bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Climatic niche shifts in the serpentine soil flora of California
Authors: Burge Dylan O. , Salk Carl F. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractQuestionSoil properties are known to have a profound effect on the geographic distribution of plants. Unusual soils seem to allow species to occur outside their ‘typical’ (realized) climatic niche. However, the generality of this pattern, and the mechanisms that drive it, are poorly known. Here, we focus on the tendency for some plant species to occur at unusually low elevations on infertile substrates, especially serpentine soils. We ask whether there is a flora‐wide trend in the state of California toward lower elevations and warmer thermal limits on infertile serpentine soils than on other soils.LocationState of California, USA.MethodsWe used herbarium data from 19 institutions. We only used species collected from both serpentine and non‐serpentine soils. To focus on plant response to recent climate, we discarded records from before 1979. Finally, we discarded records that did not report latitude and longitude. The final data set consisted of 36 045 specimens representing 814 species. Latitude and longitude were used to infer elevation, temperature and soil type. We then developed a simulation modelling approach to test for significant differences in elevational and thermal distribution between serpentine and non‐serpentine soils.ResultsSerpentine populations are found at lower elevations than non‐serpentine populations, at both the low and high ends of elevation distributions (two tailed t‐test, P < 0.01). This pattern is partially matched by temperature: both high and low temperature data indicate that serpentine populations are limited to less extreme temperatures than non‐serpentine populations (two tailed t‐test, P < 0.01).ConclusionsWe show that there is a flora‐wide trend toward lower elevation limits on serpentine soils in the state of California. Temperature data suggest a slightly different pattern, with serpentine plants occupying more moderate temperatures. We suggest that this difference may be due to a decoupling of elevation and temperature in some parts of California. Overall, our results are consistent with two mechanisms of plant range limitation: (1) a biotic mechanism at lower elevations (high temperatures), where serpentine provides a refuge from competition; and (2) an abiotic limit at upper elevations (low temperatures), where the effect of cold is exacerbated by the infertility of serpentine.
Neutron absorption constraints on the composition of 4 Vesta
Authors: Prettyman Thomas H. , Mittlefehldt David W. , Yamashita Naoyuki , Beck Andrew W. , Feldman William C. , Hendricks John S. , Lawrence David J. , McCoy Timothy J. , McSween Harry Y. , Peplowski Patrick N. , Reedy Robert C. , Toplis Michael J. , Le Corre Lucille , Mizzon Hugau , Reddy Vishnu , Titus Timothy N. , Raymond Carol A. , Russell Christopher T. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractGlobal maps of the macroscopic thermal neutron absorption cross section of Vesta's regolith by the Gamma Ray and Neutron Detector (GRaND) on board the NASA Dawn spacecraft provide constraints on the abundance and distribution of Fe, Ca, Al, Mg, and other rock‐forming elements. From a circular, polar low‐altitude mapping orbit, GRaND sampled the regolith to decimeter depths with a spatial resolution of about 300 km. At this spatial scale, the variation in neutron absorption is about seven times lower than that of the Moon. The observed variation is consistent with the range of absorption for howardite whole‐rock compositions, which further supports the connection between Vesta and the howardite, eucrite, and diogenite meteorites. We find a strong correlation between neutron absorption and the percentage of eucritic materials in howardites and polymict breccias, which enables petrologic mapping of Vesta's surface. The distribution of basaltic eucrite and diogenite determined from neutron absorption measurements is qualitatively similar to that indicated by visible and near infrared spectroscopy. The Rheasilvia basin and ejecta blanket has relatively low absorption, consistent with Mg‐rich orthopyroxene. Based on a combination of Fe and neutron absorption measurements, olivine‐rich lithologies are not detected on the spatial scales sampled by GRaND. The sensitivity of GRaND to the presence of mantle material is described and implications for the absence of an olivine signature are discussed. High absorption values found in Vesta's “dark” hemisphere, where exogenic hydrogen has accumulated, indicate that this region is richer in basaltic eucrite, representative of Vesta's ancient upper crust.
NEMATIC: a simple and versatile tool for the in silico analysis of plant–nematode interactions
Authors: Cabrera Javier , Bustos Regla , Favery Bruno , Fenoll Carmen , Escobar Carolina 
Published: December 2013

SummaryNovel approaches for the control of agriculturally damaging nematodes are sorely needed. Endoparasitic nematodes complete their life cycle within the root vascular cylinder, inducing specialized feeding cells: giant cells for root‐knot nematodes and syncytia for cyst nematodes. Both nematodes hijack parts of the transduction cascades involved in developmental processes, or partially mimic the plant responses to other interactions with microorganisms, but molecular evidence of their differences and commonalities is still under investigation. Transcriptomics has been used to describe global expression profiles of their interaction with Arabidopsis, generating vast lists of differentially expressed genes. Although these results are available in public databases and publications, the information is scattered and difficult to handle. Here, we present a rapid, visual, user‐friendly and easy to handle spreadsheet tool, called NEMATIC (NEMatode–Arabidopsis Transcriptomic Interaction Compendium; http://www.uclm.es/grupo/gbbmp/english/nematic.asp). It combines existing transcriptomic data for the interaction between Arabidopsis and plant‐endoparasitic nematodes with data from different transcriptomic analyses regarding hormone and cell cycle regulation, development, different plant tissues, cell types and various biotic stresses. NEMATIC facilitates efficient in silico studies on plant–nematode biology, allowing rapid cross‐comparisons with complex datasets and obtaining customized gene selections through sequential comparative and filtering steps. It includes gene functional classification and links to utilities from several databases. This data‐mining spreadsheet will be valuable for the understanding of the molecular bases subjacent to feeding site formation by comparison with other plant systems, and for the selection of genes as potential tools for biotechnological control of nematodes, as demonstrated in the experimentally confirmed examples provided.
Enhanced nicotinic receptor mediated relaxations in gastroesophageal muscle fibers from Barrett's esophagus patients
Authors: Miller L. S. , Vegesna A. K. , Braverman A. S. , Barbe M. F. , Ruggieri M. R. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBackgroundIncreased nicotinic receptor mediated relaxation in the gastroesophageal antireflux barrier may be involved in the pathophysiology of reflux. This study is designed to determine whether the defects we previously identified in gastroesophageal reflux disease patients in‐ vivo are due to abnormalities of the gastric sling, gastric clasp, or lower esophageal circular (LEC) muscle fibers.MethodsMuscle strips from whole stomachs and esophagi were obtained from 16 normal donors and 15 donors with histologically proven Barrett's esophagus. Contractile and relaxant responses of gastric sling, gastric clasp, or LEC fibers were determined to increasing concentrations of carbachol and to nicotine after inducing maximal contraction to bethanechol. Muscarinic receptor density was measured using subtype selective immunoprecipitation.Key ResultsBarrett's esophagus gastric sling and LEC fibers have decreased carbachol‐induced contractions. Barrett's esophagus sling fibers have decreased M2‐muscarinic receptors and LEC fibers have decreased M3 receptors. Relaxations of all three fiber types are greater in Barrett's esophagus specimens to both high carbachol concentrations and to nicotine following bethanechol precontraction. The maximal response to bethanechol is greater in Barrett esophagus sling and LEC fibers.Conclusions & InferencesThe increased contractile response to bethanechol in Barrett's specimens indicates that the defect is likely not due to the smooth muscle itself. The enhanced nicotinic receptor mediated response may be involved in greater relaxation of the muscles within the high‐pressure zone of the gastroesophageal junction during transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations and during deglutitive inhibition and may be involved in the pathophysiology of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Wood specific gravity and anatomy of branches and roots in 113 Amazonian rainforest tree species across environmental gradients
Authors: Fortunel Claire , Ruelle Julien , Beauchêne Jacques , Fine Paul V. A. , Baraloto Christopher 
Published: December 2013

Summary

Wood specific gravity (WSG) is a strong predictor of tree performance across environmental gradients. Yet it remains unclear how anatomical elements linked to different wood functions contribute to variation in WSG in branches and roots across tropical forests.

We examined WSG and wood anatomy in white sand, clay terra firme and seasonally flooded forests in French Guiana, spanning broad environmental gradients found throughout Amazonia. We measured 15 traits relating to branches and small woody roots in 113 species representing the 15 most abundant species in each habitat and representative species from seven monophyletic lineages occurring in all habitats.

Fiber traits appear to be major determinants of WSG, independent of vessel traits, in branches and roots. Fiber traits and branch and root WSG increased from seasonally flooded species to clay terra firme species and lastly to white sand species. Branch and root wood traits were strongly phylogenetically constrained. Lineages differed in wood design, but exhibited similar variation in wood structure across habitats.

We conclude that tropical trees can invest differently in support and transport to respond to environmental conditions. Wind disturbance and drought stress represent significant filters driving tree distribution of Amazonian forests; hence we suggest that biophysical explanations should receive more attention.
Rejection is less common in children undergoing liver transplantation for hepatoblastoma
Authors: Ruth N. D. , Kelly D. , Sharif K. , Morland B. , Lloyd C. , McKiernan P. J. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractTo compare the incidence of acute histologically proven rejection in children who have had a liver transplant for hepatoblastoma with a control group of children transplanted for biliary atresia (EHBA). A retrospective case notes based study was performed. Twenty patients were identified with hepatoblastoma who were transplanted at a single unit between 1991 and 2008. These were matched as closely as possible for age, gender, year of transplant and type of immunosuppression used to the control group transplanted for biliary atresia (n = 60). There was a significant decrease in rate of acute rejection as assessed by the rejection activity index (RAI) in the hepatoblastoma group (75% vs. 50%, respectively, p < 0.04). Chronic rejection was rare in both groups, but twice as common in the biliary atresia group. Equal levels of immunosuppression were achieved in both groups. Renal function was noted to be reduced one yr post‐transplant in both groups, as previously reported. A modified immunosuppression regimen could be considered in children with hepatoblastoma undergoing liver transplantation.
Early protocol biopsies in pediatric renal transplantation: Interest for the adaptation of immunosuppression
Authors: Bruel Alexandra , Allain‐Launay Emma , Humbert Julie , Ryckewaert Amélie , Champion Gérard , Moreau Anne , Renaudin Karine , Karam Georges , Roussey‐Kesler Gwenaelle 
Published: December 2013

AbstractGPB are often performed in PRT to detect subclinical acute rejection or IF/TA. Reducing immunosuppression side effects without increasing rejection is a major concern in PRT. We report the results of GPB in children transplanted with a steroid‐sparing protocol adapted to immunological risk. Children under 18 yr who received a renal transplantation between April 1, 2009 and May 31, 2012 were included. Immunosuppression consisted of an antibody induction therapy, tacrolimus, and MMF for all recipients. CSs were administered to children under five yr old, or receiving a second allograft. Twenty‐eight children were included, 50% were CSs free. GPB were performed between three and six months. IF/TA was documented in seven biopsies; four of these seven children were CS free. One child, with CSs, presented a borderline rejection, and another child, steroid free, with significant inflammatory interstitial infiltrate, considered as a subclinical rejection, was treated with CSs pulses. The median eGFR was stable (74, 67.5, and 82 mL/min/1.73 m² at, respectively, seven days, three months, and one yr). Patient and graft survival were 100%. These results have to be confirmed in a larger cohort, with long‐term follow‐up.
Management of late‐onset portal vein complications in pediatric living‐donor liver transplantation
Authors: Cho Yong‐Pil , Kim Kyung‐Mo , Ha Tae‐Yong , Ko Gi‐Young , Hwang Jae‐Yeon , Park Hojong , Chung Young Soo , Yoon Taein , Hwang Shin , Jun Heungman , Kwon Tae‐Won , Lee Sung‐Gyu 
Published: December 2013

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to evaluate retrospectively the results of PTA for late‐onset PV complications after pediatric LDLT and to assess whether a meso‐Rex shunt is a viable option for treating restenosis of the PV after PTA in selected cases. Seventy‐five children who underwent adult‐to‐child LDLT were included in this study, and there were six late‐onset PV complications (8.0%). The initial therapeutic approach was PTA, with or without stent: PTA with balloon dilation for three children, PTA with stent placement for one child, and failure to cannulate the occluded PV for two children. A meso‐Rex shunt was performed in the two children after failed PTA: One suffered complete obstruction of the main PV, and the other, restenosis with total thrombosis after PTA with stent. The PTA was a technical and clinical success in four with PV stenosis of the six patients (66.7%), and successful application of a meso‐Rex shunt in the other two children resulted in restoration of PV flow. In conclusion, PTA is a safe and effective procedure for treating late‐onset PV stenosis after pediatric LDLT. However, in growing pediatric recipients with restenosis of the PV after PTA or chronic PV thrombosis, a meso‐Rex shunt may be a better choice for late‐onset PV complications.
BK virus nephropathy complicated with meningoencephalitis after kidney transplantation
Authors: Rocha Ana , Faria Sameiro , Costa Teresa , Marques Laura , Freitas Cristina , Mota Conceição 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBK disease is an opportunistic infection in organ transplant recipients and patients with other cellular immunodeficiencies. To the best of our knowledge, we report the second case of BK meningoencephalitis associated with nephropathy in a kidney transplant recipient. A 15‐yr‐old boy underwent a cadaveric kidney transplant without complications; however, 11 wk after the transplantation, he was admitted to the hospital for graft dysfunction and cytopenia, which were confirmed by BK nephropathy (plasma viral replication and histological evidence). Four days after his hospital admission, he developed a high‐grade fever and headache. CSF analysis revealed pleocytosis with a positive PCR for BK virus. Reduction in immunosuppression and supportive care conducting cycles of immunoglobulin and cidofovir were successful in treating the patient. BK meningoencephalitis should be considered in kidney transplant recipients who present with signs and symptoms of meningoencephalitis.
Phytic acid in green leaves
Authors: Hadi Alkarawi H. , Zotz G. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractPhytic acid or phytate, the free‐acid form of myo‐inositolhexakiphosphate, is abundant in many seeds and fruits, where it represents the major storage form of phosphorus. Although also known from other plant tissues, available reports on the occurrence of phytic acid, e.g. in leaves, have never been compiled, nor have they been critically reviewed. We found 45 published studies with information on phytic acid content in leaves. Phytic acid was almost always detected when studies specifically tried to detect it, and accounted for up to 98% of total P. However, we argue that such extreme values, which rival findings from storage organs, are dubious and probably result from measurement errors. Excluding these high values from further quantitative analysis, foliar phytic acid‐P averaged 2.3 mg·g−1, and represented, on average, 7.6% of total P. Remarkably, the ratio of phytic acid‐P to total P did not increase with total P, we even detected a negative correlation of the two variables within one species, Manihot esculenta. This enigmatic finding warrants further attention.
Recruitment and retention of blood donors in four Canadian cities: an analysis of the role of community and social networks
Authors: Smith André , Matthews Ralph , Fiddler Jay 
Published: December 2013

BackgroundThis study approaches the decision to donate blood as a dynamic process involving interplay between blood donors' personal motives, donors' social contexts, and the donor recruitment and retention activities of blood collection agencies.Study Design and MethodsData were gathered from four blood donation clinics using in‐depth interviews with Canadian Blood Services employees, donors, and nondonors in 25 organizations participating in Life Link, a donor recruitment program that supports organizations to educate employees about the benefits of blood donation. Further data were obtained from ethnographic observations of blood collection and donor recruitment activities.ResultsThematic analysis resulted in three umbrella themes: leveraging social networks, embedding the clinic in the community, and donating blood and social reciprocity. Donor recruitment activities at all four clinics enhanced awareness of blood donation in the workplace by using experienced donors to motivate their coworkers in making a first‐time donation. Clinic employees reported varying success in improving awareness of blood donation in the broader community, in part because of varying employee engagement in community‐wide activities and celebrations. Altruistic motives were mentioned by experienced donors, who also identified a desire to reciprocate to their community as another strong motive.ConclusionThis study contextualizes donor recruitment and retention as involving activities that tie blood donation to meaningful aspects of donors' social networks and community. The findings point to the need for further analyses of the institutional dimensions of blood donation to develop effective strategies beyond appeals to altruism.
Identification, characterisation and discriminatory power of microsatellite markers in the parasitic weed Orobanche cumana
Authors: Pineda‐Martos R , Velasco L , Pérez‐Vich B 
Published: December 2013

SummaryOrobanche cumana is an obligate root parasite of sunflower. It represents a major agricultural problem in many countries of southern and eastern Europe. Information on O. cumana population genetics, structure and dynamics is scarce, particularly due to the lack of suitable molecular markers for such studies. The objective of this study was to identify and characterise simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers for O. cumana. Four thousand two hundred SSR‐containing candidate sequences were obtained from O. cumana using next‐generation sequencing, from which 298 SSR primer pairs were designed and 217 of them used for validation. Seventy nine SSR primers produced reproducible, high quality amplicons of the expected size that were polymorphic among 18 O. cumana populations from different geographical locations and hosts (sunflower, wild hosts from the Compositae family). The number of alleles per locus ranged from 2 to 10, with an average polymorphism information content value of 0.37. The O. cumana SSR markers were highly transferable to the closely related species Orobanche cernua. SSR markers showed high resolving power; UPGMA cluster analysis allowed proper classification of Orobanche spp. samples into species (O. cumana and O. cernua), geographical origin and host. The functional SSR markers reported in this study constitute a valuable tool for genetic analyses in O. cumana and related species and will contribute insights into the biology and genetics of this parasitic weed.
Seed germination and viability of herbicide resistant and susceptible Chenopodium album populations after ensiling, digestion by cattle and manure storage
Authors: Aper J , De Cauwer B , De Roo S , Lourenço M , Fievez V , Bulcke R , Reheul D 
Published: December 2013

SummaryChenopodium album became a problem weed in sugar beet production, due to resistance to metamitron, a key herbicide in this crop. Dispersal of the seeds from resistant biotypes may occur due to spread by wind, animals, agricultural machinery or manure. This study examined the effect of ensiling, digestion by cattle and storage in slurry and farmyard manure on the germination and viability of the seeds of one susceptible and three resistant C. album populations. After 4 weeks in a maize silo, seed viability of C. album populations was reduced drastically to 0–5%. Incubation for 24 h in the rumen followed by a post‐ruminal digestion in vitro of intact seeds only resulted in a small reduction in viability in one C. album population. Storage in a slurry cellar for 16 weeks reduced the viability of intact seeds of the C. album populations to 25–60%. Only 0–1% of the seeds remained viable after storage in a farmyard manure heap for 4 weeks. An accelerated ageing experiment showed seed persistence to be population specific and less related to seed weight. Keeping a fresh maize silo closed for at least 4 weeks and heaping farmyard manure are excellent preventive measures to limit the spread of resistant C. album seeds between fields.