bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Molecular analysis of non-O1/non-O139 Vibrio choleraeisolated from hospitalised patients in China
Authors: Luo Yun , Ye Julian , Jin Dazhi , Ding Gangqiang , Zhang Zheng , Mei Lingling , Octavia Sophie , Lan Ruiting 
Published: March 2013

Abstract

Background
Cholera is still a significant public health issue in developing countries. The aetiological agent is Vibrio cholerae and only two serogroups, O1 and O139, are known to cause pandemic or epidemic cholera. In contrast, non-O1/non-O139 V. cholerae has only been reported to cause sporadic cholera-like illness and localised outbreaks. The aim of this study was to determine the genetic diversity of non-O1/non-O139 V. cholerae isolates from hospitalised diarrhoeal patients in Zhejiang Province, China.

Results
In an active surveillance of enteric pathogens in hospitalised diarrhoeal patients, nine non-O1/non-O139 V. cholerae isolates were identified from 746 diarrhoeal stool samples at a rate of 1.2%. These isolates and an additional 31 isolates from sporadic cases and three outbreaks were analysed using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and multilocus sequence typing (MLST). PFGE divided the isolates into 25 PFGE types while MLST divided them into 15 sequence types (STs). A single ST, ST80, was predominant which persisted over several years in different cities and caused two outbreaks in recent years. Antibiotic resistance varied with the majority of the isolates resistant to sulphamethoxazole/trimethoprim and nearly all isolates either resistant or intermediate to erythromycin and rifampicin. None of the isolates carried the cholera toxin genes or toxin co-regulated pilus genes but the majority carried a type III secretion system as the key virulence factor.

Conclusions
Non-O1/non-O139 V. cholerae is an important contributor to diarrhoeal infections in China. Resistance to commonly used antibiotics limits treatment options. Continuous surveillance of non-O1/non-O139 V. cholerae is important for control and prevention of diarrhoeal infections.
Appraising the need for care in alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Schiffczyk Claudia , Romero Barbara , Jonas Christina , Lahmeyer Constanze , Müller Friedemann , Riepe Matthias W 
Published: March 2013

Abstract

Background
Increasing incidences of dementia necessitate the improvement of supportive measures for patients suffering from this disease and their proxies. Clinicians without psychiatric backgrounds and others involved in appraising the supportive needs of dementia patients, such as those who allocate nursing insurance, base their appraisals on the ability of patients to perform basic and instrumental activities of daily living (B-ADL, iADL). Our aim was to investigate whether a reduced ability of the patient to perform ADL is sufficient to adequately assess the supportive needs of family caregivers.

Methods
Cross-sectional baseline data were obtained from dementia patients and their proxies in the context of a nationwide prospective cohort study on non-pharmacological treatment of dementia. To our knowledge, the present study is the first country-wide study to assess patients and proxies in their domestic surroundings (e.g. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) Behave-AD, B-ADL and iADL for patients; Quality of Life (QOL) and depression of the proxy).

Results
Logistic and linear regression analysis show that the allocation of nursing care allowance provided by German mandatory nursing insurance is associated with scores on the B-ADL- and iADL scales, but not with the severity of behavioural symptoms or the supportive time the proxies spend on caring. However, the severity of cognitive and non-cognitive symptoms of dementia patients, correlate with each other and both parameters correlate with the time the proxy spends on caring. The time spent on caring is associated with an increase in depression and a reduction in the quality of life of the proxy.

Conclusions
Basic and instrumental activities of daily living do not sufficiently reflect the perceived burden of care experienced by the proxy who has to cope with the imposition of the dementia patients’ behavioural symptoms. When allocating nursing care, patients’ behavioural symptoms should also be taken into consideration, because depressive symptoms of proxies are linked to non-cognitive symptoms in dementia patients. To provide better health care, it is necessary to identify and treat psychiatric symptoms in proxies who care for dementia patients as early as possible.
Growth factor receptor-Src-mediated suppression of GRK6 dysregulates CXCR4 signaling and promotes medulloblastoma migration
Authors: Yuan Liangping , Zhang Hongying , Liu Jingbo , Rubin Joshua B , Cho Yoon-Jae , Shu Hui Kuo , Schniederjan Matthew , MacDonald Tobey J 
Published: March 2013

AbstractBackgroundMetastasis in medulloblastoma (MB) is associated with poor survival. Recent genetic studies revealed MB to comprise distinct molecular subgroups, including the sonic hedgehog (SHH) subgroup that exhibits a relatively high rate of progression. To identify targeted therapeutics against metastasis, a better understanding of the regulation of MB cell migration is needed. G protein-coupled receptor kinases (GRKs) have been implicated in cancer metastasis through their regulation of G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) involved in growth factor (GF)-mediated cell migration. However, the specific roles and regulation of GRKs in MB have not been investigated.MethodsMicroarray mRNA analysis was performed for GRKs, GPCRs, and GFs in 29 human MB, and real time RT-PCR was used to detect GRK6 expression in MB cells. Lenti- or retro-virus infection, and siRNA or shRNA transfection, of MB cells was used to overexpress and knockdown target genes, respectively. Western blot was used to confirm altered expression of proteins. The effect of altered target protein on cell migration was determined by Boyden chamber assay and xCELLigence migration assays.ResultsWe observed co-overexpression ofPDGFRA,CXCR4, andCXCL12in the SHH MB subtype compared to non-SHH MB (5, 7, and 5-fold higher, respectively).GRK6, which typically acts as a negative regulator of CXCR4 signaling, is downregulated in MB, relative to other GRKs, while the percentage ofGRK6expression is lower in MB tumors with metastasis (22%), compared to those without metastasis (43%). In SHH-responsive MB cells, functional blockade of PDGFR abolished CXCR4-mediated signaling.shPDGFRtransfected MB cells demonstrated increased GRK6 expression, while PDGF or 10% FBS treatment of native MB cells reduced the stability of GRK6 by inducing its proteosomal degradation. Overexpression or downregulation of Src, a key mediator of GF receptor/PDGFR signaling, similarly inhibited or induced GRK6 expression, respectively. siRNA downregulation ofGRK6enhanced CXCR4 signaling and promoted MB migration, while lentiviral-GRK6overexpression suppressed CXCR4 signaling, potentiated the effect of AMD3100, a CXCR4 antagonist, and impaired migration.ConclusionsOur findings demonstrate a novel mechanism of GF receptor/PDGFR-Src-mediated dysregulation of CXCR4 signaling that promotes MB cell migration, which could potentially be exploited for therapeutic targeting in SHH MB.
Use of extended curettage with osteotomy and fenestration followed by reconstruction with conservation of muscle insertion in the treatment of Enneking stage II locally aggressive bone tumor of the proximal extremities: resection and treatment of bone tumors
Authors: Chen Feiyan , Xia Jun , Wang Siqun , Wei Yibing , Wu Jianguo , Huang Gangyong , Chen Jie , Shi Jingsheng 
Published: March 2013

AbstractBackgroundThe purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical efficacy of extended resection with osteotomy, fenestration and conservation of muscle (tendon) insertion in the treatment of bone tumors.MethodsA total of 15 patients with locally aggressive bone tumors (Enneking stage II) in the adjacent muscle (tendon) insertion of the proximal extremity were enrolled in the present study (mean age of 29 years). Extended curettage of lesions with osteotomy, fenestration and/or conservation of muscle (tendon) insertion and internal fixation with a bone graft or bone cement was performed at stage I. Postsurgical brace protection was used for 4 to 12 weeks and the patients were periodically followed-up by X-ray and functional assessment. Recurrence, postsurgical Enneking score and outcome rating were assessed.ResultsTreated cases included 15 patients aged 29 ±7.75 years (range, 18 to 42) with a male to female ratio of 8:7. Six had a femoral tumor and nine had a humeral tumor. These tumors comprised three chondroblastomas, five giant-cell tumors and seven aneurysmal bone cysts. Follow-up for 48 ±12.95 months (range, 25 to 72) revealed that 13 of 15 (87%) patients exhibited no recurrence. Local recurrence was observed in a patient with an aneurysmal bone cyst (nine months) and one with a giant-cell tumor (12 months). Mean Enneking scores were 27 ±4.07 (range, 18 to 29). Except for the patient with the recurrent giant-cell tumor, all patients reported good (13%, 2 out of 15) or very good (80%, 12 out of 15) outcomes. Very good outcomes were reported in 92% of patients (12 out of 13) without recurrence.ConclusionsThe procedures used in this study achieved high clinical efficacy, complete lesion removal, reduced recurrence and good restoration of joint function in patients with primary locally aggressive Enneking stage II bone tumors of the proximal extremities.
Outcome of repeat surgery for genital prolapse using prolift-mesh
Authors: A Yakasai Ibrahim , Bappa Lawal A , Paterson Andrew 
Published: March 2013

Abstract

Introduction
Urogenital prolapse can have a significant impact on quality of life. The life time risk of requiring surgery for urogenital prolapse is 11%. Prolift mesh has recently been introduced to reduce repeat operation rate and for long-term benefit.

Objective
To evaluate the outcome of the treatment of urogenital prolapse with synthetic mesh.

Methods
A retrospective review of case notes of all women who underwent prolift mesh insertion for prolapse between July 2004 and June 2005, at Royal Alexandra Hospital Paisley UK. We looked at the presenting complaints, previous operation, intraoperative complications and complications at six weeks and six months follow-up.

Results
Twenty-two procedures were carried out in the twelve months period. Age of the patients ranged from 55 to 82 years (median 64 yrs). Eleven had anterior Prolift (50%), Seven had posterior Prolift 31.8% and four total Prolift 18%. There were no intraoperative complications. All the patients had previous surgery for prolapse. Eight patients had anterior repair, six patients had posterior repair, and three patients had abdominal hysterectomy. Vaginal hysterectomy was carried out with mesh insertion as a concomitant procedure in seven cases (31.25%). All patients were seen at six weeks and six months after the surgery. Complications rate included mesh erosion one patient and suture material protruding in the vagina one patient, one patient had failed prolift operation. All the twenty-one patients were cured giving 95.4% success rate.

Conclusion
The use of prolene mesh in pelvic reconstructive surgery was associated with good outcome and minimal complications in this study.
Protocol TOP-Study (tacrolimus organ perfusion): a prospective randomized multicenter trial to reduce ischemia reperfusion injury in transplantation of marginal liver grafts with an ex vivotacrolimus perfusion
Authors: Pratschke Sebastian , Eder Michael , Heise Michael , Nadalin Silvio , Pascher Andreas , Schemmer Peter , Scherer Marcus N , Ulrich Frank , Wolters Heiner , Jauch Karl-Walter , Wöhling Dirk , Angele Martin K 
Published: March 2013

Abstract

Background

Critical organ shortage results in the utilization of extended donor criteria (EDC) liver grafts. These marginal liver grafts are prone to increased ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) which may contribute to deteriorated graft function and survival. Experimental data have shown that the calcineurin inhibitor tacrolimus exerts protective effects on hepatic IRI when applied intravenously or directly as a hepatic rinse. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to examine the effects of an ex vivo tacrolimus perfusion on IRI in transplantation of EDC liver grafts.

Methods/Design

The TOP-Study (tacrolimus organ perfusion) is a randomized multicenter trial comparing the ex vivo tacrolimus perfusion of marginal liver grafts with placebo. We hypothesize that a tacrolimus rinse reduces IRI, potentially improving organ survival following transplantation of EDC livers. The study includes livers with two or more EDC, according to Eurotransplant International Foundation’s definition of EDC livers. Prior to implantation, livers randomized to the treatment group are rinsed with tacrolimus at a concentration of 20 ng/ml in 1000 ml Custodiol solution and in the placebo group with Custodiol alone. The primary endpoint is the maximum serum alanine transamninase (ALT) level within the first 48 hours after surgery; however, the study design also includes a 1-year observation period following transplantation. The TOP-Study is an investigator-initiated trial sponsored by the University of Munich Hospital. Seven other German transplant centers are participating (Berlin, Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Mainz, Münster, Regensburg, Tübingen) and aim to include a total of 86 patients.

Discussion

Tacrolimus organ perfusion represents a promising strategy to reduce hepatic IRI following the transplantation of marginal liver grafts. This treatment may help to improve the function of EDC grafts and therefore safely expand the donor pool in light of critical organ shortage.

Trial register

EudraCT number: 2010-021333-31, ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:
NCT01564095
Results of a Multicenter Prospective Study on the Postoperative Treatment of Unilateral Retinoblastoma After Primary Enucleation
Authors: Aerts Isabelle , Sastre-Garau Xavier , Savignoni Alexia , Lumbroso-Le Rouic Livia , Thebaud-Leculée Estelle , Frappaz Didier , Coze Carole , Thomas Caroline , Gauthier-Villars Marion , Lévy-Gabriel Christine , Brisse Hervé J. , Desjardins Laurence , Doz François 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe objective of this prospective study was to assess overall survival and event-free survival in patients with intraocular unilateral retinoblastoma (Reese-Ellsworth group V) treated by primary enucleation with or without adjuvant therapy depending on histopathologic risk factors.Patients and MethodsPatients (n = 123) were divided into three groups on the basis of risk factors for extraocular relapse and metastasis assessed on centralized histologic examination of enucleated eyes. Group 1 (n = 70) had minimal or no choroidal involvement and/or prelaminar or no optic nerve involvement and received no adjuvant therapy. Group 2 (n = 52) had massive choroidal involvement and/or intra- or retrolaminar optic nerve involvement and/or anterior segment involvement and received four courses of adjuvant chemotherapy. Group 3 (n = 1) had invasion of the surgical margin of the optic nerve and/or microscopic extrascleral involvement and received six courses of adjuvant chemotherapy with intrathecal thiotepa, consolidation chemotherapy, and autologous stem-cell rescue. Genetic testing was also performed.ResultsMedian follow-up for the 123 patients was 71 months. No disease progression, relapse, or distant metastasis occurred during follow-up. No second malignancies occurred. This requires confirmation with longer follow-up. Secondary bilateralization occurred in two patients with identified RB1 germline mutation. Adjuvant chemotherapy was well tolerated, with limited toxicity. Molecular testing found constitutional RB1 gene mutations in only nine of 100 evaluated patients.ConclusionThe survival rate of 100% was excellent, including 57% of patients who received no adjuvant therapy, suggesting that chemotherapy could be de-escalated in some patients, especially those with massive choroidal involvement.
Efficient Photopolymerization of Diphenylamine Based on Ground-state Charge-transfer Complex
Authors: Koyama Fumi , Kawai Tsuyoshi 
Published: March 2013

Abstract
UV light irradiation of a mixture of diphenylamine (DPA) and carbon tetrabromide (CTB) induces rapid photopolymerization, affording π-conjugated polymers composed of diphenylamine and carbazole units. LDI-TOF mass spectra of the product indicate that the longer polymer chains have higher conversion ratios to carbazole. Rapid photopattern formation with the conjugated polymer is also demonstrated.
The Role of Risk Preferences in Pay-to-Bid Auctions
Authors: Platt Brennan C. , Price Joseph , Tappen Henry 
Published: March 2013

We analyze a new auction format in which bidders pay a fee each time they increase the auction price. Bidding fees are the primary source of revenue for the seller but produce the same expected revenue as standard auctions (assuming risk-neutral bidders). If risk-loving preferences are incorporated in the model, expected revenue increases. Our model predicts a particular distribution of ending prices, which we test against observed auction data. The degree of fit depends on how unobserved parameters are chosen; in particular, a slight preference for risk has the biggest impact in explaining auction behavior, suggesting that pay-to-bid auctions are a mild form of gambling. This paper was accepted by Peter Wakker, decision analysis.
Single incision laparoscopic adjustable gastric band: technique, feasibility, safety and learning curve
Authors: Osborne AJ , Clancy R , Clark GWB , Wong C 
Published: March 2013

Introduction Single incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) is established in many procedures but not in bariatric surgery. One explanation may be that SILS is technically demanding in morbidly obese patients. This report describes our technique and experience with single incision laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (SILAGB). Methods Prospective data collection was performed on consecutive obese patients who underwent SILAGB between November 2009 and February 2011. A single 3cm transverse incision in the right upper quadrant was used for a Covidien SILS™ multichannel access port. The technique is described with a standard pars flaccida approach and the ‘tips and tricks’ needed for a wide range of candidates using standard laparoscopic equipment. Results A total of 29 patients (27 female) with a median body mass index of 41kg/m 2 (range: 35–52kg/m 2 ) and median age of 44 years (range: 22–57 years) underwent SILAGB. There were no ‘conversions’ to a standard laparoscopic technique. Two cases required the addition of one single 5mm port. The only complications were two postoperative wound infections (one with a port site infection requiring replacement of the port) and one faulty band requiring replacement. There were therefore two returns to theatre and no 30-day deaths. All patients were discharged on the first postoperative day. In this series, operative times reduced significantly to be comparable with the conventional laparoscopic approach. Conclusions SILAGB is safe and feasible in the morbidly obese. Proficiency in this technique using conventional laparoscopic equipment can be achieved with a short learning curve.
Volkmann’s contracture of the forearm due to an insect bite: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Hardwicke J , Srivastava S 
Published: March 2013

Compartment syndrome affecting the upper limb is reported rarely in the literature and is usually limited to single case reports. Upper limb compartment syndrome secondary to envenomation is rare, especially in the UK. Worldwide, it has been reported resulting from snake and insect bites, mostly from snakes from the Viperidae family, and from insects such as bees and wasps. Reports from the UK are limited to one case of an adder bite. We present a case of a previously fit and well adult who developed an ischaemic contracture of the forearm after an insect bite. Surgical exploration revealed segmental necrosis and contracture of the superficial and deep flexors of the fingers, requiring fasciotomy and tendon-lengthening procedures. This is the first report of a compartment syndrome, or a late ischaemic contracture from an insect bite in the UK. Owing to the rarity of compartment syndrome of the upper limb secondary to envenomation, a delay in diagnosis and treatment can lead to irreversible changes in the muscular compartments of the forearm.
Endovascular repair of the aortic arch in pigs by improved double-branched stent grafts
Authors: Lin C , Wang L , Lu Q , Li C , Jing Z 
Published: March 2013

Introduction This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of total endovascular repair of the aortic arch in pigs using improved integrated double-branched stent grafts. Methods Improved self-expandable stent grafts with a main body and two integrated branches were prepared for the repair of the aortic arch in six pigs. The feasibility of using these stent grafts was evaluated with arteriography, computed tomography (CT), computed tomography angiography (CTA) and autopsy three months following the procedure. Results The double-branched stent grafts were placed successfully in the aortic arch in all six pigs. All pigs survived for at least three months and their biological behaviour was normal. Arteriography, CTA and animal necropsy revealed good fixation in all cases. Aortic valve function and coronary ostia remained intact, and CT of the head did not detect any lesion of cerebral infarction. Conclusions Endovascular repair of the aortic arch with an integrated double-branched stent graft is safe and feasible in animal studies.
A novel technique for the treatment of infected metalwork in orthopaedic patients using skin closure over irrigated negative pressure wound therapy dressings
Authors: Norris R , Chapman AWP , Krikler S , Krkovic M 
Published: March 2013

Introduction There has been recent interest in the use of negative pressure wound therapy (NWPT) as an adjunct to parenteral antibiotics in the treatment of infection in orthopaedic patients with metalwork in situ. To address some of the limitations of standard NPWT in this situation, the senior author has developed a modified method of treatment for infected metalwork (excluding arthroplasty) in orthopaedic patients that includes irrigation and skin closure over the standard NPWT dressing. Methods This retrospective study examined the outcome of a case series of 16 trauma and orthopaedic patients with deep infection involving metalwork in whom this modified form of NPWT was used. In conjunction with standard parenteral antibiotic therapy and a multidisciplinary approach, this modified technique included serial debridements in theatre, irrigation and negative pressure dressings over a white polyvinyl alcohol foam (KCI, Kidlington, UK) as well as closure of the skin over the foam. Results Among the 16 patients, there was a variety of upper and lower limb as well as spinal trauma and elective cases. In all 16 patients, there was successful resolution of the infection with no early or unplanned removal of any metalwork required. Conclusions Patients with infected metalwork are a heterogeneous group, and often suffer high morbidity and mortality. The modified NPWT technique shows potential as an adjunct in the treatment of complex orthopaedic patients with infected metalwork.