bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New evidence of the relationship between employee satisfaction and firm economic performance
Authors: Melián-González Santiago , Bulchand-Gidumal Jacques , González López-Valcárcel Beatriz
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– Employee satisfaction appears in any discussion about how employees can contribute to organizational performance. The purpose of this paper is to test the relationship between employee satisfaction and organizational performance; this later measured with three firm-level performance outcomes (return over assets, operating margin, and revenue per employee).

Design/methodology/approach

– At different times and from two independent sources the authors obtained firms’ data about worker attitudes and financial and productivity performance, respectively. The analyzed sample of 475 firms is the biggest among the studies that analyze performance and employee satisfaction at the firm level. The impact of employee satisfaction over firm performance was assessed.

Findings

– Overall satisfaction and satisfaction with senior leadership, compensation, and work/life balance, respectively impact firm performance.

Research limitations/implications

– The ratings come from both employees and ex-employees and the individual characteristics were unknown. Additionally as an internet-based sample there has been a lack of control over the individuals’ response process.

Practical implications

– Managers have evidence about the importance of their employees’ satisfaction on firm performance, and on how the facets involved on worker satisfaction impact the performance.

Social implications

– Employer review web sites are increasing their popularity. However, unlike the marketing field with consumers HR area has not taken advantage of this trend. The found results may contribute to highlight the importance of this kind of data.

Originality/value

– Hitherto there is only one empirical evidence about the positive role of worker satisfaction in objective and financial firm level performance. That was based in best-firms type data. The current study draws in a big sample independent of this kind of rankings. Additionally, the job facet satisfaction conceptualization considered demonstrates the usefulness of this way to understand the employee satisfaction.
Availability and use of work-life benefits: what’s in between?
Authors: Pasamar Susana
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between the availability and the real use of work-life (WL) benefits by employees. Most research focuses on adoption, and some studies have analysed the levels of use. However, it is yet to be explained why some firms offer formal WL benefits, which ultimately are not used by employees.

Design/methodology/approach

– The hypotheses developed here are tested using data from a sample of 146 Spanish private firms, which is very relevant because findings from research developed in Anglo-Saxon contexts cannot necessarily be extended elsewhere.

Findings

– The results reveal that availability significantly influences the level of use of WL programmes. Both the proportion of women employees in the organization and the formalization of the WL balance culture moderate the relationship between availability and use.

Practical implications

– These findings hold lessons for practitioners and researchers interested in WL balance and its actual diffusion among employees. Practitioners should consider WL balance in an unrestrictive way, thinking about different kinds of employees and not only women with caring responsibilities. The mere provision of benefits to a small part of the workforce does not guarantee any of the positive outcomes related to WL balance.

Originality/value

– Aside from exploring the availability-use gap, this research was conducted in a non-Anglo-Saxon context.
Employment relations in the UK civil service
Authors: Hodder Andy
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to bring together two separate strands of the literature (politics and industrial relations) on civil service management and reform to enable consideration of the industrial relations implications of these changes.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper is conceptual and has no empirical base. The paper is a general review of existing literature on the subject.

Findings

– The paper identifies the importance of historical legacy in both management and union behaviour in the civil service. By revisiting earlier civil service reforms, the reader is able to gain an understanding of the rationale for much of the current restructuring of the civil service. Additionally, any discussion of trade union behaviour should be located in the context of union tradition and evolution.

Research limitations/implications

– In being a general review, the paper does not report empirical evidence but instead provides the background for future research into civil service industrial relations and management.

Originality/value

– This paper is the first to provide a systematic review of management restructuring in the civil service whilst at the same time considering union responses. As such, the paper is of interest to academics and practitioners in the areas of both management and politics.
Devolving people management to the line
Authors: Bainbridge Hugh
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to focus on the different rationales for devolving people management responsibilities to the line and examine their consequences for the HR function and HR’s interactions with line managers and employees.

Design/methodology/approach

– A model was developed and tested that describes how the rationale for devolving people management to the line influences the HR function, HR’s interactions with line managers and the quality of people management. Survey data were collected from 446 managers who reported that their organisations had devolved people management to the line.

Findings

– Results indicate that devolution rationales are associated with distinct changes to the HR function’s strategic integration and size. These changes in the HR function are in turn associated with utilisation of line manager focused HR practices, HR’s business partner orientation and people management effectiveness.

Practical implications

– The HR function should consider changes that refine job descriptions to include a clear statement of people management responsibilities, ensure performance appraisals incorporate an assessment of people management effectiveness and prioritise line manager training and rewards in an environment where line managers may be less than enthusiastic about their newly acquired people management responsibilities.

Originality/value

– The study contributes to the devolution literature by outlining how the effects of devolution are tied to the rationale underlying devolution efforts. It suggests that the tendency to conceptualise devolution without reference to the reason why it is pursued may be contributing to the controversy over its consequences.
An interpersonal perspective to study silence in Indian organizations
Authors: Jain Ajay K.
Published: September 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate dimensions of employee silence in Indian work context with regard to the supervisors and how job satisfaction mediates the relationship between silence and turnover intention. The study also explores the relevance of superior-subordinate relationship and self-image maintenance perspectives in Indian socio-cultural context to explain and understand the phenomenon of silence in India.

Design/methodology/approach

– Qualitative (n=55) and quantitative data (n=334,n=314 andn=116) were collected from employees working in private, public and multinational organizations located in northern part of India. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed to explore and validate the dimensions of silence behavior among Indian managers and structural equation analysis was carried out to see the meditating role of job satisfaction in the relationship of silence and turnover intention.

Findings

– Results have indicated the existence of four major dimensions of silence in India namely; fear of retaliation, internal motivation, self-competence and self-image as the possible causes of silence. Further job satisfaction has mediated the effect of silence on turnover intention. This study showed the positive impact of silence on satisfaction which is contrary to the western studies. These results have supported the theoretical arguments developed in this paper in the Indian work context.

Practical implications

– The results are useful in understanding the dynamics of silence in Indian organizations as employees might use silence in a strategic manner to regulate their satisfaction and in maintaining their membership with the organization.

Originality/value

– The present study is among the first attempts to empirically examine the causes and consequences of employee silence in the high power distance and collectivistic cultural context.
Alcohol use and self‐perceived mental health status among pregnant and breastfeeding women in Canada: a secondary data analysis
Authors: Lange S , Quere M , Shield K , Rehm J , Popova S
Published: September 2015

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of alcohol consumption during pregnancy and while breastfeeding in Canada from 2003 to 2010, and to test the relation between self‐perceived mental health status and alcohol consumption during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

Design

Secondary analysis of four cycles of the Canadian Community Health Survey, a population‐based cross‐sectional survey.

Setting

Canada.

Sample

A total of 18 612 pregnant and 15 836 breastfeeding women.

Methods

The prevalence of alcohol consumption during pregnancy and while breastfeeding and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated by province and territory, and cycle. The relation between self‐perceived mental health status and alcohol consumption during pregnancy and while breastfeeding was explored using quasi‐Poisson regression models.

Main outcome measures

Alcohol consumption during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, and self‐perceived mental health status.

Results

In Canada, between 2003 and 2010, approximately one in every ten pregnant women (9.9%; 95%CI 9.2–10.5%) and two in every ten breastfeeding women (20.3%; 95%CI 19.4–21.2%) women consumed alcohol. Women with a lower self‐perceived mental health status (i.e. ‘good’) were 1.40 (95%CI 1.18–1.67, P < 0.001) times more likely to have consumed alcohol during pregnancy, compared with women with an ‘excellent’ self‐perceived mental health. There were no notable differences between the categories of mental health status in regard to alcohol consumption while breastfeeding.

Conclusion

Despite public health efforts in Canada, a significant proportion of pregnant and breastfeeding women consume alcohol. It is imperative that a standard screening protocol be initiated among pregnant and breastfeeding women, especially in high‐risk populations (e.g. women utilising substance abuse treatment programs).

Tweetable abstract

In Canada in 2003–2010, approximately 10% of pregnant and 20% of breastfeeding women consumed alcohol.
Inter‐ and intra‐fraction motion in stereotactic body radiotherapy for spinal and paraspinal tumours using cone‐beam CT and positional correction in six degrees of freedom
Authors: Finnigan Renee , Lamprecht Brock , Barry Tamara , Jones Kimberley , Boyd Joshua , Pullar Andrew , Burmeister Bryan , Foote Matthew
Published: September 2015

Introduction

Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for spinal tumours delivers high doses per fraction to targets in close proximity to neural tissue. With steep dose gradients, small changes in position can confer significant dosimetric impact on adjacent structures. We analysed positioning error in consecutively treated patients on a strict image‐guidance protocol with online correction in 6 degrees of freedom (6‐DOF).

Methods

Set‐up error, residual error post‐correction and intra‐fraction motion for 30 courses of spinal SBRT in 27 patients were assessed using cone‐beam CT. Positional error was corrected in x, y and z translational planes and rotational axes using a robotic couch, applying 2 mm and 2° action levels. Linear mixed‐effects model assessed whether positional error was influenced by factors such as vertebral level, immobilisation device and treatment duration.

Results

Sixty‐two fractions were delivered with 225 image registrations. Median treatment duration was significantly longer for patients treated with static‐field intensity‐modulated radiotherapy compared with volumetric‐modulated arc treatment – 40 min versus 28 min, respectively (P = 0.01). Across all fractions, the median residual positional error after initial correction was greatest in the x translational plane (0.5 mm; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.3–0.6) and y rotational axis (0.25°; 95% CI 0.1–0.3). Median intra‐fraction error was also greatest in the x‐plane (0.7 mm; 95% CI 0.5–1.0) and y‐axis (0.4°; 95% CI 0.2–0.5).

Conclusion

With strict immobilisation, image‐guidance and 6‐DOF correction, our current practice of applying 3‐mm planning margins for target volumes and critical structures appears safe. Lower image‐guidance action thresholds plus verification with end‐to‐end testing would be recommended before further reducing margins.
The value of follow‐up FDG‐PET/CT in the management and prognosis of patients with HPV‐positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Taghipour Mehdi , Marcus Charles , Califano Joseph , Fakhry Carole , Subramaniam Rathan M
Published: September 2015

Introduction

To establish the accuracy of follow‐up fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/CT and the impact of FDG PET/CT result on management decisions and patient outcome prediction (overall and progression free survival) in human papilloma virus (HPV)‐positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Patients and Methods

We included 96 HPV‐positive oropharyngeal SCC (OPSCC) patients with 254 follow‐up PET/CT scans in the study. The PET/CT result accuracy was established with histopathology or 6‐month clinical follow‐up as reference standard. The impact on change in management was established for each follow‐up PET/CT scan. Overall survival was evaluated using Kaplan–Meier plots with a Log‐rank test.

Results

The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of the follow‐up FDG‐PET/CT were 97.0%, 92.5%, 67.0%, 99.5% and 93.1%, respectively. Follow‐up PET/CT results were helpful in excluding tumour in 22% (9/41) of scans performed with prior clinical suspicion of disease and identified potential disease in 9.9% (21/213) scans performed without prior clinical suspicion. There was a change in management after 12.6% (32/254) scans. In 84.3% (214/254) scans, the patients were either observed or the same treatment was continued. The overall survival differed significantly between patients with a negative versus positive follow‐up scan (log rank P < 0.001). The median progression free survival was 28 months, if the first follow‐up scan performed within 6–12 months post‐treatment completion was negative.

Conclusion

Follow‐up FDG PET/CT scans have an impact on the management plan and add value to clinical assessment in patients with HPV‐positive OPSCC.
Quantitative Macroscopic Anatomy of the Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) Digestive Tract
Authors: Sauer C. , Bertelsen M. F. , Lund P. , Weisbjerg M. R. , Clauss M.
Published: September 2015

Quantitative data on digestive anatomy of the world's largest ruminant, the giraffe, are scarce. Data were collected from a total of 25 wild‐caught and 13 zoo‐housed giraffes. Anatomical measures were quantified by dimension, area or weight and analysed by allometric regression. The majority of measures scaled positively and isometrically to body mass. Giraffes had lower tissue weight of all stomach compartments and longer large intestinal length than cattle. When compared to other ruminants, the giraffe digestive tract showed many of the convergent morphological adaptations attributed to browsing ruminants, for example lower reticular crests, thinner ruminal pillars and smaller surface area of the omasal laminae. Salivary gland weight of the giraffe, however, resembled that of grazing ruminants. This matches a previous finding of similarly small salivary glands in the other extant giraffid, the okapi (Okapia johnstoni), suggesting that not all convergent characteristics need be expressed in all species and that morphological variation between species is a combination of phylogenetic and adaptational signals.
Smoker's identity scale: Measuring identity in tobacco dependence and its relationship with confidence in quitting
Authors: Dupont Patrick , Tack Valentine , Blecha Lisa , Reynaud Michel , Benyamina Amine , Amirouche Ammar , Aubin Henri‐Jean
Published: September 2015

Background and objectives

Persistent smoking behaviours are associated with numerous motives, explaining the absence of a single treatment for quitting. One of these motives may include that of identification. The threat of losing their smoker's identity may represent a significant obstacle to lasting abstinence. The objective of this study is to design a specific identity questionnaire and examine correlations between the degree of smoking identity and persistent smoking.

Methods

Patients attending a smoking cessation seminar completed the Modified Reasons for Smoking Scale, Barriers to smoking cessation checklist and our 6‐item Smoker's Identity Scale (SIS) (n = 170 questionnaires).

Results

SIS showed good internal consistency, calculated by a Chronbach test (α = .785) with no redundant questions. There was a correlation between strong tobacco dependence (measured by the Fagerström questionnaire) and strong smoking identity (p = .0001). Strong identity was associated with less confidence in quitting at both 1 and 6 months (p = .037 and p = .002, respectively). We showed that identity represents an obstacle to quitting in 32% of our patients and is associated with decreased confidence in quitting.

Conclusions and scientific significance

Our study shows that measuring identity in smokers who wish to make a quit attempt may help to identify specific obstacles to abstinence. This may also help in elaborating improved quitting strategies and patient management. Further research is necessary to confirm these results. (Am J Addict 2015;XX:XX –XX)
The modified tower vertical filler technique for the treatment of post‐acne scarring
Authors: Goodman Greg J , Van Den Broek Amanda
Published: September 2015

Background

Acne scarring remains a difficult problem for patients and physicians. Often it is treated as a two‐dimensional disease with lasers and similar devices, whereas it is really a three‐dimensional problem. Fillers have been used for many years but recently fillers with more lifting potential have been made available and serve the purpose of the selective elevation of atrophic scars, adding the third dimension to treatment.

Methods

Five patients with atrophic acne scarring were selected in this pilot study. Each patient was treated twice with a 3‐month follow up from the second treatment. A vertical modified tower technique was used with a hyaluronic acid filler to lift each scar and support the skin to adopt a more flattened appearance.

Results

The mean scar count declined from 48.8 scars to 15.4 visible after the second session. The mean volume to total correction with filler of all scars declined from 1.144 mL to 0.525 mL from the first to second session. Global subjective improvement was assessed at 5.4 and 5.5 (−3 to +10 scale). The static objective grading scale showed an improvement from 3.2 at time of first treatment to 3.0 at the second, to 2.6 at final review.

Conclusions

The relative speed, accuracy and efficacy of high lift hyaluronic acid is shown in this small case series with subjective and objective measurement.
The Self‐Help Myth: Towards a Theory of Philanthropy as Consensus Broker
Authors: Kohl‐Arenas Erica
Published: September 2015

This article presents a theoretical and methodological approach to studying how philanthropic power is maintained through the process of negotiating consensus between greatly unequal partners such as wealthy funders and social movement leaders. It is proposed that grant agreements between private foundations and social movement organizations construct idealized spaces of public participation and discursive theories of change that draw attention away from structural inequality and antagonism, ultimately generating consent. Drawing upon archival and ethnographic research on philanthropic investments in addressing migrant poverty in California's Central Valley, the article shows how consensus between foundation staff and farmworker and immigrant organizers promote funding frameworks that exclude questions that challenge relationships of power and systems of agricultural production that contribute to enduring poverty across the region. The Gramscian conceptual frames of “discursive power,” “hegemony as politics,” and “strategic articulation” are presented as a theoretical framework from which to understand the power of private philanthropy as consensus broker during historical moments of crisis.
Calcium channel antagonist and beta‐blocker overdose: antidotes and adjunct therapies
Authors: Graudins Andis , Lee Hwee Min , Druda Dino
Published: September 2015

Management of cardiovascular instability resulting from calcium channel antagonist (CCB) or beta‐adrenergic receptor antagonist (BB) poisoning follows similar principles. Significant myocardial depression, bradycardia and hypotension result in both cases. CCBs can also produce vasodilatory shock. Additionally, CCBs, such as verapamil and diltiazem, are commonly ingested in sustained‐release formulations. This can also be the case for some BBs. Peak toxicity can be delayed by several hours. Provision of early gastrointestinal decontamination with activated charcoal and whole‐bowel irrigation might mitigate this. Treatment of shock requires a multimodal approach to inotropic therapy that can be guided by echocardiographic or invasive haemodynamic assessment of myocardial function. High‐dose insulin euglycaemia is commonly recommended as a first‐line treatment in these poisonings, to improve myocardial contractility, and should be instituted early when myocardial dysfunction is suspected. Catecholamine infusions are complementary to this therapy for both inotropic and chronotropic support. Catecholamine vasopressors and vasopressin are used in the treatment of vasodilatory shock. Optimizing serum calcium concentration can confer some benefit to improving myocardial function and vascular tone after CCB poisoning. High‐dose glucagon infusions have provided moderate chronotropic and inotropic benefits in BB poisoning. Phosphodiesterase inhibitors and levosimendan have positive inotropic effects but also produce peripheral vasodilation, which can limit blood pressure improvement. In cases of severe cardiogenic shock and/or cardiac arrest post‐poisoning, extracorporeal cardiac assist devices have resulted in successful recovery. Other treatments used in refractory hypotension include intravenous lipid emulsion for lipophilic CCB and BB poisoning and methylene blue for refractory vasodilatory shock.
SMART in Mathematics? Exploring the effects of in‐class‐level differentiation using SMARTboard on math proficiency
Authors: Cabus Sofie J. , Haelermans Carla , Franken Sonja
Published: September 2015

This paper explored the effects of in‐class‐level differentiation by making innovative use of an interactive whiteboard (SMARTboard) on math proficiency. Therefore, this paper evaluates the use of SMARTboard in class, in combination with teacher training, using a randomized field experiment among 199 pre‐vocational students in seventh grade in the Netherlands. During 6 weeks, students in the intervention group participated in math classes in which the SMARTboard was used to apply level differentiation. The teachers of these classes received a specific training (Technological Pedagogical and Content Knowledge [TPACK]) in using the SMARTboard in class. Control classes were taught by teachers without the training, who did not use the SMARTboard in class. The results showed that level differentiation in class, which was possible because of the efficient use of the SMARTboard, significantly increased math proficiency with 0.25 points.
Coagulation activation in sickle cell trait: an exploratory study
Authors: Amin Chirag , Adam Soheir , Mooberry Micah J. , Kutlar Abdullah , Kutlar Ferdane , Esserman Denise , Brittain Julia E. , Ataga Kenneth I. , Chang Jen‐Yea , Wolberg Alisa S. , Key Nigel S.
Published: September 2015

Recent epidemiologic data suggest that sickle cell trait (HbAS; AS) is a risk factor for venous thromboembolism. We conducted an exploratory study of healthy subjects with AS under baseline conditions to determine whether a chronic basal hyperactivation of coagulation exists, and if so, what mechanism(s) contribute to this state. Eighteen healthy AS individuals were compared to 22 African‐American controls with a normal haemoglobin profile (HbAA; AA) and 17 patients with sickle cell disease (HbSS; SS). Plasma thrombin‐antithrombin complexes and D‐dimer levels were elevated in AS relative to AA patients (P = 0·0385 and P = 0·017, respectively), and as expected, were much higher in SSversusAA (P < 0·0001 for both). Thrombin generation in platelet poor plasma was indistinguishable between AA and AS subjects, whereas a paradoxical decrease in endogenous thrombin potential was observed in SS (P ≤ 0·0001). Whole blood tissue factor was elevated in SS compared to AA (P = 0·005), but did not differ between AA and AS. Plasma microparticle tissue factor activity was non‐significantly elevated in AS (P = 0·051), but was clearly elevated in SS patients (P = 0·004) when compared to AA controls. Further studies in larger cohorts of subjects with sickle cell trait are needed to confirm the results of this preliminary investigation.
Upregulation of sialidase NEU3 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma associated with lymph node metastasis
Authors: Shiga Kiyoto , Takahashi Kohta , Sato Ikuro , Kato Kengo , Saijo Shigeru , Moriya Setsuko , Hosono Masahiro , Miyagi Taeko
Published: September 2015

Regional lymph node metastasis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a crucial event for its progression, associated with a high rate of mortality. Sialidase, a key enzyme for the regulation of cellular sialic acids through catalyzing the initial step of degradation of glycoproteins and glycolipids, has been implicated in cancer progression. To facilitate the development of novel treatments for HNSCC, we have investigated whether sialidase is involved in the progression of this cancer. We found plasma membrane‐associated sialidase (NEU3) to be significantly upregulated in tumor compared to non‐tumor tissues; particularly, an increase in its mRNA levels was significantly associated with lymph node metastasis. To understand the mechanisms, we analyzed the NEU3‐mediated effects on the malignant phenotype using squamous carcinoma HSC‐2 and SAS cells. NEU3 promoted cell motility and invasion, accompanied by the increased expression of MMP‐9, whereas NEU3 silencing or the activity‐null mutant did not. NEU3 enhanced phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and an EGFR inhibitor, AG1478, abrogated the NEU3‐induced MMP9 augmentation. These findings identify NEU3 as a participant in HNSCC progression through the regulation of EGFR signaling and thus as a potential target for inhibiting EGFR‐mediated tumor progression.
Effects of an Attachment‐Based Intervention on Child Protective Services–Referred Mothers' Event‐Related Potentials to Children's Emotions
Authors: Bernard Kristin , Simons Robert , Dozier Mary
Published: September 2015

This study examined the neurobiology of maternal sensitivity to children's emotions among mothers involved with Child Protective Services (CPS) and low‐risk comparison mothers (Mage = 31.6 years). CPS‐referred mothers participated in the Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch‐up (ABC) intervention or a control intervention. Mothers' event‐related potentials (ERPs) were measured while they categorized images of children with crying, laughing, and neutral expressions. CPS‐referred ABC mothers (n = 19) and low‐risk comparison mothers (n = 30) showed a larger enhancement of ERP responses for emotional faces relative to neutral faces than CPS‐referred control mothers (n = 21). Additionally, the magnitude of ERP responses to emotional faces was associated with observed maternal sensitivity. Findings add to the understanding of the neurobiology of deficits in parenting and suggest that these deficits are changeable through a parenting intervention.
Developmental mechanisms of the tympanic membrane in mammals and non‐mammalian amniotes
Authors: Takechi Masaki , Kitazawa Taro , Hirasawa Tatsuya , Hirai Tamami , Iseki Sachiko , Kurihara Hiroki , Kuratani Shigeru
Published: September 2015

The tympanic membrane is a thin layer that originates from the ectoderm, endoderm, and mesenchyme. Molecular‐genetic investigations have revealed that interaction between epithelial and mesenchymal cells in the pharyngeal arches is essential for development of the tympanic membrane. We have recently reported that developmental mechanisms underlying the tympanic membrane seem to be different between mouse and chicken, suggesting that the tympanic membrane evolved independently in mammals and non‐mammalian amniotes. In this review, we summarize previous studies of tympanic membrane formation in the mouse. We also discuss its formation in amniotes from an evolutionary point of view.
Significance of decoy cells for indicating viral cytopathic effect in urine cytology
Authors: Kimura M. , Hayashi T.
Published: September 2015

As shown here, decoy cells in urine are not specific for BK polyoma virus and can be found in other
urinary viral infections. Immunostaining, electron microscopy and molecular studies are advised when decoy
cells are seen, to clarify the infective agent.
Gains and losses of plant species and phylogenetic diversity for a northern high‐latitude region
Authors: Zhang Jian , Nielsen Scott E. , Stolar Jessica , Chen Youhua , Thuiller Wilfried
Published: September 2015

Aim

Forecasting potential patterns in species’ distributions and diversity under climate change is crucial for biodiversity conservation. Although high‐latitude regions are expected to experience some of the greatest increases in temperature due to global warming, little is known on how individual responses in species will affect patterns in phylogenetic diversity (PD).

Location

Alberta, Canada.

Methods

We used 160,589 occurrence records for 1541 species of seed plants in Alberta (nearly 90% of the province's seed flora) and ensemble niche models to project current and future suitable habitats. We then examined climate change vulnerability of individual species and the potential impacts of climate change on species richness, PD and both taxonomic and phylogenetic endemism (PE). We also assessed whether predicted losses of PD were distributed randomly across the plant tree of life.

Results

We found that 368 species (24%) may lose on average > 80% of their current suitable climates (habitats), while 539 species (35%) were projected to more than double their current suitable range. Both species richness and PD were predicted to increase in most areas, except for the species‐rich Rocky Mountains, which are predicted to experience future declines. Maps of taxonomic and PE identified several regions with high conservation value and climate change threat suggesting priorities for conservation and climate change adaptation. Overall, a non‐random extinction risk was found for Alberta's flora, demonstrating potential future impacts of climate change on the loss of evolutionary history.

Main conclusions

Our analyses suggest that climate change will have asymmetrical effects on the distribution of Alberta's plant diversity and endemism and a non‐random extinction risk of the current state of species evolutionary history. Our results provide practical guidance for biodiversity conservation and management in this region by prioritizing species' vulnerabilities and places with higher taxonomic or evolutionary risk due to future climate change.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of various glucagon dosages at different blood glucose levels
Authors: Blauw H. , Wendl I. , DeVries J. H. , Heise T. , Jax T. ,   on behalf of the PCDIAB consortium
Published: September 2015

Aims

To evaluate the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of different doses of glucagon administered subcutaneously (s.c.) at different blood glucose levels.

Methods

This study was an open‐label, randomized, three‐period, cross‐over experiment in 6 patients with type 1 diabetes. During each of the three periods, different blood glucose levels were established in four consecutive steps (8, 6, 4 and 2.8 mmol/l) and glucagon was given at each blood glucose level in doses from 0.11 to 0.44 mg and 0.33, 0.66 and 1 mg at the lowest glucose concentration.

Results

Maximum glucagon concentration and area under the curve increased with increasing glucagon dose. Maximum glucagon concentration was reached after 10–20 min. Glucagon raised blood glucose in a dose‐dependent manner at different baseline blood glucose levels. The median glucose excursion ranged from 2.6 to 6.2 mmol/l. Time to maximum glucose concentration was dose‐dependent for the glucagon doses at 2.8 mmol/l, with median values from 40 to 80 min.

Conclusions

Glucagon administered s.c. produces a stable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic response at lower doses than the usual rescue dose and across a range of hypo‐ to hyperglycaemic blood glucose levels. This supports the use of small glucagon doses in the artificial pancreas to correct and prevent hypoglycaemia.
Effects of empagliflozin on blood pressure and markers of arterial stiffness and vascular resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Chilton R. , Tikkanen I. , Cannon C. P. , Crowe S. , Woerle H. J. , Broedl U. C. , Johansen O. E.
Published: September 2015

Aims

To determine the effects of empagliflozin on blood pressure (BP) and markers of arterial stiffness and vascular resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

We conducted a post hoc analysis of data from a phase III trial in patients with T2DM and hypertension receiving 12 weeks' empagliflozin and four phase III trials in patients with T2DM receiving 24 weeks' empagliflozin (cohort 1, n = 823; cohort 2, n = 2477). BP was measured using 24‐h BP monitoring (cohort 1) or seated office measurements (cohort 2).

Results

Empagliflozin reduced systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP in both cohorts (p < 0.001 vs placebo), without increasing heart rate. Empagliflozin reduced pulse pressure (PP; adjusted mean difference vs placebo cohort 1: −2.3 mmHg; cohort 2: −2.3 mmHg), mean arterial pressure (MAP; cohort 1, −2.3 mmHg; cohort 2, −2.1 mmHg) and double product (cohort 1, −385 mmHg × bpm; cohort 2, −369 mmHg × bpm) all p < 0.001 vs placebo. There was a trend towards a reduction in the ambulatory arterial stiffness index (AASI) with empagliflozin in cohort 1 (p = 0.059 vs placebo). AASI was not measured in cohort 2. Subgroup analyses showed that there were greater reductions in PP with increasing baseline SBP in cohort 1 (p = 0.092). In cohort 2, greater reductions in MAP were achieved in patients with higher baseline SBP (p = 0.027) and greater reductions in PP were observed in older patients (p = 0.011).

Conclusions

Empagliflozin reduced BP and had favourable effects on markers of arterial stiffness and vascular resistance.
Comparison of insulin degludec with insulin detemir in type 1 diabetes: a 1‐year treat‐to‐target trial
Authors: Davies M. , Sasaki T. , Gross J. L. , Bantwal G. , Ono Y. , Nishida T. , Tojjar D. , Seino H.
Published: September 2015

The long‐term safety and tolerability of insulin degludec (IDeg) was compared with that of insulin detemir (IDet), as basal treatment in participants with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). In the present multinational, 26‐week core + 26‐week extension, controlled, open‐label, parallel‐group trial, adults with T1DM were randomized to IDeg or IDet as basal insulin treatment combined with meal‐time bolus insulin aspart. IDeg was administered once daily, whilst IDet was administered once or twice daily depending on patients' glycaemic control. After 1 year, IDeg provided a 33% lower rate of nocturnal hypoglycaemia compared with IDet: estimated rate ratio (IDeg : IDet) 0.67 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.51; 0.88]; p < 0.05. IDeg improved glycated haemoglobin after 1 year of treatment, similarly to IDet, but IDeg also provided a significantly greater reduction in fasting plasma glucose compared with IDet: estimated difference (IDeg − IDet) −1.11 (95% CI −1.83; −0.40) mmol/l; p < 0.05. The present study confirmed the long‐term safety and tolerability profile of IDeg in patients with T1DM. IDeg provided a lower risk of nocturnal confirmed hypoglycaemia than IDet.
Benefits of combination of insulin degludec and liraglutide are independent of baseline glycated haemoglobin level and duration of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Rodbard H. W. , Buse J. B. , Woo V. , Vilsbøll T. , Langbakke I. H. , Kvist K. , Gough S. C. L.
Published: September 2015

Aim

To evaluate, using post hoc analyses, whether the novel combination of a basal insulin, insulin degludec, and a glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist, liraglutide (IDegLira), was consistently effective in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), regardless of the stage of T2D progression.

Methods

Using data from the DUAL I extension [insulin‐naïve patients uncontrolled on oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs), n = 1660, 52 weeks] and DUAL II (patients uncontrolled on basal insulin plus OADs, n = 398, 26 weeks) randomized trials, the efficacy of IDegLira was investigated with regard to measures of disease progression stage including baseline glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), disease duration and previous insulin dose.

Results

Across four categories of baseline HbA1c (≤7.5–9.0%), HbA1c reductions were significantly greater with IDegLira (1.1–2.5%) compared with IDeg or liraglutide alone in DUAL I. In DUAL II, HbA1c reductions were significantly greater with IDegLira (0.9–2.5%) than with IDeg in all but the lowest HbA1c category. In DUAL I, insulin dose and hypoglycaemia rate were lower across all baseline HbA1c categories for IDegLira versus IDeg, while hypoglycaemia was higher with IDegLira than liraglutide, irrespective of baseline HbA1c. In DUAL II, insulin dose and hypoglycaemia rate were similar with IDegLira and IDeg (maximum dose limited to 50 U) independent of baseline HbA1c. The reduction in HbA1c with IDegLira was independent of disease duration and previous insulin dose but varied depending on pre‐trial OAD treatment.

Conclusions

IDegLira effectively lowered HbA1c across a range of measures, implying suitability for patients with either early or advanced T2D.
Harmonisation of Dental Education in Europe – a survey about 15 years after visitation of dental schools participating in the DentEd project
Authors: Harzer W. , Tausche E. , Gedrange T.
Published: September 2015

Introduction

The DentEd Thematic Networks (TNP) were funded from the EU to converge and harmonise the dental curricula. Forty‐four dental schools participated in this visitation process between 1998 and 2002. The aim of the survey was to evaluate the implementation of the Dented outcomes in the curricula and if the concept of core competences are integrated in the curriculum.

Material and Method

In October 2012, questionnaires were sent out to all dental schools participated in the visitation process of Dented and Dented evolves. The main question blocs were as follows: structure of the curriculum and facilities, education of students, content and quality of education, assessment, research, European involvement and value of visit for the school.

Results

Twenty‐five dental schools (57%) answered to the questionnaire. The responder represented 20 European countries of 22, whose schools were involved (91%). The self‐assessment report was stimulating the continuation of curriculum improvement. Most of them acknowledge that major competences are essential outcome for the graduated dentist. Twelve schools (58%) rated the value of the DentEd visit with strong positive influence.

Discussion

The visits showed strengths, weaknesses and threats. Three‐quarter of all schools implemented the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). But most of them did not realize the unit of ECTS with modules among the Bologna process.

Conclusion

The self‐assessment report was a core issue for the continuation of curriculum improvement. The challenge for the ongoing curriculum improvement is the implementation of the module system among the Bologna recommendations.
Serotonergic enhancement of circadian responses to light: role of the raphe and intergeniculate leaflet
Authors: Smith Victoria M. , Jeffers Ryan T. , Antle Michael C.
Published: September 2015

Light serves as the primary stimulus that synchronizes the circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) to the external day/night cycle. Appropriately timed light exposure can reset the phase of the circadian clock. Some serotonergic drugs that bind to the serotonin 1A receptor can enhance phase shifts to light. The mechanism by which this potentiation occurs is not well understood. In this study, we examined where one of these drugs, 8‐[2‐[4‐(2‐methoxyphenyl)‐1‐piperazinyl]ethyl]‐8‐azaspiro[4.5]decane‐7,9‐dione dihydrochloride (BMY7378), might be working in the hamster brain. Systemic (5 mg/kg), intra‐dorsal raphe and intra‐median raphe (both 15.6 nmol in 0.5 μL), but not intra‐SCN (7.8 nmol or 15.6 nmol in 0.5 μL) injections of BMY7378 significantly potentiated phase shifts to light. Potentiation of photic shifts persisted when serotonergic innervation of the SCN was lesioned with infusions of the serotonin neurotoxin 5,7‐dihydroxytryptamine into the SCN. Light‐induced c‐Fos expression in the rostral and caudal intergeniculate leaflet (IGL) was attenuated with systemic BMY7378, suggesting that the IGL may be involved in this response. Both complete IGL lesions and depletion of serotonergic innervation of the IGL prevented systemic BMY7378 from potentiating photic phase shifts. Together, these findings suggest that the mechanism by which BMY7378 enhances photic responses is by changing the activity of the raphe nuclei to influence how the IGL responds to light, which subsequently influences the SCN as one of its downstream targets. Identification of the network that underlies this potentiation could lead to the development of useful therapeutic interventions for treating sleep and circadian disorders.
Lateralization of Aggression during Reproduction in Male Siamese Fighting Fish
Authors: Forsatkar Mohammad Navid , Dadda Marco , Nematollahi Mohammad Ali
Published: September 2015

A preference for the left‐eye use during aggressive interactions has been widely reported in the literature, even though in some cases the direction of lateralization varies among individuals within populations. Laterality of aggression in male Siamese fighting fish has been described in a number of studies, yet very little is known about lateralization of aggression during reproduction and/or parental care in fish. Here, we aimed to investigate the relationship between the different reproductive phases and lateralization in eye use during aggressive interactions in males of Siamese fighting fish. Lateralization in eye use is influenced during the early reproductive state, before and after the bubble nest construction stages. We found that nest‐holding males preferentially used the right eye before and after bubble nest construction independent of the sex of the intruder. During the later reproductive phases, aggressiveness increased whereby the direction of lateralization rather than the degree was influenced supporting the hypothesis that reproductive state influences behavioral consistency in Siamese fighting fish.
Mate Choice and Colored Beak Spots of King Penguins
Authors: Keddar Ismaël , Altmeyer Sophie , Couchoux Charline , Jouventin Pierre , Dobson F. Stephen
Published: September 2015

The theory of sexual selection explains sexual dimorphisms in ornaments used in mate choice. Mutual mate choice is a form of sexual selection that might explain sexually monomorphic ornamental traits. Under mutual mate choice, both sexes select partners based on the same ornament. We tested the mutual mate choice hypothesis in a mutually ornamented seabird, the king penguin (Aptenodytes patagonicus), through observations of the pair formation process in the field. Penguins that were ready to mate formed displaying pairs at the edge of the colony. Some of these pairs moved into the breeding colony and produced an egg (definitive pairs), while other pairs separated and often switched to another potential partner (temporary pairs). Colored ornaments were quantified using color vision modeling. We predicted that birds would mate assortatively by their elaborate ornamental traits (specifically, colors of beak spots, auricular patches of feathers, and breast patch of feathers). We also predicted that definitive pairs would exhibit more elaborate ornaments than temporary pairs. The mutual mate choice hypothesis was supported by assortative pairing for color of the beak spots, but not for color or size of the auricular patches or for the color of the breast patch. An alternative hypothesis was also consistent with our results, that female choice for a male ornamental trait and superior female condition associated with the same trait produced assortative pairing patterns. More UV‐ and yellow‐colored beak spots for females in definitive than temporary pairs supported the female choice hypothesis over the mutual mate choice hypothesis, but previous experimental results from altered beak spot colors supported the latter. Evidence to date thus supports both the mutual mate choice and female choice hypotheses.
Turning Outside In: Infolded Selves in Cuban CreoleEspiritismo
Authors: Espírito Santo Diana
Published: September 2015

Practitioners of Cuban Creoleespiritismoconceive of the spirits they work with as parts of their extended Selves: paradoxically both present from birth, manifest as aptitudes and personality traits and as needing to be “made” through their development as mediums. In continuity with other practices of the Afro‐Cuban religious environment in which it is immersed, espiritismo sustains a spiritual cosmos that is porous and capable of absorbing and transforming its potentially dangerous Other—such as “foreign” spirits or those sent by witchcraft. This is accomplished through processes associated with the development and expansion of the Self. However, through the expression of these spirits (both innate and foreign) in, and through, bodies, things, and actions, they are integrated into the Selves of their mediums (“infolding”) as they are simultaneously personified and differentiated from them (“outfolding”). I argue that this process of “outfolding” affords a largely unique model of Self‐making in this context, one that can be better understood through a look at how aspects deemed to be potentials of the Self ́s internal constitution are carefully worked into becoming instantiated, lived components of it,outside of it.