bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The feasibility of contrast echocardiography in the assessment of right ventricular size and function
Authors: Pereira Jason B. , Essa Mohammed , Ugonabo Ifeoma , Hur David J. , Crandall Ian , Vaccarelli Michael , Sugeng Lissa 
Published: October 2019

AbstractBackgroundRight ventricle (RV) evaluation requires dedicated imaging to achieve a comprehensive functional and anatomical assessment. Right ventricular imaging could be technically difficult which results in suboptimal visibility and inconsistent assessment between observers. The aim of this study was to assess feasibility and the additive value of contrast enhancement for right ventricular evaluation.MethodsEighty patients referred for clinically indicated echocardiography studies were included. Patients with irregular rhythms were excluded. Dedicated RV‐focused view was attained; RV dimensions measured, and RV segment visualization and wall motion were assessed with and without contrast enhancement. Paired sample t test was used to compare continuous variables, Wilcoxon signed‐rank test to compare segments visualization on enhanced versus (vs) nonenhanced images, and Cohen kappa coefficient to assess the agreement of wall motion between two observers. Reproducibility was measured by the absolute mean difference method.ResultsA total of 240 total segments of 80 patients were analyzed, and 178 (74%) were visible on unenhanced while 221 (92%) on enhanced images, P < .05. Further, RV measurements on enhanced images were consistently larger on RV focused, SAX, and RVOT. Inter‐ and intra‐observer reproducibility showed a higher reproducibility with a lower bias on enhanced images. Absolute agreement on RV segmental wall motion between two independent observers was higher on enhanced images. Percent agreement was 78% on UE vs 89% on CE.ConclusionContrast RV imaging is feasible and improves RV segment visualization and inter‐observer agreement. Compared with unenhanced images, RV measurements on contrast images are larger and more reproducible with lower bias.
Simple signals indicate which period of the annual cycle drives declines in seasonal populations
Authors: Burant Joseph B. , Betini Gustavo S. , Norris D. Ryan 
Published: October 2019

AbstractFor declining wild populations, a critical aspect of effective conservation is understanding when and where the causes of decline occur. The primary drivers of decline in migratory and seasonal populations can often be attributed to a specific period of the year. However, generic, broadly applicable indicators of these season‐specific drivers of population decline remain elusive. We used a multi‐generation experiment to investigate whether habitat loss in either the breeding or non‐breeding period generated distinct signatures of population decline. When breeding habitat was reduced, population size remained relatively stable for several generations, before declining precipitously. When non‐breeding habitat was reduced, between‐season variation in population counts increased relative to control populations, and non‐breeding population size declined steadily. Changes in seasonal vital rates and other indicators were predicted by the season in which habitat loss treatment occurred. Per capita reproductive output increased when non‐breeding habitat was reduced and decreased with breeding habitat reduction, whereas per capita non‐breeding survival showed the opposite trends. Our results reveal how simple signals inherent in counts and demographics of declining populations can indicate which period of the annual cycle is driving declines.
The epileptology of GNB5 encephalopathy
Authors: Poke Gemma , King Chontelle , Muir Alison , de Valles‐Ibáñez Guillem , Germano Michele , Moura de Souza Carolina F. , Fung Jasmine , Chung Brian , Fung Cheuk Wing , Mignot Cyril , Ilea Adina , Keren Boris , Vermersch Anne‐Isabelle , Davis Suzanne , Stanley Thorsten , Moharir Mahendranath , Kannu Peter , Shao Zhuo , Malerba Natascia , Merla Giuseppe , Mefford Heather C. , Scheffer Ingrid E. , Sadleir Lynette G. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractPathogenic variants in GNB5 cause an autosomal recessive neurodevelopmental disorder with neonatal sinus bradycardia. Seizures or epilepsy occurred in 10 of 22 previously reported cases, including 6 children from one family. We delineate the epileptology of GNB5 encephalopathy. Our nine patients, including five new patients, were from seven families. Epileptic spasms were the most frequent seizure type, occurring in eight of nine patients, and began at a median age of 3 months (2 months to 3 years). Focal seizures preceded spasms in three children, with onset at 7 days, 11 days, and 4 months. One child presented with convulsive status epilepticus at 6 months. Three children had burst suppression on electroencephalography (EEG), three had hypsarrhythmia, and one evolved from burst suppression to hypsarrhythmia. Background slowing was present in all after age 3 years. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed cerebral atrophy in one child and cerebellar atrophy in another. All nine had abnormal development prior to seizure onset and ultimately had profound impairment without regression. Hypotonia was present in all, with contractures developing in two older patients. All individuals had biallelic pathogenic variants in GNB5, predicted by in silico tools to result in protein truncation and loss‐of‐function. GNB5 developmental and epileptic encephalopathy is characterized by epileptic spasms, focal seizures, and profound impairment.
Cross impact analysis and data mining variable hierarchy of stakeholder responses for sustainable development of Schizothorax fisheries in Kashmir lakes, India
Authors: Qureshi Neha W. , Krishnan M. , V. Ramasubramanian 
Published: October 2019

AbstractThis study documented the history of lake fisheries in Kashmir, India, and estimated the trends in fish production using Kane's cross impact analysis (CIA) and stakeholders’ willingness to pay (WTP) for the restoration of the Schizothorax fisheries. Kane's CIA model for Lake Dal indicated a perceptible drop in Schizothorax production in the long run, and that the total catch is being maintained by an increasing contribution by carp. In Lake Wular, the CIA indicated that the size of the lake still offers scope for the co‐existence and growth of both Schizothorax as well as carp. A Classification and Regression Tree (CART) model was used to data mine multiple stakeholder responses to make a case for sustainable development of the Schizothorax fisheries in the lakes of Kashmir. The amount of time spent on the lakes to earn their livelihoods emerged as the single most important variable that determined WTP by stakeholders followed by income, type of stakeholder and age. The pruned tree gave the hierarchy of the variables that determined WTP. The results made a strong case for a concerted multi‐institutional action plan for the restoration of the Schizothorax fisheries in the lakes of Kashmir.
Hereditary angioedema: a prospective study of a Brazilian single‐center cohort
Authors: Alonso Maria L. O. , Valle Solange O. R. , Tórtora Rosângela P. , Grumach Anete S. , França Alfeu T. , Ribeiro Márcia G. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractBackgroundHereditary angioedema (HAE) is rare and still underdiagnosed in some countries. We aimed to describe HAE diagnosis and sociodemographic and clinical features in patients with HAE due to C1 inhibitor deficiency (HAE‐C1‐INH) followed up at a tertiary‐level center in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.MethodsA descriptive, cross‐sectional study with prospective data collection of 138 Brazilian patients with HAE was performed. From the total, 107 patients with HAE‐C1‐INH were selected. Data were assessed based on a specific questionnaire.ResultsOne hundred and five patients had HAE type I (76.1%), and two had HAE type II (1.4%). Seventy‐two were female (67.3%), and 35 were male (32.7%). Mean age was 38.0 ± 15.0 years (range: 12–73 years). A long delay (17.7 ± 12.6 years) until diagnosis was observed. About 86.9% had a familial history. Cutaneous edema (95.8%), abdominal pain (88.5%), and laryngeal edema (65.6%) were the most frequent symptoms. Triggering factors (95.8%) and prodromal symptoms (47.9%) were referred. Attacks were severe in 55.1% and moderate in 24.3%. Eleven (10.3%) were asymptomatic. HAE attacks were more frequent and severe (P = 0.021) in females.ConclusionsWe observed a considerable delay in diagnosis, even with familial history. The severity of HAE attacks, especially in females, highlights the need for an awareness of disease by gynecologists and obstetricians. Screening of familial members, including asymptomatic individuals, is critical for earlier diagnosis. Regional evaluation of patient profiles can be helpful to draw more attention about HAE and to improve quality of life.
CD8+ cytotoxic mycosis fungoides: a retrospective analysis of clinical features and follow‐up results of 29 patients
Authors: Kalay Yildizhan Incilay , Sanli Hatice , Akay Bengu N. , Sürgün Ece , Heper Aylin 
Published: October 2019

AbstractBackground and objectiveLess than 5% of cases of mycosis fungoides (MF) present with a cytotoxic/suppressor CD8+ phenotype. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics, treatment modalities, and clinical course in CD8+ MF patients.MethodsIn a retrospective analysis of 353 MF patients in a referral center at Ankara University, Turkey, 29 patients that were diagnosed with CD8+ MF were included in the study.ResultsCD8+ MF cases constituted 8.2% of all MF patients. The age at the time of diagnosis ranged between 6 and 81 years with a median value of 46 years. The female‐to‐male ratio was 1.41. Patients presented with erythematous scaly (69%), hyperpigmented (58.6%), poikilodermic (17.2%), and hypopigmented (17.2 %) patches/plaques. The most common sites of involvement were the trunk and lower extremities. The most common comorbidity was hypertension (24.1%, n: 7) with 13 patients (44.8%) having a history of at least one autoimmune disease. At the time of diagnosis, 93.2% of the patients had early‐stage disease, and 6.8% of the patients had advanced stage. The mean follow‐up period was 6.68 ± 6.04 years (range 1–28 years). Most of the patients were treated with skin‐directed therapies. Complete remission was achieved in 17 (58.6%) patients, eight (27.6%) patients had partial remission, and four (13.8%) patients had stable disease.ConclusionsWe concluded that CD8+ MF is associated with an indolent course and in most patients, skin‐directed therapies were found to be efficient to control the disease.
Protection of Batf3‐deficient mice from experimental cerebral malaria correlates with impaired cytotoxic T‐cell responses and immune regulation
Authors: Kuehlwein Janina M. , Borsche Max , Korir Patricia J. , Risch Frederic , Mueller Ann‐Kristin , Hübner Marc P. , Hildner Kai , Hoerauf Achim , Dunay Ildiko Rita , Schumak Beatrix 
Published: October 2019

Summary
Excessive inflammatory immune responses during infections with Plasmodium parasites are responsible for severe complications such as cerebral malaria (CM) that can be studied experimentally in mice. Dendritic cells (DCs) activate cytotoxic CD8+ T‐cells and initiate immune responses against the parasites. Batf3−/− mice lack a DC subset, which efficiently induces strong CD8 T‐cell responses by cross‐presentation of exogenous antigens. Here we show that Batf3−/− mice infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA (PbA) were protected from experimental CM (ECM), characterized by a stable blood−brain barrier (BBB) and significantly less infiltrated peripheral immune cells in the brain. Importantly, the absence of ECM in Batf3−/− mice correlated with attenuated responses of cytotoxic T‐cells, as their parasite‐specific lytic activity as well as the production of interferon gamma and granzyme B were significantly decreased. Remarkably, spleens of ECM‐protected Batf3−/− mice had elevated levels of regulatory immune cells and interleukin 10. Thus, protection from ECM in PbA‐infected Batf3−/− mice was associated with the absence of strong CD8+ T‐cell activity and induction of immunoregulatory mediators and cells.
Expression of VEGFA‐regulating miRNAs and mortality in wet AMD
Authors: Blasiak Janusz , Watala Cezary , Tuuminen Raimo , Kivinen Niko , Koskela Ali , Uusitalo‐Järvinen Hannele , Tuulonen Anja , Winiarczyk Mateusz , Mackiewicz Jerzy , Zmorzyński Szymon , Filip Agata , Kaarniranta Kai 
Published: October 2019

AbstractMicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression; many of them act in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and RPE degeneration is known to be a critical factor in age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). Repeated injections with anti‐VEGFA (vascular endothelial growth factor A) are the only effective therapy in wet AMD. We investigated the correlation between the expression of 18 miRNAs involved in the regulation of the VEGFA gene in serum of 76 wet AMD patients and 70 controls. Efficacy of anti‐VEGFA treatment was evaluated by counting the number of injections delivered up to 12 years. In addition, we compared the relative numbers of deaths in patient with AMD and control groups. We observed a decreased expression of miR‐34‐5p, miR‐126‐3p, miR‐145‐5p and miR‐205‐5p in wet AMD patients as compared with controls. These miRNAs are involved in the regulation of angiogenesis, cytoprotection and protein clearance. No miRNA was significantly correlated with the treatment outcome. Wet AMD patients had greater mortality than controls, and their survival was inversely associated with the number of anti‐VEGFA injections per year. No association was observed between miRNA expression and mortality. Our study emphasizes the need to clarify the role of miRNA regulation in AMD pathogenesis.
Influence of surface treatment on the fluorescence of composite resins subjected to in situ bleaching
Authors: García Lourdes M G , de Godoi Ana Paula T , Serra Osvaldo A , de Lima Juliana F , de P A Almeida Leonardo , Dotta Tatiane C , Corona Silmara A M , dos Reis Andréa C , Catirse Alma B C E B 
Published: October 2019

AbstractObjectiveUse fluorescence analysis to evaluate the effect of polishing and surface sealant on the color of composite resin bleached with carbamide peroxide and subjected to staining.Materials and methodsForty‐eight composite resin specimens (Z250/Z350XT) were fabricated. After 24 hours stored in distilled water, all specimens were submitted to in situ bleaching with 16% home peroxide for 8 hours daily for a period of 14 days. Subsequently specimens were separated in three groups according to surface treatment proposed (group 1—polishing Sof‐Lex; group 2—BisCover; group 3—control). After this, all the specimens were stained with red wine. A spectrofluorometer was used to evaluate the fluorescence in two readouts (L0—after surface treatment and L1—after staining).Data were analyzed by applying ANOVA using a statistical software program.ResultsNo differences were shown for the factor treatment and other interactions. The lowest mean fluorescence value was found for Z350XT resin (1759.18 ± 0.13) when compared with Z250 (6863.92 ± 0.13). There was significant difference in the mean fluorescence values for all surface treatments between the two different readouts L0 (4820.93 ± 0.05) and L1 (3802.17 ± 0.05).ConclusionThe results suggested that all surface treatments proposed did not influenced the results of wine staining of bleached resins when compared with the control evaluated by the fluorescence method.Clinical significanceThe purposes of this research was to find solutions, by means of surfaces treatment, to achieve restorations with a satisfactory and similar final aspect in relation to the teeth, and avoid discrepancies related to the esthetics and longevity of the restoration.
Effects of freezing on length and mass measurements of Atlantic cod Gadus morhua in the Baltic Sea
Authors: McQueen Kate , Mion Monica , Hilvarsson Annelie , Casini Michele , Olesen Hans J. , Hüssy Karin , Radtke Krzysztof , Krumme Uwe 
Published: October 2019

AbstractAn aggregated sample of 925 Atlantic cod Gadus morhua collected by four countries in different regions of the Baltic Sea during different seasons were measured (total length, LT = 161–890 mm and weighed (mass, M = 45–6900 g) both before freezing and after defrosting. The cod were found to decrease significantly in both LT and M following death and frozen storage. There was an average (±SD) change in LT of −2.91% (±0.05%) following freezing, independent of starting LT. Total M changed by −2.65% (±0.14%), independent of starting mass. Shrinkage of LT and M did not differ significantly between 1 and 4 months frozen storage, though LT shrinkage was significantly greater after 1 or 4 months in the freezer compared with after 5 days. There was significant variation in LT and M shrinkage between regions of capture. A significant negative relationship between condition of cod and LT or M change was also observed. Equations to back‐calculate fresh LT and M from thawed LT, M and standard length (LS), gutted LT, gutted LS and gutted M are provided.
Comparison of the quality of Chinese ginger juice powders prepared by different drying methods
Authors: Guo Fengqian , Yang Chunyu , Zang Chen , Shang Yue , Zhang Baoxian , Yu Hailan , Li Cui , Duan Shaofeng 
Published: October 2019

AbstractIn this study, ginger juice powders (GJPs) were obtained from ginger juice using vacuum drying, spray drying, vacuum microwave drying (VMD), and freeze‐drying (FD). The physical properties (water content, dissolving time, and color), chemical compositions (total volatiles, gingerols and shogaol, total phenolic content [TPC]), antioxidant activity, and aerobic bacteria content of the GJPs/redissolved ginger juice were determined and the effect of the drying processes on ginger juice was evaluated. The result showed that FD was optimal at retaining the color, gingerols, shogaol, and total volatiles of the ginger juice, while both VMD and FD could retain a high yield of TPC and the antioxidant activity of the ginger juice. It was also found that all the drying methods were effective in reducing the total aerobic bacteria of the ginger juice. This study proved that the four drying methods had very different effects on the quality of the ginger juice, among which FD was optimal for processing ginger juice.Practical applicationsIn this study, four processing methods of ginger juice were compared by investigating the physical properties (water content, dissolving time, and color), chemical compositions (total volatiles, gingerols and shogaol, total phenolic content), antioxidant activity, and aerobic bacteria content of the different ginger juice powers prepared. The results will provide new reference for processing ginger.
Use of alcoholic–alkaline treated starch citrates and lactates as fat and protein replacer in imitation Mozzarella cheese
Authors: Butt Natasha A. , Ali Tahira M. , Arif Saqib , Hasnain Abid 
Published: October 2019

AbstractThe present study substituted (a) casein (CR) and (b) casein and fat (CR + FR) simultaneously with cold water‐soluble (CWS) rice starch citrates and lactates to control functional characteristics of imitation cheese (IC). Rheological analysis for cheese confirmed the dominancy of elastic component (G′ > G″) and pseudoplastic behavior with flow behavior index less than 1. Lactic acid‐modified CWS displayed better structural alignment with progressive rise in frequency as evident by rise in G′. Meltability of CR cheese samples containing modified starches showed no significant difference with respect to control. Cohesiveness significantly increased, whereas adhesiveness showed no difference for CR cheese samples when compared with control. These distinctive properties provide a scientific approach to control stretching, rheological/textural properties, and meltability of imitation cheese (IC) by using precise ratio of casein and fat along with modified starches.Practical applicationsStarches modified by safe chemicals were used to partially replace fat and casein simultaneously in IC. Therefore, the present study will lead to development of low‐cost cheese, which will ultimately generate higher revenues for industry. Also it will reduce load of calories while improving/retaining quality of cheese.
Agrarian class struggle and state formation in post‐colonial Pakistan, 1959–1974: Contingencies of Mazdoor Kisan Raj
Authors: Ali Noaman G. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractState formation in post‐colonial societies is often explained with reference to the roles of elites. In Pakistan, landed elites continue to dominate the rural political economy through informal and formal institutions, but the history of its largest peasant movement shows how agrarian class struggle can change the institutional forms and functions of power. The Hashtnagar peasant movement achieved lasting de facto land and tenancy reforms in north‐western Pakistan in the 1970s through forcible land occupations that were regularized by state intervention. I argue that although divisions among elites were important, the state intervened in favour of peasants due to the rising organizational power of tenants and landless labourers under the centralized leadership of the radical Mazdoor Kisan Party. Agrarian class struggle weakened the informal power of landed elites and gave rise to institutions of peasant power. However, other fractions of the ruling class sought to undermine their landed opponents while co‐opting the militancy of the peasant movement by strengthening state institutions to intervene in favour of upwardly mobile tenants. The latter were separated from poorer peasants and the landless, thus demobilizing the movement.
Robust Inference for Consumption‐Based Asset Pricing
Authors: KLEIBERGEN FRANK , ZHAN ZHAOGUO 
Published: October 2019

ABSTRACTThe reliability of traditional asset pricing tests depends on: (i) the correlations between asset returns and factors; (ii) the time series sample size T compared to the number of assets N. For macro‐risk factors, like consumption growth, (i) and (ii) are often such that traditional tests cannot be trusted. We extend the Gibbons‐Ross‐Shanken statistic to test identification of risk premia and construct their 95% confidence sets. These sets are wide or unbounded when T and N are close, but show that average returns are not fully spanned by betas when T exceeds N considerably. Our findings indicate when meaningful empirical inference is feasible.