bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bioinformatics approach for choosing the correct reference genes when studying gene expression in human keratinocytes
Authors: Beer Lucian , Mlitz Veronika , Gschwandtner Maria , Berger Tanja , Narzt Marie‐Sophie , Gruber Florian , Brunner Patrick M. , Tschachler Erwin , Mildner Michael 
Published: May 2015

AbstractReverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) has become a mainstay in many areas of skin research. To enable quantitative analysis, it is necessary to analyse expression of reference genes (RGs) for normalization of target gene expression. The selection of reliable RGs therefore has an important impact on the experimental outcome. In this study, we aimed to identify and validate the best suited RGs for qRT‐PCR in human primary keratinocytes (KCs) over a broad range of experimental conditions using the novel bioinformatics tool ‘RefGenes’, which is based on a manually curated database of published microarray data. Expression of 6 RGs identified by RefGenes software and 12 commonly used RGs were validated by qRT‐PCR. We assessed whether these 18 markers fulfilled the requirements for a valid RG by the comprehensive ranking of four bioinformatics tools and the coefficient of variation (CV). In an overall ranking, we found GUSB to be the most stably expressed RG, whereas the expression values of the commonly used RGs, GAPDH and B2M were significantly affected by varying experimental conditions. Our results identify RefGenes as a powerful tool for the identification of valid RGs and suggest GUSB as the most reliable RG for KCs.
Heat shock protein 90: a pathophysiological factor and novel treatment target in autoimmune bullous skin diseases
Authors: Tukaj Stefan , Zillikens Detlef , Kasperkiewicz Michael 
Published: May 2015

AbstractThe chaperone heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90), a cell stress‐inducible molecule that regulates activity of many client proteins responsible for cellular growth, differentiation and apoptosis, has been proposed as an important therapeutic target in patients with malignancies. More recently, its active participation in (auto)immune processes has been recognized as evidenced by amelioration of inflammatory disease pathways through pharmacological inhibition of Hsp90 in rodent models of autoimmune encephalomyelitis, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Based on own current research results, this viewpoint essay provides important insights that Hsp90 is also involved as a notable pathophysiological factor in autoimmune blistering dermatoses including epidermolysis bullosa acquisita, bullous pemphigoid and possibly dermatitis herpetiformis. The observed in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo efficacy of anti‐Hsp90 treatment in experimental models of autoimmune bullous diseases and its underlying multimodal anti‐inflammatory mechanisms of interference with key contributors to autoimmune‐mediated blister formation supports the introduction of selective non‐toxic Hsp90 inhibitors into the clinical setting for the treatment of patients with these disorders.
Atorvastatin and fenofibrate combination induces the predominance of the large HDL subclasses and increased apo AI fractional catabolic rates in New Zealand white rabbits with exogenous hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Flores‐Castillo Cristobal , Zamora‐Pérez Juan Á. , Carreón‐Torres Elizabeth , Arzola‐Paniagua Angélica , Aguilar‐Salinas Carlos , López‐Olmos Victoria , Fragoso José M. , Luna‐Luna María , Rodríguez‐Pérez José M. , Franco Martha , Vargas‐Alarcón Gilberto , Pérez‐Méndez Óscar 
Published: May 2015

AbstractThe anti‐atherogenic properties of high‐density lipoproteins (HDLs) may be related to their structure and metabolism. The HDL physicochemical characteristics that determine their plasma clearance during treatment with statins and fibrates are not well understood. In this study, we analyzed HDL‐apo AI fractional catabolic rates (FCRs), size distributions, and the lipid composition of the HDL subclasses in New Zealand white rabbits with exogenous dyslipidemia that received low doses of atorvastatin and fenofibrate. Hypercholesterolemia decreased only partially with the combination of both drugs. HDL size distribution shifted toward larger particles among the groups of rabbits that received atorvastatin, fenofibrate, or their combination, compared with both the control group and the dyslipidemic group. The HDL subclasses were significantly rich in cholesterol in each of the groups compared with controls. The structural changes noted in the HDL subclasses were not associated with impaired plasma paraoxonase‐1 (PON1) activity. The groups receiving monotherapy and the drug combination group were all associated with a higher apo AI FCR value compared with both the dyslipidemic rabbits and the control group. In conclusion, the combination of atorvastatin and fenofibrate induced a more favorable HDL subclass profile than did the individual use of these drugs. Similarly, the apo AI FCR values were augmented in every group receiving drug treatment (either monotherapy or combination therapy) in the setting of hypercholesterolemia. The anti‐atherogenic properties of HDLs, excluding their capacity to bind PON1, may be enhanced by the structural and metabolic modifications induced by the combination of atorvastatin and fenofibrate.
Phosphate binder pill burden, patient‐reported non‐adherence, and mineral bone disorder markers: Findings from the DOPPS
Authors: Fissell Rachel B. , Karaboyas Angelo , Bieber Brian A. , Sen Ananda , Li Yun , Lopes Antonio A. , Akiba Takashi , Bommer Jürgen , Ethier Jean , Jadoul Michel , Pisoni Ronald L. , Robinson Bruce M. , Tentori Francesca 
Published: May 2015

AbstractBecause of multiple comorbidities, hemodialysis (HD) patients are prescribed many oral medications, including phosphate binders (PBs), often resulting in a high “pill burden.” Using data from the international Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study (DOPPS), we assessed associations between PB pill burden, patient‐reported PB non‐adherence, and levels of serum phosphorus (SPhos) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) using standard regression analyses. The study included data collected from 5262 HD patients from dialysis units participating in the DOPPS in 12 countries. PB prescription ranged from a mean of 7.4 pills per day in the United States to 3.9 pills per day in France. About half of the patients were prescribed at least 6 PB pills per day, and 13% were prescribed at least 12 PB pills per day. Overall, the proportion of patients who reported skipping PBs at least once in the past month was 45% overall, ranging from 33% in Belgium to 57% in the United States. There was a trend toward greater PB non‐adherence and a higher number of prescribed PB pills per day. Non‐adherence to PB prescription was associated with high SPhos (>5.5 mg/dL) and PTH (>600 pg/mL). Adherence to PB is a challenge for many HD patients and may be related to the number of PB pills prescribed. Prescription of a simplified PB regimen could improve patient adherence and perhaps improve SPhos and PTH levels.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility‐Guided Therapy Versus Empirical Concomitant Therapy for Eradication of Helicobacter pylori in a Region with High Rate of Clarithromycin Resistance
Authors: Cosme Angel , Lizasoan Jacobo , Montes Milagrosa , Tamayo Esther , Alonso Horacio , Mendarte Usua , Martos Maider , Fernández‐Reyes María , Saraqueta Cristina , Bujanda Luis 
Published: May 2015

AbstractBackgroundNonbismuth quadruple (concomitant) regimen is recommended for first‐line empirical Helicobacter pylori (HP) eradication treatment when clarithromycin resistance is more than 15–20%. Our objective was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of concomitant versus antimicrobial susceptibility‐guided treatment in an area with high rates of clarithromycin resistance.MethodsThree hundred consecutive HP‐infected patients received antimicrobial susceptibility‐guided therapy or empirical concomitant therapy for 10 days. The concomitant regimen was omeprazole (20 mg/12 hour), amoxicillin (1 g/12 hour), clarithromycin (500 mg/12 hour), and metronidazole (500 mg/12 hour) (OACM). Patients diagnosed by culture received one of three combinations of antibiotics based on susceptibility results: omeprazole, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin (OAC); omeprazole, amoxicillin, and levofloxacin (OAL); or omeprazole, amoxicillin, and metronidazole (OAM), at the aforementioned doses (and 500 mg/12 hour in the case of levofloxacin). Eradication was confirmed with a 13C urea breath test, 6 weeks after treatment. Adverse events and adherence were assessed with questionnaires and reviewing medication sachets.ResultsThe mean age was 50 years, 59% were women, and 14% had peptic ulcers. Concomitant and antimicrobial susceptibility‐guided eradication rates were, respectively, 87% and 94% by intention‐to‐treat (p = .08) and 89% and 95% (p = .08) per protocol per‐protocol analysis. Adverse effects were reported in 31% of patients on OACM and 15% of those on susceptibility‐guided therapy (p < .05).ConclusionsFor HP eradication in a region with high rates of multiple drug resistance, antimicrobial susceptibility‐guided therapy is more effective than empirical concomitant therapy.
Holotranscobalamin Levels in Children with Helicobacter Pylori Infection
Authors: Afyoncu Oguz , Gursel Orhan , Atay Avni , Kurekci Emin , Balamtekin Necati , Hasimi Adnan , Ozguven Mehmet A. , Ozcan Okan 
Published: May 2015

AbstractBackgroundThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between vitamin B12 levels and Helicobacter Pylori infection and to examine the clinical usefulness of holotranscobalamin (holoTC) measurement in children.Materials and MethodsThirty patients between 6 and 15 years of age, who were diagnosed as H. pylori infected by C14 urea breath test, and 26 controls were enrolled in the study. Tests for complete blood count, serum vitamin B12 and folate, plasma total homocysteine, and holoTC levels were performed in each patient in the study and control groups.ResultsMean plasma holoTC concentrations were significantly lower in children with H. pylori infection before treatment (median 23.7 pmol/L (12.9–37.1 pmol/L)) versus after treatment (median 38.2 pmol/L (21.2–61.4 pmol/L)) and controls (median 36.1 pmol/L (12.6–58.7 pmol/L)).ConclusionsThe findings of our study suggest that H. pylori infection has a reversible negative effect on vitamin B12 status reflected in a decreased level of plasma holoTC that normalizes upon treatment of the infection, while no change is observed in total plasma vitamin B12.
Low expression of B‐cell‐associated protein 31 in human primary hepatocellular carcinoma correlates with poor prognosis
Authors: Tan Ning , Liu Qinyi , Liu Xiaojia , Gong Zhiwei , Zeng Yonglian , Pan Guangdong , Xu Qing , He Songqing 
Published: May 2015

AimsThe aim of the present study was to investigate the prognostic value of B‐cell associated protein 31 (BAP31) in human primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).Methods and resultsBAP31 levels were evaluated by immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays. The integral optical density, representing the expression level of BAP31 in each tissue sample, was calculated with image‐pro plus. Immunohistochemical analysis of BAP31 levels in 74 paired HCC tissues and peritumoral non‐cancerous tissues showed that BAP31 expression was significantly higher in HCC tumour tissues (P = 0.025). The prognostic value of BAP31 in HCC was evaluated in 234 cases in a training cohort and in 63 cases in a validation cohort. The expression level of BAP31 was significantly correlated with overall survival (OS) in both the training cohort and the validation cohort. The lower the level of BAP31 expression in HCC tissue, the poorer the prognosis. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that the expression level of BAP31 in HCC was an independent prognostic factor for OS in both the training cohort and the validation cohort.ConclusionsBAP31 expression is an independent prognostic factor for OS of patients with postoperative HCC, and low expression levels of BAP31 in HCC may indicate poor outcomes of HCC patient after surgical resection.
HLA‐B*38:55Q: a new alternatively expressed allele identified in a three‐generation Italian family
Authors: Fusco C. , Azzarone R. , Penta R. , Canossi A. , Di Iulio B. , Toriello M. , Auriemma L. , Pagano M. , Poggi V. , Papola F. 
Published: May 2015

SummaryThe new allelic variant HLA‐B*38:55Q differs from the closest related B*38:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution at position 373 in exon 3 (TGC>CGC). This results in a difference of one amino acid at residue 101 of the HLA‐B heavy chain, from a neutral‐polar Cys to a basic‐polar Arg, thus impairing disulphide bridge formation in the alpha‐2 domain. This alteration of the secondary structure probably affects the maturation of the heavy chain and the level of surface expression, making the HLA‐B*38:55Q undetectable by standard serological typing.
Assessing nonvitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) in the laboratory
Authors: Gosselin R. C. , Adcock D. M. 
Published: May 2015

SummaryNonvitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are being used with increasing frequency due to their safety profile, ease of use, and given that therapeutic monitoring is not required. As these agents have only recently been FDA approved, their effect on routine and specialty coagulation assays is not well appreciated. This article discusses NOAC effect on routine coagulation assays and whether these assays can be used to estimate drug concentration as well as which assays are suitable to quantitate drug concentration in plasma. Also reviewed is the use of manufactured drug calibrators to determine reagent responsiveness and the effect of these agents on various special coagulation assays.
Pearls and pitfalls in factor inhibitor assays
Authors: Adcock D. M. , Favaloro E. J. 
Published: May 2015

SummaryThe proper performance and interpretation of factor inhibitor assays is a critical role for the hemostasis laboratory. Both false‐positive and false‐negative inhibitor assays may be reported, leading to serious patient mismanagement. Knowledge and recognition of common causes of both false‐positive and negative‐results can aid in the identification of these potential pitfalls. Safeguards to reporting accurate factor inhibitor assays include initial characterization of the sample, using the Nijmegen modification, properly performing and interpreting an incubated mixing test in conjunction, and performing two dilutions for each dependent dilution in the factor inhibitor assay.
Challenging hemostasis scenarios in pediatric patients – two case studies
Authors: Moser K. A. , Puetz J. 
Published: May 2015

SummaryPediatric patients differ from adult patients in many clinical situations, and disorders of hemostasis and thrombosis are no exception. The current article presents clinical and laboratory features of two cases in which pediatric patients are evaluated for bleeding disorders. Discussion of the cases focuses on practical considerations for laboratorians. Review of these case studies highlights selected common and esoteric issues in pediatric hemostasis testing.
Quality of factor XI activity testing in North American Specialized Coagulation Laboratories
Authors: Zantek N. D. , Hsu P. , Meijer P. , Smock K. J. , Plumhoff E. A. , Refaai M. A. , Van Cott E. M. 
Published: May 2015

SummaryIntroductionThe performance of factor XI activity (FXI) by laboratories in the North American Specialized Coagulation Laboratory Association proficiency testing program was analyzed.MethodsOver 10 years (2003–2013), 80 samples were distributed; 33–55 laboratories participated per exercise providing 3833 total responses. Analysis was performed on numeric results and qualitative classification of results.ResultsThe sample FXI levels ranged from 3.8 to 154.0 IU/dL. The overall interlaboratory average coefficient of variation (CV%) was 17.5%; the CV was higher for a sample with low (3.8 IU/dL) FXI. Results were correctly classified as abnormal (100%) for a sample with 3.8 IU/dL FXI and normal/borderline normal (97.7%) for 45 samples with 80 to < 140 IU/dL FXI. The classification was heterogeneous for samples with FXI of 50 to < 80 IU/dL. Six specimens were repeat‐tested from 2007 to 2013. The mean FXI was not significantly different in laboratories using the same method on both exercises, suggesting good intralaboratory precision over time. Univariate analysis of data from 2011 to 2012 did not find a consistent significant difference among the activators, analyzers, calibrators, and FXI‐deficient plasmas.ConclusionLaboratories generally performed well in assessment of FXI based on interlaboratory precision when FXI >30 IU/dL and on classification of samples with very low or normal FXI.
Ultrasound‐guided micropercutaneous nephrolithotomy in pediatric patients with kidney stones
Authors: Bodakçi Mehmet Nuri , Penbegul Necmettin , Dağgülli Mansur , Dede Onur , Utangaç Mehmet Mazhar , Hatipoglu Namık Kemal , Sancaktutar Ahmet Ali 
Published: May 2015

ObjectiveTo present the outcomes of ultrasound‐guided micropercutaneous nephrolithotomy for the treatment of renal stones in pediatric patients.MethodsUltrasound‐guided micropercutaneous nephrolithotomy was carried out on 25 pediatric patients from June 2012 to October 2014. Micropercutaneous nephrolithotomy surgery was completed without the use of fluoroscopy in 19 patients. Medical records were retrieved from our institutional database and retrospectively reviewed. Percutaneous puncture was carried out by an “all‐seeing needle” in seven patients and by a 14‐G intravenous cannula in 18 patients. After entering to the collecting system through an “all‐seeing needle” or by Microsheath, the calculus was fragmented using a 273‐micron holmium yttrium aluminium garnet laser. After the stone was fragmented to the smallest pieces possible, the operation was terminated.ResultsSingle access was obtained in all patients using ultrasound guidance. The average age of the patients was 4.12 ± 5.33 years. The mean stone size was 13.45 ± 3.11 mm. The mean operative time was 51.45 ± 30.69 min. The mean duration of hospitalization was 3.18 ± 1.77 days. Treatment success was 92%. Two patients had residual fragments after the procedure; these patients were followed conservatively. A total of three minor complications were observed and all of them were managed conservatively.ConclusionsTo our knowledge, this is the first study of ultrasound‐guided micropercutaneous nephrolithotomy in the pediatric population. Our findings suggest that micropercutaneous nephrolithotomy can be safely carried out with ultrasound guidance in children by experienced hands, allowing to minimize risks associated with radiation exposure in this patient population.
Technostress creators and job outcomes: theorising the moderating influence of personality traits
Authors: Srivastava Shirish C. , Chandra Shalini , Shirish Anuragini 
Published: May 2015

AbstractAlthough prior research has examined the influence of technostress creators on job outcomes, insights into the influence of personality traits on the perceptions of technostress creators and their consequent impacts on job outcomes are rather limited. Such insights would enable a deeper understanding about the effects of individual differences on salient job‐related outcomes. In this research, by leveraging the distinctions in personality traits offered by the big five personality traits in the five‐factor model and grounding the research in the transactional model of stress and coping, we theorise the moderating influence of personality traits on the relationships between technostress creators and job outcomes, namely job burnout and job engagement. Specifically, the study theorises the mechanisms through which each of the specific personality traits openness‐to‐experience, neuroticism, agreeableness, conscientiousness and extraversion interacts with technostress creators to differently influence job burnout and job engagement. We test the proposed model in a field study based on a survey of senior organisational managers who regularly use information and communication technologies for executing professional tasks. Although technostress creators are generally associated with negative job outcomes, our results also show that for individuals with certain personality traits, technostress creators may result in positive job outcomes. The study thus contributes to the technostress literature, specifically by incorporating the salient role of individual differences. The study also provides insights for managers who should pay special attention to allocating specific job roles to employees with particular personality traits in order to optimise job‐related outcomes.
Inkjet Printing of Microporous Silica Gas Separation Membranes
Authors: Bram Martin , Dornseiffer Jürgen , Hoffmann Jan , van Gestel Tim , Meulenberg Wilhelm A. , Stöver Detlev 
Published: May 2015

Inkjet printing was applied to manufacture silica‐based gas separation membranes, which were coated on a pore‐graduated alumina substrate with a mesoporous γ‐alumina interlayer. A silica sol diluted by 1‐propanol was used to print the membrane layer followed by thermal treatment in a rapid thermal processing furnace. The membrane thickness was varied between 30 and 110 nm by conducting one, two, and three coating steps. In the latter case, H2 permeance in the range of 2.0 × 10−8–3.3 × 10−8 mol/s·m2·Pa combined with H2/CO2 selectivities in the range of 15–25 were achieved, proving the concept that inorganic gas separation membranes can be successfully processed by inkjet printing.
Retrograde pyelonephritis and lumbar spondylitis as a result of Salmonella typhi in a type 2 diabetes patient with neurogenic bladder
Authors: Fukuda Tatsuya , Bouchi Ryotaro , Minami Isao , Ohara Norihiko , Nakano Yujiro , Nishitani Rie , Murakami Masanori , Takeuchi Takato , Akihisa Momoko , Fujita Masamichi , Izumiyama Hajime , Hashimoto Koshi , Yoshimoto Takanobu , Ogawa Yoshihiro 
Published: May 2015

AbstractWe present a case of a 62‐year‐old diabetic woman with acute pyelonephritis and spondylitis caused by Salmonella typhi. She was admitted to Tokyo Medical Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan, because of unconsciousness and was diagnosed with sepsis by retrograde pyelonephritis as a result of Salmonella typhi. Antibiotics treatment was immediately started; however, she subsequently developed lumbar spondylitis, and long‐term conservative treatment with antibiotics and a fixing device were required. This is the first report of a diabetic patient who developed retrograde urinary tract infection with Salmonella typhi, followed by sepsis and spondylitis. The infection could be a result of diabetic neuropathy, presenting neurogenic bladder and hydronephrosis. The patient was successfully treated with antibiotics and became asymptomatic with normal inflammatory marker levels, and no clinical sign of recurrence was observed in the kidney and spine at 4 months.