bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Incongruent range dynamics between co‐occurring Asian temperate tree species facilitated by life history traits
Authors: Zhao Yun‐Peng , Yan Xiao‐Ling , Muir Graham , Dai Qiong‐Yan , Koch Marcus A. , Fu Cheng‐Xin 
Published: March 2016

AbstractPostglacial expansion to former range limits varies substantially among species of temperate deciduous forests in eastern Asia. Isolation hypotheses (with or without gene flow) have been proposed to explain this variance, but they ignore detailed population dynamics spanning geological time and neglect the role of life history traits. Using population genetics to uncover these dynamics across their Asian range, we infer processes that formed the disjunct distributions of Ginkgo biloba and the co‐occurring Cercidiphyllum japonicum (published data). Phylogenetic, coalescent, and comparative data suggest that Ginkgo population structure is regional, dichotomous (to west–east refugia), and formed ˜51 kya, resulting from random genetic drift during the last glaciation. This split is far younger than the north–south population structure of Cercidiphyllum (~1.89 Mya). Significant (recent) unidirectional gene flow has not homogenized the two Ginkgo refugia, despite 2Nm > 1. Prior to this split, gene flow was potentially higher, resulting in conflicting support for a priori hypotheses that view isolation as an explanation for the variation in postglacial range limits. Isolation hypotheses (with or without gene flow) are thus not necessarily mutually exclusive due to temporal variation of gene flow and genetic drift. In comparison with Cercidiphyllum, the restricted range of Ginkgo has been facilitated by uncompetitive life history traits associated with seed ecology, highlighting the importance of both demography and lifetime reproductive success when interpreting range shifts.
Boron‐doped Diamond Electrodes Modified with Fe3O4@Au Magnetic Nanocomposites as Sensitive Platform for Detection of a Cancer Biomarker, Interleukin‐8.
Authors: Braiek Mohamed , Yang Yi , Farre Carole , Chaix Carole , Bessueille François , Baraket Abdoullatif , Errachid Abdelhamid , Zhang Aidong , Jaffrezic‐Renault Nicole 
Published: March 2016

AbstractInterleukin‐8 (IL‐8), a dimeric protein composed of two identical subunits, is overexpressed in different human cancers, among them pancreatic cancers and head and neck cancers. There is a strong demand for monitoring of this biomarker protein for early cancer detection. A new concept of label‐free impedimetric immunosensors for IL‐8 detection is described in this work. A nanocomposite of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) decorating a magnetic Fe3O4 core is synthesized using cysteamine as linker, and characterized using TEM and UV‐Vis spectrometry. After immobilization of these Fe3O4@Au magnetic nanocomposites on a boron doped diamond (BDD) electrode using a simple magnet, anti‐human IL‐8 monoclonal antibody is linked to the AuNPs, previously functionalized with thioctic acid. The functionalization of the immunosensor was characterized using two electrochemical techniques: cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), performed in phosphate buffer with ferro/ferricyanide as the redox probe. The EIS technique was used for affinity assays: antibody‐Antigen binding. A linear relationship between the increment in the electron transfer resistance (RCT) and the logarithmic value of IL‐8 concentration was observed between 0.1 pg/mL and 1000 pg/mL. The limit of detection (LOD) was estimated at 0.03 pg/mL.
An investigation of the impact of left-censored soil contamination data on the uncertainty of descriptive statistical parameters
Authors: Shoari Niloofar , Dubé Jean-Sébastien 
Published: March 2016

Abstract

Left-censored concentration data are frequently encountered because measuring instruments cannot detect concentrations below the instrument detection limit. For statistical analysis of left-censored data, the environmental literature mainly refers to the following methods: maximum likelihood estimator, regression on order statistics using log-normal and gamma assumption (rROS and GROS, respectively), and Kaplan–Meier. A number of simulation experiments examined the performance of these methods in terms of bias and/or mean square error. However, no matter which method is adopted, some uncertainty is introduced into outcomes because all that is known about a left-censored observation is that the concentration falls between 0 and the detection limit. The data used in the present study come from analysis of soil samples collected for a site characterization in Montreal, Canada. Employing nonparametric bootstrap, the authors quantify the uncertainty and bias in the mean and standard deviation estimates obtained by the maximum likelihood estimation (under log-normal, Weibull, and gamma distributions), rROS, GROS, and Kaplan–Meier methods. First, the authors demonstrate that the highest uncertainty is associated with the maximum likelihood estimator under log-normality and Weibull assumptions, whereas a gamma assumption leads to estimates with less uncertainty. Second, the authors show that although an increase in sample size improves the uncertainty, it reduces the bias only in the rROS, GROS, and Kaplan–Meier methods. Finally, comparing percentage uncertainty in the mean of contaminant data, the authors illustrate that adopting an inappropriate estimator results in large uncertainties. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:2623–2631. © 2016 SETAC
Influence of bed clusters and size gradation on operational time distribution for non‐uniform bed‐load transport
Authors: Zhang Yong , Chen Dong , Garrard Rhiannon , Sun HongGuang , Lu Yuehan 
Published: March 2016

AbstractThe operational time distribution (OTD) defines the time for bed‐load sediment spent in motion, which is needed to characterize the random nature of sediment transport. This study explores the influence of bed clusters and size gradation on OTD for non‐uniform bed‐loads. First, both static and mobile bed armouring experiments were conducted in laboratorial flumes to monitor the transport of mixed sand/gravel sediments. Only in the mobile armouring experiment did apparent bed clusters develop, because of stable feeding and a longer transport period. Second, a generalized subordinated advection (GSA) model was applied to quantify the observed dynamics of tracer particles. Results show that for the static armour layer (without sediment feed), the best‐fit OTD assigns more weight to the large displacement of small particles, likely because of the size‐selective entrainment process. The capacity coefficient in the GSA model, which affects the width of the OTD, is space dependent only for small particles whose dynamics can be significantly affected by larger particles and whose distribution is more likely to be space dependent in a mixed sand and gravel system. However, the OTD for the mobile armour layer (with sediment recirculation) exhibited longer tails for larger particles. This is because the trailing edge of larger particles is more resistant to erosion, and their leading front may not be easily trapped by self‐organized bed clusters. The strong interaction between particle–bed may cause the capacity coefficient to be space‐dependent for bed‐load transport along mobile armour layers. Therefore, the combined laboratory experiments and stochastic model analysis show that the OTD may be affected more by particle–bed interactions (such as clusters) than by particle–particle interactions (e.g. hiding and exposing), and that the GSA model can quantify mixed‐size sand/gravel transport along river beds within either static or mobile armour layers. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Two‐dimensional‐strain echocardiography in intensive care unit patients: A prospective, observational study
Authors: Nafati Cyril , Lançon Victor , Blasco Valery , Zieleskiewicz Laurent , Harti Karim , Wiramus Sandrine , Kelway Charlotte , Reydellet Laurent , Antonini François , Albanèse Jacques , Leone Marc 
Published: March 2016

ABSTRACTPurposeTwo‐dimensional‐strain echocardiography (2D‐strain) is a promising technique for the early detection of myocardial dysfunction. Our study was aimed to assess its feasibility in the intensive care unit (ICU). Our secondary goal was to determine if 2D‐strain could predict the patient's outcome.MethodsConventional echocardiography and 2D‐strain were performed on 64 consecutive patients admitted to our ICU. Using 2D‐strain, the longitudinal deformation of the left ventricle was assessed. Feasibility of 2D‐strain, diagnosis performance, and 28‐day mortality prediction were determined.Results2D‐strain measurements could be performed in 77% of our patients. All 2D‐strain variables related to ventricular performance were significantly impaired in the patients who died compared with those who survived. Strain global medium was the only independent echocardiographic variable predictor of 28‐day mortality rate (odds ratio 0.60; 95% confidence interval 0.43–0.80, p = 0.002).Conclusions2D‐strain measurement is feasible in ICU patients, enabling identifying early left ventricle dysfunction. Strain global medium is an independent predictor of 28‐day mortality. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 44:368–374, 2016
Are complex DCE‐MRI models supported by clinical data?
Authors: Duan Chong , Kallehauge Jesper F. , Bretthorst G. Larry , Tanderup Kari , Ackerman Joseph J.H. , Garbow Joel R. 
Published: March 2016

PurposeTo ascertain whether complex dynamic contrast enhanced (DCE) MRI tracer kinetic models are supported by data acquired in the clinic and to determine the consequences of limited contrast‐to‐noise.MethodsGenerically representative in silico and clinical (cervical cancer) DCE‐MRI data were examined. Bayesian model selection evaluated support for four compartmental DCE‐MRI models: the Tofts model (TM), Extended Tofts model, Compartmental Tissue Uptake model (CTUM), and Two‐Compartment Exchange model.ResultsComplex DCE‐MRI models were more sensitive to noise than simpler models with respect to both model selection and parameter estimation. Indeed, as contrast‐to‐noise decreased, complex DCE models became less probable and simpler models more probable. The less complex TM and CTUM were the optimal models for the DCE‐MRI data acquired in the clinic. [In cervical tumors,
,
, and
increased after radiotherapy (P = 0.004, 0.002, and 0.014, respectively)].ConclusionCaution is advised when considering application of complex DCE‐MRI kinetic models to data acquired in the clinic. It follows that data‐driven model selection is an important prerequisite to DCE‐MRI analysis. Model selection is particularly important when high‐order, multiparametric models are under consideration. (Parameters obtained from kinetic modeling of cervical cancer clinical DCE‐MRI data showed significant changes at an early stage of radiotherapy.) Magn Reson Med 77:1329–1339, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
Analysis of endocannabinoid signaling elements and related proteins in lymphocytes of patients with Dravet syndrome
Authors: Rubio Marta , Valdeolivas Sara , Piscitelli Fabiana , Verde Roberta , Satta Valentina , Barroso Eva , Montolio Marisol , Aras Luis Miguel , Di Marzo Vincenzo , Sagredo Onintza , Fernández‐Ruiz Javier 
Published: March 2016

AbstractCannabidiol (CBD) reduces seizures in childhood epilepsy syndromes including Dravet syndrome (DS). A formulation of CBD has obtained orphan drug designation for these syndromes and clinical trials are currently underway. The mechanism responsible for CBD effects is not known, although it could involve targets sensitive to CBD in other neurological disorders. We believe of interest to investigate whether these potential targets are altered in DS, in particular whether the endocannabinoid system is dysregulated. To this end, lymphocytes from patients and controls were used for analysis of gene expression of transmitter receptors and transporters, ion channels, and enzymes associated with CBD effects, as well as endocannabinoid genes. Plasma endocannabinoid levels were also analyzed. There were no differences between DS patients and controls in most of the CBD targets analyzed, except an increase in the voltage‐dependent calcium channel α‐1h subunit. We also found that cannabinoid type‐2 (CB2) receptor gene expression was elevated in DS patients, with no changes in other endocannabinoid‐related receptors and enzymes, as well as in plasma levels of endocannabinoids. Such elevation was paralleled by an increase in CD70, a marker of lymphocyte activation, and certain trends in inflammation‐related proteins (e.g., peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ receptors, cytokines). In conclusion, together with changes in the voltage‐dependent calcium channel α‐1h subunit, we found an upregulation of CB2 receptors, associated with an activation of lymphocytes and changes in inflammation‐related genes, in DS patients. Such changes were also reported in inflammatory disorders and may indirectly support the occurrence of a potential dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system in the brain.
UGT concentrations in human rectal tissue after multidose, oral curcumin
Authors: Asher Gary N. , Fallon John K. , Smith Philip C. 
Published: March 2016

AbstractIn vitro studies have demonstrated that curcumin is a substrate for uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase (UGTs), with a putative ability to both induce expression and inhibit function, highlighting the potential for interaction with some drugs. Therefore, we sought to evaluate the effect of oral curcumin on intestinal UGT expression. Healthy volunteers, ages 40–80 years, who had received recent screening colonoscopy were recruited. Participants did not have any gastrointestinal or bleeding disorders, lab abnormalities, or recent antibiotic use. All participants received daily curcuminoid extract, 4 g, for 30 days. Untreated, rectal mucosal pinch biopsies were obtained at baseline and at 30 days. Microsomes were prepared from biopsy samples, using sequential centrifugation. Quantification of 14 UGT 2As and 2Bs was performed by LC‐MS/MS(MS, mass spectrometry), using quantitative‐ targeted absolute proteomics. Lowest LODs were ~0.1 pmol/mg protein. Comparisons were performed using Wilcoxon signed‐rank test. Paired baseline and 30 days biopsy samples were available for 38 participants. UGTs 1A10 and 2B17 were detected in 35 and 33 paired samples, respectively, while all other UGTs were below the limit of quantification (BLOQ). Median baseline UGT1A10 concentration was 0.60 pmol/mg (95% CI:0.32–0.92), and 0.60 pmol/mg (95% CI:0.43–1.00) after 30 days (P = 0.23). For UGT2B17, median baseline concentration was 0.83 pmol/mg (95% CI:0.32–1.62), and 1.18 pmol/mg (95% CI:0.39–1.77) after 30 days (P = 0.24). We found no differences in rectal mucosal UGT concentrations before and after 30 days of oral curcumin administration, indicating that daily curcumin use is unlikely to alter colonic UGT expression. Distal gut biopsies may not accurately reflect the proximal gut environment where UGT expression and curcumin concentrations may be higher.
A Novel Therapeutic Approach Using Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Protect Against Mycobacterium abscessus
Authors: Kim Jong-Seok , Cha Sang-Ho , Kim Woo Sik , Han Seung Jung , Cha Seung Bin , Kim Hong Min , Kwon Kee Woong , Kim So Jeong , Choi Hong-Hee , Lee Jienny , Cho Sang-Nae , Koh Won-Jung , Park Yeong-Min , Shin Sung Jae 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for the treatment of acute inflammatory injury and bacterial pneumonia, but their therapeutic applications in mycobacterial infections have not been investigated. In this study, we demonstrated the use of MSCs as a novel therapeutic strategy against Mycobacterium abscessus (M. abscessus), which is the most drug-resistant and difficult-to-treat mycobacterial pathogen. The systemic intravenous injection of MSCs not only improved mouse survival but also enhanced bacterial clearance in the lungs and spleen. Additionally, MSCs enhanced IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-6, MCP-1, nitric oxide (NO) and PGE2 production and facilitated CD4+/CD8+ T cell, CD11bhigh macrophage, and monocyte recruitment in the lungs of M. abscessus-infected mice. To precisely elucidate the functions of MSCs in M. abscessus infection, an in vitro macrophage infection system was used. MSCs caused markedly increased NO production via NF-κB activation in M. abscessus-infected macrophages cultured in the presence of IFN-γ. Inhibiting NO or NF-κB signaling using specific inhibitors reduced the antimycobacterial activity of MSCs. Furthermore, the cellular crosstalk between TNF-α released from IFN-γ-stimulated M. abscessus-infected macrophages and PGE2 produced by MSCs was necessary for the mycobacterial-killing activity of the macrophages. Finally, the importance of increased NO production in response to MSC administration was confirmed in the mouse M. abscessus infection model. Our results suggest that MSCs may offer a novel therapeutic strategy for treating this drug-resistant mycobacterial infection by enhancing the bacterial-killing power of macrophages.
Darier disease
Authors: Takagi Atsushi , Kamijo Maya , Ikeda Shigaku 
Published: March 2016

AbstractDarier disease (DD) is a type of inherited keratinizing disorder that exhibits autosomal dominant inheritance. DD is caused by the mutations of ATP2A2, which encodes an endoplasmic reticulum calcium pump, sarco/endoplasmic reticulum ATPase type 2 (SERCA2). DD often develops in childhood, persists through adolescence, and causes small papules predominantly in seborrheic areas such as the face, chest and back. Further, scales and scabs may gradually develop. DD may be accompanied by non‐dermal symptoms, including psychiatric symptoms. Histologically, DD is characterized by corps ronds and grains in addition to suprabasal cleavage. There are no currently validated curative treatments available for DD, with the majority of cases treated symptomatically. Despite demonstrating efficacy in the treatment of DD, the use of oral retinoids has been limited due to the association with various adverse effects.
Serum levels of soluble programmed death‐1 and programmed death ligand‐1 in systemic sclerosis: Association with extent of skin sclerosis
Authors: Yanaba Koichi , Hayashi Mitsuha , Yoshihara Yuki , Nakagawa Hidemi 
Published: March 2016

AbstractThe interaction of programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) with its ligand, programmed death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1), has been considered to play a key role in the negative regulation of immune responses. Patients with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (SSc) had higher levels of soluble PD‐1 (sPD‐1) than those with limited cutaneous SSc and healthy individuals. Serum sPD‐1 levels positively correlated with the severity of skin sclerosis. In contrast, serum sPD‐L1 levels were significantly increased in patients with SSc compared with healthy individuals. Moreover, serum sPD‐L1 levels were not associated with the extent of skin sclerosis and were elevated not only in patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc, but also in those with limited cutaneous SSc. These results suggested that serum sPD‐1 levels may increase in patients with SSc and correlate with the severity of skin sclerosis. PD‐1/PD‐L1 interaction may contribute to the development of skin sclerosis in SSc.
Living on the edge: emergence of spontaneous gac mutations in Pseudomonas protegens during swarming motility
Authors: Song Chunxu , Kidarsa Teresa A. , van de Mortel Judith E. , Loper Joyce E. , Raaijmakers Jos M. 
Published: March 2016

SummarySwarming motility is a flagella‐driven multicellular behaviour that allows bacteria to colonize new niches and escape competition. Here, we investigated the evolution of specific mutations in the GacS/GacA two‐component regulatory system in swarming colonies of Pseudomonas protegens Pf‐5. Experimental evolution assays showed that repeated rounds of swarming by wildtype Pf‐5 drives the accumulation of gacS/gacA spontaneous mutants on the swarming edge. These mutants cannot swarm on their own because they lack production of the biosurfactant orfamide A, but they do co‐swarm with orfamide‐producing wildtype Pf‐5. These co‐swarming assays further demonstrated that ΔgacA mutant cells indeed predominate on the edge and that initial ΔgacA:wildtype Pf‐5 ratios of at least 2:1 lead to a collapse of the swarming colony. Subsequent whole‐genome transcriptome analyses revealed that genes associated with motility, resource acquisition, chemotaxis and efflux were significantly upregulated in ΔgacA mutant on swarming medium. Moreover, transmission electron microscopy showed that ΔgacA mutant cells were longer and more flagellated than wildtype cells, which may explain their predominance on the swarming edge. We postulate that adaptive evolution through point mutations is a common feature of range‐expanding microbial populations and that the putative fitness benefits of these mutations during dispersal of bacteria into new territories are frequency‐dependent.
Artificial Organs 2015: A Year in Review
Authors: Malchesky Paul S. 
Published: March 2016

AbstractIn this Editor's Review, articles published in 2015 are organized by category and briefly summarized. We aim to provide a brief reflection of the currently available worldwide knowledge that is intended to advance and better human life while providing insight for continued application of technologies and methods of organ Replacement, Recovery, and Regeneration. As the official journal of The International Federation for Artificial Organs, The International Faculty for Artificial Organs, the International Society for Rotary Blood Pumps, the International Society for Pediatric Mechanical Cardiopulmonary Support, and the Vienna International Workshop on Functional Electrical Stimulation, Artificial Organs continues in the original mission of its founders “to foster communications in the field of artificial organs on an international level.” Artificial Organs continues to publish developments and clinical applications of artificial organ technologies in this broad and expanding field of organ Replacement, Recovery, and Regeneration from all over the world. We take this time also to express our gratitude to our authors for providing their work to this journal. We offer our very special thanks to our reviewers who give so generously of their time and expertise to review, critique, and especially provide meaningful suggestions to the author's work whether eventually accepted or rejected. Without these excellent and dedicated reviewers, the quality expected from such a journal could not be possible. We also express our special thanks to our Publisher, John Wiley & Sons for their expert attention and support in the production and marketing of Artificial Organs. We look forward to reporting further advances in the coming years.