bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trauma and Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Kaya A , Taner Y , Guclu B , Taner E , Kaya Y , Bahcivan HG , Benli IT
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the relationship between adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and trauma. Fifty-eight adults admitted to hospital with musculoskeletal trauma were evaluated using scales that determine the presence of ADHD in childhood and adulthood. Each patient was also interviewed by an adult psychiatrist and a child and adolescent psychiatrist. The control group consisted of 30 adult patients with complaints other than trauma who did not have a history of repetitive traumas. There were 36 (62.2%) cases of ADHD in the patient group compared with four (13.3%) in the control group; this difference was statistically significant. When the level of trauma was evaluated, ADHD was identified in 23 of the 26 (88.5%) patients with high energy traumas compared with 14 of the 32 (43.8%) patients with low energy traumas; this difference was also statistically significant. This study shows that patients with adult ADHD are more prone to injuries, particularly high energy traumas such as motor vehicle accidents. Patients who have repeated high energy traumas should be evaluated by a psychiatrist for ADHD.
Relationship between Plasma B-type Natriuretic Peptide and Ventricular Function in Adult Cardiac Surgery Patients
Authors: Jeong DS , Kim K-H , Kim CY , Kim JS
Published: February 2013

Plasma concentrations of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) were analysed during the peri- and post-operative periods in cardiac surgery patients, and the relationship between plasma BNP concentrations and various clinical parameters was explored. Thirty patients (17 women, 13 men) of age 54.5 ± 17.1 years undergoing cardiac surgery between June 2004 and March 2005 were enrolled. Plasma BNP concentrations were measured pre-operatively, immediately post-operatively, and on the first, second, fourth and seventh post-operative days. On the first post-operative day, the BNP level was significantly increased but levels returned to baseline values by the seventh post-operative day. The pre-operative BNP level correlated with left ventricular ejection fraction and age, and the level 24 h after surgery correlated with left ventricular end-diastolic dimension and pre-operative BNP levels. These results showed that the plasma BNP concentration becomes markedly and acutely elevated after cardiac surgery, reflecting temporary ventricular dysfunction.
The Long-term Effect of Autologous Endothelial Progenitor Cells from Peripheral Blood Implantation on Infarcted Myocardial Contractile Force
Authors: Lian F , Xue S , Gu P , Zhu HS
Published: February 2013

This study was designed to evaluate the long-term effect of endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) implantation in acute myocardial infarction in Sprague-Dawley rats after ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. Autologous EPCs from peripheral blood were purified and implanted into an acute myocardial infarct site. Specimens and muscle strip were harvested at 3 and 6 weeks, and at 6, 8 and 12 months for contractile force assessment and, by immunohistology, for expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and factor VIII. Expression of VEGF and bFGF, and microvessel counts and contractile force in the cell implantation group were significantly higher than in the control group up to 8 months after implantation. Beyond 8 months following implantation, however, no further improvement occurred. The EPCs showed an ability to improve contractile performance in infarcted myocardium by means of angiogenesis and vasculogenesis, and the results seemed to persist long-term.
The Prevalence of Carotid Artery Calcification on the Panoramic Radiographs of End-stage Renal Disease Patients with Peritoneal Dialysis: Do Incidental Findings Provide Life-saving Information?
Authors: Gokce C , Sisman Y , Sipahioglu M , Ertas ET , Akgunlu F , Unal A , Tokgoz B , Oymak O , Utas C
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the presence of carotid artery calcifications (CACs) on panoramic radiographs (PRs) in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients treated with peritoneal dialysis (PD), and analysed the relationship between CAC prevalence and PD duration. A random sample of 110 PRs were collected from ESRD patients (15 with questionable CACs were subsequently excluded). CACs were found in 26 (27.4%) patients; 10 males (23.3% of all males) and 16 females (30.8% of all females). The overall mean PD period was 4.0 ± 3.2 years. There was a significant difference in PD period between patients with and without CACs (5.3 ± 3.1 years versus 3.5 ± 3.1 years, respectively). To our knowledge, this study has the highest CAC prevalence, is the first to be carried out in ESRD patients being treated with PD and has the largest sample of ESRD patients ( n = 95). We believe dentists should carefully evaluate patients' PRs for evidence of CACs, enabling these incidental findings to provide life-saving information.
The Significance and Relationship between Mast Cells and Tumour Angiogenesis in Non-small Cell Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Dundar E , Oner U , Peker B Cengiz , Metintas M , Isiksoy S , Ak G
Published: February 2013

This study investigated whether microvessel density (MVD) and mast cell infiltration are related to prognosis in non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC), and examined the possible role of mast cells in NSCLC angiogenesis. MVD and mast cell infiltration were analysed retrospectively in tumour specimens from 50 patients with primary NSCLC. Immunohistochemistry with monoclonal antibody anti-CD34 was used to delineate the microvessels and routine Giemsa blue staining was used to assess the number of mast cells. Significant correlations were found between MVD and mast cell infiltration and between MVD and both lymph node metastasis and tumour, node, metastases (TNM) stage. No significant correlations were found with respect to survival for MVD or mast cell infiltration. Multivariate analysis showed that TNM stage and tumour size were independent predictors of survival, suggesting that the TNM staging system remains the most important tool for the estimation of prognosis in NSCLC patients.
Serum Levels of Leptin and Homocysteine in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Its Relationship to Endocrine, Clinical and Metabolic Parameters
Authors: Atamer A , Demir B , Bayhan G , Atamer Y , Ilhan N , Akkuş Z
Published: February 2013

We examined the relationship between endocrine, clinical and metabolic parameters in 35 women (mean age 27.3 years) with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and 30 age- and body mass index-matched normal ovulatory women. In PCOS women, serum leptin, homocysteine, insulin, insulin-like growth factor-1, insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 levels and the insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) were significantly higher, while sex hormone-binding globulin and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were lower compared with healthy women. Serum luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol (E2), androstenedione, testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate levels were found to be significantly higher in PCOS women compared with healthy women. The levels of E2, LH and testosterone were positively correlated with leptin levels in PCOS women. Similarly, androstenedione levels and HOMA-IR were positively correlated with homocysteine levels and insulin levels were positively correlated with LH. We conclude that increased homocysteine levels, hyperandrogenaemia, insulin resistance and impaired lipid metabolism contribute to the risk of premature atherosclerosis in PCOS women.
Anti-Scl-70 Antibodies in Autoimmune Hypothyroidism
Authors: Ugurlu S , Caglar E , Yesim T , Balci H , Tasan E
Published: February 2013

The relationship between autoimmune thyroiditis and systemic sclerosis is controversial. Data exist on the presence of thyroid autoantibodies in patients with systemic sclerosis but, as far as we could ascertain, anti-Scl-70 antibodies, which are highly specific for systemic sclerosis, have not been investigated in autoimmune hypothyroidism. This study compares the presence of anti-Scl-70 in females with autoimmune hypothyroidism ( n = 24) and in healthy age-matched female controls ( n = 26). Free thyroxine levels were similar in both groups. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), antithyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO), antithyroglobulin (anti-Tg) and index values for anti-Scl-70 levels were significantly higher in patients with autoimmune hypothyroidism compared with controls, although the anti-Scl-70 test was negative in both groups. Anti-TPO, anti-Tg and TSH significantly correlated with anti-Scl-70. In conclusion, autoimmune hypothyroidism seems to be associated with a higher index level of anti-Scl-70, yet a negative anti-Scl-70 antibody test. This suggests that autoimmune hypothyroidism might have common aetiological factors with systemic sclerosis.
Human Gastric Adenocarcinoma Allelotype on Chromosomes 17 and 18
Authors: Yu JC , Zhou H , Bai J , Yu Y , Geng JS , Qi JP , Fu SB
Published: February 2013

Allelic losses of multiple chromosome loci in gastric adenocarcinoma suggest that inactivation of tumour suppressor genes in these regions may be important for tumourigenesis. To define deletion intervals and find candidate tumour suppressor genes involved in gastric adenocarcinoma pathogenesis, a genome-wide search for loss of heterozygosity (LOH) was conducted in 45 patients with primary gastric adenocarcinoma. Investigations using 29 microsatellite markers spanning chromosomes 17 and 18 showed allelic deletion in 29 (64%) specimens at one or more loci. Five LOH overlap regions, three newly identified as deletion regions, were defined: RI, D17S831–D17S921 at 17p12-13.3; RII, D17S1868–D17S787 at 17q21.3-22; RIII, D17S785–D17S928 at 17q25.3; RIV, D18S61–D18S1161 at 18q22; and RV, D18S462–D18S70 at 18q22-q23. Eleven (24%) patients with chromosome 17 allelic loss also showed LOH on 18q, with at least one region of overlapping. LOH mapping showed allelic losses were widespread on both chromosomes and suggests the possibility that multiple tumour suppressor genes, including one or more that are unknown, might be inactivated in the aetiology of gastric adenocarcinoma.
Gabexate Mesilate Suppresses Influenza Pneumonia in Mice through Inhibition of Cytokines
Authors: Kosai K , Seki M , Yanagihara K , Nakamura S , Kurihara S , Izumikawa K , Kakeya H , Yamamoto Y , Tashiro T , Kohno S
Published: February 2013

Gabexate mesilate is a synthetic protease inhibitor that is effective for acute pancreatitis. The effect of gabexate mesilate in influenza pneumonia in mice was investigated by examining the changes in pulmonary inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Pathological changes in the lungs of treated mice were extremely mild, compared with changes in infected, untreated mice. Intrapulmonary levels of interleukin-6 and macrophage inflammatory protein-2 decreased in treated mice compared with untreated mice, despite similar viral titres in the lungs. Survival terms for treated and untreated groups were similar. These data indicate that gabexate mesilate has beneficial effects on influenza pneumonia, which may be due to the modulation of inflammatory cytokine/chemokine responses.
Effect of Rosiglitazone on Cardiac Fibroblast Proliferation, Nitric Oxide Production and Connective Tissue Growth Factor Expression Induced by Advanced Glycation End-products
Authors: Li J , Liu NF , Wei Q
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the effects of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ agonist rosiglitazone (RGZ) on cardiac fibroblast proliferation, nitric oxide content and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) expression following incubation with advanced glycation end-products (AGEs). Cultured neonatal rat cardiac fibroblasts were incubated with various concentrations of AGEs for 48 h. Cells were also incubated with 200 mg/l AGEs plus various concentrations of RGZ. Cardiac fibroblast proliferation and cell cycle status were detected using a 3-(4, 5dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and flow cytometry. Western blotting was used to measure the expression of CTGF and nitric oxide content was evaluated using a nitrate reductase assay. AGEs significantly accelerated proliferation, increased CTGF expression and decreased nitric oxide production in cardiac fibroblasts. These effects of AGEs were inhibited by RGZ in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment with RGZ could be a valuable therapeutic approach in diabetic patients with myocardial fibrosis.
Clinical and Genetic Analysis of a Korean Patient with Late-onset X-linked Adrenal Hypoplasia Congenita and Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism: Identification of a Novel Mutation in the NR0B1 Gene
Authors: Lee Y-W , Won JC , Ki C-S , Lee HY , Ahn HS , Lee YK , Kim YH , Kim C-H
Published: February 2013

Adrenal hypoplasia congenita (AHC) is caused by mutations in the NR0B1 gene on chromosome Xp21.3-p21.2. It manifests as X-linked primary adrenal failure in early infancy or childhood and as hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HHG) at puberty. Although studies of AHC patients and mutations in the NR0B1 gene have been reported throughout the world, there has previously been only one other case report from Korea. We encountered a 23-year old Korean male with delayedonset AHC/HHG who had been previously diagnosed with adrenal insufficiency of unknown aetiology at age 13 years. Delayed puberty and incomplete HHG were observed. Direct sequencing of the NR0B1 gene revealed the patient to have a novel insertion mutation (c.959_960insT; Leu321ProfsX68). Although AHC is believed to be rare, it should be considered in a differential diagnosis of patients showing late-onset primary adrenal insufficiency.
Enterobacter Sakazakii: An Emerging Problem in Paediatric Nutrition
Authors: Giovannini M , Verduci E , Ghisleni D , Salvatici E , Riva E , Agostoni C
Published: February 2013

Recently there has been considerable concern related to the presence of bacteria, in particular Enterobacter sakazakii, in powdered infant formula milk. E. sakazakii, a member of the family Enterobacteriaceae, is an emerging opportunistic pathogen that has been associated with cases of meningitis, necrotizing enterocolitis and sepsis in premature and full-term infants. Feeding with powdered infant formula has been epidemiologically implicated in several clinical cases. Powdered infant formula is not a sterile product; good hygienic practice is, therefore, necessary in its reconstitution to reduce the risk of infection. The ingestion of raised numbers of E. sakazakii resulting from storage at room temperature after reconstitution is highlighted as well as the uncertain routes of E. sakazakii product contamination.
A Study of the Regulating Gene of femA from Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus Clinical Isolates
Authors: Li X , Xiong Y , Fan X , Zhong Z , Feng P , Tang H , Zhou T
Published: February 2013

The regulating gene of femA was studied in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). High-level MRSA, low-level MRSA and methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA) were identified by agar diffusion. β-Lactamases were detected by nitrocephin and the presence of the mecA gene was determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Only isolates that were both β-lactamase-negative and mecA-positive were used. The femA gene and its 250 base pair (bp) upstream sequence were amplified by PCR and expression was determined by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR. The 250 bp upstream sequence was labelled by BrightStar€ Psoralen–Biotin and detected by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). Expression levels of femA in MSSA, low-level MRSA and high-level MRSA were 3.53 × 10−3%–29.91%, 5.54 × 10−3%–3.1 × 102% and 13.88–5.50 × 104%, respectively. EMSA detected a signal shift in 57 high-level MRSA isolates but not in four low-level MRSA and four MSSA strains. Expression of femA in high-level MRSA (non-β-lactamase-producing) was higher than in low-level MRSA and MSSA. The femA regulating gene probably lies in the 250 bp upstream sequence in MRSA and high-level expression is essential for high-level methicillin resistance.
Is the Application of Prostaglandin E1 Effective for the Treatment of Sudden Hearing Loss? An Evidence-based Meta-analysis
Authors: Zhuo Xian-Lu , Wang Yan , Zhuo Wen-Lei , Zhang Xue-Yuan
Published: February 2013

Microvascular dysfunction in the cochlea has been considered the major cause of sudden hearing loss (SHL). For some time, prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), an effective vasodilator, has been used to treat patients with SHL, however the benefits of this therapy remain unclear. The present study assessed the efficacy of PGE1 on SHL via a quantitative meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled studies. The pooled odds ratio was 1.95 (95% confidence interval: 1.53, 2.50) and the test for overall effect ( Z-value) was 5.31 ( P < 0.00001), suggesting that PGE1 is an effective and promising strategy for the treatment of SHL.
Musclin Inhibits Insulin Activation of Akt/Protein Kinase B in Rat Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Liu Y , Huo X , Pang XF , Zong ZH , Meng X , Liu GL
Published: February 2013

Musclin is a muscle-derived secretory peptide that induces insulin resistance in vitro We studied the effect of musclin (0.5 μg/ml) on insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in rat skeletal muscles and also the effect of rosiglitazone (0.4 μg/ml). Pre-incubation of muscles with musclin resulted in decreased insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. Musclin also reduced expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and liver X receptor α (LXRα) mRNAs, although expression of glucose transporter 4 mRNA was unaltered. Rosiglitazone attenuated the effects of musclin on glucose uptake and PPARγ and LXRα mRNA expression. Western blotting demonstrated that activation of protein kinase B (Akt/PKB) in the insulin-signalling cascade was decreased by musclin but corrected by rosiglitazone. These findings suggest that musclin-induced impairment of insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in skeletal muscle is related to Akt/PKB inhibition and might be modulated by PPARγ/LXRα.
Which Musculoskeletal Complications Are Most Frequently Seen in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus?
Authors: Aydeniz A , Gursoy S , Guney E
Published: February 2013

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of the most frequently occurring hand and shoulder complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. The presence of cheiroarthropathy, frozen shoulder, Dupuytren's contracture and trigger finger was assessed in 102 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients and 101 age- and sex-matched non-diabetic controls. The relationship between these complications and patients' age, sex, duration of diabetes and glycaemic control was also analysed. Cheiroarthropathy, frozen shoulder and Dupuytren's contracture were significantly more prevalent in the diabetic group than in the control group. Females were slightly more affected with frozen shoulder than males and advanced cases (stage 2) of cheiroarthropathy occurred more frequently in females. Duration of diabetes was related to an increased risk of cheiroarthropathy. In conclusion, some musculoskeletal disorders are more prevalent in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients and this may be associated with glycaemic control, sex and duration of diabetes.
Relationship between Leptin, Insulin Resistance, Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 and Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein-3 in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Atamer A , Ecder S Alisir , Akkus Z , Kocyigit Y , Atamer Y , Ilhan N , Ecder T
Published: February 2013

This study examined the relationship between leptin, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) and insulin resistance in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Levels of leptin, insulin, IGF-1, IGFBP-3 and common routine parameters were measured in 45 patients (23 males and 22 females) with CKD and 45 healthy controls matched for age, gender and body mass index. IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 levels were measured using a two-site immunoradiometric assay. Leptin levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A homeostasis model assessment computer-solved model was used to assess insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Levels of serum leptin, insulin, IGF-1, IGFBP-3 and HOMA-IR were significantly increased in patients with CKD compared with healthy subjects, whereas fasting blood glucose was not significantly different between the two groups. In patients with CKD, the serum leptin level was significantly correlated with IGF-1, IGFBP-3 and HOMA-IR. In conclusion, this study suggests that there is an interaction between leptin, IGF-1, IGFBP-3 and insulin resistance in patients with CKD.
Effectiveness of Low-dose and Standard-dose Tamsulosin in the Treatment of Distal Ureteric Stones: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Lojanapiwat B , Kochakarn W , Suparatchatpan N , Lertwuttichaikul K
Published: February 2013

Low-dose (0.2 mg/day) and standard-dose (0.4 mg/day) tamsulosin were studied in a randomized controlled trial of 75 outpatients with distal ureteroliths in Thailand. Group 1 ( n = 25; control) received oral sodium diclofenac 50 mg twice a day for 10 days; group 2 ( n = 25) received oral sodium diclofenac 50 mg twice a day for 10 days, with oral tamsulosin 0.2 mg once a day up to 28 days; and group 3 ( n = 25) received oral sodium diclofenac 50 mg twice a day for 10 days, with oral tamsulosin 0.4 mg once a day up to 28 days. For groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively, the expulsion rates were 4%, 40% and 68% (significantly different for group 1 vs group 2, and for group 1 vs group 3) and mean expulsion times were 23.00, 9.30 and 10.76 days. Both doses of tamsulosin increased stone expulsion rate and decreased expulsion time in comparison with the control, and have been shown to be safe and effective in Asian patients.
Breakfast: A Good Habit, not a Repetitive Custom
Authors: Giovannini M , Verduci E , Scaglioni S , Salvatici E , Bonza M , Riva E , Agostoni C
Published: February 2013

In developed countries, obesity is the most frequent nutritional disorder, and overweight and obesity prevalences have increased whilst physical activity and breakfast consumption have declined. There is growing scientific interest in the possible role of breakfast in weight control and in factors such as appetite control, dietary quality and reduced risk for chronic diseases. The current article reviews the literature and discusses how the breakfast ‘environment’ and the composition of breakfast meals might be improved, particularly in children, so as to maintain the breakfast eating habit throughout life. Recommendations are proposed to encourage children to keep eating breakfast and the nutritional composition of the ‘American breakfast’ and two types of Mediterranean ‘cereal breakfasts’ are compared. We also propose a new breakfast type for children and adolescents that is based on chocolate hazelnut spread within a mixed breakfast type in order to reinforce positive experiences.
Randomized, Double-blinded Trial Evaluation of Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide Combination Therapy in Mild to Moderate Essential Hypertension in North-east China
Authors: Zhang S , Yu B , Li L , Du Z , Guan Z
Published: February 2013

In this randomized, double-blind study, 126 mild to moderate essential hypertensive patients from northern China were studied to determine the efficacy and safety of a combination therapy of valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide. Patients were randomized to the V80/H12.5 (80 mg valsartan/12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide) group or the V80 (80 mg valsartan) group. Six weeks after treatment, the mean decrease from baseline in mean sitting systolic blood pressure (MSSBP) was significantly higher in the V80/H12.5 group than the V80 group, but there was no difference in the change of mean sitting diastolic blood pressure (MSDBP) in the two groups. Overall, 80.33% and 70.97% had a controlled response (normalized MSDBP), and 85.25% and 77.42% had a diastolic response (normalized MSDBP or > 10 mmHg reduction in MSDBP) in the V80/H12.5 and V80 groups, respectively (not significantly different). The incidence of adverse events was also similar between the two groups. The combination of 80 mg valsartan/12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide was efficacious and well tolerated in mild and moderate essential hypertensive patients.
Decreased Expression of Annexin A1 during the Progression of Cervical Neoplasia
Authors: Wang LD , Yang YH , Liu Y , Song HT , Zhang LY , Li PL
Published: February 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the expression of annexin A1 (ANXA1) is associated with the progression of cervical neoplasia. ANXA1 expression was examined by immunohistochemistry in paraffin-embedded cervical tissue samples ( n = 234), comprising 52 samples of normal cervical epithelia, 30 of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) I, 27 of CIN II, 32 of CIN III, and 93 of invasive squamous cell carcinoma (ISCC). ANXA1 expression was strong in normal cervical squamous epithelium and significantly reduced with increasing progression of cervical neoplasia. Moreover, a close association was observed between ANXA1 expression and tumour cell differentiation in ISCC. These preliminary results indicate that ANXA1 may be an effective candidate for detecting CIN lesions and for evaluating tumour cell differentiation in squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix.
Anatomical Aspects of the Arterial Blood Supply to the Sinoatrial and Atrioventricular Nodes of the Human Heart
Authors: Pejković B , Krajnc I , Anderhuber F , Košutić D
Published: February 2013

Classic anatomical dissection of 150 hearts from adults aged 18–80 years was performed. The sinoatrial (SA) node artery was most frequently a large atrial branch of the right coronary artery (63%), arising at a mean distance of 1.2 cm (range 0.2–2.2 cm) from its beginning, with a mean external diameter of 1.7 mm (range 1–3 mm). In 37% of cases the SA node artery was a branch of the left coronary artery or one of its branches, with an initial mean external diameter of 2.2 mm (range 2–3 mm). The origin of the SA node artery was not related to coronary arterial dominance. The atrioventricular (AV) node artery was the first and longest inferior septal perforating branch of the right (90%) or left (10%) coronary artery, arising from the U- or V-shaped segment of the corresponding artery at the level of the crux cordis. Mean external diameter was 2 mm (range 1–3.5 mm). The origin of the AV node artery was dependent on coronary arterial dominance. Identification of the anatomical variants of the arterial blood supply to the SA and AV nodes may help in overcoming potential difficulties in treating arrhythmias and in mitral valve surgery.
Predictive Value of Serum-soluble CD154 in Fulminant Hepatic Failure
Authors: Zheng YB , Gao ZL , Zhong F , Huang YS , Peng L , Lin BL , Chong YT
Published: February 2013

The interaction of CD40 with CD154 is a pivotal trigger of immune cascade-inducing acute liver failure, however its clinical significance has not been well studied. The present study aimed to investigate the clinical implications of serum-soluble CD154 (sCD154) levels and the expression of CD40 on monocytes in patients with fulminant hepatic failure (FHF). The results showed that serum sCD154 levels and CD40 expression on monocytes were significantly higher in FHF patients than in acute hepatitis (AH) patients and healthy controls, and were also significantly higher in FHF patients who died, compared with those who survived. We conclude that high serum levels of sCD154 may be linked to fatal outcome in patients with severe liver injury and may be a valuable prognostic marker for survival in patients with FHF.
Cortical Expression of Peroxisome Proliferator-activated Receptor-α after Human Brain Contusion
Authors: Feng D , Zhang Y , Chen G
Published: February 2013

Recent studies have demonstrated that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPAR-α) agonists can protect the brain against excessive oxidative stress and inflammation in traumatic brain injury (TBI) and stroke through endogenous PPAR-α. However, it has not been investigated whether, and to what degree, cerebral expression of PPAR-α changes after TBI, especially in the human brain. In this study, 12 contused brain samples were obtained from 11 patients undergoing surgery for TBI 6–98 h after trauma. PPAR-α binding activity was measured by electrophoretic mobility shift assay, and temporal and cellular expression of PPAR-α by immunohistochemistry. The results showed that a persistent upregulation of PPAR-α binding activity and protein expression occurred in injured cortex after TBI, which peaked 24–72 h post-injury. Expression of PPAR-α was mainly located in glial and vascular endothelial cells with a little expression in the neurons. It is concluded that TBI could greatly upregulate the binding activity and protein expression of PPAR-α in injured human brain, which might be important in brain pathophysiology after TBI.
LEDGFp52 Controls Rat Retinal Ganglion Cell Neurite Growth in Culture and Regulates Specific Neuronal Growth-associated Genes and Protein Production
Authors: Zhao HS , Chen SJ , Wu N , Wang XQ , Yin ZQ , Wang Y
Published: February 2013

We investigated the regulation of primary neurite growth and expression of specific growth-associated genes by lens epithelium-derived growth factor (LEDGF) in rat retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). A pAd-LEDGFp52 adenovirus vector and a siRNA-LEDGFp52 eucaryotic expression vector were transfected into cultured RGCs. Transfection with pAd-LEDGFp52 significantly increased the number of neurites and their lengths compared with untransfected control RGCs. The expression of growth associated protein 43 (GAP43), microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2), and low-molecular-weight neurofilament (NF-L) genes and proteins were also significantly up-regulated. In contrast, the introduction of siRNA-LEDGFp52 significantly decreased the number and length of neurites, and significantly down-regulated the expression GAP43, NF-L and MAP2 genes and proteins compared with controls. Our findings suggest that LEDGFp52 might act as a dendritic arborization gene as well as an axonal elongation gene in RGCs and that it might be beneficial to the functional recovery of regenerating RGCs.
Rosiglitazone Attenuates Allergic Inflammation and Inhibits Expression of Galectin-3 in a Mouse Model of Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Han JL , Ding RY , Zhao L , Ren Z , Jiang XJ
Published: February 2013

Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) agonists are involved in the regulation of inflammatory responses and recent studies suggest that PPAR-γ ligands may have potential for the treatment of allergic airway disease. This study investigated the effect of the PPAR-γ agonist, rosiglitazone, on nasal mucous allergic inflammation and galectin-3 gene expression in a murine model of allergic rhinitis (AR mice). Rosiglitazone resulted in a statistically significant attenuation of the increased numbers of inflammatory cells and Th2 cytokine levels in nasal cavity lavage fluid of AR mice. Furthermore, the expression of galectin-3 in the nasal mucosa of AR mice was statistically significantly increased. Over-expression of galectin-3 was markedly suppressed by rosiglitazone treatment. These data suggest that the PPAR-γ agonist, rosiglitazone, may have potential in the development of therapies for allergic rhinitis.
Reduction in Cerebral Atrophy Associated with Ethyl-Eicosapentaenoic Acid Treatment in Patients with Huntington's Disease
Authors: Puri BK , Bydder GM , Manku MS , Clarke A , Waldman AD , Beckmann CF
Published: February 2013

Ultra-pure ethyl-eicosapentaenoic acid (ethyl-EPA), a semi-synthetic ethyl ester of eicosapentaenoic acid, is associated with clinical improvement in motor functioning in Huntington's disease. The aim was to determine the extent to which it might reduce the rate of progress of cerebral atrophy. High-resolution cerebral magnetic resonance imaging scans were acquired at baseline, 6 months and 1 year in up to 34 patients with stage I or II Huntington's disease who took part in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of ethyl-EPA. For each subject and each pair of structural images, the two-timepoint brain volume change was calculated in a double-blind manner. Significant group-level reductions in brain atrophy were observed in the head of the caudate nucleus and the posterior thalamus. These findings show that treatment with ethyl-EPA is associated with significant reduction in brain atrophy, particularly in the caudate and thalamus. No other drug tested in Huntington's disease has shown this effect.
Comparison of Three Warming Devices for the Prevention of Core Hypothermia and Post-Anaesthesia Shivering
Authors: Ihn CH , Joo JD , Chung HS , Choi JW , Kim DW , Jeon YS , Kim YS , Choi WY
Published: February 2013

The efficacy of forced air warming with a surgical access blanket in preventing a decrease in core temperature during anaesthesia and post-anaesthesia shivering (PAS) was compared with two widely used interventions comprising forced air warming combined with an upper body blanket, and a circulating water mattress, in a prospective, randomized double-blind study. A total of 90 patients undergoing total abdominal hysterectomy were studied, 30 in each group. Core temperature was measured 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 and 120 min after induction of anaesthesia. PAS was evaluated every 5 min after emergence from anaesthesia over a period of 1 h. Core temperature fell in all three groups compared with the baseline, but forced air warming using a surgical access blanket was more effective than the other warming methods in ameliorating the temperature decrease. The surgical access blanket was also superior to the circulating water mattress in reducing PAS.
The Effect on the Recovery Profile of a Change from Enflurane to Desflurane during the Latter Part of Anaesthesia
Authors: Kang H , Park S-G , Baek C-W , Park J-W , Jung Y-H , Woo Y-C , Kim J-Y , Koo G-H
Published: February 2013

This study compared emergence and recovery characteristics after either enflurane anaesthesia or crossover from enflurane to desflurane anaesthesia. At an estimated 1 h prior to the end of operation, enflurane was either reduced (group E, n = 23) or replaced with desflurane (group X, n = 23). At the end of the operation, emergence and recovery characteristics of the two groups were compared. The crossover technique accelerated recovery compared with enflurane anaesthesia. The time taken for the eyes to open in response to painful pinching or a verbal command, and to regain awareness of age and name, were significantly shorter after crossover anaesthesia than after enflurane anaesthesia. The digit symbol substitution test and serial seven test scores were significantly better in patients subjected to crossover anaesthesia than in those subjected to enflurane anaesthesia. We conclude that, during surgery, the substitution of enflurane with desflurane in the latter part of anaesthesia can improve recovery.
Combination of Ultra-Low Dose Bupivacaine and Fentanyl for Spinal Anaesthesia in Out-Patient Anorectal Surgery
Authors: Gurbet A , Turker G , Girgin NK , Aksu H , Bahtiyar NH
Published: February 2013

This study investigated whether the addition of 25 μg fentanyl to an ultra-low (sub-anaesthetic) dose of intrathecal bupivacaine provides adequate anaesthesia for out-patient anorectal surgery, without increasing side-effects or delaying hospital discharge. Patients were randomly allocated to receive 2.5 mg 0.5% bupivacaine plus 25 μg fentanyl (group BF, n = 18) or 5 mg 0.5% bupivacaine alone (group B, n = 17). There were no significant differences in intra-operative outcomes, but mean recovery and discharge times were significantly shorter in group BF. There were no between-group differences in hypotension, bradycardia or respiratory depression and post-operative complications were comparable, apart from pruritus which was significantly more frequent in group BF. Fewer patients requested analgesic medication in the early post-operative period in group BF than in group B. In conclusion, 25 μg intrathecal fentanyl added to ultra-low dose (2.5 mg) bupivacaine provided good-quality spinal anaesthesia and reduced post-operative analgesic requirement in patients undergoing ambulatory anorectal surgery.
Effects of 2-Deoxy-d-Glucose on Proliferation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Endothelial Cells
Authors: Nef HM , Möllmann H , Joseph A , Troidl C , Voss S , Vogt A , Weber M , Hamm CW , Elsässer A
Published: February 2013

2-Deoxy-d-glucose (2-DG) is a glucose analogue that has been proposed for cancer therapy due to its cytostatic properties. Its effect on the proliferation of smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells has not been fully clarified. The aims of this study were to investigate the effects of 2-DG on the proliferation of porcine aortic endothelial cells (PAEC) and porcine smooth muscle cells (PSMC), to establish an overview of its dose-dependent inhibitory capacity and to examine whether the short-term incubation of cells with 2-DG has an impact on cell proliferation in culture. Our results showed a dose-dependent significant inhibitory effect on proliferation, which was more pronounced in PSMC than in PAEC. Even after short-term incubation of cells with 2-DG, relevant inhibition of proliferation was documented. The clinical application of 2-DG might be a promising concept by inhibiting cells that show a potentially rapid proliferation in response to non-malignant stimuli, such as smooth muscle cells after intracoronary stenting.
Effect of Inhibition of the Central Nucleus of the Amygdala and Drug Experience on the Regions Underlying Footshock-Induced Reinstatement of Morphine Seeking
Authors: Ma DY , Xu MY , Yang HC , Yang LZ
Published: February 2013

This study assessed the effect of inhibition of the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) and drug experience on brain regions underlying footshock-induced reinstatement of morphine-seeking behaviour in rats. The difference in time spent in two chambers of a place-preference apparatus was used to measure morphine-conditioned place preference. Fos was measured as a marker of neuronal activation in the ventral bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNSTv) and ventral tegmental area (VTA). Footshock was found to enhance Fos expression in the BNSTv regardless of drug experience. In the VTA, morphine and footshock had an interactive effect on the increase in Fos expression. Inhibition of the CeA decreased Fos expression in the BNSTv regardless of drug experience, whereas in the VTA this effect only occurred in morphine-treated rats. These results suggest that drug experience has no differential effect on the BNSTv however morphine produces footshock sensitization in the VTA. CeA inhibition modulates the footshock-induced activity of these regions of the brain and attenuates reinstatement of drug seeking behaviour.
Relative Effects of Telmisartan, Candesartan and Losartan on Alleviating Arterial Stiffness in Patients with Hypertension Complicated by Diabetes Mellitus: An Evaluation Using the Cardio-Ankle Vascular Index (CAVI)
Authors: Uehara G , Takeda H
Published: February 2013

Using the cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI) as an indicator, we assessed improvement of arterial stiffness in 95 outpatients with hypertension complicated by type 2 diabetes mellitus who were treated orally for ≤ 12 months with telmisartan 40 mg/day, losartan 50 mg/day or candesartan 8 mg/day. At 1 year, in the telmisartan and losartan groups CAVI did not change whereas in the candesartan group CAVI showed a statistically significant decrease of 2.70%. Although telmisartan is believed to enhance the activity of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR-γ) in vitro, it did not ameliorate arterial stiffness in our patients. Candesartan, however, improved arterial stiffness independently of blood pressure lowering and without PPAR-γ agonist action, possibly by direct action resulting from its potent affinity and binding capacity for the angiotensin II type 1 receptor. We conclude that candesartan is a potentially useful therapy against arterial stiffness in hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
The Relationship between Clinico-Biochemical Characteristics and Psychiatric Distress in Young Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Adali E , Yildizhan R , Kurdoglu M , Kolusari A , Edirne T , Sahin HG , Yildizhan B , Kamaci M
Published: February 2013

The relationship between clinico-biochemical characteristics and self-reported psychological parameters in 42 women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and 42 age-matched healthy controls was examined. The General Health Questionnaire was used (GHQ-12) to ascertain emotional distress and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) to determine depressive symptoms. Emotional distress, depressive symptoms, hirsutism score, body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone ratio, serum total testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate levels and the insulin resistance index were significantly greater in women with PCOS than in healthy women. The BDI and GHQ-12 scores of the women with PCOS were significantly higher than those of the control group (BDI, 11.69 ± 9.49 vs 5.80 ± 4.58; GHQ-12, 3.38 ± 3.38 vs 1.54 ± 1.97, respectively), and BMI and WHR were positively correlated with the BDI and GHQ-12 scores. Clinicians should be aware of the increased risk of emotional distress and depression in women with PCOS, especially those who are obese, and of the need to screen these patients for such symptoms.
Effect of Thiamine Pyrophosphate on Levels of Serum Lactate, Maximum Oxygen Consumption and Heart Rate in Athletes Performing Aerobic Activity
Authors: Bautista-Hernández VM , López-Ascencio R , Del Toro-Equihua M , Vásquez C
Published: February 2013

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP) on serum lactate levels, maximum oxygen consumption (Vo2max) and heart rate in male athletes performing aerobic activity. A double-blind, randomized, crossover study was performed in which lactate levels, Vo2max and heart rates in 27 male athletes were compared at rest and after exercise, following administration of placebo (sodium chloride 0.9%) or TPP (1 mg/kg). At rest, serum lactate levels after placebo or TPP were similar; however, after exercise, the levels were lower in the athletes after taking TPP than after placebo. During exercise, Vo2max in athletes on TPP was higher than on placebo. At rest, heart rate after taking placebo or TPP was similar but, after exercise, heart rate was lower after taking TPP than after placebo. It is concluded that TPP caused serum lactate levels and heart rate to be lower than placebo and Vo2max to be higher in athletes performing aerobic physical activity.
Amlodipine Reduces Predicted Risk of Coronary Heart Disease in High-Risk Patients with Hypertension in Spain (The CORONARIA Study)
Authors: Zamorano J , Padial L Rodriguez , Cosín J , Hernandiz A , Gutierrez-Chico JL , de Isla L Pérez , Arístegui R , Masramon X
Published: February 2013

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of amlodipine besylate alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents in high-risk hypertensive patients in Spanish primary care. In this 1-year, open-label, prospective cohort study, 7468 patients were treated with amlodipine 5–10 mg as a monotherapy or as an add-on therapy to attain blood pressure control (target of < 140/90 mmHg or, in patients with conditions such as diabetes or chronic kidney disease, < 130/85 mmHg). At 12 months, the primary outcome (change from baseline in predicted 10-year coronary heart disease risk) was −8.6%, down from 24.7% at baseline (relative risk reduction, 31.6%). Change in blood pressure from baseline (162.5/95.3 mmHg) was −26.7/-14.6 mmHg, and 38.6% of patients achieved their blood pressure target. In summary, significant reductions in predicted coronary heart disease risk and blood pressure were observed with amlodipine both as a monotherapy and as an add-on therapy. Amlodipine was well tolerated and compliance with treatment was good.
Quantitative Assay for Janus Kinase 2 (JAK2) Mutation in Chinese Patients with Chronic Myeloproliferative Disorders
Authors: Shen Y-M , Chao H-Y , Zhang R , Feng Y-F , Cen J-N , Yao L , Shen H-J , Zhu Z-L , Xue Y-Q
Published: February 2013

The Janus kinase 2 ( JAK2) V617F mutation has considerably helped understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of chronic myeloproliferative disorders (MPD), hence this study investigated for the first time the mutational status and relative quantitation of JAK2 V617F mRNA in Chinese patients with chronic MPD. The study cohort comprised 123 chronic MPD patients (35 with polycythaemia vera [PV], 85 with essential thrombocythaemia [ET], three with idiopathic myelofibrosis [IMF]). Blood samples examined by amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (ARMS-PCR) and capillary electrophoresis showed that the prevalence of the JAK2 V617F mutation was 100%, 62.4% and 66.7% in PV, ET and IMF patients, respectively. The proportion of JAK2 V617F mutated mRNA was 89.5% in homozygotes and 57.9% in heterozygotes; 18 PV heterozygous patients showed significantly higher mutated JAK2 mRNA levels than 36 heterozygous ET patients. Six of 93 patients exhibited abnormal karyotypes, but specific chromosomal abnormality was not found. The combination of ARMS-PCR and capillary electrophoresis enables quantitative assay of JAK2 V617F mutation, which helps in chronic MPD diagnosis and estimation of minimal residual disease.
Induced Liver Allograft Immunological Tolerance in Rats by Intramuscular Injection of Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus–Human Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated Antigen-4 Immunoglobulin (rAAV-hCTLA4Ig)
Authors: Su Z-L , Zhong X-Y , Cui Y-F , Tai S
Published: February 2013

Induction of liver allograft immunological tolerance was performed in rats by intramuscular injection of recombinant adeno-associated virus- human cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 immunoglobulin (rAAV- hCTLA4Ig). Dark Agouti and Lewis rats were liver allograft donors and recipients, respectively, in four groups: (A) syngeneic control, (B) blank control, (C) rAAV-enhanced green fluorescent protein negative control, (D) rAAV- hCTLA4Ig. Gene transfers occurred 6 weeks before transplantation. Group D had a significantly longer liver graft survival time (> 100 days) than groups B (11.9 ± 1.3 days) and C (11.6 ± 1.1 days). Groups B and C showed severe rejection responses and large amounts of CD4+ and CD8+ T-lymphocyte infiltration, while only a mild response and few T-lymphocytes were observed in group D. There were no significant differences in interleukin-2 and interferon-γ levels in liver grafts between groups D and C, but there were significant decreases in granzyme B and lymphotoxin β levels in group D compared with group C. It is concluded that immunological tolerance to liver allograft could be achieved by gene transfer of rAAV- hCTLA4Ig through intramuscular injection.