bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deletion of a dehydratase important for intracellular growth and cording renders rough
Mycobacterium abscessus
avirulent
Authors: Halloum Iman , Carrère-Kremer Séverine , Blaise Mickael , Viljoen Albertus , Bernut Audrey , Le Moigne Vincent , Vilchèze Catherine , Guérardel Yann , Lutfalla Georges , Herrmann Jean-Louis , Jacobs William R. , Kremer Laurent
Published: July 2016

Significance

Mycobacterium abscessus
is currently the most frequently isolated rapid-growing mycobacterium in human pathology and is responsible for devastating pulmonary infections in cystic fibrosis patients. It commutes from a nonvirulent smooth to a virulent rough morphotype. The latter produces characteristic serpentine cords that often associate with severe infections, but the molecular basis and contribution of cording in the physiopathology of the infection remain obscure. Herein, we characterized a dehydratase and found it to be required for cording. We demonstrate that the absence of this dehydratase correlates with an extremely attenuated phenotype in immunocompetent and immunocompromised zebrafish. Therefore, targeting the dehydratase may open the way to antivirulence strategies to control
M. abscessus
, notorious for being one of the most drug-resistant mycobacterial species.
Structure and function of the yeast listerin (Ltn1) conserved N-terminal domain in binding to stalled 60S ribosomal subunits
Authors: Doamekpor Selom K. , Lee Joong-Won , Hepowit Nathaniel L. , Wu Cheng , Charenton Clement , Leonard Marilyn , Bengtson Mario H. , Rajashankar Kanagalaghatta R. , Sachs Matthew S. , Lima Christopher D. , Joazeiro Claudio A. P.
Published: July 2016

Significance

The listerin (Ltn1) E3 ubiquitin ligase ubiquitylates and promotes degradation of aberrant nascent chains that become stalled on ribosomal 60S subunits. Ltn1-dependent nascent chain ubiquitylation was reconstituted in vitro using extracts of genetically manipulated
Neurospora
strains. Such extracts, supplemented or not with recombinant factors (such as Ltn1 from
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
), represent a new system to study ribosome-associated protein quality control. Utilizing this system, we show that mutations in Ltn1’s conserved N-terminal domain result in defective 60S binding and nascent chain ubiquitylation, without affecting Ltn1’s intrinsic E3 activity. Furthermore, we have solved the crystal structure of Ltn1’s N-terminal domain, which provides detailed information and insights into how Ltn1 interacts with stalled 60S subunits. Our observations shed light on how cells handle protein quality control substrates.
Numerous proteins with unique characteristics are degraded by the 26S proteasome following monoubiquitination
Authors: Braten Ori , Livneh Ido , Ziv Tamar , Admon Arie , Kehat Izhak , Caspi Lilac H. , Gonen Hedva , Bercovich Beatrice , Godzik Adam , Jahandideh Samad , Jaroszewski Lukasz , Sommer Thomas , Kwon Yong Tae , Guharoy Mainak , Tompa Peter , Ciechanover Aaron
Published: July 2016

Significance

A substrate-conjugated polyubiquitin chain is accepted as the “canonical” proteasomal degradation signal. Using a cellular (human and yeast) proteomic screen in the exclusive presence of nonpolymerizable ubiquitin, we show that a large group of proteins is degraded by the proteasome following monoubiquitination. The screen also unraveled polyubiquitin-dependent substrates, as they are stabilized in the presence of this ubiquitin mutant. Notably, monoubiquitination- and polyubiquitination-dependent substrates display distinct important characteristics. Monoubiquitinated proteins are of lower molecular mass and of lesser structural disorder. The two groups can be assigned to defined cellular pathways. Furthermore, some of the characteristics are confined to either human or yeast cells, suggesting that the mechanism of action/recognition of the ubiquitin system in the two organisms are different somehow.
Graphene patterning by nanosecond laser ablation: the effect of the substrate interaction with graphene
Authors: Pérez-Mas Ana M , Álvarez Patricia , Campos Nuria , Gómez David , Menéndez Rosa
Published: July 2016

This paper focuses on the development of patterned graphene/substrate by means of green nanosecond pulse laser irradiation. Monolayer graphene samples supported on a Si/SiO2 substrate were patterned using 532 nm laser irradiation under fluence conditions ranging from 31 mJ cm−2 to 4240 mJ cm−2. Raman spectroscopy was used to investigate the effect of laser irradiation on the graphene. It was found that at 356 mJ cm−2 selective ablation of the graphene occurs. However, at fluence values above 1030 mJ cm−2 (when damage to the substrate is observed) no ablation of the graphene takes place. In contrast, its graphenic structure was found to have been modified. Only at fluence values where the ablation of the substrate occurs, is graphene eliminated in an area almost equivalent to that of the ablated substrate. In this case, additional damage to the graphene sheet edges is produced. The increment in the number of oxygenated functional groups in these regions, as measured by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), suggests that this damage is probably caused by thermal phenomena during the ablation of the substrate.
Protein kinase A can block EphA2 receptor–mediated cell repulsion by increasing EphA2 S897 phosphorylation
Authors: Barquilla Antonio , Lamberto Ilaria , Noberini Roberta , Heynen-Genel Susanne , Brill Laurence M. , Pasquale Elena B.
Published: July 2016

The EphA2 receptor tyrosine kinase plays key roles in tissue homeostasis and disease processes such as cancer, pathological angiogenesis, and inflammation through two distinct signaling mechanisms. EphA2 “canonical” signaling involves ephrin-A ligand binding, tyrosine autophosphorylation, and kinase activity; EphA2 “noncanonical” signaling involves phosphorylation of serine 897 (S897) by AKT and RSK kinases. To identify small molecules counteracting EphA2 canonical signaling, we developed a high-content screening platform measuring inhibition of ephrin-A1–induced PC3 prostate cancer cell retraction. Surprisingly, most hits from a screened collection of pharmacologically active compounds are agents that elevate intracellular cAMP by activating G protein–coupled receptors such as the β2-adrenoceptor. We found that cAMP promotes phosphorylation of S897 by protein kinase A (PKA) as well as increases the phosphorylation of several nearby serine/threonine residues, which constitute a phosphorylation hotspot. Whereas EphA2 canonical and noncanonical signaling have been viewed as mutually exclusive, we show that S897 phosphorylation by PKA can coexist with EphA2 tyrosine phosphorylation and block cell retraction induced by EphA2 kinase activity. Our findings reveal a novel paradigm in EphA2 function involving the interplay of canonical and noncanonical signaling and highlight the ability of the β2-adrenoceptor/cAMP/PKA axis to rewire EphA2 signaling in a subset of cancer cells.
Extensor Digitorum Brevis Flap for the Coverage of Ankle and Dorsal Foot Wounds: A Technical Trick
Authors: Houdek Matthew T. , Wagner Eric R. , Pensy Raymond A. , Eglseder Walter A.
Published: July 2016

Soft tissue wounds overlying the dorsum of the foot and ankle are difficult to treat, and historically have been treated with free tissue transfer. Advances in surgical technique have expanded the use of pedicle perforator flaps to avoid free tissue transfer in certain situations. The authors describe a technique for using an extensor digitorum brevis flap to provide soft tissue coverage for wounds of the ankle and foot. In the senior authors’ experience, the use of this flap has achieved wound coverage in 100% of patients with smaller wounds (≤45 cm2) of the ankle.
Direct Measurement of Tissue Oxygenation as a Method of Diagnosis of Acute Compartment Syndrome
Authors: Weick Jack W. , Kang Heejae , Lee Lawrence , Kuether Justin , Liu Xuhui , Hansen Erik N. , Kandemir Utku , Rollins Mark D. , Mok James M.
Published: July 2016

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate the utility of direct measurement of tissue oxygenation during compartment syndrome (CS) and tourniquet-induced ischemia in a large animal model. We hypothesize that as compartment pressure (CP) rises, circulation within the compartment will decrease resulting in a decreased level of oxygen in the muscle.

Methods:

This study used a dog model of both CS- and tourniquet-based ischemia. In 15 animals, CS was induced in 1 hind limb with varying degrees of severity using an infusion model. Tourniquet ischemia was induced in the contralateral hind limb for varying durations. The partial pressure of oxygen (PmO2) was continuously monitored using a polarographic oxygen probe in the muscle of both hind limbs. CP was monitored in the CS limb. PmO2 and CP were analyzed after fasciotomy, performed after approximately 7 hours of warm ischemia, or release of tourniquet.

Results:

With the application of tourniquet ischemia, PmO2 fell from 38.40 to 1.30 mm Hg (P < 0.001) and subsequently rose after release of the tourniquet to 39.81 mm Hg (P < 0.001). Elevated CP induced by infusion was relieved by fasciotomy (52.04–11.37 mm Hg postfasciotomy, P < 0.001). PmO2 readings in the infusion model were significantly higher in pre-CS than during CS (31.77 mm Hg vs. 3.88 mm Hg, P < 0.001) and rebounded after fasciotomy (50.24 mm Hg, P < 0.001), consistent with hyperemic response.

Conclusions:

Increased CP caused an observable decrease in PmO2 that was reversed by fasciotomy. PmO2 can be directly measured in real time with a polarographic tissue pO2 probe. This study is the first step of evaluating an alternative method for diagnosing acute CS.
Tubercular dactylitis in children
Authors: Saibaba Balaji , Raj Gopinathan Nirmal , Santhanam Siva S. , Meena Umesh K.
Published: July 2016

Tubercular dactylitis is a rare manifestation of skeletal tuberculosis in the paediatric population. Its clinical diagnosis is often delayed as local symptoms may easily be missed in children and constitutional features such as loss of weight, loss of appetite, night sweats, evening rise of temperature and history of close contact with a patient of tuberculosis may not always be present. Parents seek treatment only when they notice significant swelling or tenderness of fingers or hand in their children. Radiology and fine-needle aspiration cytology may help in establishing an early diagnosis. Astute multidrug antitubercular therapy is curative.
Moving Toward a Virtual Knowledge Platform for Faith Community Nurses
Authors: Ziebarth Deborah , Hunter Carson
Published: July 2016

In preparation for the development of a virtual knowledge platform for faith community nurses, a review of literature explored the prevalence and context of electronic knowledge management initiatives. The review revealed that healthcare, business, and global virtual knowledge platforms have been developed to elicit certain behaviors in users. For those who develop virtual knowledge platforms, the results are improved efficiency, innovation, accessibility, and cost savings. The main component of virtual knowledge platforms is a central repository or an infrastructure where knowledge is created, acquired, stored (documents), updated, and shared internally and externally. The refinery processes refer to technology mechanisms that make content accessible. A transparent collaboration among information technology, knowledge owners, and users is needed to successfully sustain a virtual knowledge platform. Faith community nurses often practice in isolated environments. A virtual knowledge platform where practice resources and tools are shared, and communication among peers exists, may improve knowledge and skills and result in a positive impact on patient outcomes.
Clinical predictors of Crohn’s disease course
Authors: Veloso Fernando T.
Published: July 2016

A modern approach to Crohn’s disease (CD) should be influenced by the patient’s underlying prognosis. Here, I analyse the clinical factors predicting CD course on the basis of information obtained at diagnosis and in the year following diagnosis. Perianal disease at diagnosis appears to be a strong predictor of unfavourable outcome and has been associated with a more frequent use of immunosuppressive treatment. Early age at diagnosis, ileocolonic disease and extraintestinal manifestations are characteristics of patients at risk for more complicated disease. Otherwise, patients subjected to surgery at diagnosis or during the first year of follow-up appear to have a relatively benign outcome. Disease activity in the year after diagnosis appears to be a good predictor of future disease activity as about two-third of the patients who remain in remission tend to remain unchanged thereafter, whereas those patients treated with steroids have, manifestly, an unfavourable subsequent clinical course. Moreover, there is consistent evidence that active smoking is associated with a complicated disease course. The results of the studies reviewed suggest that the combination of ‘phenotype at diagnosis’ and ‘comportment follow-up classification’ in the year following diagnosis can be potentially useful prognostic factors in clinical practice. With the development of newer therapies in CD, there is a growing need to predict disease outcome, despite the difficult challenge in anticipating the future clinical course in a given patient.
Clinical and microbiological characteristics associated with mortality in spontaneous bacterial peritonitis: a multicenter cohort study
Authors: Oliveira Ana M. , Branco Joana C. , Barosa Rita , Rodrigues José A. , Ramos Lídia , Martins Alexandra , Karvellas Constantine J. , Cardoso Filipe S.
Published: July 2016

Objectives

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a prevalent and high mortality complication of cirrhosis. We aimed to describe these patients’ clinical and microbiological characteristics and evaluate their impact on outcomes.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study including 139 consecutive patients with positive culture SBP from three Portuguese centers diagnosed between 2009 and 2014. Multivariate logistic regression was used to study associations with 30-day mortality.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 62 years and 81% of patients were men. The mean model for end-stage liver disease score was 19. Hepatic encephalopathy, hepatorenal syndrome, and variceal bleeding developed in 47, 30, and 21% of patients, respectively. Gram-positive bacteria were isolated in the ascitic fluid of 42% of patients. Resistance to quinolones and multiresistance were found in 33 and 17% of patients, respectively. C-reactive protein level (adjusted odds ratio, 1.16 per 1 mg/l increment) and development of hepatorenal syndrome (adjusted odds ratio, 2.86) were associated independently with 30-day mortality (model’s area under the curve, 0.78).

Conclusion

In this cohort, SBP portended high early mortality. Gram-positive bacteria, bacteria resistant to quinolones, and multiresistant bacteria were identified in considerable proportions of patients. In the setting of the high early mortality and changing microbiological profile, SBP management strategies need to be improved.
Near Point of Convergence after Concussion in Children
Authors: Storey Eileen P. , Master Stephen R. , Lockyer Julia E. , Podolak Olivia E. , Grady Matthew F. , Master Christina L.
Published: July 2016

Purpose

To determine the incidence of abnormal near point of convergence (NPC) after acute concussion in pediatric patients and to describe the clinical course of such patients.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 275 pediatric patients 5 to 18 years of age presenting to a tertiary care children’s hospital subspecialty concussion program with a new concussion between July 1, 2014 and June 30, 2015 was conducted.

Results

Sixty-seven out of 275 pediatric patients presenting to a subspecialty concussion referral program were found to have abnormal NPC on physical examination as measured by an accommodative rule. Twenty-six (46%) patients recovered with standard clinical care over a median time frame of 4.5 weeks (range 1–18), including a brief period of cognitive and physical rest followed by gradual return to school and physical activities without any formal interventions. An additional 23 (41%) patients recovered a median of 11 weeks post-injury after referral for formal vestibular therapy, including interventions for abnormal convergence, such as Brock string and pencil pushups. Seven (13%) patients with persistent abnormal NPC and concomitant symptoms that necessitated referral for formal office-based vision therapy with developmental optometry recovered a median of 23 weeks post-injury and a median of 16 weeks after referral to vision therapy.

Conclusions

Assessment for NPC is a diagnostic entity that warrants consideration in children with concussion. Concussion questionnaires may not be sensitive to detect vision symptoms in children, making an accurate assessment for convergence important in the evaluation of concussion. Some children with abnormal NPC will recover without any formal intervention after concussion; however, a subset of patients with persistent abnormal NPC after concussion may benefit from interventions including vestibular and/or vision therapy.
Pathology of the Superior Colliculus in Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Armstrong Richard A. , McKee Ann C. , Cairns Nigel J.
Published: July 2016

Purpose

To investigate neuropathological changes in the superior colliculus in chronic traumatic encephalopathy.

Methods

The densities of the tau-immunoreactive neurofibrillary tangles, neuropil threads, dot-like grains, astrocytic tangles, and neuritic plaques, together with abnormally enlarged neurons, typical neurons, vacuolation, and frequency of contacts with blood vessels, were studied across the superior colliculus from pia mater to the periaqueductal gray in eight chronic traumatic encephalopathy and six control cases.

Results

Tau-immunoreactive pathology was absent in the superior colliculus of controls but present in varying degrees in all chronic traumatic encephalopathy cases, significant densities of tau-immunoreactive neurofibrillary tangles, NT, or dot-like grains being present in three cases. No significant differences in overall density of the tau-immunoreactive neurofibrillary tangles, neuropil threads, dot-like grains, enlarged neurons, vacuoles, or contacts with blood vessels were observed in control and chronic traumatic encephalopathy cases, but chronic traumatic encephalopathy cases had significantly lower mean densities of neurons. The distribution of surviving neurons across the superior colliculus suggested greater neuronal loss in intermediate and lower laminae in chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Changes in density of the tau-immunoreactive pathology across the laminae were variable, but in six chronic traumatic encephalopathy cases, densities of tau-immunoreactive neurofibrillary tangles, neuropil threads, or dot-like grains were significantly greater in intermediate and lower laminae. Pathological changes were not correlated with the distribution of blood vessels.

Conclusions

The data suggest significant pathology affecting the superior colliculus in a proportion of chronic traumatic encephalopathy cases with a laminar distribution which could compromise motor function rather than sensory analysis.
Religion and HIV Sexual Risk Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China
Authors: Pan Stephen W. , Zhang Zheng , Li Dongliang , Carpiano Richard M. , Schechter Martin T. , Ruan Yuhua , Spittal Patricia M.
Published: July 2016

Background:

Religion can profoundly impact the sociocultural contexts that shape sexual HIV vulnerability among men who have sex with men (MSM). However, the relationship between religion and HIV vulnerability remains poorly understood for MSM in China, where religious affiliations and practices are rapidly increasing.

Methods:

Using cross-sectional survey data collected in Beijing and Tianjin, China, from 2013 to 2014 (n = 400), this study tests 3 hypotheses regarding religion and HIV sexual risk: (1) HIV vulnerabilities and testing patterns among religiously affiliated MSM are lower than for areligious MSM, (2) religiosity is inversely associated with HIV vulnerabilities and testing, and (3) the magnitude of inverse association between religiosity and HIV vulnerabilities/testing will be stronger among Christian and Muslim MSM than Buddhist and areligious MSM.

Results:

Compared with areligious participants, Buddhists had higher odds of reporting unprotected anal intercourse [adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 2.06, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.13 to 3.75] and more male sex partners (AOR: 1.95, 1.16–3.27), whereas Muslims had lower odds of reporting unprotected anal intercourse (AOR: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.15 to 0.73) and higher odds of reporting male circumcision (AOR: 3.04, 95% CI: 1.45 to 6.40). Reporting of forced sex was associated with more frequent participation in social religious activities (AOR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.52) and private religious activities (AOR: 1.30, 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.61). Among Christians, participation in private religious activities was associated with lower odds of reporting anal intercourse (AOR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.27 to 0.88).

Conclusions:

The sustained growth of multiple religious traditions in China appears to have important implications for HIV vulnerability among religious minority MSM.
Integrating clinical and genetic observations in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy
Authors: Mul Karlien , van den Boogaard Marlinde L. , van der Maarel Silvère M. , van Engelen Baziel G.M.
Published: July 2016

Purpose of review

This review gives an overview of the currently known key clinical and (epi)genetic aspects of facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) and provides perspectives to facilitate future research.

Recent findings

Clinically, imaging studies have contributed to a detailed characterization of the FSHD phenotype, and a model is proposed with five stages of disease progression. A number of clinical trials have been conducted regarding exercise and diet aiming to reduce symptoms. Genetically, at least two different mechanisms (FSHD1 and FSHD2) lead to double homeobox 4 (DUX4) expression in skeletal myocytes, which is expected to be necessary for the disease. Disease severity is most likely determined by a combination of the D4Z4 repeat size and its epigenetic state.

FSHD is one of the most common muscular dystrophies and is characterized by a typical distribution of muscle weakness. Progress has been made on clinical as well as on (epi)genetic aspects of the disease. Currently, there is no cure available for FSHD. For successful development of new treatments targeting the disease process, integration of clinical and pathogenetic knowledge is essential. A clinical trial toolbox that consists of patient registries, biomarkers and clinical outcome measures will be required to effectively conduct future clinical trials.
The clinically approved antiviral drug sofosbuvir impairs brazilian zika virus replication
Authors: Sacramento Caroline Q. , de Melo Gabrielle R. , Rocha Natasha , Bôas Hoelz Lucas Villas , Mesquita Milene , de Freitas Caroline S. , Fintelman Rodrigues Natalia , Marttorelli Andressa , Ferreiral André C. , Barbosa-Lima Giselle , Bastos Mônica M. , de Mello Volotão Eduardo , Tschoeke Diogo A. , Leomil Luciana , Bozza Fernando A. , Bozza Patrícia T. , Boechat Nubia , Thompson Fabiano L. , de Filippis Ana M. B. , Brüning Karin , Souza Thiago Moreno L.
Published: July 2016

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a member ofFlaviviridaefamily, as other agents of clinical significance, such as dengue (DENV) and hepatitis C (HCV) viruses. ZIKV spread from Africa to Pacific and South American territories, emerging as an etiological pathogen of neurological disorders, during fetal development and in adulthood. Therefore, antiviral drugs able to inhibit ZIKV replication are necessary. Broad spectrum antivirals, such as interferon, ribavirin and favipiravir, are harmful for pregnant animal models and women. The clinically approved uridine nucleotide analog anti-HCV drug, sofosbuvir, has not been affiliated to teratogenicity. Sofosbuvir target the most conserved protein over the members of theFlaviviridaefamily, the viral RNA polymerase. We thus studied ZIKV susceptibility to sofosbovir. We initially characterized a Brazilian ZIKV strain for use in experimental assays. Sofosbuvir inhibits the Brazilian ZIKV replication in a dose-dependent manner, both in BHK-21 cells and SH-Sy5y, by targeting ZIKV RNA polymerase activity, with the involvement of conserved amino acid residues over the members ofFlaviviridaefamily. The identification of clinically approved antiviral drugs endowed with anti-ZIKV could reduce the time frame in pre-clinical development. Altogether, our data indicates that sofosbuvir chemical structure is endowed with anti-ZIKV activity.
An Empirical Analysis of Topic Modeling for Mining Cancer Clinical Notes
Authors: Redfield Chang Katherine , Lou Xinghua , Karaletsos Theofanis , Crosbie Christopher , Gardos Stuart , Artz David , Rätsch Gunnar
Published: July 2016

Using a variety of techniques including Topic Modeling, Principal Component Analysis and Bi-clustering, we explore electronic patient records in the form of unstructured clinical notes and genetic mutation test results. Our ultimate goal is to gain insight into a unique body of clinical data, specifically regarding the topics discussed within the note content and relationships between patient clinical notes and their underlying genetics.
An internal disulfide locks a misfolded aggregation-prone intermediate in cataract-linked mutants of human γD-crystallin
Authors: Serebryany Eugene , Woodard Jaie C. , Adkar Bharat V. , Shabab Mohammed , King Jonathan A. , Shakhnovich Eugene I.
Published: July 2016

Considerable mechanistic insight has been gained into amyloid aggregation; however, a large class of non-amyloid protein aggregates are considered “amorphous,” and in most cases little is known about their mechanisms. Amorphous aggregation of γ-crystallins in the eye lens causes a widespread disease of aging, cataract. We combined simulations and experiments to study the mechanism of aggregation of two γD-crystallin mutants, W42R and W42Q – the former a congenital cataract mutation, and the latter a mimic of age-related oxidative damage. We found that formation of an internal disulfide was necessary and sufficient for aggregation under physiological conditions. Two-chain all-atom simulations predicted that one non-native disulfide in particular, between Cys32 and Cys41, was likely to stabilize an unfolding intermediate prone to intermolecular interactions. Mass spectrometry and mutagenesis experiments confirmed the presence of this bond in the aggregates and its necessity for oxidative aggregation under physiological conditionsin vitro. Mining the simulation data linked formation of this disulfide to extrusion of the N-terminal β-hairpin and rearrangement of the native β-sheet topology. Specific binding between the extruded hairpin and a distal β-sheet, in an intermolecular chain reaction similar to domain swapping, is the most probable mechanism of aggregate propagation.
RbZnFe(PO4)2: synthesis and crystal structure
Authors: Badri Abdessalem , Ben Amara Mongi
Published: July 2016

A new iron phosphate, rubidium zinc iron(III) phosphate, RbZnFe(PO4)2, has been synthesized as single crystals by the flux method. This compound is isostructural to the previously reported KCoAl(PO4)2[Chenet al.(1997).Acta Cryst.C53,1754–1756]. Its structure consists of a three-dimensional framework built up from corner-sharing PO4and (Zn,Fe)O4tetrahedra. This mode of linkage forms channels parallel to the [100], [010] and [001] directions in which the Rb+ions are located.
2-(3-Benzoylthioureido)-3-phenylpropanoic acid
Authors: Chong Yan Yi , Mohamed Tahir Mohamed Ibrahim , Kassim Mohammad B.
Published: July 2016

In the title compound, C17H16N2O3S, the phenylpropanoic acid and the benzoyl moieties adopt acis–transconformation, respectively, with respect to the thiono S atom across the C—N bonds. An intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bond generates anS(6) ring. The crystal structure features carboxylic acid inversion dimers and pairwise N—H...S hydrogen bonds, which together generate [20-1] chains. Weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds are also observed.
Brand management in top-tier college athletics: examining and explaining mark-usage policies
Authors: Kellison Timothy B. , Bass Jordan R. , Oja Brent D. , James Jeffrey D.
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The practice of an interscholastic athletic department reproducing the logo of a collegiate team for its own use is becoming increasingly visible. In response to this growth, many collegiate licensing departments have begun actively enforcing zero-tolerance policies that prohibit third parties from using their respective colleges’ trademarks. Conversely, other institutions have exercised discretion by allowing high school programs to use their athletic departments’ logos only after receiving assurances from the high school that it will adhere to strict usage guidelines. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper provides a thorough discussion on the concept of brand dilution and its application to sport. More specifically the study gives an account of the strategies employed by trademark specialists to protect (and in some cases, enhance) the equity of their brands. To identify these strategies, a qualitative questionnaire was employed, which was completed by 13 brand managers representing institutions from the Atlantic Coast Conference, Big 12 Conference, Big Ten Conference, Mid-American Conference, Missouri Valley Conference, Pac-12 Conference, and the Southeastern Conference.

Findings

– Qualitative questionnaire responses from collegiate brand managers suggest that licensing departments differ in their perceptions of the outcomes associated with allowing logo replication in high school athletic departments.

Originality/value

– Perceived consequences of two enforcement strategies – prohibitive and cooperative – are highlighted, as are implications and directions for future research.
Online and mobile marketing strategies as drivers of brand love in sports teams
Authors: Baena Verónica
Published: July 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to analyze the role of online and mobile marketing as drivers of brand love.

Design/methodology/approach

– Data were collected through an online survey during early 2013. A total of 241 valid answered questionnaires were collected and the constructs were tested for unidimensionality by using principal components analysis.

Findings

– This work confirms that in spite of the fact that players are relevant assets and investments, sports managers need to concentrate their efforts on managing the team’s brand, as this is one of the company’s most important assets. Moreover, the present paper shows that developing an interactive website is not enough to get brand love. In particular, findings reveal that traditional websites are no longer motivating customers to return to the site. As a result, sports managers need to use interactive marketing mediums to connect with consumers in real time. In addition, by integrating different elements of social media such as blogs, YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter, professional teams elevate presence and create virtual communities, which influence the choice of brands and impact fan engagement.

Practical implications

– As the Real Madrid branded mobile application was not found to be a driver of brand love, marketers should consider this strategy with caution.

Originality/value

– This work could also be of help for sport managers considering mobile marketing as a way to interact with their followers.
Challenges in Italian wine routes: managing stakeholder networks
Authors: Bregoli Ilenia , Hingley Martin , Del Chiappa Giacomo , Sodano Valeria
Published: July 2016

Purpose

The aim of this article is to analyse how wine and tourism operators understand the concept of a wine route, to determine the impact that definition can have on the extent to which stakeholders working within distinct, but related sectors (namely wine production, tourism, food and hospitality) collaborate with each other and share knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

By adopting the theoretical lens of “boundary objects” (understood as tangible or intangible entities that allow the sharing of meaning to different groups and facilitate collaboration), this article uses a qualitative approach, based on semi-structured interviews of 20 informants working in three different wine routes in Italy. Analysis of data is carried out to highlight the similarities and differences between the wine and tourism (including identified associated service) industries.

Findings

Wine routes can be considered boundary objects that, if clearly defined by local stakeholders, can facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration. Problems in collaboration could be explained by an initial mis-definition by stakeholders of what a wine route and its remit are.

Research limitations/implications

As the theoretical lens of “boundary objects” was applied for the first time to wine routes and tourism, further research is necessary to validate its application.

Practical implications

It is suggested that managers of wine routes involve all stakeholders in discussions to achieve a common understanding on what a wine route is, and its role in the promotion of “place” (geographical context of the wine route). Only if this is done successfully, is it possible to achieve collaboration.

Originality/value

This article uses the concept of “boundary objects” (a concept traditionally applied to the study of innovation) to the analysis of wine routes and provides further theoretical and managerial insights concerning networking between wine and tourism sectors, taking a supply-side perspective.
High cover of hedgerows in the landscape supports multiple ecosystem services in Mediterranean cereal fields
Authors: Dainese Matteo , Montecchiari Silvia , Sitzia Tommaso , Sigura Maurizia , Marini Lorenzo
Published: July 2016

Field‐margin diversification through conservation and restoration of hedgerows is becoming a prominent intervention for promoting biodiversity and associated ecosystem services in intensive agricultural landscapes. However, how increasing cover of hedgerows in the landscape can affect ecosystem services has rarely been considered.

Here, we assessed the effect of increased field‐margin complexity at the local scale and increasing cover of hedgerows in the landscape on the provision of pest control, weed control and potential pollination. Locally, three types of field margin were compared as follows: (i) standard grass margin, (ii) simple hedgerow and (iii) complex hedgerow, along two independent gradients of hedgerow cover and arable land cover in the landscape. We performed an exclusion experiment to measure biological control of cereal aphids and assessed natural enemy and pest abundance in the field. We sampled plant weed communities and performed a phytometer experiment to test the effects of pollinators on plant reproductive success.

At the local scale, planting a new hedgerow or improving its structural complexity and vegetation diversity did not enhance the delivery of ecosystem services in the neighbouring field.

However, high cover of hedgerows in the landscape enhanced aphid parasitism (from 12 to 18%) and potential pollination (visitation rate and seed set increased up to 70%) irrespective of local margin quality. The cover of arable land in the landscape reduced the abundance of plant‐dwelling predators and weed diversity, but did not affect the delivery of the investigated ecosystem services.

Synthesis and applications. Our results highlight the key importance of the surrounding landscape context, rather than local factors, to the delivery of ecosystem services. This suggests a need for new policies that pay particular attention to the conservation of hedgerows at large scales for promoting multiple ecosystem services in agroecosystems. Specifically, hedgerows can serve to develop a network of ecological corridors that can facilitate the movement of beneficial organisms, such as pollinators and natural enemies in the agricultural matrix. Such interventions may be a ‘low cost–high benefit solution’, since farmers can create or conserve high‐quality habitats taking little or no land from crop production and without the need to change their crop management.
Extracellular DNases of Ralstonia solanacearum modulate biofilms and facilitate bacterial wilt virulence
Authors: Minh Tran Tuan , MacIntyre April , Khokhani Devanshi , Hawes Martha , Allen Caitilyn
Published: July 2016

Ralstonia solanacearum is a soil‐borne vascular pathogen that colonizes plant xylem vessels, a flowing, low‐nutrient habitat where biofilms could be adaptive. Ralstonia solanacearum forms biofilm in vitro, but it was not known if the pathogen benefits from biofilms during infection. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that during tomato infection, R. solanacearum forms biofilm‐like masses in xylem vessels. These aggregates contain bacteria embedded in a matrix including chromatin‐like fibres commonly observed in other bacterial biofilms. Chemical and enzymatic assays demonstrated that the bacterium releases extracellular DNA in culture and that DNA is an integral component of the biofilm matrix. An R. solanacearum mutant lacking the pathogen's two extracellular nucleases (exDNases) formed non‐spreading colonies and abnormally thick biofilms in vitro. The biofilms formed by the exDNase mutant in planta contained more and thicker fibres. This mutant was also reduced in virulence on tomato plants and did not spread in tomato stems as well as the wild‐type strain, suggesting that these exDNases facilitate biofilm maturation and bacterial dispersal. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration that R. solanacearum forms biofilms in plant xylem vessels, and the first documentation that plant pathogens use DNases to modulate their biofilm structure for systemic spread and virulence.
Learning to manage: development experiences of hospital frontline managers
Authors: Kellner Ashlea , Townsend Keith , Wilkinson Adrian , Lawrence Sandra A. , Greenfield David
Published: July 2016

In high performing human resource management (HRM) systems, much responsibility for managing employees and associated processes is typically devolved to frontline managers (FLMs). Research indicates that undeveloped FLM HRM ability can impact performance, particularly in health‐care organisations. We present the incidence and characteristics of HRM‐oriented learning and development programs for FLMs in hospitals with high performing systems of HRM, and experiences of FLMs directly participating in them. We combine data from 50 Australian hospital accreditation reports with interviews from eight ‘high performance HRM’ cases. We find: almost all high performers develop FLM HRM ability; development programs are extremely diverse between hospitals and succession planning is deficient. While primarily focused on understanding ability, the study contributes to the ability, motivation, opportunity framework, proposing a model and new interrelationships between these variables in the FLM context.
Docetaxel–Chitosan nanoparticles for breast cancer treatment: cell viability and gene expression study
Authors: Mirzaie Zahra H. , Irani Shiva , Mirfakhraie Reza , Atyabi Seyed Mohammad , Dinarvand Meshkat , Dinarvand Rassoul , Varshochian Reyhaneh , Atyabi Fatemeh
Published: July 2016

Docetaxel acts through the inhibition of tubulin polymerization and reduction in the expression of BCL‐2 gene. In this study, nanoparticles containing Docetaxel were prepared and their effects on the gene expression levels of BCL‐2 and BAX genes were investigated. The drug was first conjugated to chitosan, and the nanoparticles were assembled in the presence of hyaluronic acid. Conjugations were confirmed by 1H‐NMR, and the obtained nanoparticles were characterized by dynamic light scattering and SEM. Cytotoxicity of the nanoparticles, cellular uptake, and cell death were evaluated. Finally, the effect of nanoparticles on the expression of BAX and BCL‐2 genes in MCF‐7 cells were investigated through real‐time PCR. The results revealed that the prepared NPs had spherical shape with narrow size distribution of <200 nm with positive zeta potentials. In vitro cytotoxicity of Cs nanoparticles and free Docetaxel investigations revealed that increasing the treatment time with nanoparticles led to decrease in the rate of cell viability. BAX and BCL‐2 gene expressions were decreased in nanoparticle‐treated cells in comparison with intact cells, while the BAX/BCL‐2 ratio was significantly elevated compared with free drug‐treated cells after 72 h. Docetaxel‐conjugated NPs may offer a promising treatment with low off‐target toxicity for breast cancer.
Depressive symptoms in older adults awaiting cataract surgery
Authors: Palagyi Anna , Rogers Kris , Meuleners Lynn , McCluskey Peter , White Andrew , Ng Jonathon Q , Morlet Nigel , Keay Lisa
Published: July 2016

Background

To assess the prevalence and predictors of depressive symptoms in a cohort of older adults awaiting cataract surgery and establish threshold vision at which depressive symptoms may emerge.

Design

Analysis of cross‐sectional baseline data from a longitudinal cohort study of patients aged ≥65 years on Australian public hospital cataract surgery waiting lists.

Participants

We included 329 participants enrolled October 2013–August 2015.

Methods

Participants completed assessment of depressive symptoms, visual disability, quality of life, social participation and exercise frequency at least one month prior to cataract surgery. High and low contrast habitual vision was examined and systemic comorbidities noted.

Main Outcome Measure

Depressive symptoms prior to first eye cataract surgery.

Results

The prevalence of depressive symptoms was 28.6% (94/329). Univariate analysis identified that participants with poorer high contrast vision, reduced quality of life, greater patient‐reported visual disability, higher comorbidity score and who were taking more medications were more likely to exhibit signs of depression. Greater patient‐reported visual disability (P = 0.02), reduced quality of life (P = 0.003) and a higher comorbidity score (P = 0.02) remained significantly associated with depressive symptoms in the multivariable model. Depressive symptoms emerged at a visual acuity of 6/12.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate a high prevalence of depressive symptoms in older persons with cataract, emerging at modest levels of vision loss. Efficient referral processes, timely surgical management, and improved screening and coordinated treatment of depressive symptoms during the surgical wait may minimize the negative psychological effects of cataract in this already vulnerable population.
Tasmanian macular hole study: whole population‐based incidence of full thickness macular hole
Authors: Darian‐Smith Erica , Howie Allister R , Allen Penny L , Vote Brendan J
Published: July 2016

Purpose

To determine the incidence of full thickness macular hole in the Tasmanian population.

Design

A whole population retrospective case series in Tasmania, Australia.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with full thickness macular hole (confirmed by optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging) of both idiopathic and secondary causes were identified from April 2005 to April 2011 by a sole vitreoretinal surgeon servicing Tasmania. Baseline characteristics were recorded. The six‐year incidence rate was calculated, based on the 2006 and 2011 Tasmanian census data. Incidence rates were age and sex standardized.

Participants

One hundred forty‐seven eyes of 136 patients.

Main Outcome Measures

To determine the incidence (age and sex standardized) of full thickness macular holes in Tasmania, Australia.

Results

Idiopathic macular holes comprised 128 (87.1%). There were 116 cases of idiopathic Full Thickness Macular Hole in one or both eyes between 1 April 2005 and 31 April 2011. The six‐year incidence of idiopathic full‐thickness macular holes was 24.3 per 100 000 people, 4.05 per 100 000 per year, with the highest six‐year incidence observed among women aged 70–79 years.

Conclusion

This is the first global study to report OCT confirmed incidence rates of full thickness macular holes in a relatively static Australian population sub‐group.
A prospective randomised trial of LigaSure Small Jaw® versus conventional neck dissection in head and neck cancer patients
Authors: Lin W.‐J. , Wang C.‐C. , Jiang R.‐S. , Huang Y.‐C. , Ho H.‐C. , Liu S.‐A.
Published: July 2016

Objectives

We compared the differences between LigaSure Small Jaw®‐assisted and conventional neck dissection in patients with head and neck cancer.

Design

Prospective randomised study.

Setting

Tertiary referral hospital.

Participants

Patients scheduled to undergo neck dissection due to head and neck cancer were eligible for this study. The study group was treated using the LigaSure vessel sealing system (Small Jaw®; Covidien, Colorado, USA) for dissection and hemostasis throughout the whole procedures (ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT02597582).

Main outcomes measures

Operation duration, perioperative blood loss, postoperative drainage amount and postoperative pain status.

Results

The study group consisted of 21 patients, while the control group had 20 patients. The operation duration was shorter (97.1 versus 116.3 min, P = 0.022) and the average amount of injected analgesics was lower (8.8 versus 17.7 ampules, P = 0.037) in the study group.

Conclusions

The assistance of the LigaSure Small Jaw® during functional neck dissection shortened the operation duration and decreased the amount of injected analgesics needed.
What is the publication rate for presentations given at the British Academic Conference in Otolaryngology (BACO)?
Authors: Lau A.S. , Adan G.H. , Krishnan M. , Leong S.C.
Published: July 2016

Objectives

The publication rate of some large academic meetings such as the American Academy of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery has been reported as 32%. We aimed to compare the rate of publication at the British Academic Conference in Otolaryngology (BACO) to allow surveillance of research activity in the United Kingdom (UK).

Design and setting

The abstract records of both BACO 2009 and 2012 were examined. The MEDLINE database was searched using PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed) and an iterative approach. We recorded time to publication as well as the authors’ region and journal.

Main outcome measures

publication rate by conference, region and journal.

Results

Twice the number of presentations were made at BACO 2012 (n = 814) compared to BACO 2009 (n = 387). Absolute numbers of publications were 158 in 2012 and 92 in 2009. Overall, the publication rate dropped from 24% overall in 2009 to 19% in 2012. This difference in proportions was not significant (P = 0.08). The number of abstracts accepted for BACO 2012 doubled from BACO 2009 in nearly every subspecialty category, except the general/training category, which trebled. For both conferences, head and neck was the largest subspecialty abstract category, as well as the largest subspecialty publication category.

Conclusions

This study showed that the majority of abstracts presented at BACO 2009 and 2012 did not progress to publication. The rate of publication was similar to that seen in other general ENT meetings but do not compare favourably to the 69% rate seen for presentations made at the Otorhinolaryngological Research Society (ORS). The large increase in accepted abstracts at BACO 2012 may reflect growing competition for entry to specialist training.