Eccentric Growth Research Articles

A rare incidence of signet ring cell carcinoma of the rectosigmoid junction: a case report

Introduction and importance: Signet ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) is a rare type of adenocarcinoma. SRCC comprises 1.0% of all colon cancer and 0.7% of all rectal cancer. The SRCC spreads both hematologically and through lymph nodes making it highly invasive. The pathophysiology of the colorectal SRCC involves an alteration in the function of the RNF43, CDH-1, and SMAD4 genes as well as TGF-B signaling pathways, which are responsible for epithelial-mesenchymal transitions and stem cell properties. This also shows a higher rate of BRAF mutation, microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) and CpG island methylator phenotype positivity Case presentation: A 17-year-old female patient with no known comorbidities presented with copious, bright red colored per rectal bleeding along with painful defecation. Colonoscopy revealed an eccentric growth that led to luminal narrowing. Multiple biopsies confirmed a 4 cm × 6 cm neoplastic lesion with locoregional lymphadenopathy, but no metastasis. The patient underwent anterior resection of the rectum, colostomy, and rectal stump closure. The sigmoid colon was resected up to the middle up to the third mesorectum followed by multiple re-explorations. Discussion: SRCC presents at an advanced stage with a poor prognosis because signet ring cells infiltrate the mucosa without forming a significant mass, hindering early diagnosis of this carcinoma. Among the previously published large-scale studies, SRCC involves the proximal colon, i.e., the cecum, ascending, and transverse colon. However, our case presents a less common left-sided presentation in a less-commonly presented demographic, a 17-year-old girl. The patient’s non-specific symptoms contributed to a delayed diagnosis. Despite this, the absence of metastasis in our late-diagnosed case is atypical of SRCC. Conclusion: SRCC should be considered as a differential diagnosis for young adults presenting with per-rectal bleeding and other common symptoms often seen in frequently diagnosed conditions. Therefore, early diagnosis along with appropriate surgical intervention combined with supportive treatment are important for better patient outcomes.

Determination and Analysis of Endogenous Hormones and Cell Wall Composition between the Straight and Twisted Trunk Types of Pinus yunnanensis Franch

Pinus yunnanensis Franch., one of the pioneer species of wild mountain afforestation in southwest China, plays an essential role in the economy, society and environment of Yunnan Province. Nonetheless, P. yunnanensis’ trunk twisting and bending phenomenon has become more common, which significantly restricts its use and economic benefits. In order to clarify the compositional differences between the straight and twisted trunk types of P. yunnanensis and to investigate the reasons for the formation of twisted stems, the present study was carried out to dissect the macroscopic and microscopic structure of the straight and twisted trunk types of P. yunnanensis, to determine the content of cell wall components (lignin, cellulose, hemicellulose), determine the content of endogenous hormones, and the expression validation of phytohormone-related differential genes (GA2OX, COI1, COI2) and cell wall-related genes (XTH16, TCH4). The results showed that the annual rings of twisted trunk types were unevenly distributed, eccentric growth, insignificant decomposition of early and late wood, rounding and widening of the tracheid cells, thickening of the cell wall, and reduction of the cavity diameter; the lignin and hemicellulose contents of twisted trunk types were higher; in twisted trunk types, the contents of gibberellin (GA) and jasmonic acid (JA) increased, and the content of auxin (IAA) was reduced; the GA2OX were significantly down-regulated in twisted trunk types, and the expressions of the genes associated with the cell wall, COI1, COI2, TCH4 and XTH16, were significantly up-regulated. In conclusion, the present study found that the uneven distribution of endogenous hormones may be an important factor leading to the formation of twisted trunk type of P. yunnanensis, which adds new discoveries to reveal the mechanism of the genesis of different trunk types in plants, and provides a theoretical basis for the genetic improvement of forest trees.

Integrating Dendrogeomorphology into Stress–Strain Numerical Models: An Opportunity to Monitor Slope Dynamic

Monitoring systems are recognized worldwide as fundamental tools for landslide risk management. However, monitoring can be difficult when dealing with large slopes in forested areas. In these situations, dendrogeomorphology can offer a low-cost and low-impact alternative for providing distributed information with an annual temporal resolution. The present study is a first attempt to integrate dendrometric and dendrogeomorphic data into a numerical finite difference model, in order to simulate the stress–strain behavior of the tree-slope system. By using a parametrical approach, the capability of the numerical model to effectively reproduce the tree stem anomalies (i.e., tilting angle, J-shaped feature, and internal stresses causing tree-ring growth anomalies such as eccentric growth and reaction wood) was verified, and the target parameters for the model calibration were identified based on a sensitivity analysis, which emphasized the relevance of the wood deformability; moreover, the interpretation of results allowed to point out different peculiarities (in terms of type of deformation, falling direction, and distribution of internal stresses) for different slope conditions (kinematics and depth of the failure surface) and different zones of the landslide (head scarp, main body, and toe). Afterwards, the modeling approach was applied to the Val Roncaglia landslide (Northen Italy), which involves a complex roto-translational kinematics, characterized by multiple sliding surfaces. The simulated stem anomalies showed good agreement with the ones arising from onsite dendrometric surveys, and they confirmed the conceptual model of the landslide, enabling the planning of further specific investigations. Moreover, the capability of the model in reproducing the tilting angle of trees, if correlated to their eccentricity, could provide a quite long time series (over more than 50–60 years) of the landslide reactivation and allow the use of dendrochronological data for the model calibration, thereby enhancing slope dynamic monitoring and landslide risk management.

Abstract 1004: Three-dimensional Characterization Of Sex Differences In Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Progression Via Vascular Deformation Mapping

Introduction: Although Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) are more common in men, women are at greater risk for AAA growth and rupture. Vascular deformation mapping (VDM) is a novel technique that utilizes deformable image registration to qualify and quantify three-dimensions (3D) AAA growth using routing clinical computed tomography angiogram (CTA) images. Hypothesis: We hypothesize that females will have higher rates of focal AAA growth when compared to males. Aims: In this study we aimed to leverage VDM to investigate sex differences in AAA growth. Methods: We identified patients with infra-renal AAA and ≥2 CTA from 2010-2021. Patients with non-contrast CT scans or poor image quality were excluded. Propensity score matching was used to identify a cohort of males and females matched on age, hypertension, and smoking history. AAA were segmented and VDM was conducted using a multi-step image registration of aortic CTA studies to generate a deformation field which is then used to quantify 3D AAA growth rate (GR). Patient characteristics, maximum diameter (Dmax), AAA volume (Vmax), and GR were obtained. Statistical shape modeling was utilized to compare average 3D growth patterns between males and females. Results: Seventeen male and females with AAA were matched. There was no differences between sexes in race, diabetes, symptomatic status, or repair. Males had a trend toward larger Dmax (4.9 ± 0.6 vs 4.5 ± 0.6 cm, p = 0.055) and had Vmax at baseline (118.7 ± 69.9 vs 76.6 ± 35.0 cm 3 , p = 0.034). There was no difference between sexes when looking at change in Dmax or Vmax. Male and female AAA had no difference in average GR (0.11 ± 0.08 vs 0.17 ± 0.22 cm/year, p = 0.293). Shape models demonstrated more diffuse AAA growth for males and more eccentric AAA growth for females (Figure 1). Conclusions: Despite comparable changes in Dmax, Vmax, and GR, women demonstrated a more eccentric distribution of AAA growth, a finding which may contribute to higher rupture risk in women.

Multiscale Finite Element Modeling of Left Ventricular Growth in Simulations of Valve Disease.

Multiscale models of the cardiovascular system are emerging as effective tools for investigating the mechanisms that drive ventricular growth and remodeling. These models can predict how molecular-level mechanisms impact organ-level structure and function and could provide new insights that help improve patient care. MyoFE is a multiscale computer framework that bridges molecular and organ-level mechanisms in a finite element model of the left ventricle that is coupled with the systemic circulation. In this study, we extend MyoFE to include a growth algorithm, based on volumetric growth theory, to simulate concentric growth (wall thickening/thinning) and eccentric growth (chamber dilation/constriction) in response to valvular diseases. Specifically in our model, concentric growth is controlled by time-averaged total stress along the fiber direction over a cardiac cycle while eccentric growth responds to time-averaged intracellular myofiber passive stress over a cardiac cycle. The new framework correctly predicted different forms of growth in response to two types of valvular diseases, namely aortic stenosis and mitral regurgitation. Furthermore, the model predicted that LV size and function are nearly restored (reversal of growth) when the disease-mimicking perturbation was removed in the simulations for each valvular disorder. In conclusion, the simulations suggest that time-averaged total stress along the fiber direction and time-averaged intracellular myofiber passive stress can be used to drive concentric and eccentric growth in simulations of valve disease.

Analysis of genes related to xylem cell wall development based on transcriptomics in Populus alba ‘Berolinensis’ tension wood

Populus alba ‘Berolinensis’ is a fast-growing, high-yielding species with strong biotic and abiotic stress resistance, and widely planted for timber, shelter belts and aesthetic purposes. In this study, molecular development is explored and the important genes regulating xylem formation in P. alba ‘Berolinensis’ under artificial bending treatments was identified. Anatomical investigation indicated that tension wood (TW) was characterized by eccentric growth of xylem and was enriched in cellulose; the degree of lignification was lower than for normal wood (NW) and opposite wood (OW). RNA-Seq-based transcriptome analysis was performed using developing xylem from three wood types (TW, OW and NW). A large number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened and 4889 counted. In GO and KEGG enrichment results, genes involved in plant hormone signal transduction, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and cell wall and secondary cell wall biogenesis play major roles in xylem development under artificial bending. Eight expansin (PalEXP) genes were identified from the RNA-seq data; four were differentially expressed during tension wood formation. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that PalEXLB1 belongs to the EXPB subfamily and that the other PalEXPs are members of the EXPA subfamily. A transcriptional regulatory network construction showed 10 transcription factors located in the first and second layers upstream of EXP, including WRKY, ERF and bHLH. RT‒qPCR analysis in leaves, stems and roots combined with transcriptome analysis suggests that PalEXPA2, PalEXPA4 and PalEXPA15 play significant regulatory roles in cell wall formation during tension wood development. The candidate genes involved in xylem cell wall development during tension wood formation marks an important step toward identifying the molecular regulatory mechanism of xylem development and wood property improvement in P. alba ‘Berolinensis’.

Apelin regulates skeletal muscle adaptation to exercise in a high-intensity interval training model.

Plasma apelin levels are reduced in aging and muscle wasting conditions. We aimed to investigate the significance of apelin signaling in cardiac and skeletal muscle responses to physiological stress. Apelin knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice were subjected to high-intensity interval training (HIIT) by treadmill running. The effects of apelin on energy metabolism were studied in primary mouse skeletal muscle myotubes and cardiomyocytes. Apelin increased mitochondrial ATP production and mitochondrial coupling efficiency in myotubes and promoted the expression of mitochondrial genes both in primary myotubes and cardiomyocytes. HIIT induced mild concentric cardiac hypertrophy in WT mice, whereas eccentric growth was observed in the left ventricles of apelin KO mice. HIIT did not affect myofiber size in skeletal muscles of WT mice but decreased the myofiber size in apelin KO mice. The decrease in myofiber size resulted from a fiber type switch toward smaller slow-twitch type I fibers. The increased proportion of slow-twitch type I fibers in apelin KO mice was associated with upregulation of myosin heavy chain slow isoform expression, accompanied with upregulated expression of genes related to fatty acid transport and downregulated expression of genes related to glucose metabolism. Mechanistically, skeletal muscles of apelin KO mice showed defective induction of insulin-like growth factor-1 signaling in response to HIIT. In conclusion, apelin is required for proper skeletal and cardiac muscle adaptation to high-intensity exercise. Promoting apelinergic signaling may have benefits in aging- or disease-related muscle wasting conditions.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Apelin levels decline with age. This study demonstrates that in trained mice, apelin deficiency results in a switch from fast type II myofibers to slow oxidative type I myofibers. This is associated with a concomitant change in gene expression profile toward fatty acid utilization, indicating an aged-muscle phenotype in exercised apelin-deficient mice. These data are of importance in the design of exercise programs for aging individuals and could offer therapeutic target to maintain muscle mass.

Endovascular Strategies and Outcomes for Aberrant Splenic Artery Aneurysms.

Aberrant splenic artery aneurysms (ASAAs) located at the splenomesenteric trunk (SMT) and the celiacomesenteric trunk have a close anatomical relationship with the superior mesenteric artery (SMA). The aim of this study was to review our institutional experience of endovascular treatment for ASAAs and evaluate the long-term outcomes. A retrospective review of patients with ASAAs who underwent endovascular treatment between December 2006 and December 2022 was performed. The demographics of the patients, aneurysm characteristics, treatment strategies, perioperative and long-term outcomes, and complications were analyzed. A total of 29 patients with ASAAs were endovascularly treated at our institution. The SMT variant occurred in the majority of the patients. All ASAAs were characterized by eccentric growth and extremely short inflow arteries. Only 1 patient's inflow artery of the aneurysm exceeded 1 cm in length. Thirteen patients were treated by coil embolization alone. Four patients received bare stent-assisted coil embolization. A combination of coil embolization and covered stent placement across the orifice of the aberrant splenic artery was performed in the remaining 12 cases. Coil migration into the SMA occurred in 2 patients during the operation. Technical success was achieved in all patients. With a median duration of 63 (34-101) months of follow-up, no intestinal ischemia, aneurysm-related death, aneurysm rupture, or sac enlargement occurred. Three cases of aneurysm sac reperfusion were observed, and 1 patient underwent reintervention with secondary embolization. Asymptomatic occlusion of the covered stent was detected in 1 patient at 2 years. Endovascular treatment is a safe, effective, and durable option for ASAAs. Inflow embolization might be difficult to achieve in ASAAs and poses a high risk of coil migration into the SMA. Long-term observation indicates that reasonable use of the covered stent could achieve reliable inflow artery exclusion in ASAAs without intestinal complications. Aberrant splenic artery aneurysm (ASAA) is an extremely rare entity. This study reported a large sample size of ASAAs treated by endovascular techniques with long-term follow-up. The ASAA was characterized by an extremely short inflow artery and a close anatomical relationship with the superior mesenteric artery (SMA). Endovascular treatment is a safe, effective, and durable option for ASAAs. Inflow embolization might be difficult to achieve in ASAAs and pose a high risk of coil migration into the SMA. Long-term observation indicates that reasonable use of the covered stent could achieve reliable inflow artery exclusion in ASAAs without intestinal complications.

Modelling the growth stress in tree branches: eccentric growth vs. reaction wood

Modelling the growth stress in tree branches: eccentric growth vs. reaction wood

An updated Lagrangian constrained mixture model of pathological cardiac growth and remodelling.

Progressive left ventricular (LV) growth and remodelling (G&R) is often induced by volume and pressure overload, characterized by structural and functional adaptation through myocyte hypertrophy and extracellular matrix remodelling, which are dynamically regulated by biomechanical factors, inflammation, neurohormonal pathways, etc. When prolonged, it can eventually lead to irreversible heart failure. In this study, we have developed a new framework for modelling pathological cardiac G&R based on constrained mixture theory using an updated reference configuration, which is triggered by altered biomechanical factors to restore biomechanical homeostasis. Eccentric and concentric growth, and their combination have been explored in a patient-specific human LV model under volume and pressure overload. Eccentric growth is triggered by overstretching of myofibres due to volume overload, i.e. mitral regurgitation, whilst concentric growth is driven by excessive contractile stress due to pressure overload, i.e. aortic stenosis. Different biological constituent's adaptations under pathological conditions are integrated together, which are the ground matrix, myofibres and collagen network. We have shown that this constrained mixture-motivated G&R model can capture different phenotypes of maladaptive LV G&R, such as chamber dilation and wall thinning under volume overload, wall thickening under pressure overload, and more complex patterns under both pressure and volume overload. We have further demonstrated how collagen G&R would affect LV structural and functional adaption by providing mechanistic insight on anti-fibrotic interventions. This updated Lagrangian constrained mixture based myocardial G&R model has the potential to understand the turnover processes of myocytes and collagen due to altered local mechanical stimuli in heart diseases, and in providing mechanistic links between biomechanical factors and biological adaption at both the organ and cellular levels. Once calibrated with patient data, it can be used for assessing heart failure risk and designing optimal treatment therapies. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Computational modelling of cardiac G&R has shown high promise to provide insight into heart disease management when mechanistic understandings are quantified between biomechanical factors and underlying cellular adaptation processes. The kinematic growth theory has been dominantly used to phenomenologically describe the biological G&R process but neglecting underlying cellular mechanisms. We have developed a constrained mixture based G&R model with updated reference by taking into account different mechanobiological processes in the ground matrix, myocytes and collagen fibres. This G&R model can serve as a basis for developing more advanced myocardial G&R models further informed by patient data to assess heart failure risk, predict disease progression, select the optimal treatment by hypothesis testing, and eventually towards a truly precision cardiology using in-silico models.

Extracranial Facial Nerve Schwannoma-Histological Surprise or Therapeutic Planning?

Schwannomas (neurilemomas) are benign, slow-growing, encapsulated, white, yellow, or pink tumors originating in Schwann cells in the sheaths of cranial nerves or myelinated peripheral nerves. Facial nerve schwannomas (FNS) can form anywhere along the course of the nerve, from the pontocerebellar angle to the terminal branches of the facial nerve. In this article, we propose a review of the specialized literature regarding the diagnostic and therapeutic management of schwannomas of the extracranial segment of the facial nerve, also presenting our experience in this type of rare neurogenic tumor. The clinical exam reveals pretragial swelling or retromandibular swelling, the extrinsic compression of the lateral oropharyngeal wall like a parapharyngeal tumor. The function of the facial nerve is generally preserved due to the eccentric growth of the tumor pushing on the nerve fibers, and the incidence of peripheral facial paralysis in FNSs is described in 20-27% of cases. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) examination is the gold standard and describes a mass with iso signal to muscle on T1 and hyper signal to muscle on T2 and a characteristic "darts sign." The most practical differential diagnoses are pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland and glossopharyngeal schwannoma. The surgical approach to FNSs requires an experienced surgeon, and radical ablation by extracapsular dissection with preservation of the facial nerve is the gold standard for the cure. The patient's informed consent is important regarding the diagnosis of schwannoma and the possibility of facial nerve resection with reconstruction. Frozen section intraoperative examination is necessary to rule out malignancy or when sectioning of the facial nerve fibers is necessary. Alternative therapeutic strategies are imaging monitoring or stereotactic radiosurgery. The main factors which are considered during the management are the extension of the tumor, the presence or not of facial palsy, the experience of the surgeon, and the patient's options.

An important contribution to the description of growth stresses in branches of adult trees based on a new model and an optimisation process with digitised branches.

A recommendation of: Arnoul VAN ROOIJ, Eric BADEL, Jean Francois BARCZI, Yves CARAGLIO, Tancrède ALMERAS, Joseph GRIL Modelling the growth stress in tree branches: eccentric growth vs. reaction wood https://hal.science/hal-03748026

BAI BAI bias – An evaluation of uncertainties in calculating basal area increments from cores

Basal area increment (BAI) is increasingly used in tree-ring based studies as it provides a direct measure of wood production and thus allows for the interpretation of growth trends. BAIs from increment cores are generally calculated while assuming circular growth patterns. However, observation of stem discs shows that many ring shapes are characterized by some form of eccentricity, not only characterized by deviations from circular ring shapes but also by piths not being centrally located. This observation poses to the question with what accuracy BAIs are calculated from increment cores. To quantify the estimation bias in BAI, we have developed a method that mimics eccentric tree growth by simulation. Various aspects of eccentricity are incorporated to created ‘stem discs’ with realistic appearances. Since BAI time series for our simulated discs are known, we can evaluate the accuracy of BAI calculation methods from cores. The ‘coring’ is simulated by taking cores at the thickest and thinnest sides of the simulated discs, whereby the number of cores is varied from one to four. In our simulations, we choose two calculation methods, namely the traditional circular approach and one that is based on the assumption of elliptical growth shapes. We find that bias in calculated BAI values is highly influenced by the number of cores taken, with a dramatic decrease from one to four cores. Furthermore, trend patterns in BAI series might be misleading in case of highly eccentric growth patterns. Based on these findings, we discuss the consequences for the interpretation of existing literature, where BAI analyses are based on one or two cores (along with the assumption of circular ring shapes). Such consequences are, however, difficult to quantify since we have no eccentricity statistics of tree growth within a forest stand. Therefore, we do not know the randomness of eccentricity within a stand, and thus to what extent chronology building (i.e. averaging BAI estimates over multiple trees) may reduce estimation bias. To lower BAI bias, we recommend to base BAI calculations on as many cores as possible. For individual trees with high levels of eccentricity, taking four increment cores seems necessary to reasonably estimate their basal area increments.

Multiscale simulations of cardiac growth based on sarcomere biophysics.

Multiscale models of the cardiovascular system can provide new insights into physiological and pathological processes. PyMyoVent is a computer model that bridges from molecular to organ-level function and which simulates a left ventricle pumping blood through the systemic circulation. The code is being developed as a testbed for a long-term project that seeks to use computer models to optimize care for patients with cardiac disease. Recently, PyMyoVent was extended to provide baroreflex control of arterial pressure. This allowed the model to regulate arterial pressure when sarcomere-level function was perturbed via myotropes and/or genetic modifications. This abstract describes a new growth module for PyMyoVent that allows the ventricle to dilate/constrict (eccentric growth) or thicken/thin (concentric growth) in response to physiological signals. Eccentric growth is mimicked by adding/removing sarcomeres in series around the ventricular circumference. Concentric growth involves the addition/removal of sarcomeres in parallel. Initial calculations have tested different potential growth signals. The best results to date have been obtained by controlling eccentric growth with passive intracellular stress and concentric growth via the intracellular ATP concentration. Simulations based on these feedback laws reproduce ventricular growth patterns induced by clinical conditions including: aortic valve stenonsis, mitral valve regurgitation, depressed sarcomere-level contractility, and ventricular constriction induced by mechanical unloading via ventricular assist devices. The long-term goal is to extend the modeling framework to develop computer models that clinicans can use to develop personalized therapeutic plans for patients with different forms of cardiovascular disease.

Multiple Stepwise Synthetic Pathways toward Complex Plasmonic 2D and 3D Nanoframes for Generation of Electromagnetic Hot Zones in a Single Entity

ConspectusRational design of nanocrystals with high controllability via wet chemistry is of critical importance in all areas of nanoscience and nanotechnology research. Specifically, morphologically complex plasmonic nanoparticles have received considerable attention because light-matter interactions are strongly associated with the size and shape of nanoparticles. Among many types of nanostructures, plasmonic nanoframes (NFs) with controllable structural intricacy could be excellent candidates as strong light-entrappers with inner voids as well as high surface area, leading to highly effective interaction with light and analytes compared to their solid counterparts. However, so far studies on single-rim-based NFs have suffered from insufficient near-field focusing capability due to their structural simplicity (e.g., a single rim or NF molded from simple platonic solids), which necessitates a conceptually new NF architecture. If one considers a stereoscopic nanostructure with dual, triple, and multiple resonant intra-nanogaps on each crystallographic facet of nanocrystals, unprecedented physicochemical properties could be expected. Realizing such complex multiple NFs with intraparticle surface plasmon coupling via localized surface plasmon resonance is very challenging due to the lack of synthetic strategic principles with systematic structural control, all of which require a deep understanding of surface chemistry. Moreover, realizing those complex architectures with high homogeneity in size and shape via a bottom-up method where diverse particle interactions are involved is more challenging. Although there have been several reports on NFs used for catalysis, techniques for production of structurally complex NFs with high uniformity and an understanding of the correlation between such complexity in a single plasmonic entity and electromagnetic near-field focusing have remained highly elusive.In this Account, we will summarize and highlight the rational synthetic pathways for the design of complex two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) NFs with unique inner rim structures and characterize their optical properties. This systematic strategy is based on publications from our group during the last 10 years. First, we will introduce a chemical step of shape transformation of triangular Au nanoplates to circular and hexagonal plates, which are used as sacrificial layers for the formation of NFs. Then, we will describe the methods on how to synthesize monorim-based plasmonic NFs using Pt scaffolds with different shapes and correlate with their electromagnetic near-field. Then, we will describe a multiple stepwise synthetic method for the formation of 2D complex NFs wherein different starting Au nanocrystals evolved from systematic shape transformation are used to produce circular, triangular, hexagonal, crescent, and Y-shaped inner hot zones. Then, we will discuss how one can synthesize NFs with multiple rims wherein rims with different diameters are concentrically connected, by exploiting chemical toolkits such as eccentric and concentric growth of Au, borrowing the concept of total synthesis that is frequently adopted in organic chemistry. We then introduce dual-rim-faceted NFs and frame-in-frame 3D matryoshka NF geometries via well-faceted growth of Au with high control of intra-nanogaps. Finally, and importantly, we will provide examples of more advanced hierarchical NF architectures produced by controlling geometrical shapes of nanoparticles, number of rims, and different components, leading to the expansion of the NF library.

Mid-term results of giant cell tumours with pathologic fractures around the knee: a multicentre retrospective study

ObjectiveThe aims of this work are to present a classification of “complex fracture” and “simple fracture”, to compare their features, treatments and prognosis in patients with giant cell tumour with pathologic fractures around the knee, and to determine the best surgical method for patients who have giant cell tumour around the knee with different degrees of fracture.MethodsData from 130 patients with pathologic fractures from giant cell tumour around the knee who underwent surgical treatment from March 2000 to November 2015 at 6 institutes around China were collected and analysed. A multicentric study design was used to explore the epidemiological features and to compare differences in the surgical procedures and prognosis of the two fracture groups. The mean age at diagnosis was 37.1 years old (range, 13-77 years). The median follow-up was 126.5 months, ranging from 68 to 370 months.ResultsThe general clinical and imaging features of the groups of patients with simple and complex fractures, namely, sex, age, the lesion site, living or working environment, eccentric growth patterns, Campanacci grading system, and duration of symptoms before treatment, showed varying degrees of differences, but with no statistical significance (p > 0.05). The incidence rate of surrounding soft tissue mass was 35.2% (32/91) in the group with simple fractures, whereas it was 87.2% (34/39) in the group with complex fractures, which showed a significant difference (p < 0.05). Wide resection and reconstruction with joint replacement were performed more often in patients with complex fractures (61.5%, 24/39). Intralesional procedures were performed more often in patients with simple fractures (56.0%, 51/91). The difference showed significant differences (p < 0.05). The local recurrence rate was 17.6% (16/91) in the group with simple fractures, whereas it was 10.3% (4/39) in the complex fracture group, showing a significant difference (p < 0.05). A total of 2.3% of patients (n = 3,3/130) developed a skip lesion. The complication rates were 4.6% (4/87) and 14.7% (5/34), respectively, in the two groups with simple or complex fractures, showing a significant difference (p < 0.05). The mean MSTS and TESS scores with simple fractures were 26.6 (range, 13–30) and 84.1 (range, 29-100), respectively, whereas the mean scores in the group with complex fractures were 25.5 (range, 18–30) and 78.3 (range, 30-100), respectively, also showing a significant difference (p < 0.05).ConclusionOur classification of “simple fracture” and “complex fracture” could guide decisions regarding the best surgical method for lesions in patients who have giant cell tumour around the knee with different degrees of fracture.

Abstract 14892: Interaction of β IV -Spectrin/STAT3 is Responsible for Orienting Concentric versus Eccentric Cardiomyocyte Hypertrophy

Cardiac hypertrophy is critical in the development of heart failure following chronic cardiac stress. In pressure overload, hypertrophy is divided by early adaptive remodeling defined by concentric growth, while chronic hypertrophy associates with eccentric growth and loss in cardiac output. The mechanisms regulating this transition and the impact each profile has in influencing heart function are largely unknown. Previous work identified a role for the structural protein βIV-spectrin and its interaction with the transcription factor, STAT3, in coordinating hypertrophic profiles. Specifically, mice expressing truncated βIV-spectrin lacking interaction with the hypertrophic signaling molecule CaMKII (qv 3J mice) were resistant to βIV-spectrin degradation and maintained concentric hypertrophy and ejection fraction (EF) compared to WT following 6 weeks transaortic constriction (TAC). Alternatively, mutant βIV-spectrin mice (qv 4J ) lacking the STAT3/βIV-spectrin binding domain lead to cytosolic redistribution of STAT3 and associated with reduced EF and LV dilation consistent in eccentric remodeling, suggesting STAT3/βIV-spectrin is a key regulator of hypertrophic profiles and function. This relationship was further examined by adenoviral overexpression of the hypertrophic driver, MEK1/2, on isolated myocytes. As expected, MEK increased the width of WT myocytes, while qv 4J myocytes increased in length. However, application of STAT3 inhibitor S3I-201 on qv 4J myocytes reoriented these cells to growth in width. Additionally, in vivo application of S3I-201 to qv 4J mice was able to restore LV wall thickness and EF over 2 weeks, reinforcing STAT3 as a determinant of hypertrophic profiles. Evaluation of cardiac gene expression profiles from these backgrounds identified consistent elevations in microtubule subunits associated with eccentric growth patterns. Indeed, microtubule growth assays revealed qv 4J myocytes to express significantly enhanced microtubule stability which could be reversed through S3I-201 STAT3 inhibition. Together, these data identify a novel role for βIV-spectrin/STAT3 and microtubule stability in tuning specific hypertrophic profiles and cardiac function.

Fragmented cambia in roots of Coleogyne ramosissima

Axis splits are common for desert shrub species. Coleogyne ramosissima, a regionally important shrub species, grows along a transect from the cooler high deserts of Utah and Colorado to the warmer Mojave Desert, between 1200 and 1700 m elevation. The purpose of this study is to document tissue anomalies from transition zones to individual roots of C. ramosissima. Plants were obtained from La Verkin and Ivins, Utah. During secondary growth, axis splits, lobes and fragmented cambia occurred in roots larger than 12 mm in diameter. Lobes occurred in all root samples. The presence of lobes indicates that cambia in roots of in C. ramosissima were fragile. Axis splits and lobes are created fragmented cambia that separated from the original vascular cambium. These fragmented cambia produced growth centers that gave rise to new xylem cells, lead to further lobes and the origination independent roots. The current study hypothesizes that the production of the large number of roots derived from fragmented cambia. The large number of roots provided near the transition zone may provide for hydraulic reductancy to guard against plant death due to cavitations to individual roots caused by moisture deprivations. Overall, roots of C. ramosissima have many secondary xylem irregularities. The overall impact of these root irregularities are unknown, despite the fact that individual plants can live for many decades. To our knowledge, this is first study to document the process for the development of fragmented cambia in tandem with axis splitting and eccentric growth of roots in a shrub species.

Contribution of dendrogeomorphology to the dating of secondary processes on dormant rockslides

Rockslides in the Variscan orogenic belt of the Central Europe are a rare and poorly studied phenomenon. These relatively stable features have recently been shaped by secondary rockfall, toppling, sliding, or slumping. On afforested slopes, such processes can be efficiently analysed and dated by dendrogeomorphic methods. We performed detailed analyses of 355 increment cores from 81 Picea abies (L.) Karst. trees growing on two dormant rockslides in northeastern Czechia to reconstruct the activity of rock block movements and rockfalls. For the event determination we used standard event-response ( I t ) index and a semi-quantitative approach involving logical spatial position of disturbed trees during a three-year period. Furthermore, climate preparatory and triggering factors were analysed to investigate possible main drivers of recent secondary processes. Overall, four periods of certain block reactivations at the Prudký site since 1940 and seven periods of certain block reactivations at the Rudohorský site since 1834 were reconstructed. Most of the events can be dated to the period 1960–2000, but our data do not indicate any high-magnitude activity. This paper also demonstrates the results of tree eccentric growth not only in the main supposed direction of stem tilting but also in the direction perpendicular to the main direction when ca. 40% of all trees growing on rock blocks recorded the movements in both analysed axes of stem tilting, suggesting possible complex deformation and different directions of block movements over time. It also appeared that the periods with greatest activity of secondary movements were characterised by a significantly higher rain-on-snow factor (p = 0.007 and 0.026 at the Prudký and the Rudohorský site, respectively) thus indicating block detachments during periods of rapid snowmelt. • Dating of rock block movements and rockfalls using dendrogeomorphic techniques. • First chronologies of rockslide body disintegration in Variscan mid-mountains. • Spatial patterns of disturbed trees during three-year periods were examined. • Tree-ring data suggests complex movements of rock blocks in multiple directions. • Activity is related to years with significantly higher rain-on-snow precipitation.

Quantification of Eccentricity in Stems of Two Species of Purshia

Plants of Purshia tridentata and Purshia stansburyana, 2 shrub species from the western United States, naturally display eccentric stem growth. The purpose of this study was to quantitatively document stem eccentricity for these 2 species. Stem segments were obtained from 3 different plants of each species at locations in central Utah. Each stem was sawed into 8-mm sections and photographed for analysis. Every stem section was then marked at a 36° interval to produce 10 wedge-shaped sectors. The areas of each sector were determined and analyzed. Stem segment areas were about 40, 60, and 100 mm2 for stem diameters of 6, 8, and 11 mm, respectively, for both species. Consecutive 8-mm segments were compared at 6 and 11 mm for both species. Absolute differences between paired segments ranged between 0.0 and 12.0. On average, 43% of all pairs had absolute differences above 0.40. These results suggest marked differences between consecutive segments. The eccentric growth percentages were also the same for both species. Mean eccentric percentages for 6-mm-diameter segments were 43.4% and 49.6% for the 2 species. Moreover, 11-mm-diameter segments of P. tridentata and P. stansburyana had mean eccentric percentages of 36.4% and 34.0%, respectively. Overall, 81% of all stem segments showed eccentricity. Many long-lived desert shrubs of the western United States exhibit a wide range of wood anomalies. These wood anomalies may be endemic in these species.