bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Which Functional Classification Scale is Optimal for Children with Pulmonary Hypertension (PAH)?
Authors: Migdał Anna , Żuk Małgorzata , Jagiełłowicz-Kowalska Dorota , Powichrowska Zuzanna , Brzezińska-Rajszys Grażyna 
Published: August 2020

AbstractFunctional status assessed by the WHO-FC scale derived from adults is a known prognostic factor for pulmonary hypertension. Data on the usefulness of the Panama-FC scale in assessing children with pulmonary hypertension are limited. The study was performed to compare functional status results (WHO-FC and Panama-FC) and to assess the usefulness of these scales in various clinical situations. The reliability of the Panama-FC questionnaire method for facilitating patient evaluation was also examined. 26 functional status assessments (7 in disease progression/after treatment intensification) in both scales were analyzed in 19 patients with PAH confirmed in RHC. WHO-FC, Panama-FC scales, and questionnaire-based on Panama-FC were conducted independently by three different physicians. Results of assessments were compared with each other and with 6MWD, NTproBNP level, and echo parameters (TAPSE, RV/LV ratio). The Panama-FC scale results obtained using the medical interview method and questionnaire did not differ. Both WHO-FC and Panama-FC classes well-reflected disease advancement confirmed by non-invasive parameters (NTproBNP, 6MWD, TAPSE, RV/LV ratio). Differences between grading the class in both scales were observed: 5pts were classified to II (Panama-FC) vs I (WHO-FC), 2pts were in lower risk group in WHO-FC (II) vs Panama (IIIa). Worsening or improvement after treatment intensification in functional status in both scales was connected with the significant change of NTproBNP level. The 6-min walking distance did not change. TAPSE, RV/LV ratio changed significantly in 3pts with IPAH, accordingly to change in WHO-FC and Panama-FC. WHO-FC and Panama-FC well reflect the disease advancement. The questionnaire method simplified the use of the Panama-FC scale. The Panama-FC scale appears to be better for assessing functional status during long-term follow-up, while the WHO-FC scale was more useful in short-term treatment monitoring.
New computed tomographic predictors of complicated perioperative course of 17.5F mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mini-PNL)
Authors: Ozimek Tomasz , Laturnus Jan M. , Gohlke Carolin , Wiessmeyer Judith R. , Struck Julian P. , Hupe Marie C. , Merseburger Axel S. , Kramer Mario W. 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Purpose
Radiological parameters predicting a postoperative stone-free status (SFS) or a complicated perioperative course of mini-PNL, are scarce. Our aim was to identify such factors for prone 17.5F mini-PNL.

Methods
A monocentric cohort of 103 cases was retrospectively analysed for factors predicting SFS and relevant complications, i.e. Clavien–Dindo (CD) ≥ 2. Parameters measured on preoperative supine CT included maximal stone diameter, skin-to-stone distance (SSD), ideal tract length (ITL), access angle, minimal T12—Lower Kidney Pole distance (T12LP) and minimal Iliac Crest—Lower Kidney Pole distance (ICLP). Infundibulopelvic angle (IPA) was measured on intraoperative pyelography.

Results
The median maximal stone diameter was lower in cases with postoperative SFS [16 mm (Min. 10; Max. 35) vs. 20 mm (Min. 6; Max. 85), p = 0.0052]. CD ≥ 2 was more frequent in cases with a bigger stone burden [19 mm (Min. 13; Max. 85) vs. 16 mm (Min. 6; Max. 49), p = 0.0056] and with the ribs in the access angle [7/23 (30.43%) vs. 8/76 (10.53%); p = 0.0454]. T12LP significantly differed in cases with and without CD ≥ 2 [80.48 mm (± 21.31) vs. 90.43 mm (± 19.42), p = 0.0397]; however, it had no influence on SFS (p > 0.05). SSD, ITL, IPA and ICLP were significant regarding neither SFS nor CD ≥ 2 prevalence (p > 0.05). Using multivariate logistic regression, T12LP was confirmed as an independent predictor on CD ≥ 2 prevalence.

Conclusions
Preoperative computed tomographic factors indicating elevated kidney position influence perioperative course of mini-PNL. T12LP and the presence of ribs in the access angle are, apart from stone diameter, the most useful indicators for cases at risk of CD ≥ 2.
Effect of Mach number on droplet aerobreakup in shear stripping regime
Authors: Wang Zhaoguang , Hopfes Thomas , Giglmaier Marcus , Adams Nikolaus A. 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
The present experimental study investigates the shear stripping breakup of single droplets in subsonic and supersonic gaseous flows. In contrast to most research that places emphasis on the Weber number (We), we focus on the individual effects exerted by flow Mach (M∞) and Reynolds numbers (Re). Millimeter-sized droplets made of either ethylene glycol or water are exposed to shock-induced flows. Shadowgraph and schlieren images of the breakup process are recorded by an ultra-high-speed camera. The experimental We is constrained at 1100, while M∞ is varied from 0.3 to 1.19 and Re from 2600 to 24,000. A systematic analysis of the experiment series reveals that the breakup pattern alters with M∞ although a constant We is maintained. The classical stripping behavior with fine mist shed from the peripheral sheet changes to rupture of multiple bags along the periphery at M∞ = 0.63, and further to stretching of ligament structures from the leeward surface at M∞ = 1.19. The corresponding breakup initiation is delayed and the resultant fragments are sized less uniformly and distributed over a narrower spread. In terms of the early-stage deformation, droplets experience less intense flattening and slower sheet growth at higher M∞. The change of Re introduces additional variations, but only to a minor extent.

Graphical abstract
TREM2 activation on microglia promotes myelin debris clearance and remyelination in a model of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Cignarella Francesca , Filipello Fabia , Bollman Bryan , Cantoni Claudia , Locca Alberto , Mikesell Robert , Manis Melissa , Ibrahim Adiljan , Deng Li , Benitez Bruno A. , Cruchaga Carlos , Licastro Danilo , Mihindukulasuriya Kathie , Harari Oscar , Buckland Michael , Holtzman David M. , Rosenthal Arnon , Schwabe Tina , Tassi Ilaria , Piccio Laura 
Published: August 2020

AbstractMultiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory, demyelinating, and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system (CNS) triggered by autoimmune mechanisms. Microglia are critical for the clearance of myelin debris in areas of demyelination, a key step to allow remyelination. TREM2 is expressed by microglia and promotes microglial survival, proliferation, and phagocytic activity. Herein we demonstrate that TREM2 was highly expressed on myelin-laden phagocytes in active demyelinating lesions in the CNS of subjects with MS. In gene expression studies, macrophages from subjects with TREM2 genetic deficiency displayed a defect in phagocytic pathways. Treatment with a new TREM2 agonistic antibody promoted the clearance of myelin debris in the cuprizone model of CNS demyelination. Effects included enhancement of myelin uptake and degradation, resulting in accelerated myelin debris removal by microglia. Most importantly, antibody-dependent TREM2 activation on microglia increased density of oligodendrocyte precursors in areas of demyelination, as well as the formation of mature oligodendrocytes thus enhancing remyelination and axonal integrity. These results are relevant as they propose TREM2 on microglia as a potential new target to promote remyelination.
Premalignant lesions, basal cell carcinoma and melanoma in patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Korhonen Niina , Ylitalo Leea , Luukkaala Tiina , Itkonen Julius , Häihälä Henni , Jernman Juha , Snellman Erna , Palve Johanna 
Published: August 2020

AbstractThe incidence of keratinocyte carcinomas is increasing worldwide and currently there is no standardised strategy for the follow-up of patients with multiple tumours. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of premalignant lesions, i.e., actinic keratosis and Bowen’s disease, as well as basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and cutaneous melanoma (CM) among patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). Pathology database search was performed to identify all cSCC patients diagnosed in the Pirkanmaa region of Finland in 2006–2015. Details of the patients and tumours were obtained through medical record review. The cohort consisted of 774 patients with 1131 cSCC tumours. Overall 559 patients (72%) had premalignant lesions. A total of 316 patients (41%) had BCC and 52% of these (n = 164) had more than one BCC tumour. 50 patients (6%) had CM. Overall 180 cSCC patients (23%) had no premalignant changes, BCC or CM. The median age of these patients was 6 years less than that of the patients with premalignant lesions (p < 0.001) or BCC (p < 0.001). The invasion depth of the tumours was deeper in the patients with only cSCC (median 3 mm, interquartile range 2–6) than in those with premalignant lesions or BCC (median 2 mm, interquartile range 1–3), p < 0.001. CSCC patients have a high risk of developing multiple skin cancers and need long-term follow-up.
What guides decision-making on intravenous thrombolysis in acute vestibular syndrome and suspected ischemic stroke in the posterior circulation?
Authors: Machner Björn , Choi Jin Hee , Neumann Alexander , Trillenberg Peter , Helmchen Christoph 
Published: August 2020

AbstractIntravenous thrombolysis (IVT) is rarely performed in dizzy patients with acute vestibular syndrome (AVS) or acute imbalance (AIS) even if posterior circulation stroke (PCS) is suspected. Decision-making may be affected by uncertainties in discriminating central from peripheral vestibulopathy or concerns of IVT-related harm, particularly intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), but related studies are missing. Using an in-house register of dizzy patients coming to the emergency room, we identified 29 AVS/AIS patients who presented within 4.5 h after onset, revealed clinical signs indicative of PCS (central oculomotor signs, mild focal abnormalities), and had non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT). Patients treated with IVT (n = 15) were compared to NoIVT patients (n = 14) with regard to clinical and imaging (including perfusion computed tomography, CTP) parameters, occurrence of ICH and short-term clinical outcome (NIHSS improvement; ability to walk independently). IVT and NoIVT patients did not differ in baseline characteristics, central oculomotor signs, or clinical outcome. IVT patients more often exhibited disabling vestibular symptoms (severe dizziness/vertigo, inability to stand unsupported) and focal abnormalities than NoIVT patients. There was no ICH in either group. CTP was performed in 0% of NoIVT versus 80% of IVT patients, seven of twelve revealing posterior circulation hypoperfusion. Comparison of initial hypoperfusion (CTP) and final stroke (NCCT) revealed IVT-related benefit (smaller lesion) in three of seven IVT patients. In AVS/AIS patients with suspected PCS, disabling vestibular symptoms, focal neurological deficits, and hypoperfusion on CTP seem to direct decision-making pro IVT. In our small cohort, there were no significant IVT-related clinical benefits, no IVT-related ICHs, and salvage of brain tissue in some patients.
Improved outcomes in metastatic germ cell cancer: results from a large cohort study
Authors: Hentrich Marcus , Debole Jessica , Jurinovic Vindi , Gerl Arthur 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Purpose
Treatment of metastatic germ cell cancer (GCC) is based on the International Germ Cell Cancer Collaborative Group (IGCCCG) prognostic classification published in 1997. 5-year survival rates were reported to be 91%, 79%, and 48% for patients with good, intermediate and poor prognosis, respectively. However, treatment results may have improved over time due to cumulative experience, improved supportive care and modern-type chemotherapy.

Methods
Patients with metastatic GCC who received cisplatin-based chemotherapy at two institutions in Munich between 2000 and 2013 were retrospectively studied. Clinical characteristics, treatment and outcomes were analyzed with respect to the IGCCG prognostic classification.

Results
Of 225 patients (median age 35 years), 72 (32%) had seminoma (S) and 153 (68%) nonseminoma. 175 (78%), 30 (13%) and 20 patients (9%) had good, intermediate and poor prognosis according to the IGCCCG classification. The 2-year-progression free survival of patients with good, intermediate and poor prognosis was 91%, 83% and 37%, and the 5-year-overall survival (OS) was 98%, 96%, and 66%, respectively. There was no significant difference in the OS between patients in the good and intermediate prognosis group.

Conclusion
Compared to data from the original IGCCCG classification system, the outcome of patients with metastatic GCC has considerably improved over time. While the prognosis of intermediate-risk patients is excellent, treatment in the poor-prognosis group remains to be improved.
Modelling and quantifying tree biometric properties of dry Afromontane forests of south-central Ethiopia
Authors: Asrat Zerihun , Eid Tron , Gobakken Terje , Negash Mesele 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Key message
Models for quantifying tree biometric properties, imperative for forest management decision-making, including height, diameter, bark thickness and volume were developed, and wood basic density was documented for dry Afromontane forests of south-central Ethiopia.

Abstract
Tree biometric properties such as height (ht), diameter at breast height (dbh), bark thickness (bt), volume and wood basic density (wbd) are imperative for forest management decision-making. For dry Afromontane forests in south-central Ethiopia, models for quantifying such tree properties are totally lacking. This study, therefore, aimed at developing models for ht based on dbh, for dbh based on stump height diameter (dsh), for bt based on dbh, for volume based on dbh, ht and crown width (crw), as well as documenting wbd data. Comprehensive and representative datasets were collected from Degaga–Gambo and Wondo Genet forests. The ht, dbh and bt modelling were based on 1345 sampled trees during forest inventories, while the volume modelling and wbd documentation were based on 63 destructively sampled trees from 30 species covering 87% of the total basal area in the study sites. Weighted least squares regression was applied for modelling and leave one out cross-validation was used for evaluation. The ht–dbh and dbh–dsh models performed well (pseudo-R2 = 0.72 and 0.98), while bt–dbh performed poorer (pseudo-R2 = 0.42). Models for the total tree, merchantable stem and branches volume were developed with different options for independent variables, where pseudo-R2 varied from 0.74 to 0.98, with smallest values for the branches models The models may be applied to forests outside the present study sites provided that the growing conditions are carefully evaluated. The species-wise wbd was ranging from 0.426 to 0.979 g cm−3, with the overall mean of 0.588 g cm−3. The wbd data will be useful for building up a national wbd database and may also be included in the Global Wood Density database. The study represents a significant step towards sustainable forest management including REDD + MRV practices in the dry Afromontane forests of south-central Ethiopia.
Exploring the dietary choices of Chinese women living with breast cancer in Vancouver, Canada
Authors: Ng Brenda , Chapman Gwen E. , Levy-Milne Ryna , Balneaves Lynda G. 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Purpose
To explore how Chinese Canadian patients with breast cancer make dietary choices and to understand their nutritional information needs in order to inform oncology healthcare providers about provision of optimal supportive care for this population.

Methods
Using interpretive description methodology, semi-structured interviews were conducted with first- and second-generation Chinese Canadian women aged 41–73 years living in Vancouver, Canada, who were diagnosed with breast cancer within the last 5 years. A follow-up focus group was held to validate emergent themes.

Results
Nineteen women were interviewed; 6 participated in the focus group. Their accounts of dietary experiences following diagnosis focused on three areas: dietary change (including desired and implemented changes that participants believed would benefit their health), facilitators and barriers to dietary change, and information and resource needs. Dietary changes reported included avoiding or consuming greater amounts of certain foods, and taking traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and natural health products. Barriers to desired dietary change included the interplay between food preferences and family and social life, work-life balance, and cost and availability of specialty foods. Support from family members, however, facilitated participants’ consumption of more whole and natural foods after their cancer diagnosis. Participants obtained food and nutrition information from a variety of sources but had difficulty determining the reliability and accuracy of information. They requested timely, credible, culturally-relevant, and easily accessible dietary information.

Conclusions
Oncology healthcare providers would benefit from increased understanding of the dietary practices, including TCM, of Chinese women living with breast cancer. To facilitate communication and improve quality of care, healthcare professionals should provide credible and culturally relevant diet-related information in a variety of forms.
Empirical study of Team Usability Testing: a laboratory experiment
Authors: Geszten Dalma , Hámornik Balázs Péter , Hercegfi Károly 
Published: August 2020

AbstractThe evaluation of groupware has a long history; several researchers have investigated this research area and made attempts to develop evaluation methods. This paper aims to make a contribution to this research topic by introducing a groupware evaluation method called Team Usability Testing. The goal of this method is to evaluate the usability of real-time distributed groupware. The Team Usability Test consists of a combination of questionnaires, on-screen behaviour recordings and interviews. The data analysis is based on the mechanics of collaboration theoretical framework and involves communication analysis, behaviour analysis, and analysis of post-experiment interviews. A laboratory experiment and a field study constitute the two main phases of the creation of the usability testing method. In this paper, the results of the laboratory experiment and its implications for the field study will be discussed. According to the results, the Team Usability Test is able to explore team-level usability problems and contextual problems. The paper ends with the discussion of future field research considerations related to the possible application of the Team Usability Test in real-life work settings.
Smile esthetic evaluation of mucogingival reconstructive surgery
Authors: Rotundo Roberto , Genzano Luigi , Nieri Michele , Covani Ugo , Peñarrocha-Oltra David , Peñarrocha-Diago Miguel 
Published: August 2020

AbstractTo assess the difference in smile esthetic impact of Coronally Advanced Flap (CAF) with or without the adjunct of a collagen matrix (CMX) used as root coverage procedures. Subjects with esthetic demands showing multiple upper gingival recessions of at least 2 mm, without interproximal attachment loss and cervical abrasion no more than 1 mm were recruited and randomized to CAF plus CMX or CAF alone. The Smile Esthetic Index (SEI) was adopted to quantify the quality of the smile recorded at baseline and 12 months after treatment for each treatment group. In addition, between group difference in the SEI was calculated. 24 Patients were treated and analysed. At baseline, mean gingival recession depths were 2.3 ± 0.7 mm for Test group and 2.6 ± 1.0 mm for Control group. After 1 year, the residual recession depth was 0.3 ± 0.4 mm in the CAF + CMX group and 0.6 ± 0.3 mm in the control group. The SEI at baseline was 8.1 ± 1.0 and 7.9 ± 0.7 for Test and Control group, respectively. The between groups difference at 12 months in SEI was 0.4 (95% C.I. − 0.0 to 0.8, P = 0.0697). Twelve months after treatment, CAF + CMX provided a similar SEI compared to CAF alone and the adjunct of a collagen matrix did not show a different impact on the smile esthetic appearance.
Back to the plant: overcoming roadblocks to the microbial production of pharmaceutically important plant natural products
Authors: Ozber Natali , Watkins Jacinta L , Facchini Peter J 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
Microbial fermentation platforms offer a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to plant cultivation and chemical synthesis for the production of many plant-derived pharmaceuticals. Plant alkaloids, particularly benzylisoquinoline alkaloids and monoterpene indole alkaloids, and recently cannabinoids have become attractive targets for microbial biosynthesis owing to their medicinal importance. Recent advances in the discovery of pathway components, together with the application of synthetic biology tools, have facilitated the assembly of plant alkaloid and cannabinoid pathways in the microbial hosts Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This review highlights key aspects of these pathways in the framework of overcoming bottlenecks in microbial production to further improve end-product titers. We discuss the opportunities that emerge from a better understanding of the pathway components by further study of the plant, and strategies for generation of new and advanced medicinal compounds.
Streptobacillus felis, a member of the oropharynx microbiota of the Felidae, isolated from a tropical rusty-spotted cat
Authors: Fawzy Ahmad , Rau Jörg , Riße Karin , Schauerte Nicole , Geiger Christina , Blom Jochen , Imirzalioglu Can , Falgenhauer Jane , Bach Alexa , Herden Christiane , Eisenberg Tobias 
Published: August 2020

AbstractStreptobacillus felis is a fastidious microorganism and a novel member of the potentially zoonotic bacteria causing rat bite fever. Since its description, this is the second isolation of S. felis in a diseased member of the Felidae. Interestingly, the strain from this study was isolated from a zoo held, rusty-spotted cat (Prionailurus rubiginosus), with pneumonia, thereby indicating a possible broader host range in feline species. A recent preliminary sampling of domestic cats (Felis silvestris forma catus) revealed that this microorganism is common in the oropharynx, suggesting that S. felis is a member of their normal microbiota. Due to unawareness, fastidiousness, antibiotic sensitivity and lack of diagnostics the role of S. felis as a cat and human pathogen might be under-reported as with other Streptobacillus infections. More studies are necessary to elucidate the role of S. felis in domestic cats and other Felidae in order to better estimate its zoonotic potential.