bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single centre, retrospective review of gamma-knife stereotactic radiosurgery and other therapies on prevalence of seizures in patients with brain metastases
Authors: De Boisanger James , Mackay Katherine , Tancu Cornel , Fersht Naomi , Kitchen Neil , Rees Jeremy
Published: October 2019

Background

An increasing number of patients with brain metastases (BM) are having stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), but it is not known whether this causes epilepsy.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective review of patients surviving one-year post gamma-knife SRS at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery (NHNN) between February 2012 and April 2017.

Data on seizures during the pre- and post-SRS periods were collected along with information about the primary tumour, metastasis location and previous treatments, including whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) and surgery.

Results

61 patients were treated with SRS. 6 patients had incomplete records and were excluded. Of the remaining 55, 21 had a seizure at some point. 4 had seizures both pre- and post-SRS, 7 had seizures pre-SRS but not post and 10 patients had de-novo seizures post-SRS. 34 did not have a documented seizure at any point.

Of the 14 patients who had seizures post-SRS, 4 also had both WBRT and surgery, 2 had WBRT and 4 had surgery. 100% (4/4) who had WBRT, surgery and SRS went on to have a seizure. Seizures occurred in 11/25 patients who had previous surgery and 7/11 who had previous WBRT.

The primary tumour and metastasis location had no obvious impact on seizure incidence.

Conclusions

The incidence of new seizures post-SRS is low (18%). Previous surgery and/or WBRT may increase seizure incidence post-SRS. The data is currently being reviewed for effect of tumour/ treatment volume, dose delivered, presence of significant oedema and radionecrosis. A larger prospective study is also underway.
Wireless Bioelectronics Towards Treatment of Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Shaw Andie , Sanjuan-Alberte Paola , Hague Richard , Rahman Ruman , Rawson Frankie
Published: October 2019

‘Bioelectronic therapies’ are defined as treatments that provide therapy via electrical stimulation. As electrochemical signalling is a key communication pathway of the human body, learning and modulating these signals could allow us to regenerate lost functions and restore health where previously regarded impossible. Bioelectronics do not yet fully exploit this possibility as they lack resolution and plasticity to fully merge with biology. We aim to negate these problems by pioneering the development of wireless bioelectronics. One exciting area we hope this can be applied is that of tumour treating fields (TTFs).

TTFs apply electric fields to a tumour region, providing a non-invasive anti-mitotic treatment modality. This anti-mitotic behaviour arises due to dipole alignment and di-electrophoresis. However, an understanding of the exact mode of action has not yet been reached. We aim to improve this knowledge by analysing how healthy astrocytes vs glioblastoma cells behave in various electrical systems: comparing ionic currents with electric fields.

Furthermore, we hope to improve targeting of TTFs through the in-situ growth of conductive structures, via wireless electrochemistry.

Proof of concept has been achieved by wirelessly growing silver micro-wires in the presence of U251 glioblastoma cells. Wire growth has been optimised without the presence of cells, allowing controlled growth direction via electrode geometry. Wires range from 2–9µm in diameter and have been shown to be conductive through the completion of a circuit lighting an LED. Such structures could ultimately be grown in the region of a tumour, therefore therapeutically targeting the electric field to that site.
Diffuse Low Grade Glioma - A 10-year single institution case series
Authors: Acharya Shami , Sekhon Priya , Pedro Lavrador Jose , Visagan Ravindran , Narbad Vijay , Jung Josephine , Gullan Richard , Vergani Francesco , Bhangoo Ranj , Ashkan Keymours
Published: October 2019

Objectives

To study clinical features and treatment options between 2007–2018 in a population of diffuse low grade glioma (DLGG) patients (WHO Grade2).

Methods

Single centre retrospective cohort study. Variables reviewed: demographics, extent of resection (biopsy – Bx, subtotal resection – STR, gross total resection – GTR), molecular genetics and outcome.

Results

N=104.M=61 F=43, average age, 41.8 yrs. For their first surgery, 40.4% underwent a Bx, 32.7% STR, 26.9% GTR. 50.9% of patients had a second procedure due to clinical progression (13.8% Bx, 38.85% STR, 47.2% GTR). We were more surgically aggressive at the second sitting (p=0.0021). After 2014, we were more aggressive in terms of achieving a resection over a biopsy alone (pre 2013: 26 Bx, 24 resection, post 2013: 15 Bx, 28 resection). 35% had 1p19q co-deletion, 70% had 1DH1 mutation and 44.6% with MGMT methylated. There was no difference in survival and extent of resection in 1p19 co-deletions (HR 0.35), however there was in the IDH 1 group (HR 1.25. Post operatively, 37.9% patients had chemotherapy and 57.3 % radiotherapy. 80.5% (Bx 65,9% alive, resection 95% alive) of patients are still alive (longest survival 11.6 yrs). Amongst those who died, the mean overall survival was 4.0 (range 0–7 - 5 years): Of these 14% had undergone a Bx and 6% STR/GTR. The adjusted analysis revealed that EOR is the only revelant factor for survival in the population when adjusted for IDH, 1p19q, tumour volume, age, gender and surgery year (p=0.44).

Conclusion

Our data emphasises the importance of achieving maximal resection when possible.
Primary lumbar paraganglioma: A single-centre UK experience over 21 years
Authors: Fiorini Francesco , Lavrador José Pedro , Vergani Francesco , Bhangoo Ranjeev , Gullan Richard , Ashkan Keyoumars
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Paragangliomas are rare neuro-endocrine neoplasms which may occur at multiple anatomical sites, typically the adrenal glands. In the CNS, they can affect the head and neck, and more rarely the lumbar region. Primary lumbar paragangliomas are prominently vascularised lesions which can present variably and pose both diagnostic and surgical challenges.

Methods

We identified and analysed all cases of lumbar paraganglioma confirmed both surgically and histologically, treated at our regional neurosurgical centre. We collected retrospective clinical, radiological, surgical and histological data.

Results

We treated 25 patients with confirmed paraganglioma between 1997–2018. This included 19 primary tumours, of which 13 cases of primary lumbar paraganglioma (8 males (61.5%); mean age 51.3 years, range 33.2 – 68.9).

Patients presented most frequently with a recent worsening of long-standing lower back pain and sciatica. 7 patients were admitted as emergency cases, including 3 with cauda equina syndrome. The average Ki67 mitotic index was 5.7% (range 1 – 10%).

Conclusion

We present one of the largest case series of primary lumbar paragangliomas to date to the best of our knowledge. Defining these clinical, radiological, surgical and histological features may be of assistance in recognising and managing this surgical disease.
Redo-Surgery for Recurrent Glioblastoma: A 10-year single-institution series
Authors: Lavrador José , Ghimire Prajwal , Acharya Shami , Swampillai Angela , Glendenning Jennifer , Brazil Lucy , Alsahib Omar , Gullan Richard , Vergani Francesco , Bhangoo Ranjeev , Ashkan Keyoumars
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Multiple surgeries for recurrent / progressive glioblastomas is a matter of debate within the neuro-oncology community reflecting the higher risk of complications and the limited adjuvant treatment options for patients who recurred after initial treatment. Therefore it is crucial to identify who may benefit of a more aggressive approach and if the neurosurgical practice has changed in the last years.

Methods

Single-Neuro-Oncology Surgical Centre (1 neurosurgical and 2 medical neuro-oncology units) retrospective cohort study of patients with more than one surgery for intracranial Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM). All patient diagnised with GBM at the time of the first surgery in the period between 2009–2018. Second surgery within 2-months time following initial biopsy or surgical complication or prior to chemo-radiotherapy were excluded. Demographic and clinical data was collected from the medical records.

Results

96 patients underwent second surgery (63 males, 33 females, mean age of 52.6) met criteria for surgery at progression. At the time of the first surgery, the extent of resection (EOR) was: 15 biopsy, 17 subtotal rescetion (STR) and 35 gross total resection (GTR) – 29 missing data. With regards to the molecular markers, 26 were IDH mutant, 73 were MGMT methylated. All of the patients recieved adjuvant chemoradiotherapy following the STUPP protocol prior.

Conclusion

Our data corresponds to the data in the current literature. Further qualitative study will provide an insight into the effectiveness and aggressive approach to the recurrent GBMs.
Delayed heamatoma after melanoma metastasis resection upon restart of Immunotherapy: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Elhag Ali , Lavrador José , Frantzias Joseph , Kailaya-Vasan Ahilan , Gullan Richard , Ghimire Prajwal , Vergani Francesco , Ashkan Keyoumars , Bhangoo Ranjeev
Published: October 2019

Background

Supratentorial Metastatic Melanomas are common and increasingly treated with immunotherapy. While improving the outcome, the immunotherapy potentially increases the risks of the intracranial surgical procedures, particularly bleeding. However, scarce reports address this complications.

Case Description

A 52-year old male with a history of right upper limb excised skin lesion resected with wide local excision 6 months prior to admission, who presented with a three weeks history of progressive headaches, vomiting, odd behaviours, forgetfulness, and left lower sided weakness. Brain imaging showed a right frontal lesion with evidence of haemorrhage within it with midline shift and mass effect. He underwent craniotomy and resection of the lesion with no post-operative complication, resolution of left sided hemiparesis and post-operative imaging documenting complete resection and no post-operative complications. The histopathology confirmed metastatic melanoma and he received adjuvant immunotherapy (Nivolumab), however he represented 4 weeks post operatively with sudden onset headache with vomiting with no neurological deficit, brain imaging showed a delayed hematoma in the surgical site.

Conclusions

This case report highlights the risk of post-operative bleeding with the immunotherapy and paves the way for further studies with regards to the safety of immunotherapy after intracranial procedures
Endoscopic Evacuation of Intracerebral Hematoma Utilizing a Side-Cutting Aspiration Device
Authors: Shao Jianning , Witek Alex , Borghei-Razavi Hamid , Bain Mark , Recinos Pablo F
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is associated with a significant mortality of up to 50%, with almost all survivors suffering from debilitating functional compromise. In most cases, open craniotomy has failed to yield significant survival benefit. However, emerging evidence suggests that minimally invasive surgery (MIS) may yield clinically significant improvements in patient survival and quality of life in cases where open craniotomy has not shown benefit.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report the first documented usage of a side-cutting-aspiration device via an endoscopic approach for the evacuation of a 56cc hematoma, which was a technical modification on previous MIS techniques. The patient is a 50-yr-old female who was transferred emergently to our center with a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of 27 and found to have a large hematoma involving her left basal ganglia. A minimally-invasive approach was elected due to evidence on the risks and suboptimal outcomes of open craniotomy in ICH evacuation. Neuronavigation was used to plan the surgical trajectory for ICH access. Evacuation took place in three main steps: 1) beginning at the center of the clot to remove bulk; 2) mobilizing clots from parenchymal walls to a safe zone via aspiration, followed by clot homogenization; and 3) re-expansion of the cavity via continuous irrigation to allow visualization of further clots. A final inspection was performed to ensure removal of all clots that could be safely removed. The dual functionalities of the device, namely, suction only and suction plus side-cutting functions, enabled key maneuvers, such as clot homogenization and controlled aspiration strength, to be safely performed. A near-total evacuation of the hematoma was achieved without damage to surrounding parenchyma. The patient experienced a rapid clinical course from comatose to discharge-ready in 5 d. At 30-d follow-up, the patient had residual expressive aphasia and was able to ambulate with the assistance of a quad cane. There are no radiographical signs of recurrent hemorrhage or parenchymal injury. Clinical follow-up with this patient is ongoing.

CONCLUSION

This is the first ICH evacuation with a side-cutting-aspiration device via an endoscopic approach. In our patient, this technique proved to be safe and efficacious, suggesting that this technique may be a promising addition to the armamentarium of MIS for ICH evacuation.
Disrupted Autophagy and Neuronal Dysfunction in C. elegans Knock-in Models of FUS Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Baskoylu Saba N. , Chapkis Natalie , Unsal Burak , Lins Jeremy , Schuch Kelsey , Simon Jonah , Hart Anne C.
Published: October 2019

It remains unclear how mutations in FUS, a ribonucleoprotein, lead to neuronal dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) patients. To examine mechanisms underlying ALS FUS dysfunction, we generated the first C. elegans knock-in models using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing, creating R524S and P525L ALS FUS models. Although FUS inclusions were not detected, ALS FUS animals showed defective neuromuscular function, as well as stress-induced locomotion defects. Unlike C. elegans lacking the endogenous FUS ortholog, ALS FUS animals had impaired neuronal autophagy and increased SQST-1 accumulation in ALS FUS motor neurons. Loss of sqst-1, the C. elegans ortholog for ALS-linked, autophagy adaptor protein SQSTM1/p62, suppressed both neuromuscular and stress-induced locomotion defects in ALS FUS animals, but did not suppress neuronal autophagy defects. Therefore, autophagy dysfunction is upstream of, and not dependent on, SQSTM1 function in ALS FUS pathogenesis. Combined, our findings demonstrate that autophagy dysfunction likely contributes to protein homeostasis and neuromuscular defects in ALS FUS knock-in animals.
Platelets fuel the inflammasome activation of innate immune cells
Authors: Rolfes Verena , Ribeiro Lucas S. , Hawwari Ibrahim , Böttcher Lisa , Rosero Nathalia , Maasewerd Salie , Santos Marina Lima S. , Schmidt Susanne V. , Rothe Maximilian , Stunden H. James , Carvalho Luzia H. , Fontes Cor J. , Arditi Moshe , Latz Eicke , Franklin Bernardo S.
Published: October 2019

The inflammasomes control the bioactivity of pro-inflammatory cytokines of the interleukin (IL)-1 family. The inflammasome assembled by NLRP3 has been predominantly studied in homogenous cell populations in vitro, neglecting the influence of cellular interactions that occur in vivo. Here, we show that platelets, the second most abundant cells in the blood, boost the inflammasome capacity of human macrophages and neutrophils, and are critical for IL-1 production by monocytes. Platelets license NLRP3 transcription, thereby enhancing ASC nucleation, caspase-1 activity, and IL-1β maturation. Platelet depletion attenuated LPS-induced IL-1β in vivo, and platelet counts correlate with plasma concentrations of IL-1β in malaria patients. Furthermore, a platelet gene signature was enriched among the highest expressed transcripts in IL-1β-driven autoinflammatory diseases. The platelet-mediated enhancement of inflammasome activation was independent of cell-to-cell contacts, platelet-derived lipid mediators, purines, nucleic acids and a host of platelet cytokines, and involved the triggering of calcium sensing receptors on macrophages by a calcium-dependent protein commonly released by platelets and megakaryocytes. Finally, we report that platelets provide an additional layer of regulation of inflammasomes in vivo.
A versatile, multi-laser twin-microscope system for light-sheet imaging
Authors: Keomanee-Dizon Kevin , Fraser Scott E. , Truong Thai V.
Published: October 2019

Light-sheet microscopy offers faster imaging and reduced phototoxicity in comparison to conventional point-scanning microscopy, making it a preferred technique for imaging biological dynamics for durations of hours or days. Such extended imaging sessions pose a challenge, as it reduces the number of specimens that can be imaged in a given day. Here we present an instrument, the flex-SPIM, that combines two independently controlled light-sheet microscope-twins, built so that they can share an ultrafast near-infrared laser and a bank of continuous-wave visible lasers, increasing throughput and decreasing cost. To permit a wide variety of specimens to be imaged, each microscope-twin provides flexible imaging parameters, including (i) operation in one-photon and/or two-photon excitation modes, (ii) delivery of one to three light-sheets via a trio of orthogonal excitation arms, (iii) sub-micron to micron imaging resolution, (iv) multicolor compatibility, and (v) upright and/or inverted detection geometry. We offer a detailed description of the flex-SPIM design to aid instrument builders who wish to construct and use similar systems. We demonstrate the instrument’s versatility for biological investigation by performing fast imaging of the beating heart in an intact zebrafish embryo, deep imaging of thick patient-derived tumor organoids, and gentle whole-brain imaging of neural activity in behaving larval zebrafish.
AMP-activated protein kinase is a key regulator of acute neurovascular permeability
Authors: Dragoni Silvia , Caridi Bruna , Karatsai Eleni , Burgoyne Thomas , Sarker Mosharraf H. , Turowski Patric
Published: October 2019

Many neuronal and retinal disorders are associated with pathological hyperpermeability of the microvasculature. We have used explants of rodent retinae to measure and manipulate acute neurovascular permeability and signal transduction to study the role of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Following stimulation with either vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) or bradykinin (BK), AMPK was rapidly and strongly phosphorylated and acted as a key mediator of permeability downstream of Ca2+ and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase (CAMKK). Accordingly, AMPK agonists potently induced acute retinal vascular leakage. AMPK activation led to phosphorylation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), which in turn increased VE-cadherin phosphorylation on Y685. In parallel, AMPK also mediated phosphorylation of p38 MAP kinase and HSP27, indicating that it regulated paracellular junctions and cellular contractility, both previously associated with endothelial permeability. Endothelial AMPK provided a missing link in neurovascular permeability, connecting Ca2+ transients to the activation of eNOS and p38, irrespective of the permeability-inducing factor used. Collectively, the ex-vivo retina model was easily accessible and, due to its compatibility with small molecule antagonists/agonists and siRNA, constitutes a reliable tool to study regulators and mechanism of neurovascular permeability.
SOFIevaluator: a strategy for the quantitative quality assessment of SOFI data
Authors: Moeyaert Benjamien , Vandenberg Wim , Dedecker Peter
Published: October 2019

Abstract

Super-resolution fluorescence imaging techniques allow optical imaging of specimens beyond the diffraction limit of light. Super-resolution optical fluctuation imaging (SOFI) relies on computational analysis of stochastic blinking events to obtain a super-resolved image. As with some other super-resolution methods, this strong dependency on computational analysis can make it difficult to gauge how well the resulting images reflect the underlying sample structure. We herein report SOFIevaluator, an unbiased and parameter-free algorithm for calculating a set of metrics that describes the quality of super-resolution fluorescence imaging data for SOFI. We additionally demonstrate how SOFIevaluator can be used to identify fluorescent proteins that perform well for SOFI imaging under different imaging conditions.
Computational and experimental evidence to the permeability of withanolides across the normal cell membrane
Authors: Wadhwa R. , Yadav N. S. , Katiyar S. P , Yaguchi T. , Lee C. , Ahn H. , Yun C-O. , Kaul S. C , Sundar D.
Published: October 2019

Poor bioavailability due to the inability to cross the cell membrane is one of the major reasons for the failure of a drug in the clinical trials. We have used molecular dynamics simulations to predict the membrane permeability of natural drugs - withanolides (withaferin-A and withanone) that have similar structures but remarkably differ in their cytotoxicity. We found that withaferin-A, but not withanone, could proficiently transverse through the model membrane. The free energy profiles obtained were in accordance with the physico-chemical properties of the investigated drug molecules. It was observed that the polar head group of the bilayer exhibits high resistance for the passage of withanone as compared to withaferin-A, while the interior of the membrane behaves similarly for both withanolides. The solvation analysis revealed that the high solvation of terminal O5 oxygen of withaferin-A was the major driving force. The impact of the favorable interaction of terminal oxygen (O5) of withaferin-A with the phosphate of the membrane led to its smooth passage across the bilayer. The computational predictions were validated by raising and recruiting unique antibodies that react to withaferin-A and withanone. Further, the time-lapsed analyses of control and treated human normal and cancer cells, demonstrated proficient permeation of withaferin-A, but not withanone, through normal cells. These data strongly validated our computational method for predicting permeability and hence bioavailability of candidate compounds in the drug development process.

Statement of significance

What determines the bioavailability of a drug? Does the ability to cross cell membrane determine this? A combined simulation/experimental study of the permeability of two natural drugs - withanolides (Wi-A and Wi-N) across the cell membrane was conducted. In the computational portion of the study, steered MD simulations were performed to investigate the propensity of the two molecules to permeate across the cell. It is found that Wi-A proceeds relatively simply across the cell compared to Wi-N. This trend was found to be consistent with experiment. This work is an important step towards understanding the molecular basis of permeability of natural drug molecules.
Imidazole-imidazole hydrogen bonding in the pH sensing Histidine sidechains of Influenza A M2
Authors: Movellan Kumar Tekwani , Wegstroth Melanie , Overkamp Kerstin , Leonov Andrei , Becker Stefan , Andreas Loren B.
Published: October 2019

The arrangement of histidine sidechains in influenza A M2 tetramer determines their pKa values, which define pH controlled proton conduction critical to the virus lifecycle. Both water associated and hydrogen bonded Imidazole–Imidazolium histidine quaternary structures have been proposed, based on crystal structures, and NMR chemical shifts, respectively. Here we show, using the conduction domain construct of M2 in lipid bilayers, that the imidazole rings are hydrogen bonded even at a pH of 7.8 in the neutral charge state.

An intermolecular 8.9 ± 0.3 Hz 2hJNN hydrogen bond is observed between H37 Nε and Nδ recorded in a fully protonated sample with 100 kHz magic-angle spinning. This interaction could not be detected in the drug-bound sample.
Interacting effects of landscape and management on plant–solitary bee networks in olive orchards
Authors: Martínez‐Núñez Carlos , Manzaneda Antonio J. , Lendínez Sandra , Pérez Antonio J. , Ruiz‐Valenzuela Luis , Rey Pedro J.
Published: October 2019

Understanding how multi‐scale environmental heterogeneity shapes the structure and functions of animal and plant communities is pivotal in agroecology. Our capacity to ensure the provision of ecosystem services (ES), the sustainability of agroecosystems and the efficiency of agri‐environmental schemes (AES) relies on this knowledge.

There is growing interest in how biodiversity and ES are affected by the interplay between landscape characteristics and agricultural management (e.g., intermediate landscape complexity hypothesis; ILCH). However, studies have typically focused on classical measures of community structure (e.g., species abundance, richness and biodiversity), tending to neglect the effects on the structure and stability of ecological networks and the increased risk of biotic homogenization (i.e., loss of β‐diversity).

In this work, we use bee trap nests to sample pollen–solitary bee mutualistic networks in 9 pairs of olive groves under different management regimes (conventional vs. organic) in a landscape complexity gradient in southern Spain. We analyse the mutualistic networks at farm level to test the ILCH and study how agricultural practices and landscape complexity interact to affect the properties of these networks. We also explore the effects on spatial biotic homogenization by performing multivariate analyses of the composition and abundance of bee–plant communities and their pairwise interactions.

The results show that solitary bee–plant networks have greater complexity and stability on organic olive farms embedded in relatively heterogeneous landscapes. Differences from conventional management were higher in landscapes of intermediate complexity but were non‐significant on olive farms located in simpler landscapes. β‐diversity of bees, plants and their pairwise interactions was also greater on organic olive farms.

In conclusion, human‐induced environmental heterogeneity interacts at different scales to shape plant–solitary bee networks in olive groves, which may have important implications for ES provision and the effectiveness of agri‐environmental measures.

A freePlain Language Summarycan be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Seagrass ecosystem metabolic carbon capture in response to green turtle grazing across Caribbean meadows
Authors: Johnson Robert A. , Gulick Alexandra G. , Constant Nerine , Bolten Alan B. , Smulders Fee O. H. , Christianen Marjolijn J. A. , Nava Mabel I. , Kolasa Keith , Bjorndal Karen A.
Published: October 2019

Increasing green turtle abundance will lead to increased grazing within seagrass habitats—ecosystems that are important for carbon sequestration and storage. However, it is not well understood how carbon dynamics in these ecosystems respond to grazing and whether a response differs among meadows or locations.

We measured seagrass ecosystem metabolism in grazed and ungrazed areas of Thalassia testudinum meadows with established green turtle foraging areas across the Greater Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. We sampled meadows from five locations that differed in seagrass and environmental characteristics. Established meadows of the invasive seagrass Halophila stipulacea were also present at two of these locations, and we measured ecosystem metabolism in these meadows for comparison to grazed and ungrazed areas of the native T. testudinum.

Across all individual sites, rates of net ecosystem production (NEP) ranged from 56% to 96% lower in grazed areas than ungrazed areas of T. testudinum meadows. Rates of NEP were also strongly, positively correlated with above‐ground seagrass biomass across sites. While metabolic carbon capture rates were lower in grazed areas, heterotrophic respiration was not stimulated, and grazing therefore did not result in significant metabolic remineralization of carbon in these meadows. NEP in H. stipulacea meadows was similar to rates in T. testudinum meadows at all three sites, suggesting that metabolic carbon capture may remain similar in Caribbean meadows where this invasive seagrass is replacing native species.

Synthesis. Our results show that there is a consistent response in metabolic carbon dynamics to green turtle grazing in T. testudinum meadows across the Greater Caribbean region. An increase in grazing will not likely stimulate remineralization of carbon as these important habitats are returned to a natural grazed state.
Annual and cropping season environmental production conditions effects on smallholder technical efficiency in sub‐Saharan Africa: Evidence from Ethiopia
Authors: Baffoe‐Bonnie Anthony , Kostandini Genti
Published: October 2019

This article investigates the impact of environmental production conditions on smallholder farmers’ technical efficiency in Ethiopia for wheat, maize, and sorghum farming. We use a household panel data set with annual and cropping season environmental production conditions to estimate the technical efficiency scores. The results show that including environmental production conditions in the stochastic frontier has a significant impact on farmers’ technical efficiency scores. Technical efficiency scores improve when environmental production conditions are incorporated in the stochastic frontier. Thus, accounting for environmental production conditions reduces the inefficiencies that otherwise may be attributed to the characteristics of smallholder farmers.
The whole and its parts: why and how to disentangle plant communities and synusiae in vegetation classification
Authors: Berg Christian , Ewald Jörg , Hobohm Carsten , Dengler Jürgen
Published: October 2019

Most plant communities consist of different structural and ecological subsets, ranging from cryptogams to different tree layers. The completeness and approach with which these subsets are sampled have implications for vegetation classification. Non‐vascular plants are often omitted or sometimes treated separately, referring to their assemblages as “synusiae” (e.g. epiphytes on bark, saxicolous species on rocks). The distinction of complete plant communities (phytocoenoses or holocoenoses) from their parts (synusiae or merocoenoses) is crucial to avoid logical problems and inconsistencies in the resulting classification systems. We here describe theoretical differences between the phytocoenosis as a whole and its parts, and outline consequences of this distinction for practice and terminology in vegetation classification. To implement a clearer separation, we call for modifications of the International Code of Phytosociological Nomenclature and the EuroVegChecklist. We believe that these steps will make vegetation classification systems better applicable and raise recognition of the importance of non‐vascular plants in the vegetation as well as their interplay with vascular plants.
Do lianas shape ant communities in an early successional tropical forest?
Authors: Adams Benjamin J. , Gora Evan M. , van Breugel Michiel , Estrada‐Villegas Sergio , Schnitzer Stefan A. , Hall Jefferson S. , Yanoviak Stephen P.
Published: October 2019

Almost half of lowland tropical forests are at various stages of regeneration following deforestation or fragmentation. Changes in tree communities along successional gradients have predictable bottom‐up effects on consumers. Liana (woody vine) assemblages also change with succession, but their effects on animal succession remain unexplored. Here we used a large‐scale liana removal experiment across a forest successional chronosequence (7–31 years) to determine the importance of lianas to ant community structure. We conducted 1,088 surveys of ants foraging on and living in trees using tree trunk baiting and hand‐collecting techniques at 34 paired forest plots, half of which had all lianas removed. Ant species composition, β‐diversity, and species richness were not affected by liana removal; however, ant species co‐occurrence (the coexistence of two or more species in a single tree) was more frequent in control plots, where lianas were present, versus removal plots. Forest stand age had a larger effect on ant community structure than the presence of lianas. Mean ant species richness in a forest plot increased by ca. 10% with increasing forest age across the 31‐year chronosequence. Ant surveys from forest >20 years old included more canopy specialists and fewer ground‐nesting ant species versus those from forests <20 years old. Consequently, lianas had a minimal effect on arboreal ant communities in this early successional forest, where rapidly changing tree community structure was more important to ant species richness and composition.
6‐mm‐short and 11‐mm‐long implants compared in the full‐arch rehabilitation of the edentulous mandible: A 3‐year multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Guida Luigi , Annunziata Marco , Esposito Umberto , Sirignano Massimiliano , Torrisi Paolo , Cecchinato Denis
Published: October 2019

Objective

The aim of this multicenter parallel‐group randomized controlled trial is to compare 6‐mm‐short with 11‐mm‐long implants in the rehabilitation of totally edentulous mandible in a completely comparable clinical situation, from anatomical, surgical, and prosthetic point of view.

Material and methods

Thirty patients were selected in three study centers to receive a fixed full‐arch mandibular rehabilitation supported by five inter‐foraminal implants. Patients were randomly allocated, at the time of surgery, half to the test group (6‐mm‐long implants) and half to the control group (11‐mm‐long implants). No bone augmentation procedure was performed. After 3 months, a screw‐retained full‐arch prosthesis with distal cantilevers was positioned (baseline). Peri‐implant marginal bone level change (MBLc), implant and prosthesis survival rate, and biological/technical complications were evaluated after 1 and 3 years.

Results

Thirty subjects (150 implants) were evaluated after 1 year and 28 (140 implants) after 3 years. No implant or prosthesis loss occurred. No significant inter‐group difference for biological/technical complications was registered. No statistically significant (p > .025) intra‐group or inter‐group difference in the mean MBLc values was registered. The mean MBLc was 0.01 ± 0.19 mm and −0.04 ± 0.21 mm at 1 year, and −0.10 ± 0.24 mm and 0.02 ± 0.25 mm at 3 years (test and control groups, respectively).

Conclusions

6‐mm‐short implants may be a reliable option when used in the rehabilitation of total edentulous mandibles. These results need to be confirmed by longer follow‐up data from well‐designed randomized controlled clinical trials.
Vascular ultrasound for monitoring of inflammatory activity in Takayasu arteritis
Authors: Svensson Christina , Eriksson Per , Zachrisson Helene
Published: October 2019

Background

Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a rare large‐vessel arteritis that primarily affects the aorta and its major branches. The aim of this study was to describe the value of high frequency ultrasound for monitoring of inflammatory activity.

Methods

Twenty‐five patients, range 11–71 years, diagnosed with TA were investigated with duplex ultrasound (DUS) including follow‐up studies. Twenty‐five healthy controls were also investigated. Nine patients had newly diagnosed active TA. Sixteen patients had stable/inactive disease at baseline DUS, and TA was diagnosed median 4·5 years previously. Intima–media thickness (IMT), vessel and lumen diameter were measured in the carotid arteries, central neck arteries and the aortic arch. The vessel walls were studied qualitatively. The Takayasu ultrasound index was created for inflammatory activity scoring.

Results

Intima–media thickness in common carotid artery (CCA) was (median and 25–75 percentile parenthetic) 2·3 mm (1·7–2·9) in clinically active TA, 1·2 mm (1·1–1·6) in clinically stable TA (P<0·001) and 0·5 mm (0·5–0·6) in healthy controls (P<0·001). Clinically active TA had prominent increase in IMT and/or increased vessel diameter, and/or intramural arteries, and/or hypoechogenic areas interpreted as oedema in the vessel wall. TA in clinical remission was characterized by increased IMT with medium to high echogenicity with or without fibrotic stripes. The Takayasu ultrasound index was higher in patients with active disease versus treated disease, 2·55 (1·60–3·05) versus 1·30 (1·00–1·58), (P = 0·003).

Conclusion

DUS is an excellent tool to monitor inflammatory changes in the vessel wall in TA. Further DUS studies in larger patient populations are warranted.
Neck as mediastinal extension: Diagnosis of sarcoidosis by core biopsy of cervical lymph nodes
Authors: Fahim Ahmed , Qasim Muhammad Mahzooz , Rosewarne David
Published: October 2019

Background

Sarcoidosis is a multi‐system granulomatous disease. The diagnostic procedures for histological confirmation are invasive and a less invasive approach to diagnostic pathway is warranted. The utility of diagnostic value of neck ultrasound was retrospectively evaluated. A histological diagnosis was made by ultrasound‐guided head and neck core biopsy to confirm clinically and radiologically suspected sarcoidosis.

Methods

Twenty‐five patients were referred for sonographic evaluation of the head and neck after CT scan in an attempt to avoid the use of more invasive tests. These patients had mediastinal adenopathy, but not clinically apparent neck nodes. Where no cervical lymph node suitable for biopsy was seen, parotid glands were biopsied if deemed abnormal.

Results

A diagnosis of sarcoidosis was made in all cases where a core biopsy of cervical lymph nodes was attempted. The cervical lymph nodes in this cohort were not particularly enlarged, short‐axis dimensions being less than 10mm in majority, and they did not have any sonographic appearances to mark them as pathological. Nevertheless histological examination revealed non‐caseating granulomas in all cases. In further two cases, where no neck nodes were seen, a histological diagnosis of sarcoidosis was made from biopsy of diffusely abnormal parotid glands.

Conclusions

Given the clear advantages of cervical diagnosis in terms of invasiveness and economy compared to mediastinal alternatives, it is suggested that where the expertise for core biopsy of normal‐sized cervical lymph nodes is readily available, the technique may be considered as a first‐line investigation for the diagnosis of sarcoidosis.
Light aerobic exercise modulates executive function and cortical excitability
Authors: Morris Timothy P. , Fried Peter J. , Macone Joanna , Stillman Alexandra , Gomes‐Osman Joyce , Costa‐Miserachs David , Tormos Muñoz Jose Maria , Santarnecchi Emiliano , Pascual‐Leone Alvaro
Published: October 2019

Single bouts of aerobic exercise can modulate cortical excitability and executive cognitive function, but less is known about the effect of light‐intensity exercise, an intensity of exercise more achievable for certain clinical populations. Fourteen healthy adults (aged 22 to 30) completed the following study procedures twice (≥7 days apart) before and after 30 min of either light aerobic exercise (cycling) or seated rest: neurocognitive battery (multitasking performance, inhibitory control and spatial working memory), paired‐pulse TMS measures of cortical excitability. Significant improvements in response times during multitasking performance and increases in intracortical facilitation (ICF) were seen following light aerobic exercise. Light aerobic exercise can modulate cortical excitability and some executive function tasks. Populations with deficits in multitasking ability may benefit from this intervention.
Getting underneath the skin: A community engagement event for optimal vitamin D status in an ‘easily overlooked’ group
Authors: Lee Charlotte , Tanna Nuttan , Blair Mitch , Yusuf Yusuf , Khalief Hasan , Lakhanpaul Monica
Published: October 2019

Background

Patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) is recognized as important for improved quality in health service provision and research. Vitamin D is one area where PPIE has potential to benefit public health initiatives, particularly for women and children with increased skin pigmentation (ie at high risk of deficiency) who are easily overlooked.

Objective

We report findings from a community PPIE event that explored the knowledge, barriers and promoters for optimal vitamin D status amongst an exemplar high‐risk and easily overlooked population group.

Methods

Two researchers and one PPIE lead facilitated a single group discussion with twenty members of the Somali community from across west London. All attendees were women of reproductive age, or knew a mother and child that could benefit from a targeted initiative. The discussion was recorded, transcribed verbatim, organized and coded using NVivo 12 Pro to identify emergent themes underpinned by the Health Behaviour Model.

Results

Attendees thought community safety and competing demands of technology and education impacted on sun exposure and lifestyle activity. Language barriers impacted on access to health care. Attendees also felt the mother figure was ‘the most important’ influencer of both child and wider community health.

Discussion

Although further discourse is needed, this event emphasizes that it is important that the public voice is heard in informing, designing and evaluating appropriate public health interventions amongst specific ethnic groups. Insights from this Somali population have suggested benefit from using verbal health messages that are specifically targeted at mothers, compared with the general population.
GROWING LIKE SPAIN: 1995–2007
Authors: García‐Santana Manuel , Moral‐Benito Enrique , Pijoan‐Mas Josep , Ramos Roberto
Published: October 2019

Measured total factor productivity (TFP) fell in Spain during the boom years of 1995–2007. Using administrative data from the quasi‐universe of firms, we show that there was an increase in misallocation, which was more severe in sectors where connections with public officials are more important for business success. We write and estimate a simple model of cronyism in which heterogeneous firms invest in political connections. Our quantitative exercise concludes that the institutional decline over this period costed 1.9% growth in TFP per year and a 0.8% annual increase in the resources spent by firms in establishing political connections.
Exploring (non‐)meat eating and “translated cuisines” out of home: Evidence from three English cities
Authors: Neuman Nicklas , Mylan Josephine , Paddock Jessica
Published: October 2019

Meat production and consumption are major contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions and other aspects of environmental degradation. It is the aim of this paper to explore red meat in the configuration of main meals eaten out in England across types and styles of cuisine, and to consider the implications for transition towards less resource intensive ways of eating in the future. We show that the odds ratio of eating a dish without red meat is significantly lower in North American/European and Near/Middle Eastern cuisines compared with East Asian (with no difference between South and East Asian), that women are more likely than men to eat fish and poultry (with no gender differences in vegetarian dishes), that Prestonians are the least likely to select a vegetarian dish, compared with people in London and Bristol, and that the odds of a vegetarian dish compared with red meat is higher amongst managerial workers compared with the routine manual workers (with no other statistically significant class differences). We suggest the term “translated cuisine” to refer cuisines that travel and become incorporated into the palate of the new food culture, and discuss how this could play a role in transitions towards less meat‐centred patterns of food consumption in the future.
What about sustainability? Understanding consumers' conceptual representations through free word association
Authors: Barone Bruna , Rodrigues Heber , Nogueira Rosana Maria , Guimarães Kátia Regina Leoni Silva Lima de Queiroz , Behrens Jorge Herman
Published: October 2019

The United Nations (UN) conceptualizes sustainability as development that meets the current needs of the planet's populations, but without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Although the concept of sustainability has been widely discussed in the international political agendas, inconsistent interpretation and ambiguity of the concept by consumers is observed. In this paper, the understanding of the term sustainability amongst Brazilian consumers is reported. Using the word association projective technique, the participants were asked to write down all the words that came to their mind when thinking about “sustainability.” Thematic content analysis was performed by grouping words by similarity of meaning in categories, which were further submitted to correspondence analysis (CA) to create a perceptual map. Brazilian consumers made different associations reflecting the complexity and multidimensionality of the concept amongst different groups of consumers. The most frequently cited categories are related to environment, health and nutrition, behaviour, production and economy and sustenance. CA accounted for 76.7% of the data variance and the perceptual map evidenced that younger individuals with higher education made associations with categories related to the current concept of sustainable development, similar to that proposed by UN. Moreover, consumers with basic education were associated with categories related to food and sustenance. The findings of this study can contribute to the formulation of education strategies directed towards different social groups, besides directing further research on consumer behaviour.
Investigation on the inactivation of trypsin by oenothein B: isothermal titration calorimetry and docking studies
Authors: Wang Li , Liang Huijun , Liu Zitao , Zhang Jingfeng , Wang Yu , Xiao Jian , Zhao Lichao
Published: October 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate the inhibitory mechanism of oenothein B (OeB), a unique oligomer ellagitannin with a rigid structure, on porcine trypsin using fluorescence spectroscopy, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), circular dichroism (CD) and molecular docking. Trypsin activity was strongly inhibited by OeB in a competitive way. Fluorescence quenching of trypsin by OeB was a static quenching. The CD spectra showed that binding of OeB to trypsin altered trypsin's conformation. The ITC and docking studies revealed that the inhibitory mechanism of OeB occurred via binding to the interior hydrophobic groups of trypsin and the formation of hydrogen bonds with trypsin through binding to the amino acid residues Asn97, His573, Ser195 and Gln192. This study provides a theoretical and computational basis for the precise control of trypsin in food industry. Based on the results, OeB may be used in food technology research as novel bioactive trypsin inhibitor.
Formation and characterisation of food protein–polysaccharide thermal complex particles: effects of pH, temperature and polysaccharide type
Authors: Wu Chu‐Li , Chen Qi‐Hui , Li Xiao‐Yin , Su Jia‐hui , He Shan , Liu Jun , Yuan Yang
Published: October 2019

The objective of this study was to prepare and characterise the thermal complex particles (TCPs) based on heating food grade protein–polysaccharide electrostatic complexes. The soybean protein isolate (SPI), cationic polysaccharide (chitosan, CS) and anionic polysaccharide (carboxymethyl cellulose, CMC) were used. Turbidity, particle size, ζ‐potential and morphology of TCPs were measured. The results showed that SPI‐CS and SPI‐CMC soluble complexes were obtained at specific pHs and kept at high electrostatic repulsive force. The particle size and polydispersity index of stable SPI‐CS (pH 4.55/80 °C) and SPI‐CMC (pH 6.15/95 °C) TCPs were 286.6 nm/0.282 and 171.5 nm/0.298, respectively. We inferred that the re‐assembly of SPI after thermal denaturation resulted in the formation of TCPs. The pH and ionic strength sensitivity tests indicated that the TCPs with different properties can be controlled by pH, temperature and polysaccharide type during heating. These TCPs could be used to encapsulate food functional components which were thermal insensitive.