bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Background and distribution of lobar microbleeds in cognitive dysfunction
Authors: Matsuyama Hirofumi , Ii Yuichiro , Maeda Masayuki , Umino Maki , Ueda Yukito , Tabei Ken‐ichi , Kida Hirotaka , Satoh Masayuki , Shindo Akihiro , Taniguchi Akira , Takahashi Ryosuke , Tomimoto Hidekazu 
Published: October 2017

AbstractObjectivesCerebral microbleeds (CMBs) are often observed in memory clinic patients. It has been generally accepted that deep CMBs (D‐CMBs) result from hypertensive vasculopathy (HV), whereas strictly lobar CMBs (SL‐CMBs) result from cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) which frequently coexists with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Mixed CMBs (M‐CMBs) have been partially attributed to HV and also partially attributed to CAA. The aim of this study was to elucidate the differences between SL‐CMBs and M‐CMBs in terms of clinical features and regional distribution.MaterialsWe examined 176 sequential patients in our memory clinic for clinical features and CMB location using susceptibility‐weighted images obtained on a 3T‐MRI. The number of lobar CMBs in SL‐CMBs and M‐CMBs was counted in each cerebral lobe and their regional density was adjusted according to the volume of each lobe.ResultsOf the total 176 patients, 111 patients (63.1%) had CMBs. Within the patients who had CMBs, M‐CMBs were found in 54 patients (48.6%), followed by SL‐CMBs in 35 (31.5%) and D‐CMBs in 19 (17.1%). The SL‐CMB group showed a significantly higher prevalence of family history of dementia, whereas the M‐CMB group showed an increasing trend toward hypertension and smoking. The prevalence of AD was significantly higher in the SL‐CMBs group, whereas the prevalence of AD with cerebrovascular disease was higher in the M‐CMBs group. The regional density of lobar CMBs was significantly higher in the occipital lobe in the M‐CMB group, whereas the SL‐CMB group showed higher regional density between regions an increasing tendency in the parietal and occipital lobe.ConclusionThe between‐group differences in clinical features and regional distribution indicate there to be an etiological relationship of SL‐CMBs to AD and CAA, and M‐CMBs to both HV and CAA.
Combined prognostic value of pretreatment anemia and cervical node necrosis in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma receiving intensity‐modulated radiotherapy: A large‐scale retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Lu‐Lu , Zhou Guan‐Qun , Li Yi‐Yang , Tang Ling‐Long , Mao Yan‐Ping , Lin Ai‐Hua , Ma Jun , Qi Zhen‐Yu , Sun Ying 
Published: October 2017

AbstractThis study investigated the combined prognostic value of pretreatment anemia and cervical node necrosis (CNN) in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Retrospective review of 1302 patients with newly diagnosed nonmetastatic NPC treated with intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) ± chemotherapy. Patients were classified into four groups according to anemia and CNN status. Survival was compared using the log‐rank test. Independent prognostic factors were identified using the Cox proportional hazards model. The primary end‐point was overall survival (OS); secondary end‐points were disease‐free survival (DFS), locoregional relapse‐free survival (LRRFS), and distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS). Pretreatment anemia was an independent, adverse prognostic factor for DMFS; pretreatment CNN was an independent adverse prognostic factor for all end‐points. Five‐year survival for non‐anemia and non‐CNN, anemia, CNN, and anemia and CNN groups were: OS (93.1%, 87.2%, 82.9%, 76.3%, P < 0.001), DFS (87.0%, 84.0%, 73.9%, 64.6%, P < 0.001), DMFS (94.1%, 92.1%, 82.4%, 72.5%, P < 0.001), and LRRFS (92.8%, 92.4%, 88.7%, 84.0%, P = 0.012). The non‐anemia and non‐CNN group had best survival outcomes; anemia and CNN group, the poorest. Multivariate analysis demonstrated combined anemia and CNN was an independent prognostic factor for OS, DFS, DMFS, and LRRFS (P < 0.05). The combination of anemia and CNN is an independent adverse prognostic factor in patients with NPC treated using IMRT ± chemotherapy. Assessment of pretreatment anemia and CNN improved risk stratification, especially for patients with anemia and CNN who have poorest prognosis. This study may aid the design of individualized treatment plans to improve treatment outcomes.
Delayed right ventricular lead perforation complicated by tamponade in biventricular hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kourireche Najla , Boutakhrit Amal , Chikhi Fatima , Fellat Ibtissam , Cherti Mohammed 
Published: October 2017

Key Clinical MessageThis report highlights the importance of a more cautious approach in a patient with a history of implanted cardiac leads presenting with chest pain or dyspnea, to prevent overlooking cardiac lead perforations especially in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy which seems to be not absolutely protective.
Immunocytochemistry for SOX‐11 and TFE3 as diagnostic markers for solid pseudopapillary neoplasms of the pancreas in FNA biopsies
Authors: Foo Wen‐Chi , Harrison Grant , Zhang Xuefeng 
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUNDSolid pseudopapillary neoplasms (SPNs) of the pancreas are rare malignant tumors that can be sampled via endoscopic ultrasound–guided fine‐needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA). Although diagnosing SPNs can be straightforward in cases with a classic morphology and a typical immunoprofile, challenges can occur with morphologic variants or limited specimens. Recently, 2 immunohistochemical stains, SRY‐related high‐mobility group box 11 (SOX‐11) and transcription factor E3 (TFE3), have been demonstrated to be highly sensitive and specific for SPNs in pancreatic resection specimens. The current study evaluates the diagnostic utility of these stains with EUS‐FNA.METHODSThirteen EUS‐FNA specimens from SPNs with sufficient material for immunocytochemistry were identified from 2000 to 2016. These cases were compared with 13 EUS‐FNA specimens of non‐SPN pancreatic neoplasms. Immunocytochemistry for SOX‐11, TFE3, and β‐catenin was performed on all cell blocks and then was scored independently by 2 pathologists in a masked manner.RESULTSNuclear reactivity for SOX‐11 was detected in 13 of 13 SPNs and in 0 of 13 non‐SPNs; this resulted in sensitivity and specificity values of 100%, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 1, and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 1. Nuclear reactivity for TFE3 was detected in 9 of 13 SPNs and in 0 of 13 non‐SPNs; this resulted in a sensitivity of 69.2%, a specificity of 100%, a PPV of 1, and an NPV of 0.765. Nuclear reactivity for β‐catenin was detected in 13 of 13 SPNs and in 1 of 13 non‐SPNs; this resulted in a sensitivity of 100%, a specificity of 92.3%, a PPV of 0.929, and an NPV of 1.CONCLUSIONSSOX‐11 is a sensitive and specific immunocytochemical stain for SPNs in EUS‐FNA specimens, and it may be useful as a diagnostic marker for distinguishing SPNs from its cytologic mimics. Cancer Cytopathol 2017;125:831–7. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Limitation of cracking in AAC masonry under the window zone
Authors: Drobiec Łukasz 
Published: October 2017

AbstractThe article describes the results of tests on the impact of reinforcement on the appearance of cracks and on the manner of damage to masonry under the window zone. Masonry made of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete units with thin layer mortar was tested. Eight unreinforced test specimens (two series) and four series of test specimens (12 specimens) with reinforcement in the bed joints were subject to testing. Two types of reinforcement were used in the tests. It is demonstrated that the reinforcement has a significant impact on the level of cracking stress and propagation of cracks. It was found that when a pillar is correctly designed, cracks should not occur in the masonry under the window zone.
Autoclaved aerated concrete with sulphate content: an environmentally friendly, durable and recyclable building material
Authors: Kreft Oliver 
Published: October 2017

AbstractAutoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) contains a small quantity of sulphate. For example, a modern quality class PP2‐0,35 AAC (λ = 0.09 W/(mK)) from Xella contains about five per cent by mass of sulphate in the form of gypsum or anhydrite. The addition of sulphate reduces shrinkage and enhances compressive strength and durability. AAC thus has an almost unrestricted lifetime. Regarding the environmental acceptability of sulphate, dogmatic discussions have been held for years. What is certain: sulphate is not a hazardous substance. Calcium sulphate (gypsum) has been categorised according to the Directive (EC) No. 1272/2008 (CLP) as not hazardous. Xella's voluntary environmental declarations for AAC confirm not only the excellent ecological balance of this product but also the absence of hazardous substances.For construction and demolition (C&D) waste from AAC, disposal is ensured in Germany with landfill class I (“Non‐hazardous waste, domestic waste”). In order to save disposal costs, Xella offers to take back unmixed cutting waste, which arises in the course of new building or refurbishment, without charge at the Ytong‐factories. Xellas long‐term aim is a closed recycling loop for AAC. A collaborative pilot project between Xella and the Otto Dörner Entsorgung GmbH has shown that from the point of view of process and materials technology, production of high‐quality AAC is even possible under utilization of crushed AAC from demolition.
Use of sacubitril/valsartan in acute decompensated heart failure: a case report
Authors: Bell Taison D. , Mazer Adrien J. , Miller P. Elliott , Strich Jeffrey R. , Sachdev Vandana , Wright Mary E. , Solomon Michael A. 
Published: October 2017

AbstractRefractory heart failure typically requires costly long‐term, continuous intravenous inodilator infusions while patients await mechanical circulatory support or cardiac transplantation. The combined angiotensin receptor blocker–neprilysin inhibitor, sacubitril/valsartan, is a novel therapy that can increase levels of endogenous vasoactive peptides. This therapy has been recommended as an alternative agent in patients with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and New York Heart Association class II–III symptoms. Here, we report a case of a patient with refractory stage D heart failure with reduced ejection fraction who was successfully weaned off continuous intravenous inodilator support using sacubitril/valsartan after prior failed attempts using standard therapies.
Electroacupuncture alleviates chemotherapy‐induced pain through inhibiting phosphorylation of spinal CaMKII in rats
Authors: Zhang Y. , Li A. , Xin J. , Ren K. , Berman B.M. , Lao L. , Zhang R.‐X. 
Published: October 2017

AbstractBackgroundCurrent medical treatments for chemotherapy‐induced pain (CIP) are either ineffective or have adverse side effects. Acupuncture may alleviate CIP, but its effectiveness against this condition has not been studied. Paclitaxel causes neuropathic pain in cancer patients.MethodsWe evaluated the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on paclitaxel‐induced CIP in a rat model. Paclitaxel (2 mg/kg) or vehicle was injected (i.p.) on alternate days of 0–6. The resulting pain was treated with 10 Hz/2 mA/0.4 ms pulse EA for 30 min at the equivalent of human acupoint GB30 (Huantiao) once every other day between days 14 and 26. For sham control, EA needles were inserted into GB30 without stimulation. Von Frey filaments with bending forces of 2–8 g and 15 g were used to assess mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia, respectively, on day 13 and once every other day between 14–26 days and then for 2–3 weeks after EA treatment.ResultsCompared to sham control, EA significantly alleviated paclitaxel‐induced mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia, as shown by less frequent withdrawal responses to the filaments. The alleviation of allodynia/hyperalgesia lasted up to 3 weeks after the EA treatment. EA significantly inhibited phosphorylation of Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) in the spinal cord. KN‐93, a selective inhibitor of p‐CaMKII, inhibited mechanical allodynia/hyperalgesia and p‐CaMKII. 5‐HT1A receptor antagonist blocked EA inhibition of allodynia/hyperalgesia and p‐CaMKII.ConclusionsElectroacupuncture activates 5‐HT 1A receptors in the spinal cord and inhibits p‐CaMKII to alleviate both allodynia and hyperalgesia. The data support acupuncture/EA as a complementary therapy for CIP.SignificanceElectroacupuncture (EA) activates spinal 5‐HT1A receptors to inhibit p‐CaMKII to alleviate paclitaxel‐induced pain. Acupuncture/EA may be used as a complementary therapy for CIP.
Bradykinin system is involved in endometriosis‐related pain through endothelin‐1 production
Authors: Yoshino O. , Yamada‐Nomoto K. , Kobayashi M. , Andoh T. , Hongo M. , Ono Y. , Hasegawa‐Idemitsu A. , Sakai A. , Osuga Y. , Saito S. 
Published: October 2017

AbstractBackgroundEndometriosis is a gynaecological disease exhibiting severe pelvic pain, but the mechanism of pain production remains unknown. Bradykinin (BK) is known as an inflammatory mediator, and shows elevated levels in inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. In the present study, we evaluated whether BK is involved in endometriosis‐related pain.MethodsEndometriotic lesions were used for immunohistochemistry. Primary cultures of endometriotic stromal cells (ESC) were stimulated with IL‐1β and/or BK. Quantitative RT‐PCR was used to evaluate the mRNA expressions of BK receptors (BKR) and endothelin‐1 in ESC. The concentration of endothelin‐1 in cystic fluid of endometrioma or non‐endometrioma was measured with ELISA. The conditioned medium of ESC stimulated with IL‐1β and/or BK was injected intraplantarly in mice, and evaluated whether pain‐related licking behaviour was elicited.ResultsThe expressions of BK and BKR in endometriotic lesions were observed by immunohistochemistry. In vitro experiments showed that IL‐1β induced BKR‐B1 and B2 on ESC. Activation of these receptors by BK significantly induced endothelin‐1 expression in ESC, which was negated completely by HOE‐140, a BKR‐B2 antagonist. The cystic fluid of endometrioma contained higher amount of endothelin‐1 compared to non‐endometrioma. Intraplantar injection of the conditioned medium of ESC treated with IL‐1β and BK significantly induced licking behaviour, which was suppressed with BQ‐123, an endothelin type‐A receptor antagonist.ConclusionsThe present study demonstrated the presence and the function of the BK axis in endometriosis, and established a potential new therapy target for endometriosis‐related pain.SignificanceThe present study demonstrated (1) the presence and the function of the BK system in endometriosis, (2) activation of BKR induced endothelin‐1 in endometriotic lesion and (3) blocking endothelin‐1 was effective to decrease pain.
Biochemical characterization of argininosuccinate lyase from M. tuberculosis: significance of a c‐terminal cysteine in catalysis and thermal stability
Authors: Mishra Archita , Surolia Avadhesha 
Published: October 2017

AbstractArginine biosynthesis pathway is crucial to the survival and pathogenesis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). Arginine is a critical amino acid that contributes to the inflection of cellular immune responses during pathogenesis. Argininosuccinate lyase from Mtb (MtArgH), the last enzyme in the pathway, catalyzes the production of arginine from argininosuccinic acid. MtArgH is an essential enzyme for the growth and survival of M. tuberculosis. We biochemically characterized MtArgH and deciphered the role of a previously unexplored cysteine (Cys441) residue at the C‐terminal region of the protein. Chemical modification of Cys441 completely abrogated the enzymatic activity suggesting its involvement in the catalytic mechanism. Replacement of Cys441 to alanine showed a striking decrease in the enzymatic activity, while retaining the overall secondary to quaternary structure of the protein, hence corroborating the involvement of Cys441 in the process of catalysis. Interestingly, replacement of Cys441 to serine, showed significant increase in activity, as compared to the wild‐type MtArgH. Inactivity of C441A and elevated activity of its conservative mutant (C441S) confirmed the participation of Cys441 in the MtArgH activity. We also, observed that C441S mutant has higher thermal stability and maintains significant activity at high temperatures. This is in concordance with our observation that Cys441 in Mtb is replaced by a serine in the ArgH from thermophilic microorganisms. Furthermore, we also propose a potential feedback mechanism, wherein the Cys441 is covalently modified to S‐(2‐succinyl) cysteine (succination) by one of the products, fumarate, thereby inactivating MtArgH. These insights into the mechanism of MtArgH activity unravel novel regulations of arginine biosynthetic pathway in Mtb. © 2017 IUBMB Life, 69(11):896–907, 2017
Native T1 mapping for characterization of acute and chronic myocardial infarction in swine: Comparison with contrast‐enhanced MRI
Authors: Liu Xi , Hou Jiang‐long , Yang Zhi‐gang , Xia Chun‐chao , Xie Lin‐jun , Ye Peng‐fei , Peng Wan‐lin , Li Lei , Yang Meng‐xi , Guo Ying‐kun 
Published: October 2017

BackgroundBoth acute and chronic myocardial infarction (AMI and CMI, respectively) exhibit delayed enhancement; however, clinical decision‐making processes frequently require the differentiation of these two types of myocardial injury.PurposeTo investigate the reliability of AMI and CMI characterization using native T1 mapping and its feasibility for discriminating AMI from CMI.Study TypeCase–control.Animal ModelThe study cohort comprised 12 AMI (mean post‐MI, 3.75 ± 1.29 days) and 15 CMI (mean post‐MI, 39.53 ± 6.10 days) Bama mini‐pigs.Field Strength/SequenceBalanced steady‐state free precession (bSSFP), segmented‐turbo‐FLASH‐PSIR, and modified Look–Locker inversion recovery (MOLLI) sequences at 3.0T.AssessmentThe infarct sizes were compared on matching short‐axis slices of late‐gadolinium‐enhanced (LGE) images and T1 maps by two experienced radiologists.Statistical TestsThe infarct sizes were compared on matching short‐axis slices of LGE images and T1 maps, and agreement was determined using linear regression and Bland–Altman analyses. The native T1 values were compared between AMI and CMI models (independent sample t‐test). The intraclass correlation coefficient was used to assess inter‐ and intraobserver variability.ResultsMeasured infarct sizes did not differ between native T1 mapping and LGE images (AMI: P = 0.913; CMI: P = 0.233), and good agreement was observed between the two techniques (AMI: bias, –3.38 ± 19.38%; R2 = 0.96; CMI: bias, –10.55 ± 10.90%; R2 = 0.90). However, the native infarction myocardium T1 values and the T1 signal intensity ratio of infarct and remote myocardium (T1 SI ratio) did not differ significantly between AMI and CMI (P = 0.173).Data ConclusionNoncontrast native T1 mapping can accurately determine acute and chronic infarct areas as well as conventional LGE imaging; however, it cannot distinguish acute from chronic MI.Level of Evidence: 1Technical Efficacy: Stage 2J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;47:1406–1414.
Clinical Impact of the Microembolic Signal Burden During Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation: Just a Lot of Noise?
Authors: von Bary Christian , Deneke Thomas , Arentz Thomas , Schade Anja , Lehrmann Heiko , Schwab‐Malek Susanne , Fredersdorf Sabine , Baldaranov Dobri , Maier Lars , Schlachetzki Felix 
Published: October 2017

ObjectivesMicroembolic signal detection by transcranial Doppler ultrasonography may be considered a surrogate for cerebral events during invasive cardiac procedures. However, the impact of the microembolic signal count during pulmonary vein isolation on the clinical outcome is not well evaluated. We investigated the effect of the microembolic signal count on the occurrence of new silent cerebral embolism measured by diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI)‐magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), changes in neuropsychological testing, and the occurrence of clinical events during long‐term follow‐up after pulmonary vein isolation.MethodsPulmonary vein isolation was performed in 41 patients. The total microembolic signal burden (classified into “solid,” “gaseous,” and “equivocal”) and sustained thromboembolic showers of greater than 30 seconds were recorded. Diffusion‐weighted imaging‐MRI and neuropsychological testing were performed before and after pulmonary vein isolation to assess for silent cerebral embolism and neuropsychological sequelae. Long‐term follow‐up was performed by telephone to assess for stroke/transient ischemic attack.ResultsA total of 68,729 microembolic signals (14,893 solid, 11,909 gaseous, and 41,927 equivocal) with an average of 1676 signals per patient and 42 thromboembolic showers were recorded. No correlation between the microembolic signal/thromboembolic shower count and the occurrence of new DWI lesions or neuropsychological capability was found. After a mean follow‐up ± SD of 49 ± 4 months, 1 patient had an overt transient ischemic event, which was not associated with a high microembolic signal count.ConclusionsIn this multicenter study, we found no impact of the intraprocedural microembolic symbol/thromboembolic shower count on the occurrence of new DWI lesions, neuropsychological capability, or overt neurologic deficits after pulmonary vein isolation. Thus, not only the microembolic signal count but also procedural/individual factors may contribute to commensurable clinical damage, which may challenge this method as a valid biomarker during pulmonary vein isolation.
Development of a spectral‐pattern‐analysis‐based method for automated water body extraction using Landsat image data: A case study in central Vietnam and southern Laos
Authors: Duong Nguyen Dinh , Hang Le Minh , Tuan Tran Anh , Ouyang Zutao 
Published: October 2017

AbstractWater body mapping is an important application of optical remote sensing. Methods for classifying water bodies using multispectral image data have been successfully developed for water resource monitoring and management. However, in most cases, these traditional methods provide only partial automation capabilities. In this study, we propose a new spectral‐pattern‐analysis‐based (SPAB) method for water body extraction using simplified spectral patterns (SSPs). Simplified spectral patterns are a generalized transformation of spectral patterns from analogue to digital format, realized by nonrepetitive pairwise comparison of reflectance values between two bands. Simplified spectral patterns allow for the direct incorporation of spectral patterns into the recognition process. The advantage of this method compared to traditional methods is that the SPAB method allows automation of water body classification using an SSP database. In this study, we selected a mountainous region in central Vietnam and southern Laos as a study site. Four Landsat 8 OLI scenes from 2015 and four Landsat 7 ETM+ scenes from 2001 and 2002 were used. The results of our proposed method were compared with visual interpretation, normalized differential water index (NDWI) thresholding, and the Global Inland Water (GIW) dataset provided by the Global Land Cover Facility of the University of Maryland. It is concluded that the classification results of the SPAB method agree by more than 98.0% with NDWI results for Landsat 8 OLI images, and by more than 95.0% with the GIW dataset for Landsat 7 ETM+ images.