bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pituitary response to GnRH stimulation tests in different FSHB-211 G/T genotypes
Authors: Sansone Andrea , Schubert Maria , Tüttelmann Frank , Krallmann Claudia , Zitzmann Michael , Kliesch Sabine , Gromoll Jörg 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

STUDY QUESTION
Does pituitary response to a GnRH stimulation test differ according to the different FSHB-211 G/T genotypes?

SUMMARY ANSWER
The promoter polymorphism FSHB-211 G &gt; T affects the pituitary response to exogenous GnRH stimulation by reducing FSH and increasing LH outputs.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY
The FSHB-211 G &gt; T single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) is known to affect pituitary FSH output by impairing the transcriptional activity of FSHB.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION
This was a cross-sectional, retrospective study on 67 male subjects (mean age: 24.6 ± 10.3 years) undergoing a GnRH stimulation test for diagnostic purposes in cases of secondary hypogonadism.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS
A GnRH stimulation test was performed by administering an i.v. bolus of 100 µg of the GnRH-analogue gonadorelin acetate to all patients, with blood samples drawn from the cubital vein immediately prior to injection (T0) and 30 (T1) and 45 minutes (T2) after. Clinical and genetic data were retrieved from a computerized database. Linear longitudinal mixed-effect models were used to assess the effects of SNP genotype on FSH and LH levels over time via additive and recessive models.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE
An overall marked increase in serum FSH and LH following administration i.v. of 100 µg of an LHRH-analogue was found (P &lt; 0.0001 for linear trend, both models). Peak levels of LH were significantly higher in TT carriers than in GT and GG carriers (P = 0.012); no significant between-groups difference was found concerning stimulated FSH levels. In both the additive and recessive model, the main effect of T allele(s) did not reach statistical significance concerning FSH levels (P = 0.9502 and P = 0.8576, respectively), yet interaction effects over time demonstrated an attenuated response in T-allele carriers compared to the GG-allele carriers (P = 0.0219 and P = 0.0276). Main and interaction effects for LH were significant in both the additive (P = 0.0022 and P = 0.0013, respectively) and recessive model (P = 0.0025 and P = 0.0016, respectively).

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION
Given the retrospective nature of the study and the small number of TT carriers, results should be interpreted with caution.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS
The FSHB c.-211G&gt;T polymorphism might result in an impaired response to endogenous, as well as exogenous, GnRH stimulation. This finding might contribute to the clinical phenotype of reduced testicular volume and sperm count for patients carrying one or two T alleles.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)
Parts of the study were supported by the German Research Foundation (CRU326 Male Germ Cells). On behalf of all authors, the corresponding author states that there is no conflict of interest.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER
NA.
Is there still a rationale for non-invasive PGT-A by analysis of cell-free DNA released by human embryos into culture medium?
Authors: Orvieto Raoul , Aizer Adva , Gleicher Norbert 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Human embryos utilise an array of processes to eliminate the very high prevalence of aneuploid cells in early embryo stages. Human embryo self-correction was recently demonstrated by their ability to eliminate/expel abnormal blastomeres as cell debris/fragments. A whole genome amplification study has demonstrated that 63.6% of blastocysts expelled cell debris with abnormal chromosomal rearrangements. Moreover, 55.5% of euploid blastocysts expel aneuploid debris, strongly suggesting that the primary source of cell free DNA in culture media is expelled aneuploid blastomeres and/or their fragments. Such a substantial ability to self-correct downstream from the blastocyststage, therefore, renders any chromosomal diagnosis at the blastocyststage potentially useless, and this, unfortunately, also must particularly include non-invasive PGT-A based on cell-free DNA in spent medium. High rates of false-positive diagnoses of human embryos often lead to non-use and/or disposal of embryos with entirely normal pregnancy potential. Before adopting yet another round of unvalidated PGT-A as a routine adjunct to IVF, we here present facts that deserve to be considered.
Ulcerative Colitis Narrative Global Survey Findings: The Impact of Living With Ulcerative Colitis—Patients’ and Physicians’ View
Authors: Dubinsky Marla C , Watanabe Kenji , Molander Pauliina , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Rubin Michele , Melmed Gil Y , Deuring J Jasper , Woolcott John , Cappelleri Joseph C , Steinberg Kathy , Connor Susan 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Background
The Ulcerative Colitis (UC) Narrative is a global patient and physician survey aimed at identifying the impact of UC and comparing and contrasting perceptions of UC burden and management approaches.

Methods
Surveys of patients with UC (self-reported diagnosis; n = 2100) and physicians (n = 1254) were completed across 10 countries by The Harris Poll between August 2017 and February 2018. Questionnaires covered multiple aspects of UC, including diagnosis, treatment, and impact on patient quality of life, in addition to standard demographic information. Descriptive statistics are reported.

Results
The majority of patients (82%) had moderate to severe UC (based on medication history; those who had only ever taken 5-aminosalicylates were excluded); 67% described their UC as controlled with few to no symptoms. On average, patients experienced 4.3 flares (standard deviation, 7.4) in the past year. Diagnostic delay was on average 2.0 years (standard deviation, 5.4); 42% of patients waited ≥1 year. Most patients (65%) felt that UC controlled their life rather than them controlling their disease. Because of the fear of repercussions, many patients had not disclosed their UC to their employer. Discussion of the emotional impact of UC during routine appointments was less of a priority for physicians, compared with patients.

Conclusions
The data from this global survey highlight that patients with UC experience diagnostic delay, poor disease control, and adverse impact on their quality of life. Patients report UC to be a mentally exhausting condition; however, emotional and mental health issues are infrequently discussed at routine appointments.
Eleven-year outcomes of U-clips in totally robotic coronary artery bypass grafting versus standard hand-sewn running suture in robotic-assisted coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Cheng Nan , Zhang Huajun , Yang Ming , Liu Guopeng , Guo Yi , Kang Wenbin , Gao Changqing , Wang Rong 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing off-pump robotic coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with either interrupted nitinol U-Clips in totally endoscopic coronary artery bypass (TECAB) or standard running suture anastomosis in robotically assisted direct coronary artery bypass (RADCAB) over a decade.

METHODS
From January 2007 to December 2017, 280 patients underwent robotic off-pump CABG using the da Vinci S/Si Surgical System in our centre. TECAB with interrupted nitinol U-Clips anastomosis was performed in the left internal mammary artery (LIMA) to LAD grafting in 126 patients and RADCAB (n = 154) of the LIMA to LAD was completed with standard running suture. After discharge, patients were contacted through telephone interview and were invited to attend the outpatient clinic every 6 months or 1 year. The graft patency was assessed by coronary angiography or computed tomography angiography.

RESULTS
All cases were completed without conversion to median sternotomy or cardiopulmonary bypass. A total of 275 single internal mammary artery (IMA) grafts (271 LIMAs, 4 right internal mammary arteries) and 5 bilateral IMA grafts were used as single graft or composite grafts. All the patients were discharged without in-hospital mortality or adverse outcomes. The average follow-up was 89.7 ± 30.4 months (range, 14–143 months). The cumulative survival rates (P = 0.53), the cumulative IMA patency rates (P = 0.83), and the rates of freedom from major adverse cerebrovascular and cardiovascular events (P = 0.41) between TECAB and RADCAB all showed no significant difference in the follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS
Robotic off-pump CABG using IMA grafts is safe and can provide reliable long-term outcomes. Compared with the standard hand-sewn running suture technique in RADCAB, interrupted suture with the nitinol U-Clips in TECAB showed similar long-term clinical results and graft patency in LIMA to LAD bypass grafting.
Identifying longitudinal-growth patterns from infancy to childhood: a study comparing multiple clustering techniques
Authors: Massara Paraskevi , Keown-Stoneman Charles DG , Erdman Lauren , Ohuma Eric O , Bourdon Celine , Maguire Jonathon L , Comelli Elena M , Birken Catherine , Bandsma Robert HJ 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Background
Most studies on children evaluate longitudinal growth as an important health indicator. Different methods have been used to detect growth patterns across childhood, but with no comparison between them to evaluate result consistency. We explored the variation in growth patterns as detected by different clustering and latent class modelling techniques. Moreover, we investigated how the characteristics/features (e.g. slope, tempo, velocity) of longitudinal growth influence pattern detection.

Methods
We studied 1134 children from The Applied Research Group for Kids cohort with longitudinal-growth measurements [height, weight, body mass index (BMI)] available from birth until 12 years of age. Growth patterns were identified by latent class mixed models (LCMM) and time-series clustering (TSC) using various algorithms and distance measures. Time-invariant features were extracted from all growth measures. A random forest classifier was used to predict the identified growth patterns for each growth measure using the extracted features.

Results
Overall, 72 TSC configurations were tested. For BMI, we identified three growth patterns by both TSC and LCMM. The clustering agreement was 58% between LCMM and TS clusters, whereas it varied between 30.8% and 93.3% within the TSC configurations. The extracted features (n = 67) predicted the identified patterns for each growth measure with accuracy of 82%–89%. Specific feature categories were identified as the most important predictors for patterns of all tested growth measures.

Conclusion
Growth-pattern detection is affected by the method employed. This can impact on comparisons across different populations or associations between growth patterns and health outcomes. Growth features can be reliably used as predictors of growth patterns.
Research-Relevant Background Lesions and Conditions in Common Avian and Aquatic Species
Authors: Mangus Lisa M , França Monique S , Shivaprasad H L , Wolf Jeffrey C 
Published: February 2021

AbstractNon-mammalian vertebrates including birds, fish, and amphibians have a long history of contributing to ground-breaking scientific discoveries. Because these species offer several experimental advantages over higher vertebrates and share extensive anatomic and genetic homology with their mammalian counterparts, they remain popular animal models in a variety of fields such as developmental biology, physiology, toxicology, drug discovery, immunology, toxicology, and infectious disease. As with all animal models, familiarity with the anatomy, physiology, and spontaneous diseases of these species is necessary for ensuring animal welfare, as well as accurate interpretation and reporting of study findings. Working with avian and aquatic species can be especially challenging in this respect due to their rich diversity and array of unique adaptations. Here, we provide an overview of the research-relevant anatomic features, non-infectious conditions, and infectious diseases that impact research colonies of birds and aquatic animals, including fish and Xenopus species.
Non-acyclic SL2-representations of Twist Knots, -3-Dehn Surgeries, and L-functions
Authors: Tange Ryoto , Tran Anh T , Ueki Jun 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
We study irreducible $\mathop{\textrm{SL}}\nolimits _2$-representations of twist knots. We first determine all non-acyclic $\mathop{\textrm{SL}}\nolimits _2({\mathbb{C}})$-representations, which turn out to lie on a line denoted as $x=y$ in ${\mathbb{R}}^2$. Our main tools are character variety, Reidemeister torsion, and Chebyshev polynomials. We also verify a certain common tangent property, which yields a result on $L$-functions, that is, the orders of the knot modules associated to the universal deformations. Secondly, we prove that a representation is on the line $x=y$ if and only if it factors through the $-3$-Dehn surgery, and is non-acyclic if and only if the image of a certain element is of order 3. Finally, we study absolutely irreducible non-acyclic representations $\overline{\rho }$ over a finite field with characteristic $p&gt;2$, to concretely determine all non-trivial $L$-functions $L_{{\boldsymbol{\rho }}}$ of the universal deformations over complete discrete valuation rings. We show among other things that $L_{{\boldsymbol{\rho }}}$ $\dot{=}$ $k_n(x)^2$ holds for a certain series $k_n(x)$ of polynomials.
Farey Sequences for Thin Groups
Authors: Lutsko Christopher 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The Farey sequence is the set of rational numbers with bounded denominator. We introduce the concept of a generalized Farey sequence. While these sequences arise naturally in the study of discrete and thin subgroups, they can be used to study interesting number theoretic sequences—for example rationals whose continued fraction partial quotients are subject to congruence conditions. We show that these sequences equidistribute and the gap distribution converges and answer an associated problem in Diophantine approximation. Moreover, for one example, we derive an explicit formula for the gap distribution. For this example, we construct the analogue of the Gauss measure, which is ergodic for the Gauss map. This allows us to prove a theorem about the associated Gauss–Kuzmin statistics.
Nilpotent Higgs Bundles and the Hodge Metric on the Calabi–Yau Moduli
Authors: Li Qiongling 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
We study an algebraic inequality for nilpotent matrices and show some interesting geometric applications: (i) obtaining topological information for nilpotent polystable Higgs bundles over a compact Riemann surface; (ii) obtaining a sharp upper bound of the holomorphic sectional curvatures of the period domain and the Hodge metric on the Calabi–Yau moduli.
Effects of protein source and lipid supplementation on conservation and feed value of total mixed ration silages for finishing beef cattle
Authors: Lazzari Gustavo , Poppi Amanda C O , Machado Juliana , Bueno Antonio V I , Gomes Ana L M , Jobim Clóves C , Daniel João L P 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The objective of this study was to examine the conservation process and feed value of total mixed ration (TMR) silages. In exp. 1, we evaluated the fermentation pattern and aerobic stability of TMR silages containing different protein and lipid supplementations. In exp. 2, we compared the performance of finishing beef heifers fed those TMR silages. In both experiments, treatments were as follows: ensiled TMR with urea (U); ensiled TMR without a protein supplement at ensiling, but soybean meal supplemented at feeding to balance diet crude protein (CP) in exp. 2 (SMnf; where the acronym nf indicates nonfermented); ensiled TMR with soybean meal (SM); and ensiled TMR with rolled soybean grain (SG). Thirty-two Nellore heifers (313 ± 8.8 kg shrunk body weight [SBW]) were blocked by initial SBW, housed in individual pens, and enrolled in exp. 2 for 82 d. In exp. 1, treatment without a protein supplement (SMnf) had a lower content of CP, soluble CP, NH3-N, pH, and Clostridium count compared with U (P ≤ 0.03). Lactic acid concentrations tended to be reduced for SMnf compared with U (P = 0.09). Ethanol concentration was reduced in SG compared with SM (P &lt; 0.01). 1,2-Propanediol concentration was increased in SMnf compared with U (P &lt; 0.01), reduced in SM compared with SMnf (P = 0.02), and increased in SG compared with SM (P = 0.02). Dry matter (DM) loss during fermentation was low and similar among treatments (~3.7%). All silages remained stable during 10 d of aerobic exposure after feed out. Considering fermentation traits, such as pH (≤4.72), NH3-N (&lt;10% of N, except for U treatment), butyric acid (&lt;0.05 % DM), and DM losses (&lt;3.70% DM), all silages can be considered well conserved. In exp. 2, diets were isonitrogenous because soybean meal was added to SMnf before feeding. Compared with SM, cattle fed SG made more meals per day (P = 0.04) and tended to have a decreased intermeal interval (P = 0.09). DM intake, average daily gain, final SBW, hot carcass weight, Biceps femoris fat thickness, and serum levels of triglycerides and cholesterol were increased for SG compared with SM (P ≤ 0.05). In brief, TMR silages exhibited an adequate fermentation pattern and high aerobic stability. The supplementation of true protein did not improve animal performance, whereas the addition of soybean grain as a lipid source improved the performance of finishing cattle fed TMR silages.
Institutional Experience Using a Treatment Algorithm for Electrical Injury
Authors: Nisar Saira , Keyloun John W , Kolachana Sindhura , McLawhorn Melissa M , Moffatt Lauren T , Travis Taryn E , Shupp Jeffrey W , Johnson Laura S 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Electrical injury has low incidence but is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Variability in diagnosis and management among clinicians can lead to unnecessary testing. This study examines the utility of an electrical injury treatment algorithm by comparing the incidence of testing done on a cohort of patients before and after implementation. Demographics, injury characteristics, and treatment information were collected for patients arriving to a regional burn center with the diagnosis of electrical injury from January 2013 to September 2018. Results were compared for patients admitted before and after the implementation of an electrical injury treatment algorithm in July 2015. There were 56 patients in the pre-algorithm cohort and 38 in the post-algorithm cohort who were of similar demographics. The proportion of creatine kinase (82% vs 47%, P &lt; .0006), troponin (79% vs 34%, P &lt; .0001), and urinary myoglobin (80% vs 45%, P &lt; .0007) testing in the pre-algorithm cohort was significantly higher compared to post-algorithm cohort. There were more days of telemetry monitoring (median [IQR], 1 [1–5] vs 1 [1-1] days, P = .009) and greater ICU length of stays (4 [1–5] vs 1 [1-1] days, P = .009), prior to algorithm implementation. There were no significant differences in total hospital lengths of stay, incidence of ICU admissions, in-hospital mortality, or 30-day readmissions. This study demonstrates an electrical injury evaluation and treatment algorithm suggests a mode of triage to cardiac monitoring and hospital admission where necessary. Use of this algorithm allowed for reduction in testing and health care costs without increasing mortality or readmission rates.
Airfoil profile reconstruction from unorganized noisy point cloud data
Authors: Ghorbani Hamid , Khameneifar Farbod 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Airfoil blades are typically inspected in sections to verify their conformance to the geometric tolerances specified on their nominal design. To maintain the accuracy of geometric error evaluation, in particular, for the position and orientation errors of the airfoil sections, sectional airfoil profiles should be reconstructed from the inspection data points. This paper presents a new method to automatically reconstruct the airfoil profile from unorganized noisy sectional data points of 3D scanned blades. A three-step airfoil profile reconstruction approach is presented. First, the algorithm thins the scattered set of sectional data points by projecting them onto the local curves fitted to them. For this purpose, a recursive weighted local least-squares scheme is proposed to fit local curves within the measurement uncertainty constraint of inspection data. Then, to order the thinned set of data points, the profile polygon is generated and imperfect nodes are modified by evaluation of the angular deviation of edges. Finally, a closed nonperiodic B-spline curve is fitted to the thinned and ordered set of data points to construct the smooth airfoil profile. A series of case studies have been carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed airfoil profile reconstruction method. Implementation results have demonstrated that the proposed method is accurate and robust to noise. In addition to blade inspection, other applications such as repair and adaptive machining of aero-engine blades can equally benefit from the proposed method for automatic airfoil profile reconstruction.
Islam from the Inside Out: ʿAyn al-Quḍāt Hamadānī’s Reconception of Islam as Vector
Authors: Boylston Nicholas 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Against the backdrop of recent work on how ‘Islam’ should be understood as a scholarly category, this article focuses in on one particularly striking insider definition of Islam: ‘Islam is whatever takes a man to God, and infidelity (kufr) is whatever prevents a man from the Way of God’. Articulated by the sixth/twelfth century Sufi ʿAyn al-Quḍāt Hamadānī, who was executed on charges of heresy in 526/1131, this definition works as a key component in its author’s critical and constructive projects. Whilst forming part of a vociferous critique of interpretations of Islam as presented by the scholars of jurisprudence and theology, the definition also plays a central role in ʿAyn al-Quḍāt’s reconceptualization of Islam as the dynamic and ever-changing Way to God, rather than a set of fixed doctrines and practices. In this article, I interpret this definition in light of ʿAyn al-Quḍāt’s complex, multifaceted and highly original theory of religious difference, which I suggest provides a theoretical framework in which it becomes evident that ʿAyn al-Quḍāt meant his definition to be taken literally.
Legal provisions for enforcing social distancing to guard against COVID-19: the case of Hong Kong
Authors: Lau Janice Y C , Lee Shui-Shan 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The implementation of social distancing measures through legal regulations to contain an epidemiologic outbreak has received little research attention. We reviewed and synthesized data on epidemiology, mobility trends and enforcement activities in the first 5 months of the COVID-19 epidemic in Hong Kong to examine the effectiveness of the newly enacted social distancing regulations. Data collected showed reduced patronage of retail and recreational activities during the epidemic. The regulations’ enforcement could be inferred from the increase in the number of inspections, verbal warnings given to operators of scheduled premises and to people in public gatherings, but which rarely led to prosecutions. In parallel, the number of reported COVID-19 cases became stabilized. Our analyses suggested that public compliance with social distancing regulations could be maintained through promotional efforts without enforcement by prosecution. The adverse impacts of prolonged social distancing on the economy and citizens’ social and psychological well-being were, however, of concern.