bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Physiological outcomes of calming behaviors support the resilience hypothesis in horses
Authors: Scopa Chiara , Palagi Elisabetta , Sighieri Claudio , Baragli Paolo 
Published: November 2018

AbstractTo manage a stressful stimulus animals react both behaviorally and physiologically to restore the homeostasis. In stable horses, a stressful stimulus can be represented by social separation, riding discomfort or the presence of novel objects in their environment. Although Heart Rate Variability is a common indicator of stress levels in horses, the behavioral mechanisms concurrently occurring under stressful conditions are still unknown. The sudden inflation of a balloon was administered to 33 horses. Video-recording of self-directed behaviors (snore, vacuum chewing, snort, head/body shaking) and monitoring of heart activity (HR and SDRR) were conducted for five minutes before (Pre-test) and after the stimulus administration (Stress-test). During the Stress-test, only snore and vacuum chewing increased and a significant increase was also recorded in both HR and SDRR. Moreover, the snore variation between the two conditions showed a significant correlation with the variation of both HR and SDRR. With the snore acting as stress-releasing behavior to restore basal condition, the homeostasis recovered via the enactment of such behavior could be physiologically expressed by an increasing vagal activity. Hence, the capacity to maintain homeostasis (resilience) could correspond to a prevalence of parasympathetic control on heart activity, intervening when certain behaviors are performed.
1-Aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid deaminase producing beneficial rhizobacteria ameliorate the biomass characters of Panicum maximum Jacq. by mitigating drought and salt stress
Authors: Tiwari Garima , Duraivadivel P. , Sharma Satyawati , P. Hariprasad 
Published: November 2018

Abstract1-Aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) is a precursor molecule of ethylene whose concentration is elevated in the plant subjected to biotic and abiotic stress. Several soil microorganisms are reported to produce ACC deaminase (ACCd) which degrades ACC thereby reducing stress ethylene in host plants. This study is aimed to apply ACCd producing beneficial rhizobacteria to improve biochemical parameters and cell wall properties of Panicum maximum exposed to salt and drought stress, focusing on bioethanol production. Thirty-seven ACCd producing bacteria isolated from rhizospheric soil of field grown P. maximum and 13 were shortlisted based on their beneficial traits (root colonization, production of indole acetic acid, siderophore, hydrogen cyanide, phosphate solubilization, biofilm formation, tolerance to salt and Polyethylene glycol) and a total score obtained. All shortlisted bacteria were found significant in enhancing the plant growth, water conservation, membrane stability, biocompatible solutes and protein, phenolic contents and photosynthetic pigments in plants grown under stress conditions. Cell wall composition (Cellulose, Hemicellulose and Lignin) of the treated plants grown under stress conditions recorded a significant improvement over their respective controls and found equivalent to the plants grown under normal circumstances. Biomass from bacterial treatment recorded higher total reducing sugars upon pre-treatment and hydrolysis, and theoretical bioethanol yield.
Description of a personality syndrome in a common and invasive ground beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae)
Authors: Labaude Sophie , O’Donnell Niamh , Griffin Christine T. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractAnimal personality, defined as consistent differences among individuals in their behaviour, is being increasingly studied as it might lead to a new understanding of the evolution of behaviours. Despite a clear interest in studying personality in a wide range of taxa for comparative analyses, studies on invertebrates are still scarce. Here, we investigated the personality of a ground beetle, Nebria brevicollis, which is widespread in Europe and invasive in North America. We measured seven behavioural traits from an array of three different tests: (i) activity and exploration related traits; (ii) reaction to a threat, and (iii) phototaxis. The repeatability was tested by measuring all behaviours twice, on different days. All behavioural traits were consistent through time, highlighting the presence of personality in the beetle. In addition, we analysed the relationship between the different traits and highlighted two clusters of behaviours (behavioural syndrome), one grouping activity, exploration and boldness traits, and a second one consisting of responses to a threat. This study is the first to our knowledge to provide evidence for personality dimensions within the vast group of the Carabidae. It also constitutes a preliminary step in the experimental investigation of the importance of animal personality in invasive species.
Gene mutation associated with esl mediates shifts on fungal community composition in rhizosphere soil of rice at grain-filling stage
Authors: Letuma Puleng , Arafat Yasir , Waqas Muhammad , Lin Feifan , Lin Weiwei , Zhang Yiyang , Masita Mamello , Fan Kai , Li Zhaowei , Lin Wenxiong 
Published: November 2018

AbstractGenerally, plant roots shape the rhizosphere fungal community but how individual plant genes involved in senescence affect this shaping is less studied. We used an early senescence leaf (esl) mutant rice and compared it with its isogenic wild type variety to evaluate the effect of the vacuolar H+-ATPase (VHA-A1) gene mutation on the rhizosphere fungal community structure and composition using a metagenomic pyrosequencing approach. The most predominate fungal phyla identified for both isogenic lines belonged to Ascomycota, Basidiomycota and Glomeromycota, where Ascomycota were more prevalent in the esl mutant than the wild type variety. Real-time quantitative PCR analysis confirmed a significant rise in the richness of Cladosporium cladosporioides in esl mutant rice than the wild type variety. Correlation analysis revealed four most abundant genera identified for the esl mutant and their close association with yield and biomass decline, lipid peroxidation, lower root vitality, chlorophyll degradation and limited VHA activity. Higher K+ efflux, H+ and a lower Ca2+ influx was also observed in the esl mutant which could be the reason for abnormal functioning of mutant plants. These results illustrate that besides the well-known effect of senescence on plant physiology and yield decline, it can further shape the rhizosphere fungal community.
A novel cloning strategy for one-step assembly of multiplex CRISPR vectors
Authors: Zuckermann Marc , Hlevnjak Mario , Yazdanparast Haniyeh , Zapatka Marc , Jones David T. W. , Lichter Peter , Gronych Jan 
Published: November 2018

AbstractOne key advantage of the CRISPR/Cas9 system in comparison with other gene editing approaches lies in its potential for multiplexing. Here, we describe an elaborate procedure that allows the assembly of multiple gRNA expression cassettes into a vector of choice within a single step, termed ASAP(Adaptable System for Assembly of multiplexed Plasmids)-cloning. We demonstrate the utility of ASAP-cloning for multiple CRISPR-mediated applications, including efficient multiplex gene editing, robust transcription activation and convenient analysis of Cas9 activity in the presence of multiple gRNAs.
The delta neutrophil index predicts development of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and 30-day mortality in trauma patients admitted to an intensive care unit: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Kong Taeyoung , Park Yoo Seok , Lee Hye Sun , Kim Sinae , Lee Jong Wook , You Je Sung , Chung Hyun Soo , Park Incheol , Chung Sung Phil 
Published: November 2018

AbstractNo studies have examined the role of delta neutrophil index (DNI) reflecting on immature granulocytes in determining the severity of multiple organ dysfunction (MODS) and short-term mortality. This study investigated the utility of the automatically calculated DNI as a prognostic marker of severity in trauma patients who were admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). We retrospectively analysed prospective data of eligible patients. We investigated 366 patients. On multivariable logistic regression analysis, higher DNI values at 12 h (odds ratio [OR], 1.079; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.037–1.123; p < 0.001) and 24 h were strong independent predictors of MODS development. Multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed that increased DNI at 12 h (hazard ratio [HR], 1.051; 95% CI, 1.024–1.079; p < 0.001) was a strong independent predictor of short-term mortality. The increased predictability of MODS after trauma was closely associated with a DNI > 3.25% at 12 h (OR, 12.7; 95% CI: 6.12–26.35; p < 0.001). A cut-off of >5.3% at 12 h was significantly associated with an increased risk of 30-day mortality (HR, 18.111; 95% CI, 6.988–46.935; p < 0.001). The DNI is suitable for rapid and simple estimation of the severity of traumatic injury using an automated haematologic analyser without additional cost or time.
Contrasting phylogeographic pattern among Eudyptes penguins around the Southern Ocean
Authors: Frugone M. J. , Lowther A. , Noll D. , Ramos B. , Pistorius P. , Dantas G. P. M. , Petry M. V. , Bonadonna F. , Steinfurth A. , Polanowski A. , Raya Rey A. , Lois N. A. , Pütz K. , Trathan P. , Wienecke B. , Poulin E. , Vianna J. A. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractSince at least the middle-Miocene, the Antarctic Polar Front (APF) and the Subtropical Front (STF) appear to have been the main drivers of diversification of marine biota in the Southern Ocean. However, highly migratory marine birds and mammals challenge this paradigm and the importance of oceanographic barriers. Eudyptes penguins range from the Antarctic Peninsula to subantarctic islands and some of the southernmost subtropical islands. Because of recent diversification, the number of species remains uncertain. Here we analyze two mtDNA (HVRI, COI) and two nuclear (ODC, AK1) markers from 13 locations of five putative Eudyptes species: rockhopper (E. filholi, E. chrysocome, and E. moseleyi), macaroni (E. chrysolophus) and royal penguins (E. schlegeli). Our results show a strong phylogeographic structure among rockhopper penguins from South America, subantarctic and subtropical islands supporting the recognition of three separated species of rockhopper penguins. Although genetic divergence was neither observed among macaroni penguins from the Antarctic Peninsula and sub-Antarctic islands nor between macaroni and royal penguins, population genetic analyses revealed population genetic structure in both cases. We suggest that the APF and STF can act as barriers for these species. While the geographic distance between colonies might play a role, their impact/incidence on gene flow may vary between species and colonies.
Variability in sulfur isotope composition suggests unique dimethylsulfoniopropionate cycling and microalgae metabolism in Antarctic sea ice
Authors: Carnat Gauthier , Said-Ahmad Ward , Fripiat François , Wittek Boris , Tison Jean-Louis , Uhlig Christiane , Amrani Alon 
Published: November 2018

AbstractSea ice microbial communities produce large amounts of the sulfur metabolite dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), a precursor of the climate cooling gas dimethylsulfide. Despite their importance to the polar sulfur cycle, drivers and metabolic pathways of sea ice DMSP are uncertain. Here we report the first measurements of sea ice DMSP sulfur isotopic composition (34S/32S ratio, δ34S). δ34S values in ice cores from the Ross Sea and Weddell Sea reveal considerable variability across seasons and between ice horizons (from +10.6 to +23.6‰). We discuss how the most extreme δ34S values observed could be related to unique DMSP cycling in the seasonally extreme physiochemical conditions of isolated brine inclusions in winter-spring. Using cell cultures, we show that part of the DMSP δ34S variability could be explained by distinct DMSP metabolism in sea ice microalgae. These findings advance our understanding of the sea ice sulfur cycle and metabolic adaptations of microbes in extreme environments.
TIMP-1 inhibits proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs through Wnt/β-catenin signaling
Authors: Liang Tangzhao , Gao Wenling , Zhu Lei , Ren Jianhua , Yao Hui , Wang Kun , Shi Dehai 
Published: November 2018

Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) on the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation potential of human bone marrow-derived MSCs (hBMSCs). hBMSCs with stable TIMP-1 overexpression or TIMP-1 knockdown were generated. Osteogenic differentiation was assessed by Alizarin Red S staining, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and expression of specific markers. Compared with the vehicle controls, TIMP-1 knockdown significantly promoted the growth of hBMSCs. TIMP-1 knockdown up-regulated β-catenin and cyclin D1 proteins. During osteogenic differentiation, TIMP-1 knockdown elevated the deposition of calcium nodules, ALP activity and the mRNA levels of the osteogenic markers sex determining region Y-box 9 (Sox9), CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ. During osteogenic differentiation, TIMP-1 knockdown significantly enhanced the up-regulation of osteocalcin proteins. Meanwhile, TIMP-1 overexpression attenuated the Wnt/activator Wnt3a-induced up-regulation cyclin D1 and Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX-2) (during osteogenic differentiation) proteins, while TIMP-1 knockdown restored the inhibitor Dickkopf 1-induced inhibition effect on the expression of β-catenin, cyclin D1 and RUNX-2. TIMP-1 plays a negative regulatory role in the proliferation and osteogenesis of hBMSCs, at least partially, through Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
Analysis of a long-lived, two-cell lightning storm on Saturn
Authors: Fischer G. , Pagaran J. A. , Zarka P. , Delcroix M. , Dyudina U. A. , Kurth W. S. , Gurnett D. A. 
Published: November 2018

Lightning storms in Saturn’s atmosphere can last for a few days up to several months. In this paper we analyze a lightning storm that raged for seven and a half months at a planetocentric latitude of 35° south from the end of November 2007 until mid-July 2008. Thunderstorms observed by the Cassini spacecraft before this time were characterized by a single convective storm region of ~2000 km in size, but this storm developed two distinct convective storm cells at the same latitude separated by ~25° in longitude. The second storm cell developed in March 2008, and the entire two-cell convective system was moving with a westward drift velocity of about 0.35 deg per day, which differs from the zonal wind speed. An exhaustive data analysis shows that the storm system produced ~277000 lightning events termed Saturn electrostatic discharges (SEDs) that were detected by Cassini’s Radio and Plasma Wave Science (RPWS) instrument, and they occurred in 439 storm episodes. We analyzed the SED intensity distributions, the SED polarization, the burst rates, and the burst and episode durations.
During this storm Cassini made several orbits around Saturn and observed the SEDs from all local times. A comparison with optical observations shows that SEDs can be detected when the storm is still beyond the visible horizon. We qualitatively describe this so-called over-the-horizon effect which is thought to be due to a temporary trapping of SED radio waves below Saturn’s ionosphere. We also describe the first occurrence of so-called SED pre- and post-episodes, which occur in a limited frequency range around 4 MHz separated from the main episode. Pre- and post-episodes were mostly observed by Cassini located at local noon, and should be a manifestation of an extreme over-the-horizon effect. Combined radio and imaging observations suggest that some decreases in SED activity are caused by splitting of the thunderstorm into a bright cloud and a dark oval.
Platelet Signaling in Primary Haemostasis and Arterial Thrombus Formation: Part 1
Authors: Scharf Rüdiger 
Published: November 2018

AbstractPlatelets react immediately in response to traumatic vascular injury by adhesion, activation, aggregation and subsequent haemostatic plug formation. While this reaction pattern is essential for haemostasis, platelet responses can also cause occlusive thrombi in diseased arteries, leading to myocardial infarction or stroke. Initially, flowing platelets are captured from the circulation to vascular lesions. This step is mediated by glycoprotein (GP) Ib-IX-V interacting with immobilized von Willebrand factor (VWF) on exposed subendothelial components. Tethered platelets can now bind to collagen through GPVI and integrin α2β1. Outside-in signals from the adhesion receptors act synergistically with inside-out signals from soluble stimuli and induce platelet activation. These mediators operate through G protein–coupled receptors and reinforce adhesion and activation. Typical manifestations of activated platelets include calcium mobilization, procoagulant activity, cytoskeletal reorganization, granule secretion and aggregation. This requires activation of integrin αIIbβ3 with shifting into a high-affinity state and is indispensable to bind soluble fibrinogen, VWF and fibronectin. The multiple interactions and the impact of thrombin result in firm adhesion and recruitment of circulating platelets into growing aggregates. A fibrin meshwork supports stabilization of haemostatic thrombi and prevents detachment by the flowing blood. This two-part review provides an overview of platelet activation and signal transduction mechanisms with a focus on αIIbβ3-mediated outside-in signaling in integrin variants. In the first part, a three-stage model of platelet recruitment and activation in vivo is presented. Along with that, platelet responses upon exposure to thrombogenic surfaces followed by platelet-to-platelet interactions and formation of haemostatic thrombi are discussed. Moreover, several determinants involved in pathological thrombosis will be reviewed.
Black-Colored Ligamentum Flavum Due to Alkaptonuria
Authors: Yucetas Seyho , Ucler Necati 
Published: November 2018

AbstractAlkaptonuria is a rare metabolic disease caused by deficiency of homogentisic acid oxidase and characterized by bluish-black discoloration of cartilages and skin (ochronosis). Defective production of this enzyme results in the accumulation of homogentisic acid (HGA), a tyrosine degradation product, in the bloodstream. Accumulation of HGA and its metabolites in tissues causes ochronosis. The word ochronosis refers to the dark bluish-black discoloration of connective tissues including the sclera, cornea, auricular cartilage, heart valves, articular cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. Neurogenic claudication resulting from focal hypertrophy of the ligamentum flavum in the lumbar spine due to ochronotic deposits has only been previously reported once in the literature. In this article, we present a 71-year-old male patient with alkaptonuria-associated degenerative L3–L4–L5 stenosis, diagnosed after lumbar decompressive laminectomy.
Barriers and Facilitators to Recurrent Preterm Birth Prevention among Low-Income Women: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Yee Lynn M. , Leziak Karolina , Jackson Jenise , Miller Emily S. 
Published: November 2018

Objective To examine patient perspectives on the experience of preterm birth (PTB) and recommended PTB prevention strategies, focusing on barriers to and facilitators of PTB prevention among low-income women.
Materials and Methods This is an observational study using qualitative methodology to investigate barriers to and facilitators of recurrent PTB prevention among low-income pregnant and postpartum women. Participants were either (1) postpartum from an initial spontaneous PTB, (2) pregnant and receiving 17-α-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17P), or (3) pregnant or postpartum and declined/discontinued 17P. Participants completed individual interviews, and transcripts were analyzed using modified grounded theory techniques.
Results Of 33 participants, the majority identified as non-Hispanic black (64%) or Hispanic (27%). Four facilitator themes included patient-centered environment, informed choice, social network, and motivation for a healthy family. Barriers included competing demands, resources, skepticism, and normalization. Three considerations, termed subjective influencers, could support women's decisions to use or decline 17P, including personal beliefs about one's body, the role of the fetus, and beliefs on interventionism.
Conclusion The facilitators and barriers identified herein offer insight into the lived experiences of women at a risk of recurrent PTB. Future programs aimed at reducing PTB disparities may benefit from addressing low-income minority women's structural and social determinants of PTB prevention.
Mycoplasma Pneumoniae and Antibodies against Galactocerebroside in a 9-Year-Old Boy with Encephalitis
Authors: Smolders Joost , Jacobs Bart , Tio-Gillen Anne , Nijhuis Frouke , Verrips Aad 
Published: November 2018

AbstractWe report the case of a 9 year-old boy, presenting with an acute encephalitis with cerebrospinal fluid pleiocytosis. MRI showed T2/FLAIR (fluid attenuated inversion recovery) hyperintense signals of basal ganglia and cortex, EEG (electro encephalogram) showed diffuse slowing with epileptic discharges. A repetitively elevated IgM/IgG serologic response against Mycoplasma pneumoniae was observed with polymerase chain reaction in serum and cerebrospinal fluid remaining negative. No other pathogen or antigen could be identified. High IgG and IgM levels against the glycolipid galactocerebroside were detected in serum but not in CSF. After treatment with corticosteroids, the patient fully recovered. Brain MRI and EEG investigation returned completely normal. Besides a primary infection of the central nervous system, M. pneumoniae is associated with a parainfectious encephalitis in children which may be mediated by antibodies to galactocerebroside.
Total Knee Arthroplasty in Patients of Advanced Age: A Look at Outcomes and Complications
Authors: Passias Peter G. , Bono Olivia J. , Bono James V. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractTotal knee arthroplasty (TKA) is one of the most highly successful orthopaedic procedures performed in North America. It is also one of the most common procedures performed, and its incidence continues to increase. Despite this, it is the opinion of many that patients of advanced age groups are not ideal candidates to undergo such procedures secondary to the concern over higher complication rates and poorer functional outcomes. This review article attempts to analyze the current body of literature concerning TKA outcomes and to evaluate some of the issues that are more specific to this population when they undergo TKA. It is our hypothesis that the literature does not support this popular misconception, and that older patients who do not have significant medical comorbidities are good candidates to undergo primary TKA. However, certain cohorts of this population are not ideal candidates to undergo this procedure. Also, certain joint reconstructive procedures, such as simultaneous and staged bilateral TKA, are higher risk procedures in this patient cohort.
Noninterventional Therapies for the Management of Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Dadabo Joseph , Fram Julia , Jayabalan Prakash 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe goal of the practitioner managing a patient with knee osteoarthritis (OA) is to minimize pain and optimize their function. Several noninterventional (noninjectable) therapies are available for these individuals, each having varying levels of efficacy. An individualized approach to the patient is most beneficial in individuals with knee OA and the treatment plan the practitioner chooses should be based on this principle. The focus of this article is to provide an up-to-date overview of the treatment strategies available, evidence to support them, and in whom these treatments would be most appropriate. These include exercise (aerobic and resistance), weight loss, bracing and orthotics, topical and oral analgesic medications, therapeutic modalities, and oral supplements.