bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Elevated circulating Neuregulin4 level in patients with diabetes
Authors: Chen Lu‐Lu , Peng Miao‐Miao , Zhang Jiao‐Yue , Hu Xiang , Min Jie , Huang Qiu‐Lan , Wan Li‐Min 
Published: November 2016

AbstractBackgroundNeuregulin4 (Nrg4) is a novel adipokine expressed in adipose tissues, enriched in brown adipose tissue, and able to improve whole‐body metabolism in rodent, thus having the potential to treat obesity‐associated disorders such as diabetes. However, the association between serum Nrg4 levels and diabetes risk in human remains unclear. This study was designed to examine circulating Nrg4 levels in subjects with different glucose tolerance status.MethodsAge‐, sex‐, and body mass index–matched subjects (n = 310: 83 normal glucose tolerance [NGT], 129 prediabetes, and 96 diabetes) from the Risk Evaluation of Cancers in Chinese Diabetic Individuals: A Longitudinal study (Reaction study) were included. Serum Nrg4 was measured via enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Basic anthropometric parameters, fasting plasma glucose and 2‐hours postload plasma glucose, hemoglobin A1c, and serum lipid profile were also measured.ResultsThe serum Nrg4 levels were higher in patients with diabetes than those with NGT and prediabetes (diabetes: 396.8[65.9, 709.4], NGT: 80.1[0, 554.1], prediabetes: 168.0[32.9, 463.9] pg/mL [median (interquartile range), both P < 0.05]). The Nrg4 concentration was correlated with fasting plasma glucose. When the top versus bottom quartiles of serum Nrg4 concentrations were compared with adjustment for age and sex, an odds ratio of 3.005 was observed in diabetes prevalence, which persisted after adjusting other potential confounding variables. Other nonglucose parameters as body mass index; waist, hip, and neck circumferences; alanine aminotransferase; triglyceride; high‐density lipoprotein; uric acid; and estimated glomerular filtration rate were also correlated with serum Nrg4 (P < 0.05).ConclusionsThe circulating Nrg4 level is elevated in the prediabetic and diabetic patients compared to control and is an independent risk factor associated with diabetes.
Siting marine protected areas based on habitat quality and extent provides the greatest benefit to spatially structured metapopulations
Authors: Cabral Reniel B. , Gaines Steven D. , Lim May T. , Atrigenio Michael P. , Mamauag Samuel S. , Pedemonte Gerold C. , Aliño Porfirio M. 
Published: November 2016

AbstractConnectivity and its role in the persistence and sustainability of marine metapopulations are attracting increased attention from the scientific community and coastal resource managers. Whether protection should prioritize the connectivity structure or demographic characteristics of a given patch is still unclear. We design a three‐stage population model to analyze the relative importance of sources, sinks, quality and extent of juvenile and adult habitat, and node centralities (eigenvector, degree, closeness, and betweenness) as a basis for prioritizing sites. We use a logistic‐type stage‐structured model to describe the local dynamics of a population with a sessile adult stage and network models to elucidate propagule‐exchange dynamics. Our results show that the coupled states of habitat extent and quality, which determine population carrying capacity, are good criteria for protection strategy. Protecting sites on the basis of sources, sinks, or other centrality measures of connectivity becomes optimal only in limited situations, that is, when larval production is not dependent on the adult population. Our findings are robust to a diverse set of larval pathway structures and levels of larval retention, which indicates that the network topology may not be as important as carrying capacity in determining the fate of the metapopulation. Protecting extensive, good quality habitat can help achieve both conservation and fisheries objectives.
Using habitat suitability models in an industrial setting: the case for internesting flatback turtles
Authors: Whittock Paul A. , Pendoley Kellie L. , Hamann Mark 
Published: November 2016

AbstractTo predict and manage ecological impacts of anthropogenic activities effectively, an understanding of at‐risk species spatial ecology is first required. This is particularly difficult in the marine environment due to limited offshore access and wide‐ranging movements of some species. Flatback turtles are a protected species potentially at risk from hazards associated with the resource sector in Australia, yet their at‐sea spatial ecology is not well understood. We use habitat suitability modeling to identify environmental variables that influence flatback turtle internesting movement; identify areas of suitable internesting habitat; and determine overlap of identified internesting habitat with resource sector hazards. Internesting movements of 47 female flatback turtles, from five rookeries in the North West Shelf region of Western Australia, were recorded using platform terminal transmitters between 2006 and 2010. Environmental variables including sea surface temperature (SST), bathymetry, magnetic anomalies, distance from coastline, slope, and ruggedness index were combined with the tracking data from each rookery in an ecological niche model. We used the positions of resource sector vessels to represent areas of potential impact from resource sector hazards and identified overlap with suitable internesting habitat areas as a representative of the likelihood of impact. The primary environmental variables that influenced flatback internesting movement were bathymetry, distance from coastline, and SST. Suitable areas of internesting habitat were located in close proximity to many known flatback turtle rookeries across the region. Areas of suitable internesting habitat overlapped resource sector hazards in close proximity to four of the five rookeries and at other known flatback turtle rookeries. The cumulative overlap across the overall study area indicates a high potential for interaction with resource sector hazards, demonstrating the need for regional protection measures in these areas. This study provides a capability for regulators and developers to determine the potential offshore presence of internesting flatback turtles within the region, allowing for protection measures to be targeted appropriately as industrial development continues.
Root disease can rival fire and harvest in reducing forest carbon storage
Authors: Healey Sean P. , Raymond Crystal L. , Lockman I. Blakey , Hernandez Alexander J. , Garrard Chris , Huang Chengquan 
Published: November 2016

AbstractRoot diseases are known to suppress forest regeneration and reduce growth rates, and they may become more common as susceptible tree species become maladapted in parts of their historic ranges due to climate change. However, current ecosystem models do not track the effects of root disease on net productivity, and there has been little research on how the dynamics of root disease affect carbon (C) storage and productivity across infected landscapes. We compared the effects of root disease against the effects of other types of forest disturbance across six national forest landscapes, 1990–2011. This was enabled by a monitoring tool called the Forest Carbon Management Framework (ForCaMF), which makes use of ground inventory data, an empirical growth model, and time series of Landsat satellite imagery. Despite several large fires that burned across these landscapes during the study period, retrospective ForCaMFanalysis showed that fire and root disease had approximately equal impacts on C storage. Relative to C accumulation that would have occurred in their absence, fires from 1990 to 2011 were estimated to reduce regionwide C storage by 215.3 ± 19.1 g/m2 C, while disease in the same period was estimated to reduce storage by 211.4 ± 59.9 g/m2 C. Harvest (75.5 ± 13.5 g/m2 C) and bark beetle activity (14.8 ± 12.5 g/m2 C) were less important. While long‐term disturbance processes such as root disease have generally been ignored by tools informing management of forest C storage, the recent history of several national forests suggests that such disturbances can be just as important to the C cycle as more conspicuous events like wildfires.
Effects of climate and water balance across grasslands of varying C3 and C4 grass cover
Authors: Witwicki Dana L. , Munson Seth M. , Thoma David P. 
Published: November 2016

AbstractClimate change in grassland ecosystems may lead to divergent shifts in the abundance and distribution of C3 and C4 grasses. Many studies relate mean climate conditions over relatively long time periods to plant cover, but there is still much uncertainty about how the balance of C3 and C4 species will be affected by climate at a finer temporal scale than season (individual events to months). We monitored cover at five grassland sites with co‐dominant C3 and C4 grass species or only dominant C3 grass species for 6 yr in national parks across the Colorado Plateau region to assess the influence of specific months of climate and water balance on changes in grass cover. C4 grass cover increased and decreased to a larger degree than C3 grass cover with extremely dry and wet consecutive years, but this response varied by ecological site. Climate and water balance explained 10–49% of the inter‐annual variability of cover of C3 and C4 grasses at all sites. High precipitation in the spring and in previous year monsoon storms influenced changes in cover of C4 grasses, with measures of water balance in the same months explaining additional variability. C3 grasses in grasslands where they were dominant were influenced primarily by longer periods of climate, while C3 grasses in grasslands where they were co‐dominant with C4 grasses were influenced little by climate anomalies at either short or long periods of time. Our results suggest that future changes in spring and summer climate and water balance are likely to affect cover of both C3 and C4 grasses, but cover of C4 grasses may be affected more strongly, and the degree of change will depend on soils and topography where they are growing and the timing of the growing season.
Archival photogrammetric analysis of river–floodplain systems using Structure from Motion (SfM) methods
Authors: Bakker Maarten , Lane Stuart N. 
Published: November 2016

AbstractIn this study we evaluate the extent to which accurate topographic data can be obtained by applying Structure from Motion (SfM) photogrammetric methods to archival imagery. While SfM has proven valuable in photogrammetric applications using specially acquired imagery (e.g. from unmanned aerial vehicles), it also has the potential to improve the precision of topographic data and the ease with which can be produced from historical imagery. We evaluate the application of SfM to a relatively extreme case, one of low relative relief: a braided river–floodplain system. We compared the bundle adjustments of SfM and classical photogrammetric methods, applied to eight dates. The SfM approach resulted in data quality similar to the classical approach, although the lens parameter values (e.g. focal length) recovered in the SfM process were not necessarily the same as their calibrated equivalents. Analysis showed that image texture and image overlap/configuration were critical drivers in the tie‐point generation which impacted bundle adjustment quality. Working with archival imagery also illustrated the general need for the thorough understanding and careful application of (commercial) SfM software packages. As with classical methods, the propagation of (random) error in the estimation of lens and exterior orientation parameters using SfM methods may lead to inherent systematic error in the derived point clouds. We have shown that linear errors may be accounted for by point cloud registration based on a reference dataset, which is vital for the further application in quantitative morphological analyses when using archival imagery. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hepatic gadoxetic acid uptake as a measure of diffuse liver disease: Where are we?
Authors: Ba‐Ssalamah Ahmed , Bastati Nina , Wibmer Andreas , Fragner Romana , Hodge Jacqueline C. , Trauner Michael , Herold Christian J. , Bashir Mustafa R. , Van Beers Bernard E. 
Published: November 2016

MRI has emerged as the most comprehensive noninvasive diagnostic tool for focal liver lesions and diffuse hepatobiliary disorders. The introduction of hepatobiliary contrast agents, most notably gadoxetic acid (GA), has expanded the role of MRI, particularly in the functional imaging of chronic liver diseases, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). GA‐enhanced MRI (GA‐MRI) may help to distinguish between the two subgroups of NAFLD, simple steatosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Furthermore, GA‐MRI can be used to stage fibrosis and cirrhosis, predict liver transplant graft survival, and preoperatively estimate the risk of liver failure should major resection be undertaken. The amount of GA uptake can be estimated, using static images, by the relative liver enhancement, hepatic uptake index, and relaxometry of T1‐mapping during the hepatobiliary phase. On the contrary, the hepatic extraction fraction and liver perfusion can be measured on dynamic imaging. Importantly, there is currently no clear consensus as to which of these MR‐derived parameters is the most suitable for assessing liver dysfunction. This review article aims to describe the current role of GA‐enhanced MRI in quantifying liver function, primarily in diffuse hepatobiliary disorders.Level of Evidence: 3J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;45:646–659.
Variability in Soil Hydraulic Conductivity and Soil Hydrological Response Under Different Land Covers in the Mountainous Area of the Heihe River Watershed, Northwest China
Authors: Tian Jie , Zhang Baoqing , He Chansheng , Yang Lixiao 
Published: November 2016

AbstractUnderstanding the variability in soil hydraulic conductivity in the mountainous headwaters is critical to the modeling of mountainous runoff and the water resources management of river basins, especially in the arid and semiarid areas. In this study, a total of 32 soil profiles with five layers within 0–70 cm were sampled under different land cover types: forest, meadow, high coverage grassland (HCG), medium coverage grassland (MCG), and barren land in the upper stream of the Heihe river watershed, Northwest China. Saturated hydraulic conductivity (KS) was measured for each sample. The vertical variation of KS and soil hydrological response under different land covers were analyzed. Results show that KS value in layer 5 was significantly lower than the values of above four layers. KS decreased in the order of forest, meadow, HCG, MCG, and barren land, corresponding to the degree of vegetation degradation. The KS decreased with depth under forest, HCG, and barren land, but increased first and then decreased under meadow and MCG. The dominant stormflow paths for different land covers were different: forest was dominated by deep percolation, HCG was dominated by subsurface flow (SSF), meadow was prevailed by Hortonian overland flow and had no SSF, while MCG and barren land were also dominated by Hortonian overland flow, but still formed SSF. This result provides important information for improving the accuracy of mountainous hydrological modeling and, in turn, leading to sustainable management of water resources in the study watershed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fractional CO2 laser treatment of caesarean section scars—A randomized controlled split‐scar trial with long term follow‐up assessment
Authors: Karmisholt Katrine E. , Taudorf Elisabeth H. , Wulff Camilla B. , Wenande Emily , Philipsen Peter A. , Haedersdal Merete 
Published: November 2016

Background and ObjectivesCaesarean section (c‐section) scars can be pose functional and cosmetic challenges and ablative fractional laser (AFXL) treatment may offer benefit to patients. We evaluated textural and color changes over time in AFXL‐treated versus untreated control scars.Materials and MethodsA randomized, controlled, intra‐individual split‐scar trial with three sessions of AFXL‐treatments for mature c‐section scars. Settings of AFXL were adjusted to each individual scar. End‐points were blinded on‐site clinical evaluations at 1, 3, and 6 months follow‐up (Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale [POSAS] and Vancouver Scar Scale [VSS]), blinded photo‐evaluations, reflectance measurements, tissue histology, and patients satisfaction.ResultsEleven of 12 patients completed the study. At 1 month follow‐up, AFXL‐treated scars were significantly improved in pliability (POSAS P = 0.01 VSS P = 0.02) and smoother in surface relief (POSAS P = 0.03) compared to control scars. At 1–3 months, overall scar appearance was dominated by transient erythema and hyperpigmentation, confirmed by reflectance measurements (erythema% and pigmentation% peaked at 1 and 3 month follow‐up, respectively). At 6 months follow‐up, AFXL‐treated scars improved on POSAS‐total score though not significantly (P = 0.06). Correspondingly, blinded photo‐evaluation found AFXL‐treated scars significantly improved compared to controls (VAS P = 0.02). Histology indicated new dermal collagen and elastic fibers on AFXL‐treated scars. At 6 months follow‐up, a majority of patients (64%) favored subsequent AFXL‐treatment of their untreated control scar tissue.ConclusionsScar remodeling is initiated 1 month after AFXL treatment, but overall scar improvement is concealed until laser‐induced color changes resolve. At 6 months follow‐up, the benefit of AFXL treatment on c‐section scars emerges. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:189–197, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dystonia‐deafness syndrome caused by a β‐actin gene mutation and response to deep brain stimulation
Authors: Eggink Hendriekje , van Egmond Martje E. , Verschuuren‐Bemelmans Corien C. , Schönherr Marleen C. , de Koning Tom J. , Oterdoom D.L. Marinus , van Dijk J. Marc C. , Tijssen Marina A.J. 
Published: November 2016

ABSTRACTIntroductionDystonia‐deafness syndrome is a distinct clinical presentation within the dystonia‐spectrum. Although several genetic and acquired causes have been reported, etiology remains unknown in the majority of patients.ObjectivesTo describe two patients with dystonia‐deafness syndrome due to a beta‐actin gene mutation.MethodsWe report on disease course, genetic testing, and management of 2 patients, mother and daughter, presenting with dystonia‐deafness syndrome.ResultsAfter exclusion of known dystonia‐deafness syndrome causes, whole‐exome sequencing revealed a beta‐actin gene mutation (p.Arg183Trp) in both patients. Although beta‐actin gene mutations are generally associated with developmental Baraitser‐Winter syndrome, dystonia‐deafness syndrome has been reported once in identical twin brothers. Bilateral GPi‐DBS led to a significant decrease of dystonia and regain of independency in our patients.ConclusionThe p.Arg183Trp mutation in the beta‐actin gene is associated with the clinical presentation of dystonia‐deafness syndrome, even with only minimal or no developmental abnormalities of Baraitser‐Winter syndrome. GPi‐DBS should be considered to ameliorate the invalidating dystonia in these patients. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Combined Simulation and Mutation Studies to Elucidate Selectivity of Unsubstituted Amphetamine‐like Cathinones at the Dopamine Transporter
Authors: Seddik Amir , Geerke Daan P. , Stockner Thomas , Holy Marion , Kudlacek Oliver , Cozzi Nicholas V. , Ruoho Arnold E. , Sitte Harald H. , Ecker Gerhard F. 
Published: November 2016

AbstractThe dopamine and serotonin transporter proteins (DAT, SERT) play a vital role in behavior and mental illness. Although their substrate transport has been studied extensively, the molecular basis of their selectivity is not completely understood yet. In this study, we exploit molecular dynamics simulations combined with mutagenesis studies to shed light on the driving factors for DAT‐over‐SERT selectivity of a set of cathinones. Results indicate that these compounds can adopt two binding modes of which one is more favorable. In addition, free energy calculations indicated the substrate binding site (S1) as the primary recognition site for these ligands. By simulating DAT with SERT‐like mutations, we hypothesize unsubstituted cathinones to bind more favorably to DAT, due to a Val152 offering more space, as compared to the bulkier Ile172 in SERT. This was supported by uptake inhibition measurements, which showed an increase in activity in SERT‐I172V.
Uncovering a third dissolved‐phase 129Xe resonance in the human lung: Quantifying spectroscopic features in healthy subjects and patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Robertson Scott H. , Virgincar Rohan S. , Bier Elianna A. , He Mu , Schrank Geoffrey M. , Smigla Rose Marie , Rackley Craig , McAdams H. Page , Driehuys Bastiaan 
Published: November 2016

PurposeThe purpose of this work was to accurately characterize the spectral properties of hyperpolarized 129Xe in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) compared to healthy volunteers.MethodsSubjects underwent hyperpolarized 129Xe breath‐hold spectroscopy, during which 38 dissolved‐phase free induction decays (FIDs) were acquired after reaching steady state (echo time/repetition time = 0.875/50 ms; bandwidth = 8.06 kHz; flip angle≈22 °). FIDs were averaged and then decomposed into multiple spectral components using time‐domain curve fitting. The resulting amplitudes, frequencies, line widths, and starting phases of each component were compared among groups using a Mann–Whitney–Wilcoxon U test.ResultsThree dissolved‐phase resonances, consisting of red blood cells (RBCs) and two barrier compartments, were consistently identified in all subjects. In subjects with IPF relative to healthy volunteers, the RBC frequency was 0.70 parts per million (ppm) more negative (P = 0.05), the chemical shift of barrier 2 was 0.6 ppm more negative (P = 0.009), the line widths of both barrier peaks were ∼2 ppm narrower (P < 0.001), and the starting phase of barrier 1 was 20.3 ° higher (P =  0.01). Moreover, the ratio RBC:barriers was reduced by 52.9% in IPF (P < 0.001).ConclusionsThe accurate decomposition of 129Xe spectra not only has merit for developing a global metric of pulmonary function, but also provides necessary insights to optimize phase‐sensitive methods for imaging 129Xe gas transfer. Magn Reson Med 78:1306–1315, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.