bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
E2F3a gene expression has prognostic significance in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Wang Kai‐Ling , Mei Yan‐Yan , Cui Lei , Zhao Xiao‐Xi , Li Wei‐Jing , Gao Chao , Liu Shu‐Guang , Jiao Ying , Liu Fei‐Fei , Wu Min‐Yuan , Ding Wei , Li Zhi‐Gang 
Published: April 2014

AbstractObjectivesTo study E2F3a expression and its clinical significance in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).MethodsWe quantified E2F3a expression at diagnosis in 148 children with ALL by real‐time PCR. In the test cohort (n = 48), receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to find the best cut‐off point to divide the patients into E2F3a low‐ and high‐expression groups. The prognostic significance of E2F3a expression was investigated in the test cohort and confirmed in the validation cohort (n = 100). The correlations of E2F3a expression with the clinical features and treatment outcome of these patients were analyzed.ResultsROC curve analysis indicated that the best cut‐off point of E2F3a expression was 0.3780. In the test cohort, leukemia‐free survival (LFS) and event‐free survival (EFS) of the low‐expression group were lower than those of the high‐expression group (log rank: P = 0.026 for both). This finding was verified in the validation cohort. LFS, EFS, and overall survival were also lower in the low‐expression group than in the high‐expression group (log rank, P = 0.015, 0.008, and 0.002 respectively). E2F3a low expression was correlated with the existence of BCR‐ABL fusion. An algorithm composed of E2F3a expression and minimal residual disease (MRD) could predict relapse or induction failure more precisely than current risk stratification. These results were still significant in the ALL patients without BCR‐ABL fusion.ConclusionsLow expression of E2F3a was associated with inferior prognosis in childhood ALL. An algorithm composed of E2F3a expression and MRD could predict relapse or induction failure more precisely than that of the current risk stratification.
Sustained N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor hypofunction remodels the dopamine system and impairs phasic signaling
Authors: Ferris Mark J. , Milenkovic Marija , Liu Shuai , Mielnik Catharine A. , Beerepoot Pieter , John Carrie E. , España Rodrigo A. , Sotnikova Tatyana D. , Gainetdinov Raul R. , Borgland Stephanie L. , Jones Sara R. , Ramsey Amy J. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractChronic N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) hypofunction has been proposed as a contributing factor to symptoms of schizophrenia. However, it is unclear how sustained NMDAR hypofunction throughout development affects other neurotransmitter systems that have been implicated in the disease. Dopamine neuron biochemistry and activity were examined to determine whether sustained NMDAR hypofunction causes a state of hyperdopaminergia. We report that a global, genetic reduction in NMDARs led to a remodeling of dopamine neurons, substantially affecting two key regulators of dopamine homeostasis, i.e. tyrosine hydroxylase and the dopamine transporter. In NR1 knockdown mice, dopamine synthesis and release were attenuated, and dopamine clearance was increased. Although these changes would have the effect of reducing dopamine transmission, we demonstrated that a state of hyperdopaminergia existed in these mice because dopamine D2 autoreceptors were desensitized. In support of this conclusion, NR1 knockdown dopamine neurons have higher tonic firing rates. Although the tonic firing rates are higher, phasic signaling is impaired, and dopamine overflow cannot be achieved with exogenous high‐frequency stimulation that models phasic firing. Through the examination of several parameters of dopamine neurotransmission, we provide evidence that chronic NMDAR hypofunction leads to a state of elevated synaptic dopamine. Compensatory mechanisms to attenuate hyperdopaminergia also impact the ability to generate dopamine surges through phasic firing.
Ipsilateral corticomotor excitability is associated with increased gait variability in unilateral transtibial amputees
Authors: Hordacre Brenton , Bradnam Lynley V. , Barr Christopher , Patritti Benjamin L. , Crotty Maria 
Published: April 2014

AbstractIpsilateral primary motor cortex (M1) reorganisation after unilateral lower‐limb amputation may degrade function of the amputated limb. We hypothesised unilateral lower‐limb amputees would have a bilateral increase in corticomotor excitability, and increased excitability of ipsilateral M1 would be associated with increased step‐time variability during gait. Twenty transtibial amputees (16 male) aged 60.1 years (range 45–80 years), and 20 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy adult controls were recruited. Single‐pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation assessed corticomotor excitability. Two indices of corticomotor excitability were calculated. An index of corticospinal excitability (ICE) determined relative excitability of ipsilateral and contralateral corticomotor projections to alpha‐motoneurons innervating the quadriceps muscle (QM) of the amputated limb. A laterality index (LI) assessed relative excitability of contralateral projections from each hemisphere. Spatial‐temporal gait analysis was performed to calculate step‐time variability. Amputees had lower ICE values, indicating relatively greater excitability of ipsilateral corticomotor projections than controls (P = 0.04). A lower ICE value was associated with increased step‐time variability for amputated (P = 0.04) and non‐amputated limbs (P = 0.02). This association suggests corticomotor projections from ipsilateral M1 to alpha‐motoneurons innervating the amputated limb QM may interfere with gait. Cortical excitability in amputees was not increased bilaterally, contrary to our hypothesis. There was no difference in excitability of contralateral M1 between amputees and controls (P = 0.10), and no difference in LI (P = 0.71). It appears both hemispheres control one QM, with predominance of contralateral corticomotor excitability in healthy adults. Following lower‐limb amputation, putative ipsilateral corticomotor excitability is relatively increased in some amputees and may negatively impact on function.
Ecological traits influence the phylogenetic structure of bird species co‐occurrences worldwide
Authors: Barnagaud Jean‐Yves , Daniel Kissling W. , Sandel Brody , Eiserhardt Wolf L. , Şekercioğlu Çağan H. , Enquist Brian J. , Tsirogiannis Constantinos , Svenning Jens‐Christian 
Published: April 2014

AbstractThe extent to which species’ ecological and phylogenetic relatedness shape their co‐occurrence patterns at large spatial scales remains poorly understood. By quantifying phylogenetic assemblage structure within geographic ranges of >8000 bird species, we show that global co‐occurrence patterns are linked – after accounting for regional effects – to key ecological traits reflecting diet, mobility, body size and climatic preference. We found that co‐occurrences of carnivorous, migratory and cold‐climate species are phylogenetically clustered, whereas nectarivores, herbivores, frugivores and invertebrate eaters tend to be more phylogenetically overdispersed. Preference for open or forested habitats appeared to be independent from the level of phylogenetic clustering. Our results advocate for an extension of the tropical niche conservatism hypothesis to incorporate ecological and life‐history traits beyond the climatic niche. They further offer a novel species‐oriented perspective on how biogeographic and evolutionary legacies interact with ecological traits to shape global patterns of species coexistence in birds.
Increased serum HMGB1 levels in patients with Henoch–Schönlein purpura
Authors: Chen Tao , Guo Zai‐pei , Wang Wen‐ju , Qin Sha , Cao Na , Li Meng‐meng 
Published: April 2014

AbstractHigh‐mobility group box‐1 (HMGB1) has been implicated as a pro‐inflammatory cytokine in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. However, information about HMGB1 in Henoch–Schönlein purpura (HSP) is still unclear. Herein, we investigated the role of HMGB1 in patients with HSP and the pro‐inflammatory effects of HMGB1 on human dermal microvascular endothelial cell line (HMEC‐1). Serum HMGB1 levels in patients with HSP together with patients with allergic vasculitis (AV) and urticarial vasculitis (UV) were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). HMEC‐1 cells were treated with HMGB1 at concentrations ranging from 4 ng/ml to 100 ng/ml. Serum HMGB1 levels were significantly increased in patients with HSP, AV and UV, when compared with those in control group. Moreover, abundant cytoplasmic expression of HMGB1 was observed in endothelial cells in lesional skin of HSP patients. Using membrane cytokine antibody array, we indicate that HMGB1 markedly induced TNF‐α and IL‐6 release in cultured supernatant. Furthermore, by real‐time quantitative PCR and ELISA, the effects of HMGB1 on these cytokines production in HMEC‐1 cells were established. Finally, Western blot data revealed that HMGB1 can induce phosphorylation of inhibitor of κB‐α (IκBα) and the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) p65 in HMEC‐1 cells. In conclusion, this study provides first observations on the association of HMGB1 with HSP. We suggest that HMGB1 may be an important mediator of endothelial inflammation through the induction of TNF‐α and IL‐6 production and may play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of HSP.
A model system to analyse the ability of human keratinocytes to form hair follicles
Authors: Thangapazham Rajesh L. , Klover Peter , Li Shaowei , Wang Ji‐an , Sperling Leonard , Darling Thomas N. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractEarlier studies showed that dermal cells lose trichogenic capacity with passage, but studies on the effect of keratinocyte passage on human hair follicle neogenesis and graft quality have been hampered by the lack of a suitable model system. We recently documented human hair follicle neogenesis in grafted dermal‐epidermal composites, and in the present study, we determined the effects of keratinocyte passage on hair follicle neogenesis. Dermal equivalents were made with cultured human dermal papilla cells and were overlaid with either primary or passaged human keratinocytes to form dermal‐epidermal composites; these were then grafted onto immunodeficient mice. Superior hair follicle neogenesis was observed using early keratinocyte cultures. Characteristics such as formation of hair shafts and sebaceous glands, presence of hair follicles with features of anagen or telogen follicles, and reproducible hair and skin function parameters make this model a tool to study human hair follicle neogenesis and development.
Suppression of tumor necrosis factor receptor‐associated protein 1 expression induces inhibition of cell proliferation and tumor growth in human esophageal cancer cells
Authors: Tian Xin , Ma Ping , Sui Cheng‐Guang , Meng Fan‐Dong , Li Yan , Fu Li‐Ye , Jiang Tao , Wang Yang , Jiang You‐Hong 
Published: April 2014

Tumor necrosis factor receptor‐associated protein 1 (TRAP1) is a molecular chaperone involved in multidrug resistance and antiapoptosis in some human tumors, but its regulatory mechanisms have not been revealed in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). In this study, 138 specimens of ESCC were analyzed. TRAP1 was overexpressed in ESCC, particularly in poorly differentiated tumors. To further explore the molecular regulatory mechanism, we constructed specific small interfering RNA‐expressing vectors targeting Trap1, and knocked down Trap1 expression in the esophageal cancer cell lines ECA109 and EC9706. Knockdown of Trap1 induced increases in reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial depolarization, which have been proposed as critical regulators of apoptosis. The cell cycle was arrested in G2/M phase, and in vitro inhibition of cell proliferation was confirmed with 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide and bromodeoxyuridine assays. Furthermore, re‐expression of TRAP1 in Trap1 small interfering RNA‐transfected ESCC cells restored cell proliferation and cell apoptosis. Bioluminescence of subcutaneously xenografted ESCC tumor cells demonstrated significant inhibition of in vivo tumor growth by Trap1 knockdown. This study shows that TRAP1 was overexpressed in most patients with ESCC, and caused an increase in antiapoptosis potency. TRAP1 may be regarded as a target in ESCC biotherapy.
Converting Data to Knowledge: One District's Experience Using Large‐Scale Proficiency Assessment
Authors: Davin Kristin J. , Rempert Tania A. , Hammerand Amy A. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractThe present study reports data from a large‐scale foreign language proficiency assessment to explore trends across a large urban school district. These data were used in conjunction with data from teacher and student questionnaires to make recommendations for foreign language programs across the district. This evaluation process resulted in recommendations related to a need for consistency in curriculum and assessment, program articulation, and responsive placement strategies, as well as the need for greater emphasis in interpretive and interpersonal communication.
Digital News Stories: Building Language Learners' Content Knowledge and Speaking Skills
Authors: Lee Lina 
Published: April 2014

AbstractThe study explored how the use of digital news stories promoted the development of content knowledge and oral language skills. The study involved 15 advanced Spanish students who used VoiceThread, an interactive multimedia tool, to create and exchange digital news regarding current events over the course of one semester. Both quantitative and qualitative data collected from post‐surveys, transcribed digital recordings, blog reflections, and final interviews were analyzed. Data showed that digital news empowered students to use their own voices for self‐expression and self‐reflection and that social interaction helped establish a sense of community in which students supported each other by offering new ideas and feedback on each other's writing. In addition, students gained multi‐literacy skills and further improved their speaking fluency. The findings also suggest that well‐designed tasks are vital and that the instructor's guidance is needed to facilitate critical reflection.
Explaining participation rates in recreational fishing across industrialised countries
Authors: Arlinghaus R. , Tillner R. , Bork M. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractOn average, 10.52% of the total population was found to fish for recreation across the industrialised world (N = 27 countries), amounting to an estimated 118 million (95% confidence interval 81–154 million) people in North America, Europe and Oceania. Participation rates declined with population density and gross domestic product, indicating a negative effect of urbanisation and post‐modernisation on fishing interest. Participation rates also declined with increasing median age, average household size and unemployment rate, suggesting resource limitation to constrain participation in fishing. By contrast, two indicators of the cultural importance of fish (fish landings and per capita fish consumption) and an indicator of perceived need for leisure (weekly working hours) were positively correlated with fishing participation. Based on these findings, which explained 60% of the variance in fishing participation across the industrialised world, reduced fishing interest is to be expected with post‐industrialisation. Dedicated management and marketing intervention is needed to reverse the track of diminishing fishing interest in industrialised countries.
Is variable connectivity among populations of a continental gobiid fish driven by local adaptation or passive dispersal?
Authors: Huey Joel A. , Crook David A. , Macdonald Jed I. , Schmidt Daniel J. , Marshall Jonathan C. , Balcombe Stephen R. , Woods Ryan J. , Hughes Jane M. 
Published: April 2014

Summary

Amphidromy, the dispersal of larvae to the estuarine or marine environment with juveniles recolonising fresh waters to complete development, is common on tropical islands. This has led to the suggestion that amphidromy is an adaptation to hydrologically unpredictable environments, allowing recolonisation after local extinction (dispersal‐limitation hypothesis). Alternatively, amphidromy may be more common in streams with stronger flow, as high tractive forces flush larvae into the estuarine/marine environment, forcing them to recolonise (passive dispersal hypothesis).

We tested these hypotheses in a continental gobiid fish, the Roman Nose Goby (Awaous acritosus) that inhabits hydrologically and physically diverse catchments on the east coast of Australia. We measured 87Sr/86Sr along transects of the otoliths of 92 adult fish from 12 catchments, identified migratory life histories from these data and correlated the proportion of migratory fish with key environmental variables. This information was augmented with data from mtDNA (n = 276) and six microsatellite loci (n = 429) from 19 catchments, to explore gene flow among catchments and to assess whether local adaptation was likely in the face of high or restricted gene flow.

Estimates of 87Sr/86Sr along transects revealed high variation in life history, with 63% of individuals showing no evidence of marine/estuarine residence. The slope of catchments was the only significant variable associated with the proportion of larvae retained in catchments, with steep catchments having a greater proportion of adults exhibiting a marine/estuarine phase during early life. Total panmixia was detected with mtDNA and six microsatellite loci, suggesting that gene flow is high for this species.

These results support the passive dispersal hypothesis. Steep slopes are likely to have higher tractive forces in their flow, leading to a greater proportion of larvae being flushed into the estuary or sea. In addition, high gene flow would inhibit local adaptation, making the dispersal‐limitation hypothesis unlikely.

This study provides a framework for understanding how local adaptation may be constrained by gene flow across the landscape so that the adaptive or passive mechanism underlying facultative amphidromy can be explored.
Gelatinous zooplankton biomass in the global oceans: geographic variation and environmental drivers
Authors: Lucas Cathy H. , Jones Daniel O. B. , Hollyhead Catherine J. , Condon Robert H. , Duarte Carlos M. , Graham William M. , Robinson Kelly L. , Pitt Kylie A. , Schildhauer Mark , Regetz Jim 
Published: April 2014

AbstractAimScientific debate regarding the future trends, and subsequent ecological, biogeochemical and societal impacts, of gelatinous zooplankton (GZ) in a changing ocean is hampered by lack of a global baseline and an understanding of the causes of biogeographic patterns. We address this by using a new global database of GZ records to test hypotheses relating to environmental drivers of biogeographic variation in the multidecadal baseline of epipelagic GZ biomass in the world's oceans.LocationGlobal oceans.MethodsOver 476,000 global GZ data and metadata items were assembled from a variety of published and unpublished sources. From this, a total of 91,765 quantitative abundance data items from 1934 to 2011 were converted to carbon biomass using published biometric equations and species‐specific average sizes. Total GZ, Cnidaria, Ctenophora and Chordata (Thaliacea) biomass was mapped into 5° grid cells and environmental drivers of geographic variation were tested using spatial linear models.ResultsWe present JeDI (the Jellyfish Database Initiative), a publically accessible database available at http://jedi.nceas.ucsb.edu. We show that: (1) GZ are present throughout the world's oceans; (2) the global geometric mean and standard deviation of total gelatinous biomass is 0.53 ± 16.16 mg C m−3, corresponding to a global biomass of 38.3 Tg C in the mixed layer of the ocean; (3) biomass of all gelatinous phyla is greatest in the subtropical and boreal Northern Hemisphere; and (4) within the North Atlantic, dissolved oxygen, apparent oxygen utilization and sea surface temperature are the principal drivers of biomass distribution.Main conclusionsJeDI is a unique global dataset of GZ taxa which will provide a benchmark against which future observations can be compared and shifting baselines assessed. The presence of GZ throughout the world's oceans and across the complete global spectrum of environmental variables indicates that evolution has delivered a range of species able to adapt to all available ecological niches.
Choosing and using methodological search filters: searchers' views
Authors: Beale Sophie , Duffy Steven , Glanville Julie , Lefebvre Carol , Wright Dianne , McCool Rachael , Varley Danielle , Boachie Charles , Fraser Cynthia , Harbour Jenny , Smith Lynne 
Published: April 2014

AbstractBackgroundSearch filters or hedges are search strategies developed to assist information specialists and librarians to retrieve different types of evidence from bibliographic databases. The objectives of this project were to learn about searchers' filter use, how searchers choose search filters and what information they would like to receive to inform their choices.MethodsInterviews with information specialists working in, or for, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) were conducted. An online questionnaire survey was also conducted and advertised via a range of email lists.ResultsSixteen interviews were undertaken and 90 completed questionnaires were received. The use of search filters tends to be linked to reducing a large amount of literature, introducing focus and assisting with searches that are based on a single study type. Respondents use numerous ways to identify search filters and can find choosing between different filters problematic because of knowledge gaps and lack of time.ConclusionsSearch filters are used mainly for reducing large result sets (introducing focus) and assisting with searches focused on a single study type. Features that would help with choosing filters include making information about filters less technical, offering ratings and providing more detail about filter validation strategies and filter provenance.