bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infusion of high concentration of lactate in perfused liver, simulating in vivo hyperlactatemia, prevents the reduction of gluconeogenesis in Walker‐256 tumor‐bearing rats
Authors: Frasson‐Uemura Isabele Gonçalves , Biazi Giuliana Regina , Miksza Daniele Romani , Moreira Carolina Campos Lima , Cassolla Priscila , Bertolini Gisele Lopes , Bazotte Roberto Barbosa , de Souza Helenir Medri
Published: February 2019

Gluconeogenesis (GN) is increased in patients with cancer cachexia, but is reduced in liver perfusion of Walker‐256 tumor‐bearing cachectic rats (TB rats). The causes of these differences are unknown. We investigated the influence of circulating concentrations of lactate (NADH generator) and NADH on GN in perfused livers of TB rats. Lactate, at concentrations similar to those found on days 5 (3.0 mM), 8 (5.5 mM), and 12 (8.0 mM) of the tumor, prevented the reduction of GN from 2.0 mM lactate (lactatemia of healthy rat) in TB rats. NADH, 50 or 75 μM, but not 25 μM, increased GN from 2.0 mM lactate in TB rats to higher values than healthy rats. High concentrations of pyruvate (no NADH generator, 5.0 and 8.0 mM) did not prevent the reduction of GN from 2.0 mM pyruvate in TB rats. However, 50 or 75 μM NADH, but not 25 μM, increased GN from 2.0 mM pyruvate in TB rats to similar or higher values than healthy rats. High concentration of glutamine (NADH generator, 2.5 mM) or 50 μM NADH prevented the reduction of GN from 1 mM glutamine in TB rats. Intraperitoneal administration of pyruvate (1.0 mg/kg) or glutamine (0.5 mg/kg) similarly increased the glycemia of healthy and TB rats. In conclusion, high lactate concentration, similar to hyperlactatemia, prevented the reduction of GN in perfused livers of TB rats, an effect probably caused by the increased redox potential (NADH/NAD+). Thus, the decreased GN in livers from TB rats is due, at least in part, to the absence of simulation of in vivo hyperlactatemia in liver perfusion studies.
Erlotinib inhibits colon cancer metastasis through inactivation of TrkB‐dependent ERK signaling pathway
Authors: Shen Tao , Cheng Xianshuo , Xia Cuifeng , Li Qiang , Gao Yi , Pan Dingguo , Zhang Xuan , Zhang Ce , Li Yunfeng
Published: February 2019

The distal metastasis is the main cause of death in patients with colon cancer. Tyrosine receptor kinase B (TrkB) and ERK signals may be the potential targets for the treatment of colon cancer metastasis. This study aims to investigate whether erlotinib inhibits distant metastasis of colon cancer by regulating TrkB and ERK signaling pathway. Human colon adenocarcinoma cell lines (SW480 and Caco‐2) pretreated with exogenous C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8) were used to assess the suppressive effect of erlotinib on tumor metastasis, including anoikis, epithelial‐mesenchymal transformation (EMT), migration, and invasion. Through TrkB overexpression, Akt suppression, and ERK suppression, the roles of TrkB, Akt, and ERK in erlotinib‐induced metastasis inhibition of colon cancer cells were explored. The results showed that erlotinib alleviated CXCL8‐induced metastasis of the colon cancer cells. Overexpression of TrkB in colon cancer cells eliminated the effect of erlotinib on anoikis, inhibition of EMT, migration, and invasion, and downregulation of p‐ERK and p‐Akt. Furthermore, the inhibition of ERK activation instead of Akt activation was found to participate in erlotinib‐mediated metastasis resistance, including anoikis, inhibition of EMT, migration, and invasion. In conclusion, erlotinib inhibits colon cancer cell anoikis resistance, EMT, migration, and invasion by inactivating TrkB‐dependent ERK signaling pathway.
Anti‐colorectal cancer targets of resveratrol and biological molecular mechanism: Analyses of network pharmacology, human and experimental data
Authors: Li Rong , Ma Xiuying , Song Yingqi , Zhang Yuanyuan , Xiong Wenbi , Li Li , Zhou Liming
Published: February 2019

In this study, colorectal cancer (CRC)‐diseased targets and resveratrol (Res)‐associated targets were combined and constructed by the use of grouped databases for identification of the predicted targets. After production of target‐functional protein interaction network of Res anti‐CRC, the topological analysis was used to create the core targets of Res anti‐CRC. All core targets performed the analyses of biological function and pathway enrichment to optimize the biological processes and key signaling pathways of Res anti‐CRC. The resultant five core therapeutic targets of Res anti‐CRC were identified as protein kinase B1 (AKT1), interleukin 6 (IL6), Tumor protein p53 (TP53), vascular endothelial growth factor, and mitogen‐activated protein kinase 1, respectively. Biological processes of Res anti‐CRC were predominantly associated with regulating apoptosis, immune response, cellular communication, signal transduction, and metabolism of the nuclide. In addition, the top 10 key signaling pathways were identified, respectively. In human CRC sample assays, CRC histologic sections showed elevated expression of AKT1 and IL6 proteins, accompanied with abnormal changes in blood molecules. In pharmacological experiments of Res anti‐CRC in vitro, Res‐treated HCT116 cells showed inhibited cell growth, induced cell death. In addition, downregulation of intracellular AKT1 and IL6 expression were checked in Res‐treated HCT116 cells. Taken together, these bioinformatic findings and preliminary validated data uncovered pharmacological molecular mechanisms associated with Res anti‐CRC, and further identified top five core therapeutic targets. Beneficially, these five predicted targets might serve as potential biomolecules for anti‐CRC treatment.
Enhanced expression of circ_0000267 in hepatocellular carcinoma indicates poor prognosis and facilitates cell progression by sponging miR‐646
Authors: Pan Hongliang , Tang Li , Jiang Hua , Li Xiuyuan , Wang Ruliang , Gao Jinxia , Li Qiang
Published: February 2019

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly aggressive carcinoma worldwide. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been proved to be involved in the pathogenesis of several carcinomas. circ_0000267 was reported to be elevated in HCC tissue samples by circRNA microarray. In this study, quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction was induced to further detect the expression of circ_0000267 in HCC tissues and cells. The clinical significance was also explored by Fisher’s exact test, Kaplan‐Meier curves and Cox regression analysis. Cell counting kit‐8, colony formation, flow cytometry and transwell experiments were conducted on HCC cells to elucidate the functions of circ_0000267. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay was induced to explore the mechanism of circ_0000267. Moreover, rescue experiments were also performed on HCC cells. As a result, circ_0000267 was enhanced in HCC tissues and cell lines. This upregulation is associated with patients’ clinical severity and poor prognosis. Functionally, circ_0000267 could facilitate cell growth, migration and invasion and attenuate cell apoptosis in HCC cells. Mechanistically, circ_0000267 could directly sponge miR‐646 to exert its oncogenic properties. In summary, we identified a novel HCC‐associated circRNA in the progression of this fatal disease.
Identifying promising metal–organic frameworks for heterogeneous catalysis via high‐throughput periodic density functional theory
Authors: Rosen Andrew S. , Notestein Justin M. , Snurr Randall Q.
Published: February 2019

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are a class of nanoporous materials with highly tunable structures in terms of both chemical composition and topology. Due to their tunable nature, high‐throughput computational screening is a particularly appealing method to reduce the time‐to‐discovery of MOFs with desirable physical and chemical properties. In this work, a fully automated, high‐throughput periodic density functional theory (DFT) workflow for screening promising MOF candidates was developed and benchmarked, with a specific focus on applications in catalysis. As a proof‐of‐concept, we use the high‐throughput workflow to screen MOFs containing open metal sites (OMSs) from the Computation‐Ready, Experimental MOF database for the oxidative C—H bond activation of methane. The results from the screening process suggest that, despite the strong C—H bond strength of methane, the main challenge from a screening standpoint is the identification of MOFs with OMSs that can be readily oxidized at moderate reaction conditions. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adverse childhood experiences, self‐care, and compassion outcomes in mental health providers working with trauma
Authors: La Mott Julee , Martin Luci A.
Published: February 2019

Objective

This study examined the moderating effects of self‐care on various compassion outcomes among mental health providers.

Method

Mental health providers (n = 371; 94.1% female; mean age = 47.12) were surveyed regarding their level of self‐care, history of adverse childhood experiences, and the degree of burnout, secondary traumatic stress, and compassion satisfaction experienced.

Results

Results indicated that providers who endorsed a history of adverse childhood experiences (82.5%) also endorsed greater negative compassion outcomes than those who did not have such a history. Endorsement of self‐care activities was a significant predictor of compassion satisfaction and burnout in the expected directions. Self‐care served as a moderator between adverse childhood experiences and burnout.

Conclusions

Self‐care is an effective method for decreasing negative compassion outcomes among mental health providers who work with trauma. It is important to develop effective training programs that promote self‐care in personal and professional settings.
Cancer genetic counselors' experiences with transgender patients: A qualitative study
Authors: Zayhowski Kimberly , Park Jessica , Boehmer Ulrike , Gabriel Camila , Berro Tala , Campion MaryAnn
Published: February 2019

It is becoming increasingly common for people to openly identify as transgender, yet there is little research in the field of genetic counseling regarding this community's unique medical needs. Transgender patients are likely to present with issues that cross genetics and gender‐related care in a cancer genetic counseling session, and empiric data about these differences is needed to provide adequate care. In order to investigate what specific health topics and concerns are addressed in cancer genetic counseling sessions with transgender patients, 21 cancer genetic counselors who have seen transgender patients were interviewed. Through inductive analysis, six themes emerged: (1) documentation systems are not inclusive or clear; (2) genetic counselors feel unprepared for these sessions; (3) gender affirming hormones impact risk assessment; (4) genetic testing affects gender affirming surgical decisions; (5) transgender patients present at younger ages to clinic; and (6) pathogenic variants allow for insurance coverage for gender affirming surgeries. This study's findings point to opportunities for the field of genetic counseling to enhance services for transgender patients by reporting distinctive situations that may arise in clinic with these patients and providing training recommendations for genetic counselors.
Inflammasome activation: Neutrophils go their own way
Authors: Tourneur Léa , Witko-Sarsat Véronique
Published: February 2019

Discussion on a new RIPK3-dependent pathway to cell death and cytokine secretion independent of the canonical necroptosis and inflammasome machinery in neutrophils.
Protein biomarkers in serum and urine for determining presence or absence of hip dysplasia in a canine model
Authors: Ahner Carin E. , Stoker Aaron M. , Bozynski Chantelle C. , Cook Cristi R. , Leary Emily V. , Kuroki Keiichi , Cruz Carissa N. , Cook James L.
Published: February 2019

This study compares serum and urine concentrations of relevant protein biomarkers among adult dogs with or without radiographic canine hip dysplasia (CHD). Adult (≥2 years of age), client‐owned dogs (n = 74) radiographically categorized as having at least “good” hips (n = 49) or having “mild,” “moderate,” or “severe” hip dysplasia (n = 25) by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). Urine and serum samples were obtained from each dog at a single time‐point and processed and analyzed for relevant protein biomarkers. Urinary concentrations of CTX‐II (p < 0.001) and TIMP‐1 (p = 0.002) were significantly lower in dogs with CHD compared to dogs with no CHD. ROC curve analyses were successful in establishing a panel of four biomarkers (urinary CTX‐I and II, serum MMP‐9, and serum PIICP) with high discriminatory capability for the presence or absence of hip dysplasia in adult dogs (AUC = 0.89). Urine and serum biomarkers can distinguish adult dogs with radiographic CHD from those with no CHD with a sensitivity of 0.95 and specificity of 0.77 using ROC analysis with AUC 0.89. Clinical Significance: This finding suggests that this simple, minimally invasive diagnostic technique has potential for discriminating dysplastic dogs from dogs with normal hips, with possible translational application to humans based on similar etiopathogenesis. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 9999:1–5, 2019.
A longitudinal study on the relationship between dental health and metabolic syndrome in Japan
Authors: Sakurai Shin‐ichi , Yamada Shin‐ichi , Karasawa Imahito , Sakurai Akinari , Kurita Hiroshi
Published: February 2019

Background

A close relationship has been reported between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and periodontitis. However, as there are only a few longitudinal studies, the association between MetS and periodontitis has not been fully elucidated. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationships between periodontal conditions and internal changes in MetS components using a longitudinal analysis.

Methods

A total of 985 out of 2716 individuals who underwent systemic medical checkups in 2014 and 754 out of 2454 in 2016 received dental checkups including Community Periodontal Index. Of these, 390 individuals underwent medical and dental checkups in 2014 and 2016 and were included and reviewed.

Results

Of the 390 individuals, the positive number of MetS components decreased in 62 individuals (15.9%) and increased in 104 (26.7%). A multivariate analysis identified sex (risk ratio (RR): 0.55, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.37–0.82, P < 0.05), alcohol intake (RR:2.06, 95%CI:1.14–3.73, P < 0.05), and the mediation of glycemia (RR:6.45, 95%CI:1.45–27.9, P < 0.01) as significant influencing factors for MetS. The number of MetS components was higher in individuals with persistent or progressive periodontitis than in those with no/improved periodontitis (RR:1.75, 95%CI:1.14–2.70, P < 0.01)). Improvements in periodontitis had a significant positive impact on MetS components, including hypertension (RR:2.14, 95%CI:1.03–4.43, P < 0.05) and hyperglycemia (RR:2.52, 95%CI:1.27–4.98, P < 0.01), but a negative impact on hypertension.

Conclusions

The results of the present study suggest that since the prevalence of individuals with more positive MetS components was higher in those with persistent/progressive periodontitis than in those with no/improved periodontitis, reducing periodontitis may be important for preventing pre‐MetS and MetS.
The implications of sample preparation on the particle size distribution of soil
Authors: Vdović Neda , Pikelj Kristina , Jurina Irena , Ivanić Maja , Dunato Nadia , Štefan Antonija
Published: February 2019

Particle size distribution (PSD) is among basic parameters in soil and sediment characterization and provides essential information in sedimentological and environmental studies. The problem with the PSD determination is that for any given sample the result depends not only on the method used but also on the sample pre‐treatment, making them seldom comparable. In this study, the PSD of seven non‐treated and pre‐treated soil samples were determined by four granulometric methods (pipette, sedigraph, particle counter and laser diffraction analysis). Samples were subjected to pre‐treatments commonly used in sample preparation for the PSD determination, i.e., addition of dispersant (sodium metaphosphate) and removal of the organic matter (with hydrogen peroxide). The total organic carbon (TOC) analysis was used to estimate the content of organic matter before and after its removal. The effect of different pre‐treatments was evaluated based on the PSD variations and the changes in the specific surface area (SSA) of the samples.

The results highlighted differences in the PSD curves of samples depending on the granulometric method and pre‐treatment applied. The most pronounced difference was the higher amount of clay fraction determined by settling techniques. The role of hydrogen peroxide in disruption of aggregates was evident in the increase in the SSA as well as the share of fine fraction determined by all four techniques, while sodium metaphosphate made no modifications of the SSA but acted in favour of prolonging settling of clay particles and increasing its content obtained by settling techniques.
Intolerance of Uncertainty Moderates the Association Between Potentially Morally Injurious Events and Suicide Ideation and Behavior Among Combat Veterans
Authors: Zerach Gadi , Levi‐Belz Yossi
Published: February 2019

Exposure to potentially morally injurious events (PMIEs) among combat veterans has been acknowledged as significant stressful combat events that may lead to mental health problems, including self‐injurious thoughts and behavior (SITB). However, few studies have examined the risk and protective factors that can explain the conditions in which PMIEs may contribute to the development and maintenance of SITB. In the current study, we aimed to examine the association between PMIEs and SITB among combat veterans and explore the moderating roles of intolerance of uncertainty (IU) in this association. A volunteer sample of 191 Israeli combat veterans was recruited during 2017. Participants completed validated self‐report questionnaires in a cross‐sectional study. Results indicated that two separate measures of PMIEs, the Perceived Perpetration by Oneself and Others subscale of the Moral Injury Events Scale (MIES) and the Causes subscale of the Moral Injury Questionnaire (MIQ–Causes), were positively associated with higher levels of SITB. Moreover, beyond the contributions of reserve duty, posttraumatic stress symptoms, and depressive symptoms, MIQ–Causes scores significantly predicted current SITB. Importantly, under low and average levels of inhibitory IU, significant positive effects were revealed for the MIQ–Causes on current SITB, R² = .34. Although veterans exposed to PMIEs are more prone to SITB, even years after their release from military service, their IU may temper the link between experiences of PMIEs and SITB.
Trauma Exposure, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms Trajectory, and Disability Level Among Hospitalized Injury Survivors in Kenya
Authors: Hung Yuen W. , Tol Wietse , Musci Rashelle , Aketch Stephanie , Bachani Abdulgafoor M.
Published: February 2019

Potentially traumatic events (PTEs) have been consistently associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, the extent of association and attribution to subsequent disability has varied, with limited studies conducted in urban low‐income contexts. This longitudinal study estimated the trajectory of PTSD symptoms up to 7 months after hospitalization and the associated disability level among adult patients who had been hospitalized due to injury. Adult injury patients (N = 476) admitted to Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, were interviewed in person in the hospital, and via phone at 1, 2–3, and 4–7 months after hospital discharge. Using latent growth curve modeling, two trajectories of PTSD symptoms emerged: (a) persistently elevated PTSD symptoms (9.2%), and (b) low PTSD symptoms (90.8%). Number of PTEs experienced remained moderately associated with the elevated trajectory after controlling for in‐hospital depressive symptoms. Having previously witnessed killings or serious injuries, AOR = 2.32, 95% CI [1.07, 5.05]; being female, AOR = 4.74, 95% CI [4.53, 4.96]; elevated depressive symptoms during hospitalization, AOR = 2.96, 95% CI [1.28, 6.83]; and having no household savings/assets, AOR = 1.28, 95% CI [1.13, 1.44], were associated with the elevated PTSD symptoms trajectory class after controlling for other risk factors. Latent membership in the elevated PTSD trajectory was associated with a significantly higher level of disability several months after hospital discharge, p < .001, after controlling for injury and demographic characteristics. These results underline the associations among in‐hospital depressive symptoms, witnessing atrocities, and poverty, and an elevated PTSD symptoms trajectory.
Factors Influencing Elastographically Determined Remodeling of Venous Thrombi
Authors: Paluch Łukasz , Nitek Żaneta , Sklinda Katarzyna , Zakrzewski Jakub , Walecki Jerzy , Noszczyk Bartłomiej
Published: February 2019

Objectives

To verify whether elastographically determined remodeling of venous obliterating material formed during sclerotherapy is influenced by patient‐specific factors.

Methods

The study included 60 patients who underwent sclerotherapy for venous insufficiency. Elastographic parameters of obliterating material, including relative vascular cross sections (percent) with the highest (red), intermediate (green), and lowest elasticity (blue), determined 7 ± 1, 14 ± 2, and 21 ± 2 days after sclerotherapy, were analyzed against the patients’ ages, sexes, physical activity levels, and pain severities.

Results

The patients included 45 women and 15 men with a mean age ± SD of 51.2 ± 14.7 years. A significant correlation was observed between the age of the patients and the relative area of the vessel highlighted in red during the third control visit (R = 0.289; P = .025). The proportion of men in whom the elastographic structure of venous obliterating material during the second visit was classified as mixed was higher than that of women (66.7% versus 28.9%; P = .032). During the third visit, the proportion of patients with low physical activity in whom the elastographic structure of venous obliterating material was classified as fibrous turned out to be lower than the respective percentages of patients with moderate and high activity levels (12.0% versus 35.0% versus 46.7%; P = .045). However, none of these effects was observed systematically throughout the whole follow‐up period.

Conclusions

The time to complete organization of venous obliterating material may be longer in older patients, women, and patients with lower levels of physical activity, but these factors seem to influence the thrombus structure solely at specific time points in its evolution. Nevertheless, they should be considered during elastographic assessments of thrombus age.
The seasonal succession of optimal diatom traits
Authors: Hansen Agnethe Nøhr , Visser André W.
Published: February 2019

Diatoms are a successful taxon of primary producers in the world's oceans with significant impact both on biogeochemical cycles and the structure of marine food webs. We present a trait‐based model that captures key physical characteristics of diatoms: a silica exoskeleton and a large centric vacuole. We examine how these unique features contribute to the success of diatoms compared to similar‐sized, nonvacuolated, shell‐less phytoplankton with identical photosynthetic and nutrient uptake machinery. Our predicted seasonal succession of optimal diatom traits and growth rates are consistent with observed annual time series. The respective environmental conditions where the diatom attributes of shell and vacuole confer an advantage over nonvacuolated, shell‐less phytoplankton are typical during the transition phases of seasonal cycles—during the early phase when vacuolation provides an advantage in terms of light affinity and protection against protist grazers and late phase when specific nutrient affinity and protection from metazoan grazers are of benefit. Although the model reproduces high light and nutrient affinities as well as observed seasonal patterns of diatom dominance, it fails to predict the high growth rates generally observed in diatoms compared to other phytoplankton taxa. This exposes a conundrum in our mechanistic understanding of phytoplankton trade‐offs; namely, if the high growth rate of diatoms is independent of their physical attributes (shell and/or vacuole), why has it not been exploited by nondiatom taxa?
Enhancement of primary production during drought in a temperate watershed is greater in larger rivers than headwater streams
Authors: Hosen J. D. , Aho K. S. , Appling A. P. , Creech E. C. , Fair J. H. , Hall R. O. , Kyzivat E. D. , Lowenthal R. S. , Matt S. , Morrison J. , Saiers J. E. , Shanley J. B. , Weber L. C. , Yoon B. , Raymond P. A.
Published: February 2019

Drought is common in rivers, yet how this disturbance regulates metabolic activity across network scales is largely unknown. Drought often lowers gross primary production (GPP) and ecosystem respiration (ER) in small headwaters but by contrast can enhance GPP and cause algal blooms in downstream estuaries. We estimated ecosystem metabolism across a nested network of 13 reaches from headwaters to the main stem of the Connecticut River from 2015 through 2017, which encompassed a pronounced drought. During drought, GPP and ER increased, but with greater enhancement in larger rivers. Responses of GPP and ER were partially due to warmer temperatures associated with drought, particularly in the larger rivers where temperatures during summer drought were > 10°C higher than typical summer baseflow. The larger rivers also had low canopy cover, which allowed primary producers to take advantage of lower turbidity and fewer cloudy days during drought. We conclude that GPP is enhanced by higher temperature, lower turbidity, and longer water residence times that are all a function of low discharge, but ecosystem response in temperate watersheds to these drivers depends on light availability regulated by riparian canopy cover. In larger rivers, GPP increased more than ER during drought, even leading to temporary autotrophy, an otherwise rare event in the typically light‐limited heterotrophic Connecticut River main stem. With climate change, rivers and streams may become warmer and drought frequency and severity may increase. Such changes may increase autotrophy in rivers with broad implications for carbon cycling and water quality in aquatic ecosystems.
A new mesocosm system to study the effects of environmental variability on marine species and communities
Authors: Pansch Christian , Hiebenthal Claas
Published: February 2019

Climate change will shift mean environmental conditions and also increase the frequency and intensity of extreme events, exerting additional stress on ecosystems. While field observations on extremes are emerging, experimental evidence of their biological consequences is rare. Here, we introduce a mesocosm system that was developed to study the effects of environmental variability of multiple drivers (temperature, salinity, pH, light) on single species and communities at various temporal scales (diurnal ‐ seasonal): the Kiel Indoor Benthocosms (KIBs). Both, real‐time offsets from field measurements or various dynamic regimes of environmental scenarios, can be implemented, including sinusoidal curve functions at any chosen amplitude or frequency, stochastic regimes matching in situ dynamics of previous years and modeled extreme events. With temperature as the driver in focus, we highlight the strengths and discuss limitations of the system. In addition, we examined the effects of different sinusoidal temperature fluctuation frequencies on mytilid mussel performance. High‐frequency fluctuations around a warming mean (+2°C warming, ± 2°C fluctuations, wavelength = 1.5 d) increased mussel growth as did a constant warming of 2°C. Fluctuations at a lower frequency (+2 and ± 2°C, wavelength = 4.5 d), however, reduced the mussels’ growth. This shows that environmental fluctuations, and importantly their associated characteristics (such as frequency), can mediate the strength of global change impacts on a key marine species. The here presented mesocosm system can help to overcome a major short‐coming of marine experimental ecology and will provide more robust data for the prediction of shifts in ecosystem structure and services in a changing and fluctuating world.
Improved Graft Survival After Liver Transplantation for Recipients With Hepatitis C Virus in the Direct‐Acting Antiviral Era
Authors: Cotter Thomas G. , Paul Sonali , Sandıkçı Burhaneddin , Couri Thomas , Bodzin Adam S. , Little Ester C. , Sundaram Vinay , Charlton Michael
Published: February 2019

Highly effective direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) therapy has transformed outcomes of liver transplantation in hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients. We examined longer‐term outcomes in HCV‐positive recipients in the DAA era and analyzed the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients for primary adult, single‐organ, nonfulminant liver transplant recipients in the United States from January 1, 2008 to June 30, 2018. Graft loss was compared among HCV‐positive liver transplant recipients who received either an HCV‐negative or HCV‐positive donor (donor [D]–/recipient [R]+; D+/R+) and HCV‐negative liver transplant recipients who received a HCV‐negative donor (D–/R–). The groups were further divided between the pre‐DAA and DAA eras. There were 52,526 patients included: 31,193 were D–/R– patients; 18,746 were D–/R+ patients; and 2587 were D+/R+ patients. The number of D–/R+ transplants decreased from 2010 in 2008 to 1334 in 2017, with this decline particularly noticeable since 2015. D–/R+ patients in the DAA era (n = 7107) were older, had higher rates of hepatocellular carcinoma, and lower Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease scores than those in the pre‐DAA era. Graft survival improved for all recipients in the DAA era but improved most dramatically in HCV‐positive recipients: D–/R+ 1‐year survival was 92.4% versus 88.7% and 3‐year survival was 83.7% versus 77.7% (DAA versus pre‐DAA era, respectively) compared with D–/R– 1‐year survival of 92.7% versus 91.0% and 3‐year survival of 85.7% versus 84.0% (DAA versus pre‐DAA era, respectively). The magnitude of improvement in 3‐year graft survival was almost 4‐fold greater for D–/R+ patients. The 3‐year survival for D+/R+ patients was similar to HCV‐negative patients. In conclusion, the number of liver transplants for HCV has decreased by more than one‐third over the past decade. Graft survival among HCV‐positive recipients has increased disproportionately in the DAA era with HCV‐positive recipients now achieving similar outcomes to non‐HCV recipients.
Synthesis of Polypeptoid‐Polycaprolactone‐Polytetrahydrofuran Heterograft Molecular Polymer Brushes via a Combination of Janus Polymerization and ROMP
Authors: Li Yao , Schacher Felix H. , Ling Jun
Published: February 2019

Janus polymerization is a novel and efficient way to synthesize diblock and multiblock copolymers in one step by using Lu(OTf)3 and propylene epoxide as a catalytic system. By modifying the epoxide initiator, which is located at the block junction with various functional groups, the possibility for future topological design is provided. Herein, 2‐bicyclo[2.2.1]hept‐5‐en‐2‐yl oxirane (NB‐EO) is used as an alternative for propylene epoxide to synthesize a poly(THF‐co‐CL)‐b‐PCL diblock copolymer featuring a norbornene group at this position. This also results in multiblock [poly(THF‐co‐CL)‐b‐PCL]m copolymers carrying multiple norbornene moieties through Janus polymerization. Subsequent ring‐opening metathesis copolymerization (ROMP) of the resulting poly(THF‐co‐CL)‐b‐PCL macromonomers with norbornenyl‐terminated polysarcosine (PSar‐NB) allows the facile preparation of heterograft molecular polymer brushes (MPBs). The MPBs feature three heterografts of PCL, P(CL‐co‐THF) and PSar, potentially equipping these structures with biocompatibility, biodegradability, semi‐crystallinity, and amphiphilicity. A phase separation is observed after annealing in both TEM and AFM analysis. Due to their amphiphilic nature, the MPBs also undergo self‐assembly into micelles in aqueous solution. Such materials combining polypeptoids, polyesters, and polyethers segments are expected to attract wide attention in drug delivery applications.
Addressing timely care, workforce shortage via telepsychiatry
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2019

The field continues to witness a rapidly growing demand for behavioral health services and the lack of psychiatrists to meet this demand. Leveraging staff to care for the influx of patients becomes even more important. Subsequently, some community mental health organizations are taking the leap into telepsychiatry services in order to fill expected workforce gaps.
Radiochromic EBT2 and EBT3 sensitometry based on growth of two color phases of the polymer
Authors: Rodríguez César , Martínez Luis Carlos
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The aim of this work is to develop a sensitometry model of EBT2 and EBT3 radiochromic films based on the observation that radiation induces growth of two polymer color phases.

Methods

Previously published data of the active layer absorption spectrum have been used to characterize the contribution to the total absorbance of each polymer color phase. Through a prior proposed external beam therapy absorption spectrum model the total absorbance has been deconvolved into two polymer phase contributions. The integral absorbance in the visible spectrum of each color phase has been calculated and parametrized as an absorbed dose function. A sensitometry model employing linear relationships with the color phase integral absorbances has been investigated. The phase linear coefficient ratio for each color channel is proposed to be a constant. Films belonging to six different production batches, three EBT2 and three EBT3, have been used to verify this model.

Results

Each polymer color phase integral absorbance in the visible spectrum has been expressed as a simple saturation function of the absorbed dose to the film. The data coming from the six production batches have been fitted to the proposed sensitometry model. This model predicts the measured dose variation in the active layer light attenuation up to fluctuations attributable to uncertainties.

Conclusions

The calibration curve can be written as a linear combination of simple functions describing the dose dependence of the integral absorbance of each polymer color phase. These functions are characteristics of the active layer material, and not dependent on the model and production batch. According to the proposed model, to calibrate a batch in terms of the active layer light attenuation consists of determining just one linear coefficient.
Embryo responses to stress induced by assisted reproductive technologies
Authors: Ramos‐Ibeas Priscila , Heras Sonia , Gómez‐Redondo Isabel , Planells Benjamín , Fernández‐González Raúl , Pericuesta Eva , Laguna‐Barraza Ricardo , Pérez‐Cerezales Serafín , Gutiérrez‐Adán Alfonso
Published: February 2019

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has led to the birth of millions of babies. In cattle, thousands of embryos are produced annually. However, since the introduction and widespread use of ART, negative effects on embryos and offspring are starting to emerge. Knowledge so far, mostly provided by animal models, indicates that suboptimal conditions during ART can affect embryo viability and quality, and may induce embryonic stress responses. These stress responses take the form of severe gene expression alterations or modifications in critical epigenetic marks established during early developmental stages that can persist after birth. Unfortunately, while developmental plasticity allows the embryo to survive these stressful conditions, such insult may lead to adult health problems and to long‐term effects on offspring that could be transmitted to subsequent generations. In this review, we describe how in mice, livestock, and humans, besides affecting the development of the embryo itself, ART stressors may also have significant repercussions on offspring health and physiology. Finally, we argue the case that better control of stressors during ART will help improve embryo quality and offspring health.
In-Situ Evaluation of Benthic Suffocation Methods for Suppression of Invasive Lake Trout Embryos in Yellowstone Lake
Authors: Thomas Nathan A. , Guy Christopher S. , Koel Todd M. , Zale Alexander V.
Published: February 2019

Suppression of invasive Lake Trout Salvelinus namaycush is an important management tool to use in native fish and ecosystem conservation throughout the U.S. Intermountain West. Lake Trout suppression, primarily by gill netting, has been ongoing in Yellowstone Lake, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, since 1995. Additional methods that cause mortality of Lake Trout embryos could be used simultaneously with gill netting to enhance suppression. Our objective was to evaluate the in-situ efficacy of two benthic suffocation methods—tarping with gas-impermeable tarps and Lake Trout carcass deposition to increase the mortality of Lake Trout embryos. Tarping did not increase embryo mortality; mean control mortality was 21 ± 1.9% (mean ± SE), and mean tarp-treatment mortality was 20 ± 2.9%. Lake Trout carcass deposition caused 98 ± 1.2% mean mortality of embryos at the substrate surface and 100 ± 0.1% mean mortality of embryos 20 cm below the substrate surface. Hypoxic conditions in the carcass treatments were probably the cause of the high embryo mortality; dissolved oxygen concentrations at the substrate surface declined from 7.74 to 0.06 mg/L when carcasses remained on the treatment locations. The deposition of Lake Trout carcasses shows potential to be an additional suppression method that can induce mortality in Lake Trout embryos through benthic suffocation and could be implemented at Lake Trout spawning sites in Yellowstone Lake.
Gas/Liquid‐Phase Micro‐Flow Trifluoromethylation using Fluoroform: Trifluoromethylation of Aldehydes, Ketones, Chalcones, and N‐Sulfinylimines
Authors: Hirano Kazuki , Gondo Satoshi , Punna Nagender , Tokunaga Etsuko , Shibata Norio
Published: February 2019

A micro‐flow nucleophilic trifluoromethylation of carbonyl compounds using gaseous fluoroform was developed. This method also allows the first micro‐flow transformation of N‐sulfinylimines into trifluoromethyl amines with excellent diastereoselectivity. To demonstrate the synthetic utility of this micro‐flow synthesis, the formal micro‐flow synthesis of Efavirenz is described.
Exploitation of Compartmentalization in RAFT Miniemulsion Polymerization to Increase the Degree of Livingness
Authors: Khan Murtaza , Guimarães Thiago R. , Zhou Dewen , Moad Graeme , Perrier Sébastien , Zetterlund Per B.
Published: February 2019

It is demonstrated that the degree of livingness (chain‐end fidelity) in RAFT polymerization for a given degree of polymerization can be markedly increased in miniemulsion polymerization relative to the corresponding homogeneous bulk system. Polymerization of styrene was conducted using a poly(methyl methacrylate) benzodithioate as macroRAFT agent in both miniemulsion and bulk. The substantially higher polymerization rate in miniemulsion, which is attributed to the segregation effect (compartmentalization) causing a reduction in the rate of bimolecular termination, makes it possible to reach a given degree of polymerization in a significantly shorter time than in the corresponding bulk system. As a consequence, fewer initiating radicals are required throughout the polymerization, leading to higher livingness in the more rapid miniemulsion system. It is demonstrated how this approach facilitates synthesis of high‐molecular‐weight block copolymers comprising slowly propagating monomers such as styrene and methacrylates. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1938–1946
Five‐year outcomes from a randomised controlled trial of a couples‐based intervention for men with localised prostate cancer
Authors: Chambers Suzanne K. , Occhipinti Stefano , Stiller Anna , Zajdlewicz Leah , Nielsen Lisa , Wittman Daniela , Oliffe John L. , Ralph Nicholas , Dunn Jeff
Published: February 2019

Objective

Psychosexual morbidity is common after prostate cancer treatment, however, long‐term prospective research is limited. We report 5‐year outcomes from a couples‐based intervention in dyads with men treated for localised prostate cancer with surgery.

Methods

A randomised controlled trial was conducted involving 189 heterosexual couples, where the man received a radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer. The trial groups were peer support vs. nurse counselling versus usual care. Primary outcomes were sexual adjustment, unmet sexual supportive care needs, masculine self‐esteem, marital satisfaction, and utilisation of erectile aids at 2‐, 3‐, 4‐ and 5‐year follow‐up.

Results

The effects of the interventions varied across the primary outcomes. Partners in the peer group had higher sexual adjustment than those in the usual care and nurses group at 2 and 3 years (P = 0.002‐0.035). Men in usual care had lower unmet sexual supportive care needs than men in the peer and nurse groups (P = 0.001; P = 0.01) at 3 years. Women in usual care had lower sexual supportive care needs than women in the peer group at 2 and 3 years (P = 0.038; P = 0.001). Men in the peer and nurse group utilised sexual aids more than men in usual care; at 5 years 54% of usual care men versus 87% of men in peer support and 80% of men in the nurse group.

Conclusion

Peer and nurse‐administered psychosexual interventions have potential for increasing men's adherence to treatments for erectile dysfunction. Optimal effects may be achieved through an integrated approach applying these modes of support.
To rest or not to rest—Health care professionals' attitude toward recommending physical activity to their cancer patients
Authors: Ungar Nadine , Tsiouris Angeliki , Haussmann Alexander , Herbolsheimer Florian , Wiskemann Joachim , Steindorf Karen , Sieverding Monika
Published: February 2019

Objective

While in the past cancer patients were advised to rest, recent research revealed various beneficial effects of physical activity, including increased treatment tolerability during cancer treatment and prolonged survival, which has led to a paradigm shift in relevant guidelines. This study examined if this paradigm shift from rest to activity has been consolidated in health care professionals' (HCP') attitude. It was investigated if the two dimensions of attitude (rest and activity) are endorsed empirically within the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Differences between physicians and nurses were examined.

Methods

Five hundred forty seven physicians and 398 nurses treating breast, prostate, or colorectal cancer patients completed a cross‐sectional questionnaire. To assess attitude toward physical activity during cancer treatment, we developed a 15‐item scale, which included original statements of HCP. TPB variables were assessed.

Results

A factor analysis revealed the proposed distinction of attitude into two dimensions. The activity‐paradigm was stronger represented in HCP' attitude compared with rest‐paradigm (Mactivity‐paradigm = 4.1 versusMrest‐paradigm = 2.7,p < 0.001). Additionally, the activity‐paradigm had higher exploratory power in explaining intention to recommend physical activity in cancer patients. However, the rest‐paradigm was able to explain intention to recommend physical activity over and above activity‐paradigm (ΔR2 = 0.05). Nurses had higher scores on the rest‐paradigm than physicians.

Conclusions

The activity‐paradigm has already been consolidated in HCP' minds. However, the rest‐paradigm is still present in the daily routine of oncology physicians and nurses. Addressing concerns and insecurities related to supporting cancer patients in maintaining or building up a physically active lifestyle is a very important educational task.
Returning to work after cancer: Survivors', caregivers', and employers' perspectives
Authors: Fitch Margaret I. , Nicoll Irene
Published: February 2019

Objective

The Return to Work Initiative was launched to build a comprehensive understanding of issues, needs, current resources, and available supports for Canadian cancer survivors returning to work as the basis for developing a national action plan.

Methods

This Initiative drew on perspectives of stakeholders through a survey and consultations with cancer survivors and caregivers to learn about challenges regarding return to work and interviews and focus groups with workplace representatives and employers to determine issues encountered in the workplace. Common perspectives across stakeholder groups were identified.

Results

Cancer survivors (n = 410) described reduction in income, positive and negative experiences returning to work, and work‐related issues regarding side effects. Caregivers (n = 60) described loss of concentration and productivity, stress, and lack of support from coworkers. Employer representatives (n = 68) revealed challenges for managers knowing how best to support cancer survivors as there are few of them of which they are aware. All stakeholders agreed that returning to work for cancer survivors is challenging. Multiple strategies are needed to achieve success: in‐depth understanding of the issues, consideration of accommodation, communication among stakeholders, education, resources, and financial support.

Conclusions

The work provided a foundation for making decisions about how to proceed to improve return to work for Canadian cancer survivors.
Association between air pollution and sleep disordered breathing in children
Authors: Sánchez Trinidad , Gozal David , Smith Dale L. , Foncea Catalina , Betancur Carmen , Brockmann Pablo E.
Published: February 2019

Background and Objective

Similar to other respiratory diseases, sleep disordered breathing (SDB) may be exacerbated by air contaminants. Air pollution may have an impact on incidence and severity of SDB in children. The aims of this study were to examine potential associations between the exposure to different air pollutants and SDB symptoms in children.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, parents from first grade children of elementary schools throughout Chile were included. Data about clinical and family‐related SDB risk factors, and the pediatric sleep questionnaire (PSQ) were obtained. Air pollution and meteorological data were obtained from the Chilean online air quality database.

Results

A total of 564 children (44.9% males) aged (median) 6 years (5‐9 year) were included. Prevalence of SDB based on PSQ was 17.7%. When examining air pollutants and conditions, only higher humidity (β = 0.005, 95%CI 0.001‐0.009, P = 0.011) was significantly associated with higher PSQ scores after adjusting for demographic and household variables. Higher ozone (O3) levels (OR = 1.693, 95%CI 1.409‐2.035, P < 0.001), higher humidity (OR = 1.161, 95%CI 1.041‐2.035, P = 0.008) and higher dioxide sulfur (SO2) levels (OR = 1.16, 95%CI 1.07‐1.94, P < 0.001]) were associated with increased odds of wheezing‐related sleep disturbances after adjusting for confounders. Lower temperature was a significant predictor of snoring at least >3 nights/week, following adjustment (OR = 0.865, 95%CI 0.751‐0.997, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Sleep respiratory symptoms (wheezing and snoring) are significantly associated with air pollutants such as O3 and SO2. In addition, meteorological conditions such as humidity and low temperatures may be also associated with SDB‐related symptoms.