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Millions of RBC units are transfused throughout the world annually. Even though each RBC unit contains multiple foreign donor antigens, only a minority of transfusion recipients will develop detectable RBC alloantibodies. Some factors that influence humoral immune responsiveness to transfused RBCs are obvious, including the necessity of being exposed to a foreign antigen that the immune system can process and present. Mathematically, however, every RBC transfusion meets those criteria. Thus, it remains unclear why some patients form alloantibodies (‘responders’), while others may be transfused hundreds of times without becoming alloimmunised (‘non‐responders’). Studies in humans have found an association with CD4+ T‐cell markers and responsiveness to transfused RBCs, and have also identified acute or chronic inflammatory disease states as risk factors for alloantibody development. Studies in animal models, which allow single variables to be isolated, have led to an understanding of the critical role played by dendritic cells in transfusion‐associated RBC alloimmunisation. Murine studies have further established that non‐responsiveness to transfused RBCs equates to antigen‐specific tolerance in some settings: alloantibodies develop to RBCs expressing some blood group antigens only when the initial RBC exposure occurs in close association with a danger signal. Additional studies are needed in humans and in animal models to further understand the complex variables that determine when and how a humoral immune response may be initiated against transfused RBC antigens, such that strategies for preventing alloimmunisation and its harmful effects in transfusion and pregnancy scenarios can be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integration of perennial forages in annual cropping systems can expand ecosystem service benefits to agricultural landscapes. Such benefits are frequently derived from changes to soil properties. Unfortunately, there is limited guidance for agricultural producers regarding the length of time needed to accrue soil condition improvements under perennial forages, particularly for semiarid regions. The objective of this study was to quantify soil responses to perennial grasses, legumes, and grass–legume mixtures over a 5-yr year period in a semiarid region. Select soil physical and chemical properties were measured within five perennial forage treatments and under annual cropping over a 5-yr period on a Parshall fine sandy loam near Mandan, ND. Treatment effects on soil properties were limited to the surface 10 cm. Differences in soil properties between spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and perennial forages were most frequent following the fourth stand year. Compared with spring wheat, perennial forages mitigated soil acidification (by 0.26–0.65 pH units), reduced soil bulk density (by 0.04–0.08 Mg m–3), and increased particulate organic matter (POM) (by 0.41 g C kg–1) and water-stable aggregates (by 3.8%). Among perennial forages, intermediate wheatgrass (Thinopyrum intermedium L.) and intermediate wheatgrass–field pea (Pisum sativum L) mixture followed by alfalfa (Medicago spp.) reduced soil bulk density (by 0.06–0.11 Mg m–3) and increased POM (by 0.24–0.92 g C kg–1) compared with alfalfa following 4- and 5-yr perennial forage stands. While these outcomes suggest perennial forages can improve the near-surface soil condition, accrual of improvements may be slow and subtle in semiarid regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The concordance of haemovigilance criteria developed for surveillance of transfusion-associated circulatory overload ( TACO) with its clinical diagnosis has not been assessed. In a pilot study to evaluate an electronic screening algorithm, we sought to examine TACO incidence and application of haemovigilance criteria in patients with post-transfusion pulmonary oedema. Study Design and Methods From June to September 2014, all transfused adult inpatients at four academic hospitals were screened with an algorithm identifying chest radiographs ordered within 12 h of blood component release. Patients with post-transfusion pulmonary oedema underwent case adjudication by an expert panel. TACO incidence was calculated, and clinical characteristics were compared with other causes of post-transfusion pulmonary oedema. Results Among 4932 transfused patients, there were 3412 algorithm alerts, 50 cases of TACO and 47 other causes of pulmonary oedema. TACO incidence was 1 case per 100 patients transfused. TACO classification based on two sets of haemovigilance criteria (National Healthcare Safety Network and proposed revised International Society for Blood Transfusion) was concordant with expert panel diagnosis in 57% and 54% of reviewed cases, respectively. Although the majority of clinical parameters did not differentiate expert panel adjudicated TACO from other cases, improved oxygenation within 24 h of transfusion did ( P = 0·01). Conclusions The incidence of TACO was similar to that observed in prior studies utilizing active surveillance. Case classification by haemovigilance criteria was frequently discordant with clinical diagnoses of TACO in patients with post-transfusion pulmonary oedema. Improvements in oxygenation within 24 h of transfusion merit further evaluation in the diagnosis of TACO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives One of the challenges surrounding blood component administration is the determination of an appropriate rate of infusion. There are very few evidence-based guidelines available to guide healthcare providers looking for a 'standard' infusion rate for red blood cells ( RBCs), plasma or platelets ( PLTs). Our objective was to determine the extent to which blood component infusion rates were associated with changes in transfusion recipient vital signs. Materials and Methods We retrospectively examined records of 3496 component infusions ( RBCs, n = 2359; PLTs, n = 478; plasma, n = 659) over a 1-year period at a 362-bed multispecialty hospital. The following data were collected for each transfusion: blood product volume and infusion time, recipient pre- and post-transfusion temperature, blood pressure and pulse rate, and hospital ward where transfusion occurred. Results Plasma (median 10·4 ml/min) was infused faster than PLTs (median 7·2 ml/min, P < 0·0001) or RBCs (median 2·3 ml/min, P < 0·0001). For all blood components, infusion rates varied based on the hospital unit performing the infusion. No association was found between relatively fast RBC, plasma or PLT infusion rates (>20 ml/min) and clinically significant reported changes in vital signs. Conclusions There does not appear to be a strong correlation between infusion rate and significant changes in recipient temperature, blood pressure or pulse rate. Based on these data, a reasonable rate for routine transfusion is 2-3 ml/min for RBCs and 7-10 ml/min for plasma and PLTs. Faster infusion rates (>20 ml/min) likely can be applied with close patient monitoring if there is a more urgent need for transfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perennial grass systems are being evaluated as a bioenergy feedstock in the northern Great Plains. Inter-annual and inter-seasonal precipitation variation in this region will require efficient water use to maintain sufficient yield production to support a mature bioenergy industry. Objectives were to evaluate the impact of a May-June (early season) and a July-August (late season) drought on the water use efficiency (WUE), amount of water used, and biomass production in monocultures of switchgrass ( Panicum virgatum L.), western wheatgrass ( Pascopyrum smithii (Rydb.) Á. Löve), and a western wheatgrass-alfalfa ( Medicago sativa L.) mixture using an automated rainout shelter. WUE was strongly driven by biomass accumulation and ranged from 5.6 to 7.4 g biomass mm water for switchgrass to 1.06 to 2.07 g biomass mm water used with western wheatgrass. Timing of water stress affected WUE more in western wheatgrass and the western wheatgrass-alfalfa mixture than switchgrass. Water deficit for the western wheatgrass-alfalfa mixture was 23 % lower than western wheatgrass ( P = 0.0045) and 31 % lower than switchgrass ( P < 0.0001) under the May-June stress water treatment, while switchgrass had a 37 and 38 % greater water deficit than did western wheatgrass or western wheatgrass-alfalfa mixture, respectively ( P < 0.001) under the July-August water stress treatment. Water depletion was always greatest in the upper 30 cm. Switchgrass had greater WUE but resulted in greater soil water depletion at the end of the growing season compared to western wheatgrass and a western wheatgrass-alfalfa mixture which may be a concern under multi-year drought conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses radiation hybrid and comparative mapping of 83 canine brain expressed sequence tags (ESTs). The canine brain ESTs were compared with sequences in the NCBI database with BLAST to find matches to putative orthologous human genes. The human gene locus with the most significant match to each canine ESTs is provided in the article. Three of the eight unlinked canine ESTs were putative orthologues of human X chromosome genes. Amplicons for the six ESTs for which the canine assignment was to an unexpected chromosome were sequenced to confirm their identity.

Decomposition is a critical process that links the above- and below-ground portions of the nutrient cycle. A study was initiated in North Dakota, USA, to evaluate the decomposition rate between three genetically improved grass species monocultures, Agropyron desertorum, Bromus inermis, and Pascopyrum smithii, and two native perennial grass species occurring in area rangelands, Nassella viridula and Bouteloua gracilis. Standing litter of all five species was harvested in October 1996 and placed into litterbags. Litterbags were placed along transects in early November 1996 and randomly selected bags were sampled in June, July, August, September, and October, 1997. Carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and lignin were determined on all samples including the initial litter samples. The percent of dry matter decomposed across time ranged from 18.4% for B. gracilis to 26.8% for A. desertorum. The two native species, occurring in undisturbed rangeland, had significantly lower rates of decomposition than did the monocultures of the improved cultivars, including the monoculture of the improved native, P. smithii. Most decomposition occurred prior to the June 1997 sampling date, and from June to October 1997 decomposition was approximately the same for all species (7 to 8% ). The N concentration of the initial samples had the strongest correlation (r = 0.78 P < 0.01) with decomposition rates. Lignin had a significant positive correlation (r = 0.49, P = 0.03) and the C:N ratio had a significant negative correlation (r = -0.67 P < 0.01) with decomposition. Traits, such as decomposition, that can affect ecosystem functioning need to be given greater emphasis in genetic selection of native and improved grass species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study which compared the properties of soils from an ungrazed and a heavily grazed vegetation pasture in the Northern Great Plains, United States. Functions of soils in the ecosystem; Examination of the effect of soil management practices on soil properties; Methodology; Results and discussion.

This article reviews recent medical research on the relationship between young maternal age and the incidence of low birth weight infants. One line of research, 'nature,' emphasizes biological factors in early adolescence such as immaturity of the female reproductive system and inadequate prenatal weight gain. 'Nurture,' another research focus, stresses sociocultural attributes of teen mothers such as poverty and minority status. Young maternal age alone does not explain the higher rates of low birth weight infants born to adolescent females. Both biological and sociocultural factors, plus lifestyle choices made by adolescents, combine to raise or lower the risk of delivering a low birth weight infant. School health personnel need to link their health promotion efforts to those of other community organizations serving adolescents and their families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allowing xenon or nitrogen gas to condense onto a photonic crystal slab nanocavity maintained at 10–20 K results in shifts of the nanocavity mode wavelength by as much as 5 nm (≅4 meV). This occurs in spite of the fact that the mode defect is achieved by omitting three holes to form the spacer. This technique should be useful in changing the detuning between a single quantum dot transition and the nanocavity mode for cavity quantum electrodynamics experiments, such as mapping out a strong coupling anticrossing curve. Compared with temperature scanning, it has a much larger scan range and avoids phonon broadening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses issues related to radiation hybrid and comparative mapping of 38 canine heart expressed sequence tags (ESTs). Random clones from a cDNA library constructed from the right and left atria and ventricles of two mixed breed dogs were sequenced and annotated. Sequences chosen for RH mapping were contigs assembled from two or more individual ESTs from this library. Accession number(s) used to identify primers for polymerase chain reaction amplification of genomic DNA are provided in the article. Statistical analysis for placement of each EST marker was performed by two-point linkage analysis in a two-step process with the Multimap software.

Economic analysis of forage production and handling aids in making an educated decision related to growing or buying forage, setting forage prices, and purchasing additional equipment. Manual calculation of economics is highly complex, tedious, and time-consuming. Therefore, a multi-device web-based tool, called the "forage economics calculator web tool" (FECWT) was developed using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. The tool's interface was designed for a user-friendly experience with easy access to commands set in an easy-to-follow layout. The FECWT uses 29 input variables to generate results "dynamically" for 37 output variables, based either on the supplied default data or with user-provided inputs (imperial or metric units). The tool emphasizes the cost of the bale collection activity performed using tractor or tractor pulling an "automatic bale picker" (ABP), while the cost of other activities (planting, fertilizer & chemical application, harvesting, and baling) are provided as direct inputs. The economic analysis outputs include net return, break-even ratio, payback period, and return on investment. Features of FECWT include the sensitivity of profit to changes in input values, and downloadable reports and charts for record-keeping. Two case studies using farmers' actual field data inputs demonstrated the FECWT's effectiveness, with its generated results corroborating well with farmers' records. The tool allows for "what-if" scenario analysis related to equipment purchase, effect of forage crop, net-return, and low-inputs scenario for different field areas suggests that an ABP purchase for field areas greater than ≥ 65 ha (≥ 160 ac) could be profitable; alfalfa and corn were the most profitable forage and grain-forage crops, where the grain revenue stream of grain-forage crops easily covers the costs and makes a profit; and a low-inputs scenario (no fertilizers, chemicals, and/or seeds) for forages (alfalfa and grass) decreased the net returns on average by 8.1 times at 50% forage yield potential suggesting the use of all inputs and increased field areas (≥ 65 ha) make a better profit in this low-inputs scenario. Potential users of this web tool include farmers, hay producers, custom hay operators, educators, agricultural extension and financial personnel, and others interested in the economics of handling bales. [Display omitted] • Web tool calculator developed uses 29 inputs to generate 37 forage economics outputs. • Economics of bale collection using tractor and automatic bale picker is emphasized. • Tool's features include inputs sensitivity and downloadable report and chart. • Tool allows what-if scenario analysis for many practical field situations. • Actual field data case studies reported satisfactory performance of the tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We hypothesized that diagnoses may be associated with alloantibody 'responder' status and examined associations between disease states and alloimmunization. Patients with ≥1 alloantibody and non-alloimmunized controls were analysed. Pearson's coefficients were calculated to determine associations between alloimmunization and diseases; significant correlations were selected to construct a network. Inflammatory disorders and diseases requiring chronic transfusion support were associated with responder status. Mitigation steps may be considered in patients with these disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An error was made in the calculation of the photonic crystal mode volume. Fixing this error increases our mode volume by a factor of 2 and makes our claim of highest Q/ V invalid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prairie dogs (Cynomys spp.) can influence vegetation dynamics and landscape hydrology by altering soil properties, yet few studies have evaluated soil responses to prairie dog activities across a range of soil types. This study was conducted to quantify prairie dog effects on soil properties within three unique ecological sites differing in soil and landscape attributes on a 1400 ha ranch near McLaughlin, SD. Soil properties and infiltration rate were evaluated within thin claypan, loamy, and shallow loamy ecological sites corresponding to footslope, backslope, and summit-shoulder landscape positions, respectively. Prairie dog activity was found to influence soil properties similarly across ecological sites. Prairie dog activity contributed to considerable soil heterogeneity, with on-mound areas characterized as acidified, nutrient "hot spots" compared with off-mound areas. On-mound areas possessed faster infiltration rates than off-mound areas within loamy and shallow loamy ecological sites. Soil organic C was greater in on-mound areas compared with off-mound areas, but only at intermediate depths (10 to 30 cm). Results from this study suggest postextirpation restoration efforts should consider soil heterogeneity induced by prairie dog activity within and across ecological sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perennial grasses and corn stalks can supply abundant lignocellulosic feedstock in the northern Great Plains of the U.S. There is a need to understand the mechanical properties of these crops for better handling and processing of biomass feedstocks in bioprocessing industries. The objectives of this research included determination of tensile and shear stresses of big bluestem, corn stalk, intermediate wheatgrass, and switchgrass stems and measurement of specific tensile and shear energies during tensile and shear failure. A high-capacity MTI-100K universal testing machine equipped with adapted tensile clamps and a specially designed and fabricated double-shear device were used for tensile and shear testing. Ultimate shear stresses were not statistically different for big bluestem, corn stalk, and intermediate wheatgrass, with values of 7.33, 8.53 and 6.23 MPa, respectively, which were less than switchgrass at 13.39 MPa (p < 0.05). Corn stalk had the greatest ultimate tensile stress of 69.30 MPa, followed by switchgrass, big bluestem, and intermediate wheatgrass. The ultimate tensile stress and shear stress were statistically different (p < 0.05) from each other for all four feedstocks. Both ultimate shear energy and specific shear energy for corn stalk were statistically different (p < 0.05) from big bluestem, intermediate wheatgrass, and switchgrass. The evaluated shear to tensile stress ratios, expressed as percentages, were 29.3%, 12.3%, 30.5%, and 31.9%, whereas the shear to tensile energy ratios were greater, with values of 42.2%, 67.2%, 61.2%, 50.4% for big bluestem, corn stalk, intermediate wheatgrass, and switchgrass, respectively. Based on these results, shear-dominant size-reduction devices (e.g., knife mills and chippers) should be more energy efficient, and this energy efficiency should be taken advantage of when designing size-reduction devices. Further research efforts are necessary to determine the effect of moisture, crop variety, and maturity stage, as these factors are known to affect the mechanical characteristics of biomass feedstocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moisture content of biomass is the most influential factor in biomass storage. Moisture sorption kinetics control the dynamic moisture condition of the biomass, thus affecting biomass storage, processing operations, and final utilization applications. Moisture sorption characteristics of switchgrass, big bluestem, and bromegrass, potential biomass feedstocks for the Northern Great Plains of the U.S., were studied. Study objectives were to determine the moisture sorption kinetics, mathematically model the sorption process using standard models, and evaluate the effect of temperature on moisture sorption. Moisture sorption experiments were conducted at temperatures of 20°C, 40°C, and 60°C and a fixed high relative humidity of 95% using a controlled-environment chamber. Standard moisture sorption kinetics models (exponential, Page, and Peleg) were used to analyze the experimental sorption characteristics of the feedstocks. Bromegrass had the highest moisture sorption rates and final moisture contents, followed by big bluestem and switchgrass. On average, at 20°C, 50% of moisture sorption completion occurred at 1.5, 1.9, and 1.7 h and 90% completion occurred at about 8.5, 13.4, and 12.8 h for switchgrass, big bluestem, and bromegrass, respectively. For the temperatures studied, on average 41% ±3%, 40% ±5%, and 39% ±1% of moisture sorption completion occurred in 1 h and 82% ±2%, 76% ±4%, and 73% ±1% completion occurred in 5 h for switchgrass, big bluestem, and bromegrass, respectively. Moisture sorption rates decreased very sharply during the first hour (≥78%) from their initial values and quickly plateaued thereafter. Increase in temperature increased the moisture sorption rates for all the biomass types tested. Both the Page and Peleg models effectively described the observed sorption characteristics for the selected biomass types (R² ≥ 0.96). The Arrhenius equation adequately described the temperature dependence of the model parameters (0.77 ≤ R² ≤ 1.00). Based on this study, the Peleg model in combination with the Arrhenius equation is recommended for moisture sorption predictions. Fitted moisture sorption kinetics models, developed nomograms, and combined prediction equations (R² ≥ 0.83) form baseline data essential for storage of the selected biomass types and various handling, conditioning, and processing operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) diversity in non-model vertebrates typically focus on structure and sequence variation in the antigen-presenting loci: the highly variable and polymorphic class I and class IIB genes. Although these studies provide estimates of the number of genes and alleles/locus, they often overlook variation in functionally related and co-inherited genes important in the immune response. This study utilizes the sequence of the MHC B-locus derived from a commercial turkey to investigate MHC variation in wild birds. Sequences were obtained for nine interspersed MHC amplicons (non-class I/II) from each of 40 birds representing 3 subspecies of wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo). Analysis of aligned sequences identified 238 single-nucleotide variants approximately one-third of which had minor allele frequencies >0.2 in the sampled birds. PHASE analysis identified 70 prospective MHC haplotypes in the wild turkeys, whereas a combined analysis with commercial birds identified almost 100 haplotypes in the species. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) of the class IIB loci was used to test the efficacy of single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) haplotyping to capture locus-wide variation. Diversity in SNP haplotypes and haplotype sharing among individuals was directly reflected in the DGGE patterns. Utilization of a reference haplotype to sequence interspersed regions of the MHC has significant advantages over other methods of surveying diversity while identifying high-frequency SNPs for genotyping. SNP haplotyping provides a means to identify both divergent haplotypes and homozygous individuals for assessment of immunological variation in wild and domestic populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this study, we investigated the effect of in situ annealing on InAs quantum dots site-selectively grown on pre-structured GaAs substrates. A morphological transition is observed with original double dots merging into one single dot during annealing. This is accompanied by a reduction of quantum dots originally nucleating between defined sites. The photoluminescence intensity of annealed site-selective quantum dots is compared to annealed self-assembled dots with linewidths of single dot emission of about 170 and , respectively. UV-ozone cleaning is used to optimize the sample cleaning prior to quantum dot growth. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To determine the chromosomal locations for genes expressed in porcine Peyer's patches, polymerase chain reaction-based mapping of expressed sequence tags (ESTs) isolated from a porcine Peyer's patch-specific cDNA library was performed across a 6500-rad swine radiation hybrid panel. A total of 116 ESTs were mapped with LOD scores >6.0, and another 11 ESTs had LOD scores between 5.0 and 6.0. Of these 127 ESTs, 63% matched known genes (

Cavity quantum electrodynamics (QED) systems allow the study of a variety of fundamental quantum-optics phenomena, such as entanglement, quantum decoherence and the quantum-classical boundary. Such systems also provide test beds for quantum information science. Nearly all strongly coupled cavity QED experiments have used a single atom in a high-quality-factor (high-Q) cavity. Here we report the experimental realization of a strongly coupled system in the solid state: a single quantum dot embedded in the spacer of a nanocavity, showing vacuum-field Rabi splitting exceeding the decoherence linewidths of both the nanocavity and the quantum dot. This requires a small-volume cavity and an atomic-like two-level system. The photonic crystal slab nanocavity-which traps photons when a defect is introduced inside the two-dimensional photonic bandgap by leaving out one or more holes-has both high Q and small modal volume V, as required for strong light-matter interactions. The quantum dot has two discrete energy levels with a transition dipole moment much larger than that of an atom, and it is fixed in the nanocavity during growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A letter to the editor is presented in response to the article "Performance of a clinical prediction score for thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura in an independent cohort" by M. J. Bentley and colleagues published in a previous issue of the periodical.

Graphical abstract Highlights • Developed ImageJ calibration plugin 'ColorCal' minimized images intensity variation. • Semi-automatic color patch selection and calibration performance measures are new 3 features. • Plugin derived a [ 3 × 3 ] color calibration matrix using input image and X-Rite values. • Good performance from 3 to 12 patches and beyond 12 the variation was insignificant. • For simplicity and practicality, the 3 color patches—R, G, and B are recommended. Abstract Image processing in agriculture relies primarily on correlating color changes within images' region of interest to specific quality attributes (e.g., plant phenology, plant health, crop stress, maturity). Changes in lighting conditions during image acquisition affect image color, even though there is no change in quality, and produces misleading inference when used without calibration. The focus of this study was to develop a method for calibrating images to make them homogeneous to improve phenological comparisons. The method was developed with synthetic images and validated with actual plant images in laboratory and field conditions using a standard ColorChecker (X-Rite) chart. Six different color schemes were tested to determine the effect of patch order, and minimum number of patches required for efficient calibration. A user-coded ImageJ plugin named 'ColorCal' was developed in Fiji package for color calibration that derived and applied a [ 3 × 3 ] color calibration matrix, based on selected color patches and standard values. Modified total error and calibration performance index (CPI) were developed to evaluate calibration performance. Calibration using any 12 color patches taken in any order gave equal performance (0.14 ⩽ CPI ⩽ 0.26). Calibration performance using only commonly followed neutral color patches (e.g., white, gray) was poor (0.26 ⩽ CPI ⩽ 1.0). Using red (R), green (G), and blue (B) color patches was recommended as it produced visually similar images, the performance was comparable with 24 color patches (0.21 ⩽ CPI ⩽ 0.24), and was simple and practical. The developed plugin took ≈7 s for calibration (Windows laptop, Intel Core i5, and 8 GB RAM). Determining phenological and other applications using the plugin was more reliable than using the raw images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We report a case of an 83 year old man who developed oxaliplatin immuneinduced syndrome (OIIS) after his 19th cycle of FOLFOX (5FU, leucovorin, oxaliplatin). When oxaliplatin was omitted from his next cycle of chemotherapy he continues to show signs of drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia (DITP) and was found to have drug-dependent, platelet-reactive antibodies (DDPA) to leucovorin and palonosetron as well as oxaliplatin. Methods: The patient was admitted for monitoring but required no transfusions and thrombocytopenia resolved without treatment during his first admission. Drug-dependent antibody testing was performed on his blood by the Blood Center of Wisconsin (Diagnostic Laboratories; Milwaukee, WI). Results: No RBC or platelet IgG or IgM antibodies were detected in the absence of any drugs, but upon addition of palonosetron, leucovorin, or oxaliplatin, the tests became strongly positive for anti-RBC IgG and anti-platelet IgG antibodies. Discussion: Repeated administration of oxaliplatin can result in drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia (DITP) or autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA). This phenomenon has recently been termed OIIS and may additionally include Evan's syndrome or thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). Here we describe a patient who developed OIIS with drugdependent, platelet-reactive antibodies (DDPA) to leucovorin and palonosetron. To our knowledge, these two drugs have never been described in the literature as a cause of DDPA. We suggest that OIIS in addition to oxaliplatin-induced thrombocytopenia may be associated with the development of DDPAs to other drugs causing clinically significant thrombocytopenia which is important to recognize and manage with discontinuation of provoking agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Many hospitals require transfusions to be discontinued when vital signs stray from predetermined ranges, regardless of clinical symptoms. Variations in vital signs may be unrelated to transfusion, however, and needlessly stopping a transfusion may delay medical care while increasing donor exposures and healthcare costs. We hypothesized that a detailed study of vital sign changes associated with transfusion of blood product by component, including those associated with potential reactions (complicated) and those deemed to be uncomplicated, would establish a useful framework of reference for treating clinicians and transfusion services alike. Materials and Methods: A retrospective electronic record review of transfusion service and transfusion recipient data was completed on 3852 inpatient transfusion episodes over a 6‐month period at four academic tertiary care hospitals across the United States. Vital signs pre‐ and post‐transfusion were recorded by trained clinical research nurses. Serious reactions were adjudicated by a panel of transfusion medicine experts. Results: In both uncomplicated transfusions (n = 3765) and those including an adverse reaction (n = 87), vital sign fluctuations were generally modest. Compared to uncomplicated transfusions, transfusions complicated by febrile reactions were associated with higher pretransfusion temperature and higher pretransfusion pulse rates. Episodes of transfusion circulatory overload were associated with higher pretransfusion respiration rates compared to uncomplicated transfusions. Conclusion: Most transfusions are associated with only modest changes in vital signs. Pretransfusion vital signs may be an important yet previously understudied predictor of vital sign changes during transfusion. The optimal role of vital sign assessment during blood transfusion deserves further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harvested hay or biomass are traditionally baled for better handling and they are transported to the outlet for final utilization. For better management of bale logistics, producers often aggregate bales into stacks so that bale-hauling equipment can haul multiple bales for improved efficiency. Objectives of this research include simulation of bale collection logistics after forming subfield stacks, evaluation of location effects of bale stack and field outlet, the number of stacks, transported bales/trip, and other field parameters on logistics distances (aggregation, transportation, and total). The software ‘R’ performed the simulation, statistical analysis, and data visualization. Formation of bale stacks decoupled aggregation and transportation components. Stacks formation thus allows for aggregation and transportation to be performed at different times. Increasing the number of subfield stacks and the number of transported bales/trip significantly reduced the total logistics distances. The order for the best bale stack and outlet locations was: middle, near middle, mid-edge along the length, mid-edge along the width, and finally, corners. Except for swath and windrow variation, the studied field variables had a highly significant influence on the logistics distances. Increased bales/trip (≥6) reduced the variations of outlet locations. Locating the field outlet at or near the center of the field along with an appropriate number of square subfields with stacks at the middle, and increased bales/trip will be the most efficient infield logistics strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Fetuses affected by maternal RBC alloantibodies may have prolonged anaemia after birth, leading one to question whether maternal alloantibody transfer may occur outside the placenta. In response to a recent publication describing breast milk transfer of clinically significant amounts of maternal antiplatelet IgA antibodies from mother to nursing infant, we hypothesized that maternal RBC alloantibodies may also be capable of being transferred in breast milk. Materials and Methods The presence and clinical significance of breast milk alloantibody transfer were tested through a series of pregnancy, fostering and transfusion experiments, using a murine model in which transgenic RBCs express the human KEL glycoprotein. Results Maternal anti- KEL immunoglobulins, induced through transfusion or pregnancy, were detected in the aqueous phase of breast milk. Further, efficient transfer of maternal anti- KEL IgG and IgA to nursing pups was observed in fostering experiments. The breast milk-acquired alloantibodies were clinically significant in wild-type pups in a transfusion setting, binding to 'incompatible' KEL RBCs and leading to premature clearance from the circulation. Although breast milk-acquired alloantibodies also bound to the RBCs of transgenic KEL-positive fostered pups, no anaemia resulted. Conclusions Taking these murine data in combination with recently published human data of maternal antiplatelet IgA antibodies in breast milk leading to sequelae in some infants, it is theoretically possible that maternal anti- RBC IgA alloantibodies may also be transferred in human breast milk and may lead to sequelae in some infants under some circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging data in animal models and humans suggest that pathogen-associated and damage-associated molecular patterns variably impact RBC alloantibody formation. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that vaccinations may enhance immune responses to transfused RBCs. The Pneumovax23 vaccine decreased the magnitude of anti- KEL alloimmunization in a murine model, whereas the hepB vaccine did not impact the response; RBC transfusion did not alter immune responses to either vaccine. These data highlight the complexities of the intersection of innate and adaptive immunity and suggest that future studies investigating the pathways through which inflammation impacts alloimmunization are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Plant stand count methods using unmanned aerial vehicle imagery were reviewed. • Computer vision methods produced promising results in plant stand count analysis. • Several research gaps were identified and recommendations provided. • Results will be helpful to stakeholders like farmers, producers, and researchers. Plant stand count helps in estimating the yield and evaluating the planter's efficiency and seed quality. Traditional methods of counting the plants by manual measurement are time-consuming, laborious, and error-prone. In contrast, the ground-based sensing methods are limited to smaller spaces. High spatial resolution images obtained from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) can be used in conjunction with computer vision algorithms to evaluate plant stand count, as it directly influences the yield. In spite of the importance of high-throughput plant stand count in row crop agriculture, no synthesized information in this specific subject matter is available. Therefore, the objective of this paper was to perform a systematic literature review of the current studies that focus on evaluating plant stand count using UAV imagery to provide well-synthesized information, identify research gaps, and provide suitable recommendations. In this study, a comprehensive literature search was performed on three academic databases (Agricola, Web of Science, and Scopus), and a total of 29 articles were found based on search terms and selection criteria for review. From the systematic review, it can be concluded that: an appropriate stage after plant emergence without canopy overlap is necessary for image acquisition; optimal flying height should be selected to balance the field coverage and accuracy; L*a*b* color space can provide better segmentation; hyperspectral camera imagery can provide good discrimination; deep learning with data augmentation and transfer learning models can be used to reduce the computational time and resources; the stand count methodology that is successful with corn and cotton could be extended to other row crops and horticultural crops; and application of direct image processing and use of open-source platforms is required for stakeholder participation. The review will be helpful to the farmers, producers, and researchers in selecting and employing the UAV-based algorithms for evaluating plant stand count. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Native plant biodiversity loss and exotic species invasions are threatening the ability of many ecosystems to maintain key functions and processes. We currently lack detailed plant biodiversity data at a national scale with which to make management decisions and recommendations based on current conservation challenges. We collected plant biodiversity and exotic species richness data from 4 sites in the Northern Great Plains using the modified Whittaker (MW) and Natural Resources Inventory (NRI) methods to evaluate any major differences between indicators generated from these methods and offer recommendations based on findings. Our data indicated that the NRI protocols underestimated both total plant species richness and exotic species richness compared with the MW approach. More importantly, however, results show that biodiversity indicators from the two methods showed similar trends. Increasing time spent on making species richness measurements and implementing a more systematic approach to detecting species within a plot could improve biodiversity inventory and monitoring efforts in NRI while also providing a link between existing long-term data and any new information collected. These adjustments would ultimately help those interested in adopting NRI methods and using plant biodiversity data to increase the amount and quality of information collected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Chopped biomass stem nodes and internodes can be identified from gray scale images. [•] Narrow computational band along the major axis was sufficient for identification. [•] Nodes have greater variation in gray value along major axis than internodes. [•] Unit area under the normalized gray value curve gave best identification. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Biomass bales often need to be aggregated (collected into groups and transported) to a field-edge stack or a temporary storage before utilization. Several logistics scenarios for aggregation involving equipment and aggregation strategies were modeled and evaluated. Cumulative Euclidean distance criteria evaluated the various aggregation scenarios. Application of a single-bale loader that aggregated bales individually was considered as the “control” scenario with which others were compared. A computer simulation program developed determined bale coordinates in ideal and random layouts that evaluated aggregation scenarios. Simulation results exhibited a “diamond pattern” of bales on ideal layout and a “random pattern” emerged when ≥10% variation was introduced. Statistical analysis revealed that the effect of field shape, swath width, biomass yield, and randomness on bale layout did not affect aggregation logistics, while area and number of bales handled had significant effects. Number of bales handled in the direct method significantly influenced the efficiency. Self-loading bale picker with minimum distance path (MDP, 80%) and parallel transport of loader and truck with MDP (78%) were ranked the highest, and single-bale central grouping the lowest (29%) among 19 methods studied. The MDP was found significantly more efficient (4%–16%) than the baler path. Simplistic methods, namely a direct triple-bale loader with MDP (64%–66%), or a loader and truck handling six bales running parallel with MDP (75%–82%) were highly efficient. Great savings on cumulative distances that directly influence time, fuel, and cost were realized when the number of bales handled was increased or additional equipment was utilized. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Appaloosa horses are predisposed to equine recurrent uveitis ( ERU), an immune-mediated disease characterized by recurring inflammation of the uveal tract in the eye, which is the leading cause of blindness in horses. Nine genetic markers from the ECA1 region responsible for the spotted coat color of Appaloosa horses, and 13 microsatellites spanning the equine major histocompatibility complex ( ELA) on ECA20, were evaluated for association with ERU in a group of 53 Appaloosa ERU cases and 43 healthy Appaloosa controls. Three markers were significantly associated (corrected P-value <0.05): a SNP within intron 11 of the TRPM1 gene on ECA1, an ELA class I microsatellite located near the boundary of the ELA class III and class II regions and an ELA class II microsatellite located in intron 1 of the DRA gene. Association between these three genetic markers and the ERU phenotype was confirmed in a second population of 24 insidious ERU Appaloosa cases and 16 Appaloosa controls. The relative odds of being an ERU case for each allele of these three markers were estimated by fitting a logistic mixed model with each of the associated markers independently and with all three markers simultaneously. The risk model using these markers classified ~80% of ERU cases and 75% of controls in the second population as moderate or high risk, and low risk respectively. Future studies to refine the associations at ECA1 and ELA loci and identify functional variants could uncover alleles conferring susceptibility to ERU in Appaloosa horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We show that a generalized asymmetric resonant line shape derived elsewhere from rigorous electromagnetic calculations [ Gallinet and Martin Phys. Rev. B 83 235427 (2011)] and from the two- oscillators model [ Joe et al. Phys. Scr. 74 259 (2006)] can also be obtained using a very general assumption that the spectral dependence of the scattering amplitudes is given by the transfer function of a linear system. We reformulate the line shape equation and show that in the case of a first-order transfer function all possible line shapes can be presented by a weighted sum of the original Fano and Lorentzian line shapes. We propose a new two-parameter classification scheme for asymmetric resonances with one parameter δ being the asymmetry factor of the Fano component and the other parameter η quantifying the relative weight of the Fano and Lorentzian components of the line shape. The proposed formula is used to fit experimental spectra of a silicon photonic crystal cavity nanobeam interrogated using a fiber taper probe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Transfusion of allogeneic platelet products can result in antibodies against donor major histocompatibility complex (MHC) I antigens, leading to a refractory state to subsequent platelet transfusions. However, there is disagreement in the field regarding the molecular mechanisms of humoral alloimmunization. One hypothesis states that donor MHC II is a requirement for alloimmunization. However, other studies have suggested that donor MHC I is alone sufficient and MHC II is not required. Materials and Methods We utilized a mouse model of anti-MHC I alloimmunization to transfused blood, which employed donors with a complete deletion of all MHC II genes. BALB/c (H-2d) recipients were transfused with blood from either C57BL/6 (H-2b) or MHC II null donors on a C57BL/6 background. Anti-MHC I alloimmunization was monitored by indirect immunofluorescence. Results Recipients of either wild type or MHC II null blood produced equivalent humoral responses against donor MHC I antigens. However, there was variation in the relative amounts of IgG subclasses. Conclusion These data reject the hypothesis that donor MHC II expression is required for alloimmunization to MHC I antigens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mice provide tractable animal models for studying the pathophysiology of various human disorders. This review discusses the use of mouse models for understanding red-blood-cell (RBC) clearance. These models provide important insights into the pathophysiology of various clinically relevant entities, such as autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, haemolytic transfusion reactions, other complications of RBC transfusions and immunomodulation by Rh immune globulin therapy. Mouse models of both antibody- and non-antibody-mediated RBC clearance are reviewed. Approaches for exploring unanswered questions in transfusion medicine using these models are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural production responds to social, political, economic, environmental, and technological drivers that influence producers' decisions and shape the individual systems through modification of management practices, crop and livestock mix, and marketing strategy. We use an interview and discussion approach with producer panels to examine production systems in the eastern United States and explore key drivers impacting their unique characteristics and development. The internal social driver that values the farming lifestyle is a principle factor that leads people to choose farming. Irrespective of location, farming is first and foremost a lifestyle choice. The choice of type of production system is partly a lifestyle preference and partly influenced by other external factors, including economic and environmental elements. A second principle driver is economic, arising from a need to make a living, and tempers the internal social driver. Economic return is partially a function of the marketability of products. Marketing channels are dependent on social drivers, including education of producers and consumers, community support and community values. Farmers in the Northeast are able to take a more active role in determining contract terms than those in the Southeast, and are also more aggressive in developing new markets. Development of local markets and community support strengthens the link between farmers and consumers, and reinforces the economic sustainability of Northeastern production systems. With decreased reliance on external risk reduction approaches, Northeastern producers bear greater risk, but also have greater flexibility in altering the crop and livestock mix and are better able to respond to consumer demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents questions and answers related to blood donation including improved blood safety measures, irradiation guidelines for neonatal transfusion and recommendations for any pathogen-inactivated types of blood components.

Infield bale aggregation is essential for bale removal and preparing the field for subsequent crops, which can be more efficiently performed using the modern automatic bale picker (ABP) that supports multiple bales/trip (BPT) than commonly used tractors. But the energy involved in the bale aggregation logistics using ABP has not been thoroughly evaluated. Therefore, the energy involved in the bale aggregation, in terms of fuel consumption, was studied for different logistic scenarios using a tractor (control) and ABP through a user-developed simulation program in R. Different variables such as field areas (8 to 259 ha), biomass yields (3–40 Mg ha − 1), four outlet locations, and five equipment speeds (6.6–10.5 km h − 1) using realistic equipment turning paths were used in the simulation. The Nebraska Tractor Test general method and fuel efficiency method were considered for the fuel consumption calculations. Fuel consumption for the ABP (8–259 ha) with 8 BPT on an average decreased by 72 % and 53 % compared to a tractor with 1 and 2 BPT, respectively, based on logistics distance and equipment operation. Field area, biomass yield, and BPT were the most influential variables affecting logistics distance; while, field area, biomass yield, BPT, and equipment speed affecting the operation time and fuel quantity. Convenient prediction models (multi-variate nonlinear) for logistics distance, operation time, and fuel quantity, using the influential field variables, produced very good fits ( R 2 ≥ 0.98). Overall, an ABP with a capacity of 8 BPT, split which can also handle 11 BPT, is recommended considering the logistics energy. • Bale aggregation with tractor and automatic bale picker (ABP) were simulated using R. • Field area, biomass yield, and bales/trip (BPT) were influential variables for modeling. • ABP with 8 BPT greatly decreased the logistics distance and fuel compared to tractor. • Multi-variate models predicted logistics distances, operation time, and fuel quantity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A polarized photoresponse to mm-wave radiation over the frequency range of 40 to 108 GHz is demonstrated in a grating-gated high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) formed by an InGaAs/InP heterostructure. The photoresponse is observed within the plasmon resonance absorption band of the HEMT, whose gate consists of a 9 μm period grating that couples incident radiation to plasmons in the 2D electron gas. Gate-bias changes the channel carrier concentration, causing a corresponding change in photoresponse in agreement with theoretical expectations for the shift in the plasmon resonance band. The noise equivalent power is estimated to be 235 pW/Hz1/2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]