bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Modified to Express Interferon-β Inhibit the Growth of Prostate Cancer in a Mouse Model
Authors: Wang G-X , Zhan Y-A , Hu H-L , Wang Y , Fu B
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) genetically engineered to produce interferon-β (IFN-β) as a gene delivery system to treat prostate cancer in an animal model. METHODS: To measure the effects on tumour cell growth in vitro, IFN-β-producing MSCs (IFN-β-MSCs) were co-cultured with the prostate cancer cell line PC-3. The in vivo migration of intravenously injected fluorescently-labelled MSCs to healthy tissues and PC-3 xenograft tumours grown in immunodeficient mice was determined by fluorescence microscopy. The antitumour effects of intravenously injected IFN-β-MSCs on PC-3 xenograft growth and animal survival were also investigated. RESULTS: IFN-β-MSCs inhibited the growth of PC-3 cells in vitro. Fluorescently-labelled MSCs migrated to the margins and centre of tumour masses but not into healthy tissues. Intravenously injected IFN-β-MSCs significantly reduced PC-3 xenograft tumour weight and increased animal survival compared with controls. CONCLUSIONS: Intravenously injected IFN-β-MSCs inhibited PC-3 xenograft growth. This could be an effective gene delivery system for treatment of solid human tumours.
Reduction of Postoperative Haemorrhage with the Use of a Haemostatic Thrombin Matrix in Patients Who Underwent Decortication
Authors: Yetim TD , Yetim I
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of two measures for the control of postoperative haemorrhage in patients with fibrothoracic disease secondary to symptomatic extraparenchymal restrictive disease (e.g. empyema, haematoma) undergoing decortication. METHODS: This randomized, prospective study was performed in 50 adult patients with fibrothoracic disease secondary to symptomatic extraparenchymal restrictive disease who were scheduled to undergo decortication. Patients were randomized to receive either electrocautery plus hot compressor application or a thrombin-added haemostatic matrix (THM) for intraoperative haemostasis ( n = 25 per group). Control of postoperative haemorrhage was compared between groups by evaluation of pre- and postoperative blood characteristics and mean postoperative drainage volume and blood transfusion requirements. RESULTS: Mean postoperative drainage and blood transfusion volumes were significantly lower in the THM group versus the electrocautery plus hot compress group. There was no difference in preoperative and postoperative blood tests in the THM group, whereas significant differences were observed in the electrocautery plus hot compress group. There were no infections, systemic allergies or sensitization, or reoperations in either group. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with electrocautery plus hot compress, the use of a THM significantly reduced postoperative haemorrhage and blood transfusion requirements in patients who underwent decortication.
Asymmetric Dimethylarginine: A Novel Cardiovascular Risk Factor in End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Alsagaff M Yusuf , Thaha M , Aminuddin M , Yogiarto RM , Yogiantoro M , Tomino Y
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study explored the association between carotid intima—media thickness (CIMT) and the oxidative stress markers asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and homocysteine in patients with end-stage renal disease who were on haemodialysis. METHODS: A total of 30 patients undergoing chronic haemodialysis treatment were recruited to this study. Homocysteine and ADMA levels were determined using a fluorescence polarization immunoassay and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. CIMT was measured as a marker of atherosclerosis using high-resolution ultrasonography and was performed after haemodialysis. RESULTS: Significant positive correlations were found between CIMT and ADMA, and CIMT and duration of haemodialysis. Linear regression analysis showed that ADMA level and age were significant independent determinants of CIMT, whereas homocysteine was not. CONCLUSIONS: The relationship demonstrated between plasma ADMA and carotid artery thickening suggests that ADMA may be a novel marker of atherosclerosis in patients on haemodialysis.
The Effects of Surgery Type and Duration of Tourniquet Inflation on Body Temperature
Authors: Chon JY , Lee JY
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To identify factors related to the decrease in core body temperature after deflation of a pneumatic tourniquet during unilateral knee surgery under general anaesthesia. METHODS: This observational study recruited 30 patients scheduled for arthroscopic surgery (group A) and 30 patients scheduled for open surgery (group O). Intraoperative oesophageal temperature was measured during tourniquet inflation and every minute for 10 min after deflation. RESULTS: Core temperature decreased significantly after tourniquet deflation in both groups, the decrease being significantly greater in group A than in group O. Duration of tourniquet inflation and type of surgery were correlated with the temperature decrease. CONCLUSIONS: In knee surgery using a tourniquet, the decrease in core body temperature after tourniquet deflation was closely related to the duration of tourniquet inflation and to arthroscopic rather than open surgery. Further studies are required to determine the effect of surgery type on temperature changes, independently of the duration of tourniquet inflation.
Could Vital Signs Predict Carbon Monoxide Intoxication?
Authors: Aksu NM , Akkaş M , Çoşkun F , Karakiliç E , Günalp M , Akküçük H , Ataman DK , Özcan H , Özmen MM
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: This retrospective study examined the correlation between carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) levels and vital signs in patients with carbon monoxide (CO) intoxication. METHODS: Over a 10-year period, patients > 16 years of age who presented to the emergency department due to CO intoxication were included. Age, gender, comorbidities, month/year of presentation, presenting symptoms, vital signs, blood pH, COHb level, treatment and outcome were recorded. RESULTS: In total, 476 patients were included. The mean ± SD age was 36.22 ± 13.65 years; 96.4% of the patients had a normal Glasgow Coma Scale score, 91.0% had normal blood pressure and 80.0% had a normal heart rate. COHb levels were stratified into three groups: < 10% ( n = 39), 10 – 20% ( n = 106) and > 20% ( n = 205); levels could not be obtained in the remaining 126 patients. In patients with COHb levels > 20%, 34 (16.6%) had alkalosis and nine (4.4%) had acidosis. Among patients with COHb levels > 20%, 140 (68.3%) had normal vital signs. CONCLUSIONS: Vital signs cannot be used as a prognostic marker of CO intoxication and, therefore, patients must be monitored closely.
Factors Affecting the Clearance of High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Infection and the Progression of Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia
Authors: Kim JW , Song SH , Jin CH , Lee JK , Lee NW , Lee KW
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify factors that predict clearance of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and progression to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 2 or higher, in women with normal cervical histology or CIN 1. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed on 817 high-risk HPV-infected women with histologically verified CIN 1 or normal cervical histology. Patients were followed-up for a maximum of 24 months. Cervical HPV DNA tests were performed at every visit. RESULTS: At the end of follow-up, 648/817 (79.3%) patients were free from HPV infection and 66/817 patients (8.1%) progressed to CIN 2 or higher. Age, parity, cytology and viral load at diagnosis were significantly and inversely associated with HPV clearance. Cytology, viral load and presence of CIN 1 lesions were significantly associated with lesion progression. CONCLUSIONS: Cytology and high-risk HPV viral load may be useful markers for the likelihood of high-risk HPV clearance and lesion progression. Histological status, parity and marital status may also be useful factors to consider when predicting progression.
Increased Numbers of T Helper 17 Cells and the Correlation with Clinicopathological Characteristics in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Shen C-J , Yuan Z-H , Liu Y-X , Hu G-Y
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: T helper 17 (Th17) cells play important roles in adaptive immunity and are involved in several inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, but little is known about their role in tumour immunity. The current study investigated the involvement of Th17 cells in multiple myeloma. METHODS: Flow cytometry was used to investigate the frequencies of Th17 cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 30 patients with multiple myeloma and from 14 healthy control subjects. The concentrations of Th17-associated cytokines (interleukin [IL]-6, IL-17, IL-1β and IL-23) were measured by enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: There was a significantly increased proportion of Th17 cells, and increased plasma concentrations of Th17-associated cytokines, in patients with multiple myeloma compared with healthy controls. There was a significant relationship between the proportion of Th17 cells and clinical tumour stage, serum lactate dehydrogenase concentration and serum creatinine concentration. CONCLUSIONS: Th17 cells might be important therapeutic targets in multiple myeloma and could facilitate a better outcome for tumour immunotherapy.
Effects of Liver Function on Ionized Hypocalcaemia following Rapid Blood Transfusion
Authors: Chung HS , Cho SJ , Park CS
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: Hypocalcaemia detrimentally affects the cardiovascular system and massive transfusion-related hypocalcaemia is particularly severe in end-stage liver disease patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT). This study, therefore, compared the severity and duration of ionized hypocalcaemia between patients with normal and impaired liver function. METHODS: Patients ( n = 26 per group) were transfused at a rate of 10 ml/kg within 10 min with packed red blood cells (PRBCs) during LT (group LP) or spinal surgery (group SP), or were infused with 0.9% normal saline during spinal surgery (group SN). Serum levels of ionized calcium were assessed before (T0), just after (T1), and at 20 (T2) and 60 min (T3) after transfusion. RESULTS: Transfusion with PRBCs caused more severe ionized hypocalcaemia than 0.9% normal saline at T1. In contrast to the faster (20 min) normalization in group SP, ionized hypocalcaemia in group LP persisted at T3. Serum ionized calcium levels at T3 showed correlations with vital signs, blood glucose, serum potassium, base deficit and lactate. CONCLUSION: Rapid blood transfusion caused more severe and prolonged ionized hypocalcaemia in patients with liver dysfunction than in those with normal liver function.
Sleep Apnoea Syndrome as a Risk for Mortality in Elderly Inpatients
Authors: Morimoto S , Takahashi T , Okaishi K , Okuro M , Nakahashi T , Sakamoto D , Mizuno T , Kanda T , Takahashi M , Toga H
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: The characteristics of sleep apnoea syndrome (SAS) in the elderly, including subtype classification and association with mortality, have not been fully elucidated. This study examined these factors in an elderly Japanese inpatient population. METHODS: Overnight polysomnography was used to diagnose and classify SAS in 145 elderly inpatients (mean ± age 81 ± 8 years). Clinical data, including brain computerized tomography findings, were recorded. The study population included nine inpatients with obstructive SAS, 12 with central SAS, 25 with mixed SAS and 99 controls (no SAS). RESULTS: Increased body mass index and grade of aortic arch calcification independently contributed to risk of all subtypes of SAS combined. There was an independent association between SAS and increased risk of mortality from all causes as well as from pneumonia and from cardiovascular disease. Only mixed SAS was independently and positively associated with increased risk of death from pneumonia. CONCLUSIONS: Obstructive, central and mixed SAS were associated with increased risk of cardiovascular-related and all-cause mortality. Mixed SAS was associated with an increase in mortality from pneumonia. There was no relationship between mortality and severity of SAS.
Incidence and Risk Factors for Cognitive Dysfunction in Patients with Severe Systemic Disease
Authors: Radtke FM , Franck M , Herbig TS , Papkalla N , Kleinwaechter R , Kork F , Brockhaus WR , Wernecke K-D , Spies CD
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To determine the relevance of surgery and other causative factors to the incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in patients with severe systemic disease. METHODS: This observational study included 107 noncardiac surgical patients and 26 nonsurgical control subjects, all of whom had an American Society of Anesthesiologists physical classification status of 3. Cognitive assessment was performed preoperatively and 7 days postoperatively, or with a 7-day interval for the control group. POCD was calculated as a combined Z-score. Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) was used to exclude patients with pre-existing cognitive deficit (MMSE score ≥ 23). Surgical and other factors including duration of surgery/anaesthesia and length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) were recorded. RESULTS: After 7 days, POCD was found in 40/107 (37.4%) surgical patients compared with 4/26 (15.4%) nonsurgical controls. Preoperative MMSE score, duration of surgery/anaesthesia, and length of stay in the ICU and hospital were associated with POCD. Logistic regression analysis revealed that preoperative MMSE score was an independent predictor of POCD. CONCLUSION: Lower baseline MMSE score was the only independent predictor for POCD in patients with severe systemic disease.
Clinical Utility of Serum Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 and Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-2 Concentrations in the Assessment of Liver Fibrosis due to Chronic Hepatitis B
Authors: Liang B , Li Y , Zhao A , Xie F , Guo Z
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To explore the relationships between serum concentrations of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2), and severity of liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B. METHODS: A total of 101 patients with hepatitis B and 54 healthy control subjects were consecutively enrolled. Serum MMP-2 and TIMP-2 were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: Serum MMP-2 concentrations in patients with stage F2 – F4 fibrosis were significantly higher than in patients with stage F0 – F1 fibrosis and control subjects, but no significant difference was found between patients with stage F0 – F1 fibrosis and control subjects. Significant differences in serum TIMP-2 concentrations were found between patients with stages F2 – F4 and F0 – F1 fibrosis, and between stages F0 – F1 fibrosis and healthy control subjects. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves of serum TIMP-2 and MMP-2 for predicting clinically significant fibrosis (stage F2 – F4) were 0.899 and 0.770, respectively. CONCLUSION: Serum TIMP-2 and MMP-2 assessment may represent a valuable noninvasive diagnostic test for liver fibrosis in hepatitis B.
Frequent SLIT2 Promoter Methylation in the Serum of Patients with Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Dong R , Yu J , Pu H , Zhang Z , Xu X
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: The slit homologue 2 ( SLIT2) gene is a tumour suppressor gene. This study investigated the methylation status of the SLIT2 promoter in women with ovarian cancer in terms of identifying whether this might aid the early diagnosis of ovarian cancer. METHODS: Using methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction analysis, the methylation status of the SLIT2 promoter was measured in tumour tissue and serum samples from 36 patients with ovarian cancer and in matched serum samples from 25 controls without cancer. RESULTS: Aberrant methylation of the SLIT2 promoter was present in ovarian tissue from 29/36 (80.6%) ovarian cancer patients, but not in the 25 healthy controls. Among the cases with hypermethylation in their ovarian tissue, 27/29 (93.1%) of the case-matched serum DNA samples, including all four cases of early-stage ovarian cancer, showed hypermethylation of the SLIT2 promoter. CONCLUSIONS: Hypermethylation of the SLIT2 promoter may be a relatively early event in ovarian cancer; thus, its detection may be an effective approach to improve early diagnosis.
Relationship between Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase, Insulin Resistance and Macrovascular Disease in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Li J-L , Yang Z , Wu S , Kong J
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To explore the relationship between endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity, insulin resistance and macrovascular disease in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). METHODS: AMI patients were grouped according to the presence (group A, n = 49) or absence (group B, n = 48) of macrovascular disease. A healthy control group was also recruited (group C, n = 43). eNOS activity and nitric oxide (NO), endothelin-1 (ET-1), fasting plasma glucose and fasting insulin levels were compared across groups. The homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA—IR) was calculated in each participant and correlations between biochemical parameters were determined. RESULTS: eNOS and NO levels were significantly lower in group A compared with the other groups. Conversely, ET-1 levels and the HOMA-IR were significantly higher in group A. eNOS activity and NO levels were significantly lower, and ET-1 levels and HOMA-IR were significantly higher, in group B compared with controls. Across the groups there were inverse correlations in AMI patients between eNOS and HOMA-IR, NO and HOMA-IR, eNOS and ET-1, and NO and ET-1, and positive correlations between eNOS and NO, regardless of whether macrovascular disease was present. CONCLUSION: There is a close relationship between eNOS activity and the development of insulin resistance and macrovascular disease in AMI patients.
Single-Port Laparoscopic Hysterectomy versus Conventional Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: A Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors: Li M , Han Y , Feng YC
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To compare transumbilical single-port laparoscopic hysterectomy (TSPLH) with traditional four-port total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH). METHODS: Patients with benign uterine disease were assigned to receive either TSPLH ( n = 52) or TLH ( n = 56). Duration of surgery, intraoperative blood loss, conversion rate, time to first flatus, duration of immobilization, post-operative analgesia requirement, port site infection, port hernia, duration of hospital stay, postoperative fever rate and percentage patient satisfaction were recorded. RESULTS: TSPLH and TLH were both performed successfully. TSPLH was associated with significantly longer duration of surgery, shorter duration of immobilization, lower rate of port site infection and higher patient satisfaction than TLH. There were no other significant differences between the two groups. All subjects recovered fully and no postoperative complications occurred during a 6-month (minimum) follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: TSPLH was found to be a feasible and safe approach for laparoscopic hysterectomy.
Advantages of Single-Stage Surgical Treatment with Salter Innominate Osteotomy and Pemberton Pericapsular Osteotomy for Developmental Dysplasia of Both Hips
Authors: Ezirmik N , Yildiz K
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: This study retrospectively compared the clinical and radiological outcomes of patients with bilateral developmental dysplasia of the hip who underwent either a single-stage operation (using a Salter innominate osteotomy for one hip and a Pemberton pericapsular osteotomy for the other hip) or a two-stage procedure comprising consecutive operations. METHODS: Extensive pre- and postoperative clinical, surgical and radiological examinations were undertaken. RESULTS: A total of 63 patients received the single-stage operation (group A), and 55 patients received consecutive operations (group B). There were no significant between-group differences in acetabular index or centre-edge angle correction. Group A had significantly reduced anaesthetic exposure, duration of hospitalization, blood transfusion volume, antibiotic costs and hospitalization costs. Group A also had a lower rate of surgical complications and avascular necrosis than group B. CONCLUSIONS: The single-stage surgical procedure was more economical and allowed more rapid recovery than two consecutive operations. The surgical and anaesthesia team must be highly proficient in order to perform single-stage operations successfully.
Comparison of Bursting Pressure after Scleral Tunnel Incision Sealed with Sutures or an Adherent Ocular Bandage in Human Globes
Authors: Jun EJ , Kim JH , Purcell TL , Schanzlin DJ
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficiency of a hydrogel adherent ocular bandage for sealing of scleral tunnel incisions in human eye globes. METHODS: A 4-mm scleral tunnel incision was made in each of 10 globes and bursting pressure was measured using the Seidel test to check for wound leakage. Globes were sealed using either two interrupted 10–0 nylon sutures ( n = 5) or an adherent ocular bandage in the form of polyethylene glycol hydrogel ( n = 5). Bursting pressure was then measured for a second time. RESULTS: Bursting pressure was significantly higher after wound sealing in both groups. There were no statistically significant differences in bursting pressure between the two groups before or after sealing. CONCLUSIONS: The adherent ocular bandage successfully protected the incision in ex vivo human globes immediately after surgery, with a sealing efficiency comparable to two nylon sutures, suggesting that it is a safe and effective alternative to conventional suturing.
In Vitro Differentiation of Osteocytes and Adipocytes from Human Placenta-Derived Cells
Authors: Sun NZ , Ji HS
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the capability of human placenta-derived adherent cells to differentiate into osteocytes and adipocytes. METHODS: Placenta-derived adherent cells were isolated by type IV collagenase digestion of a single freshly obtained human placenta and cultured under standard conditions. Cell surface markers of adherent cells from passages 3 – 9 were analysed by flow cytometry. Osteocytic differentiation was induced with β-glycerol phosphate, vitamin C and dexamethasone and confirmed by Alizarin red staining. Adipocytic differentiation was induced with dexamethasone and insulin and confirmed by oil red O staining. RESULTS: Placenta-derived adherent cells were positive for high levels of CD44 and CD105 and very low levels of CD29 but were negative for CD34, CD45 and CD19. This pattern of cell surface markers is identical to human mesenchymal stem cells. Alizarin red-positive cells were detected 10 days after the induction of osteocyte differentiation. Oil red O-positive cells weredetected 7 days after the induction of adipocyte differentiation. CONCLUSIONS: Placenta-derived adherent cells can differentiate into either osteocytes or adipocytes in vitro. The human placenta may provide an alternative source of mesenchymal stem cells for basic research and clinical use.
Prognostic Value of a Single Prehospital Measurement of N-Terminal Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide and Troponin T after Acute Ischaemic Stroke
Authors: Hajdinjak E , Klemen P , Grmec Š
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: Data regarding the value of prehospital measurement of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and troponin T as prognostic indicators of in-hospital mortality are limited. This prospective pilot study aimed to determine the value of a single combined measurement of NT-proBNP and troponin T for predicting in-hospital mortality in patients with acute ischaemic stroke in a prehospital emergency medicine centre. METHODS: Blood samples were collected in the prehospital setting and analysed for NT-proBNP and troponin T, using a portable device. Parameters previously associated with stroke severity (including prognostic scoring systems) were recorded and assessed as independent predictors of in-hospital mortality. RESULTS: In logistic regression analysis, elevated troponin T (odds ratio [OR] 1.8 [95% CI 1.1, 8.4) and elevated NT-proBNP (OR 5.80 [95% CI 1.3, 22.7]) were significantly associated with poor outcome in patients with acute ischaemic stroke. Combined measurement of troponin T plus NT-proBNP was most predictive of survival in stroke patients (93% sensitivity, 96% specificity, 80% negative predictive value, 98% positive predictive value and 92% area under the receiver operating curve). CONCLUSIONS: NT-proBNP and troponin T levels, measured during the prehospital phase of care after acute ischaemic stroke, are strong predictors of in-hospital mortality.
Comparison of the Predictive Power of the LODS and APACHE II Scoring Systems in a Neurological Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Kim TK , Yoon JR
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: A prospective study to compare the power of the Logistic Organ Dysfunction System (LODS) and the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scoring systems to predict survival, in patients admitted to the neurological intensive care unit (NICU). METHODS: Clinical data from 521 consecutive NICU patients were collected during the first 24 h of admission and were used to compare the predictive power of both scoring systems. RESULTS: The observed mortality rate was 10.0% compared with predicted mortality rates of 7.2% and 4.8% according to LODS and APACHE II, respectively. Both scoring systems had excellent discrimination but LODS had superior calibration. CONCLUSION: The LODS scoring system was more stable than the APACHE II scoring system in the NICU setting.
Ezetimibe Reduces Urinary Albumin Excretion in Hypercholesterolaemic Type 2 Diabetes Patients with Microalbuminuria
Authors: Nakamura T , Sato E , Amaha M , Kawagoe Y , Maeda S , Inoue H , Yamagishi SI
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the effects of ezetimibe, an inhibitor of intestinal cholesterol absorption, on early phase diabetic nephropathy. METHODS: A total of 32 hypercholesterolaemic type 2 diabetes patients with microalbuminuria, defined as a urinary albumin excretion (UAE) ≥ 30 but < 300 mg/g creatinine, were enrolled. Various clinical and laboratory parameters were determined at baseline and after 6 months of treatment with 10 mg/day ezetimibe. RESULTS: Ezetimibe treatment significantly decreased glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides and UAE, and significantly increased high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and albumin. It also decreased the serum level of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), but this difference was not statistically significant. Univariate analyses showed a correlation between UAE and body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, HbA1c, LDL-C, estimated glomerular filtration rate (inverse), creatinine and MCP-1. Since these parameters may be closely correlated with each other, multiple stepwise regression analysis was performed and demonstrated that HbA1c and MCP-1 were independent determinants of UAE. CONCLUSIONS: Ezetimibe may be a promising therapeutic strategy for improving albumin excretion, partly through its anti-inflammatory properties, and for reducing LDL-C in hypercholesterolaemic type 2 diabetes patients with microalbuminuria.
A Rare Midfoot Injury Pattern: Navicular—Cuneiform and Calcaneal—Cuboid Fracture—Dislocation
Authors: Cheng Y , Yang H , Sun Z , Ni L , Zhang H
Published: February 2013

A rare midfoot injury pattern of navicular—cuneiform and calcaneal—cuboid fracture—dislocation is presented with two typical cases and a systematic review of the literature. This injury usually occurs as a result of high-energy crushing trauma and most often causes plantarly directed dislocation of the midfoot. Initial diagnosis includes a thorough physical examination and adequate radiological imaging, comprising anteroposterior, oblique and lateral X-radiography and computed tomography with three-dimensional reconstruction. Care should be taken to determine any injury to adjacent midfoot joints, in particular the Lisfranc joint. Intrasurgical protection of soft tissue is essential. Open reduction using two parallel incisions with minifragment plate fixation is recommended in more comminuted injuries. The navicular—cuneiform and calcaneal—cuboid joints play important roles in maintaining the arch of the foot and in weight-bearing during locomotion. Without proper therapy in the immediate post-traumatic phase, the long-term results are generally unsatisfactory.
Ischaemic Postconditioning Rescues Brain Injury Caused by Focal Ischaemia/Reperfusion via Attenuation of Protein Oxidization
Authors: Li Zy , Liu B , Yu J , Yang Fw , Luo Yn , Ge Pf
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of ischaemic postconditioning on brain injury and protein oxidization in focal ischaemia/reperfusion. METHODS: Adult male Wistar rats ( n = 30) were randomly divided into sham-operated, ischaemia, and ischaemic postconditioning groups. Ischaemia was produced by middle cerebral artery occlusion and ischaemic postconditioning was performed using three cycles of 30-s/30-s reperfusion/reocclusion after 2 h of ischaemia. Brain infarction size, hydrogen peroxide concentration, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and proteasome activities, protein carbonyl derivatives and advanced oxidized protein products (AOPPs) were evaluated. RESULTS: The size of brain infarction after ischaemic postconditioning was significantly smaller compared with the ischaemia group, and was concomitant with significant reduction in protein carbonyl derivatives and AOPPs. The activities of SOD, CAT and proteasomes were elevated by ischaemic postconditioning compared with the ischaemia group. CONCLUSIONS: Ischaemic post-conditioning is an effective way of reducing the size and effects of brain infarction caused by focal ischaemia/reperfusion, possibly due to a decrease in oxidized protein levels. Decreasing protein oxidization may, therefore, be a useful target for preventing cerebral injury.
The Therapeutic Effect of DL-3-n-Butylphthalide in Rats with Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion through Downregulation of Amyloid Precursor Protein and Matrix Metalloproteinase-2
Authors: Wei W , Zhang W , Huang Y , Li Y , Zhu G , Chen F , Li J
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the therapeutic effect of DL-3- n-butylphthalide (DL-NBP) in rats with chronic cerebral hypoperfusion. METHODS: Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion was modelled by bilateral permanent occlusion of common carotid arteries in Wistar rats. The therapeutic effect of DL-NBP in hypoperfused rats was evaluated using the Morris water maze task. The levels and deposition of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and the amyloid precursor protein β-amyloid 40 (Aβ40) were measured by Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. RESULTS: Treatment with DL-NBP significantly improved the learning and memory ability of hypoperfused rats. Western blot analysis indicated that, in comparison with the sham-operated control group, protein levels of Aβ40 and MMP-2 were significantly increased in the cerebral cortex of hypoperfused rats, and treatment with DL-NBP prevented this hypoperfusion-induced increase in Aβ40 and MMP-2. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that Aβ40 and MMP-2 were deposited in venous endothelial cells at day 3 and in arterial endothelial cells at day 14 after hypoperfusion. CONCLUSION: This study indicated that DL-NBP has therapeutic effects on chronic cerebral hypoperfusion and provided a useful insight into the potential molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effect of DL-NBP in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion.
Levels of Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 and Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-1 mRNAs in Patients with Primary Hypertension or Hypertension-Induced Atherosclerosis
Authors: Su W , Gao F , Lu J , Wu W , Zhou G , Lu S
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) affect degradation of vascular elastin, collagen remodelling and formation of atherosclerotic plaque. This cross-sectional study investigated the levels of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 mRNAs in the blood of patients with primary hypertension with and without hypertension-induced carotid atherosclerosis. METHODS: Hypertensive patients with and without atherosclerosis and age- and gender-matched normotensive subjects were enrolled. MMP-9 and TIMP-1 mRNA were quantified using real-time reverse transcription—polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: Hypertensive patients ( n = 86) had significantly lower levels of TIMP-1 mRNA than normotensive subjects ( n = 43). Hypertensive patients with atherosclerosis ( n = 42) showed significantly elevated levels of MMP-9 mRNA compared with both normotensive subjects and hypertensive patients without atherosclerosis ( n = 44). CONCLUSIONS: Primary hypertension resulted in decreased TIMP-1 mRNA levels, suggesting a potential mechanism contributing to the degradation of elastin. Hypertension-induced atherosclerosis was associated with significantly increased levels of MMP-9 mRNA, which may enhance both the deposition of types I and III collagen and atherosclerotic plaque formation.
Nimodipine Improves Regional Cerebral Blood Flow and Suppresses Inflammatory Factors in the Hippocampus of Rats with Vascular Dementia
Authors: Zhang X-L , Zheng S-L , Dong F-R , Wang Z-M
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To study the effect of nimodipine on hippocampal regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) and proinflammatory cytokines in rats with experimental vascular dementia. METHODS: Male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups ( n = 15/group): sham operated controls (group A); focal cerebral ischaemia (group B); vascular dementia (group C); and vascular dementia treated with 20 mg/kg nimodipine daily (group D). The Morris water maze test evaluated learning and memory, and magnetic resonance perfusion-weighted imaging was used to measure rCBF. Hippocampal levels of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin 1β (IL-1β) were measured. RESULTS: Compared with group C, rats in group D demonstrated significantly improved learning ability and significantly increased hippocampal rCBF. The levels of NF-κB, TNF-α and IL-1β were significantly lower in group D than in group C. Hippocampal nerve cell morphology was abnormal in group C but near normal in group D. CONCLUSIONS: Nimodipine improved the symptoms of cognitive impairment, increased rCBF, reduced hippocampal cytokine levels and alleviated neuronal injury in the hippocampus of rats with experimental vascular dementia.
Randomized Prospective Study of Olecranon Fracture Fixation: Cable Pin System versus Tension Band Wiring
Authors: Liu Q-H , Fu Z-G , Zhou J-L , Lu T , Liu T , Shan L , Liu Y , Bai L
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: This prospective, randomized study compared the effectiveness of the cable pin system (CPS) versus tension band wiring (TBW) for olecranon fracture fixation. METHODS: Patients with acute transverse or slight oblique olecranon fractures were randomly divided into two groups: one fixed by CPS and the other by TBW. Clinical outcome data were collected and analysed following a mean duration of 21 months. RESULTS: The mean ± SD fracture healing time was significantly shorter in the CPS group ( n = 30; 9.73 ± 2.02 weeks) compared with the TBW group ( n = 32; 11.13 ± 2.21 weeks). One patient in the CPS group and seven patients in the TBW group experienced postoperative complications; this difference was statistically significant. The mean ± SD Mayo Elbow Performance Score in the CPS group was significantly higher (88.67 ± 6.42) than that in the TBW group (80.78 ± 11.99). Logistic regression analysis showed an association between fixation method and fracture healing time, complications and elbow function. CONCLUSIONS: Internal fixation by CPS is an effective method for olecranon fracture and is associated with a shorter healing time, fewer complications and better function than TBW.
C-Reactive Protein and Reactive Oxygen Metabolites in Subjects with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Kotani K , Sakane N
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study investigated the correlation between diacron reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in subjects with or without metabolic syndrome. METHODS: Cardiometabolic risk factors, d-ROMs and hs-CRP were determined in 457 women: 123 with metabolic syndrome and 334 without metabolic syndrome. The correlation between d-ROMs and hs-CRP levels was compared between the two groups. RESULTS: The group with metabolic syndrome had significantly higher d-ROMs and hs-CRP levels than the group without metabolic syndrome. While the d-ROMs level was significantly and positively correlated with the hs-CRP level in both groups, the correlation level between the two groups was significantly different. Multiple linear regression analysis adjusted for other cardiometabolic risk factors also showed significant positive correlation between d-ROMs and hs-CRP levels in both groups. CONCLUSION: Subjects with metabolic syndrome may have a closer relationship between inflammation and oxidative stress than subjects without metabolic syndrome, possibly reflecting their increased predisposition to atherosclerosis. Further studies are necessary to confirm the observed relationship.
Effect of Bilateral Deep Brain Stimulation of the Subthalamic Nucleus on Freezing of Gait in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Niu L , Ji L-Y , Li J-M , Zhao D-S , Huang G , Liu W-P , Qu Y , Ma L-T , Ji X-T
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: A prospective cohort study to evaluate the efficacy of bilateral subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) on freezing of gait (FOG) in patients with advanced Parkinson's disease. METHODS: Patients ( n = 10) with advanced Parkinson's disease were surgically implanted with microelectrodes to facilitate STN-DBS. Evaluations of FOG, motor function, activities of daily living and neuropsychological function were carried out in on-medication and off-medication states (with and without levodopa treatment), before surgery and at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. RESULTS: STN-DBS was associated with significant improvement in FOG score and neuropsychological function at both 6 and 12 months postoperatively, compared with preoperatively. Significant postoperative improvements were also observed in motor function and activities of daily living. Daily levodopa dosage was significantly lower at both 6 and 12 months postoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: STN-DBS improved FOG in patients with advanced Parkinson's disease. The significant reduction in levodopa dosage and improvement in neuropsychological function may be the reason for the therapeutic effect seen with STN-DBS.
Development of a Dot-Immunoenzyme Filtration Assay for the Detection of Enterovirus 71 Antigen in Human Serum via Immunoglobulin M
Authors: Zhang A , Zhang M , Zhang H , Li H , Liu Q
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of a rapid, sensitive dot-immunoenzyme filtration assay to detect enterovirus 71 (EV71) antigen in serum samples from paediatric patients with hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD), through detection of anti-EV71 immunoglobulin (Ig)M. METHODS: Serum samples from HFMD patients and healthy adult controls were evaluated for the presence of anti-EV71 IgM using a dot-immunoenzyme filtration assay (DIEFA). The results were compared with those obtained using a dot-immunogold filtration assay (DIGFA). The EV71 structural protein VP1 was used as the antigen for both assays. RESULTS: Serum samples from 72 HFMD patients and 54 healthy controls were evaluated. The DIGFA procedure showed a sensitivity of 98.5% and a specificity of 100%, whereas the DIEFA procedure showed a sensitivity of 98.6% and a specificity of 98.0%. There were no significant differences between the assays in either specificity or sensitivity. CONCLUSION: The DIEFA procedure developed in this study has potential as a rapid, simple, sensitive and cost-effective screening technique for detecting EV71 antigen in serum samples from patients with HFMD.
Analysis of a Series of Patients with Varicose Vein Recurrence
Authors: Lv W , Wu X-J , Collins M , Han Z-L , Jin X
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: Varicose veins of the lower extremities is a common clinical condition. Although surgical treatment is often successful, the recurrence rate remains high. This retrospective study evaluated the reasons for postoperative recurrence of varicose veins by analysing ultrasonography and venography findings in patients with recurrent disease. METHODS: A series of consecutive cases of recurrent varicose veins of the lower limbs was reviewed. Data collected included clinical characteristics, symptoms and vascular imaging. RESULTS: The study included 109 legs with recurrent varicose veins (92 patients): 101/109 legs (92.7%) showed perforating vein insufficiency and 86/109 (78.9%) showed reflux of the superficial femoral vein, of varying degrees of severity. Residual saphenous vein was recorded for 82 legs (75.2%), while 19 (17.4%) had blocked iliac veins due to post-thrombotic syndrome. CONCLUSIONS: Several factors that may contribute to varicose vein recurrence have been identified. These include failure to ligate perforating veins and initial failure to perform the appropriate surgical intervention. Prevention of varicose vein recurrence after surgical correction requires a more extensive use of preoperative imaging, to tailor surgical intervention to suit individual patients.
The Effects of Adjuvant Immunoglobulin M-Enriched Immunoglobulin Therapy on Mortality Rate and Renal Function in Sepsis-Induced Multiple Organ Dysfunction Syndrome: Retrospective Analysis of Intensive Care Unit Patients
Authors: Yavuz L , Aynali G , Aynali A , Alaca A , Kutuk S , Ceylan Bg
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of immunoglobulin (Ig)M-enriched Ig therapy on mortality rate and renal function in sepsis-induced multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), using the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score. METHODS: Retrospective study of patients with sepsis-induced MODS treated with standard antibiotic plus supportive therapy (control group) or IgM-enriched Ig therapy adjuvant to control group therapy (IVIg group). Total length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU), overall mortality rate and 28-day case fatality rate (CFR), as well as APACHE II scores and renal function parameters at day 1 and day 4 of therapy, were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 118 patients were included (control group, n = 62; IVIg group, n = 56). In both groups, day 4 APACHE II scores decreased significantly compared with day 1 scores; the effect of treatment on renal function was minimal. Length of ICU stay, overall mortality rate and 28-day CFR were significantly lower in the IVIg group compared with the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Adding IgM-enriched Ig therapy to standard therapy for MODS improved general clinical conditions and significantly reduced APACHE II scores, overall mortality rate and 28-day CFR, although effects on renal function were minimal.
18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Findings in Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphoma of the Larynx: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Zhao K , Luo Y-Z , Zhou S-H , Dai B-L , Luo X-M , Yan S-X , Wang Q-Y , Ling L
Published: February 2013

Laryngeal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma is rare, with only 25 cases reported in the literature. This report presents a case of laryngeal MALT lymphoma in a 35-year-old female with a 6-year history of progressively worsening hoarseness. MALT lymphoma was diagnosed based on biopsy and immunohistochemical analysis. The patient received two cycles of cyclo-phosphamide + epirubicin + vincristine + prednisone (CHOP) chemo therapy, which was ineffective. 18F-fluoro deoxy glucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) showed 18F-FDG accumulation in the larynx only and identified stage IE lymphoma. CHOP chemotherapy was terminated and the patient was treated with radiotherapy. After 3 months (total radiation dose 27 Gy), 18F-FDG PET/CT scan showed that the laryngeal lesion was in complete remission. A review of the literature on the MEDLINE®/PubMed® databases regarding laryngeal MALT lymphoma and the use of PET/CT found that radiotherapy is the firstline treatment for stage I and II MALT lymphoma.
New Agonist- and Antagonist-Based Treatment Approaches for Advanced Prostate Cancer
Authors: Xu Y , Jiang Yf , Wu B
Published: February 2013

Increased understanding of prostate cancer biology has led to new treatment strategies and promising new agents for treating prostate cancer, in particular peptide-based agonists and antagonists. In this review article, new therapy modalities and potential approaches for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer are discussed, including agonists and antagonists of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone, antagonists of bombesin/gastrin-releasing peptide, and growth hormone-releasing hormone and somatostatin analogues. Though the prognosis of patients with prostate cancer is much improved by some of these treatment approaches, including combination treatment methods, extensive side-effects are still reported. These include sexual dysfunction, functional lesions of the liver and renal system, osteoporosis, anaemia and diarrhoea. Future studies should focus on new treatment agents and treatment approaches that can eliminate side-effects and improve quality of life in patients with prostate cancer on the basis of potent treatment efficacy.
ABT-737 Synergizes with Arsenic Trioxide to Induce Apoptosis of Gastric Carcinoma Cells In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Sun Xp , Zhang X , He C , Qiao H , Jiang X , Jiang H , Sun X
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the potential synergistic effects of two inducers of apoptosis: the small molecule ABT-737 and arsenic trioxide (ATO). METHODS: Human gastric carcinoma cell lines SGC-7901 and MGC-803 were used to determine the effects of ABT-737 and ATO (alone or in combination) on cell proliferation and apoptosis in vitro. In vivo effects of these drugs were investigated in SGC-7901 solid tumours, grown in immunodeficient mice. RESULTS: ABT-737 and ATO inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in SGC-7901 and MGC-803 cells in concentration- and time-dependent manners, and showed a synergistic effect. ABT-737 disturbed the binding of B cell lymphoma (Bcl)-2 homologous antagonist killer and Bcl-extra large; ATO downregulated myeloid cell leukaemia (Mcl)-1 protein and upregulated Mcl-1short, the short splicing variant. ABT-737 and ATO significantly suppressed SGC-7901 xenograft growth, synergistically inhibited tumour growth and induced apoptosis in vivo. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides preclinical evidence that ABT-737 and ATO synergize to induce apoptosis of gastric carcinoma cells, suggesting that further investigation of these agents (as potential treatments for gastric cancer) is warranted.