bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of quantitative parameters of dynamically enhanced patterns of spiral computed tomography scanning integrated into tumour progression before targeted treatment of non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Qiao Peng‐Gang , Huang Qiong , Zhou Juan , Wang Xiang‐Chao , Li Ming , Ma Jin‐Lin , Tian Ning , Li Gong‐Jie 
Published: January 2015

AbstractIntroductionThe relationship between quantitative parameters of contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT) and non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) progression remains controversial. We aimed to explore the usefulness of contrast‐enhanced spiral CT scanning for confirming the time of tumour progression before targeted treatment of NSCLC.MethodsContrast‐enhanced spiral CT scanning was performed on 33 NSCLC patients with a biopsy‐proven diagnosis of NSCLC. All the patients were divided into three groups according to times of tumour progression (<6 weeks, 6–20 weeks, and >20 weeks). The perfusion CT data were used to calculate quantitative parameters, including enhanced peak values, peak time of tumour enhancement, ratio of tumour mass and enhanced aorta peak value and perfusion value of blood flow. Variance analysis was used for statistical analysis among the three groups using sas 9.13 statistical software.ResultsTumour perfusion values among the three group with different stage of TTP were significantly different from each other with P = 0.0129 (<6 weeks, perfusion value = 0.35 ± 0.15 mL/(min × mL); 6–20 weeks, perfusion value = 0.41 ± 0.086 mL/(min × mL); > 20 weeks, perfusion value = 0.47 ± 0.087 mL/(min × mL)). However, no significant differences were found in other parameters (enhanced peak values, peak time of tumour enhancement, ratios of tumour mass, and enhanced aorta peak value) among three groups (P > 0.05).ConclusionThe NSCLC patients with high perfusion value before targeted therapy are more sensitive to targeted therapy, and further experiments with larger sample size are needed.
Recognising pitfalls in assessment of tumours by diffusion‐weighted MRI: A pictorial essay
Authors: Parameswaran Bimal Kumar , Lau Eddie , Ferris Nicholas J 
Published: January 2015

SummaryDiffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) has become an integral part of MRI. Knowledge of the basic principles of DWI and its pitfalls are imperative in the proper application of this technique. We illustrate potential pitfalls of DWI in oncologic imaging.
In‐hospital C‐reactive protein predicts outcome after aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage treated by endovascular coiling
Authors: CSAJBOK L. Z. , NYLÉN K. , ÖST M. , SONANDER H. , NELLGÅRD B. 
Published: January 2015

BackgroundThis study aimed to examine prospectively whether the inflammatory marker C‐reactive protein (CRP) increases in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH) treated by endovascular coiling and investigate whether CRP could be used as prognostic factor for long‐term neurological outcome.MethodsThis single‐hospital study comprised 98 consecutive patients with confirmed aSAH treated by endovascular coiling. Admission status was classified according to the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) Scale and initial cerebral computed tomography according to Fisher scale. CRP was analysed on days 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 8 after the initial bleed. A neurological follow up was performed 1 year later according to the Extended Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOSE) for overall outcome and National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) for focal deficit.ResultsCRP values increased from normal to peak at 53 mg/l at day 3–4 and then declined, without normalising, at day 8. Patients with a higher increase in CRP had a poorer neurological outcome after 1 year. CRP during the first week had a stronger correlation to outcome (r = 0.417) and NIHSS (r = 0.449) than initial clinical status (WFNS; r = 0.280 and 0.274) and radiology (Fisher scale; r = 0.137 and 0.158). CRP increase indicated a risk of poor outcome (GOSE) (P < 0.001) and permanent loss of neurological function (NIHSS) (P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis suggested that elevated CRP already on day 2 is an independent prognostic marker for outcome.ConclusionEarly CRP values can perhaps be used as a prognostic factor for long‐term neurological outcome prediction after endovascular treatment of aSAH.
Inflammation in cold complex regional pain syndrome
Authors: DIRCKX M. , STRONKS D. L. , VAN BODEGRAVEN‐HOF E. A. M. , WESSELDIJK F. , GROENEWEG J. G. , HUYGEN F. J. P. M. 
Published: January 2015

BackgroundIn patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), the temperature of the affected side often differs from that of the contralateral side. In the acute phase, the affected side is usually warmer than the contralateral side, the so‐called ‘warm’ CRPS. This thermal asymmetry can develop into a colder affected side, the so‐called ‘cold’ CRPS. In contrast to cold CRPS, in warm CRPS, inflammation is generally assumed to be present. However, there are reports of cold CRPS patients, successfully treated with vasodilatation therapy, who subsequently displayed warm CRPS. It seems that inflammation could be ‘hidden’ behind vasomotor disturbance. This study was designed to test this hypothesis.MethodsA retrospective analysis was made of patients in our CRPS database. We defined three types of CRPS: cold CRPS, neither cold nor warm (intermediate) CRPS, and warm CRPS. Of these patients, the difference between the level of the pro‐inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)‐6 (Δ IL‐6) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α (Δ TNF‐α) in the affected extremity and that in the contralateral extremity was determined.ResultsThe bilateral difference of the level of these cytokines did not differ among patients with cold CRPS, intermediate CRPS, or those with warm CRPS.ConclusionInflammation may be involved in cold CRPS.
Prolonged hypogonadism in males following withdrawal from anabolic–androgenic steroids: an under‐recognized problem
Authors: Kanayama Gen , Hudson James I. , DeLuca James , Isaacs Stephanie , Baggish Aaron , Weiner Rory , Bhasin Shalender , Pope Harrison G. 
Published: January 2015

AbstractAimsTo assess the frequency and severity of hypogonadal symptoms in male long‐term anabolic–androgenic steroid (AAS) misusers who have discontinued AAS use.DesignCross‐sectional, naturalistic.SettingOut‐patient facility.ParticipantsTwenty‐four male former long‐term AAS users and 36 non‐AAS‐using weightlifters, recruited by advertisement in Massachusetts, USA. Five of the former users were currently receiving treatment with physiological testosterone replacement, leaving 19 untreated users for the numerical comparisons below.MeasurementsThe Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐IV, questions regarding history of AAS use, physical examination, serum hormone determinations and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF).FindingsCompared with the 36 non‐AAS‐using weightlifters, the 19 untreated former AAS users displayed significantly smaller testicular volumes [estimated difference, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.3 (0.1, 4.5) ml;P = 0.042] and lower serum testosterone levels [estimated difference: 95% CI = 131 (25, 227) dl;P = 0.009], with five users showing testosterone levels below 200 ng/dl despite abstinence from AAS for 3–26 months. Untreated former users also displayed significantly lower scores on the IIEF sexual desire subscale [estimated difference: 95% CI = 2.4 (1.3, 3.4) points on a 10‐point scale;P< 0.001]. In the overall group of 24 treated plus untreated former users, seven (29%) had experienced major depressive episodes during AAS withdrawal; four of these had not experienced major depressive episodes at any other time. Two men (8%) had failed to regain normal libidinal or erectile function despite adequate replacement testosterone treatment.ConclusionsAmong long‐term anabolic–androgenic steroid misusers, anabolic–androgenic steroid‐withdrawal hypogonadism appears to be common, frequently prolonged and associated with substantial morbidity.
Influence of Testosterone on Inflammatory Response in Testicular Cells and Expression of Transcription Factor Foxp3 in T Cells
Authors: Fijak Monika , Damm Lara‐Jil , Wenzel Jan‐Per , Aslani Ferial , Walecki Magdalena , Wahle Eva , Eisel Florian , Bhushan Sudhanshu , Hackstein Holger , Baal Nelli , Schuler Gerhard , Konrad Lutz , Rafiq Amir , O'Hara Laura , Smith Lee B. , Meinhardt Andreas 
Published: January 2015

ProblemPrevious studies demonstrated a strong association between low androgen levels and reduced capacity to mount an inflammatory response. However, the mechanisms underlying these observations are largely not understood.Methods of studyGeneration of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells in Leydig cell‐conditioned media was determined by flow cytometry and ELISA. Influence of testosterone on cytokine response was measured in LPS‐stimulated testicular macrophages, Sertoli and peritubular cells.ResultsLeydig cell‐conditioned media dose‐dependently stimulated expression of transcription factor Foxp3 and secretion of IL‐10 in splenic CD4+ T cells, an effect abolished by addition of the anti‐androgen flutamide. In isolated Sertoli and peritubular cells, testosterone pre‐treatment suppressed the LPS‐induced inflammatory response on TNF‐α mRNA expression, while no effect was evident in testicular macrophages (TM).ConclusionsAndrogens can influence the immune system under normal conditions by the generation and functional differentiation of regulatory T cells and in testicular inflammation by direct effect on Sertoli and peritubular cells.
Involvement of seminal leukocytes, reactive oxygen species, and sperm mitochondrial membrane potential in the DNA damage of the human spermatozoa
Authors: Lobascio A. M. , De Felici M. , Anibaldi M. , Greco P. , Minasi M. G. , Greco E. 
Published: January 2015

SummaryMeasurement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) producing leukocytes in semen has been a standard component of the semen analysis, but its true significance remains still unknown. In this study, we have correlated the number of seminal leukocytes to various semen parameters. We found a negative correlation between the leukocyte number and sperm concentration (rs = −0.22; p = 0.01) and motility (rs = −0.20; p = 0.02). In contrast, a positive correlation between the number of leukocytes and both seminal ROS (rs = 0.70, p < 0.001; n = 125) and the number of spermatozoa with DNA fragmentation (rs = 0.43, p = 0.032; n = 25) was found. However, only a trend of positive correlation between ROS and the number of spermatozoa with TUNEL‐detected DNA fragmentation was observed. Moreover, this latter was not correlated with loss of sperm mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) (10% vs 35%, rs = 0.25, p = 0.08; n = 50). Overall these results indicate that the presence of high number of leukocytes in the ejaculate negatively affects key semen parameters, as sperm concentration and motility, associated with infertility conditions. Moreover, they suggest that leukocytes are the major source of the seminal ROS and cause of sperm DNA fragmentation. However, the absence of a clear correlation between ROS and sperm DNA fragmentation, and spermatozoa with damaged DNA and MMP loss, suggest that ROS produced by leukocytes might be not the only cause of DNA damage in spermatozoa and that intrinsic mitochondrial‐dependent apoptotic pathways might not have a major impact on sperm DNA fragmentation.
The activity of paraoxonase type 1 (PON‐1) in boar seminal plasma and its relationship with sperm quality, functionality, and in vivo fertility
Authors: Barranco I. , Tvarijonaviciute A. , Perez‐Patiño C. , Alkmin D. V. , Ceron J. J. , Martinez E. A. , Rodriguez‐Martinez H. , Roca J. 
Published: January 2015

SummaryParaoxonase 1 (PON‐1) is a hydrolytic enzyme present in body fluids, capable of protecting cells against oxidative stress. The hypothesis was hereby to test that PON‐1, present in seminal plasma (SP), acts protecting boar spermatozoa when showing a reasonable high activity in the ejaculate. SP‐PON‐1 activity differed (p < 0.001) among boars (from 0.10 to 0.29 IU/mL). Intra‐boar variability was also observed (p < 0.05), but only in two of the 15 boars. SP‐PON‐1 activity differed among ejaculate portions, showing the spermatozoa‐peak portion of spermatozoa‐rich ejaculate fraction the highest levels (0.35 ± 0.03 IU/mL, ranging from 0.12 to 0.69) and the post‐sperm ejaculate fraction the lowest levels (0.12 ± 0.01 IU/mL, ranging from 0.03 to 0.21). SP‐PON‐1 activity was positively correlated with the percentage of spermatozoa with rapid and progressive movement (p < 0.01) and negatively correlated with the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (p < 0.01) in semen samples after 72 h of liquid storage. SP‐PON‐1 activity was highest (p < 0.01) in boars with highest farrowing rates. In conclusion, SP‐PON‐1 activity differed among boars and ejaculate fractions/portions. SP‐PON‐1 activity was positively correlated with sperm quality and functionality of liquid‐stored semen samples and it evidenced a positive association with in vivo fertility.
Clinical applications of the pedicled anterolateral thigh flap in reconstruction
Authors: Lin Chin‐Ta , Wang Chih‐Hsing , Ou Kuang‐Wen , Chang Shun‐Cheng , Dai Niann‐Tzyy , Chen Shyi‐Gen , Chen Tim‐Mo , Tzeng Yuan‐Sheng 
Published: January 2015

AbstractBackgroundReconstruction of extensive defects of the lower abdomen, penoscrotum, trochanter, groin and knee without using complex microsurgery is a reconstructive challenge. Pedicled anterolateral thigh (ALT) flaps offer many advantages over other regional flaps for this purpose, such as the large skin area and soft‐tissue availability, a remarkable pedicle length, and possessing multiple components and reliability. We present our experience of using pedicled ALT flaps for repairing various defects.MethodsFrom September 2006 to December 2013, 42 pedicled ALT flaps were used in 41 patients for defects of the lower abdomen (three patients), trochanter (26 patients), penoscrotum (10 patients), groin (one patient) and knee (one patient). Twenty‐eight were men and 13 were women, and their mean age was 70.5 years (range, 22–103 years). The characteristics of the patients' age, sex, cause, flap size, flap component, follow‐up and donor sites were recorded.ResultsThe flap size ranged from 8 × 5 cm (40 cm2) to 11 × 18 cm (198 cm2). The length of the pedicle ranged from 9 to 16 cm, which was enough to reach the defect without tension. No surgery‐related mortality occurred. In 34 flaps, donor sites were closed primarily and eight underwent split‐skin grafting. Satisfactory coverage was achieved in all patients.ConclusionOur experience has shown the wide arc of rotation, large skin replacement potential, multiple components and reliability of pedicled ALT flaps. They are technically simple to apply as myocutaneous/fasciocutaneous flaps with minimal donor site morbidity.
Role of inflammatory markers as predictors of laparotomy in patients presenting with acute abdomen
Authors: Dias Brendan H. , Rozario Anthony P. , Olakkengil Santosh A. 
Published: January 2015

AbstractBackgroundThere is a need for an ideal indicator of surgery in patients presenting with acute abdomen. Several markers have been analysed, but the search still continues as none have proven effective. This study aimed to analyse and compare the predictive value of plasma procalcitonin (PCT) strip test in patients presenting with acute abdomen and identify a useful cut‐off value to differentiate patients that would benefit with surgery from those that require conservative management.MethodsA prospective study was conducted in the department of general surgery from June 2012 to June 2013. Plasma PCT was estimated by the semi‐quantitative strip test. The levels of plasma PCT and other routinely used markers of inflammation were analysed and compared.ResultsOf the total of 58 patients, 44 patients (76%) were men with a mean age of 45 years. Forty patients required emergency surgical intervention. A plasma PCT value of >0.5 ng/mL at admission was 80% sensitive and 100% specific for predicting need for antibiotics in patients with acute abdomen that were managed conservatively. The mean plasma PCT value in the patients undergoing surgery (5.0–10.0 ng/mL) was significantly more than in those managed conservatively (0.5–2.0 ng/mL). Using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves a cut‐off for plasma PCT of >5.0 ng/mL was 75% sensitive and 100% specific for considering surgical intervention in patients presenting with acute abdomen.ConclusionsPlasma PCT (value >5 ng/mL) could be used as an adjunct to clinical examination to predict requirement of surgery in patients presenting with acute abdomen.
Effective use of a vessel‐sealing system for laparoscopic unroofing of liver cysts
Authors: Kanamoto Mami , Imura Satoru , Morine Yuji , Utsunomiya Tohru , Mori Hiroki , Arakawa Yusuke , Takasu Chie , Shimada Mitsuo 
Published: January 2015

AbstractIntroductionLiver cysts that present with symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, and intra‐cystic infection require treatment. In laparoscopic unroofing of liver cysts, appropriate treatment is needed in cases where the cystic walls contain vessels or bile ducts. A vessel‐sealing system can seal not only vessels, but also bile ducts. We experienced four cases in which laparoscopic unroofing of liver cysts was performed with a vessel‐sealing system.Materials and Surgical TechniqueCase 1 was a woman in her 70s who presented at our hospital with abdominal pressure. Abdominal CT showed liver cysts with a maximum diameter of 13 cm. Laparoscopic unroofing was performed with LigaSure Impact. Case 2 was a woman in her 50s with abdominal discomfort. CT showed a cyst 15 cm in diameter situated in the right lobe. We performed SILS using a LigaSure Blunt Tip to unroof the cyst. Case 3 was a man in his 80s with abdominal pain. CT showed a huge cyst 25 cm in diameter in the right lobe. We performed hybrid SILS with a LigaSure Blunt Tip to unroof the cysts. Case 4 was a woman in her 70s with upper abdominal pain. CT showed multiple cysts with a maximum diameter of 15 cm in the bilateral lobes. We performed hybrid SILS to successfully unroof her cysts. None of the cases experienced postoperative complications, such as bleeding or bile leakage, and none experienced recurrence of cysts.DiscussionA laparoscopic unroofing using a vessel‐sealing system can be a minimally invasive and safe treatment for liver cysts.
Intraoperative fluorescent cholangiography using indocyanine green for laparoscopic fenestration of nonparasitic huge liver cysts
Authors: Kitajima Toshihiro , Fujimoto Yasuhiro , Hatano Etsuro , Mitsunori Yusuke , Tomiyama Koji , Taura Kojiro , Mizumoto Masaki , Uemoto Shinji 
Published: January 2015

AbstractBile duct injury is one of the known serious complications of laparoscopic fenestration for nonparasitic liver cysts. Herein, we report the case of a huge liver cyst for which we performed laparoscopic fenestration using intraoperative fluorescent cholangiography with indocyanine green. A 71‐year‐old woman with abdominal distention was referred to our hospital. CT demonstrated a 17 × 11.5‐cm simple cyst replacing the right lobe of the liver, so laparoscopic fenestration was performed. Although the biliary duct could not be detected because of compression by the huge cyst, fluorescent cholangiography with indocyanine green through endoscopic naso‐biliary drainage tube clearly delineated the intrahepatic bile duct in the remaining cystic wall. The patient had no complications at 3 months after surgery. Fluorescent cholangiography using indocyanine green is a safe and effective procedure to avoid bile duct injury during laparoscopic fenestration, especially in patients with a huge liver cyst.
Inguinal hernia repair: Toward Asian guidelines
Authors: Lomanto Davide , Cheah Wei‐Keat , Faylona Jose Macario , Huang Ching Shui , Lohsiriwat Darin , Maleachi Andy , Yang George Pei Cheung , Li Michael Ka‐Wai , Tumtavitikul Sathien , Sharma Anil , Hartung Rolf Ulrich , Choi Young Bai , Sutedja Barlian 
Published: January 2015

AbstractGroin hernias are very common, and surgical treatment is usually recommended. In fact, hernia repair is the most common surgical procedure performed worldwide. In countries such as the USA, China, and India, there may easily be over 1 million repairs every year. The need for this surgery has become an important socioeconomic problem and may affect health‐care providers, especially in aging societies. Surgical repair using mesh is recommended and widely employed in Western countries, but in many developing countries, tissue‐to‐tissue repair is still the preferred surgical procedure due to economic constraints. For these reason, the development and implementation of guidelines, consensus, or recommendations may aim to clarify issues related to best practices in inguinal hernia repair in Asia. A group of Asian experts in hernia repair gathered together to debate inguinal hernia treatments in Asia in an attempt to reach some consensus or develop recommendations on best practices in the region. The need for recommendations or guidelines was unanimously confirmed to help overcome the discrepancy in clinical practice between countries; the experts decided to focus mainly on the technical aspects of open repair, which is the most common surgery for hernia in our region. After the identification of 12 main topics for discussion (indication, age, and sex; symptomatic and asymptomatic hernia: type of hernia; type of treatment; hospital admission; preoperative care; anesthesia; surgical technique; perioperative care; postoperative care; early complications; and long‐term complications), a search of the literature was carried out according to the five levels of the Oxford Classification of Evidence and the four grades of recommendation.
Conjugated fatty acids and methane production by rumen microbes when incubated with linseed oil alone or mixed with fish oil and/or malate
Authors: Li Xiang Z. , Gao Qing S. , Yan Chang G. , Choi Seong H. , Shin Jong S. , Song Man K. 
Published: January 2015

AbstractWe hypothesized that manipulating metabolism with fish oil and malate as a hydrogen acceptor would affect the biohydrogenation process of α‐linolenic acid by rumen microbes. This study was to examine the effect of fish oil and/or malate on the production of conjugated fatty acids and methane (CH4) by rumen microbes when incubated with linseed oil. Linseed oil (LO), LO with fish oil (LO‐FO), LO with malate (LO‐MA), or LO with fish oil and malate (LO‐FO‐MA) was added to diluted rumen fluid, respectively. The LO‐MA and LO‐FO‐MA increased pH and propionate concentration compared to the other treatments. LO‐MA and LO‐FO‐MA reduced CH4 production compared to LO. LO‐MA and LO‐FO‐MA increased the contents of c9,t11‐conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and c9,t11,c15‐conjugated linolenic acid (CLnA) compared to LO. The content of malate was rapidly reduced while that of lactate was reduced in LO‐MA and LO‐FO‐MA from 3 h incubation time. The fold change of the quantity of methanogen related to total bacteria was decreased at both 3 h and 6 h incubation times in all treatments compared to the control. Overall data indicate that supplementation of combined malate and/or fish oil when incubated with linseed oil, could depress methane generation and increase production of propionate, CLA and CLnA under the conditions of the current in vitro study.