bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Edge-Enhanced Disruptive Camouflage Impairs Shape Discrimination
Authors: Sharman Rebecca J. , Lovell P. George
Published: September 2019

Disruptive colouration (DC) is a form of camouflage comprised of areas of pigmentation across a target’s surface that form false edges, which are said to impede detection by disguising the outline of the target. In nature, many species with DC also exhibit edge enhancement (EE); light areas have lighter edges and dark areas have darker edges. EE DC has been shown to undermine not only localisation but also identification of targets, even when they are not hidden ( Sharman, Moncrieff, & Lovell, 2018 ). We use a novel task, where participants judge which “snake” is more “wiggly,” to measure shape discrimination performance for three colourations (uniform, DC, and EE DC) and two backgrounds (leafy and uniform). We show that EE DC impairs shape discrimination even when targets are not hidden in a textured background. We suggest that this mechanism may contribute to misidentification of EE DC targets.
Alemtuzumab following natalizumab in highly active paediatric-onset multiple sclerosis
Authors: Margoni Monica , Rinaldi Francesca , Miante Silvia , Franciotta Silvia , Perini Paola , Gallo Paolo
Published: September 2019

We evaluated the occurrence of infusion-associated reactions, severe adverse events and no evidence of disease activity 3 status of a therapeutic course consisting of natalizumab followed by alemtuzumab in paediatric-onset multiple sclerosis. Five paediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (age range 16–17 years) were followed for a median of 3.9 years (interquartile range 3.1–5.0). At a natalizumab break (mean infusions 25.6 ± 1.3) patients were switched to alemtuzumab and completed the two therapy courses. Few mild/moderate infusion-associated reactions were observed during alemtuzumab infusion. No severe adverse events were detected. Natalizumab followed by alemtuzumab proved to be a well-tolerated therapeutic course in paediatric-onset multiple sclerosis. Moreover, paediatric-onset multiple sclerosis maintained the no evidence of disease activity 3 status throughout the follow-up.
Long-Term Radiographic and Functional Outcomes of Patients With Absence of Radiographic Union at 2 Years After Single-Level Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion
Authors: Lee Christopher J. , Boody Barrett S. , Demeter Jaclyn , Smucker Joseph D. , Sasso Rick C.
Published: September 2019

Study Design:

Retrospective radiographic investigation.

Objective:

To evaluate the long-term radiographic and functional outcomes of patients in whom there is absence of radiographic union at 2 years after single-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF).

Methods:

Thirty-one patients were evaluated at standard postoperative time intervals per index trial protocol. Plain film radiographic fusion criteria at the arthrodesis level was defined as interspinous motion (ISM) <1 mm with corresponding motion at a non-arthrodesed superjacent level ISM ≥4 mm. Radiographs and functional outcome measures were acquired at each follow-up visit. Delayed union was defined as lack of radiographic union by 24 months.

Results:

Nine patients demonstrated radiographic evidence of delayed radiographic union at 24 months. Of those 9 patients, 5 patients demonstrated evidence of union during the follow-up period to 72 months. Despite the absence of radiographic union based on our criteria, 3 of the 4 remaining patients reported remarkable improvements in pain scores and functional outcomes.

Conclusions:

The natural history of delayed union at 24 months after ACDF was still favorable despite the prolonged delay in union. The majority of patients (5 of 9) without radiographic union at 24 months did proceed to radiographic union by final follow-up. In addition, patients that did not meet our criteria for fusion maintained postoperative improvements in patient-reported outcome scores. In summary, our study patients undergoing a single-level ACDF with asymptomatic radiographic delayed union at 24 months can expect maintained improvements in postoperative patient-reported outcomes scores and can still progress to successful radiographic fusion.
The Effectiveness and Safety of Ultrasonic Bone Scalpel Versus Conventional Method in Cervical Laminectomy: A Retrospective Study of 311 Patients
Authors: Dave Bharat R. , Krishnan Ajay , Rai Ravi Ranjan , Degulmadi Devanand , Mayi Shivanand , Gudhe Mahendra
Published: September 2019

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to compare the results of cervical laminectomy (CL) performed with ultrasonic bone scalpel (UBS) or conventional method (CM).

Method:

This study comprised 311 CL performed by a single surgeon between January 2004 and December 2017. Group A (GpA) comprised 124 cases of CL performed using UBS, while Group B (GpB) comprised 187 cases of CL performed using CM. These 2 groups were compared in terms of demographic characteristics of patients, duration of surgery, estimated blood loss, and surgical complications.

Results:

GpA included 112 males and 12 females, mean age being 61.18 years. GpB comprised 166 males and 21 females, mean age being 62.04 years. Mean duration of surgery, estimated blood loss, and length of hospital stay was 65.52/70.87 minutes, 90.24/98.40 mL, and 4.80/4.87 days in GpA and GpB, respectively. Six patients were reported to have dural injuries in each group. In GpA, 2 cases of C5 palsy and 1 nerve root injury was observed, while in GpB, 3 cases of C5 palsy and no nerve root injury was reported. One patient had developed transient neurological deterioration postsurgery in GpA as against 11 patients in GpB.

Conclusion:

Neurological complications observed in CM leads to intensive care unit admission, additional morbidity, and additional expenditure, whereas UBS provides a safe, rapid, and effective means of performing CL, thereby decreasing the rate of surgical complications and postoperative morbidity.
Timing of Surgery in Thoracolumbar Spine Injury: Impact on Neurological Outcome
Authors: Qadir Irfan , Riew K. Daniel , Alam Syed Roman , Akram Rizwan , Waqas Muhammad , Aziz Amer
Published: September 2019

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective:

We aimed to evaluate the improvement in neurological deficit following early versus late decompression and stabilization of thoracolumbar junctional fractures.

Methods:

This is a retrospective evaluation of all patients with a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) from T11 to L2 treated at a teaching hospital between 2010 and 2017. Grouped analysis was performed comparing the cohort of patients who received early surgery within 24 hours (group 1) with those operated within 24 to 72 hours (group 2) and more than 72 hours after SCI (group 3). The primary outcome was the change in ASIA (American Spinal Injury Association) motor score at 12-month follow-up.

Results:

There were 317 patients (225 males and 92 females with mean age of 31.55 ± 12.43 years). A total of 144, 77, and 96 patients belonged to groups 1, 2, and 3 respectively. Improvement of at least 1 grade on ASIA classification was observed in 80, 45, and 33 patients in groups 1, 2, and 3 respectively ( P = .001). Overall, 32, 12, and 10 patients improved ≥2 grades on ASIA classification in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively ( P = .069). On logistic regression analysis, early surgery and severity of initial injury (complete [ASIA A] vs incomplete SCI [ASIA B-D]) were found to significantly influence the potential for neurologic improvement ( P = .004 and P < .0001, respectively).

Conclusion:

We believe that the earlier the decompression, the better. The 72-hour cutoff represents the most promising time window during which surgical decompression has the potential to confer a neuroprotective effect in the setting of incomplete SCI (ASIA B-D) in the distal region of the spinal cord (conus medullaris).
Risk of Recurrent Instability After Arthroscopic Stabilization for Shoulder Instability in Adolescent Patients
Authors: Kramer Jonathan , Gajudo Gio , Pandya Nirav K.
Published: September 2019

Background:

With the rise of adolescent sports participation, there has been a concomitant increase in not only the incidence but also the treatment of traumatic shoulder instability. Yet, there have been limited data on the failure rates of arthroscopic shoulder stabilization in this population as well as the potential risk factors.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to determine the failure rates of adolescent patients who underwent arthroscopic labral reconstruction for traumatic anterior shoulder instability. We hypothesized that adolescent failure rates would be significantly higher than what has been reported in the adult population with regard to recurrent instability after surgical intervention.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This was a retrospective cohort study performed at a single center. Inclusion criteria consisted of all adolescent-aged patients identified who (1) had traumatic anterior shoulder instability, (2) had radiographic findings consistent with anteroinferior capsulolabral injury, and (3) underwent arthroscopic shoulder stabilization. Patient demographics, clinical presentation, imaging, intraoperative findings, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed.

Results:

A total of 36 patients were identified, with a mean ± SD follow-up of 35.6 ± 13.8 months. The mean patient age at the time of the index procedure was 16.03 ± 1.67 years. All patients underwent arthroscopic shoulder stabilization consisting of arthroscopic Bankart repair. Twelve patients (33.3%) reported either recurrent instability or apprehension, of whom 9 (25.0%) developed recurrent dislocation/subluxation at a mean of 20.67 months postoperatively (range, 16-51 months). No single sport was associated with a statistically significant increased risk of redislocation, although a trend was seen toward those with postoperative participation in high-risk sporting activity. Patients who redislocated their shoulders had a higher frequency of a Hill-Sachs lesion on magnetic resonance imaging (89%) compared with those who did not (52%, P = .048). History of multiple preoperative dislocations, presence of bony Bankart pathology, off-track lesions, and number of anchors utilized were not associated with postoperative dislocation/subluxation.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates that adolescent patients treated with arthroscopic shoulder stabilization have a high rate of recurrent instability. The adolescent population may benefit from other stabilization strategies and/or activity modification. Further studies are necessary to determine the reasons for the high rate of redislocation and to develop strategies for prevention.
Transphyseal Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in the Skeletally Immature: Quadriceps Tendon Autograft Versus Hamstring Tendon Autograft
Authors: Pennock Andrew T. , Johnson Kristina P. , Turk Robby D. , Bastrom Tracey P. , Chambers Henry G. , Boutelle Kelly E. , Edmonds Eric W.
Published: September 2019

Background:

It is unclear what the optimal graft choice is for performing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in a skeletally immature patient.

Purpose:

To evaluate outcomes and complications of skeletally immature patients undergoing transphyseal ACL reconstruction with a hamstring tendon autograft versus a quadriceps tendon autograft.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Between 2012 and 2016, 90 skeletally immature patients from a single institution underwent primary transphyseal ACL reconstruction with either a quadriceps tendon autograft or a hamstring tendon autograft based on surgeon preference (n = 3). Patient demographic, injury, radiographic, and surgical variables were documented. Outcome measures included the Lysholm score, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), Tegner activity score, pain, satisfaction, and complications such as graft tears and physeal abnormalities.

Results:

A total of 83 patients (56 hamstring tendon, 27 quadriceps tendon) were available for a minimum follow-up of 2 years or sustained graft failure. The mean age of the patients was 14.8 ± 1.4 years at the time of ACL reconstruction. No differences in chronological age, bone age, sex, patient size, or mechanism of injury were noted between groups. There were no differences in surgical variables, except that the quadriceps tendon grafts were larger than the hamstring tendon grafts (9.6 ± 0.6 mm vs 7.8 ± 0.7 mm, respectively; P < .001). Patient outcomes at a mean follow-up of 2.8 ± 0.9 years revealed no differences based on graft type, with mean Lysholm, SANE, pain, satisfaction, and Tegner scores of 96, 93, 0.6, 9.6, and 6.6, respectively, for the quadriceps tendon group and 94, 89, 0.9, 9.2, and 7.1, respectively, for the hamstring tendon group. While there were no physeal complications in either group, patients undergoing ACL reconstruction with a hamstring tendon autograft were more likely to tear their graft (21% vs 4%, respectively; P = .037).

Conclusion:

Skeletally immature patients undergoing ACL reconstruction can be successfully managed with either a quadriceps tendon autograft or a hamstring tendon autograft with good short-term outcomes, high rates of return to sport, and low rates of physeal abnormalities. The primary differences between grafts were that the quadriceps tendon grafts were larger and were associated with a lower retear rate. ACL reconstruction performed with a quadriceps tendon autograft may reduce early graft failure in skeletally immature patients.
Individual-, Household-, and Community-Level Determinants of Childhood Undernutrition in Bangladesh
Authors: Khanam Moriam , Shimul Shafiun N. , Sarker Abdur Razzaque
Published: September 2019

Introduction:

Childhood undernutrition is a crucial public health problem globally. The objective of this study is to measure the prevalence of childhood undernutrition and assess the distinct role of various factors on childhood undernutrition in Bangladesh.

Methods:

This study utilized the latest cross-sectional data from Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2014. A total of 7256 data on children younger than 5 years old were analyzed. The undernutrition status of children was assessed by stunting (height-for-age), wasting (weight-for-height), and underweight (weight-for-age), while bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify various individual-, household-, and community-level factors of childhood undernutrition.

Results:

The prevalence of stunting, wasting, and underweight were 36.5%, 14.6%, and 32.5%, respectively. Along with various individual- and household-level factors (eg, age, recent diarrheal disease, fever, number of under-5 children in the household, mother’s education and nutritional status, and wealth status), community index, particularly regional and geographic variation of community, had significant role for childhood undernutrition in Bangladesh.

Conclusion:

Childhood undernutrition is an overwhelming public health issue in Bangladesh. In order to improve the nutritional status of under-5 children, interventions should take into account the various predictors discussed in this study. Indeed, a joint effort by the government, nongovernmental organizations, and the community is necessary to improve the childhood nutritional status in Bangladesh.
Improving emergency evacuation planning with mobile phone location data
Authors: Yin Ling , Chen Jie , Zhang Hao , Yang Zhile , Wan Qiao , Ning Li , Hu Jinxing , Yu Qi
Published: September 2019

Timely responses to emergencies are critical for urban disaster and emergency management, particularly in densely populated mega-cities. Researchers and personnel involved in urban emergency management nowadays rely on computers to carry out complex evacuation planning. Agent-based modeling, which supports the representation of interactions among individuals and between individuals and their environments, has become a major approach to simulating evacuations wherein spatial–temporal dynamics and individual conditions need attention, such as congestion in urban areas. However, the development of optimal evacuation plans based upon agent-based evacuation simulations can be very time-consuming. In this study, to shorten the computation time to provide a timely response in an efficient way, we develop a knowledge database to store evacuation plans for typical population distributions generated by mobile phone location data. Subsequently, we use the prepared knowledge database (offline) to accelerate real-time (online) processes in searching for near-optimal evacuation plans. Our experimental result demonstrates that the evacuation plans generated with a knowledge database always outperform those that are generated without a knowledge database. Specifically, the knowledge database can reduce the computation time by an average of 96.76%, with an average fitness value improvement of 21.86%. This result confirms the effectiveness of our proposed approach in improving agent-based evacuation planning. With the rapid development of human sensor data collection and analysis, the estimation of a more accurate population distribution will become easier in future. Thus, we believe that the proposed approach of developing a knowledge database based on population distribution patterns will provide a more feasible alternative solution for evacuation planning in the practice of urban emergency management.
Factors affecting newly increased construction land at different development stages: Evidence from 352 Chinese cities
Authors: Jin Wanfu , Zhou Chunshan , Li Shijie , Zhang Guojun
Published: September 2019

This paper explores the factors affecting newly increased construction land (NCL) in China at different development stages based on supply figures for the land market in 2010–2015. The results reveal that with the progress of regional development, NCL gradually increases, whereas the dependence of regional development on NCL decreases. Moreover, the structure of NCL at different development stages differs significantly. Nonagricultural industry development, land resource scarcity, population growth, economic extroversion, and domestic capital have different effects on NCL at different stages of development. These differences are closely related to the socioeconomic characteristics of each development stage. These findings may enrich the study of urban expansion in China's economic transition. This paper suggests that the government should be aware of regional differences in NCL regulation.
The Chopart Variant Dislocation: Plantar Dislocation of the Cuboid and Navicular
Authors: Honeycutt M. Wesley , Perry Mark D.
Published: September 2019

This case report demonstrates a unique variant of a Chopart dislocation resulting in a plantar cuboid and navicular dislocation without concomitant fracture in a 48-year-old man. The mechanism of injury involved a low-energy plantarflexion moment from stepping off a small embankment. This report reviews the pertinent midfoot anatomy, discusses the proposed mechanism of injury, and demonstrates an effective method of treating these complex injuries with open reduction and internal fixation. Final results with 20 months of follow-up were excellent. This unusual midfoot dislocation is a complex injury that required open treatment for anatomic restoration. In complex Chopart dislocations, early open reduction should be strongly considered as the initial treatment to properly restore anatomy and function.

Level of Evidence: Level V, expert opinion.
Why joint conservation and development projects often fail: An in-depth examination in the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Chambers Josephine , Aguila Mejía Margarita Del , Ramírez Reátegui Raydith , Sandbrook Chris
Published: September 2019

Conservation projects commonly claim to convert local people into long-term environmental stewards and improve their well-being. Yet, evidence frequently contradicts these win-win claims. The “multiple environmentalities” framework outlines distinct approaches that projects often use to foster environmental motivation and behavior: (1) neoliberal: constructing material incentives, (2) sovereign: imposing protective laws, and (3) disciplinary: fostering norms and values. We use a mixed method approach to examine how combinations of these environmentalities shape the land use motivations and behavior of 270 families living in 15 project settings in the Peruvian Amazon. We identify four direct reasons why these projects often fail to achieve their intended outcomes, regardless of the environmentalities employed: (1) self-selection of like-minded individuals, (2) limited ability of extrinsic motivators (i.e. material incentives and protective laws) to reduce reported deforestation behaviors, (3) limited internalization of motivations for conservation, and (4) ignored broader economic drivers of deforestation. We argue that these challenges stem from the typical external design of conservation projects based on fixed and limited interpretations of human motivation. Our findings point to the importance of deliberative processes that can support local and external actors to navigate and reframe competing motivations to co-design approaches to conservation governance at local and broader scales.
Pokey O’s: Determining the Location and Future Structure of a Dessert Food Truck
Authors: Artz Kendall , Reed Marlene Mints , Laurie John
Published: September 2019

This case recounts the story of the start-up in 2015 of a food truck named Pokey O’s that sold ice cream and cookies in downtown Waco, Texas. The couple who owned the truck, Julia and Austin Meek, had a very successful beginning; but by the summer of 2018, they were considering several options for the restructuring of their business. One possibility was to move their business inside at a local downtown Hilton Hotel. Other possibilities were to take the truck out of operation for maintenance and then vary its location from downtown to some of the municipalities outside of the downtown area. They were also considering purchasing another food truck and leaving one downtown and the other floating between several suburban areas. The couple wondered about the sustainability of a dessert food truck that relied only upon one downtown location.
Biliary Intraepithelial Neoplasia in Non-biliary Cirrhosis—Report From 100 Explanted Livers: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Zarei Maryam , Shasaeefar Alireza , Kazemi Kurosh , Dehghani Masoud , Malekhosseini Seyed-Ali , Geramizadeh Bita
Published: September 2019

Background:

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma is a highly malignant tumor with a very short 5-year survival. Multistep carcinogenesis has been suggested as the main pathway for the development of this tumor. Main suggested precursors have been (1) biliary intraepithelial neoplasia (BilIN) and (2) intraductal papillary neoplasm of bile duct (IPNB). The former is flat and does not produce grossly and radiologically detectable mass lesion, but the latter produces grossly identifiable lesion.

Objectives:

The development of bile duct dysplasia (BilIN) in chronic biliary diseases has been investigated and proved, but the incidence of BilIN in non-biliary causes of cirrhosis such as hepatitis B and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis has very rarely been investigated. In this study, we have tried to find out the prevalence of BilIN in non-biliary cirrhosis.

Patients and Methods:

During the study period (2017-2018) in 100 explanted livers with the diagnosis of non-biliary cirrhosis, thorough sampling (at least 20 sections) was performed, and pathologic sections were studied for the presence of BilIN.

Results:

In the 100 studied livers with different diagnoses of non-biliary causes of cirrhosis, 31% of cases showed BilIN-1 and 2% of cases showed BiliIN-2. No case of BilIN-3 has been identified.

Discussion and Conclusions:

Non-biliary causes of cirrhosis should be considered as precursors of cholangiocarcinoma (BilIN); however, the incidence of this occurrence is low.
Immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura in older patients: prognosis and long-term survival
Authors: Prevel Renaud , Roubaud-Baudron Claire , Gourlain Samuel , Jamme Matthieu , Peres Karine , Benhamou Ygal , Galicier Lionel , Azoulay Elie , Poullin Pascale , Provôt François , Maury Eric , Presne Claire , Hamidou Mohamed , Saheb Samir , Wynckel Alain , Servais Aude , Girault Stéphane , Delmas Yahsou , Chatelet Valérie , Augusto Jean-François , Mousson Christiane , Perez Pierre , Halimi Jean-Michel , Kanouni Tarik , Lautrette Alexandre , Charvet-Rumpler Anne , Deligny Christophe , Chauveau Dominique , Veyradier Agnès , Coppo Paul
Published: September 2019

Prevel and colleagues examined the natural history of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) in older adults, reporting that the geriatric TTP population experiences delayed diagnosis and more severe neurologic and renal impairment. Older patients also have greater short- and long-term mortality.
IL-7R is essential for leukemia-initiating cell activity of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: González-García Sara , Mosquera Marta , Fuentes Patricia , Palumbo Tiziana , Escudero Adela , Pérez-Martínez Antonio , Ramírez Manuel , Corcoran Anne E. , Toribio Maria L.
Published: September 2019

Key Points

IL-7R expression is a functional biomarker of T-ALL cells with leukemia-initiating potential and plays a crucial role in T-ALL pathogenesis. Targeting IL-7R–mediated signaling hampers leukemia-initiating activity and progression of human T-ALL.
Steady-state and regenerative hematopoiesis occurs normally in mice in the absence of GDF11
Authors: Goldstein Jill M. , Sengul Hilal , Messemer Kathleen A. , Fernández-Alfara Marcos , Garbern Jessica C. , Kristl Amy C. , Lee Richard T. , Wagers Amy J.
Published: September 2019

Key Points

Genetic deletion of Gdf11 does not affect red blood cell formation during homeostasis or after transplant. Hematopoietic stem cell function is preserved in mice lacking Gdf11 expression within the blood lineage.
Breath analysis in gastrointestinal graft-versus-host disease after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Hamilton Betty K. , Rybicki Lisa A. , Grove David , Ferraro Christina , Starn Jamie , Hodgeman Brittany , Elberson Jamie , Winslow Victoria , Corrigan Donna , Gerds Aaron T. , Hanna Rabi , Kalaycio Matt E. , Sobecks Ronald M. , Majhail Navneet S. , Dweik Raed A.
Published: September 2019

Key Points

Breath analysis is a feasible novel method to detect and potentially monitor graft-versus-host disease.
Retraction Note to: Integrated physiological and proteomic analysis of embryo and endosperm reveals central salt stress response proteins during seed germination of winter wheat cultivar Zhengmai 366
Authors: Liu Dongmiao , Han Caixia , Deng Xiong , Liu Yue , Liu Nannan , Yan Yueming
Published: September 2019

The editor has retracted this article [1] because parts of Figs. 1 and 4 were duplicated from a previously published paper by the same authors [2] without appropriate disclosure. None of the authors have responded to any correspondence from the editor about publication of this retraction notice.
Identification and optimization of PrsA in Bacillus subtilis for improved yield of amylase
Authors: Quesada-Ganuza Ane , Antelo-Varela Minia , Mouritzen Jeppe C. , Bartel Jürgen , Becher Dörte , Gjermansen Morten , Hallin Peter F. , Appel Karen F. , Kilstrup Mogens , Rasmussen Michael D. , Nielsen Allan K.
Published: September 2019

Background

PrsA is an extracytoplasmic folding catalyst essential in Bacillus subtilis. Overexpression of the native PrsA from B. subtilis has repeatedly lead to increased amylase yields. Nevertheless, little is known about how the overexpression of heterologous PrsAs can affect amylase secretion.

Results

In this study, the final yield of five extracellular alpha-amylases was increased by heterologous PrsA co-expression up to 2.5 fold. The effect of the overexpression of heterologous PrsAs on alpha-amylase secretion is specific to the co-expressed alpha-amylase. Co-expression of a heterologous PrsA can significantly reduce the secretion stress response. Engineering of the B. licheniformis PrsA lead to a further increase in amylase secretion and reduced secretion stress.

Conclusions

In this work we show how heterologous PrsA overexpression can give a better result on heterologous amylase secretion than the native PrsA, and that PrsA homologs show a variety of specificity towards different alpha-amylases. We also demonstrate that on top of increasing amylase yield, a good PrsA–amylase pairing can lower the secretion stress response of B. subtilis. Finally, we present a new recombinant PrsA variant with increased performance in both supporting amylase secretion and lowering secretion stress.
Genetic underpinnings of recovery after stroke: an opportunity for gene discovery, risk stratification, and precision medicine
Authors: Acosta Julián N. , Brown Stacy C. , Falcone Guido J.
Published: September 2019

As the number of stroke survivors continues to increase, identification of therapeutic targets for stroke recovery has become a priority in stroke genomics research. The introduction of high-throughput genotyping technologies and novel analytical tools has significantly advanced our understanding of the genetic underpinnings of stroke recovery.
Spores of Beauveria bassiana and Trichoderma lignorum as a bioinsecticide for the control of Atta cephalotes
Authors: Daza Fabian Felipe Fernandez , Roman Ginna Rodriguez , Rodriguez Marino Valencia , Vargas Ivan Andres Gonzalez , Heano Heiber Cardenas , Cereda Marney Pascoli , Mulet Raul Alberto Cuervo
Published: September 2019

Background

The leafcutter ant (Atta cephalotes) is associated with losses in the agricultural sector, due to its defoliating activity; for its control, biological, mechanical and chemical methods have been developed, the latter associated with adverse effects on human and environmental health. This research validated in the field for the control of the leafcutter ant (A. cephalotes) using a mixture of Beauveria bassiana and Trichoderma lignorum spores.

Methods

The effectiveness from the combination of spores of B. bassiana and T. lignorum with an initial concentration of 2 × 109 spores/ml, in the following proportions of B. bassiana and T. lignorum, A (1:1), of each fungus. It was evaluated within the university campus, comparing it with two commercial formulations, Mycotrol (B. bassiana) and Mycobac (T. lignorum). Additionally, this formulation was evaluated in 49 nests distributed 16 in 14 locations in Colombia. The formulation application was carried out by direct application, using a pump at a speed of 10 ml/m2. The effectiveness was estimated from the reduction of the flow of ants, evaluating the statistically significant differences using the ANOVA and Tukey-test.

Results

Effective control of 90% of the nests was observed in the field phase in 60 days, except in nests with areas > 50 m2 that were located in regions with high rainfall (annual average precipitation above 7000 mm), such as Buenaventura.

Conclusions

In this work, it was demonstrated that the combination of B. bassiana and T. lignorum spores represent a viable alternative for the control of the leafcutter ant, in which the effectiveness is related to several factors, including the size of the nest and the rainfall in the area.
Assessing the influence of harvesting intensities on structural diversity of forests in south-west Germany
Authors: Storch Felix , Kändler Gerald , Bauhus Jürgen
Published: September 2019

Background

To increase ecosystem resilience and biodiversity, the maintenance and improvement of structural and compositional diversity of forests has become an important goal in forest management for many forest owners and jurisdictions. At the same time, future harvesting intensity (HI) may increase to meet the demand for woody biomass by an increasing bioeconomy sector. Yet, the influence of HI on forest structural diversity is largely unknown. Here, we address this issue by analyzing the relationship between HI and structural diversity based on large-scale national forest inventory (NFI) data, where the latter is quantified using a previously developed Forest Structure Index and HI is expressed as wood volume removal during the period 2002–2012 for the same inventory plots.

Results

Our results show a surprisingly small impact of harvesting intensity on changes in structural diversity for most of the analysed types of forests. Only intense harvesting (> 80%–90% of initial growing stock) led to a significant reduction in structural diversity. At low to moderate HI most aspects of structural diversity were positively influenced. Only the quadratic mean DBH and the volume of large trees (≥ 40 cm DBH) were substantially negatively influenced at HI > 60% and 70% of initial growing stock, respectively.

Conclusions

In several forest types, HI could be increased without a reduction in overall structural diversity. Hence, structural diversity in these selectively managed forests appears to be a very resistant forest property in relation to HI. Other indicators at stand and landscape scale may be needed to adjust levels of HI that are suited to maintain forest biodiversity.
Prevalence of hereditary transthyretin amyloid polyneuropathy in idiopathic progressive neuropathy in conurban areas
Authors: Thimm Andreas , Bolz Saskia , Fleischer Michael , Stolte Benjamin , Wurthmann Sebastian , Totzeck Andreas , Carpinteiro Alexander , Luedike Peter , Papathanasiou Maria , Rischpler Christoph , Herrmann Ken , Rassaf Tienush , Steinmüller-Magin Lars , Kleinschnitz Christoph , Hagenacker Tim
Published: September 2019

Background

Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR amyloidosis) is a rare, genetically heterogenous, and clinically variable autosomal dominant disease that severely reduces life expectancy. As treatment options grow, a proper diagnostic approach is mandatory especially in non-endemic regions with diverse genetic backgrounds.

Methods

We examined 102 neuropathy patients at a German neuromuscular centre. Common causes of polyneuropathy were ruled out by medical history and extensive laboratory testing to define a cohort of patients with progressive polyneuropathy classified as idiopathic. Molecular genetic testing of the entireTTRgene was performed, and the detected amyloidogenic and non-amyloidogenic variants were associated with the observed clinical phenotypes and results of prior diagnostic testing.

Results

Two of 102 patients tested positive for amyloidogenic mutations (p.Ile127Val and p.Glu81Lys), while a variant of unknown significance, p.Glu26Ser, was found in 10 cases. In both positive cases, previous negative biopsy results were proved by gene sequencing to be false negative. In case of the p.Glu81Lys mutation we detected clinical presentation (combination of severe polyneuropathy and cardiomyopathy), ethnic background (patient of polish origin, mutation only reported in Japanese families before), and disease course clearly differed from well-known cases of the same mutation in the literature.

Conclusions

In conclusion, transthyretin hereditary amyloid polyneuropathy (ATTR-PN) should be considered in cases of otherwise idiopathic polyneuropathy. Sequencing of the four exons of theTTRgene should be considered the key step in diagnosis, while tissue biopsy possibly leads to false negative results.
Continuous Free Cortisol Profiles in Healthy Men
Authors: Bhake Ragini , Russell Georgina M , Kershaw Yvonne , Stevens Kara , Zaccardi Francesco , Warburton Viktoria E C , Linthorst Astrid C E , Lightman Stafford L
Published: September 2019

Context

In humans, approximately 95% of circulating cortisol is bound to corticosteroid-binding globulin and albumin. It is only the free fraction that is biologically active and can activate signaling pathways via glucocorticoid hormone receptors in cells. Microdialysis is a well-established technique that enables the sampling of molecules in different compartments of the body, including extracellular fluid. This is the first study validating a rapid sampling microdialysis method measuring free cortisol in the subcutaneous and blood compartments of healthy volunteers.

Methods

Healthy nonsmoking volunteers (42 men, aged 18–24 years; body mass index 18–25 kg/m2) received placebo (saline), 250 μg Synacthen, or 1 mg dexamethasone with 10-minute sampling to measure total and free cortisol (subcutaneous, intravenous, and saliva) for an hour before and 4 hours after administration.

Results

Following stimulation by Synacthen, total serum cortisol and free cortisol in both compartments rose significantly, achieving and maintaining maximum levels between 2 and 3 hours following the stimulus. A decline in cortisol levels was evident after the administration of dexamethasone or placebo, but there was a clear pulsatile activity around lunchtime in the latter group, which was prominent in the blood compartment (total and free cortisol). There was good correlation between serum total and free cortisol (subcutaneous and intravenous) in the Synacthen and dexamethasone groups with no significant delay (less than 5 minutes) between total and free cortisol.

Conclusions

This seminal study demonstrated the dynamic responses of total blood cortisol and microdialysis derived free cortisol in blood, subcutaneous tissue, and saliva in men.
Cortisol and Aldosterone Responses to Hypoglycemia and Na Depletion in Women With Non-Classic 21-Hydroxylase Deficiency
Authors: Kamenický Peter , Blanchard Anne , Lamaziere Antonin , Piedvache Céline , Donadille Bruno , Duranteau Lise , Bry Hélène , Gautier Jean-François , Salenave Sylvie , Raffin-Sanson Marie-Laure , Genc Seray , Pietri Laurence , Christin-Maitre Sophie , Thomas Julien , Lorthioir Aurelien , Azizi Michel , Chanson Philippe , Le Bouc Yves , Brailly-Tabard Sylvie , Young Jacques
Published: September 2019

Background

Non-classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency is usually diagnosed in post-pubertal women because of androgen excess. Indication of systematic steroid replacement therapy is controversial because the risk of acute adrenal insufficiency is unknown. In order to specify this risk we evaluated the cortisol and aldosterone secretions in response to appropriate pharmacologic challenges.

Methods

In this prospective case–control non-inferiority study we investigated 20 women with non-classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency carrying biallelic CYP21A2 mutations and with serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) >10 ng/mL after stimulation with Synacthen® (tetracosactrin) and 20 age- and body mass index-matched healthy women with 17OHP after Synacthen® <2 ng/mL. Each participant underwent sequentially an insulin tolerance test to evaluate cortisol secretion and a sodium depletion test, obtained by oral administration of 40 mg of furosemide under low sodium diet (<20 mmol during 24 hours), to evaluate renin and aldosterone secretion.

Findings

The peak serum cortisol concentration after insulin hypoglycemia was lower in patients than in controls (mean difference –47 ng/mL, 90% CI, –66, P = 0.0026). A peak serum cortisol above a cutoff value of 170 ng/mL was obtained in all controls but only in 55% of patients (P = 0.0039). Twenty-four hours after sodium depletion, blood pressure, plasma sodium, potassium, and serum aldosterone concentrations were comparable between the two groups, but patients had higher stimulated renin concentrations than controls (P = 0.0044).

Interpretation

Patients with non-classic 21-hydroxylase deficiency frequently display partial cortisol insufficiency and compensated defect in aldosterone secretion. Their clinical management should systematically include assessment of adrenal functions.
Sitagliptin Decreases Visceral Fat and Blood Glucose in Women With Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Authors: Devin Jessica K , Nian Hui , Celedonio Jorge E , Wright Patricia , Brown Nancy J
Published: September 2019

Context

Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) have decreased growth hormone (GH), which can result in increased visceral adiposity (VAT) and impaired vascular function. GH-releasing hormone, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) substrate, stimulates GH secretion.

Objective

We tested the hypothesis that DPP4 inhibition increases GH and improves glucose levels and vascular function in women with PCOS.

Methods

Eighteen women with PCOS participated in a double-blind, crossover study. They received sitagliptin either 100 mg or placebo daily for 1 month, with crossover treatments separated by an 8-week washout. During each treatment, women underwent a 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and assessments of vascular function and body composition. Overnight GH secretion was assessed via venous sampling every 10 minutes for 12 hours and analyzed using an automated deconvolution algorithm.

Results

During OGTT, sitagliptin increased glucagon-like peptide-1 (P < 0.001), early insulin secretion (from mean [± SD] insulinogenic index 1.9 ± 1.2 to 3.2 ± 3.1; P = 0.02), and decreased peak glucose (mean −17.2 mg/dL [95% CI, −27.7 to −6.6]; P < 0.01). At 1 month, sitagliptin decreased VAT (from 1141.9 ± 700.7 to 1055.1 ± 710.1 g; P = 0.02) but did not affect vascular function. Sitagliptin increased GH half-life (from 13.9 ± 3.6 to 17.0 ± 6.8 min, N = 16; P = 0.04) and interpulse interval (from 53.2 ± 20.0 to 77.3 ± 38.2 min, N = 16; P < 0.05) but did not increase mean overnight GH (P = 0.92 vs placebo).

Conclusions

Sitagliptin decreased the maximal glucose response to OGTT and VAT. Sitagliptin did not increase overnight GH but increased GH half-life and the interpulse interval.

Clinical Trial Registration

This study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02122380 prior to enrollment of the first participant.
Association between Body Mass Index and Stroke Risk Among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Shen Yun , Shi Lizheng , Nauman Elizabeth , Katzmarzyk Peter T , Price-Haywood Eboni G , Bazzano Alessandra N , Nigam Somesh , Hu Gang
Published: September 2019

Context

Very few studies focused on the association between body mass index (BMI) and stroke risk among patients with diabetes.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the association between BMI and stroke risk in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Design

Demographic, anthropometric, laboratory, and medication information were extracted from the National Patient-Centered Clinical Research Network common data model.

Participants

We performed a retrospective cohort study of 67 086 patients with type 2 diabetes.

Main Outcome Measures

Incident stroke including both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke were defined.

Results

During a mean follow up of 3.74 years. 8918 incident stroke events occurred. Multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios across different categories of BMI at baseline (18.5–24.9 [reference group], 25.0–29.9, 30.0–34.9, 35.0–39.9, and ≥40 kg/m2) were 1.00, 0.92, 0.85, 0.74, and 0.63 (Ptrend <0.001) for total stroke; 1.00, 0.93, 0.88, 0.77, and 0.65 (Ptrend <0.001) for ischemic stroke; and 1.00, 0.79, 0.50, 0.50, and 0.41 (Ptrend <0.001) for hemorrhagic stroke, respectively. When we used an updated mean value of BMI, the graded inverse association of body mass index with stroke risk did not change. This linear association was consistent among patients of different subgroups. Further sensitivity analysis excluding patients who were diagnosed stroke within 6 months after first diagnosis of type 2 diabetes or including non-smokers only also confirmed our findings.

Conclusion

The present study found an inverse association between BMI and the risk of total, ischemic, and hemorrhagic stroke among patients with type 2 diabetes. More clinical and molecular insights are still needed in explaining these findings.
Função de controle externo e função administrativa: separação e colaboração na Constituição de 1988
Authors: Heller Gabriel , Sousa Guilherme Carvalho e
Published: September 2019

The function of external oversight and the administrative function: separation and cooperation in the 1988 Constitution O presente artigo versa sobre a autonomia e especificidade da função de controle externo na Constituição de 1988, que resulta na impossibilidade de se classificar como administrativos os Tribunais de Contas, as competências que lhes foram cometidas e os processos que as instrumentalizam. Para tanto, a partir da diferenciação das funções estatais pelas finalidades específicas que lhes são subjacentes, demonstra-se a insuficiência do dogma da tripartição de poderes para explicar o policentrismo institucional traçado pelo constituinte. Distinguindo-se os meios empregados e os fins visados no exercício das funções de controle externo e de administração, e apresentando-se o dever de cooperação interorgânica estabelecido como parte do mecanismo de checks and balances da Carta Fundamental, evidencia-se a inconfundibilidade entre as duas funções. This paper regards the autonomy and specificity of the function of external control in the Constitution of 1988, which results in the impossibility of classifying the Court of Auditors as administrative, as well as its jurisdiction and processes. In order to provide necessary evidence for this approach, it considers the differentiation of state functions based on their specific aims, and demonstrates the insufficiency of the traditional separation of powers to explain the institutional polycentrism devised by the constitution makers. By distinguishing the means employed and the purposes envisaged in the exercise of the functions of external control and administration, and presenting the duty of inter-organic cooperation established as part of the constitutional checks and balances, it reaches the conclusion that those functions cannot be confounded nor mixed.
Sociedade entre a Azul Linhas Aéreas e a Empresa Brasileira de Correios e Telégrafos para transporte de carga e malas postais
Authors: Maia Conselheiro Mauricio Oscar Bandeira
Published: September 2019

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1. The dating of Pheidon in antiquity
Authors: Kõiv Mait
Published: September 2019

The date of the Argive tyrant Pheidon has been generally discussed without asking about what was the reason of different ancients datings. The failure to understand it has led to rather voluntary selection among the dates as well as unwarranted constructions. The present paper is an attempt to give a complex explanation of all the dates put forward by the ancients, except the statement of Herodotos that placed Pheidon to the early 6th century BC. It is suggested that all other dates were based on two synchronisations. First, Pheidon was considered roughly as a contemporary of the end of Corinthian kingship, the foundation of Syracuse, the outbreak of the first Messenian war and the epic poet Eumelos. This synchronisation was based on the story about the death of Corinthian Aktaion and on the account of Ephoros, who had dated some of these instances, including Pheidon, to the 10th generation from the Herakleid invasion. It was the reason of the date in Pausanias (Ol. 8 in 748 BC). And second, Pheidon was synchronised with Spartan lawgiver Lykourgos. On this assumption were based the datings in Theopompos, Marmor Parium, Eusebios and Isidorus.
3. The origins, development and reliability of the ancient tradition about the formation of Spartan constitution
Authors: Kõiv Mait
Published: September 2019

[No abstract]
A.2. Der für die Priesterwahlen vorgeschriebene Zeitpunkt
Authors: Ryan Francis X.
Published: September 2019

[No abstract]
A.3. Zweihundertundvierzig Jahre nach Solon
Authors: Ryan Francis X.
Published: September 2019

A passage of Demosthenes clearly implies a much higher date for the death of Solon than those recorded by Plutarch; since the tendency of the passage is reinforced by this higher date, one may readily believe that the figure transmitted to us is the one intended by the orator.