bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A comparison of three data mining time series models in prediction of monthly brucellosis surveillance data
Authors: Shirmohammadi‐Khorram Nasrin , Tapak Leili , Hamidi Omid , Maryanaji Zohreh 
Published: July 2019

AbstractThe early and accurately detection of brucellosis incidence change is of great importance for implementing brucellosis prevention strategic health planning. The present study investigated and compared the performance of the three data mining techniques, random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM) and multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARSs), in time series modelling and predicting of monthly brucellosis data from 2005 (March/April) to 2017 (February/March) extracted from a national public health surveillance system in Hamadan located in west of Iran. The performances were compared based on the root mean square errors, mean absolute errors, determination coefficient (R2) and intraclass correlation coefficient criteria. Results indicated that the RF model outperformed the SVM and MARS models in modeling used data and it can be utilized successfully utilized to diagnose the behaviour of brucellosis over time. Further research with application of such novel time series models in practice provides the most appropriate method in the control and prevention of future outbreaks for the epidemiologist.
Deep Generative Design: Integration of Topology Optimization and Generative Models
Authors: Oh Sangeun , Jung Yongsu , Kim Seongsin , Lee Ikjin , Kang Namwoo 
Published: July 2019

Abstract
Deep learning has recently been applied to various research areas of design optimization. This study presents the need and effectiveness of adopting deep learning for generative design (or design exploration) research area. This work proposes an artificial intelligent (AI)-based deep generative design framework that is capable of generating numerous design options which are not only aesthetic but also optimized for engineering performance. The proposed framework integrates topology optimization and generative models (e.g., generative adversarial networks (GANs)) in an iterative manner to explore new design options, thus generating a large number of designs starting from limited previous design data. In addition, anomaly detection can evaluate the novelty of generated designs, thus helping designers choose among design options. The 2D wheel design problem is applied as a case study for validation of the proposed framework. The framework manifests better aesthetics, diversity, and robustness of generated designs than previous generative design methods.
Identification of Pathogen Genomic Differences That Impact Human Immune Response and Disease during Cryptococcus neoformans Infection
Authors: Gerstein Aleeza C. , Jackson Katrina M. , McDonald Tami R. , Wang Yina , Lueck Benjamin D. , Bohjanen Sara , Smith Kyle D. , Akampurira Andrew , Meya David B. , Xue Chaoyang , Boulware David R. , Nielsen Kirsten 
Published: July 2019

Even with the best available care, mortality rates in cryptococcal meningitis range from 20% to 60%. Disease is often due to infection by the fungus
Cryptococcus neoformans
and involves a complex interaction between the human host and the fungal pathogen. Although previous studies have suggested genetic differences in the pathogen impact human disease, it has proven quite difficult to identify the specific
C. neoformans
genes that impact the outcome of the human infection. Here, we take advantage of a Ugandan patient cohort infected with closely related
C. neoformans
strains to examine the role of pathogen genetic variants on several human disease characteristics. Using a pathogen whole-genome sequencing approach, we showed that 40
C. neoformans
genes are associated with human disease. Surprisingly, many of these genes are specific to
Cryptococcus
and have unknown functions. We also show deletion of some of these genes alters disease in a mouse model of infection, confirming their role in disease. These findings are particularly important because they are the first to identify
C. neoformans
genes associated with human cryptococcal meningitis and lay the foundation for future studies that may lead to new treatment strategies aimed at reducing patient mortality.
Pre-eclampsia: pathophysiology and clinical implications
Authors: Burton Graham J , Redman Christopher W , Roberts James M , Moffett Ashley 
Published: July 2019

AbstractPre-eclampsia is a common disorder that particularly affects first pregnancies. The clinical presentation is highly variable but hypertension and proteinuria are usually seen. These systemic signs arise from soluble factors released from the placenta as a result of a response to stress of syncytiotrophoblast. There are two sub-types: early and late onset pre-eclampsia, with others almost certainly yet to be identified. Early onset pre-eclampsia arises owing to defective placentation, whilst late onset pre-eclampsia may center around interactions between normal senescence of the placenta and a maternal genetic predisposition to cardiovascular and metabolic disease. The causes, placental and maternal, vary among individuals. Recent research has focused on placental-uterine interactions in early pregnancy. The aim now is to translate these findings into new ways to predict, prevent, and treat pre-eclampsia.
Real-world evidence of glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in India: the TIGHT study
Authors: Borgharkar Surendra S , Das Soma S 
Published: July 2019

ObjectiveTo determine glycemic control in adult patients with type 2 diabetes receiving antidiabetic therapy as part of routine healthcare in India.Research design and methodsThis was a retrospective analysis of cross-sectional data of patients with type 2 diabetes receiving oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs) with or without insulin between 2015 and 2017. We assessed proportion of patients with uncontrolled glycemia and performed logistic regression to evaluate its association with various risk factors and microvascular complications.ResultsA total of 55 639 eligible records were identified; mean age of patients was 54.31 (±11.11) years. One-third of the study population had microvascular complications, predominantly neuropathy. Nearly 76.6% of patients had uncontrolled glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) ≥7% (53 mmol/mol); 62% of these patients had HbA1c between 7% and 8% (53–64 mmol/mol). Glycemic control from combination of OHAs with or without insulin varied between 14.2% and 24.8%. In multivariate analysis, factors statistically associated with uncontrolled glycemia were obesity (OR: 1.15), hypertension (stage I OR: 1.65 and stage II OR: 2.73) and diabetes duration >5 years (OR: 1.19) (p<0.001). Similarly, the odds of having any microvascular complication increased with duration of diabetes (past 1–2 years, OR: 1.67; 2–5 years, OR: 2.53; >5 years, OR: 4.01; p<0.0001), hypertension (stage I, OR: 1.18 and stage II, OR: 1.34; p<0.05) and uncontrolled HbA1c (OR: 1.28; p<0.0001).ConclusionsIndian population with type 2 diabetes has a high burden (76.6%) of poor glycemic control. This study highlights the need for early implementation of optimum diabetes pharmacotherapy to maintain recommended glycemic control, thereby reducing burden of microvascular complications.
Comparison of the effect of three different adjuvants on the analgesic duration of single injection interscalene brachial plexus block: a prospective, randomized, triple blinded clinical trial
Authors: Seering Melinda S , Bayman Emine O , Wong Cynthia A , Ranganath Yatish Siddapura , Marian Anil A 
Published: July 2019

Background and objectivesUse of regional anesthesia can result in faster recovery and better patient satisfaction. Addition of perineural adjuncts to local anesthetics may improve the duration of analgesia, but there is a paucity of data comparing them in a single randomized trial. We compared the effects of three adjuncts clonidine, dexamethasone, and buprenorphine, on the duration of analgesia of interscalene brachial plexus block.Methods160 patients, undergoing elective shoulder surgery, were randomized to four groups to receive an interscalene block with one of the following solutions: ropivacaine alone, ropivacaine with clonidine 75 µg, ropivacaine with dexamethasone 8 mg, or ropivacaine with buprenorphine 300 µg. The primary outcome variable was the duration of analgesia; secondary outcome measures were time to onset of the block, and the duration of sensory and motor blocks.ResultsThere was no statistically significant difference in the total analgesia time among the four groups; p=0.11. The pairwise comparison in analgesic time and 99% CI were: control versus clonidine (−1.94 hours (−7.33 to 3.12)), control versus dexamethasone (−4.16 hours (−9.50 to 0.58)) and control versus buprenorphine (−1.1 hours (−5.34 to 3.23)). There was no differences in block set-up time, or total sensory and motor block duration among the groups.ConclusionThere was no significant improvement in the duration of analgesia with addition of any of the three adjuncts to interscalene blocks. However, there was a larger than expected variability in patient response, hence the study may have been underpowered for the primary outcome.
Ultrasound-guided transmuscular quadratus lumborum block for elective cesarean section significantly reduces postoperative opioid consumption and prolongs time to first opioid request: a double-blind randomized trial
Authors: Hansen Christian K , Dam Mette , Steingrimsdottir Gudny E , Laier Gunnar Hellmund , Lebech Morten , Poulsen Troels Dirch , Chan Vincent W S , Wolmarans Morné , Bendtsen Thomas Fichtner , Børglum Jens 
Published: July 2019

BackgroundElective cesarean section (ECS) can cause moderate to severe pain that often requires opioid administration. To enhance maternal recovery, and promote mother and baby interaction, it is important to reduce postoperative pain and opioid consumption. Various regional anesthesia techniques have been implemented to improve postoperative pain management following ECS. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of bilateral ultrasound-guided transmuscular quadratus lumborum (TQL) block on reducing postoperative opioid consumption following ECS.MethodsA randomized double-blind trial with concealed allocation was conducted in 72 parturients who received bilateral TQL block with either 30 mL ropivacaine 0.375% or saline. TQL block injectate was deposited in the interfascial plane between the quadratus lumborum and psoas major muscles, posterior to the transversalis fascia. Primary outcome was opioid consumption, which was recorded electronically. Pain scores and time to first opioid request were also evaluated.ResultsOpioid consumption (oral morphine equivalents, OME) was significantly reduced in group ropivacaine (GRO) in the first 24 hours compared with group saline (65 mg OME vs 94 mg OME) with a mean difference of 29 mg OME; 95% CI 3 to 55, p<0.03. Time to first opioid request was significantly prolonged in GRO, p<0.003. Numerical rating scale pain scores were significantly lower in GRO in the first 6 hours after surgery, p<0.03.ConclusionsBilateral TQL block significantly reduced 24 hours’ opioid consumption. Further, we observed significant prolongation in time to first opioid, and significant reduction of pain during the first 6 postoperative hours.
The influence of cosmological constant in temperature oscillations of a gas moving close to circular geodesic
Authors: Mehret Leandro Cesar , Kremer Gilberto Medeiros 
Published: July 2019

The aim of this work is to analyze and to verify the effects of the charge and cosmological constant on the temperature oscillations that occur in a gas in a circular motion close to geodesic under the action of a Reissner–Nordström–de Sitter metric. The temperature oscillations are determined from Tolman’s law written in Fermi normal coordinates for a comoving observer. The temperature oscillations are calculated for a theoretical model obtained in the literature. Comparing the different configurations analyzed, it is possible to verify that the cosmological constant term causes a small displacement in the oscillation peaks. We also calculated the ratio between frequencies for some particular cases of the Reissner–Nordström–de Sitter metric and verified that the cases with null cosmological constant are closer of the 3/2 value found in QPOs. In another hand, the addition of the cosmological constant causes a direct increase of the ratio between frequencies.
The Influence of Day 2 Blastomere Symmetry on Blastocyst Grade and Ploidy Status
Authors: Tain Diana Chieh Xing , Lim Michelle Sheng Rong , Ng Bee Lian , Hammond Elizabeth , Wong Pak Seng 
Published: July 2019

Previous studies have suggested that aneuploidy rates are co-related with cell asymmetry at the cleavage stage. A retrospective study was carried out to determine the significance of blastomere symmetry at the 4-cell stage on blastocyst grade and ploidy status. 732 Day 5/6 blastocysts from 191 patients undergoing Pre-implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy were analysed with time-lapse imaging (Embryoscope, Vitrolife) during 2017. Blastomere symmetry was measured at the first image of 4-cells on Day 2 by tabulating the mean diameter of 2 lines drawn perpendicularly on each blastomere. Symmetry was defined as the blastomere diameter difference of [Formula: see text] 25%. Trophectoderm (TE) biopsy was performed on Day 5/6 followed by chromosomal evaluation using Next Generation Sequencing (VeriSeq Protocol, Illumina). Blastocyst grade was classified as either “Good” (inner cell mass (ICM) and TE, AA respectively), “Fair/Good” (AB, BA), “Fair” (BB) and “Poor” (early blastocyst grade 2 or TE grading of C). The significance of blastomere symmetry on blastocyst grade and ploidy status was measured using chi-square tests. There was no significance difference in resulting blastocyst quality for symmetrical and asymmetrical embryos (Table 1: p [Formula: see text] 0.10). Furthermore, there was no significance difference in the euploid rate (42.5% vs. 45.3%) or mosaic rate (22.1% vs. 16.2%) between symmetrical and asymmetrical embryos (p [Formula: see text] 0.24). In conclusion, the presence of asymmetrical blastomeres at the 4-cell stage do not impact the good quality blastocyst formation rate and euploidy rate for embryos that progress into blastocysts. However, this study excludes embryos that do not develop to the blastocyst stage and those with erratic division patterns, direct cleavage and reverse cleavage on Day 2, both of which have potential to influence ploidy result. Asymmetrical 4-cell embryos have the potential for high quality euploid blastocyst progression and can be considered for day 2 embryo transfer in the absence of symmetrical 4-cell embryos.
The Emerging Role of YAP/TAZ in Tumor Immunity
Authors: Pan Zhaoji , Tian Yiqing , Cao Chengsong , Niu Guoping 
Published: July 2019

AbstractYes-associated protein (YAP)/WW domain-containing transcription regulator 1 (TAZ) is an important transcriptional regulator and effector of the Hippo signaling pathway that has emerged as a critical determinant of malignancy in many human tumors. YAP/TAZ expression regulates the cross-talk between immune cells and tumor cells in the tumor microenvironment through its influence on T cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and macrophages. However, the mechanisms underlying these effects are poorly understood. An improved understanding of the role of YAP/TAZ in tumor immunity is essential for exploring innovative tumor treatments and making further breakthroughs in antitumor immunotherapy. This review primarily focuses on the role of YAP/TAZ in immune cells, their interactions with tumor cells, and how this impacts on tumorigenesis, progression, and therapy resistance.
Pediatric to Adult Transition in Sickle Cell Disease: Survey Results from Young Adult Patients
Authors: Travis Kate , Wood Anthony , Yeh Peter , Allahabadi Sachin , Chien Ling-Chen , Curtis Sara , Hammond Allexa , Kohn Jaden , Ogugbuaja Christine , Rees Matthew , Shumway John , Sheehan Vivien 
Published: July 2019

<b><i>Background/Aims:</i></b> We surveyed sickle cell disease (SCD) patients who transitioned from pediatric care at Texas Children’s Hematology Center (TCHC) to adult care to determine the characteristics of patients with an adult SCD provider, continuation rates of pre-transition therapies, and patient perceptions of the transition process. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> A cross-sectional study was conducted by telephone survey of 44 young adults with SCD, aged 19–29 years, who transitioned from TCHC to adult care within the last 15 years. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Findings of the 23-item questionnaire revealed that transitioned patients with current adult providers (68.2%) were more likely to have seen a provider within 6 months of transition (<i>p</i> = 0.023) and to have been on hydroxyurea and/or monthly blood transfusions pre-transition (<i>p</i> = 0.021) than transitioned patients without a provider; 83% of patients on pre-transition hydroxyurea reported continuing hydroxyurea after transition. Transition challenges included inadequate preparation, difficulty finding knowledgeable adult providers, and lack of healthcare insurance/coverage. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Transition to adult providers is predicted by establishing care with an adult SCD provider within 6 months of transition and being on pre-transition disease-modifying therapy. Transition may be improved if pediatric hematology centers assist and verify adult provider contact within 6 months of transition and engage patients of all disease severity during transition.
Fluoride in Saliva and Oral Mucosa after Brushing with 1,450 or 5,000 ppm Fluoride Toothpaste
Authors: Staun Larsen Line , Baelum Vibeke , Richards Alan , Nyvad Bente 
Published: July 2019

The aim was to measure and compare fluoride concentrations in oral mucosa and saliva following a single brushing with either 1,450 or 5,000 ppm fluoride toothpaste. Fourteen healthy participants provided saliva and oral mucosa samples in the morning before tooth brushing. Then participants brushed their teeth with 1,450 ppm fluoride toothpaste, and saliva and mucosa samples were collected after 1, 2, 4, and 6 h. The experiment was repeated 3–7 days later with 5,000 ppm fluoride toothpaste. All samples were analyzed for fluoride using an ion-selective electrode adapted for microanalysis. Pre-brushing fluoride concentrations were higher in mucosa (mean<sub>1,450</sub> 0.26 ppm and mean<sub>5,000</sub> 0.20 ppm) than in saliva (mean<sub>1,450</sub> 0.08 ppm and mean<sub>5,000</sub> 0.07 ppm). The mean fluoride concentrations increased in both mucosa and saliva following a single brushing with both 1,450 ppm (mean<sub>muc1,450 (1 h)</sub> 1.15 ppm, mean<sub>sal1,450 (1 h)</sub> 0.33 ppm) and 5,000 ppm fluoride toothpaste (mean<sub>muc5,000 (1 h)</sub> 3.21 ppm and mean<sub>sal5,000 (1 h)</sub> 0.90 ppm). At 6 h, the fluoride concentrations had returned to pre-brushing levels. Across the 6-h sampling period the fluoride concentration in saliva was statistically significantly 1.4 times higher following brushing with 5,000 ppm compared with 1,450 ppm fluoride toothpaste. For mucosa, this ratio was only 1.1 and not statistically significant. In conclusion, the fluoride level in oral buccal mucosa is higher than in saliva and follows the same fluoride clearance pattern as in saliva. Over the initial 6-h period following a single tooth brushing, the ratio of the fluoride concentration in mucosa to that in saliva is independent of the fluoride concentrations in the toothpastes used.
Lipidomics, Atrial Conduction, and Body Mass Index
Authors: Del Greco M Fabiola , Foco Luisa , Teumer Alexander , Verweij Niek , Paglia Giuseppe , Meraviglia Viviana , Melotti Roberto , Vukovic Vladimir , Rauhe Werner , Joshi Peter K. , Demirkan Ayse , Felix Stephan B. , Pietzner Maik , Said M. Abdullah , van de Vegte Yordi J. , van der Harst Pim ,   Lifelines Cohort Study*, Wright Alan F. , Hicks Andrew A. , Campbell Harry , Dörr Marcus , Snieder Harold , Wilson James F. , Pramstaller Peter P. , Rossini Alessandra , Pattaro Cristian 
Published: July 2019

Background:
Lipids are increasingly involved in cardiovascular risk prediction as potential proarrhythmic influencers. However, knowledge is limited about the specific mechanisms connecting lipid alterations with atrial conduction.

Methods:
To shed light on this issue, we conducted a broad assessment of 151 sphingo- and phospholipids, measured using mass spectrometry, for association with atrial conduction, measured by P wave duration (PWD) from standard electrocardiograms, in the MICROS study (Microisolates in South Tyrol) (n=839). Causal pathways involving lipidomics, body mass index (BMI), and PWD were assessed using 2-sample Mendelian randomization analyses based on published genome-wide association studies of lipidomics (n=4034) and BMI (n=734 481), and genetic association analysis of PWD in 5 population-based studies (n=24 236).

Results:

We identified an association with relative phosphatidylcholine 38:3 (%PC 38:3) concentration, which was replicated in the ORCADES (Orkney Complex Disease Study; n=951), with a pooled association across studies of 2.59 (95% CI, 1.3–3.9;
P
=1.1×10
−4
) ms PWD per mol% increase. While being independent of cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose levels, the %PC 38:3-PWD association was mediated by BMI. Results supported a causal effect of BMI on both PWD (
P
=8.3×10
−5
) and %PC 38:3 (
P
=0.014).

Conclusions:
Increased %PC 38:3 levels are consistently associated with longer PWD, partly because of the confounding effect of BMI. The causal effect of BMI on PWD reinforces evidence of BMI’s involvement into atrial electrical activity.
Patterns and Outcomes of Endovascular Therapy in Mild Stroke
Authors: Asdaghi Negar , Yavagal Dileep R. , Wang Kefeng , Mueller-Kronast Nils , Bhatt Nirav , Gardener Hannah E. , Gutierrez Carolina M. , Marulanda-Londoño Erika , Koch Sebastian , Dong Chuanhui , Oluwole Sophia A. , Hanel Ricardo , Mehta Brijesh , Robichaux Mary , Nobo Ulises , Zevallos Juan C. , Rundek Tatjana , Sacco Ralph L. , Romano Jose G. 
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose—
We aimed to evaluate the current practice patterns, safety and outcomes of patients who receive endovascular therapy (EVT) having mild neurological symptoms.

Methods—
From Jan 2010 to Jan 2018, 127,794 ischemic stroke patients were enrolled in the Florida-Puerto Rico Stroke Registry. Patients presenting within 24 hours of symptoms who received EVT were classified into mild (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS] ≤5) or moderate/severe (NIHSS>5) categories. Differences in clinical characteristics and outcomes were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression.

Results—
Among 4110 EVT patients (median age, 73 [interquartile range=20] years; 50% women), 446 (11%) had NIHSS ≤5. Compared with NIHSS >5, those with NIHSS ≤5 arrived later to the hospital (median, 138 versus 101 minutes), were less likely to receive intravenous alteplase (30% versus 43%), had a longer door-to-puncture time (median, 167 versus 115 minutes) and more likely treated in South Florida (64% versus 53%). In multivariable analysis younger age, private insurance (versus Medicare), history of hypertension, prior independent ambulation and hospital size were independent characteristics associated with NIHSS ≤5. Among EVT patients with NIHSS ≤5, 76% were discharged home/rehabilitation and 64% were able to ambulate independently at discharge as compared with 53% and 32% of patients with NIHSS >5. Symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage occurred in 4% of mild stroke EVT patients and 6.4% in those with NIHSS >5.

Conclusions—
Despite lack of evidence-based recommendations, 11% of patients receiving EVT in clinical practice have mild neurological presentations. Individual, hospital and geographic disparities are observed among endovascularly treated patients based on the severity of clinical symptoms. Our data suggest safety and overall favorable outcomes for EVT patients with mild stroke.