bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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

SUMMARY
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

Summary
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

AbstractThe 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

ABSTRACT
Leaves are covered by a cuticle composed of long (C11-C20) and very-long chain hydrocarbons (&gt;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

ABSTRACT
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

ABSTRACTWest 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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

AbstractBackgroundIncreasing 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.MethodsData 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.ResultsIn 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).ConclusionsOur 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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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 &gt; −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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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.