bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Between‐ and within‐species trait variability and the assembly of sapling communities in forest patches
Authors: Carlucci Marcos B. , Debastiani Vanderlei J. , Pillar Valério D. , Duarte Leandro D. S.
Published: September 2014

Questions

What is the magnitude of between‐species trait variability (BSV) and within‐species trait variability (WSV) of specific leaf area (SLA) in a sapling meta‐community? To what extent do species turnover and WSV influence community‐level mean trait responses to an environmental gradient and trait spread patterns across this gradient? What is the role of WSV for mean plant responses to environmental variation and niche partitioning in structuring sapling communities?

Location

Forest patches within a native grassland matrix in southern Brazil.

Methods

We recorded saplings in community plots across a canopy openness gradient in forest patches and described each of the 1129 individuals using SLA. First, we partitioned trait variation into BSV and WSV irrespective of co‐occurrence in plots. Then, using the community data, we partitioned the total variation of community‐weighted trait means (CWM) and Rao's functional diversity (FD) into components explained by canopy openness, species turnover and WSV. We also partitioned the effects of WSV between and within plots on FD. Finally, we explored the responses of CWM and FD to the gradient using the whole trait variability, only BSV or only WSV.

Results

Specific leaf area presented a substantial proportion of variation within species (37%), although it varied more between species (63%). Species turnover and WSV explained 48% and 19% of the variation in CWM across the gradient, respectively. Species turnover and WSV explained 51% and 45% of the variation in FD across the gradient, respectively. SLA varied within species more along the gradient than within communities. Within‐species variability enhanced shifts in CWM and FD across the gradient. Canopy openness significantly predicted CWM at all levels, and FD at all but the within‐species level.

Conclusions

Plastic responses of species mirrored the average response of communities to the environmental gradient. Within‐species trait variability enhanced the mean plant responses to environmental variation as well as niche partitioning, and was especially important in enabling species to establish in a wider portion of the environmental gradient. Our study provides new evidence that population‐level phenomena matter for community assembly.
A NOTE ON THE QUANTILE FORMULATION
Authors: Xu Zuo Quan
Published: September 2014

Many investment models in discrete or continuous‐time settings boil down to maximizing an objective of the quantile function of the decision variable. This quantile optimization problem is known as the quantile formulation of the original investment problem. Under certain monotonicity assumptions, several schemes to solve such quantile optimization problems have been proposed in the literature. In this paper, we propose a change‐of‐variable and relaxation method to solve the quantile optimization problems without using the calculus of variations or making any monotonicity assumptions. The method is demonstrated through a portfolio choice problem under rank‐dependent utility theory (RDUT). We show that this problem is equivalent to a classical Merton's portfolio choice problem under expected utility theory with the same utility function but a different pricing kernel explicitly determined by the given pricing kernel and probability weighting function. With this result, the feasibility, well‐posedness, attainability, and uniqueness issues for the portfolio choice problem under RDUT are solved. It is also shown that solving functional optimization problems may reduce to solving probabilistic optimization problems. The method is applicable to general models with law‐invariant preference measures including portfolio choice models under cumulative prospect theory (CPT) or RDUT, Yaari's dual model, Lopes' SP/A model, and optimal stopping models under CPT or RDUT.
Sex in the Mucoralean Fungi
Authors: Lee Soo Chan , Heitman Joseph
Published: September 2014

Sexual development is extant in virtually all eukaryotic species, including throughout the kingdom Fungi. Positioned within the opisthokonts along with metazoans, fungi serve as model systems to elucidate the genetics and impact of sexual development. Basal fungal lineages such as the Mucoralean fungi provide a unique basis to study sexual reproduction, in which common ancestral traits found in both animal and fungal lineages may be conserved. This review discusses the sexual development, sex loci, and evolution of the sex locus in the Mucoralean fungi, which sheds light on our understanding of the evolution and functions of sex.
Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Fixation Techniques for Metastatic Spinal Disease
Authors: Rao Prashanth J. , Thayaparan Ganesha K. , Fairhall Jacob M. , Mobbs Ralph J.
Published: September 2014

Objective

Surgical treatment of spinal metastasis is generally a palliative procedure. Although minimally invasive surgical (MIS) techniques are supposedly less morbid than open techniques, there is a lack of stratification of MIS techniques based on anticipated longevity. A simple stratification into three percutaneous surgical techniques based on modified Tokuhashi score is here proposed.

Methods

Patients recommended for spinal surgery for metastatic spinal disease between 2009 and 2012 and operated on by the senior author (RJM) were retrospectively reviewed. One of three MIS techniques was offered based on estimated survival using a modified Tokuhashi score. Technique #1 is suitable for patients with predicted short longevity (<6 months). Using a mini‐open midline or paramedian decompression and percutaneous screw fixation, the goal here is for rapid mobilization and minimization of hospitalization. Technique #2 is suitable for patients with predicted medium longevity (6–12 months). They are suitable for decompression and/or cement vertebral body replacement and a two levels stabilization. Technique #3 is suitable for patients with predicted long term survival survival (>12 months). In these patients, the primary goal of surgery is a wide local or marginal resection of tumor, decompression of the neurological elements and a robust stabilization construct. They are suitable for an open 360°decompression, vertebral body reconstruction and a multilevel stabilization.

Results

The study included eight patients with a mean age of 59 years (range, 36–72 years). Mean modified Tokuhashi score was 10 (range, 7–13) with three patients in the short term, two in the medium term and three in the long term survival category. Mean blood loss was 700 mL (range, 100–1200 mL), mean operating time 280 min (range, 120–360 min) and length of stay in the hospital was on average 13 days (range, 3–30 days).

Conclusion

The authors present three minimally invasive technique options for the management of spinal metastatic disease corresponding to three clinical prognostic categories. In this small series, MIS techniques resulted in speedy recovery, minimal morbidity and no mortality.
Prediction of Health Status Based on Postoperative Radiographic Variables in Adult Scoliosis
Authors: Zou Hai‐bo , Wu Chun‐hui , Mehbod Amir A. , Lick Corky , Transfeldt Ensor E.
Published: September 2014

Objective

To evaluate the effect of surgical treatment on health related quality of life (HRQOL) and radiographic variables in patients with adult scoliosis.

Methods

Sixty‐eight patients with adult spinal deformities underwent radiographic analysis. The enrollment criteria were as follows: age older than 18 years, adult degenerative or progressive idiopathic scoliosis (Cobb angle >10°), and surgical treatment within one year before this study was undertaken. The following variables were measured: curve type, apical level, curve magnitude, coronal and sagittal balance using a C7 plumb line (C7PL) and gravity line, lateral intervertebral olisthesis, lumbar lordosis, sacral slope and pelvic tilt. HRQOL was assessed by the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Both preoperative and postoperative data were collected and changes in radiographically assessed variables and ODI scores attributable to surgery calculated; correlations between these changes were then assessed. The radiographically assessed variables and ODI scores were analyzed with SigmaStat (SPSS, Chicago, IL, USA). The level of statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

Surgical treatment resulted in improvements in ODI scores and several radiographically assessed variables, including sagittal balance, lumbar lordosis, lateral olisthesis and coronal Cobb angle. Only sagittal balance expressed as C7PL was correlated to both preoperative and postoperative ODI. Gravity line, an alternative measurement of spinal balance, did not provide better correlations with HRQOL than C7PL.

Conclusions

Spinal balance assessed by gravity line did not provide a better correlation with HRQOL than C7PL. Loss of sacral slope and retroverted pelvis are commonly seen in adult scoliosis and are not significantly changed by surgical treatment, including restoration of lumbar lordosis and sagittal balance.
Isthmus‐guided Cortical Bone Trajectory for Pedicle Screw Insertion
Authors: Iwatsuki Koichi , Yoshimine Toshiki , Ohnishi Yu‐ichiro , Ninomiya Kosi , Ohkawa Toshika
Published: September 2014

Herein is described cortical bone trajectory (CBT), a new path for pedicle screw insertion for lumbar vertebral fusion. Because the points of insertion are under the end of the inferior articular process, and because the screws are inserted toward the lateral side, there is less soft tissue development than with the conventional technique; the CBT technique therefore enables less invasive surgery than the conventional technique. However, it has some drawbacks. For example, in the original CBT approach, the points of insertion are in the vicinity of the end of the inferior articular process. Because this joint has been destroyed in many patients who have indications for intervertebral fusion surgery, it is sometimes difficult to use it as a reference point for screw insertion location. With severe lateral slippage, the screw insertion site can become significantly dislocated sideways, with possible resultant damaging to the spinal canal and/or nerve root. The CBT technique here involved inserting the screws while keeping clear of the intervertebral foramen with the assistance of side view X‐ray fluoroscopy and using the end of the inferior articular process and the isthmus as points of reference for screw location.
How to Interpret Postoperative X‐rays after Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Kumar Nishikant , Yadav Chandrashekhar , Raj Rishi , Anand Sumit
Published: September 2014

Today, total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is one the most commonly performed surgeries worldwide. The purpose of this article is to review the appearance of normal post‐TKA roentgenographs and describe the correct sequence for their interpretation. It is unwise to depend solely on patients’ symptoms when diagnosing TKA complications because serial radiographs can foresee failures well before they manifest clinically. Ideal post‐TKA radiographs comprise whole lower extremity anteroposterior and lateral views taken under weight bearing conditions along with a skyline view of the patellofemoral joint. Among other things, weight bearing exposes the true alignment, ligamentous laxity and polyethylene wear. On the basis of follow‐up of our TKA cases, we have drawn up a protocol for assessing postoperative X‐ray films after TKAs. Following the proposed sequence, surgeon can easily decide how to proceed with follow‐up and foresee complications. Careful interpretation of postoperative radiographs after TKA is essential to careful monitoring of patients and implant survival.
Jesús Alanís and the First Recording of the His Bundle: The Scientist and the Man
Authors: MÁRQUEZ MANLIO F. , MOUKABARY TALAL , GONZALEZ MARIO D.
Published: September 2014

The anatomy and physiology of the specialized conduction system has intrigued investigators since the 19th century and is still not fully understood. Dr. Wilhelm His Jr. is well known because he discovered the A‐V bundle, and Dr. Sunao Tawara is rightly credited with the discovery of the atrioventricular (AV) node, but who was the first to record the electrical activity of the His bundle? This paper reviews the historical background and scientific contributions made by Dr. Jesús Alanís in the middle of the 20th century working at the National Institute of Cardiology in Mexico City. Collaborating with outstanding investigators such as Arturo Rosenblueth, Dr. Alanís recorded for the first time the electrical activity of the His bundle in the isolate canine heart. That the recorded electrogram was indeed the His bundle and not the AV node was confirmed by detailed studies that set the basis for modern clinical electrophysiology. The life and research contributions of this extraordinary man are reviewed in the context of a unique group of investigators who made significant advances in cardiac electrophysiology.
Molecular genetic characterization of Central European soybean breeding germplasm
Authors: Hahn Volker , Würschum Tobias
Published: September 2014

Soybean is the most important oilseed and protein crop worldwide, but in Europe, the acreage is comparably low. Thus, Europe strongly depends on imports of soy products and consequently recent efforts aim at expanding the acreage of soybean, particularly in Central Europe. The aim of this study was, therefore, to assist these breeding efforts by characterizing Central European soybean germplasm, employing a genotyping‐by‐sequencing approach yielding 7741 genomewide distributed markers. Our analysis on genetic diversity and population structure revealed that the Central European lines are most closely related to Swiss and Canadian lines and somewhat more distant from the investigated Chinese and US lines. In addition, we analysed patterns of allelic diversity and the extent of linkage disequilibrium. Collectively, our results can assist breeding of Central European soybean and suggest that further progress can be made by crosses among adapted material but a long‐term success also requires introgression of alleles from non‐European germplasm to further broaden the genetic diversity and incorporate novel traits.
Phenotypic characterization of wheat–barley ‘Mv9 kr1’/‘Igri’ introgression lines in the field
Authors: Aranyi Nikolett Réka , Molnár‐Láng Márta , Hoffmann Sándor , Hoffmann Borbála
Published: September 2014

Wheat–barley addition (2H, 3H, 4H, 6HS, 7H) and translocation (7D‐5HS) lines developed from a winter wheat ‘Martonvásári 9 kr1’ × winter barley ‘Igri’ cross were examined to determine how the added barley chromosomes (or segments) influence morphological and agronomic traits. The aim of our study was to investigate whether the advantageous traits of barley can be transferred to wheat by hybridization of the two species. The field experiment was carried out at UP Georgikon Faculty, Keszthely, during 2010–2011. Plants carrying the barley chromosomes had altered ontogenesis: days to 50% flowering, date of maturity, plant height, length and morphology of ear, flag leaf area, yield and components of grain yield. Regarding anthesis and maturity, the 7H addition line was the earliest, whereas the 4H addition was the latest to mature. Plant height and the length of spikes were decreased by the addition of 3H, 4H and 7H. Grain yield was decreased in addition lines 7H and 6HS and increased in addition 3H. Thousand grain weight was decreased in addition lines 2H, 4H and 6HS.
De novo amyloidosis in a renal transplant patient
Authors: Yılmaz Songül , Özçakar Z. Birsin , Bulum Burcu , Kiremitçi Saba , Ensari Arzu , Ekim Mesiha , Keven Kenan , Yalçınkaya Fatoş
Published: September 2014

Systemic AA amyloidosis is a serious complication of many chronic inflammatory disorders and chronic infections. Renal involvement is seen in the majority of the patients and can lead to end‐stage renal disease. Renal transplantation can be performed in these patients; however, amyloidosis can recur in the transplanted kidneys. On the other hand, de novo AA amyloidosis in renal transplant patients has been rarely reported. We report a 17‐yr‐old patient with end‐stage renal disease due to genitourinary anomalies who developed recurrent pyelonephritis after transplantation. Three yr after transplantation, renal biopsy was performed for proteinuria and AA amyloidosis was identified in the renal allograft. Although rare, chronic infections might cause de novo amyloidosis in renal transplant patients. Therefore, amyloidosis should be kept in mind in those types of patients who present with proteinuria.
HLA desensitization with bortezomib in a highly sensitized pediatric patient
Authors: May Lindsay J. , Yeh Justin , Maeda Katsuhide , Tyan Dolly B. , Chen Sharon , Kaufman Beth D. , Bernstein Daniel , Rosenthal David N. , Hollander Seth A.
Published: September 2014

The proteasome inhibitor bortezomib has been used with variable success in the treatment of AMR following heart transplant. There is limited experience with this agent as a pretransplant desensitizing therapy. We report a case of successful HLA desensitization with a bortezomib‐based protocol prior to successful heart transplantation. A nine‐yr‐old boy with dilated cardiomyopathy, not initially sensitized to HLA (cPRA of zero), required three days of ECMO, followed by implantation of a Heartmate II LVAD. Within six wk, the patient developed de novo class I IgG and C1q complement‐fixing HLA antibodies with a cPRA of 100%. Two doses of IVIG (2 g/kg) failed to reduce antibody levels, although two courses of a novel desensitization protocol consisting of rituximab (375 mg/m2), bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2 × 5 doses), and plasmapheresis reduced his cPRA to 0% and 87% by the C1q and IgG assays, respectively. He underwent heart transplantation nearly two months later. The patient is now >one yr post‐transplant, is free of both AMR and ACR, and has no detectable donor‐specific antibodies by IgG or C1q. Proteasome inhibition with bortezomib and plasmapheresis may be an effective therapy for HLA desensitization pretransplant.
Morpho‐colorimetric analysis and seed germination of Brassica insularis Moris (Brassicaceae) populations
Authors: Santo A. , Mattana E. , Grillo O. , Bacchetta G.
Published: September 2014

Brassica insularis is a perennial plant growing on both coastal and inland cliffs. Three seed lots from Sardinia were analysed using an image analysis system to detect differences in seed morphology, both within and among populations. Germination requirements at constant (5–25 °C) and alternating temperatures (25/10 °C), both in light and in darkness, were evaluated for all populations. In addition, the effect of a dry after‐ripening period (90 days at 25 °C) was also investigated. Morpho‐colorimetric analysis clearly identified seeds from different populations and discriminated three chromatic categories for seeds belonging to the Isola dei Cavoli coastal population, but not for the inland Masùa and the coastal Planu Sartu. Inter‐population variability was also observed in germination behaviour. B. insularis seeds germinated, with percentages up to 60%, in a wide range of temperatures (5–25 °C), and neither light nor dry after‐ripening affected final germination percentages. Moisture content measurements were made for seeds of each colour, but there were no particular differences among colours. Inter‐populational variability in germination behaviour may be a survival strategy for species growing under unpredictable environmental conditions, such as under Mediterranean climate, while heteromorphy may be due to independent evolutionary divergence processes of the Isola dei Cavoli population.
Tracking wind‐dispersed seeds using 15N‐isotope enrichment
Authors: Forster C. , Herrmann J. D.
Published: September 2014

Seed dispersal influences a wide range of ecological processes. However, measuring dispersal patterns, particularly long‐distance dispersal, has been a difficult task. Marking bird‐dispersed seeds with stable 15N isotopes has been shown to be a user‐friendly method to trace seed dispersal. In this study, we determined whether 15N urea solution could be used to enrich seeds of two common wind‐dispersed plants, Eupatorium glaucescens (Asteraceae) and Sericocarpus tortifolius (Asteraceae). We further tested if the water type (distilled versus tap) in 15N urea solutions influences the level and variability of enrichment of plant seeds, and if increasing spraying frequency per se increases enrichment. Because droughts may lower seed set or kill plants, we wanted to investigate if the additional use of an externally applied anti‐transpirant affects the intake of externally applied 15N into seeds. The results demonstrate that 15N enrichment of seeds can facilitate dispersal experiments with wind‐dispersed plants. The use of distilled water in 15N urea solutions did not increase 15N enrichment compared to tap water. Further, enrichment was more efficient at lower spray frequencies. Both the use of tap water and low frequencies could lower time, effort and project costs. The results suggest that species can be protected from drought using an anti‐transpirant without decreasing the incorporation of 15N into seeds.
Phytosulfokine peptide signaling controls pollen tube growth and funicular pollen tube guidance in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Stührwohldt Nils , Dahlke Renate I. , Kutschmar Anke , Peng Xiongbo , Sun Meng‐Xiang , Sauter Margret
Published: September 2014

Phytosulfokine (PSK) is a peptide growth factor that requires tyrosine sulfation carried out by tyrosylprotein sulfotransferase (TPST) for its activity. PSK is processed from precursor proteins encoded by five genes in Arabidopsis thaliana and perceived by receptor kinases encoded by two genes in Arabidopsis. pskr1‐3 pskr2‐1 and tpst‐1 knockout mutants displayed reduced seed production, indicative of a requirement for PSK peptide signaling in sexual plant reproduction. Expression analysis revealed PSK precursor and PSK receptor gene activity in reproductive organs with strong expression of PSK2 in pollen. In support of a role for PSK signaling in pollen, in vitro pollen tube (PT) growth was enhanced by exogenously added PSK while PTs of pskr1‐3 pskr2‐1 and of tpst‐1 were shorter. In planta, growth of wild‐type pollen in pskr1‐3 pskr2‐1 and tpst‐1 flowers appeared slower than growth in wild‐type flowers. But PTs did eventually reach the base of the style, suggesting that PT elongation rate may not be responsible for the reduced fertility. Detailed analysis of anthers, style and ovules did not reveal obvious developmental defects. By contrast, a high percentage of unfertilized ovules in pskr1‐3 pskr2‐1 and in tpst‐1 siliques displayed loss of funicular PT guidance, suggesting that PSK signaling is required to guide the PT from the transmitting tract to the embryo sac. Cross‐pollination experiments with wild‐type, pskr1‐3 pskr2‐1 and tpst‐1 male and female parents revealed that both the PT and the female sporophytic tissue and/or female gametophyte contribute to successful PT guidance via PSK signaling and to fertilization success.
Resting high‐frequency heart rate variability is related to resting brain perfusion
Authors: Allen Ben , Jennings J. Richard , Gianaros Peter J. , Thayer Julian F. , Manuck Stephen B.
Published: September 2014

We examined the neural correlates of resting cardiac vagal activity in a sample of 432 participants (206 male; 61 African American; mean age 42 years). Pulsed arterial spin labeling was used to quantify whole brain and regional cerebral blood flow at rest. High‐frequency heart rate variability (HF‐HRV) was used to measure cardiac vagal activity at rest. The primary aim was to determine whether brain regions implicated in regulating cardiac vagal reactions were also related to cardiac vagal activity at rest, and whether these associations varied by sex or race. Brain areas previously related to vagal reactivity were related to resting HF‐HRV. Directionality of relationships differed between overall and regional flows. Some relationships were only observed in women and African Americans. There appears to be communality between brain regions associated with task‐induced vagal reactivity and those associated with resting cardiac vagal activity.
Cardiovascular control, autonomic function, and elite endurance performance in spinal cord injury
Authors: West C. R. , Gee C. M. , Voss C. , Hubli M. , Currie K. D. , Schmid J. , Krassioukov A. V.
Published: September 2014

We aimed to determine the relationship between level of injury, completeness of injury, resting as well as exercise hemodynamics, and endurance performance in athletes with spinal cord injury (SCI). Twenty‐three elite male paracycling athletes (C3‐T8) were assessed for neurological level/completeness of injury, autonomic completeness of injury, resting cardiovascular function, and time to complete a 17.3‐km World Championship time‐trial test. A subset were also fitted with heart rate (HR) monitors and their cycles were fitted with a global positioning systems device (n = 15). Thoracic SCI exhibited higher seated systolic blood pressure along with superior time‐trial performance compared with cervical SCI (all P < 0.01). When further stratified by autonomic completeness of injury, the four athletes with cervical autonomic incomplete SCI exhibited a faster time‐trial time and a higher average speed compared with cervical autonomic complete SCI (all P < 0.042). Maximum and average HR also tended to be higher in cervical autonomic incomplete vs autonomic complete. There were no differences in time‐trial time, HR, or speed between thoracic autonomic complete vs incomplete SCI. In conclusion, autonomic completeness of injury and the consequent ability of the cardiovascular system to respond to exercise appear to be a critical determinant of endurance performance in elite athletes with cervical SCI.
Evaluation of an immunological score to assess the risk of severe infection in heart recipients
Authors: Sarmiento E. , Navarro J. , Fernandez‐Yañez J. , Palomo J. , Muñoz P. , Carbone J.
Published: September 2014

Background

We previously reported how specific humoral and cellular immunological markers that are readily available in clinical practice can be used to identify heart transplant recipients (HTR) at risk of developing severe infections. In this study, we perform an extended analysis to identify immunological profiles that could prove to be superior to individual markers in assessing the risk of infection early after heart transplantation.

Methods

In a prospective follow‐up study, we evaluated 100 HTR at 1 week after transplantation. Laboratory tests included determination of immunoglobulin (Ig) levels (IgG, IgA, IgM), complement factors (C3 and C4), and lymphocyte subsets (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+ T cells, B cells, and natural killer [NK] cells). The prevalence of infection during the first 3 months was registered at scheduled visits after transplantation. Severe infections were defined as all infections requiring hospitalization and intravenous antimicrobial therapy.

Results

During follow‐up, 33 patients (33%) developed severe infections. The individual risk factors of severe infection, according to the Cox regression analysis, were as follows: IgG <600 mg/dL (hazard ratio [HR], 2.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.21–4.78; P = 0.012), C3 <80 mg/dL (HR, 4.65; 95% CI, 2.31–9.38; P < 0.0001), C4 <18 mg/dL (HR 2.30, 95% CI, 1.15–4.59; P = 0.018), NK count <30 cells/μL (HR 4.07, 95% CI, 1.76–9.38; P = 0.001), and CD4 count <350 cells/μL (HR, 3.04; 95% CI, 1.47–6.28; P = 0.0027). An immunological score was created. HRs were used to determine the number of points assigned to each of the 5 previously mentioned individual risk factors. The score was obtained from the sum of these factors. In the multivariate Cox regression analysis, the immunological score was useful for identifying patients at risk of infection and was the only variable that maintained a significant association with the development of infection, after adjustment for the 5 individual factors.

Conclusion

Patients with an immunological score ≥13 were at the highest risk of severe infections (HR, 9.29; 95% CI, 4.57–18.90; P < 0.0001). This score remained significantly associated with the risk of severe infection after adjustment for clinical risk factors of infection. An immunological score was useful for identifying HTR at risk of developing severe infections. If this score is validated in multicenter studies, it could be easily introduced into clinical practice.
Development of a consensus protocol to quantify primate anti‐non‐Gal xenoreactive antibodies using pig aortic endothelial cells
Authors: Azimzadeh Agnes M. , Byrne Guerard W. , Ezzelarab Mohamed , Welty Emily , Braileanu Gheorghe , Cheng Xiangfei , Robson Simon C. , McGregor Christopher G. A. , Cooper David K. C. , Pierson Richard N.
Published: September 2014

Background

Scientists working in the field of xenotransplantation do not employ a uniform method to measure and report natural and induced antibody responses to non‐Galα(1,3)Gal (non‐Gal) epitopes. Such humoral responses are thought to be particularly pathogenic after transplantation of vascularized GalTKO pig organs and having a more uniform assay and reporting format would greatly facilitate comparisons between laboratories.

Methods

Flow cytometry allows examination of antibody reactivity to intact antigens in their natural location and conformation on cell membranes. We have established a simple and reproducible flow cytometric assay to detect antibodies specific for non‐Gal pig antigens using primary porcine aortic endothelial cells (pAECs) and cell culture‐adapted pAEC cell lines generated from wild type and α1,3galactosyl transferase knockout (GalTKO) swine.

Results

The consensus protocol we propose here is based on procedures routinely used in four xenotransplantation centers and was independently evaluated at three sites using shared cells and serum samples. Our observation support use of the cell culture‐adapted GalTKO pAEC KO:15502 cells as a routine method to determine the reactivity of anti‐non‐Gal antibodies in human and baboon serum.

Conclusions

We have developed an assay that allows the detection of natural and induced non‐Gal xenoreactive antibodies present in human or baboon serum in a reliable and consistent manner. This consensus assay and format for reporting the data should be accessible to laboratories and will be useful for assessing experimental results between multiple research centers. Adopting this assay and format for reporting the data should facilitate the detection, monitoring, and detailed characterization of non‐Gal antibody responses.
Progress in pig‐to‐non‐human primate transplantation models (1998–2013): a comprehensive review of the literature
Authors: Cooper David K. C. , Satyananda Vikas , Ekser Burcin , van der Windt Dirk J. , Hara Hidetaka , Ezzelarab Mohamed B. , Schuurman Henk‐Jan
Published: September 2014

Background

The pig‐to‐non‐human primate model is the standard choice for in vivo studies of organ and cell xenotransplantation. In 1998, Lambrigts and his colleagues surveyed the entire world literature and reported all experimental studies in this model. With the increasing number of genetically engineered pigs that have become available during the past few years, this model is being utilized ever more frequently.

Methods

We have now reviewed the literature again and have compiled the data we have been able to find for the period January 1, 1998 to December 31, 2013, a period of 16 yr.

Results

The data are presented for transplants of the heart (heterotopic and orthotopic), kidney, liver, lung, islets, neuronal cells, hepatocytes, corneas, artery patches, and skin. Heart, kidney, and, particularly, islet xenograft survival have increased significantly since 1998.

Discussion

The reasons for this are briefly discussed. A comment on the limitations of the model has been made, particularly with regard to those that will affect progression of xenotransplantation toward the clinic.
The International Xenotransplantation Association consensus statement on conditions for undertaking clinical trials of xenocorneal transplantation
Authors: Kim Mee Kum , Choi Hyuk Jin , Kwon Ivo , Pierson Richard N. , Cooper David K. C. , Soulillou Jean‐Paul , O'Connell Philip J. , Vabres Bertrand , Maeda Naoyuki , Hara Hidetaka , Scobie Linda , Gianello Pierre , Takeuchi Yasuhiro , Yamada Kazuhiko , Hwang Eung‐Soo , Kim Sang Joon , Park Chung‐Gyu
Published: September 2014

To develop an international consensus regarding the appropriate conditions for undertaking clinical trials in xenocorneal transplantation, here we review specific ethical, logistical, scientific, and regulatory issues regarding xenocorneal transplantation, and propose guidelines for conduct of clinical xenocorneal transplantation trials. These proposed guidelines are modeled on the published consensus statement of the International Xenotransplantation Association regarding recommended guidelines for conduct of clinical islet xenotransplantation. It is expected that this initial consensus statement will be revised over time in response to scientific advances in the field, and changes in the regulatory framework based on accumulating clinical experience.
Erosion Testing of Thermal Barrier Coatings in a High Enthalpy Wind Tunnel
Authors: Kirschner M. , Wobst T. , Rittmeister B. , Mundt Ch.
Published: September 2014

One of the major problems facing the users of aircraft engines and stationary gas turbines in dusty and dirty environments is erosion, causing engine performance deterioration. Thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) are often applied on metal engine components as combustor heat shields or tiles as well as turbine blades allowing enhanced operating temperatures and resulting in increased thermal efficiency of the turbine and also reduced fuel consumption and gaseous emission. Erosive attack by airborne dust or fly ash, coarse particles causes coating degradation resulting in lifting issues of engine components. In the present study, an erosion test facility was used to simulate the mechanisms of coating degradation expected in gas turbines in a more realistic way closer to real engine conditions. A loading situation combining thermal gradient cycling and erosive media was used. The experiments have been performed with an arc heated plasma wind tunnel (PWT total enthalpy up to 20 MJ/kg), which is available at the Institute for Thermodynamics at the University of the Federal Armed Forces in Munich, Germany. The experimental setup and the integration of the air jet erosion test rig into the existing PWT will be elucidated. Different plasma sprayed TBC materials, including the standard TBC material yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ), were investigated regarding their erosion resistance. For validation and verification, samples of nickel-based Mar-M 247 and INCO 718 alloys have been used.
Robust and Dynamically Consistent Model Order Reduction for Nonlinear Dynamic Systems
Authors: Segala David B. , Chelidze David
Published: September 2014

There is a great importance for faithful reduced order models (ROMs) that are valid over a range of system parameters and initial conditions. In this paper, we demonstrate through two nonlinear dynamic models (pinned–pinned beam and thin plate) that are both randomly and periodically forced that smooth orthogonal decomposition (SOD)-based ROMs are valid over a wide operating range of system parameters and initial conditions when compared to proper orthogonal decomposition (POD)-based ROMs. Two new concepts of subspace robustness—the ROM is valid over a range of initial conditions, forcing functions, and system parameters—and dynamical consistency—the ROM embeds the nonlinear manifold—are used to show that SOD, as opposed to POD, can capture the low order dynamics of a particular system even if the system parameters or initial conditions are perturbed from the design case.
A Numerical Investigation Into Cold Spray Bonding Processes
Authors: Yildirim Baran , Fukanuma Hirotaka , Ando Teiichi , Gouldstone Andrew , Müftü Sinan
Published: September 2014

Specific mechanisms underlying the critical velocity in cold gas particle spray applications are still being discussed, mainly due to limited access to in situ experimental observation and the complexity of modeling the particle impact process. In this work, particle bonding in the cold spray (CS) process was investigated by the finite element (FE) method. An effective interfacial cohesive strength parameter was defined in the particle–substrate contact regions. Impact of four different metals was simulated, using a range of impact velocities and varying the effective cohesive strength values. Deformation patterns of the particle and the substrate were characterized. It was shown that the use of interfacial cohesive strength leads to a critical particle impact velocity that demarcates a boundary between rebounding and bonding type responses of the system. Such critical bonding velocities were predicted for different interfacial cohesive strength values, suggesting that the bonding strength in particle–substrate interfaces could span a range that depends on the surface conditions of the particle and the substrate. It was also predicted that the quality of the particle bonding could be increased if the impact velocity exceeds the critical velocity. A method to predict a lower bound for the interfacial bonding energy was also presented. It was shown that the interfacial bonding energy for the different materials considered would have to be at least on the order of 10–60 J/m2 for cohesion to take place. The general methodology presented in this work can be extended to investigate various materials and impact conditions.
Mandibular swelling in a 5-year-old child – mandibular myofibroma
Authors: Rai Birendra , Ludusan Evodia , McGovern Brianán , Sharif Farhana
Published: September 2014

A 5-year-old girl of African descent presented with a history of progressive painless swelling on the right side of the jaw since the past 2–3 months. Orthopantomogram showed a radiolucent lesion near the angle of the mandible. Subsequent CT scan revealed a 2 cm×2 cm radiolucent lesion with intense periosteal reaction surrounding the lesion and destruction of the overlying cortex. Radiological perplexity aroused regarding the possibility of eosinophilic granuloma or some other malignant lesion. Incisional biopsy performed and microscopy showed spindle cell tumor. Immunohistochemistry confirmed it as myofibroma. Myofibroma is a rare benign tumour involving mesenchyme. Involvement of the mandible is rare. Radiological presentation with strong periosteal reaction is a rarity and has rarely been reported in the medical literature. We conclude that intraosseous myofibroma can sometimes have strong periosteal reaction and careful radiological evaluation is a prerequisite for accurate diagnosis and to avoid unnecessary aggressive therapy.
Disease recurrence following cetuximab completion and declining a gastrectomy: what next to manage Ménétriers disease?
Authors: Patel Mitesh , Mottershead Marcus
Published: September 2014

Ménétriers disease is a rare mucosal hyperproliferative disorder of the stomach, however, the evidence for long-term care remains limited, especially if a gastrectomy is declined. We present a case of 25-year-old Caucasian woman with a history of end-stage renal failure (ESRF) who experienced worsening symptoms of abdominal pain, haematemesis and abdominal swelling, with her serum albumin dropping to 20 g/L and haemoglobin to 4.9 g/dL. Endoscopy showed markedly hyperplastic gastric folds consistent with Ménétriers disease, confirmed histologically by gland dilation and gastric pit expansion. Intravenous cetuximab was prescribed for 12 months, with clinical, biochemical and endoscopic improvement. However, 5 weeks post cetuximab completion, there was relapse to 50% gastric coverage with Ménétriers. A discussion around gastrectomy was rejected by the patient. This is the first report of relapsing Ménétriers disease in a female patient with ESRF; we suggest that long-term cetuximab should be considered if a gastrectomy is declined.
Chronic cough: a herald symptom of thoracic aortic aneurysm in a patient with a bicuspid aortic valve
Authors: Miller Charles Philip , Firoozan Soroosh , Woo Eric K , Apps Andrew
Published: September 2014

Chronic cough has a wide differential, of which thoracic aortic aneurysm is a rare but potentially devastating cause. We present a patient with previous aortic valve replacement for a bicuspid valve who had been suffering from a chronic cough for 8 months and who developed subsequent voice hoarseness. This had been initially managed in the community with trials of steroid inhalers, steroid nasal sprays and proton pump inhibitors to no avail. He was referred to cardiology and chest clinics. An urgent CT aortogram was requested given his widened mediastinum on chest radiograph, cardiac history of bicuspid valve and symptoms. This revealed a large aneurysm of the thoracic aorta with chronic dissection that required urgent operative intervention. His cough resolved 6 weeks postoperatively. The purpose of this report is to highlight thoracic aortic aneurysms as a potential rare differential for chronic cough and as a complication of patients with bicuspid aortic valves.
Seizures in the juvenile patient
Authors: Lowrie Mark
Published: September 2014

Neurology is often seen as a disengaging subject, with seizures representing a manifestation of the dysfunctional ‘black‐box’ we know as the brain. Seizures in small and fragile juvenile patients can quickly become life‐threatening, demanding critical attention and informed intervention. This, when combined with the emotions of the owner, can lead to a very stressful environment in which time is of the essence and clear thinking is the key to success. A structured approach to investigating the problem allows optimal management of these cases, giving these altricial patients every chance of success. This article will discuss some conditions that are specific to these patients, and explain how best to treat and manage them.
Canine idiopathic epilepsy
Authors: Rusbridge Clare
Published: September 2014

Canine idiopathic epilepsy has an estimated prevalence of 0.62 per cent in primary veterinary practice (Kearsley‐Fleet and others 2013) and as such is one of the most common chronic neurological diseases. Descriptions of ‘epilepsy of unknown origin… where no symptom characteristic of any other condition has as yet presented’ can be found in early veterinary textbooks (Kirk 1922) and although our knowledge is now considerably greater, and we are no longer treating it with arsenic, we are still a long way from preventing or curing this enigmatic disease. This article describes the diagnosis, management and considerations to take when dealing with this condition.
The Effect of Rhubarb Pre-Treatment on Intestinal Microcirculation in Septic Rats
Authors: Cui Yun-Liang , Wang Lv , Tian Zhao-Tao , Lin Zhao-Fen , Chen De-Chang
Published: September 2014

The intestine plays a vital role in the pathophysiology of sepsis development. The objective of the present study was to explore the effects of rhubarb on intestinal microcirculation in septic rats. We used moorFLPI laser speckle imaging to detect the blood flow of the intestinal mucosa and wall. Using an ELISA, we assayed the concentration of lactate (L) and pyruvic acid (P) in the intestinal tissue to calculate the ratio of lactate to pyruvic acid (L/P ratio). To observe the intestinal mucosal capillaries, gelatin and ink were perfused into the intestine and subsequently stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) to measure the ratio of the vessel area. We then used immunohistochemistry to measure CD31 expression. Using an MTT assay, the effect of the rhubarb extract on the proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was analyzed. The blood flow in the intestinal wall and mucosa of the control, sham and rhubarb-treated groups was significantly higher, while the sepsis group had relatively low blood flow. The L/P ratio in the intestinal tissue was larger in the sepsis group than in the other three groups. The microvascular area (MVA) in the sepsis group was smaller than in the control group, sham group or rhubarb group. Positive expression for CD31 was observed in the cytoplasm of vascular endothelial cells. The intestinal mucosal capillaries were reduced in septic rats as compared to the other three groups. HUVEC proliferation was enhanced by the rhubarb extract monomers at 1 μmol/L, but suppressed at higher concentrations of 10 to 100 μmol/L. These results suggest that pre-treatment with rhubarb prior to sepsis induction promotes the expansion of the intestinal mucosal capillaries, protects intestinal mucosal capillary endothelial cells and increases the number of functional intestinal capillaries.
The twin paradox in the presence of gravity
Authors: Gasperini M.
Published: September 2014

Conventional wisdom, based on kinematic (flat-space) intuition, tell us that a static twin is aging faster than his traveling twin brother. However, such a situation could be exactly inverted if the two twins are embedded in an external gravitational field, and if the (dynamical) distortion of the spacetime geometry, due to gravity, is strong enough to compensate the kinematic effect of the relative twin motion.
Influence of short-range artificial defects in a macroscopic flat disk on the Abrikosov state
Authors: Acosta Jesús González , Joya Miryam R. , Barba-Ortega J.
Published: September 2014

We study the vortex configuration in a superconducting macroscopic flat disk with central defects in the presence of a uniform applied magnetic field. Owing to the defects nature on the thin disk, vortices are able to form geometry induced, quasi-symmetric configurations of disk, triangle and concentric shells in the rest of the disk. The theoretical study made on this mesoscopic systems allows us to trace not only how the vortex pattern evolves with magnetic field, but also how the defect can be used to show the pinning and anti-pinning effect. The magnetic induction, vortex number, magnetization and Cooper pairs density as a function of the external magnetic field are calculated, we show that in our sample novels vortex configurations are possible due to the size of the disk and if the hole or barrier defect is considered.
Cu-induced Seebeck peak in HMS/Si film
Authors: Hou Q. R. , Gu B. F. , Chen Y. B.
Published: September 2014

It is well known that aluminum ( Al ), boron ( B ) and copper ( Cu ) are acceptor impurities with shallow- and deep-energy levels in silicon ( Si ), respectively. Thus, Al and B impurities with shallow-energy levels in Si are essentially completely ionized at room temperature while Cu impurities with deep-energy levels in Si at higher temperature. In this paper, Al , B and Cu co-doped Si layer is used as a barrier layer while the higher manganese silicide layer (HMS) as a well layer. The Seebeck coefficient (S) of Al and Cu modulation doped film, HMS/ Si :( Al + Cu ), increases sharply above 583 K, reaches a peak value of 0.300 mV/K at 683 K, and then decreases with further increasing temperature. Concomitance with the great increase in Seebeck coefficient, however, the electrical resistivity (R) is still smaller than that of only Al modulation doped film, HMS/ Si : Al . The Cu -induced Seebeck peak, S max = 0.303 mV/K at 733 K, and reduction in electrical resistivity are also observed in ( B + Al + Cu ) modulation doped film, Si :( B + Al + Cu )/HMS/ Si :( B + Al + Cu ), where B is used to reduce the electrical resistivity further. As a result, the thermoelectric power factor (PF = S2/R) is greatly enhanced and can reach 3.140 × 10-3 W/m-K2 at 733 K, which is larger than that of HMS bulk material.