bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural genetic variation inC. elegansidentified genomic loci controlling metabolite levels
Authors: Gao Arwen W. , Sterken Mark G. , uit de Bos Jelmi , van Creij Jelle , Kamble Rashmi , Snoek Basten L. , Kammenga Jan E. , Houtkooper Riekelt H.
Published: August 2018

Metabolic homeostasis is sustained by complex biological networks that respond to nutrient availability. Genetic and environmental factors may disrupt this equilibrium, leading to metabolic disorders, including obesity and type 2 diabetes. To identify the genetic factors controlling metabolism, we performed quantitative genetic analysis using a population of 199 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) in the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegans. We focused on the genomic regions that control metabolite levels by measuring fatty acid (FA) and amino acid (AA) composition in the RILs using targeted metabolomics. The genetically diverse RILs showed a large variation in their FA and AA levels with a heritability ranging from 32% to 82%. We detected strongly co-correlated metabolite clusters and 36 significant metabolite quantitative trait loci (mQTL). We focused on mQTL displaying highly significant linkage and heritability, including an mQTL for the FA C14:1 on Chromosome I, and another mQTL for the FA C18:2 on Chromosome IV. Using introgression lines (ILs), we were able to narrow down both mQTL to a 1.4-Mbp and a 3.6-Mbp region, respectively. RNAi-based screening focusing on the Chromosome I mQTL identified several candidate genes for the C14:1 mQTL, includinglagr-1, Y87G2A.2,nhr-265,nhr-276, andnhr-81. Overall, this systems approach provides us with a powerful platform to study the genetic basis ofC. elegansmetabolism. Furthermore, it allows us to investigate interventions such as nutrients and stresses that maintain or disturb the regulatory network controlling metabolic homeostasis, and identify gene-by-environment interactions.
Human proteins that interact with RNA/DNA hybrids
Authors: Wang Isabel X. , Grunseich Christopher , Fox Jennifer , Burdick Joshua , Zhu Zhengwei , Ravazian Niema , Hafner Markus , Cheung Vivian G.
Published: August 2018

RNA/DNA hybrids form when RNA hybridizes with its template DNA generating a three-stranded structure known as the R-loop. Knowledge of how they form and resolve, as well as their functional roles, is limited. Here, by pull-down assays followed by mass spectrometry, we identified 803 proteins that bind to RNA/DNA hybrids. Because these proteins were identified using in vitro assays, we confirmed that they bind to R-loops in vivo. They include proteins that are involved in a variety of functions, including most steps of RNA processing. The proteins are enriched for K homology (KH) and helicase domains. Among them, more than 300 proteins preferred binding to hybrids than double-stranded DNA. These proteins serve as starting points for mechanistic studies to elucidate what RNA/DNA hybrids regulate and how they are regulated.
Pseudohomophones as brand names
Authors: Ilicic Jasmina , Baxter Stacey , Kulczynski Alicia
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to introduce the homophone emotional interest superiority effect in phonological, or sound-based, priming, whereby pseudohomophone brand names (i.e. non-words that are pronounced identically to English words, for example, Bie) prime brand meaning associated with the member of the homophone pair that is emotionally interesting (i.e. Bie will be prime brand avoidance (purchase) when consumers are emotionally interested in the homophone bye [buy]).

Design/methodology/approach

Studies 1 and 2 examine the effect of homophone emotional interest on brand judgements and behaviours. Study 3 investigates the role of boredom with the brand name in attenuating the homophone emotional interest superiority effect.

Findings

Findings indicate that pseudohomophone brand names prime brand judgements and behaviours associated with the word from the homophone pair that evokes emotional interest. Study 2 provides further evidence of homophone emotional interest as the process influencing brand judgements and behaviours. Study 3 establishes that the effect of pseudohomophone brand names on brand judgements weaken when boredom with the brand name is induced.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited, as it focuses only on fictitious brands and methodologically creates boredom in a way in which may not be typical of what would be experienced in the real world.

Practical implications

This study has important implications for brand managers in the development of new brand names and in prioritising the intended homophone pair from a pseudohomophone brand name to influence consumer judgements and behaviours.

Originality/value

This study introduces and provides evidence of a homophone emotional interest superiority effect. This study also identifies a condition under which the homophone emotional interest superiority effect is attenuated.
Embracing the sobering reality of technological influences on jobs, employment and human resource development
Authors: Chuang Szufang , Graham Carroll Marion
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a sobering and unique view of technological unemployment and job changes by identifying endangered jobs and skills, as well as the essential up-skills critical to employees’ performance, which cannot be replaced by technology.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review, used because it is replicable, transparent, and scientific, was implemented to examine the current and future technological influences on employment, job outlook, work structure, and human resource development (HRD).

Findings

The study concludes that HRD professionals should promptly reexamine their social responsibility relative to the technological influence on workers by focusing developmental efforts on employees’ human skills while assisting workers’ transition to a skill-polarized workplace. HRD professionals should play a major role in facilitating employees’ coexistence with robots in the workplace.

Originality/value

While recognizing the valuable contributions of previous researchers with similar concerns, this comprehensive review provides an amalgamated and updated view, which reveals the escalating and combined challenges of a skill-polarized workplace, a tendency of technological unemployment for those positioned in middle-skill jobs, and an increased demand for employees with a higher level of human skills.
Drivers of trust and trustworthiness
Authors: Reiersen Jon
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the understanding of why people act trustworthily in anonymous non-repeated meetings where trustworthiness benefits the trustor and runs against the trustee’s material self-interest.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a survey originally developed by Bicchieriet al.(2011). The survey makes it possible to explore whether trustworthiness has a normative element. Is there a norm of trustworthiness that inflicts punishment for disobedience?

Findings

The participants in the experiment strongly believe that most people will punish untrustworthy behavior, lending support to the idea that trustworthiness is norm driven. The data provide little evidence for a parallel norm of trust.

Originality/value

The theory of repeated games explains how trust can emerge among players in ongoing interactions. But why do people choose to trust others who they do not know in non-ongoing interactions? The results offer an explanation. When trustors are aware that trustworthiness is rooted in norms, they have reason to expect trustees to act trustworthily. Then, it makes sense to trust since trustors will benefit from their trusting.
Service mobile apps: a millennial generation perspective
Authors: Leon Steven
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This purpose of this paper is to evaluate Millennials’ intention to use service mobile apps and assess gender as a moderator.

Design/methodology/approach

An extended technology acceptance model framework that includes information quality and self-efficacy guides this research. PLS-SEM is used to evaluate the data and test the hypotheses.

Findings

The study reveals that information quality, self-efficacy, perceived ease of use and usefulness, and attitude influence Millennials’ intentions to use service mobile apps. Additionally, gender is found to partially moderate the results.

Practical implications

Service companies that rely on mobile apps to deliver services ought to consider the disparities among the Millennial generation, increasing the likelihood that Millennial customers will adopt service mobile apps and that they receive acceptable customer experiences.

Originality/value

This paper examines the factors influencing adoption and use of service mobile apps among Millennials and examines gender as a moderator. Additionally, guidelines for service mobile app design are included.
Trust, risk and transaction intention in consumer-to-consumer e-marketplaces
Authors: Wei Kangning , Li Yuzhu , Zha Yong , Ma Jing
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare the relative impacts of trust and risk on individual’s transaction intention in consumer-to-consumer (C2C) e-marketplaces from both the buyers’ and the sellers’ perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

Two surveys were used to collect data regarding buyers’ and sellers’ perceptions and transaction intentions at a typical C2C e-marketplace. Partial least squares was used to analyze the data. A complementary qualitative study was conducted to triangulate the results from the quantitative study.

Findings

Institution-based trust (IBT) exerts a stronger influence on transaction intentions for buyers than for sellers. Sellers perceive a stronger impact of trust in intermediary (TII) than buyers on transaction intentions. The impacts of perceived risk in transactions are not different between buyers and sellers. Furthermore, IBT mediates the impacts of TII and perceived risk on transaction intentions for buyers.

Research limitations/implications

The results indicate that the impacts of trust and risk on transaction intention in e-marketplaces do differ between buyers and sellers. This suggests a need to further investigate the buyer–seller difference in online transactions.

Practical implications

Intermediaries need to focus on different types of trust-building mechanisms when attracting buyers and sellers to make transactions in the e-marketplace.

Originality/value

C2C e-marketplaces cannot survive without participation from both buyers and sellers. Most prior research is conducted from the buyers’ perspective. This research sets a starting point for future research to further explore the differences between buyers’ and sellers’ behavior in C2C e-commerce environments.
Knowledge sharing by entrepreneurs in a virtual community of practice (VCoP)
Authors: Hafeez Khalid , Alghatas Fathalla M. , Foroudi Pantea , Nguyen Bang , Gupta Suraksha
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how entrepreneurs engage in a virtual community of practice (VCoP) to share knowledge. Intensity of engagement is taken as a proxy to measure the strength of knowledge sharing.

Design/methodology/approach

The archival data spanning over a three-year period from “Start-up-Nation©” (a VCoP purposefully setup for entrepreneurs) are used for analysis. A set of indices are introduced to measure participants’ intensity of engagement in terms of message length, message frequency and reciprocity in the knowledge sharing process. Content analysis is employed to test a sample of “highly engaged”, “moderately engaged”, “low engaged” and “not engaged” discussion topics as part of the online discourse.

Findings

The authors find that entrepreneurs normally use short (fewer than 100 words) or medium (fewer than 250 words) message size to contribute to the discussions. In addition, the authors find that senior members and discussion moderators play important roles in igniting the “reciprocity” behaviour in stimulating the interest of the community with the topic discussion. The authors also find that highly engaged topics usually lead to further discussion threads.

Originality/value

This is the first study of its kind to explore how entrepreneurs engage in a VCoP to share their knowledge and experiences. The set of measurement indices tested here provide a tool for the owner, designer and moderator of the VCoP to measure the utility of their website in terms of its members’ participation. In addition, the set of textual and subjective interventions identified here enables the moderator (administrator) of a VCoP to design effective interventions to facilitate online discourse and augments the knowledge sharing process amongst its community members.
The impact of intellectual capital on firm performance: a study of Indian firms listed in COSPI
Authors: Smriti Neha , Das Niladri
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of intellectual capital (IC) on financial performance (FP) for Indian companies listed on the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy Overall Share Price Index (COSPI).

Design/methodology/approach

Hypotheses were developed according to theories and literature review. Secondary data were collected from Indian companies listed on the COSPI between 2001 and 2016, and the value-added intellectual coefficient (VAIC) of Pulic (2000) was used to measure IC and its components. A dynamic system generalized method of moments (SGMM) estimator was employed to identify the variables that significantly contribute to firm performance.

Findings

Indian listed firms appear to be performing well and efficiently utilizing their IC. Overall, human capital had a major impact on firm productivity during the study period. Furthermore, the empirical analysis showed that structural capital efficiency and capital employed efficiency were equally important contributors to firm’s sales growth and market value. The growing importance of the contribution of IC to value creation was consistently reflected in the FP of these Indian companies.

Practical implications

This study has robust theoretical grounds and employs a validated methodology. The present study extends knowledge of IC among academicians and managers and highlights its contribution to value creation. The findings may help stakeholders and policymakers in developing countries properly reallocate intellectual resources.

Originality/value

This study is the first study to evaluate IC and its relationship with traditional measures of firm performance among Indian listed firms using dynamic SGMM and VAIC models.
Team leaders’ beliefs about teachers’ learning-path strategies
Authors: van Bussel Janne , Justice Sean , Bang April , Damirón-Alcántara Aquiles
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on professional development in the education sector. Its goal is to understand team leaders’ roles in teachers’ professional learning. Second, this paper seeks to understand the influence that team leaders have on teachers’ learning path strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

Following from van der Krogt’s (2007a) Learning Network Theory (LNT), this paper presents a qualitative study of teachers’ preferences for specific learning path strategies. Interview data were collected from teachers (N = 24) and team leaders (N = 5) at an intermediate vocational school in the Netherlands. Research questions ask to what extent teachers learning path strategies align with the learning path strategies that their team leaders think they should use, and about the influence team leaders have on teachers’ professional development.

Findings

Findings suggest that teachers and team leaders’ beliefs about learning path strategies differ greatly, and that team leaders have limited influence on the learning path strategies that teachers adopt. On the other hand, team leaders appear able to create conditions in which teachers can pursue professional learning because they do have influence on learning facilities.

Originality/value

These findings add to the scarce empirical evidence regarding LNT, learning path strategies and team leaders beliefs about teachers professional development. They also imply practical changes for team leaders who want to influence teacher professional development.
The credibility and attribution of online reviews
Authors: Chiou Jyh-Shen , Hsiao Cheng-Chieh , Chiu Tien-Yi
Published: August 2018

Purpose

To understand the effectiveness of electronic word of mouth, the purpose of this paper is to examine how high- vs low-knowledge consumers judge and attribute the credibility of positive and negative online reviews by drawing upon accessibility–diagnosticity theory and attribution theory.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducts an observation-based study in an online forum and a 2 (review valence) × 2 (consumer knowledge) between-participants factorial experiment to examine the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

High-knowledge consumers elicit less perceived credibility and make more non-product-relevant attribution than low-knowledge consumers in negative online reviews. Consumer attribution is also found to mediate the effects of the review valence by consumer knowledge interaction on review credibility.

Originality/value

This study adds to extant research by examining how consumer knowledge plays a key role in determining consumer perception of online review credibility. This study also advances the understanding of different casual inferences about online reviews between high- and low-knowledge consumers.
Variability in commercial demand for tree saplings affects the probability of introducing exotic forest diseases
Authors: Alonso Chavez Vasthi , Gilligan Christopher A. , van den Bosch Frank
Published: August 2018

Several devastating forest pathogens are suspected or known to have entered the UK through imported planting material. The nursery industry is a key business of the tree trade network. Variability in demand for trees makes it difficult for nursery owners to predict how many trees to produce in their nursery. When in any given year, the demand for trees is larger than the production, nursery owners buy trees from foreign sources to match market demand. These imports may introduce exotic diseases.

We have developed a model of the dynamics of plant production linked to an economic model. We have used this to quantify the effect of demand variability on the risk of introducing an exotic disease.

We find that: (a) When the cost of producing a tree in a UK nursery is considerably smaller than the cost of importing a tree (in the example presented, less than half the importing cost), the risk of introducing an exotic disease is hardly affected by an increase in demand variability. (b) When the cost of producing a tree in the nursery is smaller than, but not very different from the cost of importing a tree, the risk of importing exotic diseases increases with increasing demand variability.

Synthesis and applications. Our model and results demonstrate how a balanced management of demand variability and costs can reduce the risk of importing an exotic forest disease according to the management strategy adopted. For example, a management strategy that can reduce the demand variability, the ratio of production to import cost or both, optimizes the nursery gross margin when mainly own‐produced trees are commercialized. This can also translate into a reduction of the risk of introducing exotic forest diseases due to the small number of imported trees for sale.
Parents’ and healthcare professionals’ experiences of care after stillbirth in low‐ and middle‐income countries: a systematic review and meta‐summary
Authors: Shakespeare C , Merriel A , Bakhbakhi D , Baneszova R , Barnard K , Lynch M , Storey C , Blencowe H , Boyle F , Flenady V , Gold K , Horey D , Mills T , Siassakos D
Published: August 2018

Background

Stillbirth has a profound impact on women, families, and healthcare workers. The burden is highest in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). There is need for respectful and supportive care for women, partners, and families after bereavement.

Objective

To perform a qualitative meta‐summary of parents’ and healthcare professionals’ experiences of care after stillbirth in LMICs.

Search strategy

Search terms were formulated by identifying all synonyms, thesaurus terms, and variations for stillbirth. Databases searched were AMED, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsychINFO, BNI, CINAHL.

Selection criteria

Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed method studies that addressed parents’ or healthcare professionals’ experience of care after stillbirth in LMICs.

Data collection and analysis

Studies were screened, and data extracted in duplicate. Data were analysed using the Sandelowski meta‐summary technique that calculates frequency and intensity effect sizes (FES/IES).

Main results

In all, 118 full texts were screened, and 34 studies from 17 countries were included. FES range was 15–68%. Most studies had IES 1.5–4.5. Women experience a broad range of manifestations of grief following stillbirth, which may not be recognised by healthcare workers or in their communities. Lack of recognition exacerbates negative experiences of stigmatisation, blame, devaluation, and loss of social status. Adequately developed health systems, with trained and supported staff, are best equipped to provide the support and information that women want after stillbirth.

Conclusions

Basic interventions could have an immediate impact on the experiences of women and their families after stillbirth. Examples include public education to reduce stigma, promoting the respectful maternity care agenda, and investigating stillbirth appropriately.

Tweetable abstract

Reducing stigma, promoting respectful care and investigating stillbirth have a positive impact after stillbirth for women and families in LMICs.
Altered modulation of lamin A/C‐HDAC2 interaction and p21 expression during oxidative stress response in HGPS
Authors: Mattioli Elisabetta , Andrenacci Davide , Garofalo Cecilia , Prencipe Sabino , Scotlandi Katia , Remondini Daniel , Gentilini Davide , Di Blasio Anna Maria , Valente Sergio , Scarano Emanuela , Cicchilitti Lucia , Piaggio Giulia , Mai Antonello , Lattanzi Giovanna
Published: August 2018

Defects in stress response are main determinants of cellular senescence and organism aging. In fibroblasts from patients affected by Hutchinson–Gilford progeria, a severe LMNA‐linked syndrome associated with bone resorption, cardiovascular disorders, and premature aging, we found altered modulation of CDKN1A, encoding p21, upon oxidative stress induction, and accumulation of senescence markers during stress recovery. In this context, we unraveled a dynamic interaction of lamin A/C with HDAC2, an histone deacetylase that regulates CDKN1A expression. In control skin fibroblasts, lamin A/C is part of a protein complex including HDAC2 and its histone substrates; protein interaction is reduced at the onset of DNA damage response and recovered after completion of DNA repair. This interplay parallels modulation of p21 expression and global histone acetylation, and it is disrupted by LMNAmutations leading to progeroid phenotypes. In fact, HGPS cells show impaired lamin A/C‐HDAC2 interplay and accumulation of p21 upon stress recovery. Collectively, these results link altered physical interaction between lamin A/C and HDAC2 to cellular and organism aging. The lamin A/C‐HDAC2 complex may be a novel therapeutic target to slow down progression of progeria symptoms.
LncRNA HOXA11‐AS drives cisplatin resistance of human LUAD cells via modulating miR‐454‐3p/Stat3
Authors: Zhao Xia , Li Xiaoyou , Zhou Leilei , Ni Jie , Yan Wenyue , Ma Rong , Wu Jianzhong , Feng Jifeng , Chen Ping
Published: August 2018

Over the past several years, long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have attracted more and more attention due to their special functions. They are vital biomarkers in multiple diseases. LncRNA HOMEOBOX A11 (HOXA11) has been found to be aberrantly expressed in some kinds of malignant tumors. In this study, we mainly discuss the oncogenic role of it in promoting malignant progression and chemoresistance in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) cells. The expression of HOXA11‐AS was much stronger in cisplatin‐resistant LUAD cells. Based on The Cancer Genome Atlas database, patients with high expression of HOXA11‐AS had shorter survival time. Additionally, knockdown of HOXA11‐AS caused positive changes in cell activities of LUAD. For example, cell proliferation and migration were weakened, the epithelial mesenchymal transition process was reversed, and apoptosis was induced. These changes were more obvious in cells treated with cisplatin. Next, the HOXA11‐AS/miR‐454‐3p/Stat3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) pathway was found to influence the cisplatin resistance of LUAD cells. HOXA11‐AS specifically acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) in LUAD cells. The combinations among these three genes were demonstrated. Finally, rescue assays were applied to demonstrate the ceRNA pattern consisting of HOXA11‐AS, miR‐454‐3p and Stat3. In conclusion, lncRNA HOXA11‐AS acted as a ceRNA to promote cisplatin resistance of human LUAD cells via the miR‐454‐3p/Stat3 axis.
Phase I dose‐escalation trial of Sym004, an anti‐EGFR antibody mixture, in Japanese patients with advanced solid tumors
Authors: Kojima Takashi , Yamazaki Kentaro , Kato Ken , Muro Kei , Hara Hiroki , Chin Keisho , Goddemeier Thomas , Kuffel Stefan , Watanabe Morihiro , Doi Toshihiko
Published: August 2018

Sym004 is a 1:1 mixture of two antibodies targeting non‐overlapping epitopes of the epidermal growth factor receptor that antagonizes ligand binding and induces receptor downregulation. In preclinical models, it has superior antitumor activity to cetuximab and panitumumab. Japanese adults aged ≥20 years with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group status of 0/1 and life expectancy ≥3 months were eligible. Patients in Part A (dose escalation) had refractory or recurrent late‐stage solid tumors and received Sym004 6 mg/kg/wk (n = 3), 9 mg/kg loading/6 mg/kg/wk (n = 6), 12 mg/kg/wk (n = 6), or 18 mg/kg biweekly (n = 6). Patients in expansion Part B (n = 30) had esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and received Sym004 at the dose recommended from Part A. Fifty‐one patients received Sym004. No dose‐limiting toxicities were observed in Part A. A dose of 12 mg/kg/wk was selected for Part B. All patients in Part B experienced treatment‐related adverse events, most commonly dermatitis acneiform (76.7%). Eighteen grade ≥3 treatment‐related adverse events and five serious adverse events occurred (cardiac arrest, lung infection, interstitial lung disease, toxic skin eruption, blood creatinine increase). Two patients had treatment‐related adverse events resulting in death (cardiac arrest and blood creatinine increase). Five patients in Part B had a best overall response of partial response, 12 stable diseases and 12 disease progression (1 not evaluable). The objective response rate was 16.7% (95% CI: 5.6%‐34.7%). Sym004 therapy was well tolerated with no dose‐limiting toxicities at any dose studied. Evidence of antitumor activity was seen in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01955473.
Long‐term clinical outcome of single implants inserted flaplessly or conventionally
Authors: Naeini Emitis N. , Dierens Melissa , Atashkadeh Mandana , De Bruyn Hugo
Published: August 2018

Background

Flapless implant surgery is mostly performed using guided surgical protocols, however, long‐term studies on free‐handed flapless surgery for single implants are lacking.

Purpose

This prospective study evaluates bone level changes, peri‐implant health, and complications of solitary implants placed using a conventional flap (F) or flaplessly (FL) after 6‐9 years.

Materials and Methods

Fifty‐three single TiUnite Brånemark implants were originally inserted in 49 patients using an one‐stage delayed loading protocol with flap (n = 27, F) or flaplessly (n = 26, FL) based on available bone volume and surgeon's decision‐making. Thirty‐six patients with 37 implants participated in the prospective follow‐up investigation 6‐9 years later whereby survival, bone level changes, peri‐implant health, and complications were assessed.

Results

After 88 months (range 76‐107), all implants were survived. For F and FL combined, the overall average radiographic bone level was above the first implant thread, 1.26 mm apical of the implant‐abutment junction (SD 1.08; 0‐4.9) and statistically comparable. Bone loss from time of loading was 0.49 mm (SD 1.1; −1.3 to 2.8) for F and −0.89 mm (SD 1.0; −2.8 to 0.7) for FL (P < .01), suggesting regrowth of bone in FL due to initial countersinking. One implant (2.7%) had a probing depth above 5 mm.

Conclusion

Free‐handed flapless implant surgery for single implants with neighboring teeth is a predictable long‐term treatment provided when there is sufficient bone volume.
Retrospective radiographic observational study of 1692 Straumann tissue‐level dental implants over 10 years: I. Implant survival and loss pattern
Authors: Kim Seungmin , Jung Ui‐Won , Cho Kyoo‐Sung , Lee Jung‐Seok
Published: August 2018

Background

Implant dentistry is progressing based on extensive scientific results including preclinical and clinical studies. Researchers and clinicians have focused on implant designs and surface characteristics, which has resulted in various features being developed and introduced for enhancing osseointegration and reducing complications.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the cumulative survival rates of Straumann tissue‐level dental implants over a 10‐year period and identify the patterns of implant loss at a single research institution.

Materials and Methods

In total, 1692 implants were installed in 881 patients who visited the Department of Periodontology, Dental Hospital, Yonsei University, Seoul from January 2003 to December 2009. Cases in which the implant was completely removed were defined as implant failures. Electronic or paper charts and radiographs were used to determine whether the implants failed. The survival rate of implants was analyzed using lifetime tables and Kaplan‐Meier survival estimates. Log‐rank test and Cox regression with shared frailty were used to analyze the risk factors and the types of implant failure.

Results

The 10‐year cumulative survival rates were 98.23% and 95.70% at the implant and patient levels, respectively. Before installing a prosthesis (defined as the early stage), 13 implants in 10 patients were removed, while eight implants in seven patients were removed after completing a prosthesis (defined as the late stage). The cumulative survival rate was related to the implant diameter, length, site, and insertion torque. Most implant failures within 1 year were attributable to osseointegration failure. There were several cases of failure in the late stage without apparent marginal bone loss.

Conclusion

Straumann tissue‐level dental implants showed low failure rates and can be considered a useful long‐term treatment option. The length, placement site, and insertion torque might affect implant survival.
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in Australia: What is the current state of affairs?
Authors: Reid Natasha
Published: August 2018

The term fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is used to describe a wide range of difficulties that individuals who are exposed to alcohol prenatally can face. FASD is a significant public health concern that is currently under‐recognised and consequently, under‐diagnosed in Australia. A new Commonwealth FASD Strategy (2018–2028) is being developed and the Australian Government has announced significant funding for the expansion of FASD prevention, diagnostic and intervention services around Australia. Therefore, it is timely to consider what the current state of affairs regarding FASD in Australia is and describe areas for future research and service delivery.
Treatment of recurrent isolated right atrial metastatic cavitary mass from breast cancer with radiation therapy: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Ya'qoub Lina , Larson Shelby , Deedy Matthew , Saeed Ibrahim M.
Published: August 2018

The heart is a destination for metastases of various types of primary tumors, with lung, breast, melanoma, and mesothelioma being the most common types. Recurrent isolated cardiac metastasis presenting as a cavitary mass is rare. We present a case of recurrent isolated cavitary metastatic mass to the right atrium in a patient with the history of breast cancer who presented with new‐onset atrial fibrillation. The patient successfully received radiation therapy with the resolution of the mass confirmed on repeat echocardiography.
Interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist as a biomarker of sepsis in neutropenic haematological patients
Authors: Intke Carina , Korpelainen Sini , Hämäläinen Sari , Vänskä Matti , Koivula Irma , Jantunen Esa , Pulkki Kari , Juutilainen Auni
Published: August 2018

Objective

The study aim was to compare the performance of interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1Ra) to C‐reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) in early prediction of the clinical course of febrile neutropenia.

Methods

The study population consisted of 86 consecutive patients with febrile neutropenia who received intensive chemotherapy for haematological malignancy between November 2009 and November 2012 at the adult haematology ward of Kuopio University Hospital. Twenty‐three (27%) patients had acute myeloid leukaemia and 63 (73%) patients were autologous stem cell transplant recipients. IL‐1Ra, CRP and procalcitonin were measured at the onset of fever (d0), on day 1 (d1) and on day 2 (d2).

Results

Eight patients developed severe sepsis, including three patients with septic shock. Eighteen patients had bacteraemia. After the onset of febrile neutropenia Youden´s indices (with their 95% confidence intervals) to identify severe sepsis were for IL‐1Ra on d0 0.57 (0.20‐0.71) and on d1 0.65 (0.28‐0.78), for CRP on d0 0.41 (0.04‐0.61) and on d1 0.47 (0.11‐0.67) and for PCT on d0 0.39 (0.05‐0.66) and on d1 0.52 (0.18‐0.76).

Conclusions

In haematological patients, IL‐1Ra has a comparable capacity with CRP and PCT to predict severe sepsis at the early stages of febrile neutropenia.
Neuroscience without borders: Preserving the history of neuroscience
Authors: Lorusso Lorenzo , Piccolino Marco , Motta Saba , Gasparello Anna , Barbara Jean‐Gaël , Bossi‐Régnier Laura , Shepherd Gordon M. , Swanson Larry , Magistretti Pierre , Everitt Barry , Molnár Zoltán , Brown Richard E.
Published: August 2018

Over the last 50 years, neuroscience has enjoyed a spectacular development, with many discoveries greatly expanding our knowledge of brain function. Despite this progress, there has been a disregard for preserving the history of these discoveries. In many European countries, historic objects, instruments, and archives are neglected, while libraries and museums specifically focusing on neuroscience have been closed or drastically cut back. To reverse this trend, the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS) has organized a number of projects, including (a) the History of Neuroscience online projects, (b) the European Brain Museum Project (EBM), (c) the History online library, (d) theFENSmeeting History Corner, (e) history lectures in historic venues, and (f) a series of history seminars in various European venues. These projects aim to stimulate research in, and increase awareness of, the history of European neuroscience. Our seminars have attracted large audiences of students, researchers, and the general public, who have supported our initiatives for the preservation of the history of neuroscience for future generations and for the promotion of interest in the history of neuroscience. It is therefore urgent to develop new methods for preserving our history, not only in Europe but also in the rest of the world, and to increase greatly teaching and research in this important aspect of our scientific and cultural legacy.
The role of environmental factors in allergy: A critical reappraisal
Authors: Gilles Stefanie , Akdis Cezmi , Lauener Roger , Schmid‐Grendelmeier Peter , Bieber Thomas , Schäppi Georg , Traidl‐Hoffmann Claudia
Published: August 2018

Allergies are usually referred to as type I hypersensitivity reactions against innocuous environmental antigens, characterized by a Th2/IgE‐dominated inflammation. They can manifest themselves in various organs, such as skin, gastrointestinal and respiratory tract, and comprise diseases as diverse as allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis, bronchial asthma, oral allergy syndrome, food allergy, urticaria and atopic eczema, but also anaphylactic shock. Within the last decades, there was a significant global increase in allergy prevalence, which has been mostly attributed to changes in environment and lifestyle. But which, among all factors discussed, are the most relevant, and what are the mechanisms by which these factors promote or prevent the development of allergic diseases? To answer this, it is necessary to go back to the two key questions that have occupied allergy researchers for the last decades: Firstly, what makes an allergen an allergen? Secondly, why are more and more individuals affected? Within the last decade, we have made considerable progress in answering these questions. This review gives an overview over scientific progress in the field, summarizes latest findings and points out future prospective and research needs.
Methods for measurement of root canal curvature: a systematic and critical review
Authors: Hartmann R. C. , Fensterseifer M. , Peters O. A. , de Figueiredo J. A. P. , Gomes M. S. , Rossi‐Fedele G.
Published: August 2018

The assessment of root canal curvature is essential for clinical and research purposes. This systematic review presents an overview of the published techniques for the measurement of root canal curvature features using imaging and to provide a critique of their clinical application. A database search in PubMed, PubMed Central, Embase, Scopus, EBSCO Dentistry & Oral Sciences Source and Virtual Health Library was conducted, using appropriate key words to identify measurement methods for root canal curvatures. The search strategy retrieved 10594 records in total, and 31 records fulfilled the inclusion criteria. From 2D image acquisitions, eleven studies measured exclusively the angle of curvature, an additional thirteen measured other curvature features (level, height, radius, length and shape). Seven reports described methods from 3D imaging (CBCT, μCT). Root canal curvatures should be measured, for clinical proposes, to facilitate endodontic treatment planning, and in research, to reduce the risk of selection bias. This review has revealed that there are many methods described in the literature; however, no consensus exists on which method should be used. Some of the methodologies have potential clinical translation, whereas others are suitable for research purpose only, as they require a specific software or radiographic exposure in the mesiodistal direction.
Effect of midwife‐led care on birth outcomes of primiparas
Authors: Jiang Xiu‐Min , Chen Qi‐Yan , Guo Sheng‐Bin , Jin Li‐Zhu , Huang Xin‐Xin , Liu Xiu‐Wu , Hong Jin‐Xiu , Qu Hai‐Bin , Hu Rong‐Fang
Published: August 2018

Background

The high caesarean section rate is a prominent public health problem in China.

Aim

This study aimed to determine the effects of midwife‐led care during labour on birth outcomes for healthy primiparas.

Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Setting

The Obstetrics Department of Fujian Provincial Maternity and Child Health Hospital.

Methods

A total of 666 primiparas in labour were randomly divided into an intervention and control group (333 in each group). The intervention group received a midwife‐led model of care during labour.

Results

Data from 648 cases (331 intervention group and 317 control group) were analysed. The intervention group was less likely to experience caesarean section, postpartum haemorrhage, opiate analgesia, vaginal examinations, neonatal asphyxia, and neonatal hospitalization and was more likely to experience shorter length of labour and vaginal birth than the control group (all, P < 0.05). No differences were found in the number of artificial rupture of membranes and oxytocin use (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Midwife‐led care can reduce the caesarean section rate, promote normal birth, improve birth outcomes, and promote maternal and child health.
Human CD8 T‐cell activation in acute and chronic chikungunya infection
Authors: Dias Cinthia Nóbrega de Sousa , Gois Bruna Macêdo , Lima Viviane Silva , Guerra‐Gomes Isabel Cristina , Araújo Josélio Maria Galvão , Gomes Juliana de Assis Silva , Araújo Demétrius Antônio Machado , Medeiros Isac Almeida , Azevedo Fátima de Lourdes Assunção Araújo de , Veras Robson Cavalcanti , Janebro Daniele Idalino , Amaral Ian Porto Gurgel do , Keesen Tatjana Souza Lima
Published: August 2018

There is a need for more detailed elucidation of T‐cell immunity in chikungunya infection. CD8 T cells are one of main actors against viruses. Here, we analysed CD8+ T lymphocytes from patients in the acute and chronic phases of chikungunya disease (CHIKD). Our results demonstrate that CD8+ T cells expressed higher ex vivo granzyme B, perforin and CD107A expression in patients in the acute phase of CHIKD compared with healthy individuals and higher ex vivo expression of CD69, interleukin‐17A, interleukin‐10 and CD95 ligand, and co‐expression of CD95/CD95 ligand. These results elucidate the importance of these lymphocytes, demonstrating immune mechanisms mediated in human chikungunya infection.
The dynamics of simian immunodeficiency virus after depletion of CD8+ cells
Authors: Cardozo Erwing Fabian , Apetrei Cristian , Pandrea Ivona , Ribeiro Ruy M.
Published: August 2018

Human immunodeficiency virus infection is still one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality in the world, with a disproportionate human and economic burden especially in poorer countries. Despite many years of intense research, an aspect that still is not well understood is what (immune) mechanisms control the viral load during the prolonged asymptomatic stage of infection. Because CD8+ T cells have been implicated in this control by multiple lines of evidence, there has been a focus on understanding the potential mechanisms of action of this immune effector population. One type of experiment used to this end has been depleting these cells with monoclonal antibodies in the simian immunodeficiency virus‐macaque model and then studying the effect of that depletion on the viral dynamics. Here we review what these experiments have told us. We emphasize modeling studies to interpret the changes in viral load observed in these experiments, including discussion of alternative models, assumptions and interpretations, as well as potential future experiments.
Modifying clonal selection theory with a probabilistic cell
Authors: Hodgkin Philip D.
Published: August 2018

Problem‐solving strategies in immunology currently utilize a series of ad hoc, qualitative variations on a foundation of Burnet's formulation of clonal selection theory. These modifications, including versions of two‐signal theory, describe how signals regulate lymphocytes to make important decisions governing self‐tolerance and changes to their effector and memory states. These theories are useful but are proving inadequate to explain the observable genesis and control of heterogeneity in cell types, the nonlinear passage of cell fate trajectories and how the input from multiple environmental signals can be integrated at different times and strengths. Here, I argue for a paradigm change to place immune theory on a firmer philosophical and quantitative foundation to resolve these difficulties. This change rejects the notion of identical cell subsets and substitutes the concept of a cell as comprised of autonomous functional mechanical components subject to stochastic variations in construction and operation. The theory aims to explain immunity in terms of cell population dynamics, dictated by the operation of cell machinery, such as randomizing elements, division counters, and fate timers. The effect of communicating signals alone and in combination within this system is determined with a cellular calculus. A series of models developed with these principles can resolve logical cell fate and signaling paradoxes and offer a reinterpretation for how self‐non‐self discrimination and immune response class are controlled.
Insight into treatment ofHIVinfection from viral dynamics models
Authors: Hill Alison L. , Rosenbloom Daniel I. S. , Nowak Martin A. , Siliciano Robert F.
Published: August 2018

The odds of living a long and healthy life withHIVinfection have dramatically improved with the advent of combination antiretroviral therapy. Along with the early development and clinical trials of these drugs, and new field of research emerged calledviral dynamics, which uses mathematical models to interpret and predict the time‐course of viral levels during infection and how they are altered by treatment. In this review, we summarize the contributions that virus dynamics models have made to understanding the pathophysiology of infection and to designing effective therapies. This includes studies of the multiphasic decay of viral load when antiretroviral therapy is given, the evolution of drug resistance, the long‐term persistence latently infected cells, and the rebound of viremia when drugs are stopped. We additionally discuss new work applying viral dynamics models to new classes of investigational treatment forHIV, including latency‐reversing agents and immunotherapy.
Factors influencing refusing of flu vaccination among pregnant women in Italy: Healthcare workers’ role
Authors: Prospero Emilia , Galmozzi Sara , Paris Valentina , Felici Gessica , Barbadoro Pamela , D'Alleva Antonella , Zocco Gemma , Ciavattini Andrea
Published: August 2018

Background

Pregnant women are at increased risk of influenza complications. Influenza vaccine provides them a substantial protection.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate determinants associated with non‐adherence to influenza vaccine recommendations in pregnant women in Italy.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study has been carried out among pregnant women attending their follow‐up visit in some mother and child services in a Region of Italy from October 2016 to January 2017. The study protocol was approved by the local research Ethics. A self‐administered close‐ended questionnaire has been administered to the pregnant women. Differences in background, socio‐demographic characteristics, knowledge and attitudes towards flu vaccine were tested in vaccinated and unvaccinated women. Multivariate analysis was performed to control for confounding factors.

Results

Three hundred and sixty‐six women answered the survey (97% response rate) and 96.1% (348) declared of being unvaccinated against influenza during the 2016‐2017 influenza season. Frequent reasons for refusing vaccination were drugs objection and concerns about vaccines’ effects. According to the refusal attitude, influenza knowledge was low in the group. Moreover, analysis showed that low adherence to vaccination is associated to lacking promotion of vaccination to pregnant women carried out by healthcare workers (P < 0.005).

Conclusions

Healthcare workers have a key role in assisting women during the gestational period, so their active involvement in vaccination promotion is essential. It is necessary to improve health care workers’ knowledge about vaccine relevance in protecting pregnancy and their communication skills to properly inform pregnant women.