bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impacts of long‐term precipitation manipulation on hydraulic architecture and xylem anatomy of piñon and juniper in Southwest USA
Authors: Hudson P. J. , Limousin J. M. , Krofcheck D. J. , Boutz A. L. , Pangle R. E. , Gehres N. , McDowell N. G. , Pockman W. T. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractHydraulic architecture imposes a fundamental control on water transport, underpinning plant productivity, and survival. The extent to which hydraulic architecture of mature trees acclimates to chronic drought is poorly understood, limiting accuracy in predictions of forest responses to future droughts. We measured seasonal shoot hydraulic performance for multiple years to assess xylem acclimation in mature piñon (Pinus edulis) and juniper (Juniperus monosperma) after 3+ years of precipitation manipulation. Our treatments consisted of water addition (+20% ambient precipitation), partial precipitation‐exclusion (−45% ambient precipitation), and exclusion‐structure control. Supplemental watering elevated leaf water potential, sapwood‐area specific hydraulic conductivity, and leaf‐area specific hydraulic conductivity relative to precipitation exclusion. Shifts in allocation of leaf area to sapwood area enhanced differences between irrigated and droughted KL in piñon but not juniper. Piñon and juniper achieved similar KL under ambient conditions, but juniper matched or outperformed piñon in all physiological measurements under both increased and decreased precipitation treatments. Embolism vulnerability and xylem anatomy were unaffected by treatments in either species. Absence of significant acclimation combined with inferior performance for both hydraulic transport and safety suggests piñon has greater risk of local extirpation if aridity increases as predicted in the southwestern USA.
Illuminating the role of the Gα heterotrimeric G protein subunit, RGA1, in regulating photoprotection and photoavoidance in rice
Authors: Ferrero‐Serrano Ángel , Su Zhao , Assmann Sarah M. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractWe studied physiological mechanisms of photoavoidance and photoprotection of a dwarf rice mutant with erect leaves, d1, in which the RGA1 gene, which encodes the Gα subunit of the heterotrimeric G protein, is non‐functional. Leaves of d1 exhibit lower leaf temperature and higher photochemical reflectance index relative to wild type (WT), indicative of increased photoavoidance and more efficient light harvesting. RNA sequencing analysis of flag leaves revealed that messenger RNA levels of genes encoding heat shock proteins, enzymes associated with chlorophyll breakdown, and ROS scavengers were down‐regulated in d1. By contrast, genes encoding proteins associated with light harvesting, Photosystem II, cyclic electron transport, Photosystem I, and chlorophyll biosynthesis were up‐regulated in d1. Consistent with these observations, when WT and d1 plants were experimentally subjected to the same light intensity, d1 plants exhibited a greater capacity to dissipate excess irradiance (increased nonphotochemical quenching) relative to WT. The increased capacity in d1 for both photoavoidance and photoprotection reduced sustained photoinhibitory damage, as revealed by a higher Fv/Fm. We therefore propose RGA1 as a regulator of photoavoidance and photoprotection mechanisms in rice and highlight the prospect of exploiting modulation of heterotrimeric G protein signalling to increase these characteristics and improve the yield of cereals in the event of abiotic stress.
Does stigma curvature promote delayed selfing? An experimental investigation in Triodanis perfoliata (Campanulaceae)
Authors: Goodwillie C. , Patel H. R. , Dvorak D. M. 
Published: December 2017

Abstract

Self‐fertilisation that is delayed until after opportunities for outcrossing have ceased has been argued to provide both the reproductive assurance benefits of selfing and the genetic advantages of outcrossing. In the Campanulaceae, presentation of pollen on stylar hairs and progressive stigma curvature have been hypothesised to facilitate delayed selfing, but experimental tests are lacking. Stigma curvature is common in Campanula, a genus largely characterised by self‐incompatibility, and therefore is unlikely to have initially evolved to promote self‐fertilisation. In derived self‐compatible species, however, stigma curvature might serve the secondary function of delayed selfing.

We investigated delayed selfing in Triodanis perfoliata, a self‐compatible relative of Campanula. Using floral manipulation experiments and pollen tube observations, we quantified the extent and timing of self‐pollination. Further, we hypothesised that, if stigma curvature provides the benefit of delayed selfing in Triodanis, selection should have favoured retention of self‐pollen through the loss of a stylar hair retraction mechanism.

Results of a stigma removal experiment indicated that autonomous selfing produces partial seed set, but only some selfing was delayed. Pollen tube observations and a flower senescence assay also supported the finding of partial delayed selfing. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that pollen‐collecting hairs retract during anthesis, which may limit the extent of delayed selfing.

Delayed selfing appeared to be only partially effective in T. perfoliata. The stylar hair retraction in this species would seem to contradict selection for selfing. We suggest that caution and rigour are needed in interpreting floral traits as adaptive mechanisms for delayed selfing.
Physiological coherence in healthy volunteers during laboratory‐induced stress and controlled breathing
Authors: Mejía‐Mejía Elisa , Torres Robinson , Restrepo Diana 
Published: December 2017

AbstractPhysiological coherence has been related with a general sense of well‐being and improvements in health and physical, social, and cognitive performance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between acute stress, controlled breathing, and physiological coherence, and the degree of body systems synchronization during a coherence‐generation exercise. Thirty‐four university employees were evaluated during a 20‐min test consisting of four stages of 5‐min duration each, during which basal measurements were obtained (Stage 1), acute stress was induced using validated mental stressors (Stroop test and mental arithmetic task, during Stage 2 and 3, respectively), and coherence states were generated using a controlled breathing technique (Stage 4). Physiological coherence and cardiorespiratory synchronization were assessed during each stage from heart rate variability, pulse transit time, and respiration. Coherence measurements derived from the three analyzed variables increased during controlled respiration. Moreover, signals synchronized during the controlled breathing stage, implying a cardiorespiratory synchronization was achieved by most participants. Hence, physiological coherence and cardiopulmonary synchronization, which could lead to improvements in health and better life quality, can be achieved using slow, controlled breathing exercises. Meanwhile, coherence measured during basal state and stressful situations did not show relevant differences using heart rate variability and pulse transit time. More studies are needed to evaluate the ability of coherence ratio to reflect acute stress.
Thorough analysis of unorthodox ABO deletions called by the 1000 Genomes project
Authors: Möller M. , Hellberg Å. , Olsson M. L. 
Published: December 2017

Background and ObjectivesABO remains the clinically most important blood group system, but despite earlier extensive research, significant findings are still being made. The vast majority of catalogued ABO null alleles are based on the c.261delG polymorphism. Apart from c.802G>A, other mechanisms for O alleles are rare. While analysing the data set from the 1000 Genomes (1000G) project, we encountered two previously uncharacterized deletions, which needed further exploration.Materials and MethodsThe Erythrogene database, complemented with bioinformatics software, was used to analyse ABO in 2504 individuals from 1000G. DNA samples from selected 1000G donors and African blood donors were examined by allele‐specific PCR and Sanger sequencing to characterize predicted deletions.ResultsA 5821‐bp deletion encompassing exons 5‐7 was called in twenty 1000G individuals, predominantly Africans. This allele was confirmed and its exact deletion point defined by bioinformatic analyses and in vitro experiments. A PCR assay was developed, and screening of African samples revealed three donors heterozygous for this deletion, which was thereby phenotypically established as an O allele. Analysis of upstream genetic markers indicated an ancestral origin from ABO*O.01.02. We estimate this deletion as the 3rd most common mechanism behind O alleles. A 24‐bp deletion was called in nine individuals and showed greater diversity regarding ethnic distribution and allelic background. It could neither be confirmed by in silico nor in vitro experiments.ConclusionA previously uncharacterized ABO deletion among Africans was comprehensively mapped and a genotyping strategy devised. The false prediction of another deletion emphasizes the need for cautious interpretation of NGS data and calls for strict validation routines.
Effectiveness of platelet‐rich plasma therapy in wound healing of pilonidal sinus surgery: A comprehensive systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mostafaei Shayan , Norooznezhad Fatemeh , Mohammadi Saeed , Norooznezhad Amir Hossein 
Published: December 2017

AbstractPilonidal disease (PD) is a chronic situation which may cause pain, discomfort, inflammation, discharges, and inability to do daily routines. Among two main methods of surgery, open healing is preferred by surgeons since it associates with lower risk of recurrence; however, it could complicate the wound condition by delaying the healing process. For this meta‐analysis, a search in Medline, Embase, and Scopus was performed in June 2017 with no restrictions placed on the publication date or languages. Then, time to healing was considered as the effect size and all the data from trials were extracted. The heterogeneity and the variation in pooled estimation were assessed using Cochran's Q test and I‐squared, respectively. Meta‐regression was used to examine the relationship between the effect size and year, studies' sample sizes, proportion of male gender and age with the cause of heterogeneity. From 11 selected articles finally 4 met our inclusion and exclusion criteria with the total number of 484 patients. Using a fixed‐effect model, pool effect was detected 0.642 (95% CI: 0.485–0.798). A homogeneity of pooled effect size estimate for the studies was also found (Cochran Q test, p‐value = 0.844, I‐square = 0.0%). Moreover, results of meta‐regression showed no statistically significant association between the effect size and patients' mean age, year of publication, total sample size, and sex proportion (0.51 < p‐values < 0.98). Platelet‐rich plasma therapy for PD wounds appeared more effective than classic wound dressing.
Comparison of vegetarian versus animal-based low protein diets on estimated glomerular filtration rates in chronic kidney disease patients: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Patel Kruti , Hoover Kim W. 
Published: December 2017

Review question/objective:
: The objective of this review is to evaluate studies to determine the effect of a low-protein, vegetarian diet as compared to a low-protein, animal-based diet on estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) in adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Interventions and programs that support the health and development of infants with prenatal alcohol and/or drug exposure in foster care: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Marcellus Lenora , Shaw Lindsey , MacKinnon Karen , Gordon Carol 
Published: December 2017

Review question/objective:
The objective of this scoping review is to identify and describe caregiving interventions and program elements that support the health and development of infants with prenatal alcohol and/or drug exposure in foster care.
Efficacy and harms of pharmacological interventions for neurobehavioral symptoms in post traumatic amnesia after traumatic brain injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Hicks Amelia J. , Clay Fiona J. , Hopwood Malcolm , Jayaram Mahesh , Batty Rachel , Ponsford Jennie L. 
Published: December 2017

Review objective/question:
The objective of this systematic review is to synthesize the best available evidence on the effectiveness and harms of pharmacotherapy as compared to all types of comparators for the management of neurobehavioral symptoms in post-traumatic amnesia in adults aged 16 years and over who have sustained a traumatic brain injury. This review forms part of a larger project which aims to gather the evidence for the pharmacological treatment of neurobehavioral symptoms post traumatic brain injury as a prelude to the development of a clinical guideline.
Fibroblast growth factor 21 increases hepatic oxidative capacity but not physical activity or energy expenditure in hepatic peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ coactivator‐1α‐deficient mice
Authors: Fletcher Justin A. , Linden Melissa A. , Sheldon Ryan D. , Meers Grace M. , Morris E. Matthew , Butterfield Anthony , Perfield James W. , Rector R. Scott , Thyfault John P. 
Published: December 2017

New Findings
What is the central question of this study?
Does a reduction in hepatic peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ coactivator‐1α (PGC‐1α), which has been observed in an insulin‐resistant obese state, impair the ability of fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) to modulate metabolism?
What is the main finding and its importance?
A deficit in hepatic PGC‐1α does not compromise the ability of FGF21 to increase hepatic fatty acid oxidation; however, the effects of FGF21 to regulate whole‐body metabolism (i.e. total and resting energy expenditure), as well as ambulatory activity, were altered when hepatic PGC‐1α was reduced.
AbstractFibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) treatment drives metabolic improvements, including increased metabolic flux and reduced hepatic steatosis, but the mechanisms responsible for these effects remain to be elucidated fully. We tested whether a targeted reduction in hepatic peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ coactivator‐1α (PGC‐1α), which has been shown to occur with obesity, had a negative impact on the metabolic effects of FGF21. We infused FGF21 (1 mg kg−1 day−1) or saline in chow‐fed wild‐type (WT) and liver‐specific PGC‐1α heterozygous (LPGC‐1α) mice for 4 weeks. Administration of FGF21 lowered serum insulin and cholesterol (P ≤ 0.05) and tended to lower free fatty acids (P = 0.057). The LPGC‐1α mice exhibited reduced complete hepatic fatty acid oxidation (FAO; LPGC‐1α, 1788 ± 165 nmol g−1 h−1 compared with WT, 2572 ± 437 nmol g−1 h−1; P < 0.001), which was normalized by FGF21 treatment (2788 ± 519 nmol g−1 h−1; P < 0.001). FGF21 also increased hepatic incomplete FAO by 12% in both groups and extramitochondrial FAO by 89 and 56% in WT and LPGC‐1α mice, respectfully (P = 0.001), and lowered hepatic triacylglycerol by 30–40% (P < 0.001). Chronic treatment with FGF21 lowered body weight and fat mass (P < 0.05), while increasing food consumption (P < 0.05), total energy expenditure [7.3 ± 0.60 versus 6.6 ± 0.39 kcal (12 h)−1 in WT mice; P = 0.009] and resting energy expenditure [5.4 ± 0.89 versus 4.6 ± 0.21 kcal (12 h)−1 in WT mice; P = 0.005]. Interestingly, FGF21 only increased ambulatory activity in the WT mice (P = 0.03), without a concomitant increase in non‐resting energy expenditure. In conclusion, although reduced hepatic PGC‐1α expression was not necessary for FGF21 to increase FAO, it does appear to mediate FGF21‐induced changes in total and resting energy expenditure and ambulatory activity in lean mice.
Hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus neuronal nitric oxide synthase activity is a major determinant of renal sympathetic discharge in conscious Wistar rats
Authors: McBryde F. D. , Liu B. H. , Roloff E. V. , Kasparov S. , Paton J. F. R. 
Published: December 2017

New Findings
What is the central question of this study?
Does chronic reduction of neuronally generated nitric oxide in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus affect the set‐point regulation of blood pressure and sympathetic activity destined to the kidneys?

What is the main finding and its importance?
Within the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, nitric oxide generated by neuronal nitric oxide synthase plays a major constitutive role in suppressing long term the levels of both ongoing renal sympathetic activity and arterial pressure in conscious Wistar rats. This finding unequivocally demonstrates a mechanism by which the diencephalon exerts a tonic influence on sympathetic discharge to the kidney and may provide the basis for both blood volume and osmolality homeostasis.

AbstractThe paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus plays a crucial role in cardiovascular and neuroendocrine regulation. Application of nitric oxide donors to the PVN stimulates GABAergic transmission, and may suppress sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) to lower arterial pressure. However, the role of endogenous nitric oxide within the PVN in regulating renal SNA chronically remains to be established in conscious animals. To address this, we used our previously established lentiviral vectors to knock down neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) selectively in the PVN of conscious Wistar rats. Blood pressure and renal SNA were monitored simultaneously and continuously for 21 days (n = 14) using radio‐telemetry. Renal SNA was normalized to maximal evoked discharge and expressed as a percentage change from baseline. The PVN was microinjected bilaterally with a neurone‐specific tetracycline‐controllable lentiviral vector, expressing a short hairpin miRNA30 interference system targeting nNOS (n = 7) or expressing a mis‐sense as control (n = 7). Recordings continued for a further 18 days. The vectors also expressed green fluorescent protein, and successful expression in the PVN and nNOS knockdown were confirmed histologically post hoc. Knockdown of nNOS expression in the PVN resulted in a sustained increase in blood pressure (from 95 ± 2 to 104 ± 3 mmHg, P < 0.05), with robust concurrent sustained activation of renal SNA (>70%, P < 0.05). The study reveals a major role for nNOS‐derived nitric oxide within the PVN in chronic set‐point regulation of cardiovascular autonomic activity in the conscious, normotensive rat.
Aging and neurodegeneration are associated with increased mutations in single human neurons
Authors: Lodato Michael A. , Rodin Rachel E. , Bohrson Craig L. , Coulter Michael E. , Barton Alison R. , Kwon Minseok , Sherman Maxwell A. , Vitzthum Carl M. , Luquette Lovelace J. , Yandava Chandri N. , Yang Pengwei , Chittenden Thomas W. , Hatem Nicole E. , Ryu Steven C. , Woodworth Mollie B. , Park Peter J. , Walsh Christopher A. 
Published: December 2017

Brain mutations, young and oldMost neurons that make up the human brain are postmitotic, living and functioning for a very long time without renewal (see the Perspective by Lee). Baeet al.examined the genomes of single neurons from the prenatal developing human brain. Both the type of mutation and the rates of accumulation changed between gastrulation and neurogenesis. These early mutations could be generating useful neuronal diversity or could predispose individuals to later dysfunction. Lodatoet al.also found that neurons take on somatic mutations as they age by sequencing single neurons from subjects aged 4 months to 82 years. Somatic mutations accumulated with increasing age and accumulated faster in individuals affected by inborn errors in DNA repair. Postmitotic mutations might only affect one neuron, but the accumulated divergence of genomes across the brain could affect function.Science, this issue p.550, p.555; see also p.521
Social networks, leisure activities and maximum tongue pressure: cross-sectional associations in the Nagasaki Islands Study
Authors: Nagayoshi Mako , Higashi Miho , Takamura Noboru , Tamai Mami , Koyamatsu Jun , Yamanashi Hirotomo , Kadota Koichiro , Sato Shimpei , Kawashiri Shin-ya , Koyama Zenya , Saito Toshiyuki , Maeda Takahiro 
Published: December 2017

ObjectivesSocial environment is often associated with health outcomes, but epidemiological evidence for its effect on oral frailty, a potential risk factor for aspiration, is sparse. This study aimed to assess the association between social environment and tongue pressure, as an important measure of oral function. The study focused on family structure, social networks both with and beyond neighbours, and participation in leisure activities.DesignA population-based cross-sectional study.SettingAnnual health check-ups in a rural community in Japan.ParticipantsA total of 1982 participants, all over 40 years old. Anyone with missing data for the main outcome (n=14) was excluded.Outcome measuresTongue pressure was measured three times, and the maximum tongue pressure was used for analysis. A multivariable adjusted regression model was used to calculate parameter estimates (B) for tongue pressure.ResultsHaving a social network involving neighbours (B=2.43, P=0.0001) and taking part in leisure activities (B=1.58, P=0.005) were independently associated with higher tongue pressure, but there was no link with social networks beyond neighbours (B=0.23, P=0.77). Sex-specific analyses showed that for men, having a partner was associated with higher tongue pressure, independent of the number of people in the household (B=2.26, P=0.01), but there was no association among women (B=−0.24, P=0.72; P-interaction=0.059).ConclusionsHaving a social network involving neighbours and taking part in leisure activities were independently associated with higher tongue pressure. Marital status may be an important factor in higher tongue pressure in men.
Dissecting spinal aneurysms: conservative management as a therapeutic option
Authors: Dabus Guilherme , Tosello Renato Tavares , Pereira Benedito J A , Linfante Italo , Piske Ronie L 
Published: December 2017

ObjectiveIsolated dissecting spinal aneurysms are rare lesions that pose a therapeutic challenge. We report our experience in the management of four patients with dissecting spinal aneurysms.MethodsAfter institutional review board approval was obtained, the neurointerventional databases of the two participating institutions were retrospectively reviewed. Aneurysms in the anterior spinal artery, posterior spinal artery, or in a radiculomedullary artery were included in the analysis. Flow-related aneurysms were excluded. Data on clinical presentation, hemorrhage location, aneurysm size, location, angiographic follow-up, re-hemorrhage, and clinical outcome were obtained and analyzed.ResultsFour patients with five spinal dissecting aneurysms met the inclusion criteria. There were two women and the mean age was 63 years (range 36–64). All patients presented with hemorrhage. Three radiculomedullary arteries in two different patients had one lesion each; the other two involved the anterior spinal artery and a posterior spinal artery in different patients. All four patients were managed conservatively. Follow-up angiography (5.5 months) demonstrated occlusion of all five aneurysms. There was no re-hemorrhage and all patients had a good outcome at the last follow-up (modified Rankin Scale score 0–2).ConclusionsConservative management of ruptured spontaneous dissecting spinal aneurysms is a reasonable therapeutic option capable of achieving favorable angiographic and clinical outcomes.