bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyzing the Study of Using Acupuncture in Delivery in the Past Ten Years in China
Authors: Chen Yingru , Zhang Xuekai , Fang Yigong , Yang Jinsheng
Published: February 2014

The use of acupuncture in inducing delivery has a long history in China. With progress over time, it has been applied in many aspects. For further study of acupuncture in delivery, this paper analyzed the papers using acupuncture in delivery in the past ten years in mainland China. 87 literatures were picked out by searching relevant electronic databases and bibliographies of relevant journals. The analysis showed randomized controlled trials that were the major type of research, while preclinical researches and literature reviews only account for around ten percent, respectively. Clinical researches indicated that acupuncture can relieve labor pain, promote maternal uterine contraction, shorten birth process, and treat postpartum disorders. Preclinical researches found that acupuncture can adjust certain hormones and improve uterus contraction of late‐stage pregnant rats. However, due to lack of large multicenter randomized controlled clinical trials, standardized evaluations of clinical effects in clinical researches and detailed mechanism study in preclinical researches and unequivocal conclusions about the effectiveness, efficacy, and mechanisms of acupuncture in this field cannot be obtained from those researches yet. Further clinical and preclinical studies about the use of acupuncture in delivery with improved methodology is still needed.
An Approximate Analytical Solution of Sloshing Frequencies for a Liquid in Various Shape Aqueducts
Authors: Li Yuchun , Wang Zhuang
Published: February 2014

An approximate analytical solution of sloshing frequencies for a liquid in the various shape aqueducts is formulated by using the Ritz method. The present approximate method is, respectively, applied to find the sloshing frequencies of the liquid in rectangular, trapezoid, oval, circular, U-shaped tanks (aqueducts), and various shape tuned liquid dampers (TLD). The first three antisymmetric and symmetric frequencies by the present approach are within 5% accuracy compared to the other analytical, numerical, and experimental values. The approximate solutions of this paper for the various shape aqueducts are acceptable to the engineering applications.
Mycobacterium aviumSubsp.aviumInfection in Four Veal Calves: Differentiation from Intestinal Tuberculosis
Authors: Goepfert Christine , Regenscheit Nadine , Schumacher Vanessa , Roos Simone , Rossier Christophe , Baehler Corinne , Schmitt Sarah , Posthaus Horst
Published: February 2014

Mycobacterium aviumsubsp.avium(Maa) is an intracellular pathogen belonging to theMycobacterium avium-intracellularecomplex (MAC). Reservoirs of MAC are the natural environment, wildlife and domestic animals. In adult bovine, MAC infections are typically caused byMycobacterium aviumsubsp.paratuberculosis(Map). Maa infections in bovine are rarely reported but may cause clinical disease and pathological lesions similar to those observed in paratuberculosis or those induced by members of theMycobacterium tuberculosiscomplex (MTBC). Therefore, differentiation of MAC from MTBC infection should be attempted, especially if unusual mycobacterial lesions are encountered. Four veal calves from a fattening farm dying with clinical signs of otitis media, fever, and weight loss were submitted for necropsy. Samples from affected organs were taken for histologic investigation, bacteriologic culture, and bacterial specification using PCR. Macroscopic thickening of the intestinal mucosa was induced by granulomatous enteritis and colitis. Intracytoplasmic acid-fast bacteria were detected by Ziehl-Neelsen stains and PCR revealed positive results forMycobacterium aviumsubsp.avium. Clinical and pathological changes of Maa infection in veal calves had features ofMycobacterium aviumsubsp.paratuberculosisand the MTBC. Therefore,Mycobacterium tuberculosiscomplex infection should be considered in cases of granulomatous enteritis in calves.
Aberrant Glycosylation as Biomarker for Cancer: Focus on CD43
Authors: Tuccillo Franca Maria , de Laurentiis Annamaria , Palmieri Camillo , Fiume Giuseppe , Bonelli Patrizia , Borrelli Antonella , Tassone Pierfrancesco , Scala Iris , Buonaguro Franco Maria , Quinto Ileana , Scala Giuseppe
Published: February 2014

Glycosylation is a posttranslational modification of proteins playing a major role in cell signalling, immune recognition, and cell-cell interaction because of their glycan branches conferring structure variability and binding specificity to lectin ligands. Aberrant expression of glycan structures as well as occurrence of truncated structures, precursors, or novel structures of glycan may affect ligand-receptor interactions and thus interfere with regulation of cell adhesion, migration, and proliferation. Indeed, aberrant glycosylation represents a hallmark of cancer, reflecting cancer-specific changes in glycan biosynthesis pathways such as the altered expression of glycosyltransferases and glycosidases. Most studies have been carried out to identify changes in serum glycan structures. In most cancers, fucosylation and sialylation are significantly modified. Thus, aberrations in glycan structures can be used as targets to improve existing serum cancer biomarkers. The ability to distinguish differences in the glycosylation of proteins between cancer and control patients emphasizes glycobiology as a promising field for potential biomarker identification. In this review, we discuss the aberrant protein glycosylation associated with human cancer and the identification of protein glycoforms as cancer biomarkers. In particular, we will focus on the aberrant CD43 glycosylation as cancer biomarker and the potential to exploit the UN1 monoclonal antibody (UN1 mAb) to identify aberrant CD43 glycoforms.
Management of Hypertension in Intrapericardial Paraganglioma
Authors: Rotolo Nicola , Imperatori Andrea , Bacuzzi Alessandro , Conti Valentina , Castiglioni Massimo , Dominioni Lorenzo
Published: February 2014

Functioning paraganglioma is extra-adrenal catecholamine-secreting tumours that may cause secondary hypertension. Primary intrapericardial paragangliomas are very rare and are located adjacent to the great vessels or heart, typically near the left atrium. These tumours are an exceptionally uncommon finding during the investigation of refractory hypertension. However, in recent years, intrapericardial paragangliomas have been diagnosed incidentally with increased frequency, due to the extensive use of radiologic chest imaging. The mainstay of treatment of functioning intrapericardial paraganglioma is surgical removal, which usually achieves blood pressure normalization. Due to the locations of these tumours, the surgical approach is through a median sternotomy or posterolateral thoracotomy, and manipulation-induced catecholamine release may cause paroxysmal hypertension. Typically in these patients, blood pressure fluctuates dramatically intra- and post-operatively, increasing the risk of cardiovascular complications. We review here the current modalities of perioperative fluid and hypotensive drug administration in the setting of surgery for functioning intrapericardial paraganglioma and discuss the recently proposed paradigm shift that omits preoperative preparation.
Gender Differences of B Cell Signature in Healthy Subjects Underlie Disparities in Incidence and Course of SLE Related to Estrogen
Authors: Fan Hongye , Dong Guanjun , Zhao Guangfeng , Liu Fei , Yao Genghong , Zhu Yichao , Hou Yayi
Published: February 2014

The aim of the present study was to investigate mechanism of the gender differences of B cells. The results showed that 358 differential gene expressions (DEGs) were displayed between healthy females and males. Compared with male, 226 and 132 genes were found to be up- and downregulated in the female. 116 genes displayed possible correlation with estrogen. Moreover, the upregulated DEGs (Cav1, CD200R1, TNFRSF17, and CXCR3) and downregulated DEGs (EIF1AY and DDX3Y) in healthy female may be involved in gender predominance of some immune diseases. Furthermore, signaling pathway analysis for estrogen-relevant DEGs showed that only 26 genes were downregulated in SLE female versus SLE male, of which expressions of 8 genes had significant difference between SLE females and SLE males but are having nonsignificant difference between healthy females and healthy males. Except for the 5 Y-chromosome-related genes or varients, only 3 DEGs (LTF, CAMP, and DEFA4) were selected and qRT-PCR confirmed that the expressions of LTF and CAMP decreased significantly in B cells from female SLE patients. These data indicated that the gender differences were existent in global gene expression of B cells and the difference may be related to estrogen.
Perirectal Abscess Masquerading as Cauda Equina Syndrome in an Otherwise Healthy 12-Year-Old Child
Authors: Dean Dylan
Published: February 2014

A 12-year-old boy was brought to an urgent care center for fever, back pain, and abnormal gait. In addition to back pain, the patient was found to be persistently febrile but also had decreased perianal sensation and bowel incontinence. He was therefore referred to the emergency department where his back pain improved without medication but he was still febrile with bowel incontinence and persistently decreased perianal sensation. An MRI was ordered to evaluate possible cauda equina syndrome and revealed a perirectal abscess. The child ultimately underwent an exam under anesthesia with pediatric surgery and had a drain placed. This case highlights a unique presentation of perirectal abscess masquerading as cauda equina syndrome. A discussion of important considerations in emergency room diagnosis and management is presented.
Association between Dental Erosion and Diet in Brazilian Adolescents Aged from 15 to 19: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Aguiar Yêska Paola Costa , Santos Fábio Gomes dos , Moura Eline Freitas de Farias , Costa Fernanda Clotilde Mariz da , Auad Sheyla Marcia , Paiva Saul Martins de , Cavalcanti Alessandro Leite
Published: February 2014

Dental erosion is a pathological condition resulting from the irreversible dissolution of the mineralized portion of the teeth, being recognized in modern society as an important cause of loss of tooth structure. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and its association with diet in Brazilian adolescents of Campina Grande, PB, Brazil. A population-based study was conducted on a stratified sample of 675 adolescents aged from 15 to 19 of both sexes using the index proposed by O'Sullivan. Dental examinations were performed by two calibrated dentists (kappa = 0.82). The significance level adopted was 5%. The prevalence of dental erosion was 21%, and the upper central incisors and lateral incisors were the most affected elements, with 50.5% and 40.2%, respectively. The buccal surface showed greater impairment (51.4%) and 67.8% of teeth with dental erosion had more than half of the surface of affected area. Most damage was on the enamel (93.5%). There were no statistically significant differences between the occurrence of dental erosion and gender, age, socioeconomic status, self-reported ethnicity, and diet. There was high prevalence of dental erosion in its early stages among adolescents and there were no significant differences in the frequency of the consumption of foods and beverages and the presence of dental erosion.
Advance of Molecular Imaging Technology and Targeted Imaging Agent in Imaging and Therapy
Authors: Chen Zhi-Yi , Wang Yi-Xiang , Lin Yan , Zhang Jin-Shan , Yang Feng , Zhou Qiu-Lan , Liao Yang-Ying
Published: February 2014

Molecular imaging is an emerging field that integrates advanced imaging technology with cellular and molecular biology. It can realize noninvasive and real time visualization, measurement of physiological or pathological process in the living organism at the cellular and molecular level, providing an effective method of information acquiring for diagnosis, therapy, and drug development and evaluating treatment of efficacy. Molecular imaging requires high resolution and high sensitive instruments and specific imaging agents that link the imaging signal with molecular event. Recently, the application of new emerging chemical technology and nanotechnology has stimulated the development of imaging agents. Nanoparticles modified with small molecule, peptide, antibody, and aptamer have been extensively applied for preclinical studies. Therapeutic drug or gene is incorporated into nanoparticles to construct multifunctional imaging agents which allow for theranostic applications. In this review, we will discuss the characteristics of molecular imaging, the novel imaging agent including targeted imaging agent and multifunctional imaging agent, as well as cite some examples of their application in molecular imaging and therapy.
Study and Application of Polymer Film-Forming Shielding Plugging Drilling Fluid System
Authors: Sun Yuxue , Teng Fei , Zhao Jingyuan
Published: February 2014

To solve the low cementing quality of acoustic logging and some distensible well diameters in high permeable layer of Daqing Lamadian oilfield, we have carried out the study and field application of polymer film-forming shielding plugging drilling fluid system. By adding this polymer film-forming shielding plugging agent to macromolecule emulsion drilling fluid, the shielding and plugging effect will be improved. Combined with the experiment and analysis, we optimize the adding amount of this agent to improve the performance of drilling fluid system. From the application effect, the cementing quality of acoustic logging has been improved obviously. This system has been applied in 20 wells and there are 15 high quality wells. The merit factor of well cementing reaches 75%.
False-Negative Rate of Gram-Stain Microscopy for Diagnosis of Septic Arthritis: Suggestions for Improvement
Authors: Stirling Paul , Faroug Radwane , Amanat Suheil , Ahmed Abdulkhaled , Armstrong Malcolm , Sharma Pankaj , Qamruddin Ahmed
Published: February 2014

We quantify the false-negative diagnostic rate of septic arthritis using Gram-stain microscopy of synovial fluid and compare this to values reported in the peer-reviewed literature. We propose a method of improving the diagnostic value of Gram-stain microscopy using Lithium Heparin containers that prevent synovial fluid coagulation. Retrospective study of the Manchester Royal Infirmary microbiology database of patients undergoing synovial fluid Gram-stain and culture between December 2003 and March 2012 was undertaken. The initial cohort of 1896 synovial fluid analyses for suspected septic arthritis was reduced to 143 after exclusion criteria were applied. Analysis of our Gram-stain microscopy yielded 111 false-negative results from a cohort size of 143 positive synovial fluid cultures, giving a false-negative rate of 78%. We report a false-negative rate of Gram-stain microscopy for septic arthritis of 78%. Clinicians should therefore avoid the investigation until a statistically significant data set confirms its efficacy. The investigation's value could be improved by using Lithium Heparin containers to collect homogenous synovial fluid samples. Ongoing research aims to establish how much this could reduce the false-negative rate.
Sunitinib Improves Some Clinical Aspects and Reverts DMBA-Induced Hyperplasic Lesions in Hamster Buccal Pouch
Authors: de Souza Fernanda Lopes , Oliveira Mariana , Nunes Marianne Brochado , Serafim Lucas Horstmann , Azambuja Alan Arrieira , Braga Luisa Maria G. de M. , Saur Lisiani , de Souza Maria Antonieta Lopes , Xavier Léder Leal
Published: February 2014

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a public health problem. The hamster buccal pouch model is ideal for analyzing the development of OSCC. This research analysed the effects of sunitinib (tyrosine kinase inhibitor) in precancerous lesions induced by 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) in this model. Thirty-four male hamsters, divided into six groups: control—C n=7, acetone—A n=12, carbamide peroxide—CP n=5, acetone and CP—A+CP n=8, 1% DMBA in acetone and CP—DA+CP n=6, and 1% DMBA in acetone and CP and 4-week treatment with sunitinib—DA+CP+S n=7. The aspects evaluated were anatomopathological features (peribuccal area, paws, nose, and fur), histological sections of the hamster buccal pouches (qualitatively analyzed), epithelium thickness, and the rete ridge density (estimated). Sunitinib was unable to attenuate the decrease in weight gain induced by DMBA; no increase in volume was detected in the pouch and/or ulceration, observed in 43% of the animals in the DA+CP group. DA+CP groups presented a significant increase in rete ridge density compared to the control groups (P<0.01) which was reverted by sunitinib in the DA+CP+S group. Sunitinib seems to have important benefits in early stage carcinogenesis and may be useful in chemoprevention.
Indium‐Nitrogen Codoped Zinc Oxide Thin Film Deposited by Ultrasonic Spray Pyrolysis on n‐(111) Si Substrate: The Effect of Film Thickness
Authors: Yu Cheng-Chang , Lan Wen-How , Huang Kai-Feng
Published: February 2014

Indium‐nitrogen codoped zinc oxide (INZO) thin films were fabricated by spray pyrolysis deposition technique on n‐(111) Si substrate with different film thicknesses at 450°C using a precursor containing zinc acetate, ammonium acetate, and indium nitrate with 1 : 3 : 0.05 at.% concentration. The morphology and structure studies were carried out by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The grain size of the films increased when increasing the film thickness. From XRD spectra, polycrystalline ZnO structure can be observed and the preferred orientation behavior varied from (002) to (101) as the film thickness increased. The concentration and mobility were investigated by Hall effect measurement. the p‐type films with a hole mobility around 3 cm2V−1s−1 and hole concentration around 3 × 1019 cm−3 can be achieved with film thickness less than 385 nm. The n‐type conduction with concentration 1 × 1020 cm−3 is observed for film with thickness 1089 nm. The defect states were characterized by photoluminescence. With temperature‐dependent conductivity analysis, acceptor state with activation energy 0.139 eV dominate the p type conduction for thin INZO film. And the Zn‐related shallow donors with activation energy 0.029 eV dominate the n‐type conduction for the thick INZO film.
Leptin Receptor Gene Gln223Arg Polymorphism Is Not Associated with Hypertension: A Preliminary Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Pena Geórgia das Graças , Guimarães Andre L. S. , Veloso Rosângela R. , Reis Tatiana C. , Gomes Crizian S. , Neto João F. R. , Velasquez-Melendez Gustavo
Published: February 2014

Hypertension is responsible for high morbidity and mortality as one of the most important cardiometabolic risk factors. The aim of the study was to investigate whether the Gln223Arg in the leptin receptor (LEPR) influences the prevalence of hypertension. A cross-sectional study was carried out in individuals aged ≥ 18 years. Polymorphism identification was performed using PCR-RFLP analysis. Participants with blood pressure ≥ 140/90 mmHg or medication use were considered hypertensive. Frequencies, means, cross-tabulations, and multivariate models were produced to study differences in hypertension prevalence by genotypes. The study includes 470 participants. The frequency of GG polymorphism variant was 10.43%, 46.81% AG, and 42.77% AA. The distribution of hypertension frequency by LEPR genotypes was the following: AA 43.8%, AG 40.4%, and GG 40.8%; there were no significant differences between groups. Comparative analysis which used multivariate Poisson regression adjusted by many potential confounders (age, sex, schooling, smoking, alcohol intake, obesity, and family history of parental obesity) did not modify this result. In this large sample of population-based study, the association of the LEPR Gln223Arg gene polymorphism with hypertension was not observed.
Access to Complex Abortion Care Service and Planning Improved through a Toll-Free Telephone Resource Line
Authors: Norman Wendy V. , Hestrin Barbara , Dueck Royce
Published: February 2014

Background. Providing equitable access to the full range of reproductive health services over wide geographic areas presents significant challenges to any health system. We present a review of a service provision model which has provided improved access to abortion care; support for complex issues experienced by women seeking nonjudgmental family planning health services; and a mechanism to collect information on access barriers. The toll-free pregnancy options service (POS) of British Columbia Women’s Hospital and Health Centre sought to improve access to services and overcome barriers experienced by women seeking abortion.Methods. We describe the development and implementation of a province-wide toll-free telephone counseling and access facilitation service, including establishment of a provincial network of local abortion service providers in the Canadian province of British Columbia from 1998 to 2010.Results. Over 2000 women annually access service via the POS line, networks of care providers are established and linked to central support, and central program planners receive timely information on new service gaps and access barriers.Conclusion. This novel service has been successful in addressing inequities and access barriers identified as priorities before service establishment. The service provided unanticipated benefits to health care planning and monitoring of provincial health care related service delivery and gaps. This model for low cost health service delivery may realize similar benefits when applied to other health care systems where access and referral barriers exist.
First Rank Symptoms and Neurological Soft Signs in Schizophrenia
Authors: Hembram Mahesh , Simlai Jayati , Chaudhury Suprakash , Biswas Parthasarathi
Published: February 2014

The aim of the study was to compare the neurological soft signs (NSS) in schizophrenia patients with and without first rank symptoms (FRS), their first degree relatives (FDR), and normal controls. The study was conducted on 60 schizophrenia patients diagnosed according to ICD 10 DCR and categorized into groups with and without FRS using Schedules for Clinical Assessment in Neuropsychiatry, 30 FDRs of the study sample, and 30 normal controls matched for age, education, and handedness. All the subjects gave written informed consent. Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms and Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms were applied to have a comprehensive assessment of the symptoms. NSS were assessed using Extended Standard Neurological Assessment Instrument. The correlations between NSS and clinical symptoms were relatively modest but significant. There was a weak relation between NSS and positive symptom severity. The FDR of schizophrenia patients had significantly lower NSS scores than schizophrenia patients, but only FDR of schizophrenia patients without FRS had significantly higher scores than normal controls. Our results indicate that NSS are more prominent in schizophrenia patients with negative symptoms and support the theory of NSS being a trait marker of schizophrenia particularly in those without FRS.
Hearing Benefit in Allograft Tympanoplasty Using Tutoplast Processed Malleus
Authors: Lieder Anja , Issing Wolfgang
Published: February 2014

Objectives.Tutoplast processed human cadaveric ossicular allografts are a safe alternative for ossicular reconstruction where there is insufficient material suitable for autograft ossiculoplasty. We present a series of 7 consecutive cases showing excellent air-bone gap closure following canal-wall-down mastoidectomy for cholesteatoma and reconstruction of the middle ear using Tutoplast processed malleus.Patients and Methods.Tympanoplasty with Tutoplast processed malleus was performed in seven patients to reconstruct the middle ear following canal-wall-down mastoidectomy in a tertiary ENT centre.Main Outcome Measures.Hearing improvement and recurrence-free period were assessed. Pre-and postoperative audiograms were performed.Results.The average pre operative hearing loss was 50 ± 13 dB, with an air-bone gap of 33 ± 7 dB. Post operative audiograms at 25 months demonstrated hearing thresholds of 29 ± 10 dB, with an air-bone gap of 14 ± 6 dB. No prosthesis extrusion was observed, which compares favourably to other commercially available prostheses.Conclusions.Tutoplast processed allografts restore conductive hearing loss in patients undergoing mastoidectomy and provide an excellent alternative when there is insufficient material suitable for autograft ossiculoplasty.
A New Method with Sufficient Descent Property for Unconstrained Optimization
Authors: Qian Weiyi , Cui Haijuan
Published: February 2014

Recently, sufficient descent property plays an important role in the global convergence analysis of some iterative methods. In this paper, we propose a new iterative method for solving unconstrained optimization problems. This method provides a sufficient descent direction for objective function. Moreover, the global convergence of the proposed method is established under some appropriate conditions. We also report some numerical results and compare the performance of the proposed method with some existing methods. Numerical results indicate that the presented method is efficient.
Finite Element Modeling of Laminated Composite Plates with Locally Delaminated Interface Subjected to Impact Loading
Authors: Abo Sabah Saddam Hussein , Kueh Ahmad Beng Hong
Published: February 2014

This paper investigates the effects of localized interface progressive delamination on the behavior of two-layer laminated composite plates when subjected to low velocity impact loading for various fiber orientations. By means of finite element approach, the laminae stiffnesses are constructed independently from their interface, where a well-defined virtually zero-thickness interface element is discreetly adopted for delamination simulation. The present model has the advantage of simulating a localized interfacial condition at arbitrary locations, for various degeneration areas and intensities, under the influence of numerous boundary conditions since the interfacial description is expressed discretely. In comparison, the model shows good agreement with existing results from the literature when modeled in a perfectly bonded state. It is found that as the local delamination area increases, so does the magnitude of the maximum displacement history. Also, as top and bottom fiber orientations deviation increases, both central deflection and energy absorption increase although the relative maximum displacement correspondingly decreases when in contrast to the laminates perfectly bonded state.
Visible-Light-Driven Photocatalytic Degradation of Aniline over NaBiO3
Authors: Liu Guo , Wang Zhen , Zheng Wenjie , Yang Shaogui , Sun Cheng
Published: February 2014

Aniline was almost completely degraded in 30 min in given conditions. It was found that pH and NaBiO3dosage had played important role in the photocatalytic degradation. To scrutinize the mechanistic details of the aniline photodegradation, several critical analytical methods including spectroscopy and GC/MS were utilized to detect the temporal course of the reaction. Intermediates and several small molecular products were separated and identified, such as C2H5O3N, C10H13O2N, and C12H10N2. Then two possible photodegradation pathways of aniline over NaBiO3were proposed: ring opening and mineralization.
Intrinsic Subtypes from the PAM50 Gene Expression Assay in a Population-Based Breast Cancer Survivor Cohort: Prognostication of Short- and Long-term Outcomes
Authors: Caan Bette J. , Sweeney Carol , Habel Laurel A. , Kwan Marilyn L. , Kroenke Candyce H. , Weltzien Erin K. , Quesenberry Charles P. , Castillo Adrienne , Factor Rachel E. , Kushi Lawrence H. , Bernard Philip S.
Published: February 2014

Background: The PAM50, a gene expression assay to categorize breast tumors into intrinsic subtypes, has not been previously used to examine short- and long-term prognostication in a population-based cohort where treatment patterns and time of initial follow-up vary.

Methods: In a stratified case–cohort design of 1,691 women from the LACE and Pathways breast cancer survivor cohorts, we used PAM50 to categorize tumors into Luminal A (LumA), Luminal B (LumB), HER2-enriched (HER2-E), Basal-like and Normal-like, and to examine risk of early and late recurrence and mortality by Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results: Compared with LumA, cumulative risk of recurrence and breast cancer death was higher for LumB, HER2-E, and Basal-like tumors at 2, 5, and 10 years. However, HR of breast cancer death varied over time [<5 years (early) vs. > 5 years (late)] for both Basal-like (HR, 6.23 early vs. HR, 0.63 late) and HER2-E tumors (HR, 2.97 early vs. HR, 0.73 late) but not for LumB tumors where risk was elevated consistently (HR, 2.67 early vs. HR, 1.47 late). The contrast between LumB, HER2-E, and Basal-like compared with LumA on early recurrence was stronger when subtype was defined by PAM50 than by immunohistochemistry (IHC) markers.

Conclusions: The PAM50 categorized intrinsic subtypes in a manner that more accurately predicts recurrence and survival, especially for luminal tumors, compared with commonly used methods that rely on traditional IHC clinical markers.

Impact: The PAM50 is robust for use in epidemiologic studies and should be considered when archived tumor tissues are available. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(5); 725–34. ©2014 AACR.
Genetic Variants and Multiple Myeloma Risk: IMMEnSE Validation of the Best Reported Associations—An Extensive Replication of the Associations from the Candidate Gene Era
Authors: Martino Alessandro , Campa Daniele , Jurczyszyn Artur , Martínez-López Joaquín , Moreno María José , Varkonyi Judit , Dumontet Charles , García-Sanz Ramón , Gemignani Federica , Jamroziak Krzysztof , Stępień Anna , Jacobsen Svend E. Hove , Andersen Vibeke , Jurado Manuel , Landi Stefano , Rossi Anna Maria , Lesueur Fabienne , Marques Herlander , Dudziński Marek , Wątek Marzena , Moreno Victor , Orciuolo Enrico , Petrini Mario , Reis Rui Manuel , Ríos Rafael , Sainz Juan , Vogel Ulla , Buda Gabriele , Vangsted Annette Juul , Canzian Federico
Published: February 2014

Background: Genetic background plays a role in multiple myeloma susceptibility. Several single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) associated with genetic susceptibility to multiple myeloma were identified in the last years, but only a few of them were validated in independent studies.

Methods: With the aim to conclusively validate the strongest associations so far reported, we selected the polymorphisms rs2227667 (SERPINE1), rs17501108 (HGF), rs3136685 (CCR7), rs16944 (IL1B), rs12147254 (TRAF3), rs1805087 (MTR), rs1800629 (TNF-α), rs7516435 (CASP9), rs1042265 (BAX), rs2234922 (mEH), and rs1801133 (MTHFR). We genotyped them in 1,498 multiple myeloma cases and 1,934 controls ascertained in the context of the International Multiple Myeloma rESEarch (IMMEnSE) consortium, and meta-analyzed our results with previously published ones.

Results: None of the selected SNPs were significantly associated with multiple myeloma risk (P value range, 0.055–0.981), possibly with the exception of the SNP rs2227667 (SERPINE1) in women.

Conclusions: We can exclude that the selected polymorphisms are major multiple myeloma risk factors.

Impact: Independent validation studies are crucial to identify true genetic risk factors. Our large-scale study clarifies the role of previously published polymorphisms in multiple myeloma risk. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(4); 670–4. ©2014 AACR.
Primate-Specific miR-663 Functions as a Tumor Suppressor by Targeting PIK3CD and Predicts the Prognosis of Human Glioblastoma
Authors: Shi Yu , Chen Cong , Zhang Xia , Liu Qing , Xu Jin-Ling , Zhang Hua-Rong , Yao Xiao-Hong , Jiang Tao , He Zhi-Cheng , Ren Yong , Cui Wei , Xu Chuan , Liu Ling , Cui You-Hong , Yu Shi-Zhu , Ping Yi-Fang , Bian Xiu-Wu
Published: February 2014

Purpose: To determine the prognostic significance of miR-663 in glioblastoma, its effect in tumor progression, and the underlying mechanism.

Experimental Design: Specimens from 256 cases of patients with glioma, including 239 patients with follow-up information, were used to analyze the association between miR-663 and patients' prognosis by Kaplan–Meier and multivariate Cox regression analyses. The effects of miR-663 on glioblastoma cell proliferation and invasion were examined both in vitro and in vivo. Bioinformatics prediction and signal network analysis were applied to identify the putative targets of miR-663, which were further verified by luciferase reporter assay, rescue experiments as well as the immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Western blotting examination of downstream effectors. Quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR) and IHC were applied to investigate the clinical association between miR-663 and its target in human glioblastoma specimens.

Results: miR-663 was inversely correlated with glioma grades but positively correlated with patients' survival. Furthermore, two distinct subgroups of patients with glioblastoma with different prognoses were identified on the basis of miR-663 expression in our specimens and that from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Overexpression of miR-663 significantly suppressed the proliferation and invasion of glioblastoma cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we discovered PIK3CD as a direct target of miR-663 and found that phosphorylated AKT and three key downstream effectors of PIK3CD, i.e., CCND1, MMP2, and MMP7, were downregulated by miR-663 overexpression. Moreover, PIK3CD was inversely correlated with miR-663 in glioblastoma specimens and predicted poor prognosis of patients with glioblastoma.

Conclusion: miR-663 is a novel prognostic biomarker and a potential therapeutic candidate for glioblastoma. Clin Cancer Res; 20(7); 1803–13. ©2014 AACR.
Course of Hemoglobin and Hematocrit during and after Preparatory Plasmaphereses without and with Infusion of NaCl 0.9% 500 ml
Authors: Evers Josef , Ehren Norbert , Engelen Tanja , Hansen Michael , Luethje Kerstin , Taborski Uwe
Published: February 2014

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the course of hemoglobin (HGB) concentration and hematocrit (HCT) in donor blood during and after preparatory plasmaphereses (PP) without NaCl and with an infusion of 500 ml 0.9% NaCl during PP. Methods: After informed consent 32 plasma donors were studied in a crossover design. They underwent PP once without NaCl infusion and once, on a different day, with infusion of 500 ml 0.9% NaCl. HGB concentration and HCT values in donor blood were analyzed using a Sysmex KX-21N analyzer. The values of HGB concentration and HCT before PP were set to 100%. Changes in HGB concentration and HCT were calculated in percent directly after PP, and after 24 and 72 h. Results: During PP, there was a notable change in HGB concentration (11.2 ± 4.0%) and HCT (11.6 ± 3.9%) in donor blood. The difference between the 2 samples without and with NaCl was highly significant (p < 0.001). After 24 and 72 h, all differences were reduced. Conclusion: We observed significant changes in HGB concentration and HCT in donor blood during PP. We recommend a concomitant infusion of 500 ml 0.9% NaCl during PP to all donors.
Gastrointestinal and Extragastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: Report of Two Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Antonopoulos Petros , Leonardou Polytimi , Barbagiannis Nikolaos , Alexiou Konstantinos , Demonakou Maria , Economou Nikolaos
Published: February 2014

We present two cases, one of a gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) in the stomach and one of an extragastrointestinal stromal tumor (EGIST) in the hepatogastric ligament, which were discovered as incidental findings during computed tomography (CT) scans performed for other reasons. In both cases the diagnosis of the tumor was confirmed histologically and immunohistochemically. During the follow-up CT examinations these tumors proved to have a completely different natural course. The first case refers to an 82-year-old male patient with GIST of the stomach who refused to be operated and was followed by CT scans for a 4-year period. This patient did not show any significant changes in the morphology, size and density of the lesion. The second case refers to a 58-year-old female patient with EGIST of the hepatogastric ligament who presented with simultaneous liver metastases and remained healthy for 2 years after surgical resection, but developed local recurrence later. As a conclusion, both GISTs/EGISTs can be revealed as incidental findings in a CT scan performed for other purposes. Moreover, an untreated GIST located in the stomach can remain unchanged and without metastatic lesions for a long period of time, as in our case for a 4-year period. To our knowledge, this is the first report in the literature in whom a GIST was proved to remain almost unchanged for many years without any treatment, and we therefore attempt a further review of the current literature on stromal tumors.
Short-Term Physical Therapy Treatment for Female Urinary Incontinence: A Quality of Life Evaluation
Authors: Rett Mariana Tirolli , Giraldo Paulo César , Gonçalves Ana Katherine da Silveira , Eleutério Junior José , Morais Sirlei Siani , DeSantana Josimari Melo , Amaral Rose Luce Gomes do
Published: February 2014

Introduction: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a widespread health condition and in some situations conservative treatment has been recommended. The aim of this study was to compare women's quality of life (QoL) before and after short-term physical therapy treatment. Methods: We carried out a clinical trial involving 72 women who received an eight-session intervention based on pelvic floor electrical stimulation (PFES), pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) and behavioral training. QoL was evaluated by the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF). The Wilcoxon signed-rank test compared the ICIQ-SF scores; the relative changes were calculated by dividing the differences by the initial score, and McNemar's χ2 compared the questions related to the type of, possible causes of or situations related to UI (p < 0.05). Results: There was a significant reduction in the frequency (p < 0.03), amount (p < 0.04) and impact (p < 0.001) of UI on QoL. The total score decreased from 14.6 ± 4.2 to 7.2 ± 4.5 (p < 0.001). All questions regarding the type of, possible causes of or situations related to UI had significantly decreased. Also, 15 women reported the ‘never leaked urine' condition (p < 0.001) after treatment. Conclusion: A short-term physical therapy treatment based on PFES, PFMT and behavioral modifications reduced the frequency, amount and impact of UI and therefore resulted in QoL improvement.
Influence of L-Carnitine Supplementation on Serum Lipid Profile in Hemodialysis Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Huang Haohai , Song Lijun , Zhang Hua , Zhang Hanbin , Zhang Jiping , Zhao Wenchang
Published: February 2014

Background/Aims: An increasing body of evidence demonstrates that L-carnitine plays a pivotal role in lipid metabolism of hemodialysis (HD) patients. However, there are still some reservations about its benefits. Therefore, we performed a meta-analysis to assess the effects of L-carnitine supplementation on lipid profile in HD patients. Methods: Literature search was performed to identify the relevant randomized controlled trials that investigated the effects of L-carnitine on the lipid profile of subjects. Two independent authors used an Excel file to extract data and assess trials quality. The primary effect measure was the difference in means of the final lipid measurements between the intervention and control groups. The meta-analysis was performed with the fixed-effects model or random-effects model according to heterogeneity. Results: Twelve studies with a total of 391 patients met the inclusion criteria. The use of L-carnitine was not associated with a reduction in the total cholesterol (SMD, -0.11; 95% CI, -0.31 to 0.09), HDL-cholesterol (SMD, 0.01; 95% CI, -0.36 to 0.39), VLDL-cholesterol (SMD, 0.54; 95% CI, -0.06 to 1.14), and the serum triglycerides (SMD, -0.12; 95% CI, -0.36 to 0.12). However, L-carnitine can significantly decrease the LDL-cholesterol (SMD, -0.29; 95% CI, -0.53 to -0.06) in HD patients. In a subgroup meta-analysis, a significant LDL-cholesterol-lowering effect of L-carnitine supplementation was observed in intravenous application group, and patients with longer interventional duration and renal diseases. Conclusion: The limited evidence suggests that there was no effect of L-carnitine on serum total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, VLDL-cholesterol and serum triglycerides. By contrast, this meta-analysis suggests a promising effect of L-carnitine on LDL-cholesterol. Further large-scale, well-designed randomized controlled trials are urgently needed
In vitro Remineralizing Effect of Fluoride Varnishes Containing Sodium Trimetaphosphate
Authors: Manarelli M.M. , Delbem A.C.B. , Lima T.M.T. , Castilho F.C.N. , Pessan J.P.
Published: February 2014

This study analyzed the effects of fluoride varnishes supplemented with sodium trimetaphosphate (TMP) on the remineralization of caries-like lesions in vitro. Bovine enamel discs were selected through surface hardness (SH) and caries-like lesions were induced. SH was again determined and the blocks were divided into 7 experimental groups (n = 24/group): placebo (no fluoride or TMP), 5% TMP, 2.5% NaF, 2.5% NaF/5% TMP, 5% NaF, 5% NaF/5% TMP and commercial formulation (Duraphat™, 5% NaF), following a blind protocol. Discs were treated with the varnishes and kept in a remineralizing solution for 4 h and a demineralizing solution for 2 h. Varnishes were then removed and half of the discs were used for analysis of loosely (CaF2) and firmly bound fluoride. The remaining discs were submitted to a pH-cycling regimen for 6 days. The percentage of surface hardness recovery (%SHR), cross-sectional hardness (ΔKHN) and enamel CaF2 and fluoride were determined. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and by Student-Newman-Keuls' test (p < 0.05). A dose-response relationship was observed between fluoride concentrations in the varnishes and %SHR. The 5% TMP varnish led to %SHR similar to that obtained for the placebo. When TMP was used in association with fluoride, however, significantly higher %SHR were observed in comparison with their counterparts without TMP. Moreover, ΔKHN obtained for the 5% NaF/5% TMP was significantly lower among all groups tested. Higher concentrations of CaF2 and fluoride were observed for Duraphat and 5% NaF, followed by 5% NaF/5% TMP, 2.5% NaF and 2.5% NaF/5% TMP (p < 0.05). It was concluded that the supplementation of fluoride varnishes with TMP leads to enhanced remineralizing effect of artificial caries lesions in vitro.
Prophylactic First-Line Antibiotics Reduce Infectious Fever and Shorten Hospital Stay during Chemotherapy-Induced Agranulocytosis in Childhood Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Feng Xiaoqin , Ruan Yongsheng , He Yuelin , Zhang Yuming , Wu Xuedong , Liu Huayin , Liu Xuan , He Lan , Li Chunfu
Published: February 2014

Background/Aims: There exists few pediatric data on the safety and efficacy of prophylactic antibiotics during chemotherapy-induced agranulocytosis. Methods: We prospectively studied the incidence of infection-related fever in 38 children, aged 2-16 years, with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) over 121 chemotherapy treatment cycles. A prophylactic group (n = 18) was given either vancomycin/cefepime (400 mg/m2, q12 h/50 mg/kg, q12 h) or piperacillin/tazobactam (110 mg/kg, q12 h). Control patients (n = 20) received no preventive antibiotics. Results: The prophylactic group (59 treatment cycles) experienced fever less frequently than the control group (0.4 vs. 0.9 events; p < 0.001), had a longer interval between agranulocytosis and fever (6.4 vs. 3.8 days; p = 0.007), had a shorter duration of hospitalization (21.5 vs. 28.5 days; p < 0.001), and had a lower rate of lung infection (38.8 vs. 80.0%; p < 0.001). One patient taking vancomycin experienced a skin rash and 3 patients taking piperacillin/tazobactam had diarrhea; these side effects subsided after antibiotics were discontinued. Conclusions: In children with AML, prophylactic antibiotics during the period of chemotherapy-induced agranulocytosis can effectively reduce the incidence of infectious fever and can shorten the average length of hospital stay, improving treatment success and quality of life.
Comparison of Bioimpedance Techniques to Detect Changes in Fluid Status in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Abbas Samer R. , Liu Li , Sipahioglu Murat H. , Rosales Laura , Carter Mary , Kotanko Peter , Levin Nathan W. , Zhu Fansan
Published: February 2014

Background: Bioimpedance (BI) is maturing as a clinical technique for assessing fluid volume status. The aim of this study was to compare the sensitivity of four BI methods to detect changes in fluid status in hemodialysis patients. Methods: Forty-five patients were studied twice in the same week, i.e. once after the long and short interdialytic intervals, respectively. The four BI methods used were: (a) calf normalized resistivity (CNR) at a 5-kHz frequency, (b) whole-body multifrequency BI spectroscopy (MF-BIS) to estimate the normal hydration weight (NHWWBM), (c) whole-body MF-BIS to estimate the ratio of extracellular volume to total body water (wECV/wTBW), and (d) whole-body single-frequency (50 kHz) BI analysis to compute the ratio of ECV (sfECV) to TBW (sfTBW). Results: The relationship (slope of the regressive line) between relative changes (%) in the above mentioned four BI parameters and differences in weight (kg) was most pronounced with CNR (5.2 ± 1.6%/kg), followed by wECV/wTBW (1.7 ± 0.7%/kg) and NHWWBM (0.73 ± 0.2%/kg). Changes in sfECV/sfTBW and differences in weight were not correlated. Conclusions: CNR is more sensitive than whole-body BIS for detecting differences in fluid status.
Nabiximols (THC/CBD Oromucosal Spray, Sativex®) in Clinical Practice - Results of a Multicenter, Non-Interventional Study (MOVE 2) in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis Spasticity
Authors: Flachenecker Peter , Henze Thomas , Zettl Uwe K.
Published: February 2014

Background: Nabiximols (Sativex®), a cannabinoid-based oromucosal spray, is an add-on therapy for patients with moderate to severe multiple sclerosis spasticity (MSS) resistant to other medications. The primary objective was to provide real-life observational data of clinical experience of nabiximols in contrast to formal clinical trials of effectiveness. Methods: This was an observational, prospective, multicenter, non-interventional study with a follow-up period of 3-4 months, conducted in routine care setting in Germany. Patients with moderate to severe MSS were included at nabiximols' initiation. Structured documentation forms, questionnaires and validated instruments were used for data collection at inclusion, 1 and 3 months after inclusion. Results: Overall, 335 patients were assessed of whom 276 fitted the criteria and were included in the effectiveness analysis. After 1 month, nabiximols provided relief of resistant MSS in 74.6% of patients according to specialist assessment; mean spasticity 0-10 numerical rating scale (NRS) score decreased from 6.1 ± 1.8 to 5.2 ± 2.0 points; in patients with NRS improvement ≥20% mean NRS score decreased by 40%. After 3 months, 55.3% of patients had continued to use nabiximols and the mean NRS score had decreased by 25% from baseline. 17% of patients reported adverse events. Conclusion: Real-life data confirm nabiximols as an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for resistant MSS in clinical practice.