bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Serum Cystatin C Concentrations in Cats with Hyperthyroidism and Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Williams T.L. , Dillon H. , Elliott J. , Syme H.M. , Archer J. 
Published: May 2016

BackgroundCurrently, no test can accurately predict the development of azotemia after treatment of hyperthyroidism. Serum cystatin C concentrations (sCysC) might be less influenced by changes in body muscle mass and so better indicate the presence of concurrent chronic kidney disease (CKD) in hyperthyroidism.HypothesessCysC will be higher in hyperthyroid cats that develop azotemia compared with hyperthyroid cats that remain nonazotemic after treatment;sCysC will be higher in nonhyperthyroid cats with azotemicCKDthan healthy older cats and,sCysC will decrease after treatment of hyperthyroidism.AnimalsNinety‐one cats treated in first opinion practice.MethodsCase–control study.sCysC were compared between hyperthyroid cats which developed azotemia within 4 months of successful treatment of hyperthyroidism (pre‐azotemic group) and hyperthyroid cats which remained nonazotemic after treatment (nonazotemic group), and between nonhyperthyroid cats with azotemicCKDand healthy older cats.sCysC were also compared between hyperthyroid cats before treatment and at time of establishment of euthyroidism. Data are presented as median [25th, 75th percentile].ResultsBaselinesCysC were not different between the pre‐azotemic and nonazotemic groups (1.9 [1.4, 2.3] mg/L versus 1.5 [1.1, 2.2] mg/L, respectively;P= .22).sCysC in nonhyperthyroid cats with azotemicCKDand healthy older cats were not significantly different (1.5 [1.0, 1.9] mg/L versus 1.2 [0.8, 1.4] mg/L, respectively;P= .16).sCysC did not change significantly after treatment of hyperthyroidism (pretreatment 1.8 [1.2, 2.3] mg/L, after treatment 1.6 [1.1, 2.4] mg/L;P= .82).Conclusions and Clinical ImportancesCysC do not appear to be a reliable marker of renal function in hyperthyroid cats.
Cerebrospinal Nematodiasis in 20 Camelids
Authors: Bertin F.R. , Taylor S.D. 
Published: May 2016

BackgroundInformation about the clinical and clinicopathologic aspects of cerebrospinal nematodiasis (CN) in camelids is limited.HypothesisClinical and therapeutic variables will be identified as factors predictive of survival.AnimalsClient‐owned camelids suspected of having CN admitted to Purdue University between 1995 and 2015.MethodsA retrospective study was performed. A diagnosis of CN was based on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) eosinophilic pleocytosis or postmortem findings.ResultsEleven alpacas and 9 llamas met the inclusion criteria. Seventy‐five percent of the camelids were male (27% castrated and 73% intact). Common clinical abnormalities included proprioceptive deficits (100% of animals), recumbency (55%), tachypnea (55%), and ataxia (40%). Among the 85% of treated animals, 100% received PO fenbendazole, and 88% received a nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug. The survival rate to discharge was 45%. Plasma fibrinogen concentration, creatine kinase activity, and serum creatinine concentration were significantly higher in nonsurvivors. Blood eosinophil count, platelet count, and total CO2 were significantly lower in nonsurvivors. Factors associated with survival were species, sex, absence of treatment with corticosteroids, and clinical improvement. There was no association between recumbency at admission and survival. A plasma fibrinogen concentration above >266 mg/dL was an excellent diagnostic test to predict survival in the presence of neurological signs or CSF eosinophilia.ConclusionsAlthough prognosis for CN in camelids is guarded, presence of recumbency at admission is not predictive of nonsurvival. Male camelids and llamas appear more likely to die from CN. Corticosteroid treatment is contraindicated in animals diagnosed with CN.
Diagnostic disagreement between tests of evacuatory function: a prospective study of 100 constipated patients
Authors: Palit S. , Thin N. , Knowles C. H. , Lunniss P. J. , Bharucha A. E. , Scott S. M. 
Published: May 2016

AbstractBackgroundEvacuatory dysfunction (ED) is a common cause of constipation and may be sub‐classified on the basis of specialist tests. Such tests may guide treatment e.g., biofeedback therapy for ‘functional’ defecatory disorders (FDD). However, there is no gold standard, and prior studies have not prospectively and systematically compared all tests that are used to diagnose forms of ED.MethodsOne hundred consecutive patients fulfilling Rome III criteria for functional constipation underwent four tests: expulsion of a rectal balloon distended to 50 mL (BE50) or until patients experienced the desire to defecate (BEDDV), evacuation proctography (EP) and anorectal manometry. Yields and agreements between tests for the diagnosis of ED and FDD were assessed.Key ResultsPositive diagnostic yields for ED were: BEDDV 18%, BE50 31%, EP 38% and anorectal manometry (ARM) 68%. Agreement was substantial between the two balloon tests (k = 0.66), only fair between proctography and BE50 (k = 0.27), poor between manometry and proctography (k = 0.01), and there was no agreement between the balloon tests and manometry (k = −0.07 for both BE50 and BEDDV). For the diagnosis of FDD, there was only fair agreement between ARM and EP (k = 0.23), ARM ± BE50 and EP (k = 0.18), ARM and EP ± BE50 (k = 0.30) and ARM ± BE50 and EP ± BE50 (k = 0.23).Conclusions & InferencesThere is considerable disagreement between the results of various tests used to diagnose ED and FDD. This highlights the need for a reappraisal of both diagnostic criteria, and what represents the ‘gold standard’ investigation.
On the existence of non‐microbiotherian Australidelphian marsupials (Diprotodontia) in the Eocene of Patagonia
Authors: Lorente Malena , Chornogubsky Laura , Goin Francisco J. 
Published: May 2016

AbstractA diverse assemblage of extinct mammals of early–middle Eocene age (Ypresian–Lutetian boundary) come from the Patagonian localities of La Barda and Laguna Fría around Paso del Sapo in northwestern Chubut Province (Argentina). Metatherians are well represented, mostly by dental remains of ‘Didelphimorphia’, Paucituberculata, Sparassodonta, Microbiotheria, and Polydolopimorphia. Here we analyse three calcanea and one astragalus referable to the same, indeterminate taxon, from La Barda, showing the fusion of their ectal and sustentacular facets. This facet arrangement characterizes the Australidelphia, a marsupial clade represented by Microbiotheria from South America and Antarctica, plus all Australasian lineages. Other australidelphian features shown by these tarsals include: in the calcanea, a reduced peroneal process and a tripartite cuboid facet; in the astragalus, a round, very small astragalar head in relation to the body; a convex trochlea with a half for the tibia and half, in slightly lower position, for the fibula. Their size and other anatomical features suggest that the new tarsals cannot be referred to the Microbiotheria. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that the La Barda taxon lies within the Australidelphia, and that it is either closely related or belongs to, the Diprotodontia. The existence of advanced australidelphians in Patagonia adds further evidence of the close relationship between Patagonia, Antarctica, and Australia during the Late Cretaceous – early Palaeogene.
Domestication and the storage starch biosynthesis pathway: signatures of selection from a whole sorghum genome sequencing strategy
Authors: Campbell Bradley C. , Gilding Edward K. , Mace Emma S. , Tai Shuaishuai , Tao Yongfu , Prentis Peter J. , Thomelin Pauline , Jordan David R. , Godwin Ian D. 
Published: May 2016

SummaryNext‐generation sequencing of complete genomes has given researchers unprecedented levels of information to study the multifaceted evolutionary changes that have shaped elite plant germplasm. In conjunction with population genetic analytical techniques and detailed online databases, we can more accurately capture the effects of domestication on entire biological pathways of agronomic importance. In this study, we explore the genetic diversity and signatures of selection in all predicted gene models of the storage starch synthesis pathway of Sorghum bicolor, utilizing a diversity panel containing lines categorized as either ‘Landraces’ or ‘Wild and Weedy’ genotypes. Amongst a total of 114 genes involved in starch synthesis, 71 had at least a single signal of purifying selection and 62 a signal of balancing selection and others a mix of both. This included key genes such as STARCH PHOSPHORYLASE 2 (SbPHO2, under balancing selection), PULLULANASE (SbPUL, under balancing selection) and ADP‐glucose pyrophosphorylases (SHRUNKEN2, SbSH2 under purifying selection). Effectively, many genes within the primary starch synthesis pathway had a clear reduction in nucleotide diversity between the Landraces and wild and weedy lines indicating that the ancestral effects of domestication are still clearly identifiable. There was evidence of the positional rate variation within the well‐characterized primary starch synthesis pathway of sorghum, particularly in the Landraces, whereby low evolutionary rates upstream and high rates downstream in the metabolic pathway were expected. This observation did not extend to the wild and weedy lines or the minor starch synthesis pathways.
Seasonal dynamics of δ13C of C‐rich fractions fromPicea abies(Norway spruce) andFagus sylvatica(European beech) fine roots
Authors: Paya Alex M. , Grams Thorsten E. E. , Bauerle Taryn L. 
Published: May 2016

AbstractThe13/12C ratio in plant roots is likely dynamic depending on root function (storage versus uptake), but to date, little is known about the effect of season and root order (an indicator of root function) on the isotopic composition of C‐rich fractions in roots. To address this, we monitored the stable isotopic composition of one evergreen (Picea abies) and one deciduous (Fagus sylvatica), tree species' roots by measuring δ13C of bulk, respired and labile C, and starch from first/second and third/fourth order roots during spring and fall root production periods. In both species, root order differences in δ13C were observed in bulk organic matter, labile, and respired C fractions. Beech exhibited distinct seasonal trends in δ13C of respired C, while spruce did not. In fall, first/second order beech roots were significantly depleted in13C, whereas spruce roots were enriched compared to higher order roots. Species variation in δ13C of respired C may be partially explained by seasonal shifts from enriched to depleted C substrates in deciduous beech roots. Regardless of species identity, differences in stable C isotopic composition of at least two root order groupings (first/second, third/fourth) were apparent, and should hereafter be separated in belowground C‐supply‐chain inquiry.
Multiple roles of NF1 in the melanocyte lineage
Authors: Larribère Lionel , Utikal Jochen 
Published: May 2016

SummaryNF1 is a tumour suppressor gene, germline mutations of which lead to neurofibromatosis type 1 syndrome. Patients develop benign tumours from several types of cells including neural crest‐derived cells. NF1 somatic mutations also occur in 15% of sporadic melanoma, a cancer originating from melanocytes. Evidence now suggests the involvement of NF1 mutations in melanoma resistance to targeted therapies. Although NF1 is ubiquitously expressed, genetic links between NF1 and genes involved in melanocyte biology have been described, implying the lineage‐specific mechanisms. In this review, we summarize and discuss the latest advances related to the roles of NF1 in melanocyte biology and in cutaneous melanoma.
Comparative genomics‐informed design of two LAMP assays for detection of the kiwifruit pathogenPseudomonas syringaepv.actinidiaeand discrimination of isolates belonging to the pandemic biovar 3
Authors: Ruinelli M. , Schneeberger P. H. H. , Ferrante P. , Bühlmann A. , Scortichini M. , Vanneste J. L. , Duffy B. , Pothier J. F. 
Published: May 2016

The aim of this study was to develop a rapid, sensitive and reliable field‐based assay for detection of the quarantine pathogenPseudomonas syringaepv.actinidiae(Psa), the causal agent of the most destructive and economically important bacterial disease of kiwifruit. A comparative genomic approach was used on the publicly available Psa genomic data to select unique target regions for the development of two loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assays able to detect Psa and to discriminate strains belonging to the highly virulent and globally spreading Psa biovar 3. BothLAMPassays showed specificity in accordance with their target and were able to detect reliably 125CFUper reaction in less than 30 min. The developed assays were able to detect the presence of Psa in naturally infected kiwifruit material with and without symptoms, thus increasing the potential of theLAMPassays for phytosanitary use.
International Lifestyle Migration in the Andes of Ecuador: How Migrants from the USA Perform Privilege, Import Rurality and Evaluate Their Impact on Local Community
Authors: Kordel Stefan , Pohle Perdita 
Published: May 2016

AbstractUsing the example of Vilcabamba in Ecuador, this article explores the ways that migrants from the USA materialise their quest for better lives by relocating to small communities in the Global South. Taking a lifestyle migration approach, we explore the ways migrants interpret and perform rurality in their post‐migration lives according to their economic and symbolically privileged status. Empirical data gathered from biographical narrative interviews with immigrants and guideline‐based interviews with experts show that migrants construct their own, mostly idealised, meanings of rurality; for instance, through the enactment of a healthy way of life close to nature, and social community spirit. Performing their privileged status through everyday practices, lifestyle migrants transfer their mostly Western understandings of rurality, derived from notions of the rural idyll, to other socio‐cultural settings. Consequently, they foster various transformations of local society, economy and public space. At the same time, however, via critical self‐reflection, they exhibit an ambivalent attitude to these transformations.
Proteomics and metabolomics analyses reveal the cucurbit sieve tube system as a complex metabolic space
Authors: Hu Chaoyang , Ham Byung‐Kook , El‐shabrawi Hattem M. , Alexander Danny , Zhang Dabing , Ryals John , Lucas William J. 
Published: May 2016

SummaryThe plant vascular system, and specifically the phloem, plays a pivotal role in allocation of fixed carbon to developing sink organs. Although the processes involved in loading and unloading of sugars and amino acids are well characterized, little information is available regarding the nature of other metabolites in the sieve tube system (STS) at specific sites along the pathway. Here, we elucidate spatial features of metabolite composition mapped with phloem enzymes along the cucurbit STS. Phloem sap (PS) was collected from the loading (source), unloading (apical sink region) and shoot–root junction regions of cucumber, watermelon and pumpkin. Our PS analyses revealed significant differences in the metabolic and proteomic profiles both along the source–sink pathway and between the STSs of these three cucurbits. In addition, metabolite profiles established for PS and vascular tissue indicated the presence of distinct compositions, consistent with the operation of the STS as a unique symplasmic domain. In this regard, at various locations along the STS we could map metabolites and their related enzymes to specific metabolic pathways. These findings are discussed with regard to the function of the STS as a unique and highly complex metabolic space within the plant vascular system.
Identification of line‐specific strategies for improving carotenoid production in synthetic maize through data‐driven mathematical modeling
Authors: Comas Jorge , Benfeitas Rui , Vilaprinyo Ester , Sorribas Albert , Solsona Francesc , Farré Gemma , Berman Judit , Zorrilla Uxue , Capell Teresa , Sandmann Gerhard , Zhu Changfu , Christou Paul , Alves Rui 
Published: May 2016

SummaryPlant synthetic biology is still in its infancy. However, synthetic biology approaches have been used to manipulate and improve the nutritional and health value of staple food crops such as rice, potato and maize. With current technologies, production yields of the synthetic nutrients are a result of trial and error, and systematic rational strategies to optimize those yields are still lacking. Here, we present a workflow that combines gene expression and quantitative metabolomics with mathematical modeling to identify strategies for increasing production yields of nutritionally important carotenoids in the seed endosperm synthesized through alternative biosynthetic pathways in synthetic lines of white maize, which is normally devoid of carotenoids. Quantitative metabolomics and gene expression data are used to create and fit parameters of mathematical models that are specific to four independent maize lines. Sensitivity analysis and simulation of each model is used to predict which gene activities should be further engineered in order to increase production yields for carotenoid accumulation in each line. Some of these predictions (e.g. increasing Zmlycb/Gllycb will increase accumulated β‐carotenes) are valid across the four maize lines and consistent with experimental observations in other systems. Other predictions are line specific. The workflow is adaptable to any other biological system for which appropriate quantitative information is available. Furthermore, we validate some of the predictions using experimental data from additional synthetic maize lines for which no models were developed.
Dynamics of Biofilm Regrowth in Drinking Water Distribution Systems
Authors: Douterelo I. , Husband S. , Loza V. , Boxall J. 
Published: May 2016

ABSTRACT
The majority of biomass within water distribution systems is in the form of attached biofilm. This is known to be central to drinking water quality degradation following treatment, yet little understanding of the dynamics of these highly heterogeneous communities exists. This paper presents original information on such dynamics, with findings demonstrating patterns of material accumulation, seasonality, and influential factors. Rigorous flushing operations repeated over a 1-year period on an operational chlorinated system in the United Kingdom are presented here. Intensive monitoring and sampling were undertaken, including time-series turbidity and detailed microbial analysis using 16S rRNA Illumina MiSeq sequencing. The results show that bacterial dynamics were influenced by differences in the supplied water and by the material remaining attached to the pipe wall following flushing. Turbidity, metals, and phosphate were the main factors correlated with the distribution of bacteria in the samples. Coupled with the lack of inhibition of biofilm development due to residual chlorine, this suggests that limiting inorganic nutrients, rather than organic carbon, might be a viable component in treatment strategies to manage biofilms. The research also showed that repeat flushing exerted beneficial selective pressure, giving another reason for flushing being a viable advantageous biofilm management option. This work advances our understanding of microbiological processes in drinking water distribution systems and helps inform strategies to optimize asset performance.

IMPORTANCE
This research provides novel information regarding the dynamics of biofilm formation in real drinking water distribution systems made of different materials. This new knowledge on microbiological process in water supply systems can be used to optimize the performance of the distribution network and to guarantee safe and good-quality drinking water to consumers.
Cardiolipins Act as a Selective Barrier to Toll-Like Receptor 4 Activation in the Intestine
Authors: Coats Stephen R. , Hashim Ahmed , Paramonov Nikolay A. , To Thao T. , Curtis Michael A. , Darveau Richard P. 
Published: May 2016

ABSTRACT

Intestinal homeostasis mechanisms must protect the host intestinal tissue from endogenous lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) produced by the intestinal microbiota. In this report, we demonstrate that murine intestinal fecal lipids effectively block Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) responses to naturally occurring
Bacteroidetes
sp. LPS. Cardiolipin (CL) represents a significant proportion of the total intestinal and fecal lipids and, furthermore, potently antagonizes TLR4 activation by reducing LPS binding at the lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP), CD14, and MD-2 steps of the TLR4 signaling pathway. It is further demonstrated that intestinal lipids and CL are less effective at neutralizing more potent
Enterobacteriaceae
-type LPS, which is enriched in feces obtained from mice with dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-treated inflammatory bowel disease. The selective inhibition of naturally occurring LPS structures by intestinal lipids may represent a novel homeostasis mechanism that blocks LPS activation in response to symbiotic but not dysbiotic microbial communities.

IMPORTANCE
The guts of animals harbor a variety of Gram-negative bacteria associated with both states of intestinal health and states of disease. Environmental factors, such as dietary habits, can drive the microbial composition of the host animal's intestinal bacterial community toward a more pathogenic state. Both beneficial and harmful Gram-negative bacteria are capable of eliciting potentially damaging inflammatory responses from the host intestinal tissues via a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-dependent pathway. Physical mucosal barriers and antibodies produced by the intestinal immune system protect against the undesired inflammatory effects of LPS, although it is unknown why some bacteria are more effective at overcoming the protective barriers than others. This report describes the discovery of a lipid-type protective barrier in the intestine that reduces the deleterious effects of LPSs from beneficial bacteria but is less effective in dampening the inflammatory effects of LPSs from harmful bacteria, providing a novel mechanistic insight into inflammatory intestinal disorders.