bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the factors affecting job satisfaction of paraprofessional staff working in University Libraries of Pakistan
Authors: Hussain Sumaira , Soroya Saira Hanif
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the factors affecting the job satisfaction level of paraprofessional staff working in Higher Education Commission (HEC)-recognized public and private sector university libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was quantitative in nature, and survey research method was used. The population of the study was paraprofessionals working in HEC-recognized public and private university central libraries of Lahore. Convenient sampling was used, and five respondents were selected from each university. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire using a pre-developed scale job satisfaction survey by Spector (1985).

Findings

The study reported that respondents were not dissatisfied with their jobs, and still they were standing between “Neutral” and “agree” with all statements of job satisfaction. The nature of job was identified as the most satisfied facet of job satisfaction. It was also observed that a significant difference of job satisfaction was found among respondents having different salary packages. The group with the highest salary was more satisfied than others. Job security proved the factor affecting job satisfaction, as there was significant difference of job satisfaction between permanent and contract-based employees. Permanent nature of job was a reason of satisfaction for the respondents. However, it is interesting that job satisfaction level of public and private sector paraprofessionals did not differ.

Research limitations/implications

Findings of the study clarify that the universities are required to redesign their job recruitment policies and to revise pay scales of paraprofessionals. Most importantly, a gap in communication was also found within organizations which could affect the level of job satisfaction among paraprofessionals. Universities should pay attention to maintain the two-way communication flow from top level management to lower level.

Originality/value

This is probably first study reported from Pakistan on the subject. The findings of the study will help universities to redesign their job recruitment policies and to revise pay scales of paraprofessionals. Most importantly, the findings suggest that universities should pay attention to maintain the two-way communication flow from top level management to lower level.
The Sarbanes-Oxley Act and corporate acquisitions
Authors: Bhabra Harjeet Singh , Hossain Ashrafee Tanvir
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze and compare the performance of corporate acquisitions between the pre- and post-SOX periods, using both short-term and long-term analyses.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample includes 9,463 mergers and tender offers undertaken by publicly traded US firms between 1996 and 2009. The authors used the standard event study methodology for short-term performance analysis; Berkovitch and Narayanan (1993) method to identify merger motives; and standard benchmark adjusted return on assets (sales) (Barber and Lyon, 1996) and buy-and-hold abnormal returns (Mitchell and Stafford, 2000) to analyze long-term performance.

Findings

Compared to the pre-SOX period, US acquirers experience significantly higher announcement returns in the post-SOX period; the results are robust to various controls like bidder, target and deal characteristics, bidder management quality, and product market competition. Similar results (in favor of post-SOX US acquirers) are obtained with long-term post-acquisition operating and stock performance analyses.

Research limitations/implications

This paper only addressed domestic acquisitions.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the growing body of research on the impact of SOX on publicly traded US corporations. By examining corporate acquisitions, an important long-term investment decision for a firm, the paper shows that despite the complex nature of SOX, substantial compliance costs and the unintended negative consequence it engendered, the act had a beneficial impact in an important area of corporate finance.
The uberisation of housing markets: putting theory into practice
Authors: Sharam Andrea , Bryant Lyndall
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Digital disruption offers an innovative opportunity to address housing affordability issues through the use of market design theory and two-sided matching markets. The purpose of this paper is to scope a model for how “uberisation” can revolutionise the traditional apartment delivery model in Australia, leading to improved housing affordability.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses semi-structured interviews with operators of online real estate platforms and deliberative developers to examine how the principles of “uberisation”, that is two-sided matching markets, are driving innovation in the apartment supply process.

Findings

Findings confirm that real estate internet platforms and deliberative developers innovators are informed by the benefits of aggregating demand to reduce development risk, thus enabling apartments to be provided at a substantially lower price than by traditional methods.

Research limitations/implications

The number of interviews is small reflecting the limited number of market actors currently engaged in the innovations investigated.

Originality/value

This research is innovative as it introduces theoretical understandings gained from market design theory and applies those concepts to disrupt the apartment development process.
Reuse into housing: Italian and Dutch regulatory effects
Authors: Olivadese Rosamaria , Remøy Hilde , Berizzi Carlo , Hobma Fred
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The need to speed up and simplify the practice of transformation and the topic of reuse is crucial in Italy. The purpose of this paper is to compare successful cases of reuse into housing in Italy and the Netherlands, in order to suggest improvements to the Italian situation.

Design/methodology/approach

Previous research at the University of Pavia showed the need to change living standards for new residential buildings. This research focusses on existing buildings and gives a comparative analysis of the Italian and Dutch legislation for residential buildings. Interviews with professionals have been conducted in Italy and the Netherlands to better understand the differences and problems related to housing regulations. Good examples of reuse into housing have been studied to define common guidelines for intervention.

Findings

The findings describe the building regulations in Italy and the Netherlands concerning adaptive reuse, and reveals differences between the two countries. Furthermore, the possibilities and barriers for the reuse of existing buildings are highlighted.

Practical implications

Lessons are drawn from both contexts, and finally suggestions for improvement of the regulatory system are made for Italy and the Netherlands.

Originality/value

This paper aims at revealing the opportunities and barriers of reuse in Italy and the Netherlands. So far, studies were performed to reveal the feasibility of adaptive reuse, though none of these focussed specifically on legal issues. No sufficient studies are performed so far on reuse into housing in Italy, and the comparison of the regulatory systems of the two countries is novel.
The effects of ant nests on soil fertility and plant performance: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Farji‐Brener Alejandro G. , Werenkraut Victoria
Published: April 2017

Ants are recognized as one of the major sources of soil disturbance world‐wide. However, this view is largely based on isolated studies and qualitative reviews. Here, for the first time, we quantitatively determined whether ant nests affect soil fertility and plant performance, and identified the possible sources of variation of these effects.

Using Bayesian mixed‐models meta‐analysis, we tested the hypotheses that ant effects on soil fertility and plant performance depend on the substrate sampled, ant feeding type, latitude, habitat and the plant response variable measured.

Ant nests showed higher nutrient and cation content than adjacent non‐nest soil samples, but similarpH. Nutrient content was higher in ant refuse materials than in nest soils. The fertilizer effect of ant nests was also higher in dry habitats than in grasslands or savannas. Cation content was higher in nests of plant‐feeding ants than in nests of omnivorous species, and lower in nests from agro‐ecosystems than in nests from any other habitat.

Plants showed higher green/root biomass and fitness on ant nests soils than in adjacent, non‐nest sites; but plant density and diversity were unaffected by the presence of ant nests. Root growth was particularly higher in refuse materials than in ant nest soils, in leaf‐cutting ant nests and in deserts habitats.

Our results confirm the major role of ant nests in influencing soil fertility and vegetation patterns and provide information about the factors that mediate these effects. First, ant nests improve soil fertility mainly through the accumulation of refuse materials. Thus, different refuse dump locations (external or in underground nest chambers) could benefit different vegetation life‐forms. Second, ant nests could increase plant diversity at larger spatial scales only if the identity of favoured plants changes along environmental gradients (i.e. enhancing β‐diversity). Third, ant species that feed on plants play a relevant role fertilizing soils, which may balance their known influence as primary consumers. Fourth, the effects of ant nests as fertility islands are larger in arid lands, possibly because fertility is intrinsically lower in these habitats. Overall, this study provide novel and quantitative evidence confirming that ant nests are key soil modifiers, emphasizing their role as ecological engineers.
Interventions to reduce neonatal mortality: a mathematical model to evaluate impact of interventions in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Griffin Jennifer B. , McClure Elizabeth M. , Kamath‐Rayne Beena D. , Hepler Bonnie M. , Rouse Doris J. , Jobe Alan H. , Goldenberg Robert L.
Published: April 2017

Aim

To determine which interventions would have the greatest impact on reducing neonatal mortality in sub‐Saharan Africa in 2012.

Methods

We used MANDATE, a mathematical model, to evaluate scenarios for the impact of available interventions on neonatal deaths from primary causes, including: (i) for birth asphyxia – obstetric care preventing intrapartum asphyxia, newborn resuscitation and treatment of asphyxiated infants; (ii) for preterm birth – corticosteroids, oxygen, continuous positive air pressure and surfactant; and, (iii) for serious newborn infection – clean delivery, chlorhexidine cord care and antibiotics.

Results

Reductions in infection‐related mortality have occurred. Between 80 and 90% of deaths currently occurring from infections and asphyxia can be averted from available interventions, as can 58% of mortality from preterm birth. More than 200 000 neonatal deaths can each be averted from asphyxia, preterm birth and infections. Using available interventions, more than 80% of the neonatal deaths occurring today could be prevented in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Conclusion

Reducing neonatal deaths from asphyxia require improvements in infrastructure and obstetric care to manage maternal conditions such as obstructed labour and preeclampsia. Reducing deaths from preterm birth would also necessitate improved infrastructure and training for preterm infant care. Reducing infection‐related mortality requires less infrastructure and lower‐level providers.
Velocity vector imaging shows normal cardiac systolic function in survivors of severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia at six to 16 years of age
Authors: Suursalmi Piia , Ojala Tiina , Poutanen Tuija , Eerola Anneli , Korhonen Päivi , Kopeli Tarja , Tammela Outi
Published: April 2017

Aim

This study evaluated global myocardial function and associations between cardiac function and lung function in very low birth weight (VLBW) children, with and without severe radiographic bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), at six to 14 years of age.

Methods

We studied 34VLBWand 19 term‐born controls, and theVLBWgroup was further divided into aBPDgroup with severe radiographicBPDand those without radiographicBPDin infancy. Detailed right and left ventricular myocardial functions were analysed by velocity vector imaging, and the left ventricular mass was calculated. The associations between cardiac function and lung function were assessed by impulse oscillometry.

Results

The right and left ventricular myocardial systolic functions and the left ventricular mass were similar in the three groups. Lung function was not associated with cardiac systolic function. Neonatal exposure to dexamethasone treatment was negatively associated with right ventricular function, as measured by the automated fractional area change, with an odds ratio of 7.9 and 95% confidence interval of 1.9–33.5 (p = 0.005).

Conclusion

Lung function measurements were not associated with cardiac systolic function in preterm infants at six to 14 years of age. Neonatal exposure to dexamethasone, used for weaning from the ventilator, was negatively associated with right ventricular function.
Simulation‐based team training improved the self‐assessed ability of physicians, nurses and midwives to perform neonatal resuscitation
Authors: Malmström B , Nohlert E , Ewald U , Widarsson M
Published: April 2017

Aim

The use of simulation‐based team training in neonatal resuscitation has increased in Sweden during the last decade, but no formal evaluation of this training method has been performed. This study evaluated the effect of simulation‐based team training on the self‐assessed ability of personnel to perform neonatal resuscitation.

Methods

We evaluated a full‐day simulation‐based team training course in neonatal resuscitation, by administering a questionnaire to 110 physicians, nurses and midwives before and after the training period. The questionnaire focused on four important domains: communication, leadership, confidence and technical skills. The study was carried out in Sweden from 2005 to 2007.

Results

The response rate was 84%. Improvements in the participants′ self‐assessed ability to perform neonatal resuscitation were seen in all four domains after training (p < 0.001). Professionally inexperienced personnel showed a significant improvement in the technical skills domain compared to experienced personnel (p = 0.001). No differences were seen between professions or time since training in any of the four domains. Personnel with less previous experience with neonatal resuscitation showed improved confidence (p = 0.007) and technical skills (p = 0.003).

Conclusion

A full‐day course on simulation‐based team training with video‐supported debriefing improved the participants’ self‐assessed ability to perform neonatal resuscitation.
Sports activities in preschool children differed between those born to immigrants and native Italians
Authors: Zaccagni Luciana , Toselli Stefania , Celenza Francesca , Albertini Augusta , Gualdi‐Russo Emanuela
Published: April 2017

Aim

Despite the health benefits of physical activity in early childhood, little is known about sports practices in preschool children with different ethnic origins. The aim of this study was to investigate the sport activity patterns in native and immigrant children in northern Italy. The influence of some child and family determinants on the child's practice of club‐organised sport was analysed to plan interventions.

Methods

The study group comprised 2682 preschool children (49.5% girls) aged 5.9 ± 0.3, 2396 fathers and 2478 mothers. All the children had their height and weight measured and their parents completed a self‐administered questionnaire on their child's sports participation and family characteristics.

Results

Sports activities were significantly more frequent in native Italian girls than in native Italian boys and immigrant girls. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the weekly amount of club‐organised sport in preschool children was related to the sex and migrant status in the whole sample, to paternal educational level and occupation in the native‐born sample and to paternal body mass index, offspring and paternal occupation in the immigrant group.

Conclusion

This study highlighted the need to develop specific interventions for native and immigrant preschool children to promote a healthy lifestyle.
Transcriptional regulation of voltage‐gated Ca2+ channels
Authors: González‐Ramírez R. , Felix R.
Published: April 2017

The transcriptional regulation of voltage‐gated Ca2+ (CaV) channels is an emerging research area that promises to improve our understanding of how many relevant physiological events are shaped in the central nervous system, the skeletal muscle and other tissues. Interestingly, a picture of how transcription of CaV channel subunit genes is controlled is evolving with the identification of the promoter regions required for tissue‐specific expression and the identification of transcription factors that control their expression. These promoters share several characteristics that include multiple transcriptional start sites, lack of a TATA box and the presence of elements conferring tissue‐selective expression. Likewise, changes in CaV channel expression occur throughout development, following ischaemia, seizures or chronic drug administration. This review focuses on insights achieved regarding the control of CaV channel gene expression. To further understand the complexities of expression and to increase the possibilities of detecting CaV channel alterations causing human disease, a deeper knowledge on the structure of the 5′ upstream regions of the genes encoding these remarkable proteins will be necessary.
Clinical Practice Guideline for Enteroscopy
Authors: Yamamoto Hironori , Ogata Haruhiko , Matsumoto Takayuki , Ohmiya Naoki , Ohtsuka Kazuo , Watanabe Kenji , Yano Tomonori , Matsui Toshiyuki , Higuchi Kazuhide , Nakamura Tetsuya , Fujimoto Kazuma
Published: April 2017

Management of small bowel diseases has evolved since the advent of capsule endoscopy (CE) and balloon‐assisted enteroscopy (BAE). One of the most common indications for enteroscopy is obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB), followed by small bowel stenosis, tumors, and inflammatory bowel disease. Although enteroscopes have been regarded as useful tools, correct guidelines are required to ensure that we manipulate these enteroscopes safely and efficiently in clinical practice. Herein, the Japanese Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society has developed ‘Clinical Practice Guidelines for Enteroscopy’ in collaboration with the Japanese Society of Gastroenterology, the Japanese Gastroenterological Association, and the Japanese Association for Capsule Endoscopy. These guidelines are based on the evidence available until now, but small bowel endoscopy is a relatively new technology, so the guidelines include recommendations based on a consensus reached among experts when the evidence has not been considered sufficient. These guidelines were not designed to be disease‐based, but focus on how we should use small bowel CE and BAE in everyday clinical practice.
Cyclophosphamide‐based stem cell mobilization in relapsed multiple myeloma patients: A subgroup analysis from the phase III trial ReLApsE
Authors: Baertsch Marc‐Andrea , Schlenzka Jana , Lisenko Katharina , Krzykalla Julia , Becker Natalia , Weisel Katja , Noppeney Richard , Martin Hans , Lindemann Hans W. , Haenel Mathias , Nogai Axel , Scheid Christof , Salwender Hans , Fenk Roland , Graeven Ullrich , Reimer Peter , Schmidt‐Hieber Martin , Goerner Martin , Schmidt‐Wolf Ingo G. H. , Klein Stefan , Ho Anthony D. , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Wuchter Patrick
Published: April 2017

Objective

Analysis of the efficiency and toxicity of cyclophosphamide‐based stem cell mobilization in patients with relapsed multiple myeloma (RMM).

Methods

Peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) were mobilized with high dose cyclophosphamide (2 g/m2 daily on days 1 and 2) and G‐CSF plus pre‐emptive/rescue plerixafor in RMM patients (first to third relapse) treated within the ReLApsE trial of the German‐Speaking Myeloma Multicenter Group (GMMG).

Results

Mobilization was initiated with high‐dose cyclophosphamide (HD‐CY) and G‐CSF in 30 patients. Fifteen patients received additional pre‐emptive/rescue administration of plerixafor. Stem cell collection was successful (≥2×106 CD34+ cells per kg bw) in 77% (23/30 patients). Patients with prior high‐dose melphalan collected a significantly lower median total number of PBSCs than patients without prior high‐dose melphalan (3.3×106 vs 17×106 CD34+ cells/kg bw). Toxicity of HD‐CY was frequent with 12 serious adverse events (SAE) in 37% of patients (11/30 patients). Infections accounted for the majority of SAE reports. In two patients, SAEs were lethal (septic shock).

Conclusions

These data proof feasibility of PBSC collection at relapse but emphasize the importance of collection and storage of additional PBSC transplants during first‐line treatment when mobilization is more efficient and less toxic.
Long‐term follow‐up of patients with multiple myeloma treated with total body irradiation—Melphalan conditioning
Authors: Munker Reinhold , Baghian Ali , Koleva Yordanka , Andrews Patricia , Matharoo Gunita S. , Wright Ato E. , Saba Nakhle S. , Weiner Roy S. , Safah Hana
Published: April 2017

Background and Objectives

Since a study published in 2002 showed a survival advantage of melphalan‐only conditioning for stem cell transplantation (HSCT) over melphalan‐total body irradiation (mel‐TBI) in patients with multiple myeloma (MM), most centers abandoned mel‐TBI. Mel‐TBI causes more early toxicity and is more complicated to administer, but we speculated it may result in longer term survival with radiation as an independent treatment modality. Therefore, we analyzed the long‐term outcome of patients with MM who received mel‐TBI as part of conditioning at our center.

Patients and Methods

From 1995 to 2013, 50 patients with MM underwent autologous HSCT at Tulane University Medical Center using mel‐TBI conditioning. We used Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis and compared our patients with data available from the Louisiana Tumor Registry.

Results

The mean survival of our patients was 70.98 months from time of transplant and 84.2 months from time of initial diagnosis. No differences were observed according to gender, ethnicity, or age at transplant. The expected median survival in a population‐based registry (matched for age and year of treatment) was 27 months (P<.001).

Conclusions

Total body irradiation in conjunction with melphalan as conditioning is feasible and can lead to long‐term survival. More research is necessary to determine which patients benefit most. Mel‐TBI should also be explored in conjunction with immunotherapy.
Characterization of the first naturally thermostable terpene synthases and development of strategies to improve thermostability in this family of enzymes
Authors: Styles Matthew Q. , Nesbitt Edward A. , Marr Scott , Hutchby Marc , Leak David J.
Published: April 2017

The terpenoid family of natural products is being targeted for heterologous microbial production as a cheaper and more reliable alternative to extraction from plants. The key enzyme responsible for diversification of terpene structure is the class‐I terpene synthase (TS), and these often require engineering to improve properties such as thermostability, robustness and catalytic activity before they are suitable for industrial use. Improving thermostability typically relies on screening a large number of mutants, as there are no naturally thermostable TSs described upon which to base rational design decisions. We have characterized the first examples of natural TSs exhibiting thermostability, which catalyse the formation of the sesquiterpene τ‐muurolol at temperatures up to 78 °C. We also report an enzyme with a kcat value of 0.95 s−1 at 65 °C, the highest kcat recorded for a bacterial sesquiterpene synthase. In turn, these thermostable enzymes were used as a model to inform the rational engineering of another TS, with the same specificity but low sequence identity to the model. The newly engineered variant displayed increased thermostability and turnover. Given the high structural homology of the class‐I TS domain, this approach could be generally applicable to improving the properties of other enzymes in this class.

Database

Model data are available in the PMDB database under the accession number PM0080780.
Which interval is most crucial to presentation and survival in gastroesophageal cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Lee Amanda , Khulusi Sam , Watson Roger
Published: April 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to identify the most crucial interval to encourage earlier diagnosis in with gastroesophageal cancer and to identify potential factors effecting this interval.

Background

Gastroesophageal malignancy is the eighth most commonly presenting cancer with one of the worst survival rates. Identifying the most crucial period for intervention to inform earlier diagnosis is an important step towards improving survival.

Design

Mixed methods literature review.

Data Sources

CINAHL, MEDLINE and Academic search primer online databases were searched using keywords and inclusion/exclusion criteria. Empirical evidence published between 2000–2016 with a focus on gastroesophageal cancer presentation and survival was reviewed to inform this study.

Review methods

Twelve studies were extracted for further review. Selected studies were appraised and presented through Olensen's “delay interval” framework to inform the most crucial interval to survival in gastroesophageal cancer.

Results

The findings identify the patient interval as the most critical period for encouraging earlier presentation and reducing advanced stage presentation in gastroesophageal cancer. The article also highlighted some methodological limitations to cancer research, such as a lack of consensus in definitions which prevent statistical meta‐analysis of cancer data, survivor bias in gastroesophageal cancer studies and a significant lack of qualitative evidence to reveal patient experience in presenting with this cancer.

Conclusion

Further research into the patient interval is required to elicit information on how and why patients present with their cancer symptoms.
A mixed study systematic review of social media in nursing and midwifery education: Protocol
Authors: O'Connor Siobhan , Jolliffe Sarah , Stanmore Emma , Renwick Laoise , Schmitt Terri , Booth Richard
Published: April 2017

Aim

To synthesize evidence on the use of social media in nursing and midwifery education.

Background

Social media is one type of online platform that is being explored to determine if there is value in using interactive, digital communication tools to support how nurses and midwives learn in a variety of settings.

Design

A sequential explanatory synthesis approach will be used for this mixed study review.

Method

Five bibliographic databases; PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, and ERIC will be searched using a combination of keywords relevant to social networking and social media, nursing and midwifery, and education. The search will not be limited by year of publication. Titles, abstracts, and full papers will be screened by two independent reviewers against inclusion and exclusion criteria, with any disagreements resolved via a third reviewer. Selected studies will undergo quality assessment and data extraction. Data synthesis will occur in three sequential phases, with quantitative and qualitative data analysed separately and then integrated where possible to provide a conceptual framework illustrating learning via social media. Funding for this review was confirmed in May 2016 by Sigma Theta Tau International and the National League for Nursing.

Discussion

The mixed study systematic review will produce the first rigorous synthesis on the use of social media in nursing and midwifery education and will have important implications for educators as well as students. It will also highlight knowledge gaps and make recommendations on the use of this novel technology in higher and continuing education.
Overexpression of microRNA‐138 alleviates human coronary artery endothelial cell injury and inflammatory response by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway
Authors: Li Jing‐Bo , Wang Hai‐Yang , Yao Ye , Sun Qing‐Feng , Liu Zong‐Hong , Liu Si‐Qi , Zhuang Jun‐Li , Wang Yun‐Peng , Liu Hong‐Yu
Published: April 2017

This study aimed to investigate the role of miR‐138 in human coronary artery endothelial cell (HCAEC) injury and inflammatory response and the involvement of the PI3K/Akt/eNOS signalling pathway. Oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (OX‐LDL)‐induced HCAEC injury models were established and assigned to blank, miR‐138 mimic, miR‐138 inhibitor, LY294002 (an inhibitor of the PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway), miR‐138 inhibitor + LY294002 and negative control (NC) groups. qRT‐PCR and Western blotting were performed to detect the miR‐138, PI3K, Akt and eNOS levels and the protein expressions of PI3K, Akt, eNOS, p‐Akt, p‐eNOS, Bcl‐2, Bax and caspase‐3. ELISAs were employed to measure the expressions of TNF‐α, IL‐4, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10 and nitric oxide (NO) and the activities of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and eNOS. MTT and flow cytometry were performed to assess the proliferation and apoptosis of HCAECs. Compared to the blank group, PI3K, Akt and eNOS were down‐regulated in the miR‐138 mimic and LY294002 groups but were up‐regulated in the miR‐138 inhibitor group. The miR‐138 mimic and LY294002 groups showed decreased concentrations of TNF‐α, IL‐6, IL‐8 and NO and reduced activities of LDH and eNOS, while opposite trends were observed in the miR‐138 inhibitor group. The concentrations of IL‐4 and IL‐10 increased in the miR‐138 mimic and LY294002 groups but decreased in the miR‐138 inhibitor group. The miR‐138 mimic and LY294002 groups had significantly decreased cell proliferation and increased cell apoptosis compared to the blank group. These findings indicate that up‐regulation of miR‐138 alleviates HCAEC injury and inflammatory response by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt/eNOS signalling pathway.
Network meta‐analysis of studies included in the Clinical Practice Guideline on the nonsurgical treatment of chronic periodontitis
Authors: John Mike T. , Michalowicz Bryan S. , Kotsakis Georgios A. , Chu Haitao
Published: April 2017

Aim

The recent ADA‐commissioned Clinical Practice Guideline on the nonsurgical treatment of chronic periodontitis has provided the most exhaustive library of clinical trials on scaling and root planing (SRP) with or without adjuncts. This network meta‐analysis (NMA) compared the adjuncts against each other.

Materials and Methods

A star‐shaped NMA was performed based on 36 indirect comparisons of clinical attachment‐level (CAL) gains among nine adjuncts in 74 studies from the Clinical Practice Guideline.

Results

All pairwise differences were accompanied by wide confidence intervals, and none of the adjuncts were statistically significantly superior to another. Local doxycycline hyclate and photodynamic therapy with a diode laser had the highest probabilities for ranking first and second, respectively. Publication bias was evident, with fewer than expected studies with small effects. The lack of these studies inflated the treatment effects by an estimated by 20%.

Conclusions

Adjuncts improve CAL gain by about a third of a mm over 6–12 months compared with SRP alone, but no significant differences were found among the adjuncts. The patient‐perceived benefit of this gain is unclear because CAL is a physical measure made by the clinician and not a patient‐oriented outcome. Publication bias inflated the observed treatment effects.
Autoantibodies against citrullinated histone H3 in rheumatoid arthritis and periodontitis patients
Authors: Janssen Koen M. J. , de Smit Menke J. , Withaar Coenraad , Brouwer Elisabeth , van Winkelhoff Arie J. , Vissink Arjan , Westra Johanna
Published: April 2017

Aim

To determine the presence of citrullinated histones in inflamed periodontal tissue and to determine the presence of anti‐citrullinated histone autoantibodies in sera from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and periodontitis (PD) patients.

Methods

The presence of citrullinated histone H3, PAD4 and CD68 was determined in 15 periodontal tissue biopsies from PD patients by immunohistochemistry. Sera from 36 healthy controls (HC), 113 PD patients and 84 patients with RA were assessed on presence of autoantibodies against citrullinated histones by Western blot and against citrullinated histone H3 by ELISA.

Results

Citrullinated histone H3, PAD4 and CD68 were present in periodontal tissue from nine (60%), 14 (93%) and 13 (87%) PD patients, respectively. Anti‐citrullinated histone H3 autoantibodies were found in 33 (39%) patients with RA compared to three (8%) HC and 11 (10%) PD patients. Anti‐citrullinated histone H3 levels were higher in anti‐cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti‐CCP)‐positive compared to anti‐CCP‐negative patients with RA (p = .0008) and correlated moderately with anti‐CCP levels (ρ = .22). No associations were found between anti‐citrullinated histone H3 levels and periodontal status or smoking behaviour of patients with RA.

Conclusion

PD patients are exposed to citrullinated histone H3 in inflamed periodontal tissue. Citrullinated histone H3 is targeted by autoantibodies present in RA sera. This supports a role for periodontitis in generation of antigens targeted by autoantibodies directed against citrullinated proteins.
Open‐label, randomized study comparing basal insulin peglispro and insulin glargine, in combination with oral antihyperglycemic medications, in insulin‐naïve Asian patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Hirose Takahisa , Cai Zhihong , Yeo Kwee Poo , Imori Makoto , Ohwaki Kenji , Imaoka Takeshi
Published: April 2017

Introduction

The present phase 3, randomized, open‐label study compared the efficacy and safety of basal insulin peglispro with insulin glargine after 26 weeks of treatment when added to oral antihyperglycemic medications in insulin‐naïve Asian patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

The primary objective was to show non‐inferiority of the change in glycated hemoglobin from baseline to 26 weeks.

Results

At 26 weeks, insulin peglispro was non‐inferior to glargine, meeting the primary objective. Patients receiving insulin peglispro (n = 192) showed a greater reduction in glycated hemoglobin from baseline compared with glargine (n = 196); −1.6 vs −1.4%, P = 0.005) and in fasting serum glucose (−61.2 vs −54.8 mg/dL, P = 0.02). A significantly higher proportion of patients receiving insulin peglispro achieved glycated hemoglobin <7% (57 vs 44%, P = 0.012). Insulin peglispro patients showed significantly less weight gain from baseline (1.1 vs 1.6 kg, P = 0.03). Relative rates (insulin peglispro/glargine) of total and nocturnal hypoglycemia through 26 weeks were 1.06 (P = 0.67) and 0.7 (P = 0.10), respectively. Significantly more insulin peglispro‐treated patients experienced adverse events compared with glargine‐treated patients (P = 0.042). Alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase were significantly increased from baseline with insulin peglispro compared with glargine at week 26 (3.5 vs −4.6 IU/L and 2.8 vs −1.5 IU/L, respectively; P < 0.001). The incidence of injection site reactions was low and did not differ between the treatments.

Discussion

Insulin peglispro provided better glycemic control vs glargine with no differences in hypoglycemia and increased aminotransferases in insulin‐naïve Asian patients with type 2 diabetes.
Habitat‐related variation in the plasticity of a UV‐sensitive photoreceptor over a small spatial scale in the palmate newt
Authors: Secondi J. , Martin M. , Goven D. , Mège P. , Sourice S. , Théry M.
Published: April 2017

Plastic phenotypes are expected to be favoured in heterogeneous environments compared with stable environments. Sensory systems are interesting to test this theory because they are costly to produce and support, and strong fitness costs are expected if they are not tuned to the local environment. Consistently, the visual system of several species changes with the conditions experienced during early development. However, there is little information on whether the amplitude of the change, that is the reaction norm, differs between visual environments. Given the rapid change of many ecosystems, especially eutrophication for aquatic habitats, it is crucial to determine down to which spatial scale, change in the reaction norm occurs. We addressed this issue by quantifying the between‐habitat variation in the expression of a UV‐sensitive opsin in a newt. In western France, this species breeds in ponds of small forest patches, where water filters out UV, and in agricultural ponds where UV transmission is variable. We raised larvae from both habitats with or without exposure to UV. Opsin expression was reduced in larvae from agricultural habitats when raised without UV, whereas it was low in larvae from forest ponds under all lighting conditions. Thus, the variation in the reaction norm of opsin expression was lower in stable filtering environments and higher in heterogeneous environments. Its variation occurred between habitats across a small spatial scale. We discuss the hypotheses for this pattern and for the maintenance of residual opsin expression in forest populations.
A randomized, single‐blinded trial of a tripeptide/hexapeptide healing regimen following laser resurfacing of the face
Authors: Vanaman Wilson Monique J , Bolton Joanna , Fabi Sabrina Guillen
Published: April 2017

Background

A topical healing system containing a combination of active ingredients including a tripeptide and hexapeptide (TriHex Technology™) has been found to stimulate neoelastogenesis and neocollagenesis.

Objective

Evaluate the use of the tripeptide/hexapeptide topical system following fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing compared to a bland ointment and cream.

Patients/Methods

In this single‐blinded, randomized study, 15 female subjects aged 45‐70 years underwent laser resurfacing of the face. Subjects were randomized to use of the tripeptide/hexapeptide system (n=10) or a bland dimethicone‐based ointment and petrolatum‐based cream (n=5) from 3 weeks pre‐ until 12 weeks postprocedure. A blinded investigator graded erythema, edema, crusting, exudation, and healing on postprocedure days 1, 3, 4, 7, 28, and 84. A photodamage/wrinkle scale was completed on days 28 and 84. Subjects performed symptomatology grading on days 1 through 14 and completed self‐assessments at days 28 and 84.

Results

Data from 14 subjects were analyzed. Blinded‐investigator‐rated healing was better for the tripeptide/hexapeptide system, reaching statistical significance at day 7. The tripeptide/hexapeptide group demonstrated less erythema and exudation during the first postprocedure week, reaching significance at day 3. On days 1 through 14, subjects using the tripeptide/hexapeptide system reported less tenderness and burning/stinging, also reaching significance on day 3. At day 84, subjects using the tripeptide/hexapeptide system reported higher satisfaction and were more likely to recommend the treatment to others.

Conclusion

Postresurfacing use of a tripeptide/hexapeptide system proved effective and well‐tolerated. Subject satisfaction was greater among those using this system, which may indicate an improved patient experience following laser resurfacing.
Shortened dental arch and prosthetic effect on oral health‐related quality of life: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Fueki K. , Baba K.
Published: April 2017

This systematic review aimed to compare oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) between two tooth replacement strategies – the shortened dental arch (SDA) concept and conventional treatment with removable partial dental prosthesis (RPDP) or implant‐supported fixed partial dental prosthesis (IFPDP) – for distal extension of edentulous space in the posterior area. We retrieved eligible randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and non‐RCTs published between 1980 and November 2016 retrieved from MEDLINE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The primary outcome was OHRQoL evaluated using validated questionnaires. Two reviewers independently screened and selected the articles, evaluated the risk of bias and determined the standardised weighted mean difference (SWMD) in OHRQoL scores between the two strategies using a random effects model. Two RCTs and one non‐RCT involving 516 participants were included in this review. All studies employed the oral health impact profile (OHIP) for evaluation of OHRQoL. There was no statistically significant difference in OHIP summary scores between SDA and RPDP at 6 (SWMD = 0·24) or 12 (SWMD = 0·40) months post‐treatment. Only one non‐RCT had reported higher OHRQoL with IFPDP than with SDA; however, because of the small sample size, there was no significant difference in OHIP summary scores between the two strategies at 6 (SWMD = −0·59) or 12 (SWMD = −0·67) months post‐treatment. In terms of OHRQoL in partially dentate patients, the SDA concept appears to be as feasible as RPDP restoration. Further clinical trials are required to clarify the effect of IFPDP restoration on OHRQoL.
A comparison of molecular markers and morphology for Neidium taxa (Bacillariophyta) from eastern North America
Authors: Lefebvre Keely E. , Hamilton Paul B. , Pick Frances R.
Published: April 2017

Historically, a morphological species concept has applied shape subjectively in the delimitation of diatom species. This has led to confusion between taxa within the benthic diatom genus Neidium. Samples from Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland (Canada) and New York (USA) were examined for Neidium taxa under LM and SEM. Fourier shape analysis showed that shape as a taxonomic character was not able to discern all species. Isolated individuals from the samples were amplified and sequenced for three chloroplast molecular markers (rbcL, psbC, and psbA) and one nuclear ribosomal molecular marker (18S). Phylogenetic reconstructions were completed with the concatenated chloroplast and 18S dataset using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian analyses. The concatenated chloroplast dataset exhibited a species‐level resolution phylogeny of Neidium taxa. The 18S dataset had a lower level of sequence divergence and was unable to differentiate between Neidium taxa. We present emended species descriptions and sequence data for four previously described species: Neidium sacoense, N. longiceps, N. fossum, and N. affine. We describe three novel species (Neidium lowei, N. promontorium, and N. potapovae) and identify two forms with unique molecular signatures. The distinguishing features of N. lowei are its size, valve shape, and longitudinal canal structure. Distinguishing features of N. promontorium are its valve shape, longitudinal canal and apex formation, and surface depression along the axial area. Neidium potapovae is distinguished by its size, formation of valve and apices and single longitudinal canal. This paper demonstrates how future phylogenetic treatments using single cell multigene sequencing can help resolve taxonomic confusion within diatoms.
Short‐term (48 hours) intravenous serelaxin infusion has no effect on myogenic tone or vascular remodeling in rat mesenteric arteries
Authors: Jelinic Maria , Leo Chen Huei , Marshall Sarah A. , Senadheera Sevvandi N. , Parry Laura J. , Tare Marianne
Published: April 2017

Background

Short‐term IV sRLX (recombinant human relaxin‐2) infusion enhances endothelium‐dependent relaxation in mesenteric arteries. This is initially underpinned by increased NO followed by a transition to prostacyclin. The effects of short‐term IV sRLX treatment on pressure‐induced myogenic tone and vascular remodeling in these arteries are unknown. Therefore, we investigated the effects of sRLX infusion on pressure‐induced myogenic tone and passive mechanical wall properties in mesenteric arteries.

Methods

Mesenteric artery myogenic tone and passive mechanics were examined after 48‐hours and 10‐days infusion of sRLX. Potential mechanisms of action were assessed by pressure myography, qPCR, and Western blot analysis.

Results

Neither 48‐hours nor 10‐days sRLX treatment had significant effects on myogenic tone, passive arterial wall stiffness, volume compliance, or axial lengthening. However, in 48‐hours sRLX ‐treated rats, incubation with the NO synthase blocker L‐NAME significantly increased myogenic tone (P<.05 vs placebo), demonstrating an increased contribution of NO to the regulation of myogenic tone. eNOS dimerization, but not phosphorylation, was significantly upregulated in the arteries of sRLX ‐treated rats.

Conclusion

In mesenteric arteries, 48‐hours sRLX treatment upregulates the role of NO in the regulation of myogenic tone by enhancing eNOS dimerization, without altering overall myogenic tone or vascular remodeling.
Genome‐wide association mapping for phenotypic plasticity in rice
Authors: Kikuchi Shinji , Bheemanahalli Raju , Jagadish Krishna S.V. , Kumagai Etsushi , Masuya Yusuke , Kuroda Eiki , Raghavan Chitra , Dingkuhn Michael , Abe Akira , Shimono Hiroyuki
Published: April 2017

Phenotypic plasticity of plants in response to environmental changes is important for adapting to changing climate. Less attention has been paid to exploring the advantages of phenotypic plasticity in resource‐rich environments to enhance the productivity of agricultural crops. Here, we examined genetic variation for phenotypic plasticity in indica rice (Oryza sativa L.) across two diverse panels: (1) a Phenomics of Rice Adaptation and Yield (PRAY) population comprising 301 accessions; and (2) a Multi‐parent Advanced Generation Inter‐Cross (MAGIC) indica population comprising 151 accessions. Altered planting density was used as a proxy for elevated atmospheric CO2 response. Low planting density significantly increased panicle weight per plant compared with normal density, and the magnitude of the increase ranged from 1.10 to 2.78 times among accessions for the PRAY population and from 1.05 to 2.45 times for the MAGIC population. Genome‐wide‐association studies validate three Environmental Responsiveness (ER) candidate alleles (qER1–3) that were associated with relative response of panicle weight to low density. Two of these alleles were tested in 13 genotypes to clarify their biomass responses during vegetative growth under elevated CO2 in Japan. Our study provides evidence for polymorphisms that control rice phenotypic plasticity in environments that are rich in resources such as light and CO2.
The role of ILC2 in hookworm infection
Authors: Filbey K. , Bouchery T. , Le Gros G.
Published: April 2017

Hookworm is a major public health concern, yet still relatively little is known about the immunological responses involved in human infection. Animal studies are mainly confined to using the natural rodent helminth Nippostrongylus brasiliensis as this has been proposed as the most accurate model of hookworm infection in the mouse, with both its life cycle and the immune responses it invokes having been extremely well characterized. In this review, we examine the roles that type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) play in immunity and host tolerance to hookworm infection, particularly N. brasiliensis. This includes their role in the initiation and regulation of immune responses, as well as in the resolution and limitation of tissue damage required after an infection with a large organism, such as a helminth.