bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A center manifold for second order semilinear differential equations on the real line and applications to the existence of wave trains for the Gurtin–McCamy equation
Authors: Ducrot Arnaud , Magal Pierre
Published: March 2019

This work is mainly motivated by the study of periodic wave train solutions for the so-called Gurtin–McCamy equation. To that aim we construct a smooth center manifold for a rather general class of abstract second order semilinear differential equations involving nondensely defined operators. We revisit results on commutative sums of linear operators using the integrated semigroup theory. These results are used to reformulate the notion of the weak solutions of the problem. We also derive a suitable fixed point formulation for the graph of the local center manifold that allows us to conclude the existence and smoothness of such a local invariant manifold. Then we derive a Hopf bifurcation theorem for second order semilinear equations. This result is applied to studying the existence of periodic wave trains for the Gurtin–McCamy problem, that is, for a class of nonlocal age-structured equations with diffusion.
On the Laplace–Beltrami operator on compact complex spaces
Authors: Bei Francesco
Published: March 2019

Let

(
X
,
h
)

(X,h)

be a compact and irreducible Hermitian complex space of complex dimension

v
>
1

v>1

. In this paper we show that the Friedrichs extension of both the Laplace–Beltrami operator and the Hodge–Kodaira Laplacian acting on functions has discrete spectrum. Moreover, we provide some estimates for the growth of the corresponding eigenvalues, and we use these estimates to deduce that the associated heat operators are trace class. Finally we give various applications to the Hodge–Dolbeault operator and to the Hodge–Kodaira Laplacian in the setting of Hermitian complex spaces of complex dimension

2
2

.
Hic-5 regulates Src-induced invadopodia rosette formation and organization
Authors: Gulvady Anushree C. , Forsythe Ian J. , Turner Christopher E.
Published: March 2019

Fibroblasts transformed by the proto-oncogene Src form individual invadopodia that can spontaneously self-organize into large matrix-degrading superstructures called rosettes. However, the mechanisms by which the invadopodia can spatiotemporally reorganize their architecture is not well understood. Here, we show that Hic-5, a close relative of the scaffold protein paxillin, is essential for the formation and organization of rosettes in active Src-transfected NIH3T3 fibroblasts and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Live cell imaging, combined with domain-mapping analysis of Hic-5, identified critical motifs as well as phosphorylation sites that are required for the formation and dynamics of rosettes. Using pharmacological inhibition and mutant expression, we show that FAK kinase activity, along with its proximity to and potential interaction with the LD2,3 motifs of Hic-5, is necessary for rosette formation. Invadopodia dynamics and their coalescence into rosettes were also dependent on Rac1, formin, and myosin II activity. Superresolution microscopy revealed the presence of formin FHOD1 and INF2-mediated unbranched radial F-actin fibers emanating from invadopodia and rosettes, which may facilitate rosette formation. Collectively, our data highlight a novel role for Hic-5 in orchestrating the organization of invadopodia into higher-order rosettes, which may promote the localized matrix degradation necessary for tumor cell invasion.
The Relationship between Alcohol Craving and Insomnia Symptoms in Alcohol-Dependent Individuals
Authors: He Sean , Brooks Alyssa T , Kampman Kyle M , Chakravorty Subhajit
Published: March 2019

Aim

This preliminary investigation evaluated the link between alcohol craving and insomnia in actively drinking patients with alcohol dependence (AD).

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of data from a clinical trial of treatment-seeking patients with AD who drank heavily (N = 61). The Penn Alcohol Craving Scale (PACS) evaluated alcohol craving, and the Short Sleep Index (SSI) assessed insomnia symptoms. We used linear regression models for baseline cross-sectional assessments. Linear mixed effects regression models evaluated craving scores longitudinally across insomnia groups (+/−), and insomnia scores longitudinally across craving groups(high/low). These longitudinal analyses were conducted separately in those treated with placebo (N = 32) and quetiapine (N = 29).

Results

The mean (standard deviation) for PACS total score was 15.9 (8.5) and for SSI was 2.1 (2.3). Alcohol craving was associated with the insomnia symptom of difficulty falling asleep (P = 0.03; effect size = −0.7) and with the SSI total score (P = 0.04, effect size = −0.7). In the longitudinal analysis, insomnia+ subjects had consistently higher PACS total scores, relative to the insomnia− group. The PACS score demonstrated significant group × time interactions in both treatment groups. Insomnia+ individuals demonstrated a relatively steeper rate of decline in the craving with quetiapine treatment (P = 0.03). Insomnia− individuals in the placebo group demonstrated a transient reduction in craving until week 8, followed by an increase in scores(P = 0.004). The SSI score did not demonstrate any interactive effect over time across the craving groups in either treatment arm.

Conclusion

Insomnia was associated with higher alcohol craving and quetiapine differentially reduced craving in those with insomnia.
Epidermal patterning and stomatal development in Gnetales
Authors: Rudall Paula J , Rice Callie L
Published: March 2019

Background and Aims

The gymnosperm order Gnetales, which has contentious phylogenetic affinities, includes three extant genera (Ephedra, Gnetum, Welwitschia) that are morphologically highly divergent and have contrasting ecological preferences: Gnetum occupies mesic tropical habitats, whereas Ephedra and Welwitschia occur in arid environments. Leaves are highly reduced in Ephedra, petiolate with a broad lamina in Gnetum and persistent and strap-like in Welwitschia. We investigate stomatal development and prepatterning stages in Gnetales, to evaluate the substantial differences among the three genera and compare them with other seed plants.

Methods

Photosynthetic organs of representative species were examined using light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy.

Key Results

Stomata of all three genera possess lateral subsidiary cells (LSCs). LSCs of Ephedra are perigene cells derived from cell files adjacent to the stomatal meristemoids. In contrast, LSCs of Gnetum and Welwitschia are mesogene cells derived from the stomatal meristemoids; each meristemoid undergoes two mitoses to form a ‘developmental triad’, of which the central cell is the guard mother cell and the lateral pair are LSCs. Epidermal prepatterning in Gnetum undergoes a ‘quartet’ phase, in contrast with the linear development of Welwitschia. Quartet prepatterning in Gnetum resembles that of some angiosperms but they differ in later development.

Conclusions

Several factors underpin the profound and heritable differences observed among the three genera of Gnetales. Stomatal development in Ephedra differs significantly from that of Gnetum and Welwitschia, more closely resembling that of other extant gymnosperms. Differences in epidermal prepatterning broadly reflect differences in growth habit between the three genera.
(De-)Criminalizing Welfare? The Rise and Fall of Social Security Fraud Prosecutions in Australia
Authors: Wilcock Scarlet
Published: March 2019

The social security fraud prosecution rate has fallen by approximately 74.9 per cent in Australia since 2010. This is remarkable considering the national dialogue continues to propound a ‘zero tolerance’ approach to fraud in the welfare system. Drawing on interviews with compliance staff from the Australian Department of Human Services, documentary research and a Foucauldian governmentality analytic, this article charts and interrogates the declining welfare fraud prosecution rate in the context of neoliberal welfare reform. It argues that this decline is at least partially the result of the reformulation of the objects of prosecution strategies by staff responsible for their enactment. This finding highlights the importance of localized accounts of welfare administration to supplement and complicate macro analyses of the ‘criminalization of welfare’ in Western industrialized nations.
The heat-pump market in Italy: an in-depth economic study about the reasons for a still unexpressed potential
Authors: Pieve Maurizio , Trinchieri Raniero
Published: March 2019

In this paper, the Italian heat-pump (HP) market is presented, with an overview over the past 10 years. In order to highlight market potential and barriers, a comparison is proposed between the economic performances of two different heating and domestic hot-water systems, air-to-water HPs and condensing boilers, based on several factors, such as energy costs, thermal loads, climatic conditions, HP-performance classes and some economic indicators such as the payback time and the interest rate. The results are presented in a parametric form, which may be profitably used for a comparative analysis with other European countries. The first part of the paper deals with the analysis of the current Italian HP market, to show its still unexpressed potential. The second part analyses the HP economic convenience with respect to the most commonly used heating technology, i.e. the gas boiler, under conditions typical of the Italian climate. The comparison is carried out in terms of two economic indicators: additional acceptable cost and net present value. The main results show that HP technology is economically competitive in most Italian climatic zones, with a strong dependence on the HP-performance class. In particular, if the best-performing class was adopted, economic gains would be guaranteed over the gas boiler, even with significant variations in the main influencing variables. Thus, the economic issue does not seem to be a limiting factor for HP technology diffusion, at least if the current incentives are maintained. Rather, some other barriers should be removed, such as the supply chain, the training of installation personnel and the final-user awareness.
Genetic variants in Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma: a literature review
Authors: Callahan Zachary M , Shi Zhuqing , Su Bailey , Xu Jianfeng , Ujiki Michael
Published: March 2019

Surveillance of Barrett's esophagus (BE) is a clinical challenge; metaplasia of the distal esophagus increases a patient's risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) significantly but the actual percentage of patients who progress is low. The current screening recommendations require frequent endoscopy and biopsy, which has inherent risk, high cost, and operator variation. Identifying BE patients genetically who are at high risk of progressing could deemphasize the role of endoscopic screening and create an opportunity for early therapeutic intervention. Genetic alterations in germline DNA have been identified in other disease processes and allow for early intervention or surveillance well before disease develops. The genetic component of BE remains mostly unknown and only a few genome-wide association studies exist on this topic. This review summarizes the current literature available that examines genetic alterations in BE and EAC with a particular emphasis on clinical implications.
Inferential results for a new measure of inequality
Authors: Davydov Youri , Greselin Francesca
Published: March 2019

In recent decades, substantial changes have been observed in the left and right tails of income distributions in countries like the USA, Germany, the UK, and France. These changes are a major concern for policy makers. Here, we derive inferential results for a new inequality index that is specifically designed for capturing such significant shifts. We propose two empirical estimators for the index and show that they are asymptotically equivalent. Afterward, we adopt one estimator and prove its consistency and asymptotic normality. Finally, we introduce an empirical estimator for its variance and provide conditions for its consistency. An analysis of real data from the Bank of Italy Survey of Income and Wealth is also presented on the basis of the obtained inferential results.
Measuring the impact of agricultural production shocks on international trade flows
Authors: Ferguson Shon M , Gars Johan
Published: March 2019

The purpose of this study is to measure the sensitivity of traded quantities and trade unit values to agricultural production shocks. We develop a general equilibrium model of trade in which production shocks in exporting countries affect both traded quantities and trade unit values. The model includes per-unit trade costs and develops a methodology to quantify their size exploiting the trade unit value data. Using bilateral trade flow data for a large sample of countries and agricultural commodities, we find that the intensive margin of trade is relatively inelastic to production shocks, with a 1 per cent increase in production leading to a 0.5 per cent increase in exports. We also find that per-unit trade costs are large, comprising 15–20 per cent of import unit values on average. Overall, our results suggest that there is room for improving trade as a mechanism for coping with food production volatility.
Utilisation of hydrocarbons and production of surfactants by bacteria isolated from plant leaf surfaces
Authors: Oso Simisola , Walters Matthew , Schlechter Rudolf O , Remus-Emsermann Mitja N P
Published: March 2019

Leaves are covered by a cuticle composed of long (C11-C20) and very-long chain hydrocarbons (>C20), e.g. alkanes, fatty acids, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones and esters. In addition to these aliphatics, cyclic hydrocarbons may be present. Leaves are colonised by a variety of so-called epiphytic bacteria, which may have adapted to be able to utilise cuticle hydrocarbons. We tested the ability of a wide range of phylogenetically different epiphytic bacteria to utilise and grow on diesel and petroleum benzine and show that out of the 21 strains tested, nine had the ability to utilise diesel for growth. Only one strain was able to utilise petroleum benzine for growth. The ability to utilise hydrocarbons for growth correlated with the ability of the strains to produce surfactants and out of the 21 tested strains, 12 produced surfactants. Showing that 75% of the strains producing surfactants were able to degrade hydrocarbons. Our findings suggest that the ability to degrade hydrocarbons and to produce surfactants is highly prevalent in epiphytic bacteria. It is unclear if epiphytic bacteria utilise hydrocarbons originating from the cuticle of living leaves. The application of surfactant producing, hydrocarbon-utilising, epiphytic bacteria might serve as a method for hydrocarbon bioremediation.
Metabolic analyses reveal common adaptations in two invasive Haemophilus influenzae strains
Authors: Muda Noor Marian , Nasreen Marufa , Dhouib Rabeb , Hosmer Jennifer , Hill Julian , Mahawar Manish , Schirra Horst Joachim , McEwan Alastair G , Kappler Ulrike
Published: March 2019

Non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) is a major pathogen in upper and lower respiratory tract infections in humans, and is increasingly also associated with invasive disease. We have examined two unrelated NTHi invasive disease isolates, R2866 and C188, in order to identify metabolic and physiological properties that distinguish them from respiratory tract disease isolates such as Hi2019. While the general use of the Hi metabolic network was similar across all three strains, the two invasive isolates secreted increased amounts of succinate, which can have anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, they showed a common shift in their carbon source utilization patterns, with strongly enhanced metabolism of nucleoside substrates, glucose and sialic acid. The latter two are major compounds present in blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Interestingly, C188 and R2866 also shared a reduced ability to invade or survive intracellularly in 16HBE14 bronchial epithelial cells relative to Hi2019 (4-fold (4 h), 25-fold (24 h) reduction). Altered metabolic properties, such as the ones observed here, could arise from genomic adaptations that NTHi undergo during infection. Together these data indicate that shifts in substrate preferences in otherwise conserved metabolic pathways may underlie strain niche specificity and thus have the potential to alter the outcomes of host–NTHi interactions.
Sex differences in cytokine production following West Nile virus infection: Implications for symptom manifestation
Authors: Hoffman Kevin W , Lee Jakleen J , Foster Gregory A , Krysztof David , Stramer Susan L , Lim Jean K
Published: March 2019

West Nile virus (WNV) infection outcomes vary among individuals, with most infections resulting in asymptomatic or mild flu-like symptoms. We previously reported an association between early cytokine production and symptom outcome following WNV infection in US blood donors. In this meta-analysis, we found that WNV-infected females reported more symptoms than WNV-infected males, despite similar initial viremia and type I interferon responses. As the infection progressed, males exhibited a protracted cytokine response—marked by sustained CCL2 (MCP-1), CCL11 (eotaxin-1), CXCL10 (IP-10) and IL-15—that was absent in females. Our results suggest that sex differences may be a factor in sustaining WNV immunity.
Italian survey on cardiac surgery for adults with congenital heart disease: which surgery, where and by whom?
Authors: Giamberti Alessandro , Chessa Massimo , Chiarello Carmelina , Cipriani Adriano , Carotti Adriano , Galletti Lorenzo , Gargiulo Gaetano , Marianeschi Stefano Maria , Pace Napoleone Carlo , Padalino Massimo , Perri Gianluigi , Luciani Giovanni Battista ,   Congenital Domain of the Italian Society of Cardiac Surgery
Published: March 2019

OBJECTIVES

The population of ageing adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) is increasing; surgery in these patients presents major difficulties in management. A great debate has developed about whether these patients should be cared for at an adult or paediatric hospital and by an acquired or congenital cardiac surgeon. We analysed data of the surgical treatment of ACHD from the Italian cardiac surgery centres in 2016, focusing on the type of surgery performed, where these patients were operated on and by whom.

METHODS

Ninety-two Italian cardiac surgery centres were contacted and 70 centres participated in this study. We collected data on the types of cardiac operations performed in congenital heart defect patients older than 18 years. In 2016, a total of 913 patients with ACHD were operated on: 440 by congenital cardiac surgeons (group I) in centres with paediatric and adult cardiac surgery units, and 473 by adult cardiac surgeons (group II) in centres with exclusively adult cardiac surgery units.

RESULTS

Pathologies of the right ventricular outflow tract were the most frequent diseases treated in group I and pathologies of the left ventricular outflow tract in group II. Group I included more complex and heterogeneous cases than group II. Surgery for ACHD represented 12% of the activity of congenital cardiac surgeons and only 1% of the activity of adult cardiac surgeons.

CONCLUSIONS

In Italy, ACHD patients are operated on both by congenital and adult cardiac surgeons. Congenital cardiac surgeons working in centres with both paediatric and adult cardiac surgery are more involved with ACHD patients and with more complex cases.
On the Duty to Implement European Framework Agreements: Lessons to be Learned from the Hairdressers Case
Authors: Dorssemont Filip , Lörcher Klaus , Schmitt Mélanie
Published: March 2019

In this article, the authors assess the decision of the European Commission, in March 2018, not to implement a European Framework agreement concluded at sectoral level (the Hairdressers Agreement), despite a joint request to do so from the signatory parties. They argue that the decision was not consistent with the criteria relied on by the Commission to make it. In particular, the Commission’s refusal was contrary to the formal obligation enshrined in Article 155(2) Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) to table a proposal to turn an Agreement of this kind into a Directive. Their analysis is based on, among other things, the duty to respect the autonomy of the social partners in Article 152 TFEU, and the recognition of the right to collective bargaining in Article 28 CFREU.
Factors Contributing to Cancer-Related Muscle Wasting During First-Line Systemic Treatment for Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Derksen Jeroen W G , Kurk Sophie A , Oskam Marieke J , Peeters Petra H M , Punt Cornelis J A , Koopman Miriam , May Anne M
Published: March 2019

Background

Increasing evidence indicates that loss of muscle mass is associated with adverse outcomes in metastatic colorectal cancer. Here, we investigate which demographic, lifestyle- (smoking), tumor-, and treatment-related factors are associated with muscle loss in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer during first-line palliative systemic treatment.

Methods

Data from 300 patients with computed tomography scans both at start and after six initial cycles of capecitabine plus oxaliplatin and bevacizumab was used (CAIRO3). From computed tomography, muscle mass normalized for stature (skeletal muscle index [SMI]) was calculated. A priori-selected variables were tested using multivariable linear regression models (P values ≤.05). Two models were developed: Model 1 contained variables measured at start and Model 2 contained variables assessed after initial therapy.

Results

In Model 1, loss of SMI was statistically significantly associated with a higher initial SMI (−0.32%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −0.45% to −0.19% per unit increase in initial SMI), smoking status (−2.74%, 95% CI = −5.29% to −0.19% for smokers), and interval of metastases (−3.02%, 95% CI = −5.50% to −0.53%) for metachronous vs synchronous metastases), and primary tumor resection was statistically significantly associated with a gain in SMI (2.17%, 95% CI = 0.13% to 4.21% for resection vs no resection). In Model 2, loss of SMI was statistically significantly associated with response to capecitabine plus oxaliplatin and bevacizumab (−2.48%, 95% CI = −4.33% to −0.62% for stable disease vs partial/complete response).

Conclusions

Our results highlight, given the association of sarcopenia and survival, that patients with higher SMI should not be ignored. In addition, smoking is a potentially modifiable factor associated with muscle loss. The association between smoking and muscle loss might relate to worse clinical outcomes in smokers with metastatic colorectal cancer.
How Linkage Error Affects Hidden Markov Model Estimates: A Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Pankowska Paulina , Bakker Bart F M , Oberski Daniel L , Pavlopoulos Dimitris
Published: March 2019

Hidden Markov models (HMMs) are increasingly used to estimate and correct for classification error in categorical, longitudinal data, without the need for a “gold standard,” error-free data source. To accomplish this, HMMs require multiple observations over time on a single indicator and assume that the errors in these indicators are conditionally independent. Unfortunately, this “local independence” assumption is often unrealistic, untestable, and a source of serious bias. Linking independent data sources can solve this problem by making the local independence assumption plausible across sources, while potentially allowing for local dependence within sources. However, record linkage introduces a new problem: the records may be erroneously linked or incorrectly not linked. In this paper, we investigate the effects of linkage error on HMM estimates of transitions between employment contract types. Our data come from linking a labor force survey to administrative employer records; this linkage yields two indicators per time point that are plausibly conditionally independent. Our results indicate that both false-negative and false-positive linkage error turn out to be problematic primarily if the error is large and highly correlated with the dependent variable. Moreover, under certain conditions, false-positive linkage error (mislinkage) in fact acts as another source of misclassification that the HMM can absorb into its error-rate estimates, leaving the latent transition estimates unbiased. In these cases, measurement error modeling already accounts for linkage error. Our results also indicate where these conditions break down and more complex methods would be needed.
Angular clustering of point sources at 150 MHz in the TGSS survey
Authors: Rana Sandeep , Bagla Jasjeet S
Published: March 2019

We study the angular clustering of point sources in The GMRT (Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope) Sky Survey (TGSS). The survey at 150 MHz with δ > −53.5° has a sky coverage of 3.6π steradians, i.e. $90{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of the whole sky. We created subsamples by applying different total flux thresholds limit (Sflux ≫ 5σ) for good completeness and measured the angular correlation function ω(θ) of point sources at large scales (≥1°). We find that the amplitude of angular clustering is higher for brighter subsamples; this indicates that higher threshold flux samples are hosted by massive haloes and cluster strongly: this conclusion is based on the assumption that the redshift distribution of sources does not change with flux and this is supported by models of radio sources. We compare our results with other low-frequency studies of clustering of point sources and verify that the amplitude of clustering varies with the flux limit. We quantify this variation as a power-law dependence of the amplitude of correlation function with the flux limit. This dependence can be used to estimate foreground contamination due to clustering of point sources for low-frequency H i intensity mapping surveys for studying the epoch of reionization.
The Impact of Influenza and Tuberculosis Interaction on Mortality Among Individuals Aged ≥15 Years Hospitalized With Severe Respiratory Illness in South Africa, 2010–2016
Authors: Walaza Sibongile , Tempia Stefano , Dawood Halima , Variava Ebrahim , Wolter Nicole , Dreyer Andries , Moyes Jocelyn , Von Mollendorf Claire , McMorrow Meredith , Von Gottberg Anne , Haffejee Sumayya , Venter Marietje , Treurnicht Florette K , Hellferscee Orienka , Martinson Neil A , Ismail Nazir , Cohen Cheryl
Published: March 2019

Background

Data on the prevalence and impact of influenza–tuberculosis coinfection on clinical outcomes from high–HIV and –tuberculosis burden settings are limited. We explored the impact of influenza and tuberculosis coinfection on mortality among hospitalized adults with lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI).

Methods

We enrolled patients aged ≥15 years admitted with physician-diagnosed LRTI or suspected tuberculosis at 2 hospitals in South Africa from 2010 to 2016. Combined nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs were tested for influenza and 8 other respiratory viruses. Tuberculosis testing of sputum included smear microscopy, culture, and/or Xpert MTB/Rif.

Results

Among 6228 enrolled individuals, 4253 (68%) were tested for both influenza and tuberculosis. Of these, the detection rate was 6% (239/4253) for influenza, 26% (1092/4253) for tuberculosis, and 77% (3113/4053) for HIV. One percent (42/4253) tested positive for both influenza and tuberculosis. On multivariable analysis, among tuberculosis-positive patients, factors independently associated with death were age group ≥65 years compared with 15–24 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 3.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2–11.0) and influenza coinfection (aOR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.02–5.2). Among influenza-positive patients, laboratory-confirmed tuberculosis was associated with an increased risk of death (aOR, 4.5; 95% CI, 1.5–13.3). Coinfection with other respiratory viruses was not associated with increased mortality in patients positive for tuberculosis (OR, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.4–1.1) or influenza (OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 0.4–5.6).

Conclusions

Tuberculosis coinfection is associated with increased mortality in individuals with influenza, and influenza coinfection is associated with increased mortality in individuals with tuberculosis. These data may inform prioritization of influenza vaccines or antivirals for tuberculosis patients and inform tuberculosis testing guidelines for patients with influenza.
Endoscopic Endonasal Transpituitary Gland Approach for Resection of Dorsum Sellae Meningioma – Technical Case Report
Authors: Ko Yumi , Nishimura Fumihiko , Park Young-Soo , Motoyama Yasushi , Nakagawa Ichiro , Yamada Shuichi , Tamura Kentaro , Matsuda Ryosuke , Takeshima Yasuhiro , Takamura Yoshiaki , Nakase Hiroyuki
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE

Access to a dorsum sellae meningioma is difficult. A transcranial approach, such as a pterional, subtemporal, or transpetrosal method, often requires significant brain retraction and crossing of cranial nerves to access this region. We present here a successful purely endoscopic endonasal transpituitary gland approach for resection of a growing dorsum sellae meningioma.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

A 74-yr-old woman came to us with dizziness. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a mass on the dorsum sellae around the left posterior clinoid. Follow-up MRI examinations over a 3-yr period showed a gradual increase in size of the mass and increasing compression of the left peduncle. To avoid brain retraction, an endoscopic endonasal approach was selected for tumor removal. With this method, we went through the pituitary gland by splitting it, and drilled into the dorsum sellae and clivus to access the front of the tumor. Gross total removal was safely achieved. The patient was asymptomatic and had normal pituitary function after the operation.

CONCLUSION

The present endoscopic endonasal transpituitary gland approach allowed for safe resection of a dorsum sellae meningioma. We consider it to be less invasive for patients because of no need for brain retraction.
Neurophysiological Monitoring During Arteriovenous Malformation Embolization
Authors: Church Ephraim W , Rohatgi Pratik , Feidt Amy E , Kalapos Paul , Cockroft Kevin M
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Neurophysiological monitoring (NPM) is frequently performed during arteriovenous malformation (AVM) embolization. However, the ability of NPM to predict neurological deficits or improve surgical decision making in this setting has not been studied.

OBJECTIVE

To review our use of NPM during AVM embolization to better define its utility.

METHODS

We retrospectively examined AVM embolization cases from 2004 to 2017. We recorded patient and AVM characteristics as well as outcomes. We then reviewed NPM results from each case, including somatosensory evoked potentials and electroencephalogram. Our primary outcome was postoperative neurological deficit, and secondary outcomes were discharge and 30-d modified Rankin Score (mRS).

RESULTS

There were 173 embolizations in 74 patients. Mean patient age was 40 yr. There were 8 (5%) transient and 2 (1.3%) permanent neurological complications. Among those with neurological complications, 3 had NPM changes during the operation (positive predictive value [PPV] = 50%). This improved to 67% for permanent NPM change. Three patients had NPM changes but did not suffer clinical deficits postoperatively (negative predictive value = 90%). The predictive value of the test was improved for discharge but not 30-d mRS, and the test performance improved dramatically with increased pretest probabilities (likelihood ratio [LR](+) = 14.5, LR(–) = 0.715).

CONCLUSION

We present a large series of AVM embolization operations performed with NPM. The PPV of NPM changes was moderate but improved dramatically with increased pretest probabilities. The rate of permanent neurological complications was among the lowest reported in the literature, suggesting NPM may lead to improved intraoperative decision making.
Combined Use of Diffusion Tractography and Advanced Intraoperative Imaging for Resection of Cervical Intramedullary Spinal Cord Neoplasms: A Case Series and Technical Note
Authors: Benjamin Carolina Gesteira , Frempong-Boadu Anthony , Hoch Michael , Bruno Mary , Shepherd Timothy , Pacione Donato
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Intramedullary spinal cord neoplasms (ISCN) pose significant management challenges. Advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (such as diffusion tensor imaging, DTI) have been utilized to determine the infiltrative nature and resectability of ISCN. However, this has not been applied to intraoperative decision making.

OBJECTIVE

To present a case series of 2 patients with ISCN, the first to combine use of DTI, pre- and intraoperative 3-dimensional (3D) virtual reality imaging, and microscope integrated navigation with heads-up display.

METHODS

Two patients who underwent surgery for ISCN were included. DTI images were obtained and 3D images were created using Surgical Theater (Surgical Theater SRP, Version 7.4.0, Cleveland, Ohio). Fiducials were used to achieve accurate surface registration to C4. Navigation confirmed the levels of laminectomy necessary. The microscope was integrated with Brainlab (Brainlab AG Version 3.0.5, Feldkirchen, Germany) and the tumor projected in the heads-up display. Surgical Theater was integrated with Brainlab to allow for real time evaluation of the 3D tractography.

RESULTS

Case 1: All tracts were pushed away from the tumor, suggesting it was not infiltrative. Surgical Theater and Brainlab assisted in confirming midline despite the abnormal swelling of the cord so the myelotomy could be performed. The heads-up display outline demonstrated excellent correlation to the tumor. Gross total resection was achieved. Diagnosis of ependymoma was confirmed. Case 2: Some tracts were going through the tumor itself, suggesting an infiltrative process. Surgical Theater and Brainlab again allowed for confirmation of the midline raphe. Near total resection of the enhancing portion was achieved. Diagnosis of glioblastoma was confirmed.

CONCLUSION

This is a proof of concept application where multi-modal imaging technology was utilized for safest maximal ISCN resection.
Individual body size as a predictor of lipid storage in Baltic Sea zooplankton
Authors: Gorokhova Elena
Published: March 2019

The size structure of a zooplankton community is frequently used as a trait reflecting functional properties, including biochemical composition. Therefore, a shift in zooplankton body size can reflect shifts in the nutritional quality of zooplankton. In dominant Baltic copepods and cladocerans, neutral to polar lipid ratio (NL/PL ratio), a proxy for the mass-normalized lipid storage, was determined and related to individual body weight. A significant relationship between the NL/PL ratio and body weight was found; the latter was the strongest and the most significant predictor of the lipid storage capacity across different species and developmental stages. These findings provide support for using mean body weight in zooplankton community as a proxy for lipid storage capacity of zooplankton prey and justify applicability of zooplankton mean size as an indicator of nutritional conditions for Baltic zooplanktivores.
Computational-guided determination of the functional role of 447-52D long CDRH3
Authors: Kamau Edwin , Bonneau Richard , Kong Xiang-Peng
Published: March 2019

447-52D (447) is a human monoclonal antibody that recognizes a conserved epitope in the crown region of the third variable loop (V3) of HIV-1 gp120, and like many anti-HIV-1 antibodies with broad neutralization capabilities, it has a long heavy-chain complementarity determining region (CDRH3). Here, we use a combination of computational mutagenesis and modeling in tandem with fluorescence polarization assays to interrogate the molecular basis of 447 CDRH3 length and the individual contribution of selected CDRH3 residues to affinity. We observe that 447 CDRH3 length provides a large binding surface area and the best enthalpic contributions derived from hydrophobic packing, main-chain hydrogen bonds, electrostatic and van der Waals interactions. We also found out that CDRH3 residue Try100I is critical to 447 binding affinity.
The impact of extreme heat events on hospital admissions to the Royal Hobart Hospital
Authors: Watson Kaitlyn E , Gardiner Kyle M , Singleton Judith A
Published: March 2019

Background

Extreme heat (EH) events are increasing in frequency and duration and cause more deaths in Australia than any other extreme weather event. Consequently, EH events lead to an increase in the number of patient presentations to hospitals.

Methods

Climatic observations for Hobart’s region and Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH) emergency department admissions data were collected retrospectively for the study period of 2003–2010. A distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) was fitted using a generalized linear model with quasi-Poisson family to obtain adjusted estimates for the relationship between temperature and the relative risk of being admitted to the RHH.

Results

The model demonstrated that relative to the annual mean temperature of 14°C, the relative risk of being admitted to the RHH for the years 2003–2010 was significantly higher for all temperatures above 27°C (P < 0.05 in all cases). The peak effect upon admission was noted on the same day as the EH event, however, the model suggests that a lag effect exists, increasing the likelihood of admission to the RHH for a further 14 days.

Conclusions

To relieve the added burden on emergency departments during these events, adaptation strategies adopted by public health organizations could include preventative health initiatives.
The simultaneous analysis of mesenchymal stem cells and early osteocytes accumulation in osteoarthritic femoral head sclerotic bone
Authors: Ilas Dragos C , Churchman Sarah M , Baboolal Thomas , Giannoudis Peter V , Aderinto Joseph , McGonagle Dennis , Jones Elena
Published: March 2019

Objective

OA subchondral bone is a key target for therapy development. Osteocytes, the most abundant bone cell, critically regulate bone formation and resorption. Their progenitors, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), display altered behaviour in osteoarthritic subchondral bone. This study investigated the relationships between native osteocytes and native MSCs in osteoarthritic femoral heads.

Methods

To avoid culture manipulations, a bone treatment procedure was developed to simultaneously obtain pure osteocyte-enriched fragments and matched native CD45-CD271+ MSCs. Gene expression in osteocytes and MSCs was compared between healthy and OA bone and selected molecules were examined by immunohistochemistry in relation to OA tissue pathology. Cell sorting and standard trilineage differentiation assays were employed to test OA MSC functionality.

Results

Native osteocyte enrichment was confirmed histologically and by higher-level osteocyte maturation transcripts expression, compared with purified MSCs. Compared with healthy bone, native OA osteocytes expressed 9- and 4-fold more early/embedding osteocyte molecules E11 and MMP14, and 6-fold more osteoprotegerin (P<0.01). CD271+ MSCs accumulated in the regions of bone sclerosis (9-fold, P<0.0001) in close juxtaposition to trabeculae densely populated with morphologically immature E11-positive osteocytes (medians of 76% vs 15% in non-sclerotic areas, P<0.0001), and osteoblasts. Gene expression of OA MSCs indicated their bone formation bias, with retained multipotentiality following culture-expansion.

Conclusions

In human late-stage OA, osteogenically-committed MSCs and adjacent immature osteocytes exhibit a marked accumulation in sclerotic areas. This hitherto unappreciated MSC-early osteocyte axis could be key to understanding bone abnormalities in OA and represents a potential target for novel therapy development in early disease.
Literacy, Advocacy and Agency: The Campaign for Political Recognition of Dyslexia in Britain (1962–1997)
Authors: Kirby Philip
Published: March 2019

This article charts the campaign for political recognition of dyslexia in Britain, focusing on the period from 1962 when concerted interest in the topic began. Through the Word Blind Centre for Dyslexic Children (1963–72), and the organisations that followed, it shows how dyslexia gradually came to be institutionalised, often in the face of government intransigence. The article shows how this process is best conceived as a complex interplay of groups, including advocates, researchers, civil servants and politicians of varying political stripes. Necessarily, the campaign was mediated through broader political, economic and social changes, including the increasing requirement for literacy in the productive worker, but it is not reducible to these factors. In this way, the article reflects on the conceptualisation of power and agency in accounts of the history of dyslexia to date and its broader relevance to the history of learning difficulties and disabilities.
Large branch and leaf hydraulic safety margins in subtropical evergreen broadleaved forest
Authors: Zhu Shi-Dan , Li Rong-Hua , He Peng-Cheng , Siddiq Zafar , Cao Kun-Fang , Ye Qing
Published: March 2019

As a global biodiversity hotspot, the subtropical evergreen broadleaved forest (SEBF) in southern China is strongly influenced by the humid monsoon climate, with distinct hot-wet and cool-dry seasons. However, the hydraulic strategies of this forest are not well understood. Branch and leaf hydraulic safety margins (HSMbranch and HSMleaf, respectively), as well as seasonal changes in predawn and midday leaf water potential (Ψpd and Ψmd), stomatal conductance (Gs), leaf to sapwood area ratio (AL/AS) and turgor loss point (Ψtlp), were examined for woody species in a mature SEBF. For comparison, we compiled these traits of tropical dry forests (TDFs) and Mediterranean-type woodlands (MWs) from the literature because they experience a hot-dry season. We found that on average, SEBF showed larger HSMbranch and HSMleaf than TDF and MW. During the dry season, TDF and MW species displayed a significant decrease in Ψpd and Ψmd. However, SEBF species showed a slight decrease in Ψpd but an increase in Ψmd. Similar to TDF and MW species, Gs was substantially lower in the dry season for SEBF species, but this might be primarily because of the low atmospheric temperature (low vapor pressure deficit). On the other hand, AL/AS and Ψtlp were not significant different between seasons for any SEBF species. Most SEBF species had leaves that were more resistant to cavitation than branches. Additionally, species with stronger leaf-to-branch vulnerability segmentation tended to have smaller HSMleaf but larger HSMbranch. Our results suggest that SEBF is at low hydraulic risk under the current climate.
Genome Sequence Resource of the Wide-Host-Range Anthracnose Pathogen Colletotrichum siamense
Authors: Meng Yanan , Gleason Mark L. , Zhang Rong , Sun Guangyu
Published: March 2019

Colletotrichum siamense causes fruit or foliar disease called anthracnose on a variety of plant hosts such as vegetables, fruits, ornamental plants, and others, including chili pepper, apple, American cranberry, mango, orange, papaya, guava, rubber plant, jasmine, coffee berry, and tea plants. Here, we report the first Illumina-sequenced draft genome assembly of C. siamense strain ICMP 18578 and its annotation. This genome sequence provides a unique resource that will be useful for future research on the evolution of Colletotrichum spp. and improvement of anthracnose management strategies.
The Noncanonical Heat Shock ProteinPvNod22 Is Essential for Infection Thread Progression During Rhizobial Endosymbiosis in Common Bean
Authors: Rodríguez-López Jonathan , López Alejandrina Hernández , Estrada-Navarrete Georgina , Sánchez Federico , Díaz-Camino Claudia
Published: March 2019

In the establishment of plant-rhizobial symbiosis, the plant hosts express nodulin proteins during root nodule organogenesis. A limited number of nodulins have been characterized, and these perform essential functions in root nodule development and metabolism. Most nodulins are expressed in the nodule and at lower levels in other plant tissues. Previously, we isolated Nodulin 22 (PvNod22) from a common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cDNA library derived from Rhizobium-infected roots. PvNod22 is a noncanonical, endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-localized, small heat shock protein that confers protection against oxidative stress when overexpressed in Escherichia coli. Virus-induced gene silencing of PvNod22 resulted in necrotic lesions in the aerial organs of P. vulgaris plants cultivated under optimal conditions, activation of the ER-unfolded protein response (UPR), and, finally, plant death. Here, we examined the expression of PvNod22 in common bean plants during the establishment of rhizobial endosymbiosis and its relationship with two cellular processes associated with plant immunity, the UPR and autophagy. In the RNA interference lines, numerous infection threads stopped their progression before reaching the cortex cell layer of the root, and nodules contained fewer nitrogen-fixing bacteroids. Collectively, our results suggest that PvNod22 has a nonredundant function during legume-rhizobia symbiosis associated with infection thread elongation, likely by sustaining protein homeostasis in the ER.
Occupational food allergy
Authors: Fukutomi Yuma
Published: March 2019

Purpose of review

Occupation is an important contributing factor in the presentation of allergic disease in adults. This review article focuses on the contribution of occupation to the development and presentation of food allergies.

Recent findings

A variety of occupations involve repeated transdermal and respiratory exposures to food-related allergens, which can result in sensitization. A sensitized individual can then manifest symptoms of food allergy after ingestion of the relevant food, even in a nonoccupational setting. Cooks and other food-processing workers bear increased risk for being sensitized to foods. Although any type of food can become a causal agent for this phenomenon, published cases of occupational food allergy concentrate on fish and seafood allergies among cooks and food-processing workers who come into direct contact with these foods. Latex–fruit syndrome is also a relatively common form of occupational food allergy among healthcare workers. Hand eczema has also been shown to be an important risk factor for occupational sensitization to food allergens.

The association of occupation with food allergy in adults has been documented. Considering the under-recognized nature of this phenomenon, we should be aware in our clinical practice that a patient's occupation might be relevant to his or her food allergy.
Smartphone applications in orthopaedic surgery: a review of the literature and application analysis
Authors: Chen Eric A. , Ellahie Ahmed K. , Barsi James M.
Published: March 2019

Background:

Smartphone applications have become ubiquitous in various industries. Medicine is no exception. Recent studies have stated the prevalence of smartphone use by physicians to be nearly 90%. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the literature and a descriptive analysis of the apps within the field of orthopaedics.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted using Medline and Embase. Search terms included the text word queries “smartphone,” “phone,” “cellphone,” “iphone,” “ipad,” or “android” which yielded 17,430 Medline articles and 35,166 Embase articles. The search was limited to papers in the English language that included the text word queries “orthopedic,” “orthopedics,” “orthopaedic,” and “orthopaedics”.

Results:

After accounting for duplicates, the total number of articles was 677. After reviewing the abstracts of these articles, 34 articles were identified and their full texts were obtained for analysis of data that matched our inclusion criteria. Smartphone applications have shown promise within a multitude of subspecialties across the field of orthopaedics. Applications ranging in capabilities from angular management to preoperative templating and quantification of gait have already been developed and analyzed in the literature.

Conclusions:

As more advanced applications are developed, it is likely that smartphones will gain an ever greater presence both in the operative room and clinical settings.