bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discerning cyber threatening incidents from ordinary events using sentiment analysis and logistic regression
Authors: Ibrishimova Marina D. , Li Kin F.
Published: June 2019

Many organizations allow incident reports from the general public. Some of these reports may contain information about threatening incidents, while others may describe ordinary events. Incident classification is the process of distinguishing between incidents and events. We describe an automated incident classification system, which uses logistic regression and sentiment analysis to estimate the likelihood that an event is an incident using its textual description. We trained and validated two different models on one dataset and used a different dataset for testing purposes. The model that performed better utilized sentiment analysis at the sentence level as well as at the level of individual verbs, nouns, and adjectives. It achieved 99% accuracy on the validation set and 100% accuracy on the test set over 50% baseline. Overall, we found that using sentiment score increased the model's accuracy, precision, and recall by at least 10% especially when it is applied on several levels of the text. The difference between our approach and the typical human approach is that in our approach we train the system to recognize incidents before any incident actually takes place and our system can recognize incidents even if their descriptions do not include keywords the system previously encountered.
Heavy quarks in strongly coupled non-conformal plasmas with anisotropy
Authors: Brehm Enrico
Published: June 2019

Abstract

We analyze physical observables of heavy quarks in gravity models describing strongly coupled non-conformal plasmas with anisotropy via the gauge/gravity duality. The focus lies on the binding energy of static quark-antiquark (

$$ q\overline{q} $$

q

q
¯

-)pairs, the maximum distance (screening distance) of a bound

$$ q\overline{q} $$

q

q
¯

-pair and the drag force on uniformly moving quarks in the hot plasma. In order to discover universal behavior in the observables, the computations are worked out in a two parameter deformation of pure gravity in AdS5 spacetime with a black brane which is assumed to be dual to a respective two parameter deformation of

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 4 supersymmetric Yang-Mills (SYM) theory at temperature T. The deformation is designed to break isotropy and conformal symmetry and is a solution to equations of motion of a gravity action.
Type IIA flux vacua and α′-corrections
Authors: Escobar Dagoberto , Marchesano Fernando , Staessens Wieland
Published: June 2019

Abstract

We analyse type IIA Calabi-Yau orientifolds with background fluxes, taking into account the effect of perturbativeα′-corrections. In particular, we consider theα′corrections that modify the metrics in the Kähler sector of the compactification. As it has been argued in the literature, including suchα′-corrections allows to construct the mirror duals of type IIB Calabi-Yau flux compactifications, in which the effect of flux backreaction is under control. We compute theα′-corrected scalar potential generated by the presence of RR and NS fluxes, and reformulate it as a bilinear of the flux-axion polynomials invariant under the discrete shift symmetries of the compactification. The use of such invariants allows to express in a compact and simple manner the conditions for Minkowski and AdS flux vacua, and to extract the effect ofα′-corrections on them.
Non-Lorentzian RG flows and supersymmetry
Authors: Lambert Neil , Mouland Rishi
Published: June 2019

Abstract

We describe a general process where a non-Lorentzian rescaling of a supersymmetric field theory leads to a scale-invariant fixed point action without Lorentz invariance but where the supersymmetry is preserved or even enhanced. We apply this procedure to five-dimensional maximally supersymmetric super-Yang-Mills, leading to a field theory with 24 super(conformal) symmetries. We also apply this procedure to the BLG model with 32 super(conformal) symmetries and ABJM models with 24 super(conformal) symmetries.
Early adversity, child neglect, and stress neurobiology: From observations of impact to empirical evaluations of mechanisms
Authors: Blaisdell Kellyn N. , Imhof Andrea M. , Fisher Philip A.
Published: June 2019

Research on the effects of early life adversity, and in particular on the absence of responsive caregiving, has shown long‐term impacts on well‐being and development. These investigations have been conducted both in human populations and in animal models. The work has demonstrated that neglect experienced in the early years can affect not only behavior but also neurobiological functioning. In particular, studies of children in the foster care system show convergence with research on children adopted following institutional rearing in terms of dysregulation of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis, which produces the neuroendocrine hormone cortisol. The characteristic pattern that has been most commonly observed involves diminished diurnal cortisol production, particularly in terms of low levels of cortisol upon awakening. Notably, however, a number of evidence‐based interventions for infant, toddler, and preschool‐aged foster children have been shown to produce more typical patterns of cortisol production, in combination with improved behavioral, socioemotional, and foster care placement outcomes. In this paper, we review the literature on the effects of early disruptions in care on biobehavioral development, and summarize the results of the interventions for young foster children.
Alterations in adolescent dopaminergic systems as a function of early mother‐toddler attachment: A prospective longitudinal examination
Authors: McCormick Ethan M. , McElwain Nancy L. , Telzer Eva H.
Published: June 2019

Early experiences have the potential for outsized influence on neural development across a wide number of domains. In humans, many of the most important such experiences take place in the context of the mother‐child attachment relationship. Work from animal models has highlighted neural changes in dopaminergic systems as a function of early care experiences, but translational research in humans has been limited. Our goal was to fill this gap by examining the longitudinal associations between early attachment experiences (assessed at 2.5 years) and neural responses to risk and rewards during adolescence (assessed at 13 years). Adolescence is a developmental period where sensitivity to rewards has important implications for behavior and long‐term outcomes, providing an important window to study potential influences of early attachment experiences on reward processing. In order to address this question, 50 adolescents completed a risk and reward task during an fMRI scan, allowing us to assess differences in neural sensitivity to changes in risk level and reward amount as a function of early attachment experiences. Adolescents with insecure attachment histories showed blunted sensitivity to increasing risk levels in regions of the dorsal striatum, while also showing heightened sensitivity to increasing reward levels in the same region. These results highlight the importance of early attachment experiences for long‐term neural development. Specifically, early exposure to more maladaptive relationships with caregivers may confer dual risks prospectively for adolescents, sensitizing them to rewarding outcomes while de‐sensitizing them to potential risks associated with those behaviors, perhaps due to stress‐related dopaminergic changes early in development.
Predicting mood outcome following traumatic brain injury (TBI): PTA & demographic variables
Authors: Skilbeck Clive , Thomas Matt , Holm Kieran
Published: June 2019

Background and aims:

Mood disturbance is frequent after traumatic brain injury (TBI), often assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Research supports a three-factor HADS structure (anxiety, depression, and psychomotor), although this has not been used to investigate demographic variables and mood outcome post-TBI. This study examined severity of TBI, demographic variables [age, gender, estimated premorbid IQ (EIQ), relationship status, employment status, socio-economic status (SES)], and mood outcome, using HADS factor scores from a large adult population sample in Tasmania.

Method:

HADS factor scores were calculated for an initial sample of 596 adults. The sample sizes varied according to those attending at 1, 6, 12 and 24 months post-TBI and the available data for each dependent variable.

Results:

Significantly higher anxiety, depression, and psychomotor scores were reported at most follow-ups by females, the middle-aged, and those with lower IQs. Longer post-traumatic amnesia (PTA) was associated with significantly greater mood problems. Occasional significant findings at earlier follow-ups for the factors were noted for those unemployed. Other variables were rarely significant. PTA, premorbid IQ, and Age were included in most Multiple Regression equations predicting outcome for the factors, with Gender included for Anxiety and depression at 6 months after injury.

Conclusions:

Key demographic variables and PTA severity relate to mood post-TBI, and contribute to predicting mood outcome. Differences in findings for the three factors support their use in clinical practice.
Variations around Eagleson’s theorem on mixing limit theorems for dynamical systems
Authors: GOUËZEL SÉBASTIEN
Published: June 2019

Eagleson’s theorem asserts that, given a probability-preserving map, if renormalized Birkhoff sums of a function converge in distribution, then they also converge with respect to any probability measure which is absolutely continuous with respect to the invariant one. We prove a version of this result for almost sure limit theorems, extending results of Korepanov. We also prove a version of this result, in mixing systems, when one imposes a conditioning both at time 0 and at time $n$.
Border policies and migrant deaths at the Turkish-Greek border
Authors: Ulusoy Orçun , Baldwin-Edwards Martin , Last Tamara
Published: June 2019

This paper investigates the impact of developments in Turkish migration management policy and changes in management of the Greek-Turkish border on border deaths prior to the 2015 mass inflow of refugees. As the locus of multiple and sustained Frontex operations, as well as several autonomous major changes in relevant policies and practices over the 2000–2014 period, the Greek-Turkish border can serve as a post hoc laboratory for analyzing the implications of EU-influenced migration and border management for deaths on the border. We conclude that a chaotic mix of national politics, policy development and law enforcement practices, flexible smuggling networks, and Frontex operations contributed to the mass inflows of 2015–2016 and ensured mass casualties.
Paediatric Bonebridge: bilateral simultaneous asymmetrical implantation
Authors: Dusu K , Walsh M , Eze N
Published: June 2019

Background

The Bonebridge is an active transcutaneous bone conduction implant recommended as a surgical option for adults and children (aged 5–18 years). Successful implantation of the Bonebridge is often restricted by an insufficient amount of temporal bone to house the transducer in the paediatric patient.

Method and results

In this unique paediatric case, bilateral Bonebridge devices were implanted simultaneously in the right sinodural angle and the left middle cranial fossa.

Conclusion

The simultaneous implantation of bilateral Bonebridge devices was well tolerated in this paediatric patient, with significant improvement in her hearing. The middle cranial fossa is a viable option for housing the transducer.
Individual risk and familial liability for suicide attempt and suicide in autism: a population-based study
Authors: Hirvikoski T. , Boman M. , Chen Q. , D'Onofrio B. M. , Mittendorfer-Rutz E. , Lichtenstein P. , Bölte S. , Larsson H.
Published: June 2019

Background

Studies on the individual gender-specific risk and familial co-aggregation of suicidal behaviour in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are lacking.

Methods

We conducted a matched case-cohort study applying conditional logistic regression models on 54 168 individuals recorded in 1987–2013 with ASD in Swedish national registers: ASD without ID n = 43 570 (out of which n = 19035, 43.69% with ADHD); ASD + ID n = 10 598 (out of which n = 2894 individuals, 27.31% with ADHD), and 270 840 controls, as well as 347 155 relatives of individuals with ASD and 1 735 775 control relatives.

Results

The risk for suicidal behaviours [reported as odds ratio OR (95% confidence interval CI)] was most increased in the ASD without ID group with comorbid ADHD [suicide attempt 7.25 (6.79–7.73); most severe attempts i.e. requiring inpatient stay 12.37 (11.33–13.52); suicide 13.09 (8.54–20.08)]. The risk was also increased in ASD + ID group [all suicide attempts 2.60 (2.31–2.92); inpatient only 3.45 (2.96–4.02); suicide 2.31 (1.16–4.57)]. Females with ASD without ID had generally higher risk for suicidal behaviours than males, while both genders had highest risk in the case of comorbid ADHD [females, suicide attempts 10.27 (9.27–11.37); inpatient only 13.42 (11.87–15.18); suicide 14.26 (6.03–33.72); males, suicide attempts 5.55 (5.10–6.05); inpatient only 11.33 (9.98–12.86); suicide 12.72 (7.77–20.82)]. Adjustment for psychiatric comorbidity attenuated the risk estimates. In comparison to controls, relatives of individuals with ASD also had an increased risk of suicidal behaviour.

Conclusions

Clinicians treating patients with ASD should be vigilant for suicidal behaviour and consider treatment of psychiatric comorbidity.
A foodborne norovirus outbreak in a nursing home and spread to staff and their household contacts
Authors: Parrón I. , Álvarez J. , Jané M. , Cornejo Sánchez T. , Razquin E. , Guix S. , Camps G. , Pérez C. , Domínguez À. ,   the Working Group for the Study of Outbreaks of Acute Gastroenteritis in Catalonia
Published: June 2019

On 16 March 2018, a nursing home notified a possible acute gastroenteritis outbreak that affected 11 people. Descriptive and case–control studies and analysis of clinical and environmental samples were carried out to determine the characteristics of the outbreak, its aetiology, the transmission mechanism and the causal food. The extent of the outbreak in and outside the nursing home was determined and the staff factors influencing propagation were studied by multivariate analysis. A turkey dinner on March 14 was associated with the outbreak (OR 4.22, 95% CI 1.11–16.01). Norovirus genogroups I and II were identified in stool samples. The attack rates in residents, staff and household contacts of staff were 23.49%, 46.22% and 22.87%, respectively. Care assistants and cleaning staff were the staff most frequently affected. Cohabitation with an affected care assistant was the most important factor in the occurrence of cases in the home (adjusted OR 6.37, 95% CI 1.13–36.02). Our results show that staff in close contact with residents and their household contacts had a higher risk of infection during the norovirus outbreak.
LOMATOGONIUM GAURGOPALII, A NEW SPECIES OF GENTIANACEAE FROM SIKKIM HIMALAYA
Authors: Midday M. , Ghosh J. , Maity D.
Published: June 2019

Lomatogonium gaurgopalii sp. nov., a new species of Gentianaceae from Sikkim Himalaya, is described and illustrated. It can be distinguished from its morphologically closest relative, Lomatogonium cherukurianum S.K.Dey & D.Maity, mainly by its robust habit, longer internodes, much larger creamy yellow flower and much larger floral parts; the presence of many hairs in an inverted semilunar arrangement behind the filament bases; and its larger, narrowly ovoid to narrowly ellipsoid ovary. Lomatogonium gaurgopalii is also unique in having pollen grains with striate-reticulate exine ornamentation without perforations.
Economic implications of outpatient cardiac catheterisation in infants with single ventricle congenital heart disease
Authors: Colombo Jamie N. , Hainstock Michael R. , Spaeder Michael C. , Vergales Jeffery E.
Published: June 2019

Background:

Resource utilisation for infants with single ventricle CHD remains high without well-studied ways to decrease economic burden. Same-day discharge following cardiac catheterisation has been shown to be safe and effective in children with CHD, but those with single ventricle physiology are commonly excluded. The purpose of this study was to investigate the economic implications of planned same-day discharge following cardiac catheterisation versus universal overnight hospital admission in infants with single ventricle CHD.

Methods and Results:

A probabilistic decision-tree analysis with sensitivity analyses was performed. All included patients were categorised into four possible outcomes; discharge, readmission following discharge (within 48 hours), observation and prolonged hospitalisation. Baseline probabilities of each node of the tree were then combined with the cost data to evaluate the comparative dominance of one decision (immediately discharge) versus the other decision (routinely admit). Patients discharged on the same day as the procedure accrued the lowest attributed hospital cost ($5469), while patients readmitted to the hospital had the highest attributed cost ($11,851). Currently, no other studies have assessed the cost of hospitalisation following cardiac catheterisation in this population. Thus, we allowed for a wide range of cost variation, but same-day discharge dominated the decision outcome with a lower economic burden.

Conclusion:

Same-day discharge following routine cardiac catheterisation in patients with single ventricle physiology is less costly compared to universal overnight admission. This demonstrates an important cost-limiting step in a complex population of patients who have high resource utilisation.
TAXATION AND PUBLIC HEALTH INVESTMENT: POLICY CHOICES AND TRADEOFFS
Authors: Atolia Manoj , Papageorgiou Chris , Turnovsky Stephen J.
Published: June 2019

In recent years, there has been an explosive increase in the demand for health products and services by people all around the globe, and particularly in advanced economies. Aiming to enhance longevity and also to improve quality of life, individual consumption of pharmaceutical products and services has risen exponentially since the early 1980s. This paper develops a model in which agents invest part of their resources in medical products and time in physical exercise to enhance their health status. In the first part of the paper, we study the steady state and transitional dynamics of the model with special emphasis on the effects of health decisions on aggregate outcomes. In the second part, we explore how public health policies may alter private economic decisions that promote healthier and more productive lives.
Consuming school meals improves Brazilian children’s diets according to their social vulnerability risk
Authors: Horta Paula Martins , Carmo Ariene Silva do , Junior Eliseu Verly , Santos Luana Caroline dos
Published: June 2019

Objective:

To estimate usual diets among Brazilian children regarding the consumption of school meals and social vulnerability risks.

Design:

A cross-sectional study. School meal consumers were considered those children who reported consuming school meals ≥3 times/week. Social vulnerability risk was classified by an index. Dietary intake was evaluated by one 24 h dietary recall for the whole sample; a second 24 h dietary recall was administered in a sub-sample (38·6 %). The National Cancer Institute’s method was used to estimate children’s usual intake of nutrients and food groups.

Setting:

Municipal public schools from Belo Horizonte, Brazil.

Participants:

Children (n1357) aged 8–12 years.

Results:

Half of the sample lived in low/medium social vulnerability risk areas and 27·9 % were school meal non-consumers. School meal consumers more frequently lived in high/very high social vulnerability risk areas (76·2v. 68·7 %). Children with low/medium social vulnerability risk had a higher mean intake of thiamin (1·13v. 1·04 mg) and a lower mean intake of candy (1·35v. 1·42 g). Consumption of school meals among children under high/very high social vulnerability risk was associated with higher mean consumption of vitamin C (31·9v. 24·1 mg), unprocessed/minimally processed foods (956·3v. 851·9 g), fruits (128·5v. 90·9 g) and vegetables (58·2v. 47·1 g). Ultra-processed food product consumption was lower among school meal consumers (136·2v. 187·7 g), especially ultra-processed beverages (252·5v. 305·7 g).

Conclusions:

Consuming school meals was associated with a better usual diet quality, particularly among those with higher social vulnerability risk.
Insurance ratemaking using the Exponential-Lognormal regression model
Authors: Tzougas George , Yik Woo Hee , Mustaqeem Muhammad Waqar
Published: June 2019

This paper is concerned with presenting the Exponential-Lognormal (ELN) regression model as a competitive alternative to the Pareto, or Exponential-Inverse Gamma, regression model that has been used in a wide range of areas, including insurance ratemaking. This is the first time that the ELN regression model is used in a statistical or actuarial context. The main contribution of the study is that we illustrate how maximum likelihood estimation of the ELN regression model, which does not have a density in closed form, can be accomplished relatively easily via an Expectation-Maximisation type algorithm. A real data application based on motor insurance data is examined in order to emphasise the versatility of the proposed algorithm. Finally, assuming that the number of claims is distributed according to the classic Negative Binomial and Poisson-Inverse Gaussian regression models, both the a priori and a posteriori, or Bonus–Malus, premium rates resulting from the ELN regression model are calculated via the net premium principle and compared to those determined by the Pareto regression model that has been traditionally used for modelling claim sizes.
Beyond Static Benchmarking: Using Experimental Manipulations to Evaluate Land Model Assumptions
Authors: Wieder William R. , Lawrence David M. , Fisher Rosie A. , Bonan Gordon B. , Cheng Susan J. , Goodale Christine L. , Grandy A. Stuart , Koven Charles D. , Lombardozzi Danica L. , Oleson Keith W. , Thomas R. Quinn
Published: June 2019

Land models are often used to simulate terrestrial responses to future environmental changes, but these models are not commonly evaluated with data from experimental manipulations. Results from experimental manipulations can identify and evaluate model assumptions that are consistent with appropriate ecosystem responses to future environmental change. We conducted simulations using three coupled carbon‐nitrogen versions of the Community Land Model (CLM, versions 4, 4.5, and—the newly developed—5), and compared the simulated response to nitrogen (N) and atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) enrichment with meta‐analyses of observations from similar experimental manipulations. In control simulations, successive versions of CLM showed a poleward increase in gross primary productivity and an overall bias reduction, compared to FLUXNET‐MTE observations. Simulations with N and CO2 enrichment demonstrate that CLM transitioned from a model that exhibited strong nitrogen limitation of the terrestrial carbon cycle (CLM4) to a model that showed greater responsiveness to elevated concentrations of CO2 in the atmosphere (CLM5). Overall, CLM5 simulations showed better agreement with observed ecosystem responses to experimental N and CO2 enrichment than previous versions of the model. These simulations also exposed shortcomings in structural assumptions and parameterizations. Specifically, no version of CLM captures changes in plant physiology, allocation, and nutrient uptake that are likely important aspects of terrestrial ecosystems' responses to environmental change. These highlight priority areas that should be addressed in future model developments. Moving forward, incorporating results from experimental manipulations into model benchmarking tools that are used to evaluate model performance will help increase confidence in terrestrial carbon cycle projections.
Response of Thermospheric Nightglow Emissions Over the Magnetic Equator to Prompt Penetration Electric Field Events
Authors: Vineeth C. , Ajesh A. , Pant T. K. , Ruohoniemi J. M.
Published: June 2019

This study examines the response of the nighttime thermosphere‐ionosphere system (TIS) over a dip equatorial station, Trivandrum (8.5°N, 77°E, 0.5° dip latitude) to prompt penetration electric field (PPEF) events occurred on 5 January 2016 and 6 March 2016. The investigation is based on nightglow emission measurements at wavelengths OI 777.4 nm, OI 630.0 nm, and OI 557.7 nm using a multiwavelength nighttime photometer. These emissions emanate from different altitude regions of the TIS, that is, 557.7 nm from ~100 km, 630.0 nm from ~220 km, and 777.4 nm from ~350 km. It has been observed that, during the westward PPEF event, the intensities of 777.4‐ and 630.0‐nm nightglow emissions enhance, whereas during the eastward PPEF event the intensities decrease. Similarly, though it is not very prominent, 557.7‐nm emission also exhibits a small enhancement/decrease during the westward/eastward PPEF events. The ionospheric base height obtained from a collocated digital ionosonde shows that during the eastward (westward) PPEF event the ionospheric layer moves upward (downward). The downward (upward) layer movement increases (decreases) the plasma density in the centroid of these airglow emissions, which in turn enhances (decreases) the emission rates. The study demonstrates the coupling between interplanetary medium and neutral TIS during nighttime PPEF events.
A Nonlinear Dynamical Systems‐Based Modeling Approach for Stochastic Simulation of Streamflow and Understanding Predictability
Authors: Rajagopalan Balaji , Erkyihun Solomon Tassew , Lall Upmanu , Zagona Edith , Nowak Kenneth
Published: June 2019

We propose a time series modeling approach based on nonlinear dynamical systems to recover the underlying dynamics and predictability of streamflow and to produce projections with identifiable skill. First, a wavelet spectral analysis is performed on the time series to identify the dominant quasiperiodic bands. The time series is then reconstructed across these bands and summed to obtain a signal time series. This signal is embedded in a D‐dimensional space with an appropriate lag τ to reconstruct the phase space in which the dynamics unfolds. Time‐varying predictability is assessed by quantifying the divergence of trajectories in the phase space with time, using Local Lyapunov Exponents. Ensembles of projections from a current time are generated by block resampling trajectories of desired projection length, from the K‐nearest neighbors of the current vector in the phase space. This modeling approach was applied to the naturalized historical and paleoreconstructed streamflow at Lees Ferry gauge on the Colorado River, which offered three interesting insights. (i) The flows exhibited significant epochal variations in predictability. (ii) The predictability of the flow quantified by Local Lyapunov Exponent is related to the variance of the flow signal and selected climate indices. (iii) Blind projections of flow during epochs identified as highly predictable showed good skill in capturing the distributional and threshold exceedance statistics and poor performance during low predictability epochs. The ability to assess the potential skill of these long lead projections opens opportunities to perceive hydrologic predictability and consequently water management in a new paradigm.
Socioeconomic Drivers of Global Blue Water Use
Authors: Soligno Irene , Malik Arunima , Lenzen Manfred
Published: June 2019

The recent intensification of international trade has led to a growing disconnection between consumer demand for goods and services and the water resources that support them. The important role of household demands on the exploitation of distant freshwater resources is widely recognized, yet the different socioeconomic drivers underlying the trends in domestic and foreign water use remain poorly quantified. In this work, the main mechanisms governing the exploitation of domestic and foreign freshwater resources are quantified by undertaking a structural decomposition analysis over the period 1994–2010 in 186 countries. Our results show that growth in affluence has been the main determinant of rising water consumption trends worldwide. There are indications that consumers in developed countries tend to increase their affluence by intensifying the use of foreign water resources. Conversely, affluence growth in developing regions seems to rely on the exploitation of local water resources revealing a significant imbalance among economies. The growth of affluence and population has been only partially offset by improvements in the intensity of blue water use by producers and, to a lesser extent, by changes in the interdependences among sectors.
An Underwater Telescope to Study Sky and Sea
Authors: Cartier Kimberly
Published: June 2019

To peer into the farthest reaches of the universe, you must first build a giant underwater telescope.
A quality improvement project to assess the use of preventative measures against acute alveolar osteitis
Authors: Mummery Toby Andrew , John Miriam , Stokes Susan Mary
Published: June 2019

Aims

A quality improvement project was conducted in a General Dental Practice environment. The aim was to reduce the rate of Acute Alveolar Osteitis, which was locally found to be at 19.4%.

Methods

A range of quality improvement tools were utilised to determine and measure potential interventions, and the results from the initial Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle utilising perioperative 0.2% Chlorhexidine as a preventative method are presented.

Results

The use of perioperative 0.2% Chlorhexidine mouthwash showed an absolute risk reduction of 6.2%.

Discussion

Generalisation from the results is highly dependent on local factors, although the favourable reduction in acute alveolar osteitis and cost savings found supported the project.

Conclusions

This project highlights the strengths of Quality Improvement methodologies in implementing and assessing changes to improve service provision and patient outcomes.
LINC01355 suppresses breast cancer growth through FOXO3-mediated transcriptional repression of CCND1
Authors: Ai Bolun , Kong Xiangyi , Wang Xiangyu , Zhang Kai , Yang Xue , Zhai Jie , Gao Ran , Qi Yihang , Wang Jing , Wang Zhongzhao , Fang Yi
Published: June 2019

Previously, several protein-coding tumor suppressors localized at 1p36 have been reported. In the present work, we focus on functional long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) embedded in this locus. Small interfering RNA was used to identify lncRNA candidates with growth-suppressive activities in breast cancer. The mechanism involved was also explored. LINC01355 were downregulated in breast cancer cells relative to non-malignant breast epithelial cells. Overexpression of LINC01355 significantly inhibited proliferation, colony formation, and tumorigenesis of breast cancer cells. LINC01355 arrested breast cancer cells at the G0/G1 phase by repressing CCND1. Moreover, LINC01355 interacted with and stabilized FOXO3 protein, leading to transcriptional repression of CCND1. Importantly, LINC01355-mediated suppression of breast cancer growth was reversed by knockdown of FOXO3 or overexpression of CCND1. Clinically, LINC01355 was downregulated in breast cancer specimens and correlated with more aggressive features. There was a negative correlation between LINC01355 and CCND1 expression in breast cancer samples. LINC01355 acts as a tumor suppressor in breast cancer, which is ascribed to enhancement of FOXO3-mediated transcriptional repression of CCND1. Re-expression of LINC01355 may provide a potential therapeutic strategy to block breast cancer growth and progression.
Decoherence benchmarking of superconducting qubits
Authors: Burnett Jonathan J. , Bengtsson Andreas , Scigliuzzo Marco , Niepce David , Kudra Marina , Delsing Per , Bylander Jonas
Published: June 2019

We benchmark the decoherence of superconducting transmon qubits to examine the temporal stability of energy relaxation, dephasing, and qubit transition frequency. By collecting statistics during measurements spanning multiple days, we find the mean parameters $$\overline {T_1}$$

T

1

¯

 = 49 μs and $$\overline {T_2^ \ast }$$

T

2

*

¯

 = 95 μs; however, both of these quantities fluctuate, explaining the need for frequent re-calibration in qubit setups. Our main finding is that fluctuations in qubit relaxation are local to the qubit and are caused by instabilities of near-resonant two-level-systems (TLS). Through statistical analysis, we determine sub-millihertz switching rates of these TLS and observe the coherent coupling between an individual TLS and a transmon qubit. Finally, we find evidence that the qubit’s frequency stability produces a 0.8 ms limit on the pure dephasing which we also observe. These findings raise the need for performing qubit metrology to examine the reproducibility of qubit parameters, where these fluctuations could affect qubit gate fidelity.
Association of pre-season musculoskeletal screening and functional testing with sports injuries in elite female basketball players
Authors: Šiupšinskas Laimonas , Garbenytė-Apolinskienė Toma , Salatkaitė Saulė , Gudas Rimtautas , Trumpickas Vytenis
Published: June 2019

Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Lithuania, and participation in women’s basketball is on the rise. Pre-participation examinations, including musculoskeletal screening and functional performance testing, is an essential part of a multidisciplinary approach to prevent future injuries. Because the lower extremities are the most commonly-injured body area in basketball players. Assessing fundamental movement qualities is of utmost importance. The aim of our study was to determine if functional tests can predict sports injuries in elite female basketball players. A total of 351 records for professional female basketball players were screened during 2013–2016 season. We analysed functional characteristics before the season and used functional performance tests for injury risk assessment: the Functional Movement Screen (FMS), the lower quarter Y Balance test (YBT-LQ) and the Landing Error Scoring System (LESS). Data from 169 players’ records were analysed: 77 of them made it to the end of season without injury, making up the non-injured group, while 92 of them suffered lower limb sport injuries during the sport season (injury group). Student’s t-test and the Mann-Whitney U-test were used to determine differences between groups. The most commonly encountered sports injuries in our population were those of knee 40.2% and ankle 38%. The injury group had a lower total FMS score (p = 0.0001) and higher total LESS score (p = 0.028) than non-injury group. The dynamic balance of lower limbs was similar in both groups. Imperfect functional movement patterns and poor jump-landing biomechanics during pre-season screening were associated with lower extremity injuries in elite female basketball players. Impairments of dynamic stability in the lower extremities were not associated with injury rates in our population. A combination of functional tests can be used for injury risk evaluation in female basketball players.
Correction: Role of hexafluoroisopropanol in C–H activation
Authors: Sinha Soumya Kumar , Bhattacharya Trisha , Maiti Debabrata
Published: June 2019

Correction for ‘Role of hexafluoroisopropanol in C–H activation’ by Soumya Kumar Sinha et al., React. Chem. Eng., 2019, 4, 244–253.
Genome-driven cell engineering review: in vivo and in silico metabolic and genome engineering
Authors: Landon Sophie , Rees-Garbutt Joshua , Marucci Lucia , Grierson Claire
Published: June 2019

Producing ‘designer cells’ with specific functions is potentially feasible in the near future. Recent developments, including whole-cell models, genome design algorithms and gene editing tools, have advanced the possibility of combining biological research and mathematical modelling to further understand and better design cellular processes. In this review, we will explore computational and experimental approaches used for metabolic and genome design. We will highlight the relevance of modelling in this process, and challenges associated with the generation of quantitative predictions about cell behaviour as a whole: although many cellular processes are well understood at the subsystem level, it has proved a hugely complex task to integrate separate components together to model and study an entire cell. We explore these developments, highlighting where computational design algorithms compensate for missing cellular information and underlining where computational models can complement and reduce lab experimentation. We will examine issues and illuminate the next steps for genome engineering.
Probing the weak wind phenomenon in Galactic O-type giants
Authors: de Almeida E. S. G. , Marcolino W. L. F. , Bouret J.-C. , Pereira C. B.
Published: June 2019

Aims. Analyses of Galactic late O dwarfs (O8-O9.5V stars) raised the “weak wind problem”: spectroscopic mass-loss rates (Ṁ) are up to two orders of magnitude lower than the theoretical values. We investigated the stellar and wind properties of Galactic late O giants (O8-O9.5III stars). These stars have luminosities log (L⋆ ∕ L⊙) ~ 5.2, which is the critical value (onset of weak winds) proposed in the literature.

Methods. We performed a spectroscopic analysis of nine O8-O9.5III stars in the ultraviolet (UV) and optical regions using the model atmosphere code CMFGEN.

Results. Stellar luminosities were adopted using calibrations from the literature. Overall, our model spectral energy distributions agree well with the observed ones considering parallaxes from the latest Gaia data release (DR2). The effective temperature derived from the UV region agrees well with the ones from the optical. As expected, the analysis of the Hertzsprung–Russell (HR) diagram shows that our sample is more evolved than late O dwarfs. From the UV region, we found Ṁ ~ 10−8 − 10−9M⊙ yr−1 overall. This is lower by ~0.9 − 2.3 dex than predicted values based on the (global) conservation of energy in the wind. The mass-loss rates predicted from first principles, based on the moving reversing layer theory, agree better with our findings, but it fails to match the spectroscopic Ṁ for the most luminous OB stars. The region of log (L⋆ ∕ L⊙) ~ 5.2 is critical for both sets of predictions in comparison with the spectroscopic mass-loss rates. CMFGEN models with the predicted Ṁ (the former one) fail to reproduce the UV wind lines for all the stars of our sample. We reproduce the observed Hα profiles of four objects with our Ṁ derived from the UV. Hence, low Ṁ values (weak winds) are favored to fit the observations (UV + optical), but discrepancies between the UV and Hα diagnostics remain for some objects.

Conclusions. Our results indicate weak winds beyond the O8-9.5V class, since the region of log (L⋆ ∕ L⊙) ~ 5.2 is indeed critical to the weak wind phenomenon. Since O8-O9.5III stars are more evolved than O8-9.5V, evolutionary effects do not seem to play a role in the onset of the weak wind phenomenon. These findings support that the Ṁ (for low luminosity O stars) in use in the majority of modern stellar evolution codes must be severely overestimated up to the end of the H-burning phase. Further investigations must evaluate the consequences of weak winds in terms of physical parameters for massive stars (e.g., angular momentum and CNO surface abundances).
Regionale Handlungsempfehlungen zur notärztlichen Versorgung Frühgeborener nach präklinischer Geburt für die Steiermark
Authors: Schwaberger Bernhard , Eichinger Michael , Martensen Johann , Baik-Schneditz Nariae , Pocivalnik Mirjam , Urlesberger Berndt
Published: June 2019

Die präklinische Frühgeburt stellt ein seltenes, aber herausforderndes Einsatzszenario dar. Spezielle Handlungsempfehlungen für die Erstversorgung von Frühgeborenen unter den präklinischen Bedingungen für das eintreffende Rettungsdienstpersonal und für Notärzte existierten bislang nicht. Es werden regionale Handlungsempfehlungen für die Versorgung Frühgeborener in der Präklinik vorgestellt, die nach einer Häufung derartiger Einsätze in der Steiermark ausgearbeitet wurden.
Fortbildung zum Leitenden Notarzt (LNA)
Authors: Sefrin Peter , Weidringer Johann Wilhelm
Published: June 2019

Der Einsatz von Leitenden Notärzten, der in den Rettungsdienstgesetzen der Länder festgeschrieben ist, hat deutlich zugenommen. Bereits 2007 wurden erste strategische Empfehlungen zur Fortbildung zum LNA seitens der Bundesärztekammer (BÄK) vorgegeben. Durch die föderale Struktur der für die Fortbildung zuständigen Landesärztekammern kam es zu unterschiedlichen Konzepten. Inzwischen haben sich die Anlässe, Häufigkeit und Einsatzvorgaben geändert. Insbesondere die praktische Qualifikation, was sowohl die Sichtung wie auch Planspiele betrifft, bedarf einer Überarbeitung. Einbezogen werden müssen auch lebensbedrohliche Einsatzlagen. Es erscheint erforderlich, dass Bedingungen und Voraussetzungen für die Fortbildung den derzeitigen Notwendigkeiten angepasst werden und somit die Vorgaben der BÄK einer Revision bedürfen. Dazu wird ein konkreter Vorschlag gemacht.
Evaluation des Therapieerfolges bei
Kontaktgranulomen
Authors: Heyduck Adrienne , Pickhard Anja , Hoffmann Thomas Karl , Brosch Sibylle , Reiter Rudolf
Published: June 2019

Einleitung Für Kontaktgranulome (KG) existieren nur heterogene
Therapiemodalitäten, deren Wirksamkeit nicht abschließend bewiesen ist. Ziel
unserer Untersuchung war es, Risikofaktoren für KG zu erfassen sowie den
Therapieerfolg zu evaluieren.

Methode Es erfolgte eine retrospektive Analyse an 79 Patienten mit einem
KG. Es wurden bei Erstkontrolle (EK) 3–4 Monate, bei Zweitkontrolle (ZK) 6–8
Monate und bei Letztkontrolle (LK) durchschnittlich 13 Monate nach
Erstvorstellung ein möglicher gastrolaryngealer Reflux sowie die Symptome
(Räusperneigung, Heiserkeit, hypertone Fehlkompensation) erfasst und eine
Videolaryngostroboskopie durchgeführt. Das erfolgte Therapieverfahren
(Räusperverbot, Stimmtherapie, Antazidatherapie, operative Abtragung oder
Kombinationen) wurde dokumentiert. Bei der EK, ZK und LK wurden die „Komplette
Remissionsgruppe“ und die „Inkomplette Remissionsgruppe“ hinsichtlich der
Symptome, Befunde und der angewandten Therapie statistisch miteinander
verglichen.

Ergebnisse Räuspern war ein wichtiger Cofaktor für die Entstehung eines
KG. Obwohl sich kein überlegenes Therapieverfahren bei unserem Kollektiv ergab,
fand sich eine Gesamtremissionsrate in ca. ⅔ der Fälle. Auch in der „Inkomplette
Remissionsgruppe“ ließen sich die Beschwerden der Patienten deutlich senken.
Chirurgische Abtragungen von KG neigten signifikant häufiger zu Rezidiven.

Diskussion Auch wenn sich kein überlegenes Therapieverfahren in unserem
Kollektiv herauskristallisierte, empfehlen wir bei KG eine symptomatische
Therapie mit gutem Erfolg. Primäre chirurgische Abtragungen sind wegen der
Rezidivneigung nicht empfehlenswert.
Analyse der Notfallpatienten einer Universitäts-HNO-Notfallambulanz
Authors: Kuhr Elisa , Werner Jochen A. , Dietz Andreas , Wiegand Susanne
Published: June 2019

Hintergrund Patientenzahlen in Notaufnahmen nehmen in den letzten Jahren kontinuierlich zu. Das Aufsuchen der Notfallambulanz einer Klinik sagt jedoch
nichts über die wahre Dringlichkeit der Behandlung aus. Ziel war es, das Patientenaufkommen der Notfallambulanz einer Universitäts-HNO-Klinik zu
analysieren.

Methoden Alle Patienten, die sich 2014 als Notfall in einer HNO-Universitätsklinik vorstellten, wurden hinsichtlich demographischer Daten, Zeitpunkt der
Vorstellung, Art der Einweisung, Diagnosen und Diagnostik sowie Therapie evaluiert.

Ergebnisse 4234 Patienten wurden als Notfall behandelt. 56 % stellten sich ohne Überweisung auf eigene Initiative vor, 24 % wurden vom Allgemeinmediziner
oder HNO-Facharzt überwiesen, 8 % kamen mit dem Rettungswagen. 66 % der Patienten stellten sich außerhalb der regulären Arbeitszeiten vor, das höchste
Notfallaufkommen bestand samstags, gefolgt von freitags und sonntags. Die zehn häufigsten Diagnosen waren Epistaxis, peripher-vestibulärer Schwindel, Cerumen
obturans, Tinnitus, Otitis externa und media, Tonsillitis, Nasenbeinfraktur, Hörsturz und Sinusitis. 715 Patienten (17 %) wurden stationär aufgenommen. Bei 123
Patienten erfolgte eine Operation in ITN und bei 204 Patienten in LA. Die häufigste Diagnose eigeninitiativ vorgestellter Patienten war Cerumen obturans, bei 8
% der eigeninitiativ vorgestellten Patienten konnte kein pathologischer Befund erhoben werden.

Schlussfolgerung Da am Standort kein Notdienst niedergelassener HNO-Ärzte für die Patienten außerhalb normaler Praxisöffnungszeiten zur Verfügung steht,
wird diese Versorgungslücke durch die Notfallambulanz der HNO-Uniklinik geschlossen. Eine Triagierung der Patienten ist notwendig, um die echten Notfälle von
den leichten Fällen zu unterscheiden.
Macrophages as a Cell-Based Therapy for Liver Disease
Authors: Starkey Lewis Philip J. , Moroni Francesca , Forbes Stuart J.
Published: June 2019

Liver failure arising from acute and chronic liver disease is an unmet clinical need that urgently requires novel therapeutic options in addition to orthotopic liver transplantation. Cell therapies offer new strategies to recover liver function through the reconstitution of healthy parenchyma and resolution of tissue pathology. Macrophages are professional phagocytes that comprise a key part of the innate immune system providing an important defense mechanism against invading pathogens. Macrophages are an inherently diverse cell type with respect to ontogeny, tissue distribution, phenotype, and function. The ability of macrophages to afford innate immunity, efficiently scavenge apoptotic/necrotic cells, and modulate local tissue microenvironment makes them an attractive cell therapy candidate for various diseases. This review aims to outline the rationale and utility of macrophages to serve as a potential cell therapy for liver disease.
A Critical Review of MELD as a Reliable Tool for Transplant Prioritization
Authors: Sacleux Sophie-Caroline , Samuel Didier
Published: June 2019

In a context of global organ shortage, the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score seems to be a fair prioritization tool, with a paradigm: “sickest first.” Since its introduction in the United States in 2002, it has been rapidly adopted by transplant centers and organ sharing agencies around the world. The MELD score showed its effectiveness with a 12% reduction in waiting list mortality in the United States. Its success is linked to its simplicity, the use of basic variables (serum creatinine, serum bilirubin, and international normalized ratio [INR]), and its ability to predict short-term mortality, particularly on the transplant waiting list. However, this score is not perfect: its variables may have disadvantages for some patients, especially women, with serum creatinine and interlaboratory variability of the INR. The MELD score does not take into account some variables associated with poor short-term prognosis in cirrhotic patients. In addition, it is currently capped at 40, which results in the exclusion of sicker patients who could greatly benefit from transplantation. Finally, the MELD score does not accurately reflect the prognosis of several conditions, requiring a MELD exception system. Some solutions have been suggested such as MELD-Na or MELD uncapping, but it has not yet been fully accepted by all transplant centers.