bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introduction: Human Rights and the History of Violence in the EarlyBritish Empire
Authors: Kane Brendan
Published: June 2014

Specialists on early modern violence and on human rights history have much to gain through collaboration, or at least mutual awareness. Human rights historians are increasingly drawing on studies of early modern violence. However, as contended here, early modernists tend to approach the subject framed by their own geographical areas of interest. As such, we lack an overarching sense of violence and its meanings across the Tudor and Stuart realms and colonies, something that would be of great utility in understanding how developments in the early modern period relate to later ones. In the interests of promoting such broader investigation and comparison, the present essay briefly surveys important aspects of the approach to violence in the English, Irish and Atlantic historiographies, and in the literatures of massacre and of human rights. In doing so, it sets the essays included in this special edition in their historiographical contexts and highlights crucial interventions. It concludes with thoughts not only on how a more comprehensive understanding of violence in the early British empire might be of value to human rights historians, but how the new meta‐narrative of human rights history might spur greater comparative work amongst early modernists.
Combined milk gel generated with a novel coagulating enzyme by Virgibacillus sp. SK37, a moderately halophilic bacterium
Authors: Rangnoi Kuntalee , Phrommao Ekkarat , Yamabhai Montarop , Yongsawatdigul Jirawat
Published: June 2014

The hydrolysis of milk proteins by the recombinant AprX‐SK37 protease and the changes in the rheological properties of the milk gel generated with AprX‐SK37 and glucono‐δ‐lactone (GDL) were investigated. The AprX‐SK37 and rennet selectively hydrolysed κ‐casein to yield a 16‐kDa band, while subtilisin hydrolysed all of the casein components. Milk treated only with AprX‐SK37 formed softer gel. Storage modulus (G′) values of the combined gels increased with GDL concentrations up to 7 g/L. High tan δ was observed in the combined gel at 8.75 g/L GDL alongside syneresis. AprX‐SK37 is a promising milk‐clotting enzyme when combined with an optimal GDL concentration.
Hierarchical Cluster Analysis of Ignitable Liquids Based on the Total Ion Spectrum
Authors: Waddell Erin E. , Frisch‐Daiello Jessica L. , Williams Mary R. , Sigman Michael E.
Published: June 2014

Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) data of ignitable liquids in the Ignitable Liquids Reference Collection (ILRC) database were processed to obtain 445 total ion spectra (TIS), that is, average mass spectra across the chromatographic profile. Hierarchical cluster analysis, an unsupervised learning technique, was applied to find features useful for classification of ignitable liquids. A combination of the correlation distance and average linkage was utilized for grouping ignitable liquids with similar chemical composition. This study evaluated whether hierarchical cluster analysis of the TIS would cluster together ignitable liquids of the same ASTM class assignment, as designated in the ILRC database. The ignitable liquids clustered based on their chemical composition, and the ignitable liquids within each cluster were predominantly from one ASTM E1618‐11 class. These results reinforce use of the TIS as a tool to aid in forensic fire debris analysis.
Measurement of Muscle Exudate Protein Composition as an Indicator of Beef Tenderness
Authors: Bowker Brian C. , Eastridge Janet S. , Solomon Morse B.
Published: June 2014

The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between the protein composition of muscle exudates and meat tenderness in beef. Frozen, intact beef strip loins (n = 24) were each divided into 3 equal portions (anterior, middle, and posterior). Steaks were removed from each portion, individually vacuum packaged, thawed at 4 °C, and aged for 0, 7, or 14 d. After the designated aging period, exudate was collected from the packaging and 1 steak from each strip loin portion was utilized for shear force measurements. Muscle exudates were analyzed for protein content (biuret assay) and composition (sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis). Shear force decreased (P < 0.0001) with aging from 0 to 14 d. The protein concentrations of the muscle exudates were not influenced by the aging period and were not related to the amount of exudate expressed. Electrophoretic analyses of the muscle exudates indicated that with aging the relative abundance of 4 proteins decreased (P < 0.01) and 10 proteins increased (P < 0.05) within the protein profiles of the exudates. The relative abundance of the 167, 97, and 47 kDa proteins in exudates at day 0 were significantly correlated (|r| = 0.57 to 0.77) to shear force at day 14. These data demonstrate that exudate protein composition changes with postmortem aging and beef tenderness.
Characterization of Important Odorants in Steamed Male Chinese Mitten Crab (Eriocheir sinensis) using Gas Chromatography‐Mass Spectrometry‐Olfactometry
Authors: Wu Na , Gu Saiqi , Tao Ningping , Wang Xichang , Ji Siru
Published: June 2014

Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) from Yangcheng Lake in Jiangsu Province is a popular species due to its unique pleasant aroma and intensive umami taste. In this study, odorants in steamed male E. sinensis were investigated using the headspace‐monolithic material sorptive extraction technique coupled with gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry‐olfactometry (GC‐MS‐O). A total of 74 volatile compounds were found, and the results of the GC‐MS‐O analysis, combined with odor activity values, showed that trimethylamine (fishy, ammonia‐like odor), (Z)‐4‐heptenal (mushroom‐like odor), and benzaldehyde (paint‐like odor) were the important odorants (IOs) in all 4 of the edible parts of steamed male E. sinensis. Furthermore, heptanal (mushroom‐like odor) was common to the abdomen, claw, and leg meat but was not found as the IO in the gonad. The abdomen meat also contained 3‐methylbutanal (vegetable‐like, grassy odor), while 2 additional IOs were found in claw meat (2‐methylbutanal, which has a mushroom odor and 3‐ethyl‐2,5‐dimethylpyrazine, which has a chocolate‐like, musty odor). Another IO (2‐nonanone, chocolate‐like odor) was also found in leg meat, while (E)‐2‐nonenal (green, fruity odor) was the IO found exclusively in the gonad.
Xylitol Improves Pancreatic Islets Morphology to Ameliorate Type 2 Diabetes in Rats: A Dose Response Study
Authors: Rahman Md. Atiar , Islam Md. Shahdiul
Published: June 2014

Xylitol has been reported as a potential antidiabetic sweetener in a number of recent studies; however, the most effective dietary dose and organ‐specific effects are still unclear. Six‐week‐old male Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: normal control (NC), diabetic control (DBC), diabetic xylitol 2.5% (DXL2.5), diabetic xylitol 5.0% (DXL5), and diabetic xylitol 10.0% (DXL10). Diabetes was induced only in the animals in DBC and DXL groups and considered diabetic when their nonfasting blood glucose level was >300 mg/dL. The DXL groups were fed with 2.5%, 5.0%, and 10% xylitol solution, whereas the NC and DBC groups were supplied with normal drinking water. After 4‐wk intervention, body weight, food and fluid intake, blood glucose, serum fructosamine, liver glycogen, serum alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, uric acid, creatinine, and most serum lipids were significantly decreased, and serum insulin concentration, glucose tolerance ability, and pancreatic islets morphology were significantly improved in the DXL10 group compared to the DBC group. The data of this study suggest that 10% xylitol has the better antidiabetic effects compared to 2.5% and 5.0% and it can be used as an excellent antidiabetic sweetener and food supplement in antidiabetic foods.
The outcome of cryoablation in treating advanced pancreatic cancer: A comparison with palliative bypass surgery alone
Authors: Song Zhen Guo , Hao Ji Hui , Gao Song , Gao Chun Tao , Tang Yong , Liu Jing Chen
Published: June 2014

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of palliative bypass surgery combined with cryoablation in treating patients with advanced pancreatic cancer and compare this combination therapy with palliative bypass surgery alone.

Methods

Medical records of 118 patients with advanced pancreatic cancer who received palliative bypass surgery combined with cryoablation (the combination treatment group) or bypass surgery alone (the bypass surgery alone group) at the Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital (Tianjin, China) were retrospectively reviewed. Their baseline and peri‐operative parameters were collected and compared.

Results

In both groups abdominal distension and pain was significantly ameliorated after treatment. Preoperative jaundice was more common in the bypass surgery group while backache was more frequent in the combination treatment group, which were both relieved by treatment. The pre‐operative serum bilirubin level was higher in the bypass surgery group and was decreased significantly after treatment. However, a significant reduction in tumor size and serum carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 level was found only in the combination treatment group. There was no significant difference in the incidence of postoperative complications and prognosis between the two groups.

Conclusions

Cryoablation can reduce tumor size and relieve the patients' symptoms and signs such as abdominal discomfort and backache, although it could not improve the patients' prognosis significantly. It is a safe and efficient modality when combined with bypass surgery for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.
Geobacter sp. SD‐1 with enhanced electrochemical activity in high‐salt concentration solutions
Authors: Sun Dan , Call Douglas , Wang Aijie , Cheng Shaoan , Logan Bruce E.
Published: June 2014

An isolate, designated strain SD‐1, was obtained from a biofilm dominated by Geobacter sulfurreducens in a microbial fuel cell. The electrochemical activity of strain SD‐1 was compared with type strains, G. sulfurreducens PCA and Geobacter metallireducens GS‐15, and a mixed culture in microbial electrolysis cells. SD‐1 produced a maximum current density of 290 ± 29 A m−3 in a high‐concentration phosphate buffer solution (PBS‐H, 200 mM). This current density was significantly higher than that produced by the mixed culture (189 ± 44 A m−3) or the type strains (< 70 A m−3). In a highly saline water (SW; 50 mM PBS and 650 mM NaCl), current by SD‐1 (158 ± 4 A m−3) was reduced by 28% compared with 50 mM PBS (220 ± 4 A m−3), but it was still higher than that of the mixed culture (147 ± 19 A m−3), and strains PCA and GS‐15 did not produce any current. Electrochemical tests showed that the improved performance of SD‐1 was due to its lower charge transfer resistance and more negative potentials produced at higher current densities. These results show that the electrochemical activity of SD‐1 was significantly different than other Geobacter strains and mixed cultures in terms of its salt tolerance.
Role of smoking in regional variation in mortality in Poland
Authors: Muszyńska Magdalena M. , Fihel Agnieszka , Janssen Fanny
Published: June 2014

Aims

We assess the effect of smoking on regional disparities in mortality in Poland and its contribution to the change in regional disparities during the last two decades.

Design, Setting and Participants

We used population‐level mortality data from the population registry for 379 Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics (NUTS)‐4 Polish regions for 1991–93 and 2008–10.

Measurements

The importance of smoking was assessed by smoking‐attributable mortality (SAM) derived using a simplified indirect Peto‐Lopez method. Regional differences in age‐standardized all‐cause, smoking‐ and non‐smoking‐attributable mortality (NSAM) rates at ages 35 years and over were mapped, and spatial clustering (Moran's I) and coefficients of variation (CV) were estimated. The contribution of SAM to variation in all‐cause mortality was assessed by variance decomposition and compared over time.

Findings

In 2008–10, all‐cause and SAM rates were characterized by a similar pattern of spatial clustering (Moran's I > 0.44, P < 0.0001). For NSAM, a more random pattern with less regional clustering showed (Moran's I = 0.34, P < 0.0001). The contribution of smoking to regional variation was substantial [54%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 44.9, 62.5 among men; 24.9%, 95% CI = 20.9, 29.1 among women], and compared with 1991–93, 27.5 percentage points lower for men and 6.3 percentage points higher for women. Smoking contributed to the divergence between the regions in all‐cause mortality between 1991–93 and 2008–10 for men [increase in CV of SAM by 2% (0, 4%)], but not for women [decrease in CV of SAM by 15% (22, 10%)].

Conclusions

Differences in past smoking behaviour may largely explain the regional differences in all‐cause mortality existing in 2008–10 in Poland, and its trends since 1991–1993.
Copy number variants in Italian Large White pigs detected using high‐density single nucleotide polymorphisms and their association with back fat thickness
Authors: Schiavo G. , Dolezal M. A. , Scotti E. , Bertolini F. , Calò D. G. , Galimberti G. , Russo V. , Fontanesi L.
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to identify copy number variants (CNVs) in Italian Large White pigs and test them for association with back fat thickness (BFT). Within a population of 12 000 performance‐tested pigs, two groups of animals with extreme and divergent BFT estimated breeding values (EBVs; 147 with negative and 150 with positive EBVs) were genotyped with the Illumina Porcine SNP60 BeadChip. CNVs were detected with penncnv software. We identified a total of 4146 CNV events in 170 copy number variation regions (CNVRs) located on 15 porcine autosomes. Validation of detected CNVRs was carried out (i) by comparing CNVRs already detected by other studies and (ii) by semiquantitative fluorescent multiplex (SQFM) PCR of a few CNVRs. Most of CNVRs detected in Italian Large White pigs (71.2%) were already reported in other pig breeds/populations, and 82.1% of the CNV events detected by penncnv were confirmed by SQFM PCR. For each CNVR, we compared the occurrence of CNV events between the pigs of the high and low BFT EBV tails. Sixteen regions showed significance at P < 0.10, and seven were significant at P < 0.05 but were not significant after Bonferroni correction (Fisher's exact test). These results indicated that CNVs could explain a limited fraction of the genetic variability of fat deposition in Italian Large White pigs. However, it was interesting to note that one of these CNVRs encompassed the ZPLD1 gene. In humans, a rare CNV event including this gene is associated with obesity. Studies identifying CNVs in pigs could assist in elucidating the genetic mechanisms underlying human obesity.
Comprehensive analysis of the whole transcriptomes from two different pig breeds using RNA‐Seq method
Authors: Ropka‐Molik Katarzyna , Żukowski Kacper , Eckert Robert , Gurgul Artur , Piórkowska Katarzyna , Oczkowicz Maria
Published: June 2014

Next‐generation sequencing RNA‐Seq technology is a powerful tool that creates new possibilities for whole‐transcriptome analysis. In our study, the RNA‐Seq method was applied to analyze global changes in transcriptome from muscle tissue (m. semimembranosus) in two pig breeds (Pietrain and Polish Landrace, PL). The breeds differ in terms of muscularity, growth rate and reproduction traits. Using three different approaches (deseq, cufflinks and edger) and taking into account the most restrictive criteria, 35 genes differentially expressed between Pietrain and PL pigs were identified. In both breeds, the most abundant were transcripts encoding ribosomal and cytoskeletal proteins (TPM3, TCAP, TMOD4, TPM2, TNNC1) and calcium‐binding proteins involved in muscle contraction, calcium‐mediated signaling or cation transport (CASQ1, MLC2V, SLC25A4, MYL3). In PL pigs, we identified up‐regulation of several genes that play crucial roles in reproduction: female gamete generation (BDP1, PTPN21, USP9X), fertilization (EGFR) and embryonic development (CPEB4). In the Pietrain breed, only seven genes were over‐expressed (CISH, SPP1, TUBA8, ATP6V1C2, IGKC, predicted LOC100510960 and LOC100626400), and they play important roles in, for example, negative regulation of apoptosis, immune response, cell–cell signaling, cell growth and migration as well as the metabolic process. The functions of the majority of selected genes were consistent with phenotypic variation in investigated breeds; thus, we proposed a new panel of candidate genes that can be associated with economically important pig traits.
Beta hydroxy beta methylbutyrate supplementation impairs peripheral insulin sensitivity in healthy sedentary Wistar rats
Authors: Yonamine C. Y. , Teixeira S. S. , Campello R. S. , Gerlinger‐Romero F. , Rodrigues C. F. , Guimarães‐Ferreira L. , Machado U. F. , Nunes M. T.
Published: June 2014

Aim

Investigate, in healthy sedentary rats, the potential mechanisms involved on the effects of beta hydroxy beta methylbutyrate (HMB) supplementation upon the glycaemic homeostasis, by evaluating the insulin sensitivity in liver, skeletal muscle, and white adipose tissue.

Methods

Rats were supplemented with either beta hydroxy beta methylbutyrate (320 mg kg−1 BW) or saline by gavage for 4 weeks. After the experimental period, the animals were subjected to the glucose tolerance test (GTT) and plasma non‐esterified fatty acids (NEFA) concentration measurements. The soleus skeletal muscle, liver and white adipose tissue were removed for molecular (western blotting and RT‐PCR) and histological analysis.

Results

The beta hydroxy beta methylbutyrate supplemented rats presented: (i) higher ratio between the area under the curve (AUC) of insulinaemia and glycaemia during glucose tolerance test; (ii) impairment of insulin sensitivity on liver and soleus skeletal muscle after insulin overload; (iii) reduction of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT 4) total and plasma membrane content on soleus; (iv) increased hormone‐sensitive lipase (HSL) mRNA and protein expression on white adipose tissue and plasma NEFA levels and (v) reduction of fibre cross‐sectional area of soleus muscle.

Conclusion

The data altogether indicate that beta hydroxy beta methylbutyrate supplementation impairs insulin sensitivity in healthy sedentary rats, which, in the long‐term, could lead to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Transforming a tower: how did the One World Trade Center eclipse the Freedom Tower?
Authors: Charney Igal
Published: June 2014

This article explores the transformation of a world‐famous supertall skyscraper in Lower Manhattan. Due to unique circumstances and wide exposure via the media, the case of the Freedom Tower/One World Trade Center makes possible looking at the intricacies that remain largely out of the public eye in less‐publicised projects. Dictated by powerful real‐estate interests, the initial vision of rebuilding was to replicate the bulk of commercial space. Next, in the stormy planning stages, rhetoric of architecture and design was intended to alleviate antagonism towards rebuilding a commercial superblock. Finally, as construction progressed, financial calculations began to occupy a critical role in the rebuilding process, giving the impression of a standard and, at the same time, a distinctive corporate tower. The case of this supertall does not simply conform to the standard logic of skyscrapers; instead, with state intervention and prolonged development, the interpretation of supertalls questions the logic of high‐rises we have known so far. A better understanding of these mushrooming towers requires looking beyond simplistic explanations and stressing the textures that generate and uphold such structures.
An overview of the patterns of prescription opioid use, costs and related harms in Australia
Authors: Blanch Bianca , Pearson Sallie‐Anne , Haber Paul S.
Published: June 2014

Aims

To report Australian population trends in subsidized prescribed opioid use, total costs to the Australian government to subsidize these medicines and opioid‐related harms based on hospitalizations and accidental poisoning deaths.

Methods

We utilized three national aggregated data sources including dispensing claims from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, opioid‐related hospitalizations from the National Hospital Morbidity Database and accidental poisoning deaths from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Results

Between 1992 and 2012, opioid dispensing episodes increased 15‐fold (500 000 to 7.5 million) and the corresponding cost to the Australian government increased 32‐fold ($8.5 million to $271 million). Opioid‐related harms also increased. Opioid‐related hospitalizations increased from 605 to 1464 cases (1998–2009), outnumbering hospitalizations due to heroin poisonings since 2001. Deaths due to accidental poisoning (pharmaceutical opioids and illicit substances combined) increased from 151 to 266 (2002–2011), resulting in a rise in the death rate of 0.78 to 1.19 deaths/100 000 population over 10 years. Death rates increased 1.8 fold in males and 1.4 fold in females.

Conclusions

The striking increase in opioid use and related harms in Australia is consistent with trends observed in other jurisdictions. Further, there is no evidence to suggest these increases are plateauing. There is currently limited evidence in Australia about individual patterns of opioid use and the associated risk of adverse events. Further research should focus on these important issues so as to provide important evidence supporting effective change in policy and practice.
Building Dialogue on Complex Conservation Issues in a Conference Setting
Authors: ROCK JENNY , SPARROW ANDREW , WASS ROB , MOLLER HENRIK
Published: June 2014

Dialogue about complex science and society issues is important for contemporary conservation agendas. Conferences provide an appropriate space for such dialogue, but despite its recognized worth, best practices for facilitating active dialogue are still being explored. Face‐to‐face (FTF) and computer‐mediated communication (CMC) are two approaches to facilitating dialogue that have different strengths. We assessed the use of these approaches to create dialogue on cultural perspectives of conservation and biodiversity at a national ecology conference. In particular, we aimed to evaluate their potential to enhance dialogue through their integrated application. We used an interactive blog to generate CMC on participant‐sourced issues and to prime subsequent discussion in an FTF conference workshop. The quantity and quality of both CMC and FTF discussion indicated that both approaches were effective in building dialogue. Prior to the conference the blog averaged 126 views per day, and 44 different authors contributed a total of 127 comments. Twenty‐five participants subsequently participated in active FTF discussion during a 3‐h workshop. Postconference surveys confirmed that CMC had developed participants’ thinking and deepened FTF dialogue; 88% indicated specifically that CMC helped facilitate the FTF discussion. A further 83% of respondents concluded that preliminary blog discussion would be useful for facilitating dialogue at future conferences.

Construcción del Diálogo sobre Problemas Complejos de Conservación en un Escenario de Conferencia
Unexpectedly high prevalence of rare genetic disorders in kidney transplant recipients with an unknown causal nephropathy
Authors: Quaglia Marco , Musetti Claudio , Ghiggeri Gian Marco , Fogazzi Giovanni Battista , Settanni Fabio , Boldorini Renzo Luciano , Lazzarich Elisa , Airoldi Andrea , Izzo Cristina , Giordano Mara , Stratta Piero
Published: June 2014

Background

Patients with a rare genetic disease may receive renal transplantation (KTx) without a correct diagnosis of causal nephropathy and therefore develop unexpected and even severe complications. The aim of the study was to describe the cases of rare genetic disorders diagnosed after KTx, in order to draw clinical lessons for the transplant physician.

Methods

We retrospectively assessed all patients who had received a diagnosis of a rare genetic disorder after KTx.

Results

In our center, more than 30% (278/911) of kidney transplant (KTx) recipients were diagnosed with a causal nephropathy: Prevalence of rare genetic disorders in this group was 4.32% (12/278), including 2,8‐dihydroxyadeninuria (2,8‐DHA) disease (n = 2), HNF‐1B‐associated nephropathy (n = 2), UMOD‐related nephropathy (n = 5), Fabry disease (n = 1), INF2 focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (n = 1), and Senior‐Løken syndrome (n = 1). 2,8‐DHA nephropathy relapsed in both patients causing an acute renal failure and jeopardizing the graft.

Conclusions

Kidney transplant recipients without a diagnosis of causal nephropathy appear to be a selected population in which rare genetic diseases might be more common than expected. As even a belated diagnosis after KTx can have a significant impact on graft and patient survival and on other family members, this possibility should be evaluated in KTx recipients without a known causal nephropathy.
Capitalist Expansion and the Decline of Common Property Ecosystems in China, Vietnam and India
Authors: Sugden Fraser , Punch Samantha
Published: June 2014

This article identifies some of the multiple processes of capitalist development through which access to common property resources and their utility for communities are undermined. Three sites in upland Asia demonstrate how patterns of exclusion are mediated by the unique and selective trajectories through which capital expands, resulting in a decline of common property ecosystems. The process is mediated by economic stress, ecological degradation and political processes such as state‐sanctioned enclosure. The first case study from Shaoguan, South China, indicates how rapid capitalist industrialization has depleted the aquatic resource base, undermining the livelihoods of fishing households yet to be absorbed into the urban working class. At the second site, in Phu Yen, Vietnam, capitalist development is limited. However, indirect articulations between capitalism on the lowlands and the peasant economy of the uplands is driving the commercialization of agriculture and fishing and undermining the utility of communal river and lake ecosystems. In the third site, Buxa in West Bengal, India, there is only selective capitalist development, but patterns of resource extraction established during the colonial period and contemporary neoliberal ‘conservation’ agendas have directly excluded communities from forest resources. Restrictions on access oblige them to contribute subsidized labour to local enterprises. The article thus shows how communities which are differentially integrated into the global economy are excluded from natural resources through complex means.
A genetic variant in SLC6A20 is associated with Type 2 diabetes in white‐European and Chinese populations
Authors: Ling Y. , van Herpt T. T. W. , van Hoek M. , Dehghan A. , Hofman A. , Uitterlinden A. G. , Jiang S. , Lieverse A. G. , Bravenboer B. , Lu D. , van Duijn C. M. , Gao X. , Sijbrands E. J. G.
Published: June 2014

Aims

To investigate whether polymorphisms in SLC6A20 are associated with susceptibility to Type 2 diabetes.

Methods

In the Rotterdam Study, a prospective, population‐based cohort (n = 5974), 22 tagging polymorphisms with minor allele frequencies>0.05 across SLC6A20 were studied. Replication studies were performed in an independent Dutch case–control study (DiaGene‐Rotterdam Study 2 n = 3133), and in a Chinese Han case–control population (n = 2279). A meta‐analysis of the results was performed.

Results

In the Rotterdam study, the minor alleles of rs13062383, rs10461016 and rs2286489 increased the risk of Type 2 diabetes (hazard ratio 1.37, 95% CI 1.15–1.63, hazard ratio 1.30 95% CI 1.09–1.54 and hazard ratio 1.20, 95% CI 1.07–1.35, respectively). In the DiaGene/Rotterdam Study 2, the A allele of rs13062383 increased the risk of Type 2 diabetes (odds ratio 1.45, 95% CI 1.19–1.76). In the Chinese Han study, the rs13062383 A allele also increased the risk of Type 2 diabetes (odds ratio 1.21, 95% CI 1.03–1.42). Meta‐analysis showed a highly significant association of rs13062383 with Type 2 diabetes (odds ratio 1.35, 95% CI 1.21–1.47; P = 3.3 × 10‐8).

Conclusions

In conclusion, rs13062383 in SLC6A20 increased the susceptibility to Type 2 diabetes in populations with different genetic backgrounds.
The association between socio‐demographic marginalization and plasma glucose levels at diagnosis of gestational diabetes
Authors: Sampson L. , Dasgupta K. , Ross N. A.
Published: June 2014

Aims

We examined the association between socio‐demographic marginalization and plasma glucose levels at diagnosis of gestational diabetes in a multi‐ethnic and socio‐economically diverse patient group.

Methods

Medical charts at a Toronto gestational diabetes clinic were reviewed for women with a recorded pregnancy between 1 March 2006 and 26 April 2011. One‐hour 50‐g glucose challenge test values and postal code data were abstracted. Postal codes were merged with 2006 Canadian census data to compute neighbourhood‐level ethnic concentration (% recent immigrants, % visible minorities) and material deprivation (% low education, % low income, single‐parent households). We compared women in the highest neighbourhood quintiles for both ethnic concentration and material deprivation with all other women to explore an association between marginalization and diagnostic glucose levels. Multivariate regression models of glucose challenge test values and insulin prescription were adjusted for age, prior gestational diabetes, parity and diabetes family history.

Results

Among 531 patients with complete glucose challenge test data (mean 11.94 mmol/l, sd 1.83), those in the most marginalized neighbourhoods had 0.43 mmol/l higher glucose challenge test values (95% CI 0.08–0.78) compared with the rest of the study population. Other factors associated with higher glucose challenge test values were prior gestational diabetes (0.59 mmol/l increment, 95% CI 0.19–0.99) and diabetes family history (0.32 mmol/l increment, 95% CI –0.01 to 0.66). Each additional 1 mmol/l glucose challenge test result was associated with an increased likelihood of being prescribed insulin (odds ratio 1.33, 95% CI 1.17–1.51).

Conclusions

Women living in the most materially deprived and ethnically concentrated neighbourhoods have higher glucose levels at diagnosis of gestational diabetes. They may need close monitoring for timely initiation of insulin.
Family members' experience of seeking help for first‐episode psychosis on behalf of a loved one: a meta‐synthesis of qualitative research
Authors: Cairns Victoria A. , Reid Graeme S. , Murray Craig
Published: June 2014

Aim

Family members often play a vital role in seeking help for loved ones experiencing first‐episode psychosis. Understanding this experience is crucial in facilitating the help‐seeking process. Qualitative research offers valuable insight into the lived experience of family members who seek help on behalf of a loved one experiencing first‐episode psychosis.

Method

The current research presents a systematic review of qualitative studies exploring the family member experience of seeking help for first‐episode psychosis.

Results

A meta‐synthesis of 13 qualitative studies has revealed four themes relating to family members' experience of seeking help for first‐episode psychosis. These include a sense of not knowing, the reaching of crisis point, the impact upon the family member and the mediating role of interactions with others. A further synthesis of translation captures the interaction of these themes within this experience.

Conclusions

The findings provide a novel insight into this experience, suggesting implications for clinical practice. These include a focus upon the facilitation of early positive interactions with family members and for first‐episode psychosis to be presented to families in a normalizing manner. The need for future research that examines the experience of those who do not seek help from health services is discussed.
Immunosuppressive agents in the treatment of inhibitors in congenital haemophilia A and B – a systematic literature review
Authors: Laros‐van Gorkom Britta Antonia Petra , Falaise Céline , Astermark Jan
Published: June 2014

The development of inhibitory antibodies to factor VIII (FVIII) or factor IX (FIX) in patients with haemophilia is a serious complication of treatment with coagulation factor concentrates. Antibodies develop in 10–15% of haemophilia A and in up to 5% of haemophilia B patients. Several strategies have been developed over the years to facilitate the eradication of inhibitors and reduce the cost. These include plasmapheresis and/or extracorporeal protein A absorption to remove the inhibitor from the plasma, and immunosuppression and/or immune modulation to suppress the production of inhibitory antibodies. Different immunosuppressive (IS) agents have been described with varying success. To evaluate the outcome of these agents, we performed a systematic literature review using the PubMed database. The total number of articles identified was 345; 299 papers were excluded leaving 46 papers to be included in the study. No randomised studies were identified, only case reports and case series. The most frequently used agents in the 46 case reports and cohort studies identified were cyclophosphamide and rituximab. All cases exposed to cyclophosphamide, rituximab and other IS agents had a complete success rate of 40–44%, 40–63% and 33–56%, respectively. However, the definition of success was not consistent among the studies. In conclusion, our review of the literature indicates that IS agents in combination with FVIII or FIX could be an option and may be cost‐effective in many patients. The risk of adverse events seems to be relatively low. To fully explore the effect of IS agents, randomised studies are warranted.
On‐demand treatment in persons with severe haemophilia
Authors: Saulyte Trakymiene Sonata , Steen Carlsson Katarina
Published: June 2014

There are two main modes of replacement therapy for haemophilia patients: either to stop bleeding (on‐demand) or regular infusions of clotting factor to prevent bleeds (prophylaxis). Fifty yr of clinical experience have provided evidence of the superiority of prophylaxis by showing a reduction in bleeds and development of arthropathy. Prophylaxis has been described extensively in terms of efficacy and health‐economic aspects; however, on‐demand treatment has received less attention. The aim of this study was to critically review the published literature on PubMed and discuss potential gaps of knowledge in on‐demand treatment in persons with severe haemophilia without inhibitors by focusing on two key aspects: how on‐demand treatment is provided and what outcome measures have been reported. We identified 134 papers of which 112 were excluded. Of the remaining 22 papers, 16 were comparative studies between prophylaxis and on‐demand treatment and six were descriptions of on‐demand treatment. The results showed limited reporting on data related to the key aspects of treatment on‐demand. Early studies looked at degrees of joint bleeds and different treatment regimens in finding the optimal dose. However, from the late 1980s, there was almost no research into on‐demand therapy except efficacy and safety studies of new rFVIII products and studies to prove superiority of prophylaxis over treatment on‐demand. The success of on‐demand therapy may depend on several factors, for example time to initial dose after a bleed and duration of treatment. Data on these key factors are limited and highlight the necessity of research to optimise replacement therapy.
The ethical dimensions of wildlife disease management in an evolutionary context
Authors: Crozier G.K.D. , Schulte‐Hostedde Albrecht I.
Published: June 2014

Best practices in wildlife disease management require robust evolutionary ecological research (EER). This means not only basing management decisions on evolutionarily sound reasoning, but also conducting management in a way that actively contributes to the on‐going development of that research. Because good management requires good science, and good science is ‘good’ science (i.e., effective science is often science conducted ethically), good management therefore also requires practices that accord with sound ethical reasoning. To that end, we propose a two‐part framework to assist decision makers to identify ethical pitfalls of wildlife disease management. The first part consists of six values – freedom, fairness, well‐being, replacement, reduction, and refinement; these values, developed for the ethical evaluation of EER practices, are also well suited for evaluating the ethics of wildlife disease management. The second part consists of a decision tree to help identify the ethically salient dimensions of wildlife disease management and to guide managers toward ethically responsible practices in complex situations. While ethical reasoning cannot be used to deduce from first principles what practices should be undertaken in every given set of circumstances, it can establish parameters that bound what sorts of practices will be acceptable or unacceptable in certain types of scenarios.
Perceptions of prototypical users of complementary and alternative medicine: a possible barrier to participation
Authors: Salamon Katherine S , Davies W Hobart
Published: June 2014

Background

Interest and participation in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has steadily increased over the last decade. Research is needed to empirically explore beliefs about the characteristics of individuals who participate in CAM to determine the pervasiveness and generalisability of these opinions.

Objective

To explore the stereotype of the typical CAM user and how this construct may impact recruitment and retention in paediatric CAM research.

Methods

Parents and emerging adults were recruited using community sampling. Subjects responded to an electronic survey by judging likeliness to participate based on a series of demographic factors. From a total of 570 individuals who completed the survey, 209 responded to a vignette on acupuncture and 361 to a vignette on yoga.

Results

Taking the results together, it appears that the individual characteristics associated with a higher likelihood of engaging in CAM, or being stereotypical of a CAM user, were being white or Asian, female or homosexual male, highly educated, identifying as socially liberal and having a religious affiliation of Buddhist or Hindu.

Conclusions

It is important to understand how these factors may affect people's decisions to participate in CAM interventions and the potential implication for future research on the effectiveness of CAM therapies.
Climate change drives a shift in peatland ecosystem plant community: Implications for ecosystem function and stability
Authors: Dieleman Catherine M. , Branfireun Brian A. , McLaughlin James W. , Lindo Zoë
Published: June 2014

The composition of a peatland plant community has considerable effect on a range of ecosystem functions. Peatland plant community structure is predicted to change under future climate change, making the quantification of the direction and magnitude of this change a research priority. We subjected intact, replicated vegetated poor fen peat monoliths to elevated temperatures, increased atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2), and two water table levels in a factorial design to determine the individual and synergistic effects of climate change factors on the poor fen plant community composition. We identify three indicators of a regime shift occurring in our experimental poor fen system under climate change: nonlinear decline of Sphagnum at temperatures 8 °C above ambient conditions, concomitant increases in Carex spp. at temperatures 4 °C above ambient conditions suggesting a weakening of Sphagnum feedbacks on peat accumulation, and increased variance of the plant community composition and pore water pH through time. A temperature increase of +4 °C appeared to be a threshold for increased vascular plant abundance; however the magnitude of change was species dependent. Elevated temperature combined with elevated CO2 had a synergistic effect on large graminoid species abundance, with a 15 times increase as compared to control conditions. Community analyses suggested that the balance between dominant plant species was tipped from Sphagnum to a graminoid‐dominated system by the combination of climate change factors. Our findings indicate that changes in peatland plant community composition are likely under future climate change conditions, with a demonstrated shift toward a dominance of graminoid species in poor fens.
Headache and Arachnoid Cysts
Authors: Cherian Jacob , Viswanathan Ashwin , Evans Randolph W.
Published: June 2014

Arachnoid cysts are commonly encountered when neuroimaging is obtained for headaches. Their clinical relevance is not always immediately clear and they may confound medical management.
Liver stiffness measurement for risk assessment of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Tatsumi Akihisa , Maekawa Shinya , Sato Mitsuaki , Komatsu Nobutoshi , Miura Mika , Amemiya Fumitake , Nakayama Yasuhiro , Inoue Taisuke , Sakamoto Minoru , Enomoto Nobuyuki
Published: June 2014

Aim

Liver fibrosis is a risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but at what fibrotic stage the risk for HCC is increased has been poorly investigated quantitatively. This study aimed to determine the appropriate cut‐off value of liver stiffness for HCC concurrence by FibroScan, and its clinical significance in hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and non‐B, non‐C (NBNC) liver disease.

Methods

Subjects comprised 1002 cases (246 with HCC and 756 without HCC) with chronic liver disease (HBV, 104; HCV, 722; and NBNC, 176).

Results

Liver stiffness was significantly greater in all groups with HCC, and the determined cut‐off value for HCC concurrence was more than 12.0 kPa in those with HCV, more than 8.5 kPa in those with HBV and more than 12.0 kPa in those with NBNC. Liver stiffness of more than 12.0 kPa was an independent risk factor for new HCC development in HCV. For HCV, risk factors for HCC concurrence were old age, male sex, low albumin, low platelets and liver stiffness, while for HBV they were old age, low platelets and liver stiffness, and for NBNC they were old age, elevated α‐fetoprotein and liver stiffness.

Conclusion

Liver stiffness cut‐off values and their association with HCC concurrence were different depending on the etiology. In HCV, liver stiffness of more than 12.0 kPa was an independent risk factor for new HCC development. Collectively, determining the fibrotic cut‐off values for HCC concurrence would be important in evaluating HCC risks.
Concomitant inhibition of oxidative stress and angiogenesis by chronic hydrogen‐rich saline and N‐acetylcysteine treatments improves systemic, splanchnic and hepatic hemodynamics of cirrhotic rats
Authors: Lee Pei‐Chang , Yang Ying‐Ying , Huang Chien‐Sheng , Hsieh Shie‐Liang , Lee Kuei‐Chuan , Hsieh Yun‐Cheng , Lee Tzung‐Yan , Lin Han‐Chieh
Published: June 2014

Aim

In cirrhosis, increased oxidative stress leads to systemic and splanchnic hyperdynamic circulation, splanchnic angiogenesis, portosystemic collateral formation, hepatic endothelial dysfunction, increased intrahepatic resistance and the subsequent portal hypertension. Like N‐acetylcysteine, hydrogen‐rich saline is a new documented antioxidant with the potential to treat the complications of liver diseases.

Methods

In this study, hemodynamics, splanchnic angiogenesis and hepatic endothelial dysfunction were measured in common bile duct ligation (BDL)‐cirrhotic rats receiving 1‐month treatment of vehicle, N‐acetylcysteine and hydrogen‐rich saline immediately after BDL. Additionally, acute effects of N‐acetylcysteine and hydrogen‐rich saline on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐induced tubule formation and migration of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were also evaluated.

Results

The data indicate that 1‐month treatment of N‐acetylcysteine or hydrogen‐rich saline significantly ameliorated systemic and splanchnic hyperdynamic circulation, corrected hepatic endothelial dysfunction, and decreased intrahepatic resistance and mesenteric angiogenesis by inhibiting inflammatory cytokines, nitric oxide, VEGF and reducing mesenteric oxidative stress in cirrhotic rats. In vivo studies revealed that acute co‐incubation of N‐acetylcysteine or hydrogen‐rich saline with VEGF effectively suppressed VEGF‐induced angiogenesis and migration of HUVEC accompanied by decreasing of oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines.

Conclusion

Both hydrogen‐rich saline and N‐acetylcysteine alleviate portal hypertension, the severity of portosystemic collaterals, mesenteric angiogenesis, hepatic endothelial dysfunction and intrahepatic resistance in cirrhotic rats. N‐Acetylcysteine and the new antioxidant, hydrogen‐rich saline are potential treatments for the complications of cirrhosis.
Guilt in Marketing Research: An Elicitation–Consumption Perspective and Research Agenda
Authors: Antonetti Paolo , Baines Paul
Published: June 2014

Guilt regulates many consumption processes and, consequently, marketers frequently use appeals based on guilt to influence consumers' behaviour. Owing to the multidisciplinary interest in this emotion, however, the literature is diverse and fragmented. The effectiveness of guilt appeals is contested, and some authors suggest that the use of this emotion in marketing might be unethical. Furthermore, research to date has not explored the potential relationships between the experience of guilt in consumption and the elicitation of this emotion through marketing appeals. This paper analyses existing research on guilt in marketing, developing four specific contributions based on the evidence reviewed. First, it shows under what circumstances feelings of guilt support consumer self‐regulation processes. Second, it outlines evidence‐based managerial recommendations on how to produce effective guilt appeals and avoid the potentially unethical consequences of marketing through this emotion. Third, it identifies a gap in existing theorizing and presents an elicitation–consumption perspective of guilt in marketing as a framework that complements current approaches to this research topic. Fourth, it develops an agenda for future research and suggests eleven research hypotheses for the advancement of this field. Through the analysis of research produced within different disciplinary perspectives, this study develops a necessary foundation for future work on the role of guilt in marketing processes.