bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Electromagnetic assisted endoscopic submucosal dissection is more efficient than water-jet assisted and conventional ESD in experimental model
Authors: Rodríguez Sánchez Joaquín , Rodríguez Sánchez Eduardo , de la Santa Belda Eva , Olivencia Pilar , Salmoral Luque Rosario , Sánchez Alonso Mónica , Olmedo Camacho José , Redondo Calvo Francisco 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Background and study aims The adequate visualization of the dissection line, inside the submucosal layer, supposes the main challenging issue in ESD. For this reason, several counter traction methods have been developed focused on overcoming this handicap. One of which, Magnetic anchor guided – ESD (MG-ESD) is an attractive alternative. However, the usefulness of this approach has been scarcely assessed and compared with other ESD strategies. Therefore, the aim of this study is to compare three different ESD alternatives in experimental faction.
Methods This was a prospective non-randomized study, in which three different ESD techniques were performed in an ex-vivo gastric porcine model by an endoscopist slight expertise in ESD: conventional ESD, waterjet assisted ESD and MG-ESD. MG-ESD was performed using two different magnets: inner Neodymiun ringed shape magnet attached to the simulated lesions by an endoclip and external electromagnet connected to a Single Output Adjustable 24V/0.3A Power Supply Unit.
Results Forty-six ESD procedures were performed: 24 conventional ESD, 12 waterjet-assisted ESD and 10 MG-ESD. Average size of the simulated lesions was 33.86 mm. No differences in terms of safety and efficacy were registered between the three approaches. Nevertheless, MG-ESD proved to be faster and more efficient than conventional ESD and water-jet assisted ESD (min per cm2 10.85 vs. 7.43 vs. 3,41; P = 0.001).
Conclusions MG-ESD could be a feasible alternative to conventional ESD even at the beginning of the learning curve. Therefore, researches focused on developing appropriate ESD magnetic devices and further comparative studies must be promoted, in order to assess the reliable usefulness of the magnet-assistance in ESD.
Efficacy of Endocuff-assisted colonoscopy in the detection of colorectal polyps
Authors: Wada Yoshiki , Fukuda Masayoshi , Ohtsuka Kazuo , Watanabe Mamoru , Fukuma Yumiko , Wada Yoko , Wada Masahiro 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Background and study aims Colonoscopy is the gold standard for detecting colorectal adenomas and cancers. Endoscopic surveillance has been shown to be effective for preventing colorectal cancer. Although detection of colorectal polyps at an early stage is important, endoscopic visualization of early neoplasia can be difficult. The Endocuff is a new device that can be attached to the tip of the colonoscope to hold the colonic folds away from the field of view during withdrawal. The aim of this study was to compare the adenoma detection rate (ADR) and the mean number of adenomas detected per patient (MAP) achieved using Endocuff-assisted colonoscopy (EAC) and standard colonoscopy (SC).
Patients and methods This randomized prospective study was conducted at two academic endoscopy departments in Japan. A total of 447 patients underwent a complete colonoscopic examination between April 2015 and September 2015. The EAC group included 239 patients. The cecal intubation rate, insertion time, withdrawal time, pain score, complications, polyp detection rate (PDR), ADR, the mean number of polyps detected per patient (MPP), and the MAP were assessed.
Results There were no differences between the EAC and SC groups in terms of cecal intubation rate, insertion time, withdrawal time, or pain scores. The PDR in patients increased by about 12 % (61.9 % vs. 49.2 %, P = 0.013) and ADR increased by 15 % (52.5 % vs. 39.2 %, P = 0.001) with the use of the Endocuff. The advanced ADR was higher in the EAC group but no statistically significant difference was found (7.7 % vs. 4.6 %, P = 0.17). Both MPP and MAP were also higher in the EAC group (mean ± SD: 1.33 ± 1.43 vs. 0.83 ± 0.99 per patient; P < 0.01, 1.11 ± 1.41 vs. 0.66 ± 0.99 per patient; P < 0.01, respectively). No major complications occurred.
Conclusions EAC not only enabled a higher ADR but also significantly increased the mean number of adenomas identified per patient, as compared with SC.
Prevalence and echo features of mediastinal lymph nodes in EUS for non-malignant indications: a prospective study in a Southern European Population
Authors: Carmo Joana , Bispo Miguel , Marques Susana , Chagas Cristina 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Background and study aims Significant heterogeneity in geographic distribution regarding the prevalence of mediastinal lymph nodes (MLN) has been documented in autopsy and computed tomography (CT) studies. Awareness of the local prevalence and characteristics of lymph nodes will be relevant when performing endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) for staging of malignant neoplasias. The aims of this study were to document the prevalence and echo features of MLN in patients undergoing EUS for non-malignant extrathoracic disease and to identify predictive factors for the presence of MLN.
Patients and methods A prospective single-center study was performed over 6 months. Mediastinal stations 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4 L and 2 were systematically evaluated using a linear echoendoscope in all patients undergoing EUS due to benign extrathoracic pathology and without history of oncologic disease. Demographic, clinical and EUS features of the lymph nodes were analysed.
Results Seventy-five patients were included: male/female 32/43; mean age, 63 years. The majority of patients (72 %) had lymph nodes in at least one mediastinal station and 88 % of these were found in stations 7 or 4 L. Overall, 133 MLN were identified: 19 % were hypoechogenic, 6 % had a short-axis diameter > 10 mm, and 6 % were round. The prevalence of lymph nodes was higher in smokers (83 % vs 64 %, P = 0.024), with a higher average number of lymph nodes per patient in this group (2.1 vs 1.6; P = 0.017). By logistic regression analysis, none of the variables analyzed were independently associated with the presence of MLN.
Conclusion This prospective Portuguese study documented a higher prevalence of MLN than previously reported in Northern Europe, in patients with no evidence of oncologic disease. This higher prevalence may negatively influence the specificity and positive predictive value for malignancy of MLN (N) staging by EUS.
The role of the Liwonde National Park in conserving fish species diversity in the upper Shire River, Malawi
Authors: Kapute Fanuel 
Published: March 2018

Tremendous decline of fish catches in Lake Malawi, mainly due to uncontrolled fishing, is a clear evidence of challenges of managing a common/open resource. East of the Shire River lies the protected area known as Liwonde National Park about 538 km2. Species diversity around the National Park including the southeast arm of Lake Malawi, Lake Malombe, and the upper Shire River were studied to determine if the moratorium in the park has any impact to the fishery in these areas. Fish samples were collected using a variety of fishing gears including mosquito nets, gill nets, scoop nets, cast nets, and hand lines from southeast arm of Lake Malawi, Upper Shire River, Lake Malombe, and the area near the Liwonde Barrage. Over 40 species belonging to 27 genera and 6 families were sampled compared to 50 species recorded in earlier studies suggesting that, despite the general decline in the fish species diversity, this area still maintains its resilience. The family Cichlidae was the most diverse with 19 genera followed by the Cyprinidae with 4 genera. These results showed that Cichlidae and Cyprinidae fish species that have nearly disappeared in Lake Malawi are still found in considerable abundance in the Shire River especially in areas around the National Park. Most of the determined fish species originated from surrounding areas to the park suggesting that it is a breeding area for fishes that are caught upstream and downstream. Findings underpin the importance of managing and protecting the National Park or even establishing other moratoriums for the same.
An Novel Architecture of Large-scale Communication in IOT
Authors: Ma Wubin , Deng Su , Huang Hongbin 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
In recent years, many scholars have done a great deal of research on the development of Internet of Things and networked physical systems. However, few people have made the detailed visualization of the large-scale communications architecture in the IOT. In fact, the non-uniform technology between IPv6 and access points has led to a lack of broad principles of large-scale communications architectures. Therefore, this paper presents the Uni-IPv6 Access and Information Exchange Method (UAIEM), a new architecture and algorithm that addresses large-scale communications in the IOT.
Laboratory Evaluation Of Dose And Manner Of Pickup Of Spinosad On The Migratory Grasshopper, 1995
Authors: Foster R. N. , Reuter K.C. , Black L. , Kahler E. , Fulle B. , Flora E. A. 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Using a spray tower to simulate aerially applied liquid sprays, three doses of Spinosad (a bacteria derived product) were each applied to grasshoppers and pots of growing grass separately on 7 Sept. For each dose, untreated grasshoppers were confined on treated grass, treated grasshoppers were confined on untreated grass and treated grasshoppers were confined on treated grass. Untreated grasshoppers were confined on untreated grass as a control. Grasshoppers treated with Fyfanon ULV (malathion) were confined on grass treated with Fyfanon as a standard for comparison. All spray treatments were applied at an equivalent total volume of 32 fluid oz/acre. Spinosad treatments were applied in distilled water and Fyfanon was diluted and applied in oil. The study design consistedof 10 replicates per treatment. Each replicate consisted of a caged pot of grass containing five fourth instar grasshoppers. Pots were 4 inches X 4 inches square with a 9 inch high cage attached and contained grass approximately 4 inches high at time of treatment. Caged grasshoppers were held at 78°2±°F and a photoperiod of 14:10 (L:D). Dead grasshopperswere removed from the cages and mortality recorded daily.
Inpatient burden of esophageal cancer and analysis of factors affecting in-hospital mortality and length of stay
Authors: Sarvepalli S , Garg S K , Sarvepalli S S , Parikh M P , Wadhwa V , Jang S , Thota P N , Sanaka M R 
Published: March 2018

Summary
Esophageal cancer (EC) continues to be a major source of morbidity and mortality in the United States. However, there has been a relative dearth of research into hospital utilization in patients with EC. This study examines temporal trends in hospital admissions, length of stay (LOS), mortality, and costs associated with EC. In addition, we also analyzed factors associated with inpatient mortality and LOS. We interrogated National Inpatient Sample (NIS), a large registry of inpatient data, to retrieve information about various demographic and factors associated with hospital stay in patients who were admitted for EC between the years 1998 and 2013 in the United States. After examining trends over time, multivariate analysis was performed to identify factors associated with LOS and mortality. During 1998–2013, 538,776 hospital stays with principal diagnosis of EC were reviewed. Number of hospital stays and inpatient charges increased by 397 per year (±67.8;P &lt; 0.0001) and $3,033 per patient per year (±135; &lt;0.0001) respectively. Mortality and LOS decreased by 0.23% per year (±0.03;P &lt; 0.0001) and 0.07 days per year (±0.006;P &lt; 0.0001) respectively. Multiple factors associated with LOS and mortality were outlined. Despite overall increase in hospital utilization with respect to number of admissions and inpatient charges, inpatient mortality and LOS associated with EC declined. Factors associated with inpatient mortality and LOS may help drive clinical decision-making and influence healthcare or hospital policy.
Human germline gene editing. Recommendations of ESHG and ESHRE†‡
Authors: de Wert Guido , Pennings Guido , Clarke Angus , Eichenlaub-Ritter Ursula , van El Carla G , Forzano Francesca , Goddijn Mariëtte , Heindryckx Björn , Howard Heidi C , Radojkovic Dragica , Rial-Sebbag Emmanuelle , Tarlatzis Basil C , Cornel Martina C ,   on behalf of the European Society of Human Genetics and the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Technological developments in gene editing raise high expectations for clinical applications, first of all for somatic gene editing but in theory also for germline gene editing (GLGE). GLGE is currently not allowed in many countries. This makes clinical applications in these countries impossible now, even if GLGE would become safe and effective. What were the arguments behind this legislation, and are they still convincing? If a technique can help to avoid serious genetic disorders, in a safe and effective way, would this be a reason to reconsider earlier standpoints? The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) and the European Society of Human Genetics (ESHG) together developed a Background document and Recommendations to inform and stimulate ongoing societal debates. After consulting its membership and experts, this final version of the Recommendations was endorsed by the Executive Committee and the Board of the respective Societies in May 2017. Taking account of ethical arguments, we argue that both basic and pre-clinical research regarding human GLGE can be justified, with conditions. Furthermore, while clinical GLGE would be totally premature, it might become a responsible intervention in the future, but only after adequate pre-clinical research. Safety of the child and future generations is a major concern. Future discussions must also address priorities among reproductive and potential non-reproductive alternatives, such as PGD and somatic editing, if that would be safe and successful. The prohibition of human germline modification, however, needs renewed discussion among relevant stakeholders, including the general public and legislators.
Reification in IR: The Process and Consequences of Reifying the Idea of International Society
Authors: Kaczmarska Katarzyna 
Published: March 2018

AbstractThis article studies the contentious problem of reification in international relations (IR) on the example of the idea of international society. It shows how the idea became reified, that is, how the move was made from approaching international society as one of several competing frameworks for the study of international politics to considering it an objective fact, a self-evident reality of international politics, and an entity in the possession of agency. For this purpose, I trace key writings of the English school and survey their contribution to the idea’s development and gradual reification. I posit that reification has been the outcome of individual strategies and disciplinary practices pertaining to the knowledge production process, in particular the perceived need to establish and maintain a research program while continuing to provide viable explanations of world events. In discussing the consequences, I argue that reification adversely affects not only research outcomes but also the study process. A reified category, once it becomes a default language through which to think and talk about international politics, narrows down avenues for diverging interpretations of international politics. Furthermore, endowing international society with agency hides real agents behind specific actions in international politics.
Weight Gain: A Possible Side Effect of All Antiretrovirals
Authors: Taramasso Lucia , Ricci Elena , Menzaghi Barbara , Orofino Giancarlo , Passerini Simone , Madeddu Giordano , Martinelli Canio Vito , De Socio Giuseppe Vittorio , Squillace Nicola , Rusconi Stefano , Bonfanti Paolo , Di Biagio Antonio ,   CISAI Study Group, Quirino T , Bonfanti P , Ricci E , Bellacosa C , Maggi P , Calza L , Abeli C , Menzaghi B , Celesia B M , Grosso C , Stagno A , Vichi F , Mazzotta F , Martinelli C , Penco G , Cassola G , Di Biagio A , Taramasso L , Nicolini L A , Dentone C , Molteni C , Palvarini L , Scalzini A , Carenzi L , Rizzardini G , Valsecchi L , Cordier L , Rusconi S , Colombo V , Galli M , Franzetti M , De Socio G V , Mazzotta E , Parruti G , Madeddu G , Bagella P , S. Mura M , Libertone R , Antinori A , Di Giambenedetto S , Orofino G , Guastavigna M , Caramell P 
Published: March 2018

Abstract
Weight gain and body mass index (BMI) increase are central issues in patients living with HIV who need to minimize the risk of metabolic disease. Information collected through the SCOLTA cohort revealed significant 1-year BMI increase in patients treated with dolutegravir (P = .004), raltegravir (P = .0004), elvitegravir (P = .004), darunavir (P = .0006), and rilpivirine (P = .029). BMI gain correlated with low baseline BMI (P = .002) and older age (P = .0007) in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stages A/B, with lower BMI (P = .005) and CD4+ T-cell count (P = .007) at enrollment in stage C.
Systemic Inflammation, Coagulation, and Clinical Risk in the START Trial
Authors: Baker Jason V , Sharma Shweta , Grund Birgit , Rupert Adam , Metcalf Julia A , Schechter Mauro , Munderi Paula , Aho Inka , Emery Sean , Babiker Abdel , Phillips Andrew , Lundgren Jens D , Neaton James D , Lane H Clifford ,   INSIGHT START (Strategic Timing of AntiRetroviral Treatment) Study Group
Published: March 2018

Abstract

Background
The Strategic Timing of AntiRetroviral Treatment (START) trial demonstrated that immediate (at CD4+ &gt;500 cells/µL) vs deferred (to CD4+ &lt;350 cells/µL or AIDS) antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation reduced risk for AIDS and serious non-AIDS (SNA). We investigated associations of inflammation, coagulation, and vascular injury biomarkers with AIDS, SNA or death, and the effect of immediate ART initiation.

Methods
Biomarkers were measured from stored plasma prior to randomization and at month 8. Associations of baseline biomarkers with event risk were estimated with Cox regression, pooled across groups, adjusted for age, gender, and treatment group, and stratified by region. Mean changes over 8 months were estimated and compared between the immediate and deferred ART arms using analysis of covariance models, adjusted for levels at entry.

Results
Baseline biomarker levels were available for 4299 START participants (92%). Mean follow-up was 3.2 years. Higher levels of IL-6 and D-dimer were the only biomarkers associated with risk for AIDS, SNA or death, as well as the individual components of SNA and AIDS events (HRs ranged 1.37–1.41 per 2-fold higher level), even after adjustment for baseline CD4+ count, HIV RNA level, and other biomarkers. At month 8, biomarker levels were lower in the immediate arm by 12%–21%.

Conclusions
These data, combined with evidence from prior biomarker studies, demonstrate that IL-6 and D-dimer consistently predict clinical risk across a broad spectrum of CD4 counts for those both ART-naïve and treated. Research is needed to identify disease-modifying treatments that target inflammation beyond the effects of ART.
Is there a correlation between growing pains and parent-child bed-sharing?
Authors: Smith Patrick J. , Moisan Alice , Sawyer Jeffrey R. , Spence David D. , Warner William C. , Kelly Derek M. 
Published: March 2018

Background:
The objective of this study was to evaluate a possible correlation between parent-child bed-sharing and growing pains.

Methods:
A questionnaire inquiring about bed-sharing habits of children and parents and the location, duration, intensity, and treatment of the child’s growing pain was completed by a consecutive series of families whose child (ages 3-10 yr) presented for evaluation of pain ultimately diagnosed as growing pains. A consecutive series of children (ages 3-10 yr) with a distal radial buckle fracture served as the control group.

Results:
Twenty-two of 44 (50%) families in the growing pain group answered “yes” to the bed-sharing question. Only 16 of 54 (29%) in the control group answered “yes.” Bed-sharing rates were significantly different between groups (P = 0.048). However, the mean age between the groups was also significantly different (growing pains group = 6.9 yr, control group = 5.5 yr, P = 0.002). To control for age, all patients over 7 yr from both groups were eliminated for analysis. Results revealed that the mean age was similar (P = 0.15) in both groups, but the rate of bed-sharing was no longer significantly different (growing pains group [50%], control group group [38%], P = 0.123).

Conclusions:
Despite finding that the rate of parent-child bed-sharing was 50% in our growing pains population, when we controlled for age, there was no difference from our control. Parent-child bed-sharing does not seem to be a significant component of growing pains. Bed-sharing could be a possible mechanism to manage a child’s growing pains.
How precise are clinical height measurements in scoliosis patients?
Authors: Woon Regina P. , Skaggs David L. , Sanders James , Garg Sumeet , Sawyer Jeffrey R. , Fletcher Nicholas , Andras Lindsay M. 
Published: March 2018

Background:
The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of height measurements in patients with scoliosis at five pediatric institutions and the influence on treatment decisions. Clinical height measurements are used to monitor growth in children and adolescents and may impact treatment recommendations. To our knowledge, measurement variability of patient height in scoliosis clinics has not been evaluated.

Methods:
At the five participating centers, patient height was measured by clinical staff members using their institution’s standard clinic protocol and then by an attending Scoliosis Research Society member surgeon using one identical protocol among the five centers. To negate the possibility of the Hawthorne Effect, the clinical staff members who completed the initial height measurements were unaware of the subsequent SRS spine surgeon measurements or the protocol used for measurement.

Results:
The mean height difference in measurement between surgeons and clinical staff for all five centers was 0.7 cm (Center 1: 0.5 cm, Center 2: 0.5 cm, Center 3: 0.9 cm, Center 4: 0.6 cm, Center 5: 1.2 cm). Twenty-three percent (21/92) of patients had measurements that were more than 1 cm different between the clinical staff and surgeon measurement.

Conclusions:
Our study found a mean 7 mm clinical height measurement variation between surreptitious measurements by SRS surgeons and standard clinical protocol. This variability can lead to inappropriate treatment decisions if growth is used as an indication for brace treatment. With such variability in clinical height measurement, one may want to consider using criteria for bracing independent of height measurement.