bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Back to the sixties: A note on multi‐primary‐factor linear models with homogeneous capital
Authors: Freni Giuseppe
Published: April 2017

This paper extends Bruno's () one capital good two‐sector growth model with discrete technology by allowing for multiple primary factors of production. While the existence of an optimal steady state is established for any positive rate of discount, an example in which three “modified golden rules” exist shows that the optimal steady state is not necessarily unique. The extended model provides a simple exemplification of the more general principle that the presence of multiple primary factors of production in homogeneous capital models can definitively result in the same complications that arise when there is joint production.
Evaluating Philosophy as Exploratory Research
Authors: De Langhe Rogier , Schliesser Eric
Published: April 2017

This article addresses the question how philosophy should be evaluated in a research‐grant funding environment. It offers a new conception of philosophy that is inclusive and builds on familiar elements of professional, philosophical practice. Philosophy systematically questions the questions we ask, the concepts we use, and the values we hold. Its product is therefore rarely conclusive but can be embodied in everything we do. This is typical of explorative research and differentiates it from exploitative research, which constitutes the bulk of funded research activity. This article argues that exploratory research is crucial for long‐term progress and requires a distinct evaluative regime.
Observations and tracking of killer whales (Orcinus orca) with shore‐based X‐band marine radar at a marine energy test site
Authors: McCann David L. , Bell Paul S.
Published: April 2017

The Atlantic killer whale (Orcinus orca) is a top‐level marine predator with a global range, being found in all of Earth's oceans. The potential interaction between killer whales and marine renewable energy projects requires surveillance and monitoring efforts that call for new technologies, with marine radar showing promise in the field. Marine radar images recorded at the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) were used to track a pair of male killer whales undertaking Surface Active Behavior (SAB) with visual observations used as validation. Using a tidal prediction model, the tide‐adjusted, radar‐derived target speeds between SAB events provide estimates of swim speeds averaging 4 m/s and time between SAB events of 30 s. The similarities between the radar signatures of the animals and sea clutter, combined with their low occurrence compared to other imaged phenomena renders automatic detection with this system difficult. However, the combination of opportunistic radar imagery and independent visual observation has allowed the radar signature of one form of killer whale SAB to be documented. It is hoped that with a greater number of validated observations such as these that automated, radar‐based identification and the benefits it will bring to long‐term observations at MRE sites will be possible.
Temporal variability in stable isotope ratios of C and N in the vibrissa of captive and wild adult South American sea lions Otaria byronia: More than just diet shifts
Authors: Cardona Luis , Vales Damián , Aguilar Alex , Crespo Enrique , Zenteno Lisette
Published: April 2017

We analyzed the δ13C and δ15N values in the vibrissae of captive adult breeding South American sea lions (Otaria byronia) fed at a constant diet and then used this information to analyze the change in stable isotope values along the vibrissae from wild individuals. The overall diet‐to‐vibrissa discrimination factor of the captive animals was 3.0‰ ± 0.1‰ for δ13C and 3.6‰ ± 0.1‰ for δ15N, but the stable isotope ratios fluctuated periodically despite constant diet. The δ13C and δ15N values of the captive male declined at the end of the breeding season, whereas the δ13C values of the female increased during the central part of pregnancy and the δ15N values peaked during lactation. The δ13C and δ15N values of adult wild specimens also fluctuated periodically and vibrissae growth rate (0.15 mm/d in both sexes) was slightly lower than in captivity (0.17 mm/d), assuming an annual periodicity for oscillations. Similarities in the amplitude of the cycles of captive and wild males suggested that fasting was probably the main source of periodic variability in the δ15N of wild males, whereas pregnancy and lactation were probably the main source of periodic variability for the δ13C of wild females.
High prevalence of superficial white onychomycosis by Trichophyton interdigitale in a Japanese nursing home with a geriatric hospital
Authors: Watanabe Seiji , Anzawa Kazushi , Mochizuki Takashi
Published: April 2017

A mycological survey on feet was performed in a nursing home with a geriatric hospital to ascertain the prevalence of tinea lesions. Of 100 subjects, comprising 62 in the nursing home and 38 in the geriatric wing, 70 were diagnosed with tinea pedis, tinea unguium (onychomycosis) or both of which 54 had onychomycosis alone, nine tinea pedis alone and seven had co‐existing onychomycosis and tinea pedis. The most common clinical type of onychomycosis was distal lateral subungual onychomycosis (DLSO) at 30 cases, followed by superficial white onychomycosis (SWO) at 23 cases. Fifteen strains of Trichophyton (T.) interdigitale isolated from 23 SWO patients comprised six molecular types (D2II, nine cases; C2II, two cases; four other types, one case of each), based on the non‐transcribed spacer region (NTS) of the ribosomal DNA. The pathogen of three other SWO cases was identified as T. rubrum. Direct physical contact between the subjects was unlikely because they were bedridden most of the time. Nine T. interdigitale strains were isolated from a bathtub used by patients on the floor with a high incidence of SWO alone, and all nine strains were D2II type, which suggests nosocomial infection. Consequently, the hospital infection control policy committee was consulted, bathing arrangements were changed, and nursing staff were educated about onychomycosis.
Fluorofenidone attenuates interleukin‐1β production by interacting with NLRP3 inflammasome in unilateral ureteral obstruction
Authors: Zheng Linfeng , Zhang Jin , Yuan Xiangning , Tang Juan , Qiu Sisi , Peng Zhangzhe , Yuan Qiongjing , Xie Yanyun , Mei Wenjuan , Tang Yiting , Meng Jie , Hu Gaoyun , Tao Lijian
Published: April 2017

Aim

We explored whether Fluorofenidone reduced interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) production by interacting with NLRP3 inflammasome in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO).

Methods

Ureteral obstruction rats were treated with Fluorofenidone (500 mg/kg per day) for 3, 7 days. Morphologic analysis and leukocytes infiltration were assessed in ligated kidneys. Furthermore, plasmids of NLRP3, ASC, pro‐Caspase‐1, pro‐IL‐1β were co‐transfected into 293 T cells, and then treated with Fluorofenidone (2 mM). The expression of NLRP3, ASC, pro‐caspase‐1, cleavage caspase‐1, pro‐IL‐1β and cleavage IL‐1β were measured by Western blot or real‐time PCR in vivo and in vitro. Moreover the interaction of NLRP3 inflammasome‐assembly was detected by co‐immunoprecipitation and confocal immunofluorescence.

Results

Fluorofenidone treatment significantly attenuated renal fibrosis and leukocytes infiltration in UUO model. Fluorofenidone had no effect on the expression of pro‐IL‐1β. Interestingly, Fluorofenidone inhibited the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome, downregulated Caspase‐1 levels and thereby decreased the cleavage of pro‐IL‐1β into IL‐1β in vivo and in vitro. Fluorofenidone treatment distinctively weakened the interaction between NLRP3 and ASC, as well as ASC and pro‐Caspase‐1 in vivo. However, Fluorofenidone treatment only significantly weakened the interaction between ASC and pro‐Caspase‐1 in co‐transfected 293 T cells.

Conclusion

Fluorofenidone serves as a novel anti‐inflammatory agent that attenuates IL‐1β production in UUO model by interacting with NLRP3 inflammasome.
Membrane transport status does not predict peritonitis risk in patients on peritoneal dialysis
Authors: So Sarah , Aw Laraine , Sud Kamal , Lee Vincent W.
Published: April 2017

Aim

The aim of this study is to determine whether peritoneal membrane transport status (MTS) is associated with peritonitis or poor peritoneal dialysis‐related outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study analysed data of incident adult patients on peritoneal dialysis in Western Sydney between 1 October 2003 and 31 December 2012. Only patients who underwent peritoneal equilibration and adequacy tests within 6 months of commencement were included. Kaplan–Meier survival curves for time until first peritonitis and time until composite endpoint of peritonitis, death or technique failure, censored for transplant, were constructed.

Results

About 397 patients, mean age 58.8(+/−2SD29) years, body mass index (BMI) 26.6(+/−5) kg/m2 and serum albumin 35.4(+/−5) g/L were included. About 59.2% had high/high‐average peritoneal MTS; 45.8% were past and current smokers; 51.9% developed at least one episode of peritonitis; 7.6% changed to haemodialysis; 6.3% underwent transplantation; 8.8% died; and 25.4% remained free of the aforementioned events over a mean follow‐up period of 22.5 months (range 0–115 months). Peritoneal MTS was not associated with time to first peritonitis (p = 0.67) or composite endpoint of peritonitis, death or technique failure (p = 0.12). Smoking and hypoalbuminaemia independently predicted time to first peritonitis. Past and current smokers had a hazard ratio of 1.38 (95% CI 1.03–1.86) for shorter time to first peritonitis, significant after adjustment for serum albumin (p = 0.033). Serum albumin <32 g/L had a hazard ratio of 1.74 (95% CI 1.13–2.67) for shorter time to first peritonitis, significant after adjusting for smoking (p = 0.012).

Conclusion

Smoking and hypoalbuminaemia, but not MTS, were associated with shorter time to first peritonitis and composite endpoint of peritonitis, death and technique failure.
Effects of pre‐education combined with a simulation for caring for children with croup on senior nursing students
Authors: Lee Myung‐Nam , Kang Kyung‐Ah , Park Sun‐Jung , Kim Shin‐Jeong
Published: April 2017

Educational outcomes, such as knowledge, confidence in performance, ability in nursing practice, and satisfaction with learning methods in caring for children with croup, were compared between groups of students that received education through simulation combined with pre‐education, simulation only, and pre‐education only. In this quasi‐experimental design, the educational intervention for the experimental group was the pre‐education modality. Data from a convenience sample of 127 senior nursing students were drawn from three nursing schools in South Korea. There were significant differences in the mean scores of knowledge, confidence in performance, satisfaction with the learning method, and ability in nursing practice between the three groups. Pre‐education with simulation significantly enhanced students' knowledge, confidence in performance, ability in nursing practice, and satisfaction with learning methods compared with pre‐education or simulation alone. Simulation strategies should focus more on enhancing nursing students' learning outcomes.
Irisin and musculoskeletal health
Authors: Colaianni Graziana , Cinti Saverio , Colucci Silvia , Grano Maria
Published: April 2017

Irisin is a hormone‐like myokine produced in abundance by skeletal muscle in response to exercise, both in mice and humans. Once released into the circulation, irisin acts on white adipocytes to induce the browning response and subsequently activates nonshivering thermogenesis. We have examined the premise that irisin produced during exercise may subserve further functions in the musculoskeletal system. We review evidence for its possible skeletal effects, including the central role that irisin plays in the control of bone mass, with positive effects on cortical mineral density and geometry in mice. We also review the autocrine effects of irisin in skeletal muscle, in which it upregulates the expression of its precursor (FNDC5). Since loss of bone and muscle mass occurs with aging, immobility, and several metabolic diseases, future studies exploring the efficacy of irisin in restoring bone and reversing muscle wasting could be important to establishing irisin as a molecule that combines beneficial effects for treating osteoporosis and muscular atrophy. If the results from mice were confirmed in human studies, an irisin‐based therapy could be developed for physically disabled or bedridden patients.
Mobilising research ethics: Two examples from Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Adams‐Hutcheson Gail
Published: April 2017

(Im)mobilities are considered to encapsulate a broad range of projects that establish a ‘moment‐driven’ social science. I argue that moment driven research needs to be in conversation with an ethical document. It is how the ethical landscape responds to this increasingly dynamic and radically open interaction, while avoiding the excess dangers of institutionalised review that warrants more attention. Through the lens of two research projects, one based around relocated populations from post‐disaster Christchurch and the other on sharemilkers in the Waikato, mobilities and ethics are discussed. In short, the mobilities of participants altered the ethical dynamics of research.
Assemblage, Structure and Meaning in Bronze Metalwork Studies: an Analysis of the British Penard Assemblage
Authors: Needham Stuart
Published: April 2017

Multi‐object metalwork deposits provide the foundation block for many branches of enquiry, yet surprisingly little attention has been paid to the methodological issues that underlie their analysis and interpretation. The framework outlined here aims to circumvent some of the dangers of circular argument inherent in the concepts of metalwork ‘stages’, ‘phases’ or ‘traditions’, as well as in assumptions of pan‐regional synchronizations in metalwork developments. The term ‘Assemblage’ is defined to provide a carefully circumscribed but interpretatively neutral framework for the study of metalwork groups linked by association. Assemblage subdivisions allow significant internal variations to be explored for temporal, social and cultural meanings. These analytical devices used in conjunction with ‘bubble chronologies’ allow flexibility in detailed interpretation whilst holding on to a consensually agreed near‐empirical structure. Consideration is also given to the problem of regional phase groups of metalwork that lack associations and thus preclude Assemblage definition. The case of the Penard Assemblage is salient owing to the debate about whether the ‘Wallington complex’ should be considered an integral part of it. Although the ‘Assemblage/Aspect/Group’ structure applied here can accommodate some divergence in views, available evidence supports typo‐chronological coherence between Penard and Wallington material. Occasional associations used recently to justify a ‘Limehouse phase’ between Penard to Wilburton metalwork are just as easily understood as representing a transition towards 1100 bc. The lack of associations for the Limehouse family of swords, largely contemporary with late Penard, is argued to be an accentuation of the already rare occurrence of swords in earlier associations. The depositional phenomena of the Penard Assemblage are instead centred on an array of palstaves, rapiers, spearheads, shields and gold ornaments.
The Manching Zoo
Authors: Sievers Susanne
Published: April 2017

While the significance of the bird and animal world in the imagery of La Tène art is clear, the opportunity is taken here to bring together a number of pieces, both well‐known and recent, from the major site of Manching. Noting associations where these can be ascertained, it is argued that the animal figures seem to underline the significance of Manching as a cultic centre.
Cult Places at Former Oppida in South‐East Gaul: Questions of Memory, Tradition and Identity
Authors: Golosetti Raphaël
Published: April 2017

This paper offers a new perspective on the reuse of Celtic fortified hilltops by Gallo‐Roman shrines. Going beyond the simplistic explanation of continuity, I shall argue for the role of memory in the perception of the landscape and in the location of some Gallo‐Roman shrines. This paper opposes the argument for continuity of sacred spaces and Celtic cults during the Roman period despite abandonment of the settlements. The evidence supports a more symbolic protohistoric expression, beyond that attendant on the place of a cult. The continuity concealed breaks, changes and modifications. I put forward the concept of ‘fictive continuity’, after Hobsbawm. The reclamation of a place of memory assigns a greater visibility to these shrines, enhancing their topographical appearance at the highest points in their respective landscapes, thus enabling the sites to appropriate fully space and place and to ensure cohesion within the community.
Developments in Harnessing and Draught in the Roman World
Authors: Brownrigg Gail , Crouwel Joost
Published: April 2017

Material remains of harness elements from different parts of the Roman Empire have contributed to a new interpretation of the harness depicted on funerary reliefs of the second‐third centuries AD from north‐western Europe and on other figured documents, such as Trajan's Column in Rome (dedicated in 113 AD). As recent experimental reconstruction has shown, the curved wooden plaques, held firmly in place by a metal bow, may have formed a precedent for the collar and hames developed during the Middle Ages into the form still in use today. The most important innovation was the introduction – no later than the second century AD – of single draught between shafts, replacing traditional paired draught with pole and yoke. There is even some evidence that other elements of modern harness, such as traces and the whippletree, hitherto considered to be medieval inventions, were also known during the period of the Roman Empire.
Atrial fibrillation originating from superior vena cava with atrial flutter‐electrocardiogram pattern
Authors: Huang Hung‐Kai , Chang Shih‐Lin , Lin Yenn‐Jiang , Lo Li‐Wei , Hu Yu‐Feng , Chung Fa‐Po , Huang Yen‐Chang , Lin Chung‐Hsing , Chan Chao‐Shun , Chang Hung‐Yu , Lin Chin‐Yu , Chang Yao‐Ting , Huang Ching‐Hui , Chen Shih‐Ann
Published: April 2017

Backgrounds

Substrate property is related to the genesis and maintenance of atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of substrate property on the electrocardiogram (ECG) in patients with AF originating from the superior vena cava (SVC).

Methods and Results

Seventy‐six patients with AF originating from SVC who underwent catheter ablation were included from 2004 to 2013. Of these patients, 16 had a presentation of atrial flutter (AFL)‐pattern ECG during AF (group 1), and 60 patients did not (group 2). There was no significant difference in clinical characteristics between the groups. The percentage of low voltage zone (LVZ) in SVC below the level of pulmonary artery in group 1 was significantly larger than that in group 2. The polarities of the flutter wave in 12‐lead ECG were compared with another 26 subjects with reverse typical AFL. The ECG morphology was characterized by negative or biphasic P waves in lead V1 in most of the patients in group 1 (62.5%), which was analogous to that in reverse typical AFL. The negative polarity of flutter waves in aVL might distinguish SVC AF with an AFL‐pattern from reverse typical AFL.

Conclusion

The ECG characteristics of AF originating from SVC can mimic atypical AFL. LVZ in the SVC may be associated with the presentation of AFL‐pattern ECG.
The first species ofHapalodectes(Mesonychia, Mammalia) from the middle Paleocene of China (Qianshan Basin, Anhui Province) sheds light on the initial radiation of hapalodectids
Authors: Solé Floréal , De Bast Eric , Yang Jian , Li Cheng‐Sen , Smith Thierry
Published: April 2017

A lower jaw of the mesonychianHapalodectesis reported from Nongshanian sediments (Upper Doumu Formation; middle Paleocene) of the Qianshan Basin (Anhui Province, China). The fragmentary mandible is only the third specimen of Hapalodectidae discovered in Paleocene deposits, and the first in south east China; it is moreover the oldest, the two other specimens having been found in Gashatan (late Paleocene) localities. The premolars and molars of the new fossil are morphologically similar toHapalodectes dux(late Paleocene of Mongolia), which has been considered to be the most primitive hapalodectid, but their relative proportions recallH. paleocenusand the EoceneHapalodectesspecies. As a result, the fossil described herein appears to be different from the other previously described species ofHapalodectesin being morphologically intermediate betweenH. duxand the otherHapalodectesspecies, notably the BumbanianHapalodectes hetangensisandH. huanghaiensisfrom China; it is thus identified as a new species,Hapalodectes lopatini(possibly a male individual). Its discovery is important because it sheds light on the initial radiation of hapalodectids. The presence of one primitive hapalodectid in Mongolia previously suggested the Mongolian Plateau as the centre of origination of this carnivorous family, but the discovery ofH. lopatiniin older sediments from south‐east China challenges this hypothesis. In the earliest Eocene,Hapalodectesdispersed from Asia to North America; this event being part of the ‘East of Eden’ dispersals. This event resulted in the geographical separation of two distinctHapalodectesgroups, in North America and south‐eastern China respectively.
Modelling enrolment in Cambrian trilobites
Authors: Esteve Jorge , Rubio Pedro , Zamora Samuel , Rahman Imran A.
Published: April 2017

Trilobites were capable of enroling in different ways based on the flexible articulation of thoracic segments and associated interlocking devices; the type of enrolment (spiral or sphaeroidal) is thought to have largely depended on the coaptative devices that each trilobite used to enclose the body. Based on X‐ray microtomography scans of complete enrolled specimens from the Cambrian, we created three‐dimensional (3D) computer models to assess the kinematics needed to achieve both enrolment types. We demonstrate that closely related trilobites with little morphological variation (Bailiaspis?, Conocoryphe and Parabailiella) developed different enrolment types as a result of small variations in the number of thoracic segments and the angle between adjacent segments. Moreover, our models indicate that sphaeroidal enrolment, which is associated with a smaller number of thoracic segments, enabled faster encapsulation. This supports the hypothesis that there was a trend in the evolution of trilobites towards reduction in the number of thoracic segments in phylogenetically derived taxa in order to enhance the efficiency of enrolment.
An evaluation of the mixed pediatric unit for blood loss replacement in pediatric craniofacial surgery
Authors: Mogensen Stefan , Lubenow Norbert , Nilsson Pelle , Engquist Henrik , Knutsson Folke , Enblad Per , Nowinski Daniel , Frykholm Peter
Published: April 2017

Background

Surgical correction for craniosynostosis is often associated with significant perioperative hemorrhage. We implemented a transfusion strategy with a strict protocol including transfusion triggers, frequent assessment of coagulation tests, and the use of a novel transfusion unit, the mixed pediatric unit.

Aim

The aim of the study was to evaluate if the applied transfusion strategy could reduce total blood loss and number of blood donors.

Methods

Children <1 year old admitted for craniosynostosis surgery were included for the study. On the day before surgery, an adult red blood cell unit was mixed with plasma and split into two mixed pediatric units—one intended for intraoperative use and the other saved for the postoperative period. A series of blood samples were obtained for standard coagulation parameters as well as thromboelastography to evaluate potential coagulopathy. Estimated blood loss, the number of additional standard packed red cell units opened in the first 24 h after surgery, the volume of fluid administered, and the total transfusion volumes were compared to a historical control group with similar age and characteristics.

Results

Nineteen infants were included in the study group, and were compared to 21 historical controls. There was a significant reduction of intraoperative transfusion volume. Twelve patients were transfused postoperatively, but in 8 of these additional exposure to packed red cell donor blood was avoided by using the saved mixed pediatric unit. In the historical controls, a total of 10 packed red cell units were used in nine patients postoperatively. No additional transfusions of plasma, platelets, fibrinogen, or tranexamic acid were needed in either group, and the coagulation parameters including thromboelastography remained within their respective normal ranges in the study group.

Conclusion

For craniofacial surgery in infants, moderate perioperative blood loss and avoidance of coagulopathy is possible when a multifactorial approach is implemented. In this setting, intraoperative, but not total perioperative blood loss was reduced with the studied protocol. The study indicates that there may be a role for mixed pediatric units to reduce exposure to multiple donors although the reduction in total donor exposure was not significant.
LecRK‐V, an L‐type lectin receptor kinase in Haynaldia villosa, plays positive role in resistance to wheat powdery mildew
Authors: Wang Zongkuan , Cheng Jiangyue , Fan Anqi , Zhao Jia , Yu Zhongyu , Li Yingbo , Zhang Heng , Xiao Jin , Muhammad Faheem , Wang Haiyan , Cao Aizhong , Xing Liping , Wang Xiue
Published: April 2017

Plant sense potential microbial pathogen using pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) to recognize pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). The Lectin receptor‐like kinase genes (LecRKs) are involved in various cellular processes mediated by signal transduction pathways. In the present study, an L‐type lectin receptor kinase gene LecRK‐V was cloned from Haynaldia villosa, a diploid wheat relative which is highly resistant to powdery mildew. The expression of LecRK‐V was rapidly up‐regulated by Bgt inoculation and chitin treatment. Its transcript level was higher in the leaves than in roots, culms, spikes and callus. Single‐cell transient overexpression of LecRK‐V led to decreased haustorium index in wheat variety Yangmai158, which is powdery mildew susceptible. Stable transformation LecRK‐V into Yangmai158 significantly enhanced the powdery mildew resistance at both seedling and adult stages. At seedling stage, the transgenic line was highly resistance to 18 of the tested 23 Bgt isolates, hypersensitive responses (HR) were observed for 22 Bgt isolates, and more ROS at the Bgt infection sites was accumulated. These indicated that LecRK‐V confers broad‐spectrum resistance to powdery mildew, and ROS and SA pathways contribute to the enhanced powdery mildew resistance in wheat.
Oxygen isotope fractionations across individual leaf carbohydrates in grass and tree species
Authors: Lehmann Marco M. , Gamarra Bruno , Kahmen Ansgar , Siegwolf Rolf T.W. , Saurer Matthias
Published: April 2017

Almost no δ18O data are available for leaf carbohydrates, leaving a gap in the understanding of the δ18O relationship between leaf water and cellulose. We measured δ18O values of bulk leaf water (δ18OLW) and individual leaf carbohydrates (e.g. fructose, glucose and sucrose) in grass and tree species and δ18O of leaf cellulose in grasses. The grasses were grown under two relative humidity (rH) conditions. Sucrose was generally 18O‐enriched compared with hexoses across all species with an apparent biosynthetic fractionation factor (εbio) of more than 27‰ relative to δ18OLW, which might be explained by isotopic leaf water and sucrose synthesis gradients. δ18OLW and δ18O values of carbohydrates and cellulose in grasses were strongly related, indicating that the leaf water signal in carbohydrates was transferred to cellulose (εbio = 25.1‰). Interestingly, damping factor pexpx, which reflects oxygen isotope exchange with less enriched water during cellulose synthesis, responded to rH conditions if modelled from δ18OLW but not if modelled directly from δ18O of individual carbohydrates. We conclude that δ18OLW is not always a good substitute for δ18O of synthesis water due to isotopic leaf water gradients. Thus, compound‐specific δ18O analyses of individual carbohydrates are helpful to better constrain (post‐)photosynthetic isotope fractionation processes in plants.
Efficiency of Ustekinumab in Crohn's Disease with Severe Psoriasiform Rash Induced by Biotherapies in an Adolescent
Authors: Bertrand Valérie , El Haite Abdelaziz , Carré Delphine
Published: April 2017

Ustekinumab is approved for the treatment of psoriasis in adolescents and for the treatment of moderate to severe Crohn's disease (CD) in adults, but data are lacking in pediatric CD. We report a case of severe psoriasis induced by biotherapies in an adolescent with CD that improved after switching to ustekinumab (90 mg at weeks 0, 2, and 4 and then every 8 weeks). The patient had not experienced CD relapse after 1 year of follow‐up. Ustekinumab can be an alternative therapy for psoriasis induced by biotherapies when conventional treatment fails and can maintain remission of CD.
Does a meso‐caval shunt have positive effects in a pig large‐for‐size liver transplantation model?
Authors: Tannuri Ana Cristina Aoun , de Albuquerque Rangel Moreira Daniel , Belon Alessandro , Coelho Maria Cecília Mendonça , Gonçalves Josiane Oliveira , Serafini Suellen , Tannuri Uenis
Published: April 2017

In pediatric liver transplantations with LFS grafts, higher incidences of graft dysfunction probably occur due to IRI. It was postulated that increasing the blood supply to the graft by means of a meso‐caval shunt could ameliorate the IRI. Eleven pigs underwent liver transplantation and were divided into two groups: LFS and LFS+SHUNT group. A series of flowmetric, metabolic, histologic, and molecular studies were performed. No significant metabolic differences were observed between the groups. One hour after reperfusion, portal flow was significantly lower in the recipients than in the donors, proving that the graft was maintained in low portal blood flow, although the shunt could promote a transient increase in the portal blood flow and a decrease in the arterial flow. Finally, it was verified that the shunt promoted a decrease in inflammation and steatosis scores and a decrease in the expression of the eNOS gene (responsible for the generation of nitric oxide in the vascular endothelium) and an increase in the expression of the proapoptotic gene BAX. The meso‐caval shunt was responsible for some positive effects, although other deleterious flowmetric and molecular alterations also occurred.
High‐level Ab Initio Absorption Spectra Simulations of Neutral, Anionic and Neutral+ Chromophore of Green Fluorescence Protein Chromophore Models in Gas Phase and Solution
Authors: Georgieva Ivelina , Aquino Adelia J. A. , Trendafilova Natasha , Lischka Hans
Published: April 2017

Semiclassical ab initio simulations of the absorption spectra of neutral and anionic p‐hydroxybenzylidene‐2,3‐dimethylimidazolinone (p‐HBDI), a model chromophore of green fluorescent protein (GFP) and of a positively charged neutral (N+)‐HBDI chromophore model, were performed in gas phase with the resolution‐of‐identity algebraic diagrammatic construction through second‐order (RI‐ADC(2)) method. The calculated absorption spectra in gas phase are composed of one band centered at 3.51 eV (HBDI), 2.50 eV (HBDI−) and 3.02 eV ((N+)‐HBDI) owing to the absorption of the first 1ππ* transition. Band maxima are redshifted by ~0.1 eV with respect to the corresponding vertical energies. The COSMO‐RI‐ADC(2) calculations of the first vertical excitation energy of HBDI, HBDI− and (N+)‐HBDI forms in polar solution including microsolvation simulate the observed solvent redshift for neutral HBDI and the solvent blueshift of the HBDI− and (N+)‐HBDI forms. The state‐specific solvation approach applied to TDDFT calculations reproduced the experimental solvent shifts for the three HBDI forms, demonstrating a more accurate theoretical description as compared to the linear‐response TDDFT approach.
Risk Modeling of Interdependent Complex Systems of Systems: Theory and Practice
Authors: Haimes Yacov Y.
Published: April 2017

The emergence of the complexity characterizing our systems of systems (SoS) requires a reevaluation of the way we model, assess, manage, communicate, and analyze the risk thereto. Current models for risk analysis of emergent complex SoS are insufficient because too often they rely on the same risk functions and models used for single systems. These models commonly fail to incorporate the complexity derived from the networks of interdependencies and interconnectedness (I–I) characterizing SoS. There is a need to reevaluate currently practiced risk analysis to respond to this reality by examining, and thus comprehending, what makes emergent SoS complex. The key to evaluating the risk to SoS lies in understanding the genesis of characterizing I–I of systems manifested through shared states and other essential entities within and among the systems that constitute SoS. The term “essential entities” includes shared decisions, resources, functions, policies, decisionmakers, stakeholders, organizational setups, and others. This undertaking can be accomplished by building on state‐space theory, which is fundamental to systems engineering and process control. This article presents a theoretical and analytical framework for modeling the risk to SoS with two case studies performed with the MITRE Corporation and demonstrates the pivotal contributions made by shared states and other essential entities to modeling and analysis of the risk to complex SoS. A third case study highlights the multifarious representations of SoS, which require harmonizing the risk analysis process currently applied to single systems when applied to complex SoS.
Palaeo‐environment in an ancient low‐latitude, arid lacustrine basin with loessite: The Smith Bank Formation (Early Triassic) in the Central North Sea, UK Continental Shelf
Authors: Wilkins Anne D. , Hurst Andrew , Wilson Michael J. , Archer Stuart
Published: April 2017

Predominantly fine‐grained strata were deposited in the Smith Bank Formation (Early Triassic) in the Central North Sea area of the Northern Permian Basin. Previously regarded as monotonous red claystone, examination of continuous core reveals abundant stratification, significant variation in colour, siltstone as the prevalent average grain size, and claystone is rare. Loessite occurs beyond the north‐western lacustrine margin, and aerosol dust has inundated clay pellets derived from aeolian reworking of the desiccated lake floor. The loessite has limited evidence of pluvial reworking but rare fossil roots testify to sufficient moisture to sustain plants. Loessite has not previously been differentiated successfully from other fine‐grained strata in the subsurface, but this study defines the presence of random grain‐fabric orientation as an intrinsic unequivocal characteristic of loessite that formed during air‐fall deposition of aerosol dust. Comparison with outcrop data verifies the utility of grain fabric to differentiate loessite. Tosudite, an aluminous di‐octahedral regularly ordered mixed‐layer chlorite/smectite, which is rare in sedimentary rock, forms a significant proportion (10 to 21%) of the clay mineral fraction of loessite along with a similar quantity of kaolinite. In all other samples, only illite and chlorite are identified, which is typical of fine‐grained Triassic strata. In a location, close to the southern lake margin, lacustrine strata are characterized by fining‐upward couplets of very fine‐grained sandstone into siltstone and mudstone, with occasional desiccated surfaces. Small sand injections and associated sand extrusions are common and indicate periodic fluidization of sand. Precise stratigraphic location of the Smith Bank Formation is problematic because of extremely sparse fossil preservation; however, there is no sedimentological evidence for a period of hyperaridity known from the early Olenekian in continental Europe, which may mean that the North Permian Basin was never hyperarid or that the Smith Bank Formation is restricted to the Induan.
School context influences the ethnic identity development of immigrant children in middle childhood
Authors: Brown Christia Spears
Published: April 2017

The present paper describes a study investigating the ethnic identity development of Latino immigrant children (n = 155) in middle childhood (ages 8–11) in a predominantly White community. The study examined how ethnic identity was related to children's school context. School context was operationalized at the structural level, as the ethnic composition of the teachers and peers, as well as the schools' implicit messages about their valuing of multiculturalism; and the proximal interpersonal level, as children's perceptions of peer discrimination and teacher fairness. Results indicated that both the structural and proximal context predicted children's ethnic label choices, the importance placed on their ethnic identity, the positivity of their ethnic identity, and their American identity.
Detection of a new HLA‐B*44 allele, HLA‐B*44:02:45, by monoallelic Sanger sequencing
Authors: Kuzmich E. , Makarenko O. , Alyanskiy A. , Afanasyev B.
Published: April 2017

Sequence of the novel allele,
HLA‐B*44:02:45, differs from
HLA‐B*44:02:01:01 by 1‐nucleotide exchange in exon 2.
Therapeutic plasma exchange as part of multimodal treatment of acquired hemophilia in a patient with concurrent acute intracerebral bleed and pulmonary embolism
Authors: Wool Geoffrey D. , Chapel David , Treml Angela , Miller Jonathan L.
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Autoantibodies against Factor VIII (FVIII) define the rare but life‐threatening bleeding disorder acquired hemophilia A (AHA). Correction of FVIII deficiency and eradication of the factor inhibitor are the ultimate therapeutic goals in this disorder. Bypassing agents such as recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) or FVIII inhibitor bypassing agent are often used to control coagulopathy before the inhibitor is eradicated. Bypassing agents carry a risk of thrombosis, however.

CASE REPORT

We report a patient with newly diagnosed AHA and thalamic bleed who additionally had active atrial fibrillation and developed a segmental pulmonary embolism, limiting tolerable rFVIIa dosage. This patient with very‐high‐risk brain bleed and concurrent thrombosis on bypass agent represented a significant management dilemma for which we successfully utilized therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) to reduce the inhibitor titer.

RESULTS

FVIII inhibitor was undetectable and FVIII level was above the lower limit of normal within 12.5 days from starting TPE. While the patient ultimately died 24 days from admission for reasons unrelated to bleeding, his intracerebral hemorrhage was unchanged in size and no other bleeding morbidity was observed.

CONCLUSION

This patient achieved eradication of FVIII inhibitor and did not have bleed expansion while receiving multimodal therapy including corticosteroids, rituximab, and TPE. We discuss the periprocedural risks of TPE in an acquired hemophilia patient and our multiteam management of that risk.
Use of an electronic brachytherapy surface applicator to treat an epiglottal fibrosarcoma in a dog
Authors: Maitz Charles A. , Robinson Katherine L.
Published: April 2017

Presented is the case of an epiglottal fibrosarcoma in a dog. The location of the mass resulted in challenges in the delivery of adequate dose to the tumor, and herein we describe the treatment using an electronic brachytherapy source. The treatment consisted of four Gy fractions, twice daily for a total of 10 fractions (40 Gy total). Visual reevaluation two weeks after treatment supported adequate spatial dose delivery, and the patient was reportedly improved six weeks after treatment. We demonstrate that plesiotherapy using an electronic brachytherapy device is feasible and may be useful in the treatment of carefully selected veterinary tumors.