bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in Mitochondrial Proteins in the Eutopic Endometrium of Patients with Adenomyosis and Endometriosis Identified Using Surface-enhanced Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Ding X , Wang L , Ren Y , Zheng W
Published: February 2013

Adenomyosis and endometriosis have a similar pathogenesis; indeed, adenomyosis has been considered by some as a variant of endometriosis (‘internal endometriosis’). This study aimed to detect differences in mitochondrial proteins in eutopic endometrial samples from women with adenomyosis ( n = 13) and endometriosis ( n = 24), and from control patients ( n = 29) using surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SELDI-TOF-MS) protein chip technology. A total of 82 and 78 mitochondrial protein peaks were found in adenomyosis and endometriosis individuals, respectively. Of these, 14 were common to women with adenomyosis and women with endometriosis, although only one of these (mass-to-charge [ m/z] ratio 3499) was significantly different between the adenomyosis and endometriosis groups. It is concluded that, compared with control patients, there are differences in the mitochondrial proteins isolated from the eutopic endometrium of patients with adenomyosis and those with endometriosis. Although the changes in mitochondrial proteins in eutopic endometrium from patients with adenomyosis and endometriosis were largely similar, significant differences were also detected. Further identification of these proteins and elucidation of the differences will help towards the differential diagnosis of adenomyosis and endometriosis and new therapeutic approaches.
Experimental Research on Wild-type p53 Plasmid Transfected into Retinoblastoma Cells and Tissues using an Ultrasound Microbubble Intensifier
Authors: Luo J , Zhou X , Diao L , Wang Z
Published: February 2013

The transfection efficiency of wild-type p53 ( wtp53) was investigated in retinoblastoma (RB) Y79 cells using an ultrasound microbubble technique. A human RB nude mouse xenograft tumour model was also used to investigate whether this technique could deliver wtp53 into solid tumours. Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) demonstrated that wtp53 was successfully transfected into Y79 cells in the plasmid with microbubbles and ultrasound group and in the plasmid with liposomes group, but not in the plasmid with ultrasound group or in the untreated control group. Flow cytometry showed that apoptosis was highest in the microbubbles and ultrasound group (25.58%) compared with the plasmid with liposomes group (19.50%), and the other two groups (< 10%). RT–PCR also showed that the wtp53 gene was successfully transfected into solid tumours in the plasmid with microbubbles and ultrasound group. This study provides preliminary evidence in support of a potential new approach to RB gene therapy.
Documentation of Post-operative Nausea and Vomiting in Routine Clinical Practice
Authors: Franck M , Radtke FM , Apfel CC , Kuhly R , Baumeyer A , Brandt C , Wernecke KD , Spies CD
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the quality of documentation of post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) by comparing incidences collected by a research team with those reported routinely by nursing personnel. A total of 560 patients passing through an interdisciplinary recovery room were included in the study. The overall recorded incidence of PONV over 24 h was 30.7%, which was in agreement with the predicted value of 32% calculated using incidences from published randomized controlled trials. Out of the total number of 86 cases of PONV in the recovery room only 36 (42%) were detected by nursing staff. Similarly, out of the total number of 129 cases of PONV on the ward over 24 h, only 37 (29%) were recognized by nursing staff during routine care. In conclusion, PONV in routine clinical care is likely to be under-reported. To use PONV as a valid quality measure, patients need to be actively asked about nausea and vomiting at frequent intervals in a standardized fashion. A considerable proportion of patients experience PONV after discharge from the recovery room, so the assessment of PONV should cover at least 24 h post-operatively
Expression of the Actin-binding Proteins Indicates that Cofilin and Fascin are Related to Breast Tumour Size
Authors: Zhang Y , Tong X
Published: February 2013

This study was designed to investigate the expression of four actin-binding proteins, α-actinin-4, cofilin 1, fascin and elongation factor 1-α 2 (eEF1A2), in samples of breast cancer from 112 patients with different stages of breast cancer (stages T0–T1, T2 and T3) compared with normal control tissues ( n = 33). Levels of eEF1A2 and α-actinin-4 mRNA appeared to be unrelated to tumour size, except for a significant down-regulation of α-actinin-4 mRNA in T3 cases. Significant up-regulation of cofilin 1 mRNA was associated with stages T0–T1 and T2; up-regulation seen at stage T3 was not significant compared with control tissue. Fascin mRNA levels were significantly reduced at all three tumour stages (T0–T1, T2 and T3) compared with control tissue. In conclusion, some components of the actin cytoskeletal system might hold significant potential as targets in future cancer therapies.
The Diagnostic Utility of Maspin in the Distinction between Malignant Mesothelioma and Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Akyildiz EU , Oz B , Sehitoglu I , Demir H
Published: February 2013

Immunohistochemistry is frequently employed to differentiate between malignant mesothelioma (MM) and pulmonary adenocarcinoma (AC) infiltrating the pleura, but there is uncertainty as to which antibodies are most useful. The present study investigated the presence of the serine protease, maspin, in epithelioid MMs and evaluated the diagnostic utility of maspin for the differential diagnosis between epithelioid MM and pulmonary AC with pleural involvement. The results showed more frequent maspin immunostaining among AC cases compared with MM cases. Maspin positivity was significantly higher among AC cases with respect to both the extent and intensity of staining. A significant difference also existed between the two tumour types with respect to the overall maspin score. Despite these findings, the sensitivity and specificity of maspin positivity to detect AC were only 59% and 73%, respectively, indicating that detection of maspin is of no value for the differential diagnosis of AC and MM.
Evaluation of the Correlation between Colour Power Doppler Flow Imaging and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Y , Dan H-J , Fan J-H , Wen S-B
Published: February 2013

This study was designed to evaluate the correlation between blood flow, using colour power Doppler flow imaging [CPDI], and protein levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), as measured by optical density (OD), in breast tumours. Breast cancer patients were observed pre-operatively using CPDI and VEGF protein levels were quantified by immunohistochemistry, and the correlation between the two was studied. The relationship between tumour angiogenesis and axillary lymph node (LN) metastasis was also analysed. Blood-flow grade was higher in the LN+ group than in the LN- group; grade II–III blood flow was 88.9% in the LN+ group. The VEGF protein levels in the LN+ group were also higher than in the LN- group. A significant positive correlation was observed between blood-flow grade and OD value for VEGF protein. Breast tumour angiogenesis was closely correlated with axillary LN metastasis. Higher blood flow was related to elevated VEGF protein levels and an increased risk of axillary node metastasis. CPDI could, therefore, indirectly demonstrate tumour angiogenesis before surgery, enabling planning of treatment and assessment of the prognosis.
Association of Vitamin D Binding Protein Variants with Susceptibility to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Shen L-H , Zhang X-M , Su D-J , Yao S-P , Yu B-Q , Wang H-W , Lu F-Z
Published: February 2013

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by chronic airflow limitation and it is thought that neutrophils play a major role in the disease pathogenesis. Genetic polymorphism of the vitamin-D-binding protein (VDBP) gene is considered one of the candidates for variation in susceptibility to COPD. To evaluate the potential influences of VDBP gene polymorphisms on COPD, a case–control study was conducted in the Han population of north-east China. The VDBP polymorphic site was genotyped in 100 COPD patients and 100 controls. Genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism. A significantly higher proportion of VDBP-1F homozygosity was found in COPD patients, while the frequency of VDBP-2 homozygosity was significantly lower in COPD patients, which seemed to suggest that VDBP-2 homozygocity provided a protective effect. These data suggest that the VDBP gene may be involved in COPD susceptibility in Chinese Han population.
Clinical Analysis of Elderly Patients with Elderly-onset Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in China: Assessment of Appropriate Therapy
Authors: Wang Y , Qin M-Z , Liu Q , Liu Q , Chang Z-W
Published: February 2013

Patients with elderly-onset diabetes have specific characteristics. This study was designed to investigate these characteristics and to evaluate methods for appropriate control of glycaemia and cardiovascular risk factors in elderly-onset diabetes patients. A total of 155 elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were divided into those diagnosed at ≥ 65 years of age (elderly-onset group, 75 patients) and those diagnosed at < 60 years of age (usual-onset group, 80 patients). Differences in clinical variables, diabetic complications, diagnosed comorbidities and the use of medications were analysed. Mean glycosylated haemoglobin, fasting plasma glucose and fasting insulin levels were significantly lower in the elderly-onset group than in the usual-onset group. The usual-onset group showed significantly greater homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance than the elderly-onset group. Microvascular complications and insulin use were significantly more common in the usual-onset group. In conclusion, insulin resistance was less severe in elderly-onset diabetes than in usual-onset diabetes. As hyperglycaemia was relatively mild or moderate, oral hypoglycaemic agents might be effective for elderly-onset diabetes.
Malignant Atrophic Papulosis with Severe Gastrointestinal Perforation and Omental Necrosis: A Case Report
Authors: Zheng XY , Huang DY , Xin Y , Wang XF
Published: February 2013

Malignant atrophic papulosis (MAP) is a rare disease with an extremely grim prognosis, death being due to gastrointestinal perforation and neurological disorders. We report a severe case of MAP in a 37-year old woman. The patient had three emergent laparotomies in 3 months for recurrent acute peritonitis due to omental thrombosis resulting in necrosis, multiple intestinal and mesenteric lesions, and severe gastrointestinal perforations. Multiple papular skin lesions were present for 1 year prior to surgery. Pathological findings revealed MAP. Surgical intervention was successful and the patient recovered smoothly but later died of malnutrition and septicaemia.
Modern Management of Mild-to-Moderate Joint Pain due to Osteoarthritis: A Holistic Approach
Authors: Huskisson EC
Published: February 2013

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and it is often associated with significant disability and impaired quality of life. Once thought to be caused by an age-related ‘wearing out’ of articular cartilage, it is now recognized to be a dynamic process in which cartilage degradation alternates with repair. Several expert guidelines for the management of OA exist, which concur in their recommendations for a stepwise approach to the employment of pharmacological agents and the introduction of suggestions to extend the use of agents such as topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, especially for mild-to-moderate forms of the disease. They also emphasize the importance of non-pharmacological measures, such as nutraceuticals, education, diet, exercise and the use of aids in improving signs and symptoms and slowing progression. In many countries, effective medicinal and nutraceutical agents are available ‘over-the-counter’. This review explains the modern approach to the management of mild-to-moderate osteoarthritic pain.
Usefulness of C-Arm Angiographic Computed Tomography for Detecting Iodized Oil Retention during Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Sun J-H , Wang L-G , Bao H-W , Lou J-L , Cai L-X , Wu C , Chen L-M , Zheng S-S
Published: February 2013

Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) with iodized oil and anticancer agents is widely used for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment. To assess C-arm angiographic computed tomography (CCT) for detecting iodized oil retention during TACE, CCT images were obtained of 40 tumours (24 HCC patients). The primary CCT images showed complete iodized oil retention patterns (type I) in 29/40 (73%) tumours, at which point embolization was terminated; incomplete iodized oil retention requiring further iodized oil embolization occurred in 11/40 (28%) tumours and, of these, complete iodized oil retention patterns were achieved in eight tumours. Conventional CT scanning employed 1 week later showed the same iodized oil retention patterns as demonstrated in the latest CCT images (37/40 [93%] tumours). In 24 additional HCC patients who underwent TACE but not CCT (control group), conventional CT scans obtained 1 week after TACE showed complete iodized oil retention in 32/42 (76%) tumours. The rate of complete iodized oil retention pattern was significantly higher in patients undergoing CCT. It is concluded that the distribution of iodized oil within HCC lesions can be demonstrated on CCT images during TACE, helping to achieve complete iodized oil filling of tumours and, thereby, improving therapeutic effects.
A Comparison of the Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation Device and Dynamic Hip Screw in the Treatment of Unstable Pertrochanteric Fracture
Authors: Xu YZ , Geng DC , Mao HQ , Zhu XS , Yang HL
Published: February 2013

This prospective randomized study compared the outcome of elderly patients with an unstable pertrochanteric fracture, treated with a proximal femoral nail antirotation device (PFNA; n = 51) or a dynamic hip screw (DHS; n = 55). All patients in the DHS group and nine in the PFNA group had open reductions. Incisions were significantly shorter for the PFNA than the DHS group. Blood loss and the number of patients requiring postoperative blood transfusions were significantly greater, but operation and fluoroscopy times were significantly shorter, for the DHS versus the PFNA group. Time to mobilization with a frame was significantly shorter in the PFNA group, and post-operative complications were more common in the DHS group. Poor fracture reduction led to three revisions. All fractures in both groups united during follow-up. The PFNA allowed earlier mobilization and faster recovery than the DHS. The PFNA is a highly acceptable, minimally invasive implant for unstable fractures.
Effectiveness of a Systemic Antibiotic Followed by Topical Ionized Solution as Surgical Site Infection Prophylaxis
Authors: Tijerina J , Velasco-Rodríguez R , VÁsquez C , Melnikov V , Rodriguez S
Published: February 2013

The aim of this randomized, double-blind clinical trial was to determine the effectiveness of systemic antibiotic application followed by either topical ionized solution (IS) or topical saline solution (placebo) as surgical site infection (SSI) prophylaxis in appendectomy for non-perforated appendicitis. Prophylactic antibiotic was administered pre-incision and either topical IS or placebo was applied pre-suturing to 529 patients, who were then monitored for 30 days. When topical IS was used, SSI relative risk was 0.739 (95% CI 0.537, 1.019) and the SSI prevention rate was 26.06% (CI −1.8%, 46.3%). The number needed to treat was 14.80 patients and the number needed to harm was 209 in order for SSI to be avoided. In conclusion, there was a trend for topical IS prophylaxis to reduce SSI frequency in patients undergoing appendectomy for non-perforated appendicitis, but the result was not statistically significant.
The Value of Dihydrouracil/Uracil Plasma Ratios in Predicting 5-Fluorouracil-Related Toxicity in Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Kristensen MH , Pedersen P , Mejer J
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the relationship between the dihydrouracil/uracil (UH2/U) plasma ratio, a surrogate marker of dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) activity, and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-related early toxicity. Plasma UH2/U ratios were determined in 68 colorectal cancer patients and 100 healthy controls. A cutoff value indicative of DPD deficiency was calculated using receiver operator characteristics. Patients experiencing toxicity were screened for the DPD G-to-A point mutation within the 5′-splicing donor site of intron 14 (IVS14+1G>A). Overall, 24/68 patients (35%) experienced toxicity (all grades) and abnormal UH2/U ratios were demonstrated in 21/24 (87.5%) patients. Drug concentrations up to 130 times the recommended level were found in 13/24 (54%) patients experiencing toxicity. One patient experiencing toxicity was a heterozygous carrier of the IVS14+1G>A mutation. A low UH2/U plasma ratio had a sensitivity of 0.87 and specificity of 0.93 for predicting 5-FU-induced toxicity. Systematic detection of DPD-deficient patients using the UH2/U ratio could optimize 5-FU-based chemotherapy and minimize life-threatening toxicity.
Prognostic Value of Protease-Activated Receptor 2 Expression in Oesophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wang X , Liu HT , Li SL , Li K , Lin N , Fan QX , Zheng YL
Published: February 2013

Protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR-2) is essential for the initiation and development of tumours, suggesting that the detection of PAR-2 expression might serve as a clinical marker in the prediction or diagnosis of clinical outcomes of malignant neoplasia. Using immunohisto chemical methods, this study investigated whether the detection of PAR-2 protein had clinical implications for patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). PAR-2 protein was present at a high level in primary OSCC sites but at a low level in normal oesophageal tissue. The level of PAR-2 protein in tumours was significantly correlated with the clinical stage and histological grade of disease. Patients with tumours highly positive for PAR-2 protein had a significantly worse prognosis than those with lower PAR-2 levels. Thus, the over-expression of PAR-2 is a characteristic feature of OSCC and suggests that the immuno histochemical detection of raised levels of PAR-2 may be a potentially useful prognostic indicator.
YKL-40 Protein Levels and Clinical Outcome of Human Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Peng C , Peng J , Jiang L , You Q , Zheng J , Ning X
Published: February 2013

The secreted glycoprotein YKL-40 is a member of the chitinase family and elevated serum YKL-40 levels have been reported to be associated with reduced survival in several malignancies, including endometrial cancer. This study investigated immunoreactivity to YKL-40 protein and its prognostic implications in endometrial cancer. Levels of YKL-40 protein in normal endometrium ( n = 42), endometrial hyperplasia ( n = 40) and endometrial adeno carcinoma ( n = 68) were examined using immunohistochemistry. YKL-40 immunoreactivity was significantly higher in endometrial adenocarcinoma compared with hyperplastic and normal endo metrium. In addition, high immuno reactivity of YKL-40 protein was associated with advanced stage, high histological grade, lymph node metastasis and lympho vascular invasion. Moreover, positive immunoreactivity for YKL-40 was a significant predictor of poor prognosis, as measured by estimated progression-free survival and estimated overall survival, compared with negative immunoreactivity. In conclusion, high YKL-40 immuno reactivity in endometrial cancer may be associated with poor prognosis.
Sociotropic or Autonomous Personality and Problem Solving in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Demir S , Tufan G , Erem O
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the sociotropic and autonomous personality characteristics and perceived problem solving ability of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) patients, and their relationship with quality of life. The study included 14 CAPD patients and 54 healthy volunteers. Sociotropy and autonomy scores were significantly higher in CAPD patients than in the healthy control group. Among CAPD patients, there was a significant correlation between problem solving and serum phosphate, parathormone levels and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. There was a negative correlation between total dialysis time and sociotropy in CAPD patients, and a positive correlation between general health/pain perception and autonomy. Appropriate medical management, time on dialysis and positive self-perception of health were correlated with better problem solving ability and higher autonomous but lower sociotropic personality styles.
Aggressive Angiomyxoma of the Vulva: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Sun NX , Li W
Published: February 2013

Aggressive angiomyxoma is a rare soft-tissue tumour, typically occurring in the female pelvis and carrying a high risk of local infiltration and relapse. Surgery remains the first line of treatment, however some adjuvant treatments, such as gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, have been used for primary treatment and for treatment against tumour recurrence. We describe a case of vulvar aggressive angiomyxoma in a 31-year old woman who underwent surgical excision of the tumour. Diagnosis was made on the basis of histopathological examination and positive immunohistochemical staining with oestrogen and progesterone receptors. Postsurgery, a GnRH agonist (3.75 mg triptorelin) was injected intramuscularly every month for 3 months to prevent tumour recurrence and, to date, no relapse has been observed. Whether treatment is with surgery, hormone therapy or both, it is clear that aggressive angiomyxoma requires close, long-term follow-up to monitor for disease recurrence and that the individualization of each case is essential for adequate management.
Isolated Primary Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma of the Thoracic Spine: A Case Report with a Review of the Literature
Authors: Zheng JS , Wang M , Wan S , Zhou YQ , Yan M , Chen QF , Zhan RY
Published: February 2013

A case of isolated primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the spine is presented along with a review of previous cases reported in the literature. An 80-year old immunocompetent man was admitted with progressive numbness and weakness of both lower extremities of 2 weeks' duration. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the cervicothoracic spine revealed an extradural spinal mass at the T1 – T3 level, with invasion into the T3 vertebral body. The lesion was at first thought to be a metastatic tumour. Because of the manifestations of compression, the patient underwent laminectomy and posterior decompression. Histopathological examination revealed diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. All other investigations (including computed tomography of the chest and abdomen, bone scan, peripheral blood examination and tumour marker examination) were negative for occult disease. This case demonstrates that neurosurgeons should be aware of the occurrence of isolated primary spinal lymphoma, which should be included in the differential diagnosis of metastatic tumours.
Oestrogen Receptor-α Polymorphism and Risk of Fracture: A Meta-Analysis of 13 Studies Including 1279 Cases and 6069 Controls
Authors: Lei M-M , Yang T-F , Tu Z-Q , Liu L , Fang Y , Wang G-L
Published: February 2013

A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of oestrogen receptor-α ( ESR1) gene PvuII polymorphism on fracture risk. It included published data from relevant studies (up to May 2010) identified from Medline™, Embase™ and Current Contents™. The 13 included studies contained 1279 fracture cases and 6069 controls. The combined results based on these studies showed no relationship between ESR1 gene PvuII polymorphism and fracture risk. No significant difference in genotype distribution was found when stratifying by race. When stratifying by fracture type, it was found that vertebral fracture cases had a significantly higher frequency of the PvuII pp genotype than controls in five studies (552 cases and 2350 controls). This meta-analysis suggests a modest but statistically significant association between the ESR1 PvuII pp genotype and vertebral fracture.
Differential Effects of Esomeprazole on the Antiplatelet Activity of Clopidogrel in Healthy Individuals and Patients after Coronary Stent Implantation
Authors: Zhang R , Ran H-H , Zhu H-L , Chen Q
Published: February 2013

Clopidogrel plus aspirin is a standard antiplatelet aggregation regimen in cardiovascular diseases, especially after implantation of a coronary stent. Interaction between clopidogrel and proton pump inhibitors theoretically reduces clopidogrel's antiaggregation effect, but the evidence is controversial. A total of 30 healthy subjects and 74 patients with a coronary stent were given a 300 mg loading dose of aspirin and 300 mg clopidogrel and then 100 mg aspirin/75 mg clopidogrel daily for 14 days. Subgroups were concomitantly treated or not treated with esomeprazole (20 mg/day). Clopidogrel significantly reduced adenosine diphosphate-induced platelet aggregation in healthy and stent-implanted subjects on days 7 and 14. Healthy subjects receiving esomeprazole showed a significantly higher platelet aggregation rate than those not receiving esomeprazole, but esomeprazole had no effect in patients with a stent. Aspirin plus clopidogrel did not result in significant gastrointestinal complications. These differential effects of esomeprazole on the antiplatelet activity of clopidogrel in healthy individuals and patients after coronary stent implantation merit further investigation.
Combining Intrathecal Bupivacaine and Meperidine during Caesarean Section to Prevent Spinal Anaesthesia-Induced Hypotension and other Side-Effects
Authors: Atalay C , Aksoy M , Aksoy AN , Dogan N , Kürsad H
Published: February 2013

This study compared intrathecal hyperbaric bupivacaine with low-dose intrathecal plain bupivacaine plus different doses of meperidine (pethidine), administered sequentially, with regard to blood pressure stability, post-operative analgesia and incidence of side-effects in 80 parturients undergoing caesarean section. Patients were randomly assigned to one of four groups ( n = 20 each group): the HB group received 10 mg hyperbaric bupivacaine intrathecally; the BM35, BM30 and BM25 groups received 5 mg plain bupivacaine plus 35, 30 or 25 mg of meperidine intrathecally, respectively. The incidence of hypotension in the BM25 group was significantly lower than in the HB group. Nausea and vomiting were less prevalent in the BM25 group than in the HB and BM35 groups. In conclusion, sequential administration of 5 mg plain bupivacaine and 25 mg meperidine intrathecally provided better blood pressure stability and a lower incidence of side-effects than bupivacaine alone, without affecting quality of anaesthesia or surgical and patient satisfaction.
Association between Epidermal Growth Factor +61 G/A Polymorphism and Glioma Risk in a Chinese Han Population
Authors: Bao G , Wang M , Guo S , Han Y , Xu G
Published: February 2013

The association between the +61 G/A polymorphism of the epidermal growth factor ( EGF) gene and glioma risk remains controversial and unclear. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between the EGF +61 G/A polymorphism and glioma risk in a Chinese Han population. Peripheral blood samples were extracted from 160 glioma patients and 320 control subjects. Genotyping was performed using a polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Glioma patients had a significantly higher frequency of the AA genotype (odds ratio [OR] 1.93, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 1.08, 3.44) than control subjects and the frequency of the AA genotype was significantly higher in glioblastoma patients than in patients with other gliomas (OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.05, 4.57). Patients with grade IV gliomas had a significantly higher frequency of the AA genotype (OR 2.25, 95% CI 1.08, 4.71) than patients with lower grade gliomas. This study demonstrated that the EGF +61 AA genotype is associated with an increased risk of glioma in a Chinese Han population.
ADP-Ribosylation Factor Guanine Nucleotide-Exchange Factor 2 (ARFGEF2): A New Potential Biomarker in Huntington's Disease
Authors: Lovrecic L , Slavkov I , Džeroski S , Peterlin B
Published: February 2013

Microarray searches have revealed potential genetic biomarkers in a wide variety of human diseases. Identification of biomarkers for disease status is particularly important in chronic neurodegenerative diseases where brain tissue cannot be sampled. A previous study identified 12 genes from microarray analysis as associated with Huntington's disease, although the relationships had not been validated. We used new machine learning approaches to reanalyse those microarray data and to rank the identified potential genetic biomarkers. We then performed quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction analysis on a subset of the candidate genes in blood samples from an independent cohort of 23 Huntington's disease patients and 23 healthy controls. Our highest ranked genes did not overlap with the 12 previously identified, but two were significantly up-regulated in the Huntington's disease group: ARFGEF2 and GOLGA8G. Little is known about the latter, but the former warrants further analysis as it is known to be associated with intracellular vesicular trafficking, disturbances of which characterize Huntington's disease.
Cyclooxygenase-2 and Survivin in Superficial Urothelial Carcinoma of the Bladder and Correlation with Intratumoural Microvessel Density
Authors: Yildirim U , Erdem H , Kayikci A , Sahin AF , Uzunlar AK , Albayrak A
Published: February 2013

This study was designed to investigate the protein levels of cyclooxyogenase-2 (COX-2) and survivin in superficial urothelial carcinoma (UC) and their correlation with microvessel density (MVD). High-grade UC was positive for both COX-2 and survivin protein, and the proportion of tumours positive for both proteins increased with increasing tumour grade. The presence of COX-2 protein was significantly correlated with the presence of survivin protein. Both COX-2 and survivin positivity were significantly correlated with MVD in all patients regardless of tumour grade, but there was no correlation between MVD and COX-2 and survivin positivity by individual tumour grade. Although there was no significant difference in the proportion of COX-2-positive tumours when patients were stratified by tumour stage, a significantly higher proportion of patients with pT1 stage tumours were survivin-positive compared with patients with pTa stage tumours. COX-2 and survivin positivity were significantly correlated in all patients regardless of tumour grade or stage. COX-2 and survivin were significantly correlated in patients with pTa, but there was no correlation in pT1 tumours. These findings demonstrate that together, COX-2, survivin and MVD may play an important role in UC.
Regenerated Host Axons Form Synapses with Neurons Derived from Neural Stem Cells Transplanted into Peripheral Nerves
Authors: Gu SH , Xu WD , Xu L , Li XK , Ochiya T , Wang Y , Li JF , Gu YD , Xu JG
Published: February 2013

It is reported that neural stem cells (NSC) can arrest denervated muscle atrophy and promote nerve regeneration when transplanted into injured peripheral nerves, and that regenerated host axons can form synapses with transplanted and differentiated NSC. In this study, F344 rat nerve segments and F344 rat NSC were transplanted into host green fluorescence protein (GFP) transgenic F344 rats. This allowed transplanted F344 rat tissue to be used as a non-luminous background for the clear visualization of regenerated host GFP axons. Regenerated host axons grew into the transplanted F344 nerve segment 2 weeks after nerve anastomosis. Immunohistochemical staining and confocal microscope analysis revealed that regenerated host axons formed synapses with NSC-derived neurons. The findings confirmed that regenerated peripheral axons form synapses with neurons in peripheral nerves, possibly forming the basis for clinical application in peripheral nerve injury.
High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Reduces the Expression of MicroRNA-218 in Women with Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia
Authors: Li Y , Liu J , Yuan C , Cui B , Zou X , Qiao Y
Published: February 2013

This study was designed to investigate whether there is a correlation between the down-regulation of microRNA-218 (miR-218) and the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in the pathogenesis of cervical cancer. The participants comprised 78 women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN); 22 (28.2%) had CIN 1, 27 (34.6%) had CIN 2 and 29 (37.2%) had CIN 3. MiR-218 expression was determined by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and HPV genotypes in tissue specimens were identified with a microarray test kit. The findings showed that miR-218 levels in patients with high-risk HPV infection were lower than in those infected with low-risk or intermediate-risk HPV, or in those who were HPV-free. MiR-218 levels in patients with high-risk CIN were lower than in those with low-risk CIN. We concluded that infection with high-risk HPV lowered the expression of miR-218 and that down-regulation of miR-218 was involved in the pathogenesis of cervical cancer.
The Influence of Diabetes on the Relationship between N-terminal Pro-B-type Natriuretic Peptide and Body Mass Index
Authors: Kim BH , Kim IJ , Cho KI , Kim SM , Lee HG , Kim TI
Published: February 2013

This study evaluated the influence of diabetes on the relationship between N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and body mass index (BMI). Simultaneous NT-proBNP and echocardiographic Doppler examinations were performed in 1117 patients with dyspnoea undergoing cardiac catheterization. Patients were divided into BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 (obese), 23 − 25 kg/m2 (overweight) and < 23 kg/m2 (non-obese) groups. In the 803 non-diabetic patients, mean plasma NT-proBNP levels in non-obese, overweight and obese patients showed a significant negative correlation with BMI (862.3 ± 228.8 pg/ml, 611.5 ± 149.7 pg/ml, 278.3 ± 172.5 pg/ml, respectively). In the 314 patients with diabetes, there was no correlation between BMI and NT-proBNP. This study demonstrated that obese patients had reduced concentrations of NT-proBNP compared with non-obese patients, despite having higher left ventricular filling pressures. NT-proBNP was not reduced in obese patients with diabetes. These results suggest that factors other than cardiac status impact on NT-proBNP concentration.
The Analgesic Effect of Remifentanil on Prevention of Withdrawal Response Associated with the Injection of Rocuronium in Children: No Evidence for a Peripheral Action
Authors: Yoon JR , Jeon Y , Yoo Y , Shin HJ , Ahn JH , Lim CH
Published: February 2013

Remifentanil pre-treatment has been reported to decrease the incidence of rocuronium injection-associated withdrawal movement. This study was designed to explore the site of action of remifentanil for reducing withdrawal response during rocuronium injection in children. Ninety-six paediatric patients were randomly assigned to three groups. After induction of anaesthesia with 5 mg/kg 2.5% thiopental sodium, 2 ml saline (placebo group) or 0.5 μg/kg remifentanil (group R), was injected intravenously 1 min before 0.6 mg/kg rocuronium. In a third group (group R'), the venous retention of 0.5 μg/kg remifentanil was maintained for 30 s followed by tourniquet release and injection of 0.6 mg/kg rocuronium. Withdrawal response was graded using a four-point scale. The incidence of withdrawal movement after rocuronium administration was 94%, 22% and 81% in the placebo, R, and R' groups, respectively. This study demonstrated that the pre-treatment effect of remifentanil for reducing rocuronium-associated withdrawal response occurs mainly through a central action.
The Krüppel-Like Factor 6 Genotype is Associated with Gastric Cancer in a Chinese Population
Authors: Chen H , Chen L , Zhang QF
Published: February 2013

Association of the IVS1 −27G/A polymorphism of Krüppel-like factor 6 ( KLF6) with gastric cancer was examined in a Chinese population comprising 300 gastric cancer patients and 300 healthy controls. Single-nucleotide polymorphism analysis was performed by amplifying intron 1 of KLF6 and sequencing the products. The KLF6 genotype IVS1 −27AA was significantly less frequent in gastric cancer patients than in controls and significantly less frequent in patients with advanced (stage III/IV) gastric cancer than in those with early (stage I/II) cancer. Stratification by location, Lauren's classification and histological differentiation revealed no significant differences in genotype distribution. Thus, in this Chinese population the KLF6 IVS1 −27AA genotype was associated with a decreased risk of gastric cancer and with cancer stage. Further study is required to clarify the mechanisms involved and, potentially, to facilitate the design of effective clinical trials.
Endocrine Disorders in a Specialist Hospital in Jamaica
Authors: Wright-Pascoe R
Published: February 2013

The objective of this study was to define the types of disease seen at the only endocrine clinic in Jamaica. The diagnoses of all patients attending the endocrinology clinic of the University Hospital of the West Indies over a 7-year period were analysed. Of the 1503 patients attending 263 weekly endocrinology clinics, 1251 patients had thyroid-related diseases, of which 684 patients had thyrotoxicosis and 233 patients had hypothyroidism. There were 17 pituitary tumours, eight cases of Cushing's syndrome and four of acromegaly. Cases of Sheehan's syndrome ( n = 11), hypopituitarism ( n = 17), hypoadrenalism ( n = 13), hypogonadism ( n = 9), primary hyperparathyroidism ( n = 3) and phaeochromocytoma ( n = 3) were rare. Thyroid disease was the most common diagnosis. New emerging endocrine disorders that are public health problems, such as obesity ( n = 21) and hyperlipidaemia ( n = 1), were rare. More traditional diseases, such as Sheehan's syndrome have become rare with improvements in obstetric care.
A Case of Lichen Ruber Planus in a Patient with Familial Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Sepčić J , Ristić S , Perković O , Brinar V , Lipozenčić J , Crnić-Martinović M , Čizmarević N Starčević , Labinac D Janko , Kapović M , Peterlin B
Published: February 2013

Multiple sclerosis and lichen ruber planus are clinically and histologically distinct complex disorders of putative autoimmune aetiology that are fairly commonly observed in isolation but rarely found in combination. Only two previous reports have described lichen skin disorders in association with multiple sclerosis. The present report describes the case of a 51-year old Caucasian woman exhibiting both familial multiple sclerosis and lichen ruber planus. This combination may have occurred by chance or it might imply that these disorders share common mechanisms in their pathogenesis.
Large Phyllodes Tumour of the Seminal Vesicle: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Xu LW , Wu HY , Yu YL , Zhang ZG , Li GH
Published: February 2013

A rare case of phyllodes tumour arising in the seminal vesicle is reported here. A 59-year old male presented with lower abdominal discomfort and symptoms of bladder outlet obstruction for 1 year. Transrectal ultrasonography and pelvic computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a large mass posterior to the bladder and anterior to the rectum. Tumour excision and right seminal vesiculectomy were performed via a transvesical approach. The left seminal vesicle, bladder and prostate were not involved. The patient had an uneventful post-operative course and recovered well. There was no evidence of recurrence or metastasis during 22 months of regular follow up. The diagnosis, histological classification, treatment and prognosis of this case are presented together with a review of the literature. It is suggested that the behaviour of phyllodes tumour of the seminal vesicle is related to its histological parameters.
Glucose Transporter-1 as a New Therapeutic Target in Laryngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Luo X-M , Zhou S-H , Fan J
Published: February 2013

Treatment options for laryngeal carcinoma, one of the most common head and neck malignancies, consist of radiotherapy, surgery, chemotherapy or a combination thereof. The functional treatment of laryngeal carcinoma poses a considerable challenge because of its resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and its tendency for local recurrence. Finding ways to inhibit the energy supply of malignant tumours is becoming an increasingly attractive proposition. Glucose transporter-1 (Glut-1; encoded by the SLC2A1 gene in humans) is the main transporter of glucose in solid carcinomas and has become a focus of cancer research. Recently, it was shown that the increased expression of SLC2A1 in head and neck carcinomas is correlated with lymph node metastasis, poor survival and clinical stage, and revealed that the suppression of SLC2A1 expression by antisense oligodeoxynucleotides decreased glucose uptake and inhibited the proliferation of Hep-2 cells. Thus, the authors propose the suppression of SLC2A1 expression as a new therapeutic target for laryngeal carcinoma.
Cathepsin L is Associated with Proliferation and Clinical Outcome of Urothelial Carcinoma of the Bladder
Authors: Yan J-A , Xiao H , Ji H-X , Shen W-H , Zhou Z-S , Song B , Chen Z-W , Li W-B
Published: February 2013

Increasing evidence suggests that the activity of cysteine proteases, including cathepsin L, is important in cancer cell invasion and metastasis. This study was designed to investigate the clinicopathological and prognostic significance of cathepsin L in human urothelial carcinoma of the bladder (UCB). Standard immunohistochemistry was used to determine the presence of cathepsin L and Ki-67 (a marker of proliferation) in paraffin-embedded specimens of 82 human UCB cases. Cathepsin L protein was localized in the cytoplasm of the malignant UCB cells, and was significantly associated with the pathological tumour stage (invasiveness), tumour grade, survival, local tumour recurrence during follow-up, the occurrence of distant metastasis during follow-up and the presence of Ki-67 protein. Multivariate analysis using the Cox proportional hazards model revealed that cathepsin L immunopositivity and pathological tumour stage (invasiveness) were independent significant prognostic factors for overall survival. This study showed that cathepsin L provides significant prognostic information and that it might be a useful therapeutic target in the future.
The New Unified International Diabetes Federation/American Heart Association/National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Metabolic Syndrome Definition: Does it Correlate Better with C-Reactive Protein in Chinese Patients Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes?
Authors: Lu B , Zhang S , Wen J , Yang Y , Yang Z , Zhang Z , Wang X , Hu R
Published: February 2013

This study evaluated the association between high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and metabolic syndrome, defined by the definition proposed by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), American Heart Association (AHA) and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) versus the older IDF definition, in 506 Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters were compared and analysed using multivariate linear regression models. Serum hsCRP was higher in patients with metabolic syndrome compared with those without metabolic syndrome for both definitions and increased as the number of components of metabolic syndrome increased (after adjusting for age, gender and smoking). Patients with metabolic syndrome according to the IDF/AHA/NHLBI but not the IDF definition had significantly higher hsCRP levels than those not meeting either definition and similar hsCRP levels to those meeting both definitions. Serum hsCRP levels were significantly associated with metabolic syndrome according to the IDF definition after adjusting for age, gender and smoking. Adding metabolic syndrome status according to the IDF/AHA/NHLBI definition significantly increased the fit of the multivariate linear regression model. The new IDF/AHA/NHLBI definition of metabolic syndrome may have a stronger relationship with serum hsCRP than the IDF definition.
Treatment of Symptomatic Intracranial Atherosclerotic Stenosis with a Normal-Sized Gateway™ Balloon and Wingspan™ Stent
Authors: Yu J , Wang L , Deng JP , Li J , Gao L , Zhang T , Zhao ZW , Gao GD
Published: February 2013

The safety and performance of angioplasty using a normal-sized Gateway™ balloon and Wingspan™ stent for intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis were assessed. Seventy-two patients with intracranial stenosis (≥ 50%) were treated using an undersized (group U) or normal-sized (group N) Gateway™ balloon and a Wingspan™ stent. All patients were successfully stented. Stenosis improved from 74.2% before treatment to 23.8% immediately after treatment in group U and from 70.9% to 20.1% in group N. The two groups had similar rates of major periprocedural neurological complications (9.0% overall), none of which led to death. Residual stenosis at follow-up was 40.8% and 32.5% in groups U and N, respectively. In-stent re-stenosis (ISR) was significantly less frequent in group N (22.0%) than in group U (33.3%). It is concluded that use of a normal-sized Gateway™ balloon and Wingspan™ stent appears to be safe, to have a high rate of technical success, good immediate post-operative results and a low ISR rate.
Blood Rheology and the Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol/High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Ratio in Dyslipidaemic and Normolipidaemic Subjects
Authors: Machida T , Sumino H , Fukushima M , Kotajima N , Amagai H , Murakami M
Published: February 2013

The association between blood rheology and the ratio of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) was investigated in 142 dyslipidaemic and 253 normolipidaemic subjects. Blood rheology was examined by the microchannel method and fasting serum concentrations of LDL-C, triglyceride and HDL-C were measured. Passage time of whole blood correlated positively with LDL-C concentration, triglyceride concentration and LDL-C/HDL-C ratio, and negatively with HDL-C concentration. Passage time of whole blood was significantly higher in dyslipidaemic and normolipidaemic subjects with LDL-C/HDL-C ratio > 2.0 than in those with ratio < 1.5. Thus, dyslipidaemic subjects had impaired blood rheology, elevated LDL-C and triglyceride concentrations and elevated LDL-C/HDL-C ratio, and reduced HDL-C concentrations. Dyslipidaemic and normolipidaemic subjects with a more elevated LDL-C/HDL-C ratio had greater blood rheology impairment than those with a less elevated ratio. These data suggest that an elevated LDL-C/HDL-C ratio may be helpful in predicting impaired blood rheology.