bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Coronary artery bypass grafting in patients with concomitant solid tumours: early and long-term results
Authors: Garatti Andrea , D’Ovidio Mariangela , Saitto Guglielmo , Daprati Andrea , Canziani Alberto , Mossuto Eugenio , D’Oria Veronica , Scarpanti Matteo , De Vincentiis Carlo , Parolari Alessandro , Menicanti Lorenzo 
Published: March 2020

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Our goal was to analyse a consecutive series of patients with solid organ tumours undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) by defining the risk factors for early and long-term outcomes.

METHODS
Between 2005 and 2016, a consecutive series of 4079 patients underwent isolated CABG at our institution. Of 103 patients (2.5%) with active malignancy, we enrolled 82 patients (mean age 71 ± 7 years) with solid organ tumours, divided into 4 subgroups: lung (9 patients—11%), gastroenteric (16 patients—20%), urinary (48 patients—58%) and other solid tumours (9 patients—11%). A deterministic record linkage between the clinical database and the National Hospital Information System allowed identification of long-term survival rates and freedom from major adverse cardiovascular events (acute myocardial infarction, repeated admissions for percutaneous coronary intervention and heart failure).

RESULTS
The most common forms of cancer were prostate, colon and carcinoma of the lung. Compared to patients without cancer, patients with neoplasms were significantly older and had a higher rate of comorbidities, without significant differences among the cancer subgroups. The 30-day mortality rate was significantly higher in patients with cancer compared to those without cancer (4.9% vs 1.8%). However, on logistic regression analysis, cancer was an independent risk factor for postoperative pulmonary dysfunction but not for in-hospital death. The median follow-up time was 58 ± 12 months. The overall 5-year survival rate was 60% [95% confidence interval (CI) 47–71%], with a dismal 32% (95% CI 5–65%) survival rate among patients who had lung tumours only. The 5-year freedom from major adverse cardiovascular events was 64% (95% CI 52–74%), without significant differences among subgroups, and was comparable to that of the non-cancer population. Resolution of coronary heart disease allowed safe cancer surgical resection in 80% of the population.

CONCLUSIONS
Based on the results from the present study, CABG should not be denied to patients with solid organ tumours by claiming a worse prognosis or less graft durability. Further studies with larger numbers are warranted.
Wildlife conflicts: wolves vs. moose
Authors: Skonhoft Anders , Solstad Jan Tore 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
During the last few decades, the grey wolf (Canis lupus) has re-colonised Scandinavia. The current population counts some 430 individuals. With the wolf re-colonisation, several conflicts have arisen. One important conflict is due to wolf predation on moose (Alces alces). This conflict is studied under the assumption of landowner profit maximisation as well as routinised harvesting behaviour. The analysis emphasises how compensation for the predation loss affects landowner management and harvest profitability. The solutions to the landowner problems are also compared to the overall (social planner) management situation, where traffic costs due to moose–vehicle and railway collisions are included.
Endophytic microbial assemblage in grapevine
Authors: Deyett E , Rolshausen P E 
Published: March 2020

ABSTRACT
The plant vascular system has remained an underexplored niche despite its potential for hosting beneficial microbes. The aim of this work was to determine the origin of the microbial endophytes inhabiting grapevine. We focused on a single commercial vineyard in California over a two-year period and used an amplicon metagenomics approach to profile the bacterial (16S–V4) and fungal (ITS) communities of the microbiome across a continuum of six grapevine compartments: bulk soil, rhizosphere, root, cordon, cane and sap. Our data supported that roots are a bottleneck to microbial richness and that they are mostly colonized with soilborne microbes, including plant growth-promoting bacteria recruited by the host, but also saprophytic and pathogenic fungal invaders. A core group of taxa was identified throughout the vine; however, there was clear partitioning of the microbiome with niche adaptation of distinct taxonomic groups. Above- and belowground plant tissues displayed distinct microbial fingerprints and were intermixed in a limited capacity mostly by way of the plant sap. We discuss how cultural practices and human contact may shape the endosphere microbiome and identify potential channels for transmission of its residents.
Variable cell division time and asymmetric division site lead to filament-to-rod cell cycle of Lysinibacillus varians
Authors: Zhu Chunjie , Sun Guoping , Wang Xiaoming , Guo Jun , Li Enze , Yang Yonggang , Xu Meiying 
Published: March 2020

ABSTRACT
All well-established cell size homeostasis paradigms are based on the researches of rod bacteria like B. subtilis and E. coli, suggesting a constant division time (timer model), division size (sizer model) or added size (adder model) before division. However, Lysinibacillus varians, a new species with regular filament-to-rod cell cycle, is inconsistent with existing models. In this study, the cell size parameters of the type strain GY32, were investigated by combing multiple microscopy techniques and single-cell approach. Our results showed that the filaments of strain GY32 were unicellular cells with multiple nucleoids. The division time of GY32 cells was variable and their daughter cells produced by asymmetric binary fission had different birth sizes, which were proportional to their elongation rates, resulting in high heterogeneity among the sister cells. Furthermore, the added size from birth to division was significantly shorter than birth size (p &lt; 0.01) and decreased along generations. The results above revealed that the asymmetric division site and varied cell size parameters resulted in filament-to-rod cell cycle of L. varians and cell size homeostasis could be a more complex and dynamic process than previously assumed. These findings would be helpful in elucidating the open questions in cell division and cell size heterogeneity.
Treatment as insurance: HIV antiretroviral therapy offers financial risk protection in Malawi
Authors: Dickerson Sarah , Baranov Victoria , Bor Jacob , Barofsky Jeremy 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Many countries have expanded insurance programmes in an effort to achieve universal health coverage (UHC). We assess a complementary path toward financial risk protection: increased access to technologies that improve health and reduce the risk of large health expenditures. Malawi has provided free HIV treatment since 2004 with significant US Government support. We investigate the impact of treatment access on medical spending, capacity to pay and catastrophic health expenditures at the population level, exploiting the phased rollout of HIV treatment in a difference-in-differences design. We find that increased access to HIV treatment generated a 10% decline in medical spending for urban households, a 7% increase in capacity to pay for rural households and a 3-percentage point decrease in the likelihood of catastrophic health expenditure among urban households. These risk protection benefits are comparable to that found from broad-based insurance coverage in other contexts. Our findings show that targeted treatment programmes that provide free care for high burden causes of death can provide substantial financial risk protection against catastrophic health expenditure, while moving developing nations toward UHC.
Confounding and effect measure modification in reproductive medicine research
Authors: Correia Katharine FB , Dodge Laura E , Farland Leslie V , Hacker Michele R , Ginsburg Elizabeth , Whitcomb Brian W , Wise Lauren A , Missmer Stacey A 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
The majority of research within reproductive and gynecologic health, or investigating ART, is observational in design. One of the most critical challenges for observational studies is confounding, while one of the most important for discovery and inference is effect modification. In this commentary, we explain what confounding and effect modification are and why they matter. We present examples illustrating how failing to adjust for a confounder leads to invalid conclusions, as well as examples where adjusting for a factor that is not a confounder also leads to invalid or imprecise conclusions. Careful consideration of which factors may act as confounders or modifiers of the association of interest is critical to conducting sound research, particularly with complex observational studies in reproductive medicine.
Haem oxygenases play a pivotal role in placental physiology and pathology
Authors: Peoc’h Katell , Puy Vincent , Fournier Thierry 
Published: March 2020

AbstractBACKGROUNDHaem oxygenases (HO) catabolise haem, which is the prosthetic group of numerous haemoproteins. Thus, multiple primary cellular pathways and functions rely on haem availability. HO exists in two isoforms, both expressed in the placenta, namely HO-1 and HO-2, the first being inducible. Haem oxygenases, particularly HO-1, have garnered specific interest in the field of physiological and pathological placental function. These enzymes mediate haem degradation by cleaving the alpha methene bridge to produce biliverdin, which is subsequently converted to bilirubin, carbon monoxide and iron. HO-1 has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.SEARCH METHODSAn initial literature analysis was performed using PubMed on 3 October 2018 using key terms such as ‘haem oxygenase and pregnancy’, ‘haem oxygenase and placenta’, ‘HO-1 and pregnancy’, ‘HO-1 and placenta’, ‘HO and placenta’, ‘HO and pregnancy’, ‘genetic variant and HO’, ‘CO and pregnancy’, ‘CO and placenta’, ‘Bilirubin and pregnancy’, ‘Iron and pregnancy’ and ‘PPAR and Haem’, selecting consensus conferences, recommendations, meta-analyses, practical recommendations and reviews. A second literature analysis was performed, including notable miscarriages, foetal loss and diabetes mellitus, on 20 December 2019. The three authors studied the publications independently to decipher whether they should be included in the manuscript.OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALEThis review aimed to summarise current pieces of knowledge of haem oxygenase location, function and regulation in the placenta, either in healthy pregnancies or those associated with miscarriages and foetal loss, pre-eclampsia, foetal growth restriction and diabetes mellitus.OUTCOMESHO-1 exerts some protective effects on the placentation, probably by a combination of factors, including its interrelation with the PGC-1α/PPAR pathway and the sFlt1/PlGF balance, and through its primary metabolites, notably carbon monoxide and bilirubin. Its protective role has been highlighted in numerous pregnancy conditions, including pre-eclampsia, foetal growth restriction, gestational diabetes mellitus and miscarriages.WIDER IMPLICATIONSHO-1 is a crucial enzyme in physiological and pathological placentation. This protective enzyme is currently considered a potential therapeutic target in various pregnancy diseases.
Semimechanical anastomosis during oesophagectomy reduces leaks and stenosis: a propensity score matched analysis
Authors: Mazza Elena , Strignano Paolo , Fop Fabrizio , Patrono Damiano , Catalano Giorgia , Salizzoni Mauro , Romagnoli Renato 
Published: March 2020

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Several techniques for oesophageal anastomosis during oesophagectomy have been described, all of which are associated with variable leakage and stricture rates. Given the notable morbidity of oesophageal fistula, reducing its incidence is of paramount importance. We report our single-centre experience with the semimechanical (SM) technique as compared to a totally manual (TM) technique.

METHODS
Three hundred and twelve partial and subtotal oesophagectomies performed between January 1998 and April 2018 were analysed. The series was split into a training period (January 1998–September 2015), when both TM and SM techniques were used, and a validation period (October 2015–April 2018), during which SM technique became standard practice. Propensity score matching was used to reduce confounding.

RESULTS
The training period included 212 oesophagectomies (90 TM, 122 SM); SM technique was initially used in the neck and afterwards also in the thorax, mainly with gastric conduits (92%), whereas the TM group contained a prevalence of jejunal loops (48%). SM anastomosis was associated with a significant reduction in both leak (0.8% vs 12%; P &lt; 0.001) and stricture rate (0% vs 7%; P = 0.005). After propensity score matching, the difference in leak (0% vs 14%; P = 0.013) and stricture rate (0% vs 10%; P = 0.022) was confirmed. During the validation period, which included 100 oesophagectomies performed with SM anastomosis, 1 leak (1%) and 1 stricture (1%) were observed.

CONCLUSIONS
SM technique for oesophageal anastomosis outperforms TM technique and allows achieving very low complication rates.
Factors determining job satisfaction of malaria community microscopists in Palawan, the Philippines: a cross-sectional mixed-methods study
Authors: Matsumoto-Takahashi Emilie Louise Akiko , Tongol-Rivera Pilarita , Villacorte Elena Andino , Angluben Ray Uyaan , Jimba Masamine , Kano Shigeyuki 
Published: March 2020

Abstract

Background
This study was conducted to investigate the overall job satisfaction and its associated factors among microscopists as community health workers who specialize in malaria microscopic diagnosis and treatment in Palawan, the Philippines. The study offered new insights to further lessen the burden of malaria and improve treatment by enhancing their commitment and satisfaction.

Methods
A quantitative study was conducted with 217 microscopists who were asked about their sociodemographic characteristics, ability as microscopists (service quality, knowledge of malaria and ability to diagnose malaria by microscopy [malaria microscopy]) and job satisfaction. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was conducted to analyse these factors. A qualitative study was also conducted and four focus group discussions (FGDs) were carried out.

Results
SEM identified that the job satisfaction of microscopists was enhanced by ability in malaria microscopy, the annual parasite index and belonging to ethnic minorities. In the FGDs, high job satisfaction was seen in their devotion to the community and increasing knowledge about malaria.

Conclusions
Providing opportunities to improve malaria microscopy ability would increase the overall job satisfaction of microscopists and eventually improve the quality of care.
Hermetia illucens larvae as a Fishmeal replacement alters intestinal specific bacterial populations and immune homeostasis in weanling piglets
Authors: Yu Miao , Li Zhenming , Chen Weidong , Wang Gang , Rong Ting , Liu Zhichang , Wang Fengyin , Ma Xianyong 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
Hermetia illucens larvae meal (HILM) are rich in proteins and chitin, and represent an innovative feed ingredient for animals. However, little is known about the intestinal bacteria and immune homeostasis response of HILM as a fishmeal replacement on weanling piglets. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the changes in specific ileal and cecal bacterial populations and their metabolic profiles, and ileal immune indexes in weanling piglets fed with a diet containing HILM. A total of 128 weanling piglets were fed either a basal diet or 1 of 3 diets with 1%, 2%, and 4% HILM (HI0, HI1, HI2, and HI4, respectively). Each group consisted of 8 pens (replicates), with 4 pigs per pen. After 28 d of feeding, 8 barrows per treatment were euthanized, the ileal and cecal digesta, and ileal mucosa were collected for analyzing bacterial population and metabolic profiles, and immune indexes, respectively. Results showed that HILM increased (P &lt; 0.05, maximum in HI2) the number of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium in the ileum and cecum, but quadratically decreased (P &lt; 0.05, minimum in HI2) the number of Escherichia coli. In the cecum, the number of Firmicutes, Ruminococcus, Clostridium cluster IV, and Prevotella showed a quadratic response to increasing (P &lt; 0.05, maximum in HI2) HILM levels. Lactate and butyrate concentrations in the ileum and cecum were quadratically increased (P &lt; 0.05, maximum in HI2) with increasing HILM levels. In the cecum, the amines, phenol, and indole compounds concentrations were quadratically decreased (P &lt; 0.05, minimum in HI2) with increasing HILM levels, while total short-chain fatty acids and acetate concentrations were quadratically increased (P &lt; 0.05, maximum in HI2). In the ileum, the TLR4, NF-κB, MyD88, and TNF-α mRNA expressions were quadratically decreased (P &lt; 0.05, minimum in HI2) with increasing HILM levels, while the mRNA expression of IL-10, barrier function (MUC1, ZO-1, Occludin, and Claudin-2), and development-related genes (IGF-1, GLP-2, and EGF) was quadratically increased (P &lt; 0.05, maximum in HI2). Furthermore, the changes in the mucosal gene expression were associated with changes in the bacterial populations and their metabolites. Collectively, these results showed that a diet supplemented with 2% HILM affected specific bacterial populations and metabolic profiles, and maintained ileal immune status. These findings provide new insights into the use of insect meal as a suitable alternative protein source for swine feeding.
The Effect of Prolonged Storage Time on the Stability of Fatty Acid Ethyl Esters in Hair Samples
Authors: Tsanaclis Lolita , Bagley Kim , Bevan Sian , Wicks John 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
The advantages of analysis of drugs in hair samples are recognized for the long window of detection, alongside easy sampling and long stability after sample collection. Alcohol markers, ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and total fatty acid ethyl esters (FAEEs) in hair, are widely used for monitoring alcohol consumption for clinical and forensic purposes. Although stability of drugs and EtG in hair samples is documented to a certain extent, stability of FAEEs in hair samples after collection has not been reported. This study covered hair samples that had been tested for FAEEs on the day of arrival at the laboratory and retested between 4 and 80 months later. The statistical analysis of the data set reveals significant lower FAEEs levels including ethyl palmitate (EtPa) ester levels when samples were retested for the second time after 6 days of storage under ideal conditions. Specifically, the results suggest that when measuring total FAEEs or solely EtPa in hair samples, the elapsed time between sample collection and analysis of the sample needs to be considered when interpreting the results. The recommendation is that whenever hair samples need to be tested for total FAEEs or EtPa, the analytical procedure needs to be performed within 1 week after collection in order to obtain meaningful results. The study results substantiate the case for the use of hair samples solely for the analysis of EtG, in conjunction with other measurements such as full blood count, carbohydrate-deficient transferrin test, liver function test or phosphatidylethanol alongside clinical assessment for a more effective evaluation of alcohol consumption.
First Report and Distribution of the Indian Mustard Aphid, Lipaphis erysimi pseudobrassicae (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var capitata) in Ghana
Authors: Fening K O , Forchibe E E , Wamonje F O , Adama I , Afreh-Nuamah K , Carr J P 
Published: March 2020

Abstract
The presence of large colonies of aphids is associated with a devastating novel necrotic disease of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) in Ghana that is thought to be of viral etiology. In this study, we used molecular taxonomic tools to identify the aphid species present on these diseased cabbage plants. This was confirmed using two key features for morphological identification, involving the length of cornicles and shape of cauda for the wingless forms of the aphids. Two species of aphids were identified and their distribution in Ghana indicated. One was the generalist aphid Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) but the most abundant was the brassica specialist aphid, Lipaphis erysimi pseudobrassicae (Davis) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), which is one of the most destructive pests of brassica crops in some countries in Africa and other parts of the world. L. erysimi has been reported in Benin, Mali, South Africa, India, China, and United States, but this is the first formal report of L. erysimi pseudobrassicae in Ghana. The correct identification of L. erysimi is crucial, suggesting that it has recently become one of the most common species of aphid found on cabbage plants in Ghana.
Small terrestrial mammal distributions in Simien Mountains National Park, Ethiopia: a reassessment after 88 years
Authors: Craig Evan W , Stanley William T , Kerbis Peterhans Julian C , Bryja Josef , Meheretu Yonas 
Published: March 2020

AbstractDespite the presence of mostly endemic species, the most comprehensive data set on the distribution and ecology of small mammals inhabiting Simien Mountains National Park (SMNP) dated from 1927. The study we carried out and report here provides a unique opportunity to assess the possible role of climate change over the last 88 years on the elevational distribution of mammals in the Ethiopian highlands. Between September and November 2015, three of us (EWC, WTS, YM) collected nonvolant small mammals at four sites (2,900, 3,250, 3,600, and 4,000 m a.s.l.) along the western slope of the Simien Mountains using standardized sampling. Over a 4-week period we recorded 13 species, comprising 11 species of rodents and two of shrews, all endemic to the Ethiopian Plateau. We found the greatest species richness at mid-elevations (3,250 m), consistent with a general pattern found on many other mountains worldwide, but less so in Africa. We compared our species distribution results to the 1927 data set and found upward elevational shifts in species’ ranges, highlighting the role and influence of climate change on the small mammal community. SMNP represents an exceptionally valuable core area of endemism and the best protected natural habitat in northern Ethiopia.
Causes of family separation and barriers to reunification: Syrian refugees in Jordan
Authors: Chandler Hannah , Boothby Neil , McNatt Zahirah , Berrigan Margaret , Zebib Laura , Freels Patricia Elaine , Alshannaq Hamza , Majdalani Noor , Mahmoud Ahmed , Majd Esraa 
Published: March 2020

AbstractSince 2011, the war in Syria has resulted in the displacement of 12.2 million people. Over 5.6 million have fled Syria to seek asylum in neighbouring countries, while 6.6 million have been internally displaced. Family separation, with significant psychological, social and economic implications, is a key concern for those who flee violence and cross international borders. This qualitative study sought to understand the causes of separation among Syrian families in Jordan and the obstacles to family reunification. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 85 Syrian refugee families identified as having separated family members. We present critical moments during migration when family separation occurs: (1) while fleeing Syria, (2) while residing in Jordan and (3) pre-existing separation due to work or travel that was exacerbated by the conflict. We also highlight the factors that perpetuate separation among families, preventing or delaying them from reuniting. These findings may help to inform more humane family reunification practices as well as identify future research and learning needs.