bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Association of Hepatitis C Serological Status with Several Risk Factors in Indonesia
Authors: Pracoyo Noer Endah , Suratri Made Ayu Lely , Roselinda Roselinda , Setiawaty Vivi
Published: November 2016

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver commonly caused by viral infection such as hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E but it is also possible by other causes. Infection with hepatitis C virus is also referred to as a disguise because the early infection is often asymptomatic that often goes undetected. This study aims at determining the several associated risk factors with hepatitis C serological status. The study design is cross-sectional. The biomedical data collection was carried out in 33 provinces in Indonesia with a population in urban blocks, census in Indonesia, where the sample is all household members over the age of one year from selected households by signing the informed consent. Total block census in selected urban area is about 971-block census with a total sample of 15.536 households. The results showed that there is a correlation between hepatitis C serological status and demographic group and that the age and occupation groups showed significant P value obtained at 0.001 (OR = 3.27, CI = 1.84–5.81) and 0.209 (OR = 0.23, CI = 0.59–0.94). In conclusion, there are risk factors such as age and occupation that have a correlation of being infected with hepatitis C serological status.
Musical Electroacupuncture May Be a Better Choice than Electroacupuncture in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Jiang Jing , Liu Gang , Shi Suhua , Li Zhigang
Published: November 2016

Objectives. To compare musical electroacupuncture and electroacupuncture in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease.Methods. In this study, 7.5-month-old male senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) mice were used as an Alzheimer’s disease animal model. In the normal control paradigm, 7.5-month-old male SAMR1 mice were used as the blank control group (N group). After 15 days of treatment, using Morris water maze test, micro-PET, and immunohistochemistry, the differences among the musical electroacupuncture (MEA), electroacupuncture (EA), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and normal (N) groups were assessed.Results. The Morris water maze test, micro-PET, and immunohistochemistry revealed that MEA and EA therapies could improve spatial learning and memory ability, glucose metabolism level in the brain, and Aβamyloid content in the frontal lobe, compared with the AD group (P<0.05). Moreover, MEA therapy performed better than EA treatment in decreasing amyloid-beta levels in the frontal lobe of mice with AD.Conclusion. MEA therapy may be superior to EA in treating Alzheimer’s disease as demonstrated in SAMP8 mice.
Revisited Optimal Error Bounds for Interpolatory Integration Rules
Authors: Dubeau François
Published: November 2016

We present a unified way to obtain optimal error bounds for general interpolatory integration rules. The method is based on the Peano form of the error term when we use Taylor’s expansion. These bounds depend on the regularity of the integrand. The method of integration by parts “backwards” to obtain bounds is also discussed. The analysis includes quadrature rules with nodes outside the interval of integration. Best error bounds for composite integration rules are also obtained. Some consequences of symmetry are discussed.
Delivery Efficiency of miR-21i-CPP-SWCNT and Its Inhibitory Effect on Fibrosis of the Renal Mesangial Cells
Authors: Liu Hong , Wang Guobao , Yang Yihong , Yu Lei , Wang Leyu , Wen Zhengda , Hu Xiaofang , Zou Hequn , Qiu Xiaozhong
Published: November 2016

MicroRNA 21 (miR-21) was proved to cause renal fibrosis and the inhibition of miR-21 would improve the poor prognosis in renal cell carcinoma diseases. The complementary oligonucleotide of mature miR-21 was considered to be an effective intracellular miR-21 inhibitor (miR-21i). The directly effective delivery of miR-21i into fibrotic cell is a facile method for treatment of renal fibrosis. Herein, the miR-21i-CPP-SWCNT delivery system, synthesized via single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) and cell-penetrating peptide (CPP), was taken as a novel fibrosis-targeting therapeutic carrier. The miR-21i and CPP firstly bind together via electrostatic forces, and subsequently miR-21i-CPP binds to the surface of SWCNTs via hydrophobic forces. CPP could endow the delivery system with targeting property, while SWCNT would enhance its penetrating ability. The exogenous miR-21i released from the designed miR-21i-CPP-SWCNTs had successfully inhibited the expression of fibrosis-related proteins in renal mesangial cells (RMCs). We found that the expression of TGF-β1 proteins was more sensitive to miR-21i-CPP-SWCNT than the expression ofα-SMA proteins.
Serum Vitamin D Levels and Vitamin D Supplement in Adult Patients with Asthma Exacerbation
Authors: Boonpiyathad Tadech , Chantveerawong Teerapol , Pradubpongsa Panitan , Sangasapaviliya Atik
Published: November 2016

Introduction. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of asthma exacerbations. Objective. This study aimed to compare vitamin D status during the period of severe asthma exacerbations and investigate if vitamin D supplementation improves asthma control. Methods. A total of 47 asthmatic patients and 40 healthy subjects participated in this study. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), asthma control test (ACT) score, and % predicted peak expiratory flow rate were evaluated in the period with and without severe asthma exacerbations. After that, we provided vitamin D2 supplements to the patients with low vitamin D levels for 3 months. Results. At the period of asthma exacerbation, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency was 38.29% and 34.04%. There was no significant difference in the levels of serum 25(OH)D with and without asthma exacerbations but the levels were significantly higher in the healthy group. Serum 25(OH)D levels significantly correlated with ACT score. Moreover, vitamin D2 supplementation improved asthma control in uncontrolled asthma group. Conclusions. Hypovitaminosis D was common in asthmatic patients but was not the leading cause of asthma exacerbations. Serum 25(OH)D levels correlated with the ability to control asthma. Improving vitamin D status might be a benefit in uncontrolled asthmatic patients.
Effects of Thermal and Humidity Aging on the Interfacial Adhesion of Polyketone Fiber Reinforced Natural Rubber Composites
Authors: Lee Han Ki , Kim Dae Sik , Won Jong Sung , Jin Da Young , Lee Hyun Jae , Lee Seung Goo
Published: November 2016

Polyketone fiber is considered as a reinforcement of the mechanical rubber goods (MRG) such as tires, automobile hoses, and belts because of its high strength and modulus. In order to apply it to those purposes, the high adhesion of fiber/rubber interface and good sustainability to aging conditions are very important. In this study, polyketone fiber reinforced natural rubber composites were prepared and they were subjected to thermal and humidity aging, to assess the changes of the interfacial adhesion and material properties. Also, the effect of adhesive primer treatment, based on the resorcinol formaldehyde resin and latex (RFL), of polyketone fiber for high interfacial adhesion was evaluated. Morphological and property changes of the rubber composites were analyzed by using various instrumental analyses. As a result, the rubber composite was aged largely by thermal aging at high temperature rather than humidity aging condition. Interfacial adhesion of the polyketone/NR composites was improved by the primer treatment and its effect was maintained in aging conditions.
Recoverable, Record-High Lactic Acidosis in a Patient with Glycogen Storage Disease Type 1: A Mixed Type A and Type B Lactate Disorder
Authors: Oster Yonatan , Wexler Isaiah D. , Heyman Samuel N. , Fried Elchanan
Published: November 2016

A 17-year-old patient with GSD type 1a (von Gierke disease) was hospitalized with an extremely elevated serum lactate following an intercurrent infection and interruption of his frequent intake of carbohydrates. The patient developed shock, oliguric renal failure, and cardiorespiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation and inotropes. At the peak of metabolic decompensation and clinical instability, serum lactate reached a level of 47.6 mmol/L which was accompanied by a severe anion gap metabolic acidosis with a pH of 6.8 and bicarbonate of 4 meq/L. The patient was stabilized with massive infusions of sodium bicarbonate (45 meq/h) and glucose and recovered without the need for dialysis. This patient illustrates pathophysiologic mechanisms involved in the development of extreme mixed type A and type B lactic acidemia, reflecting altered metabolic pathways in GSD type 1, combined with tissue hypoperfusion. The rationale for the specific interventions in this case is outlined.
The Needs of Current Implant Technology in Orthopaedic Prosthesis Biomaterials Application to Reduce Prosthesis Failure Rate
Authors: Rahyussalim Ahmad Jabir , Marsetio Aldo Fransiskus , Saleh Ifran , Kurniawati Tri , Whulanza Yudan
Published: November 2016

Today, orthopaedics is still in search for the most reliable biomaterial for prosthesis. The biomaterial needs to have good longevity and other supporting properties in order to maintain low implant failure. An ideal metallic biomaterial should be biocompatible, has similar elastic modulus to that of bone, has excellent resistance to fatigue, corrosion, aseptic loosening, and wear, and has good bone-bonding ability. The success of an implant depends on many factors. Good osseointegration is one of the factors required to reduce the rate of loosening of implants and in order to increase the chance of osseointegration, high stability of implants and early healing process encouragement are needed.
Effect of Nanodiamonds on Structure and Durability of Polyethylene Oxide-Based Nanocomposites
Authors: Arrigo Rossella , Ruisi Gabriele , Teresi Rosalia , Dintcheva Nadka Tzankova
Published: November 2016

Polymer-based nanocomposites containing nanodiamonds (NDs) are attractive multifunctional materials with a growing range of applications. In this work, in the frame of developing completely biocompatible systems, nanocomposites based on polyethylene oxide (PEO) and different amount of NDs have been formulated through melt mixing and fully characterized. In particular, the reinforcement effect of NDs in PEO has been probed through tensile tests, and the rheological response of PEO-based nanocomposites as a function of the nanoparticles amount has been investigated and discussed. The obtained results show that the presence of well-distributed NDs strengthens the mechanical performance of the nanocomposites and brings about an increase of the PEO crystallinity, suggesting a strong adhesion between NDs and polymer matrix. Furthermore, as a result of NDs adding, alterations of the rheological behaviour of neat PEO can be noticed, as NDs are able to significantly influence the long-range dynamics of PEO chains. Besides, accelerated aging tests demonstrate that NDs show a remarkable protective ability against PEO photodegradation, due to their ability to attenuate efficiently UV radiation. The latter opens up new avenues for the use of NDs as multifunctional nanofillers for polymer-based nanocomposites with enhanced photooxidative resistance.
Impact of Exposure to Fenitrothion on Vital Organs in Rats
Authors: Abdel-Ghany Rasha , Mohammed Ebaa , Anis Shimaa , Barakat Waleed
Published: November 2016

This study was designed to investigate the impact of oral administration of fenitrothion (10 mg/kg) on liver, kidney, brain, and lung function in rats. The effect was studied on days 7, 14, 21, 28, and 42. Our results have shown deterioration in liver function as evidenced by the elevation in serum ALT, AST, ALP, and bilirubin and reduction in albumin and hepatic glycogen. This was associated with a state of hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia and increased prothrombin time, while hemoglobin content was reduced. In addition, the kidney function was reduced as indicated by the elevation in serum creatinine, uric acid, and BUN, while the serum levels of magnesium, potassium, and sodium were reduced. This study also showed an impairment in brain neurotransmitter (elevated 5-HT, glutamate, GABA, and reduced dopamine and norepinephrine level). This was associated with a reduction in the barrier capacity in brain and lung. Fenitrothion also caused a decrease in cholinesterase activity in serum, lung, and brain activity associated with a state of oxidative stress in all tested organs and hyperammonemia. These results support the hazards of pesticide use and shows the importance of minimizing pesticide use or discovering new safe pesticides.
Is Laparoendoscopic Single-Site Adrenalectomy a Feasible Alternative in Treating Aldosterone-Producing Adenoma?
Authors: Wu Che-Hsiung , Er Leay-Kiaw , Hu Ya-Hui , Lin Chia Da , Chueh Shih-Chieh , Tsai Yao-Chou
Published: November 2016

Objective. To compare laparoendoscopic single-site (LESS) and conventional multiport adrenalectomy in patients with aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA).Material and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed patients who had been clinically confirmed with unilateral APA and who underwent LESS or multiport adrenalectomy between 2009 and 2014. Perioperative data were obtained for all patients. Blood pressure and the levels of serum aldosterone, renin, and potassium were checked periodically.Results. We identified 45 APA patients in the LESS group and 71 in the multiport group. The baseline characteristics were matched between two groups. All adrenalectomies were completed successfully, except one with laparoscopic conversion in the single-port group and one open conversion in the multiport group. After a mean follow-up around one year, there were no significant group differences in the improvement of hypertension, number of types of medication taken, and cure of hypokalemia after operation.Conclusions. Our study confirm that LESS adrenalectomy achieved similar clinical and functional outcomes as conventional multiport adrenalectomy for management of unilateral APA.
Hyperlactatemia and the Outcome of Type 2 Diabetic Patients Suffering Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Aleksandar Jovanovic , Vladan Peric , Markovic-Jovanovic Snezana , Stolic Radojica , Mitic Jadranka , Smilic Tanja
Published: November 2016

Background.Increased lactate production is frequent in unregulated/complicated diabetes mellitus.Methods.Three groups, each consisting of 40 patients (type 2 diabetics with myocardial infarction, DM+AMI, nondiabetics suffering myocardial infarction, MI, and diabetics with no apparent cardiovascular pathology, DM group), were tested for pH, serum bicarbonate and electrolytes, blood lactate, and CK-MB.Results. Blood lactate levels were markedly higher in AMI+DM compared to MI group (4.54±1.44versus3.19±1.005 mmol/L,p<0.05); they correlated with the incidence of heart failure(ρ=0.66), cardiac rhythm disorders(ρ=0.54), oxygen saturation(ρ=0.72), CK-MB levels(ρ=0.62), and poor short-term outcome. Lactic acidosis in DM+AMI group was not always related to lethal outcome.Discussion. The lactate cutoff value associated with grave prognosis depends on the specific disease. While some authors proposed cutoff values ranging from 0.76 to 4 mmol/L, others argued that only occurrence of lactic acidosis may be truly predictive of lethal outcome.Conclusion. Both defective glucose metabolism and low tissue oxygenation may contribute to the lactate production in diabetic patients with acute myocardial infarction; high lactate levels indicate increased risk for poor outcome in this population comparing to nondiabetic patients. The rise in blood lactate concentration in diabetics with AMI was associated with increased incidence of heart failure, severe arrhythmias, cardiogenic shock, and high mortality rate.
Unusually High Archaeal Diversity in a Crystallizer Pond, Pomorie Salterns, Bulgaria, Revealed by Phylogenetic Analysis
Authors: Kambourova Margarita , Tomova Iva , Boyadzhieva Ivanka , Radchenkova Nadja , Vasileva-Tonkova Evgenia
Published: November 2016

Recent studies on archaeal diversity in few salterns have revealed heterogeneity between sites and unique structures of separate places that hinder drawing of generalized conclusions. Investigations on the archaeal community composition in P18, the biggest crystallizer pond in Pomorie salterns (PS) (34% salinity), demonstrated unusually high number of presented taxa in hypersaline environment. Archaeal clones were grouped in 26 different operational taxonomic units (OTUs) assigned to 15 different genera from two orders, Halobacteriales and Haloferacales. All retrieved sequences were related to culturable halophiles or unculturable clones from saline (mostly hypersaline) niches. New sequences represented 53.9% of archaeal OTUs. Some of them formed separate branches with 90% similarity to the closest neighbor. Present results significantly differed from the previous investigations in regard to the number of presented genera, the domination of some genera not reported before in such extreme niche, and the identification of previously undiscovered 16S rRNA sequences.
Differential Impairment of Interferon-γ Responses in Two Cases of Pulmonary Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Disease
Authors: Rae William , Gao Yifang , Eren Efrem , Döffinger Rainer , Marshall Ben , Williams Anthony P.
Published: November 2016

Nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTMs) are weakly virulent intracellular pathogens that are common in food and water supplies. The persistent culture of these organisms in the setting of clinical infection warrants investigation of immune function. In cases of isolated pulmonary NTM (PNTM) disease, underlying immune defects have not been clearly identified. We present two patients with isolated PNTM infection who demonstrated differentially impaired IFN-γ production across a range of stimuli. These cases show that cellular IFN-γ responses may be defective in a proportion of patient suffering PNTM disease and that when assessing responses, the stimulant used in the testing is important to delineate defective cell populations. Impaired IFN-γ responses to IL-12 + BCG seem to be a poor prognostic indicator in PNTM disease and in these cases were not improved by adjuvant IFN-γ.
Pediatric Absence Status Epilepticus: Prolonged Altered Mental Status in an 8-Year-Old Boy
Authors: Adams Scott J. , Wong Melody , Haji Tahereh , Sohail Shahmir , Almubarak Salah
Published: November 2016

Absence status epilepticus is characterized by a prolonged state of impaired consciousness or altered sensorium with generalized electroencephalographic abnormalities. It is most commonly diagnosed in patients with known idiopathic generalized epilepsy; however, it may also be the first presentation of epilepsy. Due to the subtle and variable manifestations of the condition, absence status epilepticus may be underrecognized, particularly in children. We present the case of an 8-year-old boy who experienced two episodes of prolonged altered mental status, subsequently determined to be absence status epilepticus with idiopathic generalized epilepsy with phantom absences. We discuss the classification, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and electroencephalographic findings of pediatric absence status epilepticus and provide a practical overview for management.
Laparoscopic Treatment of Adrenal Tumors: A Single-Center Experience with 58 Patients
Authors: Ari Aziz , Buyukasik Kenan , Tatar Cihad , Segmen Ozgur , Ersoz Feyzullah , Arikan Soykan , Gunver Feray , Sari Serkan
Published: November 2016

Background.The aim of this study is to discuss the laparoscopic approach and assess the immunohistochemical expression profiles of synaptophysin, Ki-67, and inhibin and patient outcomes in adrenal masses through a series of cases treated at our institution.Method.The study was conducted on 58 patients who were diagnosed with adrenal masses. All cases were operated on laparoscopically for adrenal masses.Results.Both inhibin and synaptophysin were found positive in 45 patients (77,6%). Ki-67 was negative in 11 patients, whereas it was found positive in 42 with a rate of 1%. The size of the masses ranged from 1 up to 9 cm (mean 4,3 ± 1,5). Urine hormone excretion was measured within normal ranges in 47 out of 58 patients (81%). Most of the diagnosed patients were harboring Cortical Adenoma (n: 38; 65,5%). All of the masses were successfully resected without complication except 3 patients. Because of complications of bleeding, the operation was converted to open surgery for 2 patients.Conclusion.Morbidity, mortality, and healing were comparable, regardless of tumor size, yet involvement in both laparoscopic and adrenal surgery was required. Our results suggested that laparoscopic adrenalectomy should replace open surgery as the standard treatment for most adrenal masses.
Selective Reversible Inhibition of Autophagy in Hypoxic Breast Cancer Cells Promotes Pulmonary Metastasis
Authors: Dower Christopher M. , Bhat Neema , Wang Edward W. , Wang Hong-Gang
Published: November 2016

Autophagy influences how cancer cells respond to nutrient deprivation and hypoxic stress, two hallmarks of the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, we explored the impact of autophagy on the pathophysiology of breast cancer cells using a novel hypoxia-dependent, reversible dominant-negative strategy to regulate autophagy at the cellular level within the TME. Suppression of autophagy via hypoxia-induced expression of the kinase-dead unc-51-like autophagy-activating kinase (ULK1) mutant K46N increased lung metastases in MDA-MB-231 xenograft mouse models. Consistent with this effect, expressing a dominant-negative mutant of ULK1 or ATG4b or a ULK1-targeting shRNA facilitated cell migration in vitro. Functional proteomic and transcriptome analysis revealed that loss of hypoxia-regulated autophagy promotes metastasis via induction of the fibronectin integrin signaling axis. Indeed, loss of ULK1 function increased fibronectin deposition in the hypoxic TME. Together, our results indicated that hypoxia-regulated autophagy suppresses metastasis in breast cancer by preventing tumor fibrosis. These results also suggest cautions in the development of autophagy-based strategies for cancer treatment. Cancer Res; 77(3); 646–57. ©2016 AACR.
Label-Free Raman Spectroscopy Detects Stromal Adaptations in Premetastatic Lungs Primed by Breast Cancer
Authors: Paidi Santosh Kumar , Rizwan Asif , Zheng Chao , Cheng Menglin , Glunde Kristine , Barman Ishan
Published: November 2016

Recent advances in animal modeling, imaging technology, and functional genomics have permitted precise molecular observations of the metastatic process. However, a comprehensive understanding of the premetastatic niche remains elusive, owing to the limited tools that can map subtle differences in molecular mediators in organ-specific microenvironments. Here, we report the ability to detect premetastatic changes in the lung microenvironment, in response to primary breast tumors, using a combination of metastatic mouse models, Raman spectroscopy, and multivariate analysis of consistent patterns in molecular expression. We used tdTomato fluorescent protein expressing MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells of high and low metastatic potential, respectively, to grow orthotopic xenografts in athymic nude mice and allow spontaneous dissemination from the primary mammary fat pad tumor. Label-free Raman spectroscopic mapping was used to record the molecular content of premetastatic lungs. These measurements show reliable distinctions in vibrational features, characteristic of the collageneous stroma and its cross-linkers as well as proteoglycans, which uniquely identify the metastatic potential of the primary tumor by recapitulating the compositional changes in the lungs. Consistent with histological assessment and gene expression analysis, our study suggests that remodeling of the extracellular matrix components may present promising markers for objective recognition of the premetastatic niche, independent of conventional clinical information. Cancer Res; 77(2); 247–56. ©2016 AACR.
Mouse Models of Pediatric Supratentorial High-grade Glioma Reveal How Cell-of-Origin Influences Tumor Development and Phenotype
Authors: Sreedharan Smitha , Maturi Naga Prathyusha , Xie Yuan , Sundström Anders , Jarvius Malin , Libard Sylwia , Alafuzoff Irina , Weishaupt Holger , Fryknäs Mårten , Larsson Rolf , Swartling Fredrik J. , Uhrbom Lene
Published: November 2016

High-grade glioma (HGG) is a group of primary malignant brain tumors with dismal prognosis. Whereas adult HGG has been studied extensively, childhood HGG, a relatively rare disease, is less well-characterized. Here, we present two novel platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-driven mouse models of pediatric supratentorial HGG. Tumors developed from two different cells of origin reminiscent of neural stem cells (NSC) or oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPC). Cross-species transcriptomics showed that both models are closely related to human pediatric HGG as compared with adult HGG. Furthermore, an NSC-like cell-of-origin enhanced tumor incidence, malignancy, and the ability of mouse glioma cells (GC) to be cultured under stem cell conditions as compared with an OPC-like cell. Functional analyses of cultured GC from these tumors showed that cells of NSC-like origin were more tumorigenic, had a higher rate of self-renewal and proliferation, and were more sensitive to a panel of cancer drugs compared with GC of a more differentiated origin. These two mouse models relevant to human pediatric supratentorial HGG propose an important role of the cell-of-origin for clinicopathologic features of this disease. Cancer Res; 77(3); 802–12. ©2016 AACR.
A New Role for ERα: Silencing via DNA Methylation of Basal, Stem Cell, and EMT Genes
Authors: Ariazi Eric A. , Taylor John C. , Black Michael A. , Nicolas Emmanuelle , Slifker Michael J. , Azzam Diana J. , Boyd Jeff
Published: November 2016

Resistance to hormonal therapies is a major clinical problem in the treatment of estrogen receptor α–positive (ERα+) breast cancers. Epigenetic marks, namely DNA methylation of cytosine at specific CpG sites (5mCpG), are frequently associated with ERα+ status in human breast cancers. Therefore, ERα may regulate gene expression in part via DNA methylation. This hypothesis was evaluated using a panel of breast cancer cell line models of antiestrogen resistance. Microarray gene expression profiling was used to identify genes normally silenced in ERα+ cells but derepressed upon exposure to the demethylating agent decitabine, derepressed upon long-term loss of ERα expression, and resuppressed by gain of ERα activity/expression. ERα-dependent DNA methylation targets (n = 39) were enriched for ERα-binding sites, basal-up/luminal-down markers, cancer stem cell, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and inflammatory and tumor suppressor genes. Kaplan–Meier survival curve and Cox proportional hazards regression analyses indicated that these targets predicted poor distant metastasis–free survival among a large cohort of breast cancer patients. The basal breast cancer subtype markers LCN2 and IFI27 showed the greatest inverse relationship with ERα expression/activity and contain ERα-binding sites. Thus, genes that are methylated in an ERα-dependent manner may serve as predictive biomarkers in breast cancer.

Implications: ERα directs DNA methylation–mediated silencing of specific genes that have biomarker potential in breast cancer subtypes. Mol Cancer Res; 15(2); 152–64. ©2016 AACR.
Cryoablation Combined with Iodine-125 Implantation in the Treatment of Cardiac Metastasis from Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma: A Case Report
Authors: Niu Lizhi , Luo Xiaomei , Zeng Jianying , Kong Xiaofeng , Fang Gang , Li Zhonghai , Li Rongrong , Xu Kecheng
Published: November 2016

Objectives: A 36-year-old Asian man was referred to our hospital with cardiac metastasis. He had a history of alveolar soft part sarcoma and initially underwent resection in 2005. Methods: After exposing the tumor by thoracotomy, cryoablation was performed under ultrasound guidance. This treatment was combined with iodine-125 seed implantation to treat the cardiac metastasis. Results: The patient had an uneventful recovery, and his cardiac function shows no obvious abnormalities. Imaging techniques suggest that cardiac metastasis was well controlled, and the patient is still alive 12 months after treatment. Conclusions: Tumor cryoablation, combined with iodine seed implantations, may be regarded as a means of palliative treatment.
Blinde Flecken? Der Einfluss von Stigma auf die psychotherapeutische Versorgung von Menschen mit Schizophrenie
Authors: Schlier Björn , Lincoln Tania Marie
Published: November 2016

Schizophreniepatienten beklagen eine geringe Verfügbarkeit von Psychotherapie als häufige Form der Stigmatisierung. In diesem Artikel untersuchen wir, inwiefern Patienten mit Schizophrenie psychotherapeutisch unterversorgt sind und ob es eine Benachteiligung von Patienten mit Schizophrenie gegenüber anderen Patientengruppen gibt. Weiterhin prüfen wir, inwiefern eine Benachteiligung durch individuelle und strukturelle Stigmatisierung verursacht wird. Zunächst erfolgt eine systematische Übersicht über die mögliche Unterversorgung und Benachteiligung bei der stationären und ambulanten psychotherapeutischen Behandlung. Anschließend beleuchten wir strukturelle Ursachen sowie Hinweise auf individuelle Stigmatisierung durch Behandler und stellen Studien vor, die den Zusammenhang zwischen individueller Stigmatisierung durch Behandler und versorgungsrelevanten Entscheidungen untersuchen. Hierbei zeigt sich, dass ein Großteil der Patienten mit Schizophrenie keine Psychotherapie erhält. Während die Datenlage zur stationären Versorgung nicht ausreicht, um eine etwaige Benachteiligung gegenüber anderen Patienten zu beurteilen, deuten Versorgungsquoten in der ambulanten Behandlung auf eine solche Benachteiligung hin. Mögliche strukturelle Ursachen hierfür sind die Aufrechterhaltung von Fehlannahmen über Schizophrenie in der Ausbildung und durch Entscheidungsträger im Versorgungssystem sowie die Komm-Struktur des Versorgungssystems. Stigmatisierende Einstellungen von Behandlern, insbesondere ein prognostischer Pessimismus, stellen potenzielle individuumsbezogene Ursachen dar. Eine Stigmatisierung im Versorgungssystem erfolgt sowohl durch Versorgungsstrukturen als auch individuell durch Behandler. Mögliche Maßnahmen zur Verbesserung dieses Missstands werden diskutiert.
Caries and Innate Immunity: DEFB1 Gene Polymorphisms and Caries Susceptibility in Genetic Isolates from North-Eastern Italy
Authors: Navarra Chiara O. , Robino Antonietta , Pirastu Nicola , Bevilacqua Lorenzo , Gasparini Paolo , Di Lenarda Roberto , Crovella Sergio
Published: November 2016

Background: The DEFB1 gene, encoding for the constitutively expressed human β-defensin 1 (hBD1) antimicrobial peptide is a potential candidate when studying genetic susceptibility to caries. DEFB1 genetic variations have been reported as contributing to hBD1 production impairment, leading to a greater susceptibility to be infected by oral pathogens, also leading to periodontitis. Methods: We analysed 5 DEFB1 polymorphisms, namely 3 functional single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at the 5′-untranslated region (UTR), -52G>A (rs1799946), -44C>G (rs1800972), and -20G>A (rs11362), 2 SNPs at the 3′-UTR, c*5G>A (rs1047031) and c*87A>G (rs1800971) SNP located in potential miRNA binding sites, looking for possible correlations with the risk to develop caries in 654 adult subjects from isolated populations of north-eastern Italy. Dental caries prevalence was evaluated with the DMFT (decayed, missing, filled teeth) index, calculated after an accurate oral examination. DEFB1 SNP genotyping was performed with an Illumina 370k high-density SNP array. Results: Two DEFB1 SNPs were significantly associated with the DMFT index: the strongest association emerged from rs11362 SNP (p = 0.008). In particular G/G homozygous individuals showed a higher DMFT index compared to both G/A heterozygous and A/A homozygous individuals; rs1799946 SNP was also significantly associated with DMFT (p = 0.030), and individuals homozygous for the T allele had a higher DMFT value compared to heterozygous C/T and homozygous C/C individuals. Conclusions: Our study replicated, on a larger number of individuals, previous findings showing the association between two 5′-UTR SNPs in the DEFB1 gene and DMFT, suggesting that these polymorphisms could be considered as potential markers for assessing the risk to develop caries.
Oncogenic Properties of Candidate Oncogenes in Chromosome Region 17p11.2p12 in Human Osteosarcoma
Authors: Both Joeri , Wu Thijs , ten Asbroek Anneloor L.M.A. , Baas Frank , Hulsebos Theo J.M.
Published: November 2016

Osteosarcomas are primary tumors of bone that most often develop in adolescents. They are characterized by complex genomic changes including amplifications, deletions, and translocations. The chromosome region 17p11.2p12 is frequently amplified in human high grade osteosarcomas (25% of cases), suggesting the presence of one or more oncogenes. In previous studies, we identified 9 candidate oncogenes in this region (GID4, ARGHAP44, LRRC75A-AS1, TOP3A, COPS3, SHMT1, PRPSAP2, PMP22, and RASD1). The aim of the present study was to determine their oncogenic properties. Therefore, we generated osteosarcoma cell lines overexpressing these genes, except for LRRC75A-AS1 and PRPSAP2, and subjected these to functional oncogenic assays. We found that TOP3A, SHMT1, and RASD1 overexpression provided increased proliferation and that ARGHAP44, COPS3, and PMP22 overexpression had a stimulatory effect on migration and invasion of the cells. COPS3 and PMP22 overexpression additionally improved the ability of the cells to form new colonies. No oncogenic effect could be demonstrated for GID4 overexpression. We conclude that the concerted amplification-mediated overexpression of these genes in 17p11.2p12 may contribute to the oncogenic process in malignant osteosarcoma.
Positive CD63 Basophil Activation Tests Are Common in Children with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria and Linked to High Disease Activity
Authors: Netchiporouk Elena , Moreau Linda , Rahme Elham , Maurer Marcus , Lejtenyi Duncan , Ben-Shoshan Moshe
Published: November 2016

Background: The basophil activation test (BAT) using CD63 expression is a sensitive and specific tool for the diagnostic workup of autoimmune chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). The definition of a positive BAT is directly dependent on the reference range and the cutoff values established in control populations. As of now, the pediatric reference range and cutoff values of the CD63 BAT remain to be established. Methods: In this study, we analyzed CD63 expression in 80 children (1-17 years old) without chronic urticaria (i.e., controls) and compared the values to those of a pediatric cohort of 105 CSU patients and 23 physical urticaria (PU) patients. Results: Based on the log-normal distribution of CD63 values in control subjects, the reference range and the cutoff for positive CD63 BAT values was established to be 1.2-1.8% (95% CI) and 1.8%, respectively. Children with CSU showed significantly elevated and significantly increased BAT values compared to healthy controls (Wilcoxon rank test p value <0.001). In contrast, no difference was found between BAT results in controls and PU patients. In pediatric CSU patients, a higher disease activity was associated with higher BAT values. Conclusions: Our study provides, for the first time, reference and cutoff values for the CD63 BAT in children. Our findings show that positive CD63 BAT are common in children with CSU and linked to a high disease activity.
Assessment of a Drug-Eluting Balloon for the Treatment of de novo Coronary Lesions Guided by Optical Coherence Tomography: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Li Bo , Ding Yu , Tian Feng , Chen Weiren , Han Tianwen , Chen Yundai
Published: November 2016

Background: The drug-eluting balloon (DEB) is a promising tool to prevent restenosis after coronary angioplasty. However, data on the outcomes of DEB in de novo lesions are scarce. Vessel recoil and constrictive remodeling are the dominant causes of restenosis after angioplasty. The use of cutting balloons (CB) may effectively reduce elastic recoil after balloon dilation. In this study, we evaluate the efficacy and safety of DEB in treating de novo coronary artery lesions, using a predilation strategy with cutting balloon (CB) dilation before DEB angioplasty. Methods/Design: We present the design of a prospective, single-center, open-label, randomized, 2-arm clinical trial aiming to assess whether or not the strategy of CB dilation before DEB angioplasty reduces the primary end point of late lumen loss (LLL) compared with drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation alone for de novo coronary artery lesions. A total of 120 patients will be randomly enrolled into the DEB or DES group (1:1 ratio). The primary end point is insegment LLL at 12 months as measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT). Secondary end points include procedural success, such as angiographic success and device success, and clinical outcomes including all-cause death, myocardial infarction, target vessel revascularization, target lesion revascularization, and stent thrombosis. Discussion: The study will evaluate the clinical efficacy, angiographic outcomes, and safety of DEB after CB dilation compared with DES for the treatment of de novo coronary artery lesions guided by OCT.
Thyroid Atypia/Follicular Lesion of Undetermined Significance: Attitudes towards the Diagnosis of Bethesda System III Nodules
Authors: Estrada Muñoz Lourdes , Díaz del Arco Cristina , Ortega Medina Luis , Fernández Aceñero M. Jesús
Published: November 2016

Objectives: To review our institutional experience and to analyze the clinical decisions made after a cytological diagnosis of atypia of undetermined significance or follicular lesion of undetermined significance (AUS/FLUS). Study Design: This is a retrospective review of all thyroid fine-needle aspiration (FNA) cytologies performed in the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (Madrid) between 2010 and 2014. Results: One hundred thirty thyroid FNA were categorized as AUS/FLUS (5%). One hundred six (81.5%) patients were women, and the mean age was 59 years. In 61 patients a repeated FNA was performed (46%). Fifty-five nodules were treated surgically (42.3%), with a histopathological diagnosis of nodular hyperplasia in 36 cases (65%), adenoma in 11 (20%), and carcinoma in 8 (14.5%). In the group of nonsurgical patients (n = 75), a repeated FNA was performed in 43 (57.3%) cases. We found no statistically significant association between sex or age and clinical management (p = 0.13 and p = 0.31, respectively). Conclusions: Clinical management after an AUS/FLUS FNA diagnosis is erratic and does not match standardized management protocols. The AUS/FLUS classification has not led to new diagnostic tests in a relevant percentage of patients. The implementation of consensual institutional strategies could lead to better management of these cases.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma in African Children with Xeroderma Pigmentosum: Three Case Reports
Authors: Kaloga Mamadou , Dioussé Pauline , Diatta Boubacar Ahy , Bammo Mariama , Kourouma Sarah , Diabate Almamy , Gueye Ndiaga , Dione Haby , Diallo Moussa , Diop Bernard Marcel
Published: November 2016

Introduction: Xeroderma pigmentosum is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disease. This disease predisposes patients to early-onset skin cancers, particularly squamous cell carcinoma. Here, we report 3 pediatric cases, including 2 deaths. Observation: The subjects included 2 boys and 1 girl with skin type VI. All subjects were from consanguineous marriages, and the average age was 7.6 years. The patients all had ulcerative budding tumor lesions in the cephalic region, and the mean disease duration was 18 months. In all 3 cases, the diagnosis of xeroderma pigmentosum was made before the poikilodermal appearance of sun-exposed areas and photophobia. Neurological-type mental retardation was noted in 1 case. Histology confirmed squamous cell carcinoma in all 3 cases. The evolutions were marked by the death of 2 children (cases 1 and 3). In one case, the outcome was favorable following cancer excision and subsequent chemotherapy with adjuvant radiotherapy. Conclusion: Squamous cell carcinoma is a serious complication related to xeroderma pigmentosum in Sub-Saharan Africa. Prevention is based on the early diagnosis of xeroderma pigmentosum, black skin photoprotection, screening and early treatment of lesions, and genetic counseling.
Propofol and Remifentanil Sedation for Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Prospective Cohort Trial
Authors: d'Hooghe Julia N.S. , Eberl Susanne , Annema Jouke T. , Bonta Peter I.
Published: November 2016

Background: Bronchial thermoplasty (BT) is a rapidly emerging bronchoscopic treatment for patients with moderate-to-severe asthma. Different sedation strategies are currently used, ranging from mild midazolam sedation to general anesthesia requiring tracheal intubation. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility, safety, and both patients' and bronchoscopists' satisfaction with propofol and remifentanil sedation administered by specialized sedation anesthesiology nurses during BT in severe asthma patients. Methods: A prospective observational cohort study in BT-treated severe asthma patients of the TASMA trial was designed. Patients were asked to rate their overall BT procedure satisfaction and tolerance with propofol/remifentanil sedation using a visual analogue scale (VAS) ranging from 0 to 10. Similarly, bronchoscopists were asked to rate patient cooperation and tolerance. Sedation-associated adverse events and the number of BT activations were recorded. Results: Thirty-two BT procedures in 13 severe asthma patients were performed under moderate target-controlled infusion (TCI) propofol/remifentanil sedation. Patients' median VAS scores were as follows: overall satisfaction 9.6 (interquartile range [IQR] 8.5-10.0), dyspnea 0.0 (IQR 0.0-0.6), pain 0.1 (IQR 0.0-1.0), cough 0.5 (IQR 0.0-2.1), and anxiety 0.1 (IQR 0.0-0.7). Bronchoscopists' median VAS scores were as follows: overall patient cooperation 9.1 (IQR 8.5-9.6), dyspnea 0.3 (IQR 0.0-0.9), pain 0.2 (IQR 0.0-1.3), cough 1.2 (IQR 0.7-2.0), and discomfort 0.6 (IQR 0.3-1.5). All patients were willing to undergo the procedure again and would recommend this form of sedation to their best friend. One case of conversion to general anesthesia occurred and no serious adverse events were reported. Conclusions: Moderate sedation with propofol and remifentanil TCI provided by specialized sedation anesthesiology nurses is feasible and safe and results in high satisfaction rates of both patients and bronchoscopists.
Clomiphene Citrate versus Letrozole for Ovarian Stimulation in Therapeutic Donor Sperm Insemination
Authors: El Hachem Hady , Antaki Roland , Sylvestre Camille , Kadoch Isaac-Jacques , Lapensée Louise , Bouet Pierre Emmanuel
Published: November 2016

Aim: To compare clomiphene citrate (CC) and letrozole for ovarian stimulation (OS) in therapeutic donor sperm insemination (TDI) cycles. Methods: Retrospective cohort study between January 2011 and June 2014 at a University-affiliated private IVF clinic in Montreal, Canada. 257 normo-ovulatory women ≤40 years of age with no history of infertility undergoing 590 TDI cycles in the absence of a male partner (single women and same-sex couples) or azoospermia were included. Patients received 100 mg CC daily (145 women, 321 cycles) or letrozole 5 mg daily (112 women, 269 cycles), from days 3 to 7. Only the first 3 cycles were included per patient. Our main outcome measure was cumulative live birth rates (LBR). Results: Baseline characteristics were comparable between the 2 groups. There were no differences in LBR per cycle (16.5% (53/321) vs. 11.5% (31/269), p = 0.08) and cumulative LBR (36.6% (53/145) vs. 27.7% (31/112), p = 0.13), between CC and letrozole, respectively. Multiple pregnancy rate (11.6% (8/69) vs. 8.7% (4/46), p = 0.6) and miscarriage rate (21.7 vs. 21.7%, p = 1) were also comparable between CC and letrozole, respectively. Conclusion: In normo-ovulatory women undergoing TDI, OS with CC or letrozole resulted in similar live birth and twin pregnancy rates.
Evaluation of Sella Turcica Shape and Dimensions in Cleft Subjects Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Yasa Yasin , Bayrakdar Ibrahim Sevki , Ocak Ali , Duman Suayip Burak , Dedeoglu Numan
Published: November 2016

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the morphology of the sella turcica and measure its size in cleft and noncleft subjects. Material and Methods: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 54 individuals (29 males; 25 females) with cleft and 85 (22 males; 63 females) without cleft were used for this study. Syndromic patients with cleft(s) were not included because of possible additional endocrinological and/or morphological disorders. Linear measurements included length, depth, and diameter. The shape of the sella turcica was analyzed in the cleft and noncleft groups. An independent t test was conducted to evaluate differences between genders and groups. One-way ANOVA was used to compare age groups. Results: The length (p < 0.001) of the sella turcica was smaller in noncleft subjects than in cleft subjects. Diameter (p = 0.014) and depth (p = 0.005) showed as constantly increasing from an age <15 to >25 years in the overall assessment. The distribution of the shape of the sella turcica differed significantly between groups (p < 0.001). Conclusions: In this study, CBCT was used to assess the morphology of the sella turcica. A majority of the subjects with cleft had a flattened sella turcica compared to that of the control group. A shorter length of the sella turcica was more evident in the cleft subjects than in the control group.