bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A-234 Weight for It: Comparing Statistical Methods for Aggregating Cognition Data
Authors: B Ivins , J Arrieux , W Cole 
Published: August 2020

Abstract

Objective
In statistics, larger sample studies are assumed to more accurately reflect the population mean and thus assumed to have less random error. We use an overall test battery mean (OTMB) from the D-KEFS taken from two different studies to evaluate two methods of weighting means when aggregating data: Method 1, assuming that larger studies have less error and thus giving their variances more weight and Method 2, assuming equal error and uncertainty across studies and assigning equal weight to variances from all studies.

Methods
The OTBM from seven D-KEFS achievement scores was calculated from a D-KEFS normative sample (n = 854), and aggregated with the same D-KEFS OTBM from a healthy military sample (n = 246). Weighted averages were calculated for selected points from the distributions of scores (e.g., mean, median, etc.). Variances, standard errors, and 95% confidence intervals for the weighted means were calculated using Method 1 and Method 2, as described above.

Results
The weighted mean OTBM from both samples was 51.48. The variance, standard error, and confidence interval using Method 1 were 11.63, 2.41, and 46.76–56.21, respectively, and using Method 2 were 16.74, 4.09, and 43.6–59.50, respectively.

Conclusion
Method 1 results in weighted means with less variability, though may result in larger studies disproportionately reducing measurement error. Method 2 results in greater variances, standard errors, and wider confidence intervals and somewhat mutes the impact of larger studies. Researchers should consider the implications for their results when choosing a method for assessing the precision of their weighted means.
A-236 Concurrent Validity of the Paper-Match in a Diverse Population
Authors: C Veloz , E Weiss , E Ayers , K Possin , J Verghese 
Published: August 2020

Abstract

Introduction
Symbol and digit substitution tasks are key instruments in the evaluation of attention, speed of processing, executive functioning, and cognitive dysfunction. The Match is an electronic (app-based) substitution task developed as part of the University of California San Francisco Brain Health Assessment that has been used to demonstrate cognitive impairment. We describe the paper-based oral symbol/number substitution task (Paper-Match), which was developed as part of the 5-Cog battery to assess for cognitive impairment including dementia and demonstrate it’s use in an urban, multi-ethnic, socioeconomically disadvantaged primary care population in Bronx NY.

Method
109 participants, mean age 72.61 SD 6.42 and education 11.70 SD 3.82 years, 81% female, 48.6% Hispanic/Latino and 47.7% African American seen as part of 5-Cog. Participants (36.7% tested in Spanish) completed the Paper-Match (scored based on the number of correct matches in 90 seconds) and a comprehensive neuropsychological battery. Descriptive and correlational analysis were conducted.

Results
Mean Paper-Match score was 38.24 SD 11.83 items correct (range 4–51). Paper-Match performance was highly correlated with performance on the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (r = .819, p &lt; .001) and moderately correlated with performance on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA; r = .604, p &lt; .001). Years of education and primary language impacted performances.

Conclusion
The results of this study provide the initial description and validation of the Paper-Match an oral symbol digit substitution task and its use in a diverse population of older primary care patients. Further research on the psychometric properties and construct validity of the Paper-Match are needed.
A-239 Cost of Neuropsychological Evaluation Comparable to Neuroimaging in the Eastern USA
Authors: N Kurniadi , J Davis , K Kitchen-Andren , C Mullen , S Rolin 
Published: August 2020

Abstract

Objective
Anecdotal evidence indicates a belief among physicians that neuropsychological evaluation is more expensive than brain imaging procedures. Another concern is that neuropsychological evaluations are a limited resource to be utilized sparingly, likely due to insurance limits on the annual allowable units of neuropsychological evaluation. This study aimed to contextualize the cost of neuropsychological evaluation relative to common neuroimaging studies used in conditions seen by neuropsychologists.

Data Selection
Publically available fee schedules from 27 hospitals in the eastern U.S. were reviewed to identify standard costs of head CT, brain MRI, and 5- and 8-hour neuropsychological evaluations conducted with technicians.

Data Synthesis
Head CT averaged $2963 (range $282–$6007) and brain MRI averaged $4857 (range $834–$11,524). Five-hour evaluations using technicians averaged $2080 (range $698–$4165). Eight-hour evaluations using technicians averaged $3289 (range $1104–$6657).

Conclusions
Contrary to anecdotal concerns, neuropsychological evaluations do not appear more expensive than brain neuroimaging procedures in several eastern U.S. hospitals. Focused neuropsychological evaluations comparable to or less than head CT procedure cost. Comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations are comparable to or less than MRI brain procedure cost. These preliminary findings may dispel the notion that neuropsychological evaluations are more costly than brain imaging. Additional research is needed in all regions of the U.S.
A-254 A Pediatric Case Study of Mild Intellectual Disability in the Context of Complex Chiari Malformation, Hydrocephalus, Cleft Palette, and Complex Psychosocial Environment
Authors: C Haak , E Chin 
Published: August 2020

Abstract

Objective
Chiari malformation is a congenital condition involving structural skull defects, causing brain tissue herniation and likely resulting in hydrocephalus. People with these medical conditions are at risk for varied cognitive impairments. Recently, emerging evidence has suggested the co-occurrence of Chiari malformation and cleft palette contributing to increased cognitive challenges, highlighting the importance of introducing interventions in a timely manner.

Method
This case study presents on the neuropsychological profile of an 11-year-old girl with a medical history of complex Chiari malformation with accompanying hydrocephalus and syringomyelia, and lymphangioma born with cleft palette. Relevant social history includes recent parent separation and unstable home life. Presenting concerns included intermittent hand weakness and headaches status post 5 surgeries related to Chiari malformation and hydrocephalus, inattention/impulsivity, learning difficulties, and increased emotional and behavioral dysregulation.

Results
Neuropsychological testing revealed impairments in intellectual functioning (WISC-V FSIQ = 64), adaptive skills, attention/executive functioning, language, visuomotor skills, memory, and academic skills. Significant emotional and behavior adjustment problems were indicated, secondary to medical treatment, resulting physical limitations, and psychosocial stressors. Finally, staring spells episodes were observed that were concerning for possible seizure activity.

Conclusions
Recommendations were given to aid in treatment planning for her referring neurosurgeon alongside clinical interventions (e.g., psychotherapy, social work, speech/language, and occupational therapy). Recommendations related to continued intensive special education services were also provided. This case study demonstrates the need for further understanding cognitive impairment in the context of Chiari malformation with co-occurring hydrocephalus and cleft palette. Multidisciplinary collaboration is essential to facilitate the prompt introduction of appropriate clinical interventions.
The costs of ignoring species detectability on functional diversity estimation
Authors: Palacio Facundo Xavier , Maragliano René E , Montalti Diego 
Published: August 2020

AbstractFunctional diversity (FD) approaches have been increasingly used to understand ecosystem functioning in bird communities. These approaches typically rely on the assumption that species are perfectly detected in the field, despite the fact that imperfect detection represents a ubiquitous source of bias in biodiversity studies. This may be notably important in FD studies, because detection may depend on the functional traits used to compute FD metrics. However, little effort has been devoted to account for imperfect detection in FD studies, and therefore the degree to which species traits and detectability affects FD remains poorly understood. We predict that observed FD metrics may either underestimate or overestimate detection-corrected FD, because FD has multiple independent dimensions with different data properties. We assessed whether detection was related to bird traits (body mass, diet, and foraging stratum), accounting for habitat type, season, and phylogeny. We then used a multi-species occupancy model to obtain detection-corrected FD metrics (functional richness [FRic], functional evenness [FEve], and functional divergence [FDiv]), and compared observed and detection-corrected FD estimates in bird communities from east-central Argentina. Some functional types of birds (raptors and insectivores) were more easily overlooked, whereas others (seed and leaf eaters) were more easily detected. Some observed FD metrics underestimated detection-corrected FD (FRic and FDiv), whereas some others (FEve) overestimated detection-corrected FD. Both observed and detection-corrected FRic revealed differences between seasons, but not between habitat types. However, detection-corrected FEve and FDiv showed differences between seasons, contrary to observed estimates. Our results indicate that failure to account for unequal ease of detecting species can lead to erroneous estimates of FD because some functional types of birds are more easily overlooked. We outline some guidelines to help ornithologists identifying under which circumstances detection may be a concern and warn against the indiscriminate use of FD metrics without accounting for species detection.
Seminal plasma AnnexinA2 protein is a relevant biomarker for stallions which require removal of seminal plasma for sperm survival upon refrigeration†
Authors: Gaitskell-Phillips Gemma , Martín-Cano Francisco E , Ortiz-Rodríguez José M , Silva-Rodríguez Antonio , Rodríguez-Martínez Heriberto , Gil Maria C , Ortega-Ferrusola Cristina , Peña Fernando J 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Some stallions yield ejaculates that do not tolerate conservation by refrigeration prior to artificial insemination (AI), showing improvement after removal of most of the seminal plasma (SP) by centrifugation. In this study, the SP-proteome of 10 different stallions was defined through high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry and bioinformatic analysis in relation to the ability of the ejaculates to maintain semen quality when cooled and stored at 5°C. Stallions were classified into three groups, depending on this ability: those maintaining good quality after direct extension in a commercial extender (good), stallions requiring removal of seminal plasma (RSP) to maintain seminal quality (good-RSP), and stallions, unable to maintain good semen quality even after RSP (poor). Pathway enrichment analysis of the proteins identified in whole equine SP using human orthologs was performed using g: profiler showing enriched Reactome and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways related to hexose metabolism, vesicle mediated transport, post translational modification of proteins and immune response. Specific proteins overrepresented in stallions tolerating conservation by refrigeration included a peroxiredoxin-6 like protein, and transcobalamin-2, a primary vitamin B12-binding, and transport protein. Also, the protein involved in protein glycosylation, ST3 beta-galactoside alpha-2,3-sialyltransferase 1 was present in good stallions. These proteins were nearly absent in poor stallions. Particularly, annexinA2 appeared as to be the most powerful discriminant variable for identification of stallions needing RSP prior to refrigeration, with a P = 0.002 and a q value = 0.005. Overall this is the first detailed study of the equine SP-proteome, showing the potential value of specific proteins as discriminant bio-markers for clinical classification of stallions for AI.
Does reproductive mode affect sexually-selected coloration? Evaluating UV–blue spots in parthenogenetic and bisexual lizards of the genusDarevskia
Authors: Abramjan Andran , Arakelyan Marine , Frynta Daniel 
Published: August 2020

AbstractSexual selection often leads to evolution of conspicuous signals, raising the chances of attracting not only potential mates, but also predators. In lacertid lizards, ultraviolet (UV)–blue spots on flanks and shoulders represent such a trait. Some level of correlation between male and female ornamentation is also known to exist. Therefore, the phenotype of females may change in the absence of sexual selection. We tested this hypothesis on a complex of parthenogenetic and bisexual lizards of the genus Darevskia. We evaluated area, counts, and chromatic properties (UV opponency, saturation) of UV–blue spots and compared the values between the clones and their bisexual progenitor species. We found a fair heterogeneity between the parthenogenetic species, but no general tendency toward higher crypsis or conspicuousness. Values of the parthenogens were not significantly different from the values of sexual females. A possible explanation is that the changes in selective forces associated with parthenogenetic reproduction are too small to affect the resulting pattern of selective pressures on the studied traits, or that the phenotypes of the parthenogens result from the unique combination of parental genomes and are conserved by clonal reproduction.
Antemortem diagnosis of nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis in a patient with previously resected pancreatic adenocarcinoma: a case report
Authors: Muhammadzai Hamza Zahid Ullah , Shavadia Jay , Okpalauwaekwe Udoka , Haddad Haissam 
Published: August 2020

Abstract

Background
Nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) is a rare manifestation of a number of systemic diseases, which include advanced malignancy and hypercoagulable states.

Case summary
We present a 67-year-old woman who had presented with chest pain and heart failure. Eight years ago, she had a successful Whipple resection for pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Echocardiography revealed mitral valve vegetations with negative blood cultures. She had multiple infarcts in the kidney, spleen, and brain. She was found to have a mass in the left 8th rib, consistent with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma on biopsy. Ultimately, a diagnosis of NBTE was made after excluding other causes for her presentation. Because of her general poor condition, she expressed the wish for palliative care and later died 28 days after presentation.

Discussion
This case illustrates the possibility of NBTE in patients successfully treated for pancreatic adenocarcinoma and highlights the consideration of this relatively rare differential in patients with a previously treated malignancy presenting with heart failure.
Case report: spontaneous coronary artery dissection and suspicion of takotsubo cardiomyopathy in a patient presenting with T-wave inversions, severe QTc prolongation, elevated cardiac biomarkers, and apical akinesia
Authors: Frederiksen Kåre Peter , Søholm Helle , Havndrup Ole , Procida Kristina 
Published: August 2020

Abstract

Background
In patients suspected of acute coronary syndrome, but where the coronary angiography (CAG) has shown unobstructed coronary arteries differential diagnoses include spontaneous coronary artery dissection and takotsubo cardiomyopathy. This case report presents a patient with spontaneous coronary artery dissection but diagnostic signs suspicious of takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Which leads to a consideration of the co-existence of the diseases.

Case summary
A 57-year-old woman was acutely admitted to the emergency ward with sudden development of chest discomfort, palpitations, and dyspnoea. At hospitalization, the electrocardiography showed T-wave inversions in I, aVL, and V2, and Troponin I was elevated. Initial echocardiography revealed apical akinesia consistent with takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Initially, a diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome or takotsubo cardiomyopathy was suspected. The patient was further diagnostically assessed with CAG including optical coherence tomography which showed spontaneous coronary artery dissection in the left anterior descending artery. At follow-up 3 months later, CAG showed a fully healed coronary artery, and repeated echocardiography showed normalization of the left ventricular function.

Discussion
In this case report, initially, acute coronary syndrome was suspected due to electrocardiography with T-wave inversions and elevated cardiac biomarkers. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy was suspected when echocardiography showed apical ballooning, but CAG with optical coherence tomography revealed a spontaneous coronary artery dissection. Interestingly no severe obstructions of coronary arteries were seen, and follow-up echocardiography showed fully regained myocardial function. This leads to the debate as to whether this might be a case of co-existing spontaneous coronary artery dissection and takotsubo cardiomyopathy.
Novel oral anticoagulants in intracardiac thrombosis resolution: a case series
Authors: Al-Sadawi Mohammed , Francois Jonathan , Rodriguez Ortega Romy , Capric Violeta , Budzikowski Adam S 
Published: August 2020

Abstract

Background
Vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) have been regarded as the therapy of choice for intracardiac thrombosis for decades based mostly on observational data. The advent of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) has displaced VKAs as the first-line therapy for multiple thrombotic disorders but not for intracardiac thrombosis. Although limited, there is growing evidence that DOACs are effective for intracardiac thrombosis and some data suggest that thrombus resolution might be superior to that with warfarin.

Case summary
Here, we present a series of six patients with left atrial appendage thrombi were treated with a venous thromboembolic dose of DOACs with resolution within 2–6 months with no reported complications.

Discussion
This case series adds to the accumulating evidence supporting the efficacy of DOACs in the treatment of intracardiac thrombi.
Austerity
Authors: Dellas Harris , Niepelt Dirk 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
We study the optimal debt and investment decisions of a sovereign with private information. The separating equilibrium is characterised by a cap on the current account. A sovereign repays debt amount due that exceeds default costs in order to signal creditworthiness and smooth consumption. Accepting funding conditional on investment/reforms relaxes borrowing constraints, even when investment does not create collateral, but it depresses current consumption. The model contains the signalling elements emphasised by creditors in the Greek austerity programmes and is consistent with the reduction in the loans issued by Greece and their interest rate following the 2015 election.
May Measurement Month 2018: an analysis of blood pressure screening results from Republic of the Congo
Authors: Ellenga Mbolla Bertrand F , Kouala Landa Christian M , Bakekolo Paterne R , Makani Bassakouahou Jospin K , Bouithy Sabrina N , Eyeni-Sinomono Tony , Bianza Jean-R , Ossou-Nguiet Paul-M , Bani Aloise M , Kimpamboudi Aubierge , Beaney Thomas , Ster Anca Chis , Poulter Neil R , Xia Xin , Kimbally Kaky Suzy-G 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
To determine the proportion with hypertension among opportunistic screenees in the Republic of the Congo. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Republic of the Congo in May 2018. This screening was done in urban and rural areas that included Brazzaville, Pointe-Noire, District of Ngoyo, and District of Nkayi. The study protocol was provided by the International Society of Hypertension, and local ethical clearance was obtained. The data were processed by the May Measurement Month global project team. In total, 6169 people were screened, 2418 of which were female (39.2%). Most of the people screened were from 18 to 29 years old (n = 4184, 67.8%). The proportion of hypertension found was 22.2% (n = 1371). Among the hypertensive patients, 40.2% were aware of their hypertension, but only 493 (36.0%) were on antihypertensive treatment, and only 16.0% were controlled. The frequency of diabetes was 2.2% (n = 135), 2.3% (n = 139) had a previous stroke, and overweight and obesity were present in 15.4% (n = 952) and 7.3% (n = 449), respectively. Hypertension is frequent in the Republic of the Congo, and levels of awareness, treatment and control are low. Actions are needed to increase access of all to a correct diagnosis and treatment of hypertension to achieve universal health coverage.
Analysis of blood pressure and selected cardiovascular risk factors in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: the May Measurement Month 2018 results
Authors: Buila Nathan B , Ngoyi Georges N , Bayauli Pascal M , Katamba Fortunat K , Lubenga Yves N , Kazadi Serge M , Kiadi Glodie D , Lepira François B , Kabanda Gilbert K , Kika Mireille L , Beaney Thomas , Ster Anca Chis , Poulter Neil R , M’Buyamba-Kabangu Jean-René ,   MMM18/DRC investigators, Balazire Flory , Bazayidio Jonas , Bokengola Lumba , Bulungwe Paulin , Engua Fortune , Ilunga Fortune , Gingulula Joséphine , Kalema Alida , Kamba Rabbi , Kanyinda Emmanuel , Kinzomba Benedicte , Kitambala Dodo , Kumbi Lassi , Lugemba Chloé , Lundoloka Chadrack , Mande Dessy , Mayengele Yannick , Mbowa Donatien , Mbuyi Patience , Mpia Jules , Mubili Christelle , Mushiya Françoise , Ndombe Pamu , Nsatebe Sarah , N’Sembe Eunice , Olenga Samuel , Otchia Patric , Saka Lysette , Tamouk Israël , Tankama Didier , Taty Fidélité , Wende Augustin 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Hypertension (HT) is the largest contributor to cardiovascular disease mortality and is characterized by high prevalence and low awareness, treatment, and control rates in sub-Saharan Africa. May Measurement Month (MMM) is an international campaign intended to increase awareness of high blood pressure (BP) among the population and advocate for its importance to the health authorities. This study aimed to increase awareness of raised BP in a country where its nationwide prevalence is yet unestablished. Investigators trained and tested how to use the campaign materials, collected participants’ demographic data, lifestyle habits, and obtained from each one three BP measurements. Hypertension was defined as a BP ≥140/90 mmHg, or use of antihypertensive medication. Of the 18 719 screened (mean age 41 years; 61.4% men), 26.1% were found to be hypertensive of whom 46.3% were aware of their condition and 29.6% were taking antihypertensive medication. The control rate of HT was 43.0% in those on medication and 12.7% among all hypertensive respondents. Comorbidities found were—diabetes (3.3%), overweight/obesity (35.5%); and a previous stroke and a previous myocardial infarction were reported by 1.2% and 2.0%, respectively. Imputed age- and sex-standardized BP was higher in treated hypertensive individuals (135/85 mmHg) than those not treated (124/78 mmHg). Based on linear regression models adjusted for age and sex (and an interaction) and antihypertensive medication, stroke survivors, those who drank once or more per week (vs. never/rarely), and overweight/obese participants were associated with higher BP. MMM18 results in the Democratic Republic of the Congo corroborated the high prevalence of HT in Kinshasa screenees with low rates of treatment and control. Extension of the MMM campaign to other parts of the country is advisable.