bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microtubules in neurons as information carriers
Authors: Dent Erik W. , Baas Peter W.
Published: November 2013

Microtubules in neurons consist of highly dynamic regions as well as stable regions, some of which persist after bouts of severing as short mobile polymers. Concentrated at the plus ends of the highly dynamic regions are microtubule plus end tracking proteins called +TIPs that can interact with an array of other proteins and structures relevant to the plasticity of the neuron. It is also provocative to ponder that short mobile microtubules might similarly convey information with them as they transit within the neuron. Thus, beyond their known conventional functions in supporting neuronal architecture and organelle transport, microtubules may act as ‘information carriers’ in the neuron.

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We review here the possibility of neuronal microtubules acting as “information carriers”, conveying biochemical factors within axons and dendrites. The more dynamic regions of longer microtubules associate at their plus ends with information‐rich proteins called +TIPs that can be deposited or interact with other proteins or structures encountered by the microtubule as it assembles. Short stable microtubules that transit within the axon (and presumably the dendrite) may also serve as vehicles for the delivery of such information. Microtubules are broadly known for their roles in architecture and transport, and we posit that such a role as information carriers may be a third major role for microtubules in neurons.
Virtual tissue alignment and cutting plane definition – a new method to obtain optimal longitudinal histological sections
Authors: Danz J. C. , Habegger M. , Bosshardt D. D. , Katsaros C. , Stavropoulos A.
Published: November 2013

Histomorphometric evaluation of the buccal aspects of periodontal tissues in rodents requires reproducible alignment of maxillae and highly precise sections containing central sections of buccal roots; this is a cumbersome and technically sensitive process due to the small specimen size. The aim of the present report is to describe and analyze a method to transfer virtual sections of micro‐computer tomographic (CT)‐generated image stacks to the microtome for undecalcified histological processing and to describe the anatomy of the periodontium in rat molars. A total of 84 undecalcified sections of all buccal roots of seven untreated rats was analyzed. The accuracy of section coordinate transfer from virtual micro‐CT slice to the histological slice, right–left side differences and the measurement error for linear and angular measurements on micro‐CT and on histological micrographs were calculated using the Bland–Altman method, interclass correlation coefficient and the method of moments estimator. Also, manual alignment of the micro‐CT‐scanned rat maxilla was compared with multiplanar computer‐reconstructed alignment. The supra alveolar rat anatomy is rather similar to human anatomy, whereas the alveolar bone is of compact type and the keratinized gingival epithelium bends apical to join the junctional epithelium. The high methodological standardization presented herein ensures retrieval of histological slices with excellent display of anatomical microstructures, in a reproducible manner, minimizes random errors, and thereby may contribute to the reduction of number of animals needed.
CANTILLON AND HUME ON MONEY AND BANKING: THE FOUNDATIONS OF TWO THEORETICAL TRADITIONS
Authors: Le Maux Laurent
Published: November 2013

The distinction between the ‘classical’ monetary theory and ‘quantity’ theory has been proposed in literature on money and banking. The overall feature of the classical theory of money is that it holds one principle of regulation for each kind of issue (metallic money, bank issues and paper money) whereas the quantity theory applied the causality and proportionality postulates for all kinds of monies. Without claiming to adjudicate the validity of such a distinction, the paper investigates the foundation of each tradition. In this respect, this paper, respectively, examines, and provides a survey of the secondary literature on, Cantillon's Essai and the Hume's Discourses.
MR Venography in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis and Correlation with Clinical and MRI Parameters
Authors: Raz Eytan , Pontecorvo Simona , Barra Veronica , Marincola Beatrice Cavallo , Morreale Manuela , Tinelli Emanuele , Saba Luca , Di Paolo Pier Luigi , Aceti Alessandro , Catalano Carlo , Francia Ada , Caramia Francesca
Published: November 2013

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Multiple sclerosis (MS) has been associated with chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency. We aim to evaluate the correlation between extracranial veins stenosis evaluated with MR venography (MRV) and clinical/MR parameters of MS.

METHODS

In 29 consecutive MS patients we performed a standard brain MRI protocol, completed by the evaluation of extra‐cerebral venous system using a phase‐contrast and a Volumetric Interpolated Breath Hold Examination (VIBE) sequence before and after gadolinium. The T2‐proton density images were used to calculate the lesion volume. The jugular veins were evaluated qualitatively (in terms of presence and severity of stenoses) and quantitatively (degree of stenosis). The phase‐contrast images were analyzed to calculate the average and peak velocity in the internal jugular veins.

RESULTS

Postcontrast VIBE successfully showed the jugular veins in all the subjects. T2‐lesion‐volume was 8.2 [4.6] cm3. A stenosis of the internal jugular veins > of 50% was observed in 10/29(33%) patients. No significant correlation was observed between T2‐lesion‐volume and degree‐of‐stenosis (r = .362, P = .302). No different flow parameters were found in the subgroups of patients with and without stenosis (P = .54).

CONCLUSIONS

In MS the presence/severity of jugular vein stenosis identified with 3T‐MRV is not related to MR‐visible tissue damage. Moreover no abnormal flow parameters were found in stenosed veins.
CME Information:Surrogate Partner Therapy: Ethical Considerations in Sexual Medicine
Authors: Rosenbaum Talli , Aloni Ronit , Heruti Rafi
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Surrogate partner therapy (SPT) is a controversial and often misunderstood practice.

Aim

The aim of this study was to review the history and evidence-based literature regarding SPT, describe and provide a model for ethical SPT practice, and present two case examples illustrating ethical concerns.

Methods

Literature review and report of clinical experience were the methods used.

Main Outcome Measure

Results of literature review and clinical experience were assessed for this study.

Results

Sex therapy pioneers Masters and Johnson introduced surrogacy in sex therapy; however, there is a lack of published evidence supporting treatment efficacy and ethico-legal questions have limited the practice from becoming a common intervention. SPT can be an effective intervention that may enhance sexual medicine practice. However, SPT must be offered according to legal, professional, and ethical standards.

Conclusions

Sexual medicine practitioners should consider SPT based on the ethical paradigms offered, and sex therapy practices utilizing SPT should collect and publish outcome data.
Variation in genes encoding for interferon λ‐3 and λ‐4 in the prediction of HCV‐1 treatment‐induced viral clearance
Authors: Palmieri Orazio , Ippolito Antonio M. , Margaglione Maurizio , Valvano Maria R. , Gioffreda Domenica , Fasano Massimo , D'Andrea Giovanna , Corritore Giuseppe , Milella Michele , Andriulli Nicola , Morisco Filomena , Giannitrapani Lydia , Latiano Anna , Fontana Rosanna , Gatti Pietro , Tundo Paolo , Barone Michele , Cozzolongo Raffaele , Santantonio Teresa , Andriulli Angelo
Published: November 2013

Background & Aims

In patients with chronic HCV‐1 infection, recent evidences indicate that determination of a dinucleotide polymorphism (ss469415590, ΔG/TT) of a new gene, designated IFN λ‐4, might be more accurate than the 12979860CC type of the IL28B locus in predicting sustained virological response (SVR) following peg‐interferon and ribavirin. In addition, combined genotyping of different SNPs of the IL28B locus was shown to help dissect patients most prone to SVR among those with rs12979860CT.

We examined whether single or combined genotyping of two IL28B SNPs, rs12979860 and rs8099917, and ss469415590 variation might improve the prediction of SVR.

Results

In the study cohort of 539 patients, 38% had SVR. The SNPs 12979860CC, rs8099917TT, and rs469415590TT/TT correlated significantly with SVR (68%, 50%, and 67%). Carriers of either the triplotype rs12979860CC_ss469415590TT/TT_rs8099917TT or the diplotype rs12979860CC_ss469415590TT/TT had the highest SVR rate (72%). In carriers of the rs12979860 T allele, neither the rs8099917 nor the ss469415590 improved the response prediction. After pooling this finding with data from previous studies, in rs12979860 T heterozygous individuals the co‐presence of the rs8099917TT SNP was associated with improved response prediction.

Conclusion

In HCV‐1 patients, the rs12979860 polymorphism appeared as the hit SNP better predicting response following peg‐interferon and ribavirin treatment. Additional ss469415590 or rs8099917 genotyping had no added benefit for response prediction. In the subset of carriers of the rs12979860 T allele, genotyping of the rs8099917 SNP was unhelpful in the present investigation, but may inform clinical prediction of treatment response when our data were pooled with previous investigations.
Altered Frequencies of Dendritic Cells and IFN‐γ‐secreting T Cells with Granulocyte Colony‐Stimulating Factor (G‐CSF) Therapy in Acute‐on‐Chronic Liver Failure
Authors: Khanam Arshi , Trehanpati Nirupama , Garg Vishal , Kumar Chandan , Garg Hitendra , Sharma Barjesh C. , Sarin Shiv K.
Published: November 2013

Background & Aims

Acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a serious hepatic ailment with impaired immunity and poor treatment options resulting high mortality. Treatment with granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) mobilizes CD34+ cells in ACLF patients; however its effect on impaired immune responses remains to be elucidated. To analyse the effect of G‐CSF in immune modulation in ACLF.

Methods

We have analysed the frequencies of circulating and intrahepatic myeloid (mDCs) and plasmacytoid (pDCs) dendritic cells (DCs) and T cells in ACLF patients treated with G‐CSF (Group A; n = 23) and placebo (Group B; n = 24) using flow cytometry. IFN‐γ production was compared in both groups following stimulation of PBMCs with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA).

Results

In Group A, circulating and intrahepatic mDCs, pDCs (P < 0.04, P < 0.02) and T cells (CD3, CD4 and CD8) increased significantly post‐G‐CSF treatment in comparison to placebo group. Importantly in Group A, IFN‐γ‐producing CD8 T cells were significantly decreased (P > 0.05) along with decreased serum bilirubin and international normalized ratio (INR). Intrahepatic DCs and IFN‐γ level were compared in survivor and non‐survivor. Non‐survivors from both groups, showed decreased DCs, high IFN‐γ level and no improvement in clinical parameters including s‐bilirubin and INR.

Conclusions

G‐CSF therapy increased the frequencies of dendritic cells and reduced IFN‐γ secreting CD8 T cells with improved clinical severity indices. Decreased IFN‐ γ production may contribute to reduced hepatocellular damage in ACLF patients. Our observations support the basis for further use of G‐CSF therapy as immune modulator in these patients.
Fibrosis progression in maintenance liver transplant patients with hepatitis C recurrence: a randomised study of everolimus vs. calcineurin inhibitors
Authors: Villamil Federico G. , Gadano Adrian C. , Zingale Fernanda , Perez Roberto , Gil Octavio , Yantorno Silvina , Mastai Ricardo , Cairo Fernando O. , Otero Alcira B. , Dong Gaohong , Lopez Patricia ,   the REVERT Study Group
Published: November 2013

Background & Aims

Robust clinical data evaluating fibrosis progression in hepatitis C virus (HCV) liver transplant patients receiving an mTOR inhibitor vs. calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) are lacking. To evaluate fibrosis progression in maintenance liver transplant patients receiving everolimus‐ or CNI‐based immunosuppression.

Methods

In a randomised, multicentre, open‐label study, 43 maintenance liver transplant patients with recurrent HCV infection were randomised to continue CNI‐based immunosuppression or switch to everolimus.

Results

For patients with biopsy data at month 12, mean Ishak–Knodell fibrosis score at baseline was 2.6 ± 0.9 (n = 14) with everolimus vs. 1.9 ± 1.1 (n = 18) with CNI (P = 0.043), and 1.9 ± 1.2 vs. 2.2 ± 1.3 at month 12. Ishak–Knodell fibrosis score decreased from baseline to month 12 by a mean of −0.7 ± 1.1 with everolimus, but increased by 0.2 ± 1.2 with CNI (P = 0.046). No acute rejection or graft losses occurred up to month 12. Estimated GFR at month 12 was 65.6 ml/min/1.73 m2 with everolimus and 62.2 ml/min/1.73 m2 with CNI [mean difference 3.4 ml/min/1.73 m2 compared to CNI control group, 95% CI −4.9, 11.8 ml/min/1.73 m2, P = 0.411 (analysis of covariance adjusting for baseline GFR)]. Adverse events occurred in 95.5% of everolimus patients and 71.4% of CNI patients (serious adverse events 31.8% and 0.0%, respectively). Adverse events led to everolimus discontinuation in five patients (22.7%).

Conclusions

This exploratory study suggests that conversion from CNI to everolimus reduces progression of liver fibrosis, and preserves renal function without jeopardising efficacy in liver transplant recipients with recurrent HCV, but is associated with a higher incidence of adverse events and serious adverse events. These preliminary findings merit examination in a larger trial.
Gene flow and the maintenance of species boundaries
Authors: Larson Erica L. , White Thomas A. , Ross Charles L. , Harrison Richard G.
Published: November 2013

Hybrid zones are regions where individuals from genetically differentiated populations meet and mate, resulting in at least some offspring of mixed ancestry. Patterns of gene flow (introgression) in hybrid zones vary across the genome, allowing assessment of the role of individual genes or genome regions in reproductive isolation. Here, we document patterns of introgression between two recently diverged species of field crickets. We sampled at a very fine spatial scale and genotyped crickets for 110 highly differentiated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified through transcriptome scans. Using both genomic and geographic cline analysis, we document remarkably abrupt transitions (<100 m) in allele frequencies for 50 loci, despite high levels of gene flow at other loci. These are among the steepest clines documented for any hybridizing taxa. Furthermore, the cricket hybrid zone provides one of the clearest examples of the semi‐permeability of species boundaries. Comparisons between data from the fine‐scale transect and data (for the same set of markers) from sampling a much larger area in a different region of the cricket hybrid zone reveal consistent patterns of introgression for individual loci. The consistency in patterns of introgression between these two distant and distinct regions of the hybrid zone suggests that strong selection is acting to maintain abrupt discontinuities within the hybrid zone and that genomic regions with restricted introgression likely include genes that contribute to nonecological prezygotic barriers.
Targeting Pericytes for Angiogenic Therapies
Authors: Kelly‐Goss Molly R. , Sweat Rick S. , Stapor Peter C. , Peirce Shayn M. , Murfee Walter L.
Published: November 2013

In pathological scenarios, such as tumor growth and diabetic retinopathy, blocking angiogenesis would be beneficial. In others, such as myocardial infarction and hypertension, promoting angiogenesis might be desirable. Due to their putative influence on endothelial cells, vascular pericytes have become a topic of growing interest and are increasingly being evaluated as a potential target for angioregulatory therapies. The strategy of manipulating pericyte recruitment to capillaries could result in anti‐ or proangiogenic effects. Our current understanding of pericytes, however, is limited by knowledge gaps regarding pericyte identity and lineage. To use a music analogy, this review is a “mash‐up” that attempts to integrate what we know about pericyte functionality and expression with what is beginning to be elucidated regarding their regenerative potential. We explore the lingering questions regarding pericyte phenotypic identity and lineage. The expression of different pericyte markers (e.g.,SMA, Desmin,NG2, andPDGFR‐β) varies for different subpopulations and tissues. Previous use of these markers to identify pericytes has suggested potential phenotypic overlaps and plasticity toward other cell phenotypes. Our review chronicles the state of the literature, identifies critical unanswered questions, and motivates future research aimed at understanding this intriguing cell type and harnessing its therapeutic potential.
Near‐infrared spectroscopy: exposing the dark (venous) side of the circulation
Authors: Scott John P. , Hoffman George M.
Published: November 2013

The safety of anesthesia has improved greatly in the past three decades. Standard perioperative monitoring, including pulse oximetry, has practically eliminated unrecognized arterial hypoxia as a cause for perioperative injury. However, most anesthesia‐related cardiac arrests in children are now cardiovascular in origin, and standard monitoring is unable to detect many circulatory abnormalities. Near‐infrared spectroscopy provides noninvasive continuous access to the venous side of regional circulations that can approximate organ‐specific and global measures to facilitate the detection of circulatory abnormalities and drive goal‐directed interventions to reduce end‐organ ischemic injury.
Expression of the Arabidopsis vacuolar H+‐pyrophosphatase gene (AVP1) improves the shoot biomass of transgenic barley and increases grain yield in a saline field
Authors: Schilling Rhiannon K. , Marschner Petra , Shavrukov Yuri , Berger Bettina , Tester Mark , Roy Stuart J. , Plett Darren C.
Published: November 2013

Cereal varieties with improved salinity tolerance are needed to achieve profitable grain yields in saline soils. The expression of AVP1, an Arabidopsis gene encoding a vacuolar proton pumping pyrophosphatase (H+‐PPase), has been shown to improve the salinity tolerance of transgenic plants in greenhouse conditions. However, the potential for this gene to improve the grain yield of cereal crops in a saline field has yet to be evaluated. Recent advances in high‐throughput nondestructive phenotyping technologies also offer an opportunity to quantitatively evaluate the growth of transgenic plants under abiotic stress through time. In this study, the growth of transgenic barley expressing AVP1 was evaluated under saline conditions in a pot experiment using nondestructive plant imaging and in a saline field trial. Greenhouse‐grown transgenic barley expressing AVP1 produced a larger shoot biomass compared to null segregants, as determined by an increase in projected shoot area, when grown in soil with 150 mm NaCl. This increase in shoot biomass of transgenic AVP1 barley occurred from an early growth stage and also in nonsaline conditions. In a saline field, the transgenic barley expressing AVP1 also showed an increase in shoot biomass and, importantly, produced a greater grain yield per plant compared to wild‐type plants. Interestingly, the expression of AVP1 did not alter barley leaf sodium concentrations in either greenhouse‐ or field‐grown plants. This study validates our greenhouse‐based experiments and indicates that transgenic barley expressing AVP1 is a promising option for increasing cereal crop productivity in saline fields.
Osmotic stress at the barley root affects expression of circadian clock genes in the shoot
Authors: HABTE ERMIAS , MÜLLER LUKAS M. , SHTAYA MUNQEZ , DAVIS SETH J. , VON KORFF MARIA
Published: November 2013

The circadian clock is an important timing system that controls physiological responses to abiotic stresses in plants. However, there is little information on the effects of the clock on stress adaptation in important crops, like barley. In addition, we do not know how osmotic stress perceived at the roots affect the shoot circadian clock. Barley genotypes, carrying natural variation at the photoperiod response and clock genesPpd‐H1andHvELF3, were grown under control and osmotic stress conditions to record changes in the diurnal expression of clock and stress‐response genes and in physiological traits. Variation atHvELF3affected the expression phase and shape of clock and stress‐response genes, while variation atPpd‐H1only affected the expression levels of stress genes. Osmotic stress up‐regulated expression of clock and stress‐response genes and advanced their expression peaks. Clock genes controlled the expression of stress‐response genes, but had minor effects on gas exchange and leaf transpiration. This study demonstrated that osmotic stress at the barley root altered clock gene expression in the shoot and acted as a spatial input signal into the clock. Unlike inArabidopsis, barley primary assimilation was less controlled by the clock and more responsive to environmental perturbations, such as osmotic stress.
Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance in pediatric kidney transplant: A possible role of Epstein‐Barr virus
Authors: Giordano M. , Santangelo L. , Scarasciulli M. L. , Calvario A. , Miragliotta G. , Giordano P. , Cecinati V.
Published: November 2013

MG is a common event of hematologic malignancies. There are many papers regarding kidney transplantation patients with MGUS in adults, while data in pediatrics are scarce. The etiology and clinical significance of MGUS are unclear both in adults and children. Immunosuppressive drugs, graft antigenicity, and viral infection could play a possible role. The viruses most frequently implicated seem to be EBV or CMV in particular, but their role has to be defined better. However, many investigators have emphasized an impaired balance between an adequate immune response and reactivation of viral infection.
Hepatic venous reconstruction using the superficial femoral vein in a right‐lobe living donor liver transplant patient with interrupted inferior vena cava
Authors: Sato Kazushige , Sekiguchi Satoshi , Kawagishi Naoki , Akamatsu Yorihiro , Miyagi Shigeto , Yamaya Hideyuki , Takeda Ikuo , Fukushima Daizo , Sato Akira , Ohuchi Noriaki , Satomi Susumu
Published: November 2013

Anatomical abnormalities in patients with BA often include polysplenia, preduodenal portal vein, interrupted retrohepatic IVC, cardiac abnormalities, and situs inversus. In LDLT patients who had congenital vascular anomalies, additional surgical modifications for the reconstruction of hepatic venous branches are sometimes necessary to prevent venous parenchymal congestion. We report a 12‐yr‐old female with post‐Kasai BA with interrupted retrohepatic IVC who underwent right‐lobe LDLT because the left liver graft volume was insufficient. The donor right liver graft had three major hepatic branches, including the RHV, IRHV, and MHV tributary (V8). We performed hepatic venous reconstruction by creating a large, wide triple orifice consisting of the RHV and two SFVs, which were anastomosed to the V8 and IRHV using the donor's SFV as an interposition graft. In conclusion, the reconstruction of venous orifices for right‐lobe LDLT patients with the absent retrohepatic IVC is can be carried out using an SFV graft derived from the living donor or the recipient.
The importance of sub‐peat carbon storage as shown by data from Dartmoor, UK
Authors: Fyfe R. M. , Coombe R. , Davies H. , Parry L.
Published: November 2013

Peatlands are highly valued for their range of ecosystem services, including distinctive biodiversity, agricultural uses, recreational amenities, water provision, river flow regulation and their capacity to store carbon. There have been a range of estimates of carbon stored in peatlands in the United Kingdom, but uncertainties remain, in particular with regard to depth and bulk density of peat. In addition, very few studies consider the full profile with depth in carbon auditing. The importance of sub‐peat soils within peatland carbon stores has been recognized, but remains poorly understood and is included rarely within peatland carbon audits. This study examines the importance of the carbon store based on a study of blanket peat on Dartmoor, UK, by estimating peat depths in a 4 × 1 km survey area using ground penetrating radar (GPR), extraction of 43 cores across a range of peat depth, and estimation of carbon densities based on measures of loss‐on‐ignition and bulk density. Comparison of GPR estimates of peat depth with core depths shows excellent agreement, to provide the basis for a detailed understanding of the distribution of peat depths within the survey area. Carbon densities of the sub‐peat soils are on average 78 and 53 kg C/m3 for the overlying blanket peat. There is considerable spatial variability in the estimates of total carbon from each core across the survey area, with values ranging between 56.5 kg C/m2 (1.01 m total depth of peat and soil) and 524 kg C/m2 (6.63 m total depth). Sub‐peat soil carbon represents between 4 and 28 per cent (mean 13.5) of the total carbon stored, with greater values for shallower peat. The results indicate a significant and previously unaccounted store of carbon within blanket peat regions which should be included in future calculations of overall carbon storage. It is argued that this store needs to be considered in carbon audits.
Emergence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka 2008–2011
Authors: Sandanayaka Rohana , Kahawita Indra , Gamage Ajith , Siribaddana Sisira , Agampodi Suneth
Published: November 2013

Objective

To report cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka.

Methods

The study population included all patients with CL reported from Polonnaruwa district from January 2008 through April 2012. Data were collected in the dermatology unit of Polonnaruwa General Hospital and the regional epidemiology unit of Polonnaruwa.

Results

Four hundred and forty six patients with leishmaniasis were detected; clinical details were available for 362. Mean annual incidence of leishmaniasis between 2008 and 2012 in Polonnaruwa district was 26.2 per 100 000. The case incidence steadily increased during the study period. Case distribution by month peaked between August and November. Cases were geographically clustered in three administrative divisions with a mean annual incidence ranging from 94.7 to 54.1 per 100 000 population. Significantly more (n = 294, 65.9%) males than females were affected (χ2 for goodness of fit = 48.4, P < 0.001). The commonest type of lesion was nodules (n = 157, 43.4%) followed by crust (n = 116, 32.0%). The majority of patients had lesions on upper limbs (n = 144, 39.8%) or the face (n = 117, 32.3%).

Conclusion

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is increasing in Polonnaruwa, with clear spatial and temporal clustering. Sri Lanka needs more vigilant leishmaniasis surveillance.
Carotenoid oxidation products as stress signals in plants
Authors: Havaux Michel
Published: November 2013

Carotenoids are known to play important roles in plants as antioxidants, accessory light‐harvesting pigments, and attractants for pollinators and seed dispersers. A new function for carotenoids has recently emerged, which relates to the response of plants to environmental stresses. Reactive oxygen species, especially singlet oxygen, produced in the chloroplasts under stress conditions, can oxidize carotenoids leading to a variety of oxidized products, including aldehydes, ketones, endoperoxides and lactones. Some of those carotenoid derivatives, such as volatile β–cyclocitral, derived from the oxidation of β–carotene, are reactive electrophile species that are bioactive and can induce changes in gene expression leading to acclimation to stress conditions. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the non‐enzymatic oxidation of carotenoids, the bioactivity of the resulting cleavage compounds and their functions as stress signals in plants.
Pharmacokinetics of plasma‐derived C1‐esterase inhibitor after subcutaneous versus intravenous administration in subjects with mild or moderate hereditary angioedema: the PASSION study
Authors: Martinez‐Saguer Inmaculada , Cicardi Marco , Suffritti Chiara , Rusicke Eva , Aygören‐Pürsün Emel , Stoll Hildegard , Rossmanith Tanja , Feussner Annette , Kalina Uwe , Kreuz Wolfhart
Published: November 2013

Background

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare disease caused by C1‐esterase inhibitor (C1‐INH) deficiency, characterized by periodic attacks of acute edema affecting subcutaneous (SC) tissues and mucous membranes. Human C1‐INH concentrate given intravenously (IV) is effective and safe, but venous access may be difficult. We compared SC and IV administration of human pasteurized C1‐INH concentrate with respect to pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety.

Study Design and Methods

This was a prospective, randomized, open‐label, crossover study. Twenty‐four subjects with mild or moderate HAE were randomly assigned during an attack‐free interval to receive 1000 units of human pasteurized C1‐INH concentrate IV or SC. Plasma levels of C1‐INH activity and antigen, C4 antigen, cleaved high‐molecular‐weight kininogen (clHK), and C1‐INH antibodies were measured.

Results

The mean relative bioavailability of functional C1‐INH after SC administration was 39.7%. Maximum C1‐INH activity after SC administration occurred within 48 hours and persisted longer than after IV administration. C4 antigen levels increased and clHK levels decreased after IV and SC administration, indicating the pharmacodynamic action of C1‐INH. The mean half‐life of functional C1‐INH was 62 hours after IV administration and 120 hours after SC administration (p = 0.0595). C1‐INH concentrate was safe and well tolerated when administered via both routes. As expected, SC administration resulted in a higher incidence of injection site reactions, all of which were mild.

Conclusion

With a relative bioavailability of 39.7%, SC administration of human pasteurized C1‐INH yields potentially clinically relevant and sustained plasma levels of C1‐INH and is safe and well tolerated.
Allergen‐specific immunotherapy in horses with insect bite hypersensitivity: a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Ginel Pedro J. , Hernández Eduardo , Lucena Rosario , Blanco Beatriz , Novales Manuel , Mozos Elena
Published: November 2013

Background

Insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH) is a common cause of pruritus in horses, but there are few controlled studies on the efficacy of allergen‐specific immunotherapy (ASIT). Atopic dermatitis and IBH can present with overlapping clinical signs; multiple insect and environmental allergens could be indicated in these horses to achieve effective hyposensitization. Although the success of ASIT using Culicoides spp. whole‐body extracts is controversial, there are no controlled studies published that clearly show benefit from this form of therapy.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of ASIT in horses with IBH using commercially available extracts and tests.

Animals

Twenty horses with seasonal pruritus and positive intradermal reactions to a whole Culicoides extract.

Methods

An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay test (Allercept®) was used to detect concurrent allergen‐specific IgE for other insects and environmental allergens. The ASIT was formulated by adding the relevant serologically positive allergens to the Culicoides extract. After randomization, 10 horses received ASIT and the rest a placebo solution. Clinical response was assessed every 4 months during 1 year using a clinical scoring system based on the severity of four clinical signs at 10 different body regions. Horses were not stabled and, to minimize dropouts, an insect repellent was used weekly in both groups.

Results

Differences in clinical scores between groups were nonsignificant at any re‐evaluation, while both groups improved to a similar extent, probably due to the insecticide treatment.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Using commercially available extracts and tests, we could not demonstrate a beneficial effect of 1 year multiple ASIT in nonstabled horses with IBH.
MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING FINDINGS ASSOCIATED WITH LATERAL CEREBRAL VENTRICULOMEGALY IN ENGLISH BULLDOGS
Authors: Ryan Christopher T. , Glass Eric N. , Seiler Gabriela , Zwingenberger Allison L. , Mai Wilfried
Published: November 2013

Multiple congenital or developmental anomalies associated with the central nervous system have been reported in English Bulldogs. The purpose of this retrospective study was to identify and describe the prevalence and MRI characteristics of these anomalies and their association with presence and degree of cerebral ventriculomegaly. Magnetic resonance imaging studies of 50 English Bulldogs were evaluated. Forty‐eight dogs had some degree of cerebral ventriculomegaly, 27 of which had an otherwise normal brain. Presence of lateral ventriculomegaly was not significantly associated with presence of another intracranial lesion. Appearance of the septum pellucidum was variable, ranging from intact to incomplete or completely absent. The corpus callosum was subjectively thinned in all but three dogs, two of which had normal lateral ventricles. Fusion of the rostral colliculi was not found in any dog. A persistent craniopharyngeal canal was identified in one dog. Aqueductal stenosis caused by fusion of the rostral colliculi was not identified in any dog. Findings indicated that cerebral ventriculomegaly is a common finding in English Bulldogs with or without other intracranial lesions, aqueductal stenosis caused by fusion of the rostral colliculi is unlikely to be a common etiology leading to obstructive hydrocephalus, and a large craniopharyngeal canal is a rare finding that has unknown clinical significance at this time.
Assessment of myometrial transcriptome changes associated with spontaneous human labour by high‐throughput RNA‐seq
Authors: Chan Yi‐Wah , van den Berg Hugo A. , Moore Jonathan D. , Quenby Siobhan , Blanks Andrew M.
Published: November 2013

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

In this study, we sought to survey the total transcript repertoire of human myometrium, comparing samples taken from patients at term who were not in labour with samples taken at term in spontaneous labour. These sequenced transcriptomes show the repertoire of possible proteins and their variants in myometrial smooth muscle, as well as transcriptional changes associated with term spontaneous labour.

What is the main finding and its importance?

We describe, for the first time, the transcriptome of the human myometrial samples taken from patients prior to and after the onset of spontaneous labour. We document a significant number of novel transcripts of both protein‐coding mRNA and microRNA. This information will be useful for the development of novel therapeutics and the formulation of new hypotheses to be tested by physiological experimentation.

The transition of the human uterus from a quiescent to a contractile state takes place over a number of weeks. On such biological time scales, cellular phenotype is modified by changes in the transcriptome, which in turn is under the control of the underlying endocrine, paracrine, and biophysical processes resulting from the ongoing pregnancy. In this study, we characterize the transition of the human myometrial transcriptome at term from not in labour (NIL) to in labour (LAB) using high throughput RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq). RNA was isolated from the myometrium of uterine biopsies from patients at term who were not in labour (n = 5) and at term in spontaneous labour (n = 5) without augmentation. A total of 143.6 million separate reads were sequenced, achieving, on average, ∼13 times coverage of the expressed human transcriptome per sample. Principal component analysis indicated that the NIL and LAB transcriptomes could be distinguished as two distinct clusters. A comparison of the NIL and LAB groups, using three different statistical approaches (baySeq, edgeR, and DESeq), demonstrated an overlap of 764 differentially expressed genes. A comparison with currently available microarray data revealed only a partial overlap in differentially expressed genes. We conclude that the described RNA‐seq data sets represent the first fully annotated catalogue of expressed mRNAs in human myometrium. When considered together, the full expression repertoire and the differentially expressed gene sets should provide an excellent resource for formulating new hypotheses of physiological function, as well as the discovery of novel therapeutic targets.
The effect of increased physical activity on pulmonary diffusing capacity in unfit women
Authors: Flaherty Joseph M. , Smoliga James M. , Zavorsky Gerald S.
Published: November 2013

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Alveolar–capillary membrane conductance for nitric oxide (measured as lung diffusion of NO; DLNO) is not thought to be improved with regular exercise training in adult humans. The purpose was to examine the effect of regular exercise training on DLNO in unfit adult women.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Women performing moderate‐intensity physical activity (4–6 metabolic equivalent tasks, or METS, 800 kcal week−1, for 6 weeks) can improve DLNO to a similar extent compared to women performing vigorous‐intensity physical activity (>6 METS, 700 kcal week−1, for 6 weeks); however, the magnitude of improvement in DLNO will probably be small and physiologically questionable. This demonstrates that interval training may not provide additional improvements in DLNO compared with moderate‐intensity physical activity.

The purpose of the study was to determine whether short‐term high‐intensity aerobic interval training improves resting pulmonary diffusing capacity for nitric oxide (DLNO) and carbon monoxide (DLCO). Twenty‐eight sedentary women [mean (SD) age 32 (11) years, body mass index 24.3 (5.7) kg m−2] were randomly assigned to either a self‐directed moderate‐intensity physical activity (n = 14) group or a supervised high‐intensity aerobic interval training group (n = 14). The moderate physical activity group and the aerobic interval training group increased weekly physical activity energy expenditure by 800 and 1600 kcal week−1, respectively. After 6 weeks, aerobic capacity increased to a similar exent in both groups (mean improvement 8%, effect size 0.39). The DLNO, but not DLCO, increased to a similar extent in both groups, by 4% or 3.0 (5.7) [95% confidence interval 0.8, 5.2] ml min−1 mmHg−1 m−2 from pre‐ to post‐training (effect size 0.27). There was no correlation between the change in aerobic capacity and the change in DLNO (P > 0.05) or between the change in aerobic capacity and the change in total weekly physical activity energy expenditure (P > 0.05). Interval training does not provide additional improvements in DLNO or aerobic capacity compared with self‐directed moderate‐intensity physical activity (4–6 metabolic equivalent tasks, 800 kcal week−1, for 6 weeks) in unfit women. Despite the slight improvement in both DLNO and aerobic capacity, true meaningful physiological changes in these parameters remain questionable.
Windage Measurements in a Rotor-Stator System With Superimposed Cooling and Rotor-Mounted Protrusions
Authors: Luo Xiang , Zhang Da , Tao Zhi , Xu Guoqiang , Wang Qianshun
Published: November 2013

This paper has experimentally studied the windage torque in a rotor-stator system with superimposed central inflow and rotor-mounted protrusions. A novel measurement method has been proposed, and the basic principle is to transform the torque of rotating components into static torque measured by using a static torquemeter. Compared with the previous research, the difference of the moment coefficient for the free plain disk in this paper is within 10%. The disk models used in the experiments included a plain disk and a rotor with 18 protrusions. Plain-disk results were obtained with axial clearances varying from 4.5 mm to 40.5 mm and a stator of the same diameter. Two test cases were performed: one was the case where the flow structure was dominated by the superimposed flow and the other was where rotation dominated the flow structure. For the plain-disk case, as turbulence parameter increases, the sensitivity of the torque to variations of G value also increases, leaving the moment coefficient as a function of the rotational and throughflow Reynolds number only. Comparing to the flow parameter, gap ratio and shroud-clearance ratio have weaker influence on frictional moment coefficient. The rotor with protrusions results showed that the gap ratio had negligible effect on the moment coefficient for the former case; however, the torque decreased by approximately 20% with the decrease of the gap ratio for the latter case. It was also found that, for different configurations, the deviation in the moment coefficient was attributed to variations in form drag. In addition, the moment coefficient was affected by the orientation of bolts with respect to the direction of rotation. The empirical correlations have been proposed for the windage losses of various bolt configurations, and a further discussion about minimizing the windage losses was conducted.
Analysis and Testing of a Portable Thermal Battery
Authors: Taylor Robert A. , Chung Chia-Yang , Morrison Karl , Hawkes Evatt R.
Published: November 2013

Portable energy storage will be a key challenge if electric vehicles (EVs) become a large part of our future transportation system. A big barrier to market uptake for EVs is driving range. Range can be further limited if heating and air conditioning systems are powered by the EV's batteries. The use of electricity for HVAC can be minimized if a thermal storage system, a “thermal battery,” can be substituted as the energy source to provide sufficient cabin heating and cooling. The aim of this project was to model, design, and fabricate a low-cost, modular thermal battery for EVs. The constructed thermal battery employs a phase change material erythritol (a sugar alcohol commonly used as artificial sweetener) as the storage medium sealed in an insulated, stainless steel container. At a total prototype cost of ∼$311/kW-h, the system is roughly half the price of lithium ion batteries. Heat exchange to the thermal battery is accomplished via water (or low viscosity engine oil), which is pumped through a helical winding of copper tubing. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model was used to determine the geometry (winding radius and number of coils) and flow conditions necessary to create adequate heat transfer. Testing of the fabricated design indicates that the prototype thermal battery module can store enough heat and discharge it fast enough to meet the demand of cruising passenger vehicle for up to 1 h on a cold day. The battery is capable of storing nearly 100 W-h/kg and can provide a specific power density of 30 W/kg. The storage density is competitive with lithium ion batteries, but work is needed to improve the power density.
Dimensioning of Twistlocks in Modular Offshore Platform Designs for Arctic Regions
Authors: Michel Josefine , Kaeding Patrick
Published: November 2013

To mount service modules in a flexible manner on offshore platforms twistlock systems are used. If the application is not in accordance with standard conditions the existing regulations are not sufficient. Therefore new regulations with appropriate dimensioning equations must be generated. The results of the OMAE 2013 paper “Assessment of Container Mountings in Modular Offshore Platform Designs for Arctic Regions” are applied in this paper to reach such equations.

The stress on twistlocks which mount standard containers to the offshore platform deck in arctic regions depends on roll angle of the offshore platform and friction coefficient — depending on temperature — and is analyzed by regression analysis in this paper. The results show that a local twistlock system can be used to simplify the calculation.

Also the application of a crane module is simulated. The regression analysis is divided into two parts — the cone and the base of the twistlock: these parts take most of the load again depending on roll angle and friction coefficient.

The result of this paper consists of dimensioning equations for these two different applications of twistlock systems in arctic regions.
Applying Strip Theory Based Linear Seakeeping Loads to 3D Full Ship Finite Element Models
Authors: Zhao Chengbi , Ma Ming , Hughes Owen
Published: November 2013

Panel based hydrodynamic analyses are well suited for transferring seakeeping loads to 3D FEM structural models. However, 3D panel based hydrodynamic analyses are computationally expensive. For monohull ships, methods based on strip theory have been successfully used in industry for many years. They are computationally efficient, and they provide good prediction for motions and hull girder loads. However, many strip theory methods provide only hull girder sectional forces and moments, such as vertical bending moment and vertical shear force, which are difficult to apply to 3D finite element structural models. For the few codes which do output panel pressure, transferring the pressure map from a hydrodynamic model to the corresponding 3D finite element model often results in an unbalanced structural model because of the pressure interpolation discrepancy. To obtain equilibrium of an imbalanced structural model, a common practice is to use the “inertia relief” approach to rebalance the model. However, this type of balancing causes a change in the hull girder load distribution, which in turn could cause inaccuracies in an extreme load analysis (ELA) and a spectral fatigue analysis (SFA). This paper presents a method of applying strip theory based linear seakeeping pressure loads to balance 3D finite element models without using inertia relief. The velocity potential of strip sections is first calculated based on hydrodynamic strip theories. The velocity potential of a finite element panel is obtained from the interpolation of the velocity potential of the strip sections. The potential derivative along x-direction is computed using the approach proposed by Salvesen, Tuck and Faltinsen. The hydrodynamic forces and moments are computed using direct panel pressure integration from the finite element structural panel. For forces and moments which cannot be directly converted from pressure, such as hydrostatic restoring force and diffraction force, element nodal forces are generated using Quadratic Programing. The equations of motions are then formulated based on the finite element wetted panels. The method results in a perfectly balanced structural model.