bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The interaction between supportive and unsupportive manager behaviors on employee work attitudes
Authors: Teoh Kevin Rui-Han , Coyne Iain , Devonish Dwayne , Leather Phil , Zarola Antonio
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to use social exchange theory (SET) to examine a model where supportive and unsupportive manager behaviors (SMB and UMB) interact to predict employees’ engagement, job satisfaction and turnover intention.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional online survey collected data from 252 UK-based employees of a global data management company.

Findings

Factor analysis confirmed manager behaviors to consist of two constructs: supportive and unsupportive behaviors. Structural equation modeling indicated SMB predicted job satisfaction and turnover intentions, but not engagement. Job satisfaction, but not engagement, mediated the SMB-turnover intention relationship. UMB only predicted job dissatisfaction. Neither job satisfaction nor engagement mediated the UMB-turnover intention relationship. UMB undermined the positive relationship between SMB and turnover intention.

Practical implications

The behaviors assessed can be integrated into various stages of a manager’s development process to serve as guidelines of good practice. Crucially, findings suggest managers can exhibit both supportive and unsupportive behaviors, and that consistency in behaviors is important. The study also provides evidence that supportive managers can help reduce turnover intention through job satisfaction.

Originality/value

SET was used as a framework for SMB, UMB and engagement. To the authors’ knowledge this is the first study to examine the interaction between SMB and UMB.
Integrating leadership research: a meta-analytical test of Yukl’s meta-categories of leadership
Authors: Borgmann Lars , Rowold Jens , Bormann Kai Christian
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test the theoretical proposition, put forward by Yuklet al.(2002), that the leadership constructs of transformational and transactional leadership, laissez-faire, consideration, and initiating structure can be arranged into three meta-categories of leadership, namely, relations, task, and change-oriented leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

After a comprehensive literature search, 1,402 correlations from 286 sources were obtained which referred to the above mentioned leadership constructs and outcome criteria of effective leadership.

Findings

It was found that three meta-categories of leadership (i.e. relations, task, and change-oriented leadership) were sufficient to explain the leadership constructs of transformational and transactional leadership, laissez-faire, consideration, and initiating structure. Moreover, it was also found that change-oriented leadership was most effective in predicting the job satisfaction of followers. In contrast, relations-oriented leadership accounted for most of the variance in both commitment and job performance.

Research limitations/implications

In combination, these results allow for a more comprehensive, integrative description of effective leadership behavior.

Practical implications

The results have implications for leadership assessment and development as well as leader selection and feedback.

Originality/value

Applying Occam’s razor, and in contrast to the majority of prior leadership studies, the present meta-analytical study provided evidence that three categories of leadership behaviors allow for a precise and comprehensive description of effective leadership behavior.
Public vs private sector employment
Authors: Ng Eddy S.W. , Gossett Charles W. , Chinyoka Samuel , Obasi Isaac
Published: August 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the factors that may be related to a career choice in the public vs the private sector in a developing African country.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of graduate management students, the authors tested reward preferences and altruism, elements of public service motivation, on their generalizability to a developing country in Africa. The authors also examine the role of career attitudes, individual personality factors, and cultural values on a career choice in public service.

Findings

The authors find that not all the factors associated with the choice of sector (public or private) found in previous studies apply in the Botswana context.

Research limitations/implications

Perry and Wise (1990) developed the concept of public service motivation to explain why individuals may be motivated to serve the public. However, two of the factors associated with public service, intrinsic motivation, and altruism, were not predictive of a career choice in the public sector in Botswana, and thus may limit its generalizability outside of western developed countries.

Practical implications

In Botswana and other developing economies, government jobs are considered to provide lucrative and stable employment, and attract educated citizens regardless of motivations. However, as the private-for-profit sector is emerging, these countries could soon be facing serious competition for top university students, and will need to develop a strategy for attracting the best talents to choose employment in the public sector over career options in the private sector.

Originality/value

The present study seeks to further the understanding on how individuals make a career choice between public vs private sector management in a developing country.
Plant–soil feedbacks: role of plant functional group and plant traits
Authors: Cortois Roeland , Schröder‐Georgi Thomas , Weigelt Alexandra , van der Putten Wim H. , De Deyn Gerlinde B.
Published: August 2016

Plant–soil feedback (PSF), plant trait and functional group concepts advanced our understanding of plant community dynamics, but how they are interlinked is poorly known.

To test how plant functional groups (FGs: graminoids, small herbs, tall herbs, legumes) and plant traits relate to PSF, we grew 48 grassland species in sterilized soil, sterilized soil with own species soil inoculum and sterilized soil with soil inoculum from all species, and quantified relative growth rate (RGR), specific leaf area (SLA), specific root length (SRL) and per cent arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonization (%AMF).

Plant growth response to the plant species' own soil biota relative to sterilized soil (PSFsterilized) reflects net effects of all (generalist + specialized) soil biota. Growth response to the plant species' own soil biota relative to soil biota of all plant species (PSFaway) reveals effects of more specialized soil organisms.

PSFsterilized showed that graminoids and small herbs have a negative and tall herbs a positive response to their own soil biota, whereas legumes responded neutrally. However, PSFaway showed that on average, all plant FGs benefitted from growing with other species' soil biota, suggesting that pathogens are more specialized than plant growth‐promoting soil biota. Feedback to plant growth from all soil biota (PSFsterilized) was stronger than from more specialized soil biota (PSFaway) and could be predicted by SRL and especially by %AMF colonization. Species with high SRL and low %AMF colonization when grown in away soil experienced most negative soil feedback.

Synthesis. Plant species from all plant FGs grow better in soil from other species because of less net negative effects of soil biota (in graminoids), or because of more net positive soil biota effects (in tall herbs). Explorative plant species (high SRL, low %AMF colonization) suffer most from negative feedback of all soil biota, whereas more resource conservative species (low SRL, high %AMF colonization) benefit from soil feedback of all soil biota. These findings help to understand replacement of explorative species during succession. Moreover, we suggest a potentially larger role for species with positive feedback than for species with negative feedback to contribute to maintain plant community productivity of diverse communities over time.
Hydrogen‐rich water regulates effects of ROS balance on morphology, growth and secondary metabolism via glutathione peroxidase in Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Ren Ang , Liu Rui , Miao Zhi‐Gang , Zhang Xue , Cao Peng‐Fei , Chen Tian‐Xi , Li Chen‐Yang , Shi Liang , Jiang Ai‐Liang , Zhao Ming‐Wen
Published: August 2016

Ganoderma lucidum is one of the most important medicinal fungi, but the lack of basic study on the fungus has hindered the further development of its value. To investigate the roles of the redox system in G. lucidum, acetic acid (HAc) was applied as a reactive oxygen species (ROS) stress inducer, and hydrogen‐rich water (HRW) was used to relieve the ROS stress in this study. Our results demonstrate that the treatment of 5% HRW significantly decreased the ROS content, maintained biomass and polar growth morphology of mycelium, and decreased secondary metabolism under HAc‐induced oxidative stress. Furthermore, the roles of HRW were largely dependent on restoring the glutathione system under HAc stress in G. lucidum. To provide further evidence, we used two glutathione peroxidase (GPX)‐defective strains, the gpxi strain, the mercaptosuccinic acid (MS, a GPX inhibitor)‐treated wide‐type (WT) strain, and gpx overexpression strains for further research. The results show that HRW was unable to relieve the HAc‐induced ROS overproduction, decreased biomass, mycelium morphology change and increased secondary metabolism biosynthesis in the absence of GPX function. The gpx overexpression strains exhibited resistance to HAc‐induced oxidative stress. Thus, we propose that HRW regulates morphology, growth and secondary metabolism via glutathione peroxidase under HAc stress in the fungus G. lucidum. Furthermore, our research also provides a method to study the ROS system in other fungi.
The cellular proteome is affected by a gelsolin (BbGEL1) during morphological transitions in aerobic surface versus liquid growth in the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana
Authors: He Pu‐Hong , Dong Wei‐Xia , Chu Xin‐Ling , Feng Ming‐Guang , Ying Sheng‐Hua
Published: August 2016

The gelsolin superfamily includes seven protein members: gelsolin, villin, adseverin, CapG, advillin, supervillin and flightless I. The gelsolin proteins are actin‐binding proteins that contain three or six gelsolin‐like domains, and they play important roles in remodelling actin dynamics and cellular processes in eukaryotes. The entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana expresses a unique CapG protein (BbGEL1) that contains three gelsolin‐like domains. BbGEL1p is associated with actin during mycelial growth and plays an important role in fungal morphological transitions under both aerobic and submerged conditions. The ΔBbGEL1 mutant displays abnormal spore‐producing structures that reduce the conidial and blastospore yields by approximately 70% and 90% respectively. The virulence of the ΔBbGEL1 mutant is notably reduced as indicated by topical and intrahemocoel injection assays. Two comparative proteomics analyses indicated that BbGEL1 has significantly different roles in the development of conidia and blastospores, and the results revealed the potential targets of BbGEL1 in the corresponding developmental processes. Additionally, as an overlapping downstream protein of BbGEL1, the hydrophobin‐like protein gene BbHyd3 is required for conidiation but has a negative role in blastospore formation. Our findings indicate that in addition to its function as an actin‐interacting protein, BbGEL1 contributes to fungal morphological transitions via broad genetic pathways.
Lysozyme activity of the Ruminococcus champanellensis cellulosome
Authors: Moraïs Sarah , Cockburn Darrell W. , Ben‐David Yonit , Koropatkin Nicole M. , Martens Eric C. , Duncan Sylvia H. , Flint Harry J. , Mizrahi Itzhak , Bayer Edward A.
Published: August 2016

Ruminococcus champanellensis is a keystone species in the human gut that produces an intricate cellulosome system of various architectures. A variety of cellulosomal enzymes have been identified, which exhibit a range of hydrolytic activities on lignocellulosic substrates. We describe herein a unique R. champanellensis scaffoldin, ScaK, which is expressed during growth on cellobiose and comprises a cohesin module and a family 25 glycoside hydrolase (GH25). The GH25 is non‐autolytic and exhibits lysozyme‐mediated lytic activity against several bacterial species. Despite the narrow acidic pH curve, the enzyme is active along a temperature range from 2 to 85°C and is stable at very high temperatures for extended incubation periods. The ScaK cohesin was shown to bind selectively to the dockerin of a monovalent scaffoldin (ScaG), thus enabling formation of a cell‐free cellulosome, whereby ScaG interacts with a divalent scaffodin (ScaA) that bears the enzymes either directly or through additional monovalent scaffoldins (ScaC and ScaD). The ScaK cohesin also interacts with the dockerin of a protein comprising multiple Fn3 domains that can potentially promote adhesion to carbohydrates and the bacterial cell surface. A cell‐free cellulosomal GH25 lysozyme may provide a bacterial strategy to both hydrolyze lignocellulose and repel eventual food competitors and/or cheaters.
Photorhabdus‐nematode symbiosis is dependent on hfq‐mediated regulation of secondary metabolites
Authors: Tobias Nicholas J. , Heinrich Antje K. , Eresmann Helena , Wright Patrick R. , Neubacher Nick , Backofen Rolf , Bode Helge B.
Published: August 2016

Photorhabdus luminescens maintains a symbiotic relationship with the nematodes Heterorhabditis bacteriophora and together they infect and kill insect larvae. To maintain this symbiotic relationship, the bacteria must produce an array of secondary metabolites to assist in the development and replication of nematodes. The regulatory mechanisms surrounding production of these compounds are mostly unknown. The global post‐transcriptional regulator, Hfq, is widespread in bacteria and performs many functions, one of which is the facilitation of sRNA binding to target mRNAs, with recent research thoroughly exploring its various pleiotropic effects. Here we generate and characterize an hfq deletion mutant and show that in the absence of hfq, the bacteria are no longer able to maintain a healthy symbiosis with nematodes due to the abolishment of the production of all known secondary metabolites. RNAseq led us to produce a second deletion of a known repressor, HexA, in the same strain, which restored both metabolite production and symbiosis.
The genetic basis of anoxygenic photosynthetic arsenite oxidation
Authors: Hernandez‐Maldonado Jaime , Sanchez‐Sedillo Benjamin , Stoneburner Brendon , Boren Alison , Miller Laurence , McCann Shelley , Rosen Michael , Oremland Ronald S. , Saltikov Chad W.
Published: August 2016

‘Photoarsenotrophy’, the use of arsenite as an electron donor for anoxygenic photosynthesis, is thought to be an ancient form of phototrophy along with the photosynthetic oxidation of Fe(II), H2S, H2 and
. Photoarsenotrophy was recently identified from Paoha Island's (Mono Lake, CA) arsenic‐rich hot springs. The genomes of several photoarsenotrophs revealed a gene cluster, arxB2AB1CD, where arxA is predicted to encode for the sole arsenite oxidase. The role of arxA in photosynthetic arsenite oxidation was confirmed by disrupting the gene in a representative photoarsenotrophic bacterium, resulting in the loss of light‐dependent arsenite oxidation. In situ evidence of active photoarsenotrophic microbes was supported by arxA mRNA detection for the first time, in red‐pigmented microbial mats within the hot springs of Paoha Island. This work expands on the genetics for photosynthesis coupled to new electron donors and elaborates on known mechanisms for arsenic metabolism, thereby highlighting the complexities of arsenic biogeochemical cycling.
Understanding the meaning and role of gifts given to Ugandan mothers in maternity care settings: ‘The help they give when they've seen how different you are’
Authors: Rudrum Sarah , Brown Helen , Oliffe John L.
Published: August 2016

The provision of gifts to new mothers in Uganda is laden with significance that varies by the social location of the giver and receiver and the context and conditions under which the gift is made available. Here, we examine the act of gift giving and receiving within a Ugandan maternity care setting, describing the connections between these material objects and social relations. A study investigating the social organisation of maternity care in post‐conflict northern Uganda found that gift‐giving to new mothers functioned to create a material and discursive context wherein women's desire to access these goods was leveraged to create an incentive to attend formal maternity care during pregnancy and for delivery. In this article we describe the material and discursive processes surrounding gift‐giving to new mothers in this global South health care setting. This article contributes critical analyses of the function of gifts in healthcare settings as constructing shared identities, social differences and normative values about health citizenship, and an incentive politic that affects equitable access to maternity care. Drawing on intersectional theory and analysis of how specific practices function ideologically to reward or incentivise pregnant women, we integrate material culture studies into the sociology of women's reproductive health.
Incidence, characteristics and survival outcomes of out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest in children and adolescents between 1997 and 2014 in Perth, Western Australia
Authors: Inoue Madoka , Tohira Hideo , Williams Teresa , Bailey Paul , Borland Meredith , McKenzie Nicole , Brink Deon , Finn Judith
Published: August 2016

Objective

The present study was to describe the trends in the incidence, characteristics and survival of paediatric out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) over an 18 year period.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based retrospective cohort study using prospectively collected data from all OHCA patients aged <18 years who were attended by St John Ambulance Western Australia paramedics in the Perth metropolitan area, WA, between 1997 and 2014. The incidence, characteristics and survival were compared across 4 year periods (1997–2000, 2001–2005, 2006–2010 and 2011–2014). The Paediatric Cerebral Performance Category at hospital discharge was determined by medical record review. Incidence per 100 000 population was calculated for four age groups (<1, 1–4, 5–12 and 13–17).

Results

In total, 723 OHCAs were identified, and 451 (62.4%) had resuscitation commenced by paramedics. The patients were predominantly male (61.6%) with a median age of 2 years (IQR 0–14 years). Bystander CPR increased over time from 35.0% (1997–2000) to 63.0% (2011–2014) (P < 0.001). Any return of spontaneous circulation was 39/451 (8.6%), and survival to hospital discharge was 21/451 (5.0%). Of the 20 survivors assessed, 11 had good neurological status at hospital discharge (Paediatric Cerebral Performance Category 1 or 2). The overall incidence decreased from 14.1 (1997–2000) to 8.7 (2011–2014) per 100 000 population (P < 0.001). This was almost halved in children aged <1 year group (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The incidence of paediatric OHCA decreased over time, but survival remained poor. Strategies to strengthen the chain of survival for paediatric OHCA need to be considered.
Glycation and cardiovascular disease in diabetes: A perspective on the concept of metabolic memory
Authors: Yamagishi Sho‐ichi , Nakamura Nobutaka , Matsui Takanori
Published: August 2016

Epidemiological studies have suggested that cumulative diabetic exposure, namely prolonged exposure to chronic hyperglycemia, contributes to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in diabetes. The formation and accumulation of advanced glycation end‐products (AGEs) have been known to progress under hyperglycemic conditions. Because AGEs‐modified collagens are hardly degraded and remain in diabetic vessels, kidneys and the heart for a long time, even after glycemic control has been achieved, AGEs could become a marker reflecting cumulative diabetic exposure. Furthermore, there is a growing body of evidence that an interaction between AGEs and the receptor for AGEs (RAGE) plays a role in the pathogenesis of CVD. In addition, AGEs induce the expression of RAGE, thus leading to sustained activation of the AGEs–RAGE axis in diabetes. Herein we review the pathological role of the AGEs–RAGE axis in CVD, focusing particularly on the phenomenon of metabolic memory, and discuss the potential clinical usefulness of measuring circulating and tissue levels of AGEs accumulation to evaluate diabetic macrovascular complications.
Carotid intima‐media thickness in young survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: Krawczuk‐Rybak Maryna , Tomczuk‐Ostapczuk Monika , Panasiuk Anna , Goscik Elzbieta
Published: August 2016

Introduction

Radiotherapy (RT) and some chemotherapy regimens are known risk factors predisposing to the development of premature arterial disease. Vascular ultrasound measurement of carotid intima‐media thickness (IMT) is a non‐invasive technique, useful to detect early subclinical symptoms of atherosclerosis that can appear in the paediatric population. We analysed the influence of chemotherapy and moderate doses of head or neck irradiation in childhood cancer survivors on the possibility of premature carotid artery disease.

Methods

Ultrasound measurements of the intima‐media thickness (IMT) in the common carotid artery (CCA), bulb and internal carotid artery (ICA) were performed in 74 young cancer survivors and in 48 age‐ and sex‐matched controls.

Results

In the whole study group, we observed higher IMT in all positions as compared with the control, except for comparable thickness in the CCA (bilaterally). We failed to find any differences in IMT between irradiated and non‐irradiated females. In irradiated males, all IMT measurements on the right side were higher than in non‐irradiated patients. There was no effect of body mass index, blood pressure, serum cholesterol, triglycerides, fibrinogen and thyroid hormones on IMT. In the irradiated group, a positive correlation was observed between IMT in the right bulb and the post‐radiation time.

Conclusions

Anticancer treatment during childhood, especially including irradiation to the mediastinum, head or neck, affects the IMT, particularly in males. This suggests a possible role of irradiation in the premature development of carotid artery disease.
Study of efficacy and safety of pulsatile administration of high‐dose gefitinib or erlotinib for advanced non‐small cell lung cancer patients with secondary drug resistance: A single center, single arm, phase II clinical trial
Authors: Zhu Yanzhe , Du Yingying , Liu Hu , Ma Tai , Shen Yuanyuan , Pan Yueyin
Published: August 2016

Background

The objective of the study was to observe the efficacy and safety of pulsatile administration of high‐dose gefitinib or erlotinib in patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with secondary drug resistance to standard doses of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment.

Materials and methods

We recruited 42 NSCLC patients from our hospital, between August 2014 and December 2015, who had experienced drug resistance after one year of conventional treatment with gefitinib or erlotinib. The gefitinib group (29 patients) received one dose of 1000 mg gefitinib every four days. The erlotinib group (13 patients) received one dose of 450 mg erlotinib every three days. Treatments continued until disease progression according to Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors 1.1 or development of intolerable toxicity.

Results

Median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 30 months (gefitinib vs. erlotinib: 31 vs. 24 months; P > 0.05). After high‐dose pulsatile administration, eight patients achieved a partial response (PR), 11 had stable disease (SD), and 23 had progressive disease (PD; relative risk 19.0%; disease control rate 45.2%; median PFS six months). Patients were categorized based on epidermal growth factor receptor gene mutation: exon 19 (no patients achieved complete response [CR], 4 PR, 6 SD, and 17 PD) and exon 21 mutation groups (no patients achieved CR, 4 PR, 5 SD, and 6 PD).

Conclusion

High‐dose TKI pulsatile treatment is safe, efficient, and can improve prognoses for certain patients with advanced NSCLC.
Management of coronal discolouration following a regenerative endodontic procedure in a maxillary incisor
Authors: D'Mello G , Moloney L
Published: August 2016

Pulpal necrosis and infection in an immature anterior tooth subsequent to traumatic injury is a challenging situation. Regenerative endodontics, resulting in continued development of the tooth, provides a biological response to this clinical challenge. Regenerative endodontic procedures require disinfection of the infected root canal and sealing of the pulp canal space. Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) provides a good seal, is biocompatible and allows the formation of a hard tissue to occur within the root canal. MTA, however, can lead to significant staining of the crown of the tooth that is difficult to mask. This case report describes the management of discolouration in an 11 year old girl subsequent to a regenerative endodontic procedure in an immature traumatized maxillary central incisor.
Edge influence on plant litter biomass in forest and savanna in the Brazilian cerrado
Authors: Dodonov Pavel , Braga Andreza L. , Harper Karen A. , Silva Matos Dalva M.
Published: August 2016

Edge influence, characterized by differences in ecosystem characteristics between the edge and the interior of remnants in fragmented landscapes, affects a variety of organisms and ecosystem processes. An important feature that may be affected by edges is the amount of plant litter, which provides important habitat for a large variety of organisms and influences ecological processes such as fire dynamics. We studied edge influence on plant litter and fine woody debris in the cerrado of São Paulo state, south‐eastern Brazil. We collected, sorted, dried and weighed plant litter along 180 m‐long transects perpendicular to three savanna and eleven forest edges adjacent to different anthropogenic land uses, with four to five transect per edge. There tended to be less biomass of the finer portions of fine woody debris at both savanna and forest edges. Graminoid litter at savanna edges was greater than in the corresponding interior areas, whereas other litter portions were either unaffected by edges or did not show consistent patterns in either savanna or forest. Edge influence was usually restricted to the first 20 m from the edge, was not influenced by edge characteristics and exhibited no clear differences between savanna and forest areas. Several mechanisms may have led to the variable patterns observed including variation in the plant community, plant architecture, and invasive species. The edge‐related variation in plant litter may putatively lead to, for example, increased fire frequency and intensity at the savanna edges and altered trophic dynamics at forest edges; the mechanisms and consequences of this edge influence should be addressed in future studies.
A narrative review: The effects of opioids on sleep disordered breathing in chronic pain patients and methadone maintained patients
Authors: Hassamal Sameer , Miotto Karen , Wang Tisha , Saxon Andrew J.
Published: August 2016

Background and Objectives

Opioids increase the risk for sleep disordered breathing (SDB), but there are few studies examining the prevalence and risk factors for SDB, specifically central sleep apnea (CSA), and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in chronic pain patients on opioids as well as methadone maintained patients (MMPs).

Methods

A literature review was conducted in which SDB was confirmed by polysomnography (PSG) in chronic pain patients on opioids as well as patients with a diagnosis of an opioid use disorder or opioid dependence on methadone maintenance treatment (MMT).

Results

About 22 reports were included. Six were with MMPs, and 16 were with chronic pain patients on opioids. Among MMPs, the prevalence of SDB ranged from 42.3% to 70%; 0–60% had CSA and 10–35.2% had OSA. In chronic pain patients on opioids, the prevalence of SDB ranged from 71% to 100%; 17–80% had CSA and 20–39% had OSA. In MMPs, studies found a positive association between BMI, weight gain, duration of MMT, non‐Caucasian race and the number of obstructive apneas, as well as blood methadone concentrations and the number of central apneas. In chronic pain patients on opioids, older age, higher BMI, male gender, and higher opioid doses predicted more obstructive apneas; older age, lower BMI, male gender, higher pain levels, higher benzodiazepine doses, and higher opioid doses predicted more central apneas.

Conclusion and Scientific Significance

CSA and OSA are common in MMPs and chronic pain patients on opioids. Among chronic pain patients, higher opioid doses appear to be a risk factor for CSA, and to a lesser extent OSA. Therefore, it is important for providers to screen these patient populations for SDB. (Am J Addict 2016;25:452–465)
Review article: the pathogenesis of pouchitis
Authors: Schieffer K. M. , Williams E. D. , Yochum G. S. , Koltun W. A.
Published: August 2016

Background

A total proctocolectomy followed by ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis is a potentially curative surgery for ulcerative colitis or familial adenomatous polyposis. About 5–35% of patients with ulcerative colitis and 0–11% of patients with familial adenomatous polyposis develop subsequent inflammation of the ileal pouch termed pouchitis.

Aim

To provide a comprehensive analysis of the research studying the possible pathogenesis of pouchitis. The goals were to identify promising areas of investigation, to help focus clinicians, researchers and patients on how to better understand and then potentially manage ileal pouchitis, and to provide avenues for future research investigations.

Methods

This review examined manuscripts from 1981 to 2015 that discussed and/or proposed hypotheses with supportive evidence for the potential underlying pathogenic mechanism for pouchitis.

Results

The pathogenesis of pouchitis is not definitively understood, but various hypotheses have been proposed, including (i) recurrence of ulcerative colitis, (ii) dysbiosis of the ileal pouch microbiota, (iii) deprivation of nutritional short‐chain fatty acids, (iv) mucosal ischaemia and oxygen‐free radical injury, (v) host genetic susceptibility and (vi) immune dysregulation. However, none of these alone are able to fully explain pouchitis pathogenesis.

Conclusions

Pouchitis, similar to inflammatory bowel disease, is a complex disorder that is not caused by any one single factor. More likely, pouchitis occurs through a combination of both dysregulated host inflammatory mechanisms and interaction with luminal microbiota.
Successful treatment of limy bile syndrome extending to the common bile duct by laparoscopic cholecystectomy and common bile duct exploration: A case report and literature review
Authors: Masuda Yuka , Mizuguchi Yoshiaki , Kanda Tomohiro , Furuki Hiroyasu , Mamada Yasuhiro , Taniai Nobuhiko , Nakamura Yoshiharu , Yoshioka Masato , Matsushita Akira , Kawano Yoichi , Shimizu Tetsuya , Uchida Eiji
Published: August 2016

Limy bile syndrome extending to the common bile duct (CBD) is a rare condition that lacks a standardized treatment. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy with laparoscopic choledocholithotomy by CBD exploration is preferred because it preserves the function of the sphincter of the Vater's papilla and allows treatment of both lesions. A 37‐year‐old man who was receiving entecavir for chronic hepatitis B developed right upper quadrant pain. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed a calcified shadow in the gallbladder and CBD. Abdominal imaging revealed a liquid‐like material identified by a calcified shadow in two phases separated by a fluid‐fluid level. Abdominal and 3‐D drip infusion cholangiography CT showed stones in the gallbladder and CBD with limy bile. The patient underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy and choledocholithotomy. Intraoperatively, white–yellow‐colored bile and stones were drained from the CBD. A C‐tube was placed. Postoperatively, remnant stones and radiopaque materials were absent. The stones comprised of >95% calcium carbonate.
Microanatomy of the digestive system of Supachai's caecilian,Ichthyophis supachaiiTaylor, 1960 (Amphibia: Gymnophiona)
Authors: Muikham Itsares , Srakaew Nopparat , Chatchavalvanich Kannika , Chumnanpuen Pramote
Published: August 2016

The gross anatomy and microanatomy of the digestive system ofIchthyophis supachaiiwere investigated. The microscopic structures of the digestive system are similar to those in other caecilians. Functional and developing teeth are present in adults. The tongue contains the genioglossus muscle. The digestive tract is elongated and consists of the mucosa, submucosa, muscularis and adventitia/serosa. The oesophagus contains longitudinal folds and lacks oesophageal glands. We report for the first time the caecilian gastric rugae and specific localization of oxynticopeptic cells in the anterior gastric region. The intestinal folds are exclusively present in the anterior intestinal region. The liver comprises 30–40 incomplete hepatic lobes, lying in an imbricate manner. Each lobe is enveloped by haematopoietic tissue that produces and delivers blood cells into sinusoids. Hepatic parenchyma is organized into anastomosing, two‐cell‐thick plates, having sinusoids at the basal domain and bile canaliculi at the apical domain of hepatocytes. Pigment cells are scattered inside sinusoids. The pancreas contains pancreatic acini interspersed with islets of Langerhans. The gallbladder proper is thin and continuous with the cystic duct wall. Neutral and carboxylated acid mucosubstances are secreted along the digestive tract, while sulphated mucosubstances are not produced by the stomach and anterior intestinal regions.
Pharmacological Value of Murine Delayed‐type Hypersensitivity Arthritis: A Robust Mouse Model of Rheumatoid Arthritis in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Atkinson Sara Marie , Nansen Anneline
Published: August 2016

In this MiniReview, we summarize the body of knowledge on the delayed‐type hypersensitivity arthritis (DTHA) model, a recently developed arthritis model with 100% incidence, low variation and synchronized onset in C57BL/6 (B6) mice, and compare it to other murine arthritis models. It is desirable to have robust arthritis models in B6 mice, as many transgene strains are bred on this background. However, several of the most widely used mouse model of arthritis cannot be induced in B6 mice without the drawback of lower incidence, reduced severity and higher variation, if at all. DTHA is induced by modifying a classical methylated bovine serum albumin (mBSA)‐induced DTH response by administering a cocktail of anti‐type II collagen antibodies (anti‐CII) between immunization and challenge. Arthritis affects one, predefined paw in which acute inflammation and severe arthritis rapidly develop and peak after 4–7 days. Disease is self‐resolving over the course of around 3 weeks. Disease manifestations resemble those seen in other arthritis models and include bone erosion, cartilage destruction, oedema, pannus and new bone formation. Induction of DTHA is dependent on CD4+ T cells while B cells are dispensable. The DTHA model is set apart from other murine arthritis models in that it can be induced in B6 mice with 100% incidence and with high and consistent severity. This is the clearest advantage of the model, as the mechanisms of disease and clinical manifestations can be found in other arthritis models. The model holds potential for future modifications that may improve the lack of chronicity.
Semiparametric Time-to-Event Modeling in the Presence of a Latent Progression Event
Authors: Rice John D. , Tsodikov Alex
Published: August 2016

In cancer research, interest frequently centers on factors influencing a latent event that must precede a terminal event. In practice it is often impossible to observe the latent event precisely, making inference about this process difficult. To address this problem, we propose a joint model for the unobserved time to the latent and terminal events, with the two events linked by the baseline hazard. Covariates enter the model parametrically as linear combinations that multiply, respectively, the hazard for the latent event and the hazard for the terminal event conditional on the latent one. We derive the partial likelihood estimators for this problem assuming the latent event is observed, and propose a profile likelihood-based method for estimation when the latent event is unobserved. The baseline hazard in this case is estimated nonparametrically using the EM algorithm, which allows for closed-form Breslow-type estimators at each iteration, bringing improved computational efficiency and stability compared with maximizing the marginal likelihood directly. We present simulation studies to illustrate the finite-sample properties of the method; its use in practice is demonstrated in the analysis of a prostate cancer data set.
The psychometric properties of the Ages & Stages Questionnaires for ages 2‐2.5: a systematic review
Authors: Velikonja T. , Edbrooke‐Childs J. , Calderon A. , Sleed M. , Brown A. , Deighton J.
Published: August 2016

Background

Early identification of children with potential development delay is essential to ensure access to care. The Ages & Stages Questionnaires (ASQ) is used as population outcome indicators in England as part of the 2.5‐year review.

Method

The aim of this article was to systematically review the worldwide evidence for the psychometric properties of the ASQ third edition (ASQ‐3TM) and the Ages & Stages Questionnaires®: Social‐Emotional (ASQ:SE). Eight electronic databases and grey literature were searched for original research studies available in English language, which reported reliability, validity or responsiveness of the ASQ‐3TM or ASQ:SE for children aged between 2 and 2.5 years. Twenty studies were included. Eligible studies used either the ASQ‐3TM or the ASQ:SE and reported at least one measurement property of the ASQ‐3TM and/or ASQ:SE. Data were extracted from all papers identified for final inclusion, drawing on Cochrane guidelines.

Results

Using ‘positive’, ‘intermediate’ and ‘negative’ criteria for evaluating psychometric properties, results showed ‘positive’ reliability values in 11/18 instances reported, ‘positive’ sensitivity values in 13/18 instances reported and ‘positive’ specificity values in 19/19 instances reported.

Conclusions

Variations in age or language versions used, quality of psychometric properties and quality of papers resulted in heterogeneous evidence. It is important to consider differences in cultural and contextual factors when measuring child development using these indicators. Further research is very likely to have an important impact on the interpretation of the ASQ‐3TM and ASQ:SE psychometric evidence.
A prospective clinical cohort study analyzing single‐unit implant crowns after three years of loading: introduction of a novel Functional Implant Prosthodontic Score (FIPS)
Authors: Joda Tim , Ferrari Marco , Bragger Urs
Published: August 2016

Objectives

The aim of this prospective clinical cohort study was to validate implant crowns with a novel Functional Implant Prosthodontic Score (FIPS).

Material and methods

Twenty patients were restored with cement‐retained crowns on soft tissue level implants (Institut Straumann AG, Basel, Switzerland) in posterior sites and annually followed‐up for 3 years. FIPS was applied for the objective outcome assessment including clinical and radiographic examinations. Five variables were defined for evaluation, resulting in a maximum score of 10 per implant restoration. The patients' level of satisfaction was recorded and correlated with FIPS.

Results

All implants and connected crowns revealed survival rates of 100% without any biological or technical complications after three years of loading. The mean total FIPS score was 7.8 ± 1.5, ranging from 6 to 10. The variable “bone” revealed the highest scores (2 ± 0; range: 2–2), followed by “occlusion” (1.9 ± 0.1; range: 1–2). Mean scores for “design” (1.2 ± 0.6; range: 0–2), “mucosa” (1.3 ± 0.7; range: 0–2), and “interproximal” (1.4 ± 0.4; range: 1–2) were more challenging to satisfy. The patients expressed a high level of functional satisfaction (84.1 ± 9.5; range: 68–100). A significant correlation was found between FIPS and the subjective patients' perception with a coefficient of 0.88 (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

The findings of the clinical trial indicated the potential of FIPS as an objective and reliable instrument in assessing implant success. FIPS can be considered as a supportive tool to validate a satisfactory outcome as perceived by patients, to identify possible failure risks, and to compare follow‐up observations.
Two decades of p‐phenylenediamine and toluene‐2,5‐diamine patch testing – focus on co‐sensitizations in the European baseline series and cross‐reactions with chemically related substances
Authors: Vogel Tatiana A. , Heijnen Rakita W. , Coenraads Pieter‐Jan , Schuttelaar Marie Louise
Published: August 2016

Background

Cross‐reactions and co‐sensitizations are of great importance in understanding contact allergy and exposure sources.

Objectives

To investigate common cross‐reactions and co‐sensitizations in p‐phenylenediamine (PPD)‐sensitized and toluene‐2,5‐diamine (TDA)‐sensitized individuals.

Methods

From our patch test population, 8036 patients patch tested with the European baseline series were extracted. Readings had to be performed at least on day 3 according to ICDRG guidelines.

Results

Two hundred and fifty‐one patients were sensitized to PPD and/or TDA; 231 patients were sensitized to PPD, and 109 to TDA. Significant differences were observed regarding the strengths of patch test reactions to PPD and number of cross‐reactions. For TDA, a difference was found between all reaction strengths, except between + and ++ strengths. PPD‐sensitized individuals were more likely to be sensitized to carba mix, cobalt chloride, colophonium, p‐tert‐butyl phenolformaldehyde resin, paraben mix, and methylisothiazolinone. TDA‐sensitized individuals were more often sensitized to carba mix.

Conclusions

Cross‐reactivity was commonly found among individuals sensitized to PPD or TDA, and was strongly related to the strength of the patch test reaction. Regarding co‐sensitizations, a frequently appearing or common exposure source could not be determined. However, modification of the allergen by, for example, the skin microbiota may have caused the formation of molecules that are, for the human immune system, indistinguishable from PPD.
Differences in contents of organochlorine impurities do not influence responses to patch testing with Majantol®
Authors: Schnuch Axel , Müller Boris P. , Geier Johannes ,   Departments of Dermatology
Published: August 2016

Background

Majantol® [2,2‐dimethyl‐3‐(3‐methylphenyl)propan‐1‐ol; CAS no. 103694‐68‐4] has been identified as a contact allergen in humans, despite negative animal tests. Hence impurities, specifically organochlorines, in Majantol® might have been the reason for positive patch test reactions in the past.

Objectives

To assess elicitation via patch testing with a standard market‐quality version of Majantol® (‘normal’) with a normal content of organochlorine impurities, as compared with an ultra‐purified version of Majantol® (‘pure’), without detectable organochlorine impurities.

Methods

Between 1 October 2013 and 31 December 2014, two different Majantol® patch test preparations of the above‐mentioned quality were tested 5% pet. in parallel in the ‘monitor series’, that is, together with the baseline series, in 8005 consecutive patients from 33 departments of dermatology of the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK).

Results

Fifty‐three of 7740 [0.69% (95%CI: 0.51–0.87)] patch tested patients reacted to at least one Majantol® preparation. The majority (n = 32) (60.4%) reacted to both preparations, 13 (24.5%) reacted to the ‘normal’ version only, and 8 (15.1%) reacted to the ‘pure’ version only. There was good concordance between results [Cohen's kappa 0.75 (95%CI: 0.65–0.85)], and there was no significant difference in frequency or intensity between the two preparations. More doubtful or irritant reactions than positive reactions were observed, and> 80% of all positive reactions were weak positive.

Conclusion

Organochlorine impurities are very probably not the cause of allergic reactions to Majantol®.
Occupational contact dermatitis caused by 1,3‐benzenedimethanamine, N‐(2‐phenylethyl) derivatives in hardeners for epoxy paints and coatings
Authors: Pesonen Maria , Kuuliala Outi , Suomela Sari , Aalto‐Korte Kristiina
Published: August 2016

Background

Amines in epoxy hardeners are significant causes of occupational allergic contact dermatitis among workers who use epoxy resin systems.

Objectives

To describe a novel group of contact allergens: N‐(2‐phenylethyl) derivatives of the reactive amine 1,3‐benzenedimethanamine (1,3‐BDMA).

Methods

We describe the clinical examinations and exposure of 6 patients with occupational contact allergy to derivatives of 1,3‐BDMA.

Results

Of the 6 patients, 4 were spray painters who used epoxy paints, 1 was a floor layer who handled a variety of epoxy coatings, and 1 was a worker in epoxy hardener manufacture. We were able to confirm exposure to epoxy hardeners that contained derivatives of 1,3‐BDMA in 5 of the 6 sensitized patients. Despite the close structural resemblance between derivatives of 1,3‐BDMA and m‐xylylenediamine (MXDA), only 3 patients reacted positively to MXDA. Concomitant contact allergy to diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A resin was seen in 2 of the 6 patients.

Conclusions

Because of the lack of a commercially available patch test substance, the diagnosis of contact allergy to derivatives of 1,3‐BDMA requires patch testing with either the epoxy hardener product or a hardener ingredient that contains the derivatives of 1,3‐BDMA.
Fire and climatic extremes shape mammal distributions in a fire‐prone landscape
Authors: Hale Susannah , Nimmo Dale G. , Cooke Raylene , Holland Greg , James Simon , Stevens Michael , De Bondi Natasha , Woods Rachel , Castle Michael , Campbell Kristin , Senior Katharine , Cassidy Simon , Duffy Ryan , Holmes Ben , White John G.
Published: August 2016

Aim

Extreme climatic events and large wildfires are predicted to increase as the world's climate warms. Understanding how they shape species’ distributions will be critical for conserving biodiversity. We used a 7‐year dataset of mammals collected during and after south‐east Australia's Millennium Drought to assess the roles of fire history, climatic extremes and their interactions in shaping mammal distributions.

Location

Grampians National Park, south‐eastern Australia.

Methods

We surveyed mammals at 36 sites along a ~50‐year post‐fire chronosequence in each of the 7 years. We modelled ten mammal species in relation to fire history, productivity and recent rainfall. Next, we examined the consistency of species’ fire response curves across each of three climatic phases relating to the Millennium Drought. Finally, we identified the optimal distribution of fire ages for small and medium‐sized mammal conservation in each of the three climatic phases.

Results

The majority of species were influenced by fire history, and all native species were negatively associated with recently burned vegetation. Seven of ten species responded positively to the end of the Millennium Drought, but six of these declined quickly thereafter. Species’ responses to fire history differed depending on the climatic conditions. However, the optimal distribution of fire‐age classes consistently emphasized the importance of older age classes, regardless of climatic phase. This distribution is in stark contrast to the current distribution of fire ages across the study region.

Main conclusions

Mammals in the study region face an uncertain future. The negative impact of drought, the short‐lived nature of post‐drought recovery and, now, the possibility of a new drought beginning forewarn of further declines. The stark contrast between the optimal and current fire‐age distributions means that reducing the incidence of further fires is critical to enhance the capacity of native mammal communities to weather an increasingly turbulent climate.