (12%) and 142 (21%) patients at baseline and follow‐up visit, respectively; 84 (13%) and 22 (3%) patients had coincidental and resolved metabolic syndrome respectively. After an interval of 44 ± 7 months, 107 (16%) patients developed liver fibrosis progression. Coincidental metabolic syndrome [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.1–3.5, P = 0.015], central obesity (aOR 2.0, 95% CI 1.0–4.1, P = 0.05) and low level of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (aOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.0–3.7, P = 0.04) were associated with liver fibrosis progression independent of change in viral load and ALT level. The effects of coincidental metabolic syndrome were most apparent in the immune‐tolerant phase.

Conclusion

Coincidental metabolic syndrome increases the risk of liver fibrosis progression in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection, independent of viral load and hepatitis activity.
Fut2 genotype is a risk factor for dominant stenosis and biliary candida infections in primary sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Rupp C. , Friedrich K. , Folseraas T. , Wannhoff A. , Bode K. A. , Weiss K.‐H. , Schirmacher P. , Sauer P. , Stremmel W. , Gotthardt D. N.
Published: February 2014

Background

A recent genome‐wide association study identified the FUT2 secretor status and genotype defined by the single‐nucleotide polymorphism rs601338 as potential genetic risk factor in primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), which significantly influences biliary bacterial composition.

Aim

To determine the impact of the rs601338‐FUT2 genotype on frequency of biliary infections, development of dominant stenosis and liver‐transplantation‐free survival in patients with PSC.

Methods

Cohort study of 215 patients with PSC treated at our tertiary care centre with respect to their rs601338‐FUT2 genotype. Results of endoscopic retrograde cholangiography and bile culture were analysed; 639 biliary samples were obtained, cultured and subjected to microbial analysis. Clinical and laboratory data were analysed using chart reviews.

Results

For the rs601338‐FUT2 genotype, 69 patients (32.1%) were found to be wildtype (GG), 97 (45.1%) patients were heterozygous (AG) and 49 patients (22.8%) were homozygous‐mutated (AA). In addition to alterations in the bacterial pattern, especially in heterozygous carriers, patients with mutated alleles had a marked increase in the frequency of biliary Candida infections (P = 0.025). Further, patients with mutated alleles showed an increased frequency of episodes of cholangitis (P = 0.0025), development of dominant stenosis (P < 0.002) and a reduced actuarial transplantation‐free survival (P = 0.044). Levels of biliary Ca19‐9 were significantly elevated in the homozygous‐mutated patients.

Conclusions

The rs601338‐FUT2 genotype is strongly associated with episodes of cholangitis, fungobilia and the incidence of dominant stenosis, which are three clinical hallmarks of PSC; FUT2 is thus an important genetic risk factor for host‐microbial diversity and disease progression in PSC.
Good clinical outcomes following transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent‐shunts in Budd–Chiari syndrome
Authors: Tripathi D. , MacNicholas R. , Kothari C. , Sunderraj L. , Al‐Hilou H. , Rangarajan B. , Chen F. , Mangat K. , Elias E. , Olliff S.
Published: February 2014

Background

There have been encouraging reports on transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent‐shunt (TIPSS) for Budd–Chiari syndrome (BCS). Long‐term data are lacking.

Aim

To assess long‐term outcomes and validate prognostic scores following TIPSS for BCS.

Methods

A single centre retrospective study. Patients underwent TIPSS using bare or polytertrafluoroethane (PTFE)‐covered stents.

Results

Sixty‐seven patients received successful TIPSS between 1996 and 2012 using covered (n = 40) or bare (n = 27) stents. Patients included had a Male: Female ratio of 21:46, and were characterised (mean ± s.d.) by age 39.9 ± 14.3 years, Model of end stage liver disease (MELD) 16.1 ± 7.0 and Child's score 8.8 ± 2.0. Seventy‐eight percent had haematological risk factors. Presenting symptoms were ascites (n = 61) and variceal bleeding (n = 6). Nine patients underwent hepatic vein dilatation or stenting prior to TIPSS. Mean follow‐up was 82 months (range 0.5–184 months). Fifteen percent had post‐TIPSS encephalopathy. Two have been transplanted. Primary patency rates (76% vs. 27%, P < 0.001) and shunt re‐interventions (22% vs. 100%, P < 0.001) significantly favoured covered stents. Secondary patency was 99%. Six‐, 12‐, 24‐, 60‐ and 120‐month survival was 97%, 92%, 87%, 80% and 72% respectively. Six patients had liver related deaths. Two patients developed hepatocellular carcinoma. The BCS TIPS PI independently predicted mortality in the whole cohort, but no prognostic score was a significant predictor of mortality after subgroup validation.

Conclusions

Long‐term outcomes following TIPSS for Budd–Chiari syndrome are very good. PTFE‐covered stents have significantly better primary patency. The value of prognostic scores is controversial. TIPSS should be considered as first line therapy in symptomatic patients in whom hepatic vein patency cannot be restored.