bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparative analyses of plastid and AFLP data suggest different colonization history and asymmetric hybridization between Betula pubescens and B. nana
Authors: Eidesen Pernille Bronken , Alsos Inger Greve , Brochmann Christian 
Published: June 2015

AbstractBirches (Betula spp.) hybridize readily, confounding genetic signatures of refugial isolation and postglacial migration. We aimed to distinguish hybridization from range‐shift processes in the two widespread and cold‐adapted species B. nana and B. pubescens, previously shown to share a similarly east–west‐structured variation in plastid DNA (pDNA). We sampled the two species throughout their ranges and included reference samples of five other Betula species and putative hybrids. We analysed 901 individual plants using mainly nuclear high‐resolution markers (amplified fragment length polymorphisms; AFLPs); a subset of 64 plants was also sequenced for two pDNA regions. Whereas the pDNA variation as expected was largely shared between B. nana and B. pubescens, the two species were distinctly differentiated at AFLP loci. In B. nana, both the AFLP and pDNA results corroborated the former pDNA‐based hypothesis that it expanded from at least two major refugia in Eurasia, one south of and one east of the North European ice sheets. In contrast, B. pubescens showed a striking lack of geographic structuring of its AFLP variation. We identified a weak but significant increase in nuclear (AFLP) gene flow from B. nana into B. pubescens with increasing latitude, suggesting hybridization has been most frequent at the postglacial expansion front of B. pubescens and that hybrids mainly backcrossed to B. pubescens. Incongruence between pDNA and AFLP variation in B. pubescens can be explained by efficient expansion from a single large refugium combined with leading‐edge hybridization and plastid capture from B. nana during colonization of new territory already occupied by this more cold‐tolerant species.
Social network analysis of mating patterns in American black bears (Ursus americanus)
Authors: Moore Jennifer A. , Xu Ran , Frank Kenneth , Draheim Hope , Scribner Kim T. 
Published: June 2015

AbstractNonrandom mating can structure populations and has important implications for population‐level processes. Investigating how and why mating deviates from random is important for understanding evolutionary processes as well as informing conservation and management. Prior to the implementation of parentage analyses, understanding mating patterns in solitary, elusive species like bears was virtually impossible. Here, we capitalize on a long‐term genetic data set collected from black bears (Ursus americanus) (N = 2422) in the Northern Lower Peninsula (NLP) of Michigan, USA. We identified mated pairs using parentage analysis and applied logistic regression (selection) models that controlled for features of the social network, to quantify the effects of individual characteristics, and spatial and population demographic factors on mating dynamics. Logistic regression models revealed that black bear mating was associated with spatial proximity of mates, male age, the time a pair had coexisted, local population density and relatedness. Mated pairs were more likely to contain older males. On average, bears tended to mate with nearby individuals to whom they were related, which does not support the existence of kin recognition in black bears. Pairwise relatedness was especially high for mated pairs containing young males. Restricted dispersal and high male turnover from intensive harvest mortality of NLP black bears are probably the underlying factors associated with younger male bears mating more often with female relatives. Our findings illustrate how harvest has the potential to disrupt the social structure of game species, which warrants further attention for conservation and management.
Preserved Cerebral Microcirculation After Cardiac Arrest in a Rat Model
Authors: Secher Niels , Østergaard Leif , Iversen Nina K. , Lambertsen Kate L. , Clausen Bettina H. , Tønnesen Else , Granfeldt Asger 
Published: June 2015

AbstractObjectiveRecent studies show that sublingual microcirculation is altered in patients resuscitated from CA. The objective of this study was to investigate whether the cerebral microcirculation is disturbed in the early post‐resuscitation period.MethodsMale Sprague–Dawley rats were randomized to either 10 minutes of CA or uninterrupted circulation, and observed to 120 or 360 minutes after ROSC. At 120 and 360 minutes, cerebral microcirculation was evaluated by SDF microscopy through a craniectomy. Plasma samples were analyzed for endothelial adhesion molecules and inflammatory markers, and brains were fixated for histological analysis.ResultsCerebral microcirculation, evaluated by TVD, PVD, PPV, and MFI did not differ between groups (p > 0.16). Plasma samples drawn 360 minutes after ROSC displayed a significant increase in sE‐selectin, sL‐selectin, sI‐CAM1, IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10, and elastase compared to controls. In the CA animals, sE‐selectin and elastase increased between 120 and 360 minutes after resuscitation (p < 0.007). Histological analysis revealed neuronal death in hippocampus layer CA1 360 min after resuscitation.ConclusionWhen evaluated by SDF, the cerebral microcirculation appears unaffected in the early post‐CA period despite hypotension, systemic inflammation, endothelial activation, and neuronal injury.
Relative efficiency of maize and Imperata cylindrica for haploid induction in Triticum durum following chromosome elimination‐mediated approach of doubled haploid breeding
Authors: Mahato Anima , Chaudhary Harinder Kumar 
Published: June 2015

AbstractIntergeneric hybridization in seven diverse durum wheat genotypes was carried out using two composite varieties of Himalayan maize, viz., Bajaura Makka and Early Composite, and a wild grass, Imperata cylindrica, as pollen sources. Observations related to various haploid induction parameters put forth I. cylindrica as significantly better pollen source for haploid induction in durum wheat over maize in terms of pseudoseed formation (46.93%), embryo formation (38.06%), haploid regeneration (40.42%) and haploid formation efficiency (7.44%). The line x tester analysis revealed that both male and female genotypes had significant effects on all haploid induction parameters except haploid formation frequency in later. Among the pollen sources, I. cylindrica emerged as best combiner based on GCA values when compared with the two Himalayan maize composites. Durum wheat genotype, A‐9‐30‐1 was recognized as the best general combiner followed by PDW 314. The present investigation proposed durum wheat × I. cylindrica as a superior technique over maize‐mediated system, and its large‐scale use can open a new horizon in the sphere of durum wheat doubled haploidy breeding programme.
Additional patients with 4q deletion: Severe growth delay and polycystic kidney disease associated with 4q21q22 loss
Authors: Sakazume Satoru , Kido Yasuhiro , Murakami Nobuyuki , Matsubara Tomoyo , Numabe Hironao 
Published: June 2015

AbstractBackgroundTo the best of our knowledge, this is the third report concerning 4q21q22 deletions. In this report, we describe the cases of two girls with 4q deletion and polycystic kidney disease. G‐banding confirmed the deletion in one patient but not in the other.MethodsWe describe the cases of two girls with 4q deletion and polycystic kidney disease. Chromosomal deletions were mapped to 4q21‐22. One patient had a simple 4q contiguous gene deletion, whereas the other patient had a complicated chromosomal rearrangement. In patient 1, a smaller part of the 4q deletion was translocated to the 3p region.ResultsFifty‐four genes and 72 genes were deleted in patients 1 and 2, respectively. In both patients, 52 genes were consistently deleted.ConclusionThe present two patients had a similar phenotype, including severe growth and developmental retardation, and a characteristic facial appearance. The loss of RPKG2 and RASGEF1B causes severe growth defect. PKD2 loss causes kidney cysts.
Prevalence and prognosis of prodromal Alzheimer's disease as assessed by magnetic resonance imaging and 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography in a community: reanalysis from the Osaki‐Tajiri Project
Authors: Meguro Kenichi , Akanuma Kyoko , Meguro Mitsue , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Ishii Hiroshi , Tashiro Manabu 
Published: June 2015

AbstractBackgroundDubois et al. proposed the criteria for prodromal Alzheimer's disease (AD) to detect dementia in its very early stage. Because detection requires magnetic resonance imaging and 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography (PET), the prevalence and prognosis have not been fully investigated.MethodsOur database included 346 healthy participants (Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) 0), 119 with questionable dementia (CDR 0.5), and 32 dementia participants (CDR 1+) and was applied to investigate the prevalence of prodromal AD. Forty‐four CDR 0.5 participants (37%) were randomly selected to undergo 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose‐PET. The same percentage was applied to select 128 CDR 0 and 12 CDR 1 + participants (total: n = 184) to calculate the prevalence. A neuroradiologist classified the PET images in a blinded manner based on the criteria of Silverman et al. Participants were considered to have prodromal AD if they exhibited ‘parietal/temporal +/− frontal hypometabolism’ (PET) with hippocampal atrophy (magnetic resonance imaging).ResultsEighteen CDR 0.5 participants (40.9%) met the criteria for prodromal AD, which was a prevalence rate of 9.8% among older adults aged ≥65 years. Thirteen prodromal AD participants (72%) converted to AD during the 5‐year follow‐up period.DiscussionThe concept and criteria for prodromal AD are useful for predicting which subjects in a community will convert to AD.
Computed Tomography Determined Changes in Position of the Urogenital System After CO2 Insufflation to Determine Optimal Positioning for Abdominal Laparoscopy
Authors: Elliott Ross C. , Kirberger Robert M. 
Published: June 2015

ObjectiveTo evaluate changes, using computed tomography (CT), in position of the urogenital system before and after CO2 abdominal insufflation for the most commonly used body positions to determine the optimal laparoscopic approach.Study DesignExperimental study.AnimalsHealthy intact female Beagles (n = 6) of similar age, weight, and body condition score.MethodsDogs had urinalysis, peripheral blood smear, and abdominal ultrasonography. Pre‐insufflation (PrI) CT scans were performed in ventrodorsal routine (VDR), ventrodorsal Trendelenburg (VDT), left lateral (LL) and right lateral (RL) recumbency, and repeated post insufflation (PoI). Pre‐determined measurements were made on PrI and PoI scans and differences compared.ResultsThe position of the uterus and ovaries was mainly determined by gravitational effects and the attachment of the suspensory ligament. VDT provided best exposure of the uterine body. The kidneys remained in the non‐dependent part of the abdomen when the dog was positioned in the opposite lateral position. The bladder remained in the ventral part of the abdomen in all positions.ConclusionsThe best approach to the kidney and associated ovary and uterine horn would be the opposite lateral position to the side being approached. For ovariohysterectomy, this would require the dog to be rotated into each lateral position for the left and right uterine horn and ovary. VDT was best to access the bladder and uterine body.
Resting myocardial blood flow quantification using contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in the presence of stenosis: A computational fluid dynamics study
Authors: Sommer Karsten , Bernat Dominik , Schmidt Regine , Breit Hanns‐Christian , Schreiber Laura M. 
Published: June 2015

Purpose:The extent to which atherosclerotic plaques affect contrast agent (CA) transport in the coronary arteries and, hence, quantification of myocardial blood flow (MBF) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is unclear. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the influence of plaque induced stenosis both on CA transport and on the accuracy of MBF quantification.Methods:Computational fluid dynamics simulations in a high‐detailed realistic vascular model were employed to investigate CA bolus transport in the coronary arteries. The impact of atherosclerosis was analyzed by inserting various medium‐ to high‐grade stenoses in the vascular model. The influence of stenosis morphology was examined by varying the stenosis shapes but keeping the area reduction constant. Errors due to CA bolus transport were analyzed using the tracer‐kinetic model MMID4.Results:Dispersion of the CA bolus was found in all models and for all outlets, but with a varying magnitude. The impact of stenosis was complex: while high‐grade stenoses amplified dispersion, mild stenoses reduced the effect. Morphology was found to have a marked influence on dispersion for a small number of outlets in the post‐stenotic region. Despite this marked influence on the concentration–time curves, MBF errors were less affected by stenosis. In total, MBF was underestimated by −7.9% to −44.9%.Conclusions:The presented results reveal that local hemodynamics in the coronary vasculature appears to have a direct impact on CA bolus dispersion. Inclusion of atherosclerotic plaques resulted in a complex alteration of this effect, with both degree of area reduction and stenosis morphology affecting the amount of dispersion. This strong influence of vascular transport effects impairs the accuracy of MRI‐based MBF quantification techniques and, potentially, other bolus‐based perfusion measurement techniques like computed tomography perfusion imaging.
The Effects of a Goal Setting Intervention on Aerobic Fitness in Middle School Students
Authors: McDonald Samantha M. , Trost Stewart G. 
Published: June 2015

Purpose:This study evaluated the effects of a goal setting intervention on aerobic fitness (AF) in 6th to 8th grade students.Method:Students at the intervention school received a lesson on SMART goal setting. Students in the comparison school served as a measurement-only group. AF was assessed via the PACER multistage shuttle run test pre and post intervention. Between-group differences for change in AF were assessed using a RM ANCOVA.Results:A significant group by time interaction was observed for PACER performance, F(1,263) = 39.9, p < .0001. Intervention students increased PACER performance from 40.6 to 45.9 laps, while comparison students exhibited a decline from 30.2 to 23.4 laps. Intervention students were 10 times as likely as those in the comparison school to maintain Healthy Fitness Zone status or progress from Needs Improvement Zone to Healthy Fitness Zone.Discussion:Educating middle school students about SMART goal setting may be an effective strategy for improving aerobic fitness.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Rice Kernel Smut
Tilletia horrida
Strain QB-1
Authors: Wang Na , Ai Peng , Tang Yangfan , Zhang Jing , Dai Xiaojuan , Li Ping , Zheng Aiping 
Published: June 2015

ABSTRACT

Tilletia horrida
is the most destructive fungal pathogen of rice (
Oryza sativa
L.). The 20,105,270-bp draft genome sequence of
T. horrida
strain QB-1 is reported here. Genes encoding proteins associated with key virulence factors were predicted, and this can provide information for understanding the pathogenic mechanisms in
T. horrida
.
Whole-Genome Sequencing of Brevundimonas diminuta XGC1, Isolated from a Tuberculosis Patient in Gujarat, India
Authors: Ghosh Arpita , Chandratre Khyati , Chaudhary Abhinav , Chaudhary Spandan , Badani Namrata , Chaudhary Pooja S. , Dhawan Dipali , Vudathala Srinivas , Chikara Surendra K. 
Published: June 2015

ABSTRACT

We report the draft genome of
Brevundimonas diminuta
strain XGC1, isolated from a tuberculosis-infected patient in Gujarat, India. This study also reveals that the
B. diminuta
XGC1 strain has acquired mutation to confer resistance to quinolone drugs.
Draft Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium elephantis Strain Lipa
Authors: Greninger Alexander L. , Cunningham Gail , Yu Joanna M. , Hsu Elaine D. , Chiu Charles Y. , Miller Steve 
Published: June 2015

ABSTRACT

We report the draft genome sequence of
Mycobacterium elephantis
strain Lipa from a sputum sample of a patient with pulmonary disease. This is the first draft genome sequence of
M. elephantis
, a rapidly growing mycobacterium.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Streptococcus pneumoniae Avery Strain A66
Authors: Hahn Christoph , Harrison Ewan M. , Parkhill Julian , Holmes Mark A. , Paterson Gavin K. 
Published: June 2015

ABSTRACT

We have used HiSeq 2000 technology to generate a draft genome sequence of
Streptococcus pneumoniae
strain A66. This is a common study strain used in investigations of pneumococcal bacterium-host interactions and was used in the seminal genetic studies of Avery et al.
From Biology to Drug Development: New Approaches to Combat the Threat of Fungal Biofilms
Authors: Pierce Christopher G. , Srinivasan Anand , Ramasubramanian Anand K. , López-Ribot José L. 
Published: June 2015

ABSTRACTFungal infections constitute a major threat to an escalating number of critically ill patients. Fungi are eukaryotic organisms and, as such, there is a limited armamentarium of antifungal drugs, which leads to high mortality rates. Moreover, fungal infections are often associated with the formation of biofilms, which contribute to virulence and further complicate treatment due to the high level of antifungal drug resistance displayed by sessile cells within these microbial communities. Thus, the treatment of fungal infections associated with a biofilm etiology represents a formidable and unmet clinical challenge. The increasing importance and awareness of fungal biofilms is reflected by the fact that this is now an area of very active research. Studies in the last decade have provided important insights into fungal biofilm biology, physiology, and pathology, as well as into the molecular basis of biofilm resistance. Here we discuss how this accumulated knowledge may inform the development of new antibiofilm strategies and therapeutics that are urgently needed.
Mechanisms of Competition in Biofilm Communities
Authors: Rendueles Olaya , Ghigo Jean-Marc 
Published: June 2015

ABSTRACT
Bacterial biofilms are dense and often mixed-species surface-attached communities in which bacteria coexist and compete for limited space and nutrients. Here we present the different antagonistic interactions described in biofilm environments and their underlying molecular mechanisms, along with ecological and evolutionary insights as to how competitive interactions arise and are maintained within biofilms.
Bacterial Extracellular Polysaccharides in Biofilm Formation and Function
Authors: Limoli Dominique H. , Jones Christopher J. , Wozniak Daniel J. 
Published: June 2015

ABSTRACT
Microbes produce a biofilm matrix consisting of proteins, extracellular DNA, and polysaccharides that is integral in the formation of bacterial communities. Historical studies of polysaccharides revealed that their overproduction often alters the colony morphology and can be diagnostic in identifying certain species. The polysaccharide component of the matrix can provide many diverse benefits to the cells in the biofilm, including adhesion, protection, and structure. Aggregative polysaccharides act as molecular glue, allowing the bacterial cells to adhere to each other as well as surfaces. Adhesion facilitates the colonization of both biotic and abiotic surfaces by allowing the bacteria to resist physical stresses imposed by fluid movement that could separate the cells from a nutrient source. Polysaccharides can also provide protection from a wide range of stresses, such as desiccation, immune effectors, and predators such as phagocytic cells and amoebae. Finally, polysaccharides can provide structure to biofilms, allowing stratification of the bacterial community and establishing gradients of nutrients and waste products. This can be advantageous for the bacteria by establishing a heterogeneous population that is prepared to endure stresses created by the rapidly changing environments that many bacteria encounter. The diverse range of polysaccharide structures, properties, and roles highlight the importance of this matrix constituent to the successful adaptation of bacteria to nearly every niche. Here, we present an overview of the current knowledge regarding the diversity and benefits that polysaccharide production provides to bacterial communities within biofilms.
Saliva as the Sole Nutritional Source in the Development of Multispecies Communities in Dental Plaque
Authors: Jakubovics Nicholas S. 
Published: June 2015

ABSTRACT
Dental plaque is a polymicrobial biofilm that forms on the surfaces of teeth and, if inadequately controlled, can lead to dental caries or periodontitis. Nutrient availability is the fundamental limiting factor for the formation of dental plaque, and for its ability to generate acid and erode dental enamel. Nutrient availability is also critical for bacteria to grow in subgingival biofilms and to initiate periodontitis. Over the early stages of dental plaque formation, micro-organisms acquire nutrients by breaking down complex salivary substrates such as mucins and other glycoproteins. Once dental plaque matures, dietary carbohydrates become more important for supragingival dental plaque, and gingival crevicular fluid forms the major nutrient source for subgingival microorganisms. Many species of oral bacteria do not grow in laboratory monocultures when saliva is the sole nutrient source, and it is now clear that intermicrobial interactions are critical for the development of dental plaque. This chapter aims to provide an overview of the key metabolic requirements of some well-characterized oral bacteria, and the nutrient webs that promote the growth of multispecies communities and underpin the pathogenicity of dental plaque for both dental caries and periodontitis.
Metabolism and Fitness of Urinary Tract Pathogens
Authors: Alteri Christopher J. , Mobley Harry L. T. 
Published: June 2015

ABSTRACTAmong common infections, urinary tract infections (UTI) are the most frequently diagnosed urologic disease. The majority of UTIs are caused by uropathogenicEscherichia coli. The primary niche occupied byE. coliis the lower intestinal tract of mammals, where it resides as a beneficial component of the commensal microbiota. Although it is well-known thatE. coliresides in the human intestine as a harmless commensal, specific strains or pathotypes have the potential to cause a wide spectrum of intestinal and diarrheal diseases. In contrast, extraintestinalE. colipathotypes reside harmlessly in the human intestinal microenvironment but, upon access to sites outside of the intestine, become a major cause of human morbidity and mortality as a consequence of invasive UTI (pyelonephritis, bacteremia, or septicemia). Thus, extraintestinal pathotypes like uropathogenicE. coli(UPEC) possess an enhanced ability to cause infection outside of the intestinal tract and colonize the urinary tract, the bloodstream, or cerebrospinal fluid of human hosts. Due to the requirement for theseE. colito replicate in and colonize both the intestine and extraintestinal environments, we posit that physiology and metabolism of UPEC strains is paramount. Here we discuss that the ability to survive in the urinary tract depends as much on bacterial physiology and metabolism as it does on the well-considered virulence determinants.