bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterogeneous microcommunities and ecosystem multifunctionality in seminatural grasslands under three management modes
Authors: Li Jingpeng , Zheng Zhirong , Xie Hongtao , Zhao Nianxi , Gao Yubao
Published: November 2016

Increasing attention has been paid to the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning (BEF) because of the rapid increase in species loss. However, over the past 20 years, most BEF studies only focused on the effect of species diversity on one or a few ecosystem functions, and only a few studies focused on ecosystem multifunctionality (i.e., the simultaneous provision of several ecosystem functions). Grassland ecosystems have important economic, environmental, and esthetic value; thus, this study focused on the heterogeneous microcommunities in grasslands under three management modes. The multifunctionality index (M‐index) was assessed at community and microcommunity scales, and the relationship between species diversity and multifunctionality was investigated. The communities were found to be respectively composed of one, three, and six microcommunities in grazing, clipping, and enclosure management, based on a two‐way indicator species analysis (TWINSPAN) and detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) for community structure. Biodiversity and soil indicators showed an apparent degradation of the grazing community, which had the worst M‐index. Clipping and enclosure communities showed no significant difference in biodiversity indices, soil variables, and M‐index; however, these indices were clearly different among microcommunities. Therefore, the microcommunity scale may be suitable to investigate the relationship between vegetation and multifunctionality in seminatural grassland ecosystems. Dominant species richness had more explanatory power for ecosystem multifunctionality than subdominant species richness, rare species richness, and the number of all species. Therefore, it is important to distinguish the role and rank of different species in the species richness–multifunctionality model; otherwise, the model might include redundant and unclear information. Communities with more codominant species whose distribution is also even might have better multifunctionality.
Cardiac extracellular matrix is associated with adverse outcome in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Duca Franz , Zotter‐Tufaro Caroline , Kammerlander Andreas A. , Panzenböck Adelheid , Aschauer Stefan , Dalos Daniel , Köll Benedikt , Börries Benedikt , Agis Hermine , Kain Renate , Aumayr Klaus , Klinglmüller Florian , Mascherbauer Julia , Bonderman Diana
Published: November 2016

Aims

Accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) is known to play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of heart failure (HF). However, its prognostic relevance is poorly investigated.

Methods and results

A total of 73 HF patients who underwent LV endomyocardial biopsy were enrolled in our study. ECM area was quantified by TissueFAXS and ImageJ software. Patients were followed‐up at 6‐month intervals. The study endpoint was defined as hospitalization for a cardiac reason and/or cardiac death. Furthermore, the influence of the ECM on invasively measured haemodynamic parameters was tested. During a median follow‐up period of 9.0 months, 34 patients (46.6%) reached the combined endpoint. Median ECM area was 30.5%. Patients with ECM area ≥30.5% experienced significantly more events (67.6% vs. 25.0%, P < 0.001) in comparison with patients with an ECM area <30.5%. ECM area was independently associated with outcome in the total HF cohort [hazard ratio (HR) 1.041, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.017–1.066, P = 0.001] as well as in HF patients with preserved (HR 1.079, 95% CI 1.001–1.163, P =0 .046) or reduced ejection fraction (HR 1.149, 95% CI 1.036–1.275, P = 0.009). Positive correlations were found between ECM area and LV end‐diastolic pressure (P = 0.021, R = 0.303), pulmonary artery wedge pressure (P = 0.042, R = 0.249), mean pulmonary arterial pressure (P = 0.035, R = 0.258), as well as right atrial pressure (P = 0.003, R = 0.353).

Conclusion

ECM area within the LV myocardium correlates with left and right heart haemodynamics and is associated with clinical course in various non‐ischaemic HF types.
Enantioselective Syntheses of (–)‐Alloyohimbane and (–)‐Yohimbane by an Efficient Enzymatic Desymmetrization Process
Authors: Ghosh Arun K. , Sarkar Anindya
Published: November 2016

Enantioselective syntheses of (–)‐alloyohimbane and (–)‐yohimbane were accomplished in a convergent manner. The key step involves a modified mild protocol for the enantioselective enzymatic desymmetrization of a meso‐diacetate. This provides convenient access to an optically active monoacetate in multi‐gram quantities and in high enantiomeric purity. This monoacetate was converted to (–)‐alloyohimbane. Reductive amination of the derived aldehyde caused isomerization to the trans‐product and, ultimately, the formation of (–)‐yohimbane.
Effect of ionic liquid confinement on CO2 solubility and permeability characteristics
Authors: Wang Jin , Ding Hong , Cao Bai‐chuan , Huang Xue
Published: November 2016

CO2 gas solubility and permeability in conventional imidazolium ionic liquids (ILs) confined in hydrophobic and hydrophilic PVDF membranes were investigated and compared with that in the bulk IL phase, revealing the effect of the support and the possible interactions of IL with the support material. Experimental results showed CO2 solubility in supported ionic liquid membranes (SILMs) increased approximately by a factor of 1.2 to 3.9 compared with that in the bulk IL. Meanwhile, the CO2 permeability in different SILMs was in the range of (0.5∼10.5) × 10−12 m2·s−1·kPa−1, which was almost a hundred times higher than that of CO2 in the pure IL. Compared with hydrophobic SILMs, hydrophilic SILMs with same pore size and porosity could load more ILs, however, providing lower specific surface for adsorbent. Correspondingly, CO2 solubility in all hydrophobic SILMs was higher than that in hydrophilic SILMs, which is consistent with the molecular property expression of the Henry constant derived from statistic mechanics, manifesting CO2 solubility affected by the interface effect of membrane with ILs. Besides the effect of specific surface area of IL adsorbent, the reorganization of cation and anion confined in sub‐micrometer pores maybe causes more IL free volume and improves CO2 permeance. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The prevalence of depressive symptoms among older patients with hypertension in rural China
Authors: Xue Jiang , Chen Shulin , Bogner Hillary R. , Tang Wan , Li Lydia , Conwell Yeates
Published: November 2016

Objective

The comorbidity of depression and hypertension (HTN) is common and complicates the management of both conditions. This study investigated the prevalence of depressive symptoms among older patients with HTN in rural China and explored the relationship between the two conditions.

Methods

The baseline data of older patients diagnosed with HTN included in the depression/HTN in Chinese Older Adults—Collaborations for Health Study were used for the analysis. The Chinese Older Adults—Collaborations for Health Study was conducted in rural villages of Tonglu County, Zhejiang Province, China. In all, 10 389 older village residents had HTN (57.2% female, mean age 71.5 ± 8.1 years). Blood pressure was measured by using a calibrated manual sphygmomanometer and stethoscope. Depressive symptom was measured by using the Chinese version of the nine‐item Patient Health Questionnaire.

Results

Among 10 389 patients with HTN, 12.8% had significant depressive symptoms (nine‐item Patient Health Questionnaire ≥ 10). Rates of significant depressive symptoms were 5.3% and 32.8% among patients with controlled and uncontrolled HTN (systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90), respectively (χ2 = 8.701,p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis indicated that those in older age group (≥70 years) and with uncontrolled HTN have higher rates of significant depressive symptoms than those who are younger (age 60 to <70) and with controlled HTN.

Conclusion

Our findings show high rates of depressive symptoms among patients with HTN in rural China and higher rates of depressive symptoms among patients with uncontrolled HTN. These support the development and dissemination of integrative care approaches for older adults with HTN and depression in rural China. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exploring suspended sediment delivery dynamics of two Mediterranean nested catchments
Authors: López‐Tarazón José A. , Estrany Joan
Published: November 2016

This paper investigates suspended sediment transport and dynamics of two nested agricultural lowland Mediterranean catchments with a difference of two orders of magnitude in the surface area (i.e., 1 and 264 km2). The effects of the drainage catchment area over the specific suspended sediment yield are assessed by using the nested approach over various timeframes. A detailed analysis of the rainfall–runoff–sediment transport relationships during the 2‐year study period shows that the hydrological and sedimentological responses were extremely variable for both catchments. Very low or no correlations were observed between the rainfall intensity and the selected hydrological variables and sediment loads. However, remarkable or high correlations were obtained between the rainfall intensity and the maximum and average suspended sediment concentrations, indicating that rainfall per unit time has little control on the hydrological response, but that, simultaneously, its high‐erosive power triggers sediment production, increasing the sedimentary response of the catchments. This study also illustrates how sediment is mainly transported during floods, producing predominantly clockwise hysteretic loops. Moreover, the small headwater catchment exerts a reduced (or even negligible) effect over the hydro‐sedimentary response of the larger downstream catchment, caused by the reduced sediment availability in a landscape with an inherent disconnection of the sediment pathways.
Paris Climate Accord: Miles to Go
Authors: Mahapatra Sushanta Kumar , Ratha Keshab Chandra
Published: November 2016

The vicious effects of climate change are sweeping the planet along with the creation of a level of emissions that would lock in a future of rising sea levels, intense droughts and food shortages, more destructive storms and floods and other catastrophic effects. With a best hope to face the bad effects of climate change on world security and to drive the world on a low‐carbon pathway, a multinational effort of the world leaders is on the process to hammer out a new global pact for reducing the emissions. But the Paris Climate Summit has not served for this purpose because of absence of actionable commitments, discord on sharing of remaining carbon space, disagreement over finance, lack of clarity and sidelining the least developed and vulnerable countries. Delivery on commitments made in Paris, therefore, calls for new systems of governance, new infrastructures, user practices, institutions, policies and cultural meanings. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pressure dependence of the Raman signal intensity in high‐pressure gases
Authors: Petrov Dmitry V. , Matrosov Ivan I.
Published: November 2016

At present gas analysis based on Raman, spectroscopy is actively developed. In most cases, to achieve the required Raman signal intensity, compression of the gas medium is used. However, in comparison with normal conditions, the character of motion of molecules and their electric properties change in high‐pressure gas media, thereby violating a linear dependence of the Raman signal intensity on the concentration of molecules and the gas pressure. In the present work, a theoretical model is presented that describes the Raman signal intensity as a function of the pressure of the gas medium considering the compressibility factor, the internal field factor, and the instrumental factor. To verify the model, changes in the Raman signal intensities of vibrational bands of nitrogen and oxygen in the pressure range 1–80 atm and carbon dioxide in the pressure range 1–60 atm are investigated. Under these conditions, we observe a deviation of ~3% from a linear dependence for nitrogen, ~7% for oxygen and ~80% for carbon dioxide, which is in good agreement with the theoretical model. Raman shifts, half‐widths of Q‐branches of vibrational bands ν1 (and 2ν2 for carbon dioxide) of these molecules and also ratio of integral intensities I(2ν2)/I(ν1) for carbon dioxide under these conditions are investigated. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Low breeding propensity and wide‐ranging movements by marbled murrelets in Washington
Authors: Lorenz Teresa J. , Raphael Martin G. , Bloxton Thomas D. , Cunningham Patrick G.
Published: November 2016

The marbled murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus) is a threatened seabird that forages in nearshore marine waters but nests inland, commonly in older coniferous forests. Information on ranging behavior and breeding propensity can be useful for informing management, especially when comparisons can be made between declining or threatened populations and more stable, unthreatened populations. Over 5 years, we measured ranging behavior and breeding propensity of marbled murrelets in Washington, USA where murrelets are considered threatened. Our primary objective was to compare space use and breeding by murrelets in Washington with those from other regions and where the species is not considered threatened. We radio tracked 157 murrelets from 2004 to 2008. Median marine 95% kernel ranges were 487 km2 ( [SD]) and larger than those reported for non‐threatened populations in Alaska, USA in other studies. Ranges computed from minimum convex polygons (MCPs; median = 404 km2; ) were on average similar to those reported for threatened populations in California, USA, although larger than those reported for Alaska. Distances traveled between consecutive marine telemetry locations were greater than reported previously in Alaska. Variation in movements in our study were not associated with oceanographic conditions although appeared greater for murrelets captured along the Pacific Coast compared to those occupying interior marine waters in the Salish Sea. Twenty individuals (12.7%) attempted to breed in our study, and we estimated breeding propensity was 13.1–20.0%. This is the lowest breeding propensity reported for a population of murrelets to date. For breeders, nest‐sea commuting distances were greater than reported previously, with 4 breeders traveling farther than the previously reported maximum of 125 km. The low breeding propensity, large marine ranges, and long nest‐sea commutes in this study may point to poor‐quality marine habitat in Washington compared to other parts of the murrelet's range. In combination with reported declines in terrestrial nesting habitat from other studies, this indicates that additional management is needed to improve murrelet breeding habitat in Washington. Future management actions should focus on improving both terrestrial and marine habitat. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.
Light Triggered Co‐Assembly of Photocleavable Copolymers and Polyoxometalates with Enhanced Photoluminescence
Authors: Zhang Jinlong , Shi Nan , Zhang Jie , Guan Yan , Qiao Weihong , Wan Xinhua
Published: November 2016

A novel co‐assembly based on the block copolymer bearing photocleavable groups and macroanionic polyoxometalates Na9[Ln(W5O18)2] (LnW10, Ln = Eu, Dy) triggered by UV light is realized in aqueous solution. The copolymer synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) undergoes irreversible cleavage upon UV irradiation to generate primary amine (pKa ≈ 8–9) residues which are completely protonated under a neutral pH in aqueous solution. Electrostatic attractions between the resulting positively charged copolymers and anionic LnW10 drive the formation of assemblies. In situ small angle X‐ray scattering and transmission electron microscopy are used to characterize the morphology of the assemblies. The microenvironments around polyoxometalates in the core of hybrid assemblies become highly hydrophobic, resulting in dramatically enhanced photoluminescence with the obvious intensity enhancement. The solution parameters pH and salt additives show great effects on the formation of assemblies.

image
Adenylyl cyclase 3/adenylyl cyclase‐associated protein 1 (CAP1) complex mediates the anti‐migratory effect of forskolin in pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Quinn Sierra N. , Graves Sarai H. , Dains‐McGahee Clayton , Friedman Emilee M. , Hassan Humma , Witkowski Piotr , Sabbatini Maria E.
Published: November 2016

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal human malignancies. A better understanding of the intracellular mechanism of migration and invasion is urgently needed to develop treatment that will suppress metastases and improve overall survival. Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cyclic AMP) is a second messenger that has shown to regulate migration and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells. The rise of cyclic AMP suppressed migration and invasion of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells. Cyclic AMP is formed from cytosolic ATP by the enzyme adenylyl cyclase (AC). There are ten isoforms of ACs; nine are anchored in the plasma membrane and one is soluble. What remains unknown is the extent to which the expression of transmembrane AC isoforms is both modified in pancreatic cancer and mediates the inhibitory effect of forskolin on cell motility. Using real‐time PCR analysis, ADCY3 was found to be highly expressed in pancreatic tumor tissues, resulting in a constitutive increase in cyclic AMP levels. On the other hand, ADCY2 was down‐regulated. Migration, invasion, and filopodia formation in two different pancreatic adenocarcinoma cell lines, HPAC and PANC‐1 deficient in AC1 or AC3, were studied. We found that AC3, upon stimulation with forskolin, enhanced cyclic AMP levels and inhibited cell migration and invasion. Unlikely to be due to a cytotoxic effect, the inhibitory effects of forskolin involved the quick formation of AC3/adenylyl cyclase‐associated protein 1 (CAP1)/G‐actin complex, which inhibited filopodia formation and cell motility. Using Western blotting analysis, forskolin, through AC3 activation, caused phosphorylation of CREB, but not ERK. The effect of CREB phosphorylation is likely to be associated with long‐term signaling changes. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identification and functional analysis of c.422_423InsT, a novel mutation of the HNF1A gene in a patient with diabetes
Authors: Magaña‐Cerino Jesús Miguel , Luna‐Arias Juan P. , Labra‐Barrios María Luisa , Avendaño‐Borromeo Bartolo , Boldo‐León Xavier Miguel , Martínez‐López Mirian Carolina
Published: December 2016

Background

HNF1A gene regulates liver‐specific genes, and genes that have a role in glucose metabolism, transport, and secretion of insulin. HNF1A gene mutations are frequently associated with type 2 diabetes. HNF1A protein has three domains: the dimerization domain, the DNA‐binding domain, and the trans‐activation domain. Some mutations in the dimerization or DNA‐binding domains have no influence on the normal allele, while others have dominant negative effects. The I27L, A98V, and S487N polymorphisms are common variants of the HNF1A gene; they have been found in T2D and non‐diabetic subjects.

Methods and Results

We searched for mutations in the first three exons of the HNF1A gen in an Amerindian population of 71 diabetic patients. DNA sequencing revealed the previously reported I27L polymorphism (c.79A>C) in 53% of diabetic patients and in 67% of the control group. Thus, the I27L/L27L polymorphism might be a marker of Amerindians. In addition, we found the c.422_423InsT mutation in the HNF1A gene of one patient, which had not been previously reported. This mutation resulted in a frame shift of the open reading frame and a new translation stop in codon 187, leading to a truncated polypeptide of 186 amino acids (Q141Hfs*47). This novel mutation affects the DNA‐binding capacity of the mutant HNF1A protein by EMSA; its intracellular localization by fluorescence and confocal microscopy, and a dominant‐negative effect affecting the DNA‐binding capacity of the normal HNF1A by EMSA. We also studied the homology modeling structure to understand the effect of this mutation on its DNA‐binding capacity and its dominant negative effect.

Conclusion

The HNF1A Q141Hfs*47 mutant polypeptide has no DNA‐binding capacity and exerts a dominant negative effect on the HNF1A protein. Therefore, it might produce severe phenotypic effects on the expression levels of a set of β‐cell genes. Consequently, its screening should be included in the genetic analysis of diabetic patients after more functional studies are performed.
A randomized trial Examining The Impact Of Communicating Genetic And Lifestyle Risks For Obesity
Authors: Wang Catharine , Gordon Erynn S. , Norkunas Tricia , Wawak Lisa , Liu Ching‐Ti , Winter Michael , Kasper Rachel S. , Christman Michael F. , Green Robert C. , Bowen Deborah J.
Published: November 2016

Objective

Genetic testing for obesity is available directly to consumers, yet little is understood about its behavioral impact and its added value to nongenetic risk communication efforts based on lifestyle factors.

Methods

A randomized trial examined the short‐term impact of providing personalized obesity risk information, using a 2 × 2 factorial design. Participants were recruited from the Coriell Personalized Medicine Collaborative (CPMC) and randomized to receive (1) no risk information (control), (2) genetic risk, (3) lifestyle risk, or (4) combined genetic/lifestyle risks. Baseline and 3‐month follow‐up survey data were collected. Analyses examined the impact of risk feedback on intentions to lose weight and self‐reported weight.

Results

A total of 696 participants completed the study. A significant interaction effect was observed for genetic and lifestyle information on intent to lose weight (P = 0.0150). Those who received genetic risk alone had greater intentions at follow‐up, compared with controls (P = 0.0034). The impact of receiving elevated risk information on intentions varied by source and combination of risks presented. Non‐elevated genetic risk did not lower intentions. No group differences were observed for self‐reported weight.

Conclusions

Genetic risk information for obesity may add value to lifestyle risk information depending on the context in which it is presented.
Metabolomics‐guided insights on bariatric surgery versus behavioral interventions for weight loss
Authors: Tulipani Sara , Griffin Jules , Palau‐Rodriguez Magali , Mora‐Cubillos Ximena , Bernal‐Lopez Rosa M. , Tinahones Francisco J. , Corkey Barbara E. , Andres‐Lacueva Cristina
Published: November 2016

Objective

To review the metabolomic studies carried out so far to identify metabolic markers associated with surgical and dietary treatments for weight loss in subjects with obesity.

Methods

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed.

Results

Thirty‐two studies successfully met the eligibility criteria. The metabolic adaptations shared by surgical and dietary interventions mirrored a state of starvation ketoacidosis (increase of circulating ketone bodies), an increase of acylcarnitines and fatty acid β‐oxidation, a decrease of specific amino acids including branched‐chain amino acids (BCAA) and (lyso)glycerophospholipids previously associated with obesity, and adipose tissue expansion. The metabolic footprint of bariatric procedures was specifically characterized by an increase of bile acid circulating pools and a decrease of ceramide levels, a greater perioperative decline in BCAA, and the rise of circulating serine and glycine, mirroring glycemic control and inflammation improvement. In one study, 3‐hydroxybutyrate was particularly identified as an early metabolic marker of long‐term prognosis after surgery and proposed to increase current prognostic modalities and contribute to personalized treatment.

Conclusions

Metabolomics helped in deciphering the metabolic response to weight loss treatments. Moving from association to causation is the next challenge to move to a further level of clinical application.
Care management for foreign children, adolescents, young adults with cancer, and their families
Authors: Gaudichon Jérémie , Toscani Sandra , Cohen‐Gogo Sarah , Saulpic Juliette , Surun Aurore , Sakiroglu Oya , Doz François , Michon Jean , Orbach Daniel
Published: December 2016

Background

Little is known about care management for foreign patients in pediatric oncology in European centers. We aimed to describe care given to children, adolescents, and young adults who came to France for cancer treatment, and to determine whether their geographical origin had an influence on decision making.

Procedure

We conducted a monocentric retrospective study on all foreign patients aged 0–25 years and hospitalized for at least one night in Institut Curie (Paris, France) from 2009 to 2013. We analyzed the potential advantages of receiving treatment in France as well as their social and familial consequences.

Results

A total of 93 foreign patients’ files were retrieved. Most of these patients came from Africa (70%). In accord with the specific expertise of the institution, retinoblastoma was the most frequent tumor type (39%). An antitumor treatment had already been administrated in the native country in 44% of patients. We considered that 66% of patients received a significant medical advantage from care in our institution. The treatment provided in France was considered impossible in the native country in 44% of cases. The social and familial impact on the patients’ families was high (59%). Almost all patients (96%) received the treatment that would have been proposed to their French counterparts.

Conclusions

There were notable medical advantages for foreign patients who come to France for their oncologic treatment despite important familial consequences. Patients’ geographical origin did not have an influence on medical decisions.
Long‐term survivors of childhood bone and soft tissue sarcomas are at risk of hospitalization
Authors: Gonzalez Cristian D. , Randall R. Lor , Wright Jennifer , Spraker‐Perlman Holly , Ying Jian , Sweeney Carol , Smith Ken R. , Kirchhoff Anne C.
Published: December 2016

Background

Childhood cancer survivors can have a high burden of chronic conditions related to cancer treatment, some of which are debilitating or potentially life‐threatening. Much remains to be learned about late effects in bone and soft tissue sarcoma survivors.

Procedures

The Utah Cancer Registry was used to identify survivors of bone (N = 71) and soft tissue sarcomas (N = 98) who were diagnosed at ages 0–20 years between 1973 and 2007 and were alive at least 5 years after diagnosis. We selected an age–sex‐matched comparison cohort (N = 934). Hospitalizations from 1996 to 2012 were extracted from the Utah Department of Health statewide inpatient hospitalization discharge records. Cox, Poisson, and Gamma regressions were used to evaluate the risk of hospitalization, rate of admission, and length of stay for survivors versus the comparison cohort. Primary ICD‐9 codes defined the most common reasons for hospitalizations.

Results

The hazard ratio (HR) of any hospitalization was higher for survivors in reference to the comparison cohort (HR = 2.12, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.51–2.97). Survivors experienced more hospital admissions (rate ratio [RR] = 4.58, 95% CI 3.92–5.35) and longer length of stay (RR = 1.28, 95% CI 1.12–1.46) compared with the comparison cohort. Survivors treated with any chemotherapy were at three‐fold higher risk (HR = 3.37, 95% CI 1.94–5.83) of hospitalization compared with survivors who received surgery and/or radiation alone. Among hospitalized survivors, the most common reason was injury for bone tumor (26.8%) and neoplasm for soft tissue sarcoma (12.2%).

Conclusion

Childhood survivors of bone tumor and soft tissue sarcoma face ongoing risk of hospitalization for years after diagnosis.
Electrospinning of Polylactic Acid/silver nanowire biocomposites: Antibacterial and electrical resistivity studies
Authors: Satoungar Mohammad Taghi , Fattahi Saeid , Azizi Hamed , Khajeh Mehrizi Mohammad
Published: November 2016

In this experiment direct electrospinning was used to produce Polylactic acid/silver nanowire (PLA/AgNWs) biocomposite fibers. This method engineered and produced nanofibers with core‐shell structure. Antimicrobial activity was studied using AATCC 100‐1993 test method, and electrical resistivity measurement was performed by four‐point probes. The results showed that nanofibers with core‐shell structures can be successfully produced. Results of antibacterial activity testing of nanofibers against both Staphylococcus aureus, a gram‐positive bacterium, and E. coli, a gram‐negative bacterium, indicated considerable antibacterial properties. Further, the electrical resistivity of nanofiber composites based of PLA/AgNWs was higher than that of pure PLA. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E65–E72, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
Cigarette smoke alters the secretome of lung epithelial cells
Authors: Mossina Alessandra , Lukas Christina , Merl‐Pham Juliane , Uhl Franziska E. , Mutze Kathrin , Schamberger Andrea , Staab‐Weijnitz Claudia , Jia Jie , Yildirim Ali Ö. , Königshoff Melanie , Hauck Stefanie M. , Eickelberg Oliver , Meiners Silke
Published: November 2016

Cigarette smoke is the most relevant risk factor for the development of lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Many of its more than 4500 chemicals are highly reactive, thereby altering protein structure and function. Here, we used subcellular fractionation coupled to label‐free quantitative MS to globally assess alterations in the proteome of different compartments of lung epithelial cells upon exposure to cigarette smoke extract. Proteomic profiling of the human alveolar derived cell line A549 revealed the most pronounced changes within the cellular secretome with preferential downregulation of proteins involved in wound healing and extracellular matrix organization. In particular, secretion of secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine, a matricellular protein that functions in tissue response to injury, was consistently diminished by cigarette smoke extract in various pulmonary epithelial cell lines and primary cells of human and mouse origin as well as in mouse ex vivo lung tissue cultures. Our study reveals a previously unrecognized acute response of lung epithelial cells to cigarette smoke that includes altered secretion of proteins involved in extracellular matrix organization and wound healing. This may contribute to sustained alterations in tissue remodeling as observed in lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Twoplex 12/13C6 aniline stable isotope and linkage‐specific sialic acid labeling 2D‐LC‐MS workflow for quantitative N‐glycomics
Authors: Albrecht Simone , Mittermayr Stefan , Smith Josh , Martín Silvia Millán , Doherty Margaret , Bones Jonathan
Published: November 2016

Quantitative glycomics represents an actively expanding research field ranging from the discovery of disease‐associated glycan alterations to the quantitative characterization of N‐glycans on therapeutic proteins. Commonly used analytical platforms for comparative relative quantitation of complex glycan samples include MALDI‐TOF‐MS or chromatographic glycan profiling with subsequent data alignment and statistical evaluation. Limitations of such approaches include run‐to‐run technical variation and the potential introduction of subjectivity during data processing. Here, we introduce an offline 2D LC‐MSE workflow for the fractionation and relative quantitation of twoplex isotopically labeled N‐linked oligosaccharides using neutral 12C6 and 13C6 aniline (Δmass = 6 Da). Additional linkage‐specific derivatization of sialic acids using 4‐(4,6‐dimethoxy‐1,3,5‐trizain‐2‐yl)‐4‐methylmorpholinium chloride offered simultaneous and advanced in‐depth structural characterization. The potential of the method was demonstrated for the differential analysis of structurally defined N‐glycans released from serum proteins of patients diagnosed with various stages of colorectal cancer. The described twoplex 12C6/13C6 aniline 2D LC‐MS platform is ideally suited for differential glycomic analysis of structurally complex N‐glycan pools due to combination and analysis of samples in a single LC‐MS injection and the associated minimization in technical variation.
Factors predicting emotional cue‐responding behaviors of nurses in Taiwan: An observational study
Authors: Lin Mei‐Feng , Lee An‐Yu , Chou Cheng‐Chen , Liu Tien‐Yu , Tang Chia‐Chun
Published: November 2016

Objective

Responding to emotional cues is an essential element of therapeutic communication. The purpose of this study is to examine nurses' competence of responding to emotional cues (CRE) and related factors while interacting with standardized patients with cancer.

Methods

This is an exploratory and predictive correlational study. A convenience sample of registered nurses who have passed the probationary period in southern Taiwan was recruited to participate in 15‐minute videotaped interviews with standardized patients. The Medical Interview Aural Rating Scale was used to describe standardized patients' emotional cues and to measure nurses' CRE. The State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory was used to evaluate nurses' anxiety level before the conversation. We used descriptive statistics to describe the data and stepwise regression to examine the predictors of nurses' CRE.

Results

A total of 110 nurses participated in the study. Regardless of the emotional cue level, participants predominately responded to cues with inappropriate distancing strategies. Prior formal communication training, practice unit, length of nursing practice, and educational level together explain 36.3% variances of the nurses' CRE.

Conclusions

This study is the first to explore factors related to Taiwanese nurses' CRE. Compared to nurses in other countries, Taiwanese nurses tended to respond to patients' emotional cues with more inappropriate strategies. We also identified significant predictors of CRE that show the importance of communication training. Future research and education programs are needed to enhance nurses' CRE and to advocate for emotion‐focused communication.
Is there a relationship between objectively measured cognitive changes in patients with solid tumours undergoing chemotherapy treatment and their health‐related quality of life outcomes? A systematic review
Authors: Dwek Marie‐Rose , Rixon Lorna , Hurt Catherine , Simon Alice , Newman Stanton
Published: November 2016

Background

This systematic review examines whether there is a relationship between objective measures of chemotherapy‐related cognitive impairment in patients with solid cancer tumours and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL).

Methods

Multiple online databases were searched (including Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, CINAHL, PubMed, and Web of Science) to identify articles published between 1980 and 2016 examining the extent of chemotherapy‐related cognitive deficit and its relationship with HRQoL in cancer patients. Of 2769 potentially relevant articles, 17 studies met the inclusion criteria for the current review.

Results

Evidence for the presence of cognitive impairment in patients treated with chemotherapy was found in 15 of the 17 studies. Of the 15 studies finding some sort of cognitive impairment, 12 were in female breast cancer patients, 2 in bowel cancer, and 1 each in ovarian and lung cancer. Three of the 15 studies found a significant relationship between various objectively measured cognitively impaired domains and specific HRQoL outcomes. There was, however, only limited testing of the relationships between quantifiable cognitive dysfunction and HRQoL domains.

Conclusions

This review suggests that in patients with solid tumours, where there is a relationship between chemotherapy treatment and cognitive impairment, the type and level of cognitive decline does not consistently appear to affect such patients' HRQoL. This could be partly explained by variations in study design, measures used, definitions of cognitive impairment, varying measurement time frames, small sample sizes, and differences in disease severity and type of treatment regimes.
Application of Bayesian hierarchical models for phase I/II clinical trials in oncology
Authors: Yada Shinjo , Hamada Chikuma
Published: November 2016

Treatment during cancer clinical trials sometimes involves the combination of multiple drugs. In addition, in recent years there has been a trend toward phase I/II trials in which a phase I and a phase II trial are combined into a single trial to accelerate drug development. Methods for the seamless combination of phases I and II parts are currently under investigation. In the phase II part, adaptive randomization on the basis of patient efficacy outcomes allocates more patients to the dose combinations considered to have higher efficacy. Patient toxicity outcomes are used for determining admissibility to each dose combination and are not used for selection of the dose combination itself. In cases where the objective is not to find the optimum dose combination solely for efficacy but regarding both toxicity and efficacy, the need exists to allocate patients to dose combinations with consideration of the balance of existing trade‐offs between toxicity and efficacy. We propose a Bayesian hierarchical model and an adaptive randomization with consideration for the relationship with toxicity and efficacy. Using the toxicity and efficacy outcomes of patients, the Bayesian hierarchical model is used to estimate the toxicity probability and efficacy probability in each of the dose combinations. Here, we use Bayesian moving‐reference adaptive randomization on the basis of desirability computed from the obtained estimator. Computer simulations suggest that the proposed method will likely recommend a higher percentage of target dose combinations than a previously proposed method.
Synchronization of stochastic complex dynamical networks under self‐triggered control
Authors: Xing Mali , Deng Feiqi , Zhao Xueyan
Published: November 2016

In this paper, we investigate the mean square exponential synchronization of stochastic nonlinear complex dynamical networks with or without communication delays. A new self‐triggered mechanism is proposed to reduce the amount of communication while preserving the desired system's performance. Under this mechanism, the next sampling instant is dynamically determined by the latest transmitted state rather than the online detection of the event‐triggered condition. Meanwhile, we show that the inter‐execution time of self‐triggered mechanism is bounded by a strictly positive constant, and the maximal allowable delay of the underlying system is given. A simulation is provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed self‐triggered scenario. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evidence of Middle School Science Assessment Practice From Classroom‐Based Portfolios
Authors: KLOSER MATTHEW , BORKO HILDA , MARTÍNEZ JOSÉ FELIPE , STECHER BRIAN , LUSKIN REBECCA
Published: November 2016

Assessments are powerful tools for informing teachers and students about where student thinking stands with relation to a learning goal. Yet, few studies provide qualitative analyses of assessment practice across a unit. This study uses a framework of nine dimensions of effective assessment practice in science classrooms to compare more and less effective assessment practice among a purposive sample of middle school science teachers. Participating teachers collected 10 days of assessment artifacts, lesson plans, and student work for a science unit. Our comparison indicated that particular dimensions, such as setting goals, aligning assessments with goals, frequency, and variety of assessment, can be addressed relatively easily by teachers whose overall collection of artifacts were rated in the top and bottom quartile. However, dimensions that take into account the quality or depth of student learning, such as the cognitive complexity of the task, the type of feedback that is provided, or how well teachers adapt instruction based on information from assessments, differ more significantly among teachers in our sample. The conceptualization of these nine dimensions along with evidence from actual classrooms across consecutive instructional days targets areas for professional development and teacher education.
A certificate‐based proxy signature with message recovery without bilinear pairing
Authors: Mahmoodi Ali , Mohajery Javad , Salmasizadeh Mahmoud
Published: November 2016

In this paper, we propose the first provable secure certificate‐based proxy signature (CBPS) with message recovery without bilinear pairing. In 2003, Gentry introduced the concept of certificate‐based cryptography to solve certificate management and key escrow problems in public key infrastructure and identity‐based cryptosystems, respectively. Because the overall cost of pairing computation is higher than scalar multiplication (e.g., over elliptic curve group), consequently, the CBPS schemes without pairings would be more efficient. According to the available research in this regard, our scheme is the first provable secure CBPS scheme with message recovery that is based on the elliptic curve discrete logarithm problem. We prove the security of the presented scheme in the random oracle model against existential forgery under adaptive chosen message and ID attacks. Moreover, the paper will also show how it would be possible to convert this scheme to the CBPS scheme without message recovery. This scheme has more applications in cases with constrain power and restricted bandwidth. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Supporting trans people in clinical practice
Authors: Wylie Kevan , Wylie Rebecca
Published: November 2016

As the number of transgender people accessing healthcare/presenting within healthcare settings increases, their needs have to be considered when designing and delivering healthcare services. This article outlines current key issues surrounding trans healthcare and clinical guidelines, and signposts readers to essential resources as a step towards ensuring practitioners are equipped to respond appropriately to any health needs a trans person may present in a clinical setting.
Oesophageal cancer: diagnosis and management
Authors: Kulendran Myutan , Siddiqui Muhammed , Du David , Khan Aamir
Published: November 2016

Oesophageal cancer is the ninth most common cancer in the UK. With 8500 cases diagnosed annually, the UK has the highest rates of oesophageal cancer in Western Europe. Adenocarcinoma now accounts for 60–75% of all oesophageal cancers in the UK and is three to four times more common in men. Despite advances in diagnosis and treatment, five‐year survival rates for all patients diagnosed with oesophageal cancer ranges from 15–20%. In this article the authors discuss current diagnosis and management.
Principles of brain development
Authors: Stiles Joan
Published: December 2016

Throughout much of the 20th century, the major models of brain development were strongly deterministic. It was thought that brain development proceeds via a prescribed blueprint that is somehow innately specified in the organism. Contemporary models present a distinctly different view of both inheritance and brain development. First, we do not inherit blueprints or plans, we inherit genes and the cellular machinery for expressing them. Genes carry essential information for creating proteins, but do not determine biological processes or developmental outcomes; the first cells contain the elements necessary for creating proteins based on the information coded in the nucleotide sequences of genes. Second, brain development is dynamic: the biological state of the brain at any moment is the product of developmental processes that involve an intricate interplay among genes and an ever‐expanding range of environmental factors—from local cellular events to influences from the outside world. In science, models matter. They reflect underlying assumptions about how things can happen, and thus influence the kinds of questions we ask, the kinds of experiments we propose, the therapies we develop, and the educational curricula we construct. The dynamic model of brain development accounts for powerful neurobehavioral effects that can simply not be accommodated by deterministic models. WIREs Cogn Sci 2017, 8:e1402. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1402

This article is categorized under:

Neuroscience > Development
Functional development of the brain's face‐processing system
Authors: Haist Frank , Anzures Gizelle
Published: December 2016

In the first 20 years of life, the human brain undergoes tremendous growth in size, weight, and synaptic connectedness. Over the same time period, a person achieves remarkable transformations in perception, thought, and behavior. One important area of development is face processing ability, or the ability to quickly and accurately extract extensive information about a person's identity, emotional state, attractiveness, intention, and numerous other types of information that are crucial to everyday social interaction and communication. Associating particular brain changes with specific behavioral and intellectual developments has historically been a serious challenge for researchers. Fortunately, modern neuroimaging is dramatically advancing our ability to make associations between morphological and behavioral developments. In this article, we demonstrate how neuroimaging has revolutionized our understanding of the development of face processing ability to show that this essential perceptual and cognitive skill matures consistently yet slowly over the first two decades of life. In this manner, face processing is a model system of many areas of complex cognitive development. WIREs Cogn Sci 2017, 8:e1423. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1423

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Development and Aging

Neuroscience > Cognition
Post‐resection Prognosis of Combined Hepatocellular Carcinoma‐Cholangiocarcinoma According to the 2010 WHO Classification
Authors: Jung Dong‐Hwan , Hwang Shin , Hong Seung‐Mo , Chung Yong‐Kyu , Song Gi‐Won , Lee Young‐Joo , Kim Ki‐Hun , Ahn Chul‐Soo , Moon Deok‐Bog , Ha Tae‐Yong , Park Gil‐Chun , Lee Han Chu , Lim Young‐Suk , Yu Eun Sil , Lee Sung‐Gyu
Published: November 2016

Background

Combined hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma (cHC) has wide histological diversity. We intended to investigate the prognostic influence of tumor types of cHC.

Methods

We analyzed the clinical and pathological features of cHC along 2010 WHO classification. Study group was 100 cHC patients who underwent primary resection. Control group comprised 200 propensity score‐matched patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC).

Results

In cHC group, tumor diameter was 4.4 ± 2.8 cm and 95 patients had single tumor. They were classified as classical type in 46 and subtypes with stem cell (SC) features in 54. Subtypes with SC features included typical in 16, intermediate cell in 22, and cholangiolocellular in 16. Their 1‐ and 3‐year tumor recurrence rates were 31.7 and 59.8%; and 1‐ and 3‐year patient survival rates were 92.5 and 77.3%, respectively. Tumor recurrence (p = 0.008) and patient survival (p = 0.005) rates were different according to tumor types. Further stratification by subtypes with SC features resulted in prognostic stratification in tumor recurrence (p = 0.045) and patient survival (p = 0.042). However, tumor stage was the only independent risk factor for tumor recurrence and patient survival. Comparing with ICC control group, cHC group showed no significant difference in rates of tumor recurrence (p = 0.523), but better survival outcomes (p = 0.008). Median post‐recurrence patient survival period was 20 months in cHC patients and 6 months in ICC patients (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Our results indicated that there would be close relationship between the post‐resection prognosis and histological types according to the 2010 WHO classification, but these histological types did not become an independent prognostic factor.