bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The variable routes of rafting: stranding dynamics of floating bull kelp Durvillaea antarctica (Fucales, Phaeophyceae) on beaches in the SE Pacific
Authors: López Boris A. , Macaya Erasmo C. , Tala Fadia , Tellier Florence , Thiel Martin
Published: October 2016

Dispersal on floating seaweeds depends on availability, viability, and trajectories of the rafts. In the southern hemisphere, the bull kelp Durvillaea antarctica is one of the most common floating seaweeds, but phylogeographic studies had shown low connectivity between populations from continental Chile, which could be due to limitations in local supply and dispersal of floating kelps. To test this hypothesis, the spatiotemporal dynamics of kelp strandings were examined in four biogeographic districts along the Chilean coast (28°–42°S). We determined the biomass and demography of stranded individuals on 33 beaches for three subsequent years (2013, 2014, 2015) to examine whether rafting is restricted to certain districts and seasons (winter or summer). Stranded kelps were found on all beaches. Most kelps had only one stipe (one individual), although we also frequently found coalesced holdfasts with mature males and females, which would facilitate successful rafting dispersal, gamete release, and reproduction upon arrival. High biomasses of stranded kelps occurred in the northern‐central (30°S–33°S) and southernmost districts (37°S–42°S), and lower biomasses in the northernmost (28°S–30°S) and southern‐central districts (33°S–37°S). The highest percentages and sizes of epibionts (Lepas spp.), indicative of prolonged floating periods, were found on stranded kelps in the northernmost and southernmost districts. Based on these results, we conclude that rafting dispersal can vary regionally, being more common in the northernmost and southernmost districts, depending on intrinsic (seaweed biology) and extrinsic factors (shore morphology and oceanography) that affect local supply of kelps and regional hydrodynamics.
Determinants of patchiness of woody vegetation in an African savanna
Authors: Veldhuis Michiel P. , Rozen‐Rechels David , le Roux Elizabeth , Cromsigt Joris P.G.M. , Berg Matty P. , Olff Han
Published: October 2016

Questions

How is woody vegetation patchiness affected by rainfall, fire and large herbivore biomass? Can we predict woody patchiness and cover over large‐scale environmental gradients?

Location

Hluhluwe‐iMfolozi Park, South Africa.

Methods

We quantified variation in local patchiness as the lacunarity of woody cover on satellite‐derived images. Using Random Forest regression we analysed how both average woody cover and its patchiness depend on annual rainfall, fire frequency and grazer and browser metabolic biomass densities.

Results

Fire frequency and rainfall were the clearest predictors, whereas effects of large herbivores on woody vegetation were smaller and more complex. Under low rainfall conditions (500 mm·yr−1) trees had less total cover and were more regularly spaced across the landscape (lower patchiness). Woody cover and vegetation patchiness increased with rainfall whereas fire frequency decreased woody cover and further increased patchiness.

Conclusion

These results suggest a switch from competition between neighbouring trees under low rainfall conditions towards benefits among neighbours with increasing fire frequencies. Whereas overall woody cover and its patchiness are two independent aspects of savanna woody vegetation patterns, both need to be investigated to obtain a good understanding of the functioning and diversity of savanna ecosystems.
Fire is a stronger driver of forest composition than logging in the boreal forest of eastern Canada
Authors: Boucher Yan , Auger Isabelle , Noël Jean , Grondin Pierre , Arseneault Dominique
Published: October 2016

Aims

Our study aimed to: (1) document the preindustrial (1925) forest composition prior to extensive logging; (2) document the magnitude of changes from 1925 to 2005; and (3) identify the relative influence of logging and natural disturbances as drivers of the present‐day forest composition.

Location

Boreal forest in central Quebec, eastern Canada.

Methods

We used a dense network of georeferenced historical (~1925) forest plots (n = 30 033) to document preindustrial forest composition. We evaluated the magnitude of changes with the present‐day using modern plots (1980s to 2000s). We reconstructed a long‐term, spatially explicit history of logging, spruce budworm outbreaks (Choristoneura fumiferana [Clem.], SBO), and fire using historical maps and field surveys.

Results

In the preindustrial period, late successional coniferous taxa (Abies balsamea and Picea spp.) dominated the landscape, whereas early successional deciduous taxa (Betula spp. and Populus spp.) were confined to recently burned areas. In the present‐day landscape, large areas dominated by late successional coniferous taxa have been replaced by early successional deciduous taxa. Forest communities dominated by early successional deciduous taxa increased sharply throughout the study area. Logging has been a minor driver of these changes compared to fire and SBOs.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the importance of documenting the long‐term history of both anthropogenic and natural disturbances in order to assess their relative contributions to the development of the present‐day forest ecosystems. Natural disturbances have remained the main drivers of forest composition during the 20th century, whereas logging played a less important role. In the current context of global change, long‐term experimental research is required to help forecast impacts of natural disturbances and forest management on boreal forest composition.
Population genetic structure of the urban fox in Sapporo, northern Japan
Authors: Kato Y. , Amaike Y. , Tomioka T. , Oishi T. , Uraguchi K. , Masuda R.
Published: October 2016

In some countries, the red fox Vulpes vulpes has been rapidly expanding its range into urban and suburban areas, where it is referred to as the ‘urban fox’. In the city of Sapporo, northern Japan, the population of urban foxes has been increasing since the 1990s. Because the red fox carries several zoonoses, it is important to understand its population structure and migration status in urban areas, for not only basic biology but also public health. In this study, to clarify population genetic structure and gene flow, we examined the genotypes of nine microsatellite loci for 578 road‐killed foxes collected in and around residential areas of Sapporo from 2002 to 2014 (except for 2009 and 2010). Based on the genotype data and spatial information for the sampled animals, we detected three subpopulations within the urban fox population. Boundaries separating the three subpopulations were a river and a railway crossing in central Sapporo. The subpopulations separated by the railway were more genetically differentiated than those separated by the river, and the railway, which is surrounded by crowded roads, may have had a greater effect on gene flow and genetic differentiation. Levels of genetic differentiation among the subpopulations in Sapporo, however, were lower than those of urban fox populations studied in other countries. Our results suggest that there is weak gene flow among the subpopulations in Sapporo.
The prevalence of steatohepatitis in chronic hepatitis B patients and its impact on disease severity and treatment response
Authors: Charatcharoenwitthaya Phunchai , Pongpaibul Ananya , Kaosombatwattana Uayporn , Bhanthumkomol Patommatat , Bandidniyamanon Wimolrak , Pausawasdi Nonthalee , Tanwandee Tawesak
Published: October 2016

Background & Aims

The clinical significance of steatohepatitis in chronic hepatitis B remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors for steatohepatitis in chronic hepatitis B, and to determine its correlation with liver fibrosis and response to antiviral therapy.

Methods

Liver histopathology of 256 consecutive chronic hepatitis B patients with serum hepatitis B virus DNA >2000 IU/mL were analysed with clinical and laboratory characteristics. Virological and biochemical responses were prospectively assessed in the 112 patients treated with antiviral monotherapy.

Results

Hepatic steatosis was observed in 38% of the entire cohort, and steatohepatitis was diagnosed in 18% of patients with hepatic steatosis according to Brunt's classification. The presence of steatohepatitis was associated with overweight/obese (odds ratio, 5.99; 95% CI, 1.32‐27.2) and hypertriglyceridaemia (odds ratio, 2.95; 95% CI, 1.07‐8.15). None of the viral characteristics including HBeAg status, genotypes and viraemia levels was associated with the presence of steatohepatitis. Steatohepatitis was an independent predictor of significant fibrosis (odds ratio, 10.0; 95% CI, 2.08‐48.5) and advanced fibrosis (odds ratio, 3.45; 95% CI, 1.11‐10.7) after adjusting for viraemia levels and features of the metabolic syndrome. The rates of suppression of serum hepatitis B virus DNA <20 IU/mL combined with aminotransferase normalization at week 48 of antiviral therapy were not different between the steatohepatitis and non‐steatohepatitis groups (43% vs 53%; P=.475).

Conclusions

Steatohepatitis is not uncommon in chronic hepatitis B patients. It is associated with metabolic syndrome but not viral factor. This study demonstrates that steatohepatitis is related to the severity of liver fibrosis but it does not affect response to antiviral therapy.
A multiobjective fuzzy linear programming model for sustainable integrated operation of a multireservoir system
Authors: Arunkumar R. , Jothiprakash V.
Published: October 2016

Irrigated agriculture is the largest consumer of water, with high significance in India as the majority of its people depend on it. Rainfall uncertainties, and uneven distribution of utilizable water over space and time, have presented a serious challenge to irrigation water management and crop production. Surface water reservoirs play a major role in supplying irrigation water and also addressing uneven water distribution to some degree. Varying water requirements for different crops under multiple canals, however, requires that planners develop an optimal crop planning for the efficient operation of a multireservoir irrigation system. The spatial and temporal water transfer within a multireservoir irrigation system necessitates integrated operation of all the involved reservoirs. Thus, integrated operation of a multireservoir system is a fundamental requirement for efficient irrigation water management, and also become a key issue for sustainable agricultural development. This study derived an optimal crop plan for the integrated operation of a complex multireservoir system with intrabasin water transfer, using a multiobjective fuzzy linear programming (MOFLP) approach. The MOFLP model resulted in a level of satisfaction of 0.46, with an irrigation intensity of 102.18%, and a total crop area of 149 232.10 ha. The optimal policies were furthermore assessed with various statistical indicators with a simulation model, indicating they are performing well, with high reliability and resilience for longer periods.
The effect of hydrostatic pressure on the decomposition of inundated terrestrial plant detritus of different quality in simulated reservoir formation
Authors: Fonseca André Luiz dos S. , Bianchini Irineu , Pimenta Cristiane M.M. , Soares Cássio B.P. , Mangiavacchi Norberto
Published: October 2016

The formation of reservoirs usually incorporates the inundation of terrestrial vegetation in the basin. The decomposition of organic matter from the flooded vegetation may have several implications for reservoir functioning, including eutrophication and dissolved oxygen depletion. The hydrostatic pressure increases with depth in a reservoir, and its influence on the decomposition process has not previously been evaluated. This study was undertaken to evaluate the decomposition of terrestrial plant detritus of different qualities (leaves and branches) under different hydrostatic pressure conditions. Detritus were placed separately in glass bottles in the laboratory and incubated in tight stainless steel pressure vessels, simulating three different depths (surface, 30 and 100 m). The masses (mg) of particulate organic carbon (POC), dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and inorganic carbon (IC) were determined for the 4 months of the detritus decomposition simulated in this study. The mass values were transformed in percentages of the initial detritus carbon. The results of temporal variations of the compounds studied were fitted to a first‐order biphasic decay model. The hydrostatic pressure exhibited no significant effects on litter decomposition. On the other hand, the detritus chemical composition (i.e. the presence of labile and refractory compounds) was the determining factor for the decomposition curve shape and for the differences observed between the leaves and branches. The greatest POC loss from leaves, and resulting larger DOC mass, indicated the leaves were more labile than the branches. The results also indicated the branches are the main detritus remaining in a reservoir over time.
Sediment in Mosul Dam reservoir using the HEC‐RAS model
Authors: Mohammad Mohammad E. , Al‐Ansari Nadhir , Issa Issa E. , Knutsson Sven
Published: October 2016

Mosul Dam, located on the Tigris River north of Iraq, is experiencing sedimentation problems, especially near the Al‐Jazeera pumping station that supplies the irrigation water for the Al‐Jazeera project. The sources of the sediment accumulated within the reservoir are from the Tigris River, as well as ten side valleys on both sides of the reservoir. The sediment inflow rate into the reservoir and the released values are considered on the basis of the operation schedule of the dam for the considered period from 1986 to 2011. The sediment loads were estimated on the basis of available measurements and estimated literature values. The HEC‐RAS 4.1 model was used for flows and sediments in the main river and reservoir. The model was calibrated for flow simulations (coefficient of determination r2 = 0.87) and sediment routing based on bed level, (with resultant r2 = 0.98 and Mean Absolute Deviation of 0.95). The Ackers–White equation was used in the HEC‐RAS model for sediment routing because of the wide range of sediment sizes in the study case. The resultant total accumulated sediment load volume was 1.13 km3, a value that is very close to the measured values (1.143 km3) obtained from a previous bathymetric survey. Furthermore, the model indicated most of the sediment (80.7%) was deposited during the first five of the dam operation.
Sediment distribution and its impacts on Hirakud Reservoir (India) storage capacity
Authors: Dutta Subhasri , Sen Dhrubajyoti
Published: October 2016

Construction of dams causes reduced flow velocities, inducing gradual deposition of sediments carried by the inflowing stream, and resulting in sedimentation and ultimately diminishing reservoir storage capacity. This study focuses on sedimentation of Hirakud Reservoir in Odisha, India, using available reservoir capacity and numerical simulation data. Reduced trap efficiency, observed and projected capacity curves, rising reservoir bed level and the capacities of the different storage zones for various projected years are analysed. The area‐reduction method indicates the loss in the live, gross and dead storage will be 58%, 63% and 100%, respectively, of their original capacities by 2057, which represents 100 years of impounding of water in the reservoir. If the present sediment inflow rate continues without regular flushing of the deposited sediment, it is predicted the reservoir bed level will rise to the full reservoir level of 192.02 m by the year 2110. Brune's trap efficiency and step method indicate the gross storage zone of Hirakud Reservoir will be completely depleted by the end of 2110, with the trap efficiency reduced to zero. The empirical area‐reduction method is found to be more suitable for determining the storage capacities of Hirakud Reservoir in the absence of sedimentation survey data. An attempt was also made to solve the combined hydrodynamic and sediment transport equations numerically to predict morphological changes in Hirakud Reservoir. The finite‐element code TELEMAC‐2D and finite‐volume code for SISYPHE, respectively, were applied to solve the above set of equations in order to predict the bed profiles at different reservoir cross sections for the period of 1958–2008. Analysis of the simulated results demonstrates that, considering the model inputs, the model performs well in simulating the morphology and dynamic characteristics of a reservoir. Projection of the numerical results indicates a complete loss of reservoir operational life due to sedimentation by around 2150.
Connectivity and stock composition of loggerhead turtles foraging on the North African continental shelf (Central Mediterranean): implications for conservation and management
Authors: Karaa Sami , Maffucci Fulvio , Jribi Imed , Bologna Marco Alberto , Borra Marco , Biffali Elio , Bradai Mohamed Nejmeddine , Hochscheid Sandra
Published: October 2016

The loggerhead turtle, Caretta caretta, is a highly migratory species with a complex life cycle that involves a series of ontogenetic habitat shifts and migrations. Understanding the links amongst nesting populations and foraging habitats is essential for the effective management of the species. Here we used mixed stock analysis to examine the natal origin of loggerhead turtles foraging on the North African continental shelf off Tunisia, one of the most important Mediterranean neritic habitats. An 815‐bp fragment of the mitochondrial DNA control region was sequenced from 107 individuals sampled from 2007 to 2009. No temporal variation in haplotype frequencies was detected. Juveniles (n = 87) and adults (n = 23) exhibited weak but significant genetic differentiation that resulted in different stock compositions. Libya was the main source population but the proportion of turtles from this rookery was higher in adults (median = 80%) than in juveniles (median = 35%). Western Greece was the second most important contributing population. Juvenile stock composition derived from mixed stock analysis and the estimates produced by numerical simulation of hatchling dispersion in the Mediterranean Sea were significantly correlated, supporting the recent theory that loggerheads imprint on possible future neritic habitats during the initial phase of their life. This association was not significant for adults, suggesting that other factors contribute to shaping their distribution. Overall, our results show that human activities on the South Tunisian continental shelf pose an immediate threat to the survival of the Libyan rookery.
Influence of stent implantation on erythrocyte aggregation in human native coronary arteries and saphenous vein grafts
Authors: Baars Theodor , Kahlert Philipp , Baars Albert , Preibsch Heike , Rassaf Tienush , Heusch Gerd , Kleinbongard Petra
Published: October 2016

Objective

Stent implantation into atherosclerotic coronary vessels induces the release of particulate debris and soluble vasoactive substances, which impair downstream microvascular function. Microvascular perfusion, however, is also determined by hemorheological parameters. We therefore analyzed now changes in erythrocyte (RBC) aggregation in coronary arterial blood during stent implantation.

Methods

Symptomatic male patients with stable angina pectoris and stenosis in their native right coronary artery (RCA) or saphenous vein graft on right coronary artery (SVG‐RCA) were enrolled. Coronary arterial blood was taken before and coronary aspirate during stent implantation with a distal occlusion/aspiration device. RBC aggregation was determined using the erythrocyte adhesiveness/aggregation test. The ratio of clot‐free area to whole area of a spread blood drop was quantified (rCFA). To evaluate the impact of soluble factors within aspirate plasma on RBC aggregation, separated RBCs of healthy volunteers were exposed to patients' coronary arterial blood and aspirate samples.

Results

rCFA was comparably increased in coronary aspirate of RCAs and SVG‐RCAs after stent implantation (RCA: 25.7±2.1% vs 32.2±2.1%; SVG‐RCA: 28.9±1.9% vs 33.3±2.0%, P<.01). The rCFA of healthy volunteers was increased after adding coronary aspirate plasma.

Conclusions

Stent implantation into atherosclerotic coronary arteries induces an increase in RBC aggregation, potentially contributing to impaired microvascular perfusion.
Molybdenum and iron mutually impact their homeostasis in cucumber (Cucumis sativus) plants
Authors: Vigani Gianpiero , Di Silvestre Dario , Agresta Anna Maria , Donnini Silvia , Mauri Pierluigi , Gehl Christian , Bittner Florian , Murgia Irene
Published: October 2016

Molybdenum (Mo) and iron (Fe) are essential micronutrients required for crucial enzyme activities in plant metabolism. Here we investigated the existence of a mutual control of Mo and Fe homeostasis in cucumber (Cucumis sativus).

Plants were grown under single or combined Mo and Fe starvation. Physiological parameters were measured, the ionomes of tissues and the ionomes and proteomes of root mitochondria were profiled, and the activities of molybdo‐enzymes and the synthesis of molybdenum cofactor (Moco) were evaluated.

Fe and Mo were found to affect each other's total uptake and distribution within tissues and at the mitochondrial level, with Fe nutritional status dominating over Mo homeostasis and affecting Mo availability for molybdo‐enzymes in the form of Moco. Fe starvation triggered Moco biosynthesis and affected the molybdo‐enzymes, with its main impact on nitrate reductase and xanthine dehydrogenase, both being involved in nitrogen assimilation and mobilization, and on the mitochondrial amidoxime reducing component.

These results, together with the identification of > 100 proteins differentially expressed in root mitochondria, highlight the central role of mitochondria in the coordination of Fe and Mo homeostasis and allow us to propose the first model of the molecular interactions connecting Mo and Fe homeostasis.
Below‐ground frontiers in trait‐based plant ecology
Authors: Laliberté Etienne
Published: October 2016

Trait‐based approaches have led to significant advances in plant ecology, but are currently biased toward above‐ground traits. It is becoming clear that a stronger emphasis on below‐ground traits is needed to better predict future changes in plant biodiversity and their consequences for ecosystem functioning. Here I propose six ‘below‐ground frontiers’ in trait‐based plant ecology, with an emphasis on traits governing soil nutrient acquisition: redefining fine roots; quantifying root trait dimensionality; integrating mycorrhizas; broadening the suite of root traits; determining linkages between root traits and abiotic and biotic factors; and understanding ecosystem‐level consequences of root traits. Focusing research efforts along these frontiers should help to fulfil the promise of trait‐based ecology: enhanced predictive capacity across ecological scales.

Contents

Summary
1597

I.
The promise of trait‐based plant ecology
1597

II.
Redefining fine roots
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III.
Quantifying trait dimensionality
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IV.
Integrating mycorrhizas
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V.
Broadening the suite of below‐ground traits
1600

VI.
Determining trait–environment linkages
1601

VII.
Understanding ecosystem‐level consequences
1601

VIII.
Conclusions
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Acknowledgements
1602

References
1602
Arbuscular mycorrhizal interactions of mycoheterotrophicThismiaare more specialized than in autotrophic plants
Authors: Gomes Sofia I. F. , Aguirre‐Gutiérrez Jesús , Bidartondo Martin I. , Merckx Vincent S. F. T.
Published: October 2016

In general, plants and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi exchange photosynthetically fixed carbon for soil nutrients, but occasionally nonphotosynthetic plants obtain carbon fromAMfungi. The interactions of these mycoheterotrophic plants withAMfungi are suggested to be more specialized than those of green plants, although direct comparisons are lacking.

We investigated the mycorrhizal interactions of both green and mycoheterotrophic plants. We used next‐generationDNAsequencing to compare theAMcommunities from roots of five closely related mycoheterotrophic species ofThismia(Thismiaceae), roots of surrounding green plants, and soil, sampled over the entire temperate distribution ofThismiain Australia and New Zealand.

We observed that the fungal communities of mycoheterotrophic and green plants are phylogenetically more similar within than between these groups of plants, suggesting a specific association pattern according to plant trophic mode. Moreover, mycoheterotrophic plants follow a more restricted association with their fungal partners in terms of phylogenetic diversity when compared with green plants, targeting more clustered lineages of fungi, independent of geographic origin.

Our findings demonstrate that these mycoheterotrophic plants target more narrow lineages of fungi than green plants, despite the larger fungal pool available in the soil, and thus they are more specialized towards mycorrhizal fungi than autotrophic plants.
A mechanistic underpinning for sigmoid dose‐dependent infection
Authors: Anttila Jani , Mikonranta Lauri , Ketola Tarmo , Kaitala Veijo , Laakso Jouni , Ruokolainen Lasse
Published: October 2016

Theoretical models of environmentally transmitted diseases often assume that transmission is a constant process, which scales linearly with pathogen dose. Here we question the applicability of such an assumption and propose a sigmoidal form for the pathogens infectivity response. In our formulation, this response arises under two assumptions: 1) multiple invasion events are required for a successful pathogen infection and 2) the host invasion state is reversible. The first assumption reduces pathogen infection rates at low pathogen doses, while the second assumption, due to host immune function, leads to a saturating infection rate at high doses. The derived pathogen dose:infection rate relationship was tested against an experimental data on host mortality rates across different pathogen doses. Compared to two simpler alternatives, the sigmoidal function gave a better fit to patterns in host mortality rate (process), as well as host mortality (endpoint). Combining these alternative approaches made us more confident to conclude that the proposed model for disease transmission is theoretically sound, provides a good description of the data at hand, and is likely to be useful in developing more reliable models for infectious diseases.
Knowledge and Attributability
Authors: Boult Cameron
Published: October 2016

A prominent objection to the so‐called ‘knowledge norm of belief’ is that it is too demanding or too strong. I argue that a prominent way of motivating the objection leads to an impasse in the epistemic norms debate. A way out of the impasse becomes available when we take a closer look at some distinctions in the theory of responsibility. There are at least three relevant notions of responsibility. I argue that a weaker notion of responsibility – attributability – should be used to motivate the objection. This opens up space to move beyond the impasse.
Physicians’ Knowledge of and Attitudes Toward Use of Opioids in Long‐Term Care Facilities
Authors: Griffioen Charlotte , Willems Eva G. , Kouwenhoven Sanne M. , Caljouw Monique A.A. , Achterberg Wilco P.
Published: October 2016

Background

Insufficient pain management in vulnerable older persons living in long‐term care facilities is common, and opiophobia might contribute to this. As opiophobia and its related factors have not been investigated in long‐term care, this study evaluates the degree of knowledge of opioids among elderly‐care physicians (ECPs) and ECP trainees, as well as their attitudes and other factors possibly influencing the clinical use of opioids in these facilities.

Methods

A questionnaire was designed and distributed among ECPs and ECP trainees by email, regional symposia, and all three university training faculties for elderly‐care medicine in the Netherlands.

Results

Respondents were 324 ECPs and 111 ECP trainees. Fear of addiction did not influence the prescription of opioids. Main barriers to the clinical use of opioids were patients’ reluctance to take opioids (83.3%); unknown degree of pain (79.2%); and pain of unknown origin (51.4%). ECPs’ average knowledge scores were sufficient: those who felt that their knowledge of opioids was poor scored lower than those who felt that their knowledge was good.

Conclusions

Factors identified in this study may help provide better pain management for vulnerable older persons living in a long‐term care facility. Also, more patient information on the pros and cons of opioid use is needed, as well as appropriate tools for better clinical assessment of pain in a long‐term care population.
A Modified Posterolateral Approach for Radiofrequency Denervation of the Medial Branch of the Cervical Segmental Nerve in Cervical Facet Joint Pain Based on Anatomical Considerations
Authors: van Eerd Maarten , Lataster Arno , Sommer Micha , Patijn Jacob , van Kleef Maarten
Published: October 2016

The cervical facet joints, also called the zygapophyseal joints, are a potential source of neck pain (cervical facet joint pain). The cervical facet joints are innervated by the cervical medial branches (CMBs) of the cervical segmental nerves. Cervical facet joint pain has been shown to respond to multisegmental radiofrequency denervation of the cervical medial branches. This procedure is performed under fluoroscopic guidance. Currently, three approaches are described and used. Those three techniques of radiofrequency treatment of the CMBs, classified on the base of the needle trajectory toward the anatomical planes, are as follows: the posterolateral technique, the posterior technique, and the lateral technique.

We describe the three techniques with their advantages and disadvantages. Anatomical studies providing a topographic anatomy of the course of the CMBs are reviewed.

We developed a novel approach based on the observed strengths and weaknesses of the three currently used approaches and based on recent anatomical findings. With this fluoroscopic‐guided approach, there is always bone (the facet column) in front of the needle, which makes it safer, and the insertion point is easier to determine without the risk of positioning the radiofrequency needle too dorsally.
Stellate Ganglion Block in the Treatment of Post‐traumatic Stress Disorder: A Review of Historical and Recent Literature
Authors: Summers Mary R. , Nevin Remington L.
Published: October 2016

Concerns over the rising prevalence of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly among military service members returning from combat, and over barriers that hinder individuals from seeking out or adhering to standard therapies have contributed to interest in alternative therapies for the disorder. A novel alternative therapy for PTSD—stellate ganglion block (SGB)—may be considered lacking in formal evidence of efficacy despite having shown considerable promise. This review of the recent and historical literature related to SGB finds evidence of substantial beneficial psychiatric effects and substantiates that this fast‐acting, somatic treatment may provide positive results for patients with PTSD and may reduce barriers to therapy, particularly among military populations.
A Comprehensive Outcome‐Specific Review of the Use of Spinal Cord Stimulation for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Authors: Visnjevac Ognjen , Costandi Shrif , Patel Bimal A. , Azer Girgis , Agarwal Priya , Bolash Robert , Mekhail Nagy A.
Published: October 2016

Background

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a painful, debilitating affliction that is often difficult to treat. It has become common international practice to use spinal cord stimulation (SCS) for the treatment of CRPS as other therapies fail to provide adequate relief, quality of life, or improvement in function. This comprehensive outcome‐specific systematic review of the use of SCS for CRPS was performed to elucidate the available evidence with focus on clinically relevant patient‐specific outcomes.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was conducted to evaluate the effects of SCS on patients with CRPS for the following outcomes and provide summary levels of evidence in regard to each outcome: perceived pain relief, pain score, resolution of CRPS signs, functional status, quality of life, psychological impact, sleep hygiene, analgesic medication utilization, and patient satisfaction with SCS therapy. Search terms included “complex regional pain syndrome,” “spinal cord stimulation,” and “reflex sympathetic dystrophy,” without restriction of language, date, or type of publication, albeit only original data were included in analyses. Of 30 studies selected, seven systematic reviews were excluded, as were four studies reporting combination therapy that included SCS and other therapies (ie, concurrent peripheral nerve stimulation, intrathecal therapy) without clear delineation to the effect of SCS alone on outcomes. A total of 19 manuscripts were evaluated.

Results

Perceived pain relief, pain score improvement, quality of life, and satisfaction with SCS were all rated 1B+, reflecting positive high‐level (randomized controlled trial) evidence favoring SCS use for the treatment of CRPS. Evidence for functional status improvements and psychological effects of SCS was inconclusive, albeit emanating from a randomized controlled trial (evidence level 2B±), and outcomes evidence for both sleep hygiene and resolution of CRPS signs was either nonexistent or of too low quality from which to draw conclusions (evidence level 0). An analgesic sparing effect was observed in nonrandomized reports, reflecting an evidence level of 2C+.

Conclusions

Spinal cord stimulation remains a favorable and effective modality for treating CRPS with high‐level evidence (1B+) supporting its role in improving CRPS patients' perceived pain relief, pain score, and quality of life. A paucity of evidence for functional improvements, resolution of CRPS signs, sleep hygiene, psychological impact, and analgesic sparing effects mandate further investigation before conclusions can be drawn for these specific outcomes.
Elevated acetyl‐CoA by amino acid recycling fuels microalgal neutral lipid accumulation in exponential growth phase for biofuel production
Authors: Yao Lina , Shen Hui , Wang Nan , Tatlay Jaspaul , Li Liang , Tan Tin Wee , Lee Yuan Kun
Published: October 2016

Microalgal neutral lipids [mainly in the form of triacylglycerols (TAGs)], feasible substrates for biofuel, are typically accumulated during the stationary growth phase. To make microalgal biofuels economically competitive with fossil fuels, generating strains that trigger TAG accumulation from the exponential growth phase is a promising biological approach. The regulatory mechanisms to trigger TAG accumulation from the exponential growth phase (TAEP) are important to be uncovered for advancing economic feasibility. Through the inhibition of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase by sodium dichloroacetate, acetyl‐CoA level increased, resulting in TAEP in microalga Dunaliella tertiolecta. We further reported refilling of acetyl‐CoA pool through branched‐chain amino acid catabolism contributed to an overall sixfold TAEP with marginal compromise (4%) on growth in a TAG‐rich D. tertiolecta mutant from targeted screening. Herein, a three‐step α loop‐integrated metabolic model is introduced to shed lights on the neutral lipid regulatory mechanism. This article provides novel approaches to compress lipid production phase and heightens lipid productivity and photosynthetic carbon capture via enhancing acetyl‐CoA level, which would optimize renewable microalgal biofuel to fulfil the demanding fuel market.
The defence‐associated transcriptome of hexaploid wheat displays homoeolog expression and induction bias
Authors: Powell Jonathan J. , Fitzgerald Timothy L. , Stiller Jiri , Berkman Paul J. , Gardiner Donald M. , Manners John M. , Henry Robert J. , Kazan Kemal
Published: October 2016

Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is an allopolyploid species containing three ancestral genomes. Therefore, three homoeologous copies exist for the majority of genes in the wheat genome. Whether different homoeologs are differentially expressed (homoeolog expression bias) in response to biotic and abiotic stresses is poorly understood. In this study, we applied a RNA‐seq approach to analyse homoeolog‐specific global gene expression patterns in wheat during infection by the fungal pathogen Fusarium pseudograminearum, which causes crown rot disease in cereals. To ensure specific detection of homoeologs, we first optimized read alignment methods and validated the results experimentally on genes with known patterns of subgenome‐specific expression. Our global analysis identified widespread patterns of differential expression among homoeologs, indicating homoeolog expression bias underpins a large proportion of the wheat transcriptome. In particular, genes differentially expressed in response to Fusarium infection were found to be disproportionately contributed from B and D subgenomes. In addition, we found differences in the degree of responsiveness to pathogen infection among homoeologous genes with B and D homoeologs exhibiting stronger responses to pathogen infection than A genome copies. We call this latter phenomenon as ‘homoeolog induction bias’. Understanding how homoeolog expression and induction biases operate may assist the improvement of biotic stress tolerance in wheat and other polyploid crop species.
A synthesis of the effects of atmospheric carbon dioxide enrichment on plant hydraulics: implications for whole‐plant water use efficiency and resistance to drought
Authors: Domec Jean‐Christophe , Smith Duncan D. , McCulloh Kate A.
Published: October 2016

Here, we summarize studies on the effects of elevated [CO2] (CO2e) on the structure and function of plant hydraulic architecture and explore the implications of those changes using a model. Changes in conduit diameter and hydraulic conductance due to CO2e vary among species. Ring‐porous species tend towards an increase in conduit size and consequently conductivity. The effect in diffuse‐porous species is much more limited. In conifers, the results are mixed, some species show minor changes in xylem structure, while other studies found increases in tracheid density and diameter. Non‐woody plants generally exhibited the reverse pattern with narrower conduits and lower hydraulic conductivity under CO2e. Further, changes in drought‐resistance traits suggest that non‐woody plants were the most affected by CO2e, which may permit them to better resist drought‐induced embolism under future conditions. Due to their complexity, acclimation in hydraulic traits in response to CO2e is difficult to interpret when relying solely on measurements. When we examined how the observed tissues‐specific trends might alter plant function, our modelling results suggest that these hydraulic changes would lead to reduced conductance and more frequent drought stress in trees that develop under CO2e with a more pronounced effect in isohydric than in anisohydric species.
Leaf water stable isotopes and water transport outside the xylem
Authors: Barbour M. M. , Farquhar G. D. , Buckley T. N.
Published: October 2016

How water moves through leaves, and where the phase change from liquid to vapour occurs within leaves, remain largely mysterious. Some time ago, we suggested that the stable isotope composition of leaf water may contain information on transport pathways beyond the xylem, through differences in the development of gradients in enrichment within the various pathways. Subsequent testing of this suggestion provided ambiguous results and even questioned the existence of gradients in enrichment within the mesophyll. In this review, we bring together recent theoretical developments in understanding leaf water transport pathways and stable isotope theory to map a path for future work into understanding pathways of water transport and leaf water stable isotope composition. We emphasize the need for a spatially, anatomically and isotopically explicit model of leaf water transport.
Water potential regulation, stomatal behaviour and hydraulic transport under drought: deconstructing the iso/anisohydric concept
Authors: Martínez‐Vilalta Jordi , Garcia‐Forner Núria
Published: October 2016

In this review, we address the relationship between stomatal behaviour, water potential regulation and hydraulic transport in plants, focusing on the implications for the iso/anisohydric classification of plant drought responses at seasonal timescales. We first revise the history of the isohydric concept and its possible definitions. Then, we use published data to answer two main questions: (1) is greater stomatal control in response to decreasing water availability associated with a tighter regulation of leaf water potential (ΨL) across species? and (2) is there an association between tighter ΨL regulation (~isohydric behaviour) and lower leaf conductance over time during a drought event? These two questions are addressed at two levels: across species growing in different sites and comparing only species coexisting at a given site. Our analyses show that, across species, a tight regulation of ΨL is not necessarily associated with greater stomatal control or with more constrained assimilation during drought. Therefore, iso/anisohydry defined in terms of ΨL regulation cannot be used as an indicator of a specific mechanism of drought‐induced mortality or as a proxy for overall plant vulnerability to drought.
A molecular phylogeny and revised higher‐level classification for the leaf‐mining moth family Gracillariidae and its implications for larval host‐use evolution
Authors: KAWAHARA AKITO Y. , PLOTKIN DAVID , OHSHIMA ISSEI , LOPEZ‐VAAMONDE CARLOS , HOULIHAN PETER R. , BREINHOLT JESSE W. , KAWAKITA ATSUSHI , XIAO LEI , REGIER JEROME C. , DAVIS DONALD R. , KUMATA TOSIO , SOHN JAE‐CHEON , DE PRINS JURATE , MITTER CHARLES
Published: October 2016

Gracillariidae are one of the most diverse families of internally feeding insects, and many species are economically important. Study of this family has been hampered by lack of a robust and comprehensive phylogeny. In the present paper, we sequenced up to 22 genes in 96 gracillariid species, representing all previously recognized subfamilies and genus groups, plus 20 outgroups representing other families and superfamilies. Following objective identification and removal of two rogue taxa, two datasets were constructed: dataset 1, which included 12 loci totalling 9927 bp for 94 taxa, and dataset 2, which supplemented dataset 1 with 10 additional loci for 10 taxa, for a total of 22 loci and 16 167 bp. Maximum likelihood analyses strongly supported the monophyly of Gracillariidae and most previously recognized subfamilies and genus groups. On this basis, we propose a new classification consisting of eight subfamilies, four of which are newly recognized or resurrected: Acrocercopinae Kawahara & Ohshima subfam. n.; Gracillariinae Stainton; Lithocolletinae Stainton; Marmarinae Kawahara & Ohshima subfam. n.; Oecophyllembiinae Réal & Balachowsky; Parornichinae Kawahara & Ohshima subfam. n.; Ornixolinae Kuznetzov & Baryshnikova stat. rev.; and Phyllocnistinae Zeller. The subfamily Gracillariinae is restricted to the monophyletic group comprising Gracillaria Haworth and closely related genera. We also formally transfer Acrocercops scriptulata Meyrick to Ornixolinae and use the name Diphtheroptila Vári, creating Diphtheroptila scriptulata comb. n. An exploratory mapping of larval host‐use traits on the phylogeny shows strong conservation of modes of leaf mining but much higher lability of associations with host plant orders and families, suggesting that host shifts could play a significant role in gracillariid diversification.

This published work has been registered in ZooBank,
http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:942814A2‐DE66‐41D4‐8AB6‐FF0B18C87EDB.
Bloodless medicine: current strategies and emerging treatment paradigms
Authors: Resar Linda M.S. , Wick Elizabeth C. , Almasri Talal Nael , Dackiw Elizabeth A. , Ness Paul M. , Frank Steven M.
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

Advances in our understanding of the risks associated with allogeneic blood transfusions (ABTs) and the growing number of patients who wish to avoid ABTs have led to the emergence of new treatment paradigms for “bloodless” medicine and surgery.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Here, we review prior studies and summarize current strategies for bloodless care used at our institution. We advocate three basic principles: 1) diagnosing and aggressively treating anemia, 2) minimizing blood loss from laboratory testing and invasive procedures, and 3) identifying and managing bleeding diatheses. Anemia is treated with erythropoiesis‐stimulating agents as well as iron, folate, and B12 when indicated. Low‐volume phlebotomy tubes are used for laboratory testing. Autologous blood salvage is used for childbirth and surgical patients who have the potential for substantial bleeding.

RESULTS

Although there have been few retrospective studies and no prospective studies to guide management, prior studies suggest that outcomes for surgical patients managed without ABTs are comparable to those of historic controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the emerging evidence that patients who avoid ABTs do as well if not better than patients who accept ABTs, further efforts are needed to determine whether all patients could benefit from bloodless strategies. Bloodless approaches in selected patients could reduce risks, improve outcomes, and decrease costs for all patients.
Feasibility of routine ferritin testing for donor management: validation of delayed processing and demonstration of within donor reproducibility over time
Authors: Stone Mars , Brambilla Donald , Murcia Karla , Dimapasoc Melanie , Cyrus Sherri , Cable Ritchard G. , Kiss Joseph E. , Busch Michael P. ,   NHLBI Recipient Epidemiology and Donor Evaluation Study‐III (REDS‐III)
Published: October 2016

BACKGROUND

Understanding the effect of delayed processing of whole blood on plasma ferritin will inform the feasibility of both routine ferritin testing in donors and clinical research study design.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Whole blood tubes drawn from 16 donors were held at 4°C and centrifuged at 24‐hour intervals to assess plasma ferritin concentration up to 5 days after draw. Intraindividual variation over time was measured in 21 healthy donors in blood samples collected weekly for 4 weeks and then at 12 weeks.

RESULTS

No significant variation in plasma ferritin concentration was observed in blood stored at 4°C for up to 5 days after draw (p = 0.32). The estimated loss of 4.75% ferritin over 5 days was within the reported 5% variation of the assay. Moderate intraindividual variation occurs over time in both sexes, with variability increasing with the mean. No difference was detected between men and women in the regression of standard deviation on mean ferritin (p = 0.43).

CONCLUSIONS

Ferritin is stable in whole blood up to 5 days, demonstrating operational feasibility of its use in monitoring donor iron stores. Moderate fluctuations over time occur, but ferritin measurements are sufficiently reliable to determine donor iron status on the day of donation.
IMAGING DIAGNOSIS—COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY FINDINGS IN A CASE OF METASTATIC OVARIAN ADENOCARCINOMA IN A DOG
Authors: Rowan Conor , Cuddy Laura , Bryan Jill , Shiel Robert , Hoey Séamus
Published: October 2016

A 5‐year‐old female entire German Shepherd presented for otitis and lethargy. An incidental abdominal mass was identified on examination. Ultrasound examination (US) identified a heterogeneous left ovarian mass. Computed tomography (CT) was performed for surgical planning and staging. The reproductive tract was removed en bloc and submitted for histopathology. Multiple small (1–5 mm) nodules identified at coeliotomy on the surface of the liver, spleen and peritoneum were biopsied. The lesions were not visible on CT nor US on review. This is the first case report of the CT findings of ovarian papillary adenocarcinoma with carcinomatosis.