bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Simulated herbivory does not constrain phenotypic plasticity to shade through ontogeny in a relict tree
Authors: Pardo A. , García F. M. , Valladares F. , Pulido F. 
Published: March 2016

AbstractEcological limits to phenotypic plasticity (PP), induced by simultaneous biotic and abiotic factors, can prevent organisms from exhibiting optimal plasticity, and in turn lead to decreased fitness. Herbivory is an important biotic stressor and may limit plant functional responses to challenging environmental conditions such as shading. In this study we investigated whether plant functional responses and PP to shade are constrained by herbivory, and whether such constraints are due to direct effects based on resource limitation by considering ontogeny. We used as a model system the relict tree Prunus lusitanica and implemented an indoor experiment to quantify the response of saplings of different ages to shade and herbivory. We measured five functional traits and quantitatively calculated PP. Results showed that herbivory did not constrain functional responses or PP to shade except for shoot:root ratio (SR), which, despite showing a high PP in damaged saplings, decreased under shade instead of increasing. Damaged saplings of older age did not exhibit reduced constraints on functional responses to shade and generally presented a lower PP than damaged saplings of younger age. Our findings suggest that herbivory‐mediated constraints on plant plasticity to shade may not be as widespread as previously thought. Nonetheless, the negative effect of herbivory on SR plastic expression to shade could be detrimental for plant fitness. Finally, our results suggest a secondary role of direct effects (resource‐based) on P. lusitanica plasticity limitation. Further studies should quantify plant resources in order to gain a better understanding of this seldom‐explored subject.
Efficacy and safety of cryobiopsy versus forceps biopsy for interstitial lung diseases and lung tumours: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ganganah Oormila , Guo Shu Liang , Chiniah Manu , Li Yi Shi 
Published: March 2016

AbstractForceps biopsy (FB) is the most commonly used diagnostic tool for lung pathologies. FB is associated with a high diagnostic failure rate. Cryobiopsy (CB) is a novel technique providing a larger specimen size, few artefacts, more alveolar parts and superior diagnostic yield. CB, however, has drawbacks such as higher bleeding and pneumothorax rate. We conducted a meta‐analysis to investigate the specimen area, diagnostic rate and bleeding severity in CB versus FB in interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) and lung tumours.A systematic literature search of PUBMED, BIOSIS PREVIEW and OVID databases was conducted using specific search terms. Eligible studies including RCTs and non‐RCTs comparing cryobiopsy/cryotransbronchial biopsy (CB/CTBB) and forceps biopsy/forceps transbronchial biopsy (FB/FTBB) for specimen area, diagnostic rate and bleeding rate in ILDs and lung tumours were analysed. Two reviewers independently extracted data and evaluated the quality of the studies.Eight studies involving 916 patients were analysed. Specimen area (mm2) was significantly larger in CB/CTBB than FB/FTBB (standard mean difference = 1.21, 95% confidence interval (0.94, 1.48), P < 0.00001). The diagnostic rate was significantly higher in CB/CTBB than FB/FTBB (Risk ratio 1.36, 95% confidence interval (1.16, 1.59), P = 0.0002). Three studies compared the bleeding severity with only one showing significantly more bleeding in CB.Cryobiopsy/cryotransbronchial shows superiority to FB/FTBB for specimen area and diagnostic rate. CB/CTBB has better efficacy over FB/FTBB.
Is the Framework of Cohn's ‘Tritope Model’ for How T Cell Receptors Recognize Peptide/Self‐MHC Complexes and Allo‐MHC Plausible?
Authors: Bretscher Peter A. 
Published: March 2016

AbstractCohn has developed the tritope model to describe how distinct domains of the T cell receptor (TcR) recognize peptide/self‐MHC complexes and allo‐MHC. He has over the years employed this model as a framework for considering how the TcR might mediate various signals [1–5]. In a recent publication [5], Cohn employs the Tritope Model to propose a detailed mechanism for the T cell receptor's involvement in positive thymic selection [5]. During a review of this proposal, I became uneasy over the plausibility of the underlying framework of the Tritope Model. I outline here the evolutionary considerations making me question this framework. I also suggest that the proposed framework underlying the Tritope Model makes strong predictions whose validity can most probably be assessed by considering observations reported in the literature.
Optimization of a Cruciform Specimen Geometry for the Identification of Constitutive Parameters Based Upon Full‐Field Measurements
Authors: Bertin M. B. R. , Hild F. , Roux S. 
Published: March 2016

AbstractA methodology is proposed to optimize a specimen shape in a biaxial testing machine for the identification of constitutive laws based on full‐field measurements. Within the framework of finite element model updating and integrated digital image correlation, the covariance matrix of the identified material parameters due to acquisition noise is computed, and its minimization is the basis of the proposed shape optimization. Two models are investigated: first, a linear elastic law, and second, an elastoplastic law with linear kinematic hardening. Two optimal fillet radii sets are assessed for the two investigated laws based on the minimization of the identification uncertainty.
Transcriptome dynamics of Arabidopsis during sequential biotic and abiotic stresses
Authors: Coolen Silvia , Proietti Silvia , Hickman Richard , Davila Olivas Nelson H. , Huang Ping‐Ping , Van Verk Marcel C. , Van Pelt Johan A. , Wittenberg Alexander H.J. , De Vos Martin , Prins Marcel , Van Loon Joop J.A. , Aarts Mark G.M. , Dicke Marcel , Pieterse Corné M.J. , Van Wees Saskia C.M. 
Published: March 2016

SummaryIn nature, plants have to cope with a wide range of stress conditions that often occur simultaneously or in sequence. To investigate how plants cope with multi‐stress conditions, we analyzed the dynamics of whole‐transcriptome profiles of Arabidopsis thaliana exposed to six sequential double stresses inflicted by combinations of: (i) infection by the necrotrophic fungus Botrytis cinerea, (ii) herbivory by chewing larvae of Pieris rapae, and (iii) drought stress. Each of these stresses induced specific expression profiles over time, in which one‐third of all differentially expressed genes was shared by at least two single stresses. Of these, 394 genes were differentially expressed during all three stress conditions, albeit often in opposite directions. When two stresses were applied in sequence, plants displayed transcriptome profiles that were very similar to the second stress, irrespective of the nature of the first stress. Nevertheless, significant first‐stress signatures could be identified in the sequential stress profiles. Bioinformatic analysis of the dynamics of co‐expressed gene clusters highlighted specific clusters and biological processes of which the timing of activation or repression was altered by a prior stress. The first‐stress signatures in second stress transcriptional profiles were remarkably often related to responses to phytohormones, strengthening the notion that hormones are global modulators of interactions between different types of stress. Because prior stresses can affect the level of tolerance against a subsequent stress (e.g. prior herbivory strongly affected resistance to B. cinerea), the first‐stress signatures can provide important leads for the identification of molecular players that are decisive in the interactions between stress response pathways.
The use of rivaroxaban for the treatment of thrombotic complications in four dogs
Authors: Yang Vicky K. , Cunningham Suzanne M. , Rush John E. , de Laforcade Armelle 
Published: March 2016

AbstractObjectiveTo describe the clinical use of rivaroxaban in the treatment of 4 dogs with vascular thrombosis, 2 with pulmonary thromboembolism and 2 with systemic thrombosis.Case Series SummaryThis report describes the use of a direct factor Xa anticoagulant newly approved in human patients for the treatment or prevention of arterial or venous thrombosis. The use of this medication in a clinical setting for canine patients with thromboembolism has not been described before. Two patients were treated with rivaroxaban for pulmonary thromboembolism. Decreases in thrombus size were seen in both patients, but one patient suffered acute respiratory distress and was euthanized while the other continued to do well at the time of this writing. The other 2 patients were treated for systemic thrombosis. Decreases in thrombus size were also noted. One patient later suffered hematochezia of unknown cause, and the other continued to do well at the time of this writing.New or Unique Information ProvidedThis is the first published report of the use of a new oral direct factor Xa anticoagulant in dogs in a clinical setting for the treatment of both pulmonary and systemic thrombosis. In this case series, we share our limited experience in the use of this new medication, our strategy in determining appropriate dosages, and our monitoring protocol.
Comparison of topically applied flurbiprofen or bromfenac ophthalmic solution on post‐operative ocular hypertension in canine patients following cataract surgery
Authors: Lu Jennifer , English Robert , Nadelstein Brad , Weigt Anne , Berdoulay Andrew , Binder Dan , Ngan Esther 
Published: March 2016

AbstractObjectiveTo compare the prevalence and kinetics of ocular hypertension after routine cataract extraction when using a predominatelyCOX‐2 inhibitor (bromfenac) versus a predominatelyCOX‐1 inhibitor (flurbiprofen) in combination with a topical corticosteroid.ProceduresPatients undergoing unilateral or bilateral cataract surgery were randomly assigned to receive flurbiprofen or bromfenac at the day of surgery and continued for 6 weeks postoperatively, along with topical neo poly dexamethasone. No systemic nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory medications were administered before or after surgery. Intraocular pressure was monitored pre and postoperatively. When anIOPof >25 mmHg was detected, therapeutic intervention was performed.ResultsEyes in both treatment groups showed a similarIOPprofile with the highest meanIOPoccurring two hours postsurgery and slowly declining during the next 6 weeks. However, eyes receiving bromfenac had a higher meanIOPat 2 h post‐op (22.1 mmHg) than eyes receiving flurbiprofen (18.8 mmHg) and a slower decrease inIOPin the weeks after surgery. Over the course of the study, a higher percentage of eyes receiving bromfenac had therapy discontinued over concerns of elevatedIOPcompared to eyes receiving flurbiprofen (bromfenac 23.1% and flurbiprofen 9.8%). On average, the risk of having elevated intraocular pressure with bromfenac is 1.04 times higher than with flurbiprofen.ConclusionElevated postoperativeIOPwas observed in both treatment groups; however, bromfenac‐treated eyes were more likely to require intervention for elevatedIOP.
The effectiveness of old and new strategies for the long‐term control of Pteridium aquilinum, an 8‐year test
Authors: Milligan G , Cox E S , Alday J G , Santana V M , McAllister H A , Pakeman R J , Le Duc M G , Marrs R H 
Published: March 2016

SummaryThere is a need for management strategies to control dominant perennial weeds and restore seminatural communities. We compared the effects of five weed control treatments on dense Pteridium aquilinum relative to an untreated experimental control over an 8‐year period with the aim of restoring acid grassland. The weed control treatments tested were as follows: cutting and bruising, both twice and thrice annually, and herbicide treatment (asulam in year 1 followed by annual spot retreatment of all emergent fronds). Pteridium aquilinum performance and plant species composition were monitored. Data were analysed using Bayesian mixed‐effect models and multivariate techniques. Cutting twice and thrice yearly and the asulam treatment all reduced frond density to zero; both bruising treatments were ineffective. The plant communities in the cut and asulam‐treated plots showed differences from the untreated and bruised plots; the asulam‐treated plots contained more ruderal species and the cut plots were more typical of acid grassland. Acid grassland recovery was fastest in the asulam‐treated plots, but the cut plots caught up after approximately 5 years. There were two important conclusions. First, an intractable weed like P. aquilinum can be eradicated and a vegetation more suited for grazing can be achieved by the continuous application of some treatments over many years. Here, success was achieved by cutting twice/thrice annually, or by a single asulam application followed by annual spot spraying of all emergent fronds for 8 years. Second, bruising, a treatment favoured by some conservation organisations, did not work and cannot be recommended. The use of long‐term, continuously applied treatments might be considered for all perennial weeds with large underground root/rhizome systems.
Propagule pressure cannot always overcome biotic resistance: the role of density‐dependent establishment in four invasive species
Authors: Barney J N , Ho M W , Atwater D Z 
Published: March 2016

SummarySuccessful invasions result from species functional traits interacting with the receiving community. Some have proposed that propagule pressure, or the size and number of introductions, can overcome high invasion resistance. However, few studies empirically investigate the relationship among functional traits, community composition, and propagule pressure. Here, we empirically examined how propagule pressure influenced the invasive success of four species in four resident communities (bare ground, grass‐only, forb‐only, and full resident community). The four species represented both small‐ and large‐seeded grasses and forbs, and propagule sizes (the number of individuals in an introduction event) ranged from 16 to 160 000 seeds m−2. Invasion probability varied among species and communities and was strongly influenced by the propagule size. The large‐seeded species had the highest invasion success in all communities, while the grasses did as well or better, respectively, in the grass‐only and bare ground communities. However, contrary to existing assumptions, we found that the establishment probability of individual seeds decreased exponentially with increasing propagule size. Therefore, increased propagule pressure was subjected to severely diminishing returns on invasiveness. Thus, while propagule pressure played a role in determining invasion success, it was not always able to overcome communities with high invasion resistance, particularly for species that experienced strong density‐dependent inhibition. The role of propagule pressure in invasion is more complex than previously thought and may present important trade‐offs for bet‐hedging colonisation strategies.
Insights into the mechanisms underlying colonic motor patterns
Authors: Spencer Nick J. , Dinning Phil G. , Brookes Simon J. , Costa Marcello 
Published: March 2016

AbstractIn recent years there have been significant technical and methodological advances in our ability to record the movements of the gastrointestinal tract. This has led to significant changes in our understanding of the different types of motor patterns that exist in the gastrointestinal tract (particularly the large intestine) and in our understanding of the mechanisms underlying their generation. Compared with other tubular smooth muscle organs, a rich variety of motor patterns occurs in the large intestine. This reflects a relatively autonomous nervous system in the gut wall, which has its own unique population of sensory neurons. Although the enteric nervous system can function independently of central neural inputs, under physiological conditions bowel motility is influenced by the CNS: if spinal pathways are disrupted, deficits in motility occur. The combination of high resolution manometry and video imaging has improved our knowledge of the range of motor patterns and provided some insight into the neural and mechanical factors underlying propulsion of contents. The neural circuits responsible for the generation of peristalsis and colonic migrating motor complexes have now been identified to lie within the myenteric plexus and do not require inputs from the mucosa or submucosal ganglia for their generation, but can be modified by their activity. This review will discuss the recent advances in our understanding of the different patterns of propagating motor activity in the large intestine of mammals and how latest technologies have led to major changes in our understanding of the mechanisms underlying their generation.
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Variability of the Sheep Lung Microbiota
Authors: Glendinning Laura , Wright Steven , Pollock Jolinda , Tennant Peter , Collie David , McLachlan Gerry 
Published: March 2016

ABSTRACT

Sequencing technologies have recently facilitated the characterization of bacterial communities present in lungs during health and disease. However, there is currently a dearth of information concerning the variability of such data in health both between and within subjects. This study seeks to examine such variability using healthy adult sheep as our model system. Protected specimen brush samples were collected from three spatially disparate segmental bronchi of six adult sheep (age, 20 months) on three occasions (day 0, 1 month, and 3 months). To further explore the spatial variability of the microbiotas, more-extensive brushing samples (
n
= 16) and a throat swab were taken from a separate sheep. The V2 and V3 hypervariable regions of the bacterial 16S rRNA genes were amplified and sequenced via Illumina MiSeq. DNA sequences were analyzed using the mothur software package. Quantitative PCR was performed to quantify total bacterial DNA. Some sheep lungs contained dramatically different bacterial communities at different sampling sites, whereas in others, airway microbiotas appeared similar across the lung. In our spatial variability study, we observed clustering related to the depth within the lung from which samples were taken. Lung depth refers to increasing distance from the glottis, progressing in a caudal direction. We conclude that both host influence and local factors have impacts on the composition of the sheep lung microbiota.

IMPORTANCE
Until recently, it was assumed that the lungs were a sterile environment which was colonized by microbes only during disease. However, recent studies using sequencing technologies have found that there is a small population of bacteria which exists in the lung during health, referred to as the “lung microbiota.” In this study, we characterize the variability of the lung microbiotas of healthy sheep. Sheep not only are economically important animals but also are often used as large animal models of human respiratory disease. We conclude that, while host influence does play a role in dictating the types of microbes which colonize the airways, it is clear that local factors also play an important role in this regard. Understanding the nature and influence of these factors will be key to understanding the variability in, and functional relevance of, the lung microbiota.
Multifocal metastatic cutaneous and mucosal transmissible venereal tumour in a female puppy
Authors: Laporte Carine M , Jaffe Tracy , Loeffler Diana , Lewis Thomas P , Schick Anthea Elliot 
Published: March 2016

An eight‐month old female entire mixed breed dog in Arizona was presented for a 15‐day history of multifocal cutaneous nodules and plaques, with progressive stertor, anorexia, haemorrhagic gingival masses, peripheral lymphadenopathy and mild haemorrhagic vaginal discharge without obvious genital masses. Fine needle aspirate cytology was consistent with multifocal cutaneous and mucosal canine transmissible venereal tumour (TVT) with peripheral lymph node metastases. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry supported the diagnosis. Eight weekly treatments with 0.5 mg/m2 intravenous vincristine resulted in complete clinical resolution, without relapse five months after treatment. The classic presentation of TVT is of adult dogs with genital tumours and low metastatic rate. This report describes an unusual presentation in a puppy with multifocal, extragenital, metastatic, cutaneous and mucosal TVT. In doing so, it underscores the importance of recognising less common presentations of TVT, as well as diagnostic cytological and histopathological findings, as prognosis for cure is excellent with treatment.
Possible Interaction of Anti–PD-1 Therapy with the Effects of Radiosurgery on Brain Metastases
Authors: Alomari Ahmed K. , Cohen Justine , Vortmeyer Alexander O. , Chiang Anne , Gettinger Scott , Goldberg Sarah , Kluger Harriet M. , Chiang Veronica L. 
Published: March 2016

Abstract
Delayed radiation-induced vasculitic leukoencephalopathy related to stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) of brain metastases has been reported to manifest clinically 9 to 18 months after treatment. Immune-modulating therapies have been introduced to treatment regimens for malignancies with metastatic predilection to the brain. The interaction of these systemic therapies with other modalities of treatment for brain metastases, namely, SRS, has not been fully characterized. We report two patients with metastatic malignancies to the brain who received SRS followed by immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies (mAb) to programmed death 1 (PD-1). Both patients appeared to have early clinical and radiologic progression of their treated lesions, which was highly suspicious for tumor progression. Both patients underwent surgical resection of their lesions and the material was submitted for histopathologic examination. Pathologic examination in both cases showed predominantly radiation-induced changes characterized by reactive astrocytosis and vascular wall infiltration by T lymphocytes. The accelerated response to SRS in these two patients was temporally related to the initiation of immunotherapy. We propose a possible biologic interaction between SRS and the PD-1 mAbs. Additionally, awareness of this potential occurrence is critical for accurate interpretation and proper management of clinical and radiologic findings in these patients. Cancer Immunol Res; 4(6); 481–7. ©2016 AACR.