bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Population genetic variability and distribution of the endangered Greek endemic Cicer graecum under climate change scenarios
Authors: Stathi Efthalia , Kougioumoutzis Konstantinos , Abraham Eleni M , Trigas Panayiotis , Ganopoulos Ioannis , Avramidou Evangelia V , Tani Eleni 
Published: February 2020

AbstractThe Mediterranean hot spot includes numerous endemic and socio-economically important plant species seriously threatened by climate change and habitat loss. In this study, the genetic diversity of five populations of Cicer graecum, an endangered endemic species from northern Peloponnisos, Greece and a wild relative of the cultivated Cicer arietinum, was investigated using inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSRs) and amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers in order to determine levels and structure of genetic variability. Nei’s gene diversity by ISSR and AFLP markers indicated medium to high genetic diversity at the population level. Moreover, AMOVA results suggest that most of the variation exists within (93 % for AFLPs and 65 % for ISSRs), rather than among populations. Furthermore, Principal Component Analysis based on ISSRs positively correlated the genetic differentiation among the populations to the geographic distances, suggesting that the gene flow among distant populations is limited. The ecological adaptation of C. graecum populations was also investigated by correlation of their genetic diversity with certain environmental variables. Aridity arose as the dominant factor positively affecting the genetic diversity of C. graecum populations. We modelled the realized climatic niche of C. graecum in an ensemble forecasting scheme under three different global circulation models and two climate change scenarios. In all cases, a severe range contraction for C. graecum is projected, highlighting the high extinction risk that is probably going to face during the coming decades. These results could be a valuable tool towards the implementation of an integrated in situ and ex situ conservation scheme approach for activating management programmes for this endemic and threatened species.
Circadian and multiday seizure periodicities, and seizure clusters in canine epilepsy
Authors: Gregg Nicholas M , Nasseri Mona , Kremen Vaclav , Patterson Edward E , Sturges Beverly K , Denison Timothy J , Brinkmann Benjamin H , Worrell Gregory A 
Published: February 2020

AbstractAdvances in ambulatory intracranial EEG devices have enabled objective analyses of circadian and multiday seizure periodicities, and seizure clusters in humans. This study characterizes circadian and multiday seizure periodicities, and seizure clusters in dogs with naturally occurring focal epilepsy, and considers the implications of an animal model for the study of seizure risk patterns, seizure forecasting and personalized treatment protocols. In this retrospective cohort study, 16 dogs were continuously monitored with ambulatory intracranial EEG devices designed for humans. Detailed medication records were kept for all dogs. Seizure periodicity was evaluated with circular statistics methods. Circular non-uniformity was assessed for circadian, 7-day and approximately monthly periods. The Rayleigh test was used to assess statistical significance, with correction for multiple comparisons. Seizure clusters were evaluated with Fano factor (index of dispersion) measurements, and compared to a Poisson distribution. Relationships between interseizure interval (ISI) and seizure duration were evaluated. Six dogs met the inclusion criteria of having at least 30 seizures and were monitored for an average of 65 weeks. Three dogs had seizures with circadian seizure periodicity, one dog had a 7-day periodicity, and two dogs had approximately monthly periodicity. Four dogs had seizure clusters and significantly elevated Fano factor values. There were subject-specific differences in the dynamics of ISI and seizure durations, both within and between lead and clustered seizure categories. Our findings show that seizure timing in dogs with naturally occurring epilepsy is not random, and that circadian and multiday seizure periodicities, and seizure clusters are common. Circadian, 7-day, and monthly seizure periodicities occur independent of antiseizure medication dosing, and these patterns likely reflect endogenous rhythms of seizure risk.
The potential role of bacteria in pancreatic cancer: a systematic review
Authors: Li Ping , Shu Yongqian , Gu Yanhong 
Published: February 2020

AbstractPancreatic cancer is a lethal and devastating disease in the worldwide. Recognized risk factors for pancreatic cancer include cigarette smoking, obesity, type II diabetes and chronic pancreatitis. Other factors such as variant ABO blood type and Helicobacter pylori may also play an important role in pancreatic carcinogenesis. Recently, growing evidence suggests that the association between bacteria and pancreatic cancer is positive and related immune/inflammation activation and increased nitrosamine exposure may be its potential mechanism. Interestingly, it is debatable whether the relationship of bacteria and pancreatic cancer is causative, reactive or parallel and future studies are in progress. Here we review recent progress in pancreatic cancer and its related bacteria.
Inhibitor-contaminated NADH: Its Influence on Dehydrogenases and Dehydrogenase-coupled Reactions
Authors: Klotzsch Sigrid G , Klotzsch Helmut R 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Preparations of reduced NAD are known to be prone to contain a substance which inhibits the catalytic activity of LDH. (1-Lactate: NAD oxidoreductase, EC 1.1.1.27).
Light sheet fluorescence microscopy as a new method for unbiased three-dimensional analysis of vascular injury
Authors: Buglak Nicholas E , Lucitti Jennifer , Ariel Pablo , Maiocchi Sophie , Miller Francis J , Bahnson Edward S M 
Published: February 2020

Abstract

Aims
Assessment of preclinical models of vascular disease is paramount in the successful translation of novel treatments. The results of these models have traditionally relied on two-dimensional (2D) histological methodologies. Light sheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM) is an imaging platform that allows for three-dimensional (3D) visualization of whole organs and tissues. In this study, we describe an improved methodological approach utilizing LSFM for imaging of preclinical vascular injury models while minimizing analysis bias.

Methods and results
The rat carotid artery segmental pressure-controlled balloon injury and mouse carotid artery ligation injury were performed. Arteries were harvested and processed for LSFM imaging and 3D analysis, as well as for 2D area histological analysis. Artery processing for LSFM imaging did not induce vessel shrinkage or expansion and was reversible by rehydrating the artery, allowing for subsequent sectioning and histological staining a posteriori. By generating a volumetric visualization along the length of the arteries, LSFM imaging provided different analysis modalities including volumetric, area, and radial parameters. Thus, LSFM-imaged arteries provided more precise measurements compared to classic histological analysis. Furthermore, LSFM provided additional information as compared to 2D analysis in demonstrating remodelling of the arterial media in regions of hyperplasia and periadventitial neovascularization around the ligated mouse artery.

Conclusion
LSFM provides a novel and robust 3D imaging platform for visualizing and quantifying arterial injury in preclinical models. When compared with classic histology, LSFM outperformed traditional methods in precision and quantitative capabilities. LSFM allows for more comprehensive quantitation as compared to traditional histological methodologies, while minimizing user bias associated with area analysis of alternating, 2D histological artery cross-sections.
A shunt decision-making protocol in the surgical palliation of hypoplastic left heart syndrome from 2004 to 2016
Authors: Kelly Thomas John , Zannino Diana , Brink Johann , Konstantinov Igor E , Cheung Michael M , d’Udekem Yves , Brizard Christian Pierre 
Published: February 2020

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The aim of this study was to study the impact of a decision-making protocol for shunt type in the Norwood procedure for hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Our cohort extends from 2004 to 2016. In era 1 (pre-2008), there was no policy for the choice of Norwood shunt. In era 2 (post-2008), a standard protocol was implemented. The right ventricle (RV)-to-pulmonary artery conduit was utilized for low-birth weight patients (&lt;2.5 kg). The right modified Blalock–Taussig Shunt (RBTS) was constructed for normal birth weight patients.

METHODS
The records of 133 consecutive operative patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome anatomy between 2004 and 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Survival risk factors were analysed using the Cox proportional hazards risk model.

RESULTS
The Norwood procedure was performed at a mean age of 2.9 ± 1.9 days. Bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt was performed at a median age of 99 days (interquartile range 91–107). In era 1, 38.6% (22/57) of patients received the RBTS and 61.4% (35/57) of patients received the RV-to-pulmonary artery conduit. In era 2, 86.8% (66/76) of patients received the RBTS and 13.2% (10/76) of patients received the RV-to-pulmonary artery conduit. The actuarial survival to Fontan was 72.2% (96/133). Era 1 patients were more likely to die within the 1st year (hazard ratio = 2.310, P = 0.025).

CONCLUSIONS
The shunt protocol may improve outcomes in high-risk patients, and we have demonstrated the reliability of the RBTS in low-risk patients. The short- and mid-term outcomes of our Norwood population justify the continued efforts to improve surgical and perioperative management.
Integration of culture-dependent and independent methods provides a more coherent picture of the pig gut microbiome
Authors: Fenske Gavin J , Ghimire Sudeep , Antony Linto , Christopher-Hennings Jane , Scaria Joy 
Published: February 2020

ABSTRACT
Bacterial communities resident in the hindgut of pigs, have profound impacts on health and disease. Investigations into the pig microbiome have utilized either culture-dependent, or far more commonly, culture-independent techniques using next generation sequencing. We contend that a combination of both approaches generates a more coherent view of microbiome composition. In this study, we surveyed the microbiome of Tamworth breed and feral pigs through the integration high throughput culturing and shotgun metagenomics. A single culture medium was used for culturing. Selective screens were added to the media to increase culture diversity. In total, 46 distinct bacterial species were isolated from the Tamworth and feral samples. Selective screens successfully shifted the diversity of bacteria on agar plates. Tamworth pigs are highly dominated by Bacteroidetes primarily composed of the genus Prevotella whereas feral samples were more diverse with almost equal proportions of Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. The combination of metagenomics and culture techniques facilitated a greater retrieval of annotated genes than either method alone. The single medium based pig microbiota library we report is a resource to better understand pig gut microbial ecology and function. It allows for assemblage of defined bacterial communities for studies in bioreactors or germfree animal models.
Comparing Analytical Methods for the Gut Microbiome and Aging: Gut Microbial Communities and Body Weight in the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) Study
Authors: Shardell Michelle , Parimi Neeta , Langsetmo Lisa , Tanaka Toshiko , Jiang Lingjing , Orwoll Eric , Shikany James M , Kado Deborah M , Cawthon Peggy M 
Published: February 2020

AbstractDetermining the role of gut microbial communities in aging-related phenotypes, including weight loss, is an emerging gerontology research priority. Gut microbiome datasets comprise relative abundances of microbial taxa that necessarily sum to 1; analysis ignoring this feature may produce misleading results. Using data from the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) study (n = 530; mean [SD] age = 84.3 [4.1] years), we assessed 163 genera from stool samples and body weight. We compared conventional analysis, which does not address the sum-to-1 constraint, to compositional analysis, which does. Specifically, we compared elastic net regression (for variable selection) and conventional Bayesian linear regression (BLR) and network analysis to compositional BLR and network analysis; adjusting for past weight, height, and other covariates. Conventional BLR identified Roseburia and Dialister (higher weight) and Coprococcus-1 (lower weight) after multiple comparisons adjustment (p &lt; .0125); plus Sutterella and Ruminococcus-1 (p &lt; .05). No conventional network module was associated with weight. Using compositional BLR, Coprococcus-2 and Acidaminococcus were most strongly associated with higher adjusted weight; Coprococcus-1 and Ruminococcus-1 were most strongly associated with lower adjusted weight (p &lt; .05), but nonsignificant after multiple comparisons adjustment. Two compositional network modules with respective hub taxa Blautia and Faecalibacterium were associated with adjusted weight (p &lt; .01). Findings depended on analytical workflow. Compositional analysis is advocated to appropriately handle the sum-to-1 constraint.
Parental comorbidity and medication use in the USA: a panel study of 785 000 live births
Authors: Sun Andrew J , Li Shufeng , Zhang Chiyuan A , Jensen Tina K , Lindahl-Jacobsen Rune , Eisenberg Michael L 
Published: February 2020

Abstract

STUDY QUESTION
How prevalent is paternal medication use and comorbidity, and are rates of these rising?

SUMMARY ANSWER
Paternal medication use and comorbidity is common and rising, similar to trends previously described in mothers.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY
Maternal medication use and comorbidity has been rising for the past few decades. These trends have been linked to potential teratogenicity, maternal morbidity and mortality and poorer fetal outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION
This is a Panel (trend) study of 785 809 live births from 2008 to 2016.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS
We used the IBM© Marketscan®™ database to gather data on demographic information and International Classification of Diseases codes and Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) during the 12 months prior to the estimated date of conception for mothers and fathers. We similarly examined claims of prescriptions in the 3 months prior to conception. We performed companion analyses of medications used for &gt;90 days in the 12 months prior to conception and of any medication use in the 12 months prior to conception.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE
We confirmed that both maternal medication use and comorbidity (e.g. hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia) rose over the study period, consistent with prior studies. We found a concurrent rise in both paternal medication use 3 months prior to conception (overall use, 31.5–34.9% during the study period; P &lt; 0.0001) and comorbidity (CCI of ≥1 and 10.6–18.0% over study period; P &lt; 0.0001). The most common conditions seen in the CCI were chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for mothers (6.6–11.6%) and hyperlipidemia for fathers (8.6–13.7%). Similar trends for individual medication classes and specific comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes and hyperlipidemia were also seen. All primary result trends were statistically significant, making the role of chance minimal.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION
As this is a descriptive study, the clinical impact is uncertain and no causal associations may be made. Though the study uses a large and curated database that includes patients from across the USA, our study population is an insured population and our findings may not be generalizable. Mean parental age was seen to slightly increase over the course of the study (&lt;1 year) and may be associated with increased comorbidity and medication use.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS
As parental comorbidity and certain medication use may impact fecundability, temporal declines in parental health may impact conception, pregnancy and fetal outcomes.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)
None.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER
N/A
Efficacy and safety of colistin loading dose: a meta-analysis
Authors: Bellos Ioannis , Pergialiotis Vasilios , Frountzas Maximos , Kontzoglou Konstantinos , Daskalakis Georgios , Perrea Despina N 
Published: February 2020

AbstractObjectivesColistin represents a polypeptide used for the treatment of MDR microorganisms, although the optimal dosing strategy is under investigation. The present meta-analysis aims to determine whether the administration of a colistin loading dose in patients receiving high-dose maintenance regimens changes the rates of treatment success and the risk of nephrotoxicity.MethodsMedline, Scopus, CENTRAL, Clinicaltrials.gov and Google Scholar were systematically searched from inception to 18 November 2019. Studies were considered eligible if they reported clinical outcomes among patients receiving high-dose colistin therapy with and without the administration of a loading dose. Meta-analysis was performed by fitting a random-effects model.ResultsEight (three prospective and five retrospective cohort) studies were included, comprising 1115 patients. The administration of a colistin loading dose was associated with significantly higher microbiological [risk ratio (RR) = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.10–1.39] but not clinical (RR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.87–1.24) success. No significant associations were calculated for nephrotoxicity (RR = 1.31, 95% CI = 0.90–1.91) and mortality (RR = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.82–1.29) risk. The results remained stable after adjustments for small sample size, credibility ceilings, publication bias and risk of bias.ConclusionsObservational evidence suggests that the administration of a colistin loading dose in patients receiving high maintenance dosage regimens is significantly associated with higher rates of microbiological response, but does not change clinical cure, mortality or nephrotoxicity risk. The dosing regimen that would provide the optimal balance between treatment efficacy and safety needs to be determined by future randomized controlled trials.
Mitochondrial oxygen consumption in early postmortem permeabilized skeletal muscle fibers is influenced by cattle breed
Authors: Ramos Patricia M , Li Chengcheng , Elzo Mauricio A , Wohlgemuth Stephanie E , Scheffler Tracy L 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Functional properties and integrity of skeletal muscle mitochondria (mt) during the early postmortem period may influence energy metabolism and pH decline, thereby impacting meat quality development. Angus typically produce more tender beef than Brahman, a Bos indicus breed known for heat tolerance. Thus, our objectives were to compare mt respiratory function in muscle collected early postmortem (1 h) from Angus and Brahman steers (n = 26); and to evaluate the effect of normal and elevated temperature on mt function ex vivo. We measured mt oxygen consumption rate (OCR) in fresh-permeabilized muscle fibers from Longissimus lumborum (LL) at 2 temperatures (38.5 and 40.0 °C) and determined citrate synthase (CS) activity and expression of several mt proteins. The main effects of breed, temperature, and their interaction were tested for mt respiration, and breed effect was tested for CS activity and protein expression. Breed, but not temperature (P &gt; 0.40), influenced mt OCR (per tissue weight), with Brahman exhibiting greater complex I+II-mediated oxidative phosphorylation capacity (P = 0.05). Complex I- and complex II-mediated OCR also tended to be greater in Brahman (P = 0.07 and P = 0.09, respectively). Activity of CS was higher in LL from Brahman compared to Angus (P = 0.05). Expression of specific mt proteins did not differ between breeds, except for higher expression of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase subunit 5 alpha in Brahman muscle (P = 0.04). Coupling control ratio differed between breeds (P = 0.05), revealing greater coupling between oxygen consumption and phosphorylation in Brahman. Our data demonstrate that both Angus and Brahman mt retained functional capacity and integrity 1-h postmortem; greater oxidative phosphorylation capacity and coupling in Brahman mt could be related to heat tolerance and impact early postmortem metabolism.
Stability and Degradation Pathways of Different Psychoactive Drugs in Neat and in Buffered Oral Fluid
Authors: Marchei Emilia , Malaca Sara , Graziano Silvia , Gottardi Massimo , Pichini Simona , Busardò Francesco Paolo 
Published: February 2020

Abstract
Sampling and drug stability in oral fluid (OF) are crucial factors when interpreting forensic toxicological analysis, mainly because samples may not be analyzed immediately after collection, potentially altering drug concentrations. Therefore, the stability of some common drugs of abuse (morphine, codeine, 6-monoacetylmorphine, cocaine, benzoylecgonine, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, amphetamine, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, ketamine) and the more commonly consumed new psychoactive substances in our environment (mephedrone, and N-(adamantan-1-yl)-1-(5-fluoropentyl)-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide 5F-AKB48 also known as 5F-APINACA) was investigated in an OF pool for the presence and absence of M3 Reagent Buffer® up to 1 year of storage. Fortified OF samples were stored at three different temperatures (room temperature, 4 and −20°C) to determine the best storage conditions over time. Control fortified OF samples were stored at −80°C for reference purposes. Compounds with concentration changes within ±15% of initial value were considered stable. The drugs were significantly more stable in M3 Reagent Buffer® than in neat OF samples in all storage conditions. All analytes were stable for 1 year at 4°C and −20°C in M3 Reagent Buffer®. Drugs stability in OF varied depending on the analyte, the presence of a stabilizer, the storage duration and temperature. When immediate sample analysis is not possible, we suggest to store OF samples at 4 or −20°C and test them within 2 weeks. Alternatively, OF samples may be stored at 4 or −20°C with M3 Reagent Buffer® to be tested within 1 year.
Reconstitution of yeast translation elongation and termination in vitro utilizing CrPV IRES-containing mRNA
Authors: Abe Taisho , Nagai Riku , Imataka Hiroaki , Takeuchi-Tomita Nono 
Published: February 2020

AbstractWe developed an in vitro translation system from yeast, reconstituted with purified translation elongation and termination factors and programmed by CrPV IGR IRES-containing mRNA, which functions in the absence of initiation factors. The system is capable of synthesizing the active reporter protein, nanoLuciferase, with a molecular weight of 19 kDa. The protein synthesis by the system is appropriately regulated by controlling its composition, including translation factors, amino acids and antibiotics. We found that a high eEF1A concentration relative to the ribosome concentration is critically required for efficient IRES-mediated translation initiation, to ensure its dominance over IRES-independent random internal translation initiation.