bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The different relations of extrinsic, introjected, identified regulation and intrinsic motivation on employees’ performance
Authors: Zhang Jian , Zhang Ying , Song Yahui , Gong Zhenxing
Published: December 2016

Purpose

Following self-determination theory, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of four motivational profiles (external, introjected, identified regulation, and intrinsic motivation) on work performance (interpersonal, adaptive, task, and dedicative performance). The authors also examined the proposed relations with longitudinal data.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants in Studies 1 and 2 were from several companies in China. Employees completed the questionnaires to measure their work motivation, and managers completed the questionnaires to assess the subordinates’ work performance.

Findings

In Study 1, the authors found that identified regulation significantly predicted interpersonal performance and adaptive performance. External regulation, introjected regulation, and intrinsic motivation had no significant impacts on interpersonal, adaptive, task, or dedicative performance. In Study 2, the results revealed that identified regulation significantly predicted dedicative and interpersonal performance, but external regulation, introjected regulation, and intrinsic motivation had no significant impacts on the four types of performance. These two studies concluded that only identified regulation strongly predicts work performance.

Originality/value

The study has contributed to the body of knowledge by clarifying that identified regulation is an important type of motivation in the workplace. Managers might therefore focus on supporting employees for identifying with the organizational goals in order to promote better performance.
Is it worth having focused values?
Authors: Malbašić Ivan , Marimon Frederic , Mas-Machuca Marta
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of a specific category of organizational values on organizational effectiveness. Specifically, the aim of the paper is twofold: to propose a metric scale for assessing the organizational values, and to find the impact that different categories of values have on the overall effectiveness of the organization, as an overall measure of organizational success. Moreover, this second objective is expanded with the moderation between values and effectiveness when different balanced scorecard (BSC) perspectives are attended in a balanced way.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodological approach is empirical, based on surveying employees – in total 813 valid responses were obtained, alongside with other information sources within 24 companies in the Republic of Croatia. A set of analyses using structural equation modelling were conducted in order to: define a scale to assess organizational values, assess the impact of different categories of values on organizational effectiveness, and assess the moderator role of the balancing attention to stakeholders.

Findings

The findings show that construct of organizational values is multifactorial, composed by business, relational, development, and contribution values. These values categories (except relational values) are significant antecedents of effectiveness. Moreover, the balancing of the attention paid to different BSC perspectives moderates the impact of the contribution values on effectiveness.

Originality/value

The present study sought to expand the understanding of organizational values and their impact on performance and to ask if focussing on a specific category of values can increase the overall level of organizational effectiveness.
Police militarization in the USA: the state of the field
Authors: Bieler Sam
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the state of research of police militarization in the USA to explore the claim that the police are becoming more like the military, or “militarized” in order to identify gaps in the research on this topic that require further investigation.

Design/methodology/approach

To explore the state of police militarization, this paper draws on a scan of scholarly papers published on militarization in the American context as well as a select array of gray literature on the topic.

Findings

While the nature of militarization has received substantial scholarly attention, debate on the phenomenon remains and there is little consensus on the definition of what makes a department militarized. The impact of militarization is similarly unclear: some scholars suggest that it has a negative impact on policing because it creates community hostility and encourages police to see force as a central problem-solving tool. However, other scholars suggest militarization is a positive development, as it could promote professionalism and accountability. To date, there has been little empirical work on the impact of militarization on policing that could inform this debate.

Originality/value

This paper suggests that empirical assessments of how militarization affects use of force and legitimacy will be valuable for informing the militarization debate. As scholars on both sides of the debate have suggested that militarization affect policing outcomes in these areas, empirical tests here offer a way to explore both sides’ claims. Such tests could offer new evidence on how militarization is affecting the character and operations of American police.
Police UAV use: institutional realities and public perceptions
Authors: Saulnier Alana , Thompson Scott N.
Published: December 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore institutional realities and public perceptions of police use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in Canada in relation to each other, drawing attention to areas of public misunderstanding and concern.

Design/methodology/approach

Public perceptions data are drawn from a national survey (n=3,045) of UAV use. Institutional realities data are drawn from content analyses of all Special Flight Operation Certificates issued by Transport Canada from 2007 to 2012 and flight logs of a regional service kept from 2011 to 2013. Officer interviews (n=2) also provide qualitative insights on institutional realities from this same regional service.

Findings

The data reveal disparities between institutional realities and public perceptions. Although federal, provincial and regional services currently use UAVs, awareness of police use of UAVs relative to traditionally piloted aircraft was low. Further, support for police use of UAVs was significantly lower than traditionally piloted craft; but, support also varied considerably across UAV applications, with the greatest opposition tied to tasks for which police do not report using UAVs and the greatest support tied to tasks for which police report using UAVs.

Originality/value

This research provides previously unknown descriptive data on the institutional realities of police use of UAVs in Canada, positioning that knowledge in relation to public perceptions of police use of the technology. The findings raise concerns over how UAVs may negatively shape police/civilian relations based on procedural justice literature which demonstrates that a lack of public support for the technology may affect the police more broadly.
Long‐term satellite tracking reveals region‐specific movements of a large pelagic predator, the shortfin mako shark, in the western North Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Vaudo Jeremy J. , Byrne Michael E. , Wetherbee Bradley M. , Harvey Guy M. , Shivji Mahmood S.
Published: December 2016

As upper level predators, sharks serve an important role in marine ecosystems, but are often at risk from fisheries. Successful management of these species will require detailed information about their movements and distributions.

Using satellite telemetry, we investigated the long‐term horizontal movements and seasonal distributions of shortfin mako sharks Isurus oxyrinchus in the western North Atlantic Ocean.

Twenty‐six sharks (14 USA, 12 Mexico) were tracked for durations of 78–527 days. Ten sharks were tracked for >1 year. Sharks displayed region‐specific movements, with little distributional overlap between the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea, and the western North Atlantic. Sharks tagged off the USA ranged over a larger area, including shelf and pelagic habitats. Their core distribution was largely over the continental shelf and fluctuated seasonally, ranging from South Carolina, USA, in the winter to Nova Scotia, Canada, in the autumn, and appeared to follow seasonal productivity peaks while favouring warmer waters. Sharks tagged off Mexico displayed more restricted movements, largely confined to shelf habitats, with core activity centred year‐round on the eastern Campeche Bank, Mexico.

Sharks moved across the jurisdictional management boundaries of 17 nations, and the proportion of tracked sharks harvested (22%) was twice that obtained from previous fisheries‐dependent, conventional tagging studies.

Sharks also displayed considerable variability in movements, with seven sharks tagged off the USA making long‐distance, highly directional southern excursions into unproductive subtropical/tropical waters before returning north.

Policy implications. The large‐scale and region‐specific movements of shortfin mako sharks underscore the need for close cooperation amongst western North Atlantic nations and implementation of regionally and seasonally specific management strategies. The movement patterns also provide baseline information, which could be used in spatially explicit stock assessment models. Identification of high‐use areas by shortfin mako sharks provides focal areas for quantifying interactions with fisheries. The high harvest rate observed in our fisheries‐independent tracking study raises questions about the true rate of fisheries mortality experienced by shortfin mako sharks, calling for a cautionary interpretation of past stock assessments used to determine management policy for this highly migratory species of conservation concern.
It is elemental: soil nutrient stoichiometry drives bacterial diversity
Authors: Delgado‐Baquerizo Manuel , Reich Peter B. , Khachane Amit N. , Campbell Colin D. , Thomas Nadine , Freitag Thomas E. , Abu Al‐Soud Waleed , Sørensen Søren , Bardgett Richard D. , Singh Brajesh K.
Published: December 2016

It is well established that resource quantity and elemental stoichiometry play major roles in shaping below and aboveground plant biodiversity, but their importance for shaping microbial diversity in soil remains unclear. Here, we used statistical modeling on a regional database covering 179 locations and six ecosystem types across Scotland to evaluate the roles of total carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) availabilities and ratios, together with land use, climate and biotic and abiotic factors, in determining regional scale patterns of soil bacterial diversity. We found that bacterial diversity and composition were primarily driven by variation in soil resource stoichiometry (total C:N:P ratios), itself linked to different land uses, and secondarily driven by other important biodiversity drivers such as climate, soil spatial heterogeneity, soil pH, root influence (plant‐soil microbe interactions) and microbial biomass (soil microbe‐microbe interactions). In aggregate, these findings provide evidence that nutrient stoichiometry is a strong predictor of bacterial diversity and composition at a regional scale.
Paleomicrobiology to investigate copper resistance in bacteria: isolation and description of Cupriavidus necator B9 in the soil of a medieval foundry
Authors: Gillan David C. , Van Camp Camille , Mergeay Max , Provoost Ann , Thomas Nicolas , Vermard Laurent , Billon Gabriel , Wattiez Ruddy
Published: December 2016

Remains of a medieval foundry were excavated by archaeologists in 2013 in Verdun (France). Ancient workshops specialized in brass and copper alloys were found with an activity between 13th to 16th c. Levels of Cu, Zn and Pb reached 20000, 7000 and 6000 mg kg−1 (dw), respectively, in several soil horizons. The objective of the present work was to examine the microbial community in this contaminated site. A total of 8–22 106 reads were obtained by shotgun metagenomics in four soil horizons. Bioinformatic analyses suggest the presence of complex bacterial communities dominated by Proteobacteria. The structure of the community was not affected by metals, contrary to the set of metal‐resistance genes. Using selective media, a novel strain of Cupriavidus necator (eutrophus), strain B9, was isolated. Its genome was sequenced and a novel metal resistance gene cluster with Hg resistance genes (merRTPCA) followed by 24 copper‐resistance genes (actP, cusCBAF, silP, copK1, copH4QLOFGJH3IDCBARS, copH2H1, copK2) was found. This cluster is partly homologous to the cop genes of Cupriavidus gilardii CR3 and C. metallidurans CH34. Proteomics indicated that the four copH genes were differentially expressed: CopH1 and CopH2 were mostly induced by Cd while CopH4 was highly expressed by Cu.
The Ageing Workforce: Policy Dilemmas and Choices
Authors: Gahan Peter , Harbridge Raymond , Healy Joshua , Williams Ruth
Published: December 2016

Population ageing is profoundly challenging the institutions and systems that organise paid work, healthcare, and retirement. A major response to these challenges has been to encourage older workers to remain longer in employment, thereby extending the period of ‘productive life’ in which they are net contributors to government revenue. Yet this strategy depends on a range of micro‐level adjustments, about which relatively little is known. These include how willingly older workers and employers adjust their attitudes and practices, and what types of policies facilitate these adjustments. In this paper, we critique the major policy responses to workforce ageing in Australia to date, and consider further measures to improve recruitment and retention of older workers. We argue that a more holistic policy response will require better evidence about ageist employment barriers, late‐career transitions, and older workers’ job performance. We outline a research agenda to improve evidence and policy in these areas.
Global surgery: A new agenda item for surgical training and professional partnership
Authors: Leung Gilberto K.K.
Published: December 2016

Billions of people in resource‐poor countries continue to sustain significant mortality and disability from otherwise treatable surgical conditions due to inequitable access to surgical and anaesthesia care. ‘Global surgery’ aims to improve health and health equity in response by achieving ‘universal access to safe, affordable surgical and anaesthesia care’ for all people affected by surgical conditions, with a particular focus on underserved and disadvantaged populations. It embraces a wide range of international platforms and actors that strive to facilitate knowledge transfer and capacity building. The present study describes the global surgical landscape, based on findings from the Lancet Commission on Global Surgery, and discusses potential avenues for contributions by professional bodies and academic institutions. Previously considered too expensive or complicated for public health considerations, surgery is now regarded as an indivisible and integral component of global health. Global surgery should be regarded as an important agenda item by professional bodies willing and ready to participate in this momentous public health intervention.
Reduced incidence of extra‐articular manifestations of RA through effective disease control: Karnataka Rheumatoid Arthritis Comorbidity (KRAC) study
Authors: Chandrashekara S. , Shobha Vineeta , Dharmanand B. G. , Jois Ramesh , Kumar Sharath , Mahendranath Kurugodu Mathada , Haridas Vikram , Prasad Shiva , Singh Yogesh , Daware Manisha Ashwin , Swamy Anupama , Subramanian R. , Somashekar Srirama Attappa , Shanthappa Arun Madhanaghatta , Anupama K. R.
Published: December 2016

Aim

To estimate the prevalence of extra‐articular manifestations (EAM) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and the impact of demographic, clinical and treatment factors.

Method

The study was carried out as a part of ‘Karnataka Rheumatoid arthritis comorbidity (KRAC) study’ conducted at 14 centers across Karnataka, India between September 2014 and July 2015. The data were collected by trained clinical research associates using a structured pro forma, under the supervision of the consulting rheumatologists. Based on the factors evaluated, the study participants were classified as follows: age, < 30 years, 30–39 years, 40–49 years, 50–59 years and ≥ 60 years; and duration of illness prior to visiting rheumatologist (DOIP), ≤ 6 months, > 6 months‐2 years, 2–10 years and > 10 years. The Disease Activity Score of 28 joints‐3 (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) score was calculated for each patient by three variable methods.

Results

The total number of patients considered for the study after exclusion was 1716. The subjects had a mean (SD) age of 48.1 (12.71) years, the male‐to‐female ratio was 1 : 5, and median (range) of duration of RA was 48 (0.5–484) months. The prevalence of EAM noted was around 13%. EAM were more likely during the first 2 years of the disease (odds ratio [OR]: 1.465; P = 0.047) and increased with longer DOIP. The incidence was less in patients with low disease activity (OR: 0.657) and worse with the presence of deformities (OR: 2.1).

Conclusion

The study corroborates the current concept of effective disease control to reduce the incidence/likelihood of EAM in RA patients.
Nitrate addition has minimal short‐term impacts on Greenland ice sheet supraglacial prokaryotes
Authors: Cameron Karen A. , Stibal Marek , Chrismas Nathan , Box Jason , Jacobsen Carsten S.
Published: December 2016

Tropospheric nitrate levels are predicted to increase throughout the 21st century, with potential effects on terrestrial ecosystems, including the Greenland ice sheet (GrIS). This study considers the impacts of elevated nitrate concentrations on the abundance and composition of dominant bulk and active prokaryotic communities sampled from in situ nitrate fertilization plots on the GrIS surface. Nitrate concentrations were successfully elevated within sediment‐filled meltwater pools, known as cryoconite holes; however, nitrate additions applied to surface ice did not persist. Estimated bulk and active cryoconite community cell abundance was unaltered by nitrate additions when compared to control holes using a quantitative PCR approach, and nitrate was found to have a minimal affect on the dominant 16S rRNA gene‐based community composition. Together, these results indicate that sampled cryoconite communities were not nitrate limited at the time of sampling. Instead, temporal changes in biomass and community composition were more pronounced. As these in situ incubations were short (6 weeks), and the community composition across GrIS surface ice is highly variable, we suggest that further efforts should be considered to investigate the potential long‐term impacts of increased nitrate across the GrIS.
Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation after out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest in a Danish health region
Authors: Fjølner J. , Greisen J. , Jørgensen M. R. S. , Terkelsen C. J. , Ilkjær L. B. , Hansen T. M. , Eiskjær H. , Christensen S. , Gjedsted J.
Published: December 2016

Background

Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (ECPR) has emerged as a feasible rescue therapy for refractory, normothermic out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). Reported survival rates vary and comparison between studies is hampered by heterogeneous study populations, differences in bystander intervention and in pre‐hospital emergency service organisation. We aimed to describe the first experiences, treatment details, complications and outcome with ECPR for OHCA in a Danish health region.

Methods

Retrospective study of adult patients admitted at Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark between 1 January 2011 and 1 July 2015 with witnessed, refractory, normothermic OHCA treated with ECPR. OHCA was managed with pre‐hospital advanced airway management and mechanical chest compression during transport. Relevant pre‐hospital and in‐hospital data were collected with special focus on low‐flow time and ECPR duration. Survival to hospital discharge with Cerebral Performance Category (CPC) of 1 and 2 at hospital discharge was the primary endpoint.

Results

Twenty‐one patients were included. Median pre‐hospital low‐flow time was 54 min [range 5–100] and median total low‐flow time was 121 min [range 55–192]. Seven patients survived (33%). Survivors had a CPC score of 1 or 2 at hospital discharge. Five survivors had a shockable initial rhythm. In all survivors coronary occlusion was the presumed cause of cardiac arrest.

Conclusion

Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation is feasible as a rescue therapy in normothermic refractory OHCA in highly selected patients. Low‐flow time was longer than previously reported. Survival with favourable neurological outcome is possible despite prolonged low‐flow duration.
Follow‐Up of Alcohol Consumption After Liver Transplantation: Interest of an Addiction Team?
Authors: Donnadieu‐Rigole Hélène , Olive Laetitia , Nalpas Bertrand , Winter Audrey , Ursic‐Bedoya José , Faure Stéphanie , Pageaux Georges‐Philippe , Perney Pascal
Published: December 2016

Background

Alcohol relapses after liver transplantation (LT) constitute a critical issue. Because there is no widely accepted definition of LT, its prevalence varies from 7 to 95% across studies. Only a severe relapse, the frequency of which is estimated to be 11 to 26%, decreases life expectancy after 5 years of LT and requires specific care. To improve the early identification of alcohol consumption among transplanted patients, liver transplant teams may be helped by input from an addiction team. Nevertheless, added benefit of involvement by addiction specialists in treating posttransplant patients has not been demonstrated. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the evaluation of the alcohol consumption after LT performed routinely during the transplant consultation or obtained from a specific addiction consultation.

Methods

This was a prospective single‐site study. Patients were seen consecutively by their hepatologist and by an addiction specialist, and they completed the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test–Consumption (AUDIT‐C). Thus, the patient's alcohol status was assessed using 3 different sources of information: the hepatologist's interview, the AUDIT‐C score, and the addiction specialist visit.

Results

One hundred forty‐one patients were consecutively evaluated. Alcohol consumption was identified by the hepatologist in 31 patients (21.9%), in 52 (36.8%) using the AUDIT‐C questionnaire, and in 58 (41.1%) by the addiction specialist. The 31 patients concerned reported an average of 6.5 alcohol units/wk to the transplant physician, a number which was significantly greater (p = 0.001) by 8.6 units/wk when they were interviewed by the addiction specialist.

Conclusions

This study highlights the clinical utility of a systematic addiction consultation among liver transplant patients, irrespective of the reason for transplantation.
Trends in serious quit attempts in the United States, 2009–14
Authors: Gitchell Joe G. , Shiffman Saul , Sembower Mark A.
Published: December 2016

Background and aims

Quitting smoking is the most potent way to reduce the health risks associated with smoking cigarettes, and public health objectives in the United States include dramatic increases in the proportion of smokers making a serious quit attempt each year. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has, since 2000, set as its Healthy People 2020 objective to encourage 80% of smokers to make a serious quit attempt per year. This study assessed the trend in quit attempts from 2009 to 2014.

Design

We examined the percentage of US smokers making a serious quit attempt each year from 2009 to 2014 from the repeating cross‐sectional National Health Interview Survey (NHIS).

Setting

United States.

Participants

The number of qualifying respondents per year ranged from 5748 in 2010 to 7219 in 2012, with a total of 40 362 respondents included in the analysis.

Measurements

Respondents were deemed to have made a serious quit attempt if they were either current smokers who reported that they stopped smoking for more than 1 day in the past 12 months because they were trying to quit smoking, or reported being former smokers (smoked 100+ cigarettes life‐time, but now not smoking) who quit in the past year.

Findings

Analyses of trends from 2009 to 2014 showed an overall linear increase in quit attempts [odds ratio (OR) = 1.02, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.01–1.04, P = 0.0075], but also a quadratic trend (OR = 1.01, 95% CI = 1.00–1.02, P = 0.0189).

Conclusions

The proportion of US smokers making a serious quit attempt has increased since 2009, due to an upward trend since 2011. The 2014 serious quit attempt rate was 55.0%. These rates are still below the Healthy People 2020 objective of 80% of smokers making a serious quit attempt per year.
Isoniazid clearance is impaired among human immunodeficiency virus/tuberculosis patients with high levels of immune activation
Authors: Vinnard Christopher , Ravimohan Shruthi , Tamuhla Neo , Ivaturi Vijay , Pasipanodya Jotam , Srivastava Shashikant , Modongo Chawangwa , Zetola Nicola M. , Weissman Drew , Gumbo Tawanda , Bisson Gregory P.
Published: December 2016

Aims

Immune activation, which is characteristic of both tuberculosis (TB) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, is associated with impaired drug metabolism. We tested the hypothesis that elevated levels of systemic immune activation among adults with HIV/TB initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) would be associated with impaired clearance of isoniazid.

Methods

We conducted a prospective observational study of isoniazid pharmacokinetics (PK) and systemic immune activation prior to and 1 month after ART initiation. Nonlinear mixed effects analysis was performed to measure the covariate effect of immune activation on isoniazid clearance in a model that also included N‐acetyltransferase‐2 (NAT‐2) genotype and interoccasional variability on clearance (thereby analyzing the PK data before and after ART initiation in a single model).

Results

We enrolled 40 patients in the PK visit prior to ART, and 24 patients returned for the second visit a median of 33 days after initiating antiretroviral therapy. The isoniazid concentration data were best described by a two‐compartment model with first‐order elimination. After accounting for NAT‐2 genotype, increasing levels of CD38 and HLA‐DR expression on CD8+ T cells (CD38+DR+CD8+) were associated with decreasing isoniazid clearance.

Conclusion

HIV/TB patients with high levels of immune activation demonstrated impaired isoniazid clearance. Future efforts should determine the role of this relationship in clinical hepatotoxicity events.
Neuroprotection of hypoxic postconditioning against global cerebral ischemia through influencing posttranslational regulations of heat shock protein 27 in adult rats
Authors: Zhan Lixuan , Liu Liu , Li Kongping , Wu Baoxing , Liu Dandan , Liang Donghai , Wen Haixia , Wang Yanmei , Sun Weiwen , Liao Weiping , Xu En
Published: December 2016

We previously reported that hypoxic postconditioning (HPC) ameliorated hippocampal neuronal death induced by transient global cerebral ischemia (tGCI) in adult rats. However, the mechanism of HPC‐induced neuroprotection is still elusive. Notably, heat shock protein 27 (Hsp27) has recently emerged as a potent neuroprotectant in cerebral ischemia. Although its robust protective effect on stroke has been recognized, the mechanism of Hsp27‐mediated neuroprotection is largely unknown. Here, we investigated the potential molecular mechanism by which HPC modulates the posttranslational regulations of Hsp27 after tGCI. We found that HPC increased expression of Hsp27 in CA1 subregion after tGCI. Inhibition of Hsp27 expression with lentivirus‐mediated short hairpin RNA (shRNA) abolished the neuroprotection induced by HPC in vivo. Furthermore, pretreatment with cycloheximide, a protein synthesis inhibitor, resulted in a significant decrease in the degradation rate of Hsp27 protein in postconditioned rats, suggesting that the increase in the expression of Hsp27 after HPC might result from its decreased degradation. Next, pretreatment with leupeptin, a lysosomal inhibitor, resulted in an accumulation of Hsp27 after tGCI, indicating that autophagic pathway may be responsible for the degradation of Hsp27. We further showed that the formation of LC3‐II and autophagosomes increased after tGCI. Meanwhile, the degradation of Hsp27 was suppressed and neuronal damage was reduced when blocking autophagy with 3‐Methyladenine, whereas activating autophagy with rapamycin showed an opposite tendency. Lastly, we confirmed that HPC increased the expression of phosphorylated MAPKAP kinase 2 (MK2) and Hsp27 after tGCI. Also, administration of SB203580, a p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase inhibitor, decreased the expressions of phosphorylated MK2 and Hsp27. Our results suggested that inhibition of Hsp27 degradation mediated by down‐regulation of autophagy may induce ischemic tolerance after HPC. Additionally, phosphorylation of Hsp27 induced by MK2 might be associated with the neuroprotection of HPC.
Relaxin‐like peptides in male reproduction – a human perspective
Authors: Ivell Richard , Agoulnik Alexander I , Anand‐Ivell Ravinder
Published: December 2016

The relaxin family of peptide hormones and their cognate GPCRs are becoming physiologically well‐characterized in the cardiovascular system and particularly in female reproductive processes. Much less is known about the physiology and pharmacology of these peptides in male reproduction, particularly as regards humans. H2‐relaxin is involved in prostate function and growth, while insulin‐like peptide 3 (INSL3) is a major product of the testicular Leydig cells and, in the adult, appears to modulate steroidogenesis and germ cell survival. In the fetus, INSL3 is a key hormone expressed shortly after sex determination and is responsible for the first transabdominal phase of testicular descent. Importantly, INSL3 is becoming a very useful constitutive biomarker reflecting both fetal and post‐natal development. Nothing is known about roles for INSL4 in male reproduction and only very little about relaxin‐3, which is mostly considered as a brain peptide, or INSL5. The former is expressed at very low levels in the testes, but has no known physiology there, whereas the INSL5 knockout mouse does exhibit a testicular phenotype with mild effects on spermatogenesis, probably due to a disruption of glucose homeostasis. INSL6 is a major product of male germ cells, although it is relatively unexplored with regard to its physiology or pharmacology, except that in mice disruption of the INSL6 gene leads to a disruption of spermatogenesis. Clinically, relaxin analogues may be useful in the control of prostate cancer, and both relaxin and INSL3 have been considered as sperm adjuvants for in vitro fertilization.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Recent Progress in the Understanding of Relaxin Family Peptides and their Receptors. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.10/issuetoc
Morphostructure, tectono‐sedimentary evolution and seismic potential of the Horseshoe Fault, SW Iberian Margin
Authors: Martínez‐Loriente Sara , Gràcia Eulàlia , Bartolome Rafael , Perea Hector , Klaeschen Dirk , Dañobeitia Juan José , Zitellini Nevio , Wynn Russell B. , Masson Douglas G.
Published: December 2016

High‐resolution acoustic and seismic data acquired 100 km offshore Cape São Vicente, image with unprecedented detail one of the largest active reverse faults of the SW Iberian Margin, the Horseshoe Fault (HF). The HF region is an area seismogenically active, source of the largest magnitude instrumental and historical earthquake (Mw > 6) occurred in the SW Iberian Margin. The HF corresponds to a N40 trending, 110 km long, and NW‐verging active thrust that affects the whole sedimentary sequence and reaches up to the seafloor, generating a relief of more than 1 km. The along‐strike structural variability as well as fault trend suggests that the HF is composed by three main sub‐segments: North (N25), Central (N50) and South (N45). Swath‐bathymetry, TOBI sidescan sonar backscatter and parametric echosounder TOPAS profiles reveal the surface morphology of the HF block, characterized by several, steep (20°) small scarps located on the hangingwall, and a succession of mass transport deposits (i.e. turbidites) on its footwall, located in the Horseshoe Abyssal Plain. A succession of pre‐stack depth‐migrated multichannel seismic reflection profiles across the HF and neighbouring areas allowed us to constrain their seismo‐stratigraphy, structural geometry, tectono‐sedimentary evolution from Upper Jurassic to present‐day, and to calculate their fault parameters. Finally, on the basis of segment length, surface fault area and seismogenic depth we evaluated the seismic potential of the HF, which in the worst‐case scenario may generate an earthquake of magnitude Mw 7.8 ± 0.1. Thus, considering the tectonic behaviour and near‐shore location, the HF should be recognized in seismic and tsunami hazard assessment models of Western Europe and North Africa.
Comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA), topomer CoMFA, and hologram QSAR studies on a series of novel HIV‐1 protease inhibitors
Authors: Heidari Afsane , Fatemi Mohammad H.
Published: December 2016

Comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA), topomer CoMFA, and hologram QSAR as three efficient methods of QSAR have been performed on 40 newly synthesized inhibitors against HIV‐1 protease. Molecular alignment was performed by aid of crystallographic structure of template inhibitor (indirect alignment) and also by the molecular mechanic (MM)‐minimized structure. Both alignment methods produced satisfactory statistics for training set, but indirect alignment had more predictive power. Generated counter maps, especially by topomer CoMFA, give comprehensive information about structural features affecting the inhibitory activities of studied chemicals. Based on the obtained information, some new inhibitors were suggested.
T-bet over-expression regulates aryl hydrocarbon receptor-mediated T helper type 17 differentiation through an interferon (IFN)γ-independent pathway
Authors: Yokosawa M , Kondo Y , Tahara M , Iizuka-Koga M , Segawa S , Kaneko S , Tsuboi H , Yoh K , Takahashi S , Matsumoto I , Sumida T
Published: December 2016

Various transcription factors are also known to enhance or suppress T helper type 17 (Th17) differentiation. We have shown previously that the development of collagen-induced arthritis was suppressed in T-bet transgenic (T-bet Tg) mice, and T-bet seemed to suppress Th17 differentiation through an interferon (IFN)-γ-independent pathway, although the precise mechanism remains to be clarified. The present study was designed to investigate further the mechanisms involved in the regulation of Th17 differentiation by T-bet over-expression, and we found the new relationship between T-bet and aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). Both T-bet Tg mice and IFN-γ–/–-over-expressing T-bet (T-bet Tg/IFN-γ–/–) mice showed inhibition of retinoic acid-related orphan receptor (ROR)γt expression and IL-17 production by CD4+ T cells cultured under conditions that promote Th-17 differentiation, and decreased IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) expression and signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT-3) phosphorylation in CD4+ T cells. The mRNA expression of ahr and rorc were suppressed in CD4+ T cells cultured under Th-17 conditions from T-bet Tg mice and T-bet Tg/IFN-γ–/– mice. CD4+ T cells of wild-type (WT) and IFN-γ–/– mice transduced with T-bet-expressing retrovirus also showed inhibition of IL-17 production, whereas T-bet transduction had no effect on IL-6R expression and STAT-3 phosphorylation. Interestingly, the mRNA expression of ahr and rorc were suppressed in CD4+ T cells with T-bet transduction cultured under Th17 conditions. The enhancement of interleukin (IL)−17 production from CD4+ T cells by the addition of AHR ligand with Th17 conditions was cancelled by T-bet over-expression. Our findings suggest that T-bet over-expression-induced suppression of Th17 differentiation is mediated through IFN-γ-independent AHR suppression.
Ro52/TRIM21-deficient expression and function in different subsets of peripheral blood mononuclear cells is associated with a proinflammatory cytokine response in patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies
Authors: Gómez-Martín D , Galindo-Feria A S , Barrera-Vargas A , Merayo-Chalico J , Juárez-Vega G , Torres-Ruiz J , Alcocer-Varela J
Published: December 2016

The presence of anti-Ro52/tripartite motif 21 (Trim21) autoantibodies has been associated with a distinctive clinical profile and has gained value as a prognostic marker in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM). The aim of the present work was to analyse Ro52/Trim21 expression in different subsets of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with IIM, as well as the ubiquitination profile and its association with proinflammatory cytokine production. We included 18 patients with recent-onset IIM and 18 age- and gender-matched healthy donors. PBMCs were isolated and different subsets (CD4+, CD8+, CD14+) were purified by magnetic selection. The expression of Ro52/Trim21 in different PBMC subsets of patients with IIM and healthy donors was analysed by Western blot. We assessed the presence of myositis-specific and associated autoantibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cytokine levels were measured by cytometric bead array. Patients with IIM showed decreased protein expression of Ro52/Trim21 in comparison to healthy controls in PBMC (0·97 ± 0·60 versus 1·84 ± 0·92, P = 0·016), CD4+ lymphocytes (0·79 ± 0·54 versus 2·41 ± 0·78, P = 0·017), and monocytes (0·87 ± 0·35 versus 1·89 ± 0·20, P < 0·001). There were no significant differences among IIM groups. Also, a lower K48-mediated ubiquitination profile was found, predominantly in CD4+ lymphocytes. Furthermore, after mitogenic stimulation, there was a higher synthesis of proinflammatory cytokines by T cells [interleukin (IL)-17A and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α] and monocytes [IL-6 and interferon (IFN)-α] from IIM patients compared with healthy controls. Our data suggest that patients with IIM, mainly DM, are characterized by a deficient expression of Ro52/TRIM21 in different PBMC subsets (CD4+ lymphocytes and monocytes), along with lower K48-mediated ubiquitination, which is associated with a proinflammatory cytokine response.
Effects of LRRK2 Inhibitors on Nigrostriatal Dopaminergic Neurotransmission
Authors: Qin Qi , Zhi Lian‐Teng , Li Xian‐Ting , Yue Zhen‐Yu , Li Guo‐Zhong , Zhang Hui
Published: December 2016

Introduction

Mutations in leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) are the most prevalent cause of familial and sporadic Parkinson's disease (PD). Because most pathogenic LRRK2 mutations result in enhanced kinase activity, it suggests that LRRK2 inhibitors may serve as a potential treatment for PD. To evaluate whether LRRK2 inhibitors are effective therapies for PD, it is crucial to know whether LRRK2 inhibitors will affect dopaminergic (DAergic) neurotransmission. However, to date, there is no study to investigate the impact of LRRK2 inhibitors on DAergic neurotransmission.

Aims

To address this gap in knowledge, we examined the effects of three types of LRRK2 inhibitors (LRRK2‐IN‐1, GSK2578215A, and GNE‐7915) on dopamine (DA) release in the dorsal striatum using fast‐scan cyclic voltammetry and DA neuron firing in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) using patch clamp in mouse brain slices.

Results

We found that LRRK2‐IN‐1 at a concentration higher than 1 μM causes off‐target effects and decreases DA release, whereas GSK2578215A and GNE‐7915 do not. All three inhibitors at 1 μM have no effect on DA release and DA neuron firing rate. We have further assessed the effects of the inhibitors in two preclinical LRRK2 mouse models (i.e., BAC transgenic hG2019S and hR1441G) and demonstrated that GNE‐7915 enhances DA release and synaptic vesicle mobilization/recycling.

Conclusion

GNE‐7915 can be validated for further therapeutic development for PD.
Abdominal rectopexy for the treatment of internal rectal prolapse: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Emile S. H. , Elfeki H. A. , Youssef M. , Farid M. , Wexner S. D.
Published: December 2016

Aim

Internal rectal prolapse (IRP) is a unique functional disorder that presents with a wide spectrum of clinical symptoms, including constipation and/or faecal incontinence (FI). The present review aims to analyse the results of trials evaluating the role of abdominal rectopexy in the treatment of IRP with regard to regarding functional and technical outcomes.

Method

A systematic review of the literature for the role of abdominal rectopexy in patients with IRP was conducted. PubMed/Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched for published and unpublished studies from January 2000 to December 2015.

Results

We reviewed 14 studies including 1301 patients (1180 women) of a median age of 59 years. The weighted mean rates of improvement of obstructed defaecation (OD) and FI across the studies were 73.9% and 60.2%, respectively. Twelve studies reported clinical recurrence in 84 (6.9%) patients. The weighted mean recurrence rate of IRP among the studies was 5.8% (95% CI: 4.2–7.5). Two hundred and thirty complications were reported with a weighted mean complication rate of 15%. Resection rectopexy had lower recurrence rates than did ventral rectopexy, whereas ventral rectopexy achieved better symptomatic improvement, a shorter operative time and a lower complication rate.

Conclusion

Abdominal rectopexy for IRP attained satisfactory results with improvement of OD and, to a lesser extent, FI, a low incidence of recurrence and an acceptable morbidity rate. Although ventral rectopexy was associated with higher recurrence rates, lower complication rates and better improvement of bowel symptoms than resection rectopexy, these findings cannot be confirmed owing to the limitations of this review.
Endoscopic monopolar coagulation of internal haemorrhoids: a surgeon's experience of the first 100 cases
Authors: Loh W.‐L. , Tan S. , Ngooi M. S. , Ong Z. K. , Ngoi S. S.
Published: December 2016

Aim

The purpose of this study was to evaluate one surgeon's initial experience with a novel technique of retroflexed endoscopic coagulation of internal haemorrhoids.

Method

Patients who presented with symptoms and signs indicating Grade II–III haemorrhoids were counselled before the procedure. Those who were assessed to require an examination of their colon, based on their age and symptoms, underwent a full colonoscopy before treatment of the haemorrhoids. After the procedure, patients were routinely prescribed nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, antibiotics and laxatives.

Results

The first 100 patients of median age 52.0 (20.8–78.5) years included 65 (65%) women. Five (5%) patients suffered from postprocedural complications, of which three (3%) were postprocedural bleeding and two (2%) were postprocedural pain, all treated conservatively. The recurrence rate was 6% at a median follow‐up time of 36 (6–76) months. The median duration of follow‐up was 36.5 (8.5–57.0) months.

Conclusion

This novel technique appears to be safe and effective for the treatment of Grade II–III internal haemorrhoids, and can be incorporated seamlessly into the end of a colonoscopy for the evaluation of haematochezia. Comparative trials should be performed.
Three‐dimensional endoanal ultrasound is accurate and reproducible in determining type and height of anal fistulas
Authors: Kołodziejczak M. , Santoro G. A. , Obcowska A. , Lorenc Z. , Mańczak M. , Sudoł‐Szopińska I.
Published: December 2016

Aim

Surgical treatment of high anal fistulas is associated with the potential risk of faecal incontinence and recurrence. The primary aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of three‐dimensional endoanal ultrasound (3D‐EAUS) in the assessment of height and type of anal fistulas, compared to the intra‐operative findings (gold standard). The secondary aim was to evaluate the inter‐observer reproducibility of 3D‐EAUS.

Method

The study design was a prospective analysis of retrospective data. 299 patients (202 men), mean age 45.3 years, who underwent surgery for anal fistulas, were included. All patients were preoperatively assessed by 3D‐EAUS. Two readers independently reviewed the volumes to determine the type and height of fistulas. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, proportion of agreements and Cohen's kappa coefficient (κ) were calculated for both examiners. Ultrasound findings were compared with intra‐operative data (reference standard), evaluated blindly by the surgeons.

Results

At surgery, 201 (67%) were transsphincteric, 49 (16%) suprasphincteric, 47 (16%) intersphincteric and two (1%) extrasphincteric fistulas. Intra‐operatively, 177 (59%) were low and 122 (41%) high fistulas. The overall accuracy of 3D‐EAUS was 91% for fistula type (271/299 fistulas: 97% transsphincteric, 100% intersphincteric, 57% suprasphincteric, 0% extrasphincteric) and 92% for fistula height (275/299 fistulas: 80% high and 100% low). Both readers reported very good agreement with surgery in the assessment of fistula type (proportion of agreement 0.88, κ = 0.89) and height (proportion of agreement 0.90, κ = 0.91).

Conclusions

3D‐EAUS is an accurate and reproducible modality for the assessment of type and height of anal fistulas.
Relation between postoperative ileus and anastomotic leakage after colorectal resection: a post hoc analysis of a prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Peters E. G. , Dekkers M. , van Leeuwen‐Hilbers F. W. , Daams F. , Hulsewé K. W. E. , de Jonge W. J. , Buurman W. A. , Luyer M. D. P.
Published: December 2016

Aim

Anastomotic leakage (AL) following abdominal surgery is a critical determinant of postoperative recovery, of which the aetiology is largely unknown. Interestingly, interventions aimed at reducing the inflammatory response and postoperative ileus (POI) have an unexpected effect on AL. The aim of this study was to investigate the relation of POI with inflammation and AL after colorectal resection.

Method

A post hoc analysis of a prospective randomized controlled trial in which patients underwent a colorectal resection was performed. Patients undergoing a colorectal resection were stratified into having or not having POI. The incidence of AL and other clinical parameters was registered prospectively. Intestinal fatty acid binding protein (I‐FABP, a marker for tissue damage) and the inflammatory response in plasma and colon tissue were determined.

Results

AL was present in nine of 43 patients in the POI group, and in one of 65 in the group without POI (P < 0.001). There was a significant association between POI and AL (OR 12.57, 95% CI: 2.73–120.65; P = 0.0005). Patients with POI had significantly higher plasma levels of soluble tumour necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFRSF1A) at 4 h postoperatively (0.89 ng/l, interquartile range 0.56) than patients without POI (0.80 ng/l, interquartile range 0.37; P = 0.04) and higher plasma levels of C‐reactive protein on the second day postoperatively (234 ± 77 vs 163 ± 86 mg/l; P = 0.001). Patients who developed AL had significantly higher plasma levels of I‐FABP compared with patients without AL at 24 h after onset of surgery.

Conclusion

POI is associated with a higher prevalence of AL and an increased inflammatory response.