bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The thioredoxin MoTrx2 protein mediates reactive oxygen species (ROS) balance and controls pathogenicity as a target of the transcription factor MoAP1 in Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Wang Jingzhen , Yin Ziyi , Tang Wei , Cai Xingjia , Gao Chuyun , Zhang Haifeng , Zheng Xiaobo , Wang Ping , Zhang Zhengguang 
Published: August 2016

SummaryWe have shown previously that the transcription factor MoAP1 governs the oxidative response and is important for pathogenicity in the rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae. To explore the underlying mechanism, we have identified thioredoxin MoTrx2 as a target of MoAP1 in M. oryzae. Thioredoxins are highly conserved 12‐kDa oxidoreductase enzymes containing a dithiol–disulfide active site, and function as antioxidants against free radicals, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS). In yeast and fungi, thioredoxins are important for oxidative stress tolerance and growth. To study the functions of MoTrx2, we generated ΔMotrx2 mutants that exhibit various defects, including sulfite assimilation, asexual and sexual differentiation, infectious hyphal growth and pathogenicity. We found that ΔMotrx2 mutants possess a defect in the scavenging of ROS during host cell invasion and in the active suppression of the rice defence response. We also found that ΔMotrx2 mutants display higher intracellular ROS levels during conidial germination, but lower peroxidase and laccase activities, which contribute to the attenuation in virulence. Given that the function of MoTrx2 overlaps that of MoAP1 in the stress response and pathogenicity, our findings further indicate that MoTrx2 is a key thioredoxin protein whose function is subjected to transcriptional regulation by MoAP1 in M. oryzae.
Crowned dens syndrome mimicking meningitis: Report of two cases
Authors: Nagasaki Hirokazu , Doi Hiroshi 
Published: August 2016

AbstractCrowned dens syndrome is a rare pathology characterized by acute attacks of neck pain with fever, rigidity, general signs of inflammation and calcification of the periodontoid articular structures. Symptoms of crowned dens syndrome can mimic other disease, particularly meningitis. Consequently, this syndrome is often misdiagnosed, which leads to unnecessary invasive examinations, inappropriate treatment and prolonged hospitalization. In the present case report, we described two cases initially diagnosed as meningitis. Both patients had nuchal rigidity and neck pain without Kernig's sign and Lasegue sign. Discrepancy of meningeal irritation signs is the key point for diagnosis.
Protective effect of mycophenolate mofetil on residual renal function in peritoneal dialysis patients: An open label feasibility study
Authors: Wang Xiaoyang , Zhang Xiaoxue , Lu Shan , Liu Dong , Chen Genyang , Dou Yanna , Yuan Wenming , Ma Shuang , Li Yansheng , Xiao Jing , Zhao Zhanzheng 
Published: August 2016

ABSTRACTAimThis study aims to evaluate the safety of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and its effect on residual renal function (RRF) during peritoneal dialysis (PD).MethodsThis is a prospective, randomized study comprising 60 PD patients. The patients were assigned either to the MMF group (MMF dosage: 1.0–1.5 g/day in two divided doses for 6 months, followed by a dose of 0.5–0.75 g/day for another 6 months) or to the control group. The patients close monitoring for 1 year. Variables related to residual renal function, including urine volume, measured glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and renal Kt/V, were measured at four time points.ResultsThere were no significant changes in urinary protein excretion in either group (P > 0.05). The MMF group showed a significantly higher urine volume than the control group (955.38 ± 243.54 vs 786.15 ± 279.62 mL/day, P = 0.024). The renal kt/V was also significantly higher in the MMF group (0.59 ± 0.11 in MMF vs 0.50 ± 0.19 in control group, P = 0.032). There was significant difference in the renal measured GFR between the two groups at 6, 9 and 12 months (MMF vs control at 6 months, 6.14 ± 0.66 vs 5.58 ± 0.65 mL/min per 1.73m2, P = 0.003; at 9 months, 5.68 ± 0.80 vs 4.78 ± 0.75, P < 0.001; at 12 months, 5.44 ± 0.91 vs 4.43 ± 0.93, P < 0.001). MMF was well tolerated without any serious complications.ConclusionThe use of MMF in PD patients tends to better preserve RRF.
Developing an objective method for analyzing vital signs changes in neonates during general anesthesia
Authors: Görges Matthias , West Nicholas C. , Karlsdóttir Edda , Ansermino J. Mark , Cassidy Myles , Lauder Gillian R. 
Published: August 2016

SummaryBackgroundCommonly used general anesthetics are considered to be neurotoxic to the developing rodent brain, leading to poor long‐term outcome. However, it is unclear whether these rodent studies can be extrapolated to the human neonate. Given that anesthesia for urgent neonatal surgery cannot be avoided, it is vitally important to assess other factors that may impact neurological outcome following anesthesia and surgery.ObjectiveThe purpose of this study is to identify thresholds for detecting vital sign deviations, which may have the potential for affecting neurological outcome following anesthesia and surgery in neonates. These data may be suitable to identify targets for prospective quality improvement projects and guide future research for strategies to reduce detrimental neurocognitive outcomes.MethodsA retrospective analysis of vital sign data was performed for neonates (age ≤28 days), undergoing noncardiac surgery over a 4‐year period (2010–2013). Thresholds for detecting bradycardia, tachycardia, hypothermia, hyperthermia, hypertension, hypotension, hypocarbia, hypoxemia, significant changes in mean arterial blood pressure, and periods of high inspired oxygen concentration, were proposed. Selected chart review, to identify additional risk factors, and identify sources of data artifact, was performed for 224 cases.ResultsData from 435 procedures in neonates, with median (IQR [range]) ages of 6 (2–16 [0–28]) days were available for analysis. Five (3–6 [0–12]) rule deviations per case were observed; only 11 cases had no rule deviations. Hypothermia was observed in 285/435 (70%), moderate hypocapnia in 298/430 (69%), and severe hypotension in 270/435 (62%) cases.ConclusionAn objective method of comparing cases has been created with a method to automatically identify neonatal vital sign deviations. With further validation the method has the potential to be a powerful tool to drive future quality improvement projects in neonatal anesthesia.
“Are these adult doctors gonna know me?” Experiences of transition for young people with a liver transplant
Authors: Wright J. , Elwell L. , McDonagh J. E. , Kelly D. A. , Wray J. 
Published: August 2016

AbstractExcellent survival rates in paediatric LTx have resulted in increasing numbers of young people transferring from paediatric to adult care. Understanding the mechanisms of successful transition is imperative for ensuring good long‐term outcomes and developing services for young people. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 17 young people (10 females; age range: 15.2–25.1 years). Eight were within 1 year of transferring to adult services; nine had transferred. Interviews were analysed using IPA. Analysis revealed two major themes in both pre‐ and post‐transfer groups: “relationships with healthcare professionals” and “continuity of care.” Young people experienced difficulty ending relationships with paediatric clinicians and forming new relationships with adult clinicians. They expressed frustrations over a perceived lack of continuity of care after transfer and a fear of the unknown nature of adult services. The importance of a holistic approach to care was emphasized. Interventions are needed to support young people in transition, particularly in ending relationships in paediatric care and forming new relationships in adult care. Young people need help to develop strategies to cope with the different approaches in adult services. Interventions to provide clinicians with skills to communicate and engage with young people are imperative.
Effects of concanavalin A on the progesterone production by bovine steroidogenic luteal cells in vitro
Authors: Destro FC , Martin I , Landim‐Alvarenga FDC , Ferreira JCP , Pate JL 
Published: August 2016

ContentsThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of concanavalin A (CONA) on the progesterone (P4) production by bovine steroidogenic luteal cells (LCs) in vitro. Luteal cells were collected during the mid‐luteal stage (at 10–12 days following ovulation) and processed in the laboratory. Luteal cells were grown for 7 days in a humid atmosphere with 5% CO2, with or without 10% foetal bovine serum, and were subjected to the following treatments: control: no treatment; CONA (10 μg/ml); LH (100 μg/ml); CONA + LH; LH (100 μg/ml) + prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) (10 ng/ml); CONA + LH + PGF2α. Samples of the culture media were collected on days 1 (D1) and 7 (D7) for P4 quantification. The cells were counted on D7 of culture. Differences between treatments were considered statistically significant at p < .05. Culture in the presence of CONA decreased the P4‐secreting capacity of LCs on D7 of culture, particularly in the absence of serum. The cell numbers did not change between treatments.
Treatment of End‐stage Kidney Failure without Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Hole Barnaby , Tonkin‐Crine Sarah , Caskey Fergus J. , Roderick Paul 
Published: August 2016

AbstractFor the majority of patients with end‐stage kidney failure (ESKF) replacement of excretory renal function by dialysis or transplantation (RRT) can extend life and alleviate symptoms. Historically, the availability of RRT has been insufficient and this remains the case for much of the world. However, RRT is now widely available in healthcare systems of higher income countries. Increasing numbers of elderly patients are developing ESKF. RRT in this population is largely by dialysis, comorbidity is high and life expectancy short. Evidence of effectiveness coupled with the burden of treatment among these individuals has raised concerns that health services in high‐income countries may have moved from an era of unmet need into one of potential over‐treatment. Alongside the requirement to make treatment more patient‐centered, this has driven the development of comprehensive conservative care as an alternative approach for older comorbid individuals with ESKF, with the potential for acceptable symptom control and reduced treatment burden. This paper provides a largely UK‐perspective on treating ESKF without RRT. Emphasis is on the need for high‐quality evidence to inform treatment decisions. Complexities of defining, delivering and improving treatment of ESKF without dialysis care are explored. Quantitative and qualitative evidence are summarized and the relationship with palliative and terminal care examined. A framework is suggested for classifying management of ESKF and recommendations made to improve delivery of nondialysis care in the future. For patients with a poor prognosis, such treatment may not result in significantly different survival or quality of life when compared with dialysis. There is a key need to generate the best possible evidence of person‐centered health outcomes associated with the various treatment options for ESKF and to present this to patients in a balanced, personalized way that allows them to make the treatment decision most appropriate for them.
Limited effects of land use on soil dissolved organic matter chemistry as assessed by excitation–emission fluorescence spectroscopy and molecular weight fractionation
Authors: Roberts P. , Gibbons J. M. , Hill P. W. , Jones D. L. , Farrell M. 
Published: August 2016

AbstractDissolved organic matter (DOM) in soil solution represents a complex mixture of organic molecules and plays a central role in carbon and nitrogen cycling in plant–microbial–soil systems. We tested whether excitation–emission matrix (EEM) fluorescence spectroscopy can be used to characterize DOM and support previous findings that the majority of DOM is of high molecular weight (MW). EEM fluorescence spectroscopy was used in conjunction with MW fractionation to characterize DOM in soil solution from a grassland soil land management gradient in North Wales, UK. Data analysis suggested that three distinct fluorescence components could be separated and identified from the EEM data. These components were identified as being of humic‐like or fulvic‐like origin. Contrary to expectations, the majority of the fluorescence signal occurred in the small MW (<1 kDa) fraction, although differences between soils from the differently managed grasslands were more apparent in larger MW fractions. We conclude that following further characterization of the chemical composition of the fluorophores, EEM has potential as a sensitive technique for characterizing the small MW phenolic fraction of DOM in soils.
Phylogeny of Myrmeleontiformia based on larval morphology (Neuropterida: Neuroptera)
Authors: BADANO DAVIDE , ASPÖCK ULRIKE , ASPÖCK HORST , CERRETTI PIERFILIPPO 
Published: August 2016

AbstractThe suborder Myrmeleontiformia is a derived lineage of lacewings (Insecta: Neuroptera) including the families Psychopsidae, Nemopteridae, Nymphidae, Ascalaphidae and Myrmeleontidae. In particular, Myrmeleontidae (antlions) are the most diverse neuropteran family, representing a conspicuous component of the insect fauna of xeric environments. We present the first detailed quantitative phylogenetic analysis of Myrmeleontiformia, based on 107 larval morphological and behavioural characters for 36 genera whose larvae are known (including at least one representative of all the subfamilies of the suborder). Four related families were used as outgroups to polarize character states. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using both parsimony and Bayesian methods. The reconstructions resulting from our analyses corroborate the monophyly of Myrmeleontiformia. Within this clade, Psychopsidae are recovered as the sister family to all the remaining taxa. Nemopteridae (including both subfamilies Nemopterinae and Crocinae) are recovered as monophyletic and sister to the clade comprising Nymphidae + (Myrmeleontidae + Ascalaphidae). Nymphidae consist of two well‐supported clades corresponding to the subfamilies Nymphinae and Myiodactylinae. Our results suggest that Ascalaphidae may not be monophyletic, as they collapse into an unresolved polytomy under the Bayesian analysis. In addition, the recovered phylogenetic relationships diverge from the traditional classification scheme for ascalaphids. Myrmeleontidae are reconstructed as monophyletic, with the subfamilies Stilbopteryginae, Palparinae and Myrmeleontinae. We retrieved a strongly supported clade comprising taxa with a fossorial habit of the preimaginal instars, which represents a major antlion radiation, also including the monophyletic pit‐trap building species.
Development of a multisystem surveillance database for transfusion‐transmitted infections among blood donors in the United States
Authors: Dodd Roger Y. , Notari Edward P. , Nelson Diane , Foster Gregory A. , Krysztof David E. , Kaidarova Zhanna , Milan‐Benson Lisa , Kessler Debra A. , Shaz Beth H. , Vahidnia Farnaz , Custer Brian , Stramer Susan L. ,   for the NHLBI Retrovirus Epidemiology Donor Study (REDS)‐II
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUNDThe frequency of positive test results for transfusion‐transmitted infections (TTIs) among blood donors is an important index of safety; thus, appropriate monitoring is critical, particularly when there are changes in policies affecting donor suitability.STUDY DESIGN AND METHODSTesting algorithms from three large blood systems were reviewed and consensus definitions for a surveillance‐positive result for hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and human T‐cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV) established. In addition, information on each donation, including donor demographics and location, was collected. Combined data were analyzed to characterize the epidemiology of TTIs by person, place, and time.RESULTSData from 14.8 million donations were collected for 2011 to 2012, representing more than 50% of the US blood supply. Surveillance‐positive rates per 10,000 donations were as follows: HBV, 0.76; HCV, 2.0; HIV, 0.28; and HTLV 0.34. Rates did not vary between the 2 years, although there was variation within a year. With the exception of HTLV, rates were higher among males, and all rates were higher among first‐time donations. Window‐period donations (those positive only in nucleic acid tests) were infrequent (HBV, 13; HCV, 60; HIV, 14) during the 2‐year period. Frequencies of surveillance‐positive results varied by donor age and residence location.CONCLUSIONSWe demonstrated that standardized data from multiple major US blood systems can be combined and analyzed for change. However, TTI frequencies are low, impacting their sensitivity to change. Furthermore, observed fluctuations in TTI frequencies may be secondary to changes in blood donor demographics rather than necessarily reflecting the immediate impact of policy modification.
Fish oil prevents changes induced by a high‐fat diet on metabolism and adipokine secretion in mice subcutaneous and visceral adipocytes
Authors: de Sá Roberta D. C. da Cunha , Crisma Amanda R. , Cruz Maysa M. , Martins Amanda R. , Masi Laureane N. , do Amaral Catia L. , Curi R. , Alonso‐Vale Maria I. C. 
Published: August 2016

Key points
Fish oil (FO), rich in omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, has beneficial effects on changes induced by obesity and partially prevents associated comorbidities.
The effects of FO on adipocytes from different adipose tissue depots in high‐fat (HF) diet induced obese mice have not been uninvestigated.
This is the first study to examine the effects of FO on changes in metabolism and adipokine production in adipocytes from s.c. (inguinal; ING) or visceral (retroperitoneal; RP) white adipose depots in a HF diet‐induced obese mice.
Unlike most studies performed previously, FO supplementation was initiated 4 weeks before the induction of obesity.
HF diet caused marked changes in ING (glucose uptake and secretion of adiponectin, tumour necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐6 in ING) and RP (lipolysis, de novo lipogenesis and secretion of pro‐inflammatory cytokines) adipose depots.
Previous and concomitant FO administration prevented the changes in ING and RP adipocytes induced by the HF diet.
AbstractIn the present study, we investigated the effect of fish oil (FO) on metabolism and adipokine production by adipocytes from s.c. (inguinal; ING) and visceral (retroperitoneal; RP) white adipose depots in high‐fat (HF) diet‐induced obese mice. Mice were divided into CO (control diet), CO+FO, HF and HF+FO groups. The HF group presented higher body weight, glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, higher plasma total and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, and greater weights of ING and RP adipose depots accompanied by hypertrophy of the adipocytes. FO exerted anti‐obesogenic effects associated with beneficial effects on dyslipidaemia and insulin resistance in mice fed a HF diet (HF+FO group). HF raised RP adipocyte lipolysis and the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and reduced de novo synthesis of fatty acids, whereas, in ING adipocytes, it decreased glucose uptake and adiponectin secretion but did not change lipolysis. Therefore, the adipose depots play different roles in HF diet‐induced insulin resistance according to their location in the body. Concerning cytokine secretion, adipocytes per se in addition to white adopise tissue infiltrated leukocytes have to be considered in the aetiology of the comorbidities associated with obesity. Evidence is presented showing that previous and concomitant administration of FO can prevent changes in metabolism and the secretion of hormones and cytokines in ING and RP adipocytes induced by HF.
Hyperammonaemia‐induced skeletal muscle mitochondrial dysfunction results in cataplerosis and oxidative stress
Authors: Davuluri Gangarao , Allawy Allawy , Thapaliya Samjhana , Rennison Julie H. , Singh Dharmvir , Kumar Avinash , Sandlers Yana , Van Wagoner David R. , Flask Chris A. , Hoppel Charles , Kasumov Takhar , Dasarathy Srinivasan 
Published: August 2016

Key points
Hyperammonaemia occurs in hepatic, cardiac and pulmonary diseases with increased muscle concentration of ammonia.
We found that ammonia results in reduced skeletal muscle mitochondrial respiration, electron transport chain complex I dysfunction, as well as lower NAD+/NADH ratio and ATP content.
During hyperammonaemia, leak of electrons from complex III results in oxidative modification of proteins and lipids.
Tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates are decreased during hyperammonaemia, and providing a cell‐permeable ester of αKG reversed the lower TCA cycle intermediate concentrations and increased ATP content.
Our observations have high clinical relevance given the potential for novel approaches to reverse skeletal muscle ammonia toxicity by targeting the TCA cycle intermediates and mitochondrial ROS.
AbstractAmmonia is a cytotoxic metabolite that is removed primarily by hepatic ureagenesis in humans. Hyperammonaemia occurs in advanced hepatic, cardiac and pulmonary disease, and in urea cycle enzyme deficiencies. Increased skeletal muscle ammonia uptake and metabolism are the major mechanism of non‐hepatic ammonia disposal. Non‐hepatic ammonia disposal occurs in the mitochondria via glutamate synthesis from α‐ketoglutarate resulting in cataplerosis. We show skeletal muscle mitochondrial dysfunction during hyperammonaemia in a comprehensive array of human, rodent and cellular models. ATP synthesis, oxygen consumption, generation of reactive oxygen species with oxidative stress, and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediates were quantified. ATP content was lower in the skeletal muscle from cirrhotic patients, hyperammonaemic portacaval anastomosis rat, and C2C12 myotubes compared to appropriate controls. Hyperammonaemia in C2C12 myotubes resulted in impaired intact cell respiration, reduced complex I/NADH oxidase activity and electron leak occurring at complex III of the electron transport chain. Consistently, lower NAD+/NADH ratio was observed during hyperammonaemia with reduced TCA cycle intermediates compared to controls. Generation of reactive oxygen species resulted in increased content of skeletal muscle carbonylated proteins and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances during hyperammonaemia. A cell‐permeable ester of α‐ketoglutarate reversed the low TCA cycle intermediates and ATP content in myotubes during hyperammonaemia. However, the mitochondrial antioxidant MitoTEMPO did not reverse the lower ATP content during hyperammonaemia. We provide for the first time evidence that skeletal muscle hyperammonaemia results in mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Use of anaplerotic substrates to reverse ammonia‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction is a novel therapeutic approach.