bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current Treatment of Sacral Giant Cell Tumour of Bone: A Review
Authors: Shen CC , Li H , Shi ZL , Tao HM , Yang ZM
Published: February 2013

Sacral giant cell tumour of bone has an insidious onset and slow growth rate, making early diagnosis difficult. The tumour has a high recurrence rate and is often fatal. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography (CT), including CT-guided fine-needle biopsy, are useful for early diagnosis. Although therapy for sacral giant cell tumour often involves surgical resection and reconstruction challenges, improvements in various treatment modalities, including arterial embolization and radiotherapy, have widened the effective treatment options. The current surgical and adjuvant treatment modalities available for the management of sacral giant cell tumour are systematically reviewed and a suggested treatment algorithm is provided. En bloc excision remains the surgical procedure of choice, with functional reconstruction important in cases where the lesion is high in the sacrum. The use of adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy remains controversial and should be studied further. Determination of the optimum treatment for sacral giant cell tumour will require randomized controlled trials. Early diagnosis, complete surgical resection with tumour-free margins and comprehensive treatment are important for local tumour control and improved outcome.
Signal Transduction Pathways and Transcriptional Mechanisms of ABCB1/Pgp-mediated Multiple Drug Resistance in Human Cancer Cells
Authors: Sui H , Fan Z-Z , Li Q
Published: February 2013

Multiple drug resistance (MDR), defined as the ability of tumour cells to survive exposure to many chemotherapeutic agents, is a major cause of treatment failure in human cancers. The membrane transporter P-glycoprotein (Pgp, encoded by the ABCB1 [adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette, subfamily B, member 1] gene) is the main mechanism for decreased intracellular drug accumulation in human MDR cancer. ABCB1/Pgp-mediated MDR involves several signal transduction pathways and transcription factors. Activation of these signal transduction pathways influences the prognosis of MDR human cancer. Signalling pathways involved in ABCB1/Pgp-mediated MDR include the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), p38, cyclic adenosine monophosphate-dependent protein kinase, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and protein kinase C signalling pathways. This review summarizes the biological characteristics, target points and signalling cascade mediators of these pathways. Drugs targeted against these pathways may provide new therapies for treatment of ABCB1/Pgp-mediated MDR.
Social Behaviour Risk Factors for Drug Resistant Tuberculosis in Mainland China: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhao P , Li XJ , Zhang SF , Wang XS , Liu CY
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To determine risk factors associated with drug resistant tuberculosis (TB) in mainland China. METHODS: PubMed and Chinese BioMedical databases were searched. Cohort, case—control and cross-sectional studies providing effect estimates of risk factors for any-drug resistant or multidrug resistant (MDR) TB were included. RESULTS: The meta-analysis included 16 studies. Any-drug resistant TB was significantly associated with poor quality directly observed treatment, short-course (DOTS) (odds ratio [OR] 2.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.22, 5.79), long term illness > 1 year (OR 2.71, 95% CI 1.34, 5.48), poor treatment adherence (OR 2.00, 95% CI 1.17, 3.40), previous treatment (OR 4.54, 95% CI 2.71, 7.61) and age 40 – 60 years (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.10, 2.38). MDR-TB was significantly associated with poor quality DOTS (OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.36, 2.49), poor treatment adherence (OR 4.39, 95% CI 2.97, 6.50), previous treatment (OR 3.83, 95% CI 2.12, 6.89) and poverty (OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.38, 2.52). CONCLUSIONS: Previous treatment, poor quality DOTS, poor treatment adherence, long term illness, age 40 – 60 years and poverty are associated with a greater risk of drug resistant TB in mainland China.
TP53 Codon 72 Polymorphism with Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ding C , Yu H , Yu H , Qin H
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: The association between codon 72 polymorphism of the tumour protein p53 ( TP53) gene — which results in a mis-sense mutation of arginine (R) to proline (P) – and susceptibility to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is controversial. A meta-analysis was performed in order to define this relationship more precisely. METHODS: Published studies of TP53 codon 72 polymorphism and the risk of HCC were identified. Data were extracted, and summary odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated. Pooled ORs were determined for an additive model (R/R versus P/P), a dominant model ([R/R + R/P] versus P/P) and a recessive model (R/R versus [R/P + P/P]). RESULTS: The meta-analysis included seven case—control studies (total 1511 cases and 2165 controls). The risk of cancer was significantly decreased in the overall dominant model and the dominant model in Asian populations. A significantly decreased risk was found for all models in hospital-based but not population-based studies. There was no association between polymorphism and cancer risk when data were stratified according to hepatitis B or C virus infection status. CONCLUSION: The TP53 codon 72 polymorphism may be a risk factor for HCC.
Increased Expression of MicroRNA-221 in Gastric Cancer and Its Clinical Significance
Authors: Liu K , Li G , Fan C , Diao Y , Wu B , Li J
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: MicroRNA-221 (miR-221), which is located on chromosome X, is an oncogenic microRNA that is involved in several human malignancies. This study aimed to characterize the role of miR-221 in the initiation and malignant progression of gastric cancer. METHODS: The level of miR-221 expression in 92 pairs of primary gastric tumour tissue and adjacent nontumour tissue was quantified by real-time reverse transcription—polymerase chain reaction. The relationship between the miR-221 level and clinicopathological features was explored. RESULTS: MiR-221 was up-regulated in 88% (81/92) of gastric cancer tissue samples compared with their paired adjacent nontumour tissue samples. High expression of miR-221 showed a significant correlation with advanced tumour—node—metastasis stage, local invasion and lymphatic metastasis. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analyses revealed that miR-221 overexpression was an unfavourable prognostic factor for overall survival in patients with gastric cancer. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that miR-221 is a novel prognostic indicator in gastric cancer and may be a potential target for diagnosis and gene therapy.
The Significance of Fragile Histidine Triad Protein as a Molecular Prognostic Marker of Bladder Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang CT , Lu R , Lin YL , Liu RL , Zhang ZH , Yang K , Dang RF , Zhang HT , Shen YG , Kong PZ , Ren HL , Li XL , Quan W , Xu Y
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVES: The role and clinical significance of fragile histidine triad ( FHIT) gene in the pathogenesis of bladder urothelial carcinoma (UC) and the potential of Fhit protein as a prognostic biomarker for UC were investigated. METHODS: FHIT expression was determined according to semiquantitative immunohistochemical staining for Fhit protein levels in normal bladder and bladder UC tissues. Associations between FHIT expression, clinicopathological features and survival were evaluated. RESULTS: This study evaluated 42 cases of normal bladder and 125 cases of bladder UC; bladder UC cases had a median follow-up of 53.5 months. Immunohistochemistry showed that 95.2% of normal cases and 47.2% of bladder UC cases, respectively, were positive for Fhit protein; this difference was statistically significant. There was a significant association between negative FHIT expression in bladder UC and advanced tumour stage, high pathological grade, large tumour size, tumour recurrence and reduced survival time, but no association with age, gender, tumour number or tumour shape. CONCLUSIONS: The FHIT gene may have an important role in the pathogenesis of bladder UC and was expressed at lower levels in bladder UC compared with normal bladder tissue. Using Fhit protein as a biomarker could provide important information about patient prognosis.
An Efficacy Analysis for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Screening of Different Screening Intervals
Authors: Rao DP , Gu J , Meng XH , Zhang Q , Fu MQ , Liu Y , Chen F , Cao SM , Hong MH , Liu Q
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of different screening intervals on screening for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). METHODS: A Markov model was constructed, based on the natural history of NPC. The 5-year mortality rate of NPC was the major measurement to evaluate the efficacies of 16 screening strategies. Parameters for the model were derived from published literature. RESULTS: Screening reduced the 5-year mortality rate for NPC by 20.4 – 43.3%, compared with the equivalent rate without screening. The 5-year mortality rate and the NPC pick-up rate with strategy A1 (annual screening) were 23.6% and 83.9%, respectively. Compared with strategy A1, strategy B1 (annual screening for seropositive subjects; biennial screening for seronegative subjects) had a similar 5-year mortality rate (24.0%) and a slightly smaller NPC pick-up rate (81.7%), but led to a 39.3% reduction in total screenings. Compared with all other strategies excluding strategy A1, strategy B1 achieved the lowest 5-year mortality rate and the largest NPC pick-up rate. CONCLUSIONS: Strategy B1 had the highest efficacy for NPC screening.
Overexpression of Interleukin-18 Induces Growth Inhibition, Apoptosis and Gene Expression Changes in a Human Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Line
Authors: Liu W , Han B , Sun B , Gao Y , Huang Y , Hu M
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the role of interleukin-18 (IL-18) in regulating the growth of the human tongue squamous cell carcinoma cell line CRL-1623™. METHODS: The human IL18 gene was cloned and transfected into CRL-1623™ cells using the transfection vector pcDNA3.1(+). Investigations included analysis of cell viability, detection of apoptosis using annexin V—fluorescein isothiocyanate, assessment of caspase 3/7 activity and real-time reverse transcription—polymerase chain reaction to assess expression of the IL18, CCND1 (cyclin D1), CCNA1 (cyclin A1) and IFNG (interferon-γ) genes. RESULTS: Introduction of the IL18 gene inhibited cell proliferation at 24, 48 and 72 h after transfection compared with untransfected cells and cells transfected with blank pcDNA3.1(+) vector. Apoptotic cell numbers and caspase 3/7 activity were significantly enhanced by IL18 transfection. Levels of IL18 and IFNG mRNA were elevated and CCND1 mRNA was reduced after 48 h in IL18 transfected cells compared with wild-type cells. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that IL-18 plays a role in the regulation of tongue squamous cell carcinoma and may represent a potential therapeutic target.
Stable Knockdown of Clusterin by Vector-Based RNA Interference in a Human Breast Cancer Cell Line Inhibits Tumour Cell Invasion and Metastasis
Authors: Li J , Jia L , Zhao P , Jiang Y , Zhong S , Chen D
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: Overexpression of the clusterin ( CLU) gene occurs in breast cancer and is associated with lymph node metastasis. The present study explored the effect of CLU silencing on invasion and metastasis, and the relationship between CLU expression and the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) / matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP) signalling pathway in human breast cancer cells. METHODS: A pcDNA3.1-based RNA interference approach was used to knockdown the CLU gene in MDA-231 cells (MDA-231-CLUi); control MDA-231 cells were transfected with an empty vector (MDA-231-Vec). Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was used to assess CLU and MMP-9 mRNA levels, and Western blotting was used to analyse CLU, MMP-9 and ERK protein levels. Metastatic potential was evaluated using in vitro and in vivo models of invasion and metastasis. RESULTS: Compared with MDA-231-Vec cells, the MDA-231-CLUi cells demonstrated reduced migration and invasion in vitro and decreased metastatic potential in vivo. Reintroduction and reexpression of the CLU gene into the MDA-231-CLUi cells restored the invasive phenotype. MMP-9 mRNA and protein levels were reduced in MDA-231-CLUi cells, and there was a correlation between activated ERK and CLU and MMP-9 protein levels. CONCLUSION: CLU may regulate the aggressive behaviour of human breast cancer cells through modulation of ERK signalling and MMP9 expression.
Effect of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery on Plasma Asymmetric Dimethylarginine Levels in Patients with Extensive Nasal Polyposis
Authors: Fidan V , Alp H , Karaca F , Ozcan AD , Ozcan K
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: This study examined the effect of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) on plasma levels of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) in patients with extensive nasal polyposis (ENP). METHODS: Preoperative and 3-month post-ESS plasma levels of ADMA and mPAP were measured in patients with ENP and in age-and gender-matched controls. RESULTS: The study included 45 patients with ENP and 31 controls (mean ± SD age 39.4 ± 8.8 and 38.1 ± 9.6 years, respectively). The mean preoperative ADMA level in ENP patients (0.69 ± 0.27 μmol/l) was statistically significantly lower than in the control group (1.08 ± 0.37 μmol/l). The postoperative ADMA level increased significantly in ENP patients (0.97 ± 0.36 μmol/l) versus the preoperative level. Mean preoperative mPAP in ENP patients (25.7 ± 5.4 mmHg) was statistically significantly higher than in the control group (20.8 ± 2.1 mmHg), and ENP patients showed significant decreases in mPAP after (21.9 ± 3.5 mmHg) versus before ESS. CONCLUSION: Patients with ENP had lower plasma ADMA levels compared with healthy controls, however ADMA levels and mPAP improved in ENP patients after ESS.
The Influence of Different Movements on Ambulatory Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Subacute Stroke Patients
Authors: Tang Q-P , Wang G-Q , Huang X-S , Yan M-L , Han G-D , Pu Q-Q , Ouyang C-H , Zhan H-L , Feng J-H , Yang Q-D
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated variation in blood pressure (BP) in hypertensive subacute stroke patients performing eight different types of active movement, and variations in BP over time. METHODS: The study included 35 subacute stroke patients (60 – 74 years old) and 15 age-matched healthy volunteers. Ambulatory systolic and diastolic BP was measured over 4 consecutive days, before and during active movement. RESULTS: The greatest effect of the different active movements in stroke patients was on mean systolic BP variability (BPV). There was a significant difference in systolic and diastolic BPV between stroke patients at different time-points and compared with healthy volunteers. Systolic BPV during shifting from the ward to the rehabilitation centre was significantly higher than for all other active movements. Mean systolic BPVs during the sessions on the first and second days were significantly higher than for the sessions on the third and fourth days in stroke patients and compared with healthy volunteers. CONCLUSIONS: Systolic BP was found to be increased in hypertensive subacute stroke patients during their first and/or second attempts at performing active movements. Therapists should consider the BP of hypertensive subacute stroke patients during these first two attempts, especially for activities involving the patient moving from the ward to the rehabilitation centre.
Serum Concentrations of Resistin and Adiponectin and Their Relationship to Insulin Resistance in Subjects with Impaired Glucose Tolerance
Authors: Luo R , Li X , Jiang R , Gao X , Lü Z , Hua W
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVES: This study measured the serum concentrations of resistin and adiponectin in Chinese subjects with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and investigated their association with insulin resistance, metabolic parameters and circulating inflammatory markers. METHODS: A total of 124 subjects participated in the study (44 with IGT and 80 with normal glucose tolerance [NGT]). Fasting serum concentrations of lipids, glucose, insulin and adipocytokines (resistin, adiponectin, leptin, tumour necrosis factor-α [TNF-α], interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein) were measured. RESULTS: Serum resistin concentrations were similar in the IGT and NGT groups but were significantly higher in overweight/obese IGT subjects than in those of normal weight. Serum adiponectin concentrations were significantly lower in the IGT group than in the NGT group. In the IGT group, resistin was positively correlated with age, body mass index and TNF-α, and adiponectin was correlated positively with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and negatively with TNF-α and waist/hip ratio. CONCLUSIONS: Circulating resistin is unlikely to be a major mediator of glucose tolerance in humans but it may have an inflammatory role in IGT. The data support the theory that circulating adiponectin has an anti-inflammatory and anti-insulin resistance function.
Mean Peak Systolic Velocity of the Superior Thyroid Artery is Correlated with Radioactive Iodine Uptake in Untreated Thyrotoxicosis
Authors: Chen L , Zhao X , Liu H , Wang Y , Li L , Lu B , Li Y , Hu R
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the correlation between mean superior thyroid artery peak systolic velocity (STA—PSV) and radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU) in Chinese patients with untreated thyrotoxicosis, using retrospectively and prospectively collected data. METHODS: Patients with untreated thyrotoxicosis ( n = 220) and euthyroid control subjects ( n = 30) underwent thyroid function, thyroid autoantibody and thyroid ultrasonography tests. Mean STA—PSV was measured by ultrasonography. RAIU tests identified 168 patients with Graves' disease and 52 with destructive thyroiditis. Linear correlation of mean STA—PSV with 3-h and 24-h RAIU, and sensitivity, specificity and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for mean STA—PSV in the differential diagnosis of Graves' disease and destructive thyroiditis were calculated. RESULTS: Mean STA—PSV was significantly higher in Graves' disease than in destructive thyroiditis. Mean STA—PSV correlated positively and significantly with 3-h and 24-h RAIU. Area under the ROC curve of mean STA—PSV for the differential diagnosis of Graves' disease and destructive thyroiditis was 0.825 (optimum cut-off value of mean STA—PSV, 45.25 cm/s; sensitivity, 80.4%; specificity, 81.4%). CONCLUSIONS: Detection of mean STA—PSV by ultrasonography agrees with RAIU and is useful for the differential diagnosis of thyrotoxicosis in Chinese patients.
Elevated Serum Concentrations of Inflammatory Cytokines and Chemokines in Patients with Haemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome
Authors: Wang P-Z , Li Z-D , Yu H-T , Zhang Y , Wang W , Jiang W , Bai X-F
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: Prospective case—control study, undertaken to investigate serum cytokine and chemokine concentrations during all clinical phases and in different clinical types of haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). METHODS: Serum was collected at various disease phases from patients with HFRS ( n = 35) and healthy control subjects ( n = 10). Tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-4, interferon (IFN)-γ, IL-8, interferon inducible protein-10 (IP-10) and chemokine (C—C motif) ligand 5 (also known as ‘regulated upon activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted’ [RANTES]) were quantified using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. RESULTS: Serum concentrations of TNF-α, IL-6, IFN-γ, IL-8, IP-10 and RANTES (but not IL-4) were significantly higher in patients compared with controls. Highest concentrations were generally found during the febrile, hypotensive and oliguric disease phases, as well as in clinically severe and critical cases. CONCLUSION: Serum concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines increased in line with disease severity in HFRS patients.
Spinal—General Anaesthesia Decreases Neuroendocrine Stress Response in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Calvo-Soto P , Martíanez-Contreras A , Trujillo-Hernández B , Peraza-Garay FJ , Vásquez C
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: A randomized clinical study to compare the stress response to laparoscopic cholecystectomy during spinal—general anaesthesia and epidural—general anaesthesia. METHODS: Women undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy were assigned to receive either spinal anaesthesia (SA group; n = 12) or epidural anaesthesia (EA group; n = 12), in addition to general anaesthesia. Plasma concentrations of cortisol, adrenocortico trophic hormone (ACTH), noradrenaline, adrenaline and total catecholamines were measured pre- and intraoperatively. RESULTS: Intraoperative cortisol, noradrenaline and total catecholamine levels were significantly lower in the SA group compared with the EA group. When pre- and intraoperative values were compared, the SA group showed a decrease in adrenaline, noradrenaline and total catecholamine levels, and the EA group showed an increase in ACTH and noradrenaline levels. CONCLUSIONS: The type of regional anaesthesia significantly affected the stress response: spinal anaesthesia produced a more favourable endocrine response than epidural anaesthesia. Spinal—general anaesthesia may reduce postoperative morbidity in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Ageing Challenges the Results of any Outcome Study: How to Address the Effects of Ageing on Activities of Daily Living
Authors: Rieger B , Tamcan O , Dietrich D , Müller U
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVES: Clinical study results might be substantially biased by the effects of ageing, resulting in considerable underestimation of treatment efficacy, especially when assessing activities of daily living (ADL) in elderly people. This study aimed to define age- and comorbidity-related normative values in ADL. METHODS: In cross-sectional sampling, 23 763 German-speaking Swiss individuals were contacted. Valid questionnaires from 16 191 (68%) eligible individuals ≥ 18 years of age were included in the study. Age-related ADL reference values were calculated using questionnaire data. RESULTS: The sample was representative of the German-speaking Swiss population as determined by 2003 census data. Age- and pain-related ADL reference values were plotted and confirmed that disability increased with increasing age. CONCLUSIONS: The use of ADL scales that provide age- and comorbidity-related reference values for outcome studies or studies focusing on the elderly is recommended in order to reduce the effect of bias.
Adenosine Triphosphate Content in Human Unfertilized Oocytes, Undivided Zygotes and Embryos Unsuitable for Transfer or Cryopreservation
Authors: Zhao J , Li Y
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content and developmental potential in human oocytes, zygotes and embryos. METHODS: ATP content was determined using a bioluminescence assay in 72 unfertilized oocytes, 26 undivided zygotes and 70 embryos unsuitable for transfer or cryopreservation, obtained from 52 women undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF—ET). RESULTS: The mean ATP content increased with development: zygotes had a significantly higher ATP content than oocytes, and embryos had a significantly higher ATP content than both zygotes and oocytes. Within the embryo group, the ATP content was significantly higher in polypronuclear embryos than in inferior embryos with substantial fragmentation. When analysed in relation to IVF—ET outcome, the ATP content of oocytes and embryos from women who became pregnant was significantly higher than in oocytes and embryos from those who did not become pregnant. CONCLUSIONS: Reduced ATP content may be related to fertilization failure, arrested division and abnormal embryonic development. The differences observed in oocyte and embryo ATP content between women who became pregnant and those who did not suggests that mitochondrial function is correlated with individual fertility.
Observational 6-Month Open-Label Study of Japanese Type 2 Diabetes Patients Switching from NPH Insulin to Insulin Detemir in Basal—Bolus Regimen: 23rd Article of the Japan Diabetes Clinical Data Management Study Group (JDDM23)
Authors: Oishi M , Abe N , Yokoyama H , Kuribayashi N , Tomonaga O , Matoba K , Kobayashi M ,   The Japan Diabetes Clinical Data Management Study Group
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: Glycaemic control is critical to prevent diabetic complications and mortality. This 6-month, open-label, observational study assessed the efficacy and safety of switching Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes from neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin to insulin detemir. METHODS: Patients with type 2 diabetes ( n = 126) receiving basal—bolus insulin therapy with NPH insulin plus rapid-acting insulin analogues were recruited. NPH insulin was replaced with insulin detemir for 6 months. Glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), daily glucose levels and hypoglycaemia were monitored. Nocturnal quality of life was assessed by insulin therapy related quality of life at night questionnaire. RESULTS: HbA1c, FPG and body weight were all significantly reduced after treatment with insulin detemir for 6 months, without increasing severe hypoglycaemia. Insulin dose increased significantly over the same time. There were significant improvements in overall nocturnal quality of life, as well as well-being. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with insulin detemir for 6 months resulted in substantial benefits, including reduced HbA1c, FPG and body weight, and improvements in nocturnal quality of life, without increasing hypoglycaemia.
Assessment of Cardiac Ultrasonography in Predicting Outcome in Adult Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Tomruk O , Erdur B , Cetin G , Ergin A , Avcil M , Kapci M
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: A prospective follow-up study to evaluate the ability of cardiac ultrasonography performed by emergency physicians to predict resuscitation outcome in adult cardiac arrest patients. METHODS: Ultrasonographic examination of the subxiphoid cardiac area was made immediately on presentation to the emergency department with pulseless cardiac arrest. Sonographic cardiac activity was defined as any detected motion within the heart including the atria, ventricles or valves. Successful resuscitation was defined as any of: return of spontaneous circulation for ≥ 20 min; return of breathing; palpable pulse; measurable blood pressure. RESULTS: The study enrolled 149 patients over an 18-month period. The presence of sonographic cardiac activity at the beginning of resuscitation was significantly associated with a successful outcome (19/27 [70.4%] versus 55/122 [45.1%] patients without cardiac activity at the beginning of resuscitation). CONCLUSIONS: Ultrasonographic detection of cardiac activity may be useful in determining prognosis during cardiac arrest. Further studies are needed to elucidate the predictive value of ultrasonography in cardiac arrest patients.
Treatment of Trochanteric Fractures with Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation or Dynamic Hip Screw Systems: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zeng C , Wang Y-R , Wei J , Gao S-G , Zhang F-J , Sun Z-Q , Lei G-H
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: A meta-analysis to compare the intraoperative and postoperative outcome data for the proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) and dynamic hip screw (DHS) implant systems for the treatment of patients with trochanteric fractures. METHODS: A detailed search of several electronic databases was undertaken to identify randomized controlled trials published before 5 December 2011 that compared PFNA with DHS in patients with trochanteric fractures. RESULTS: A quantitative meta-analysis of 11 studies including 798 patients was performed. PFNA was associated with significant reductions in duration of surgery (weighted mean difference [WMD] −21.38 min; 95% confidence interval [CI] −33.50, −9.26 min), intraoperative blood loss (WMD −176.36 ml; 95% CI −232.20, −120.52 ml), rate of fixation failure (relative risk [RR] 0.27, 95% CI 0.11, 0.62) and rate of postoperative complications (RR 0.46; 95% CI 0.31, 0.70) compared with DHS. CONCLUSION: The use of PFNA for treatment of trochanteric fractures was found to be superior to DHS in terms of the duration of surgery, intraoperative blood loss, and rates of fixation failure and overall complications.
Cognitive Dysfunction after Off-Pump versus On-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sun Jh , Wu Xy , Wang Wj , Jin Ll
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: A meta-analysis to compare the incidence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) following off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) versus after conventional coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). METHODS: A systematic search of the Medline®, EMBASE® and Cochrane Library databases was performed to identify randomized controlled trials published until the end of November 2011. Data were analysed using RevMan version 5.0 software. RESULTS: The literature search identified 13 randomized controlled trials which included a total of 2326 cases. Meta-analysis found that the incidence of POCD was significantly higher following CABG than after OPCAB during the perioperative period (1 – 2 weeks) and at 3 months postsurgery. There were no significant between-group differences at 6 or 12 months postsurgery. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with CABG, OPCAB was found to be associated with a reduced incidence of early-stage POCD. Caution must be taken when interpreting these findings because of limitations in the available data.
Wortmannin Reduces Metastasis and Angiogenesis of Human Breast Cancer Cells via Nuclear Factor-κB-Dependent Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 and Interleukin-8 Pathways
Authors: Li J , Li F , Wang H , Wang X , Jiang Y , Li D
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether inhibition of Akt phosphorylation by the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor, wortmannin, reduces metastasis and angiogenesis in a human breast cancer cell line via nuclear factor (NF)-κB-dependent matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and interleukin (IL)-8 pathways. METHODS: MDA-MB-231 cells were treated with wortmannin 0 – 200 nM for 4 h. Restoration of Akt activity was evaluated by transfection of cells with constitutively active myristoylated Akt (myr-Akt). NF-κB, MMP-9 and IL-8 proteins were detected by electrophoretic mobility shift assay, Western blot or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The chicken embryo chorio-allantoic membrane assay, cell motility and migration assays were used to evaluate angiogenesis and invasion in vitro. A mouse pseudo metastatic breast cancer model was used to assess the effects of wortmannin on metastasis and angiogenesis in vivo. RESULTS: Wortmannin inhibited the phosphorylation of Akt, upregulation of NF-κB, MMP-9, IL-8, and in vitro cell invasion and angiogenesis, in a dose-dependent manner. Transfection of myr-Akt reversed the cellular and biochemical effects of wortmannin in vitro. Wortmannin also significantly inhibited tumour metastasis and angiogenesis in vivo. CONCLUSION: The findings of the present study suggest that wortmannin inhibits metastasis and angiogenesis in breast cancer cells via PI3K/Akt/NF-κB-mediated MMP-9 and IL-8 signalling pathways.
High Serum Levels of Follistatin in Patients with Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Ren P , Chen F-F , Liu H-Y , Cui X-L , Sun Y , Guan J-L , Liu Z-H , Liu J-G , Wang Y-N
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the potential use of serum follistatin (FST) as a marker for ovarian cancer alongside serum cancer antigen-125 (CA-125). METHODS: Serum samples were collected from patients with ovarian cancer ( n = 45), benign ovarian cysts ( n = 40) or other cancers ( n = 100) and from healthy subjects ( n = 60) for the determination of FST and CA-125 levels using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Expression of FST in ovarian tissue was investigated using immunohistochemical staining. RESULTS: Compared with healthy subjects and patients with benign ovarian cysts, serum FST and CA-125 levels were significantly increased in patients with ovarian cancer. Using the 95% confidence interval for the healthy subjects group as the cut-off value, tumour marker sensitivity and specificity in ovarian cancer were 53.3% and 97% for FST and 77.8% and 84% for CA-125, respectively. Tissue expression of FST protein was more pronounced in ovarian cancer than in normal ovary. CONCLUSIONS: The serum FST level was elevated in the peripheral blood of patients with ovarian cancer and has potential as a tumour marker for ovarian cancer diagnosis. It may be particularly useful when combined with CA-125 detection to reduce the number of false-positive results.
Transcriptome and Coexpression Network Analysis of the Human Glioma Cell Line Hs683 Exposed to Candoxin
Authors: Jiang Yx , Ma Y , Cheng Y
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: Gliomas are the most common primary tumours of the central nervous system. Snake venom, such as candoxin (CDX) isolated from Bungarus candidus, inhibits glioma cell proliferation. This study explored the gene regulation profile of CDX-treated human glioma Hs683 cells. METHODS: Using microarray technology and bioinformatics analyses the underlying molecular mechanism of action of CDX was evaluated by constructing gene regulation and protein—protein interaction coexpression networks. RESULTS: CDX treatment induced a large number of related genes at the transcriptional level. The MYC gene (v-myc myelocytomatosis viral oncogene homologue [avian]) had a key role in the response of Hs683 cells to CDX treatment. Activation of MYC upregulated NDRG1 (N-myc downstream regulated 1), WNT10B (wingless-type mouse mammary tumour virus integration site family, member 10B), CASP9 (caspase 9, apoptosis-related cysteine peptidase) and CDKN2A (cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A), and downregulated ID3 (inhibitor of DNA binding 3, dominant negative helix—loop—helix protein) and SLC1A4 (solute carrier family 1 [glutamate/neutral amino acid transporter], member 4). In addition, a subnetwork was constructed among SPP1 (secreted phosphoprotein 1), SDC1 (syndecan 1) and CD44 based on protein—protein interactions, and these genes were predicted to be involved in glioma cell invasion. CONCLUSION: These findings might provide novel therapeutic targets for glioma chemotherapy.
Comparison of α-Blocker Monotherapy and α-Blocker plus 5α-Reductase Inhibitor Combination Therapy Based on Prostate Volume for Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Joo K-J , Sung W-S , Park S-H , Yang W-J , Kim T-H
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: This study compared α-blocker monotherapy with combination therapy involving an α-blocker and a 5-α reductase inhibitor for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), according to baseline prostate volume. METHODS: Korean men diagnosed with BPH were randomized to 12 months' treatment with 0.2 mg tamsulosin or 0.2 mg tamsulosin plus 0.5 mg dutasteride. Prostate specific antigen (PSA), prostate volume, transition zone volume (TZV), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), maximal urinary flow rate ( Qmax), postvoid residual urine volume and sexual function were assessed at baseline and after 12 months' treatment. Variables were analysed based on baseline prostate volumes of ≤ 35 ml or > 35 ml. RESULTS: In total, 216 men with BPH were included. Combination therapy resulted in significant improvements in prostate volume, TZV, PSA, IPSS and Qmax, which were most pronounced in men with a prostate volume > 35 ml. CONCLUSIONS: Tamsulosin monotherapy was sufficient treatment for BPH in Korean men with a prostate volume ≤ 35 ml. Combination tamsulosin and dutasteride therapy provided greater benefits than tamsulosin monotherapy in men with BPH whose prostate volume was > 35 ml.
Clinicopathological Significance of Mesothelin Expression in Invasive Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang L , Niu Z , Zhang L , Liu X , Wang X , Li F , Wang Y
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the expression profile of the mesothelin ( MSLN) gene and its prognostic significance in breast cancer. METHODS: To evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic significance of mesothelin, immunohistochemistry was used to assess the level of mesothelin protein in surgically resected, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded invasive breast carcinoma specimens. Associations between mesothelin and other biomarkers, including oestrogen receptor (OR), progesterone receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2/neu), were also evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 182 breast carcinoma specimens were included. Mesothelin protein was present in the membrane of malignant cells. There was correlation between the presence of mesothelin in tumour cells and tumour infiltration of the lymph node. There was no correlation between the presence of mesothelin and HER2/neu protein, OR and PR in tumour cells. Mesothelin levels were significantly associated with decreased overall survival. CONCLUSIONS: Lymph node status, tumour size, HER2/neu and mesothelin protein levels in breast cancer cells were independent prognostic factors. Mesothelin could be useful as a prognostic marker of overall survival in invasive breast cancer.
Levels of the Oxidative Stress Marker γ-Glutamyltranspeptidase at Different Stages of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Irie M , Sohda T , Iwata K , Kunimoto H , Fukunaga A , Kuno S , Yotsumoto K , Sakurai K , Iwashita H , Hirano G , Ueda Si , Yokoyama K , Morihara D , Nishizawa S , Anan A , Takeyama Y , Sakamoto M , Shakado S , Sakisaka S
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVES: This study investigated oxidative stress in the liver, by determining hepatic expression and serum levels of γ-glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT) and 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in different stages of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and assessed whether GGT can differentiate between the various stages of NAFLD. METHODS: Expression of GGT and 8-OHdG was examined in biopsy specimens by immunohistochemistry, and serum GGT and 8-OHdG levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays in patients with simple fatty liver ( n = 10), nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH; n = 10) and, as a control, in alcoholic liver disease (ALD; n = 10). RESULTS: Hepatic tissue expression of GGT and 8-OHdG was seen in ALD, NASH and fatty liver patients. The percentage of hepatocytes positive for 8-OHdG expression and serum 8-OHdG levels was significantly higher in patients with NASH than simple fatty liver. Serum GGT levels were increased in all cases with ALD, NASH and fatty liver, and correlated significantly with serum levels of 8-OHdG in ALD and NASH, but not in simple fatty liver. CONCLUSIONS: Levels of GGT in fatty liver patients may compensate for mild oxidative stress by repressing 8-OHdG levels and preventing progression to NASH; however further oxidative stress leads to increased levels of 8-OHdG and the development of NASH.
Associations between Coronary Heart Disease and Individual Components of the Metabolic Syndrome according to Glucose Tolerance Status
Authors: Gong X , Pan X , Chen X , Hong C , Hong J , Shen F
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether the contributions of individual metabolic syndrome components to coronary heart disease (CHD) risk vary in patients with different glucose tolerance. METHODS: A total of 1619 patients were included in this cross-sectional study. CHD, metabolic syndrome and glucose tolerance were assessed using coronary angiography, anthropometric and biochemical parameters, and an oral glucose tolerance test, respectively. Associations between CHD and components of metabolic syndrome were determined using logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Low high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) was the only CHD risk factor in patients with both CHD and metabolic syndrome who had normal glucose tolerance, after adjustments for age, smoking and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) concentration. In patients with CHD plus metabolic syndrome and prediabetes, the most important risk factor was hypertension; additional risk factors were high postprandial blood glucose (PBG) and low HDL-C. In patients with CHD plus metabolic syndrome and diabetes, high PBG was the strongest risk factor, followed by hypertension, high FBG and high waist circumference. CONCLUSIONS: Individual components of metabolic syndrome contributed variously to CHD across different glucose tolerance statuses.
Effect of β-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl) Lactic Acid on Oxidative Stress Stimulated by High Glucose Levels in Human Peritoneal Mesothelial Cells
Authors: Zhang H , Wang J-W , Xu Y , Zhang K , Yi B , Sun J , Liu Y , Zhang X-M , Liu J-S
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of β-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)lactic acid on oxidative stress stimulated by high glucose levels in human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs) in vitro. METHODS: HPMCs were incubated with 100 mol/l glucose followed by 0.625 – 20 mg/ml β-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)lactic acid. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were quantified by flow cytometry. Relative levels of fibronectin-1 (FN1), collagen-I α1 (COL1A1), endothelin-1 (EDN1) and haem oxygenase-1 (HMOX1) mRNA and protein were quantified by real-time reverse transcription—polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting, respectively. Absolute levels of FN1 and COLIA1 were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: β-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)lactic acid significantly decreased ROS levels, and EDN1 mRNA and protein levels, in dose- and time-dependent manners. HMOX1 mRNA and protein levels were significantly increased by β-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)lactic acid in dose-dependent manners. COL1A1 and FN1 mRNA and protein levels were significantly decreased by β-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)lactic acid in dose- and time-dependent manners. CONCLUSIONS: β-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenyl)lactic acid inhibited oxidative stress and reversed increases in FN1 and COLIA1 induced by high glucose levels in HPMCs. This may contribute to a protective role in peritoneal fibrosis.
Levels of Components of the Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator System are Related to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Parenchymal Destruction and Airway Remodelling
Authors: Zhang Y , Xiao W , Jiang Y , Wang H , Xu X , Ma D , Chen H , Wang X
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: Retrospective study to investigate levels of components of the urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) system in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). METHODS: Peripheral lung tissue was obtained from patients who underwent surgical resection for benign lung diseases: 16 patients with COPD, 10 controls without lung function impairment who were smokers, and 10 controls without lung function impairment who were nonsmokers. Immunohistochemical staining for uPA, uPA receptor (uPAR) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) was quantified. Airway remodelling (collagen; detected by Sirius red staining), lung function (determined by spirometry) and emphysema (alveolar destruction; percentage of low attenuation areas on computed tomography scan) were evaluated. RESULTS: uPA, uPAR and PAI-1 were significantly different in structural lung cells and pulmonary macrophages from patients with COPD compared with controls. There were significant positive correlations between collagen levels and uPA and PAI-1, and between uPA and degree of emphysema. There were significant inverse correlations between lung function and uPA, uPAR and PAI-1. CONCLUSION: Correlations between components of the uPA system and lung function, small airway fibrosis and emphysema indicate a role for the uPA system in COPD.
The Synergistic Therapeutic Effect of Temozolomide and Hyperbaric Oxygen on Glioma U251 Cell Lines is Accompanied by Alterations in Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Multidrug Resistance-Associated Protein-1 Levels
Authors: Lu X-Y , Cao K , Li Q-Y , Yuan Z-C , Lu P-S
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE: Temozolomide (TMZ) is an oral alkylating agent widely used in the treatment of refractory glioma. Its efficacy is limited, however, by poor cancer cell penetration and drug resistance. The present study, therefore, aimed to investigate whether hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) may facilitate drug delivery and enhance the anticancer effect of TMZ. METHODS: Cultured glioma U251 cells were treated with HBO, TMZ, or TMZ + HBO, or were untreated (controls). Rates of growth inhibition, cell death and apoptosis were investigated using the 3-(4,5-dimethyl thiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2 H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, propidium iodide staining and flow cytometry, respectively. Protein levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and multidrug resistance-associated protein-1 (MRP-1) were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: Compared with TMZ or HBO alone, combined treatment with both therapies synergistically inhibited growth and induced apoptosis and death of cultured glioma U251 cells, which was accompanied by a significant decrease in levels of VEGF and MRP-1. CONCLUSIONS: TMZ and HBO synergistically induced the apoptosis of glioma cells, possibly through reduced vascularization and inhibition of drug resistance. The combination of TMZ and HBO may be a powerful treatment for malignant glioma.
4-1BB Ligand-Mediated Imbalance of Helper 17 T Cells and Regulatory T Cells in Patients with Allergic Asthma
Authors: Ai X-Y , Shi G-C , Wan H-Y , Shi Y-H , Hou X-X , Zhu H-X , Tang W
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the presence of 4-1BB ligand (4-1BBL) in the peripheral blood of patients with allergic asthma and evaluate its role in controlling the balance between helper 17 T (Th17) and regulatory T (Treg) cells. METHODS: Soluble 4-1BBL (s4-1BBL) was quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in plasma from patients with asthma ( n = 45) and from healthy control subjects ( n = 35). The proportion of monocytes positive for membrane-bound 4-1BBL (m4-1BBL) was determined by flow cytometry. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with asthma were incubated with anti-4-1BB monoclonal antibody in vitro. Concentrations of interleukin (IL)-17 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in the culture supernatant were analysed. RESULTS: Plasma s4-1BBL concentrations and the proportion of m4-1BBL-positive monocytes were significantly lower in patients with asthma than in control subjects. The culture supernatant concentration of TGF-β1 was increased and that of IL-17 was decreased by incubation with anti-4-1BB monoclonal antibody. CONCLUSIONS: Both soluble and membrane-bound 4-1BBL were reduced in patients with allergic asthma compared with control subjects. 4-1BBL/4-1BB signalling may play an important role in allergic asthma by regulating the Th17/Treg balance.
Immunohistochemical Investigation of the Correlation between LIM Kinase 1 Expression and Development and Progression of Human Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang W , Gan N , Zhou J
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVES: LIM kinase 1 (LIMK1) is implicated in cellular mechanisms regulating tumour cell invasion and may be involved in ovarian carcinoma progression. This retrospective study, therefore, investigated expression of the LIMK1 gene in primary ovarian tumour tissue samples and evaluated the correlation between LIMK1 gene expression and progression of ovarian carcinoma. METHODS: LIMK1 protein levels were detected by immunohistochemistry in ovarian tissue samples from 57 patients with primary ovarian epithelial tumours (benign, n = 13; borderline, n = 14; carcinoma, n = 30) and 10 patients with normal ovaries. LIMK1 protein levels were evaluated by calculating the product of the scores for stain intensity and percentage of cells stained. RESULTS: There was a significant correlation between increasing LIMK1 protein levels and increasing disease severity, from normal ovarian tissues through benign and borderline tumours to ovarian carcinoma. There was also a significant correlation between increasing LIMK1 protein levels and increasingly poor levels of differentiation of ovarian carcinoma. CONCLUSIONS: LIMK1 is associated with the development of ovarian cancer and with the level of tumour differentiation in patients with ovarian carcinoma.