Hybridization and reticulate evolution in Diphasiastrum (flat-branched clubmosses, Lycopodiaceae) - New data from the island of Taiwan and Vietnam

In the species groups related to Diphasiastrum multispicatum and D. veitchii, hybridization was investigated in samples from northern and southern Vietnam and the island of Taiwan, including available herbarium specimens from southeast Asia. The accessions were analyzed using flow cytometry (living material only), Sanger sequencing and multiplexed inter-simple sequence repeat genotyping by sequencing. We detected two cases of ancient hybridization involving different combinations of parental species; both led via subsequent duplication to tetraploid taxa. A cross D. multispicatum × D. veitchii from Malaysia represents D. wightianum, a tetraploid taxon according to reported DNA content measurements of dried material (genome formulas MM, VV and MMVV, respectively). The second case involves D. veitchii and an unknown diploid parent (genome formula XX). Three hybridogenous taxa (genome formulas VVX, VVXX, VVVX) were discernable by a combination of flow cytometry and molecular data. Taxon I (VVX, three clones found on Taiwan island) is apparently triploid. Taxon II represents another genetically diverse and sexual tetraploid species (VVXX) and can be assigned to D. yueshanense, described from Taiwan island but occurring as well in mainland China and Vietnam. Taxon III is as well most likely tetraploid (VVVX) and represented by at least one, more likely two, clones from Taiwan island. Taxa I and III are presumably asexual and new to science. Two independently inherited nuclear markers recombine only within, not between these hybrids, pointing towards reproductive isolation. We present an evolutionary scheme which explains the origin of the hybrids and the evolution of new and fully sexual species by hybridization and subsequent allopolyploidization in flat-branched clubmosses.

A closer look to the timing of orchidopexy in undescended testes and adherence to the AWMF-guideline

BACKGROUND

To lower the risk of testicular malignancies and subfertility, international guidelines recommend orchidopexy for undescended testis (UDT) before the age of 12-18 months. Previous studies reported low rates of 5-15% of timely surgery. Most of these studies are based on DRG and OPS code-based data from healthcare system institutions that do not distinguish between congenital and acquired UDT.

METHODS

In a retrospective study data of all boys who underwent orchidopexy in a university hospital and two outpatient surgical departments from 2009 to 2022 were analyzed. The data differentiates congenital from acquired UDT.

RESULTS

Out of 2694 patients, 1843 (68.4%) had congenital and 851 (31.6%) had acquired UDT. In 24.9% of congenital cases surgery was performed before the age of 12 months. The median age at surgery for congenital UDT was 16 months (range 7-202). Over the years there was an increased rate of boys operated on before the age of 2 (40% in 2009, 60% in 2022). The median age fluctuated over the years between 21 and 11 months without a trend to younger ages.. The covid pandemic did not lead to an increase of the median age at surgery. The median time between referral and surgery was 46 days (range 1-1836). Reasons for surgery after 12 months of age were a delayed referral to pediatric surgeries (51.2%), followed by relevant comorbidities (28.2%).

CONCLUSION

Compared to recent literature, out data show that a closer look at details enables a more realistic approach. Still, there is no trend towards the recommended age for surgical treatment observable, but the rate of timely operated boys with congenital UDT is significantly higher than stated in literature.

[Blunt abdominal trauma in children and adolescents: treatment concepts in the acute phase]

Fatal accidents due to blunt force trauma are the leading cause of death in children and adolescents [1]. Abdominal trauma is the third most common cause of death after traumatic brain injury and thoracic injuries [2]. Abdominal injury is seen in approximately 2-5% of children involved in accidents [3]. Blunt abdominal injuries are common sequelae of traffic accidents (for example as seat belt injury), falls, and sports accidents. Penetrating abdominal injuries are rare in central Europe. Spleen, liver, and kidney lacerations are the most common injuries after blunt abdominal trauma [4]. In most situations, nonoperative management (NOM) has become the gold standard with the surgeon leading the multidisciplinary treatment [5].

Dynamics of Nanosecond Laser Pulse Propagation and of Associated Instabilities in a Magnetized Underdense Plasma

The propagation and energy coupling of intense laser beams in plasmas are critical issues in inertial confinement fusion. Applying magnetic fields to such a setup has been shown to enhance fuel confinement and heating. Here we report on experimental measurements demonstrating improved transmission and increased smoothing of a high-power laser beam propagating in a magnetized underdense plasma. We also measure enhanced backscattering, which our kinetic simulations show is due to magnetic confinement of hot electrons, thus leading to reduced target preheating.

Beyond image defined risk factors (IDRFs): a delphi survey highlighting definition of the surgical complexity index (SCI) in neuroblastoma

PURPOSE

Preoperative evaluation of Image Defined Risk Factors (IDRFs) in neuroblastoma (NB) is crucial for determining suitability for upfront resection or tumor biopsy. IDRFs do not all carry the same weighting in predicting tumor complexity and surgical risk. In this study we aimed to assess and categorize a surgical complexity (Surgical Complexity Index, SCI) in NB resection.

METHODS

A panel of 15 surgeons was involved in an electronic Delphi consensus survey to identify and score a set of shared items predictive and/or indicative of surgical complexity, including the number of preoperative IDRFs. A shared agreement included the achievement of at least 75% consensus focused on a single or two close risk categories.

RESULTS

After 3 Delphi rounds, agreement was established on 25/27 items (92.6%). A severity score was established for each item ranging from 0 to 3 with an overall SCI range varying from a minimum score of zero to a maximum score of 29 points for any given patient.

CONCLUSIONS

A consensus on a SCI to stratify the risks related to neuroblastoma tumor resection was established by the panel experts. This index will now be deployed to critically assign a better severity score to IDRFs involved in NB surgery.

The study on health of older people in Germany (Health 65+): Design and first results

Background

Integrating older persons into continuous national public health monitoring is crucial but challenging. Health 65+ is the first national health interview and examination survey in Germany specifically tailored to the needs of the population 65+ years.

Methods

Health 65+ is based on two-stage stratified random sampling from 128 local population registries. It is based on a previously tested three-step procedure to contact the study population (letter, telephone, home visits). 12,448 individuals 65+ years were invited for survey participation between June 2021 and April 2022. Participation comprised answering a baseline-questionnaire/interview covering a consented set of key health indicators including SARS-COV2 infections, and 3 follow-ups. After one year participants are invited to an examination (e.g. blood pressure, grip strength, cognitive function) during a home visit. All-cause mortality, health insurance data and information on social and built environment will be linked to survey data. The preliminary data set comprises 3,107 baseline participants.

Preliminary results

Only few individuals were excluded for survey participation as they had deceased before invitation, moved to an unknown residence or had insufficient German language skills. Of the adjusted gross sample, 32% took part in the survey (47.9% women, mean age 78.8 years). Only 3.3% of the participants did not receive any vaccination against COVID-19, with no differences between gender or age-groups. 3.5% had already experienced a laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Conclusions

Health 65+ collects information that cannot be obtained from any other data sources. In combination with information from routine health data and official health statistics, the results will aid health policy planning and implementation research to improve health and wellbeing of older people in Germany. For example, preliminary results show, that vaccination acceptance was high in persons 65+ years in Germany.

Key messages

• Health 65+ will provide health data of people 65+ years in Germany.

• The results will aid health policy planning.

Stabilized Radiation Pressure Acceleration and Neutron Generation in Ultrathin Deuterated Foils

Premature relativistic transparency of ultrathin, laser-irradiated targets is recognized as an obstacle to achieving a stable radiation pressure acceleration in the "light sail" (LS) mode. Experimental data, corroborated by 2D PIC simulations, show that a few-nm thick overcoat surface layer of high Z material significantly improves ion bunching at high energies during the acceleration. This is diagnosed by simultaneous ion and neutron spectroscopy following irradiation of deuterated plastic targets. In particular, copious and directional neutron production (significantly larger than for other in-target schemes) arises, under optimal parameters, as a signature of plasma layer integrity during the acceleration.

POS0429 ACTIVATED RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS SYNOVIAL FIBROBLASTS ALTER OSTEOCLAST DIFFERENTIATION AND ACTIVITY

Background

In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoclasts are one of the most important mediators of bone erosion. In addition, RA synovial fibroblasts (RASF) have a major influence on joint erosion in RA. They affect osteoclast differentiation e.g. by increased RANKL production or secretion of other pro-osteoclastogenic factors such as IL-6. In addition to the pro-osteoclastogenic effect of soluble factors such as RANKL and IL-1, visfatin inhibits osteoclast differentiation. Furthermore, visfatin increases the secretion of pro-inflammatory factors by RASF, such as IL-6 or matrix degrading enzymes.

Objectives

In this study, the effect of RASF with/without activation by visfatin and IL-1 on osteoclastogenesis was evaluated.

Methods

Blood from healthy donors and RA patients was used for PBMC isolation. RANKL, TGF-β and hM-CSF were added to induce osteoclast differentiation. RASF-conditioned media (CM) were prepared from confluent RASF cultured for 48h. Differentiating PBMCs in monoculture were compared to PBMC cultured with CM from RASF (CM: 10%, 20%, 30%) as well as in direct co-culture with RASF with/without stimulation with IL-1 (0.05ng/ml), visfatin (25ng/ml). After two weeks in culture, cells were stained using TRAP staining. 3-5 images per well were used for quantification dependent on the variability of the wells. IL-6 was measured by ELISA in supernatants collected at day 14.

Results

IL-6 production increased by IL-1 (e.g. co-culture: 2,8-fold) and visfatin (CM-visfatin: 10%=4,3-fold, 20%=5,4-fold, 30%=4,2-fold; co-culture: 9,5-fold) compared to unstimulated control in all settings. In addition, IL-6 was increased with the addition of CM compared to unstimulated controls (healthy donors CM 30%: unstimulated p=0.0342, IL-1 p=0.0133, visfatin p=0,0133; RA: unstimulated p=0.0133, IL-1 p=0.0342, visfatin p=0.0133, n=3 each). Of note, baseline IL-6 concentrations were higher in PBMC from RA patients compared to healthy donors. Co-culture showed an additional increase in IL-6 levels in all settings (e.g. monoculture: IL-1 4.71±5.75pg/ml, visfatin 141.09±182.79pg/ml; co-culture: IL-1 7241±10398pg/ml, visfatin 24535±16994pg/ml;). During osteoclast differentiation, addition of CM showed similar osteoclastogenesis with similar proportion of osteoclasts with 2 and 3-5 vs. higher numbers of nuclei per cell compared to control. In coculture with RASF osteoclasts showed a stronger TRAP signal compared to monoculture especially for unstimulated and IL-1 stimulated co-cultures.

Conclusion

Both, in monoculture with CM and in coculture, IL-6 levels were increased compared to control, whereas in RA patients the IL-6 levels were higher compared to healthy donors. The CM containing secreted factors of RASF did not have a prominent influence on osteoclastogenesis. However, the presence of RASF increased the TRAP signal showing an increased activity of differentiated osteoclasts especially in unstimulated and IL-1 stimulated co-cultures but not with addition of visfatin.

References

None.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared.

Absolute calibration of Fujifilm BAS-TR image plate response to laser driven protons up to 40 MeV

Image plates (IPs) are a popular detector in the field of laser driven ion acceleration, owing to their high dynamic range and reusability. An absolute calibration of these detectors to laser-driven protons in the routinely produced tens of MeV energy range is, therefore, essential. In this paper, the response of Fujifilm BAS-TR IPs to 1-40 MeV protons is calibrated by employing the detectors in high resolution Thomson parabola spectrometers in conjunction with a CR-39 nuclear track detector to determine absolute proton numbers. While CR-39 was placed in front of the image plate for lower energy protons, it was placed behind the image plate for energies above 10 MeV using suitable metal filters sandwiched between the image plate and CR-39 to select specific energies. The measured response agrees well with previously reported calibrations as well as standard models of IP response, providing, for the first time, an absolute calibration over a large range of proton energies of relevance to current experiments.

Enhancement of the Nonresonant Streaming Instability by Particle Collisions

Streaming cosmic rays can power the exponential growth of a seed magnetic field by exciting a nonresonant instability that feeds on their bulk kinetic energy. By generating the necessary turbulent magnetic field, it is thought to play a key role in the confinement and acceleration of cosmic rays at shocks. In this Letter we present hybrid-particle-in-cell simulations of the nonresonant mode including Monte Carlo collisions, and investigate the interplay between the pressure anisotropies produced by the instability and particle collisions in the background plasma. Simulations of poorly ionized plasmas confirm the rapid damping of the instability by proton-neutral collisions predicted by linear fluid theory calculations. In contrast we find that Coulomb collisions in fully ionized plasmas do not oppose the growth of the magnetic field, but under certain conditions suppress the pressure anisotropies and actually enhance the magnetic field amplification.

A Novel Standard for Systematic Reporting of Neuroblastoma Surgery: The International Neuroblastoma Surgical Report Form (INSRF): A Joint Initiative by the Pediatric Oncological Cooperative Groups SIOPEN∗, COG∗∗, and GPOH∗∗∗

OBJECTIVE

To create the first structured surgical report form for NBL with international consensus, to permit standardized documentation of all NBL-related surgical procedures and their outcomes.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

NBL, the most common extracranial solid malignant tumor in children, covers a wide spectrum of tumors with significant differences in anatomical localization, organ or vessel involvement, and tumor biology. Complete surgical resection of the primary tumor is an important part of NBL treatment, but maybe hazardous, prone to complications and its role in high-risk disease remains debated. Various surgical guidelines exist within the protocols of the different cooperative groups, although there is no standardized operative report form to document the surgical treatment of NBL.

METHODS

After analyzing the treatment protocols of the SIOP Europe International Neuroblastoma Study Group, Children's Oncology Group, and Gesellschaft fuer Paediatrische Onkologie und Haematologie - German Association of Pediatric Oncology and Haematology pediatric cooperative groups, important variables were defined to completely describe surgical biopsy and resection of NBL and their outcomes. All variables were discussed within the Surgical Committees of SIOP Europe International Neuroblastoma Study Group, Children's Oncology Group, and Gesellschaft fuer Paediatrische Onkologie und Haematologie - German Association of Pediatric Oncology and Haematology. Thereafter, joint meetings were organized to obtain intercontinental consensus.

RESULTS

The "International Neuroblastoma Surgical Report Form" provides a structured reporting tool for all NBL surgery, in every anatomical region, documenting all Image Defined Risk Factors and structures involved, with obligatory reporting of intraoperative and 30 day-postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

The International Neuroblastoma Surgical Report Form is the first universal form for the structured and uniform reporting of NBL-related surgical procedures and their outcomes, aiming to facilitate the postoperative communication, treatment planning and analysis of surgical treatment of NBL.

Pulsed magnetic field generation system for laser-plasma research

An up to 15 T pulsed magnetic field generator in a volume of a few cubic centimeters has been developed for experiments with magnetized laser plasma. The magnetic field is created by a pair of coils placed in a sealed reservoir with liquid nitrogen, installed in a vacuum chamber with a laser target. The bearing body provides the mechanical strength of the system both in the case of co-directional and oppositely connected coils. The configuration of the housing allows laser radiation to be introduced into the working area between the coils in a wide range of directions and focusing angles, places targets away from the symmetry axis of the magnetic system, and irradiates several targets simultaneously.

Design and commissioning of a neutron counter adapted to high-intensity laser matter interactions

The advent of multi-PW laser facilities world-wide opens new opportunities for nuclear physics. With this perspective, we developed a neutron counter taking into account the specifics of a high-intensity laser environment. Using GEANT4 simulations and prototype testings, we report on the design of a modular neutron counter based on boron-10 enriched scintillators and a high-density polyethylene moderator. This detector has been calibrated using a plutonium-beryllium neutron source and commissioned during an actual neutron-producing laser experiment at the LULI2000 facility (France). An overall efficiency of 4.37(59)% has been demonstrated during calibration with a recovery time of a few hundred microseconds after laser-plasma interaction.

Endogenous anandamide and self-reported pain are significantly reduced after a 2-week multimodal treatment with and without radon therapy in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a pilot study

Multimodal therapies comprising spa applications are widely used as non-pharmaceutical treatment options for musculoskeletal diseases. The purpose of this randomized, controlled, open pilot study was to elucidate the involvement of the endocannabinoid system in a multimodal therapy approach. Twenty-five elderly patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) received a 2-week spa therapy with or without combination of low-dose radon therapy in the Bad Gastein radon gallery. A 10-point numerical rating scale (pain in motion and at rest), WOMAC questionnaire, and the EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D) questionnaire were recorded at baseline, and during treatment period at weeks one and two, and at 3-month and 6-month follow-ups. Plasma levels of the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) were determined at baseline and at 2 weeks, and serum levels of several cartilage metabolism markers at all five time-points. A significant and sustained reduction of self-reported knee pain was observed in the study population, but no further significant effect of the additional radon therapy up and above base therapy. This pain reduction was accompanied by a significant reduction of AEA plasma levels during treatment in both groups. No significant differences were seen in serum marker concentrations between the groups treated with or without radon, but a small reduction of serum cartilage degradation markers was observed during treatment in both groups. This is the first study investigating AEA levels in the context of a non-pharmacological OA treatment. Since the endocannabinoid system represents a potential target for the development of new therapeutics, further studies will have to elucidate its involvement in OA pain.

Laboratory disruption of scaled astrophysical outflows by a misaligned magnetic field

The shaping of astrophysical outflows into bright, dense, and collimated jets due to magnetic pressure is here investigated using laboratory experiments. Here we look at the impact on jet collimation of a misalignment between the outflow, as it stems from the source, and the magnetic field. For small misalignments, a magnetic nozzle forms and redirects the outflow in a collimated jet. For growing misalignments, this nozzle becomes increasingly asymmetric, disrupting jet formation. Our results thus suggest outflow/magnetic field misalignment to be a plausible key process regulating jet collimation in a variety of objects from our Sun’s outflows to extragalatic jets. Furthermore, they provide a possible interpretation for the observed structuring of astrophysical jets. Jet modulation could be interpreted as the signature of changes over time in the outflow/ambient field angle, and the change in the direction of the jet could be the signature of changes in the direction of the ambient field.

Mass outflow is a common process in astrophysical objects. Here the authors investigate in which conditions an astrophysically-scaled laser-produced plasma flow can be collimated and evolves in the presence of a misaligned external magnetic field.

The structure of enteric human adenovirus 41-A leading cause of diarrhea in children

Human adenovirus (HAdV) types F40 and F41 are a prominent cause of diarrhea and diarrhea-associated mortality in young children worldwide. These enteric HAdVs differ notably in tissue tropism and pathogenicity from respiratory and ocular adenoviruses, but the structural basis for this divergence has been unknown. Here, we present the first structure of an enteric HAdV-HAdV-F41-determined by cryo-electron microscopy to a resolution of 3.8 Å. The structure reveals extensive alterations to the virion exterior as compared to nonenteric HAdVs, including a unique arrangement of capsid protein IX. The structure also provides new insights into conserved aspects of HAdV architecture such as a proposed location of core protein V, which links the viral DNA to the capsid, and assembly-induced conformational changes in the penton base protein. Our findings provide the structural basis for adaptation of enteric HAdVs to a fundamentally different tissue tropism.

Analysis of the small chromosomal Prionium serratum (Cyperid) demonstrates the importance of reliable methods to differentiate between mono- and holocentricity

For a long time, the Cyperid clade (Thurniceae-Juncaceae-Cyperaceae) was considered a group of species possessing holocentromeres exclusively. The basal phylogenetic position of Prionium serratum (Thunb.) Drège (Thurniceae) within Cyperids makes this species an important specimen to understand the centromere evolution within this clade. In contrast to the expectation, the chromosomal distribution of the centromere-specific histone H3 (CENH3), alpha-tubulin and different centromere-associated post-translational histone modifications (H3S10ph, H3S28ph and H2AT120ph) demonstrate a monocentromeric organisation of P. serratum chromosomes. Analysis of the high-copy repeat composition resulted in the identification of two centromere-localised satellite repeats. Hence, monocentricity was the ancestral condition for the Juncaceae-Cyperaceae-Thurniaceae Cyperid clade, and holocentricity in this clade has independently arisen at least twice after differentiation of the three families, once in Juncaceae and the other one in Cyperaceae. In this context, methods suitable for the identification of holocentromeres are discussed.

Management of benign liver tumors

Benign liver tumors in children are far less frequent than their malignant counterparts. Recently, there have been advances of diagnostic procedures and novel treatments with improved classification as a result. While malignant pediatric liver tumors have been comprehensively addressed by multicenter international tumor trials, benign tumors have more usually relied upon individualised workup and treatment. Due to the rarity and heterogeneity of these different entities, large studies are lacking. In this article the authors highlight the spectrum of benign liver tumors with special focus on specific clinical features, pathology, and treatment.

Corrigendum: Limitations in activities of daily living in old age in Germany and the EU - Results from the European Health Interview Survey (EHIS) 2

[This corrects the article on p. 48-56 in vol. 4.].

The Impact of Immersion on Cluster Identification Tasks

Recent developments in technology encourage the use of head-mounted displays (HMDs) as a medium to explore visualizations in virtual realities (VRs). VR environments (VREs) enable new, more immersive visualization design spaces compared to traditional computer screens. Previous studies in different domains, such as medicine, psychology, and geology, report a positive effect of immersion, e.g., on learning performance or phobia treatment effectiveness. Our work presented in this paper assesses the applicability of those findings to a common task from the information visualization (InfoVis) domain. We conducted a quantitative user study to investigate the impact of immersion on cluster identification tasks in scatterplot visualizations. The main experiment was carried out with 18 participants in a within-subjects setting using four different visualizations, (1) a 2D scatterplot matrix on a screen, (2) a 3D scatterplot on a screen, (3) a 3D scatterplot miniature in a VRE and (4) a fully immersive 3D scatterplot in a VRE. The four visualization design spaces vary in their level of immersion, as shown in a supplementary study. The results of our main study indicate that task performance differs between the investigated visualization design spaces in terms of accuracy, efficiency, memorability, sense of orientation, and user preference. In particular, the 2D visualization on the screen performed worse compared to the 3D visualizations with regard to the measured variables. The study shows that an increased level of immersion can be a substantial benefit in the context of 3D data and cluster detection.

Laser-Produced Magnetic-Rayleigh-Taylor Unstable Plasma Slabs in a 20 T Magnetic Field

Magnetized laser-produced plasmas are central to many novel laboratory astrophysics and inertial confinement fusion studies, as well as in industrial applications. Here we provide the first complete description of the three-dimensional dynamics of a laser-driven plasma plume expanding in a 20 T transverse magnetic field. The plasma is collimated by the magnetic field into a slender, rapidly elongating slab, whose plasma-vacuum interface is unstable to the growth of the "classical," fluidlike magnetized Rayleigh-Taylor instability.

venenkleber.koeln – Erfahrungen und Ergebnisse nach 1015 Stammvenenbehandlungen – Die bessere Alternative zur Stripping Operation?

Endovenöse Methoden in der Behandlung inkompetenter Venen haben sich in Deutschland etabliert. Obwohl sie eine effektive Alternative zur chirurgischen Therapie darstellen, handelt es sich unverständlicherweise nicht um Eingriffe der ersten Wahl. Ganz im Gegensatz zu internationalen Empfehlungen. Risiken und Nebenwirkungen lassen sich durch die nicht-thermischen Verfahren weiter reduzieren. Ist die Varizen-Verklebung mit Cyanoacrylat eine weitere Verbesserung? Nach 1015 Prozeduren mit dem Venenkleber an inkompetenten Stammvenen werden die eigenen Ergebnisse vorgestellt und diskutiert.

The response function of Fujifilm BAS-TR imaging plates to laser-accelerated titanium ions

Calibrated diagnostics for energetic particle detection allow for the systematic study of charged particle sources. The Fujifilm BAS-TR imaging plate (IP) is a reusable phosphorescent detector for radiation applications such as x-ray and particle beam detection. The BAS-TR IP has been absolutely calibrated to many low-Z (low proton number) ions, and extending these calibrations to the mid-Z regime is beneficial for the study of laser-driven ion sources. The Texas Petawatt Laser was used to generate energetic ions from a 100 nm titanium foil, and charge states Ti¹⁰⁺ through Ti¹²⁺, ranging from 6 to 27 MeV, were analyzed for calibration. A plastic detector of CR-39 with evenly placed slots was mounted in front of the IP to count the number of ions that correspond with the IP levels of photo-stimulated luminescence (PSL). A response curve was fitted to the data, yielding a model of the PSL signal vs ion energy. Comparisons to other published response curves are also presented, illustrating the trend of PSL/nucleon decreasing with increasing ion mass.

Dynamics of the Electromagnetic Fields Induced by Fast Electron Propagation in Near-Solid-Density Media

The propagation of fast electron currents in near solid-density media was investigated via proton probing. Fast currents were generated inside dielectric foams via irradiation with a short (∼0.6  ps) laser pulse focused at relativistic intensities (Iλ^{2}∼4×10^{19}  W cm^{-2} μm^{2}). Proton probing provided a spatially and temporally resolved characterization of the evolution of the electromagnetic fields and of the associated net currents directly inside the target. The progressive growth of beam filamentation was temporally resolved and information on the divergence of the fast electron beam was obtained. Hybrid simulations of electron propagation in dense media indicate that resistive effects provide a major contribution to field generation and explain well the topology, magnitude, and temporal growth of the fields observed in the experiment. Estimations of the growth rates for different types of instabilities pinpoints the resistive instability as the most likely dominant mechanism of beam filamentation.

The Influence of the Univent® Endotracheal Tube on Internal Jugular Vein Cannulation

This prospective clinical investigation assessed the effect of placement of a Univent® tube on the anatomy of the internal jugular veins and the success of cannulation of the left internal jugular vein. After obtaining informed consent, 48 adult patients were enrolled. Of these, 42 patients were eligible and were divided into two groups: Univent® tube (group U, n=21) and wire enforced endotracheal tube (group C, n=21). The Univent® tube group were having a left thoracotomy. Using horizontal ultrasound scans just above the thyroid gland, the internal jugular vein was visualized and measured before and after Univent® placement. The number of needle passes necessary to cannulate the left internal jugular vein in the two groups was also compared.

Univent® tubes were associated with lateral displacement of the right carotid artery and internal jugular vein on the convex side of the Univent® tube, with compression of the right internal jugular vein by the artery, resulting in a kidney-shaped cross-section of the vein. On the left (concave side of the tube), the neck was indented, the sheath of the left carotid artery was displaced medially, and the left internal jugular vein distorted to an ellipse. There was a significant increase in the lateral diameter and a decrease in the cross-sectional area of the left internal jugular vein (t-test, P<0.05). The first attempt at cannulation of the left internal jugular vein failed significantly more often in the Univent® group (13/21 vs 5/21 in group C, Chi-square 6.22, P=0.025). Cannulation of the internal jugular vein before placement of the Univent® tube, or placement with ultrasound guidance is suggested.

Single nucleus sequencing reveals evidence of inter-nucleus recombination in arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi

Eukaryotes thought to have evolved clonally for millions of years are referred to as ancient asexuals. The oldest group among these are the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), which are plant symbionts harboring hundreds of nuclei within one continuous cytoplasm. Some AMF strains (dikaryons) harbor two co-existing nucleotypes but there is no direct evidence that such nuclei recombine in this life-stage, as is expected for sexual fungi. Here, we show that AMF nuclei with distinct genotypes can undergo recombination. Inter-nuclear genetic exchange varies in frequency among strains, and despite recombination all nuclear genomes have an average similarity of at least 99.8%. The present study demonstrates that AMF can generate genetic diversity via meiotic-like processes in the absence of observable mating. The AMF dikaryotic life-stage is a primary source of nuclear variability in these organisms, highlighting its potential for strain enhancement of these symbionts.

Experimental evidence for the enhanced and reduced stopping regimes for protons propagating through hot plasmas

Our understanding of the dynamics of ion collisional energy loss in a plasma is still not complete, in part due to the difficulty and lack of high-quality experimental measurements. These measurements are crucial to benchmark existing models. Here, we show that such a measurement is possible using high-flux proton beams accelerated by high intensity short pulse lasers, where there is a high number of particles in a picosecond pulse, which is ideal for measurements in quickly expanding plasmas. By reducing the energy bandwidth of the protons using a passive selector, we have made proton stopping measurements in partially ionized Argon and fully ionized Hydrogen plasmas with electron temperatures of hundreds of eV and densities in the range 1020-1021 cm-3. In the first case, we have observed, consistently with previous reports, enhanced stopping of protons when compared to stopping power in non-ionized gas. In the second case, we have observed for the first time the regime of reduced stopping, which is theoretically predicted in such hot and fully ionized plasma. The versatility of these tunable short-pulse laser based ion sources, where the ion type and energy can be changed at will, could open up the possibility for a variety of ion stopping power measurements in plasmas so long as they are well characterized in terms of temperature and density. In turn, these measurements will allow tests of the validity of existing theoretical models.

Possible Role of Fibrinogen in the Aggregation of White Blood Cells

In order to verify whether leukocyte aggregation correlated with aggregation of other cellular elements during inflammation, we examined the state of leukocyte adhesiveness/aggregation (LAA) in the peripheral blood and red cell aggregation. Correlation was found to be significant as was the correlation between LA A and fibrinogen, and with the fibrin/fibrinogen degradation products concentration during various inflammatory states. In vitro leukocyte aggregation was decreased when the cells were suspended in autologous heat defibrinogenated plasma as compared to cells suspended in autologous native plasma. Heat aggregated fibrinogen but not native fibrinogen caused leukocyte aggregation in vitro. Finally, Arvin defibrinogenation in rabbits reduced the state of LAA in endotoxinemic rabbits. Integrating all this information, we assume that fibrinogen participates not only in the aggregation phenomena of red cells and platelets, but also in those of leukocytes.

Reticulocytosis in non-anaemic cats and dogs

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the proportion of blood samples diagnosed with reticulocytosis without anaemia in cats and dogs and report the aetiology and mortality rate of affected animals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective multicentre study including haematological examination of 3956 cats and 11,087 dogs admitted to seven German veterinary clinics (2012 to 2014). The proportion of blood samples with reticulocytosis without anaemia was calculated, and after exclusion of multiple measurements of the same animal, clinical data were evaluated. Animals with reticulocytosis without anaemia were classified as healthy or diseased, and diseased patients were assigned to 12 disease groups. Pretreatment (i.e. non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids, dipyrone) was recorded.

RESULTS

The proportion of blood samples with reticulocytosis without anaemia was 3·1% (124/3956) in cats and 4·4% (492/11,087) in dogs. Overall, 1·8% (2/111) of cats and 1·5% (7/458) of dogs with reticulocytosis without anaemia were healthy. Blood loss/anaemia, cardiac/respiratory disorders, gastrointestinal disorders and inflammatory disorders as well as cancer were the most frequent underlying diseases. Pretreatment was noted in 39·5% (43/111) of cats and 42·4% (194/458) of dogs. The mortality rate was 37·8% (42/111) in cats and 29·7% (136/458) in dogs with reticulocytosis without anaemia; the median survival time in non-survivors was 1 day (range: 0 to 376 days in cats, 0 to 444 days in dogs).

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

In both species, reticulocytosis without anaemia was observed in a low proportion of blood samples (dogs>cat). Though a bias towards sick animals is possible in our sample, reticulocytosis without anaemia was mainly seen in diseased animals and associated with a mortality rate of approximately one-third of patients.

Extracorporeal Lung Assist with Heparin-Coated Systems

Extracorporeal lung assist (ELA) has been recommended for the treatment of ARDS if conventional therapy fails. However, the need for nearly complete anticoagulation is a major risk factor for hemorrhagic complications. We describe our experience with 13 ARDS patients treated with ELA using heparin-coated systems (Carmeda). Maintaining partial thromboplastin time and activated clotting time within or close to the normal range, even major surgery (20 thoracotomies and 2 laparotomies) could be performed without undue bleeding complications related to anticoagulation during extracorporeal support. Eight of the 13 patients survived. The use of heparin-coated systems allows prolonged ELA with nearly physiological coagulation function, permitting major surgical intervention. It enhances the safety margin of extracorporeal gas exchange and may ultimately extend its indications.

Towards an in vitro fibrogenesis model of human vocal fold scarring

Background

Vocal fold (VF) scarring remains a therapeutic dilemma and challenge in modern laryngology. To facilitate corresponding research, we aimed to establish an in vitro fibrogenesis model employing human VF fibroblasts (hVFF) and the principles of macromolecular crowding (MMC).

Methods

Fibrogenesis was promoted by addition of transforming growth factor-β1 to standard medium and medium containing inert macromolecules (MMC). Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and Botox type A were tested for their antifibrotic properties in various doses. Experiments were analyzed with respect to the biosynthesis of collagen, fibronectin, and α-smooth muscle actin using immunofluorescence, silver stain and western blot.

Results

MMC led to favourable enhanced deposition of collagen and other extracellular matrix components, reflecting fibrotic conditions. Low doses of HGF were able to dampen profibrotic effects. This could not be observed for higher HGF concentrations. Botox type A did not show any effects.

Conclusion

Based on the principles of MMC we could successfully establish a laryngeal fibrogenesis model employing hVFF. Our finding of dose-dependent HGF effects is important before going into clinical trials in humans and has never been shown before. Our model provides a novel option to screen various potential antifibrotic compounds under standardized conditions in a short time.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s00405-018-4922-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Cross-Linked Hydrophobic Starch Granules in Blends with PLA

The majority of native starch is used in the food sector and in the paper industry. Only a small amount is used in polymer engineering. One reason for the reluctance of the plastics processing industry to use starch as a filling material in polymer blends is the unsatisfactory mechanical behavior of starch when combined with thermoplastics. Another reason is the hydrophilicity of starch. In order to make these materials capable of competing, an amelioration of the mechanical properties is compulsory. By means of modifying the native starch and optimizing the compounding process, it is possible to improve the performance of starch blends, and, thus, increase the number of application areas of these materials. For this reason, native starch was modified with a cross-linking agent using a laboratory mixer. Subsequently, the modified starch and poly(lactic acid) were compounded using a co-rotating twin screw extruder. Cross-linking of the native starch in the laboratory mixer resulted in an increase in the mechanical strength of the starch blends. In addition, the blends with cross-linked starch displayed lower moisture absorption levels than blends with native starch as a filling material.

Self-generated surface magnetic fields inhibit laser-driven sheath acceleration of high-energy protons

High-intensity lasers interacting with solid foils produce copious numbers of relativistic electrons, which in turn create strong sheath electric fields around the target. The proton beams accelerated in such fields have remarkable properties, enabling ultrafast radiography of plasma phenomena or isochoric heating of dense materials. In view of longer-term multidisciplinary purposes (e.g., spallation neutron sources or cancer therapy), the current challenge is to achieve proton energies well in excess of 100 MeV, which is commonly thought to be possible by raising the on-target laser intensity. Here we present experimental and numerical results demonstrating that magnetostatic fields self-generated on the target surface may pose a fundamental limit to sheath-driven ion acceleration for high enough laser intensities. Those fields can be strong enough (~10⁵ T at laser intensities ~10²¹ W cm^–2) to magnetize the sheath electrons and deflect protons off the accelerating region, hence degrading the maximum energy the latter can acquire.

Laser-generated ion acceleration has received increasing attention due to recent progress in super-intense lasers. Here the authors demonstrate the role of the self-generated magnetic field on the ion acceleration and limitations on the energy scaling with laser intensity.

Enhancement of Quasistationary Shocks and Heating via Temporal Staging in a Magnetized Laser-Plasma Jet

We investigate the formation of a laser-produced magnetized jet under conditions of a varying mass ejection rate and a varying divergence of the ejected plasma flow. This is done by irradiating a solid target placed in a 20 T magnetic field with, first, a collinear precursor laser pulse (10^{12}  W/cm^{2}) and, then, a main pulse (10^{13}  W/cm^{2}) arriving 9-19 ns later. Varying the time delay between the two pulses is found to control the divergence of the expanding plasma, which is shown to increase the strength of and heating in the conical shock that is responsible for jet collimation. These results show that plasma collimation due to shocks against a strong magnetic field can lead to stable, astrophysically relevant jets that are sustained over time scales 100 times the laser pulse duration (i.e., >70  ns), even in the case of strong variability at the source.

Application of ultrasound imaging biomarkers (HistoScanning™) improves staging reliability of prostate biopsies

Objective

Imaging biomarkers like HistoScanning™ augment the informative value of ultrasound. Analogue image-guidance might improve the diagnostic accuracy of prostate biopsies and reduce misclassifications in preoperative staging and grading.

Results

Comparison of 77 image-guided versus 88 systematic prostate biopsies revealed that incorrect staging and Gleason misclassification occurs less frequently in image-guided than in systematic prostate biopsies. Systematic prostate biopsies (4–36 cores, median 12 cores) tended to detect predominantly unilateral tumors (39% sensitivity, 90.9% specificity, 17.5% negative and 50% positive predictive values). Bilateral tumors were diagnosed more frequently by image-guided prostate biopsies (87.9% sensitivity, 72.7% specificity, 50% negative and 96.8% positive predictive values). Regarding the detection of lesions with high Gleason scores ≥ 3 + 4, systematic prostate and image-guided biopsies yielded sensitivity and specificity rates of 66.7% vs 93.5%, 86% vs 64.5%, as well as negative and positive predictive values of 71.2% vs 87%, and 83.3% vs 79.6%, respectively. Potential reason for systematic prostate biopsies missing the correct laterality and the correct Gleason score was a mismatch between the biopsy template and the respective pathological cancer localization. This supports the need for improved detection techniques such as ultrasound imaging biomarkers and image-adapted biopsies.

Collimated protons accelerated from an overdense gas jet irradiated by a 1 µm wavelength high-intensity short-pulse laser

We have investigated proton acceleration in the forward direction from a near-critical density hydrogen gas jet target irradiated by a high intensity (10¹⁸ W/cm²), short-pulse (5 ps) laser with wavelength of 1.054 μm. We observed the signature of the Collisionless Shock Acceleration mechanism, namely quasi-monoenergetic proton beams with small divergence in addition to the more commonly observed electron-sheath driven proton acceleration. The proton energies we obtained were modest (~MeV), but prospects for improvement are offered through further tailoring the gas jet density profile. Also, we observed that this mechanism is very robust in producing those beams and thus can be considered as a future candidate in laser-driven ion sources driven by the upcoming next generation of multi-PW near-infrared lasers.