bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Current aspects of auxin biosynthesis in plants
Authors: Kasahara Hiroyuki 
Published: September 2015

Abstract
Auxin is an important plant hormone essential for many aspects of plant growth and development. Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) is the most studied auxin in plants, and its biosynthesis pathway has been investigated for over 70 years. Although the complete picture of auxin biosynthesis remains to be elucidated, remarkable progress has been made recently in understanding the mechanism of IAA biosynthesis. Genetic and biochemical studies demonstrate that IAA is mainly synthesized from l-tryptophan (Trp) via indole-3-pyruvate by two-step reactions in Arabidopsis. While IAA is also produced from Trp via indole-3-acetaldoxime in Arabidopsis, this pathway likely plays an auxiliary role in plants of the family Brassicaceae. Recent studies suggest that the Trp-independent pathway is not a major route for IAA biosynthesis, but they reveal an important role for a cytosolic indole synthase in this pathway. In this review, I summarize current views and future prospects of IAA biosynthesis research in plants.
Disinfection by‐products effect on swimmers oxidative stress and respiratory damage
Authors: Llana‐Belloch Salvador , Priego Quesada Jose Ignacio , Pérez‐Soriano Pedro , Lucas‐Cuevas Ángel G. , Salvador‐Pascual Andrea , Olaso‐González Gloria , Moliner‐Martinez Yolanda , Verdú‐Andres Jorge , Campins‐Falco Pilar , Gómez‐Cabrera M. Carmen 
Published: September 2015

AbstractDisinfection by‐products (DBPs) are generated through the reaction of chlorine with organic and inorganic matter in indoor swimming pools. Different DBPs are present in indoor swimming pools. This study evaluated the effects of different chlorinated formations in oxidative stress and lung damage in 20 swimmers after 40 min of aerobic swimming in 3 indoor pools with different characteristics. Biological samples were collected to measure lung damage (serum‐surfactant‐associated proteins A and B), oxidative stress parameters (plasma protein carbonylation and malondialdehyde, and whole‐blood glutathione oxidation), and swimming exertion values (blood lactate) before and after exercise. Free chlorine and combined chlorine in water, and chlorine in air samples were determined in all the swimming pools. Chlorination as disinfection treatment led to the formation of chloramines in water samples, mainly mono‐ and dichloramine. However, free chlorine was the predominate species in ultraviolet‐treated swimming pool. Levels of total chlorine increased as a function of the swimming activity in chlorinated swimming pools. The lower quality of the installation resulted in a higher content of total chlorine, especially in air samples, and therefore a higher exposure of the swimmer to DBPs. However, the concentration level of chlorinated DBPs did not result in significant variation in serum‐surfactant‐associated proteins A and oxidative stress parameters in swimmers. In conclusion, the quality of the installation affected the DBPs concentration; however, it did not lead to lung epithelial damage and oxidative stress parameters in swimmers.
Assessment of patient engagement with a mobile application among service members in transition
Authors: Pavliscsak Holly , Little Jeanette R , Poropatich Ronald K , McVeigh Francis L , Tong James , Tillman Johnie S , Smith Challis H , Fonda Stephanie Jo 
Published: September 2015

AbstractObjective: This article examines engagement with a mobile application (“mCare”) for wounded Service Members rehabilitating in their communities. Many had behavioral health problems, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and/or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTS). The article also examines associations between Service Members’ background characteristics and their engagement with mCare.Materials and Methods: This analysis included participants who received mCare ( n = 95) in a randomized controlled trial. mCare participants received status questionnaires daily for up to 36 weeks. Participant engagement encompasses exposure to mCare, percentage of questionnaires responded to, and response time. Participants were grouped by health status—that is, presence/absence of behavioral health problems, PTS, and/or TBI. Histograms and regression analyses examined engagement by participants’ health status and background characteristics.Results: Exposure to mCare did not differ by health status. Participants usually responded to ≥60% of the questionnaires weekly, generally in ≤10 h; however, participants with behavioral health problems had several weeks with &lt;50% response and the longest response times. Total questionnaires responded to and response time did not differ statistically by health status. Older age and higher General Well-Being Schedule scores were associated with greater and faster response.Discussion: The sustained response to the questionnaires suggests engagement. Overall level of response surpassed trends reported for American’s usage of mobile applications. With a few exceptions, Service Members engaged with mCare irrespective of health status.Conclusion: Mobile health has the potential to increase the quantity and quality of patient-provider communications in a community-based, rehabilitation care setting, above that of standard care.
The changing trends and outcomes in renal replacement therapy: data from the ERA-EDTA Registry
Authors: Pippias Maria , Jager Kitty J. , Kramer Anneke , Leivestad Torbjørn , Sánchez Manuel Benítez , Caskey Fergus J. , Collart Frederic , Couchoud Cécile , Dekker Friedo W. , Finne Patrik , Fouque Denis , Heaf James G. , Hemmelder Marc H. , Kramar Reinhard , De Meester Johan , Noordzij Marlies , Palsson Runolfur , Pascual Julio , Zurriaga Oscar , Wanner Christoph , Stel Vianda S. 
Published: September 2015

AbstractBackgroundThis study examines the time trends in incidence, prevalence, patient and kidney allograft survival and causes of death (COD) in patients receiving renal replacement therapy (RRT) in Europe.MethodsEighteen national or regional renal registries providing data to the European Renal Association-European Dialysis and Transplant Association Registry between 1998 and 2011 were included. Incidence and prevalence time trends between 2001 and 2011 were studied with Joinpoint and Poisson regression. Patient and kidney allograft survival and COD between 1998 and 2011 were analysed using Kaplan–Meier and competing risk methods and Cox regression.ResultsFrom 2001 to 2008, the adjusted incidence of RRT rose by 1.1% (95% CI: 0.6, 1.7) annually to 131 per million population (pmp). During 2008–2011, the adjusted incidence fell by 2.2% (95% CI: −4.2, −0.2) annually to 125 pmp. This decline occurred predominantly in patients aged 45–64 years, 65–74 years and in the primary renal diseases diabetes mellitus type 1 and 2, renovascular disease and glomerulonephritis. Between 2001 and 2011, the overall adjusted prevalence increased from 724 to 1032 pmp (+3.3% annually, 95% CI: 2.8, 3.8). The adjusted 5-year patient survival on RRT improved between 1998–2002 and 2003–2007 [adjusted hazard ratio (HRa) 0.85, 95% CI: 0.84, 0.86]. Comparing these time periods, the risk of cardiovascular deaths fell by 25% (HRa 0.75, 95% CI: 0.74, 0.77). However the risk of malignant death rose by 9% (HRa 1.09, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.16) in patients ≥65 years.ConclusionThis European study shows a declining RRT incidence, particularly in patients aged 45–64 years, 65–74 years and secondary to diabetic nephropathy. Encouragingly, the adjusted RRT patient survival continues to improve. The risk of cardiovascular death has decreased, though the risk of death from malignancy has increased in the older population.
Lemierre Disease: A Case With Multilevel Epidural Abscess and Aggressive Neurological Weakness: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Sinatra Philip M. , Alander Dirk H. 
Published: September 2015

Background:
Lemierre disease is a rare postanginal sepsis caused by the anaerobe Fusobacterium necrophorum. It is associated with a pharyngitis that progresses quickly to thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein and metastatic abscesses to pulmonary, soft tissue, articular, and organ systems. It is rarely associated with spinal epidural abscesses. Because of the increasing antibiotic resistance, its incidence is on the rise.

Methods:
A single-patient case report of an adolescent male who initially presented to our institution for bacteremia and febrile episodes. Over a 1-week course, he developed severe back pain and progressive lower extremity weakness. Advanced imaging revealed an epidural abscess spanning T2-L3 level with extension into the psoas and the paraspinal musculature. Acute management consisted of broad-spectrum intravenous (IV) antibiotics and hemilaminectomy decompression from T2 to L3. The patient completed a 6-week course of IV antibiotics and was followed for a 1-year time period with close clinical follow-up.

Results:
Blood cultures identified the infecting organism as F. necrophorum. The combination of IV antibiotics and acute hemilaminectomy decompression resulted in successful clearance of the infecting organism with normalization of inflammatory markers and cultures. The patient noted immediate and sustained neurological improvement, with return of full motor and sensory function. At the 1-year timepoint, the patient was able to return to sports and no sagittal/coronal imbalance was noted on radiographs.

Conclusions:
An aggressive case of Lemierre disease with extensive epidural abscess formation and neurological weakness was successfully managed with the combination of IV antibiotics and extensive hemilaminectomies for decompression. The patient exhibited no long-term sequela as a result of either the epidural abscess or of its treatment.

Level of Evidence:
Level V.
The “Spacemaker”, a New Device for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery: An Evaluation and Feasibility Study
Authors: Lozekoot Pieter W.J. , Gelsomino Sandro , Kwant Paul B. , Parise Orlando , Matteucci Francesco , de Jong Monique M.J. , Maessen Jos G. , Gründeman Paul F. 
Published: September 2015

Objective Our aim was to evaluate a new inflatable lung retractor, the “Spacemaker”, and its efficacy in facilitating minimally invasive cardiothoracic surgery without the need of one lung ventilation or carbon dioxide overpressure insufflation. Methods The device was tested in 12 anesthetized pigs (90–100 kg) placed on standard endotracheal ventilation. The device was introduced into the right or left side of the chest, depending on the intended procedure to be performed, via a 3-cm incision in the fifth intercostal space. A total of seven animals were used to evaluate hemodynamic and respiratory response to the device, whereas another five animals were used to assess the feasibility of a variety of minimally invasive cardiothoracic surgical procedures. Results Introduction was easy and unhindered. The device was inflated up to 0.6 bar, thereby pushing the lung tissue gently away cranially, posteriorly, and caudally without interfering with pulmonary function or resulting in respiratory compromise. In addition, hemodynamics remained stable throughout the experiments. Different closed-chest surgical procedures such as left atrial appendage exclusion, pulmonary vein exposure, pacemaker lead placement, and endoscopic stabilization for coronary surgery, were successfully performed. Removal was quick and complete in all cases, and lung tissue showed no remnant atelectasis. Conclusions The “Spacemaker” may represent a reliable alternative to current conventional techniques to facilitate minimally invasive cardiothoracic surgery. Further research is warranted to confirm the effectiveness and the safety of this device and to optimize the model before its use in humans and its introduction into clinical practice.
Selection on network dynamics drives differential rates of protein domain evolution
Authors: Mannakee Brian K. , Gutenkunst Ryan N. 
Published: September 2015

AbstractThe long-held principle that functionally important proteins evolve slowly has recently been challenged by studies in mice and yeast showing that the severity of a protein knockout only weakly predicts that protein’s rate of evolution. However, the relevance of these studies to evolutionary changes within proteins is unknown, because amino acid substitutions, unlike knockouts, often only slightly perturb protein activity. To quantify the phenotypic effect of small biochemical per-turbations, we developed an approach to use computational systems biology models to measure the influence of individual reaction rate constants on network dynamics. We show that this dynamical influence is predictive of protein domain evolutionary rate in vertebrates and yeast, even after controlling for expression level and breadth, network topology, and knockout effect. Thus, our results not only demonstrate the importance of protein domain function in determining evolutionary rate, but also the power of systems biology modeling to uncover unanticipated evolutionary forces.
Controlling type 2 diabetes mellitus with herbal medicines: A triple‐blind randomized clinical trial of efficacy and safety
Authors: Mirfeizi Mani , Mehdizadeh Tourzani Zahra , Mirfeizi Seyedeh Zahra , Asghari Jafarabadi Mohammad , Rezvani Hamid Reza , Afzali Monireh 
Published: September 2015

AbstractBackgroundThe use of alternative medicines is common in patients with diabetes mellitus. The primary aim of the present study was to determine the effects of cinnamon and Caucasian whortleberry (Vaccinium arctostaphylos L.) on blood glucose control, lipid profile and body mass index (BMI) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).MethodsIn all, 105 T2DM patients were recruited to the present randomized triple‐blinded clinical trial. Patients were randomly divided into three groups and administered either placebo, cinnamon or whortleberry supplements (1 g/day) for 90 days. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), serum insulin, lipid profiles, and HbA1c were measured before and after the study.ResultsThere were no significant differences in baseline characteristics among the three groups. After treatment, FBG, 2‐h blood postprandial glucose and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) scores were significantly reduced in patients in the whortleberry group, but not in the placebo group. After treatment, there was a significant difference in BMI between the cinnamon and control groups (P = 0.02). There were no significant differences in any variables between the cinnamon and whortleberry groups (P>0.05 for all). In addition, there was a significant decrease in all indices of glucose control in all the cinnamon and whortleberry groups (P < 0.05).ConclusionsThere were no significant differences in blood glucose levels, insulin sensitivity or lipid profile among the three groups. However, the use of cinnamon and whortleberry in addition to conventional medical treatment is recommended to adjust weight and blood glucose levels in patients with T2DM, respectively.
Chlorhexidine‐induced anaphylaxis in surgical patients: a review of the literature
Authors: Sharp Gary , Green Sarah , Rose Michael 
Published: September 2015

AbstractBackgroundChlorhexidine (CHL) has antiseptic and disinfectant properties used to prevent hospital‐acquired infections. CHL‐induced anaphylaxis is poorly reported in surgical literature despite government warnings and growing recognition. The aim of this review is to increase awareness of CHL‐induced anaphylaxis in the surgical population.MethodsLiterature review of Embase, Medline, PubMed and the Cochrane library using ‘anaphylaxis (and) chlorhexidine’ search terms.ResultsThirty‐six articles were published on surgical patients suffering anaphylaxis to CHL. Within these, seven patients had two proven separate anaphylactic reactions and one had three separate proven anaphylactic reactions. The most commonly affected speciality was urology. The majority occurred during elective procedures. A history of atopy was surprisingly uncommon as was bronchospasm. Six patients required active chest compressions and 39.71% of patients had their surgical procedure abandoned. Unplanned intensive care admissions occurred in 27.94%.DiscussionIn order to reduce abandoned procedures, unplanned intensive care unit admissions, morbidity and mortality associated with CHL‐induced anaphylaxis we recommend the following: rationalization of CHL‐containing products, greater vigilance regarding subtle symptoms of CHL allergy, appropriate investigation of these symptoms and a greater awareness of CHL‐containing products. Lastly, we outline the appropriate investigations and highlight the need for meticulous documentation in those who are CHL allergic.
Diagnostic value of hyperfibrinogenemia as a predictive factor for appendiceal perforation in acute appendicitis
Authors: Zhao Lingling , Feng Shaoguang , Huang Songsong , Tong Yulong , Chen Zhongliang , Wu Peng , Lai Xin‐He , Chen Xiaoming 
Published: September 2015

AbstractBackgroundAcute appendicitis is one of the most common emergency requiring operation. As the first discovered coagulation factor, plasma fibrinogen frequently increases with inflammation due to the activation of coagulation. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the diagnostic value of hyperfibrinogenemia as a preoperative laboratory marker for appendiceal perforation in patients with acute appendicitis.Materials and methodsWe identified 455 patients (202 females, 253 males; mean age, 31.7 years) with histologically confirmed acute appendicitis who underwent laparoscopic or open appendectomy. Results of preoperative laboratory values and post‐operative histologic results were analysed retrospectively. A multivariate logistic regression model was performed to determine patient's age and laboratory tests associated with perforated appendicitis.ResultMean plasma fibrinogen level of all patients was 3.99 g/L (1.41 SD; range, 1.73–10.6 g/L; median, 3.69 g/L). Patients with appendiceal perforation had a mean fibrinogen level of 5.72 g/L (1.52 SD; range, 3.38–10.04 g/L; median, 5.28 g/L), which was significantly higher than those with nonperforated groups (P = 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed fibrinogen and D‐dimer were associated with perforation (P = 0.001, P = 0.014, respectively). Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of fibrinogen for discriminating acute perforated appendicitis from non‐perforated groups were larger than white blood cell and D‐dimer.ConclusionsHyperfibrinogenemia was common in patients with acute appendicitis and fibrinogen may be useful as a predictive factor for appendiceal perforation.
Utility of component analyses in subjects undergoing sublingual immunotherapy for peanut allergy
Authors: Burk C. M. , Kulis M. , Leung N. , Kim E. H. , Burks A. W. , Vickery B. P. 
Published: September 2015

SummaryBackgroundSublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) with peanut changes clinical and immune responses in most peanut‐allergic individuals, but the response is highly variable.ObjectiveWe sought to examine the component‐specific effects of peanut SLIT and determine whether peanut component testing could predict the outcome of a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled food challenge (DBPCFC) after 12 months of peanut SLIT.MethodsWe included 33 subjects who underwent peanut SLIT with a DBPCFC of 2500 mg of peanut protein performed after 12 months of therapy. Plasma samples from baseline and after 12 months of peanut SLIT were assayed using ImmunoCAP for IgE and IgG4 against whole peanut, Ara h 1, Ara h 2, Ara h 3, Ara h 8, and Ara h 9.ResultsFollowing 12 months of SLIT, 10 subjects (30%) passed the DBPCFC without symptoms and were considered desensitized. Subjects that failed the DBPCFC tolerated a median of 460 mg peanut protein (range: 10–1710 mg). The desensitized group had significantly lower baseline levels of IgE against peanut (median 40.8 vs. 231 kUA/L, P = 0.0082), Ara h 2 (median 17 vs. 113 kUA/L, P = 0.0082), and Ara h 3 (median 0.3 vs. 8.5 kUA/L, P = 0.0396). ROC curves indicated that baseline IgE against peanut and Ara h 2 were equally effective at discriminating between the two groups (AUC = 0.7957, P = 0.007752 for both).Conclusion and Clinical RelevanceIn this cohort of subjects undergoing SLIT for peanut allergy, lower baseline levels of IgE against Ara h 2, Ara h 3, and peanut were associated with successful desensitization.
Early detection of psychosis: helpful or stigmatizing experience? A qualitative study
Authors: Uttinger Martina , Koranyi Susan , Papmeyer Martina , Fend Fabienne , Ittig Sarah , Studerus Erich , Ramyead Avinash , Simon Andor , Riecher‐Rössler Anita 
Published: September 2015

AbstractAimDespite the large scientific debate concerning potential stigmatizing effects of identifying an individual as being in an at‐risk mental state (ARMS) for psychosis, studies investigating this topic from the subjective perspective of patients are rare. This study assesses whether ARMS individuals experience stigmatization and to what extent being informed about the ARMS is experienced as helpful or harmful.MethodsEleven ARMS individuals, currently participating in the follow‐up assessments of the prospective Basel Früherkennung von Psychosen (FePsy; English: Early Detection of Psychosis) study, were interviewed in detail using a semistructured qualitative interview developed for this purpose. Data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.ResultsMost individuals experiencing first symptoms reported sensing that there was ‘something wrong with them’ and felt in need of help. They were relieved that a specific term was assigned to their symptoms. The support received from the early detection centre was generally experienced as helpful. Many patients reported stigmatization and discrimination that appeared to be the result of altered behaviour and social withdrawal due to the prepsychotic symptoms they experienced prior to contact with the early detection clinic.ConclusionsThe results suggest that early detection services help individuals cope with symptoms and potential stigmatization rather than enhancing or causing the latter. More emphasis should be put on the subjective experiences of those concerned when debating the advantages and disadvantages of early detection with regard to stigma. There was no evidence for increased perceived stigma and discrimination as a result of receiving information about the ARMS.
Changes in triglyceride levels in ultra‐high risk for psychosis individuals treated with omega‐3 fatty acids
Authors: Mossaheb Nilufar , Papageorgiou Konstantinos , Schäfer Miriam R. , Becker Jana , Schloegelhofer Monika , Amminger G. Paul 
Published: September 2015

AbstractAimThe aim of this analysis was to assess changes in lipid parameters, specifically in triglyceride (TG) levels, in a population at ultra‐high risk (UHR) for psychosis treated with ω‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) versus placebo.MethodsData were derived from a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial conducted at an early psychosis unit. Eighty‐one individuals, aged 13–25 years, at UHR for psychosis participated in a 12‐week intervention trial of 1.2 g/day of ω‐3 PUFAs (n = 41) versus placebo (n = 40). Lipid and C‐reactive protein levels were collected at baseline and after 12 weeks.ResultsBetween‐group comparisons showed no significant difference in TG levels after the intervention. However, in individuals with baseline TG levels above 150 mg dL−1 there was a significant mean TG reduction of 67.29 (SD 42.54; P = 0.006) in the ω‐3 group (n = 7).ConclusionIn this sample of UHR individuals, a 12‐week intervention with ω‐3 PUFAs was effective in reducing previously elevated TG levels. This might introduce the possibility of altering the lipid profile and thus the risk of cardiovascular morbidity of UHR individuals.