bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effects of uterine artery embolization with a new degradable microsphere in an experimental study
Authors: Bengtsson Johan , Cwikiel Wojciech , Sundgren Pia C , Karlstam Erika , Gavier-Widén Dolores , Keussen Inger 
Published: February 2017

Background Transarterial particle embolization is a common treatment of uterine fibroids, aiming to obtain ischemia resulting in shrinking of the fibroid with preservation of normal uterine tissue. Embolization with non-degradable microspheres is established, but causes permanent occlusion of the arteries, affecting both the uterus as well as the fibroids. Purpose To evaluate in vivo degradation, local tissue effects, and possible recanalization following intra-arterial deposition of the new, degradable starch microspheres (DSM), in a short-term experimental pilot study. Material and Methods Under general anesthesia, unilateral transarterial embolization of the uterine artery (UA) with DSM 500–700 µm was performed in five female sheep. The animals underwent renewed angiography at different intervals after embolization (19–65 h) and were subsequently sacrificed. Histological examination was performed. Results Embolization with absent flow in the UA could be completed in five of six animals. At final angiographic evaluation, recanalization of the embolized arteries was evident in three sheep. At the gross postmortem examination, edema and discoloration indicating ischemia of the uterus at the embolized side, was observed in all the sheep. At histopathological examination, different stages of DSM degradation in the arterial branches were observed in both endometrium and myometrium. Mild-to-moderate vasculitis and mild-to-extensive ischemic changes were present along with degeneration of the uterine glands. Conclusion This short-term pilot study proved efficacy of embolization with DSM causing ischemic changes in the embolized organ, but also degradation of the DSM with subsequent recanalization of the embolized arteries.
Early Cosmetic Results and Midterm Follow-up Findings of Rhinophyma Patients Treated With High-Frequency Electrosurgery and a Discussion on the Severity Assessment of the Disease
Authors: Göktay Fatih , Erfan Gamze , Çelik Nil Su , Öztürk Canan , Doruk Tuba , Albayrak Hülya , Yanık Mehmet Emin , Albayrak Şule 
Published: February 2017

Background: Different methods can be used in the surgical treatment of patients with rhinophyma. There are limited numbers of reports on high-frequency electrosurgery treatment. In addition, an efficient scoring system is required to evaluate severity of the disease in clinical progress and recurrence after treatment. Objectives: We evaluated patients with rhinophyma who were treated with high-frequency electrosurgery and discussed the methods used to assess severity of the disease. Methods: Data and photos of 13 patients were retrospectively evaluated and scored via 2 different forms of the rhinophyma severity index. Results: Median rhinophyma severity index scores of patients at first visits were significantly higher than those at second and third visits ( P = .002 and P = .002, respectively). Likewise, median modified rhinophyma severity scores of patients at first visits were significantly higher than those at second and third visits ( P = .001 and P = .001, respectively). Also, there was a strong positive correlation between these 2 assessment methods ( r = 0.838, P < .001). Conclusions: The rhinophyma severity assessment methods used in this study are positively correlated. High-frequency electrosurgery seems to be a procedure that is safe, effective, and relatively cost-effective in the treatment of rhinophyma lesions.
Risk factors for non-adherence to disease-modifying therapy in pediatric multiple sclerosis
Authors: Schwartz Carolyn E , Grover Stephanie A , Powell Victoria E , Noguera Austin , Mah Jean K , Mar Soe , Mednick Lauren , Banwell Brenda L , Alper Gulay , Rensel Mary , Gorman Mark , Waldman Amy , Schreiner Teri , Waubant Emmanuelle , Yeh E Ann 
Published: February 2017

Background: Adherence to disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) in pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) is not well understood. We examined the prevalence and risk factors for poor adherence in pediatric MS. Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited youth with MS from 12 North American pediatric MS clinics. In addition to pharmacy-refill data, patients and parents completed self-report measures of adherence and quality of life. Additionally, patients completed measures of self-efficacy and well-being. Factor analysis and linear regression methods were used. Results: A total of 66 youth (mean age, 15.7 years) received MS DMTs (33% oral, 66% injectable). Estimates of poor adherence (i.e. missing >20% of doses) varied by source: pharmacy 7%, parent 14%, and patient 41%. Factor analysis yielded two composites: adherence summary and parental involvement in adherence. Regressions revealed that patients with better self-reported physical functioning were more adherent. Parents were more likely to be involved in adherence when their child had worse parent-reported PedsQL School Functioning and lower MS Self-Efficacy Control. Oral DMTs were associated with lesser parental involvement in adherence. Conclusion: Rates of non-adherence varied by information source. Better self-reported physical functioning was the strongest predictor of adherence. Parental involvement in adherence was associated with worse PedsQL School Functioning and lower MS Self-Efficacy-measured confidence in controlling MS.
Thymosin-α1 expands deficient IL-10-producing regulatory B cell subsets in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Giacomini Elena , Rizzo Fabiana , Etna Marilena P , Cruciani Melania , Mechelli Rosella , Buscarinu Maria Chiara , Pica Francesca , D’Agostini Cartesio , Salvetti Marco , Coccia Eliana M , Severa Martina 
Published: February 2017

Background: B cells are key pathogenic effectors in multiple sclerosis (MS) and several therapies have been designed to restrain B cell abnormalities by directly targeting this lymphocyte population. Objectives: Moving from our data showing a Toll-like receptor (TLR)7-driven dysregulation of B cell response in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and having found a low serum level of Thymosin-α1 (Tα1) in patients, we investigated whether the addition of this molecule to peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) would influence the expansion of regulatory B cell subsets, known to dampen autoimmune inflammation. Methods: Serum Tα1 level was measured by enzyme immunoassay. Cytokine expression was evaluated by Cytometric Bead Array (CBA), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). B cell subsets were analyzed by flow cytometry. Results: Tα1 pre-treatment induces an anti-inflammatory status in TLR7-stimulated RRMS PBMC cultures, reducing the secretion of pro-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and IL-1β while significantly increasing the regulatory IL-10 and IL-35. Indeed, Tα1 treatment enhanced expansion of CD19+CD24+CD38hi transitional-immature and CD24low/negCD38hi plasmablast-like regulatory B cell subsets, which likely inhibit both interferon (IFN)-γ and IL-17 production. Conclusion:: Our study reveals a deficient ability of B cells from MS patients to differentiate into regulatory subsets and unveils a novel anti-inflammatory and repurposing potential for Tα1 in MS targeting B cell response.
Active liver X receptor signaling in phagocytes in multiple sclerosis lesions
Authors: Mailleux Jo , Vanmierlo Tim , Bogie Jeroen FJ , Wouters Elien , Lütjohann Dieter , Hendriks Jerome JA , van Horssen Jack 
Published: February 2017

Objective: We sought to determine the liver X receptor (LXR) ligands present in human macrophages after myelin phagocytosis and whether LXRs are activated in multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions. Methods: We used real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry to determine expression of LXRs and their response genes in human phagocytes after myelin phagocytosis and in active MS lesions. We used gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric analysis to determine LXR-activating oxysterols and cholesterol precursors present and formed in myelin and myelin-incubated cells, respectively. Results: Myelin induced LXR response genes ABCA1 and ABCG1 in human monocyte-derived macrophages. In active MS lesions, we found that both gene expression and protein levels of ABCA1 and apolipoprotein E ( APOE) are upregulated in foamy phagocytes. Moreover, we found that the LXR ligand 27-hydroxycholesterol (27OHC) is significantly increased in human monocyte-derived macrophages after myelin uptake. Conclusion: LXR response genes are upregulated in phagocytes present in active MS lesions, indicating that LXRs are activated in actively demyelinating phagocytes. In addition, we have shown that myelin contains LXR ligands and that 27OHC is generated in human monocyte-derived macrophages after myelin processing. This suggests that LXRs in phagocytes in active MS lesions are activated at least partially by (oxy)sterols present in myelin and the generation thereof during myelin processing.
Remarks on research of anaphora resolution in situations of language contact: Cross-linguistic influence and the PAS
Authors: Romano Francesco Bryan 
Published: February 2017

Purpose: This article proposes a new definition of cross-linguistic influence on anaphora resolution in situations of language contact appealing to the Position of Antecedent Strategy. Design: To this effect it examines existing evidence for and definitions of cross-linguistic influence across Spanish, Italian, Greek, and English, four languages research has concentrated on most intensively. Data and analysis: Methodological and theoretical issues are brought to the fore and the evidence of cross-linguistic influence re-evaluated in light of recent investigations of L1 processing of Spanish, Italian, and Greek anaphora. Findings/conclusions: The re-evaluation points to the conclusion that null pronouns are interpreted and processed in similar ways by native speakers, L2 speakers, and L1 attriters, even if speakers have contact with or are very proficient in languages such as English or Swedish where null anaphora is unavailable. Overt pronouns in Italian are more similar to Greek than Spanish and cross-linguistic influence affects only overt anaphora. Originality: If cross-linguistic influence is conceived in terms of the Position of Antecedent Strategy, then apparently contradictory cases such as the over-production of overt forms by Spanish speakers of Italian and the balanced co-reference of Spanish overt forms to topic and non-topic antecedents can be accounted for. Significance/implications: Cross-linguistic influence takes place from the language with less towards the language with more categorical biases. Recommendations for future research with the populations studied, data analysis and collection, and linguistic structures examined are made.
Relative risk of hemorrhage during pregnancy in patients with brain arteriovenous malformations
Authors: van Beijnum Janneke , Wilkinson Tim , Whitaker Heather J , van der Bom Johanna G , Algra Ale , Vandertop W Peter , van den Berg René , Brouwer Patrick A , Rinkel Gabriël JE , Kappelle L Jaap , Al-Shahi Salman Rustam ,   for the Scottish Audit of Intracranial Vascular Malformations collaborators, Klijn Catharina JM 
Published: February 2017

Background It is unclear whether the risk of bleeding from brain arteriovenous malformations is higher during pregnancy, delivery, or puerperium. We compared occurrence of brain arteriovenous malformation hemorrhage in women during this period with occurrence of hemorrhage outside this period during their fertile years. Methods We included all women with ruptured brain arteriovenous malformations (16–41 years) from a retrospective database of patients with brain arteriovenous malformations in four Dutch university hospitals (n = 95) and from the population-based Scottish Audit of Intracranial Vascular Malformations (n = 44). We estimated the relative rate of brain arteriovenous malformation rupture (before any treatment) during exposed time (pregnancy, delivery, puerperium) versus non-exposed time during fertile years, using the case-crossover design as primary analysis, and the self-controlled case-series design as secondary analysis. Results In 17 of 95 Dutch women and in 3 of 44 Scottish women, hemorrhages occurred while pregnant; none occurred during delivery or puerperium. In Dutch women, the relative rate of brain arteriovenous malformation rupture during pregnancy, delivery, or puerperium was 6.8 (95% confidence interval 3.6–13) according to the case-crossover method and 7.1 (95% confidence interval 3.4–13) using the self-controlled case-series method. In Scottish women, the relative rate was 1.3 (95% confidence interval 0.39–4.1) using the case-crossover method and 1.7 (95% confidence interval 0.0–4.4) according to the self-controlled case-series method. Because of limited overlap of confidence intervals, we refrained from pooling the cohorts. Conclusions Case-crossover and self-controlled case series analyses reveal an increase in relative rate of brain arteriovenous malformation rupture during pregnancy in the Dutch cohort but not in the Scottish cohort. Since point estimates varied between both cohorts and numbers are relatively small, the clinical implications of our findings are uncertain.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: MicroRNA-30d promotes angiogenesis and tumor growth via MYPT1/c-JUN/VEGFA pathway and predicts aggressive outcome in prostate cancer
Authors: Lin Zhuo-yuan , Chen Guo , Zhang Yan-qiong , He Hui-chan , Liang Yu-xiang , Ye Jian-heng , Liang Ying-ke , Mo Ru-jun , Lu Jian-ming , Zhuo Yang-jia , Zheng Yu , Jiang Fu-neng , Han Zhao-dong , Wu Shu-lin , Zhong Wei-de , Wu Chin-Lee 
Published: February 2017

Abstract
Background
Even though aberrant expression of microRNA (miR)-30d has been reported in prostate cancer (PCa), its associations with cancer progression remain contradictory. The aim of this study was to investigate clinical significance, biological functions and underlying mechanisms of miR-30d deregulation in PCa.

Methods
Involvement of miR-30d deregulation in malignant phenotypes of PCa was demonstrated by clinical sample evaluation, and in vitro and in vivo experiments. The mechanisms underlying its regulatory effect on tumor angiogenesis were determined.

Results
miR-30d over-expression was observed in both PCa cells and clinical specimens. High-miR-30d was distinctly associated with high pre-operative PSA and Gleason score, advanced clinical and pathological stages, positive metastasis and biochemical recurrence (BCR), and reduced overall survival of PCa patients. Through gain- and loss-of-function experiments, we found that miR-30d promoted PCa cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and capillary tube formation of endothelial cells, as well as in vivo tumor growth and angiogenesis in a mouse model. Simulation of myosin phosphatase targeting subunit 1 (MYPT1), acting as a direct target of miR-30d, antagonized the effects induced by miR-30d up-regulation in PCa cells. Notably, miR-30d/MYPT1 combination was identified as an independent factor to predict BCR of PCa patients. Furthermore, miR-30d exerted its pro-angiogenesis function, at least in part, by inhibiting MYPT1, which in turn, increased phosphorylation levels of c-JUN and activated VEGFA-induced signaling cascade in endothelial cells.

Conclusions
miR-30d and/or its target gene MYPT1 may serve as novel prognostic markers of PCa. miR-30d promotes tumor angiogenesis of PCa through MYPT1/c-JUN/VEGFA pathway.
Efficacy of Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Improving Sexual Functioning of Breast Cancer Survivors: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hummel Susanna B. , van Lankveld Jacques J.D.M. , Oldenburg Hester S.A. , Hahn Daniela E.E. , Kieffer Jacobien M. , Gerritsma Miranda A. , Kuenen Marianne A. , Bijker Nina , Borgstein Paul J. , Heuff Gijsbert , Lopes Cardozo Alexander M.F. , Plaisier Peter W. , Rijna Herman , van der Meij Suzan , van Dulken Eric J. , Vrouenraets Bart C. , Broomans Eva , Aaronson Neil K. 
Published: February 2017

Purpose We evaluated the effect of Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on sexual functioning and relationship intimacy (primary outcomes) and body image, menopausal symptoms, marital functioning, psychological distress, and health-related quality of life (secondary outcomes) in breast cancer survivors (BCSs) with a DSM-IV diagnosis of a sexual dysfunction. Patients and Methods We randomly assigned 169 BCSs to either Internet-based CBT or a waiting-list control group. The CBT consisted of weekly therapist-guided sessions, with a maximum duration of 24 weeks. Self-report questionnaires were completed by the intervention group at baseline (T0), midtherapy (T1), and post-therapy (T2) and at equivalent times by the control group. We used a mixed-effect modeling approach to compare the groups over time. Results Compared with the control group, the intervention group showed a significant improvement over time in overall sexual functioning (effect size for T2 [EST2] = .43; P = .031), which was reflected in an increase in sexual desire (EST1 = .48 and EST2 = .72; P < .001), sexual arousal (EST2 = .50; P = .008), and vaginal lubrication (EST2 = .46; P = .013). The intervention group reported more improvement over time in sexual pleasure (EST1 = .32 and EST2 = .62; P = .001), less discomfort during sex (EST1 = .49 and EST2 = .66; P = .001), and less sexual distress (EST2 = .59; P = .002) compared with the control group. The intervention group reported greater improvement in body image (EST2 = .45; P = .009) and fewer menopausal symptoms (EST1 = .39; P = .007) than the control group. No significant effects were observed for orgasmic function, sexual satisfaction, intercourse frequency, relationship intimacy, marital functioning, psychological distress, or health-related quality of life. Conclusion Internet-based CBT has salutary effects on sexual functioning, body image, and menopausal symptoms in BCSs with a sexual dysfunction.
Systematic Literature Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Treatment Outcomes in Relapsed and/or Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Authors: van Beurden-Tan Chrissy H.Y. , Franken Margreet G. , Blommestein Hedwig M. , Uyl-de Groot Carin A. , Sonneveld Pieter 
Published: February 2017

Purpose Since 2000, many new treatment options have become available for relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma (R/R MM) after a long period in which dexamethasone and melphalan had been the standard treatment. Direct comparisons of these novel treatments, however, are lacking. This makes it extremely difficult to evaluate the relative added value of each new treatment. Our aim was to synthesize all efficacy evidence, enabling a comparison of all current treatments for R/R MM. Methods We performed a systematic literature review to identify all publicly available phase III randomized controlled trial evidence. We searched Embase, MEDLINE, MEDLINE In-Process, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Clinical Trials, and the Web site www.ClinicalTrials.gov . In addition, two trials presented at two international hematology congresses (ie, ASCO 2016 and European Hematology Association 2016) were added to include the most recent evidence. In total, 17 randomized controlled trials were identified, including 18 treatment options. The evidence was synthesized using a conventional network meta-analysis. To include all treatments within one network, two treatment options were combined: (1) bortezomib monotherapy and bortezomib plus dexamethasone, and (2) thalidomide monotherapy and thalidomide plus dexamethasone. Results The combination of daratumumab, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone was identified as the best treatment. It was most favorable in terms of (1) hazard ratio for progression-free survival (0.13; 95% credible interval, 0.09 to 0.19), and (2) probability of being best (99% of the simulations). This treatment combination reduced the risk of progression or death by 87% versus dexamethasone, 81% versus bortezomib plus dexamethasone, and 63% versus lenalidomide plus dexamethasone. Conclusion Our network meta-analysis provides a complete overview of the relative efficacy of all available treatments for R/R MM. Until additional data from randomized studies are available, on the basis of this analysis, the combination of daratumumab, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone seems to be the best treatment option.
Late Relapse of Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma: An Analysis of the German Hodgkin Study Group HD7 to HD12 Trials
Authors: Bröckelmann Paul J. , Goergen Helen , Kohnhorst Charlotte , von Tresckow Bastian , Moccia Alden , Markova Jana , Meissner Julia , Kerkhoff Andrea , Ludwig Wolf-Dieter , Fuchs Michael , Borchmann Peter , Engert Andreas 
Published: February 2017

Purpose Clinical characteristics, therapeutic approaches, and prognosis of late relapse (LR) in patients with classic Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) are poorly understood. We performed a comprehensive analysis of LR of Hodgkin lymphoma (LR-HL). Methods To estimate the incidence of LR-HL, we retrospectively analyzed 6,840 patients with cHL included in the German Hodgkin Study Group trials HD7 to HD12. Patients who experienced a relapse > 5 years into remission were compared with patients in continued remission for > 5 years and with those who experienced a relapse ≤ 5 years after first diagnosis. Results With a median observation time of 10.3 years, 141 incidences of LR-HL were observed. Cumulative incidences at 10, 15, and 20 years rose linearly and were 2.5%, 4.3%, and 6.9%, respectively. The standardized incidence ratio for HL with respect to age- and sex-matched German reference data was 84.5 (95% CI, 71.2 to 99.7). LR-HL was more frequently observed in patients with early-stage favorable than unfavorable or advanced stage at first diagnosis (15-year cumulative incidence, 5.3% v 3.9% and 3.9%, respectively; P = .01). Overall survival from first diagnosis was worse after LR compared with nonrelapse survivors (10-year estimate, 95.8% v 86.1%; hazard ratio, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.7 to 3.5; P < .001). In patients with LR-HL, survival was better compared with 466 patients with earlier relapse (hazard ratio, 0.6; 95% CI, 0.4 to 0.9, P = .01). Forty-four percent and 49% of patients with LR-HL and earlier relapse, respectively, received stem cell transplantations. Conclusion Apart from treatment-associated adverse effects, survivors after initially successful therapy for cHL are at an 85-fold risk for recurrence of disease compared with the general German population. After risk-adapted treatment strategies, especially in early-stage favorable HL, regular clinical follow-up is recommended for timely detection of LR-HL. With adequate treatment, prognosis of LR-HL is better compared with early relapses.
Polymerization of Furylthiazoles with Palladium-Catalyzed Direct Arylation Polycondensation
Authors: Ashida Kana , Murase Yuki , Miyagawa Naoki , Okano Kentaro , Mori Atsunori 
Published: February 2017

Abstract
Effective transformation of a biomass-derived heteroaromatic compound furfural into conjugated polymer is described. Furylthiazole composed of furan and thiazole rings is employed as a monomer and palladium-catalyzed C–H coupling polycondensation furnishes the corresponding formal alternating copolymer. The coupling reaction in the presence of Pd(OAc)2 (20 mol %) as a catalyst undergoes polymerization in &gt;99% yield with Mn = 10.2 × 103.