bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Plasma indoxyl sulfate levels predict cardiovascular events in patients with mild chronic heart failure
Authors: Imazu Miki , Fukuda Hiroki , Kanzaki Hideaki , Amaki Makoto , Hasegawa Takuya , Takahama Hiroyuki , Hitsumoto Tatsuro , Tsukamoto Osamu , Morita Toshisuke , Ito Shin , Kitakaze Masafumi 
Published: October 2020

AbstractIndoxyl sulfate (IS) is associated with either chronic kidney disease or renal failure, which may predict cardiovascular events via cardiorenal syndrome. The present study aimed to elucidate whether the plasma levels of IS can predict the occurrence of cardiovascular events in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) and investigate which causes of CHF leading to cardiovascular events are highly influenced by plasma IS levels. We measured the plasma IS levels in 165 patients with CHF [valvular disease: 78, dilated cardiomyopathy: 29, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): 25 and others: 33] admitted to our hospital in 2012, and we followed up these patients for more than 5 years (the median follow-up period: 5.3 years). We measured the plasma IS level in 165 patients with CHF, and Kaplan–Meier analyses showed that high plasma IS levels (≥ 0.79 µg/mL, the median value) could predict the occurrence of cardiovascular events, i.e., cardiovascular death or rehospitalization due to the worsening of CHF. The sub-analyses showed that the high IS level could predict cardiovascular events in patients with CHF due to HCM and that the plasma IS levels were closely associated with left ventricular (LV) dimension, LV systolic dysfunction, and plasma B-type natriuretic peptide levels, rather than LV diastolic dysfunction. Plasma IS level predicts cardiovascular events in patients with CHF, especially those with HCM along with cardiac dysfunction. Besides, IS may become a proper biomarker to predict cardiovascular events in patients with CHF.
Development of panorama resolution phantom for comprehensive evaluation of the horizontal and vertical resolution of panoramic radiography
Authors: Yeom Han-Gyeol , Kim Jo-Eun , Huh Kyung-Hoe , Yi Won-Jin , Heo Min-Suk , Lee Sam-Sun , Choi Soon-Chul , Lee Sang-Jeong 
Published: October 2020

AbstractPanoramic radiography is the most commonly used equipment in the dental field, but there is no comprehensive standard about how to evaluate the spatial resolution of panoramic radiography. In this study, panorama resolution phantoms were developed for evaluation of horizontal and vertical resolution reflecting unique characteristics of panoramic radiography. Four horizontal resolution phantoms of staircase shape were designed to obtain images of horizontal lead line pairs in a 52 mm width. Four vertical resolution phantoms with vertical lead line pairs placed at an oblique angle were also designed. A phantom stand was made. Three machines were evaluated twice by two oromaxillofacial radiologists. The horizontal lead line pairs were readable over the entire measured area at the values of 1.88, 2.32, and 2.58 lp/mm for all machines. A readable area of horizontal 3.19 lp/mm was observed in the lingual side. In the vertical resolution phantoms, it was possible to read a narrower range. By using the panorama resolution phantoms and phantom stand, it was possible to evaluate the resolution of a wide buccolingual width in four significant areas. By evaluating the resolution of the vertical and horizontal compartments separately, it was possible to gain a better understanding of the obtained images.
Madecassoside protects retinal pigment epithelial cells against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis through the activation of Nrf2/HO-1 pathway
Authors: Zhou Jinzi , Chen Fenghua , Yan Aimin , Xia Xiaobo 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive and degenerative ocular disease associated with oxidative stress. Madecassoside (MADE) is a major bioactive triterpenoid saponin that possesses antioxidative activity. However, the role of MADE in AMD has never been investigated. In the current study, we aimed to evaluate the protective effect of MADE on retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells under oxidative stress condition. We used hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to induce oxidative damage in human RPE cells (ARPE-19 cells). Our results showed that H2O2-caused significant decrease in cell viability and increase in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release were dose-dependently attenuated by MADE. MADE treatment also attenuated H2O2-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) production in RPE cells. The reduced glutathione (GSH) level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in H2O2-induced ARPE-19 cells were elevated after MADE treatment. MADE also suppressed caspase-3 activity and bax expression, as well as increased bcl-2 expression. Furthermore, H2O2-induced increase in expression levels of HO-1 and nuclear Nrf2 were enhanced by MADE treatment. Finally, knockdown of Nrf2 reversed the protective effects of MADE on H2O2-induced ARPE-19 cells. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated that MADE protected ARPE-19 cells from H2O2-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis by inducing the activation of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.
Tim-3 promotes tube formation and decreases tight junction formation in vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Cong Yizi , Wang Xingmiao , Wang Suxia , Qiao Guangdong , Li Yalun , Cao Jianqiao , Jiang Wenguo , Cui Yuxin 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
As a negative immune checkpoint molecule, T-cell immunoglobulin domain and mucin domain containing molecule-3 (Tim-3) has been found to serve a crucial role in immune escape and tumour progression. Previous studies have reported that Tim-3 is important to endothelial cells and it has also been demonstrated to be involved in numerous types of human diseases, including melanoma, lymphoma, rickettsial infection and atherosclerosis; however, its exact mechanism of action remains largely unknown. In the present study, Tim-3 was overexpressed in vascular endothelial human lung microvascular endothelial cells (HMVECs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and in vitro assays were used to determine that Tim-3 promoted cell proliferation, migration, invasion and tube formation through activating cyclin D1 (CCND1), Ras homolog gene family member A and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor 2 (VEGFR2). Additionally, Tim-3 decreased tight junction (TJ) formation and the transepithelial resistance (TER) of endothelial cells by decreasing the expression levels of TJ protein 2, Occludin and claudin 1 (CLND1). In conclusion, these findings suggested that Tim-3 may exert a positive role in angiogenesis and a negative role in TJ formation in vascular endothelial cells, which may provide novel strategies for the treatment of Tim-3-associated diseases.
An interactive network of alternative splicing events with prognostic value in geriatric lung adenocarcinoma via the regulation of splicing factors
Authors: Wang Yidi , Wang Yaxuan , Li Kenan , Du Yabing , Cui Kang , Yu Pu , Zhang Tengfei , Liu Hong , Ma Wang 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Alternative splicing (AS), an essential process for the maturation of mRNAs, is involved in tumorigenesis and tumor progression, including angiogenesis, apoptosis, and metastasis. AS changes can be frequently observed in different tumors, especially in geriatric lung adenocarcinoma (GLAD). Previous studies have reported an association between AS events and tumorigenesis but have lacked a systematic analysis of its underlying mechanisms. In the present study, we obtained splicing event information from SpliceSeq and clinical information regarding GLAD from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Survival-associated AS events were selected to construct eight prognostic index (PI) models. We also constructed a correlation network between splicing factors (SFs) and survival-related AS events to identify a potential molecular mechanism involved in regulating AS-related events in GLAD. Our study findings confirm that AS has a strong prognostic value for GLAD and sheds light on the clinical significance of targeting SFs in the treatment of GLAD.
Brain angiotensin converting enzyme-2 in central cardiovascular regulation
Authors: Mohammed Mazher , Berdasco Clara , Lazartigues Eric 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
The brain renin–angiotensin system (RAS) plays an important role in the regulation of autonomic and neuroendocrine functions, and maintains cardiovascular homeostasis. Ang-II is the major effector molecule of RAS and exerts most of its physiological functions, including blood pressure (BP) regulation, via activation of AT1 receptors. Dysregulation of brain RAS in the central nervous system results in increased Ang-II synthesis that leads to sympathetic outflow and hypertension.
Brain angiotensin (Ang) converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) was discovered two decades ago as an RAS component, exhibiting a counter-regulatory role and opposing the adverse cardiovascular effects produced by Ang-II. Studies using synthetic compounds that can sustain the elevation of ACE2 activity or genetically overexpressed ACE2 in specific brain regions found various beneficial effects on cardiovascular function. More recently, ACE2 has been shown to play critical roles in neuro-inflammation, gut dysbiosis and the regulation of stress and anxiety-like behaviors. In the present review, we aim to highlight the anatomical locations and functional implication of brain ACE2 related to its BP regulation via modulation of the sympathetic nervous system and discuss the recent developments and future directions in the ACE2-mediated central cardiovascular regulation.
Biotechnologisch hergestellte Megakaryozyten und Thrombozyten
Authors: Pogozhykh Denys , Blasczyk Rainer , Figueiredo Constança 
Published: October 2020

ZusammenfassungAngesichts der ständig steigenden Nachfrage nach Thrombozyten zielen neue Zell-Pharming-Strategien auf die Generierung von Megakaryozyten und Thrombozyten in vitro ab. Dieser Übersichtsartikel analysiert den aktuellen Stand der Methoden zur biotechnologischen Herstellung von Megakaryozyten und Thrombozyten und zeigt die Erarbeitung von Strategien, die darauf abzielen, diese Methoden in die Klinik zu bringen.
Ultra Trail Performance is Differently Predicted by Endurance Variables in Men and Women
Authors: Martinez-Navarro Ignacio , Montoya-Vieco Antonio , Collado Eladio , Hernando Bárbara , Hernando Carlos 
Published: October 2020

AbstractThe study aimed to assess the relationship between peak oxygen uptake, ventilatory thresholds and maximal fat oxidation with ultra trail male and female performance. 47 athletes (29 men and 18 women) completed a cardiopulmonary exercise test between 2 to 4 weeks before a 107-km ultra trail. Body composition was also analyzed using a bioelectrical impedance weight scale. Exploratory correlation analyses showed that peak oxygen uptake (men: r=–0.63, p=0.004; women: r=–0.85, p < 0.001), peak speed (men: r=–0.74, p < 0.001; women: r=–0.69, p=0.009), speed at first (men: r=–0.49, p=0.035; women: r=–0.76, p=0.003) and second (men: r=–0.73, p < 0.001; women: r=–0.76, p=0.003) ventilatory threshold, and maximal fat oxidation (men: r=–0.53, p=0.019; women: r=–0.59, p=0.033) were linked to race time in male and female athletes. Percentage of fat mass (men: r=0.58, p=0.010; women: r=0.62, p= 0.024) and lean body mass (men: r=–0.61, p=0.006; women: r=–0.61, p=0.026) were also associated with performance in both sexes. Subsequent multiple regression analyses revealed that peak speed and maximal fat oxidation together were able to predict 66% of male performance; while peak oxygen uptake was the only statistically significant variable explaining 69% of the variation in women’s race time. These results, although exploratory in nature, suggest that ultra trail performance is differently predicted by endurance variables in men and women.
Syntheses of Analogues of Propofol: A Review
Authors: Dimitrov Ivaylo V. , Suonio Elina E. K. 
Published: October 2020

AbstractPropofol (2,6-diisopropylphenol) is an intravenous sedative/hypnotic agent that is used extensively for introduction and maintenance of general anaesthesia, sedation of critically ill patients and procedural sedation (e.g., endoscopy). Propofol has a rapid onset and offset of action and shows only minimal accumulation upon prolonged use. Propofol is only sparingly soluble in water and is currently marketed in 10% soybean oil-based lipid emulsion. Propofol’s anaesthetic properties were discovered over forty years ago, and it has been in clinical use for over thirty years. The main use of propofol remains as an anaesthetic but, over the years, analogues have been developed with varying properties from anticancer, anticonvulsant and antioxidant. In addition, large synthetic efforts have been made towards improving propofol’s water-solubility, its activity, and elucidating its structure–activity­ relationship and exact mechanism of action have been made. This review provides an overview of the research pertaining to propofol-like molecules and covers the efforts of synthetic chemists towards propofol analogues over the last 40 years.1	Introduction2	History3	Early Work4	Improving Water Solubility5	The Importance of the Phenol6	Exploring the Structure–Activity Relationship and Attempts to Improve Activity7	Anticancer Activity8	Anticonvulsant Properties9	Antioxidant Activity10	Photoactive Labelling to Elucidate Mechanism of Action11	Photoregulation12	Conclusion
Anabolic–Androgenic Steroid Abuse Impairs Fibrin Clot Lysis
Authors: Sidelmann Johannes Jakobsen , Gram Jørgen Brodersen , Rasmussen Jon J. , Kistorp Caroline 
Published: October 2020

AbstractAbuse of anabolic–androgenic steroids (AASs) is suspected to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cardiovascular mortality in otherwise healthy individuals. AAS abuse may increase the incidence of CVD by altering the hemostatic balance toward a procoagulant state. Studies on the effect of AAS abuse on the fibrinolytic system, however, have either demonstrated a profibrinolytic effect or no effect of AAS abuse, but the overall effect of AAS on fibrinolysis has not been addressed so far. This cross-sectional study investigated the effect of AAS on fibrin clot lysis, fibrin structure, and the hemostatic proteins, potentially affecting these measures in current and former AAS abusers and healthy age-matched controls. The study population consisted of 37 current and 33 former AAS abusers, along with 30 healthy age-matched controls. Fibrin clot lysis, fibrin structure properties, fibrinogen, coagulation factor XIII (FXIII) plasminogen, plasmin inhibitor, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), and thrombin activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI) were determined. Fibrin clot lysis was significantly reduced in participants abusing AAS compared with former abusers and controls (p < 0.001). Plasma fibrinogen, plasminogen, and plasmin inhibitor were significantly increased in current abusers (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed with respect to measures of fibrin structure properties, PAI-1, and TAFI (p > 0.05). In conclusion, AAS abuse depresses fibrin clot lysis. This effect is not associated with alterations in fibrin structure but is rather caused by increased plasma concentrations of fibrinogen, FXIII, and plasmin inhibitor. These findings suggest that AAS abuse may be associated with increased thrombotic disease.
Ovoid Foramen Magnum Shape is Associated with Increased Complications and Decreased Extent of Resection for Anterolateral Foramen Magnum Meningiomas
Authors: Kina Hakan , Erginoglu Ufuk , Hanalioglu Sahin , Ozaydin Burak , Baskaya Mustafa K. 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background Antero-laterally located meningiomas of the foramen magnum (FM) pose significant surgical resection challenges. The effect of FM shape on surgical resection of FM meningiomas has not been previously studied. The present study investigates how FM shape effects the extent of tumor resection and complication rates in antero-lateral FM meningiomas.
Materials and Methods This retrospective study included 16 consecutive patients with antero-lateral FM meningiomas operated on by a single surgeon. FMs were classified as ovoid (n = 8) and nonovoid (n = 8) using radiographic evaluation.
Results Sixteen patients were examined: seven males and nine females (mean age of 58.5, and range of 29 to 81 years). Gross total resection was achieved in 81% of patients, with tumor encased vertebral arteries in 44%. Patient characteristics were similar including age, sex, preoperative tumor volume, relationship of vertebral artery with tumor, preoperative Karnofsky performance score (KPS), symptom duration, and presence of lower cranial nerve symptoms. The ovoid FM group had lower volumetric extents of resection without statistical significance (93 ± 10 vs. 100 ± 0%, p = 0.069), more intraoperative blood loss (319 ± 75 vs. 219 ± 75 mL, p = 0.019), more complications per patient (1.9 ± 1.8 vs. 0.3 ± 0.4, p = 0.039), and poorer postoperative KPS (80 ± 21 vs. 96 ± 5, p = 0.007). Hypoglossal nerve palsy was more frequent in the ovoid FM group (38 vs. 13%).
Conclusion This is the first study demonstrating that ovoid FMs may pose surgical challenges, poorer operative outcomes, and lower rates of extent of resection. Preoperative radiological investigation including morphometric FM measurement to determine if FMs are ovoid or nonovoid can improve surgical planning and complication avoidance.
Anatomical Variations and Relationships of the Infratemporal Fossa: Foundation of a Novel Endonasal Approach to the Foramen Ovale
Authors: Li Lifeng , London Nyall R. , Prevedello Daniel M. , Carrau Ricardo L. 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Objective Access to the infratemporal fossa (ITF) is complicated by its complex neurovascular relationships. In addition, copious bleeding from the pterygoid plexus adds to surgical challenge. This study aims to detail the anatomical relationships among the internal maxillary artery (IMA), pterygoid plexus, V3, and pterygoid muscles in ITF. Furthermore, it introduces a novel approach that displaces the lateral pterygoid plate (LPP) to access the foramen ovale.
Design and Main Outcome Measures Six cadaveric specimens (12 sides) were dissected using an endonasal approach to the ITF modified by releasing and displacing the LPP and lateral pterygoid muscle (LPTM) as a unit. Subperiosteal elevation of the superior head of LPTM revealed the foramen ovale. The anatomic relationships among the V3, pterygoid muscles, pterygoid plexus, and IMA were surveyed.
Results In 9/12 sides (75%), the proximal IMA ran between the temporalis and the LPTM, whereas in 3/12 sides (25%), the IMA pierced the LPTM. The deep temporal nerve was a consistent landmark to separate the superior and inferior heads of LPTM. An endonasal approach displacing the LPP in combination with a subperiosteal elevation of the superior head of LPTM provided access to the posterior trunk of V3 and foramen ovale while sparing injury of the LPTM and exposing the pterygoid plexus. The anterior trunk of V3 traveled anterolaterally along the greater wing of sphenoid in all specimens.
Conclusion Displacement of the LPP and LPTM provided direct exposure of foramen ovale and V3 avoiding dissection of the muscle and pterygoid plexus; thus, this maneuver may prevent intraoperative bleeding and postoperative trismus.
Chronic pancreatitis caused by a Homozygous SPINK1 c.194 + 2T > C variant and Pancreas Divisum in a 3-year-old child—case report
Authors: Zdanowicz Katarzyna , Uscinowicz Miroslawa , Rakowska Magdalena , Wertheim-Tysarowska Katarzyna , Rygiel Agnieszka Magdalena , Oracz Grzegorz , Lebensztejn Dariusz Marek 
Published: October 2020

AbstractChronic pancreatitis (CP) is a rare disease in children. We describe the first case of a 3-year-old Caucasian patient with CP with the presence of a homozygous pathogenic variant c.194 + 2T > C in serine protease inhibitor, Kazal type 1 (SPINK1) and pancreas divisum.
Traumatic Brain Injury: Effect of Litigation Status on Executive Functioning—A Pilot Study
Authors: K. Simi Prakash , Reddy Rajakumari P. , Mathulla Anna R. , Rajeswaran Jamuna , Shukla Dhaval P. 
Published: October 2020

AbstractTraumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with a wide range of physiological, behavioral, emotional, and cognitive sequelae. Litigation status is one of the many factors that has an impact on recovery. The aim of this study was to compare executive functions, postconcussion, and depressive symptoms in TBI patients with and without litigation. A sample of 30 patients with TBI, 15 patients with litigation (medicolegal case [MLC]), and 15 without litigation (non-MLC) was assessed. The tools used were sociodemographic and clinical proforma, executive function tests, Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptom Questionnaire, and Beck Depression Inventory. Assessment revealed that more than 50% of patients showed deficits in category fluency, set shifting, and concept formation. The MLC group showed significant impairment on verbal working memory in comparison to the non-MLC group. The performance of both groups was comparable on tests of semantic fluency, visuospatial working memory, concept formation, set shifting, planning, and response inhibition. The MLC group showed more verbal working memory deficits in the absence of significant postconcussion and depressive symptoms on self-report measures.
Meckel–Gruber Syndrome: Correlation between Ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Assessment in a Fetal Case with Severe Oligohydramnios
Authors: de Almeida Paulo Ricardo Sousa Frota , Centofanti Sandra F. , do Carmo Rafael L. , Inada Bruno Shigueo Yonekura , Marussi Victor Hugo Rocha , Freitas Leonardo F. 
Published: October 2020

AbstractMeckel–Gruber syndrome (MGS) is a rare genetic condition determined by an autosomal recessive mutation and characterized by occipital cephalocele, postaxial polydactyly, and bilateral dysplastic cystic kidneys, besides many other findings. Antenatal ultrasonography can identify the major features, but in selected cases, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) might help to obtain the correct diagnosis. We describe a well-documented case of MGS diagnosed by ultrasound in correlation with MRI findings.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 Infection among Children: Pathogenesis, Treatment, and Outcome
Authors: Gurugubelli Krishna Rao , Bhat Ballambattu Vishnu 
Published: October 2020

AbstractCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease that may lead to respiratory distress syndrome and even death. Neonates and children are most vulnerable population to COVID-19 infection; however, the infection is usually milder and has a better prognosis in pediatric patients compared with adults. It remains unclear why pediatric population is less symptomatic than adults. Children frequently experience respiratory infections and their immune system is in developing stage. However, large proportion of the asymptomatic pediatric population may contribute to transmission. This review explored several aspects of COVID-19 infection such as its epidemiology, its molecular pathogenesis with respect to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor and inflammatory mediators, intrauterine vertical transmission, imaging findings, and complications like cytokine release syndrome (multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children). We also looked at prognostic factors and treatment modalities like corticosteroids, RNA replicate inhibitors, protease inhibitors, Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor, that is, acalabrutinib and convalescent plasma therapy. Since there is no strong evidence for the intrauterine transmission, early isolation should be performed to protect a neonate from a COVID-19 infected mother. Development of vaccine and an effective antiviral drug are the need of the hour.