bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Anatomy and Morphology of Seed Plants
Authors: Barclay Gregor Fraser 
Published: January 2015

Abstract

Seed plants, the most successful and diverse group of higher plants, are distinguished from other plants by the presence of a testa (seed coat) that protects the embryo. Plant anatomy describes the structure and organisation of the cells, tissues and organs of plants, whereas plant morphology describes the external form and structure of plants. The origin of these fundamental botanical sciences is outlined, and illustrations and descriptions are given of the main anatomical and morphological features of plants, largely from a functional perspective. Meristematic, dermal, support and vascular tissues are described. Also, the fundamental organs, root, stem and leaf, as well as some of their notable modifications are described. Special attention is given to the flower and its modifications. Seed structure and dispersal mechanisms are described, and a key to identifying the common types of fruits is provided.

Key Concepts:

Seed plants are distinguished by the presence of a testa (seed coat) that encloses the embryo.

The morphology of a plant is largely unrelated to its anatomy.

Seed plants differ greatly in size and appearance, yet all are constructed of a few basic cell types, tissues and organs.

Plant organs can be modified to perform different functions.

Flowers are advertisements for attracting pollinators.
Muscle Strength and Changes in Physical Function in Women With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Andrews James S. , Trupin Laura , Schmajuk Gabriela , Barton Jennifer , Margaretten Mary , Yazdany Jinoos , Yelin Edward H. , Katz Patricia P. 
Published: January 2015

ObjectiveCross‐sectional studies have observed that muscle weakness is associated with worse physical function among women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The present study examines whether reduced upper and lower extremity muscle strength predict declines in function over time among adult women with SLE.MethodsOne hundred forty‐six women from a longitudinal SLE cohort participated in the study. All measures were collected during in‐person research visits approximately 2 years apart. Upper extremity muscle strength was assessed by grip strength. Lower extremity muscle strength was assessed by peak knee torque of extension and flexion. Physical function was assessed using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Regression analyses modeled associations of baseline upper and lower extremity muscle strength with followup SPPB scores controlling for baseline SPPB, age, SLE duration, SLE disease activity (Systemic Lupus Activity Questionnaire), physical activity level, prednisone use, body composition, and depression. Secondary analyses tested whether associations of baseline muscle strength with followup in SPPB scores differed between intervals of varying baseline muscle strength.ResultsLower extremity muscle strength strongly predicted changes over 2 years in physical function even when controlling for covariates. The association of reduced lower extremity muscle strength with reduced physical function in the future was greatest among the weakest women.ConclusionReduced lower extremity muscle strength predicted clinically significant declines in physical function, especially among the weakest women. Future studies should test whether therapies that promote preservation of lower extremity muscle strength may prevent declines in function among women with SLE.
Familial focal epilepsy with focal cortical dysplasia due to DEPDC5 mutations
Authors: Baulac Stéphanie , Ishida Saeko , Marsan Elise , Miquel Catherine , Biraben Arnaud , Nguyen Dang Khoa , Nordli Doug , Cossette Patrick , Nguyen Sylvie , Lambrecq Virginie , Vlaicu Mihaela , Daniau Maïlys , Bielle Franck , Andermann Eva , Andermann Frederick , Leguern Eric , Chassoux Francine , Picard Fabienne 
Published: January 2015

ObjectiveThe DEPDC5 (DEP domain‐containing protein 5) gene, encoding a repressor of the mTORC1 signaling pathway, has recently emerged as a major gene mutated in familial focal epilepsies. We aimed to further extend the role of DEPDC5 to focal cortical dysplasias (FCDs).MethodsSeven patients from 4 families with DEPDC5 mutations and focal epilepsy associated with FCD were recruited and investigated at the clinical, neuroimaging, and histopathological levels. The DEPDC5 gene was sequenced from genomic blood and brain DNA.ResultsAll patients had drug‐resistant focal epilepsy, 5 of them underwent surgery, and 1 had a brain biopsy. Electroclinical phenotypes were compatible with FCD II, although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was typical in only 4 cases. Histopathology confirmed FCD IIa in 2 patients (including 1 MRI‐negative case) and showed FCD I in 2 other patients, and remained inconclusive in the last 2 patients. Three patients were seizure‐free postsurgically, and 1 had a worthwhile improvement. Sequencing of blood DNA revealed truncating DEPDC5 mutations in all 4 families; 1 mutation was found to be mosaic in an asymptomatic father. A brain somatic DEPDC5 mutation was identified in 1 patient in addition to the germline mutation.InterpretationGermline, germline mosaic, and brain somatic DEPDC5 mutations may cause epilepsy associated with FCD, reinforcing the link between mTORC1 pathway and FCDs. Similarly to other mTORopathies, a “2‐hit” mutational model could be responsible for cortical lesions. Our study also indicates that epilepsy surgery is a valuable alternative in the treatment of drug‐resistant DEPDC5‐positive focal epilepsies, even if the MRI is unremarkable. Ann Neurol 2015;77:675–683
APOEε2 is associated with milder clinical and pathological Alzheimer disease
Authors: Serrano‐Pozo Alberto , Qian Jing , Monsell Sarah E. , Betensky Rebecca A. , Hyman Bradley T. 
Published: January 2015

ObjectiveThe Alzheimer disease (AD) APOEε4 risk allele associates with an earlier age at onset and increased amyloid‐β deposition, whereas the protective APOEε2 allele delays the onset and appears to prevent amyloid‐β deposition. Yet the clinical and pathological effects of APOEε2 remain uncertain because of its relative rarity. We investigated the effects of APOEε2 and ε4 alleles on AD pathology and cognition in a large US data set of well‐characterized AD patients.MethodsWe studied individuals from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center autopsy cohort across the entire clinicopathological continuum of AD. Multivariate models were built to examine the associations between APOE alleles and AD neuropathological changes, using the APOEε3/ε3 group as comparator. Mediation analysis was used to estimate the direct and indirect effects of APOE alleles on AD pathology and cognition (Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes and Mini‐Mental State Examination).ResultsCompared to APOEε3/ε3, APOEε2 is independently associated with lower Braak neurofibrillary tangle (NFT) stages and possibly fewer neuritic plaques, but has no direct effect on cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) severity, whereas APOEε4 is associated with more neuritic plaques and CAA, but has no independent effect on Braak NFT stage. Unadjusted analyses showed marked differences among APOE genotypes with respect to cognitive performance (ε2 > ε3 > ε4). Mediation analysis suggests that this is largely explained through effects on pathology.InterpretationEven when adjusted for age at onset, symptom duration, and other demographic variables, APOEε2 is associated with milder AD pathology and less severe antemortem cognitive impairment compared to APOEε3 and ε4 alleles, suggesting a relative neuroprotective effect of APOEε2 in AD. Ann Neurol 2015;77:917–929
Strokes in Sneddon syndrome without antiphospholipid antibodies
Authors: Bottin Laure , Francès Camille , de Zuttere Dominique , Boëlle Pierre‐Yves , Muresan Ioan‐Paul , Alamowitch Sonia 
Published: January 2015

ObjectiveSneddon syndrome (SS) is characterized by the association of a livedo reticularis with stroke. Clinicoradiological features of its neurological manifestations, its prognosis, and the frequency of associated cardiac valvulopathy remain poorly known, particularly in the absence of antiphospholipid antibodies (APL). The objectives were to assess the clinicoradiological pattern of SS without APL (SSAPL−) and its midterm prognosis.MethodsClinical data, transthoracic echocardiograms, and brain imaging of 53 consecutive patients (83% women) with SSAPL−, followed up at our institution between 1991 and 2011, were reviewed.ResultsSeventy‐four strokes were reported; 76% were ischemic strokes (IS), 15% transient ischemic attacks, and 9% hemorrhagic strokes. Heart valve lesions were found in 50% of the cases. Brain imaging showed 177 IS of 3 different types: large territorial (43%), small distal corticosubcortical (14%), and small deep (23%) IS. No significant association was found between the valve involvement and the presence of territorial IS. After a mean follow‐up of 7.4 years, 82% of patients had a modified Rankin Scale score ≤ 2. The ischemic event recurrence rate was 20%, with a similar annual rate in the antiplatelet group (3%) compared to the anticoagulation group (2.7%).InterpretationSSAPL− is not only a neurocutaneous disorder, but is frequently associated with heart valve involvement. The latter does not influence the IS type, which suggests that strokes are caused by vasculopathy of the small and medium‐size cerebral arteries. Our results show no progression toward a serious disability in the majority of the cases and a moderate recurrence rate under antiplatelet therapy. Ann Neurol 2015;77:817–829
Structures and conformation of a benzo‐12‐crown‐4 containing dipeptide
Authors: Tripathi Garima , Ramanathan Gurunath 
Published: January 2015

ABSTRACTCrystal structures of the dipeptide Boc‐12‐Crown‐4‐l‐DOPA‐Gly‐OMe (chi) and Boc‐12‐Crown‐4‐d/l‐DOPA‐Gly‐OMe (rac) were solved by single crystal X‐ray diffraction. Analysis of the packing differences in the crystal reveals that the presence of a water molecule inchienables intermolecular contacts with the solvent that result in a different conformation of the dipeptide backbone itself. An uncommon NH…N interaction stabilizes the peptide in its solid state. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 104: 148–155, 2015.
Impact of surgical innovation on tissue repair in the surgical patient
Authors: Tevlin R , Atashroo D , Duscher D , Mc Ardle A , Gurtner G C , Wan D C , Longaker M T 
Published: January 2015

AbstractBackgroundThroughout history, surgeons have been prolific innovators, which is hardly surprising as most surgeons innovate daily, tailoring their intervention to the intrinsic uniqueness of each operation, each patient and each disease. Innovation can be defined as the application of better solutions that meet new requirements, unarticulated needs or existing market needs. In the past two decades, surgical innovation has significantly improved patient outcomes, complication rates and length of hospital stay. There is one key area that has great potential to change the face of surgical practice and which is still in its infancy: the realm of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.MethodsA literature review was performed using PubMed; peer-reviewed publications were screened for relevance in order to identify key surgical innovations influencing regenerative medicine, with a focus on osseous, cutaneous and soft tissue reconstruction.ResultsThis review describes recent advances in regenerative medicine, documenting key innovations in osseous, cutaneous and soft tissue regeneration that have brought regenerative medicine to the forefront of the surgical imagination.ConclusionSurgical innovation in the emerging field of regenerative medicine has the ability to make a major impact on surgery on a daily basis.
Quantitative analysis of technological innovation in minimally invasive surgery
Authors: Hughes-Hallett A , Mayer E K , Pratt P J , Vale J A , Darzi A W 
Published: January 2015

Abstract

Background
In the past 30 years surgical practice has changed considerably owing to the advent of minimally invasive surgery (MIS). This paper investigates the changing surgical landscape chronologically and quantitatively, examining the technologies that have played, and are forecast to play, the largest part in this shift in surgical practice.

Methods
Electronic patent and publication databases were searched over the interval 1980–2011 for (‘minimally invasive’ OR laparoscopic OR laparoscopy OR ‘minimal access’ OR ‘key hole’) AND (surgery OR surgical OR surgeon). The resulting patent codes were allocated into technology clusters. Technology clusters referred to repeatedly in the contemporary surgical literature were also included in the analysis. Growth curves of patents and publications for the resulting technology clusters were then plotted.

Results
The initial search revealed 27 920 patents and 95 420 publications meeting the search criteria. The clusters meeting the criteria for in-depth analysis were: instruments, image guidance, surgical robotics, sutures, single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) and natural-orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES). Three patterns of growth were observed among these technology clusters: an S-shape (instruments and sutures), a gradual exponential rise (surgical robotics and image guidance), and a rapid contemporaneous exponential rise (NOTES and SILS).

Conclusion
Technological innovation in MIS has been largely stagnant since its initial inception nearly 30 years ago, with few novel technologies emerging. The present study adds objective data to the previous claims that SILS, a surgical technique currently adopted by very few, represents an important part of the future of MIS.
The rise of big clinical databases
Authors: Cook J A , Collins G S 
Published: January 2015

Abstract

Background
The routine collection of large amounts of clinical data, ‘big data’, is becoming more common, as are research studies that make use of these data source. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the uses of data from large multi-institution clinical databases for research.

Methods
This article considers the potential benefits, the types of data source, and the use to which the data is put. Additionally, the main challenges associated with using these data sources for research purposes are considered.

Results
Common uses of the data include: providing population characteristics; identifying risk factors and developing prediction (diagnostic or prognostic) models; observational studies comparing different interventions; exploring variation between healthcare providers; and as a supplementary source of data for another study. The main advantages of using such big data sources are their comprehensive nature, the relatively large number of patients they comprise, and the ability to compare healthcare providers. The main challenges are demonstrating data quality and confidently applying a causal interpretation to the study findings.

Conclusion
Large clinical database research studies are becoming ubiquitous and offer a number of potential benefits. However, the limitations of such data sources must not be overlooked; each research study needs to be considered carefully in its own right, together with the justification for using the data for that specific purpose.
Clinical outcomes associated with evolving treatment modalities and radiation techniques for base‐of‐tongue carcinoma: thirty years of institutional experience
Authors: Chen Leechuan Andy , Anker Christopher J. , Hunt Jason P. , Buchmann Luke O. , Grossmann Kenneth F. , Boucher Kenneth , Fang Li‐Ming Christine , Shrieve Dennis C. , Hitchcock Ying J. 
Published: January 2015

AbstractCurative treatment for base‐of‐tongue squamous cell carcinoma (BOT SCC) has evolved over time; however, comparative outcomes analysis for various treatment strategies is lacking. The authors reviewed the evolution of treatment modality and radiotherapy (RT) technique for 231 consecutive BOT SCC patients at our institution between 1981 and 2011. Treatment modalities included definitive chemoradiotherapy (chemoRT) (42%), definitive RT (33%), surgery followed by RT (20%), and surgery alone (5%). RT techniques included external beam plus interstitial brachytherapy (EBRT + IB) (37%), conventional EBRT (29%), intensity‐modulated radiation therapy ± simultaneous integrated boost (IMRT ± SIB) (34%). Clinical characteristics and outcomes were stratified by modality or RT technique. Treatment modality evolved from definitive RT (1980s–1990s) to definitive chemoRT (1990s–2000s). RT technique evolved from EBRT + IB (1980s–1990s) to conventional EBRT (1990s–2000s) to IMRT + SIB (2000s). With median alive follow‐up of 6 years (0.3–28 years), the 5‐year LC, LRC, and OS rates were 80%, 73%, and 51%. There was no difference in distribution of gender, age, stage among treatment modalities. Definitive chemoRT had improved LRC (HR 1.6) and OS (HR 1.7) compared to definitive RT. IMRT + SIB had improved LRC (HR 3.2), DFS (HR 3.4), and OS (HR 3.0) compared to conventional EBRT. Over the past 30 years, BOT SCC treatment has undergone major paradigm shifts that incorporate nonsurgical functional preservation, concurrent chemotherapy, and advanced RT techniques. Excellent locoregional control and survival outcomes are associated with accelerated IMRT with chemotherapy.
Differences in IGF‐axis protein expression and survival among multiethnic breast cancer patients
Authors: Hernandez Brenda Y. , Wilkens Lynne R. , Le Marchand Loïc , Horio David , Chong Clayton D. , Loo Lenora W. M. 
Published: January 2015

AbstractThere is limited knowledge about the biological basis of racial/ethnic disparities in breast cancer outcomes. Aberrations in IGF signaling induced by obesity and other factors may contribute to these disparities. This study examines the expression profiles of the insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐axis proteins and the association with breast cancer survival across a multiethnic population. We examined the expression profiles of the IGF1, IGF1R, IGFBP2 (IGF‐binding proteins), and IGFBP3 proteins in breast tumor tissue and their relationships with all‐cause and breast cancer‐specific survival up to 17 years postdiagnosis in a multiethnic series of 358 patients in Hawaii, USA. Native Hawaiians, Caucasians, and Japanese were compared. Covariates included demographic and clinical factors and ER/PR/HER2 (estrogen receptor/progesterone receptor/human epidermal growth factor receptor‐2) status. In Native Hawaiian patients, IGFBP2 and IGFBP3 expression were each independently associated with overall and breast cancer mortality (IGFB2: HRmort = 10.96, 95% CI: 2.18–55.19 and HRmort = 35.75, 95% CI: 3.64–350.95, respectively; IGFBP3: HRmort = 5.16, 95% CI: 1.27–20.94 and HRmort = 8.60, 95% CI: 1.84–40.15, respectively). IGF1R expression was also positively associated with all‐cause mortality in Native Hawaiians. No association of IGF‐axis protein expression and survival was observed in Japanese or Caucasian patients. The interaction of race/ethnicity and IGFBP3 expression on mortality risk was significant. IGF‐axis proteins may have variable influence on breast cancer progression across different racial/ethnic groups. Expression of binding proteins and receptors in breast tumors may influence survival in breast cancer patients by inducing aberrations in IGF signaling and/or through IGF‐independent mechanisms. Additional studies to evaluate the role of the IGF‐axis in breast cancer are critical to improve targeted breast cancer treatment strategies.
Development and validation of the functional assessment of cancer therapy–antiangiogenesis subscale
Authors: Kaiser Karen , Beaumont Jennifer L. , Webster Kimberly , Yount Susan E. , Wagner Lynne I. , Kuzel Timothy M. , Cella David 
Published: January 2015

AbstractThe Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy (FACT)–Antiangiogenesis (AntiA) Subscale was developed and validated to enhance treatment decision‐making and side effect management for patients receiving anti‐angiogenesis therapies. Side effects related to anti‐angiogenesis therapies were identified from the literature, clinician input, and patient input. Fifty‐nine possible patient expressions of side effects were generated. Patient and clinician ratings of the importance of these expressions led us to develop a 24‐item questionnaire with clinical and research potential. To assess the scale's reliability and validity, 167 patients completed the AntiA Subscale, the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐general (FACT‐G), the FACT‐Kidney Symptom Index (FKSI), the FACIT‐Fatigue Subscale, the Global Rating of Change Scale (GRC), and the PROMIS Global Health Scale. Patient responses to the AntiA were analyzed for internal consistency, test–retest reliability, convergent and discriminant validity, and responsiveness to change in clinical status. All tested scales were found to have good internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's alpha 0.70–0.92). Test–retest reliability was also good (0.72–0.88) for total and subscale scores and lower for individual items. The total score, subscale scores, and all single items (except nosebleeds) significantly differentiated between groups defined by level of side effect bother. Evaluation of responsiveness to change in this study was not conclusive, suggesting an area for further research. The AntiA is a reliable and valid measure of side effects from anti‐angiogenesis therapy.
S‐adenosylmethionine blocks osteosarcoma cells proliferation and invasion in vitro and tumor metastasis in vivo: therapeutic and diagnostic clinical applications
Authors: Parashar Surabhi , Cheishvili David , Arakelian Ani , Hussain Zahid , Tanvir Imrana , Khan Haseeb Ahmed , Szyf Moshe , Rabbani Shafaat A. 
Published: January 2015

AbstractOsteosarcoma (OS) is an aggressive and highly metastatic form of primary bone cancer affecting young children and adults. Previous studies have shown that hypomethylation of critical genes is driving metastasis. Here, we examine whether hypermethylation treatment can block OS growth and pulmonary metastasis. Human OS cells LM‐7 and MG‐63 were treated with the ubiquitous methyl donor S‐adenosylmethionine (SAM) or its inactive analog S‐adenosylhomocystine (SAH) as control. Treatment with SAM resulted in a dose‐dependent inhibition of tumor cell proliferation, invasion, cell migration, and cell cycle characteristics. Inoculation of cells treated with 150 μmol/L SAM for 6 days into tibia or via intravenous route into Fox Chase severe combined immune deficient (SCID) mice resulted in the development of significantly smaller skeletal lesions and a marked reduction in pulmonary metastasis as compared to control groups. Epigenome wide association studies (EWAS) showed differential methylation of several genes involved in OS progression and prominent signaling pathways implicated in bone formation, wound healing, and tumor progression in SAM‐treated LM‐7 cells. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis confirmed that SAM treatment blocked the expression of several prometastatic genes and additional genes identified by EWAS analysis. Immunohistochemical analysis of normal human bone and tissue array from OS patients showed significantly high levels of expression of one of the identified gene platelet‐derived growth factor alpha (PDGFA). These studies provide a possible mechanism for the role of DNA demethylation in the development and metastasis of OS to provide a rationale for the use of hypermethylation therapy for OS patients and identify new targets for monitoring OS development and progression.