bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytokine (IL16) and tyrphostin actions on ovarian primordial follicle development
Authors: Feeney Amanda , Nilsson Eric , Skinner Michael K
Published: June 2014

An ovarian follicle is composed of an oocyte and surrounding theca and granulosa cells. Oocytes are stored in an arrested state within primordial follicles until they are signaled to re-initiate development by undergoing primordial-to-primary follicle transition. Previous gene bionetwork analyses of primordial follicle development identified a number of critical cytokine signaling pathways and genes potentially involved in the process. In the current study, candidate regulatory genes and pathways from the gene network analyses were tested for their effects on the formation of primordial follicles (follicle assembly) and on primordial follicle transition using whole ovary organ culture experiments. Observations indicate that the tyrphostin inhibitor (E)-2-benzylidene-3-(cyclohexylamino)-2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-1-one increased follicle assembly significantly, supporting a role for the MAPK signaling pathway in follicle assembly. The cytokine interleukin 16 (IL16) promotes primordial-to-primary follicle transition as compared with the controls, where as Delta-like ligand 4 (DLL4) and WNT-3A treatments have no effect. Immunohistochemical experiments demonstrated the localization of both the cytokine IL16 and its receptor CD4 in the granulosa cells surrounding each oocyte within the ovarian follicle. The tyrphostin LDN193189 (LDN) is an inhibitor of the bone morphogenic protein receptor 1 within the TGFB signaling pathway and was found to promote the primordial-to-primary follicle transition. Observations support the importance of cytokines (i.e., IL16) and cytokine signaling pathways in the regulation of early follicle development. Insights into regulatory factors affecting early primordial follicle development are provided that may associate with ovarian disease and translate to improved therapy in the future.
The Functional Significance of Common Polymorphisms in Zinc Finger Transcription Factors
Authors: Lockwood Sarah H , Guan Anna , Yu Abigail S , Zhang Chi , Zykovich Artem , Korf Ian , Rannala Bruce , Segal David J
Published: June 2014

Variants that alter the DNA-binding specificity of transcription factors could affect the specificity for and expression of potentially many target genes, as has been observed in several tumor-derived mutations. Here we examined if such trans expression quantitative trait loci (trans-eQTLs) could similarly result from common genetic variants. We chose to focus on the Cys2-His2 class of zinc finger transcription factors because they are the most abundant superfamily of transcription factors in human and have well-characterized DNA binding interactions. We identified 430 SNPs that cause missense substitutions in the DNA-contacting residues. Fewer common missense SNPs were found at DNA-contacting residues compared with non-DNA-contacting residues (P = 0.00006), consistent with possible functional selection against SNPs at DNA-contacting positions. Functional predictions based on zinc finger transcription factor (ZNF) DNA binding preferences also suggested that many common substitutions could potentially alter binding specificity. However, Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium analysis and examination of seven orthologs within the primate lineage failed to find evidence of trans-eQTLs associated with the DNA-contacting positions or evidence of a different selection pressure on a contemporary and evolutionary timescales. The overall conclusion was that common SNPs that alter the DNA-contacting residues of these factors are unlikely to produce strong trans-eQTLs, consistent with the observations by others that trans-eQTLs in humans tend to be few and weak. Some rare SNPs might alter specificity and remained rare due to purifying selection. The study also underscores the need for large-scale eQTLs mapping efforts that might provide experimental evidence for SNPs that alter the choice of transcription factor binding sites.
Fine-Mapping and Selective Sweep Analysis of QTL for Cold Tolerance inDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Wilches Ricardo , Voigt Susanne , Duchen Pablo , Laurent Stefan , Stephan Wolfgang
Published: June 2014

There is a growing interest in investigating the relationship between genes with signatures of natural selection and genes identified in QTL mapping studies using combined population and quantitative genetics approaches. We dissected an X-linked interval of 6.2 Mb, which contains two QTL underlying variation in chill coma recovery time (CCRT) in Drosophila melanogaster from temperate (European) and tropical (African) regions. This resulted in two relatively small regions of 131 kb and 124 kb. The latter one co-localizes with a very strong selective sweep in the European population. We examined the genes within and near the sweep region individually using gene expression analysis and P-element insertion lines. Of the genes overlapping with the sweep, none appears to be related to CCRT. However, we have identified a new candidate gene of CCRT, brinker, which is located just outside the sweep region and is inducible by cold stress. We discuss these results in light of recent population genetics theories on quantitative traits.
Alcohol Septal Ablation for the Treatment of Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy
Authors: O’Mahony Constantinos , Mohiddin Saidi A , Knight Charles ,   The Heart Muscle Disease Clinic, London Chest Hospital, London, UK,   The Heart Muscle Disease Clinic, London Chest Hospital, London, UK,   The Heart Muscle Disease Clinic, London Chest Hospital, Bonner Road, London E2 9JX, UK. E: Charles.Knight@bartshealth.nhs.uk
Published: June 2014

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is an inherited myocardial disorder characterised by left ventricular hypertrophy. A subgroup of patients develops limiting symptoms in association with left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO). Current international guidelines recommend that symptomatic patients are initially treated by alleviating exacerbating factors and negatively inotropic medication. Drug-refractory symptoms require a comprehensive evaluation of the mechanism of LVOTO and review by a multidisciplinary team to consider the relative merits of myectomy, alcohol septal ablation (ASA) and pacing. This article provides a brief overview of HCM and the pathophysiology of LVOTO, and reviews the use of ASA in patients with drug-refractory symptoms secondary to LVOTO.
Left Atrial Appendage Closure Devices For Stroke Prevention
Authors: Kapur Sunil , Mansour Moussa ,   Fellow in Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital,   Associate Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Director, Cardiac Electrophysiology Laboratory; Director, Atrial Fibrillation Program, Brigham and Womens Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, GRB-109, Boston, MA 02114, US. E: mmansour@partners.org
Published: June 2014

Cardioembolic stroke is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The left atrial appendage (LAA) is the prominent source of clot formation. While systemic anticoagulation is the current standard of care, anticoagulants carry many contraindications and possible complications. Techniques for elimination of the LAA are in various stages of development and early clinical use. In the coming years, accumulating data will help guide the management of AF patients at risk of bleeding as well as potentially become first-line therapy to reduce the risk of thromboembolic stroke. The purpose of this article is to review current endovascular and epicardial catheter-based LAA occlusion devices and the clinical data supporting their use.
The Potential Role of Edoxaban in Stroke Prevention Guidelines
Authors: Plunkett Oliver , Lip Gregory Y H ,   Research Fellow,   Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Birmingham Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, City Hospital, Dudley Road, Birmingham, B18 7QH, UK. E: g.y.h.lip@bham.ac.uk
Published: June 2014

With the emergence of edoxaban, the oral factor Xa inhibitors now appear consolidated as the dominant class of novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) for stroke prevention in non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). The oral factor Xa inhibitors do not require an adequate time in therapeutic range to be effective, presenting a potential advantage over the vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). Guidelines are changing to reflect the increased choice of anticoagulants and as clinicians move away from the VKAs towards the relative safety and efficacy of NOACs, they must consider which one offers the best therapy for their patient. The ENGAGE-AF study was the latest phase III trial to report on the safety and efficacy of a new factor Xa inhibitor relative to warfarin. Both edoxaban 60mg once daily, and edoxaban 30mg once daily were found to be non-inferior compared to warfarin for the prevention of ischaemic stroke and systemic embolism, being associated with significantly lower rates of major bleeding, intracranial haemorrhage and cardiovascular death. A two-tiered dosing option may present clinicians with a further element of choice for the individual patient.
ThermoCool® SmartTouch® Catheter – The Evidence So Far for Contact Force Technology and the Role of VisiTag™ Module
Authors: Lin Tina , Ouyang Feifan , Kuck Karl-Heinz , Tilz Roland ,   Electrophysiology Fellow,   Electrophysiologist,   Director of Cardiology; Electrophysiologist, Department of Cardiology, Asklepios Klinik St Georg, Hamburg, Germany,   Electrophysiologist, Department of Cardiology, Asklepios Klinik St Georg, Lohmuehlenstrasse 5, 20099 Hamburg, Germany. E: r.tilz@asklepios.com
Published: June 2014

Catheter ablation has become an important modality in the treatment of most cardiac arrhythmias. In recent years there has been significant development of new ablation energies and technologies in an attempt to improve clinical outcomes and decrease disease burden. Ablation failure is often associated with inadequate lesion formation, and catheter-to-myocardial contact force (CF) and catheter stability are two of the parameters required to produce effective lesions during radiofrequency energy application. Recently, CF sensing catheters and tagging modules have been developed to give operators realtime data on catheter force and stability. This review describes the novel ThermoCool® SmartTouch® Catheter (Biosense Webster Inc., CA, US) and VisiTag Module (Biosense Webster Inc., CA, US) software, and discusses the results of several studies on CF and catheter stability during mapping and ablation of the left atrium and ventricle from our electrophysiology laboratory. We assess the short- and longer-term outcomes during mapping and ablation with and without CF data, as well as the use of the VisiTag Module™ software, which allows the evaluation of multiple parameters of lesion formation, then integrates and displays this as automatic tags in a relatively objective way.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Without General Anaesthetic
Authors: Kennon Simon , Lim Zhan ,   London Chest Hospital, Cardiology Department, Bonner Road, London, E2 9JX, UK. E: simon.kennon@radcliffecardiology.com,   London Chest Hospital, Cardiology Department, London, UK
Published: June 2014

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedures are increasingly being performed under local anaesthetic, generally with sedation. Operators hope this will reduce mortality, morbidity and length of hospital stay. A general anaesthetic (GA), however, although involving intrinsic risk, permits transoesophageal echocardiogram (TOE) imaging throughout a procedure as well as eliminating patient anxiety, pain and movement. This article reviews the published literature, all single-centre experiences, comparing TAVI procedures performed with and without a GA. Procedures performed without GA are generally shorter with reduced length of stay compared with those performed under GA. There is no evidence of any difference in outcomes.
Use of Cardiac Resynchronisation Therapy – Change of Clinical Settings
Authors: Looi Khang-Li , SL Tang Anthony , Agarwal Sharad ,   Cardiac Electrophysiology Fellow, Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Papworth Everard, Cambridge, CB23 3RE, UK. E: khangli@hotmail.com,   Consultant Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist, London Health Science Centre, London, Ontario, Canada,   Consultant Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist, Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK E: simon.walsh@belfasttrust.hscni.net
Published: June 2014

Current guidelines recommend cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) for patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction (left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] ≤35 %), QRS duration of ≥120–150 ms (Class IA and IB indications) on surface electrocardiogram (ECG) and New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III or IV heart failure (HF) symptoms. Ongoing studies aim to expand the use of CRT in patients with asymptomatic or minimal symptoms left ventricular dysfunction. There have been studies that have shown benefit of CRT extended to this group of patients. There have also been different implications of the role of CRT in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), patients with narrow QRS duration or with right bundle branch block (RBBB) on surface ECG, as well as patients with end-stage renal failure on dialysis therapy. This article aims to review the current body of evidence of expanding use of CRT in these populations.
Adoption of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Western Europe
Authors: Mylotte Darren , Osnabrugge Ruben LJ , Martucci Giuseppe , Lange Ruediger , Kappetein Arie Pieter , Piazza Nicolo ,   Department of Interventional Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland,   Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands,   Department of Interventional Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada,   German Heart Centre, Munich, Germany,   Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands,   Department of Interventional Cardiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Cardiac Surgery, German Heart Centre, Lazarettstrasse 36, 80636 Munich, Germany. E: nicolopiazza@mac.com
Published: June 2014

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a novel therapeutic option for patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS) at excessive or high surgical risk for conventional surgical aortic valve replacement. First commercialised in Europe in 2007, TAVI growth has been exponential among some Western European nations, though recent evidence suggests heterogeneous adoption of this new and expensive therapy. Herein, we review the evidence describing the utilisation of TAVI in Western Europe.
Percutaneous Paravalvular Leak Closure
Authors: Krishnaswamy Amar , Tuzcu E Murat , Kapadia Samir R ,   Interventional Cardiology Fellowship,   Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Heart and Vascular Institute,   Sones Cardiac Catheterization Laboratories, Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Desk J2-3, Cleveland, OH 44195, US. E: Kapadis@ccf.org
Published: June 2014

Symptomatic paravalvular leak (PVL) complicates up to 12 % of surgical valve replacements. When patients present with congestive heart failure and/or haemolysis, reoperation for repeat valve replacement may be undertaken, but presents greater risk and lower likelihood of success than the initial operation. Therefore, percutaneous approaches to PVL closure have been developed by specialists in structural cardiac intervention. Large series demonstrate high levels of procedural success and promising clinical outcomes for this complex intervention. A thorough understanding of multimodality imaging is necessary for the diagnosis of PVL and the safe and successful performance of these closure procedures.
A „személyes daimón” elképzelésének alakulása Platóntól Iamblichosig
Authors: Tóth Ibolya
Published: June 2014

Az ember életét végigkísérő „személyes daimón” gondolata először Platónnál jelenik meg a görög filozófiai hagyományban. A platóni corpus idevágó szöveghelyeit megvizsgálva azt találjuk, hogy az elképzelés komoly változáson esett át Platón filozófiáján belül, azonban az alapgondolat végig ugyanaz marad: a személyes daimón az ember sorsának a beteljesítője. Platón utódai megpróbálták mesterük olykor ellentmondásosnak tűnő elképzeléseit összeegyeztetni egymással. A tanulmányban sorra veszem azokat a szövegeket, amelyek a személyes daimón kérdésével foglalkoznak. Ezek a művek középplatonikus és újplatonikus szerzőktől maradtak ránk. A szövegek arra mutatnak, hogy a platonizmus egyes korszakaiban a személyes daimón elképzelése bizonyos sajátosságokat hordoz: míg a középső platonizmusban Sókratés daimonionjának az alakjával összeolvadva az erkölcsös életre való buzdításra szolgál, addig az újplatonizmusban a lélek megszabadulásában játszik szerepet.
Propertius actiumi elégiája (IV 6) és a palatiumi Apollo-templom
Authors: Acél Zsolt
Published: June 2014

Propertius Kr. e. 16-ban keletkezett actiumi elégiája (IV 6) — az Aeneis pajzsleírásának egy utalását leszámítva — az első szöveg, amely a Kr. e. 28-ban fölszentelt palatiumi épületegyüttest az actiumi csata eseményéhez köti. A tanulmány azt vizsgálja, hogy a Propertius-költemény hogyan kapcsolódik a templom és könyvtár épületéhez, az elégia hogyan építi föl a kulturális-politikai emlékezet terét. Először a verset meghatározó gyűrűs szerkezet pontos föltárására tesz kísérletet, majd a propertiusi Augustus-kép néhány vonását tárja föl, végül pedig azt kutatja, hogy Propertius, illetve Horatius szövegeiben hogyan jelenik meg a kor kánonteremtő igénye, az irodalmi nyilvánosság kérdése, a Bibliotheca Apollinis Palatini kulturális üzenete.
Advanced Photocatalysis with Anatase Nano-coated Multi-walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Pyrgiotakis Georgios , Lee Sung-Hwan , Sigmund Wolfgang
Published: June 2014

A novel approach is presented to synergistically enhance photocatalytic activity in a nanocomposite using the high aspect ratio of carbon nanotube (CNT) and their unique electrical properties. Composite nanoparticles were synthesized with sol-gel nano-coating on multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs). The nanostructure was characterized using SEM, TEM, XRD, Raman, FTIR and UV-VIS spectroscopies. Photocatalytic efficiencies of commercial photocatalysts (Degussa P25) and TiO2 nano-coated MWNTs were evaluated by Azo dye degradation tests. Superior photocatalytic activity was observed for the nanocomposite with UV-A and with visible light only irradiation.
Does Elevated Temperature and Doubled CO2 Increase Growth of Three Potentially Invasive Plants?
Authors: Sheppard Christine S. , Stanley Margaret C.
Published: June 2014

Climate change, comprising an increase in carbon dioxide levels coupled with elevated temperature, may favor invasive plants, as they possess traits that will facilitate adaptation to a new climate. In particular, alien plants of subtropical origin introduced to a colder region are expected to increase the number and size of their populations and spread farther with climate change. Seedlings of three such woody alien species in New Zealand (Archontophoenix cunninghamiana, Psidium guajava, and Schefflera actinophylla) were grown in environmental chambers under the combination of two temperature (23.7 and 26 C [74.7 and 78.8 F]) and two CO2 (450 and 900 ppmv) regimes, simulating current conditions and conditions projected for the end of the century. Total biomass of S. actinophylla was 45% higher and total leaf area 35% larger under doubled CO2 compared to current CO2. Root : shoot ratio was higher under doubled CO2 across all species, and the number of branches was increased for P. guajava. The only significant interactive effect of elevated temperature and doubled CO2 was for relative growth rate of the height of S. actinophylla seedlings. This study provides strong evidence of more vigorous growth of S. actinophylla under future conditions, particularly increased CO2, whereas the other two species appear likely to maintain current growth rates. Better knowledge of the types of future conditions that may benefit such species, together with results of species distribution models and competition and eco-physiology studies will ensure robust weed risk assessments.
Assessing the Aquatic Plant Community within the Ross Barnett Reservoir, Mississippi
Authors: Cox Michael C. , Wersal Ryan M. , Madsen John D. , Gerard Patrick D. , Tagert Mary L.
Published: June 2014

Alligatorweed, waterhyacinth, and hydrilla are three nonnative aquatic species of concern in the Ross Barnett Reservoir near Jackson, MS. Point-intercept surveys were conducted on the reservoir from 2005 to 2010 to monitor native and nonnative species' distributions and assess herbicide treatment efficacy across the reservoir. Foliar applications of 2,4-D, glyphosate, imazapyr, and diquat were made during summer months for emergent and free-floating vegetation, whereas submersed applications of liquid copper and granular fluridone were applied in spring and late summer for subsurface hydrilla populations. American lotus is the native species that has been observed the most throughout the survey years, with occurrence frequencies averaging between 17 and 27%. Alligatorweed populations significantly decreased from 21% in 2005 to 4% in 2006; however, they consistently increased in the next 4 yr to 12% occurrence in 2010. Waterhyacinth occurrence has remained relatively constant over the study period, averaging below 10% occurrence. Hydrilla was discovered in the reservoir in late 2005 and has remained below 2% in frequency of occurrence since 2006. Suppression of these nonnative species has been attributed to rigorous monitoring and herbicide applications conducted on the reservoir since 2005. A logistic regression model indicated that as native species richness increased, the likelihood of a nonnative species occurring also increased.
Bioenergy and Invasive Plants: Quantifying and Mitigating Future Risks
Authors: Barney Jacob N.
Published: June 2014

The United States is charging toward the largest expansion of agriculture in 10,000 years with vast acreages of primarily exotic perennial grasses planted for bioenergy that possess many traits that may confer invasiveness. Cautious integration of these crops into the bioeconomy must be accompanied by development of best management practices and regulation to mitigate the risk of invasion posed by this emerging industry. Here I review the current status of United States policy drivers for bioenergy, the status of federal and state regulation related to invasion mitigation, and survey the scant quantitative literature attempting to quantify the invasive potential of bioenergy crops. A wealth of weed risk assessments are available on exotic bioenergy crops, and generally show a high risk of invasion, but should only be a first-step in quantifying the risk of invasion. The most information exists for sterile giant miscanthus, with preliminary empirical studies and demographic models suggesting a relatively low risk of invasion. However, most important bioenergy crops are poorly studied in the context of invasion risk, which is not simply confined to the production field; but also occurs in crop selection, harvest and transport, and feedstock storage. Thus, I propose a nested-feedback risk assessment (NFRA) that considers the entire bioenergy supply chain and includes the broad components of weed risk assessment, species distribution models, and quantitative empirical studies. New information from the NFRA is continuously fed back into other components to further refine the risk assessment; for example, empirical dispersal kernels are utilized in landscape-level species distribution models, which inform habitat invasibility studies. Importantly, the NFRA results in a relative invasion risk to known species (e.g., is giant reed a higher or lower invasion risk than johnsongrass). This information is used to design robust mitigation plans that include record keeping, regular scouting and reporting, prudent harvest and transport practices that consider species biology, and eradication protocols as an ultimate precaution. Finally, a socio-political balance must be struck (i.e., a cost-benefit analysis) among our energy choices that consider the broader implications, which includes the risk of future invasions.
Short-Term Vegetation Response Following Mechanical Control of Saltcedar (Tamarixspp.) on the Virgin River, Nevada, USA
Authors: Ostoja Steven M. , Brooks Matthew L. , Dudley Tom , Lee Steven R.
Published: June 2014

Tamarisk (a.k.a. saltcedar,Tamarixspp.) is an invasive plant species that occurs throughout western riparian and wetland ecosystems. It is implicated in alterations of ecosystem structure and function and is the subject of many local control projects, including removal using heavy equipment. We evaluated short-term vegetation responses to mechanicalTamarixspp. removal at sites ranging from 2 to 5 yr post-treatment along the Virgin River in Nevada, USA. Treatments resulted in lower density and cover (but not eradication) ofTamarixspp., increased cover of the native shrubPluchea sericia(arrow weed), decreased density and cover of all woody species combined, increased density of both native annual forbs and the nonnative annualSalsola tragus(prickly Russian-thistle), and lower density of nonnative annual grasses. The treated plots had lower mean woody species richness, but greater herbaceous species richness and diversity. Among herbaceous species, native taxa increased in richness whereas nonnative species increased in both species richness and diversity. Thus, efforts to removeTamarixspp. at the Virgin River reduced vegetative cover contributing to fuel loads and probability of fire, and resulted in positive effects for native plant diversity, with mixed effects on other nonnative species. However, absolute abundances of native species and species diversity were very low, suggesting that targets of restoring vegetation to pre-invasion conditions were not met. Longer evaluation periods are needed to adequately evaluate how short-term post-treatment patterns translate to long-term patterns of plant community dynamics.
First-Year Establishment, Biomass and Seed Production of Early vs. Late Seral Natives in Two Medusahead (Taeniatherum caput-medusae) Invaded Soils
Authors: Uselman Shauna M. , Snyder Keirith A. , Leger Elizabeth A. , Duke Sara E.
Published: June 2014

Re-seeding efforts to restore or rehabilitate Great Basin rangelands invaded by exotic annual grasses are expensive and have generally achieved limited success. There is a need to identify new strategies to improve restoration outcomes. We tested the performance of a native early seral seed mix (annual forbs, early seral grasses and shrubs) with that of a native late seral mix representative of species commonly used in restoration when growing with medusahead in soils of contrasting texture (sandy loam and clay loam) through the first growing season after seeding. Natives were also seeded without medusahead. We found that the grasses and forbs in the early seral mix established significantly better than those in the late seral mix, and the early seral mix significantly reduced aboveground biomass and seed production of medusahead by 16 and 17% respectively, likely because of competition with the early seral native forb, bristly fiddleneck. Medusahead performance was reduced in both soil types, suggesting utility of bristly fiddleneck in restoration is not limited to only one soil type. In contrast, the late seral mix did not suppress medusahead establishment, aboveground biomass or seed production. Although the native perennial grasses, particularly early seral species, were able to establish with medusahead, these grasses did not appear to have a suppressive effect on medusahead during the first growing season. Medusahead was able to establish and produce seeds on both soil types, demonstrating an ability to expand its current range in the Intermountain West, though aboveground biomass and seed production was higher in the clay loam. Our results suggest that certain species may play a key role in restoration, and that targeting early seral species in particular to find additional native species with the ability to suppress exotic annual grasses is an important next step in improving restoration outcomes in desert ecosystems.
Invasion of an Exotic Shrub into Forested Stands in an Agricultural Matrix
Authors: Gorchov David L. , Henry Mary C. , Frank Peter A.
Published: June 2014

We investigated the relative importance of stand and landscape characteristics in the invasion of a nonnative shrub, Amur honeysuckle, in 40 woodlots in an agricultural matrix in southwest Ohio. We quantified stand characteristics that could influence invasibility, the intrinsic susceptibility of an area to invasion, including woodlot size, perimeter-to-area ratio, tree basal area, and stand age. At the landscape scale we included factors that potentially influence propagule rain (the contribution of seeds from individuals established outside the focal area), including the land cover and road density in a 1,500-m buffer around each woodlot, as well as the extent to which the perimeter was forested at two points in the past, and latitude (based on an apparent south-to-north invasion in this region). Based on stepwise regression, we determined that honeysuckle cover was determined primarily by landscape parameters, particularly the percent of the buffer comprised of cropland. Woodlots surrounded by more cropland had less honeysuckle cover, which we attribute to paucity of nearby seed sources and/or minimal movement of seed-dispersing animals. From these findings, we argue that impediments to propagule rain are more important in shaping the invasion of this exotic shrub than are characteristics of the woodlots themselves, i.e., community invasibility.
Hyparrhenia variabilis and Hyparrhenia cymbaria (Poaceae): New for the Americas, Successful in Mexico
Authors: Vibrans Heike , García-Moya Edmundo , Clayton Derek , Sánchez-Ken Jorge G.
Published: June 2014

Hyparrhenia cymbaria (boat thatching grass, ipopo grass) and Hyparrhenia variabilis (no common name), robust African savanna grasses with complex taxonomies, have not yet been reported for the Americas. Large populations were found in central Jalisco, northeastern Michoacán, and Morelos, Mexico. The species grow in maize and sorghum fields as well as on roadsides and in old fields, but always in association with present or past sorghum cultivation; this suggests introduction through contaminated seed material from Africa. Because of the size and density of the populations, and their native ecology, they are both agricultural pests as well as a potentially dangerous invaders for the American (sub)tropical grasslands and native scrublands, including the southern United States. The invasion underlines the importance of effective phytosanitary controls of the seed supply.
Adjuvant Therapy for Renal Cell Carcinoma: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Pal Sumanta K. , Haas Naomi B.
Published: June 2014

At the present time, the standard of care for patients who have received nephrectomy for localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is radiographic surveillance. With a number of novel targeted agents showing activity in the setting of metastatic RCC, there has been great interest in exploring the potential of the same agents in the adjuvant setting. Herein, we discuss the evolution of adjuvant trials in RCC, spanning from the immunotherapy era to the targeted therapy era. Pitfalls of current studies are addressed to provide a context for interpreting forthcoming results. Finally, we outline avenues to incorporate promising investigational agents, such as PD-1 (programmed death-1) inhibitors and MNNG transforming gene inhibitors, in future adjuvant trials.
The environmental sustainability of electrokinetic geosynthetic strengthened slopes
Authors: Jones Colin J F P , Lamont-Black John , Glendinning Stephanie , White Chris , Alder David
Published: June 2014

Failures of cut and embankment slopes are common and expected to increase. Conventional repair techniques include acquiring additional land, reducing the slope angle, installing drainage improvements, soil nailing and/or providing structural support. All of these methods have technical limitations and most cause considerable environmental disturbance. However, new stabilisation options that are more effective and economical than traditional approaches are becoming available, one of which is electrokinetic geosynthetic treatment of failing or failed slopes. The benefits of electrokinetic geosynthetic treatment in terms of engineering sustainability include reduced cost, reduced ‘carbon dioxide footprint’, fewer heavy goods vehicle movements, zero waste removal, minimal material import, reduced noise and vibrations, improved air quality, preservation of the seed bank and soil environment, minimal vegetation clearance with almost all trees being retained, no visual impacts, no disruption to passing motorists and less damage to root protection areas. Protection of the habitat is also beneficial to nesting birds, amphibians, dormice and reptiles. The paper provides a brief description of the electrokinetic geosynthetic treatment method and illustrates the engineering sustainability with two case histories.
Briefing: Reuse and recycling rates of UK steel demolition arisings
Authors: Sansom Michael , Avery Nicholas
Published: June 2014

The reuse and recycling of steel has an important part to play in developing a circular economy. Regulators are increasingly looking to improve resource efficiency and, in particular, reduce the large quantities of construction and demolition waste generated each year. For example, the construction products regulation requires consideration of the ‘reuse or recyclability of the construction works, their materials and parts after demolition’ as part of the requirement for the sustainable use of natural resources. This paper describes a survey of UK demolition contractors undertaken to estimate the reuse and recycling rates of steel construction products arising from the demolition of buildings in the UK. The results are presented and compared with an earlier survey conducted in 2000. The results suggest that steel has increased its combined reuse and recycling rate to 96% (up from 93%) with, on average, 91% recycled and 5% reused. This demonstrates that steel continues to be a major contributor to sustainability and resource efficiency in the built environment, by minimising waste and ensuring that steel building materials can ultimately be reused and recycled again and again, without loss of properties.
Equilibrium configuration of (H2O)n, for n = 1–3
Authors: Lamsal Chiranjivi , Mishra Devendra Raj , Ravindra Nuggehalli M
Published: June 2014

The equilibrium configurations of water molecule (H2O)n=1, its dimer (H2O)n=2 and trimer (H2O)n=3 have been studied in this paper. The ionic character of the OHO hydrogen bond, formed between the electronegative oxygen atoms, in (H2O)n=2, appears as a change in bond lengths in one of the water molecules while the bond lengths in the other molecule remain same as in (H2O)n=1. The increased hydrogen bond strength, caused by the cooperative effect of three-body forces (H2O)n=3, as compared to (H2O)n=2, results in the equilibrium structure of the water trimer to be much more rigid than that of the dimer. An attempt has been made, from the energy standpoint, to understand the controversy on chemical formula of water as H2O or H1·5O by studying the equilibrium configuration of (H2O) OH, which corresponds to 2H1·5O. The ground-state energy of (H2O) OH is found to be lower than the sum of the ground-state energies of OH and H2O at infinite separation. Calculations also show the ground-state energy of (H2O) OH to be lower than the sum of the energies of the constituent atoms at infinite separation. This shows that the binding energy of (H2O) OH is positive, which indicates that (H2O) OH is relatively stable.
Nonrandom community assembly and high temporal turnover promote regional coexistence in tropics but not temperate zone
Authors: Freestone Amy L. , Inouye Brian D.
Published: June 2014

A persistent challenge for ecologists is understanding the ecological mechanisms that maintain global patterns of biodiversity, particularly the latitudinal diversity gradient of peak species richness in the tropics. Spatial and temporal variation in community composition contribute to these patterns of biodiversity, but how this variation and its underlying processes change across latitude remains unresolved. Using a model system of sessile marine invertebrates across 25° of latitude, from the temperate zone to the tropics, we tested the prediction that spatial and temporal patterns of taxonomic richness and composition, and the community assembly processes underlying these patterns, will differ across latitude. Specifically, we predicted that high beta diversity (spatial variation in composition) and high temporal turnover contribute to the high species richness of the tropics. Using a standardized experimental approach that controls for several confounding factors that hinder interpretation of prior studies, we present results that support our predictions. In the temperate zone, communities were more similar across spatial scales from centimeters to tens of kilometers and temporal scales up to one year than at lower latitudes. Since the patterns at northern latitudes were congruent with a null model, stochastic assembly processes are implicated. In contrast, the communities in the tropics were a dynamic spatial and temporal mosaic, with low similarity even across small spatial scales and high temporal turnover at both local and regional scales. Unlike the temperate zone, deterministic community assembly processes such as predation likely contributed to the high beta diversity in the tropics. Our results suggest that community assembly processes and temporal dynamics vary across latitude and help structure and maintain latitudinal patterns of diversity.
Kinetics of Low-Salinity-Flooding Effect
Authors: Mahani H. , Berg S. , Ilic D. , Bartels W.-B. , Joekar-Niasar V.
Published: June 2014

Low-salinity waterflooding (LSF) is one of the least-understood enhanced-oil-recovery (EOR)/improved-oil-recovery (IOR) methods, and proper understanding of the mechanism(s) leading to oil recovery in this process is needed. However, the intrinsic complexity of the process makes fundamental understanding of the underlying mechanism(s) and the interpretation of laboratory experiments difficult. Therefore, we use a model system for sandstone rock of reduced complexity that consists of clay minerals (Na-montmorillonite) deposited on a glass substrate and covered with crude-oil droplets and in which different effects can be separated to increase our fundamental understanding. We focus particularly on the kinetics of oil detachment when exposed to low-salinity (LS) brine.

The system is equilibrated first under high-salinity (HS) brine and then exposed to brines of varying (lower) salinity while the shape of the oil droplets is continuously monitored at high resolution, allowing for a detailed analysis of the contact angle and the contact area as a function of time. It is observed that the contact angle and contact area of oil with the substrate reach a stable equilibrium at HS brine and show a clear response to the LS brine toward less-oil-wetting conditions and ultimately detachment from the clay substrate. This behavior is characterized by the motion of the three-phase (oil/water/solid) contact line that is initially pinned by clay particles at HS conditions, and pinning decreases upon exposure to LS brine. This leads to a decrease in contact area and contact angle that indicates wettability alteration toward a more-water-wet state. When the contact angle reaches a critical value at approximately 40 to 50°, oil starts to detach from the clay. During detachment, most of the oil is released, but in some cases a small amount of oil residue is left behind on the clay substrate.

Our results for different salinity levels indicate that the kinetics of this wettability change correlates with a simple buoyancy- over adhesion-force balance and has a time constant of hours to days (i.e., it takes longer than commonly assumed).

The unexpectedly long time constant, longer than expected by diffusion alone, is compatible with an electrokinetic ion-transport model (Nernst-Planck equation) in the thin water film between oil and clay. Alternatively, one could explain the observations only by more-specific [non- Derjaguin–Landau–Verwey–Overbeek (DLVO) type] interactions between oil and clay such as cation-bridging, direct chemical bonds, or acid/base effects that tend to pin the contact line.

The findings provide new insights into the (sub) pore-scale mechanism of LSF, and one can use them as the basis for upscaling to, for example, pore-network scale and higher scales (e.g., core scale) to assess the impact of the slow kinetics on the time scale of an LSF response on macroscopic scales.
Challenge and response in the Indus Basin
Authors: Condon Madison , Kriens Don , Lohani Anjali , Sattar Erum
Published: June 2014

The authors examine the complex history of the development of the Indus Basin and the challenges faced by Pakistan during the evolution of the Indus Basin Irrigation System and the country's responses to date. The Indus river system must meet the multiple needs of agriculture, energy and flood security. Pakistan's constitutional structure, in which the federation shares overall responsibility for the operation of the Indus with the provinces, poses unique management and implementation challenges. What are the institutional arrangements Pakistan needs to address the challenges to the Indus Waters Treaty it signed with India in 1960? How is the country going to regulate the use of over-abstraction in the basin with the increased reliance on groundwater to maintain agricultural productivity? What are the institutional mechanisms in place to manage increased river flow variations from glacial melt as a result of climate change and for coping with devastating floods? At the same time, is the country maintaining adequate environmental flows to its delta? Provincial mistrust and a lack of institutional capacity underpins the history of the Indus in Pakistan with the Interprovincial Water Accord 1991 serving as a ray of hope on which to build a new institutional architecture of cooperation.
Humeral Rotational Osteotomy for Shoulder Deformity in Obstetric Brachial Plexus Palsy: Which Direction Should I Rotate?
Authors: Abdelgawad Amr A , Pirela-Cruz Miguel A
Published: June 2014

Shoulder internal rotation contracture is the most common deformity affecting the shoulder in patients with Obstetric Brachial Plexus Palsy. With progression of the deformity, the glenohumeral joint starts to subluxate and then dislocates. This is accompanied with bony changes of both the humerus and the glenoid. Two opposite direction humeral osteotomies have been proposed for this condition (internal rotation osteotomy (IRO) and external rotation osteotomy (ERO)). This fact of different direction osteotomies has not adequately been explained in the literature. Most orthopedic surgeons may not be able to fully differentiate between these two osteotomies regarding the indications, outcomes and effects on the joint. This review explains these differences in details.
Salpingotomy versus salpingectomy in women with tubal pregnancy
Authors: Odejinmi Funlayo , Oliver Reeba
Published: June 2014

Evaluation of: Mol F, van Mello NM, Strandell A
et al
. Salpingotomy versus salpingectomy in women with tubal pregnancy (ESEP study): an open-label, multicentre, randomised controlled trial.
Lancet
383(9927), 1483–1439 (2014)

. Ectopic pregnancy can still manifest itself as a life-threatening condition and, hence, the establishment of accurate evidence-based treatment modalities remain paramount. Surgical treatment has long been a mainstay of ectopic pregnancy treatment. To date, there is a wealth of data establishing laparoscopic treatment as the ‘gold standard’; however, paradoxically, the evidence behind choosing the two main treatment methods of salpingotomy and salpingectomy, especially with regards to future fertility potential, remain unclear. This article is a summary of a randomized controlled trial of salpingotomy versus salpingectomy in patients with an apparent contralateral healthy tube and the impact on future fertility. It attempts to answer the clinical question whether preservation of tube by salpingotomy increases the futures chances of natural conception as opposed to salpingectomy.
Comparing physical activity programs for managing osteoarthritis in overweight or obese patients
Authors: Khoja Samannaaz S , Susko Allyn M , Josbeno Deborah A , Piva Sara R , Fitzgerald G Kelley
Published: June 2014

Obesity is a well-known modifiable risk factor for osteoarthritis (OA) in weight-bearing joints, and is present in approximately 35% of individuals with OA. Obesity adds significant burden to individuals with OA and is associated with poorer functional status and greater disability. In addition to tackling OA-related impairments, such as pain and functional limitations, interventions in this population need to address bodyweight reduction, as well as promotion of active lifestyle behaviors. While exercise and regular physical activity participation are both recommended and beneficial for OA and obese populations, our current understanding of optimal strategies to improve function and health status in those who have both OA and obesity is limited. This review will summarize the current available evidence related to effectiveness of various physical activity interventions to reduce pain, improve function and overall health-related quality of life in overweight or obese individuals with OA.
Genetic Determinants of Circulating Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Levels and Their Association With Glycemic Traits
Authors: Herder Christian , Nuotio Marja-Liisa , Shah Sonia , Blankenberg Stefan , Brunner Eric J. , Carstensen Maren , Gieger Christian , Grallert Harald , Jula Antti , Kähönen Mika , Kettunen Johannes , Kivimäki Mika , Koenig Wolfgang , Kristiansson Kati , Langenberg Claudia , Lehtimäki Terho , Luotola Kari , Marzi Carola , Müller Christian , Peters Annette , Prokisch Holger , Raitakari Olli , Rathmann Wolfgang , Roden Michael , Salmi Marko , Schramm Katharina , Swerdlow Daniel , Tabak Adam G. , Thorand Barbara , Wareham Nick , Wild Philipp S. , Zeller Tanja , Hingorani Aroon D. , Witte Daniel R. , Kumari Meena , Perola Markus , Salomaa Veikko
Published: June 2014

The proinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-1β is implicated in the development of insulin resistance and β-cell dysfunction, whereas higher circulating levels of IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA), an endogenous inhibitor of IL-1β, has been suggested to improve glycemia and β-cell function in patients with type 2 diabetes. To elucidate the protective role of IL-1RA, this study aimed to identify genetic determinants of circulating IL-1RA concentration and to investigate their associations with immunological and metabolic variables related to cardiometabolic risk. In the analysis of seven discovery and four replication cohort studies, two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were independently associated with circulating IL-1RA concentration (rs4251961 at the IL1RN locus [n = 13,955, P = 2.76 × 10−21] and rs6759676, closest gene locus IL1F10 [n = 13,994, P = 1.73 × 10−17]). The proportion of the variance in IL-1RA explained by both SNPs combined was 2.0%. IL-1RA–raising alleles of both SNPs were associated with lower circulating C-reactive protein concentration. The IL-1RA–raising allele of rs6759676 was also associated with lower fasting insulin levels and lower HOMA insulin resistance. In conclusion, we show that circulating IL-1RA levels are predicted by two independent SNPs at the IL1RN and IL1F10 loci and that genetically raised IL-1RA may be protective against the development of insulin resistance.