bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analgesic efficacy of equimolar 50% nitrous oxide/oxygen gas premix (Kalinox®) as compared with a 5% eutectic mixture of lidocaine/prilocaine (EMLA®) in chronic leg ulcer debridement
Authors: Traber Juerg , Held Ulrike , Signer Maria , Huebner Tobias , Arndt Stefan , Neff Thomas A 
Published: August 2016

AbstractChronic foot and leg ulcers are a common health problem worldwide. A mainstay of chronic ulcer therapy is sharp mechanical wound debridement requiring potent analgesia. In this prospective, controlled, single‐centre, crossover design study, patients were assigned to either the administration of topical analgesia with 5% lidocaine/prilocaine cream or the inhalation of an analgesic 50% N2O/O2 gas premix. Primary outcome parameter was level of pain at maximum wound depth during debridement as measured by a visual analogue scale. Secondary outcomes included level of pain after debridement, overall duration of treatment session, duration and completeness of debridement, and the patient's subjective perception of analgesic quality during debridement. Pain level increased from 0·60/0·94 (first/second debridement; baseline) to 1·76/2·50 (debridement) with 5% lidocaine/prilocaine and from 1·00/1·35 (baseline) to 3·95/3·29 (debridement) with 50% N2O/O2 gas premix. Patient satisfaction was 90·48%/94·44% (first/second debridement) with topical 5% lidocaine/prilocaine analgesia and 90·48%/76·47% with the inhalation of 50% N2O/O2 gas premix. Debridement was completed in a significantly higher percentage of 85·71%/88·89% (first/second debridement) with 5% lidocaine/prilocaine than with 50% N2O/O2 gas premix (42·86%/58·82%) (odds ratio 6·7; P = 0·001). This study provides sound evidence that analgesia with topically administered 5% lidocaine/prilocaine cream is superior to the use of inhaled 50% N2O/O2 gas premix in chronic leg ulcer debridement.
Multi‐component β‐diversity approach reveals conservation dilemma between species and functions of coral reef fishes
Authors: Loiseau N. , Legras G. , Kulbicki M. , Mérigot B. , Harmelin‐Vivien M. , Mazouni N. , Galzin R. , Gaertner J.C. 
Published: August 2016

AbstractAimWe applied a multicomponent approach based on the decomposition of taxonomic (both presence–absence and abundance) and functional beta diversity to determine the influence of ecological factors in shaping spatial distribution diversity of coral reef fishes, and the implications for conservation decisions.LocationLagoons of ten atolls characterized by low human pressure but with contrasted geomorphology in the Tuamotu Archipelago, French Polynesia.MethodsWe computed beta diversities and their partitioning components, both at local (inter‐transect, from 200 m to 10 km) and large (among atolls, from 22 to 350 km) spatial scales. Null models were applied to test whether the observed beta diversity differed from random expectation. Multiple generalized dissimilarity models were run to test which environmental factors were the best predictors of observed beta diversities.ResultsBeta diversity was indistinguishable from randomness at both spatial scales. Species remained generally interchangeable among transects within an atoll and to some extent among atolls. However, strong deviance explained by models showed that the number of species, the number of individuals and functional traits present in transects and atolls were determined by deterministic factors (i.e. environmental factors). Modelling each beta diversity component separately also revealed partial mismatch among atolls and among species and functional dissimilarities. The influence of environmental variables strongly varied among atolls, species and functional dissimilarities.Main conclusionsBy revealing the spatial scaling of ecological factors and partial congruence among species and functional diversity, assessment of beta diversity provides insight into conservation planning. Our results support the idea that conservation planning applied to protect taxonomic diversity cannot be fully extended to functional diversity. We have addressed the dilemma of which diversity component should be favoured in conservation strategies.
Range‐wide variation in life‐history phenotypes: spatiotemporal plasticity across the latitudinal gradient of the evergreen oak Quercus ilex
Authors: García‐Nogales Ana , Linares Juan C. , Laureano Raquel G. , Seco Jose I. , Merino Jose 
Published: August 2016

AbstractAimStressful environments, like those at the limits of species ranges, are closely associated with the selective establishment of particular traits, yet the mechanisms behind this relationship are poorly understood. Our main aim was to investigate spatial and temporal phenotypic plasticity related to environmental conditions and biogeographical origin.LocationA latitudinal gradient along Iberian Peninsula and Morocco, western Mediterranean Basin.MethodsWe investigate the intra‐specific variability in the Mediterranean oak Quercus ilex subsp. ballota, covering most of its latitudinal range. Acorns were collected in the years 2009, 2011, 2012 and 2013 from natural populations and were grown under controlled conditions. We measured acorn mass and germination dynamics, as well as seedling morphology.ResultsField data showed significant differences in stand structure among populations. The southernmost population presented the smallest trees, followed by the northernmost population. Core‐range trees registered higher values for leaf‐nitrogen concentration. Leaf size showed latitudinal variation, with the lowest values at the northern range limit. In addition, the germination pattern also significantly differed among populations, showing a latitudinal pattern of variation (i.e. the southern populations germinated earlier). Fresh acorn mass showed significant within‐ and among‐population differences, displaying a range margin pattern (i.e. similarities between the edge populations). Furthermore, seedling total weight and biomass allocation also followed the same pattern. The models explaining the most part of the trait variance were related mainly to climatic variables (reflecting temporal variability), while the random effect of the models (population) showed a range margin pattern with lower values in edge populations compared with core populations.Main conclusionsSimilar phenotypic traits among individuals native to the periphery of the distribution range were found despite the temporal variability, suggesting adaptation to stressful environments at the range edges.
Neogene and Pleistocene history of Agave lechuguilla in the Chihuahuan Desert
Authors: Scheinvar Enrique , Gámez Niza , Castellanos‐Morales Gabriela , Aguirre‐Planter Erika , Eguiarte Luis E. 
Published: August 2016

AbstractAimThe history of Agave lechuguilla, a characteristic and dominant plant of the Chihuahuan Desert, was reconstructed in order to determine the importance of the Neogene orogenic uplift and the Quaternary glacial–interglacial climatic changes on the genetic patterns of a native Chihuahuan Desert species.LocationChihuahuan Desert, Mexico and United States.MethodsChloroplast DNA data from A. lechuguilla were analysed to describe levels of genetic diversity and structure and to infer the species’ demographic history, using traditional methods and approximate Bayesian computation (ABC). The time of divergence of the different haplogroups was estimated with a Bayesian approach. In addition, ecological niche modelling was used to identify possible refugia.ResultsMolecular dating analyses showed that A. lechuguilla originated 4.46 Ma and later differentiated into four haplogroups. The average chloroplast genetic diversity was low (Hd, 0.24), with high levels of genetic differentiation (GST, 0.780). Demographic analysis, niche modelling and ABC indicated a recent expansion from at least five glacial refugia located south of the species’ current distribution.Main conclusionAgave lechuguilla originated in the Neogene, and the glacial–interglacial events of the Pleistocene resulted in the expansion and contraction of its range, playing an important role in its intraspecific diversification. These contraction–expansion events are consistent with biogeographical regions previously identified in the Chihuahuan Desert.
Interleukin (IL) 31 induces in cynomolgus monkeys a rapid and intense itch response that can be inhibited by an IL‐31 neutralizing antibody
Authors: Lewis K.E. , Holdren M.S. , Maurer M.F. , Underwood S. , Meengs B. , Julien S.H. , Byrnes‐Blake K.A. , Freeman J.A. , Bukowski T.R. , Wolf A.C. , Hamacher N.B. , Rixon M.W. , Dillon S.R. 
Published: August 2016

AbstractBackgroundOverexpression or administration of interleukin 31 (IL‐31) has been shown to induce a profound itch response in mice and dogs. The chronic pruritus observed in mouse IL‐31 transgenic mice results in the development of skin lesions and alopecia through excoriation from excessive scratching, a condition similar to that observed in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD).ObjectiveTo test whether IL‐31 induces pruritus in non‐human primates and, if so, whether treatment with an anti‐IL‐31 neutralizing monoclonal antibody (mAb) can block the response.MethodsA series of studies was conducted in cynomolgus monkeys to evaluate the itch response to recombinant cynomolgus IL‐31 (cIL‐31) administration. Three routes of cIL‐31 administration (intravenous, intradermal, and subcutaneous) were evaluated. Subcutaneous treatment with a humanized anti‐human IL‐31 mAb cross‐reactive to cIL‐31 was subsequently tested for its ability to block the response to intradermal cIL‐31 administration.ResultsEach route of cIL‐31 delivery elicited a scratching response immediately after cIL‐31 administration and lasted at least 3 h. Treatment with the IL‐31 mAb inhibited the cIL‐31‐mediated scratching response in a dose‐dependent manner.ConclusionThese results demonstrate that an IL‐31 mAb can inhibit IL‐31‐mediated pruritus in vivo, and could be an effective therapy for pruritic skin conditions like AD where IL‐31 upregulation may play a role.
Monoclonal gammopathy of cutaneous significance: review of a relevant concept
Authors: Lipsker D. 
Published: August 2016

AbstractSome dermatologic entities are strongly associated with the presence of a monoclonal gammopathy. They should be referred to as monoclonal gammopathy of cutaneous significance (MGCS). A short review of the main entities that fit into the spectrum of MGCS is provided. Amyloidosis, macroglobulinoderma and follicular hyperkeratotic spicules result from extravascular immunoglobulin or immunoglobulin‐related protein deposition. Skin findings include papules and plaques, follicular spicules, purpura, haemorrhagic bullae, macroglossia and nail changes. The skin findings in cryoglobulinemia (CG) result from vascular immunoglobulin deposition, either as immune complexes within the vessel walls in mixed CG or within the lumina of small vessels in monoclonal CG. Mixed CG manifests as palpable purpura of leukocytoclastic vasculitis, and monoclonal CG as stellar and/or retiform purpura that can evolve into extensive skin necrosis. In some rare instances, immunoglobulins have a specific biological activity. This is, for example, the case when they bind lipoproteins that precipitate and induce hypocomplementemic xanthomas. Xanthoderma related to antiflavin activity of the monoclonal component or acquired angioedema related to anti‐C1INH activity is other example. Abnormal cytokine secretion is the hallmark of some entities. High vascular endothelial growth factor levels correlate with some of the skin manifestations of the Polyneuropathy organomegaly endocrinopathy monoclonal component skin changes syndrome, such as hypertrichosis or the adenopathy and extensive skin patch overlying plasmacytoma syndrome. All the clinical manifestations of the Schnitzler syndrome are IL‐1 mediated. In other MGCS, such as scleromyxedema, Clarkson syndrome, TEMPI syndrome, cutis laxa and the neutrophilic dermatoses, the link between the monoclocal component and the entity is clearly established, but not understood so far.
Selection for distinct gene expression properties favours the evolution of mutational robustness in gene regulatory networks
Authors: Espinosa‐Soto C. 
Published: August 2016

AbstractMutational robustness is a genotype's tendency to keep a phenotypic trait with little and few changes in the face of mutations. Mutational robustness is both ubiquitous and evolutionarily important as it affects in different ways the probability that new phenotypic variation arises. Understanding the origins of robustness is specially relevant for systems of development that are phylogenetically widespread and that construct phenotypic traits with a strong impact on fitness. Gene regulatory networks are examples of this class of systems. They comprise sets of genes that, through cross‐regulation, build the gene activity patterns that define cellular responses, different tissues or distinct cell types. Several empirical observations, such as a greater robustness of wild‐type phenotypes, suggest that stabilizing selection underlies the evolution of mutational robustness. However, the role of selection in the evolution of robustness is still under debate. Computer simulations of the dynamics and evolution of gene regulatory networks have shown that selection for any gene activity pattern that is steady and self‐sustaining is sufficient to promote the evolution of mutational robustness. Here, I generalize this scenario using a computational model to show that selection for different aspects of a gene activity phenotype increases mutational robustness. Mutational robustness evolves even when selection favours properties that conflict with the stationarity of a gene activity pattern. The results that I present support an important role for stabilizing selection in the evolution of robustness in gene regulatory networks.
The Efficacy of Internal Family Systems Therapy in the Treatment of Depression Among Female College Students: A Pilot Study
Authors: Haddock Shelley A. , Weiler Lindsey M. , Trump Lisa J. , Henry Kimberly L. 
Published: August 2016

College women are vulnerable to depression due to developmental and transitional life changes. Early diagnosis and effective treatment is critically important. Empirical support exists for the effectiveness of select treatment options (i.e., antidepressant medication, cognitive‐behavioral therapy [CBT], and interpersonal psychotherapy [IPT]), yet a significant percentage of those treated do not benefit. In this pilot study, Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy was tested as an alternative approach. College women (N = 37) were randomly allocated to IFS treatment or treatment as usual (CBT or IPT). Results demonstrated a decline in depressive symptoms for both conditions and no significant differences in the magnitude or rate of change. The results provide preliminary evidence for the efficacy of IFS in the treatment of depressive symptoms.
MicroRNAs 29b and 181a down‐regulate the expression of the norepinephrine transporter and glucocorticoid receptors in PC12 cells
Authors: Deng Maoxian , Tufan Turan , Raza Muhammad U. , Jones Thomas C. , Zhu Meng‐Yang 
Published: August 2016

AbstractMicroRNAs are short non‐coding RNAs that provide global regulation of gene expression at the post‐transcriptional level. Such regulation has been found to play a role in stress‐induced epigenetic responses in the brain. The norepinephrine transporter (NET) and glucocorticoid receptors are closely related to the homeostatic integration and regulation after stress. Our previous studies demonstrated that NET mRNA and protein levels in rats are regulated by chronic stress and by administration of corticosterone, which is mediated through glucocorticoid receptors. Whether miRNAs are intermediaries in the regulation of these proteins remains to be elucidated. This study was undertaken to determine possible regulatory effects of miRNAs on the expression of NET and glucocorticoid receptors in the noradrenergic neuronal cell line. Using computational target prediction, we identified several candidate miRNAs potentially targeting NET and glucocorticoid receptors. Western blot results showed that over‐expression of miR‐181a and miR‐29b significantly repressed protein levels of NET, which is accompanied by a reduced [3H] norepinephrine uptake, and glucocorticoid receptors in PC12 cells. Luciferase reporter assays verified that both miR‐181a and miR‐29b bind the 3′UTR of mRNA of NET and glucocorticoid receptors. Furthermore, exposure of PC12 cells to corticosterone markedly reduced the endogenous levels of miR‐29b, which was not reversed by the application of glucocorticoid receptor antagonist mifepristone. These observations indicate that miR‐181a and miR‐29b can function as the negative regulators of NET and glucocorticoid receptor translation in vitro. This regulatory effect may be related to stress‐induced up‐regulation of the noradrenergic phenotype, a phenomenon observed in stress models and depressive patients.
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This study demonstrated that miR‐29b and miR‐181a, two short non‐coding RNAs that provide global regulation of gene expression, markedly repressed protein levels of norepinephrine (NE) transporter and glucocorticoid receptor (GR), as well as NE uptake by binding the 3′UTR of their mRNAs in PC12 cells. Also, exposure of cells to corticosterone significantly reduced miR‐29b levels through a GR‐independent way.
Combination of glycolic acid peel and topical 20% azelaic acid cream in melasma patients: efficacy and improvement in quality of life
Authors: Dayal Surabhi , Sahu Priyadarshini , Dua Ruchika 
Published: August 2016

SummaryBackgroundGlycolic acid (GA) peel is one of the most versatile agents in the treatment of melasma. GA peeling alone or in combination with topical hypopigmenting agents has shown encouraging results. However, there is paucity of controlled trial demonstrating the efficacy of glycolic peel in conjunction with topical azelaic acid (AA). We therefore sought to highlight the efficacy and safety of this combination in melasma.ObjectiveTo assess the clinical efficacy, safety and reduction in melasma quality of life (MELASQOL) scores on combining serial GA peels with topical 20% AA cream in epidermal melasma.Materials and methodSixty patients of epidermal melasma were enrolled for 24 weeks. Patients were divided into two groups: (1) Study group received serial GA peel every 3 weeks with twice daily 20% AA cream, and (2) control group received only 20% AA cream. Clinical improvement was assessed objectively using Melasma Area Severity Index (MASI). Melasma‐related quality of life was measured by MELASQOL scale in both groups. Side effects were observed at each visit.ResultsThe improvement in MASI and percentage decrease in MASI scoring were statistically significant 12 weeks onwards in study group as compared to control group. There was also a significant reduction in MELASQOL scores in study group as compared to control group after treatment. Minor reversible side effects were observed in both groups, which did not require cessation of therapy.ConclusionGA peel enhances therapeutic efficacy of topical AA cream for treatment of melasma, with improvement in quality of life without serious side effects.
Melatonin as an antioxidant: under promises but over delivers
Authors: Reiter Russel J. , Mayo Juan C. , Tan Dun‐Xian , Sainz Rosa M. , Alatorre‐Jimenez Moises , Qin Lilan 
Published: August 2016

AbstractMelatonin is uncommonly effective in reducing oxidative stress under a remarkably large number of circumstances. It achieves this action via a variety of means: direct detoxification of reactive oxygen and reactive nitrogen species and indirectly by stimulating antioxidant enzymes while suppressing the activity of pro‐oxidant enzymes. In addition to these well‐described actions, melatonin also reportedly chelates transition metals, which are involved in the Fenton/Haber–Weiss reactions; in doing so, melatonin reduces the formation of the devastatingly toxic hydroxyl radical resulting in the reduction of oxidative stress. Melatonin's ubiquitous but unequal intracellular distribution, including its high concentrations in mitochondria, likely aid in its capacity to resist oxidative stress and cellular apoptosis. There is credible evidence to suggest that melatonin should be classified as a mitochondria‐targeted antioxidant. Melatonin's capacity to prevent oxidative damage and the associated physiological debilitation is well documented in numerous experimental ischemia/reperfusion (hypoxia/reoxygenation) studies especially in the brain (stroke) and in the heart (heart attack). Melatonin, via its antiradical mechanisms, also reduces the toxicity of noxious prescription drugs and of methamphetamine, a drug of abuse. Experimental findings also indicate that melatonin renders treatment‐resistant cancers sensitive to various therapeutic agents and may be useful, due to its multiple antioxidant actions, in especially delaying and perhaps treating a variety of age‐related diseases and dehumanizing conditions. Melatonin has been effectively used to combat oxidative stress, inflammation and cellular apoptosis and to restore tissue function in a number of human trials; its efficacy supports its more extensive use in a wider variety of human studies. The uncommonly high‐safety profile of melatonin also bolsters this conclusion. It is the current feeling of the authors that, in view of the widely diverse beneficial functions that have been reported for melatonin, these may be merely epiphenomena of the more fundamental, yet‐to‐be identified basic action(s) of this ancient molecule.