bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reporting results with (Un)certainty
Authors: Moore A Russell , Freeman Kathleen 
Published: June 2019

AbstractBackgroundA degree of uncertainty occurs with every measured laboratory result due to both analytical and biological variation. The tools of Total Observed error (TEO) and dispersion based on biological variation have helped veterinary labs quantify the causes of variation that lead to measurement uncertainty (MU). International organizations recommend that the amount of MU in veterinary laboratory results be identified and communicated. The expanded measurement uncertainty (EMU), dispersion, and reporting interval adjustment have been recommended as tools to allow communication of MU to laboratory data users but are not commonly discussed in the veterinary literature.ObjectiveUsing the vocabulary of Total Observed error and biological variation and examples from veterinary medicine, a review of the theory and application of the EMU, dispersion, and the methods for deriving an appropriate reporting interval recommended by Hawkins and Badrick, is presented.ConclusionsBy addressing the way that MU is communicated to users of laboratory results, the laboratory enables users to better understand the potential uncertainty associated with reported results, helps to prevent over and under‐interpretation of data, and improves diagnostic accuracy and patient care.
Integrated Wheelchair-Compatible Support System for Sit-To-Stand Movements Support
Authors: Shiraishi Ryoichiro , Kawamoto Hiroaki , Sankai Yoshiyuki 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
This study proposes a novel integrated wheelchair-compatible support system for wheelchair users with partial or complete paralysis. This system not only provides sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit (STS) learning support for stroke and spinal cord injury patients but also enhances the independence of wheelchair users. It integrates a lower limb movement support unit with a wheelchair and supports STS movement by moving the seat up and down linearly. It also measures the ground reaction force (GRF) on both sides of the body and supports proper STS movement to allow users to improve their movements and postures. Individual experiments were conducted to evaluate the system-provided STS movement support for two patients with partial paralysis and one patient with complete paralysis. Patients with partial paralysis, both hemiplegic and quadriplegic, were able to operate the system and perform the STS movement learning with visual biofeedback. Moreover, using our system, a wheelchair user with complete paraplegia was able to perform tasks at an elevated position independently. Therefore, this system will help wheelchair users achieve the self-motor-learning of STS movement and enhance their quality of life independently.
Multiscale Modeling of Turbine Engine Component Under Manufacturing Uncertainty
Authors: McKeand Austin M. , Gorguluarslan Recep M. , Brown Jeff , Choi Seung-Kyum 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
Efficient modeling of uncertainty introduced by the manufacturing process is critical in the design of turbine engine components. In this study, a stochastic multiscale modeling framework is developed to efficiently account for the geometric uncertainty associated with the manufacturing process to accurately predict the performance of engine components. Multiple efficient statistic tools are integrated into the proposed framework. Specifically, a semivariogram analysis procedure is proposed to quantify spatial variability of the uncertain geometric parameters based on a set of manufactured specimens. Karhunen–Loeve expansion is utilized to create a set of correlated random variables from the uncertainty data obtained by variogram analysis. A detailed finite element model of the component is created that accounts for the uncertainties quantified by these correlated random variables. A stochastic upscaling method is then developed to form a simplified model that can represent this detailed model with high accuracy under uncertainties. Specifically, a parametric model generation process is developed to represent the detailed model using Bezier curves and the uncertainties are upscaled to the parameters of this parametric representation. The results of the simulations are then validated with real experimental results. The application results show that the proposed framework effectively captures the geometric uncertainties introduced by manufacturing while providing accurate predictions under uncertainties.
Smoking and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk in young men: the Korean Life Course Health Study
Authors: Jee Yongho , Jung Keum Ji , Lee Sunmi , Back Joung Hwan , Jee Sun Ha , Cho Sung-il 
Published: June 2019

ObjectiveTo examine the effect of smoking on risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in Korean young men and to examine whether serum total cholesterol levels could modify the effect of smoking on ASCVD.DesignA prospective cohort study within a national insurance system.SettingHealth screenings provided by national insurance in 1992 and 1994.ParticipantsA total of 118 531 young men between 20 and 29 years of age and were followed up for an average of 23 years.Outcome measureTo assess the independent effects of smoking on the risk of ischaemic heart disease (IHD), stroke and ASCVD, Cox proportional hazards regression models were used, controlling for age, hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolaemia and alcohol drinking.ResultsThe total number of current smokers was 78 455 (66.2%), and 94 113 (79.7%) of the sample recorded a total cholesterol level <200 mg/dL measured at baseline. Between 1993 and 2015, 2786 cases of IHD (53/100 000 person year), 2368 cases of stroke (45.4/100 000 person year) and 6368 ASCVD (122.7/100 000 person year) occurred. The risk of IHD, stroke and total ASCVD events was found to increase for current smokers, with a HR with 95% CI of 1.5 (95% CI 1.3 to 1.6), 1.4 (95% CI 1.2 to 1.6) and 1.4 (95% CI 1.3 to 1.5), respectively. Furthermore, the risks above were also found throughout the range of serum levels of cholesterol.ConclusionsSmoking among Korean young adult men was independently associated with increased risk of IHD, stroke and ASCVD. The concentration of cholesterol in Korean men did not modify the effect of smoking on ASCVD.
Three contaminated sites in southern Italy. The Neonatal Environment and Health Outcomes cohort: protocol for a longitudinal birth cohort study
Authors: Ruggieri Silvia , Drago Gaspare , Colombo Paolo , Alesci Alessio , Augello Pasquale , Bisbano Alessandro , Bucolo Antonino , Dattoli Patrizia , De Sole Raffaella , La Runa Valentina , Lopez Angela , Lo Presti Lucia , Magliarditi Bruno , Paravati Francesco , Pirillo Giuseppe , Ziino Colanino Antonino , Cibella Fabio 
Published: June 2019

IntroductionExposure to environmental contaminants during pregnancy is one of the determinants of child’s future health outcomes. The effect of environmental pollution on pregnant women living in heavily polluted areas is of special interest and, in this context, the Neonatal Environment and Health Outcomes (NEHO) cohort will focus on the investigation of (1) toxicants transferred from the environment to the mother and from the mother to the developing fetus and (2) the influence of toxicants on pregnancy outcomes, fetal development and health status during infancy. Because the human placenta is positioned at the interface between the maternal/external environment and the embryo, it can be considered a highly informative matrix regarding many key pregnancy events that can shape infant’s future health.Methods and analysisThe NEHO cohort will enrol an estimated total of 800 pregnant women in three selected National Priority Contaminated Sites in southern Italy. Epidemiological data, concerning maternal health status, lifestyle and pregnancy, are obtained through questionnaires provided to the mother starting from the last 2 months of pregnancy. At delivery, maternal blood, umbilical cord blood and placenta tissue are collected to assess contaminant levels and to clarify how toxicants interact with the placental domain. Furthermore, placental transcriptome is studied in order to explore the interferences of toxicants on the role of the placenta in maternal/fetal interplay. Regular follow-up is planned at 6, 12 and 24 months.Ethics and disseminationThe study has been approved by all the Ethics Committees of the three National Priority Contaminated Sites involved: the Ethics Committee of the University Hospitals of Messina (18 September 2017, n. 9/2017); the Ethics Committee ‘Catania 2’ (11 July 2017, n. 38/2017/CECT2); the Ethics Committee of the Region of Calabria (20 July 2017, n. 173). Findings will be disseminated in the scientific community and on a regional basis for appropriate policy actions.
ANCD thrombectomy device: in vitro evaluation
Authors: Sanchez Sonia , Cortiñas Ignacio , Villanova Helena , Rios Anna , Galve Iñaki , Andersson Tommy , Nogueira Raul , Jovin Tudor , Ribo Marc 
Published: June 2019

IntroductionEndovascular treatment of stroke, although highly effective, may fail to reach complete recanalization in around 20% of cases. The Advanced Thrombectomy System (ANCD) is a novel stroke thrombectomy device designed to reduce clot fragmentation and facilitate retrieval by inducing local flow arrest and allowing distal aspiration in combination with a stent retriever. We aimed to assess the preclinical efficacy of ANCD.MethodsSoft red blood cell (RBC)-rich (n=20/group) and sticky fibrin-rich (n=30/group) clots were used to create middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusions in two vascular phantoms. Three different treatment strategies were tested: (1) balloon guide catheter + Solitaire (BGC+SR); (2) distal access catheter + SR (DAC+SR); and (3) ANCD+SR, until complete recanalization was achieved or to a maximum of three passes. The recanalization rate was determined after each pass.ResultsAfter one pass, ANCD+SR resulted in an increased recanalization rate (94%) for all clots together compared with BGC+SR (66%; p<0.01) or DAC+SR (80%; p=0.04). After the final pass the recanalization rate increased in all three groups but remained higher with ANCD+SR (100%) than with BGC+SR (74%; p<0.01) or DAC+SR (90%; p=0.02). The mean number of passes was lower with ANCD+SR (1.06) than with BGC+SR (1.46) or DAC+SR (1.25) (p=0.01). A logistic regression model adjusted for treatment arm, clot type, and model used showed that both RBC-rich clots (OR 8.1, 95% CI 1.6 to 13.5) and ANCD+SR (OR 3.9, 95% CI 1.01 to 15.8) were independent predictors of first-pass recanalization.ConclusionIn in vitro three-dimensional models replicating MCA-M1 occlusion, ANCD+SR showed significantly better recanalization rates in fewer passes than other commonly used combinations of devices.
Long-term exposure to ambient fine particulate matter and liver enzymes in adults: a cross-sectional study in Taiwan
Authors: Zhang Zilong , Guo Cui , Chang Ly-yun , Bo Yacong , Lin Changqing , Tam Tony , Hoek Gerard , Wong Martin CS , Chan Ta-Chien , Lau Alexis KH , Lao Xiang Qian 
Published: June 2019

ObjectivesAnimal experiments indicate that exposure to particulate matter (PM) can induce hepatotoxic effects but epidemiological evidence is scarce. We aimed to investigate the associations between long-term exposure to PM air pollution and liver enzymes, which are biomarkers widely used for liver function assessment.MethodsA cross-sectional analysis was performed among 351 852 adult participants (mean age: 40.1 years) who participated in a standard medical screening programme in Taiwan. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels were measured. A satellite-based spatio-temporal model was used to estimate the concentrations of ambient fine particles (PM with an aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 µm, PM2.5) at each participant’s address. Linear and logistic regression models were used to investigate the associations between PM2.5 and the liver enzymes with adjustment for a wide range of potential confounders.ResultsAfter adjustment for confounders, every 10 µg/m3 increment in 2-year average PM2.5 concentration was associated with 0.02%(95% CI: −0.04% to 0.08%), 0.61% (95% CI: 0.51% to 0.70%) and 1.60% (95% CI: 1.50% to 1.70%) increases in AST, ALT and GGT levels, respectively. Consistently, the odds ratios of having elevated liver enzymes (>40 IU/L) per 10 µg/m3 PM2.5 increment were 1.06 (95% CI: 1.04 to 1.09), 1.09 (95% CI: 1.07 to 1.10) and 1.09 (95% CI: 1.07 to 1.11) for AST, ALT and GGT, respectively.ConclusionsLong-term exposure to PM2.5 was associated with increased levels of liver enzymes, especially ALT and GGT. More studies are needed to confirm our findings and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
Effect of lung hypoplasia on the cardiorespiratory transition in newborn lambs
Authors: McGillick Erin V. , Davies Indya M. , Hooper Stuart B. , Kerr Lauren T. , Thio Marta , DeKoninck Philip , Yamaoka Shigeo , Hodges Ryan , Rodgers Karyn A. , Zahra Valerie A. , Moxham Alison M. , Kashyap Aidan J. , Crossley Kelly J. 
Published: June 2019

Newborns with lung hypoplasia (LH) commonly have limited respiratory function and often require ventilatory assistance after birth. We aimed to characterize the cardiorespiratory transition and respiratory function in newborn lambs with LH. LH was induced by draining fetal lung liquid in utero [110–133 days (d), term = 147d, n = 6]. At ~133d gestation, LH and Control lambs ( n = 6) were instrumented and ventilated for 3 h to monitor blood-gas status, oxygenation, ventilator requirements, and hemodynamics during the transition from fetal to newborn life. Lambs with LH had significantly reduced relative wet and dry lung weights indicating hypoplastic lungs compared with Control lambs. LH lambs experienced persistent hypercapnia and acidosis during the ventilation period, had lower lung compliance, and had higher alveolar-arterial differences in oxygen and oxygenation index compared with Control lambs. As a result, LH lambs required greater respiratory support and more supplemental oxygen. Following delivery, LH lambs experienced periods of significantly lower pulmonary artery blood flow and higher carotid artery blood flow in association with the lower oxygenation levels. The detrimental effects of LH can be attributed to a reduction in lung size and poorer gas exchange capabilities. This study has provided greater understanding of the effect of LH itself on the physiology underpinning the transition from fetal to newborn life. Advances in this area is the key to identifying improved or novel management strategies for babies with LH starting in the delivery room, to favorably alter the fetal-to-newborn transition toward improved outcomes and reduced lifelong morbidity. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Current clinical management of newborns with lung hypoplasia (LH) is largely based on expert opinion rather than scientific evidence. We have generated physiological evidence for detrimental effects of LH on hemodynamics and respiratory function in newborn lambs, which mimics the morbidity observed in LH newborns clinically. The unfavorable consequences of LH can be attributed to a reduction in lung size and poorer gas exchange capabilities.
Detection ofNTRKFusions: Merits and Limitations of Current Diagnostic Platforms
Authors: Solomon James P. , Hechtman Jaclyn F. 
Published: June 2019

AbstractOncogenic fusions involving NTRK1, NTRK2, and NTRK3 with various partners are diagnostic of infantile fibrosarcoma and secretory carcinoma yet also occur in lower frequencies across many types of malignancies. Recently, targeted small molecular inhibitor therapy has been shown to induce a durable response in a high percentage of patients with NTRK fusion–positive cancers, which has made the detection of NTRK fusions critical. Several techniques for NTRK fusion diagnosis exist, including pan-Trk IHC, FISH, reverse transcription PCR, DNA-based next-generation sequencing (NGS), and RNA-based NGS. Each of these assays has unique features, advantages, and limitations, and familiarity with these assays is critical to appropriately screen for NTRK fusions. Here, we review the details of each existing methodology.
Radiation-Induced Amplification of TGFB1-Induced Mesenchymal Stem Cell–Mediated Sodium Iodide Symporter (NIS) Gene 131I Therapy
Authors: Schug Christina , Kitzberger Carolin , Sievert Wolfgang , Spellerberg Rebekka , Tutter Mariella , Schmohl Kathrin A. , Eberlein Bernadette , Biedermann Tilo , Steiger Katja , Zach Christian , Schwaiger Markus , Multhoff Gabriele , Wagner Ernst , Nelson Peter J. , Spitzweg Christine 
Published: June 2019

Abstract

Purpose:
The innate tumor homing potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been used for a targeted delivery of the theranostic sodium iodide symporter (NIS) transgene into solid tumors. We have previously shown that external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) results in the enhanced recruitment of NIS-expressing MSCs into human hepatocellular carcinoma (HuH7). In parallel, the tumor-associated cytokine TGFB1 becomes strongly upregulated in HuH7 tumors in response to EBRT.

Experimental Design:
We therefore evaluated the effects of combining focused EBRT (5 Gy) with MSC-mediated systemic delivery of the theranostic NIS transgene under control of a synthetic TGFB1-inducible SMAD-responsive promoter (SMAD-NIS-MSCs) using 123I-scintigraphy followed by 131I therapy in CD1 nu/nu mice harboring subcutaneous human hepatocellular carcinoma (HuH7).

Results:
Following tumor irradiation and SMAD-NIS-MSC application, tumoral iodide uptake monitored in vivo by 123I-scintigraphy was enhanced as compared with nonirradiated tumors. Combination of EBRT and SMAD-NIS-MSC–mediated 131I therapy resulted in a significantly improved delay in tumor growth and prolonged survival in therapy mice as compared with the combined therapy using CMV-NIS-MSCs or to control groups receiving EBRT or saline only, or EBRT together with SMAD-NIS-MSCs and saline applications.

Conclusions:
MSC-based NIS-mediated 131I therapy after EBRT treatment dramatically enhanced therapeutic efficacy when a TGFB1-inducible SMAD-responsive promoter was used to drive NIS expression in adoptively applied MSCs. The remarkable therapeutic effect seen is thought to be linked in large part to the enhanced TGFB1 produced in this context, which leads to a highly selective and focused amplification of MSC-based NIS expression within the tumor milieu.
Integrating Quality of Life and Survival Outcomes in Cardiovascular Clinical Trials: Results From the PARTNER Trial
Authors: Spertus Jacob V. , Hatfield Laura A. , Cohen David J. , Arnold Suzanne V. , Ho Martin , Jones Philip G. , Leon Martin , Zuckerman Bram , Spertus John A. 
Published: June 2019

Background:
Survival and health status (eg, symptoms and quality of life) are key outcomes in clinical trials of heart failure treatment. However, health status can only be recorded on survivors, potentially biasing treatment effect estimates when there is differential survival across treatment groups. Joint modeling of survival and health status can address this bias.

Methods and Results:
We analyzed patient-level data from the PARTNER 1B trial (Placement of Aortic Transcatheter Valves) of transcatheter aortic valve replacement versus standard care. Health status was quantified with the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) at randomization, 1, 6, and 12 months. We compared hazard ratios for survival and mean differences in KCCQ scores at 12 months using several models: the original growth curve model for KCCQ scores (ignoring death), separate Bayesian models for survival and KCCQ scores, and a Bayesian joint longitudinal-survival model fit to either 12 or 30 months of survival follow-up. The benefit of transcatheter aortic valve replacement on 12-month KCCQ scores was greatest in the joint-model fit to all survival data (mean difference, 33.7 points; 95% credible intervals [CrI], 24.2–42.4), followed by the joint-model fit to 12 months of survival follow-up (32.3 points; 95% CrI, 22.5–41.5), a Bayesian model without integrating death (30.4 points; 95% CrI, 21.4–39.3), and the original growth curve model (26.0 points; 95% CI, 18.7–33.3). At 12 months, the survival benefit of transcatheter aortic valve replacement was also greater in the joint model (hazard ratio, 0.50; 95% CrI, 0.32–0.73) than in the nonjoint Bayesian model (0.54; 95% CrI, 0.37–0.75) or the original Kaplan-Meier estimate (0.55; 95% CI, 0.40–0.74).

Conclusions:
In patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis and prohibitive surgical risk, the estimated benefits of transcatheter aortic valve replacement on survival and health status compared with standard care were greater in joint Bayesian models than other approaches.
Trajectories of Oral Anticoagulation Adherence Among Medicare Beneficiaries Newly Diagnosed With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Hernandez Inmaculada , He Meiqi , Chen Nemin , Brooks Maria M. , Saba Samir , Gellad Walid F. 
Published: June 2019

Background

Only 50% of atrial fibrillation (
AF
) patients recommended for oral anticoagulation (
OAC
) use these medications, and less than half of them adhere to
OAC
. In a cohort of Medicare beneficiaries newly diagnosed with
AF
, we identified groups of patients with similar trajectories of
OAC
use and adherence, and evaluated patient characteristics affecting group membership.

Methods and Results

We selected continuously enrolled Medicare Part D beneficiaries with first
AF
diagnosis in 2014 to 2015 (n=34 898). We calculated the proportion of days covered with
OAC
over the first 12 months after diagnosis and identified
OAC
adherence trajectories using group‐based trajectory models. We constructed multinomial logistic regression models to evaluate how demographics, system‐level factors, and clinical characteristics were associated with group membership. We identified 4 trajectories of
OAC
adherence: patients who never used
OAC
(43.8%), late
OAC
initiators (7.6%), early
OAC
discontinuers (8.9%), and continuously adherent patients (40.1%). Predictors such as sex, black race, residence in the South, or
HAS
‐
BLED
score were associated with not only
OAC
use, but also the timing of initiation and the likelihood of discontinuation. For example,
HAS
‐
BLED
score ≥4 was associated with a higher likelihood of not using
OAC
(odds ratio 1.35; 95%
CI
, 1.14–1.62), of late initiation (1.55; 95%
CI
, 1.11–2.05), and of early discontinuation (odds ratio 1.35; 95%
CI
, 1.01–1.84).

Conclusions

We identified 4 distinct trajectories of
OAC
adherence after first
AF
diagnosis, with <45% of newly diagnosed
AF
patients belonging to the trajectory group characterized by continuous
OAC
adherence. Trajectories were associated not only with demographic and clinical characteristics but also with regional factors.
Introduction to José Oiticica Filho's “Setting the
Record Straighter”
Authors: Tifentale Alise 
Published: June 2019

Abstract
This text introduces article “Setting the Record Straighter” (1951) by Brazilian photographer and artist José Oiticica Filho (1906–1964). The core of Oiticica Filho's article is a discussion of the significance of photo-club exhibitions, based on the example of an ongoing rivalry between the members of São Paulo-based photo club Foto Cine Clube Bandeirante (FCCB) and Rio de Janeiro-based club Sociedade Fluminense de Fotografia. Oiticica Filho, as a member of the São Paulo-based club who resided in Rio, emerged as a mediator between the two groups—an impartial scientist who sought a solution in data, not in the clashes between egos. The article, partially translated here for the first time, illuminates the inner workings of photo-club culture, the motivation for photographers to participate, and their major concerns about the club exhibitions. Oiticica Filho's method, based on statistics and data analysis, anticipate the sociological approach to photography developed by Pierre Bourdieu in Photography: A Middle-Brow Art (1965). Understanding Oiticica Filho's statistical work is key to establishing a broader perspective on postwar photo-club culture as an international phenomenon that contributed to the recognition of photography as an autonomous art form during the 1950s.