bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA regulation of T‐cell development
Authors: Dooley James , Linterman Michelle A. , Liston Adrian 
Published: April 2013

SummaryMicroRNAs are short, 19–24 nucleotide long, RNA molecules capable of regulating the longevity and, to a lesser extent, translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) species. The function of the microRNA network, and indeed, even that of individual microRNA species, can have profoundly different roles in even a single cell type as the microRNA/mRNA composition evolves. As the role of microRNA within T cells has come under increasing scrutiny, several distinct checkpoints have been demonstrated to have a particular reliance on microRNA regulation. MicroRNAs are arguably most important in T cells during the earliest and last stages in T‐cell biology. The first stages of early thymic differentiation have a crucial reliance on the microRNA network, while later stages and peripheral homeostasis are largely, although not completely, microRNA‐independent. The most profound effects on T cells are in the activation of effector and regulatory functions of conventional and regulatory T cells, where microRNA deficiency results in a near‐complete loss of function. In this review, we focus on integrating the research on individual microRNA into a more global understanding of the function of the microRNA regulatory network in T cells.
RNA‐based mechanisms regulating host–virus interactions
Authors: Zhou Rui , Rana Tariq M. 
Published: April 2013

SummaryRNA interference (RNAi) is an ancient process by which non‐coding RNAs regulate gene expression in a sequence‐specific manner. The core components of RNAi are small regulatory RNAs, approximately 21–30 nucleotides in length, including small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs). The past two decades have seen considerable progress in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the biogenesis of siRNAs and miRNAs. Recent advances have also revealed the crucial regulatory roles played by small RNAs in such diverse processes as development, homeostasis, innate immunity, and oncogenesis. Accumulating evidence indicates that RNAi initially evolved as a host defense mechanism against viruses and transposons. The ability of the host small RNA biogenesis machinery to recognize viral double‐stranded RNA replication intermediates and transposon transcripts is critical to this process, as is small RNA‐guided targeting of RNAs via complementary base pairing. Collectively, these properties confer unparalleled specificity and precision to RNAi‐mediated gene silencing as an effective antiviral mechanism.
Role of microRNAs and long‐non‐coding RNAs in CD4+ T‐cell differentiation
Authors: Pagani Massimiliano , Rossetti Grazisa , Panzeri Ilaria , de Candia Paola , Bonnal Raoul J. P. , Rossi Riccardo L. , Geginat Jens , Abrignani Sergio 
Published: April 2013

SummaryCD4+ T lymphocytes orchestrate adaptive immune responses by differentiating into various subsets of effector T cells such as T‐helper 1 (Th1), Th2, Th17, and regulatory T cells. These subsets have been generally described by master transcription factors that dictate the expression of cytokines and receptors, which ultimately define lymphocyte effector functions. However, the view of T‐lymphocyte subsets as stable and terminally differentiated lineages has been challenged by increasing evidence of functional plasticity within CD4+ T‐cell subsets, which implies flexible programming of effector functions depending on time and space of T‐cell activation. An outstanding question with broad basic and traslational implications relates to the mechanisms, besides transcriptional regulation, which define the plasticity of effector functions. In this study, we discuss the emerging role of regulatory non‐coding RNAs in T‐cell differentiation and plasticity. Not only microRNAs have been proven to be important for CD4+ T‐cell differentiation, but it is also likely that the overall T‐cell functioning is the result of a multilayered network composed by coding RNAs as well as by short and long non‐coding RNAs. The integrated study of all the nodes of this network will provide a comprehensive view of the molecular mechanisms underlying T‐cell functions in health and disease.
Regulation of immune responses and tolerance: the microRNA perspective
Authors: Chen Chang‐Zheng , Schaffert Steven , Fragoso Rita , Loh Christina 
Published: April 2013

SummaryMuch has been learned about the molecular and cellular components critical for the control of immune responses and tolerance. It remains a challenge, however, to control the immune response and tolerance at the system level without causing significant toxicity to normal tissues. Recent studies suggest that microRNA (miRNA) genes, an abundant class of non‐coding RNA genes that produce characteristic approximately 22 nucleotides small RNAs, play important roles in immune cells. In this article, we discuss emerging knowledge regarding the functions of miRNA genes in the immune system. We delve into the roles of miRNAs in regulating signaling strength and threshold, homeostasis, and the dynamics of the immune response and tolerance during normal and pathogenic immunological conditions. We also present observations based on analyzes of miR‐181 family genes that indicate the potential functions of primary and/or precursor miRNAs in target recognition and explore the impact of these findings on target identification. Finally, we illustrate that despite the subtle effects of miRNAs on gene expression, miRNAs have the potential to influence the outcomes of normal and pathogenic immune responses by controlling the quantitative and dynamic aspects of immune responses. Tuning miRNA functions in immune cells, through gain‐ and loss‐of‐function approaches in mice, may reveal novel approach to restore immune equilibrium from pathogenic conditions, such as autoimmune disease and leukemia, without significant toxicity.
MicroRNA regulation of T‐cell differentiation and function
Authors: Jeker Lukas T. , Bluestone Jeffrey A. 
Published: April 2013

SummaryMicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as key controllers of T‐cell differentiation and function. Their expression is dynamically regulated by extracellular signals such as costimulation and cytokine signals. miRNAs set thresholds for gene expression and optimize protein concentrations of genetic networks. Absence of individual miRNAs can lead to severe immune dysfunction. In this study, we review emerging principles and provide examples of important functions exerted by miRNAs. Although our understanding of miRNA function in T‐cell differentiation is still rudimentary, the available evidence leaves no doubt that these small post‐transcriptional regulators are indispensable for proper functioning of the immune system.
Nurse practitioner job satisfaction: looking for successful outcomes
Authors: Pasarón Raquel 
Published: April 2013

Aims and objectivesTo examine overall job satisfaction and its association with extrinsic and intrinsic characteristics of job satisfaction among nurse practitioners at the chosen practice site. The objectives were to identify relevant retention and recruitment strategies, from the nurse practitioners perspective, by examining (1) what role aspects are most satisfying, and (2) approaches for successful, professional development and integration in the role.BackgroundSupportive professional practice environments are particularly important to nurses’ satisfaction with their work and the quality of patient care provided. Hence, research that examines nurse practitioners practice implications and barriers in today's healthcare system is essential.Design/MethodsA descriptive‐correlational design using survey methodology. A nonprobability sample of convenience was used. The outcome measures were: The Misener Nurse Practitioner Job Satisfaction Scale and two investigator‐developed surveys.ResultsParticipants expressed dissatisfaction with professional and monetary recognition, assertive influence, administrative support and collegial relationships.ConclusionsInteraction of subscale factors on overall job satisfaction and demographic survey findings has important implications for health administrators and nurse practitioners in similar organisations.Relevance to clinical practiceStakeholders in healthcare milieus need to be fully engaged in the redesign of the American healthcare system heeding the recommendations of the Institute of Medicine to provide safer health systems to the public. By doing this, issues related to frustration by nurse practitioners related to job satisfaction will be addressed. The need for cooperation, participation, collaboration and instrumental communication are essential in the delivery of safe, quality patient care. A better understanding of intrinsic professional rewards needs to be learned by nurse practitioners who want to seek professional satisfaction and engage in the survival and growth of the profession. Nurse practitioners armed with this translational information have viable agenda items that can be negotiated into extrinsic rewards.
Alcohol self‐presentation: the role of impression motivation and impression construction
Authors: O'Grady Megan A. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractTwo studies examined impression motivation (IM) and impression construction (IC) processes in college freshman alcohol use. In both studies, students completed individual difference measures related to IM and alcohol IC. In Study 1 (n = 232), participants were assigned to IM (low vs. high) and IC (alcohol vs. control) conditions and then created a personal profile. In Study 2 (n = 65), participants reported levels of IM and alcohol IC, and number of drinks during each evening's social interactions for 3 weeks. Situational alcohol IC was positively related to whether participants presented themselves as an alcohol user in their profile (Study 1) and in the amount they drank (Study 2). In Study 2, the association between IC and drinking was moderated by IM.
The unlikely Samaritans
Authors: Babula Michael W. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractThe helping motivations of wealth‐driven college students were investigated. Tang et al. argues that wealth‐driven individuals are extrinsically motivated, and that extrinsic motivation negatively relates to helping behavior. The results of questionnaires and experimentation here contradict the recent literature. Seventy‐two percent of subjects reported wealth as a top priority in life. Fifty‐six percent of subjects would take an insider trading tip, and 78% of subjects offered help to a confederate who just learned his family member was in an accident and needed to make a telephone call. Logistic regression results showed intrinsic motivation among participants significantly predicted increased helping behavior. It is recommended that surveys used to create new paradigms be followed up with experimentation whenever feasible.
Are Christian/religious people poor tippers?
Authors: Lynn Michael , Katz Benjamin 
Published: April 2013

AbstractA web‐based survey was used to assess the relationships of religious faith and frequency of church attendance with tipping under conditions of good and bad service. Results indicated that Jews and those with no religion tipped more than Christians and members of other religions, but that the vast majority of Christians tipped at or above the normative 15% of bill size. Worship frequency also significantly interacted with service quality such that the tips of those who frequently worship vary with service quality less than the tips of those who worship less frequently. The practical implications of these results for service workers and restaurants or other service businesses with a large religious clientele are discussed.
When is risk relevant? An assessment of the characteristics mountain climbers associate with eight types of climbing
Authors: Lockwood Nina , Sparks Paul 
Published: April 2013

AbstractResearch concerned with the experiences and motivations of people who participate in mountain climbing tends to overlook the varied nature of this pursuit, with comparisons between different types of climbing only occasionally receiving attention. Accordingly, the present study (N = 207) sought to examine representations of a broad range of different types of climbing. Of particular interest was the notion of risk. Principal component analyses for each type of climbing revealed “challenge,” “risk,” “enjoyment,” and “perspective and self‐reflection” components. Attitudes toward participation were regressed on these components. Although the results revealed significant differences between the ratings of risk reported for the different types of climbing, risk had limited predictive impact on attitudes.
Personality and the perception of situation structure in a military environment: seeking sensation versus structure as a soldier
Authors: Parmak Merle , Mylle Jacques J. C. , Euwema Martin C. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractIn this article, we explore the role of two narrow personality traits, Sensation Seeking and Need for Structure, in soldiers’ situational perception in a military task‐environment. In the first study, we assess the psychometric qualities of the personality inventories, Sensation Seeking Scale‐V and Personal Need for Structure, in an Estonian military sample. In the second study, we explore how these traits are related to soldiers’ perception of complexity (predictability) and potential harms involved (riskiness; defined as situation structure) in two field exercise tasks. We found that both of the explored personality traits are significantly and inversely related with soldiers’ perception of situation structure in a military environment. Implications for personnel selection, training, and performance of military organizations are discussed.
Categorization of Thai Fish Sauce Based on Aroma Characteristics
Authors: Wichaphon Jetsada , Posri Wilatsana , Assavanig Apinya , Thongthai Chaufah , Lertsiri Sittiwat 
Published: April 2013

AbstractSensory descriptive analysis was performed on 52 Thai fish sauce samples by 15 trained panelists, with an intention to explore the aroma profiles and to correlate with their total nitrogen (TN) contents, which is conventionally used as a general standard for commercial product grading. Thai fish sauce aroma characteristics could be exemplified through eight descriptive attributes. Sweet, meaty and cheesy odors presented overall characteristics of Thai fish sauce, while salty and anchovy‐like odors were noticeably perceived due to their high intensity in fish sauce. Aroma intensity of three attributes including sour, shrimp paste‐like and fishy odors could categorize Thai fish sauce samples into two groups, i.e., high‐TN and low‐TN groups. This categorization was also observed when rating scores of the intensity of these eight odor attributes were applied on principal component analysis (PCA). Moreover, total volatile basic‐nitrogen and pH of the samples were applied on PCA to better explain the contribution of aroma attributes to fish sauce products.Practical ApplicationsThailand is a major producer of fish sauce; hence, varieties of product qualities are available in the market. Generally, the products are graded in accordance to its total nitrogen (TN) content. However, manufacturers could distinguish the product quality based on its aroma profile. On the other hand, prices of products are based on TN and their characteristic aroma that consumers can perceive. The finding in this study would be applicable to fish sauce quality standardization based on aroma profiles that are correlated to conventional TN grading, as well as conservation of product authenticity.
Body mass index in adult patients with diet‐treated phenylketonuria
Authors: Robertson L. V. , McStravick N. , Ripley S. , Weetch E. , Donald S. , Adam S. , Micciche A. , Boocock S. , MacDonald A. 
Published: April 2013

AbstractBackgroundThere is an increasing number of adults with phenylketonuria (PKU) on a low phenylalanine diet. In the general population, an increasing body mass index (BMI) in the UK is a major problem with associated co‐morbidities. The present study aimed to identify whether patients with diet‐treated PKU have obesity rates comparable to those in the general population.MethodsTwo hundred and thirty‐six PKU subjects (49% male, 51% female), aged >16 years, who were diagnosed by newborn screening and were receiving a low phenylalanine diet, were identified from seven metabolic centres in the UK. Retrospective data were collated on age, sex, BMI and mean phenylalanine concentration over the previous 12 months.ResultsMean (SD) phenylalanine concentration for all 236 subjects was 789 (311) μm; mean (SD) BMI was 26 (5.4) kg m−2 [males 25 (4.3) kg m−2, females 27 (6.2) kg m−2]; mean (SD) age was 26 (7) years; and 55% had a BMI > 25 kg m−2. The percentage of subjects with a BMI >25 kg m−2 and >30 kg m−2, as well as increasing obesity with age, was similar to the UK population. A correlation was observed between increasing BMI and a higher phenylalanine concentration (r = 0.243, P = 0.001).ConclusionsThe number of overweight and obese patients with diet‐treated PKU in the UK is a concern. This could lead to other obesity‐related complications increasing the complexity of diet and the cost of their care. There is a need to educate patients with respect to adopting a healthy, low phenylalanine diet and lifestyle to prevent further rises in BMI.
Transcriptome‐wide Analysis Of Vernalization Reveals Conserved and Species‐specific Mechanisms in Brachypodium
Authors: Huan Qing , Mao Zhiwei , Zhang Jingyu , Xu Yunyuan , Chong Kang 
Published: April 2013

AbstractSeveral temperate cereals need vernalization to promote flowering. Little, however, is known about the vernalization‐memory‐related genes, and almost no comparative analysis has been performed. Here, RNA‐Seq was used for transcriptome analysis in non‐vernalized, vernalized and post‐vernalized Brachypodium distachyon (L.) Beauv. seedlings. In total, the expression of 1,665 genes showed significant changes (fold change ≥4) in response to vernalization. Among them, 674 putative vernalization‐memory‐related genes with a constant response to vernalization were significantly enriched in transcriptional regulation and monooxygenase‐mediated biological processes. Comparative analysis of vernalization‐memory‐related genes with barley demonstrated that the oxidative‐stress response was the most conserved pathway between these two plant species. Moreover, Brachypodium preferred to regulate transcription and protein phosphorylation processes, while vernalization‐memory‐related genes, whose products are cytoplasmic membrane‐bound‐vesicle‐located proteins, were preferred to be regulated in barley. Correlation analysis of the vernalization‐related genes with barley revealed that the vernalization mechanism was conserved between these two plant species. In summary, vernalization, including its memory mechanism, is conserved between Brachypodium and barley, although several species‐specific features also exist. The data reported here will provide primary resources for subsequent functional research in vernalization.
Measuring patient participation in surgical treatment decision‐making from healthcare professionals' perspective
Authors: Heggland Liv‐Helen , Mikkelsen Aslaug , Øgaard Torvald , Hausken Kjell 
Published: April 2013

Aims and objectivesTo develop, empirical test, and validate an instrument measuring patient participation in surgical treatment decision‐making from healthcare professionals' perspective.BackgroundSince the advent ofNewPublicManagement in manyWestern countries, patient participation in healthcare decision‐making has been considered to be a best practice. A common notion is that well‐educated and well‐informed public want to choose their own treatments and providers and want to ask questions about the quality of their health services.DesignSurvey.MethodsA self‐report‐measuring instrument was designed and administered to 620 healthcare professionals. Items were developed, validated and tested by 451 nurses and physicians working in six surgical wards in aUniversityHospital inNorway.ResultsA 16‐item scale with the following four dimensions was developed: information dissemination, formulation of options, integration of information and control. Factor analysis procedures and reliability testing were performed. A one‐way, between‐groups analysis of variance was conducted to compare doctors' and nurses' opinions on four dimensions of patient participation in surgical treatment decision‐making.ConclusionsThis article shows that patient participation in surgical treatment decision‐making can be measured by a 16‐item scale and four distinct dimensions. The analysis demonstrated a reasonable level of construct validity and reliability. Nurses and physicians have a positive attitude towards patient participation overall, but the two groups differ in the extent to which they accept the idea of patient participation in treatment decision‐making.Relevance to clinical practiceThe instrument can be a tool for managers and healthcare professionals in the implementation of patient participation in clinical practice. Data from the instrument can be useful to identify health services being provided and what areas that could strengthen patient participation.
Evaluation of an education and follow‐up programme for implantable cardioverter defibrillator‐implanted patients
Authors: Cinar Fatma I , Tosun Nuran , Kose Sedat 
Published: April 2013

Aims and objectivesTo determine the experiences, problems and the need for care and education of implantable cardioverter defibrillator‐implanted patients and to assess the effects of an education and nurse follow‐up programme on their quality of life, anxiety, depression and knowledge level.BackgroundAlthough implantable cardioverter defibrillator has become a well‐established therapy for people experiencing potentially lethal dysrhythmias, implantable cardioverter defibrillator patients may have physical and psychosocial problems due to the implantation. Applying a planning education and follow‐up programme to implantable cardioverter defibrillator‐implanted patients may prevent the need for more intensive treatment during the postimplantation period.DesignA mixed methods design that used both qualitative and quantitative data collections and analysis was used for this study.MethodsThe study was performed in the cardiology department in Turkey between 2009–2010. The data were collected using the ‘Semi‐Structured Interview Form’, ‘Form for Assessment of Patients’ Knowledge Level about implantable cardioverter defibrillator’, ‘Spielberger's State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory’, ‘Beck Depression Inventory II’ and ‘The Short‐Form 36 Health Survey’. All forms were completed at the beginning of the study and at six months. The study included 27 patients in the experimental group and 27 patients in the control group.ResultsThe results showed that the patients were living with various physical and psychosocial problems and insufficient knowledge regarding the implantable cardioverter defibrillator. Education and follow‐up programme increased knowledge levels, decreased anxiety and depression scores and improved several subscales of quality of life in the experimental group patients.ConclusionIt was recommended that education and follow‐up programme be used for patients scheduled to undergo implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation, starting before implantation and continuing thereafter, to help patients adapt to a life with implantable cardioverter defibrillator.Relevance to clinical practicePlanned education and follow‐up programme conducted by nurses may improve the knowledge levels and quality of life, anxiety and depression scores of the implantable cardioverter defibrillator‐implanted patients.