bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Contingency nature of Helicobacter bizzozeronii oxygen-insensitive NAD(P)H-nitroreductase (HBZC1_00960) and its role in metronidazole resistance
Authors: Kondadi Pradeep Kumar , Pacini Claudia , Revez Joana , Hänninen Marja-Liisa , Rossi Mirko 
Published: July 2013

Abstract
Genomic analysis of a metronidazole resistant H. bizzozeronii strain revealed a frame length extension of the oxygen-insensitive NAD(P)H-nitroreductase HBZC1_00960 (RdxA), associated with the disruption of the C-terminal cysteine-containing conserved region (IACLXALGK). This was the result of the extension (from C8 to C9) of a simple sequence cytosine repeat (SSCR) located in the 3’ of the gene. A 3' SSCR is also present in the rdxA homolog of H. heilmannii sensu stricto, but not in H. pylori. We showed that in the majority of in vitro spontaneous H. bizzozeronii metronidazole resistant mutants, the extension of the 3′ SSCR of rdxA was the only mutation observed. In addition, we observed that H. bizzozeronii ΔrdxA mutant strain showed the same MIC value of metronidazole observed in the spontaneous mutants. These data indicate that loss of function mutations in rdxA and in particular the disruption of the conserved region IACLXALGK is associated with reduced susceptibility to metronidazole in H. bizzozeronii. Slipped-strand mispairing of the SSCR located in the 3′ of the H. bizzozeronii rdxA appears to be the main mechanism. We also observed that H. bizzozeronii acquires resistance to metronidazole at high mutation rate, and that serial passages in vitro without selection induced an increased level of susceptibility. In conclusion, contrary to what was previously described in H. pylori, the H. bizzozeronii rdxA appears to be a contingency gene which undergoes phase variation. The contingency nature of rdxA should be carefully considered when metronidazole is used in the treatment of H. heilmannii-associated gastritis.
Prevalence and risk factors of posterior vitreous detachment in a Chinese adult population: the Handan eye study
Authors: Shen Zhijun , Duan Xinrong , Wang Fenghua , Wang Ningli , Peng Yi , Liu David TL , Peng Xiaoyan , Li Sizhen , Liang Yuanbo 
Published: July 2013

Abstract

Background
To describe the prevalence and associations of posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) in a rural adult Chinese population.

Methods
All eligible subjects were requested to carry out a comprehensive eye examination; PVD was a pre-specified outcome variable and was determined via biomicroscopical examination (slit-lamp biomicroscopy) with a +90-D preset lens after mydriasis. Prevalence was standardized to China population census (2000).

Results
5890 (86.2%) subjects completed the examination of slit-lamp biomicroscopy with a +90-D lens. PVD was present in 160 participants (2.7%); the standardized prevalence was 2.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.6-2.3%). PVD developed increasingly with age (P for trend < 0.001) for both men and women. Using a multivariate regression model, older people were found to run a higher risk of developing PVD than younger people, and women were found to have a higher risk than men (OR, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.5-5.9). Diabetes, hypertension, smoking, drinking, and intraocular pressure (IOP) were not significantly associated with PVD.

Conclusions
About one in fifty people is found to have PVD in this population-based study. Age and female are independently associated with PVD occurrence.
Diet, iron biomarkers and oxidative stress in a representative sample of Mediterranean population
Authors: Romeu Marta , Aranda Nuria , Giralt Montserrat , Ribot Blanca , Nogues Maria Rosa , Arija Victoria 
Published: July 2013

AbstractBackgroundThe consumption pattern characterized by high consumption of vegetables, fruit, fish, olive oil and red wine has been associated with improvements in the total antioxidant capacity of individuals and reduced incidence of diseases related to oxidation. Also, high body iron levels may contribute to increase the oxidative stress by the generation of reactive oxygen species. The objective of this study is to analyze the relationship between antioxidant and pro-oxidant factors obtained from the diet and iron biomarkers on lipoprotein oxidation and total antioxidant capacity in a representative sample of the Mediterranean population.MethodsCross-sectional prospective study, carried out with 815 randomly selected subjects (425 women and 390 men). Dietary assessment (3-day food records), iron biomarkers (serum ferritin, serum iron and transferrin saturation), biochemical markers of lipoperoxidation (TBARS), antioxidant capacity (ORAC) and CRP (C-Reactive Protein) were determined. Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) models were applied to analyze the association between diet factors and iron biomarkers on TBARS and ORAC levels.ResultsWe observed that lipoperoxidation measured by TBARS increased by age but no differences were observed by sex. Antioxidant capacity measured by ORAC is independent of age and sex. In general, increasing age, tobacco, heme iron intake from meat and fish and transferrin saturation were independently and positively associated with TBARS, while non-heme iron was negatively associated. Vegetables, vitamin C intake and serum ferritin were positively associated with ORAC, whereas saturated fatty acids and meat intake were negatively associated.ConclusionsIn our general population, we observed that oxidative stress is related to aging, but antioxidant capacity is not. The highest intake of dietary non-heme iron, vegetables and vitamin C intake exerts a protective effect against oxidation while the highest intake of dietary heme iron from meat and fish and saturated fatty acids are associated with increased oxidative stress. High levels of circulating iron measured by transferrin saturation are associated with increased oxidative stress in women however its association with the higher levels of serum ferritin is controversial.
TMEM16A alternative splicing coordination in breast cancer
Authors: Ubby Ifeoma , Bussani Erica , Colonna Antonio , Stacul Giuseppe , Locatelli Martina , Scudieri Paolo , Galietta Luis , Pagani Franco 
Published: July 2013

Abstract

Background

TMEM16A, also known as Anoctamin-1, is a calcium-activated chloride channel gene overexpressed in many tumors. The role of TMEM16A in cancer is not completely understood and no data are available regarding the potential tumorigenic properties of the multiple isoforms generated by alternative splicing (AS).

Methods
We evaluated TMEM16A AS pattern, isoforms distribution and Splicing Coordination (SC), in normal tissues and breast cancers, through a semi-quantitative PCR-assay that amplifies transcripts across three AS exons, 6b, 13 and 15.

Results
In breast cancer, we did not observe an association either to AS of individual exons or to specific TMEM16A isoforms, and induced expression of the most common isoforms present in tumors in the HEK293 Flp-In Tet-ON system had no effect on cellular proliferation and migration. The analysis of splicing coordination, a mechanism that regulates AS of distant exons, showed a preferential association of exon 6b and 15 in several normal tissues and tumors: isoforms that predominantly include exon 6b tend to exclude exon 15 and vice versa. Interestingly, we found an increase in SC in breast tumors compared to matched normal tissues.

Conclusions
As the different TMEM16A isoforms do not affect proliferation or migration and do not associate with tumors, our results suggest that the resulting channel activities are not directly involved in cell growth and motility. Conversely, the observed increase in SC in breast tumors suggests that the maintenance of the regulatory mechanism that coordinates distant alternative spliced exons in multiple genes other than TMEM16A is necessary for cancer cell viability.
Contemporary adjuvant polymethyl methacrylate cementation optimally limits recurrence in primary giant cell tumor of bone patients compared to bone grafting: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zuo Dongqing , Zheng Longpo , Sun Wei , Fu Dong , Hua Yingqi , Cai Zhengdong 
Published: July 2013

AbstractBackgroundReports of recurrence following restructuring of primary giant cell tumor (GCT) defects using polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) bone cementation or allogeneic bone graft with and without adjuvants for intralesional curettage vary widely. Systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to investigate efficacy of PMMA bone cementation and allogeneic bone grafting following intralesional curettage for GCT.MethodsMedline, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases were searched for studies reporting GCT of bone treatment with PMMA cementation and/or bone grafting with or without adjuvant therapy following intralesional curettage of primary GCTs. Pooled risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for local recurrence risks were calculated by fixed-effects methods.ResultsOf 1,690 relevant titles, 6 eligible studies (1,293 patients) spanning March 2008 to December 2011 were identified in published data. Treatment outcomes of PMMA-only (n= 374), bone graft-only (n= 436), PMMA with or without adjuvant (PMMA + adjuvant;n= 594), and bone graft filling with or without adjuvant (bone graft + adjuvant;n= 699) were compared. Bone graft-only patients exhibited higher recurrence rates than PMMA-treated patients (RR 2.09, 95% CI (1.64, 2.66), Overall effect: Z = 6.00;P<0.001), and bone graft + adjuvant patients exhibited higher recurrence rates than PMMA + adjuvant patients (RR 1.66, 95% CI (1.21, 2.28), Overall effect: Z = 3.15,P= 0.002).ConclusionsLocal recurrence was minimal in PMMA cementation patients, suggesting that PMMA is preferable for routine clinical restructuring in eligible GCT patients. Relationships between tumor characteristics, other modern adjuvants, and recurrence require further exploration.
Lifestyle factors and reproductive health: taking control of your fertility
Authors: Sharma Rakesh , Biedenharn Kelly R , Fedor Jennifer M , Agarwal Ashok 
Published: July 2013

AbstractApproximately 10 to 15% of couples are impacted by infertility. Recently, the pivotal role that lifestyle factors play in the development of infertility has generated a considerable amount of interest. Lifestyle factors are the modifiable habits and ways of life that can greatly influence overall health and well-being, including fertility. Many lifestyle factors such as the age at which to start a family, nutrition, weight, exercise, psychological stress, environmental and occupational exposures, and others can have substantial effects on fertility; lifestyle factors such as cigarette smoking, illicit drug use, and alcohol and caffeine consumption can negatively influence fertility while others such as preventative care may be beneficial. The present literature review encompasses multiple lifestyle factors and places infertility in context for the couple by focusing on both males and females; it aims to identify the roles that lifestyle factors play in determining reproductive status. The growing interest and amount of research in this field have made it evident that lifestyle factors have a significant impact on fertility.
Some discussion on the existence of common fixed points for a pair of maps
Authors: Patel Deepesh K , Kumam Poom , Gopal Dhananjay 
Published: July 2013

Abstract
In this paper, the concepts of conditionally sequential absorbing and pseudo-reciprocal continuous maps are introduced in connection to giving a brief discussion on the role of various types of commutativity (e.g., weakly compatible, occasionally weakly compatible, subcompatible, pseudo-compatible, etc.) and continuity-type conditions (e.g., reciprocal, weak reciprocal, g-reciprocal, conditionally reciprocal, subsequential and sequential continuity of type

(

A
g

)

and

(

A
f

)

) in the context of existence of common fixed points of a pair of maps. Here, the utility of newly introduced maps (i.e., conditionally sequential absorbing and pseudo-reciprocal continuous) in view of common fixed points for a pair of maps satisfying contractive as well as nonexpansive Lipschitz-type conditions is shown.

MSC:47H10, 54H25.
Investigational treatment suspension and enhanced cell-mediated immunity at rebound followed by drug-free remission of simian AIDS
Authors: Shytaj Iart Luca , Chirullo Barbara , Wagner Wendeline , Ferrari Maria G , Sgarbanti Rossella , Corte Alessandro Della , LaBranche Celia , Lopalco Lucia , Palamara Anna Teresa , Montefiori David , Lewis Mark G , Garaci Enrico , Savarino Andrea 
Published: July 2013

Abstract

Background
HIV infection persists despite antiretroviral treatment (ART) and is reignited as soon as therapies are suspended. This vicious cycle is fueled by the persistence of viral reservoirs that are invulnerable to standard ART protocols, and thus therapeutic agents able to target these reservoirs are needed. One such agent, auranofin, has recently been shown to decrease the memory T-cell reservoir in chronically SIVmac251-infected macaques. Moreover, auranofin could synergize with a fully suppressive ART protocol and induce a drug-free post-therapy containment of viremia.

Results
We administered buthionine sulfoximine (BSO), an inhibitor of glutathione synthesis currently in clinical trials for cancer, in combination with auranofin to chronically SIVmac251-infected macaques under highly-intensified ART (H-iART). The ART/auranofin/BSO therapeutic protocol was followed, after therapy suspension, by a significant decrease of viral RNA and DNA in peripheral blood as compared to pre-therapy levels. Drug-free post-therapy control of the infection was achieved in animals with pre-therapy viral loads ranging from values comparable to average human set points to levels largely higher. This control was dependent on the presence CD8+ cells and associated with enhanced levels of cell-mediated immune responses.

Conclusions
The level of post-therapy viral set point reduction achieved in this study is the largest reported so far in chronically SIVmac251-infected macaques and may represent a promising strategy to improve over the current “ART for life” plight.
Alternative Imaging Modalities in Ischemic Heart Failure (AIMI-HF) IMAGE HF Project I-A: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: O’Meara Eileen , Mielniczuk Lisa M , Wells George A , deKemp Robert A , Klein Ran , Coyle Doug , Mc Ardle Brian , Paterson Ian , White James A , Arnold Malcolm , Friedrich Matthias G , Larose Eric , Dick Alexander , Chow Benjamin , Dennie Carole , Haddad Haissam , Ruddy Terrence , Ukkonen Heikki , Wisenberg Gerald , Cantin Bernard , Pibarot Philippe , Freeman Michael , Turcotte Eric , Connelly Kim , Clarke James , Williams Kathryn , Racine Normand , Garrard Linda , Tardif Jean-Claude , DaSilva Jean , Knuuti Juhani , Beanlands Rob ,   the IMAGE HF investigators
Published: July 2013

Abstract

Background
Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is the most common cause of heart failure (HF); however, the role of revascularization in these patients is still unclear. Consensus on proper use of cardiac imaging to help determine which candidates should be considered for revascularization has been hindered by the absence of clinical studies that objectively and prospectively compare the prognostic information of each test obtained using both standard and advanced imaging.

Methods/Design
This paper describes the design and methods to be used in the Alternative Imaging Modalities in Ischemic Heart Failure (AIMI-HF) multi-center trial. The primary objective is to compare the effect of HF imaging strategies on the composite clinical endpoint of cardiac death, myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac arrest and re-hospitalization for cardiac causes.
In AIMI-HF, patients with HF of ischemic etiology (n = 1,261) will follow HF imaging strategy algorithms according to the question(s) asked by the physicians (for example, Is there ischemia and/or viability?), in agreement with local practices. Patients will be randomized to either standard (SPECT, Single photon emission computed tomography) imaging modalities for ischemia and/or viability or advanced imaging modalities: cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) or positron emission tomography (PET). In addition, eligible and consenting patients who could not be randomized, but were allocated to standard or advanced imaging based on clinical decisions, will be included in a registry.

Discussion
AIMI-HF will be the largest randomized trial evaluating the role of standard and advanced imaging modalities in the management of ischemic cardiomyopathy and heart failure. This trial will complement the results of the Surgical Treatment for Ischemic Heart Failure (STICH) viability substudy and the PET and Recovery Following Revascularization (PARR-2) trial. The results will provide policy makers with data to support (or not) further investment in and wider dissemination of alternative ‘advanced’ imaging technologies.

Trial registration

NCT01288560
Renal collecting duct carcinoma with extensive coagulative necrosis mimicking anemic infarct: report of a case and the literature review
Authors: Xu Qinqin , Cao Qinghua , Liu Ni , Fang Ziwen , Ye Ziyin , Peng Tingsheng 
Published: July 2013

Abstract
Collecting duct carcinoma (CDC) with a mass of coagulative necrosis is very rare. We report here a case of CDC with extensive geographic coagulative necrosis mimicking anemic infarct with tumor cells embedded around the necrotic foci in a 73-years-old man. Histopathological examination showed that tumor nests near the necrotic foci were arranged as angulated tubules, tubulopapillary and glandular structures. Neoplastic cells had moderate to abundant eosinophilic cytoplasm and large hyperchromatic nuclei with prominent nucleoli as Fuhrman nuclear grade 3 or 4. The tumor cells were positive for pan-Cytokeratin, Vimentin, E-cadherin, CD10, and CK7, confirming the diagnosis as CDC. The patient is still alive 6 months later from nephrectomy, a long time following up is needed to learn the prognosis. Conclusively, morphology from different portions of the lesion, immunohistochemical stain and the combination analysis of the radiological features is essential to make a precise pathological diagnosis of CDC. And CDC should also be distinguished from clear cell renal cell carcinoma, renal medullary carcinoma, urothelial carcinoma with glandular differentiation, renal neuroendocrine tumor, renal epithelioid angiomyolipoma, renal pigmented paraganglioma and renal mesenchymal chondrosarcoma etc.

Virtual Slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1264270525975030
A comparison of dosimetric parameters between tomotherapy and three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy in rectal cancer
Authors: Yu Mina , Lee Joo Hwan , Jang Hong Seok , Jeon Dong Min , Cheon Jae Suk , Lee Hyo Chun , Lee Jong Hoon 
Published: July 2013

Abstract

Purpose
Tomotherapy for intensity-modulated radiation has been demonstrated to reduce unnecessary irradiations to adjacent organs at risk (OARs). The purpose of this study was to compare the dosimetric parameters between Tomotherapy and three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) in rectal cancer patients.

Materials and methods
We redesigned three-dimensional conformal plans for 20 rectal cancer patients who had received short-course preoperative radiotherapy with Tomotherapy. The target coverage for 3D-CRT and Tomotherapy was evaluated with the following including the mean dose, VnGy, Dmin, Dmax, radiation conformality index (RCI), and radical dose homogeneity index (rDHI).

Results
The mean PTV dose for Tomotherapy is significantly higher than that observed for the 3D-CRT (p = 0.043). However, there is no significant difference in the V23.25Gy, V26.25Gy, V27.5Gy, and RCI values between Tomotherapy and 3D-CRT. However, the average rDHI (p < 0.001) value for Tomotherapy was significantly lower than that reported for the 3D-CRT. Tomotherapy significantly lowered the mean level of irradiation doses to the bladder, small bowel, and femur heads as compared to 3D-CRT.

Conclusions
Tomotherapy could produce a favorable target coverage and significant dose reduction for the OARs at the expense of acceptable dose inhomogeneity of the PTV compared with 3D-CRT in rectal cancer patients.
Fertility preservation in female classic galactosemia patients
Authors: van Erven Britt , Gubbels Cynthia S , van Golde Ron J , Dunselman Gerard A , Derhaag Josien G , de Wert Guido , Geraedts Joep P , Bosch Annet M , Treacy Eileen P , Welt Corrine K , Berry Gerard T , Rubio-Gozalbo M Estela 
Published: July 2013

Abstract
Almost every female classic galactosemia patient develops primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) as a diet-independent complication of the disease. This is a major concern for patients and their parents, and physicians are often asked about possible options to preserve fertility. Unfortunately, there are no recommendations on fertility preservation in this group. The unique pathophysiology of classic galactosemia with a severely reduced follicle pool at an early age requires an adjusted approach. In this article recommendations for physicians based on current knowledge concerning galactosemia and fertility preservation are made. Fertility preservation is only likely to be successful in very young prepubertal patients. In this group, cryopreservation of ovarian tissue is currently the only available technique. However, this technique is not ready for clinical application, it is considered experimental and reduces the ovarian reserve. Fertility preservation at an early age also raises ethical questions that should be taken into account. In addition, spontaneous conception despite POI is well described in classic galactosemia. The uncertainty surrounding fertility preservation and the significant chance of spontaneous pregnancy warrant counseling towards conservative application of these techniques. We propose that fertility preservation should only be offered with appropriate institutional research ethics approval to classic galactosemia girls at a young prepubertal age.
Down-regulation of miR-181c in imatinib-resistant chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Mosakhani Neda , Mustjoki Satu , Knuutila Sakari 
Published: July 2013

Abstract
The association of microRNA alterations with progression and treatment outcome has been revealed in different types of cancers. To find miRNAs involved in imatinib response we performed miRNA microarray followed by RT-qPCR verification of 9 available diagnostic bone marrow core biopsies from 9 CML patients including 4 imatinib-resistant and 5 imatinib-responder patients. Only one differentially expressed miRNA, miR-181c, was found when the imatinib-resistant group was compared with imatinib-responders. Significant down-regulation of miR-181c in imatinib-resistant versus imatinib-responders was confirmed by qRT-PCR. Some miR-181c target genes such as PBX3, HSP90B1, NMT2 and RAD21 have been associated with drug response.