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Relational data representations have become an increasingly important topic due to the recent proliferation of network datasets (e.g., social, biological, information networks) and a corresponding increase in the application of Statistical Relational Learning (SRL) algorithms to these domains. In this article, we examine and categorize techniques for transforming graph-based relational data to improve SRL algorithms. In particular, appropriate transformations of the nodes, links, and/or features of the data can dramatically affect the capabilities and results of SRL algorithms. We introduce an intuitive taxonomy for data representation transformations in relational domains that incorporates link transformation and node transformation as symmetric representation tasks. More specifically, the transformation tasks for both nodes and links include (i) predicting their existence, (ii) predicting their label or type, (iii) estimating their weight or importance, and (iv) systematically constructing their relevant features. We motivate our taxonomy through detailed examples and use it to survey competing approaches for each of these tasks. We also discuss general conditions for transforming links, nodes, and features. Finally, we highlight challenges that remain to be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a theoretical analysis framework for relational ensemble models. We show that ensembles of collective classifiers can improve predictions for graph data by reducing errors due to variance in both learning and inference. In addition, we propose a relational ensemble framework that combines a relational ensemble learning approach with a relational ensemble inference approach for collective classification. The proposed ensemble techniques are applicable for both single and multiple graph settings. Experiments on both synthetic and real-world data demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework. Finally, our experimental results support the theoretical analysis and confirm that ensemble algorithms that explicitly focus on both learning and inference processes and aim at reducing errors associated with both, are the best performers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Giant grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus, GG) is a valuable aquaculture species in Southeast Asia. Its farming is challenging, and the occurrence of spinal deformities is one of the bottlenecks found in aquaculture production. This study investigated the development of the swim bladder (SB) in GG and a possible causative relationship between failing to inflate the SB and spinal deviations in juvenile fish. The study of the ontogeny of the SB in GG revealed that the organ is connected through the pneumatic duct to the digestive tube from day 4 to day 7 post hatching (DPH). Repeated observations of larvae over this period showed that GG SB inflation period commences on day 5 DPH and lasts until the end of day 7 DPH. However, a proportion of day 7 DPH larvae failed to inflate their SB showing unorganised acidophilic tissue in the lumen of the organ. Assessment of skeletal anomalies in post metamorphic fish (42 DPH) revealed a relationship between the lack of an inflated SB and anomalies in the caudal region; more specifically, the urostyle (p < 0.05). Morphological assessment of juvenile fish showed a direct relationship between the lack of an inflated SB and lordotic/kyphotic anomalies. This was confirmed by X-ray of fish with and without an inflated SB following separation by hypersaline flotation. These findings show that SB inflation failure is the major contributing factor to spinal anomalies in GG. Also, this study described the timing of the SB inflation period in GG and its development. • Giant Grouper swim bladder Inflation period occurs between 5 and 7 days after hatch. • Failing to inflate the swim bladder affects the normal development of the organ. • Giant Grouper lacking an inflated swim bladder show spinal anomalies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Smoking is an important modifiable risk factor in all vascular diseases and verbal advice from providers has been shown to increase rates of tobacco cessation. We sought to identify factors that will improve tobacco cessation and recall of receiving verbal cessation advice in vascular surgery patients at a single institution., Methods: The study is a retrospective cohort study. Patients seen in outpatient vascular surgery clinic who triggered a tobacco Best Practice Advisory (BPA) during their office visits over a 10-month period were contacted post-clinic and administered surveys detailing smoking status, cessation advice recall, and validated scales for nicotine dependence and willingness to quit smoking. This BPA is a "hard stop" that requires providers to document actions taken. Charts were reviewed for tobacco cessation documentation. Nine-digit zip-codes identified the area deprivation index, a measure of socioeconomic status. Univariate analysis was used to identify factors associated with cessation and advice recall., Results: One hundred out of 318 (31.4%) patients responded to the survey. Epic Slicer Dicer found 97 BPA responses. To dismiss the BPA, 89 providers (91.8%) selected "advised tobacco cessation" and "Unable to Advise" otherwise. Of the 318 patients, 115 (36.1%) had cessation intervention documented in their provider notes and 151 (47.5%) received written tobacco cessation advice. Of survey respondents, 70 recalled receiving verbal advice, 27 recalled receiving written advice, 28 reported receiving offers of medication/therapy for cessation. 55 patients reported having tobacco cessation plans, and among those 17 reported having quit tobacco. Recall of receiving written advice (P < .001) and recall of receiving medication/therapy (P = .008) were associated with recall of receiving verbal cessation advice., Conclusions: Providing patients with tobacco cessation medication/therapy and written tobacco cessation education during office visits is associated with increased patients' recall of tobacco cessation advice. Vascular surgeons should continue to provide directed tobacco cessation advice., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Opsoclonus-Myoclonus syndrome is a rare neurological disorder that presents with oculomotor dysfunction and is associated with immunological triggers such as an infection. We present a patient with Opsoclonus-Myoclonus syndrome secondary to a West Nile virus (WNV) infection and focus on a unique series of magnetic resonance imaging findings. The following is a case report based on experience taking care of the patient as a member of the primary team in the hospital, chart review, and imaging findings obtained and reported through the department of radiology. A 61-year-old male presented with fatigue, ataxia, dysarthria, and fever after a recent cabin visit in the summer. The initial workup ruled out meningitis and stroke. The patient's condition deteriorated despite empiric treatment. Repeat magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed patchy fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) hyperintensities in the cerebellar hemispheres. Further evaluation confirmed West Nile virus infection through positive immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. This case underscores the importance of neuroimaging in evaluating encephalopathy, especially in the presence of multiple comorbidities. These findings contribute to the broader knowledge of West Nile virus encephalitis., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Yang et al.)