bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Incidence of Premalignant and Malignant Disease in Reinke's Edema
Authors: Lim Shueh , Sau Phoebe , Cooper Lorna , McPhaden Allan , Mackenzie Kenneth 
Published: January 2014

Reinke's edema is a benign lesion of the vocal folds affecting the subepithelial space. As part of a study of the management of Reinke's edema, we aimed to determine the prevalence of dysplasia and malignancy in histologically proven Reinke's edema. A retrospective analysis of all laryngeal biopsies performed in north Glasgow, United Kingdom, between 2001 and 2010 was carried out. Clinical and pathological data from patients with histologically confirmed Reinke's edema were recorded with specific respect to the reporting of dysplasia and malignancy. From the 10‐year cohort, a total of 3902 laryngeal biopsies were performed. In total, 189 patients (18 males and 171 females) had histologically proven Reinke's edema. Of this cohort, 170 (90%) had no dysplasia, 16 (8%) had mild dysplasia, 2 (1%) had moderate dysplasia, and 1 (<1%) had severe dysplasia. There was no malignancy reported. In our predominantly female smoking population, the epithelium appears to differentiate to benign Reinke's edema rather than malignancy. Patients can be reassured with regard to the low risk of malignancy in classic Reinke's edema.
Immunotherapies influence the influenza vaccination response in multiple sclerosis patients: an explorative study
Authors: Olberg Henning K , Cox Rebecca J , Nostbakken Jane K , Aarseth Jan H , Vedeler Christian A , Myhr Kjell-Morten 
Published: January 2014

Background: The immunogenicity of influenza vaccines in MS patients undergoing immunomodulatory treatment is not well studied. Objectives: This explorative study investigated the influence of immunomodulatory treatment on MS patients receiving pandemic H1N1 (swine flu) vaccination in 2009 and seasonal influenza vaccination in 2010. Methods: We investigated the immune response to pandemic H1N1 vaccination among 113 MS patients and 216 controls during the pandemic of 2009. We also investigated the serological response to seasonal influenza vaccination (2010 – 2011 season) among 49 vaccinated and 62 non-vaccinated MS patients, versus 73 controls. We evaluated these vaccine responses by haemagglutination inhibition assay. Results: MS patients receiving immunomodulatory treatment had reduced protection (27.4%), compared to controls (43.5%) ( p = 0.006), after pandemic H1N1 vaccination (2009). The rates of protection were not influenced by interferon beta treatment (44.4% protected), but were reduced among patients receiving glatiramer acetate (21.6%), natalizumab (23.5%), and mitoxantrone (0.0%). A similar pattern emerged after MS patients received a seasonal influenza vaccination in 2010. Conclusions: These findings suggest that MS patients receiving immunomodulatory therapies other than interferon beta should be considered for a vaccine response analysis and perhaps be offered a second dose of the vaccine, in cases of insufficient protection.
Surgical simulation flexor tendon repair using Thiel cadavers: a comparison with formalin embalmed cadavers and porcine models
Authors: Hassan S. , Eisma R. , Malhas A. , Soames R. , Harry L. 
Published: January 2014

The aim of this study was to compare Thiel-embalmed cadavers with formalin-embalmed cadavers and porcine models in the surgical simulation repair of a Zone II flexor tendon division. Nine participants were recruited to the study. The models were assessed using a five-point scale. Assessment was divided into tissue quality, surgical approach and identification of structures. Thiel cadavers rated consistently higher compared with the formalin and porcine models (mean 37 SD 2, 22 SD 6 and 23 SD 5, respectively). Thiel cadavers recorded an average tendon glide of 21 mm SD 5, formalin cadavers 2 mm SD 2 and the porcine model 6 mm SD 2. We have demonstrated the benefit of Thiel embalming, with flexibility of tissues allowing testing of the repair of a flexor tendon in a realistic anatomical model. Level of evidence: Level V.
Strategies to secure surgical research funding: fellowships and grants
Authors: Chan James K , Shalhoub Joseph , Gardiner Matthew D , Suleman-Verjee Liaquat , Nanchahal Jagdeep 
Published: January 2014

Summary Innovation and advances in surgery are entirely dependent on research. Fellowships and grants are the principal means by which surgical research projects are funded. However, these are scarce and highly competitive. This article offers guidance through the application process for the aspiring academic surgeon. Approaching the application in a timely and structured manner, seeking advice from current and previous award-holders and members of review panels, and obtaining preliminary data are key ingredients to success.
Transplantation for children with acute myeloid leukemia: a comparison of outcomes with reduced intensity and myeloablative regimens
Authors: Bitan Menachem , He Wensheng , Zhang Mei-Jie , Abdel-Azim Hisham , Ayas Mouhab Fakhreddine , Bielorai Bella , Carpenter Paul A. , Cairo Mitchell S. , Diaz Miguel Angel , Horan John T. , Jodele Sonata , Kitko Carrie L. , Schultz Kirk R. , Kletzel Morris , Kasow Kimberly A. , Lehmann Leslie E. , Mehta Parinda A. , Shah Nirali , Pulsipher Michael A. , Prestidge Tim , Seber Adriana , Shenoy Shalini , Woolfrey Ann E. , Yu Lolie C. , Davies Stella M. 
Published: January 2014

Key PointsReduced intensity and myeloablative regimen results in comparable survival after allogeneic transplantation.
COPD and microalbuminuria: a 12-year follow-up study
Authors: Romundstad Solfrid , Naustdal Thor , Romundstad Pål Richard , Sorger Hanne , Langhammer Arnulf 
Published: January 2014

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), low lung function independent of diagnosis and markers of inflammation are all associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Microalbuminuria, reflecting endothelial dysfunction, could be a relevant inflammatory marker of potential systemic effects of COPD. We hypothesised that there was a positive association between microalbuminuria and mortality in individuals with COPD.We conducted a 12-year follow-up study of 3129 participants in the second survey of the Nord-Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT), Norway. At baseline, albuminuria was analysed in three urine samples and spirometry was performed. Among the participants, 136 had COPD and microalbuminuria, defined as a urinary albumin/creatinine ratio between 2.5 and 30.0 mg·mmol−1. The main outcome measures were hazard ratio of all-cause mortality according to microalbuminuria.Compared to those with COPD without microalbuminuria, the adjusted hazard ratio for all-cause mortality in those with COPD and microalbuminuria was 1.54, 95% CI 1.16–2.04. This result was similar after excluding cardiovascular disease at baseline. Classifying COPD severity by Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease, there was a positive association trend with increasing severity stages.Microalbuminuria is associated with all-cause mortality in individuals with COPD and could be a relevant tool in identification of patients with poor prognosis.
Pulmonary arterial compliance and exercise capacity after pulmonary endarterectomy
Authors: Ghio Stefano , Morsolini Marco , Corsico Angelo , Klersy Catherine , Mattiucci Gabriella , Raineri Claudia , Scelsi Laura , Vistarini Nicola , Oltrona Visconti Luigi , D’Armini Andrea Maria 
Published: January 2014

Patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH), despite successful pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA), can continue to suffer from a limitation in exercise capacity. The objective of this study was to assess whether pulmonary arterial compliance is a predictor of exercise capacity after PEA.Right heart haemodynamics, treadmill incremental exercise test, spirometry, carbon monoxide transfer factor, arterial blood gas and echocardiographic examinations were retrospectively analysed in a population of CTEPH patients who underwent PEA at a single centre. Baseline and 3-month haemodynamic data were available in 296 patients; 5-year follow-up data were available in 68 patients.In a multivariable model the following parameters were found to be independent predictors of exercise capacity after surgery: age, sex, pulmonary arterial compliance, tricuspid annular plane excursion, arterial oxygen tension and carbon monoxide transfer factor (p<0.0001); the model showed good discrimination (Harrell’s c=0.84) and calibration (shrinkage coefficient=0.91). Poor exercise capacity at 3 months was loosely associated with higher death rate during subsequent survival (Harrell’s c=0.61).In conclusion, after successful PEA, reduced pulmonary arterial compliance is an important determinant of exercise capacity in association with the age and sex of the patients, and the extent of recovery of both cardiac and respiratory function. However, exercise capacity does not explain a large proportion of the effect of surgery on subsequent survival.
Preserved function and reduced angiogenesis potential of the quadriceps in patients with mild COPD
Authors: Gagnon Philippe , Lemire Bruno B , Dubé Annie , Saey Didier , Porlier Alexandra , Croteau Marilie , Provencher Steeve , Debigaré Richard , Maltais François 
Published: January 2014

Abstract

Background
Little is known about limb muscle abnormalities in mild COPD. Inactivity and systemic inflammation could play a role in the development of limb muscle dysfunction in COPD. The objective of the present study was to characterize quadriceps function, enzymatic activities and morphometry, levels of plasma inflammatory markers and physical activity levels in daily life (PAdl) in patients with mild COPD (GOLD 1).

Methods
Mid-thigh muscle cross-sectional area (MTCSA), quadriceps strength, endurance, fiber-type distribution, capillarity, pro-angiogenesis factors (VEGF-A, angiopoietin I and II) and muscle oxidative capacity were assessed in 37 patients with mild COPD and 19 controls. Systemic inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6, TNF-α, Fibrinogen, SP-D) and PAdl were assessed.

Results
MTCSA, quadriceps strength and endurance were not different between COPD and controls. Capillarity and muscle oxidative capacity were all preserved in mild COPD. Reduced pro-angiogenesis factor mRNA expression was seen in COPD. The level of moderately active intensity (>3 METs) was significantly lower in mild COPD and, in multiple regression analyses, the level of physical activity was a determinant of muscle oxidative capacity and capillarization. No between-group differences were found regarding muscle oxidative stress while circulating IL-6 levels were elevated in mild COPD.

Conclusions
The quadriceps muscle function was preserved in mild COPD although a reduced potential for angiogenesis was found. The reduced level of daily activities and evidence of systemic inflammation in these individuals suggest that these factors precede the development of overt limb muscle dysfunction in COPD.
Transcriptome sequencing and phylogenomic resolution within Spalacidae (Rodentia)
Authors: Lin Gong-Hua , Wang Kun , Deng Xiao-Gong , Nevo Eviatar , Zhao Fang , Su Jian-Ping , Guo Song-Chang , Zhang Tong-Zuo , Zhao Huabin 
Published: January 2014

AbstractBackgroundSubterranean mammals have been of great interest for evolutionary biologists because of their highly specialized traits for the life underground. Owing to the convergence of morphological traits and the incongruence of molecular evidence, the phylogenetic relationships among three subfamilies Myospalacinae (zokors), Spalacinae (blind mole rats) and Rhizomyinae (bamboo rats) within the family Spalacidae remain unresolved. Here, we performedde novotranscriptome sequencing of four RNA-seq libraries prepared from brain and liver tissues of a plateau zokor (Eospalax baileyi) and a hoary bamboo rat (Rhizomys pruinosus), and analyzed the transcriptome sequences alongside a published transcriptome of the Middle East blind mole rat (Spalax galili). We characterize the transcriptome assemblies of the two spalacids, and recover the phylogeny of the three subfamilies using a phylogenomic approach.ResultsApproximately 50.3 million clean reads from the zokor and 140.8 million clean reads from the bamboo ratwere generated by Illumina paired-end RNA-seq technology. All clean reads were assembled into 138,872 (the zokor) and 157,167 (the bamboo rat) unigenes, which were annotated by the public databases: the Swiss-prot, Trembl, NCBI non-redundant protein (NR), NCBI nucleotide sequence (NT), Gene Ontology (GO), Cluster of Orthologous Groups (COG), and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). A total of 5,116 nuclear orthologous genes were identified in the three spalacids and mouse, which was used as an outgroup. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a sister group relationship between the zokor and the bamboo rat, which is supported by the majority of gene trees inferred from individual orthologous genes, suggesting subfamily Myospalacinae is more closely related to subfamily Rhizomyinae. The same topology was recovered from concatenated sequences of 5,116 nuclear genes, fourfold degenerate sites of the 5,116 nuclear genes and concatenated sequences of 13 protein coding mitochondrial genes.ConclusionsThis is the first report of transcriptome sequencing in zokors and bamboo rats, representing a valuable resource for future studies of comparative genomics in subterranean mammals. Phylogenomic analysis provides a conclusive resolution of interrelationships of the three subfamilies within the family Spalacidae, and highlights the power of phylogenomic approach to dissect the evolutionary history of rapid radiations in the tree of life.
Comparison of two data collection processes in clinical studies: electronic and paper case report forms
Authors: Le Jeannic Anaïs , Quelen Céline , Alberti Corinne , Durand-Zaleski Isabelle 
Published: January 2014

Abstract

Background
Electronic Case Report Forms (eCRFs) are increasingly chosen by investigators and sponsors of clinical research instead of the traditional pen-and-paper data collection (pCRFs). Previous studies suggested that eCRFs avoided mistakes, shortened the duration of clinical studies and reduced data collection costs.

Methods
Our objectives were to describe and contrast both objective and subjective efficiency of pCRF and eCRF use in clinical studies. A total of 27 studies (11 eCRF, 16 pCRF) sponsored by the Paris hospital consortium, conducted and completed between 2001 and 2011 were included. Questionnaires were emailed to investigators of those studies, as well as clinical research associates and data managers working in Paris hospitals, soliciting their level of satisfaction and preferences for eCRFs and pCRFs. Mean costs and timeframes were compared using bootstrap methods, linear and logistic regression.

Results
The total cost per patient was 374€ ±351 with eCRFs vs. 1,135€ ±1,234 with pCRFs. Time between the opening of the first center and the database lock was 31.7 months Q1 = 24.6; Q3 = 42.8 using eCRFs, vs. 39.8 months Q1 = 31.7; Q3 = 52.2 with pCRFs (p = 0.11). Electronic CRFs were globally preferred by all (31/72 vs. 15/72 for paper) for easier monitoring and improved data quality.

Conclusions
This study found that eCRFs and pCRFs are used in studies with different patient numbers, center numbers and risk. The first ones are more advantageous in large, low–risk studies and gain support from a majority of stakeholders.
Effects of demand-side financing on utilisation, experiences and outcomes of maternity care in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review
Authors: Murray Susan F , Hunter Benjamin M , Bisht Ramila , Ensor Tim , Bick Debra 
Published: January 2014

Abstract

Background
Demand-side financing, where funds for specific services are channelled through, or to, prospective users, is now employed in health and education sectors in many low- and middle-income countries. This systematic review aimed to critically examine the evidence on application of this approach to promote maternal health in these settings. Five modes were considered: unconditional cash transfers, conditional cash transfers, short-term payments to offset costs of accessing maternity services, vouchers for maternity services, and vouchers for merit goods. We sought to assess the effects of these interventions on utilisation of maternity services and on maternal health outcomes and infant health, the situation of underprivileged women and the healthcare system.

Methods
The protocol aimed for collection and synthesis of a broad range of evidence from quantitative, qualitative and economic studies. Nineteen health and social policy databases, seven unpublished research databases and 27 websites were searched; with additional searches of Indian journals and websites. Studies were included if they examined demand-side financing interventions to increase consumption of services or goods intended to impact on maternal health, and met relevant quality criteria. Quality assessment, data extraction and analysis used Joanna Briggs Institute standardised tools and software. Outcomes of interest included maternal and infant mortality and morbidity, service utilisation, factors required for successful implementation, recipient and provider experiences, ethical issues, and cost-effectiveness. Findings on Effectiveness, Feasibility, Appropriateness and Meaningfulness were presented by narrative synthesis.

Results
Thirty-three quantitative studies, 46 qualitative studies, and four economic studies from 17 countries met the inclusion criteria. Evidence on unconditional cash transfers was scanty. Other demand-side financing modes were found to increase utilisation of maternal healthcare in the index pregnancy or uptake of related merit goods. Evidence of effects on maternal and infant mortality and morbidity outcomes was insufficient. Important implementation aspects include targeting and eligibility criteria, monitoring, respectful treatment of beneficiaries, suitable incentives for providers, quality of care and affordable referral systems.

Conclusions
Demand-side financing schemes can increase utilisation of maternity services, but attention must be paid to supply-side conditions, the fine-grain of implementation and sustainability. Comparative studies and research on health impact and cost-effectiveness are required.
Effect of calcium phosphate and vitamin D3supplementation on bone remodelling and metabolism of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and iron
Authors: Trautvetter Ulrike , Neef Nadja , Leiterer Matthias , Kiehntopf Michael , Kratzsch Jürgen , Jahreis Gerhard 
Published: January 2014

AbstractBackgroundThe aim of the present study was to determine the effect of calcium phosphate and/or vitamin D3on bone and mineral metabolism.MethodsSixty omnivorous healthy subjects participated in the double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel designed study. Supplements were tricalcium phosphate (CaP) and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3). At the beginning of the study (baseline), all subjects documented their normal nutritional habits in a dietary record for three successive days. After baseline, subjects were allocated to three intervention groups: CaP (additional 1 g calcium/d), vitamin D3(additional 10 μg/d) and CaP + vitamin D3. In the first two weeks, all groups consumed placebo bread, and afterwards, for eight weeks, the test bread according to the intervention group. In the last week of each study period (baseline, placebo, after four and eight weeks of intervention), a faecal (three days) and a urine (24 h) collection and a fasting blood sampling took place. Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and iron were determined in faeces, urine and blood. Bone formation and resorption markers were analysed in blood and urine.ResultsAfter four and eight weeks, CaP and CaP + vitamin D3supplementations increased faecal excretion of calcium and phosphorus significantly compared to placebo. Due to the vitamin D3supplementations (vitamin D3, CaP + vitamin D3), the plasma 25-(OH)D concentration significantly increased after eight weeks compared to placebo. The additional application of CaP led to a significant increase of the 25-(OH)D concentration already after four weeks. Bone resorption and bone formation markers were not influenced by any intervention.ConclusionsSupplementation with daily 10 μg vitamin D3significantly increases plasma 25-(OH)D concentration. The combination with daily 1 g calcium (as CaP) has a further increasing effect on the 25-(OH)D concentration. Both CaP alone and in combination with vitamin D3have no beneficial effect on bone remodelling markers and on the metabolism of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and iron.Trial registrationNCT01297023
Plasma protein profiling of Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s disease using iTRAQ quantitative proteomics
Authors: Song Fei , Poljak Anne , Kochan Nicole A , Raftery Mark , Brodaty Henry , Smythe George A , Sachdev Perminder S 
Published: January 2014

Abstract

Background
With the promise of disease modifying treatments, there is a need for more specific diagnosis and prognosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Plasma biomarkers are likely to be utilised to increase diagnostic accuracy and specificity of AD and cognitive decline.

Methods
Isobaric tags (iTRAQ) and proteomic methods were used to identify potential plasma biomarkers of MCI and AD. Relative protein expression level changes were quantified in plasma of 411 cognitively normal subjects, 19 AD patients and 261 MCI patients. Plasma was pooled into 4 groups including normal control, AD, amnestic single and multiple domain MCI (aMCI), and nonamnestic single and multiple domain MCI (nMCI). Western-blotting was used to validate iTRAQ data. Integrated function and protein interactions were explored using WEB based bioinformatics tools (DAVID v6.7 and STRING v9.0).

Results
In at least two iTRAQ replicate experiments, 30 proteins were significantly dysregulated in MCI and AD plasma, relative to controls. These proteins included ApoA1, ApoB100, complement C3, C4b-binding protein, afamin, vitamin D-binding protein precursor, isoform 1 of Gelsolin actin regulator, Ig mμ chain C region (IGHM), histidine-rich glycoprotein and fibrinogen β and γ chains. Western-blotting confirmed that afamin was decreased and IGHM was increased in MCI and AD groups. Bioinformatics results indicated that these dysregulated proteins represented a diversity of biological processes, including acute inflammatory response, cholesterol transport and blood coagulation.

Conclusion
These findings demonstrate that expression level changes in multiple proteins are observed in MCI and AD plasma. Some of these, such as afamin and IGHM, may be candidate biomarkers for AD and the predementia condition of MCI.