bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-Cultural Adaptation, Reliability and Validity of the Chinese Version of the Fear Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire
Authors: Pei LB , Xia JJ , Yan JL
Published: February 2013

The Fear Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire (FABQ) was translated and cross-culturally adapted for China. Its psychometric properties were then evaluated in Chinese-speaking patients with low-back pain and the scales were tested for internal consistency, reproducibility, ceiling-and-floor effects, construct validity and responsiveness. A total of 15 patients were selected for pre-testing and a further 230 patients completed the FABQ (and other scales) at baseline and 14 days later. A test–retest reliability analysis was carried out on 61 of the 230 patients. The FABQ was found to be easily understood. Explorative factor analysis by principal components analysis, yielded a two-factor model for the FABQ, relating to work and physical activity, and this was confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis using structural equation modelling. The FABQ yielded high values for internal consistency and reproducibility; no ceiling-and-floor effects were detected. Generally, the FABQ scales and baseline variables were weakly correlated. Cohen's effect size was 0.22 and responsiveness was low. It was concluded that the translation and adaptation of the FABQ into Chinese was successful; the scales had acceptable factor structure, internal consistency, test–retest reliability and construct validity.
Expression of Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1α and Its Significance in Laryngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Wu X-H , Lu Y-F , Hu X-D , Mao J-Y , Ji X-X , Yao H-T , Zhou S-H
Published: February 2013

This study examined levels of hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) protein in 40 laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma specimens using immunohistochemistry. Correlations between HIF-1α immunoreactivity and patient age, tumour lymph node metastasis stage, histological grade (extent of differentiation), and alcohol and smoking history were evaluated. Of the tumour tissues obtained, 35 (87.5%) were located in the glottic area and five (12.5%) in the supraglottic area. All patients were male and aged between 35 and 71 years; 12 (30.0%) presented with lymph node metastases, 24 (60.0%) had cancer classified as T1 or T2, and 16 (40.0%) as high clinical stage (T3 or T4). The pattern of HIF-1α protein localization in tumour tissues, when present, was mixed nuclear/cyto plasmic, with positive HIF-1α expression in 27 patients (67.5%). Differences in HIF-1α levels in samples from different tumour stages and in those with lymph node-positive versus lymph node-negative cancers were statistically significant.
Evaluation of the Roles of Serum Vitamin B12, Folate and Homocysteine Levels in Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Gorgulu O , Selcuk T , Ozdemir S , Sayar Ç , Beyazit Y , Akbas Y
Published: February 2013

Metabolic changes in head and neck carcinogenesis are often non-specifically correlated with carcinomas. The study of metabolic disorders can improve the understanding of tumourigenesis at the cellular level. This study was designed to evaluate the role of serum homocysteine, folate, and vitamin B12 levels in the pathogenesis of laryngeal squamous cell cancer (LSCC) by measuring serum levels in 60 consecutive untreated patients with LSCC and 60 controls (30 smokers and 30 non-smokers). Compared with smoker and non-smoker control groups, significantly lower levels of vitamin B12 were found in patients with LSCC. Folate levels in patients with LSCC were also significantly lower than in the smoker and non-smoker control groups. There were no significant differences in the homocysteine levels between these three groups. Metabolic alterations in vitamin B12 and folate levels, particularly hypofolataemia, could be associated with the development of LSCC, although further research is required to confirm their roles definitively.
Circulating Serum Matrix Metalloproteinase-3 and Metalloproteinase-9 Are Not Associated with Echocardiographic Parameters of Diastolic Function in Asymptomatic Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Žákovičová E , Charvat J , Kukacka J , Chlumsky J , Svab P , Kvapil M
Published: February 2013

Serum concentrations of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 3 and MMP9 were evaluated in 82 asymptomatic type 2 diabetes mellitus patients without cardiovascular complications and in 41 non-diabetic control subjects. In the asymptomatic diabetic patients, the correlations of these concentrations with diabetes duration, selected biochemical parameters such as glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), and echocardiographic parameters of diastolic function were also assessed. Pulsed and tissue Doppler echocardiography was performed in the two groups. Mean ± SD age was 61 ± 6 years for the asymptomatic diabetic patients and 61 ± 5 years for controls. Mean ± SD concentrations of MMP3 and MMP9 were significantly higher in the asymptomatic diabetic patients (67.5 ± 10.4 and 77.8 ± 28.8 μg/l, respectively) than in controls (47.2 ± 6.1 and 51.1 ± 13.7 μg/l, respectively). In the asymptomatic diabetic patients, MMP3 correlated only with albuminuria ( r = 0.341) and MMP9 only with HbA1c ( r = 0.262); neither MMP was correlated with echocardiographic parameters of diastolic function. Thus, in asymptomatic type 2 diabetic patients without cardiovascular complications, serum MMP3 and MMP9 were elevated, MMP9 was associated with HbA1c and MMP3 was associated with albuminuria, however, MMP3 and MMP9 were not associated with echocardiographic parameters of diastolic function.
An Interesting Entity Mimicking Malignancy: Laryngeal Candidiasis
Authors: Saraydaroglu O , Coskun H , Elezoglu B
Published: February 2013

Primary candidiasis in the laryngeal mucosa is rare but has many predisposing factors, in particular immune insufficiency and long-term antibiotic use. This study involved a reassessment of 530 laryngeal biopsy specimens originally examined between 2004 and 2009, from which 11 cases of hyperplastic laryngeal candidiasis were identified according to their clinical and histopathological features. Among possible predisposing factors, immune insufficiency was identified in three patients, there was long-term antibiotic use in two cases, use of inhaled corticosteroids in four cases, smoking in eight cases and reflux symptoms in four cases. Dysplasia as well as hyperplasia was seen in two cases. Endolaryngeal lesion excision was performed in eight cases and biopsy leading to radical surgery was done in three. In clinical follow-up no lesions were observed in nine cases while two had new leukoplakic lesions.
Impact of Depression Mood Disorder on the Adverse Drug Reaction Incidence Rate of Anticancer Drugs in Cancer Patients
Authors: Zhou T , Duan JJ , Zhou GP , Cai JY , Huang ZH , Zeng YT , Xu F
Published: February 2013

The aim of this study was to explore the impact of depression mood disorder on the incidence of adverse drug reactions of anticancer drugs in cancer patients. The Hamilton Depression Scale 17 was used to evaluate the depression mood disorder level in 73 cancer patients before chemotherapy. Pharmacists monitored adverse drug reactions during the chemotherapy period. The relationship between depression mood disorder level and the incidence of adverse drug reactions was analysed. The frequency and extent of total adverse drug reactions were not related to depression mood disorder level. The frequency and extent of subjectively experienced adverse drug reactions such as anorexia, nausea and fatigue were related to depression mood disorder level. In conclusion, psychological support and intervention should be provided to cancer patients in order to improve patient adherence and cancer chemotherapy effectiveness, and to decrease the incidence of adverse drug reactions.
Ureaplasma urealyticum in Male Infertility in Jilin Province, North-east China, and Its Relationship with Sperm Morphology
Authors: Zhang Z-H , Zhang H-G , Dong Y , Han R-R , Dai R-L , Liu R-Z
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the effects of Ureaplasma urealyticum infection and raised seminal leucocyte levels on sperm morphology in 967 infertile males and 201 fertile healthy volunteers. U. urealyticum infection led to a significant decrease in the percentage of morphologically normal sperm in infertile males. There was a clear correlation between U. urealyticum infection, raised seminal leucocytes and abnormal sperm morphology. The percentage of morphologically normal sperm was significantly lower in U. urealyticum-positive than U. urealyticum-negative infertile males or fertile controls. The percentage of morphologically normal sperm was lowest in U. urealyticum-positive males with raised seminal leucocytes. Previous studies have found raised seminal leucocyte levels to be associated with reactive oxygen species. The authors suggest that oxidative stress contributes to the effects of U. urealyticum on sperm morphology. In conclusion, U. urealyticum infection can negatively affect sperm morphology and this study provided two possible mechanistic explanations.
A Randomized Crossover Study Comparing Patient Preference for Tamsulosin and Silodosin in Patients with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Associated with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Watanabe T , Ozono S , Kageyama S
Published: February 2013

Patient preference for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) treatment with the α1-blockers, tamsulosin or silodosin, was compared using patient-reported outcomes. Japanese patients with lower urinary tract symptoms associated with BPH were randomly allocated to either the T–S group (tamsulosin 0.2 mg orally once daily for 4 weeks then silodosin 4 mg orally twice daily for 4 weeks) or the S–T group (silodosin 4 mg orally twice daily for 4 weeks then tamsulosin 0.2 mg orally once daily for 4 weeks). The primary endpoint was the preferred drug for treatment continuation at 8 weeks, determined by a patient-reported questionnaire. In total, 102 patients (mean age 70.3 years) were enrolled and 84 ( n = 42 per group) completed the study. A significant difference was observed between the proportion of patients who preferred tamsulosin (59/84 patients; 70.2%) and those who preferred silodosin (18/84 patients; 21.4%). A major reason for preference of either drug was ‘good efficacy’. Incidence of adverse effects was significantly lower with tamsulosin (3/91 patients; 3.3%) than with silodosin (25/88 patients; 28.4%). These findings indicate that tamsulosin is very effective for BPH, has few adverse effects and that patients want to continue to use it.
Aortic Root Dilatation as a Marker of Subclinical Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction in Patients with Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Authors: Masugata H , Senda S , Murao K , Okuyama H , Inukai M , Hosomi N , Iwado Y , Noma T , Kohno M , Himoto T , Goda F
Published: February 2013

Consensus is lacking about the clinical importance of aortic root dilatation in assessment of the risk of cardiovascular disease. In this study, correlations between aortic root diameter and echocardiographic features of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function were investigated in 333 patients with at least one cardiovascular risk factor (hypertension, diabetes or dyslipidaemia) and preserved LV systolic function. Aortic root diameter was measured by M-mode echocardiography, and LV diastolic function was evaluated by measuring the peak velocity of early ( E) and late ( A) diastolic transmitral blood flow and peak early diastolic mitral annular velocity ( E′) by Doppler echocardiography. Linear regression analysis showed that, in men, age was no related to aortic root diameter but hypertension and LV hypertrophy were, whereas the converse was true in women. The parameters E, E/A ratio and E′, were related to aortic root diameter in both sexes. Stepwise multiple regression analysis confirmed that E in women and E′ in men were independently associated with aortic root diameter. It is concluded that aortic root dilatation might be a useful marker of subclinical LV diastolic dysfunction. Patients with preserved systolic function showing aortic root dilatation should, therefore, be given preventative therapy against LV diastolic heart failure.
The Effects of Colloid Pre-Loading on Thromboelastography Prior to Caesarean Delivery: Hydroxyethyl Starch 130/0.4 versus Succinylated Gelatine
Authors: Turker G , Yilmazlar T , Mogol E Basagan , Gurbet A , Dizman S , Gunay H
Published: February 2013

This prospective, randomized, double-blind study compared the effects on thromboelastography (TEG) of preloading with two different colloid fluids prior to spinal anaesthesia for caesarean section. Healthy full-term parturients received either 500 ml 6% hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.4 (HES, n = 25) or 500 ml 4% succinylated gelatine (GEL, n = 25) prior to spinal anaesthesia. TEG parameters including reaction time (r-time), clot formation time (k-time), clot formation rate (α-angle) and maximum amplitude (MA) were measured immediately before and after pre-loading. Both groups had significantly shorter r-time and lower MA after pre-loading. The α-angle was significantly decreased after pre-loading with HES but not with GEL. No significant differences in k-time were induced pre-loading. In conclusion, preloading with HES or GEL was associated with a mild hypocoagulable effect in healthy parturients presenting for elective caesarean section; however, all TEG parameters in both groups remained within or very close to the normal range after pre-loading.
Relationship between Cellular Apoptosis and the Expression of p75 Neurotrophin Receptor and Tyrosine Kinase A Receptor in Tissue Surrounding Haematoma in Intracerebral Haemorrhage
Authors: Bao G , Han Y , Wang M , Xu G
Published: February 2013

Cellular apoptosis and the expression of p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) and tyrosine kinase A receptor (TrkA) were investigated in the tissues surrounding haematoma in patients with intracerebral haemorrhage. Specimens of tissue from near the haematoma (haemorrhagic samples) and tissue from a distant site (control samples) were collected from 14 patients with basal ganglia haemorrhage undergoing surgical intervention. Cellular apoptosis was determined by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labelling (TUNEL), and p75NTR TrkA location, protein and gene expression were studied using immunohistochemistry, Western blot and real-time polymerase chain reaction, respectively. The percentage of apoptotic cells and expression of p75NTR, but not of TrkA, were significantly higher in the haemorrhagic samples than in the control samples. There was a positive correlation between the percentage of TUNEL-positive cells and the percentage of p75NTR-positive cells. These results suggest that the p75NTR-dependent signal transduction pathway plays an important role in apoptosis after intracerebral haemorrhage.
Response to Air Insufflation in Patients with Non-Erosive Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (NERD)
Authors: Kira F , Suzuki T , Suyama Y , Nishimura S , Ogura K
Published: February 2013

This study compared changes in intragastric pressure (IGP) in response to a gastric distension stimulus caused by air insufflation in 25 patients with non-erosive gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (NERD) and 34 healthy volunteers (controls). In four NERD patients, IGP responses were also measured before and after oral treatment with 10 mg rabeprazole daily for 2 weeks. The rate of increase in IGP at the start of insufflation was significantly higher in NERD patients than in controls. The time to appearance of symptoms (i.e. time to threshold) was significantly shorter in NERD patients than in controls. Direct measurement of IGP showed that visceral hypersensitivity and impaired fundal relaxation are both characteristic of NERD. Administration of rabeprazole led to a marked prolonging of time to threshold, indicating that treatment could alleviate this hypersensitivity.
Evaluation of Diffusion-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Contrast-Enhanced Harmonic Ultrasonography in Detection and Location of Prostate Transition-Zone Cancer
Authors: Wang R , Chen J-J , Zhou Y-C , Huang M-M , Zhang X-R , Miao H-D
Published: February 2013

This retrospective study was designed to evaluate the value of contrast-enhanced harmonic ultrasonography (CEHU), diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) and CEHU plus DW-MRI for the diagnosis of prostate transition-zone (TZ) cancer. In total, 31 TZ cancers in 28 patients and 25 peripheral zone (PZ) cancers in 21 patients without a TZ cancer were evaluated. All patients underwent DW-MRI and CEHU followed by radical prostatectomy. Predictors for the diagnosis of prostate cancer were evaluated in three protocols (CEHU, DW-MRI, CEHU plus DW-MRI). Statistical analysis of the differences between these protocols and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were carried out. CEHU plus DW-MRI had a significantly higher sensitivity, accuracy and negative-predictive value (90.3%, 73.2% and 81.3%, respectively) for TZ cancer than either method alone. The area under the ROC curve values were 0.659, 0.679 and 0.712 for CEHU, DW-MRI, and CEHU plus DW-MRI, respectively. In conclusion, CEHU plus DW-MRI might be a useful protocol for the detection and location of TZ cancer.
Adherence to Guideline-Based Standard Operating Procedures in Pre-Hospital Emergency Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Bosse G , Schmidbauer W , Spies CD , Sörensen M , Francis RCE , Bubser F , Krebs M , Kerner T
Published: February 2013

This study investigated improvements in pre-hospital care for patients with acute exacerbated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (aeCOPD) achieved by using a standard operating procedure (SOP). An SOP for pre-hospital treatment of patients with aeCOPD was designed based on valid national guidelines. A total of 1000 Emergency Medical Service patient care reports were analysed prospectively: 500 before and 500 after introduction of the SOP. Overall guideline adherence was 34.6% before and 53.8% after introduction of the SOP; this increase was not statistically significant. After SOP introduction, the administration of β2-mimetics by inhalative, intravenous and subcutaneous routes increased significantly. The level of knowledge of the national guidelines was rated at 67% by emergency physicians during self-assessment, but was only 33% when physicians were asked specific questions during interview. Introducing the SOP for patients with aeCOPD did not significantly improve adherence to valid national guidelines, but did help to improve specific elements of therapy.
The Safety and Efficacy of Early-Stage Bi-Weekly Alendronate to Improve Bone Mineral Density and Bone Turnover in Chinese Post-Menopausal Women at Risk of Osteoporosis
Authors: You L , Sheng Z-Y , Chen J-Y , Pan L , Chen L
Published: February 2013

The efficacy and safety of early, low frequency antiresorptive drug intervention for osteopaenia on bone mineral density (BMD) and bone turnover in Chinese post-menopausal women at risk of developing osteoporosis were investigated. A total of 180 women aged 40 − 70 years were enrolled and equally randomized to receive either 70 mg alendronate once every 2 weeks plus 0.5 μg alfacalcidol daily (treatment group) or alfacalcidol 0.5 μg daily alone (control group) for 12 months. In the treatment group, lumbar spine and total hip BMD at 12 months had increased significantly from baseline and compared with the control group. There were also significant reductions in serum levels of the bone turnover biomarkers, bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen, compared with the control. No serious adverse events were observed in either group and safety profiles were similar. It was concluded that early intervention with 70 mg alendronate once every 2 weeks was safe, well tolerated and more effective than alfacalcidol alone (control) in increasing BMD and reducing bone turnover, and might prevent serious outcomes, such as fragility fractures, reduce rates of adverse effects and improve patient compliance.
Effects of Metformin and Rosiglitazone on Peripheral Insulin Resistance and β-Cell Function in Obesity: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Study
Authors: Li X , Zhang N , Li Y , Shi Y , Li D , Xie Y , Xie Y , Ming J
Published: February 2013

Metformin and rosiglitazone combination therapy is known to improve insulin resistance and postpone diabetes mellitus development in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance. This double-blind, randomized, controlled study assessed this combination therapy for preventing type 2 diabetes in obese subjects with hyperinsulinaemia. Subjects received metformin (500 mg three times daily, orally) plus either rosiglitazone (4 mg once daily, orally; n = 94) or placebo ( n = 95) and were followed for 6 months. Blood pressure, body fat, body mass index (BMI), lipid and insulin levels were recorded pre-and post-treatment. Metformin plus rosiglitazone significantly decreased blood pressure, lipids, BMI, and fasting and postmeal insulin levels. Metformin plus placebo led to a significant decrease in blood pressure, BMI and lipid levels, but fasting and postmeal insulin levels were unchanged. Adverse events were similar between the two groups. The metformin and rosiglitazone combination increased insulin sensitivity and β-cell function recovered. This approach may represent a therapeutic option for preventing development of type 2 diabetes in obese subjects with hyperinsulinaemia.
Prevalence of Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy among Patients with Diabetes Mellitus in the Middle East Region
Authors: Jambart S , Ammache Z , Haddad F , Younes A , Hassoun A , Abdalla K , Selwan C Abou , Sunna N , Wajsbrot D , Youseif E
Published: February 2013

The prevalence of painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) was evaluated in type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus patients ( n = 4097) attending outpatient clinics across the Middle East. Overall, 53.7% of 3989 patients with DN4 data met the criteria for painful DPN (Douleur Neuropathique-4 [DN4] scores ≥ 4). Significant predictors of painful DPN included long history (≥ 10 years) of diabetes (odds ratio [OR] 2.43), age ≥ 65 years (OR 2.13), age 50 – 64 years (OR 1.75), presence of type 1 versus type 2 diabetes (OR 1.59), body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2 (OR 1.35) and female gender (OR 1.27). Living in one of the Gulf States was associated with the lowest odds of having painful DPN (OR 0.44). The odds of painful DPN were highest among patients with peripheral vascular disease (OR 4.98), diabetic retinopathy (OR 3.90) and diabetic nephropathy (OR 3.23). Because of the high prevalence and associated suffering, disability and economic burden of painful DPN, it is important that diabetic patients are periodically screened, using a simple instrument such as the DN4, and receive appropriate treatment if symptoms develop.
The Study of Myogenin Expression in Denervated Human Skeletal Muscles
Authors: Chen L , Huang HW , Gu SH , Xu L , Gu YD , Xu JG , Xu JG
Published: February 2013

Skeletal muscle denervation eventually causes atrophy as a result of interrupted nerve conduction and the lack of nutritional factors. Myogenin is a myogenic regulatory factor that plays a key role in myoblast differentiation. Changes in myogenin expression in denervated rat skeletal muscle have been demonstrated, but myogenin expression in denervated human skeletal muscle has not been reported. Human muscle samples were analysed at different time-points post-denervation to evaluate changes in myogenin expression and their relationship with skeletal muscle atrophy. Post-denervation, myogenin mRNA levels peaked at 7 months and were 37.5 times the normal level. Expression levels then declined to 21 and 11 times the normal level at 12 and 26 months post-denervation, respectively. Prolonged denervation resulted in pathological changes characterized by decreased numbers of intact muscle fibres.
Interleukin-18 and IL18 −607A/C and −137G/C Gene Polymorphisms in Patients with Penicillin Allergy
Authors: Ming L , Wen Q , Qiao H-L , Dong Z-M
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the association between polymorphisms (−607A/C and −137G/C) in the promoter region of the IL18 gene (which encodes interleukin [IL]-18) and serum levels of IL-18, using standard genotyping techniques (sequence specific primer—polymerase chain reaction) and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively, in patients allergic to penicillin. A higher frequency of A alleles and the AA genotype was found at position −607A/C in patients allergic to penicillin than in control subjects. For the −137G/C position, the C allele was more frequent in patients allergic to penicillin than in control subjects. Haplotype analysis showed that the −607A/−137C haplotype was more frequent in patients allergic to penicillin than in control subjects. The patients had a significantly higher serum IL-18 level than the control subjects. In conclusion, IL18 −607A/C and −137G/C promoter polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to penicillin allergy. In particular, the −137G/C position appears to play an important role in IL18 expression.
Topiramate as an Adjunctive Treatment for Refractory Partial Epilepsy in the Elderly
Authors: Zhang L , Huang J , Zhuang J-H , Huang L-Q , Zhao Z-X
Published: February 2013

This double-blind, placebo-controlled study investigated the efficacy and tolerability of adjunctive topiramate in 86 elderly Chinese patients with refractory partial epilepsy. Patients who had at least four seizures per 4 weeks during an 8-week baseline period, despite medication with up to three standard antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), were randomly assigned to receive topiramate ( n = 46) or placebo ( n = 40). Topiramate dosages were titrated (target dose 200 mg/day orally) for 8 weeks and maintained at stable levels for another 12 weeks; concomitant AEDs continued at original dosages. All patients completed the study: 47.8% in the topiramate group and 7.5% on placebo reached ≥ 50% reduction in complex partial seizures. In the topiramate group, the most common adverse events were dizziness, somnolence, fatigue, headache and difficulty with memory; most events were transient and mild or moderate in severity. It was concluded that 200 mg/day topiramate was effective and well-tolerated in elderly patients with refractory partial epilepsy.
Expression of Aquaporin 4 and Kir4.1 in Diabetic Rat Retina: Treatment with Minocycline
Authors: Zhang Y , Xu G , Ling Q , Da C
Published: February 2013

This study examined aquaporin 4 (AQP4) and Kir4.1 (a potassium channel subunit) in normal and diabetic adult Sprague– Dawley rats, and determined the effect of minocycline treatment. Retinal expression of the AQP4 and Kir4.1 genes was examined using double immuno fluorescence, Western blot analysis, and real-time reverse transcription—polymerase chain reaction. Retinal levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule (Iba)-1 and interleukin (IL)-1β were also ascertained. The blood—retinal barrier (BRB) and retinal oedema were assessed using rhodamine isothiocyanate. AQP4, VEGF, Iba-1, and IL-1β mRNA and protein levels increased, and Kir4.1 mRNA and protein levels decreased, in diabetic rat retinas. Both BRB disruption and retinal oedema were also observed in these retinas. In diabetic rats, minocycline treatment decreased AQP4, VEGF, Iba-1 and IL-1β levels and retinal oedema, and increased Kir4.1 levels. These findings suggest that minocycline might be beneficial for retinal fluid clearance and reduction of retinal oedema in diabetic retinopathy.
Heat Shock Proteins and Myocardial Protection during Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Yavuz S , Kasap M , Parlar H , Agirbas H , Torol S , Kanli A , Hosten T , Kanko M , Berki T
Published: February 2013

This prospective randomized study investigated the effects of two different cardioplegia techniques on myocardial heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) mRNA levels. Patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass grafting with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were divided into two equal groups. All patients received the same anaesthesia. Myocardial preservation was achieved by delivering intermittent antegrade isothermic blood cardioplegia in one group and antegrade plus continuous retrograde isothermic blood cardioplegia in the other. Biopsies for measurement of HSP70 mRNA levels were taken from the right atria before surgical manipulation of the heart, and later from the same place following CPB. HSP70 mRNA levels were evaluated using quantitative real-time reverse transcription—polymerase chain reaction. Crossing-point values for HSP70 and β-actin were used to evaluate up-regulation. There was a significant increase in HSP70 mRNA levels in response to CPB in both groups, but no significant between-group difference in HSP70 up-regulation. Further investigation is required to evaluate the correlation between the level of HSP induction and the degree of myocardial protection in more heterogeneous groups of patients.
The Amount of Surface HLA-I on T Lymphocytes Decreases in Breast Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Zhao S , Yang X , Lu N , Zhang Y , Li X , Li Y , Zhou Y , Wan F , Zou X
Published: February 2013

Human leucocyte antigen class I (HLA-I), which includes HLA-A, -B and -C, is an essential immune factor participating in the antitumour immune response. The changes in HLA-I expression in peripheral blood T lymphocytes in cancer patients have yet to be defined. This study examined the expression of HLA-I on CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes in female patients with stage I — IV breast infiltrating ductal carcinoma, benign breast tumour diseases (mammary intraductal papilloma or breast fibroadenoma), and in healthy controls. HLA-I was down-regulated on CD4+ T lymphocytes from patients with stage III and IV cancer, and on CD8+ T lymphocytes in patients with stage I — IV cancer compared with healthy controls. HLA-I expression in T lymphocytes may contribute towards immune-balance disorders in tumour patients.
Expression Profiling of the Ephrin (EFN) and Eph Receptor (EPH) Family of Genes in Atherosclerosis-Related Human Cells
Authors: Sakamoto A , Sugamoto Y , Tokunaga Y , Yoshimuta T , Hayashi K , Konno T , Kawashiri MA , Takeda Y , Yamagishi M
Published: February 2013

Ephrin B1 and its cognate receptor, Eph receptor B2, key regulators of embryogenesis, are expressed in human atherosclerotic plaque and inhibit adult human monocyte chemotaxis. Few data exist, however, regarding the gene expression profiles of the ephrin ( EFN) and Eph receptor ( EPH) family of genes in atherosclerosis-related human cells. Gene expression profiles were determined of all 21 members of this gene family in atherosclerosis-related cells by reverse transcription—polymerase chain reaction analysis. The following 17 members were detected in adult human peripheral blood monocytes: EFNA1 and EFNA3 – EFNA5 (coding for ephrins A1 and A3 – A5); EPHA1, EPHA2, EPHA4 – EPHA6 and EPHA8 (coding for Eph receptors A1, A2, A4 – A6 and A8); EFNB1 and EFNB2 (coding for ephrins B1 and B2); and EPHB1 – EPHB4 and EPHB6 (coding for Eph receptors B1 – B4 and B6). THP-1 monocytic cells, Jurkat T cells and adult arterial endothelial cells also expressed multiple EFN and EPH genes. These results indicate that a wide variety of ephrins and Eph receptors might affect monocyte chemotaxis, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis. Their pathological significance requires further study.
The Association between Circulating Secreted Protein Acidic and Rich in Cysteine (SPARC) and Glycosylated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) during Lifestyle-Modified Weight Reduction Intervention in Obese Male Subjects
Authors: Kotani K , Yamada T , Taniguchi N
Published: February 2013

The physiological role and clinical relevance of circulating secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC, or osteonectin) is still poorly understood. This study investigated the correlation between circulating SPARC and metabolic variables, including glucose and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), during a diet and exercise modified weight reduction intervention programme. Changes in plasma SPARC levels and several metabolic variables were analysed in asymptomatically obese, nondiabetic, male subjects before and after weight reduction intervention. Body mass index and blood pressure, serum cholesterol and HbA1c levels were all significantly reduced after weight reduction intervention. Multiple regression analysis demonstrated that changes in SPARC levels were significantly and positively correlated with HbA1c. The relationship between SPARC and HbA1c may merit further investigation with regard to its association with postprandial or long-term glucose variation in obese male subjects.
Impact of Severe Coronary Disease Associated or Not Associated with Diabetes Mellitus on Outcome of Interventional Treatment Using Stents: Results from HERZ (Heart Research Group of Kanazawa) Analyses
Authors: Uchiyama K , Ino H , Hayashi K , Fujioka K , Takabatake S , Yokawa J , Namura M , Mizuno S , Tatami R , Kanaya H , Nitta Y , Michishita I , Hirase H , Ueda K , Aoyama T , Okeie K , Haraki T , Mori K , Araki T , Minamoto M , Oiwake H , Konno T , Sakata K , Kawashiri M , Yamagishi M
Published: February 2013

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using a drug-eluting stent (DES) leads to less re-stenosis than PCI using a bare metal stent (BMS), however there is still controversy whether use of a DES for severe coronary disease leads to an acceptable outcome in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). In this study 8159 lesions were treated in 6739 patients (mean age 68.9 years) with coronary artery disease. Use of a DES significantly decreased the re-stenosis rate compared with BMS in both DM (9.6% versus 21.3%) and non-DM (9.5% versus 17.1%) patients. The re-stenosis rate was significantly higher in DM than in non-DM patients in the BMS group but not in the DES group. There was no statistically significant difference in event-free survival after stenting of patients with left main coronary artery (LMCA) disease between the BMS and DES groups. It was concluded that, compared with BMS, DES reduced re-stenosis in patients with DM, however, we advise careful treatment after using DES for severe coronary disease, including LMCA lesions, in patients with DM.
Pre-Operative versus Post-Operative Gait Variability in Patients with Acute Anterior Cruciate Ligament Deficiency
Authors: Tsivgoulis SD , Tzagarakis GN , Papagelopoulos PJ , Koulalis D , Sakellariou VI , Kampanis NA , Chlouverakis GI , Alpantaki KI , Nikolaou PK , Katonis PG
Published: February 2013

Change in gait variability at least 6 months after surgical reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) was assessed in 20 male patients with acute ACL deficiency and compared with pre-operative data and that from 20 healthy male controls. Gait was measured using a triaxial accelerometer and data were analysed by the Gait Evaluation Differential Entropy Method (GEDEM) to determine gait variability. Pain was assessed with a visual analogue scale and functional ability with the Oswestry Disability Index and the International Knee Documentation Committee score. Mean gait variability was significantly lower after than before surgery, with values for the anterior—posterior axis being in the normal range of controls after 6 months, whereas in the mediolateral axis mean gait variability remained significantly higher, indicating that some rotational instability remained in the time-frame of the study. Pain and functional ability scores improved after surgery compared with before surgery. The combination of accelerometry and GEDEM may be a useful orthopaedic tool for the post-operative evaluation of patients who have undergone ACL reconstruction.
Household Transmission of Influenza (H1N1-2009) in Japan: Age-Specificity and Reduction of Household Transmission Risk by Zanamivir Treatment
Authors: Nishiura H , Oshitani H
Published: February 2013

This study investigated household transmission data for influenza (H1N1-2009) in Japan in order to quantify the age-specific risk of infection and estimate the impact of antiviral treatment on the risk of household transmission. Among a total of 1547 households, involving 4609 household contacts, the secondary attack ratio (SAR) was estimated to be 11.4%. School children aged 5 – 18 years dominated the index cases. Age-specific infectiousness and susceptibility were highest among 0 – 4-year olds, with SAR estimated at 19.4% and 29.6%, respectively. Zanamivir treatment within 24 and 24 – 48 h of illness onset in index cases, respectively, reduced the risk of household transmission to 0.57 (95% CI 0.44, 0.73) and 0.58 (95% CI 0.38, 0.86) times that among those receiving the same treatment at > 48 h and those not receiving treatment. The preventive performance of antiviral treatment and prophylaxis should be further examined in randomized controlled trials.
Effects of Transcatheter Closure of Atrial Septal Defects on Heart Rate Variability
Authors: Cansel M , Yagmur J , Ermis N , Acikgoz N , Taşolar H , Atas H , Muezzinoglu K , Pekdemir H , Ozdemir R
Published: February 2013

This study evaluated heart rate variability and its changes in 30 patients before and after transcatheter closure of secundum atrial septal defects. Heart rate variability data from 30 healthy volunteers with normal echocardiographic parameters and no history of atrial septal defects were included as controls. Values for the SD of all the normal RR intervals (SDNN), the SD of the means of all the 5-min segment normal RR intervals (SDANN), and the mean of all the 5-min SDs of normal RR intervals during the 24-h period (SDNN index) in patients with atrial septal defects before transcatheter closure were statistically significantly different from controls. At 6 months after closure of the defects these values were not statistically different from controls. It is concluded that transcatheter closure of secundum atrial septal defects had positive effects on heart rate variability and, consequently, may contribute to less mortality and morbidity.
Multiple Primary Malignant Neoplasms from the Black Sea Region of Turkey
Authors: Gursel B , Meydan D , Özbek N , Ozdemir O , Odabas E
Published: February 2013

Long-term cancer survival is increasing and, as a consequence, so is the prevalence of secondary malignancies. This study evaluated the patient and tumour characteristics of 117 patients with multiple primary malignant neoplasms (MPMN). The incidence of MPMN in children and adults was 0.28% and 1.23%, respectively. The male: female ratio was 1.7: 1. The mean ± SE age at tumour diagnosis was 60.56 ± 1.18 years. Overall, the top three tumour sites were the larynx, bladder and breast. Among secondary tumours, lung cancer was the most frequent, followed by breast and colon cancer. Among males, the leading primary and secondary tumour sites were the larynx (30.1%) and lung (50.7%), respectively. Among females, the breasts were both the leading primary (32.6%) and secondary (37.2%) cancer site. The mean ± SE overall survival was 97.2 ± 15.0 months. During follow-up, the brain was the most commonly observed site of metastasis. The occurrence and characteristics of MPMN reported in the literature are also reviewed. The present study contributes towards increasing understanding and treatment of MPMN in a different population group.
Antileukaemia Immunity: Effect of Exosomes against NB4 Acute Promyelocytic Leukaemia Cells
Authors: Shen C , Hao SG , Zhao CX , Zhu J , Wang C
Published: February 2013

Exosomes are a family of bioactive vesicles and play important roles in antigen presentation. A recent phase I clinical trial with an exosome vaccine derived from colorectal cancer has shown minor clinical benefit. Exosomes derived from leukaemia cell lines have been little studied so, in the present study, the immunoprotective effect of exosomes secreted by NB4 cells, a human acute promyelocytic leukaemia cell line, was investigated. NB4-derived exosomes expressed the proteins retinoic acid receptor a and interstitial cell adhesion molecule 1 and contained heat shock protein 70, as demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy and Western blotting. Cytotoxicity assay demonstrated that cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) induced by dendritic cells (DCs) pulsed with exosomes were significantly more effective in killing target NB4 cells than CTLs induced by DCs alone. Exosome-based vaccines may be a promising means of prolonging disease-free survival in acute promyelocytic leukaemia patients after induction therapy.
Prevalence of Femoroacetabular Impingement in Asymptomatic Contralateral Hips in Patients with Unilateral Idiopathic Osteoarthritis
Authors: Şahin N , Atici T , Öztürk A , Özkaya G , Özkan Y , Avcu B
Published: February 2013

Radiographic findings of femoroacetabular impingement in the contralateral asymptomatic hip of patients who had undergone total hip arthroplasty because of primary osteoarthritis ( n = 44) were compared with controls ( n = 40). The centre—edge angle and caput—collum– diaphyseal angle were measured and the presence of crossover sign and a prominent ischial spine noted on anteroposterior radiographs of the pelvis. The α-angle and offset ratio were measured on cross-table lateral radiographs of the hip. The centre—edge angle and offset ratio were significantly lower and the α-angle significantly higher in the study group compared with controls. While the number of cases with an abnormal centre—edge angle was similar in both groups, the numbers with an α-angle > 50° and the number with an offset ratio ≤ 15 were significantly higher in the study group. It was concluded that morphological anomalies associated with femoroacetabular impingement are seen more frequently in the asymptomatic contralateral hip of patients who have undergone hip replacement for primary osteoarthritis than in controls.
Effects of a Single Dose of Methylprednisolone versus Three Doses of Rosiglitazone on Nerve Growth Factor Levels after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Meng B , Zhang Q , Huang C , Zhang HT , Tang T , Yang HL
Published: February 2013

Acute spinal cord lesions result in dramatic changes in neuronal function. Studies have shown that the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ agonist, rosiglitazone, has neuroprotective properties. The effect of rosiglitazone after acute spinal cord injury was examined in the present study. Rats were subjected to laminectomy only; laminectomy with spinal cord contusion injury; laminectomy with contusion injury plus 30 mg/kg body weight methylprednisolone administered 5 min after surgery; or laminectomy with contusion injury plus 2 mg/kg body weight rosiglitazone administered intra-peritoneally 5 min, 6 h and 24 h after surgery. Both drugs increased neurotrophin gene and protein expression 24 h after injury compared with injured rats without drug treatment. Rosiglitazone increased neurotrophin expression at 7 days to a greater extent than methylprednisolone. Early functional recovery was observed in rats treated with rosiglitazone. The greater increase in rosiglitazone-induced nerve growth factor expression soon after injury could explain, at least in part, the improved recovery of motor function compared with methylprednisolone or saline.
Polycythaemia in Infants of Diabetic Mothers: β-Hydroxybutyrate Stimulates Erythropoietic Activity
Authors: Cetin H , Yalaz M , Akisu M , Kultursay N
Published: February 2013

This study tested whether elevated maternal β-hydroxybutyrate (β-OHB) levels contribute to polycythaemia in infants of diabetic mothers. Pregnant diabetic women ( n = 27) and non-diabetic controls ( n = 20) and their singleton infants were included. Maternal glycosylated haemoglobin and β-OHB levels were studied at 34 – 36 weeks' gestation; levels were significantly higher in mothers with diabetes than in controls. Birth weights and cord blood levels of insulin and fetal haemoglobin were significantly higher in infants from diabetic mothers compared with control infants, as were haematocrit levels in venous blood samples taken from each infant at 4 h following delivery. Cord blood erythropoietin levels were similar in both groups. There was a positive strong correlation between maternal β-OHB levels and polycythaemia in newborn infants, indicating that β-OHB could activate erythropoiesis independently from intrauterine hyperinsulinaemia and/or erythropoietin levels, and may be important in the pathogenesis of polycythaemia in infants born to diabetic mothers.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and the VEGF Soluble Receptor-1 (sFlt-1) in Chorionic Villus Tissue from Chinese Women with Early Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion
Authors: Pang L-H , Li M-J , Li M-Q , Yang D-M , Shi L
Published: February 2013

This case—control study explored the relationship between early recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) and the expression of two genes: VEGFA, the gene encoding vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF); and fms-related tyrosine kinase 1 (FLT1), the gene encoding the soluble VEGF receptor-1 (sFlt-1). Women experiencing RSA or undergoing induced abortions in the early stage of normal pregnancy were recruited to the study ( n = 30 per group). There were no significant between-group differences in maternal age or duration of pregnancy. The levels of VEGF and sFlt-1 mRNA in chorionic villus tissue samples were examined by quantitative reverse transcription—polymerase chain reaction. Levels of sFlt-1 and VEGF mRNA in the chorionic villus tissue of women with RSA were significantly higher than levels in the control group. This study demonstrated that there is a relationship between early RSA and VEGF and sFlt-1 levels, suggesting that overexpression of the FLT1 and VEGFA genes may be associated with the pathogenesis of RSA.
Effect of Osteoporosis on Clinical Outcomes in Intertrochanteric Hip Fractures Treated with a Proximal Femoral Nail
Authors: Akan K , Cift H , Ozkan K , Eceviz E , Tasyikan L , Eren A
Published: February 2013

The effect of osteoporosis on clinical outcomes following surgical treatment of intertrochanteric hip fractures was investigated. A total of 80 patients aged 65 – 97 years with intertrochanteric hip fractures underwent insertion of a proximal femoral nail. Osteoporosis severity was measured using the Singh index in the unaffected hip. Screw cut-out occurred in four patients, reverse Z-effect in three patients and Z-effect in one patient. Four patients were lost to follow up. Clinical results were evaluated according to the Harris hip scoring system. The mean Harris hip score was 73.58 (range 25 – 100). When divided according to Singh index grade (I — II versus III — V), there were no significant differences in mean age, type of fracture, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification or frequency of technical failures between the two groups. The mean Harris hip score, however, was significantly lower in patients with grades I — II compared with grades III — V, suggesting that the presence of osteoporosis had a negative effect on clinical outcome after hip fracture.
Significance of Plasma Levels of Pigment Epithelium-Derived Factor as Determined by Multidetector Row Computed Tomography in Patients with Mild Chronic Kidney Disease and/or Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Shiga Y , Miura S , Mitsutake R , Yamagishi S , Saku K
Published: February 2013

Little is known about the association between plasma levels of pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), coronary artery disease (CAD) and/or chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study evaluated 289 consecutive patients with chest pain or at least one coronary risk factor who underwent coronary angiography using multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT). Presence of CAD and CKD, CAD severity (i.e. number of significantly stenosed coronary vessels, described as vessel disease [VD]), coronary calcification scores, visceral fat area (VFA), subcutaneous fat area on MDCT, and metabolic biomarkers were recorded. PEDF levels correlated significantly with sex, VFA, CKD presence/hyperuricaemia and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. PEDF levels were closely associated with CKD and were significantly higher in CKD patients than in non-CKD patients, regardless of the presence of CAD. CKD patients with two-VD or three-VD had higher plasma PEDF levels than non-CKD patients with two-VD or three-VD. It is concluded that PEDF may be associated with CKD regardless of the presence of CAD.