bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sacrifice and the Possibilities for Environmental Action
Authors: Meyer John M.
Published: February 2016

A key political-strategic question facing those aiming to foster environmental action is, When and how do environmental concerns resonate widely with citizens? This question invites reflection upon the rhetoric of “sacrifice,” especially as often deployed within wealthy consumer societies. This rhetoric has become a political sticking point that often entangles environmental discourse in a false dichotomy between sacrifice and self-interest and thereby constrains the political imaginary. By challenging this dichotomy we can draw attention to the ubiquity of notions of sacrifice in everyday life, thereby defusing its ability to shut down ambitious proposals for action. We might use this insight to reorient talk about sacrifice in a manner that expands our imaginary and opens up broader possibilities for democratic change.
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Authors: Rohan Kelly , Rough Jennifer N.
Published: February 2016

Winter seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a subtype of depression, characterized by the recurrence of major depressive episodes in the fall and/or winter months. In North America, SAD prevalence and severity are inversely related to photoperiod, such that SAD is more common at northern latitudes. Photoperiod is the most robust environmental predictor of SAD episode onset. Research has supported a potential role for both physiological and psychological vulnerabilities in the development and maintenance of SAD. Specifically, SAD has been linked to abnormal circadian functioning, retinal sensitivities to low light availability, and maladaptive cognitive and behavioral responses in winter. SAD symptoms can be comparably and effectively treated with different modalities including light therapy, antidepressants, and cognitive–behavioral therapy. Future research should continue to explore and integrate different vulnerabilities as a means to further refine effective treatment and prevention efforts.
Personality Disorders and Disorders of Mood
Authors: Cheavens Jennifer S. , Lazarus Sophie
Published: February 2016

Personality disorders (PDs) are highly prevalent among those diagnosed with mood disorders. The high rate of co-occurrence raises important issues about how the assessment, clinical presentation, and treatment of mood disorders may be influenced by the presence of a PD. Rates and types of comorbidity differ by type of mood disorder. For example, there is some evidence of higher rates of PDs in those with dysthymia compared to those with major depressive disorder (MDD) only, and rates of PDs may also be higher for bipolar than unipolar mood disorders. In terms of course and severity of mood disorders, PDs are associated with greater overall symptom severity and greater frequency of mood episodes. Treatment for depression is complicated by comorbid PDs; those with PDs and depression tend to have worse treatment outcomes, longer time to remission, shorter time to relapse, and increased likelihood of relapse.
Depressive Syndromes and Medical Comorbidities
Authors: Hopko Derek R. , McIndoo Crystal C. , File Audrey
Published: February 2016

The prevalence of depression is substantial among individuals with medical conditions and is associated with poorer treatment outcome for both the mood disorder and medical condition. This chapter examines the prevalence, risk factors, causal associations, and treatment for depression in four medical conditions: cancer, cardiovascular disease, multiple sclerosis, and HIV/AIDS. Several conclusions are evident: First, depression is unrecognized in about 30% of medical patients, and twice as many medical patients experience depression relative to the general population. Second, regardless of the medical illness, there are common risk factors for depression. Third, individuals with medical illness are most vulnerable to developing depression in the year following medical diagnosis. Fourth, the relationship between depression and medical comorbidities is bidirectional. Fifth, although there are promising psychological and pharmacological interventions for individuals with comorbid depression and medical problems, significant methodological problems limit this research. These limitations must be addressed to provide optimal care for those with depression and a chronic medical condition.
Self-Directed Approaches to the Treatment of Depression
Authors: Cuijpers Pim , Kleiboer Annet
Published: February 2016

This article examines self-directed approaches to the treatment of depression. It first considers some of the reasons why the uptake of mental health services by depressed people is low, despite the high prevalence of depressive disorders and the availability of evidence-based treatments. It then looks at the role of self-management in increasing access to evidence-based treatments for depression. It also defines what self-directed treatments are and goes on to discuss the different types of self-directed therapy, the common components of self-directed interventions for depression, Internet-based interventions for depression, and the advantages and disadvantages of self-directed interventions. Finally, it summarizes the findings from research on self-directed interventions for depression and suggests directions for future research and development in this area. Some titles of self-help books that can be used in self-directed interventions are presented.
Physician-Assisted Death in the Netherlands
Authors: Kimsma Gerrit
Published: February 2016

This chapter deals with physician-assisted dying (PAD) in the Netherlands. The focus is on the emergence, regulation, and effects of this practice that allowsonly physiciansto help patients die actively. To understand the adoption of this widely contested practice, it is necessary to describe the social context, changing legal landscape, medical profession policies, and political stalemate surrounding agreement on a law well after the practice existed and was accepted. Dutch development of regulation by the medical profession and multidisciplinary review committees realizes the goals of societal control, transparency, and physicians’ protection from criminal charges. On the other hand, even when a practice that is regulated by the medical profession is in place, pressure groups in society strive for more options for death with dignity—with orwithout physicians’ involvement. A large part of this physician-independent practice originates in physicians’ refusal of a request and is directly connected to it.
Potential Perils to the Promise of Specialty Palliative Care
Authors: Arnold Robert M.
Published: February 2016

Despite the growth of specialty palliative care over the past twenty years, the experience of most seriously ill patients in America has not changed. Although some have argued that the solution to this problem is to increase specialist palliative care (SPC), the author argues that this is a mistake. The growth of SPC may distract attention from solutions that are more likely to improve care for most seriously ill patients. SPC may decrease the quality and quantity of palliative care provided by nonspecialists by allowing the health care system to continue to deny death and “ghetto-izing” and deskilling generalist palliative care. This chapter presents these two arguments and tries to determine what changes are required to ensure that all seriously ill patients receive good palliative care, regardless of who provides the care.
The Role of Providers in Assisted Reproduction
Authors: Daar Judith
Published: February 2016

The need for infertility treatment brings professionals into reproductive decisions that are important private matters for patients. In medically assisted reproduction, providers are brought into roles traditionally regarded as occupied only by nature and into a position to determine which embryos are suitable for transfer in the effort to achieve pregnancy. These powers of judgment present ethical challenges for professionals providing assisted reproduction services. Among these challenges is the potential conflictual involvement of multiple patients in the process: intended parents, gamete donors, and gestational surrogates. Other challenges include the obligation to avoid discrimination in selecting embryos for transfer or in making decisions about which patients to serve. Providers must be informed by ethical discussions such as the ethics opinions of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Important ethical considerations include respect for patient choice, the best interests of offspring, nondiscrimination, and social justice.
How We Acquire Parental Rights
Authors: Richards Norvin
Published: February 2016

After arguing against Joseph Millum’s account, this article defends principles with the following implications. Assuming in each case that the person’s behavior is morally innocent, (l) women always acquire parental rights by becoming pregnant, regardless of whether that was their intention. (2) Men acquire parental rights when they and their partners intentionally conceive a child of their own free will, as the first step in a joint project of having “a child of their own.” (3) Men can also acquire parental rights when a pregnancy was unintended, but only if their partner had previously promised that they could be a father to the child if one were conceived, nourished reasonable expectations to that effect, or their history together made this a reasonable belief that she did not discourage. Otherwise, the man only acquires certain obligations. A closing section explains the applications to cases in which assisted reproductive technology is employed.
Tapered-cuff Endotracheal Tube Does Not Prevent Early Postoperative Pneumonia Compared with Spherical-cuff Endotracheal Tube after Major Vascular Surgery
Authors: Monsel Antoine , Lu Qin , Le Corre Marine , Brisson Hélène , Arbelot Charlotte , Vezinet Corinne , Fléron Marie-Hélène , Ibanez-Estève Christina , Zerimech Farid , Balduyck Malika , Dexheimer Felippe , Wang Chunyao , Langeron Olivier , Rouby Jean-Jacques
Published: February 2016

AbstractAbstract

Polyvinyl chloride tapered-cuff endotracheal tubes did not lower the postoperative pneumonia frequency after major vascular surgery. Higher tapered-cuff–pressure variability and higher percentage of time with cuff overinflation were documented. The potential clinical impact of such findings warrants further evaluation.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background

Patients undergoing major vascular surgery often develop postoperative pneumonia that impacts their outcomes. Conflicting data exist concerning the potential benefit of tapered-shaped cuffs on tracheal sealing. The primary objective of this study was to assess the efficiency of a polyvinyl chloride tapered-cuff endotracheal tube at reducing the postoperative pneumonia rate after major vascular surgery. Secondary objectives were to determine its impact on microaspiration, ventilator-associated pneumonia rate, and inner cuff pressure.

Methods

This prospective randomized controlled study included 109 patients who were randomly assigned to receive either spherical- (standard cuff) or taper-shaped (tapered cuff) endotracheal tubes inserted after anesthesia induction and then admitted to the intensive care unit after major vascular surgery. Cuff pressure was continuously recorded over 5 h. Pepsin and α-amylase concentrations in tracheal aspirates were quantified on postoperative days 1 and 2. The primary outcome was the early postoperative pneumonia frequency.

Results

Comparing the tapered-cuff with standard-cuff group, respectively, postoperative pneumonia rates were comparable (42 vs. 44%, P = 0.87) and the percentage (interquartile range) of cuff-pressure time with overinflation was significantly higher (16.1% [1.5 to 50] vs. 0.6% [0 to 8.3], P = 0.01), with a 2.5-fold higher coefficient of variation (20.2 [10.6 to 29.4] vs. 7.6 [6.2 to 10.2], P < 0.001). Although microaspiration frequencies were high, they did not differ between groups.

Conclusion

For major vascular surgery patients, polyvinyl chloride tapered-cuff endotracheal tubes with intermittent cuff-pressure control did not lower the early postoperative pneumonia frequency and did not prevent microaspiration.
Mechanical Power and Development of Ventilator-induced Lung Injury
Authors: Cressoni Massimo , Gotti Miriam , Chiurazzi Chiara , Massari Dario , Algieri Ilaria , Amini Martina , Cammaroto Antonio , Brioni Matteo , Montaruli Claudia , Nikolla Klodiana , Guanziroli Mariateresa , Dondossola Daniele , Gatti Stefano , Valerio Vincenza , Vergani Giordano Luca , Pugni Paola , Cadringher Paolo , Gagliano Nicoletta , Gattinoni Luciano
Published: February 2016

AbstractAbstract

Twenty-four anesthetized piglets ventilated with a range of tidal volume and respiratory rate developed widespread lung injury above a threshold of 12 J/min. This finding suggests that mechanical power applied may be taken into account for ventilator-induced lung injury prevention.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background

The ventilator works mechanically on the lung parenchyma. The authors set out to obtain the proof of concept that ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) depends on the mechanical power applied to the lung.

Methods

Mechanical power was defined as the function of transpulmonary pressure, tidal volume (TV), and respiratory rate. Three piglets were ventilated with a mechanical power known to be lethal (TV, 38 ml/kg; plateau pressure, 27 cm H2O; and respiratory rate, 15 breaths/min). Other groups (three piglets each) were ventilated with the same TV per kilogram and transpulmonary pressure but at the respiratory rates of 12, 9, 6, and 3 breaths/min. The authors identified a mechanical power threshold for VILI and did nine additional experiments at the respiratory rate of 35 breaths/min and mechanical power below (TV 11 ml/kg) and above (TV 22 ml/kg) the threshold.

Results

In the 15 experiments to detect the threshold for VILI, up to a mechanical power of approximately 12 J/min (respiratory rate, 9 breaths/min), the computed tomography scans showed mostly isolated densities, whereas at the mechanical power above approximately 12 J/min, all piglets developed whole-lung edema. In the nine confirmatory experiments, the five piglets ventilated above the power threshold developed VILI, but the four piglets ventilated below did not. By grouping all 24 piglets, the authors found a significant relationship between the mechanical power applied to the lung and the increase in lung weight (r
2 = 0.41, P = 0.001) and lung elastance (r
2 = 0.33, P < 0.01) and decrease in Pao
2/Fio
2 (r
2 = 0.40, P < 0.001) at the end of the study.

Conclusion

In piglets, VILI develops if a mechanical power threshold is exceeded.
Using the Digits-In-Noise Test to Estimate Age-Related Hearing Loss
Authors: Koole Arne , Nagtegaal A. Paul , Homans Nienke C. , Hofman Albert , Baatenburg de Jong Rob J. , Goedegebure André
Published: February 2016

Objective:

Age-related hearing loss is common in the elderly population. Timely detection and targeted counseling can lead to adequate treatment with hearing aids. The Digits-In-Noise (DIN) test was developed as a relatively simple test to assess hearing acuity. It is a potentially powerful test for the screening of large populations, including the elderly. However, until to date, no sensitivity or specificity rates for detecting hearing loss were reported in a general elderly population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of the DIN test to screen for mild and moderate hearing loss in the elderly.

Design:

Data of pure-tone audiometry and the DIN test were collected from 3327 adults ages above 50 (mean: 65), as part of the Rotterdam Study, a large population-based cohort study. Sensitivity and specificity of the DIN test for detecting hearing loss were calculated by comparing speech reception threshold (SRT) with pure-tone average threshold at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz (PTA0.5,1,2,4). Receiver operating characteristics were calculated for detecting >20 and >35 dB HL average hearing loss at the best ear.

Results:

Hearing loss varied greatly between subjects and, as expected, increased with age. High frequencies and men were more severely affected. A strong correlation (R = 0.80, p < 0.001) was found between SRTs and PTA0.5,1,2,4. Moreover, 65% of variance in SRT could be explained by pure-tone thresholds. For detecting mild or moderate hearing loss, receiver operating characteristics showed areas under the curve of 0.86 and 0.98, respectively.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates that the DIN test has excellent test characteristics when screening for moderate hearing loss (or more) in an elderly population. It is less suited to screen for mild hearing loss. The test is easy to complete and should be suitable for implementation as an automated self-test in hearing screening programs. Ultimately, when combined with active counseling, hearing screening could lead to higher hearing aid coverage in the hearing impaired elderly.
Role of orexin-2 receptors in the nucleus accumbens in antinociception induced by carbachol stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus in formalin test
Authors: Yazdi Fatemeh , Jahangirvand Mahboubeh , Ezzatpanah Somayeh , Haghparast Abbas
Published: February 2016

Orexins, which are mainly produced by orexin-expressing neurons in the lateral hypothalamus (LH), play an important role in pain modulation. Previously, it has been established that the nucleus accumbens (NAc) is involved in the modulation of formalin-induced nociceptive responses, a model of tonic pain. In this study, the role of intra-accumbal orexin-2 receptors (OX2rs) in the mediation of formalin-induced pain was investigated. A volume of 0.5 μl of 10, 20, and 40 nmol/l solutions of TCS OX2 29, an OX2r antagonist, were unilaterally microinjected into the NAc 5 min before an intra-LH carbachol microinjection (0.5 μl of 250 nmol/l solution). After 5 min, animals received a subcutaneous injection of formalin 2.5% (50 μl) into the hind paw. Pain-related behaviors were assessed at 5 min intervals during a 60-min test period. The findings showed that TCS OX2 29 administration dose dependently blocked carbachol-induced antinociception during both phases of formalin-induced pain. The antianalgesic effect of TCS OX2 29 was greater during the late phase compared with the early phase. These observations suggest that the NAc, as a part of a descending pain-modulatory circuitry, partially mediates LH-induced analgesia in the formalin test through recruitment of OX2rs. This makes the orexinergic system a good potential therapeutic target in the control of persistent inflammatory pain.
Supplementation of ursodeoxycholic acid improves fat digestion and absorption in cystic fibrosis patients with mild liver involvement
Authors: Drzymała-Czyż Sławomira , Jończyk-Potoczna Katarzyna , Lisowska Aleksandra , Stajgis Marek , Walkowiak Jarosław
Published: February 2016

Background

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) supplementation is recommended for cystic fibrosis (CF) patients with associated liver disease. However, its effect on fat digestion and absorption is not known.

Materials and methods

In 23 patients with mild liver involvement, a 13C-mixed triglyceride breath test was performed on UDCA supplementation (with and without pancreatic enzymes – standard and increased dose) and after 1 month of UDCA withdrawal. Cumulative percentage dose recovery [CPDR; median (interquartile range)] has been considered to reflect lipid digestion and absorption.

Results

The enzyme supplementation resulted in a significant CPDR improvement [0% (0–0) vs. 4.6% (0.4–6.0); P<0.00046]. With the increased dose of enzymes in 16 patients with abnormal 13C-mixed triglyceride breath test results and lipase dose less than 3000 U/g of fat, higher CPDR values [8.6% (5.6–12.7); P<0.000027] were observed. However, a 1-month UDCA withdrawal resulted in a significant reduction in (P<0.000031) fat digestion and absorption [2.9% (0.7–5.8)].

Conclusion

UDCA supplementation seems to enhance lipid digestion and absorption in pancreatic insufficient CF patients with mild liver involvement. This finding points toward the potential impact of UDCA supplementation on nutritional status in CF patients with liver disease and underscores the often overlooked role of factors other than pancreatic enzymes on digestion and absorption of fats in CF.
Comprehensive epidemiological and genotype–phenotype analyses in a large European sample with idiopathic achalasia
Authors: Becker Jessica , Niebisch Stefan , Ricchiuto Arcangelo , Schaich Eva J. , Lehmann Gavin , Waltgenbach Tobias , Schafft Annette , Hess Timo , Lenze Frank , Venerito Marino , Hüneburg Robert , Lingohr Philipp , Matthaei Hanno , Seewald Stefan , Scheuermann Uwe , Kreuser Nicole , Veits Lothar , Wouters Mira M. , Gockel Henning R. , Lang Hauke , Vieth Michael , Müller Michaela , Eckardt Alexander J. , von Rahden Burkhard H.A. , Knapp Michael , Boeckxstaens Guy E. , Fimmers Rolf , Nöthen Markus M. , Schulz Henning G. , Gockel Ines , Schumacher Johannes
Published: February 2016

Background and aim

Although an eight-residue insertion in HLA-DQβ1 has been recently identified as a genetic risk factor for idiopathic achalasia, other risk factors are still unknown. In the present study, we carried out an epidemiological survey and a genotype–phenotype (G×P) analysis to gain further insights into the etiology of achalasia.

Methods

We obtained medical data from 696 achalasia patients and 410 controls, as well as their first-degree relatives (2543 of patients and 1497 of controls). For the G×P analysis, we stratified the patients into HLA-DQβ1 insertion carriers and noncarriers.

Results

Our data show that patients are more often affected by viral infections before achalasia onset (P<0.0001, most significantly for varicella zoster virus infections). In addition, allergic (P=0.0005) and autoimmune disorders (P=0.0007, most significantly for psoriasis and Sjögren’s syndrome) represent comorbid disease conditions. First-degree relatives of patients also show higher prevalence rates of allergic disorders (P=0.0007) and psoriasis (P=0.016) compared with control relatives. Moreover, the G×P analysis reveals that achalasia is triggered by pregnancies in female HLA-DQβ1 insertion carriers (P=0.031).

Conclusion

Our data point to a role of viral infections in the development of achalasia. In addition, they provide evidence for a relationship between achalasia and allergic, as well as autoimmune, disorders. Furthermore, pregnancy seems to be a disease-triggering factor in female HLA-DQβ1 insertion carriers, which points to hormonal and/or immunosuppressive factors influencing disease development.
The Worst Thrush I Have Ever Seen
Authors: Douvoyiannis Miltiadis , Swank Colleen
Published: February 2016

A neonate developed oral lesions during treatment of thrush with gentian violet. The medication was applied by his mother according to the instructions on the bottle she bought over the counter. The literature is briefly reviewed and it is suggested that the availability of this solution without medical supervision should be reconsidered.
Acute Exertional Compartment Syndrome in Young Athletes
Authors: Livingston Kristin S. , Meehan William P. , Hresko M. Timothy , Matheney Travis H. , Shore Benjamin J.
Published: February 2016

Objectives

Acute exertional compartment syndrome (AECS) is a rare presentation of acute compartment syndrome (ACS) after exertion without injury. Unfamiliarity with this entity can lead to delay in diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to increase awareness of AECS and illustrate the morbidities associated with delayed diagnosis.

Methods

With institutional review board approval, we conducted a retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent emergent fasciotomies for AECS from 1997–2013 at our institution. Male patients with sports-related closed fractures of the tibia leading to ACS were identified for comparison. Demographic variables, patient-specific factors, treatment, and outcome characteristics were analyzed.

Results

Seven male patients (mean age, 17 years) presented to our institution with AECS from 1997–2013, and 9 patients with fracture-related ACS were selected for comparison. All cases of AECS occurred in the leg. In the AECS group, the mean time from symptom onset to diagnosis was 97 hours. Four patients initially had a missed diagnosis. On presentation, 6 of 7 patients experienced neurologic symptoms (motor or sensory deficit), although none had perfusion deficits. The mean compartment pressure was 91 mm Hg. They all underwent isolated anterior and lateral compartment releases (except for 1 patient who required a 4-compartment release) and required a mean of 4 surgeries. The mean follow-up was 270 days. Of the 4 patients with missed diagnoses, 2 had significant neurologic and functional deficits at final follow-up. The other 5 patients had a full recovery. Fracture-related ACS patients were younger, with quicker time from symptom onset to surgery, and required more compartments to be decompressed at surgery.

Conclusions

Despite the rarity of AECS, orthopedists as well as primary care, emergency medicine, and sports medicine physicians should maintain a high index of suspicion when examining a patient with leg pain out of proportion to examination after exertion. Delay in diagnosis of AECS is associated with substantial muscle necrosis and morbidity.
Positive Affect and Inflammatory Activity in Breast Cancer Survivors: Examining the Role of Affective Arousal
Authors: Moreno Patricia I. , Moskowitz Andrew L. , Ganz Patricia A. , Bower Julienne E.
Published: February 2016

Objective

Given the importance of positive affect and inflammation for well-being in cancer survivors, the current study examined the relationship between high- and low-arousal positive affect and inflammation in 186 women who completed treatment of early-stage breast cancer.

Methods

Measures of high- and low-arousal positive affect were completed within 3 months after treatment completion (baseline). Plasma markers of inflammation, including soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor type II (sTNF-RII), C-reactive protein (CRP), and interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, were assessed at baseline and 6- and 12-month follow-up assessments.

Results

Multilevel modeling analyses showed that high-arousal positive affect was associated with lower levels of sTNF-RII, a marker of TNF activity, at treatment completion and prospectively predicted maintenance of these differences through the 6- and 12-month follow-ups adjusting for biobehavioral confounds (b= −0.055,t(156) = −2.40,p= .018). However, this association was no longer significant when adjusting for fatigue. Exploratory analyses showed that low-arousal positive affect was associated with lower levels of CRP at treatment completion and through the 6- and 12-month follow-ups; this association remained significant after adjusting for fatigue and other confounds (b= −0.217,t(152) = −2.04,p= .043).

Conclusions

The relationship of high-arousal positive affect (e.g., “active”) with sTNF-RII seems to be driven by the overlap of high-arousal positive affect with fatigue, whereas the relationship of low-arousal positive affect (e.g., “calm”) with CRP was independent of fatigue. Future research should consider affective arousal when examining the association of positive affect with inflammation as this facet of positive affect may have important implications for interpretation of results.
Type D Personality and Coronary Plaque Vulnerability in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease: An Optical Coherence Tomography Study
Authors: Wang Yini , Zhao Zhenjuan , Gao Xueqin , Li Ling , Liu Guojie , Chen Wei , Xing Lei , Yu Bo , Lin Ping
Published: February 2016

Objective

To investigate the association between Type D personality and higher incidence of major adverse cardiac events, we used in vivo optical coherence tomography (OCT) to evaluate the association between Type D with coronary plaque characteristics.

Methods

A total of 109 patients who had culprit coronary plaque (s) were included in the study. The Type D construct was analyzed using both the categorized and the continuous approaches. Plaque vulnerability of culprit lesions was measured by OCT.

Results

After adjusting for demographic and clinical factors, multivariate analysis demonstrated that Type D was associated with lipid plaque (odds ratio [OR] = 4.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.41–11.14, p = .025), thin cap fibroatheroma (OR = 3.84, 95% CI = 1.36–10.85, p = .011), and fibrous cap thickness (β = −1.43, standard error = 0.04, p = .001) analyzed by categorical approach. When analyzing Type D as continuous variable, the negative affectivity component was significantly related to plaque vulnerability, including lipid plaque (OR = 3.43, 95% CI = 1.23–9.52, p = .018), thin cap fibroatheroma (OR = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.10–4.40, p = .026), and fibrous cap thickness (β = −0.05, standard error = 0.02, p = .030), whereas no associations between the negative affectivity by social inhibition interaction term with OCT indices were found.

Conclusions

The results suggest that plaque characteristics in Type D have more features of plaque vulnerability. The negative affectivity component seems to drive the associations between Type D and vulnerable plaques. These findings provide new insights into the mechanism involved in the association between Type D and major adverse cardiac event.
The Role of Disadvantaged Neighborhood Environments in the Association of John Henryism With Hypertension and Obesity
Authors: Booth Jaime M. , Jonassaint Charles R.
Published: February 2016

Objective

The John Henryism hypothesis proposes that high-effort, active coping in impoverished, low-resource environments is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, but a lower risk of disease in a high-resource environment. To test this hypothesis, we examined the association of John Henryism Active Coping (JHAC) with objectively measured neighborhood disadvantages and the relationship to hypertension (including systolic [SBP] and diastolic [DBP] blood pressure) and elevated body mass index (BMI).

Methods

The study included 3105 participants— 39.93% non-Hispanic blacks, 31.66% non-Hispanic whites, and 25.83% Hispanic and 2.58% non-Hispanic other. All participants aged 18 to 92 years were surveyed and underwent a baseline clinical examination as part of the Chicago Community Adult Health Study, from 2001 to 2003. Coping was measured using four items from the JHAC scale, and neighborhood disadvantage was assessed using rater assessments and the US Census data.

Results

In multilevel regression models clustered by neighborhood, neither JHAC nor neighborhood disadvantage was significantly associated with hypertension (SBP and DBP) or BMI. However, significant interaction effects of neighborhood disadvantage and JHAC on hypertension (odds ratio [standard error {SE}] = 0.66 [0.11], p = .018), SBP (B [SE] = −2.63 [1.33], p = .048), DBP (B [SE] = −2.08 [0.87], p = .017), and BMI (B [SE] = −1.86 [0.46], p < .001) were found, such that JHAC was related to increases in disadvantaged neighborhoods and decreases in advantaged neighborhoods.

Conclusions

In a large study that modeled objective measures of neighborhood disadvantage, JHAC was associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease among individuals living in highly disadvantaged neighborhoods which lack resources and opportunities for upward social mobility. This is consistent with the John Henryism hypothesis.
Population scale mapping of transposable element diversity reveals links to gene regulation and epigenomic variation
Authors: Stuart Tim , Eichten Steven R. , Cahn Jonathan , Karpievitch Yuliya , Borevitz Justin , Lister Ryan
Published: February 2016

Variation in the presence or absence of transposable elements (TEs) is a major source of genetic variation between individuals. Here, we identified 23,095 TE presence/absence variants between 216 Arabidopsis accessions. Most TE variants were rare, and we find a burden of rare variants associated with local extremes of gene expression and DNA methylation levels within the population. Of the common alleles identified, two thirds were not in linkage disequilibrium with nearby SNPs, implicating these variants as a source of novel genetic diversity. Nearly 200 common TE variants were associated with significantly altered expression of nearby genes, and a major fraction of inter-accession DNA methylation differences were associated with nearby TE insertions. Overall, this demonstrates that TE variants are a rich source of genetic diversity that likely plays an important role in facilitating epigenomic and transcriptional differences between individuals, and indicates a strong genetic basis for epigenetic variation.
Social selection maintains honesty of a dynamic visual signal in cichlid fish
Authors: Bachmann Judith C. , Cortesi Fabio , Hall Matthew D. , Marshall N. Justin , Salzburger Walter , Gante Hugo F.
Published: February 2016

How honest signals evolve is a question that has been hotly debated by animal communication theoreticians and for which empirical evidence has been difficult to obtain. Theory predicts that, due to strong conflicts of interest, communication in aggressive contexts should be under strong selection for clear and reliable signaling. On the other hand, context-dependent signaling increases cheating opportunities, depending on how senders and receivers use, acquire and process signal information. Using animal signaling theory, theoretical visual models and behavioral experimentation, we characterize and determine proximate honesty mechanisms of the facial coloration in the Princess of Burundi cichlid, Neolamprologus brichardi, a species with complex social interactions. We show that this facial color pattern evolved stable chromatic conspicuousness for efficient transmission in the aquatic environment, while context-dependent plasticity in luminance of the horizontal black stripe element is used to signal switches in aggressive intent. Importantly, using experimental signal manipulation we demonstrate that social selection by receiver retaliation is the mechanism responsible for maintaining signal honesty. We suggest that by affecting the evolution of pigmentation patterns in sexually monochromatic cichlid species, social selection can have potential impacts on diversification dynamics.
RNAi in Plants: An Argonaute-Centered View
Authors: Fang Xiaofeng , Qi Yijun
Published: February 2016

Argonaute (AGO) family proteins are effectors of RNAi in eukaryotes. AGOs bind small RNAs and use them as guides to silence target genes or transposable elements at the transcriptional or posttranscriptional level. Eukaryotic AGO proteins share common structural and biochemical properties and function through conserved core mechanisms in RNAi pathways, yet plant AGOs have evolved specialized and diversified functions. This Review covers the general features of AGO proteins and highlights recent progress toward our understanding of the mechanisms and functions of plant AGOs.
Non-negative matrix factorization for the near real-time interpretation of absorption effects in elemental distribution images acquired by X-ray fluorescence imaging
Authors: Alfeld Matthias , Wahabzada Mirwaes , Bauckhage Christian , Kersting Kristian , Wellenreuther Gerd , Barriobero-Vila Pere , Requena Guillermo , Boesenberg Ulrike , Falkenberg Gerald
Published: February 2016

Elemental distribution images acquired by imaging X-ray fluorescence analysis can contain high degrees of redundancy and weakly discernible correlations. In this article near real-time non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) is described for the analysis of a number of data sets acquired from samples of a bi-modal α+β Ti-6Al-6V-2Sn alloy. NMF was used for the first time to reveal absorption artefacts in the elemental distribution images of the samples, where two phases of the alloy, namely α and β, were in superposition. The findings and interpretation of the NMF results were confirmed by Monte Carlo simulation of the layered alloy system. Furthermore, it is shown how the simultaneous factorization of several stacks of elemental distribution images provides uniform basis vectors and consequently simplifies the interpretation of the representation.
Protein crystallography beamline (PX-BL21) at Indus-2 synchrotron
Authors: Kumar Ashwani , Ghosh Biplab , Poswal H. K. , Pandey K. K. , Jagannath  , Hosur M. V. , Dwivedi Abhilash , Makde Ravindra D. , Sharma Surinder M.
Published: February 2016

The protein crystallography beamline (PX-BL21), installed at the 1.5 T bending-magnet port at the Indian synchrotron (Indus-2), is now available to users. The beamline can be used for X-ray diffraction measurements on a single crystal of macromolecules such as proteins, nucleic acids and their complexes. PX-BL21 has a working energy range of 5–20 keV for accessing the absorption edges of heavy elements commonly used for phasing. A double-crystal monochromator [Si(111) and Si(220)] and a pair of rhodium-coated X-ray mirrors are used for beam monochromatization and manipulation, respectively. This beamline is equipped with a single-axis goniometer, Rayonix MX225 CCD detector, fluorescence detector, cryogenic sample cooler and automated sample changer. Additional user facilities include a workstation for on-site data processing and a biochemistry laboratory for sample preparation. In this article the beamline, other facilities and some recent scientific results are briefly described.
Visualization of microvasculature and thrombi by X-ray phase-contrast computed tomography in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Jian Jianbo , Yang Hao , Zhao Xinyan , Xuan Ruijiao , Zhang Yujie , Li Dongyue , Hu Chunhong
Published: February 2016

Visualization of the microvascular network and thrombi in the microvasculature is a key step to evaluating the development of tumor growth and metastasis, and influences treatment selection. X-ray phase-contrast computed tomography (PCCT) is a new imaging technique that can detect minute changes of density and reveal soft tissues discrimination at micrometer-scale resolution. In this study, six human resected hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues were investigated with PCCT. A histological stain was added to estimate the accuracy of PCCT. The results showed that the fine structures of the microvasculature (measuring 30–100 µm) and thrombi in tiny blood vessels were displayed clearly on imaging the HCC tissues by PCCT. Moreover, density distributions of the thrombi were obtained, which could be reliably used to distinguish malignant from benign thrombi in HCC. In conclusion, PCCT can clearly show the three-dimensional subtle structures of HCC that cannot be detected by conventional absorption-based computed tomography and provides a new method for the imageology of HCC.
Conformational studies on heteroleptic trifluoromethyl-substituted phenylboranes
Authors: Samigullin Kamil , Soltani Yashar , Lerner Hans-Wolfram , Wagner Matthias , Bolte Michael
Published: February 2016

Organoboranes carrying electron-withdrawing substituents are commonly used as Lewis acidic catalysts or cocatalysts in a variety of organic processes. These Lewis acids also became popular through their application in `frustrated Lewis pairs',i.e.combinations of Lewis acids and bases that are unable to fully neutralize each other due to steric or electronic effects. We have determined the crystal and molecular structures of four heteroleptic arylboranes carrying 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl, 2,6-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl, 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl or mesityl substituents. [3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]bis[2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]borane, C22H11BF12, (I), crystallizes with two molecules in the asymmetric unit which show very similar geometric parameters. In one of the two molecules, both trifluoromethyl groups of the 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl substituent are disordered over two positions. In [3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]bis[2,6-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]borane, C24H9BF18, (II), only one of the twometa-trifluoromethyl groups is disordered. In [2,6-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]bis[3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]borane, C24H9BF18, (III), bothmeta-trifluoromethyl groups of only one 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl ring are disordered. [3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]dimesitylborane, C26H25BF6, (IV), carries only onemeta-trifluoromethyl-substituted phenyl ring, with one of the two trifluoromethyl groups disordered over two positions. In addition to compounds (I)–(IV), the structure of bis[2,6-bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]fluoroborane, C16H6BF13, (V), is presented. None of theortho-trifluoromethyl groups is disordered in any of the five compounds. In all the structures, the boron centre is in a trigonal planar coordination. Nevertheless, the bond angles around this atom vary according to the bulkiness and mutual repulsion of the substituents of the phenyl rings. Also, theortho-trifluoromethyl-substituted phenyl rings usually show longer B—C bonds and tend to be tilted out of the BC3plane by a higher degree than the phenyl rings carryingorthoH atoms. A comparison with related structures corroborates the conclusions regarding the geometric parameters of the boron centre drawn from the five structures in this paper. On the other hand, CF3groups inmetapositions do not seem to have a marked effect on the geometry involving the boron centre. Furthermore, it has been observed for the structures reported here and those reported previously that for CF3groups inorthopositions of the aromatic ring, disorder of the F atoms is less probable than for CF3groups inmetaorparapositions of the ring.
Hydrogenversusfluorine: effects on molecular structure and intermolecular interactions in a platinum isocyanate complex
Authors: Raven William , Joschko Thomas , Kalf Irmgard , Englert Ulli
Published: February 2016

At the molecular level, the enantiomerically pure square-planar organoplatinum complex (SP-4-4)-(R)-[2-(1-aminoethyl)-5-fluorophenyl-κ2C1,N][(R)-1-(4-fluorophenyl)ethylamine-κN](isocyanato-κN)platinum(II), [Pt(C8H9FN)(NCO)(C8H10FN)], and its congener without fluorine substituents on the aryl rings adopt the same structure within error. The similarities between the compounds extend to the most relevant intermolecular interactions,i.e.N—H...O and N—H...N hydrogen bonds link neighbouring molecules into chains along the shortest lattice parameter in each structure. Differences between the crystal structures of the fluoro-substituted and parent complex become obvious with respect to secondary interactions perpendicular to the classical hydrogen bonds; the fluorinated compound features short C—H...F contacts with an F...H distance ofca2.6 Å. The fluorine substitution is also reflected in reduced backbonding from the metal cation to the isocyanate ligand.
Crystal structure ofN-[(methylsulfanyl)carbonyl]urea
Authors: Diop Mouhamadou Birame , Diop Libasse , Oliver Allen G.
Published: February 2016

The almost planar (r.m.s. deviation = 0.055 Å) title compound, (MeS)C(O)NHC(O)NH2, was formed during an attempted crystallization of dimethyl cyanocarbonimidodithioate with CrO2Cl2; an unexpected redox reaction converted the cyanocarbonimido moiety to a urea group and removed one methylthiol group. In the crystal, hydrogen-bonding interactions from the amide and amido N—H groups to carbonyl O atoms of neighbouring molecules result in [010] ribbon-like chains.
Social media and performance measurement systems: towards a new model?
Authors: Sidorova Yulia , Arnaboldi Michela , Radaelli Jacopo
Published: February 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to analyse how social media (SM) influence performance measurement systems (PMS), examining changes in measurement methods, performance indicators and their application.

Design/methodology/approach

– The framework of the research was constructed to cover the technical component of PMS (measurement methods and indicators) and the use of the information obtained from SM. Empirically, the study is based on a set of case studies in eight companies.

Findings

– The study findings offer a theoretical and empirical framework to evaluate PMS in the era of SM. It provides a classification of SM metrics, key performance indicators correlated to their use within different departments belonging to eight companies, highlighting the benefits and threats of SM information for PMS.

Research limitations/implications

– The limitation of this study is the diversity of industries included into the multiple-case study. The authors choose cases with the aim of providing a broader view on the impact of SM on PMS. However, the results show the dependency of use and type of measurement on certain industries, requiring future research focused on specific sectors or PMS aspects.

Practical implications

– The paper provides a map of SM information measurement methods and use, which allows companies to position themselves and examine PMS evolution.

Originality/value

– The results of the paper propose a holistic model, employing SM as a new variable in PMS.
The extent and effectiveness of knowledge management in Australian community service organisations
Authors: Downes Trevor , Marchant Teresa
Published: February 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to evaluate the extent and effectiveness of knowledge management (KM) in community service organisations (CSOs) in Australia. CSOs are focussed on support, care and encouragement, thereby improving the quality of life of many in the community. This study contributes to a wider acceptance and management of knowledge, from a national perspective, and assists CSOs to improve practice.

Design/methodology/approach

– KM theory and practice is expanded through a national online survey from 89 Australian CSOs, represented by 538 employees. CSOs, as a subset of not-for-profit organisations, were selected because they contribute significantly to the economy. Existing research generally relies on case studies, offering scope for wider quantitative research to address the gap.

Findings

– The extent and effectiveness of KM were moderate. KM was more extensive in CSOs with a formal KM policy. Face-to-face exchange of knowledge was the major transfer method. Recognition or other incentives are needed to encourage learning and disseminating new ideas.

Research limitations/implications

– Other CSOs and other countries could be included, along with very small CSOs.

Practical implications

– Shortfalls in practice were discovered. Recommendations should improve client service by enhancing the appropriateness, consistency, quality and timely delivery of assistance. This will aid CSO sustainability by maximising limited resources. The challenge is to harness informal learning for organisation-wide learning and for hard outcomes, such as reducing costs and competing for government funding.

Originality/value

– A synthesised large-scale survey integrates more elements of KM practice. Existing KM ideas are combined in new ways, applied in a fresh context, indicating elements of KM that are more significant in not-for-profit CSOs.