bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sparse random hypergraphs: non-backtracking spectra and community detection
Authors: Stephan Ludovic , Zhu Yizhe 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
We consider the community detection problem in a sparse $q$-uniform hypergraph $G$, assuming that $G$ is generated according to the Hypergraph Stochastic Block Model (HSBM). We prove that a spectral method based on the non-backtracking operator for hypergraphs works with high probability down to the generalized Kesten–Stigum detection threshold conjectured by Angelini et al. (2015, Spectral detection on sparse hypergraphs. In: 2015 53rd Annual Allerton Conference on Communication, Control, and Computing (Allerton). IEEE, pp. 66–73). We characterize the spectrum of the non-backtracking operator for the sparse HSBM and provide an efficient dimension reduction procedure using the Ihara–Bass formula for hypergraphs. As a result, community detection for the sparse HSBM on $n$ vertices can be reduced to an eigenvector problem of a $2n\times 2n$ non-normal matrix constructed from the adjacency matrix and the degree matrix of the hypergraph. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first provable and efficient spectral algorithm that achieves the conjectured threshold for HSBMs with $r$ blocks generated according to a general symmetric probability tensor.
Modelling tactical changes in association football using a Markov game
Authors: Hirotsu Nobuyoshi , Masui Yuki , Shimasaki Yu , Yoshimura Masafumi 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Accepted by: Phil Scarf
We model tactical changes in association football as a Markov game. The pitch is discretized into nine zones and the states of the Markov game are defined according to the zone in which the ball is located in-play, the team in possession and the score. We first model tactical changes in a Markov decision process framework, wherein one team maximizes their probability of winning. Then, we model tactical changes in a two-person zero-sum Markov game framework, wherein both teams maximize their probability of winning. Fundamental to our modelling is the notion that tactical changes impact upon transition rates. We verify the models using data from matches in a season of the Japan Professional Football League. We define a change in transition rates that can be realized by changes in tactics, and illustrate an example of optimal tactical changes when both teams can vary their tactics. The models we develop in the paper can support managers who are considering important decisions about substitutions and changes to formation, for example, when a match is in-play.
A Mathematical Algorithm for Dried Blood Spot Quality Assessment and Results concerning Quality from a Newborn Screening Program
Authors: Oprea Oana R , Barabas Albert Z , Manescu Ion B , Dobreanu Minodora 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Background
In addition to newborn screening, dried blood spots (DBSs) are used for a wide variety of analytes for clinical, epidemiological, and research purposes. Guidelines on DBS collection, storage, and transport are available, but it is suggested that each laboratory should establish its own acceptance criteria.

Methods
An optical scanning device was developed to assess the quality of DBSs received in the newborn screening laboratory from 11 maternity wards between 2013 and 2018. The algorithm was adjusted to agree with the visual examination consensus of experienced laboratory personnel. Once validated, the algorithm was used to categorize DBS specimens as either proper or improper. Improper DBS specimens were further divided based on 4 types of specimen defects.

Results
In total, 27 301 DBSs were analyzed. Compared with an annual DBS rejection rate of about 1%, automated scanning rejected 26.96% of the specimens as having at least one defect. The most common specimen defect was multi-spotting (ragged DBS, 19.13%). Among maternity wards, improper specimen rates varied greatly between 5.70% and 49.92%.

Conclusions
Improper specimen rates, as well as the dominant type of defect(s), are mainly institution-dependent, with various maternity wards consistently showing specific patterns of both parameters over time. Although validated in agreement with experienced laboratory personnel consensus, automated analysis rejects significantly more specimens. While continuous staff training, specimen quality monitoring, and problem-reporting to maternities is recommended, a thorough quality assessment strategy should also be implemented by every newborn screening laboratory. An important role in this regard may be played by automation in the form of optical scanning devices.
Phenotypic virulence characterization of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) isolates from broiler breeders with colibacillosis in Mississippi
Authors: Joseph Jiddu , Magee Christopher , Jia Linan , Zhang Li , Adhikari Pratima , Ramachandran Reshma 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Aims
In this study, we evaluated the phenotypic virulence characteristics of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) isolates from broiler breeders with colibacillosis in Mississippi. Also, the relationship between phenotypic and genotypic virulence patterns was determined.

Methods and Results
Twenty-eight APEC isolated from lesions of broiler breeders diagnosed with colibacillosis were used for embryo lethality assay and chick challenge study. The percentage of embryo mortality following embryo lethality assay and pathogenicity score following the chick challenge study were used to categorize the isolates based on virulence. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to determine the relationship between embryo mortality, chick pathogenicity, and the presence of virulence-associated genes in the isolates. Overall, 39.3% of the isolates were highly virulent and 3.5% were avirulent, following both assays. There existed a positive correlation between embryo mortality and chick pathogenicity (r = 0.73, P &lt; .01), as well as percentage embryo mortality and pathogenicity score with the presence of some virulence genes.

Conclusions
Even though all the APEC were isolated from lesions of diseased breeders, the virulence potential varied from being avirulent to highly virulent. Further, we identified a positive relationship between phenotypic virulence and the frequency of virulence-associated genes.
Retrieval augmented scientific claim verification
Authors: Liu Hao , Soroush Ali , Nestor Jordan G , Park Elizabeth , Idnay Betina , Fang Yilu , Pan Jane , Liao Stan , Bernard Marguerite , Peng Yifan , Weng Chunhua 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Objective
To automate scientific claim verification using PubMed abstracts.

Materials and Methods
We developed CliVER, an end-to-end scientific Claim VERification system that leverages retrieval-augmented techniques to automatically retrieve relevant clinical trial abstracts, extract pertinent sentences, and use the PICO framework to support or refute a scientific claim. We also created an ensemble of three state-of-the-art deep learning models to classify rationale of support, refute, and neutral. We then constructed CoVERt, a new COVID VERification dataset comprising 15 PICO-encoded drug claims accompanied by 96 manually selected and labeled clinical trial abstracts that either support or refute each claim. We used CoVERt and SciFact (a public scientific claim verification dataset) to assess CliVER’s performance in predicting labels. Finally, we compared CliVER to clinicians in the verification of 19 claims from 6 disease domains, using 189 648 PubMed abstracts extracted from January 2010 to October 2021.

Results
In the evaluation of label prediction accuracy on CoVERt, CliVER achieved a notable F1 score of 0.92, highlighting the efficacy of the retrieval-augmented models. The ensemble model outperforms each individual state-of-the-art model by an absolute increase from 3% to 11% in the F1 score. Moreover, when compared with four clinicians, CliVER achieved a precision of 79.0% for abstract retrieval, 67.4% for sentence selection, and 63.2% for label prediction, respectively.

Conclusion
CliVER demonstrates its early potential to automate scientific claim verification using retrieval-augmented strategies to harness the wealth of clinical trial abstracts in PubMed. Future studies are warranted to further test its clinical utility.
Characterizing the seasonal abundance and reproductive activity of overwintering Anopheles (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquitoes
Authors: Dehus Hannah , Siperstein Alden , Pomeroy Laura W , Meuti Megan E 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In temperate regions of the United States, female Anopheles mosquitoes respond to low temperatures and short photoperiods by entering an overwintering dormancy or diapause. Diapause in Anopheles results in reduced frequency of blood-feeding and reproductive arrest, indicating a period when pathogen transmission by these mosquitoes is unlikely. However, it is unclear precisely how late into the fall and how early in the spring these mosquitoes are biting, reproducing, and potentially transmitting pathogens. This is further complicated by the lack of clear markers of diapause in Anopheles (e.g., changes in egg follicle length). Our goal was to characterize the seasonal reproductive activity of female Anopheles in central Ohio, United States and evaluate egg follicle length as an indicator of Anopheles diapause. We used traditional mosquito traps and aspirators to collect Anopheles from urban woodlots and culverts, respectively, from late September 2021 through mid-May 2022 in central Ohio. By measuring their egg follicle length, reproductive status, and blood-feeding status, we found that egg follicle length is not a reliable indicator of Anopheles diapause. We also found that a small proportion of An. punctipennis (Say), An. perplexens (Ludlow), and An. quadrimaculatus (Say) continued to bite and reproduce into early November 2021 and that females of these species terminated reproductive dormancy and began biting by mid-March 2022. This period of reproductive activity extends beyond current mosquito surveillance and control in Ohio. Our findings suggest that within temperate regions of North America, Anopheles have the capacity to transmit pathogens throughout the spring, summer, and fall.
Basic concepts
Authors: Streiner David L. , Norman Geoffrey R. , Cairney John 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This chapter begins by introducing the readers to finding existing scales that may meet their needs. It briefly summarizes the key concepts they should look for in a scale—face and content validity (which are subjective evaluations made by the test developer and the test user), the different types of reliability and validity, and feasibility. It discusses what is meant by these various terms and how they are measured. It introduces the concept that terms like criterion validity and discriminant validity have fallen out of favour, and all ‘types’ of validity are subsumed under the name of ‘construct validity’. The chapter also contrasts categorical versus dimensional approaches to diagnosis and classification. Finally, it compares medical versus psychometric ways of trying to reduce measurement error.
Reliability
Authors: Streiner David L. , Norman Geoffrey R. , Cairney John 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
This chapter reviews the basic theory of reliability, and examines the relation between reliability and measurement error. It derives the standard form of reliability, the intraclass correlation or ICC, from repeated measures ANOVA. The chapter explores issues in the application of the reliability coefficient, including absolute versus relative reliability, the reliability of multiple observations, and the standard error of measurement. It examines several other measures of reliability—Cohen’s kappa, Pearson r, and the method of Altman and Bland—and derives the relation between them and the ICC. The chapter determines the variance of a reliability estimate. It also calculates sample size estimates for reliability studies, and methods to combine reliability estimates in systematic reviews.
Methods of administration
Authors: Streiner David L. , Norman Geoffrey R. , Cairney John 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
There are many different ways a scale can be administered. These include face-to-face interviews, questionnaires which are mailed to the respondent, those administered over the telephone, and those presented via the Internet. This chapter discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each, and how changes in technology, such as the increasing use of mobile phones, are affecting factors such as response rate. The chapter summarizes different techniques for increasing the response rate, such as rewards, advance notification, personalization of the covering letter, keeping the questionnaire short, and follow-ups. It also discusses new approaches to administering scales, such as the use of smart phones and video technology. It explores the advantages and disadvantages of using social media to find study participants. Finally, it mentions some of the difficulties that may be encountered when paper-and-pencil scales are administered online.
Severe Complications of Salicylate Overdose
Authors: Bhula Jay , Kleiman Richard 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Salicylates are found in a broad spectrum of medications and in various preparations that are available in both over-the-counter and prescription forms. Salicylates are used for their various antiplatelet, analgesic, and antipyretic properties, and they can easily be ingested in excess either intentionally or unintentionally. Salicylate toxicity can present as either acute or chronic. The presentation of salicylate toxicity can range from tinnitus, nausea/vomiting, fever, tachycardia, and tachypnea to respiratory distress due to pulmonary edema, respiratory failure, altered mental status, seizures, and coma. This chapter explores the presentation of salicylate toxicity, its treatment, and its long-term effects on patient health.
Some Like It Hot: Management of Toxic Hyperthermia
Authors: Titelbaum Nicholas , Morgan Brent 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The differential of toxic hyperthermia is diverse, but the underlying pathophysiology of the elevated temperature is due to either the increased generation of heat or decreased heat dissipation. A thorough history and physical examination are essential for identifying the precise etiology of the toxic hyperthermia. Laboratory evaluation may be helpful for identifying adverse sequelae of hyperthermia. Monitoring the temperature of hyperthermic patients is essential, and rectal temperatures are the gold standard. The mainstay of managing toxic hyperthermia involves aggressive cooling by ice water immersion and liberal use of benzodiazepines. Additional therapies may be indicated depending on the precise etiology of the toxic hyperthermia.
How Low Can You Go? Beta-Blocker and Calcium Channel Blocker Overdoses
Authors: Frein Michael , Zhen Jessica 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Calcium plays a crucial part in cardiovascular activity including cardiac contraction, conduction, and automaticity as well as vascular tone. Although calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and beta blockers (BBs) interfere with this calcium balance via differing mechanisms their clinical presentation in overdose is similar and it is in subtle peripheral changes such as glucose levels, where they can be distinguished. Overall, in cases of severe toxicity, the most common presentation will be hypotension, bradycardia, and shock. Certain medications in these medication families also possess sodium and potassium channel blocking properties and may have a longer half-life, which can have important implications in clinical presentation and treatment. Numerous treatments are available for CBB- and BB-associated toxicity, but most have limited high-quality evidence supporting their efficacy. The most important aspect of severe CCB and BB toxicity is hemodynamic supportive care. GI decontamination should be considered, and select cases may be candidates for treatment with veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.
Rats Hate This Stuff: Potent Long-Acting Vitamin K Antagonists
Authors: Underiner Reena , de Olano Jonathan 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Superwarfarins are long-acting vitamin K antagonists often found in rodenticides. Their ingestion can lead to prolonged and profound coagulopathy. Without the proper history, the diagnosis can be missed because changes in coagulation parameters will not be affected for hours to days after the ingestion. After a large acute ingestion, immediate referral to the emergency department is warranted for treatment with activated charcoal. If the patient is coagulopathic and symptomatic, the goal is stabilization, replacement of coagulation factors, and a prolonged course of vitamin K to reverse the effects of the vitamin K antagonist. Patients with intentional exposures should be carefully assessed by psychiatry before hospital discharge to assure compliance with outpatient therapy.
When Antidiarrheals Stop More Than Loose Bowels: Loperamide-Induced Cardiac Dysfunction
Authors: Farah Rita , Morgan Brent 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Loperamide is a synthetic over-the-counter opioid medication used as an antidiarrheal agent. It is a substrate of P-glycoprotein, which limits its absorption from the small intestines and penetration of the blood–brain barrier. High-dose loperamide increases plasma concentration following saturation of P-glycoprotein efflux pumps in the small intestines. Co-administration of loperamide with P-glycoprotein, CYP2C8, or CYP3A4 inhibitors will also increase loperamide plasma concentration and decreases metabolism. Central opioid effects can result after overdose. Numerous reports on loperamide toxicity revealed its potential for misuse as an opioid substitute due to its ease of access and low cost. However, the primary toxicity of concern after high-dose loperamide ingestions involves cardiac toxicity. Loperamide inhibits sodium-gated cardiac channels, leading to QRS complex widening and the cardiac delayed rectifier potassium channel, which increases the QT interval and results in increased risk of ventricular dysrhythmias. The management of loperamide toxicity is largely supportive with standard advanced cardiac life support measures. It is noteworthy that loperamide is lipophilic and highly protein-bound, therefore hemodialysis is not expected to be beneficial. IV lipid emulsion can be considered in patients with severe cardiotoxicity refractory to standard measures. In patients with cardiovascular collapse not responding to standard treatment measures, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation may be considered.
Save a Life, Initiate Buprenorphine: Emergency Department Buprenorphine Administration
Authors: Kruse Maxwell , Silva Joshua da 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In 2019, there were nearly six times the number of opioid overdose deaths than there were a decade earlier. Emergency department clinicians have an opportunity to save lives by learning to utilize medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with buprenorphine for the treatment of opioid use disorder. Buprenorphine is a partial mu-opioid agonist with a much higher affinity for opioid receptors than commonly misused full-opioid agonists. Its unique pharmacology enables it to suppress opioid withdrawal, reduce cravings, and reduce the risk of overdose, and it allows for infrequent dosing. Studies have shown that treatment with buprenorphine is associated with reductions in opioid-related overdose, opioid-related mortality, and improved retention in treatment programs. MAT programs have also been shown to reduce overall costs to the healthcare and criminal justice systems compared to brief interventions and referrals alone.
All Amped Up and Nowhere to Go: Caffeine and Methylxanthine Overdose
Authors: Nuveen Nicholas , Gittinger Melissa H. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Caffeine and theobromine are methylxanthines found in many foods and supplements. Theophylline (and its salt, aminophylline) are compounds used in the treatment of apnea of prematurity and previously in the treatment of reversible bronchospastic disease. Their ultimate effect is increased release of catecholamines and stimulation of beta-adrenergic receptors, with phosphodiesterase inhibition in severe toxicity. They are metabolized by CYP1A2. Manifestations of toxicity include GI, cardiovascular, central nervous, and metabolic changes. Chronic users may experience more severe symptoms of overdose at lower serum concentrations than those with acute exposure. Workup includes electrolyte measurements, serial concentrations of the overdose agent, ECGs, and creatine kinase or urinalysis to detect rhabdomyolysis. Treatments involve GI decontamination as well as specific symptom control and potentially extracorporeal removal.
A diverse spectrum of mycoses histologically diagnosed in Ghana: Insights from a 10-year retrospective study
Authors: Ocansey Bright , Erskine Isaac , Okine Leonard , Potakey Daniel , Pappoe-Ashong Prince , Sraku Isaac , Quayson Solomon , Opintan Japheth , Kosmidis Chris , Denning David 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
In Ghana, most laboratory diagnoses of severe mycoses are based on histopathology findings due to inadequate availability of serology, culture, and molecular tests. The aim of this study was to evaluate the spectrum of mycoses diagnosed in Ghana. We retrospectively reviewed reports from 2012 to 2021 from three major pathology laboratories in Ghana to identify reports indicating the presence of fungal elements and diagnosis of a mycosis, then extracted demographic, clinical history, site of infection, stain(s), used and diagnosed mycosis details. Over the 10-year period, 107 cases were found. No apparent increasing and decreasing trend in the number of cases per year or in a period was observed. The age range of affected patients was from 4 to 86 years. Special stains for fungi were only used in 22 of 107 (20.6%) of cases. The most frequently affected site was the sino-nasal area (34%). Mycosis type was determined for 58 (54.2%) cases, comprising aspergillosis (21), candidiasis (14), dermatophytosis (6), mucormycosis (3), two cases each of chromoblastomycosis, histoplasmosis, eumycetoma, entomophthoromycosis, sporotrichosis, and Malassezia infection and a single case each of cryptococcosis and deep onychomycosis. Of the 53 (49.5%) cases with presumptive diagnosis data, only seven (13.2%) had a pre-biopsy suspicion of mycosis. There is a wide spectrum of mycoses in Ghana, including endemic mycoses not previously reported. Improving the use of special fungal stains could increase yield and mycoses identification. Laboratory diagnostic capacity needs enhancement to complement histopathology investigations with serology, culture, and molecular methods.