bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A new model of the formation of Pennsylvanian iron carbonate concretions hosting exceptional soft‐bodied fossils in Mazon Creek, Illinois
Authors: Cotroneo S. , Schiffbauer J. D. , McCoy V. E. , Wortmann U. G. , Darroch S. A. F. , Peng Y. , Laflamme M. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractPreservation of Pennsylvanian‐aged (307 Ma) soft‐bodied fossils from Mazon Creek, Illinois, USA, is attributed to the formation of siderite concretions, which encapsulate the remains of terrestrial, freshwater, and marine flora and fauna. The narrow range of positive δ34S values from pyrite in individual concretions suggests microenvironmentally limited ambient sulfate, which may have been rapidly exhausted by sulfate‐reducing bacteria. Tissue of the decaying carcass was rapidly encased by early diagenetic pyrite and siderite produced within the sulfate reduction and methanogenic zones of the sediment, with continuation of the latter resulting in concretion cementation. Cross‐sectional isotopic analyses (δ13C and δ18O) and mineralogical characterization of the concretions point to initiation of preservation in high porosity proto‐concretions during the early phases of microbially induced decay. The proto‐concretion was cemented prior to compaction of the sediments by siderite as a result of methanogenic production of 13C‐rich bicarbonate—which varies both between Essex and Braidwood concretions and between fossiliferous and unfossiliferous concretions. This work provides the first detailed geochemical study of the Mazon Creek siderite concretions and identifies the range of conditions allowing for exceptional soft‐tissue fossil formation as seen at Mazon Creek.
Mapping marginal croplands suitable for cellulosic feedstock crops in the Great Plains, United States
Authors: Gu Yingxin , Wylie Bruce K. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractGrowing cellulosic feedstock crops (e.g., switchgrass) for biofuel is more environmentally sustainable than corn‐based ethanol. Specifically, this practice can reduce soil erosion and water quality impairment from pesticides and fertilizer, improve ecosystem services and sustainability (e.g., serve as carbon sinks), and minimize impacts on global food supplies. The main goal of this study was to identify high‐risk marginal croplands that are potentially suitable for growing cellulosic feedstock crops (e.g., switchgrass) in the US Great Plains (GP). Satellite‐derived growing season Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, a switchgrass biomass productivity map obtained from a previous study, US Geological Survey (USGS) irrigation and crop masks, and US Department of Agriculture (USDA) crop indemnity maps for the GP were used in this study. Our hypothesis was that croplands with relatively low crop yield but high productivity potential for switchgrass may be suitable for converting to switchgrass. Areas with relatively low crop indemnity (crop indemnity <$2 157 068) were excluded from the suitable areas based on low probability of crop failures. Results show that approximately 650 000 ha of marginal croplands in the GP are potentially suitable for switchgrass development. The total estimated switchgrass biomass productivity gain from these suitable areas is about 5.9 million metric tons. Switchgrass can be cultivated in either lowland or upland regions in the GP depending on the local soil and environmental conditions. This study improves our understanding of ecosystem services and the sustainability of cropland systems in the GP. Results from this study provide useful information to land managers for making informed decisions regarding switchgrass development in the GP.
Determination of Platinum‐Group Elements and Gold in Ferromanganese Nodule Reference Samples
Authors: Berezhnaya Evgeniya D. , Dubinin Alexander V. 
Published: July 2016

A measurement procedure for determining of Ru, Pd, Ir, Pt and Au mass fractions in ferromanganese deposits by inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry after acid digestion and anion exchange preconcentration is presented. To eliminate incomplete recovery after sorption preconcentration of the platinum‐group elements (PGE) and Au, a standard addition method was used. Detection limits ranged from 0.02 ng (Pd, Ir) to 0.19 ng (Ru). The measurement results for ferromanganese nodule reference material NOD‐A‐1 and NOD‐P‐1 agree with earlier reported values. Intermediate precision of PGE concentration data for nodule reference materials in this work was 5–24% (1s) and could reflect sample heterogeneity.
International Trends in Health Science Librarianship Part 20: The Balkan States (Serbia and Slovenia)
Authors: Ivkovic Ana , Rožić Anamarija , Turk Nana 
Published: July 2016

AbstractThis is the 20th in a series of articles exploring international trends in health science librarianship in the 21st century. The focus of the present issue is the Balkan region (Serbia and Slovenia). The next regular feature will look at Russia and the Ukraine.JM
Development of quality measurement instruments for root canal treatment
Authors: Eliyas S. , Briggs P. F. A. , Harris I. R. , Newton J. T. , Gallagher J. E. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractAimTo devise measurement instruments for ‘quality’ of root canal treatment to assess training and outcome of general dental practitioners working within primary care settings.MethodScoring systems relating to quality of root canal treatment were developed using expert consensus and published literature. Domains scored included the Treatment Process, Quality of the Obturation, Clinical Healing, Radiographic Healing and Tooth Complexity. Scoring systems were applied to 10 clinical cases treated by each dentist at the beginning and 10 cases treated at the end of their clinical training and 135 cases treated after completion of training. The dentists recorded the treatment process and clinical healing in clinical logs. Two examiners independently scored the radiographs after undertaking calibration and training. Inter‐ and intra‐examiner reliability of scoring radiographic outcomes was tested using Cohen's Kappa statistics.ResultsAn instrument was created with four domains to assess quality (two for process and two for outcome of root canal treatment), and a measure of case complexity. Domains of treatment process (n = 240 teeth), outcome (n = 32 teeth) and complexity (n = 215 teeth) were scored using radiographs. The Kappa scores for intra‐examiner reliability between 0.22 and 1, whilst inter‐examiner reliability ranged between 0.18 and 0.99.ConclusionEvidence‐based scores for assessment of the quality (process and outcome) and complexity (structure) of root canal treatment were devised. They were reliable, provided that clinicians were trained in record keeping and examiners have in depth training and calibration in the use of the instruments.
Phytochemicals content, antioxidant and hypoglycaemic activities of commercial nutmeg mace (Myristica fragrans L.) and pimento (Pimenta dioica (L.) Merr.)
Authors: Loizzo Monica Rosa , Sicari Vincenzo , Tenuta Maria Concetta , Leporini Maria Rosaria , Falco Tiziana , Pellicanò Teresa Maria , Menichini Francesco , Tundis Rosa 
Published: July 2016

SummaryCommercially dried powder of nutmeg mace (Myristica fragrans) and pimento (Pimenta dioica) spices was investigated for their high performance liquid chromatography phenolic profile and their antioxidant and hypoglycaemic properties by α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase inhibition tests. Generally, mace showed the most promising activity. An interesting protection of lipid peroxidation with an IC50 value of 7.7 μg mL−1 was found. A significant result was also obtained in ferric reducing ability power assay if compared to the positive control butylated hydroxytoluene (IC50 value of 68.7 μg mL−1 vs. 63.2 μg mL−1, respectively). Mace also exhibited the highest carbohydrate‐hydrolysing enzyme inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 62.1 and 75.7 μg mL−1 against α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase, respectively. Overall, these results support the use of these spices not only as flavouring agent but also as food preservative and functional ingredients.
Effects of sodium tripolyphosphate on functional properties of low‐salt single‐step high‐pressure processed chicken breast sausage
Authors: Xue Siwen , Zou Yufeng , Chen Xing , Yang Huijuan , Xing Tong , Xu Xinglian , Zhou Guanghong 
Published: July 2016

SummaryInfluences of sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) contents (0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4%) on water holding capacity (WHC) and texture properties of low‐salt (1.2% NaCl) single‐step high‐pressure processed chicken breast sausages (LSSS‐HPP sausages) were evaluated. Results showed that WHC was improved (4–5%) by the addition of STPP. However, the STPP contents customarily used for cooked sausages (0.3–0.5%) were excessive for LSSS‐HPP sausages, causing a soft and tacky texture. Sausages containing 0.1% of STPP had the best taste according to the sensory evaluations. Chemical interactions plus Raman spectroscopic analysis revealed that STPP addition partly changed native structures of myofibrillar proteins. Furthermore, higher STPP contents in the meat batter prevented those proteins from high pressure denaturing and aggregating in the subsequent single‐step HPP procedure. Increased hydrogen bonds and decreased hydrophobic interactions explained the better WHC and softer texture. Therefore, 0.1% of STPP is the optimal content in the processing of new‐type LSSS‐HPP sausages.
M2 polarization of murine peritoneal macrophages induces regulatory cytokine production and suppresses T‐cell proliferation
Authors: Oishi Shinji , Takano Ryosuke , Tamura Satoshi , Tani Shinya , Iwaizumi Moriya , Hamaya Yasushi , Takagaki Kosuke , Nagata Toshi , Seto Shintaro , Horii Toshinobu , Osawa Satoshi , Furuta Takahisa , Miyajima Hiroaki , Sugimoto Ken 
Published: July 2016

SummaryBone‐marrow‐derived macrophages are divided into two phenotypically and functionally distinct subsets, M1 and M2 macrophages. Recently, it was shown that adoptive transfer of M2‐polarized peritoneal macrophages reduced the severity of experimental colitis in mice. However, it is still unclear whether peritoneal macrophages possess the same ability to be polarized to cells with functionally different phenotypes and cytokine production patterns as bone‐marrow‐derived macrophages. To address this question, we examined the ability of peritoneal macrophages to be polarized to the M1 and M2 phenotypes and determined the specific cytokine profiles of cells with each phenotype. We showed that peritoneal macrophages, as well as bone‐marrow‐derived macrophages, were differentiated into M1 and M2 phenotypes following stimulation with interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) and interleukin‐4 (IL‐4)/IL‐13, respectively. Following in vitro stimulation with lipopolysaccharide, M2‐polarized peritoneal macrophages predominantly expressed T helper type 2 (Th2) cytokines and regulatory cytokines, including IL‐4, IL‐13, transforming growth factor‐β and IL‐10, whereas M1‐polarized peritoneal macrophages expressed negligible amounts of Th1 and pro‐inflammatory cytokines. ELISA showed that M2‐polarized peritoneal macrophages produced significantly more IL‐10 than M1‐polarized peritoneal macrophages. Notably, M2‐polarized peritoneal macrophages contributed more to the suppression of T‐cell proliferation than did M1‐polarized peritoneal macrophages. The mRNA expression of Th2 cytokines, including IL‐4 and IL‐13, increased in T‐cells co‐cultured with M2‐polarized macrophages. Hence, our findings showed that M2 polarization of peritoneal macrophages induced regulatory cytokine production and suppressed T‐cell proliferation in vitro, and that resident peritoneal macrophages could be used as a new adoptive transfer therapy for autoimmune/inflammatory diseases after polarization to the regulatory phenotype ex vivo.
Brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity, but not ankle‐brachial index, predicts all‐cause mortality in patients with diabetes after lower extremity amputation
Authors: Ikura Kazuki , Hanai Ko , Oka Seiji , Watanabe Makiko , Oda Yuri , Hamada Mariko , Kato Yuka , Shinjyo Takamichi , Uchigata Yasuko 
Published: July 2016

AbstractWe examined whether brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and ankle‐brachial pressure index (ABI) are predictors for mortality in diabetic patients after lower extremity amputation. This was an observational historical cohort study of 102 Japanese diabetic patients after first non‐traumatic lower extremity amputation, with a mean age of 63 years (standard deviation 12 years). The end‐point was all‐cause mortality. During the mean follow‐up period of 3.3 years, 44 patients reached the end‐point. In both univariate and multivariate analyses, baPWV (m/s) (hazard ratio [HR] 1.05 and 1.04, both P < 0.01, respectively), but not ABI (HR 0.38 and 0.89, P = 0.08 and 0.86, respectively), was a significant predictor for the end‐point. When baPWV (above or below the median [21.8 m/s]) and ABI (normal [0.9–1.4] or not) were analyzed as categorical variables, the results were similar. In conclusion, baPWV, but not ABI, might be a predictor for all‐cause mortality in diabetic patients after lower extremity amputation.
Glucagonoma syndrome: a review and update on treatment
Authors: John A.M. , Schwartz R.A. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractGlucagonoma syndrome is defined by the presence of an alpha‐cell secreting tumour of the pancreas, elevated levels of glucagon, and a characteristic rash called necrolytic migratory erythema (NME). NME is usually a specific and often initial finding of glucagonoma syndrome, but it may occur in other settings unassociated with an alpha‐cell pancreatic tumour (pseudoglucagonoma syndrome). Glucagonoma syndrome must be distinguished from pseudoglucagonoma syndrome. Prompt recognition of NME and subsequent workup for a glucagonoma can allow for an earlier diagnosis and enhance the chances of a favourable outcome. In particular, metastases occur late, so early recognition of glucagonoma syndrome before liver metastases can be life‐saving. Surgical resection is the definitive treatment for glucagonoma syndrome, although chemotherapeutic agents, somatostatin analogues and radionuclide therapy are also employed. Herein, we offer an approach to workup after identifying NME and an update on its current treatment modalities.
Non‐cosmetic dermatological uses of botulinum neurotoxin
Authors: Forbat E. , Ali F.R. , Al‐Niaimi F. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractBotulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) is renowned for its inhibitory effects on the neuromuscular junction. The evidence for its use in cosmetic dermatology and in non‐dermatological indications is well established. We have systemically analysed the evidence for the non‐cosmetic dermatological uses of BoNT. This review presents the many small studies showing promising results for the use of BoNT in a multitude of dermatological diseases, including (but not limited to) hyperhidrosis, Darier's disease, Hailey–Hailey disease, pompholyx and hidradenitis suppurativa. There is, however, the need for larger, double‐blinded randomized control trials against established treatments to cement the evidence base underlying the use of BoNT in dermatology.
The clinical spectrum of syphilitic balanitis of Follmann: report of five cases and a review of the literature
Authors: Mainetti C. , Scolari F. , Lautenschlager S. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractBackgroundEugène Follmann first described syphilitic balanitis as a manifestation of primary syphilis in 1948 and since then it has been known as syphilitic balanitis of Follmann (SBF). So far, SBF has rarely been described in literature.ObjectivesWe are reporting five additional cases of SBF considering the broad differential diagnosis of balanitis.MethodsA review of the available literature of SBF was performed and five additional cases analyzed.ResultsIn our case series, the clinical appearance of SBF shows a heterogeneous spectrum varying from painful oedematous balanoposthitis with beginning paraphimosis to superficial erosive balanitis and even to painless induration of the glans.ConclusionsSBF might be seen more frequently than has been described due to misinterpretation. Therefore primary syphilis should be included in the differential diagnosis of balanitis and balanoposthitis.
Atypical discrete papular lichen myxedematosus associated with monoclonal gammopathy: report of four cases and review of the literature
Authors: Hermans C. , Goldscheider I. , Ruzicka T. , Rongioletti F. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractBackgroundDiscrete papular lichen myxedematosus (DPLM) is a rare form of localized lichen myxedematosus that presents with skin involvement only and without systemic involvement.ObjectTo describe our experience with atypical cases of DPLM associated with monoclonal gammopathy.MethodsData were collected from patients with clinicopathological evidence of DPLM associated with monoclonal gammopathy who presented to the Department of Dermatology of two tertiary university‐affiliated medical centres from 2000 to 2015 and were followed prospectively.ResultsThe sample included four patients (three males) with a mean age of 58 years. No clinicopathological differences from typical cases of DPLM were observed, except for the presence of monoclonal gammopathy. The patients were followed up for a mean of 34 months (6–72 months) and no progression to scleromyxedema, multiple myeloma or systemic involvement was observed. No therapy was applied, except for topical tacrolimus or steroids, and the eruptions remained stable.ConclusionOur experience indicates an excellent prognosis of DPLM even for atypical cases in spite of the presence of monoclonal gammopathy.
Cold urticaria: a 20‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Jain S.V. , Mullins R.J. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractBackgroundChronic cold urticaria results in significant morbidity, yet information on its natural history is limited.ObjectiveWe examined the natural history of chronic cold urticaria and its impact on quality of life.MethodsWe analysed the characteristics of patients diagnosed with cold urticaria at a community‐based specialist allergy practice in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) between 1995 and 2015. Follow‐up data were obtained using a mailed questionnaire. Possible predictive factors of disease severity and symptom duration were evaluated.ResultsA total of 99 patients were assessed with a median age of 42 (range 5–81 years); 63% were female and the median age of onset of symptoms was 22 years. Of 41 questionnaire responders (14 ± 10.9 years follow‐up; median 12 years), 5‐ and 10‐year resolution rates were 17.9% ± 6.2% and 24.5% ± 7.2%, respectively. Whereas 22% reported resolution and 23% described improvement, the remaining 55% reported stable or worsening disease. Most individuals relied on lifestyle modification to ameliorate symptoms rather than medication. Risk factors for persistent disease were intercurrent atopic disease (P = 0.025) and those with longer duration of symptoms at the time of initial assessment (P < 0.001). Secondary causes of cold urticaria were identified in only two patients, both with B‐cell malignancy.ConclusionIn a subset of patients, cold urticaria has low rates of spontaneous resolution and results in lifestyle changes and impaired quality of life.
‘Multimorbidity’ as the manifestation of network disturbances
Authors: Sturmberg Joachim P. , Bennett Jeanette M. , Martin Carmel M. , Picard Martin 
Published: July 2016

AbstractWe argue that ‘multimorbidity’ is the manifestation of interconnected physiological network processes within an individual in his or her socio‐cultural environment. Networks include genomic, metabolomic, proteomic, neuroendocrine, immune and mitochondrial bioenergetic elements, as well as social, environmental and health care networks. Stress systems and other physiological mechanisms create feedback loops that integrate and regulate internal networks within the individual. Minor (e.g. daily hassles) and major (e.g. trauma) stressful life experiences perturb internal and social networks resulting in physiological instability with changes ranging from improved resilience to unhealthy adaptation and ‘clinical disease’. Understanding ‘multimorbidity’ as a complex adaptive systems response to biobehavioural and socio‐environmental networks is essential. Thus, designing integrative care delivery approaches that more adequately address the underlying disease processes as the manifestation of a state of physiological dysregulation is essential. This framework can shape care delivery approaches to meet the individual's care needs in the context of his or her underlying illness experience. It recognizes ‘multimorbidity’ and its symptoms as the end product of complex physiological processes, namely, stress activation and mitochondrial energetics, and suggests new opportunities for treatment and prevention. The future of ‘multimorbidity’ management might become much more discerning by combining the balancing of physiological dysregulation with targeted personalized biotechnology interventions such as small molecule therapeutics targeting specific cellular components of the stress response, with community‐embedded interventions that involve addressing psycho‐socio‐cultural impediments that would aim to strengthen personal/social resilience and enhance social capital.
Heterogeneity‐mediated cellular adaptation and its trade‐off: searching for the general principles of diseases
Authors: Heng Henry H. 
Published: July 2016

AbstractBig‐data‐omics have promised the success of precision medicine. However, most common diseases belong to adaptive systems where the precision is all but difficult to achieve. In this commentary, I propose a heterogeneity‐mediated cellular adaptive model to search for the general model of diseases, which also illustrates why in most non‐infectious non‐Mendelian diseases the involvement of cellular evolution is less predictable when gene profiles are used. This synthesis is based on the following new observations/concepts: 1) the gene only codes “parts inheritance” while the genome codes “system inheritance” or the entire blueprint; 2) the nature of somatic genetic coding is fuzzy rather than precise, and genetic alterations are not just the results of genetic error but are in fact generated from internal adaptive mechanisms in response to environmental dynamics; 3) stress‐response is less specific within cellular evolutionary context when compared to known biochemical specificities; and 4) most medical interventions have their unavoidable uncertainties and often can function as negative harmful stresses as trade‐offs. The acknowledgment of diseases as adaptive systems calls for the action to integrate genome‐ (not simply individual gene‐) mediated cellular evolution into molecular medicine.