bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship of treatment satisfaction to health‐related quality of life: findings from a cross‐sectional survey among hypertensive patients in Palestine
Authors: Al‐Jabi Samah W. , Zyoud Sa'ed H. , Sweileh Waleed M. , Wildali Aysha H. , Saleem Hanan M. , Aysa Hayat A. , Badwan Mohammad A. , Awang Rahmat
Published: December 2014

Background

Evaluation of the association between treatment satisfaction and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) may enable health‐care providers to understand the issues that influence quality of life and to recognize the aspects of hypertension treatment that need improvement to enhance the long‐term treatment outcomes.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between HRQoL and treatment satisfaction in a sample of Palestinian hypertensive patients.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted, adopting the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM 1.4) for the assessment of treatment satisfaction and using the European Quality of Life scale (EQ‐5D‐5L) for the assessment of HRQoL. Descriptive and comparative statistics were used to describe socio‐demographic and disease‐related characteristics of the patients. All analyses were performed using SPSS v 15.0.

Results

Four hundred and ten hypertensive patients were enrolled in the study. This study findings indicate a positive correlation between all satisfaction domains and HRQoL. Significant differences were observed between this study variables (P < 0.001). After adjustment for covariates using multiple linear regression, an increase of one point in the global satisfaction scale was associated with a 0.16 increase in EQ‐5D index scores (r = 0.16; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Patients with reportedly higher satisfaction scores have reported relatively higher EQ‐5D‐5L index values. These study findings could be helpful in clinical practice, mainly in the early treatment of hypertensive patients, at a point where improving treatment satisfaction and HRQoL is still possible.
The Post‐Raciality and Post‐Spatiality of Calls for LGBTQ and Disability Visibility
Authors: Thomsen Carly
Published: December 2014

In this article, I consider the ideologies that emerge when disability and LGBTQ rights advocates' ubiquitous calls for visibility collide. I argue that contemporary visibility politics encourage the production of post‐racial and post‐spatial ideologies. In demanding visibility, disability and LGBTQ rights advocates ignore, ironically, visible markers of (racial) difference and assume that being “out, loud, and proud” is desirable trans‐geographically. I bring together disability studies and queer rural studies—fields that have engaged in remarkably little dialogue—to analyze activist calls for LGBTQ and disability visibility. The discourses evident in such calls transcend movements and virtual spaces and emerge as some of the LGBTQ women in the rural Midwest whom I interviewed discuss their relations to (their own and others') LGBTQ sexuality and disability. I analyze several cases to illustrate how visibility discourses compel the erasure of material bodies, and in the process, render certain (spatialized and racialized) experiences obsolete. I close by considering how my critique of visibility discourses might influence critical discussions of identity politics more broadly.
Subjectivity in Motion: Caribbean Women's (Dis)Articulations of Being from Fanon/Capécia to theWonderful Adventures of Mrs. Seacole in Many Lands
Authors: Chancy Myriam J. A.
Published: December 2014

In this essay I show that texts by early Caribbean women writers, such as theWonderful Adventures of Mrs. Seacole in Many Lands, reveal and resist the effects of colonial paradigms by leaving textual traces of how such paradigms can effectively be countered and overturned. I arrive at such a reading of Seacole via an analysis of Frantz Fanon's (mis)reading of Mayotte Capécia's turn‐of‐the‐century novel,Je suis martiniquaise, in light of advances in postcolonial and feminist theory. I argue that doing so can bring us to recognize the contributions that early writings by Caribbean women have made to a broader understanding of the nature of being, across differences of “race,” class, and geography. I consider how we might recover in Capécia important models that Fanon himself replicates, yet dismisses, that predate Capécia's own text and that can be located in a text like Seacole's. In the end, I come to contend that Mary Seacole's text is more than a mere record of a “free colored” woman's life in the second half of the nineteenth century. It is, to use today's postcolonial parlance, an interventionist, hybrid text that attempts to subvert dominant discourse while participating in its circuits.
Central European cities maintain substantial dragonfly species richness – a chance for biodiversity conservation?
Authors: Goertzen Diana , Suhling Frank
Published: December 2014

This study investigates whether cities have the potential of hosting high species diversity of dragonflies (Odonata), a target group in freshwater conservation.

We reviewed the dragonfly fauna of 30 cities in Central Europe and analysed their species richness compared to the regional species pools in the hinterlands, i.e. estimated the amount of regional diversity represented in cities. In particular, we examined the occurrence of species of conservation concern at the European scale.

Results revealed that 92.6% of all 81 Central European dragonfly species occurred in cities, as well as 85.7% of 14 species of conservation concern. As expected, assemblages of city species were subsets of the regional species pool and city species richness increased with regional species numbers. Some cities hosted the complete regional species pool.

Ten species of conservation concern established autochthonous populations and six of them, such as Aeshna viridis and Ophiogomphus cecilia, were abundant at least in single cities.

We conclude that there is good potential for cities to host high dragonfly diversity and even to promote species of conservation concern. To exploit this potential we recommend city planners to focus on the needs of regionally characteristic species.
Synergistic effect of 2% chlorhexidine combined with proteolytic enzymes on biofilm disruption and killing
Authors: Niazi S. A. , Al‐Ali W. M. , Patel S. , Foschi F. , Mannocci F.
Published: December 2014

Aim

To investigate the dynamics of a disinfection regimen using 1% trypsin and 1% proteinase K in combination with 2% chlorhexidine (with or without ultrasonics) using a nutrient‐stressed endodontic multispecies model biofilm.

Methodology

Nutrient‐stressed biofilms (Propionibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Actinomyces radicidentis, Streptococcus mitis and Enterococcus faecalis OMGS 3202) were grown in prepared root canals of single‐rooted teeth. The treatment groups included 1% trypsin and 2% chlorhexidine (CHX), 1% proteinase K and 2% CHX (with and without ultrasonics). 2% CHX was the positive control and untreated group, and sterile saline (with and without ultrasonics) was the negative control. The biofilms were investigated using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) with live/dead staining and quantitative microbial culture.

Results

The trypsin and CHX group with ultrasonics was significantly more effective in reducing viable counts and the substratum coverage than those of all other groups (P < 0.05). The viable counts of the proteinase K and CHX group used with (4.26 ± 0.58 log10 cfu mL−1) or without ultrasonics (5.05 ± 1.36 log10 cfu mL−1) were significantly reduced (P < 0.05) as compared with the untreated control (7.67 ± 0.84 log10 cfu mL−1) and saline groups used with (6.57 ± 0.73 log10 cfu mL−1) and without ultrasonics (6.74 ± 0.10 log10 cfu mL−1). The CHX group was less effective in biofilm disruption compared to when used in combination with trypsin and proteinase K.

Conclusion

The trypsin and CHX group with ultrasonics was significantly more effective at reducing bacterial viable counts and disrupting biofilm.
Measurement of pulp blood flow rates in maxillary anterior teeth using ultrasound Doppler flowmetry
Authors: Cho Y.‐W. , Park S.‐H.
Published: December 2014

Aim

To measure pulp blood flow rates of clinically normal maxillary anterior teeth of healthy adults using ultrasound Doppler flowmetry (UDF).

Methodology

A total of 359 anterior teeth from 63 patients (mean age, 29.8 years; range, 22–52 years; 26 females and 36 males) were included. The data were collected according to tooth type (three groups: central incisors, lateral incisors and canines). An MM‐D‐K (Minimax, Moscow, Russia) ultrasound Doppler imaging instrument was used to measure pulp blood flow. Differences between the tooth types were analysed with one‐way anova and a Bonferroni correction at the 95% confidence level.

Results

The mean average linear velocities during the systolic period (Vams) of the central incisors, lateral incisors and canines were 0.58, 0.58 and 0.52 cm s−1, respectively. There were no significant differences in the mean Vams between the tooth types (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, the pulp blood velocities of clinically normal, maxillary anterior teeth of healthy adults were between 0.5 and 0.6 cm s−1. There were no significant differences in mean blood flow rates between maxillary central incisors, lateral incisors and canines.
Killer cell immunoglobulin receptor profile on CD4+ CD28− T cells and their pathogenic role in non‐dialysis‐dependent and dialysis‐dependent chronic kidney disease patients
Authors: Zal Behnam , Chitalia Nihil , Ng Yin Sing , Trieu Verna , Javed Sana , Warrington Rachelle , Kaski Juan Carlos , Banerjee Debasish , Baboonian Christina
Published: December 2014

There is a progressive increase in cardiovascular disease with declining renal function, unexplained by traditional risk factors. A CD4+ T‐cell subpopulation (CD4+ CD28−), activated by human heat‐shock protein 60 (hHSP 60), expands in patients with acute coronary syndrome and is associated with vascular damage. These cells exhibit cytotoxicity via expression of activating killer cell‐immunoglobulin‐like receptor KIR2DS2, mainly in the absence of inhibitory KIR2DL3. We investigated expansion of these cells and the pathogenic role of the KIR in non‐dialysis‐dependent chronic kidney disease (NDD‐CKD) and end‐stage haemodialysis‐dependent renal disease (HD‐ESRD) patients. CD4+ CD28− cells were present in 27% of the NDD‐CKD and HD‐ESRD patients (8–11% and 10–11% of CD4+ compartment, respectively). CD4+ CD28− cells were phenotyped for KIR and DAP12 expression. Cytotoxicity was assessed by perforin and pro‐inflammatory function by interferon‐γ expression on CD4+ CD28− clones (NDD‐CKD n = 97, HD‐ESRD n = 262). Thirty‐four per cent of the CD4+ CD28− cells from NDD‐CKD expressed KIR2DS2 compared with 56% in HD‐ESRD patients (P = 0·03). However, 20% of clones expressed KIR2DL3 in NDD‐CKD compared with 7% in HD‐ESRD patients (P = 0·004). DAP12 expression in CD28− 2DS2+ clones was more prevalent in HD‐ESRD than NDD‐CKD (92% versus 60%; P < 0·001). Only 2DS2+ 2DL3− DAP12+ clones were cytotoxic in response to hHSP 60. CD4+ CD28− cells exhibited increased KIR2DS2, reduced KIR2DL3 and increased DAP12 expression in HD‐ESRD compared with NDD‐CKD patients. These findings suggest a gradual loss of expression, functionality and protective role of inhibitory KIR2DL3 as well as increased cytotoxic potential of CD4+ C28− cells with progressive renal impairment. Clonal expansion of these T cells may contribute to heightened cardiovascular events in HD‐ESRD.
Conservation of the Indian Gharial Gavialis gangeticus: successes and failures
Authors: Stevenson C. J.
Published: December 2014

The Gharial Gavialis gangeticus, a long‐snouted crocodilian endemic to the Indian subcontinent, is Critically Endangered and has teetered on the brink of extinction for the past several decades. From historical populations of perhaps 10 000 animals, Gharials numbered in the hundreds by 1974. Project Crocodile – an Indian government initiative – became a poster boy for crocodile conservation. Based almost entirely around a head‐starting programme, the effectiveness of Project Crocodile was called into question when populations crashed again in the late 1990s. In the 21st century, with the support of the international zoo community and the International Union for Conservation of Nature/Species Survival Commission's Crocodile Specialist Group, Madras Crocodile Bank Trust began to address the shortcomings of Gharial conservation up to that point, to ensure that future plans for the species would succeed.
Conservation of the Philippine crocodile Crocodylus mindorensis (Schmidt 1935): in situ and ex situ measures
Authors: Manalo R. I. , Alcala A. C.
Published: December 2014

The endemic Philippine crocodile Crocodylus mindorensis is one of the most Critically Endangered crocodilian species in the world. Four major captive‐breeding programmes for the Philippine crocodile have greatly contributed to our knowledge about the biology and natural history of the species. In situ conservation actions, such as reintroduction, conservation breeding in large semi‐wild areas with no supplementary feeding and head‐starting programmes, could result in increasing the numbers of extant wild and semi‐wild populations. If concerted efforts are directed at in situ and ex situ conservation, and locating quality habitats in which to establish new conservation sites for Philippine crocodiles, the species is likely to become widespread in the next few decades. Conservation measures that address species‐specific issues promoting healthy viable populations in natural habitats are presented in this paper.
In situ and ex situ reptile projects of the Cologne Zoo: implications for research and conservation of South East Asia's herpetodiversity
Authors: Ziegler T.
Published: December 2014

In this review, some of Cologne Zoo's in situ and ex situ research and conservation projects dealing with South East Asia's reptile fauna (particularly that of Vietnam) are summarized. Diversity and ecological research linked to nature conservation within in situ projects are highlighted. The range of study of our German–Vietnamese research team includes taxonomy, autecology, population analyses, public awareness, and development of rescue centres and breeding stations. In the framework of ex situ conservation and research engagement, the roles of collection planning, species identification and biological research in zoological facilities are described with examples of monitor lizards and crocodiles.
Field‐grown Cotton Exhibits Seasonal Variation in Photosynthetic Heat Tolerance without Exposure to Heat‐stress or Water‐deficit Conditions
Authors: Snider J. L. , Chastain D. R. , Collins G. D.
Published: December 2014

Thermotolerance acclimation of photosystem II to heat and drought is well documented, but studies demonstrating developmental impacts on heat tolerance in field‐grown plants are limited. Consequently, climatic variables, estimated canopy temperature, predawn leaf water potential (ΨPD), and the temperature responses of maximum quantum yield of photosystem II (Fv/Fm), variable fluorescence (Fv/F0), quantum yield of electron transport (φEο) and efficiency of PSI electron acceptor reduction (REο/ABS) were characterized for Gossypium hirsutum at three sample times during the growing season (21 June, 2 July and 18 July 2013) under well‐watered conditions. The temperature decreasing a given photosynthetic parameter 15% from the optimum is referred to as T15 and served as a standardized measure of heat tolerance. Ambient and estimated canopy temperatures were well within the optimal range for cotton throughout the sample period, and leaves were verified well watered using ΨPD measurements. However, T15 varied with sample date (highest on July 2 for all parameters), being 2 °C (Fv/F0) to 5.5 °C (φEο) higher on July 2 relative to June 21, despite optimal temperature conditions and predawn leaf water potential on all sample dates. These findings suggest that even under optimum temperature conditions and water availability, heat tolerance could be influenced by plant developmental stage.
Characterizing Geomorphic Change from Anthropogenic Disturbances to Inform Restoration in the Upper Cache River, Illinois
Authors: Bouska Kristen L. , Stoebner Timothy J.
Published: December 2014

Over the past century, channelization, agricultural tiling, and land use changes have resulted in significant stream channel degradation of the Cache River in southern Illinois. With the increasing interest in restoration of the watershed's bottomland forests and swamps, we sought to characterize geomorphic change over the past 110 years to inform restoration and management. A previously surveyed stretch of river was resurveyed in the fall of 2011, following a record flood in the spring of that year. Results suggest that the slope of the channel in this section of the river has increased 345% between 1903 and 1972 (p < 0.01), but has not changed significantly since (p = 0.12). Within that same time period, bank heights increased between 1 and 7 m and bed elevation decreased between 1 and 5 m. Changes in resurveyed cross sections appear to be primarily due to recent flood scour. It appears as though early 20th Century stream channel modifications had immediate effects on the geomorphology of the channel; however, channel geometry is now at or near equilibrium. This case study of the Cache River watershed demonstrates how and why successful restoration will require integration of geomorphic processes of the system.
Molecular analysis of sunitinib resistant renal cell carcinoma cells after sequential treatment with RAD001 (everolimus) or sorafenib
Authors: Juengel Eva , Kim Dana , Makarević Jasmina , Reiter Michael , Tsaur Igor , Bartsch Georg , Haferkamp Axel , Blaheta Roman A.
Published: December 2014

Sequential application of target drugs is standard procedure after renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients develop resistance. To optimize the sequence, antitumour effects of the mTOR inhibitor RAD001 or the tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) sorafenib on RCC cells with acquired resistance to the TKI sunitinib was evaluated. RCC cells were exposed to 1 μM sunitinib for 24 hrs (as control) and for 8 weeks (to induce resistance) and then switched to RAD001 (5 nM) or sorafenib (5 μM) for a further 8 weeks. Tumour cell growth, cell cycle progression, cell cycle regulating proteins and intracellular signalling were then investigated. Short‐term application of sunitinib (24 hrs) induced cell growth blockade with accumulation in the G2/M phase. RCC cells became resistant to sunitinib after 8 weeks, demonstrated by accelerated cell growth along with enhanced cdk1, cdk2, loss of p27, activation of Akt, Rictor and Raptor. Switching to sorafenib only slightly reduced growth of the sunitinib resistant RCC cells and molecular analysis indicated distinct cross‐resistance. In contrast, full response was achieved when the cancer cells were treated with RAD001. p19 and p27 strongly increased, phosphorylated Akt, Rictor and Raptor decreased and the tumour cells accumulated in G0/G1. It is concluded that an mTOR‐inhibitor for second‐line therapy could be the strategy of choice after first‐line sunitinib failure.
Variation of life‐history parameters of Planococcus ficus (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) in response to grapevine nitrogen fertilization
Authors: Cocco A. , Marras P. M. , Muscas E. , Mura A. , Lentini A.
Published: December 2014

The effects of different nitrogen fertilization regimes on body size and selected life‐history parameters (development time, survival, fecundity and fertility) of the vine mealybug, Planococcus ficus (Signoret) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), were investigated on potted grapevines under laboratory and screenhouse conditions. In both trials, five groups of four grapevines each were supplied with 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0 or 2.0 g/l of ammonium nitrate fertilizer for a month and then artificially infested with 200 first‐instar vine mealybugs (24 h of age). The concentration of nitrogen on grape leaves was measured during both experiments by a SPAD chlorophyll metre, showing statistical differences among treatments. The nitrogen fertilization significantly affected the investigated P. ficus parameters, providing consistent results in both laboratory and screenhouse trials. The vine mealybug females exhibited higher survival and fecundity, larger body size and lower development time on plants supplied with higher nitrogen fertilization rates. Survival, body size and fecundity of P. ficus were positively correlated with the leaf nitrogen concentration, whereas the development time was negatively correlated. Fertility did not vary significantly among treatments. Our results show that high nitrogen regimes increase the reproductive performance of P. ficus on grapevines and point out the importance of implementing balanced fertilization plans in grapevine IPM programs to reduce population densities and prevent insect outbreaks.
Attachment Theory and Fathers: Moving From “Being There” to “Being With”
Authors: Palm Glen
Published: December 2014

Attachment theory has played an important role as a framework for exploring and explaining parent–child relationships and the impact of early relationships on child and adult development. This review focuses on our evolving understanding of attachment theory related to father–child relationships during the early childhood years. The history of research questions about fathers and the attachment process are reviewed with attention to the changing social context. A family model of attachment research as it relates to fathers is presented. The article reviews the practice literature and the application to parent and family education. A final section addresses future directions for research and practice and the integrations of family systems, neuroscience, and ecological theory with attachment theory.
CB1‐receptor knockout neonatal mice are protected against ethanol‐induced impairments of DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNA methylation
Authors: Nagre Nagaraja N. , Subbanna Shivakumar , Shivakumar Madhu , Psychoyos Delphine , Basavarajappa Balapal S.
Published: December 2014

The significant consequences of ethanol use during pregnancy are neurobehavioral abnormalities involving hippocampal and neocortex malfunctions that cause learning and memory deficits collectively named fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these abnormalities are still poorly understood and therefore warrant systematic research. Here, we document novel epigenetic abnormalities in the mouse model of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Ethanol treatment of P7 mice, which induces activation of caspase 3, impaired DNA methylation through reduced DNA methyltransferases (DNMT1 and DNMT3A) levels. Inhibition of caspase 3 activity, before ethanol treatment, rescued DNMT1, DNMT3A proteins as well as DNA methylation levels. Blockade of histone methyltransferase (G9a) activity or cannabinoid receptor type‐1 (CB1R), prior to ethanol treatment, which, respectively, inhibits or prevents activation of caspase 3, rescued the DNMT1 and DNMT3A proteins and DNA methylation. No reduction of DNMT1 and DNMT3A proteins and DNA methylation was found in P7 CB1R null mice, which exhibit no ethanol‐induced activation of caspase 3. Together, these data demonstrate that ethanol‐induced activation of caspase 3 impairs DNA methylation through DNMT1 and DNMT3A in the neonatal mouse brain, and such impairments are absent in CB1R null mice. Epigenetic events mediated by DNA methylation may be one of the essential mechanisms of ethanol teratogenesis.

image

Schematic mechanism of action by which ethanol impairs DNA methylation. Studies have demonstrated that ethanol has the capacity to bring epigenetic changes to contribute to the development of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). However, the mechanisms are not well studied. P7 ethanol induces the activation of caspase 3 and impairs DNA methylation through reduced DNA methyltransferases (DNMT1 and DNMT3A) proteins (→). The inhibition or genetic ablation of cannabinoid receptor type‐1 or inhibition of histone methyltransferase (G9a) by Bix (‐‐‐‐‐) or inhibition of caspase 3 activation by Q‐ quinoline‐Val‐Asp(Ome)‐CH2‐O‐phenoxy (Q‐VD‐OPh) () rescue loss of DNMT1, DNMT3A as well as DNA methylation. Hence, the putative DNMT1/DNMT3A/DNA methylation mechanism may have a potential regulatory role in FASD.
Designing Retirement Community Third Places: Attributes Impacting how Well Social Spaces are Liked and Used
Authors: Campbell Nichole M.
Published: December 2014

Retirement years are a time of shifting social networks, in part because workplace relationships are often left behind. This is particularly detrimental for older adults because social interaction has been shown to have a greater impact on health of older adults than younger adults (Lee, Jang, Lee, Cho, & Park, 2008). This positive relationship between social interaction and health outcomes underscores the importance of helping older adults establish and maintain social relationships. To support resident social interaction, Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) commonly provide spaces for social use including recreation rooms and commercial services such as cafes. Accordingly, CCRCs serve as fruitful ground to explore how social space design relates to why some spaces are popular gathering places and others are underutilized. Third places, defined by Oldenburg (1999), are lively gathering places where people can engage regularly in conversation, satisfying social needs. While Oldenburg's study provides guidance about designing third places to host quality interaction among the general population, it does not distinguish social behavior for people of different ages or living contexts. The research reported here takes steps to bridge this gap. Confirming earlier findings, this study of a CCRC's independent living residents ( n = 179) found social spaces residents characterized as having third–place atmosphere and décor characteristics were more well liked and well used than other spaces designed to promote socialization. This suggests designing CCRC social spaces with third–place characteristics may lead to more use and in turn contribute to healthier resident social lives.
MRI Texture Analysis and Diffusion Tensor Imaging in Chronic Right Hemisphere Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Sikiö Minna , Kölhi Paula , Ryymin Pertti , Eskola Hannu J. , Dastidar Prasun
Published: December 2014

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is shown to reveal changes caused by cerebral infarction. The aim of this study is to reveal those changes also in the conventional magnetic resonance (MR) images using a quantitative image analysis method, texture analysis (TA).

METHODS

Thirty patients who had suffered their first ever infarction located on the right hemisphere underwent DTI and conventional MRI studies in the chronic phase. DTI parameters fractional anisotropy and mean diffusivity, as well as four second‐order texture parameters were calculated. Interhemispheric differences and correlations between DTI and TA parameters were evaluated.

RESULTS

Our DTI findings supported earlier studies as fractional anisotropy values were lowered and mean diffusivity values elevated in the lesion site, and ipsilateral cerebral peduncle, thalamus, and centrum semiovale compared to the unaffected side. Textural homogeneity parameters showed lower and complexity parameters higher values in the lesion site and ipsilateral centrum semiovale compared to the contralateral hemisphere. Correlation between the two methods was found in ipsilateral mesencephalon.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to DTI method, TA could assist in revealing the changes caused by infarction, also outside the lesion site. Damaged areas were found more heterogeneous and random in texture compared to unaffected sites.
Exploring burnout and work‐family facilitation as factors influencing why and when relational demography diminishes employee citizenship
Authors: Luksyte Aleksandra , Avery Derek R.
Published: December 2014

Considering the increasingly diversified workplace, surprisingly, little is known about the effects of supervisor–subordinate sex dissimilarity on job performance and how such effects might occur. Further, what organizations can do to minimize potentially negative consequences of sex dissimilarity on these processes and outcomes remains unclear. We integrated the relational demography framework and work‐family enrichment theory to explicate an underlying mechanism and boundary condition of the supervisor–subordinate sex dissimilarity–interpersonal citizenship behaviour linkage (ICB). Results from 201 supervisor–subordinate dyads indicated that subordinates in diversified employment relationships perceive a lack of personal accomplishment, which corresponded with less ICB. However, these negative consequences of sex dissimilarity were attenuated when employees perceived greater work‐family facilitation.

Practitioner points

Managers should be cognizant of possible biases originating from sex similarity when relating to and motivating their subordinates of the opposite sex.

To promote citizenship work behaviours among their employees, managers should allocate resources to all employees, irrespective of their gender.

The beneficial effects of work‐family facilitation for employees’ health and productivity should be emphasized.
The effects of salivas on occlusal forces
Authors: McCrea E. S. , Katona T. R. , Eckert G. J.
Published: December 2014

Contacting surfaces of opposing teeth produce friction that, when altered, changes the contact force direction and/or magnitude. As friction can be influenced by several factors, including lubrication and the contacting materials, the aim of this study was to measure the occlusal load alterations experienced by teeth with the introduction of different salivas and dental restorative materials. Pairs of molar teeth were set into occlusion with a weighted maxillary tooth mounted onto a vertical sliding assembly and the mandibular tooth supported by a load cell. The load components on the mandibular tooth were measured with three opposing pairs of dental restorative materials (plastic denture, all‐ceramic and stainless steel), four (human and three artificial) salivas and 16 occlusal configurations. All lateral force component measurements were significantly different (P < 0·0001) from the dry (control) surface regardless of the crown material or occlusal configuration, while the effects of the artificial salivas compared to each other and to human saliva depended on the crown material.
Altered levels of miR‐21, miR‐125b‐2*, miR‐138, miR‐155, miR‐184, and miR‐205 in oral squamous cell carcinoma and association with clinicopathological characteristics
Authors: Manikandan Mayakannan , Deva Magendhra Rao Arunagiri K. , Rajkumar Kottayasamy Seenivasagam , Rajaraman Ramamurthy , Munirajan Arasambattu K.
Published: December 2014

Background

Previous studies have described the aberrantly expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), and we reasoned that studying frequently deregulated candidate miRNAs in OSCC of Indian ethnicity could aid in better understanding of the genetic/environmental impact on the expression statuses of these miRNAs. Therefore, we evaluated the differential expression of six selected miRNAs namely hsa‐miR‐21, hsa‐miR‐125b2*, hsa‐miR‐138, hsa‐miR‐155, hsa‐miR‐184, and hsa‐miR‐205 in OSCC specimens of Indian ethnicity.

Methods

Two‐step Reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR using inventoried TaqMan single miRNA assays was employed to study the expression of the selected miRNAs in 42 OSCC tumors and eight adjacent normal specimens. The expression levels of the miRNAs were tested for any association with clinicopathological parameters.

Results

miR‐21 was significantly elevated while miR‐125b‐2* was significantly downregulated in tumors compared to controls (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05 respectively). miR‐138 and miR‐184 were observed to be predominantly downregulated in the tumor samples. High levels of miR‐155 were associated with the habit of chewing tobacco/betel quid.

Conclusions

Our results corroborate the previous findings on the overexpression of mir‐21 and downregulation of miR‐138 in OSCC. As the expression of miR‐184 is controversial in tongue/oral cancer, the downregulation may be specific to tumor anatomical localization. On the other hand, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to show the association of miR‐155 with tobacco chewing and the downregulation of miR‐125b‐2* in OSCC. Computational predictions suggest that miR‐125b‐2* may have a role in alternative splicing.
The Leader Ship Is Sinking: A Temporal Investigation of Narcissistic Leadership
Authors: Ong Chin Wei , Roberts Ross , Arthur Calum A. , Woodman Tim , Akehurst Sally
Published: December 2014

Individuals higher in narcissism have leader emergent tendencies. The characteristics of their personality suggest, however, that their leadership qualities will decrease over time as a function of group acquaintance. We present data from two studies that provide the first empirical support for this theoretical position within a transformational leadership framework. In Study 1 (N = 112), we tested narcissistic leadership qualities in groups of unacquainted individuals over a 12‐week period. In Study 2 (N = 152), we adopted the same protocol with groups of acquainted individuals. In Study 1, narcissism was positively associated with peer‐rated leadership during initial group formation but not later. In Study 2, narcissism was not significantly associated with peer‐rated leadership during initial group formation and was negatively associated with peer‐rated leadership later. In Study 1, transformational leadership mediated the relationship between narcissism and leadership initially but not later on. In Study 2, transformational leadership failed to mediate the relationship between narcissism and leadership throughout the study. Despite enjoying a honeymoon period of leadership, the appeal and attractiveness of the narcissistic leader rapidly wane. This decline is explained in part by their changing transformational leadership qualities.
Characteristics of the bacterial flora in the conjunctival sac of cats from Poland
Authors: Kiełbowicz Z. , Płoneczka‐Janeczko K. , Bania J. , Bierowiec K. , Kiełbowicz M.
Published: December 2014

OBJECTIVES

To assess the bacterial flora of the conjunctival sac in clinically healthy cats and cats with signs of conjunctivitis.

METHODS

A total of 324 conjunctival swabs were examined between 2011 and 2012 taken from 60 animals, 30 of which were clinically healthy and 30 with signs of chronic conjunctivitis. The samples were taken three times at 4‐week intervals from the clinically healthy cats. The samples from the cats with conjunctivitis were taken before and 4 weeks after cessation of successful therapy. Swabs from both the right and left eye of each cat were subjected to microbiological examination and polymerase chain reaction for the presence of DNA of Chlamydophila felis and Mycoplasma felis.

RESULTS

There was no qualitative difference in the eye microflora between the clinically healthy animals and those with signs of conjunctivitis. Staphylococcus epidermidis (21 · 9%) was the most common microorganism isolated and it was more commonly detected in swabs from cats with conjunctivitis (P < 0 · 0001) as was Staphylococcus aureus (P = 0 · 07). The presence of C. felis was significantly correlated with (P < 0 · 0001) signs of conjunctivitis and was detected in 25% of swabs collected from both conjunctival sacs. No DNA of M. felis was detected in any swab. None of the animals had sterile conjunctival sacs in all consecutive bacteriological tests.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The conjunctival sac in cats was sterile in over 50% of the clinically healthy cats and 25% of the cats with conjunctivitis. The sterility did not persist for longer than 4 weeks. Positive bacterial cultures occur in cats with and without clinical signs of conjunctivitis.
Muscular dystrophy due to a sarcoglycan deficiency in a female Dobermann dog
Authors: Munday J. S. , Shelton G. D. , Willox S. , Kingsbury D. D.
Published: December 2014

A four‐month‐old female Dobermann presented with myalgia, dysphagia, progressive weakness and loss of body condition. Diagnostic evaluation at nine months of age revealed markedly elevated serum creatine kinase activity, electromyographic abnormalities and histological evidence of chronic‐active muscle necrosis. Imaging confirmed dysphagia and aspiration pneumonia. Muscular dystrophy was suspected and immunohistochemical staining of muscle cryosections demonstrated reduced sarcoglycans. Treatment consisted of gastrostomy, and over the next 5 months the dog gained weight, despite continued loss of muscle mass. The dog died at 14 months of age after developing clinical signs of aspiration pneumonia. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of muscular dystrophy in a Dobermann and only the second detailed report of a canine sarcoglycanopathy. Supportive care resulted in an acceptable quality of life for 10 months after clinical signs were first observed.
Acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography of the spleen in healthy adult cats – a preliminary study
Authors: Feliciano M. A. R. , Maronezi M. C. , Crivellenti L. Z. , Crivellenti S. B. , Simões A. P. R. , Brito M. B. S. , Garcia P. H. S. , Vicente W. R. R.
Published: December 2014

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the splenic stiffness of healthy adult cats using acoustic radiation force impulse elastography to determine the quality (greyscale images and tissue deformity) and quantity (shear velocity) standards.

METHODS

Fifteen healthy, adult shorthair cats were selected. The echotexture, echogenicity, size and edges of the spleen were assessed via mode‐B ultrasound. Using qualitative elastography, specific portions of the spleen were evaluated according to homogeneity, presence of deformities and white and dark regions. The shear velocities in different portions of the spleen were quantitatively evaluated.

RESULTS

The echotexture, echogenicity, size and edges of the spleen were normal on B‐mode ultrasound in all cats. On qualitative elastography, the evaluated splenic portions were not deformable, and the images presented as homogeneous dark areas. On quantitative elastography, the mean shear velocity values were 1 · 98 m/s for the head portion, 1 · 77 m/s for the body portion and 2 · 03 m/s for the tail portion. These were not significantly different.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Quantitative and qualitative acoustic radiation force impulse elastography of the spleen in healthy adult cats was easily implemented and this study may provide baseline data for this organ to allow the future use of this technique in evaluating cats with splenic disease.
Effect of Aging and Cardiovascular Risk Factors on Receptor Tie1 Expression in Human Erectile Tissue
Authors: Fonseca João , Tomada Nuno , Magalhães Alexandre , Rodrigues Adriana R. , Gouveia Alexandra M. , Neves Delminda
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction is highly prevalent in patients with advanced age or cardiovascular disease risk factors (CVDRFs). These conditions interfere on expression of vascular growth factors and respective receptors causing disturbance in endothelial function.

Aim

This study aims to assess the effect of aging and CVDRF on the expression of tyrosine kinase with immunoglobulin-like and EGF-like domains (Tie) 1 in human corpus cavernosum (CC).

Methods

CC fragments obtained from programmed surgeries or organ donors were divided into three groups: young, healthy aged, and aged with CVDRF. Angiopoietin (Ang) 1, Ang2, Tie1, and Tie2 mRNA and protein levels were assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting, respectively. Dual-immunolabeling of Tie1 with specific markers of endothelium and smooth muscle and Ang1 and Ang2 was performed.

Main Outcome Measures

To characterize the expression of Tie1 in human CC and elucidate its potential inhibitory effect in Ang–Tie2 system.

Results

Analysis of mRNAs demonstrated a decrease in Tie1 expression in CVDRF individuals compared with aged or young healthy individuals. No variation for Tie2, Ang1, or Ang2 expression was observed among the studied groups. In all analyzed CC fragments, a 125 kDa band, Tie1, was detected. This protein presented a significant age-related decrease, specially in individuals with CVDRF. Immunofluorescence study revealed Tie1 expression in the endothelium of samples of all experimental groups.

Conclusions

Employing different methodological approaches, we show for the first time that Tie1 is expressed in human CC endothelium, and its level of expression diminishes in aged individuals, particularly those with CVDRF. This finding reinforces the view that delivery of Ang1 to the CC of erectile dysfunction affected CVDRF patients is able to activate a beneficial Tie2 response.
Simeprevir added to peginterferon and ribavirin lessens time with fatigue, depressive symptoms and functional limitations in patients with chronic hepatitis C compared with peginterferon and ribavirin: results from 1161 patients in the QUEST‐1, QUEST‐2 and PROMISE studies
Authors: Scott J. , Gilles L. , Fu M. , Brohan E. , Panter C. , Arbuckle R. , Jessner W. , Beumont M.
Published: December 2014

The value of adding simeprevir (SMV) vs placebo (PBO) to peginterferon and ribavirin (PR) for treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus infection was examined using patient‐reported outcomes (PROs); further, concordance of PROs with virology endpoints and adverse events (AEs) was explored. Patients (n = 768 SMV/PR, n = 393 PBO/PR) rated fatigue (FSS), depressive symptoms (CES‐D) and functional impairment (WPAI: Hepatitis C Productivity, Daily Activity and Absenteeism) at baseline and throughout treatment in three randomised, double‐blind trials comparing the addition of SMV or PBO during initial 12 weeks of PR. PR was administered for 48 weeks (PBO group) and 24/48 weeks (SMV group) using a response‐guided therapy (RGT) approach. Mean PRO scores (except Absenteeism) worsened from baseline to Week 4 to the same extent in both groups but reverted after Week 24 for SMV/PR and only after Week 48 for PBO/PR. Accordingly, there was a significantly lower area under the curve (baseline–Week 60, AUC60) and fewer weeks with clinically important worsening of scores in the SMV/PR group at any time point. Incidences of patients with fatigue and anaemia AEs were similar in both groups, but FSS scores showed that clinically important increases in fatigue lasted a mean of 6.9 weeks longer with PBO/PR (P < 0.001). PRO score subgroup analysis indicated better outcomes for patients who met the criteria for RGT or achieved sustained virological response 12 weeks post‐treatment (SVR12); differences in mean PRO scores associated with fibrosis level were only observed with PBO/PR. Greater efficacy of SMV/PR enabled reduced treatment duration and reduced time with PR‐related AEs without adding to AE severity.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics comparison between subcutaneous and intravenous butorphanol administration in horses
Authors: Chiavaccini L. , Claude A. K. , Lee J. H. , Ross M. K. , Meyer R. E. , Langston V. C.
Published: December 2014

The study objective was to compare butorphanol pharmacokinetics and physiologic effects following intravenous and subcutaneous administration in horses. Ten adult horses received 0.1 mg/kg butorphanol by either intravenous or subcutaneous injections, in a randomized crossover design. Plasma concentrations of butorphanol were measured at predetermined time points using highly sensitive liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry assay (LC‐MS/MS). Demeanor and physiologic variables were recorded. Data were analyzed with multivariate mixed‐effect model on ranks (P ≤ 0.05). For subcutaneous injection, absorption half‐life and peak plasma concentration of butorphanol were 0.10 ± 0.07 h and 88 ± 37.4 ng/mL (mean ± SD), respectively. Bioavailability was 87%. After intravenous injection, mean ± SDbutorphanol steady‐state volume of distribution and clearance was 1.2 ± 0.96 L/kg and 0.65 ± 0.20 L/kg/h, respectively. Terminal half‐lives for butorphanol were 2.31 ± 1.74 h and 5.29 ± 1.72 h after intravenous and subcutaneous administrations. Subcutaneous butorphanol reached and maintained target plasma concentrations >10 ng/mL for 2 ± 0.87 h (Mean ± SD), with less marked physiologic and behavioral effects compared to intravenous injection. Subcutaneous butorphanol administration is an acceptable alternative to the intravenous route in adult horses.
Pharmacokinetics of tulathromycin in nonpregnant adult ewes
Authors: Washburn K. , Fajt V. R. , Coetzee J. F. , Rice S. , Wulf L. W. , Washburn S.
Published: December 2014

The objectives of this study were to determine plasma concentrations and pharmacokinetic parameters of tulathromycin after a single subcutaneous administration in the cervical region in sheep using the cattle labeled dose of 2.5 mg/kg. Six adult healthy ewes were administered tulathromycin on day 0. Blood samples were collected just prior to dosing and at selected time points for 360 h. Plasma samples were analyzed to determine tulathromycin concentrations, and noncompartmental analysis was performed for pharmacokinetic parameters. The mean maximum plasma concentration was 3598 ng/mL, the mean time to maximum concentration was 1.6 h, and the apparent elimination half‐life ranged from 68.1 to 233.1 h (mean 118 h). When comparing our results to goats and cattle, it appears sheep are more similar to cattle in regard to the concentrations observed and pharmacokinetic parameters. In summary, the pharmacokinetics of tulathromycin in sheep appear to be similar enough to those in goats and cattle to recommend similar dosing (2.5 mg/kg SC), assuming that the target pathogens have similar inhibitory concentrations.