bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Significance of CDH13 Promoter Methylation in Serum Samples from Patients with Bladder Transitional Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Lin YL , Sun G , Liu XQ , Li WP , Ma JG
Published: February 2013

H-cadherin (CDH13; also known as T-cadherin), which functions as a tumour suppressor, is frequently silenced by promoter methylation in human cancers including bladder transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). This study investigated the clinical significance of methylation of the CDH13 gene promoter in serum from patients with bladder TCC. Methylation status of CDH13 in serum samples from 127 patients with primary bladder TCC and 41 healthy volunteers (controls) was examined by methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction. CDH13 methylation was found in 39 patients with bladder TCC (30.7%) but in no controls. CDH13 methylation was significantly associated with advanced tumour stage, high-grade tumour, large tumour size, tumour recurrence and poor prognosis. The results suggested that CDH13 methylation in serum may be a potential predictive biomarker for malignancy in bladder TCC, and an independent pre-therapeutic predictor of outcome. Demonstration of CDH13 methylation in serum may facilitate in the prediction of which patients require more aggressive additional post-operative systemic therapy.
Increased Tenderness in the Left Third Intercostal Space in Adult Patients with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis: A Controlled Study
Authors: Puri BK , Gunatilake KDR , Fernando KAC , Gurusinghe AI , Agour M , Treasaden IH
Published: February 2013

A clinical sign has not thus far been associated with myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). The present study involved systematic clinical examination that included inspection, palpation, percussion and auscultation of the thorax of 42 ME patients and 20 age-matched healthy controls while sitting. Left lateral third intercostal space tenderness was noted in 34 (81%) of the patients and in none of the controls, a difference that was highly statistically significant. This finding may be related to changes in lymphatic function and to the descending course of the thoracic duct. Further studies, preferably blinded and combined with appropriate imaging, are required.
Osteogenic Growth Peptide Accelerates Bone Healing during Distraction Osteogenesis in Rabbit Tibia
Authors: Zhao Z-Y , Shao L , Zhao H-M , Zhong Z-H , Liu J-Y , Hao C-G
Published: February 2013

Distraction osteogenesis is a valuable treatment method that allows limb lengthening or reconstruction of large bone defects. However, its major disadvantage is the long period required for the consolidation of a distraction callus. Osteogenic growth peptide (OGP) stimulates endochondral bone formation in fracture callus, but its capacity to promote regenerate ossification during distraction osteogenesis has not been evaluated. This study investigated whether intravenously administered OGP accelerated bone healing during distraction osteogenesis in 36 male New Zealand White rabbits, randomized into two groups. The treatment group received OGP (200 ng/kg body weight) in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), intravenously, each day; the control group received PBS alone. A 15-mm lengthening of the right lower leg was performed using the method of Ilizarov. Evidence from biomechanical, histological and radiographic evaluations demonstrated that systemic OGP treatment promoted optimal new bone formation during distraction osteogenesis in this rabbit model.
Functional Effect of Platelet Membrane Glycoprotein Ia Gene Polymorphism in the Pathogenesis of Unstable Angina Pectoris
Authors: Zhao YH , Xu Y , Gu YY , Li Y , Zhang JY , Su X
Published: February 2013

The functional effect of platelet membrane glycoprotein Ia ( GPIa) gene 807C/T polymorphism in unstable angina pectoris (UAP) pathogenesis was investigated in Chinese Han individuals. Collagen type I-induced platelet aggregation was measured in 33 healthy subjects. Plasma levels of α-granule membrane protein (GMP-140) were measured in 33 healthy subjects and in 35 patients with recentonset angina at rest within 24 h of hospitalization. Platelet membrane GPIa gene 807C/T polymorphism was determined in all subjects. Lag-time before 30% platelet aggregation was significantly longer in CC genotype than in TC genotype healthy subjects, although there was no significant difference in maximal platelet aggregation between healthy subjects with either genotype. Plasma GMP-140 levels were significantly higher in TC genotype patients compared with CC genotype patients or healthy subjects; a significant difference was also observed between the latter two groups. It was concluded that rapid initiation of collagen-induced platelet aggregation may be associated with the platelet membrane GPIa T807 allele, which may be important in UAP pathogenesis.
Assessment of Urinary N-Acetyl-β-Glucosaminidase as an Early Marker of Contrast-Induced Nephropathy
Authors: Ren L , Ji J , Fang Y , Jiang SH , Lin YM , Bo J , Qian JY , Xu XH , Ding XQ
Published: February 2013

Early detection and timely intervention are important for improving contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) prognosis. Whether urinary N-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase (NAG) is a useful marker for early detection of CIN was investigated in 590 patients undergoing diagnostic coronary angiography (CA) and/or therapeutic percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for acute coronary syndromes or stable angina, and who received low-osmolality nonionic contrast agent. Urinary NAG, osmolality and serum creatinine were measured before and 1, 2 and 6 days after contrast agent exposure. CIN occurred in 33 patients; its incidence in high-risk patients (pre-existing renal dysfunction with/without diabetes mellitus) was significantly higher than in others. In patients with CIN, urinary NAG and serum creatinine levels on days 1 and 2 were significantly higher than at baseline and compared with patients without CIN; mean levels were gradually returning to baseline by day 6. Compared with serum creatinine, urinary NAG levels peaked earlier in CIN patients and increased much more. The results suggest that, following CA and/or PCI, CIN occurs to a certain degree and that NAG may be a useful early CIN marker as it is noninvasive, simple, inexpensive and sensitive.
Aggressive Fibromatosis of the Larynx: Case Report and Brief Review
Authors: Liu Y , Guan G-F , Jin C-S , Yang J-P
Published: February 2013

Aggressive fibromatosis is a rare, benign, fibroblastic neoplasm, characterized by local invasion and a relatively high rate of recurrence. Here a case of laryngeal aggressive fibromatosis in a 47-year old man is reported. The patient presented with worsening dyspnoea and hoarseness and was hospitalized for treatment with partial laryngectomy. Final pathological evaluation of the tumour confirmed a diagnosis of aggressive fibromatosis. The patient has remained disease-free without further treatment for 5 years. This study demonstrated that aggressive fibromatosis may occur around the larynx and can be managed by partial laryngectomy alone. It is, therefore, important to include this rare disease entity in the routine differential diagnosis of laryngeal masses.
Use of a New Type of Trocar for the Surgical Treatment of Hydrocephalus: A Simple and Effective Technique
Authors: Wang G-M , Fu S-L , Ge P-F , Fan W-H , Li G-M , Meng F-K , Luo Y-N
Published: February 2013

This study compared the use of a new type of peritoneocentesis trocar with conventional laparotomy for the placement of the distal catheter in the treatment of hydrocephalus with ventriculoperitoneal shunt. A total of 376 patients with hydrocephalus were recruited to the study and were assigned randomly to undergo insertion of the distal catheter by conventional laparotomy ( n = 195) or using the new peritoneal trocar ( n = 181). The time taken for the surgical procedure and the complication rate over the following 1-year period were compared between the two groups. The mean length of the procedure to place the distal catheter was significantly shorter in the trocar group compared with the laparotomy group. Infection and obstruction rates were significantly higher in the laparotomy group than in the trocar group. In conclusion, the use of the new trocar was associated with lower rates of surgically induced trauma and complications compared with conventional laparotomy.
Documented Intraoperative Hypotension According to the Three Most Common Definitions Does Not Match the Application of Antihypotensive Medication
Authors: Franck M , Radtke FM , Prahs C , Seeling M , Papkalla N , Wernecke K-D , Spies CD
Published: February 2013

This observational study investigated which of the three most common definitions of intraoperative hypotension (IOH), reported in a published systematic literature review, were associated best with anaesthetists' administration of antihypo-tensive medication (AHM). IOH and AHM use in anaesthetic procedures in a mixed surgical population ( n = 2350) were also reviewed. The definitions were: arterial systolic blood pressure (SBP) < 100 mmHg or a fall in SBP of > 30% of the preoperative SBP baseline; arterial SBP < 80 mmHg; a fall in SBP of > 20% of the preoperative SBP. Accuracy of predicting AHM using these three definitions was 67%, 54% and 65%, respectively. Prediction by a new fourth definition, using an optimal threshold of minimal SBP falling to < 92 mmHg or by > 24% of preoperative baseline, was 68% accurate. In multivariate logistic analysis, age, volatile versus intravenous anaesthetics, medical history of arterial hypertension and all four definitions of IOH were associated with intraoperative AHM, however IOH was not associated with postoperative in-patient stay. The three original definitions correlated poorly with the anaesthetist's judgement about applying AHM. Anaesthetists make complex decisions regarding the relevance of IOH, considering various perioperative factors in addition to SBP. Age, physical status and duration and type of surgery showed better correlations with postoperative in-patient stay than IOH.
The Epidemiology, Management, Outcomes and Areas for Improvement of Burn Care in Central Malawi: An Observational Study
Authors: Samuel JC , Campbell ELP , Mjuweni S , Muyco AP , Cairns BA , Charles AG
Published: February 2013

This report describes the epidemiology of burn injuries and quantifies the appropriateness of use of available interventions at Kamuzu Central Hospital, Malawi, between July 2008 and June 2009 (370 burn patients). Burns accounted for 4.4% of all injuries and 25.9% of all burns presenting to the hospital were admitted. Most patients (67.6%) were < 15 years old and 56.2% were male. The most frequent cause was scalding (51.4%). Burns occurred most frequently in the cool, dry season and in the evening. The mean burn surface area (second/third degree) was 14.1% and most burns (74%) presented within 8 h. The commonest procedure was debridement and/or amputation. The mean hospital stay was 21.1 days, in-hospital mortality was 27% and wound infection rate was 31%. Available interventions (intravenous fluids, nutrition therapy, physiotherapy) were misapplied in 59% of cases. It is concluded that primary prevention should address paediatric and scald burns, and secondary prevention should train providers to use available interventions appropriately.
Diagnosis of Pulmonary Disease Caused by Mycobacterium Abscessus: A Case Report
Authors: Zhao P , Zhang YY , Li YB , Zhu Y , Wan KL
Published: February 2013

Mycobacterium abscessus ( M. abscessus) is a non-tuberculous mycobacterium and an important emerging pathogen causing skin, soft tissue and pulmonary infections. The case of a 59-year-old man with a history of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) and current pulmonary infection due to M. abscessus, complicated with pneumocardial disease and bronchiectasis, is described. Zhiel—Neelsen stain and acid Lowenstein—Jensen culture were both positive for acid-fast bacillus. The patient was initially misdiagnosed and ineffectively treated for pulmonary TB. Antimycobacterial susceptibility tests found the isolate to be resistant to four first-line and seven second-line antituberculosis drugs. The isolate was finally identified as M. abscessus using 16S ribosomal RNA and hsp65 and rpoB gene sequence analysis. Species of mycobacterium should be included in the differential diagnosis when patients do not respond to standard antituberculosis therapy. Molecular methods are useful for rapid and species-specific identification.
Total Parathyroidectomy with Forearm Autotransplantation as the Treatment of Choice for Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Naranda J , Ekart R , Pečovnik-Balon B
Published: February 2013

Chronic kidney disease—mineral and bone disease (CKD—MBD) is associated with uraemic bone disease, vascular calcification, reduced quality of life and reduced survival. This study evaluated the efficacy of parathyroidectomy (PTX) with autotransplantation in improving short-term and long-term outcomes. Dialysis patients who underwent PTX showed significantly more favourable biochemical parameters after PTX. These changes were accompanied by a lower coronary artery calcification score, reduced thickness of the intimae media and comparable bone mineral density measures compared with control dialysis patients who did not undergo PTX. Despite the risk of a substantially lower intact parathyroid hormone level postoperatively that might lead to adynamic bone disease, none of the patients reported clinical signs of this disease, such as bone pain or fractures. In conclusion, PTX with autotransplantation led to improvement of CKD—MBD so may be considered in patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism that is resistant to treatment with vitamin D analogues and calcimimetics.
Intelligent Data Analysis for the Diagnosis of Alcohol Dependence Syndrome
Authors: Dinevski D , Povalej P , Kravos M
Published: February 2013

Alcohol dependence syndrome is hard to diagnose because none of the existing laboratory markers alone has sufficient specificity and sensitivity. This study investigated whether combinations of markers would improve the identification of patients with alcohol dependence syndrome. Intelligent data analysis was carried out using the decision tree induction method with training and test data from 244 healthy volunteers and 238 patients with alcohol dependence syndrome. The results showed that a combination of two or three laboratory markers can identify alcohol dependence syndrome with almost 85% accuracy. It must be noted that induced decision trees offer a qualitatively different diagnostic evaluation of laboratory findings that varies from common practice, because they set up their own new borders and criteria that are different to generally accepted or set reference values. Tests for all of the selected laboratory markers are widely available, inexpensive to perform and usually form part of a routine laboratory examination.
The Size of the Papilla of Vater and Its Relation to Its Height in Comparison with the Visibility of the Sphincter of Oddi before and after Cholecystectomy
Authors: Skalicky M
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the changes in the surface area and height of the papilla of Vater (PV) and the visibility of the sphincter of Oddi complex (SOK) using endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) examinations of 80 patients with symptomatic gallstones before and at 3 and 6 months after cholecystectomy. Following surgery, 50 patients experienced early atypical symptoms characteristic of postcholecystectomy syndrome (PCS) and 30 patients were asymptomatic. The PV measurements were greater in all patients compared with normal reference values and increased significantly from before surgery to 3 months postsurgery. At 6 months postsurgery, both the surface area and height of the PV had significantly decreased to preoperative values but remained higher than normal. The proportion of patients with a visible SOK had increased by 3 months postsurgery but had reduced again by 6 months. There were no significant differences between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients, suggesting that the changes observed in the PV and SOK do not explain the presence of the atypical symptoms of PCS.
The Influence of the Trendelenburg Position on Haemodynamics: Comparison of Anaesthetized Patients with Ischaemic Heart Disease and Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Zorko N , Mekiš D , Kamenik M
Published: February 2013

This study compared the influence of the Trendelenburg position on haemodynamics in non-anaesthetized spontaneously breathing healthy volunteers and anaesthetized, mechanically ventilated patients with ischaemic heart disease scheduled for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Placing the anaesthetized patients scheduled for CABG surgery in the Trendelenburg position resulted in a significant increase in cardiac output and mean arterial pressure and a nonsignificant decrease in heart rate. In contrast, in the non-anaesthetized healthy volunteers, heart rate increased significantly but both cardiac output and mean arterial pressure changed non-significantly. Further studies will be needed to evaluate the haemodynamics of the Trendelenburg position.
Influence of Cataract Surgery on Macular Thickness — A 3-Month Follow-Up
Authors: Knez N , Šiško K , Pahor D
Published: February 2013

This prospective follow-up study evaluated the longer term changes to macular thickness and volume following cataract surgery. The study included 23 patients (23 eyes) who underwent ambulatory cataract surgery with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation, followed by a scheduled optical coherence tomography measurement of macular thickness and volume after 3 months. Results were compared with preoperative data and measurements taken at 1 month after surgery, which were recorded in a previous study. A comparison of preoperative macular thickness values with those at 3 months after surgery demonstrated that the latter values remained greater in all macular regions except the superior outer macula, and that the differences were significant in the fovea, nasal inner macula and inferior outer macula. When macular thickness at 3 months after surgery was compared with that measured at 1 month, decreases were observed in all perifoveal areas, suggesting the reversible nature of cataract surgery-related macular thickness changes.
Haemodynamic Changes during Left Anterior Descending Artery Exposure in Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass: Comparison between Use of Moist Laparotomy Pads and Deep Pericardial Traction Sutures for Heart Displacement
Authors: Kim DH , Park SY , Cho HB , Park SK , Kang M , Hong YS , Hong YW
Published: February 2013

Haemodynamic changes occurring during heart displacement, using moist laparotomy pads placed behind the heart (PAD group, n = 26) or deep pericardial traction sutures (DPS group, n = 25) to facilitate exposure of the left anterior descending artery during off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery, were compared. Haemodynamic variables were assessed before and 10 min after displacement of the heart. The central venous pressure, mean pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure increased in both groups. After heart displacement in the PAD group, the cardiac index, stroke volume index, mixed venous oxygen saturation, right ventricular ejection fraction and left ventricular stroke work index decreased significantly, and the systemic vascular resistance and pulmonary vascular resistance increased significantly; these parameters remained unchanged in the DPS group. It was concluded that displacement of the heart using moist laparotomy pads caused significant haemodynamic derangement compared with that caused by deep pericardial traction sutures.
High Expression of CXCR4 and CXCR7 Predicts Poor Survival in Gallbladder Cancer
Authors: Yao X , Zhou L , Han S , Chen Y
Published: February 2013

Chemokine receptors play a prominent role in cancer progression and metastasis. This study investigated whether the expression of CXC chemokine receptor types 4 and 7 (CXCR4 and CXCR7, respectively), determined immunohistochemically, was associated with clinicopathological characteristics and postoperative survival in gallbladder cancer specimens from 72 patients. CXCR4 was detected in the cytoplasm and/or nucleus of gallbladder cancer cells, but CXCR7 was detected only in the cytoplasm. Expression of either CXCR7 or CXCR4 in the cytoplasm was associated with tumour stage. Expression of nuclear CXCR4 was associated with lymph node metastases and lymphatic invasion. Cytoplasmic expression of CXCR4 and CXCR7 were each independent risk factors for worse postoperative survival. Further research is required to clarify the mechanisms involved in these associations and to determine their potential prognostic and therapeutic implications.
OX40 Ligand Levels and High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Levels in Blood from Local Coronary Plaque and the Femoral Artery in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome or Stable Angina
Authors: Shi JZ , Wang LY , Zhu Y , Zhao CY , Liu W , Jiang SL , You HW , Wang Y , Xu FY , Tang YS , Cui LQ
Published: February 2013

OX40 ligand (OX40L) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) play important roles in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. In this study, consecutive patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS; n = 90) or stable angina (SA; n = 40) and healthy control subjects ( n = 50) were evaluated to assess plasma OX40L and serum hs-CRP levels in local coronary plaque and the femoral artery. OX40L and hs-CRP levels in the femoral artery were significantly higher in patients with ACS compared with controls. OX40L and hs-CRP levels in local coronary plaque (OX40Lc and hs-CRPc, respectively) were significantly higher in ACS than in SA patients. OX40L and hs-CRP levels were positively correlated with each other and were also correlated with fibrinogen levels. The number of complex lesions was correlated with OX40Lc and hs-CRPc levels. It is concluded that the OX40Lc level was highly sensitive for evaluating the inflammatory response in ACS and elevated levels of OX40Lc may be a valuable predictive marker for increased risk of atherosclerotic progression in ACS patients.
Selective Upregulation of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) Transcripts and BDNF Direct Induction of Activity Independent N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Currents in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy Patients with Hippocampal Sclerosis
Authors: Wang FJ , Li CM , Hou XH , Wang R , Zhang LM
Published: February 2013

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a critical role in many aspects of neuronal biology and hippocampal physiology and pathology, and has been implicated as a potential therapeutic target in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). BDNF total mRNA and its six transcripts were compared in the hippocampal tissue of TLE patients with or without hippocampal sclerosis (HS) by real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Excitatory actions induced by BDNF on hippocampal cells were investigated by whole-cell patch-clamp recordings. Statistically significant increases in three human BDNF mRNA transcripts were observed in TLE patients with HS compared with those without HS (transcripts 2, 3 and 5 exhibited 2.1-, 2.3-and 4.1-fold increases, respectively); there were no significant increases in other transcripts. BDNF directly induced N-methyl-d-aspartate currents in dentate granule cells of TLE patients with HS. These results demonstrated that BDNF transcripts were selectively upregulated in TLE patients with HS compared with those without HS. Moreover, BDNF induced excitability of dentate granule cells in TLE patients with HS.
Bolus Effective Dose of Ketamine for Preventing Withdrawal Movement on Injection of Rocuronium in Paediatric Patients
Authors: Min SK , Lee SY , Park KS , Yoo J , Chae YJ
Published: February 2013

The bolus effective dose of ketamine required to prevent withdrawal movement on injection of rocuronium was determined in 27 paediatric patients undergoing elective surgery. A predetermined dose of ketamine was given intravenously on arrival in the operating room and anaesthesia (2.5% thiopental, 5 mg/kg) was administered 1 min later. After loss of consciousness, 1% rocuronium at 0.6 mg/kg was injected over 5 s and the presence or absence of withdrawal movement recorded. The effective dose of ketamine was determined using a modified Dixon up-and-down method with a step size of 0.1 mg/kg, successful prevention of withdrawal movement being defined as no response or movement at the wrist only. The bolus effective dose of ketamine for preventing withdrawal movement after injection of rocuronium following thiopental anaesthesia in 50% of paediatric patients (ED50) was 0.21 mg/kg according to the modified Dixon up-and-down method. Probit analysis indicated an ED50 of 0.18 mg/kg and an ED95 of 0.33 mg/kg. The latter was the most satisfactory dose in the clinical setting.
Comparison between Alzheimer's Disease and Subcortical Vascular Dementia: Attentional Cortex Study in Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Li C , Zheng J , Wang J , Gui L
Published: February 2013

Blood oxygen level dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and the Stroop test were used to assess attentional cortex activation in patients with Alzheimer's disease, subcortical vascular dementia, and normal control subjects. Patients with Alzheimer's disease and subcortical vascular dementia demonstrated similar locations of cortical activation, including the bilateral middle and inferior frontal gyri, anterior cingulate and inferior parietal lobule in response to Stroop colour word stimuli. This activation was distinctly decreased in patients with dementia compared with normal control subjects. Different regions of the brain were activated in patients with Alzheimer's disease and subcortical vascular dementia compared with normal controls. fMRI is a useful tool for the study of dementia in humans and has some potential diagnostic value. Further studies with larger numbers of participants are required.
Serum Levels of Lipids, Lipoproteins and Paraoxonase Activity in Pre-Eclampsia
Authors: Demir B , Demir S , Atamer Y , Guven S , Atamer A , Kocyigit Y , Hekimoglu A , Toprak G
Published: February 2013

Serum paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity and the oxidation of lipoproteins were investigated in 35 women with pre-eclampsia and in 35 healthy control women with normal pregnancies. Blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), serum levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1), apolipoprotein B (ApoB) and lipoprotein (a) (Lp[a]), and PON1 activity were assessed. There were no significant between-group differences in subject age, gestational age at diagnosis of pre-eclampsia, BMI, serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL and ApoB levels. Mean systolic and diastolic blood pressures and serum Lp(a) were significantly higher in subjects with pre-eclampsia than in controls. Mean serum HDL, ApoA1 and PON1 activity were significantly lower in subjects with pre-eclampsia compared with controls. In conclusion, lipids and oxidized lipoproteins may play important roles in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia.
Lung Resistance Protein and Multidrug Resistance Protein in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and Their Clinical Significance
Authors: Chen ZJ , Le HB , Zhang YK , Qian LY , Sekhar K Raja , Li WD
Published: February 2013

This study examined lung resistance protein (LRP) and multidrug resistance protein (MRP) in lung tumour tissue from 92 patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and normal lung tissue from 20 patients with benign lung tumours. The rates for LRP- and MRP-positive tumours among the NSCLC cases were 54% and 59%, respectively, and their combined positive rate was 45%. These rates were significantly higher than in normal lung tissue. The rates of LRP- and MRP-positive tumours were significantly higher among cases of adenocarcinoma than in cases of squamous cell carcinoma, and in highly differentiated tumours compared with tumours of low or moderate differentiation. There was a significant association between LRP- and MRP-positive tumours and a decrease in overall survival. In conclusion, LRP and MRP play a role in multidrug resistance in NSCLC and are related to prognosis in patients with NSCLC.
Stabilizing Microtubules Decreases Myocardial Ischaemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Cao H-M , Wang Q , You H-Y , Li J , Yang Z-Y
Published: February 2013

Microtubules are important components of the cytoskeleton that forms the backbone of myocardial architecture, sustaining its form and size. This study investigated whether stabilizing microtubules with paclitaxel (0.1 or 1 μM) could decrease myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion injury, and reduce myocardial infarct size and the incidence of ischaemic ventricular arrhythmia. Isolated rat hearts were used, with arrhythmia induced by regional ischaemia and myocardial infarcts induced by ischaemia-reperfusion. In these ex vivo rat models, paclitaxel decreased myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion injury, significantly reducing the incidence and severity of ischaemic ventricular arrhythmia and significantly decreasing infarct size.
Berberine Attenuates Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity in Mice
Authors: Zhao X , Zhang J , Tong N , Liao X , Wang E , Li Z , Luo Y , Zuo H
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the effects of berberine, a natural alkaloid, on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in mice. Mice were injected intraperitoneally with saline 10 ml/kg ( n = 10), doxorubicin 2.5 mg/kg ( n = 10), 60 mg/kg berberine 1 h before doxorubicin 2.5 mg/kg ( n = 10), or 60 mg/kg berberine alone ( n = 10) every other day for 14 days. Body weight, general condition and mortality were recorded over the 14-day study period. Electrocardiography was performed before the start of treatment and after 14 days and plasma lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity was measured after 14 days. At the end of the study period the heart was excised and examined histologically. An increase in mortality, an initial decrease in body weight, increased LDH activity, prolongation of QRS duration and increased myocardial injury were seen in the doxorubicin-treated group compared with the saline control group. These changes were significantly attenuated by pretreatment with berberine. The study suggests that berberine may have a potential protective role against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in mice.
Assessment of Risk Factors for Early Seizures following Surgery for Meningiomas Using Logistic Regression Analysis
Authors: Zhang B , Zhao G , Yang H-F , Wang D , Yu J-L , Huang H-Y
Published: February 2013

This study analysed the influence of clinical factors on early postoperative seizures in patients with meningiomas and constructed a logistic regression equation for assessing risk factors. Clinical data from 222 patients with meningiomas were collected. The odds ratios (ORs) for independent variables were determined: the ORs for preoperative seizure history and movement disorder were > 1, whereas the OR for prophylactic therapy was < 1. A logistic regression analysis was then performed to select potential risk factors for early postoperative seizures. Five variables (preoperative seizure history, movement disorder, tumour location, primary location of initial tumour and prophylactic therapy) were introduced into the regression model. A logistic regression equation was then constructed that had a positive predictive value of 66.65% and a negative predictive value of 84.95%. This suggested that the five variables introduced in the equation were closely associated with early postoperative seizures, with preoperative seizure history and movement disorder as potential risk factors and prophylactic therapy as a protective factor.
Cryoablation Combined with Molecular Target Therapy Improves the Curative Effect in Patients with Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Gu XY , Jiang Z , Fang W
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the curative effect of cryoablation combined with molecular target therapy for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Thirty-six female patients with NSCLC and epidermal growth factor receptor gene mutations were randomly divided into two groups: 18 patients received the molecular target therapy gefitinib (group I), an epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor; and 18 patients were treated with cryoablation prior to the administration of gefitinib (group II).

Treatment with gefitinib was continued for 6 months. Compared with group I, the rates of partial regression, stabilization of disease and progression of disease were improved in group II at the end of the 6 months of gefitinib treatment. Moreover, the 1-year survival rate in group II was significantly higher than that in group I. This suggests that cryoablation therapy combined with gefitinib could improve the effects of treatment and the prognosis of patients with advanced NSCLC.
Genetic Factors that Influence Short-Term Neurodevelopmental Outcome in Term Hypoxic-Ischaemic Encephalopathic Neonates
Authors: Calkavur S , Akisu M , Olukman O , Balim Z , Berdeli A , Cakmak B , Koroglu O , Yalaz M , Kultursay N
Published: February 2013

It is difficult to predict outcome in neonates that experience perinatal hypoxic ischaemia. Morbidity and mortality may be affected by genetic factors that augment inflammatory and coagulative responses. This prospective study analysed the effects of proinflammatory cytokine gene polymorphisms (tumour necrosis factor-α [TNFA] 308G>A and interleukin-6 [IL6] 174G>C) and prothrombotic factor gene mutations (prothrombin G20210A, factor V Leiden G1691A and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase [MTHFR] C677T) on the early neurological prognosis in 40 term hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathic neonates. There were significant relationships for Sarnat and Sarnat staging with electroencephalographic findings, transfontanelle ultrasound (US) results, early neonatal outcome and neurological morbidity. Genetic mutations in the prothrombotic proteins, the TNFA 308G>A polymorphism and the cerebrospinal fluid levels of TNF-α protein were not related to clinical stage, electroencephalography, transfontanelle US or neurological status at discharge or at postnatal months 6 and 12. The IL6 174GC genotype demonstrated a protective role, being significantly correlated with normal electroencephalography, transfontanelle US and normal neurological findings at discharge. In conclusion, the IL6 174GC gene polymorphism seems to play a role in determining the risk and/or severity of perinatal cerebral injury.
The Expression and Clinical Significance of GTP-Binding RAS-Like 3 (ARHI) and MicroRNA 221 and 222 in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lin D , Cui F , Bu Q , Yan C
Published: February 2013

Globally, prostate cancer is the most common malignancy among men and there is no biomarker for defining tumour invasion and progression. Guanosine-5′-triphosphate (GTP)-binding RAS-like 3 (ARHI) is a tumour suppressor gene that has been found to be downregulated in the prostate cancer cell line PC-3. MicroRNA 221 and 222 have been shown to regulate ARHI expression negatively. This study evaluated tissue samples from patients with prostate cancer ( n = 35) that were designated as aggressive or non-aggressive according to their Gleason grade.

Expression of ARHI and microRNA 221 and 222 was measured by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The level of ARHI mRNA was significantly lower in aggressive compared with nonaggressive prostate cancer tissue samples.

In contrast, microRNA 221 and 222 levels were significantly higher in aggressive compared with non-aggressive prostate cancer tissue samples. Whether ARHI and microRNA 221 and 222 could be considered as biomarkers for disease progression in prostate cancer requires further investigation.
Serum Amyloid a Low-Density Lipoprotein Levels and Smoking Status in Obese Japanese Patients
Authors: Kotani K , Satoh-Asahara N , Kato Y , Araki R , Himeno A , Yamakage H , Koyama K , Tanabe M , Oishi M , Okajima T , Shimatsu A
Published: February 2013

Serum amyloid A low-density lipoprotein (SAA-LDL) is formed by an oxidative interaction and is considered to be a new marker related to oxidative modification of LDL. As the effect of smoking on oxidized LDL is of concern, this study investigated the association between SAA-LDL and smoking status. A total of 578 Japanese obese outpatients (mean ± SD age 50.5 ± 14.3 years) were studied. Smoking status was examined via a self-reported questionnaire. Cardiometabolic variables, including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), were analysed in addition to SAA-LDL. There was an increasing trend in SAA-LDL levels from non- to ex- to current smokers, and significantly higher SAA-LDL levels were observed in current smokers versus non-smokers (median SAA-LDL level 36 μg/ml versus 28 μg/ml, respectively). This significant difference was reduced after adjusting for multiple confounders, including lipid levels. Smoking may be associated with increased levels of SAA-LDL in an obese Japanese population, but further studies are needed.
The Analgesic Effect of Dexketoprofen When Added to Lidocaine for Intravenous Regional Anaesthesia: A Prospective, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Yurtlu S , Hanci V , Kargi E , Erdoğan G , Köksal BG , Gül Ş , Okyay RD , Ayoğlu H , Turan IÖ
Published: February 2013

This prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled study evaluated the effects of dexketoprofen as an adjunct to lidocaine in intravenous regional anaesthesia (IVRA) or as a supplemental intravenous (i.v.) analgesic. Patients scheduled for elective hand or forearm soft-tissue surgery were randomly divided into three groups. All 45 patients received 0.5% lidocaine as IVRA. Dexketoprofen was given either i.v. or added into the IVRA solution and the control group received an equal volume of saline both i.v. and as part of the IVRA. The times of sensory and motor block onset, recovery time and postoperative analgesic consumption were recorded. Compared with controls, the addition of dexketoprofen to the IVRA solution resulted in more rapid onset of sensory and motor block, longer recovery time, decreased intra- and postoperative pain scores and decreased paracetamol use. It is concluded that coadministration of dexketoprofen with lidocaine in IVRA improves anaesthetic block and decreases postoperative analgesic requirements.
Clinical Features and Efficacy of Escitalopram Treatment for Geriatric Depression
Authors: Chen Y-M , Huang X-M , Thompson R , Zhao Y-B
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the psychological characteristics and clinical features of 55 patients with geriatric depression, and evaluated the efficacy and safety of escitalopram in the treatment of geriatric depression, in a randomized controlled trial. Fifty-five patients with geriatric depression were randomly assigned to receive 8 weeks of escitalopram 10 mg, daily, orally ( n = 29) or placebo ( n = 26). At baseline, these patients had significantly higher neuroticism and psychoticism scores on the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire - Adult scale than Chinese population norms. General Severity Index scores and the mean values of the nine subscales of the Symptom Checklist-90- Revised scale were also significantly higher in these patients than in Chinese population norms. The response rate to escitalopram after 8 weeks' treatment was 74.1% (20/27 patients). Adverse reactions included nausea, dry mouth and dizziness. In conclusion, depressed geriatric patients were found to have abnormal personality traits, and escitalopram was efficacious and had a good safety profile in the treatment of geriatric depression.
Dural Metastasis of Atypical Extraventricular Neurocytoma with the Codeletion of Chromosomes 1p/19q
Authors: Wang L , Chen G , Wei H , Liu F , Hu H , Zhang J
Published: February 2013

Extraventricular neurocytoma (EVN) is a rare neoplasm described in the 2007 World Health Organization classification of tumours of the nervous system. Due to the rarity of the tumour, there is limited literature available. The clinical characteristics, pathological features, biological behaviour and outcome of EVN remain unclear, and there are challenges regarding its diagnosis and management. The present case was a 75-year-old man who had been experiencing slow responses to stimuli for 1 month prior to hospital admission. A diagnosis of atypical EVN was made on the basis of pathology and immunohistochemistry results. Atypical pathological features included vascular proliferation, the presence of mitosis and a high MIB-1 (an antibody against Ki-67) labelling index. The disease recurred 7 months after the initial complete resection and radiation treatment, presenting with dural metastasis and codeletion of chromosomes 1p/19q. The present case history and treatment course are discussed with respect to the literature.
Identification of a Novel de Novo STK11 Mutation in a Chinese Child with Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome
Authors: Liu W-L , Li F , He Z-X , Jiang H-Y , Ai R , Zhu X-P , Chen X-X , Ma H-W
Published: February 2013

Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is a rare autosomal dominant inherited disorder characterized by gastrointestinal polyposis and mucocutaneous pigmentation. PJS patients have an increased risk of cancer in multiple locations. Germ-line mutations in the STK11 gene have been found to be responsible for most PJS cases. DNA samples were obtained from a Chinese child with PJS, his clinically unaffected parents and 50 unrelated normal individuals, and the exons and flanking intronic sequences of the STK11 gene were analysed by polymerase chain reaction and direct sequencing. A novel de novo mutation (c.698_699insG; F234LfsX3) was identified in exon 5 of STK11, that resulted in a translational frameshift leading to termination at codon 236. This mutation was not found in the parents or unrelated individuals. These results enlarge the genotypic spectrum of STK11, particularly with regard to early onset, as observed in the present sporadic PJS case. This study may have important future implications for precise genotype-phenotype correlation research.
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation-Induced Seizure of a Patient with Adolescent-Onset Depression: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Hu S-H , Wang S-S , Zhang M-M , Wang J-W , Hu J-B , Huang M-L , Wei N , Zhou W-H , Qi H-L , Xu W-J , Xu Y
Published: February 2013

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been used as an investigative and therapeutic tool in neuropsychiatry and is advocated as a therapy for the treatment of psychiatric disorders, particularly adult depression. The therapeutic efficacy of current antidepressants applied to children or adolescents is unsatisfactory; thus innovative treatments such as rTMS are in demand. Large-scale clinical studies are required to determine the safety of rTMS for this age group. The present case report describes a 15-year-old female with depression who had seizure and hypomania during the first session of rTMS concomitant to sertraline 100 mg/day orally. The patient continued on this regimen of sertraline therapy but rTMS was not repeated. Subsequent electroencephalogram (EEG) examination detected no abnormalities and no long-term complications were observed. We suggest that rTMS should be used cautiously to treat adolescents with depressive disorders, particularly when used concomitant to antidepressant treatment.
Role of Circadian Clocks in the Development and Therapeutics of Cancer
Authors: Huang X-L , Fu C-J , Bu R-F
Published: February 2013

Circadian clocks are endogenous molecular time-keeping systems that underlie daily fluctuations in multiple physiological and biochemical processes. It is now well recognized that dysfunction of the circadian system may be associated with a heightened incidence of cancer. This brief review presents evidence supporting the important role played by circadian clocks in the development of cancer and the therapeutic efficacy of anticancer agents. A number of circadian clock genes have been identified, which include transcription factors that regulate gene expression. Continued research in this area should increase understanding of the role of circadian clocks which could, ultimately, reduce the incidence of cancer in people with disrupted sleep-wake cycles, such as 24-h shift workers and flight attendants, and provide optimal chronopharmacology for cancer treatment.
Treatment of Borrmann Type IV Gastric Cancer with a Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Combination of Docetaxel, Cisplatin and 5-Fluorouracil/Leucovorin
Authors: Sun X-C , Lin J , Ju A-H
Published: February 2013

This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of docetaxel, cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin as neoadjuvant chemotherapy before surgery (NCT group; n = 29) compared with postoperative chemotherapy alone (non-NCT group; n = 26) in the treatment of Borrmann type IV gastric carcinoma. Primary tumour response rate, surgical parameters, incised-edge residue rate, lymphatic metastasis status and side-effects were evaluated. The overall response rate was 58.6% in the NCT group, which included three (10.3%) patients in complete remission and 14 (48.3%) patients in partial remission. The postoperative pathological complete response rate was 6.9% (two patients) in the NCT group. NCT was associated with a significant increase in the radical resection rate and a significant decrease in the rate of incised-edge residues, compared with postoperative chemotherapy alone. Side-effects due to NCT were minimal and resolved with appropriate treatment. There were no chemotherapy-related deaths in either group. In conclusion, docetaxel, cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin was an effective and well-tolerated NCT regimen for Borrmann type IV gastric cancer.
Increased Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) and Decreased Cyclin D1 in Recurrent Astrocytic Tumours Compared with Paired Primary Astrocytic Tumours
Authors: Zhang K , Pang B , Xin T , Hou X , Jia J , Feng B , Meng L , Xu S , Pang Q
Published: February 2013

This study compared the levels of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and cyclin D1 protein in paired primary and recurrent astrocytic tumours, and analysed their correlation with clinicopathological and treatment factors. A total of 48 samples from 24 patients who had undergone surgical removal of primary and recurrent astrocytic tumours were analysed. Levels of STAT3 and cyclin D1 protein were detected using immunohistochemistry. Increased STAT3 and decreased cyclin D1 levels were observed in recurrent astrocytic tumours compared with their paired primary tumours. There was a significant correlation between higher levels of STAT3 protein and shorter progression-free survival in primary tumours after surgery ( r = 0.417), and a significant correlation between decreased cyclin D1 protein levels and radiotherapy in recurrent tumours ( r = 0.468). It was concluded that increased STAT3 and decreased cyclin D1 protein levels may contribute to the recurrence of astrocytic tumours. Detection of STAT3 may be useful in predicting progression-free survival in primary astrocytic tumours after surgery. In addition, radiotherapy may decrease cyclin D1 levels in astrocytic tumours, but the nature of this association requires further investigation.
An Electronic Tool for Visual Feedback to Monitor the Adherence to Quality Indicators in Intensive Care Medicine
Authors: Kastrup M , Nolting MJ , Ahlborn R , Braun J-P , Grubitzsch H , Wernecke K-D , Spies C
Published: February 2013

Evidence-based medicine is often inadequately implemented in intensive care units (ICU); the aim of this study was to improve its implementation via a technical feedback system, using key performance indicators (KPI). The study evaluated 205 patients treated in a cardiac surgical ICU over a 6-month period (3 months before and 3 months after implementation of the feedback system). KPI adherence rates for sedation, delirium and pain monitoring, and completion of a weaning protocol before and after the implementation of the feedback system, were compared. Adherence rates for pain and delirium monitoring, and implementation of the weaning protocol, were significantly increased by the intervention. Adherence to KPIs for sedation, which were high at baseline, could not be further improved. Daily display of KPI implementation had a positive effect on adherence to standard operating procedures. Adherence to guidelines may be improved by using this feedback system as part of the clinical routine.