bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Extravillous trophoblast invasion and decidualization in cesarean scar pregnancies
Authors: Gao Lufen , Chen Hui , Liu Jing , Wang Minghua , Lin Fangfang , Yang Guang , Lash Gendie E. , Li Ping 
Published: August 2022

AbstractIntroductionThe increasing cesarean section rate has led to an increase in the number of subsequent pregnancies resulting in a cesarean scar pregnancy. There appears to be preferential attachment of the blastocyst to the scar site, which may be associated with defective decidua in that region, resulting in abnormal implantation, which can in turn negatively affect the success of the pregnancy. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the extravillous trophoblast, decidua, and myometrium in scar and adjacent non‐scar regions of the implantation site of a cesarean scar pregnancy.Material and MethodsSamples containing a gestational mass were obtained by laparoscopic excision from patients with a cesarean scar pregnancy at 6–11 weeks of gestation as diagnosed by transvaginal or transabdominal ultrasound (n = 8 type II cesarean scar pregnancy). Cesarean scar pregnancy tissues were separated into scar and non‐scar regions, and the scar regions were sub‐separated into non‐implantation and implantation sites. Serial sections were histologically examined after hematoxylin and eosin, Masson's trichrome and immunochemical staining, and changes in the myometrium, extravillous trophoblast, and decidua were evaluated.ResultsIn cesarean scar pregnancy, compared with scars not in the implantation site, scars in the implantation site displayed increased fibrosis, and had disrupted myometrium, which was related to varying patterns of E‐cadherin expression as a response to extravillous trophoblast invasion. In addition, local decidua was found at the non‐scar implantation sites, with multinucleated trophoblast giant cell accumulation and shallow invasion. These features were not evident in the scar implantation sites.ConclusionsThis study emphasizes that the decidua drives multinucleated trophoblast giant cell differentiation, limiting the degree of invasion. Better characterization of this differentiation process may be helpful for better management and avoidance of the consequences of cesarean scar pregnancy.
Regulatory T cells in inflammation and resolution of acute lung injury
Authors: Wang Linlin , Jiang Weipeng , Wang Xiaocen , Tong Lin , Song Yuanlin 
Published: August 2022

AbstractIntroductionAcute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is characterized by hypoxemia and increased lung permeability and would result in acute respiratory failure and with high mortality. In patients who survive from acute lung injury (ALI)/ARDS, it is an active process of the transition from injury to resolution depending on the coordinated immune system. The roles of regulatory CD4+T cells (Tregs) are now gradually being clarified during inflammation and resolution of ARDS. However, clear conclusions about roles of Tregs in ALI/ARDS are only a few.ObjectiveThis review provides an overview of phenotype, differentiation, and suppressive mechanisms of Tregs and focuses on keys of biology of Tregs in alveolar space during the inflammatory response and resolution of ALI/ARDS.Data SourceLiterature search of Web of Science, PubMed, and EMBASE was made to find relative articles about Tregs in ALI/ARDS. We used the following search terms: Tregs, ALI, ARDS, inflammation, and resolution.ConclusionMore and more studies have indicated Tregs involved in the processes of inflammation and resolution of ALI/ARDS. A deep understanding of the roles of Tregs may indicate new treatments for patients of ARDS. Therapies aimed at expansion or adaptive transfer of Tregs could be an effective therapy to ARDS patients.
Association between betamethasone levels and respiratory distress syndrome in preterm births: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Zafran Noah , Massalha Manal , Suleiman Abeer , Massalha Refaat , Mahagna Lila , Weiner Scott A. , Romano Shabtai , Shalev Eliezer , Salim Raed 
Published: August 2022

AbstractThe recommended fixed dosage of betamethasone for pregnancies at risk of preterm birth was determined in the 1970s, regardless of gestational age (GA), number of fetuses, and maternal weight. We aimed to examine the association between maternal and neonatal betamethasone serum levels and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) and to examine whether levels correlate with maternal weight, GA, or number of fetuses. A prospective study was conducted at a single academic medical center between August 2016 and February 2019. Women received betamethasone and delivered between 28+0 and 34+6 weeks were included. Maternal serum levels (MSLs), and neonatal serum levels (NSLs) of betamethasone at delivery were analyzed using Corticosteroid enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kit. RDS was diagnosed according to clinical and radiographic findings. We assumed that the sensitivity of NSLs to detect RDS is 95%; hence, 150 neonates were needed (power 80%, alpha 0.05). Overall, 124 women were included; including 96 (77.4%) singletons, 26 (21.0%) twins, and 2 (1.6%) triplets, corresponding to 154 neonates. RDS was diagnosed in 35 neonates (22.7%). After adjusting for GA, time elapsed from the last dose, and number of doses, NSLs were associated with RDS (relative risk: 0.97, 95% confidence interval: 0.94–0.99, p = 0.011). A level of 6.00 ng/ml predicted RDS with a sensitivity of 80.0% and specificity of 64.7%. Adjusted MSLs were not associated with RDS. Both maternal and neonatal serum levels were not associated with the number of fetuses and maternal weight. In conclusion, NSLs are associated with RDS whereas MSLs are not.
Do monkeys use sex toys? Evidence of stone tool‐assisted masturbation in free‐ranging long‐tailed macaques
Authors: Cenni Camilla , Christie Jessica B. A. , Van der Pant Yanni , Gunst Noëlle , Vasey Paul L. , Wandia I Nengah , Leca Jean‐Baptiste 
Published: August 2022

AbstractRecent reports on tool use in nonforaging contexts have led researchers to reconsider the proximate drivers of instrumental object manipulation. In this study, we explore the physiological and behavioral correlates of two stone‐directed and seemingly playful actions, the repetitive tapping and rubbing of stones onto the genital and inguinal area, respectively, that may have been co‐opted into self‐directed tool‐assisted masturbation in long‐tailed macaques (i.e., “Sex Toy” hypothesis). We predicted that genital and inguinal stone‐tapping and rubbing would be more closely temporally associated with physiological responses (e.g., estrus in females, penile erection in males) and behavior patterns (e.g., sexual mounts and other mating interactions) that are sexually motivated than other stone‐directed play. We also predicted that the stones selected to perform genital and inguinal stone‐tapping and rubbing actions would be less variable in number, size, and texture than the stones typically used during other stone‐directed playful actions. Overall, our data partly supported the “Sex Toy” hypothesis indicating that stone‐directed tapping and rubbing onto the genital and inguinal area are sexually motivated behaviors. Our research suggests that instrumental behaviors of questionably adaptive value may be maintained over evolutionary time through pleasurable/self‐rewarding mechanisms, such as those underlying playful and sexual activities.
Adolescents' experiences of a theory‐based behavioural intervention for improved oral hygiene: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Dimenäs Sandra L. , Östberg Anna‐Lena , Lundin Mona , Lundgren Jesper , Abrahamsson Kajsa H. 
Published: August 2022

AbstractObjectivesAdequate oral hygiene, that is self‐performed infection control, is crucial to prevent periodontal disease. Epidemiological studies reveal poor oral hygiene conditions among Swedish adolescents and indicate a need for more effective prevention programs. The aim of the current study was to analyse adolescents' experiences of a person‐centred, theory‐based, oral health education program for improved oral hygiene.MethodsData were obtained by interviewing 19 adolescents treated by dental hygienists in accord with the person‐centred education program in a preceding clinical field study (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02906098). Study participants were selected to reflect a variation of male and female adolescents, treated at clinics in areas with various socio‐demographic profiles within Region Västra Götaland, Sweden. Interviews were audio‐taped, transcribed verbatim and analysed with qualitative content analysis.ResultsA main theme was identified: ‘Adolescents on a guided and challenging journey towards beneficial oral hygiene behavior’. The results elucidate the importance of a person‐centred approach in therapy. The adolescents described insight on a personal level about the importance of improved oral hygiene as fundamental for behavioural change. Planning and monitoring of the behaviour, with guidance and support by the dental hygienist, was considered to facilitate change and encouraged further behavioural efforts. However, the adolescents expressed a need of reminders and support to keep up oral hygiene routines over time.ConclusionsThe study brings knowledge on factors of importance in educational interventions to increase beneficial health behaviours among adolescents and emphasize areas for further improvements of such interventions.
Prevalence of halitosis among young adults in Dunedin, New Zealand
Authors: Yu Wing Wan , Goh Rayner , Cheong Esther , Guan Guangzhao , Jin Carrol , Cannon Richard D. , Farella Mauro , Mei Li 
Published: August 2022

AbstractObjectivesTo investigate the prevalence of halitosis in young adults.MethodsYoung adults (n = 372; mean age = 21.0 ± 2.6 years old, range = 18–30 years) in Dunedin, New Zealand, were recruited into the cross sectional study after providing informed consent. The prevalence of halitosis was determined using both objective measurements (parts per billion [ppb] volatile sulphur compounds [VSCs] in the exhaled air) and subjective measurements (self‐reported halitosis questionnaire, tongue coating index, and organoleptic assessment).ResultsVolatile sulphur compounds measurements indicated that the prevalence of halitosis (values ≥140 ppb) was 31.2%; 25.6% of participants self‐reported halitosis. The organoleptic assessment revealed that 14.3% of the participants had a score of ≥2. A positive correlation was found between the VSC measurements and organoleptic assessment (p < 0.05). No significant relationship was found between self‐reported halitosis and either organoleptic assessment or VSC measurements. Self‐reported dry mouth, smoking, oral hygiene index, DMFT index, and tongue coating score were significantly associated with the organoleptic assessment (p < 0.05). The self‐reported dry mouth, mouth breathing and tongue coating score were significantly associated with the VSC scores (p < 0.05).ConclusionHalitosis, as represented by VSC, was found in 31.2% of the participants. VSC scores and organoleptic assessment were positively correlated. There was no significant relationship between self‐reported halitosis and either organoleptic assessment or VSC measurements.
Transient fetal atrioventricular block: A series of four cases and approach to management
Authors: Kikano Sandra D. , Killen Stacy A. S. 
Published: August 2022

AbstractIntroductionFetal atrioventricular block (AVB) is a failure of conduction from atria to ventricles. Immune‐ and nonimmune‐mediated forms occur, especially in association with congenital heart disease. Second‐degree (2°) AVB may be reversible with dexamethasone and intravenous immunoglobulin in immune‐mediated disease. However, once third‐degree AVB develops, it is deemed irreversible with need for a pacemaker and risk for cardiomyopathy. Rarely, 2° AVB is a transient, benign phenomenon in the immature conduction system. Few case series of transient AVB have been reported, but a management approach has not been defined.Methods/Results/ConclusionWe report four patients with self‐resolving, nonimmune fetal AVB and outline a management strategy.
ECG‐I phenotyping of persistent AF based on driver burden and distribution to predict response to pulmonary vein isolation (PHENOTYPE‐AF)
Authors: Dhillon Gurpreet S. , Honarbakhsh Shohreh , Graham Adam , Abbass Hakam , Welch Sophie , Daw Holly , Sporton Simon , Providencia Rui , Chow Anthony , Earley Mark J. , Lowe Martin , Lambiase Pier D. , Schilling Richard J. , Hunter Ross J. 
Published: August 2022

AbstractBackgroundThis prospective trial sought to phenotype persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) based on AF mechanisms using electrocardiographic imaging (ECGI) mapping to determine whether this would predict long‐term freedom from arrhythmia after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI).MethodsPatients with persistent AF of <2 years duration underwent cryoballoon PVI. ECGI mapping was performed before PVI to determine potential drivers (PDs) defined as rotational activations completing ≥1.5 revolutions or focal activations. The coprimary endpoint was the association between (1) PD burden (defined as the number of PD occurrences) and (2) PD distribution (defined as the number of segments on an 18‐segment model of the atria harboring PDs) with freedom from arrhythmia at 1‐year follow up.ResultsOf 100 patients, 97 completed follow up and 52 (53.6%) remained in sinus rhythm off antiarrhythmic drugs. Neither PD burden nor PD distribution predicted freedom from arrhythmia (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.01, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.99–1.03, p = .164; and HR: 1.04, 95% CI: 0.91–1.17, p = .591, respectively). Otherwise, the burden of rotational PDs, rotational stability, and the burden of PDs occurring at the pulmonary veins and posterior wall all failed to predict arrhythmia recurrence (all p > .10).ConclusionsAF mechanisms as determined using ECGI mapping do not predict outcomes after PVI for persistent AF. Further studies using different methodologies to characterize AF mechanisms are warranted (NCT03394404).
Visual filtering in time and space among persons with Down syndrome
Authors: Matsuba E. S. M. , Russo N. , McKernan E. , Curl R. , Dawkins T. , Flores H. , Miseros M. , Stewart J. , Loebus A. , Brodeur D. A. , Burack J. A. 
Published: August 2022

AbstractBackgroundIndividuals with Down syndrome (DS) appear to perform at a level that is commensurate with developmental expectations on simple tasks of selective attention. In this study, we examine how their selective attention is impacted by target changes that unfold over both time and space. This increased complexity reflects an attempt at greater ecological validity in an experimental task, as a steppingstone for better understanding attention among persons with DS in real‐world environments.MethodsA modified flanker task was used to assess visual temporal and spatial filtering among persons with DS (n = 14) and typically developing individuals (n = 14) matched on non‐verbal mental age (mental age = 8.5 years). Experimental conditions included varying the stimulus onset asynchronies between the onset of the target and flankers, the distances between the target and flankers, and the similarity of the target and flankers.ResultsBoth the participants with DS and the typically developing participants showed slower reaction times and lower accuracy rates when the flankers appeared closer in time and/or space to the target.ConclusionNo group differences were found on a broad level, but the findings suggest that dynamic stimuli may be processed differently by those with DS. Implications of the findings are discussed in relation to the developmental approach to intellectual disability originally articulated by Ed Zigler.
Lifting the midface using a hyaluronic acid filler with lidocaine: A randomized multi‐center study in a Chinese population
Authors: Wang Xiaojun , Wu Yan , Li Bi , Mu Xiongzheng , Li Li 
Published: August 2022

AbstractBackgroundSoft‐tissue augmentation of the midface is increasingly requested by patients, and hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are frequently used in treatment.AimsTo evaluate the efficacy and safety of treatment of midface volume/contour deficit with a firm HA filler including lidocaine (HARL).Patients/MethodsThis was a 12‐month, randomized, evaluator‐blinded, controlled study. Chinese adults with mild to substantial volume loss were randomly assigned in a 3:1 ratio to treatment or untreated control groups.ResultsA total of 148 subjects were enrolled. The primary objective was met; results of the midface volume scale (MMVS) rated by a blinded evaluator were in favor of HARL at Month 6 (p < 0.0001 vs. the untreated control group). Similar to the MMVS improvement, improved midface fullness and aesthetic appearance was observed based on the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) up to 12 months by both treating investigators and subjects (at least 96% at Week 4 and 65% at Month 12). Subject satisfaction was high, and the majority of subjects considered the results to look natural (>97%). The study product was well tolerated.ConclusionsMidfacial treatment using HARL was effective, well tolerated, and led to high levels of satisfaction in a Chinese population for up to 12 months.ClinicalTrials.gov IdentifierNCT03097783
Chronic cerebral infarctions and white matter lesions link to long‐term survival after a first ischemic event: A cohort study
Authors: Schilter Marina , Epstein Alessandra , Vynckier Jan , Mujanovic Adnan , Belachew Nebiyat Filate , Beyeler Morin , Siepen Bernhard , Goeldlin Martina , Scutelnic Adrian , Seiffge David Julian , Jung Simon , Gralla Jan , Dobrocky Tomas , Arnold Marcel , Kaesmacher Johannes , Fischer Urs , Meinel Thomas Raphael 
Published: August 2022

AbstractBackground and PurposeTo investigate the association of different phenotypes, count, and locations of chronic covert brain infarctions (CBI) with long‐term mortality in patients with first‐ever manifest acute ischemic stroke (AIS) or transient ischemic attack (TIA). Additionally, to analyze their potential interaction with white matter hyperintensities (WMH) and predictive value in addition to established mortality scores.MethodsSingle‐center cohort study including consecutive patients with first‐ever AIS or TIA with available MRI imaging from January 2015 to December 2017. Blinded raters adjudicated CBI phenotypes and WMH (age‐related white matter changes score) according to established definitions. We compared Cox regression models including prespecified established predictors of mortality using Harrell's C and likelihood ratio tests.ResultsA total of 2236 patients (median [interquartile range] age: 71 [59‐80] years, 43% female, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale: 2 [1‐6], median follow‐up: 1436 days, 21% death during follow‐up) were included. Increasing WMH (per point adjusted Hazard Ratio [aHR] = 1.29 [1.14‐1.45]), but not CBI (aHR = 1.21 [0.99‐1.49]), were independently associated with mortality. Neither CBI phenotype, count, nor location was associated with mortality and there was no multiplicative interaction between CBI and WMH (p > .1). As compared to patients without CBI or WMH, patients with moderate or severe WMH and additional CBI had the highest hazards of death (aHR = 1.62 [1.23‐2.13]). The Cox regression model including CBI and WMH had a small but significant increment in Harrell's C when compared to the model including 14 clinical variables (0.831 vs. 0.827, p < .001).DiscussionWMH represent a strong surrogate biomarker of long‐term mortality in first‐ever manifest AIS or TIA patients. CBI phenotypes, count, and location seem less relevant. Incorporation of CBI and WMH slightly improves predictive capacity of established risk scores.
Fracture strength of monolithic and glass‐soldered ceramic subcomponents of 5‐unit fixed dental prosthesis
Authors: Sass Jan‐Oliver , Burmeister Ulrike , Ganz Cornelia , Mitrovic Aurica , Lang Hermann , Bader Rainer , Vogel Danny 
Published: August 2022

AbstractPurposeZirconium dioxide ceramic has been successfully introduced as a framework material for fixed dental prostheses. To reduce manufacturing constraints, joining of subcomponents could be a promising approach to increase the mechanical performance of long‐span fixed dental prostheses. In this experimental study, the biomechanical behavior of monolithic and soldered framework specimens for fixed dental prostheses made of Y‐TZP was investigated.Materials and methodsFramework specimens (n = 80) of 5‐unit fixed dental prostheses made of Y‐TZP were prepared and divided into 10 equal groups. The specimens were monolithic or composed of subcomponents, which were joined using a silicate‐based glass solder. Thereby, three joint geometries (diagonal, vertical with an occlusal cap, and dental attachment‐based) were investigated. Moreover, the groups differed based on the mechanical test (static vs. dynamic) and further processing (veneered vs. unveneered). The framework specimens were cemented on alumina‐based jaw models, where the canine and second molar were acting as abutments before a point‐load was applied. In addition, µCT scans and microscopic fractography were used to evaluate the quality of soldered joints and to determine the causes of fracture.ResultsThe determined fracture loads of the different unveneered framework specimens in static testing did not vary significantly (p = 1). Adding a veneering layer significantly increased the mechanical strength for monolithic framework specimens from 1196.29 ± 203.79 N to 1606.85 ± 128.49 N (p = 0.008). In case of soldered specimens with a dental attachment‐based geometry, the mechanical strength increased from 1159.42 ± 85.65 N to 1249.53 ± 191.55 N (p = 1). Within the dynamic testing, no differences were observed between monolithic and soldered framework specimens. µCT scans and fractography proved that the dental attachment‐based joining geometry offers the highest quality.ConclusionUsing glass soldering technology, subcomponents of 5‐unit framework specimens made of Y‐TZP could be joined with mechanical properties comparable to those of monolithic frameworks.
Inhibition of polyploidization in Pten‐deficient livers reduces steatosis
Authors: Moreno Eva , Matondo Augustine B. , Bongiovanni Laura , van de Lest Chris H. A. , Molenaar Martijn R. , Toussaint Mathilda J. M. , van Essen Saskia C. , Houweling Martin , Helms J. Bernd , Westendorp Bart , de Bruin Alain 
Published: August 2022

AbstractThe tumour suppressor PTEN is a negative regulator of the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway. Liver‐specific deletion of Pten in mice results in the hyper‐activation PI3K/AKT signalling accompanied by enhanced genome duplication (polyploidization), marked lipid accumulation (steatosis) and formation of hepatocellular carcinomas. However, it is unknown whether polyploidization in this model has an impact on the development of steatosis and the progression towards liver cancer. Here, we used a liver‐specific conditional knockout approach to delete Pten in combination with deletion of E2f7/8, known key inducers of polyploidization. As expected, Pten deletion caused severe steatosis and liver tumours accompanied by enhanced polyploidization. Additional deletion of E2f7/8 inhibited polyploidization, alleviated Pten‐induced steatosis without affecting lipid species composition and accelerated liver tumour progression. Global transcriptomic analysis showed that inhibition of polyploidization in Pten‐deficient livers resulted in reduced expression of genes involved in energy metabolism, including PPAR‐gamma signalling. However, we find no evidence that deregulated genes in Pten‐deficient livers are direct transcriptional targets of E2F7/8, supporting that reduction in steatosis and progression towards liver cancer are likely consequences of inhibiting polyploidization. Lastly, flow cytometry and image analysis on isolated primary wildtype mouse hepatocytes provided further support that polyploid cells can accumulate more lipid droplets than diploid hepatocytes. Collectively, we show that polyploidization promotes steatosis and function as an important barrier against liver tumour progression in Pten‐deficient livers.