bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The “Central Vein Sign” on T2*-weighted Images as a Diagnostic Tool in Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis using Individual Patient Data
Authors: Suh Chong Hyun , Kim Sang Joon , Jung Seung Chai , Choi Choong Gon , Kim Ho Sung 
Published: December 2019

AbstractWe aimed to evaluate the pooled incidence of central vein sign on T2*-weighted images from patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), and to determine the diagnostic performance of this central vein sign for differentiating MS from other white matter lesions and provide an optimal cut-off value. A computerized systematic search of the literature in PUBMED and EMBASE was conducted up to December 14, 2018. Original articles investigating central vein sign on T2*-weighted images of patients with MS were selected. The pooled incidence was obtained using random-effects model. The pooled sensitivity and specificity were obtained using a bivariate random-effects model. An optimal cut-off value for the proportion of lesions with a central vein sign was calculated from those studies providing individual patient data. Twenty-one eligible articles covering 501 patients with MS were included. The pooled incidence of central vein sign at the level of individual lesion in patients with MS was 74% (95% CI, 65–82%). The pooled sensitivity and pooled specificity for the diagnostic performance of the central vein sign were 98% (95% CI, 92–100%) and 97% (95% CI, 91–99%), respectively. The area under the HSROC curve was 1.00 (95% CI, 0.99–1.00). The optimal cut-off value for the proportion of lesions with a central vein sign was found to be 45%. Although various T2*-weighted images have been used across studies, the current evidence supports the use of the central vein sign on T2*-weighted images to differentiate MS from other white matter lesions.
Screening of X-ray responsive substances for the next generation of radiosensitizers
Authors: Moriyama Akihiro , Hasegawa Takema , Jiang Lei , Iwahashi Hitoshi , Mori Takashi , Takahashi Junko 
Published: December 2019

AbstractX-ray responsivity resulting in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was investigated in 9600 organic compounds that were selected by considering their structural diversity. We focused on superoxides that were primarily detected using dihydroethidium (DHE) and hydroxyl radicals, that were identified fluorometrically using 3’-(p-aminophenyl) Fluorescein (APF). Many organic compounds were discovered that responded to the DHE and/or APF assay using X-ray irradiation. These results suggest that some of these organic compounds emit either superoxides or hydroxyl radicals whereas others emit both under the influence of X-ray irradiation. The response of the derivatives of a hit compound with a partial change in the structure was also investigated. The products produced from DHE by X-ray irradiation were identified by HPLC to confirm the integrity of the process. Although, the reactions were suppressed by the superoxide dismutase (SOD), not only 2-hydroxyethidium (2-OH-E+), but also ethidium (E+) were detected. The results suggest that apart from a direct reaction, an indirect reaction may occur between DHE and the superoxides. Although X-ray responsiveness could not be inferred due to the molecular complexity of the investigated compounds, delineation of these reactions will facilitate the development of the next generation of radiosensitizers.
Agastache honey has superior antifungal activity in comparison with important commercial honeys
Authors: Anand Sushil , Deighton Margaret , Livanos George , Pang Edwin Chi Kyong , Mantri Nitin 
Published: December 2019

AbstractThere is an urgent need for new effective antifungal agents suitable for the treatment of superficial skin infections, since acquired resistance of fungi to currently available agents is increasing. The antifungal activity of mono-floral Agastache honey and commercially available honeys were tested against dermatophytes (T. mentagrophytes and T. rubrum) and C. albicans (ATCC 10231 and a clinical isolate) by agar well diffusion and micro-dilution (AWD and MD). In AWD and MD assays, Agastache honey was effective at 40% concentration against dermatophytes (zone diameter, 19.5–20 mm) and C. albicans with the same MIC and MFC values indicating fungicidal activity. Tea tree honey was effective at 80% concentration (zone diameter, 14 mm) against dermatophytes and at 40% concentration against T. mentagrophytes and C. albicans. Manuka was effective at 80% concentration only against T. mentagrophytes (zone diameter, 12 mm) and at 40% against T. rubrum and C. albicans with fungistatic activity. Similar to the AWD results, Jelly bush, Super Manuka, and Jarrah showed no activity against dermatophytes but showed some activity against C. albicans. Headspace volatiles of six honeys were isolated by SPME and identified by GC-MS. The characteristic chemical markers for each honey were as follows: Agastache- Phenol, 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl) and Estragole; Manuka and Tea-tree- Acetanisole and Methyl 3,5-dimethoxybenzoate; Jelly bush- Linalool and Nonanal; Super Manuka- Methyl 3,5-dimethoxybenzoate and Nonanal; Jarrah- Isophorone and Nonanoic acid. Overall, analysis of the bioactive compound content and antifungal activity of Agastache honey indicated possible use as an antifungal agent for management of superficial fungal infections.
Effects of ink characteristics and piezo-electric inkjetting parameters on lysozyme activity
Authors: Biswas Tuser T. , Yu Junchun , Nierstrasz Vincent A. 
Published: December 2019

AbstractInkjet printing of enzymes can facilitate many novel applications where a small amount of materials need to be deposited in a precise and flexible manner. However, maintaining the satisfactory activity of inkjet printed enzyme is a challenging task due to the requirements of ink rheology and printhead parameters. Thus to find optimum inkjetting conditions we studied the effects of several ink formulation and jetting parameters on lysozyme activity using a piezoelectric printhead. Within linear activity range of protein concentrations ink containing 50 µg/mL lysozyme showed a satisfactory activity retention of 85%. An acceptable activity of jetted ink was found at pH 6.2 and ionic strength of 0.06 molar. Glycerol was found to be an effective viscosity modifier (10–15 mPa.s), humectant and protein structure stabilizer for the prepared ink. A non-ionic surfactant when used just below critical micelle concentration was found to be favourable for the jetted inks. An increase in activity retention was observed for inks jetted after 24 hours of room temperature incubation. However, no additional activity was seen for inkjetting above the room temperature. Findings of this study would be useful for formulating other protein-based inks and setting their inkjet printing parameters without highly compromising the functionality.
Loss of the serine protease HTRA1 impairs smooth muscle cells maturation
Authors: Klose Ralph , Prinz Alexander , Tetzlaff Fabian , Weis Eva-Maria , Moll Iris , Rodriguez-Vita Juan , Oka Chio , Korff Thomas , Fischer Andreas 
Published: December 2019

AbstractVascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) dysfunction is a hallmark of small vessel disease, a common cause of stroke and dementia. Two of the most frequently mutated genes in familial small vessel disease areHTRA1andNOTCH3. The protease HTRA1 cleaves the NOTCH3 ligand JAG1 implying a mechanistic link between HTRA1 and Notch signaling. Here we report that HTRA1 is essential for VSMC differentiation into the contractile phenotype. Mechanistically, loss of HTRA1 increased JAG1 protein levels and NOTCH3 signaling activity in VSMC. In addition, the loss of HTRA1 enhanced TGFβ-SMAD2/3 signaling activity. Activation of either NOTCH3 or TGFβ signaling resulted in increased transcription of theHESandHEYtranscriptional repressors and promoted the contractile VSMC phenotype. However, their combined over-activation led to an additive accumulation of HES and HEY proteins, which repressed the expression of contractile VSMC marker genes. As a result, VSMC adopted an immature phenotype with impaired arterial vasoconstriction in Htra1-deficient mice. These data demonstrate an essential role of HTRA1 in vascular maturation and homeostasis by controlling Notch and TGFβ signaling.
Prediabetes predicts adverse cardiovascular outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention: a meta-analysis
Authors: Zhao Yong , Guo Min , Shi Gang 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
Background: Prediabetes has been related with increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). However, the prognostic efficacy of prediabetes for patients receiving percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains undetermined. We aimed to quantitatively evaluate the influence of diabetes on the risks of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) after PCI in a meta-analysis.
Methods: Longitudinal follow-up studies evaluating the association between prediabetes and risks of MACEs and mortality after PCI were identified by search of PubMed and Embase databases. A random-effect model was applied to pool the results. Subgroup analyses were performed to evaluate the impacts of study characteristics on the outcome.
Results: Twelve follow-up studies including 10,048 patients that underwent PCI were included. Compared with patients with normoglycemia at admission, those with prediabetes were had significantly higher risk MACEs during follow-up (adjusted risk ratio [RR]: 1.53, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.25–1.87, P &lt; 0.001). Further subgroup analyses indicated that the association between prediabetes and higher risk of MACEs remained regardless of the study design, sample size, CAD subtype, PCI type, definition of diabetes, or follow-up duration. Moreover, patients with prediabetes had higher significantly risk of MACEs in studies with adjustment of coronary lesion severity (RR: 1.79, P &lt; 0.001), but the association became insignificant in studies without adjustment of the coronary lesion severity (RR: 1.23, P = 0.09).
Conclusions: Prediabetes is independently associated with increased risk of MACEs after PCI as compared with those with normoglycemia, even in studies with adjustment of coronary severity.
Evaluation of Swallow Function on Healthy Adults While Using High-Flow Nasal Cannula
Authors: Eng Kortney , Flores Maria Jose , Gerrity Elisabeth , Sinha Nupur , Imbeau Katherine , Erbele Laddie , Yeh Cary 
Published: December 2019

Purpose
High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy is used increasingly in critically ill populations under respiratory distress. The interface between respiration and swallowing begs a better understanding of the effects of HFNC on swallow function. The current prospective cohort study investigated the effect of HFNC on swallow physiology in healthy adults.

Method

Eighty adults aged 35–65 years underwent modified barium swallow studies under varying flow rates of HFNC (0, 20, 40, and 60 liters per minute [lpm]). Modified barium swallow studies were scored by a blinded speech-language pathologist for 17 components of swallow function as defined by the Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP) and severity of penetration and aspiration as defined by the 8-point Penetration-Aspiration Scale (
Rosenbek, Robbins, Roecker, Coyle, & Wood, 1996
).

Results
Total MBSImP scores were statistically significantly higher at the highest flow rate (60 lpm) than those at any other flow rate. MBSImP components 1 (lip closure), 2 (tongue control during oral bolus hold), and 5 (oral residue) demonstrated statistical relevance to various flow rates. MBSImP components 12 (pharyngeal stripping wave) and 15 (tongue base retraction) were significant to age group. The 8-Point Penetration-Aspiration Scale scores were not significantly associated with flow rate nor age group.

Conclusion
The current study demonstrated that oral swallowing changes occur in healthy adults wearing HFNC at a high-flow rate (60 lpm). We postulate that healthy adults are able to compensate for swallowing changes while wearing HFNC; we suggest that cognition is a critical factor when evaluating patient populations for safe initiation of oral alimentation.
Schilddrüse und Schwangerschaft
Authors: Koehler Viktoria Florentine , Auernhammer Christoph Josef , Spitzweg Christine 
Published: December 2019

Was ist neu?
Physiologische Anpassungen der Schilddrüsenfunktion in der Schwangerschaft Die Schwangerschaft hat umfangreiche physiologische Auswirkungen auf die Schilddrüse und den Schilddrüsenhormonstoffwechsel. Dies muss bei der Beurteilung der Schilddrüsenlaborparameter unter Beachtung trimenonspezifischer Referenzbereiche sowie bei der Indikationsstellung für den Beginn einer Therapie berücksichtigt werden.
Schilddrüsen-Autoantikörper-positive euthyreote Schwangere Die Auswirkungen subklinischer Schilddrüsenfunktionsstörungen und/oder positiver Schilddrüsen-Autoantikörper auf die werdende Mutter sowie den Embryo/Feten werden weiterhin kontrovers diskutiert. Bei euthyreoten Schwangeren mit positiven Schilddrüsen-Autoantikörpern kann eine Levothyroxin (LT4)-Substitution, insbesondere bei Abortrezidiven, diskutiert werden.
Subklinische Hypothyreose Die Kombination aus erhöhten Thyreoperoxidase-Antikörpern (TPO-AK) und einer subklinischen Hypothyreose scheint das Risiko für schwangerschaftsassoziierte Komplikationen zu erhöhen, weshalb bei subklinischer Hypothyreose auch unter Berücksichtigung des TPO-AK-Status individuell, jedoch insgesamt großzügig, die Indikation zur LT4-Substitution gestellt wird. Bei einer Substitutionstherapie sollte aber nach der Schwangerschaft die Situation neu evaluiert werden, da viele Mütter keine dauerhafte Schilddrüsenhormongabe benötigen.
Manifeste Hypothyreose Die manifeste Hypothyreose ist immer eine klare Indikation für eine rasche LT4-Gabe mit dem Ziel, möglichst zügig eine Euthyreose zu erreichen.
Hyperthyreose Die häufig im 1. Trimenon auftretende – physiologische, durch humanes Choriongonadotropin (hCG) vermittelte – passagere Verminderung bis hin zur Suppression des Thyreoidea-stimulierenden Hormons (TSH) stellt keine Indikation für Thyreostatika dar. Bei anderen Formen der manifesten Hyperthyreose muss die Indikation für eine thyreostatische Medikation (Propylthiouracil oder Thionamide) in der Schwangerschaft aufgrund von möglichen teratogenen Effekten sowie der Gefahr der Induktion einer hypothyreoten Stoffwechsellage beim Feten sehr streng sowie trimenonspezifisch gestellt werden und erfordert ein interdisziplinäres Management.
Injury Incidence and Workloads during congested Schedules in Football
Authors: Howle Kieran , Waterson Adam , Duffield Rob 
Published: December 2019

AbstractThis study compared injury incidence and training loads between single and multi-match weeks, and seasons with and without congested scheduling. Measures of internal (session-Rating of Perceived Exertion × duration for training/match and % maximal heart rate) and external load (total, low-, high-, and very high-intensity running distances) along with injury incidence rates were determined from 42 players over 3 seasons; including 1 without and 2 (season 2 and 3) with regular multi-match weeks. Within-player analyses compared 1 (n=214) vs. 2-match (n=86) weeks (>75min in matches), whilst team data was compared between seasons. Total injury rates were increased during multi-match weeks (p=0.001), resulting from increased match and training injuries (50.3, 16.9/1000h). Between-season total injury rates were highest when congested scheduling was greatest in season 3 (27.3/1000h) and season 2 (22.7/1000h) vs. season 1 (14.1/1000h; p=0.021). All external load measures were reduced in multi-match weeks (p<0.05). Furthermore, all internal and external training loads were lowest in seasons with congestion (p<0.05). In conclusion, increased injury rates in training and matches exist. Total loads remain comparable between single and multi-match weeks, though reduce in congested seasons. Whether injuries result from reduced recovery, increased match exposure or the discreet match external loads remain to be elucidated.
Evidence-Based Studies and Perspectives of the Use of Brazilian Green and Red Propolis in Dentistry
Authors: Carvalho Claudemir de , Fernandes Wesley Henrique Cabral , Mouttinho Thays Barreto Freitas , Souza Daniela Martins de , Marcucci Maria Cristina , D’Alpino Paulo Henrique Perlatti 
Published: December 2019

AbstractThis review analyzes the evidence and perspectives of dental use of the green and red propolis produced in Brazil by Apis mellifera L. Multiple applications of propolis were found considering its antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiviral, and healing properties. Its therapeutic effects are mainly due to the presence of alcohols, aldehydes, aliphatic acids, aliphatic esters, amino acids, aromatic acids, aromatic esters, flavonoids, hydrocarbyl esters, ethers, fatty acids, ketones, terpenes, steroids, and sugars. Propolis has been mainly used in dentistry in the composition of dentifrices and mouthwashes. Studies have also demonstrated promising use against dentin hypersensitivity, root canal treatment, Candida albicans, and other microorganisms. Overall review of the literature presented here demonstrated that both Brazilian green and red propolis are effective for the problems of multiple etiologies that affect the oral cavity in different dental specialties.
Aspects of Clinical Malpractice in Endodontics
Authors: Alrahabi Mothanna , Zafar Muhammad Sohail , Adanir Necdet 
Published: December 2019

AbstractThe clinical dentistry and endodontic procedures involve very technique-sensitive procedures, therefore exposing the operator to risks of causes not only damage to patients but also leads to malpractice. Among various disciplines of dentistry, endodontics-related cases witness the most frequently filed malpractice claims. This is due to the fact that the endodontic treatment procedures involve operative and surgical procedures, using a variety of medicaments and techniques. The endodontic procedural errors can be preoperative errors (such as incorrect diagnosis and misinterpretation), intraoperative errors including root canal and pulp chamber perforations, ledge formation leading to apical transportation or zipping, hypochlorite accidents, and fracture of instruments. More critically, failure to use rubber dam may result in inhalation or ingestion of endodontic instruments. Under such circumstances, the endodontist may have to face legal consequences. Due to the increased healthcare load and patients’ awareness, it is important to know the legal ramifications of adverse effects, failed restorations, or other complications, to avoid any legal ramifications of endodontic procedures and associated techniques. Therefore, precautions must be taken to prevent any postsurgical complications, patient complaints, and/or failures. For this purpose, the operator must consider ethical principles and adhere strictly to the standards of healthcare while performing the diagnosis and treatment. A referral toward a specialist or consultant endodontist is always an appreciable option and should be considered in the best interest of the patient. The aim of the article is to highlight various aspects of malpractice in clinical endodontics, and associated materials and challenges. In addition, commonly occurring operating errors during endodontic treatment, possible consequences, precautions, and management have been discussed.
Development of L2 Spanish VOT before and after a brief pronunciation training session
Authors: Schuhmann Katharina S. , Huffman Marie K. 
Published: December 2019

Abstract
We present a study of the development of L2 stop VOT (voice onset time) in lower-level English-speaking learners
of Spanish over the course of a college semester. Participants were recorded six times in two-week intervals. Halfway through the
semester, students received a brief pronunciation training session with practice and feedback. Overall, the learners did not lower
their L2 VOTs in the first half of the study, before pronunciation training. Following training, however, they lowered their mean
VOTs for Spanish voiceless stops significantly. A similar effect was not found for their mean VOTs of Spanish voiced stops, in
line with prior work suggesting that prevoicing may be harder to acquire. Yet careful examination suggests that learners are
increasing the frequency with which they use prevoicing in Spanish, suggesting this metric might inform future work on L2 Spanish
pronunciation development. This work has implications for teaching and research in second language pronunciation.
The legal rights of Aragonese-speaking schoolchildren
Authors: Torres-Oliva Maria , Petreñas Cristina , Huguet Ángel , Lapresta Cecilio 
Published: December 2019

AbstractAragon is an autonomous community within Spain where, historically, three languages are spoken: Aragonese, Catalan, and Castilian Spanish. Both Aragonese and Catalan are minority and minoritised languages within the territory, while Castilian Spanish, the majority language, enjoys total legal protection and legitimation. The fact that we live in the era of the nation-state is crucial for understanding endangered languages in their specific socio-political context. This is why policies at macro-level and micro-level are essential for language maintenance and equality. In this article, we carry out an in-depth analysis of 57 documents: international and national legal documents, education reports, and education curricula. The aims of the paper are: (1) to analyse the current state of Aragonese language teaching in primary education in Aragon, and (2) to suggest solutions and desirable policies to address the passive bilingualism of Aragonese-speaking schoolchildren. We conclude that although Aragon is a trilingual community, education policy actually does not reflect this reality. There is also a need to implement language policies (bottom-up and top-down initiatives) to promote compulsory education in a minoritised language. We therefore propose a linguistic model that brings to the forefront minority languages. This study may contribute to research into Aragonese-Castilian bilingualism in contexts of possible language loss.