bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Male accessory gland inflammation, infertility, and sexual dysfunctions: a practical approach to diagnosis and therapy
Authors: Calogero A. E. , Duca Y. , Condorelli R. A. , La Vignera S. 
Published: October 2017

SummaryThe role of urogenital inflammation in causing infertility and sexual dysfunctions has long been a matter of debate in the international scientific literature. The most recent scientific evidences show that male accessory gland infection/inflammation could alter, with various mechanisms, both conventional and biofunctional sperm parameters, and determine worst reproductive outcome. At the same time, the high prevalence of erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation in patients with male accessory gland infection/inflammation underlines the close link between these diseases and sexual dysfunctions. The aim of this review was to provide the reader the basis for a correct diagnosis of male accessory gland infection/inflammation and a subsequent appropriate therapeutic approach, particularly in patients with infertility and/or sexual dysfunction.
Valproate Plays a Protective Role against Migraine by Inhibiting Protein Kinase C Signalling in Nitroglycerin‐treated Mice
Authors: Yi Lian , Wu Qiong , Chen Nan , Song Ge , Wang Chao , Zou Qiaoge , Zhang Zhongling 
Published: October 2017

AbstractMigraine is a common disease with a high morbidity. Valproate (VP) is used as an anti‐epilepsy drug in clinic. This study aimed to investigate the role of VP in nitroglycerin (NTG)‐induced migraine using a mouse model. NTG was employed by intraperitoneal injection to induce a migraine model in mice. The NTG administration caused mouse head discomforts, decreased tolerance to cold or hot stimulation and increased content of nitric oxide, calcitonin gene‐related peptide and neuropeptide Y in serum, which were ameliorated by intraperitoneal injection of VP. The levels of two inflammatory factors, interleukin (IL)‐1β and inducible nitric oxide synthase, in dura mater were increased by NTG treatment, while the increase was attenuated by application of VP. In addition, the phosphorylation levels of protein kinase C (PKC) α, γ, δ and ε were increased by NTG and decreased by VP. However, their total expression at the transcriptional and translational levels did not change significantly. Two substrates of PKC, cAMP‐response element binding protein 1 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 were also phosphorylated by NTG application, and the phosphorylation level was attenuated by VP, consistent with the change of PKC informs. Together, we demonstrated that VP prevented damage due to migraine by inhibiting PKC signalling in NTG‐injected mice, which may provide a basis for investigating the clinical treatment of migraine.
The prioritization of symptom beliefs over illness beliefs: The development and validation of the Pain Perception Questionnaire for Young People
Authors: Ghio Daniela , Thomson Wendy , Calam Rachel , Ulph Fiona , Baildam Eileen M. , Hyrich Kimme , Cordingley Lis 
Published: October 2017

ObjectivesTo investigate the suitability of the revised Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ‐R) for use with adolescents with a long‐term pain condition and to validate a new questionnaire for use with this age group.DesignA three‐phase mixed‐methods study.MethodsPhase 1 comprised in‐depth qualitative analyses of audio‐recorded cognitive interviews with 20 adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis who were answering IPQ‐R items. Transcripts were coded using framework analysis. A content analysis of their intended responses to individual items was also conducted. In Phase 2, a new questionnaire was developed and its linguistic and face validity were assessed with 18 adolescents without long‐term conditions. In Phase 3, the construct validity of the new questionnaire was assessed with 240 adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. A subset of 43 adolescents completed the questionnaire a second time to assess test–retest reliability. All participants were aged 11–16 years.ResultsParticipants described both conceptual and response format difficulties when answering IPQ‐R items. In response, the Pain Perception Questionnaire for Young People (PPQ‐YP) was designed which incorporated significant modifications to both wording and response formats when compared with the IPQ‐R. A principal component analysis of the PPQ‐YP identified ten constructs in the new questionnaire. Emotional representations were separated into two constructs, responsive and anticipatory emotions. The PPQ‐YP showed high test–retest reliability.ConclusionsSymptom beliefs appear to be more salient to adolescents with a long‐term pain condition than beliefs about the illness as a whole. A new questionnaire to assess pain beliefs of adolescents was designed. Further validation work may be needed to assess its suitability for use with other pain conditions.
Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Versions of the adult Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ‐R) have been adapted for adolescents and children by changing item wording; however, research to assess the degree to which the underlying IPQ‐R constructs are relevant to adolescents with a long‐term condition had not been performed.

What the present study adds?

In adolescents, beliefs about symptoms of their condition are more salient than beliefs about the illness as a whole.

Question response formats for children and young people need to take account of age‐specific abilities.

A new questionnaire has been designed for adolescents with pain. It is theoretically congruent with the CS‐SRM.
Impact of bladder cancer on health‐related quality of life
Authors: Smith Angela B. , Jaeger Byron , Pinheiro Laura C. , Edwards Lloyd J. , Tan Hung‐Jui , Nielsen Matthew E. , Reeve Bryce B. 
Published: October 2017

ObjectivesTo identify changes in health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) after diagnosis of bladder cancer in older adults in comparison with a group of adults without bladder cancer (controls).Patients and MethodsData from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results registries were linked with Medicare Health Outcomes Survey (MHOS) data. Medicare beneficiaries aged ≥65 years in the period 1998–2013, who were diagnosed with bladder cancer between baseline and follow‐up through the MHOS, were matched with control subjects without cancer using propensity scores. Linear mixed models were used to estimate predictors of HRQoL changes.ResultsAfter matching, 535 patients with bladder cancer (458 non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer [NMIBC] and 77 with muscle‐invasive bladder cancer [MIBC]) and 2 770 control subjects without cancer were identified. Both patients with NMIBC and those with MIBC reported significant declines in HRQoL scores over time vs controls: physical component summary −2 and −5.3 vs −0.4, respectively; bodily pain −1.9 and −3.6 vs −0.7; role physical −2.7 and −4.7 vs −0.7; general health −2.4 and −6.1 vs 0; vitality −1.2 and −3.5 vs −0.1; and social functioning −2.1 and −5.7 vs −0.8. All scores ranged from 0 to 100. When stratified by time since diagnosis, HRQoL improved over 1 year for some domains (role physical), but remained lower across most domains.ConclusionsAfter diagnosis, patients with bladder cancer experienced significant declines in physical, mental and social HRQoL relative to controls. Decrements were most pronounced among individuals with MIBC. Methods to better understand and address HRQoL decrements among patients with bladder cancer are needed.
Sigma‐1 receptor agonist increases axon outgrowth of hippocampal neurons via voltage‐gated calcium ions channels
Authors: Li Dong , Zhang Shu‐Zhuo , Yao Yu‐Hong , Xiang Yun , Ma Xiao‐Yun , Wei Xiao‐Li , Yan Hai‐Tao , Liu Xiao‐Yan 
Published: October 2017

SummaryIntroductionSigma‐1 receptors (Sig‐1Rs) are unique endoplasmic reticulum proteins that have been implicated in both neurodegenerative and ischemic diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and stroke. Accumulating evidence has suggested that Sig‐1R plays a role in neuroprotection and axon outgrowth. The underlying mechanisms of Sig‐1R‐mediated neuroprotection have been well elucidated. However, the mechanisms underlying the effects of Sig‐1R on axon outgrowth are not fully understood.MethodsTo clarify this issue, we utilized immunofluorescence to compare the axon lengths of cultured naïve hippocampal neurons before and after the application of the Sig‐1R agonist, SA4503. Then, electrophysiology and immunofluorescence were used to examine voltage‐gated calcium ion channel (VGCCs) currents in the cell membranes and growth cones.ResultsWe found that Sig‐1R activation dramatically enhanced the axonal length of the naïve hippocampal neurons. Application of the Sig‐1R antagonist NE100 and gene knockdown techniques both demonstrated the effects of Sig‐1R. The growth‐promoting effect of SA4503 was accompanied by the inhibition of voltage‐gated Ca2+ influx and was recapitulated by incubating the neurons with the L‐type, N‐type, and P/Q‐type VGCC blockers, nimodipine, MVIIA and ω‐agatoxin IVA, respectively. This effect was unrelated to glial cells. The application of SA4503 transformed the growth cone morphologies from complicated to simple, which favored axon outgrowth.ConclusionSig‐1R activation can enhance axon outgrowth and may have a substantial influence on neurogenesis and neurodegenerative diseases.
Berberine inhibits the chemotherapy‐induced repopulation by suppressing the arachidonic acid metabolic pathway and phosphorylation of FAK in ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhao Yawei , Cui Lianzhi , Pan Yue , Shao Dan , Zheng Xiao , Zhang Fan , Zhang Hansi , He Kan , Chen Li 
Published: October 2017

AbstractObjectivesCytotoxic chemotherapy is an effective and traditional treatment of ovarian cancer. However, chemotherapy‐induced apoptosis may also trigger and ultimately accelerate the repopulation of the small number of adjacent surviving cells. This study mainly focused on the tumour cell repopulation caused by chemotherapy in ovarian cancer and the adjunctive/synergistic effect of Berberine on the prevention of tumour repopulation.Materials and methodsThe transwell system was used to mimic the co‐culture of surviving ovarian cancer cells in the microenvironment of cytotoxic chemotherapy‐treated dying cells. Tumour cell proliferation was observed by crystal violet staining. AA and PGE2 levels were measured by ELISA, and changes of protein expression were analysed by Western blot.ResultsChemotherapy drug VP16 treatment triggered AA pathway, leading to the elevated PGE2 level, and ultimately enhanced the repopulation of ovarian cancer cells. Berberine can block the caspase 3‐iPLA2‐AA‐COX‐2‐PGE2 pathway by inhibiting the expression of iPLA2 and COX‐2. Berberine can also reverse the increased phosphorylation of FAK caused by abnormal PGE2 level and thus reverse the repopulation of ovarian cancer cells after VP16 treatment.ConclusionsOur observation suggested that Berberine could inhibit the chemotherapy‐induced repopulation of ovarian cancer cells by suppressing the AA pathway and phosphorylation of FAK. And these findings implicated a novel combined use of Berberine and chemotherapeutics, which might prevent ovarian cancer recurrence by abrogating early tumour repopulation.
MicroRNAs: A novel potential biomarker for diagnosis and therapy in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhou Qun , Huang Shao‐Xin , Zhang Feng , Li Shu‐Jun , Liu Cong , Xi Yong‐Yong , Wang Liang , Wang Xin , He Qi‐Qiang , Sun Cheng‐Cao , Li De‐Jia 
Published: October 2017

AbstractBackgroundLung cancer is still one of the most serious causes of cancer‐related deaths all over the world. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are defined as small non‐coding RNAs which could play a pivotal role in post‐transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Increasing evidence demonstrated dysregulation of miRNA expression associates with the development and progression of NSCLC.AimsTo emphasize a variety of tissue‐specific miRNAs, circulating miRNAs and miRNA‐derived exosomes could be used as potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers in NSCLC patients.Materials & MethodsIn the current review, we paid attention to the significant discoveries of preclinical and clinical studies, which performed on tissue‐specific miRNA, circulating miRNA and exosomal miRNA. The related studies were obtained through a systematic search of Pubmed, Web of Science, Embase.ResultsA variety of tissue‐specific miRNAs and circulating miRNAs with high sensitivity and specificity which could be used as potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers in NSCLC patients. In addition, we emphasize that the miRNA‐derived exosomes become novel diagnostic biomarkers potentially in these patients with NSCLC.ConclusionMiRNAs have emerged as non‐coding RNAs, which have potential to be candidates for the diagnosis and therapy of NSCLC.
Low‐dose basiliximab induction therapy in heart transplantation
Authors: Kittipibul Veraprapas , Tantrachoti Pakpoom , Ongcharit Pat , Ariyachaipanich Aekarach , Siwamogsatham Sarawut , Sritangsirikul Supaporn , Thammanatsakul Kanokwan , Puwanant Sarinya 
Published: October 2017

AbstractWe prospectively studied efficacy and safety outcomes of two 10‐mg doses of intravenous basiliximab on day 0 and day 4 for induction therapy in 17 consecutive de novo heart transplant recipients. By the 2‐week assessment post‐transplant, there were no deaths, graft failures, or acute cellular rejections (ACRs) ISHLT grade ≥ 2R. By the 1‐year assessment post‐transplant, there were 1 (6%) infectious death, no graft failures, 2 (12%) grade 2R ACRs, 6 (35%) asymptomatic cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections, and 4 (25%) treated infections. Our study was the first to show that low‐dose basiliximab induction in heart transplant resulted in favorable efficacy and safety outcomes. Additionally, calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) initiation in a low‐risk population could be safely delayed using the strategy of modified low‐dose postoperative basiliximab. This strategy also appears to allow subsequent early corticosteroid wean, although with the concomitant maintenance of higher CNI levels and higher dosing of mycophenolate.
Feasibility of diaphragm pacing in patients after bilateral lung transplantation
Authors: Testelmans Dries , Nafteux Philippe , Van Cromphaut Sophie , Vrijsen Bart , Vos Robin , De Leyn Paul , Decaluwé Herbert , Van Raemdonck Dirk , Verleden Geert M. , Buyse Bertien 
Published: October 2017

AbstractRecent animal studies and intraoperative studies in humans suggested that phrenic nerve stimulation could attenuate ventilator‐induced diaphragm dysfunction. The purpose of the present study is to examine the safety and feasibility of diaphragm pacing during the weaning process after bilateral lung transplantation. Four patients, suffering from chronic pulmonary disease, were included, and diaphragm pacing was evaluated after lung transplantation. Implantation of electrodes at the end of the lung transplant procedure was possible in three of the four patients. In all implanted patients, stimulation of the diaphragm could trigger the ventilator. Implanted electrodes were completely removed by percutaneous retraction after up to 7 days of pacing. Adverse events related to pacing included occurrence of pain. Diaphragm pacing with temporary electrodes, inserted during surgery, is feasible and is able to trigger the ventilator in patients after bilateral lung transplantation. The use of intradiaphragmatic electrodes creates the additional opportunity to monitor the evolution of diaphragm electromyography during the postoperative weaning process.
The value of scattered trees for wildlife: Contrasting effects of landscape context and tree size
Authors: Le Roux Darren S. , Ikin Karen , Lindenmayer David B. , Manning Adrian D. , Gibbons Philip 
Published: October 2017

AbstractAimThe biodiversity value of scattered trees in modified landscapes is often overlooked in planning and conservation decisions. We conducted a multitaxa study to determine how wildlife abundance, species richness and community composition at individual trees are affected by (1) the landscape context in which trees are located; and (2) the size of trees.LocationCanberra, south‐eastern Australia.MethodsTrunk arthropod, bat and bird surveys were undertaken over 3 years (2012–2014) at 72 trees of three sizes (small (20–50 cm DBH), medium (51–80 cm), large (≥80 cm)) located in four landscape contexts (reserves, pasture, urban parklands, urban built‐up areas).ResultsLandscape context affected all taxa surveyed. Trunk arthropod communities differed between trees in urban built‐up areas and reserves. Bat activity and richness were significantly reduced at trees in urban built‐up areas suggesting that echolocating bats may be disturbed by high levels of urbanization. Bird abundance and richness were highest at trees located in modified landscapes, highlighting the value of scattered trees for birds. Bird communities also differed between non‐urban and urban trees. Tree size had a significant effect on birds but did not affect trunk arthropods and bats. Large trees supported higher bird abundance, richness and more unique species compared to medium and small trees.Main conclusionsScattered trees support a diversity of wildlife. However, landscape context and tree size affected wildlife in contrasting ways. Land management strategies are needed to collectively account for responses exhibited by multiple taxa at varying spatial scales. We recommend that the retention and perpetuation of scattered trees in modified landscapes should be prioritized, hereby providing crucial habitat benefits to a multitude of taxa.
Long‐term impairment attributable to congenital cytomegalovirus infection: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Korndewal Marjolein J , Oudesluys‐Murphy Anne Marie , Kroes Aloys C M , van der Sande Marianne A B , de Melker Hester E , Vossen Ann C T M 
Published: October 2017

AimThis study aimed to estimate long‐term impairment attributable to congenital cytomegalovirus infection (cCMV).MethodThis nationwide cohort study retrospectively assessed cCMV in children born in 2008 in the Netherlands, testing 31 484 stored neonatal dried blood spots. Extensive medical data of cCMV‐positive children (n=133) and matched cCMV‐negative comparison children (n=274) up to 6 years of age were analysed.ResultsModerate to severe long‐term impairment was diagnosed in 24.8% (33 out of 133) of all cCMV‐positive children (53.8% in symptomatic, 17.8% in asymptomatic), compared with 12.0% (33 out of 274) of cCMV‐negative children. Sensorineural hearing loss was seen only in five cCMV‐positive children (3.8%). Developmental delays were diagnosed more often in cCMV‐positive children than cCMV‐negative children: motor (12.0% vs 1.5%), cognitive (6.0% vs 1.1%), and speech–language (16.5% vs 7.3%). Long‐term impairment in multiple domains was more frequent in symptomatic (19.2%) and asymptomatic (8.4%) cCMV‐positive children than cCMV‐negative children (1.8%).InterpretationChildren with cCMV were twice as likely to have long‐term impairment up to the age of 6 years, especially developmental delays and sensorineural hearing loss, than cCMV‐negative comparison children, with a risk difference of 12.8%. These insights into the risk of cCMV‐associated impairment can help optimize care and stimulate preventive measures.What this paper adds

Congenital cytomegalovirus infection (cCMV) leads to impairment in 25% of cases.

Fifty per cent of children with cCMV symptoms at birth have long‐term impairment.

The risk difference of moderate to severe long‐term impairment between children with and without cCMV is 13%, attributable to cCMV.

cCMV leads to motor, cognitive, and speech–language developmental delay in children.
Corticosteroids in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: impact on the motor function measure sensitivity to change and implications for clinical trials
Authors: Schreiber Audrey , Brochard Sylvain , Rippert Pascal , Fontaine‐Carbonnel Stephanie , Payan Christine , Poirot Isabelle , Hamroun Dalil , Vuillerot Carole ,   MFM DMD Corticosteroids Group
Published: October 2017

AimTo monitor the evolution of the motor function of ambulatory patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) treated by corticosteroids for 2 years in comparison with untreated patients.MethodThis observational, multicentre cohort study explores the evolution of the motor function measure (MFM) over a 24‐month period for 29 ambulant corticosteroids‐treated and 45 ambulant untreated patients with DMD.ResultsSignificant differences were found between mean MFM scores in corticosteroids‐treated and untreated groups for domain 1 of the MFM (standing position and transfers; D1), domain 2 of the MFM (axial and proximal motor function; D2), and domain 3 of the MFM (distal motor function; D3). Subscores were between 0 months and 6 months, and 0 months and 24 months. For the D1 subscore specifically, there was a significant increase in the corticosteroids‐treated group (mean±standard deviation [SD] slope of change=12.6±15.5%/y), while a decrease was observed in the untreated group (−17.8±17.7%/y) between 0 months and 6 months (p<0.001). Sensitivity to change as assessed by standardized response means was high between 12 months and 24 months for D1 of both corticosteroids‐treated and untreated groups (1.0 and 1.2 respectively), and low for D2 and D3 of both treated and untreated groups.InterpretationPatients with DMD treated by corticosteroids present a different course of the disease as assessed by MFM, confirming the sensitivity to change of the MFM in this population.What this paper adds

Corticosteroids have a quantitative impact on muscle strength 6 to 24 months after starting treatment.

Motor function measure is a valid outcome measure in Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients under corticosteroid treatment.
Left atrial volume changes are an early marker of end‐organ damage in essential hypertension: A multidisciplinary approach to an old problem
Authors: Kanar Batur , Ozben Beste , Kanar Hatice Selen , Arsan Aysu , Tigen Kursat 
Published: October 2017

PurposeLeft atrial (LA) volume has been shown to be a predictor of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relation between LA phasic volumes and hypertensive end‐organ damage (EOD), by using real time three‐dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE) in patients with essential hypertension (HT).MethodsThe study included 95 essential hypertensive patients (60 ± 10 years, 37 males). The patients were divided into three according to the presence of EOD, namely microalbuminuria and retinal vascular changes detected by direct ophthalmoscopy. The first group had no EOD. The second group (EOD+ group) had either microalbuminuria or retinal vascular changes while the third group (EOD++ group) had both renal and retinal damage.ResultsThe three groups did not differ with regard to age, sex, or metabolic profile. In RT3DE measurements, there were significant differences in LA phasic volumes (LA maximal volume index, LA minimal volume index, LA pre–atrial contraction volume index, LA total stroke volume index, and LA active stroke volume index, P < .001) among the groups. Moreover, patients with more extended EOD had significantly worse LA reservoir and conduit functions. In the logistic regression analysis, the LA active stroke volume index was an independent predictor of EOD (82% sensitivity and 92% specificity, area under the curve = 0.96, P < .001).ConclusionRT3DE measured LA phasic volumes and mechanical functions are associated with hypertensive EOD, which might serve as a surrogate endpoint for determining cardiovascular mortality and morbidity rates in patients with essential HT.