bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nursing Care at the End of Life
Authors: Bennett Mary
Published: November 2016

This article compares the aggressiveness of nursing behavioral intentions in the care of the end-of-life patient between 1989 and 2014. Using a comparison design, the effects of patient age, presence of a do-not-resuscitate order, and nursing unit norms on the aggressiveness of nursing behavioral intentions were documented in 1989 and again in 2014. The results were compared for significant changes over time. Based on the results of this study, it appears that there has been a significant increase in aggressiveness of nursing behavioral intentions in the care of the end-of-life patient, even if the patient has a do-not-resuscitate order and is attempting to refuse certain nursing or medical procedures. This study has implications for increased teaching on end-of-life care, quality of life, and rights of patients to self-determination during the end of life.
The “Conversation Nurse” Model
Authors: Lally Kate , Rochon Therese , Roberts Nancy , McCutcheon Adams Kelly
Published: November 2016

This article reports on a quality improvement project designed to answer the following question: Given the shortage of providers trained in hospice and palliative medicine, could a registered nurse assume the role of a “Conversation Nurse” to expand the capacity of the palliative care team by undergoing training focusing on communication about end-of-life care wishes? In collaboration with the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, Care New England’s (Rhode Island) palliative care team developed the model of the Conversation Nurse—a nurse trained in conversations with patients and families about end-of-life care. We used a series of “plan, do, study, act” cycles to test the model. Over a 3-year period, the program developed an interdisciplinary team that allowed for a 15-fold increase in hospice and palliative care consults. In this same time period, the hospice program grew as well, with a 41% increase in average daily census and an 18% increase in length of stay on hospice. Eighty-five percent of referring providers agreed that these palliative care consults improved care. The reach of a small palliative care team has been expanded by using Conversation Nurses, allowing increased capacity to provide palliative care.
Dedifferentiated Liposarcoma Masquerading as Rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Kobayashi Anna , Hirose Takanori , Kudo Eiji , Kawashita Youichiro , Yagi Toshiyuki
Published: November 2016

We present a rare case of retroperitoneal dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) masquerading as rhabdomyosarcoma. The patient was a 74-year-old man, complaining a loss of appetite. Abdominal computed tomography revealed a retroperitoneal mass, 10 cm in diameter, between the liver and the right adrenal gland. The tumor was resected and histologically diagnosed as conventional DDLPS, in which dedifferentiated component was highly cellular and composed of pleomorphic anaplastic cells. After 3 years, the tumor recurred in the right retroperitoneal space. The recurrent tumor consisted of 2 components: lipogenic and nonlipogenic. The latter differ from the dedifferentiated component of the primary tumor. The tumor cells were small, round to ovoid cells with monomorphous, round, hyperchromatic nuclei, and scant cytoplasm. Interestingly, they were diffusely positive for myogenin and desmin. To rule out the possibility of the second primary, we performed fluorescence in situ hybridization to detect FOXO1 rearrangement. We failed to demonstrate splits of the probes. In contrast, high-level amplification of MDM2 was detected by dual-color in situ hybridization. Given the morphologic and molecular findings, the neoplasm was identified as a peculiar DDLPS mimicking rhabdomyosarcoma. Retroperitoneal rhabdomyosarcoma-like tumors of adults, therefore, should be distinguished carefully from DDLPS. It could be challenging when lipogenic component was absent, but in situ molecular analyses can be helpful.
PD-L1 Expression in Carcinosarcomas of the Gynecologic Tract: A Potentially Actionable Biomarker
Authors: Pinto Andre , Mackrides Nicholas , Nadji Mehrdad
Published: November 2016

Background:

Carcinosarcomas of the gynecologic tract, also known as malignant mixed Müllerian tumors, are aggressive neoplasms with a high recurrence rate and poor prognosis. Despite advances in adjuvant therapies in recent years, the prognosis of these tumors has not improved. In fact, there are currently no consensus guidelines for the treatment of these neoplasms and the search for targetable biomarkers has not been successful so far. Programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) has emerged as a potential target for therapeutics in a number of malignant tumors, including melanoma, lung, and colorectal cancer. In normal conditions, PD-L1 is thought to promote immune homeostasis via a number of pathways, but mainly through downregulation of cytotoxic T cells. In some human neoplasms, however, overexpression of PD-L1 by tumor cells has been observed, which can modulate the immune system to allow cancer cells to evade host response. As this marker could potentially be a therapeutic target for these tumors, the immunohistochemical expression of PD-L1 in a group of carcinosarcomas was evaluated in the present study.

Material and Methods:

Twenty-nine cases of gynecologic carcinosarcomas were analyzed, corresponding to tumors originating from the uterus (25), ovary (2), fallopian tube (1), and pelvic epithelium (1). Immunohistochemistry for PD-L1 was performed on paraffin sections and the staining results were assessed semiquantitatively in both epithelial and mesenchymal components of each tumor.

Results:

Positive membranous staining for PD-L1 was detected in 25/29 tumors (86%). The epithelial components were strongly positive in 19/29 (65%) and weakly positive in 6/29 tumors (21%). The mesenchymal elements were strongly positive in 8/29 (27%) and weakly positive in 3/29 tumors (10%). With exception of 1, all tumors with positive sarcomatous components had staining of the carcinomatous element. Four tumors were negative for PD-L1 in both components.

Conclusions:

This study shows that PD-L1 is expressed by the majority of carcinosarcomas, predominantly in the epithelial components. This is particularly important as most locoregional recurrences and distant metastases are of epithelial origin. This finding may serve as a basis for possible therapeutic approaches using antibodies that have already shown significant value in a number of other malignant tumors.
Digital Image Analysis of HER2 Immunostained Gastric and Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinomas
Authors: Nielsen Sofie L. , Nielsen Søren , Vyberg Mogens
Published: November 2016

Manual assessment of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) protein expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in gastric and gastroesophageal junction (GGEJ) adenocarcinomas is prone to interobserver variability and hampered by tumor heterogeneity and different scoring criteria. Equivocal cases are frequent, requiring additional in situ hybridization analysis. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of digital image analysis for the assessment of HER2 protein expression. In total, 110 GGEJ adenocarcinomas were included in tissue microarrays with 3 tissue cores per case. Two immunoassays, PATHWAY and HercepTest, and fluorescent in situ hybridization analysis were performed. The Visiopharm HER2-CONNECT Analysis Protocol Package was applied through the ONCOtopix digital image analysis software platform. HER2 membrane connectivity, calculated by the Analysis Protocol Package, was converted to standard IHC scores applying predetermined cutoff values for breast carcinoma as well as novel cutoff values. Cases with excessive cytoplasmic staining as well as HER2 amplified IHC negative cases were excluded from analysis. Applying HER2-CONNECT with connectivity cutoff values established for breast carcinoma resulted in 72.7% sensitivity and 100% specificity for the identification of HER2 positive gene amplified cases. By application of new cutoff values, the sensitivity increased to 100% without decreased specificity. With the new cutoff values, a 36% to 50% reduction of IHC equivocal cases was obtained. In conclusion, HER2-CONNECT with adjusted cutoff values seem to be an effective tool for standardized assessment of HER2 protein expression in GGEJ adenocarcinomas, decreasing the need for in situ hybridization analyzes.
Intratumoral Vasculopathy in Leiomyoma Treated With Tranexamic Acid
Authors: Kudose Satoru , Krigman Hannah R.
Published: November 2016

Although intravascular thrombi and infarct-type necrosis have been reported in leiomyomas following tranexamic acid therapy, intratumoral vasculopathy resembling acute atherosis has not been reported to date in patients without exposure to gonadotropin receptor agonist. We describe a case of intratumoral vasculopathy resembling acute atherosis in a leiomyoma in a 49-year-old woman, with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia and menorrhagia, treated with tranexamic acid. The patient had no exposure to gonadotropin receptor agonists. Pathologic examination of the hysterectomy specimen showed a 5.7-cm submucosal leiomyoma containing multiple arteries with fibrinoid change accompanied with abundant subintimal foamy macrophages and occasional luminal thrombi. The vascular media showed scant lymphocytic inflammation without necrosis. The leiomyoma contained numerous mast cells and edematous areas. Vessels outside of the leiomyoma showed neither fibrinoid changes nor inflammation. The patient is alive and well with no signs of systemic vasculitis. We demonstrate that intratumoral vasculopathy resembling acute atherosis may be seen in leiomyomas from patients taking tranexamic acid and postulate that this change results in vascular thrombosis, tumoral edema, and infarct-type necrosis.
Comparison of Transumbilical Laparoscopically Assisted Appendectomy to Conventional Laparoscopic Appendectomy in Children
Authors: Karam Paul A. , Mohan Arathi , Buta Martin R. , Seifarth Federico G.
Published: November 2016

Purpose:

To compare surgical outcomes of children with appendicitis treated with the transumbilical laparoscopically assisted appendectomy (TULAA) versus the conventional 3-port laparoscopic appendectomy (TPLA).

Materials and Methods:

Retrospective study of pediatric patients with appendicitis treated with TULAA or TPLA between January 2010 and December 2015. Operative time (OT), length of stay, cost, and surgical site infection rate were compared between the 2 groups.

Results:

Six hundred twenty-five appendectomies were performed [263 TULAA, 362 TPLA: acute (457), gangrenous (39), and perforated (129)]. TULAA had a shorter OT (median, 40 vs. 67 min; P<0.001), a shorter length of stay (median, 20 vs. 23 h; P<0.001), and a lesser cost (median $6266 vs. $8927; P<0.001). Surgical site infection rate was slightly higher in the TULAA group (6% vs. 4%; P=0.19).

Conclusions:

TULAA had a shorter OT and was less costly than conventional TPLA. TULAA should be considered as the first surgical approach at treating appendicitis in children.
Raman spectroscopic analysis of an important Visigothic historiated manuscript
Authors: Carter Elizabeth A. , Perez Fernando Rull , Garcia Jesús Medina , Edwards Howell G. M.
Published: November 2016

Raman spectroscopy has been used to study fragments of early Visigothic historiated manuscripts from the important mediaeval library at Santo Domingo de Silos which were a part of a Beato dating from the tenth to the mid-eleventh centuries. These fragments are from some of the oldest manuscripts in the scriptorium of the monastery. In this study, a comparison is made between the pigments and inks used on these manuscripts and those used in a previous study of the unique Visigothic Beato de Valcavado in Santa Cruz, Valladolid, completed in the year 970, which is noted for its quality of execution as well as its content and is remarkable eschatologically in being identifiable as the complete work of only a single scribe. For comparative purposes, the pigments and inks used in the Silos Monastery Beato and a series of historiated early manuscripts from mediaeval times through to the Renaissance also held in the monastic library were analysed. Raman spectroscopy identified a range of mineral and organic pigments such as cinnabar, orpiment, minium, azurite and indigo. In addition, a number of admixtures were found, for example, indigo and orpiment to produce vergaut (green) and a mixture of cinnabar with iron-gall ink and cerussite to produce darker and lighter shades of red. Some interesting conclusions were drawn about the use of iron-gall and carbon-based inks.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘Raman spectroscopy in art and archaeology’.
The Ring Monstrance from the Loreto treasury in Prague: handheld Raman spectrometer for identification of gemstones
Authors: Jehlička Jan , Culka Adam , Baštová Markéta , Bašta Petr , Kuntoš Jaroslav
Published: November 2016

A miniature lightweight portable Raman spectrometer and a palm-sized device allow for fast and unambiguous detection of common gemstones mounted in complex jewels. Here, complex religious artefacts and the Ring Monstrance from the Loreto treasury (Prague, Czech Republic; eighteenth century) were investigated. These discriminations are based on the very good correspondence of the wavenumbers of the strongest Raman bands of the minerals. Very short laser illumination times and efficient collection of scattered light were sufficient to obtain strong diagnostic Raman signals. The following minerals were documented: quartz and its varieties, beryl varieties (emerald), corundum varieties (sapphire), garnets (almandine, grossular), diamond as well as aragonite in pearls. Miniature Raman spectrometers can be recommended for common gemmological work as well as for mineralogical investigations of jewels and cultural heritage objects whenever the antiquities cannot be transported to a laboratory.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘Raman spectroscopy in art and archaeology’.
Pigment analysis by Raman microscopy and portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) of thirteenth to fourteenth century illuminations and cuttings from Bologna
Authors: Chaplin Tracey D. , Clark Robin J. H. , Jones Richard , Gibbs Robert
Published: November 2016

Non-destructive pigment analysis by Raman microscopy (RM) and portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) has been carried out on some Bolognese illuminations and cuttings chosen to represent the beginnings, evolution and height of Bolognese illuminated manuscript production. Dating to the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries and held in a private collection, the study provides evidence for the pigments generally used in this period. The results, which are compared with those obtained for other north Italian artwork, show the developments in usage of artistic materials and technique. Also addressed in this study is an examination of the respective roles of RM and pXRF analysis in this area of technical art history.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘Raman spectroscopy in art and archaeology’.
Study of corrosion in archaeological gilded irons by Raman imaging and a coupled scanning electron microscope–Raman system
Authors: Veneranda Marco , Costantini Ilaria , de Vallejuelo Silvia Fdez-Ortiz , Garcia Laura , García Iñaki , Castro Kepa , Azkarate Agustín , Madariaga Juan Manuel
Published: November 2016

In this work, analytical and chemical imaging tools have been applied to the study of a gilded spur found in the medieval necropolis of Erenozar (Bizkaia, Spain). As a first step, a lot of portable equipment has been used to study the object in a non-invasive way. The hand-held energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence equipment allowed us to characterize the artefact as a rare example of an iron matrix item decorated by means of a fire gilding technique. On the other hand, the use of a portable Raman system helped us to detect the main degradation compounds affecting the spur. Afterwards, further information was acquired in the laboratory by analysing detached fragments. The molecular images obtained using confocal Raman microscopy permitted us to characterize the stratigraphic succession of iron corrosions. Furthermore, the combined use of this technique with a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was achieved owing to the use of a structural and chemical analyser interface. In this way, the molecular characterization, enhanced by the magnification feature of the SEM, allowed us to identify several micrometric degradation compounds. Finally, the effectiveness of one of the most used desalination baths (NaOH) was evaluated by comparing its effects with those provided by a reference bath (MilliQ). The comparison proved that basic treatment avoided any side effects on the spur decorated by fire gilding, compensating for the lack of bibliographic documentation in this field.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘Raman spectroscopy in art and archaeology’.
Determination of thickness of thin turbid painted over-layers using micro-scale spatially offset Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Conti Claudia , Realini Marco , Colombo Chiara , Botteon Alessandra , Bertasa Moira , Striova Jana , Barucci Marco , Matousek Pavel
Published: November 2016

We present a method for estimating the thickness of thin turbid layers using defocusing micro-spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (micro-SORS). The approach, applicable to highly turbid systems, enables one to predict depths in excess of those accessible with conventional Raman microscopy. The technique can be used, for example, to establish the paint layer thickness on cultural heritage objects, such as panel canvases, mural paintings, painted statues and decorated objects. Other applications include analysis in polymer, biological and biomedical disciplines, catalytic and forensics sciences where highly turbid overlayers are often present and where invasive probing may not be possible or is undesirable. The method comprises two stages: (i) a calibration step for training the method on a well characterized sample set with a known thickness, and (ii) a prediction step where the prediction of layer thickness is carried out non-invasively on samples of unknown thickness of the same chemical and physical make up as the calibration set. An illustrative example of a practical deployment of this method is the analysis of larger areas of paintings. In this case, first, a calibration would be performed on a fragment of painting of a known thickness (e.g. derived from cross-sectional analysis) and subsequently the analysis of thickness across larger areas of painting could then be carried out non-invasively. The performance of the method is compared with that of the more established optical coherence tomography (OCT) technique on identical sample set.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘Raman spectroscopy in art and archaeology’.
Spectroscopic characterization of sixteenth century panel painting references using Raman, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and helium-Raman system for
in situ
analysis of Ibero-American Colonial paintings
Authors: García-Bucio María Angélica , Casanova-González Edgar , Ruvalcaba-Sil José Luis , Arroyo-Lemus Elsa , Mitrani-Viggiano Alejandro
Published: November 2016

Colonial panel paintings constitute an essential part of Latin-American cultural heritage. Their study is vital for understanding the manufacturing process, including its evolution in history, as well as its authorship, dating and other information significant to art history and conservation purposes. Raman spectroscopy supplies a non-destructive characterization tool, which can be implemented for
in situ
analysis, via portable equipment. Specific methodologies must be developed, comprising the elaboration of reference panel paintings using techniques and materials similar to those of the analysed period, as well as the determination of the best analysis conditions for different pigments and ground preparations. In order to do so, Raman spectroscopy at 532, 785 and 1064 nm, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and a helium-Raman system were applied to a panel painting reference, in combination with X-ray fluorescence analysis. We were able to establish the analysis conditions for a number of sixteenth century pigments and dyes, and other relevant components of panel paintings from this period, 1064 nm Raman and SERS being the most successful. The acquired spectra contain valuable specific information for their identification and they conform a very useful database that can be applied to the analysis of Ibero-American Colonial paintings.

This article is part of the themed issue ‘Raman spectroscopy in art and archaeology’.
Constraints on eQTL fine mapping in the presence of multi-site local regulation of gene expression
Authors: Zeng Biao , Lloyd-Jones Luke R. , Holloway Alexander , Marigorta Urko M. , Metspalu Andres , Montgomery Grant W. , Esko Tonu , Brigham Kenneth L. , Quyyumi Arshed A. , Idaghdour Youssef , Yang Jian , Visscher Peter M. , Powell Joseph E. , Gibson Greg
Published: October 2016

Expression QTL (eQTL) detection has emerged as an important tool for unravelling of the relationship between genetic risk factors and disease or clinical phenotypes. Most studies use single marker linear regression to discover primary signals, followed by sequential conditional modeling to detect secondary genetic variants affecting gene expression. However, this approach assumes that functional variants are sparsely distributed and that close linkage between them has little impact on estimation of their precise location and magnitude of effects. In this study, we address the prevalence of secondary signals and bias in estimation of their effects by performing multi-site linear regression on two large human cohort peripheral blood gene expression datasets (each greater than 2,500 samples) with accompanying whole genome genotypes, namely the CAGE compendium of Illumina microarray studies, and the Framingham Heart Study Affymetrix data. Stepwise conditional modeling demonstrates that multiple eQTL signals are present for ~40% of over 3500 eGenes in both datasets, and the number of loci with additional signals reduces by approximately two-thirds with each conditioning step. However, the concordance of specific signals between the two studies is only ~30%, indicating that expression profiling platform is a large source of variance in effect estimation. Furthermore, a series of simulation studies imply that in the presence of multi-site regulation, up to 10% of the secondary signals could be artefacts of incomplete tagging, and at least 5% but up to one quarter of credible intervals may not even include the causal site, which is thus mis-localized. Joint multi-site effect estimation recalibrates effect size estimates by just a small amount on average. Presumably similar conclusions apply to most types of quantitative trait. Given the strong empirical evidence that gene expression is commonly regulated by more than one variant, we conclude that the fine-mapping of causal variants needs to be adjusted for multi-site influences, as conditional estimates can be highly biased by interference among linked sites.
Sequence Alignment and Homology Search with BLAST and ClustalW
Authors: Hung Jui-Hung , Weng Zhiping
Published: November 2016

This protocol illustrates the steps of searching a sequence database with BLAST, which in essence performs pairwise alignment between the query sequence and each target sequence in the database. Steps for performing multiple sequence alignments with ClustalW are then described. Argonaute 2 (Ago2) is an essential component for small interfering RNA (siRNA)-directed RNA interference (RNAi) in fruit flies. This protocol uses Ago2 to demonstrate how to search for all Ago2 paralogs in the fly proteome using BLAST and to obtain a multiple sequence alignment of these sequences with ClustalW.
Protein-Fragment Complementation Assays for Large-Scale Analysis, Functional Dissection, and Spatiotemporal Dynamic Studies of Protein–Protein Interactions in Living Cells
Authors: Michnick Stephen W. , Landry Christian R. , Levy Emmanuel D. , Diss Guillaume , Ear Po Hien , Kowarzyk Jacqueline , Malleshaiah Mohan K. , Messier Vincent , Tchekanda Emmanuelle
Published: November 2016

Protein-fragment complementation assays (PCAs) comprise a family of assays that can be used to study protein–protein interactions (PPIs), conformation changes, and protein complex dimensions. We developed PCAs to provide simple and direct methods for the study of PPIs in any living cell, subcellular compartments or membranes, multicellular organisms, or in vitro. Because they are complete assays, requiring no cell-specific components other than reporter fragments, they can be applied in any context. PCAs provide a general strategy for the detection of proteins expressed at endogenous levels within appropriate subcellular compartments and with normal posttranslational modifications, in virtually any cell type or organism under any conditions. Here we introduce a number of applications of PCAs in budding yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae. These applications represent the full range of PPI characteristics that might be studied, from simple detection on a large scale to visualization of spatiotemporal dynamics.
Different weak interactions in the crystals of three isomeric (E)-N-methyl-N′-(nitrobenzylidene)-2-(thiophen-2-yl)acetohydrazides
Authors: Cardoso Laura N. F. , Noguiera Thais C. M. , Kaiser Carlos R. , Wardell James L. , Souza Marcus V. N. de , Lancaster Shaun T. , Harrison William T. A.
Published: November 2016

The crystal structures of three isomeric (E)-N-methyl-N′-(nitrobenzylidene)-2-(thiophen-2-yl)acetohydrazides (formula C14H13N3O3S) are described, with the nitro group inortho,metaandparapositions in the benzene ring. In each crystal structure, molecules are linked by various weak interactions (C—H...O and C—H...π bonds, and π–π stacking), leading to three-dimensional networks in each case, but with little similarity between them.
Two dialkylammonium salts of 2-amino-4-nitrobenzoic acid: crystal structures and Hirshfeld surface analysis
Authors: Wardell James L. , Jotani Mukesh M. , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: November 2016

The crystal structures of two ammonium salts of 2-amino-4-nitrobenzoic acid are described, namely dimethylazanium 2-amino-4-nitrobenzoate, C2H8N+·C7H5N2O4−, (I), and dibutylazanium 2-amino-4-nitrobenzoate, C8H20N+·C7H5N2O4−, (II). The asymmetric unit of (I) comprises a single cation and a single anion. In the anion, small twists are noted for the carboxylate and nitro groups from the ring to which they are connected, as indicated by the dihedral angles of 11.45 (13) and 3.71 (15)°, respectively; the dihedral angle between the substituents is 7.9 (2)°. The asymmetric unit of (II) comprises two independent pairs of cations and anions. In the cations, different conformations are noted in the side chains in that three chains have an all-trans[(+)-antiperiplanar] conformation, while one has a distinctive kink resulting in a (+)-synclinal conformation. The anions, again, exhibit twists with the dihedral angles between the carboxylate and nitro groups and the ring being 12.73 (6) and 4.30 (10)°, respectively, for the first anion and 8.1 (4) and 12.6 (3)°, respectively, for the second. The difference between anions in (I) and (II) is that in the anions of (II), the terminal groups are conrotatory, forming dihedral angles of 17.02 (8) and 19.0 (5)°, respectively. In each independent anion of (I) and (II), an intramolecular amino-N—H...O(carboxylate) hydrogen bond is formed. In the crystal of (I), anions are linked into a jagged supramolecular chain by charge-assisted amine-N—H...O(carboxylate) hydrogen bonds and these are connected into layersviacharge-assisted ammonium-N—H...O(carboxylate) hydrogen bonds. The resulting layers stack along theaaxis, being connected by nitro-N—O...π(arene) and methyl-C—H...O(nitro) interactions. In the crystal of (II), the anions are connected into four-ion aggregates by charge-assisted amino-N—H...O(carboxylate) hydrogen bonding. The formation of ammonium-N—H...O(carboxylate) hydrogen bonds, involving all ammonium-N—H and carboxylate O atoms leads to a three-dimensional architecture; additional C—H...O(nitro) interactions contribute to the packing. The Hirshfeld surface analysis confirms the importance of the hydrogen bonding in both crystal structures. Indeed, O...H/H...O interactions contribute nearly 50% to the entire Hirshfeld surface in (I).
Ethyl {[5-acetyl-3-cyano-4-(4-methoxyphenyl)-6-methylpyridin-2-yl]sulfanyl}acetate
Authors: Al-Taifi Elham A. , Kaur Manpreet , Mohamed Shaaban K. , Akkurt Mehmet , Jasinski Jerry P.
Published: November 2016

In the title molecule, C20H20N2O4S, the dihedral angle between the benzene and pyridine rings is 60.97 (7)°. In the crystal, molecules are linked by C—H...O hydrogen bonds and C—H...π interactions, forming a three-dimensional network.
4-Phenyl-1-[(1R,4R)-1,7,7-trimethyl-2-oxobicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-3-ylidene]hydrazinecarbothioamide
Authors: Oliveira Gabriela Porto de , Bresolin Leandro , Nogueira Vanessa Senna , Zambiazi Priscila Jussiane , Oliveira Adriano Bof de
Published: November 2016

In the title compound, C17H21N3OS [common nomenclature: (R)-camphor 4-phenylthiosemicarbazone], the N—N—C—(S)—N fragment deviates slightly from planarity, with a maximum deviation of 0.0259 (12) Å for the hydrazinic N atom, and makes an angle of 29.55 (0)° with the aromatic ring. The molecular structure is stabilized by an intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bond and a short N—H...N interaction with graph-set motifsS(6) andS(5), respectively. In the crystal, the centrosymmetric arrangement of the molecules resembles a herringbone packing motif along [001]. As a result of the steric effects of the camphor entity, an apolar organic periphery and the intramolecular nature of the hydrogen bonds, neither strong nor relevant intermolecular interactions are observed.
Achieving strategic fit in onion seed supply chain
Authors: Timsina Krishna P. , Bastakoti Ram C. , Shivakoti Ganesh P.
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The analysis focuses on the perspective of overall strategic fit in the supply chain of onion seed in Nepal. The purpose of this paper is to analyze current status of onion seed sector in Nepal from the perspective of selected functional strategies that fit in supply chain, and also identifies how various actors involved coordinate among each other.

Design/methodology/approach

The integrated approach has been used. It is an actor-oriented approach used to trace product flows. Supply chains generally include several actors for the onion seeds supply chain in Nepal, all those actors may or may not be applicable. However, initial approach would be to first look for these actors then subsequently identify existing supply and its actors. Some traditional methods of product and market analysis isolate operational costs along various stages of production. But, this paper used more comprehensive methodology that has taken into account an entire spectrum of associated activities and inputs.

Findings

Result revealed that the market actors of supply chain are taking significant benefit of value addition due to more investment in value creation. Vertical coordination is completely absent and the existence of horizontal coordination is in fragile form. The functional strategies in the upstream as well as the market side are not properly matching with the preference of the downstream actors of supply chain. It is suggested that the supply chain activities should work with different functional strategies such as proper drying and storage of seed and production of preferred varieties to satisfy the need of end consumers.

Research limitations/implications

It covers a single crop.

Originality/value

The findings and methodological discussions aim at providing practical guidance for supply chain researchers on how to analyze the strategic fit in supply chain.
Mistakes I have made: and things they taught me while working as a peer
Authors: Rodgers Tessa
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the development and progression of offering peer support using personal reflections on mistakes. The paper draws on the core principles of peer support which have the potential to be better understood through self-reflection and honest appraisal.

Design/methodology/approach

A reflective and personal approach is used throughout to examine and analyse particular mistakes relating to developing peer support relationships.

Findings

Reflections are offered about how working approaches can be developed as a positive consequence of difficult personal interactions.

Originality/value

These reflections contribute to the small number of papers written by peer workers within the UK. Its focus on mistakes and challenges as a means of learning more about peer support is highly unique.
Barriers to attendance at Recovery Colleges
Authors: Dunn Elizabeth Anne , Chow Jessica , Meddings Sara , Haycock Lissa June
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore what affects attendance at Recovery College, what students who have missed classes perceive to be the barriers to attendance and suggestions for improvement.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey of 16 students who have missed Recovery College classes.

Findings

The most common reasons for non-attendance were personal factors associated with physical illness; competing commitments or life events; and worries about other students and anxiety. Recovery College factors included inconvenient location, time or date of the course and poor communication from the college. Students found individual learning plans (ILPs) helpful and that they improved attendance. Recommendations are made to improve attendance through clearer information and communication; ILPs, text reminders before classes and phone calls from tutors if students miss classes.

Originality/value

Many services are looking at how to become more cost effective – improving attendance is one such way. This paper offers an analysis of barriers to attendance and makes recommendations about how attendance can be improved.
Antitumor Effects of Orally and Intraperitoneally Administered Chitosan Oligosaccharides (COSs) on S180‐Bearing/Residual Mouse
Authors: Zou Pan , Yang Xin , Zhang Yanxin , Du Pengfei , Yuan Shoujun , Yang Dexuan , Wang Jing
Published: November 2016

Chitosan oligosaccharides (COSs) are hydrolysate mixture of chitin and possess various biomedical properties, such as antimicrobial, immunoenhancing, and antitumor effects. Antiproliferation activity of COS and commercially available samples was compared in the terms of A549 and HCT‐116 cells. Ten tumor cells were used to estimate cytotoxicity of COS. Although there were some researches on the antitumor effects of COS, we highlighted the in vivo antitumor activities of COS administrated orally and intraperitoneally on S180‐bearing/residual mouse. Results turned out that in vitro IC50 values of COS were 48.6 ± 7.0 to 1329.9 ± 93.4 μg/mL against 10 different tumor cell lines. Then, the in vivo experiments proved that the inhibition rate was high up to 58.5%. Significant cell death and necrosis were observed in COS‐treated groups by histological analysis. COS stimulated the mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha. In summary, COS may be considered promising candidate as antitumor functional food or pharmaceutic adjuvant in oncotherapy, especially for patients after surgical resection.
Effects of objectifying gaze on female cognitive performance: The role of flow experience and internalization of beauty ideals
Authors: Guizzo Francesca , Cadinu Mara
Published: November 2016

Although previous research has demonstrated that objectification impairs female cognitive performance, no research to date has investigated the mechanisms underlying such decrement. Therefore, we tested the role of flow experience as one mechanism leading to performance decrement under sexual objectification. Gaze gender was manipulated by having male versus female experimenters take body pictures of female participants (N = 107) who then performed a Sustained Attention to Response Task. As predicted, a moderated mediation model showed that under male versus female gaze, higher internalization of beauty ideals was associated with lower flow, which in turn decreased performance. The implications of these results are discussed in relation to objectification theory and strategies to prevent sexually objectifying experiences.
Evaluating conceptual models of landscape change
Authors: Brudvig Lars A. , Leroux Shawn J. , Albert Cécile H. , Bruna Emilio M. , Davies Kendi F. , Ewers Robert M. , Levey Douglas J. , Pardini Renata , Resasco Julian
Published: November 2016

A variety of landscape models are used to conceptualize and interpret human impacts on ecosystems and their biodiversity. The simplest, a ‘patch‐matrix’ model, is rooted in island biogeography theory and assumes a dichotomy between generic, easily‐defined habitat patches and a surrounding matrix that is completely inhospitable. This dichotomy between patch and matrix habitats has been recently relaxed, with the ‘continuum’ model taking this relaxation to its extreme and logical endpoint – a species‐based model with no a priori definition of habitat or matrix, but rather focusing on ecological gradients. Yet, because few empirical comparisons of these bookending models exist, we lack understanding of their relative utility or the merits of hybrid approaches that combine attributes of patch‐matrix and continuum models. To guide such considerations, we first develop a decision‐making framework for the application of patch‐matrix, continuum, and hybrid models. The framework takes into account study objectives, attributes of the landscape, and species traits. We then evaluate this framework by empirically comparing how continuum, patch‐matrix, and hybrid models explain beetle distributions across two contrasting fragmented landscapes, for species differing in trophic level and habitat specificity. Within the Hope River Forest Fragmentation Project, a system with strong landscape contrast and distinct (‘hard’) structural edges between forest fragments and grassland, we find broad support for hybrid models, particularly those incorporating surrounding landscape structure. Conversely, within the Wog Wog Habitat Fragmentation Experiment, a system with weak landscape contrast and ‘soft’ structural edges between natural and plantation forest, we find co‐support for continuum and hybrid models. We find no support in either system for patch‐matrix, relative to continuum and hybrid models. We conclude by considering key questions and areas of research for advancing the application of models to understand species responses and biodiversity patterns associated with land‐use change.
Opposed latitudinal patterns of network‐derived and dietary specialization in avian plant–frugivore interaction systems
Authors: Dalsgaard Bo , Schleuning Matthias , Maruyama Pietro K. , Dehling D. Matthias , Sonne Jesper , Vizentin‐Bugoni Jeferson , Zanata Thais B. , Fjeldså Jon , Böhning‐Gaese Katrin , Rahbek Carsten
Published: November 2016

Latitudinal patterns of biodiversity have been studied for centuries, but it is only during the last decades that species interaction networks have been used to examine the proposed latitudinal gradient of biotic specialization. These studies have given idiosyncratic results, which may either be because of genuine biological differences between systems, different concepts and scales used to quantify biotic specialization or because the methodological approaches used to compare interaction networks were inappropriate. Here we carefully examine the latitudinal specialization gradient using a global dataset of avian plant–frugivore assemblages and interaction networks. In particular, we test whether network‐derived specialization patterns differ from patterns based on assemblage‐level information on avian dietary preferences on specific food types. We found that network‐derived measures of specialization (complementary specialization H2′ and < d’>, modularity Q) increased with latitude, i.e. frugivorous birds divide the niche of fruiting plants most finely at high latitudes where they also formed more modular interaction networks than at tropical latitudes. However, the strength and significance of the relationship between specialization metrics and latitude was influenced by the methodological approach. On the other hand, assemblage‐level information on avian specialization on fruit diet (i.e. the proportion of obligate frugivorous bird species feeding primarily on fruit) revealed an opposed latitudinal pattern as more bird species were specialized on fruit diet in tropical than in temperate assemblages. This difference in the latitudinal specialization gradient reflects that obligate frugivores require a high diversity of fruit plants, as observed in tropical systems, and fulfil more generalized roles in plant–frugivore networks than bird species feeding on different food types. Future research should focus on revealing the underlying ecological, historical and evolutionary mechanisms shaping these patterns. Our results highlight the necessity of comparing different scales of biotic specialization for a better understanding of geographical patterns of specialization in resource–consumer interactions.
Person‐Centered Fall Risk Awareness Perspectives: Clinical Correlates and Fall Risk
Authors: Verghese Joe
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To identify clinical correlates of person‐centered fall risk awareness and their validity for predicting falls.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Community.

Participants

Ambulatory community‐dwelling older adults without dementia (N = 316; mean age 78, 55% female).

Measurements

Fall risk awareness was assessed using a two‐item questionnaire that asked participants about overall likelihood of someone in their age group having a fall and their own personal risk of falling over the next 12 months. Incident falls were recorded over study follow‐up.

Results

Fifty‐three participants (16.8%) responded positively to the first fall risk awareness question about being likely to have a fall in the next 12 months, and 100 (31.6%) reported being at personal risk of falling over the next 12 months. There was only fair correlation (κ = 0.370) between responses on the two questions. Prior falls and depressive symptoms were associated with positive responses on both fall risk awareness questions. Age and other established fall risk factors were not associated with responses on either fall risk awareness question. The fall risk awareness questionnaire did not predict incident falls or injurious falls.

Conclusion

Fall risk awareness is low in older adults. Although person‐centered fall risk awareness is not predictive of falls, subjective risk perceptions should be considered when designing fall preventive strategies because they may influence participation and behaviors.
Association Between Tooth Loss, Receipt of Dental Care, and Functional Disability in an Elderly Japanese Population: The Tsurugaya Project
Authors: Komiyama Takamasa , Ohi Takashi , Miyoshi Yoshitada , Murakami Takahisa , Tsuboi Akito , Tomata Yasutake , Tsuji Ichiro , Watanabe Makoto , Hattori Yoshinori
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To examine whether number of remaining teeth and regular dental care affect incident functional disability in elderly Japanese adults.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Tsurugaya district, Sendai, Japan.

Participants

Community‐dwelling individuals aged 70 and older (N = 834).

Measurements

The outcome measurement was incident functional disability, defined as first certification of long‐term care insurance in Japan, which is determined on the basis of a strictly established uniform nationwide standard. During a median follow‐up of 7.9 years (interquartile range 4.8–7.9 years), information on long‐term care insurance was obtained from the Sendai Municipal Authority. Oral health was assessed according to number of remaining teeth and presence or absence of regular dental care. Data were also collected on age, sex, body mass index, medical history, smoking, alcohol consumption, duration of education, depressive symptoms, cognitive impairment, physical functioning, and social support.

Results

Participants with 10 to 19 teeth (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 1.42, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.03–1.94), one to nine teeth (aHR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.04–2.03), and no teeth (aHR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.03–2.14) were more likely to develop functional disability than those with 20 or more teeth. There was no significant difference in risk of functional disability between participants with 20 or more teeth and those with zero to 19 teeth who were receiving regular dental care, whereas those with zero to 19 teeth without regular dental care had a significantly greater risk of functional disability than those with 20 or more teeth (HR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.11–1.92).

Conclusion

Tooth loss was associated with greater risk of functional disability in community‐dwelling elderly Japanese. Regular dental care might moderate the risk of functional disability in elderly individuals with missing teeth.
Self‐Reported Sleep Apnea and Dementia Risk: Findings from the Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease with Vitamin E and Selenium Trial
Authors: Ding Xiuhua , Kryscio Richard J. , Turner Joshua , Jicha Gregory A. , Cooper Gregory , Caban‐Holt Allison , Schmitt Frederick A. , Abner Erin L.
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To investigate the association between baseline sleep apnea and risk of incident dementia in the Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease with Vitamin E and Selenium (PREADViSE) study and to explore whether the association depends on apolipoprotein E (APOE) ɛ4 allele status.

Design

Secondary analysis based on data collected during PREADViSE.

Setting

Participants were assessed at 128 local clinical study sites during the clinical trial phase and later were followed by telephone from a centralized location.

Participants

Men enrolled in PREADViSE (without dementia or other active neurological conditions that affect cognition such as major psychiatric disorders, including depression; N = 7,547).

Measurements

Participants were interviewed at baseline for sleep apnea. The Memory Impairment Screen (MIS) was administered to each participant annually. Subjects who failed this initial screen were tested with secondary screening tests. Medical history and medication use were determined, and the AD8 dementia screening instrument was used.

Results

The effect of self‐reported sleep apnea on dementia risk depended on APOE ɛ4 status. When the allele was absent, baseline self‐reported sleep apnea was associated with a 66% higher risk of developing dementia (95% confidence interval = 2–170%), whereas self‐reported sleep apnea conferred no additional risk for participants with an ɛ4 allele.

Conclusion

Sleep apnea may increase risk of dementia in the absence of APOE ɛ4. This may help inform prevention strategies for dementia or AD in older men with sleep apnea.

Registration: PREADViSE is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00040378.