bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Cross-Sectional Investigation of Cognition and Ultrasound-Based Vascular Strain Indices
Authors: Meshram N H , Jackson D , Varghese T , Mitchell C C , Wilbrand S M , Dempsey R J , Hermann B P 
Published: January 2019

Abstract

Objective
We examine the relationship between variability in the plaque strain distribution estimated using ultrasound with multiple cognitive domains including executive, language, visuospatial reasoning, and memory function.

Method
Asymptomatic (n = 42) and symptomatic (n = 34) patients with significant (&gt;60%) carotid artery stenosis were studied for plaque instability using ultrasound strain imaging and multiple cognitive domains including executive, language, visuospatial reasoning, and memory function. Correlation and ROC analyses were performed between ultrasound strain indices and cognitive function. Strain indices and cognition scores were also compared between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients to determine whether there are significant group differences.

Results
Association of high-strain distributions with dysexecutive function was observed in both asymptomatic and symptomatic patients. For memory, visuospatial, and language functions, the correlations between strain and cognition were weaker for the asymptomatic compared to symptomatic group.

Conclusions
Both asymptomatic and symptomatic patients demonstrate a relationship between vessel strain indices and executive function indicating that silent strokes and micro-emboli could initially contribute to a decline in executive function, whereas strokes and transient ischemic attacks may cause the further decline in other cognitive functions.
Batch-normalization of cerebellar and medulloblastoma gene expression datasets utilizing empirically defined negative control genes
Authors: Weishaupt Holger , Johansson Patrik , Sundström Anders , Lubovac-Pilav Zelmina , Olsson Björn , Nelander Sven , Swartling Fredrik J 
Published: January 2019

Abstract

Motivation
Medulloblastoma (MB) is a brain cancer predominantly arising in children. Roughly 70% of patients are cured today, but survivors often suffer from severe sequelae. MB has been extensively studied by molecular profiling, but often in small and scattered cohorts. To improve cure rates and reduce treatment side effects, accurate integration of such data to increase analytical power will be important, if not essential.

Results
We have integrated 23 transcription datasets, spanning 1350 MB and 291 normal brain samples. To remove batch effects, we combined the Removal of Unwanted Variation (RUV) method with a novel pipeline for determining empirical negative control genes and a panel of metrics to evaluate normalization performance. The documented approach enabled the removal of a majority of batch effects, producing a large-scale, integrative dataset of MB and cerebellar expression data. The proposed strategy will be broadly applicable for accurate integration of data and incorporation of normal reference samples for studies of various diseases. We hope that the integrated dataset will improve current research in the field of MB by allowing more large-scale gene expression analyses.

Availability and implementation
The RUV-normalized expression data is available through the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/) and can be accessed via the GSE series number GSE124814.

Supplementary information
Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Overlapping Anatomical Networks Convey Cross-Modal Suppression in the Sighted and Coactivation of “Visual” and Auditory Cortex in the Blind
Authors: Anurova Irina , Carlson Synnöve , Rauschecker Josef P 
Published: January 2019

Abstract
In the present combined DTI/fMRI study we investigated adaptive plasticity of neural networks involved in controlling spatial and nonspatial auditory working memory in the early blind (EB). In both EB and sighted controls (SC), fractional anisotropy (FA) within the right inferior longitudinal fasciculus correlated positively with accuracy in a one-back sound localization but not sound identification task. The neural tracts passing through the cluster of significant correlation connected auditory and “visual” areas in the right hemisphere. Activity in these areas during both sound localization and identification correlated with FA within the anterior corpus callosum, anterior thalamic radiation, and inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus. In EB, FA in these structures correlated positively with activity in both auditory and “visual” areas, whereas FA in SC correlated positively with activity in auditory and negatively with activity in visual areas. The results indicate that frontal white matter conveys cross-modal suppression of occipital areas in SC, while it mediates coactivation of auditory and reorganized “visual” cortex in EB.
Detection of Epidemic Scarlet Fever Group A Streptococcus in Australia
Authors: Walker Mark J , Brouwer Stephan , Forde Brian M , Worthing Kate A , McIntyre Liam , Sundac Lana , Maloney Sam , Roberts Leah W , Barnett Timothy C , Richter Johanna , Cork Amanda J , Irwin Adam D , You Yuanhai , Zhang Jianzhong , Dougan Gordon , Yuen Kwok Y , Nizet Victor , Beatson Scott A , Grimwood Keith , Davies Mark R 
Published: January 2019

Abstract
Sentinel hospital surveillance was instituted in Australia to detect the presence of pandemic group A Streptococcus strains causing scarlet fever. Genomic and phylogenetic analyses indicated the presence of an Australian GAS emm12 scarlet fever isolate related to United Kingdom outbreak strains. National surveillance to monitor this pandemic is recommended.
Alteration to Woodland Structure through Midstory Mastication Increased Fuel Loading and Cover of Understory Species in Two Upland Hardwood Stands
Authors: Black Devin E , Arthur Mary A , Leuenberger Wendy , Taylor David D , Lewis Jeffrey F 
Published: January 2019

AbstractThe contemporary decline of open woodlands in the eastern United States has prompted land managers to implement management prescriptions that encourage landscape and habitat diversity, often using mechanical thinning and prescribed fire as tools to alter stand structure. To increase habitat diversity and restore natural processes, a long-term oak woodland restoration project was planned for two upland hardwood stands in the Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky, United States. As an initial phase of restoration, we examined the effects of midstory mastication on stand structure, understory vegetation response, and fuels. The mastication treatment reduced stem density and basal area of trees ≤7.9 in. (20.1 cm) dbh by 69 percent and 47 percent, respectively, encouraged vigorous stump/root sprouting, and increased ground cover of forbs (204 percent) and native graminoids (253 percent) the first year on treated plots. Additionally, mastication created a variable cover of woody mulch on the forest floor and increased 1-h and 100-h time-lag fuels compared with controls. In year 2, Microstegium vimineum (invasive grass) cover increased by 700 percent on treated plots. This study imparts novel information on the mastication of upland hardwoods to benefit land managers in directing future treatments to shape desired stand structures and compositions, and increase landscape heterogeneity.
The unique composition of Indian gut microbiome, gene catalogue, and associated fecal metabolome deciphered using multi-omics approaches
Authors: Dhakan D B , Maji A , Sharma A K , Saxena R , Pulikkan J , Grace T , Gomez A , Scaria J , Amato K R , Sharma V K 
Published: January 2019

Abstract

Background
Metagenomic studies carried out in the past decade have led to an enhanced understanding of the gut microbiome in human health; however, the Indian gut microbiome has not been well explored. We analyzed the gut microbiome of 110 healthy individuals from two distinct locations (North-Central and Southern) in India using multi-omics approaches, including 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, whole-genome shotgun metagenomic sequencing, and metabolomic profiling of fecal and serum samples.

Results
The gene catalogue established in this study emphasizes the uniqueness of the Indian gut microbiome in comparison to other populations. The gut microbiome of the cohort from North-Central India, which was primarily consuming a plant-based diet, was found to be associated with Prevotella and also showed an enrichment of branched chain amino acid (BCAA) and lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis pathways. In contrast, the gut microbiome of the cohort from Southern India, which was consuming an omnivorous diet, showed associations with Bacteroides, Ruminococcus, and Faecalibacterium and had an enrichment of short chain fatty acid biosynthesis pathway and BCAA transporters. This corroborated well with the metabolomics results, which showed higher concentration of BCAAs in the serum metabolome of the North-Central cohort and an association with Prevotella. In contrast, the concentration of BCAAs was found to be higher in the fecal metabolome of the Southern-India cohort and showed a positive correlation with the higher abundance of BCAA transporters.

Conclusions
The study reveals the unique composition of the Indian gut microbiome, establishes the Indian gut microbial gene catalogue, and compares it with the gut microbiome of other populations. The functional associations revealed using metagenomic and metabolomic approaches provide novel insights on the gut-microbe-metabolic axis, which will be useful for future epidemiological and translational researches.
Improving child literacy using South Australia’s Health in All Policies approach
Authors: van Eyk Helen , Delany-Crowe Toni , Lawless Angela , Baum Fran , MacDougall Colin , Wildgoose Deborah 
Published: January 2019

Abstract
The Health in All Policies (HiAP) approach aims to create coherent policy across government that will improve population health, wellbeing and equity while progressing the goals of other sectors. The quest to achieve policy coherence across government has focused interest on processes that facilitate collaboration between health and many other sectors. Health and education sectors have long been seen as natural partners with mutually beneficial goals. This article focuses on a case study of HiAP work, undertaken between health and education in South Australia to increase parental engagement in children’s literacy among lower socio-economic families. It draws on a document analysis of 71 documents, seven in-depth interviews with senior policy actors and a programme logic model. The project began with the intention of using policy levers to improve long-term health outcomes through addressing child literacy, a proven social determinant of health. Because of the context in which it was operating, the project extended from a focus on policy to working directly with four schools implementing strategies to facilitate parental engagement, with the intention of finally influencing system-wide education policy. We use an institutional framework to support our analysis through a discussion of ideas, actors and institutions and how these influenced the project. The article provides insight into the facilitators and impediments to intersectoral efforts to progress shared educational and health goals and achieve sustainable change, and identifies lessons for others intending to use this approach.
Sense Equivalence in plWordNet to Princeton WordNet Mapping
Authors: Rudnicka Ewa , Piasecki Maciej , Bond Francis , Grabowski Łukasz , Piotrowski Tadeusz 
Published: January 2019

Abstract
Though the interest in use of wordnets for lexicography is (gradually) growing, no research has been conducted so far on equivalence between lexical units (or senses) in inter-linked wordnets. In this paper, we present and validate a procedure of sense-linking between plWordNet and Princeton WordNet. The proposed procedure employs a continuum of three equivalence types: strong, regular and weak, distinguished by a custom-designed set of formal, semantic and translational features. To validate the procedure, three independent samples of 120 sense pairs were manually analysed with respect to the features. The results show that synsets from the two wordnets linked by interlingual synonymy relation have a greater number of equivalents than those linked through interlingual partial synonymy or interlingual hyponymy relations. Even synsets linked via interlingual synonymy may have pairs of lexical units which are only weak equivalents. More-fine grained sense linking enhances the usefulness of the mapped wordnets as a bilingual lexicon for translators or researchers.
Robust mixed H2 and passive switching control for uncertain discrete switched systems with time delay
Authors: Lien Chang-Hua , Yu Ker-Wei , Chang Hao-Chin 
Published: January 2019

AbstractIn this paper, the problem of mixed ${H}_2$ and passive switching control of uncertain discrete time-delay switched systems is investigated via a switching signal selection. Lyapunov theory with Wirtinger inequality is applied to guarantee the mixed performance for discrete switched time-delay system. The used Linear Matrix Inequality variables are less than our past proposed results. Finally, the improvement of the developed results is illustrated via a numerical example.
Forensic Drug Profile: Cocaethylene
Authors: Jones Alan Wayne 
Published: January 2019

AbstractThis article is intended as a brief review or primer about cocaethylene (CE), a pharmacologically active substance formed in the body when a person co-ingests ethanol and cocaine. Reference books widely used in forensic toxicology contain scant information about CE, even though this cocaine metabolite is commonly encountered in routine casework. CE and cocaine are equi-effective at blocking the reuptake of dopamine at receptor sites, thus reinforcing the stimulant effects of the neurotransmitter. In some animal species, the LD50 of CE was lower than for cocaine. CE is also considered more toxic to the heart and liver compared with the parent drug cocaine. The plasma elimination half-life of CE is ~2 h compared with ~1 h for cocaine. The concentrations of CE in blood after drinking alcohol and taking cocaine are difficult to predict and will depend on the timing of administration and the amounts of the two precursor drugs ingested. After an acute single dose of cocaine and ethanol, the concentration–time profile of CE runs on a lower level to that of cocaine, although CE is detectable in blood for several hours longer. A strong case can be made for adding together the concentrations of cocaine and CE in forensic blood samples when toxicological results are interpreted in relation to acute intoxication and the risk of an overdose death.
Ambiguity Aversion Decreases the Impact of Partial Insurance: Evidence from African Farmers
Authors: Bryan Gharad 
Published: January 2019

Abstract
Indemnifying smallholder farmers against crop loss is thought to play an important role in encouraging the adoption of new technologies and facilitating productivity growth, but to be infeasible due to information problems. Consequently there is interest in developing alternative, partial, insurance products. Examples include rainfall insurance and the limited liability inherent in credit contracts. I argue that although these products may reduce information asymmetry, ambiguity averse farmers struggle to assess whether the contracts reduce risk. This problem is most pronounced when the production technology is ambiguous, as is likely the case for new technologies. I formalize this argument and test the theory using data from two RCTs, conducted in Malawi and Kenya. Comparative statics from the theory are consistent with both sets of data, and I argue that income losses from ambiguity aversion may be substantial.
In Theory, Yes; in Practice, Uncertain: A Qualitative Study Exploring Physical Therapists’ Attitudes Toward Their Roles in Weight Management for People With Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Allison Kim , Setchell Jenny , Egerton Thorlene , Delany Clare , Bennell Kim L 
Published: January 2019

Abstract

Background
Physical therapists are at the frontline of treatment for knee osteoarthritis (OA). International guidelines recommend weight loss for individuals with knee OA who are overweight, and research indicates that patients believe it is appropriate for physical therapists to address weight.

Objectives
The objective was to explore physical therapists’ attitudes about their role in weight management for people with OA.

Design
This was a qualitative semistructured telephone interview study.

Methods
Participants included 13 purposively sampled physical therapists who had treated at least 1 patient with knee OA within the past 12 months. Each participated in a telephone interview exploring their perceptions and attitudes toward the role of physical therapists in providing weight management support for people with knee OA. Data were analyzed using a thematic approach.

Results
Three main themes were identified, which highlighted that physical therapists: (1) believe they have a role in facilitating weight loss for people with knee OA; (2) are uncertain how to integrate weight loss into their management; and (3) are conscious of the psychosocial complexities and the need to tread cautiously around weight management.

Conclusions
Physical therapists are aware of the importance of weight loss in the management of knee OA, and believe weight management falls within their role and responsibilities; however, they do not feel equipped to fulfill this role. They also acknowledge the weight management conversation as potentially sensitive. This study highlights the need for training opportunities to develop physical therapists’ skills and confidence in weight management for people with knee OA who are overweight, including consideration of the potential harms and benefits of this aspect of care.
Variation in Hospital-Based Rehabilitation Services Among Patients With Ischemic Stroke in the United States
Authors: Kumar Amit , Adhikari Deepak , Karmarkar Amol , Freburger Janet , Gozalo Pedro , Mor Vince , Resnik Linda 
Published: January 2019

Abstract

Background
Little is known about variation in use of rehabilitation services provided in acute care hospitals for people who have had a stroke.

Objective
The objective was to examine patient and hospital sources of variation in acute care rehabilitation services provided for stroke.

Design
This was a retrospective, cohort design.

Methods
The sample consisted of Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries with ischemic stroke admitted to acute care hospitals in 2010. Medicare claims data were linked to the Provider of Services file to gather information on hospital characteristics and the American Community Survey for sociodemographic data. Chi-square tests compared patient and hospital characteristics stratified by any rehabilitation use. We used multilevel, multivariable random effect models to identify patient and hospital characteristics associated with the likelihood of receiving any rehabilitation and with the amount of therapy received in minutes.

Results
Among 104,295 patients, 85.2% received rehabilitation (61.5% both physical therapy and occupational therapy; 22.0% physical therapy only; and 1.7% occupational therapy only). Patients received 123 therapy minutes on average (median [SD] = 90.0 [99.2] minutes) during an average length of stay of 4.8 [3.5] days. In multivariable analyses, male sex, dual enrollment in Medicare and Medicaid, prior hospitalization, ICU stay, and feeding tube were associated with lower odds of receiving any rehabilitation services. These same variables were generally associated with fewer minutes of therapy. Patients treated by tissue plasminogen activator, in limited-teaching and nonteaching hospitals, and in hospitals with inpatient rehabilitation units, were more likely to receive more therapy minutes.

Limitation
The findings are limited to patients with ischemic stroke.

Conclusion
Only 61% of patients with ischemic stroke received both physical therapy and occupational therapy services in the acute setting. We identified considerable variation in the use of rehabilitation services in the acute care setting following a stroke.
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Pfieffer Mary Lauren 
Published: January 2019

Abstract:
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder. Patients may present with a combination of hyperandrogenism symptoms, menstrual irregularities, metabolic syndrome, infertility, acne, and obesity. PCOS diagnosis is based on three diagnostic guidelines. Treatment options include oral contraceptive pills, antiandrogens, and metformin. NPs can improve diagnosed patients' quality of life through education about this disorder.
Improving Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in NICU Patients
Authors: Painter Leslie , Lewis Stephanie , Hamilton Bernita K. 
Published: January 2019

Background:
Premature infants experience stressors such as external stimulation with sounds, light, touch, and open positioning in NICU that negatively affect outcomes.

Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to measure the effectiveness of a developmental positioning intervention on length of stay, weight gain, and tone/flexion compared with neonates without structured positioning.

Methods:
Study design was quasi-experimental with nonequivalent groups. A retrospective chart review of 50 neonates with the inclusion criteria of 34 weeks of gestation or less and no anomalies provided a preintervention sample. After the education in-service on positioning, a convenience sample of 27 infants was enrolled. Infant Position Assessment Tool was used as a visual guide for positioning and scoring by the researcher for intervention fidelity. Hammersmith scoring was completed by the occupational therapist prior to discharge.

Findings:
The postintervention group was younger and sicker than the control group (P < .05). The postintervention sample (M = 7.05 where 7 = 29 to <30 weeks of gestation) was younger than the preintervention sample (M = 7.22). The postintervention sample was smaller (M = 1302.15 g) than the preintervention sample (M = 1385.94 g). Results showed that the postintervention group had clinically significant weight gain and mean Hammersmith score (3.28) was higher showing positioning positively affected tone and flexion scores.

Implications for Practice:
With greater structure and consistent attention to developmental positioning, outcomes are positively affected.

Implications for Future Research:
Further research with larger sample sizes will identify stronger associations and relationships between positioning and outcome measures.
Sunbeds and melanoma risk: time to close the debate
Authors: Suppa Mariano , Gandini Sara 
Published: January 2019

Purpose of review
In spite of the established scientific evidence on the association of sunbed use with melanoma risk, some have recently expressed scepticism about the carcinogenicity of indoor tanning. This may have raised confusion among both physicians and patients. The purpose of this review is to make the point about the real impact of sunbed use on melanoma risk in light of the most recently published evidence.

Recent findings
Seven themes were covered: recent studies on age at first sunbed exposure and melanoma risk; sunbed use and melanoma at different body sites; sunbed use and development of additional primary melanomas; new studies on proportion of melanomas attributable to sunbed use; sunbed use and melanoma risk factors; economic burden of sunbed use; and recent debate over whether indoor tanning contributes to melanoma.

Summary
We were able to apply all epidemiological criteria for causality to the relationship between sunbed use and melanoma. Together with the new evidence on the strength, dose response, and temporality of the association of sunbeds with melanoma, this will hopefully close the debate over whether indoor tanning contributes to melanoma.