bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and incidence of epilepsy in a well‐defined population of Northern Italy
Authors: Giussani Giorgia , Franchi Carlotta , Messina Paolo , Nobili Alessandro , Beghi Ettore ,   the EPIRES Group
Published: August 2014

SummaryObjectiveTo calculate prevalence and incidence of epilepsy using administrative records.MethodsClaim records from the administrative district of Lecco, Northern Italy (population 311,637; 2001 census), collected during the years 2000–2008, were the data source. Patients of all ages were included. Based on previous findings from our group, the most accurate algorithm to detect epilepsy was the combination of electroencephalography (EEG) (ad hoc code) (at least one during the study period) and antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) (ATC code) (taken in 2008). Using this algorithm, the prevalence of epilepsy for the year 2008 was calculated. The reference population for prevalence was the population residing in the study area during the year 2008. Incident epilepsy cases were a subset of prevalent cases among patients not traced in the years 2000 through 2003. Average annual incidence rates were calculated for 2004 through 2008, taking for reference the person‐years of exposure in the resident population. We calculated crude, adjusted (using positive and negative predictive values), and standardized (to the Italian and World population) prevalence and incidence.ResultsIn 2008, 1,504 patients met the inclusion criteria, giving a prevalence of 4.57 per 1,000 (women 4.26; men 4.89). Prevalence tended to rise slightly with age. There were 864 incident cases, giving an average annual incidence of 53.41 per 100,000 (women 50.98; men 55.95). Incidence rates peaked in the elderly. The adjusted prevalence was 4.42 and the adjusted incidence 47.05. Standardized prevalence and incidence were, respectively, 4.30 per 1,000 and 48.35 per 100,000 (Italian population) and 3.79 per 1,000 and 44.74 per 100,000 (World population).SignificanceThe prevalence of epilepsy in the Lecco district was comparable to other studies, whereas the incidence was among the highest. With adjustments, administrative records are a cost‐effective instrument to monitor epilepsy frequency.
Impact of exercise training without caloric restriction on inflammation, insulin resistance and visceral fat mass in obese adolescents
Authors: Mendelson M. , Michallet A.‐S. , Monneret D. , Perrin C. , Estève F. , Lombard P. R. , Faure P. , Lévy P. , Favre‐Juvin A. , Pépin J.‐L. , Wuyam B. , Flore P. 
Published: August 2014

SummaryBackgroundExercise training has been shown to improve cardiometabolic health in obese adolescents.ObjectivesEvaluate the impact of a 12‐week exercise‐training programme (without caloric restriction) on obese adolescents’ cardiometabolic and vascular risk profiles.MethodsWe measured systemic markers of oxidation, inflammation, metabolic variables and endothelial function in 20 obese adolescents (OB) (age: 14.5 ± 1.5 years; body mass index: 34.0 ± 4.7 kg m−2) and 20 age‐ and gender‐matched normal‐weight adolescents (NW). Body composition was assessed by magnetic resonance imagery. Peak aerobic capacity and maximal fat oxidation were evaluated during specific incremental exercise tests. OB participated in a 12‐week exercise‐training programme.ResultsOB presented lower peak aerobic capacity (24.2 ± 5.9 vs. 39.8 ± 8.3 mL kg−1 min−1, P < 0.05) and maximal fat oxidation compared with NW (P < 0.05). OB displayed greater F2t‐Isoprostanes (20.5 ± 6.7 vs. 13.4 ± 4.2 ng mmol−1 creatinine), Interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1Ra) (1794.8 ± 532.2 vs. 835.1 ± 1027.4 pg mL−1), Tumor Necrosis Factor‐α (TNF‐α) (2.1 ± 1.2 vs. 1.5 ± 1.0 pg mL−1), Soluble Tumor Necrosis Factor‐α Type II Receptor (sTNFαRII), leptin, insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, version 2 (HOMA2‐IR), high‐sensitive C‐reactive protein, triglycerides and lower adiponectin and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (all P < 0.05). After exercise training, despite lack of weight loss, VO2peak (mL.kg−1.min−1) and maximal fat oxidation increased (P < 0.05). IL‐1Ra and IFN‐gamma‐inducible protein 10 (IP‐10) decreased (P < 0.05). Insulin and HOMA2‐IR decreased (14.8 ± 1.5 vs. 10.2 ± 4.2 μUI mL−1 and 1.9 ± 0.8 vs. 1.3 ± 0.6, respectively, P < 0.05). Change in visceral fat mass was inversely associated with change in maximal fat oxidation (r = −0.54; P = 0.024). The subgroup of participants that lost visceral fat mass showed greater improvements in triglycerides, insulin resistance and maximal fat oxidation.ConclusionOur data confirms the role of exercise training on improving the inflammatory profile and insulin resistance of OB in the absence of weight loss. However, those who lost a greater amount of visceral fat mass showed greater benefits in terms of insulin profile, triglycerides and maximal fat oxidation.
Dissociated Pulmonary Vein Activity After Pulmonary Vein Isolation for Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation: A Predictor for Recurrence?
Authors: BUIATTI ALESSANDRA , AMMAR SONIA , REENTS TILKO , SEMMLER VERENA , KATHAN SUSANNE , HOFMANN MONIKA , BOURIER FELIX , TELISHEVSKA MARTHA , KOCH‐BÜTTNER KATHARINA , KAESS BERNHARD , LENNERZ CARSTEN , KOLB CHRISTOF , HESSLING GABRIELE , DEISENHOFER ISABEL 
Published: August 2014

Dissociated Pulmonary Vein Activity for Paroxysmal Atrial FibrillationBackgroundThe role of dissociated pulmonary vein (DPV) activity after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is still poorly defined. We evaluated electrophysiological features and clinical impact on long‐term outcome of DPV activity.MethodsA total of 243 patients (mean age 63 ± 11 years; 63% males) undergoing PVI for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) were included. DPV activity was defined as a residual low frequency irregular PV rhythm. Patients were divided into Group 1 (presence of DPV activity; n = 65) or Group 2 (absence of DPV activity; n = 178).ResultsOf 936 isolated PVs, 112 PVs (12%) showed DPV activity. DPV activity was observed more frequently in PVs identified as AF triggers (P = 0.026). During follow‐up (mean 12 ± 7 months), 15 of 65 patients of Group 1 (23%) and 57 of 178 patients of Group 2 (32%) had an arrhythmia recurrence (P = 0.23). At linear regression analysis, no independent predictor for clinical recurrence was identified.During the repeat ablation, 62 of 72 patients (86%) showed a recovered PV conduction without difference between the 2 groups. Clinically, all patients of Group 1 with PV reconnection (n = 13/15) had a recurrence of paroxysmal AF. In Group 2, 5 of 52 patients with reconnected PV developed non‐PV related arrhythmias.ConclusionDPV activity occurred in 12% of PVs after PVI and was observed more frequently in PVs identified as AF triggers. DPV activity was not predictive for AF recurrence during follow‐up. PV‐left atrium reconnection involving PVs with DPV activity leads to AF.
Retreatment in patients with psoriasis achieving response with etanercept after relapse due to treatment interruption: results from the CRYSTEL study
Authors: Griffiths C.E.M. , Luger T.A. , Brault Y. , Germain J.M. , Mallbris L. 
Published: August 2014

AbstractBackgroundIn clinical practice, patients with psoriasis may require intermittent therapy as part of their long‐term treatment programme. Those achieving Physician's Global Assessment (PGA) of ≤ 1 (almost clear/clear) are more likely to be selected as candidates for intermittent therapy than those with a higher PGA (≥ 2; mild or worse), who may relapse sooner or have a delayed response. The objective of this analysis was to determine if patients achieving PGA ≤ 1 using intermittent etanercept (ETN) therapy could regain response (defined as PGA ≤ 2) after relapse.MethodsIn the CRYSTEL study (clinicaltrials.gov NCT00195507), patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis were treated with ETN 50 mg twice weekly (BIW) for ≤ 12 weeks (or for an extra 12 weeks with ETN 25 mg BIW until PGA ≤ 2 was achieved). Patients who reached PGA ≤ 1 during this time were selected for this post hoc analysis (Cycle 1). Treatment was paused, and patients who relapsed (PGA > 2) were retreated with ETN 25 mg BIW until recovery (PGA ≤ 2, Cycle 2). Treatment cycles were continued for up to 54 weeks. The proportion of PGA responders and the time to attain response were calculated, and patient satisfaction was evaluated using the Patient Satisfaction Survey.ResultsDuring Cycle 1, 131 patients achieved PGA ≤ 1 within a median of 9 weeks and subsequently relapsed after treatment cessation. In Cycle 2, 119 (91%) patients attained PGA ≤ 2 within a median time of 7 weeks. The majority of patients were either ‘very satisfied’, ‘satisfied’ or ‘somewhat satisfied’ during both Cycle 1 (100% in total) and Cycle 2 (97% in total).ConclusionPatients achieving the stringent criteria of PGA ≤ 1 with ETN therapy before ceasing treatment, and subsequently relapsing, were able to quickly regain response during retreatment. The majority of patients considered their therapy to be satisfactory.
Plantar keloids: diagnostic and therapeutic issues in six patients
Authors: Vanhaecke C. , Hickman G. , Cavelier‐Balloy B. , Masson V. , Duron J.‐B. , Gorj M. , May P. , Schneider P. , Vilmer C. , Bagot M. , Battistella M. , Petit A. 
Published: August 2014

AbstractBackgroundKeloids are benign fibro‐proliferative skin lesions that very rarely occur on the soles. Because of their rarity, the diagnosis of plantar keloids can be difficult. We describe the clinical and histopathological characteristics of eight plantar keloids.MethodsAll patients presenting with plantar keloids between 2005 and 2012 in our Dermatology unit were retrospectively included. Diagnosis was definitely established by re‐reading of pathological slides in all cases. Clinical characteristics, histopathological features, treatments given and their results were collected.ResultsSix patients were included. Five patients had a single plantar keloid and one had three lesions. They all were of African descent. Only one patient remembered of a previous injury at the site of the keloid. Three patients presented with associated extra‐plantar keloids. In four patients, the diagnosis of keloid was not initially suspected clinically or histologically. Re‐reading of the clinical photographs showed that the eight plantar keloids shared common morphological features, leading to a distinctive clinical picture, defined by a hardened lesion of rounded or polycyclic shape, with a pink surface crossed by keratotic furrows and the presence of a hyperkeratotic rim. Concerning pathological features, typical hyalinized collagen can be missing and deep fibrosis should not rule out the diagnosis of keloid. Intralesional injection of triamcinolone acetonide and orthopaedic shoes were useful. All patients who had surgical excision presented recurrence.ConclusionThe knowledge of the clinical features of plantar keloids is helpful to the diagnosis. There is no well‐established treatment, but supportive measures are important.
HYPONYCHIUM ABNORMALITIES Congenital Aberrant Hyponychium vs. Acquired Pterygium Inversum Unguis vs. Acquired Reversible Extended Hyponychium: a proposed classification based on origin, pathology and outcome
Authors: Zaias N. , Escovar S.X. , Zaiac M.N. , Del Rio E. , Dou N. , Ricotti C. , Karai L. , Florez‐White M. 
Published: August 2014

AbstractBackgroundPterygium Inversum Unguis (PIU) is a wing‐like extended hyponychium associated with the absence of the distal groove. Although a rare condition, it has been described with different names, confusing both the investigator and the reader.ObjectiveWe propose a new nomenclature based on tissue origin and pathology, to account for these conditions. 1) Congenital Aberrant Hyponychium 2) Acquired Pterygium Inversum Unguis 3) Acquired Reversible Extended Hyponychium.Main ObservationsWe report a case of a 19‐year‐old male, with epidermal pigmentation abnormalities, who had painful fingertips of both index fingers and thumbs since he was 13. He therefore let his finger nails grow very long, minimizing painful contact with the hyponychium. Removal of the aberrant hyponychium revealed glomus bodies aggregates with increased nerve fibers. Subsequently after excision of the hyponychium, his pain was resolved.SummaryCongenital, transient or permanent changes in the hyponychium should be named and classified according to tissue origin to avoid nomenclature confusion.
Idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis: an electron microscopy study
Authors: Kakepis M. , Havaki S. , Katoulis A. , Katsambas A. , Stavrianeas N. , Troupis T.G. 
Published: August 2014

AbstractBackgroundFew published data, concerning the electron microscopy findings of idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis have been published so far.ObjectivesTo reveal the electron microscopic findings of idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis and their aetiopathogenetic associations.MethodsPunch biopsy specimens from four patients with idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis, after being properly processed, were observed under the electron microscope.ResultsIn the epidermis, melanocytes and melanosomes were normal in structure. In some areas, there was a reduced uptake of melanosomes by the keratinocytes. In the dermis, fibroblasts were structurally normal. Also, most elastic and collagen fibres were normal, but there were focal elastotic changes.ConclusionsNo significant structural abnormality of the melanocytes was observed, but rather a functional defect in the transfer of melanosomes from the melanocytes to the keratinocytes.
Clinically atypical spitzoid lesions: semi‐quantitative histologic index correlation with dermoscopic scores (ABCD rule, 7‐point checklist and pattern analysis)
Authors: Saravia M. , Pellicer Z. , Martin J.M. , Monteagudo C. 
Published: August 2014

AbstractBackgroundThe distinction of Spitz and Reed nevi with atypical features from melanoma may be a difficult task. In these cases, the dermoscopic scores could bring variable results and not always correlate with the histologic diagnosis.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to compare the histopathologic and dermoscopic findings in a cohort of clinically atypical Spitz and Reed nevi.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 19 cases of atypical Spitz and Reed nevi from our files. We constructed a new semi‐quantitative histologic index (HI) based on the reproducible microscopic features, and correlated it with two dermoscopic scores: ABCD and 7‐point checklist, as well as with the predominant dermoscopic pattern.ResultsThe HI values differs significantly when the multicomponent dermoscopic pattern was compared with the rest of patterns (U = 22.5, Z = 2.23, P = 0.01). The ABCD and the 7‐point checklist scores did not show statistically significant correlation with the HI.ConclusionTo our knowledge, this is the first report in which a semi‐quantitative histologic score is compared to different dermoscopic scores in clinically atypical spitzoid lesions. This score can be used to correlate in an objective way the entire histologic picture with the standardized dermoscopic scores. In our series we found a higher HI for those spitzoid lesions with multicomponent pattern.
Modeling of Microbial Spoilage and Color Degradation Occurring in Convective Drying of Vegetables: A Route to Process Optimization
Authors: Curcio Stefano , Aversa Maria , Calabrò Vincenza , Iorio Gabriele 
Published: August 2014

AbstractThe present paper was aimed at developing a rigorous methodology to optimize the performance of vegetables hot convective drying. The proposed optimization method was formulated combining a multiphase transport phenomena model, which predicted the time evolutions of temperature and water activity distributions in the food, a product decontamination model, which described the microbial inactivation kinetics of Listeria monocytogenes and a model estimating the color changes, expressed in terms of the Hunter parameters. The effects of operating conditions both on color degradation, chosen as a reference quality parameter, and on microbial population decay, chosen as a measure of food safety, were ascertained. The formulated optimization model allowed analyzing different scenarios and calculating the set of operating conditions, which were to be exploited to attain specific control objectives, represented by a trade‐off between quality and safety of dried foods. By the proposed methodology, it would be possible to minimize expensive and time‐consuming pilot test runs and obtain precise indications about optimization of vegetables convective drying.Practical ApplicationsThe proposed transport model allows calculating the effects of operating conditions on both microbial inactivation and color changes occurring during vegetables drying. Such a model can be exploited to develop computational tools aimed at optimizing the performance of real convective driers.
Validation and modification of a proposed substaging system for patients with intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Jing‐Houng , Kee Kwong‐Ming , Lin Chih‐Yun , Hung Chao‐Hung , Chen Chien‐Hung , Lee Chuan‐Mo , Lu Sheng‐Nan 
Published: August 2014

AbstractBackground and AimBased on up‐to‐seven criteria and Child‐Pugh score, four substages of Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were proposed. The purpose of this study was to validate and modify this proposal.MethodsBetween January 2002 and February 2011, newly diagnosed intermediate HCC patients underwent transarterial embolization (TAE) were enrolled. Patients were stratified into four (B1–B4) substages and followed up until death or end of 2012. Patients' survivals and discriminatory ability of substaging systems were compared.ResultsFive‐hundred and eighty patients were enrolled. There were 56.6%, 33.8%, 7.4%, and 2.2% in substage B1, B2, B3, and B4. The 5‐year survival rate was 21.4%, 13.9%, 7.4%, and 7.7% with median survival time of 2.4, 1.3, 0.5, and 0.8 years (P < 0.001). In addition to substage B1–B4, α‐fetoprotein (AFP) level was an independent factor associated with survival in multivariate analysis. According to AFP < or > 200 ng/mL, B1 was classified into B1a and B1b, and B2 into B2a and B2b. There were no differences in survivals between B1b and B2a (P = 0.174), and B2b and B3 (P = 0.785). Patients were re‐classified into modified (m)B1 (B1a), mB2 (B1b + B2a), mB3 (B2b + B3). The modified substages (mB1–mB3) showed a more desirable substaging system.ConclusionsFor BCLC intermediate HCC patients, substages B1–B4 were useful in predicting survival after TAE. However, modified substaging system provided better prognostic prediction.
Duodenal–jejunal bypass improves diabetes and liver steatosis via enhanced glucagon‐like peptide‐1 elicited by bile acids
Authors: Kashihara Hideya , Shimada Mitsuo , Kurita Nobuhiro , Sato Hirohiko , Yoshikawa Kozo , Higashijima Jun , Chikakiyo Motoya , Nishi Masaaki , Takasu Chie 
Published: August 2014

AbstractBackground and AimBariatric surgery not only elicits weight loss but also rapidly resolves diabetes. However, the mechanisms remain unclear. The present study investigates how diabetes and liver steatosis are improved after duodenal–jejunal bypass (DJB) compared with a glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) analog and correlations between bile acids and GLP‐1 secretion.MethodsWe initially determined the effects of bile acids on GLP‐1 in vitro and then assigned 12 male 16‐week‐old Otsuka Long‐Evans Tokushima Fatty rats to groups that underwent DJB, a sham operation, or were treated with the GLP‐1 receptor agonist, liraglutide (n = 4 each). Blood glucose, insulin, GLP‐1, serum bile acids, liver steatosis, and the number of GLP‐1 positive cells (L cells) in the small intestine and colon were investigated in the three groups at eight weeks postoperatively.ResultsLevels of GLP‐1mRNA were upregulated and GLP‐1 secretion increased in cells incubated with bile acids in vitro. Weight gain was suppressed more in the DJB than in the sham group in vivo. Diabetes was more improved and GLP‐1 levels were significantly higher in the DJB than in the sham group. Serum bile acids were significantly increased, the number of L cells in the ileum was upregulated compared with the sham group, and liver steatosis was significantly improved in the DJB compared with the other two groups.ConclusionsDuodenal–jejunal bypass might improve diabetes and liver steatosis by enhancing GLP‐1 secretion through increasing serum bile acids and the proliferation of L cells in the ileum, compared with liraglutide.
Epithelial cell adhesion molecule‐positive human hepatic neoplastic cells: development of combined hepatocellular‐cholangiocarcinoma in mice
Authors: Ogasawara Sachiko , Akiba Jun , Nakayama Masamichi , Nakashima Osamu , Torimura Takuji , Yano Hirohisa 
Published: August 2014

AbstractBackground and AimHuman combined hepatocellular‐cholangiocarcinoma (CHC) expresses several hepatic stem/progenitor cell (HSPC) markers, suggesting this neoplasm originates from HSPCs. We examined the significance of HSPC marker in CHC using a human CHC cell line.MethodsWe used a human CHC cell line (KMCH‐1) previously established in our laboratory. The original tumor was classified as CHC, showing areas of typical hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (ChC). We examined the expression of HSPC markers and hepatocyte markers in KMCH‐1 by flow cytometry (FCM) and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. EpCAM(+) and EpCAM(−) KMCH‐1 cells were isolated. Subsequently, their morphological features, HSPC marker expression, and biological characteristics were examined in vitro and in vivo.ResultsFCM showed expression of EpCAM, K7, K19, and ABCG2 in KMCH‐1, with various degrees. EpCAM(+) cells expressed K19 mRNA, but did not express α‐fetoprotein (AFP). In contrast, EpCAM(−) cells expressed AFP mRNA, but did not express K19. EpCAM(+) cells produced both EpCAM(+) and EpCAM(−) cells, but EpCAM(−) cells produced only EpCAM(−) cells in vitro. EpCAM(+) cells showed higher tumorigenicity and formed larger tumors than EpCAM(−) cells. Inoculation of EpCAM(+) and EpCAM(−) cells produced both ChC and HCC‐like component and HCC‐like component only, respectively.ConclusionIt is speculated that some CHCs may originate from EpCAM(+) neoplastic cells, and that these cells may affect malignant behavior and progression in such CHCs.
Testosterone in men with advanced liver disease: Abnormalities and implications
Authors: Sinclair Marie , Grossmann Mathis , Gow Paul J , Angus Peter W 
Published: August 2014

AbstractSerum testosterone is reduced in up to 90% of men with cirrhosis, with levels falling as liver disease advances. Testosterone is an important anabolic hormone, with effects on muscle, bone, and hematopoiesis. Many of the features of advanced liver disease are similar to those seen in hypogonadal men, including sarcopenia, osteoporosis, gynecomastia, and low libido. However, the relative contribution of testosterone deficiency to the symptomatology of advanced liver disease has not been well established. More recently, it has been demonstrated that low testosterone in men with cirrhosis is associated with increased mortality, independent of the classically recognized prognostic factors, such as the Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score. Only several small clinical trials have examined the role of testosterone therapy in men with cirrhosis, none of which have resolved the issue of whether or not testosterone is beneficial. However, in men with organic hypogonadism due to structural hypothalamic–pituitary–testicular axis disease, testosterone therapy has been shown to improve muscle mass and bone mineral density, increase hemoglobin, and reduce insulin resistance. Despite initial concerns linking testosterone with hepatocellular carcinoma, more recent data suggest that this risk has been overstated. There is, therefore, now a strong rationale to assess the efficacy and safety of testosterone therapy in cirrhosis in well‐designed randomized controlled trials.