bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Swallowing Function after Supracricoid Laryngectomy with Cricohyoidopexy
Authors: Topaloğlu İlhan , Köprücü Gayem , Bal Muhlis 
Published: November 2011

ObjectiveTo evaluate the swallowing function after supracricoid laryngectomy with cricohyoidopexy, focusing on the effects of arytenoid cartilage resection and radiation therapy.Study DesignCase series with chart review.SettingTertiary medical center.Subjects and MethodsThirty supracricoid laryngectomy‐cricohyoidopexy patients, at least 1 year after treatment, were retrospectively analyzed. Fiber‐optic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing was performed for each patient. Three blinded judges evaluated the video recordings based on 3 parameters. The M. D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory was completed by each patient for assessment of disease‐specific quality of life.ResultsAll patients were decannulated at an average of 23.6 days. Nasogastric feeding tubes were removed at an average of 27.3 days, and all patients could eat orally. Fiber‐optic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing showed that patients with total resection of 1 arytenoid had more bolus retention than patients with both arytenoids preserved (P =. 008). Compared with patients who did not receive radiotherapy, patients who did receive radiotherapy exhibited increased retention (P =. 021) and aspiration (P =. 007). The M. D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory results revealed no differences in quality of life according to the level of arytenoid resection or the administration of radiotherapy.ConclusionThe functional evaluation of swallowing after supracricoid laryngectomy—cricohyoidopexy showed satisfactory results. Patients with total resection of 1 arytenoid had significantly higher bolus retention, and those who received radiotherapy had significantly increased retention and aspiration.
Application of low magnetic field on inulinase production by Geotrichum candidum under solid state fermentation using leek as substrate
Authors: Canli Ozden , Kurbanoglu Esabi Basaran 
Published: November 2011

This study evaluates the application of low magnetic field (LMF) on inulinase enzyme production by Geotrichum candidum under solid state fermentation (SSF) using leek as potential carbon source. First, the fermentation conditions were optimized using normal magnetic field grown microorganism. Among eight G. candidum isolates, the most effective strain called G. candidum OC-7 was selected to use in further experiments. In the second part of the study, SSF was carried out under different LMFs (4 and 7 mT). The results showed that inulinase activity was strongly affected by LMF application. The highest enzyme activity was obtained as 535.2 U/g of dry substrate (gds) by 7 mT magnetic field grown G. candidum OC-7. On the contrary, the control had only 412.1 U/gds. Consequently, the use of leek presents a great potential as an alternative carbon source for inulinase production and magnetic field treatment could effectively be used in order to enhance the enzyme production.
Blocking IL-21 signaling ameliorates xenogeneic GVHD induced by human lymphocytes
Authors: Hippen Keli L. , Bucher Christoph , Schirm Dawn K. , Bearl Amanda M. , Brender Ty , Mink Kathy A. , Waggie Kimberly S. , Peffault de Latour Regis , Janin Anne , Curtsinger Julie M. , Dillon Stacey R. , Miller Jeffrey S. , Socie Gerard , Blazar Bruce R. 
Published: November 2011

AbstractIn rodent graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) models, anti–IL-21 neutralizing mAb treatment ameliorates lethality and is associated with decreases in Th1 cytokine production and gastrointestinal tract injury. GVHD prevention was dependent on the in vivo generation of donor-inducible regulatory T cells (Tregs). To determine whether the IL-21 pathway might be targeted for GVHD prevention, skin and colon samples obtained from patients with no GVHD or grade 2 to 4 GVHD were analyzed for IL-21 protein expression. By immunohistochemistry staining, IL-21 protein-producing cells were present in all gastrointestinal tract samples and 54% of skin samples obtained from GVHD patients but not GVHD-free controls. In a human xenogeneic GVHD model, human IL-21–secreting cells were present in the colon of GVHD recipients and were associated with elevated serum IL-21 levels. A neutralizing anti–human IL-21 mAb given prophylactically significantly reduced GVHD-associated weight loss and mortality, resulting in a concomitant increase in Tregs and a decrease in T cells secreting IFN-γ or granzyme B. Based on these findings, anti–IL-21 mAb could be considered for GVHD prevention in the clinic.
Bronchoscopic thermal vapour ablation therapy in the management of heterogeneous emphysema
Authors: Snell Gregory , Herth Felix J.F. , Hopkins Peter , Baker Kimberley M. , Witt Christian , Gotfried Mark H. , Valipour Arschang , Wagner Manfred , Stanzel Franz , Egan Jim J. , Kesten Steven , Ernst Armin 
Published: November 2011

The need for a less invasive procedure than surgical lung volume reduction that can produce consistent improvements with reduced morbidity remains a medical goal in patients with emphysema. We sought to determine the effect of bronchoscopic thermal vapour ablation (BTVA) on lung volumes and outcomes in patients with emphysema.44 patients with upper lobe-predominant emphysema were treated unilaterally with BTVA. Entry criteria included: age 40–75 yrs, forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) 15–45% predicted, previous pulmonary rehabilitation and a heterogeneity index (tissue/air ratio of lower lobe/upper lobe) from high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) ≥1.2. Changes in FEV1, St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), 6-min walk distance (6MWD), modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnoea score, and hyperinflation were measured at baseline, and 3 and 6 months post-BTVA.At 6 months, mean±seFEV1improved by 141±26 mL (p<0.001) and residual volume was reduced by 406±113 mL (p<0.0001). SGRQ total score improved by 14.0±2.4 points (p<0.001), with 73% improving by ≥4 points. Improvements were observed in 6MWD (46.5±10.6 m) and mMRC dyspnoea score (0.9±0.2) (p<0.001 for both). Lower respiratory events (n=11) were the most common adverse event and occurred most often during the initial 30 days.BTVA therapy results in clinically relevant improvements in lung function, quality of life and exercise tolerance in upper lobe predominant emphysema.
Clonality of multifocal nonsmall cell lung cancer: implications for staging and therapy
Authors: Warth Arne , Macher-Goeppinger Stephan , Muley Thomas , Thomas Michael , Hoffmann Hans , Schnabel Philipp A. , Penzel Roland , Schirmacher Peter , Aulmann Sebastian 
Published: November 2011

Nonsmall cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) display a variety of morphological and molecular features. Accurate subtyping of NSCLC has been shown to predict patient survival as well as response rates and toxicities of specific drugs. Assessment of multifocal lung tumours and the distinction of synchronous primary tumours from intrapulmonary metastases represent an important problem as this decision significantly influences tumour staging and subsequent treatment strategies.In order to provide a basis for evidence-based treatment decisions in these patients, we analysed the clonal relationship of multifocal NSCLC with indistinguishable histomorphology in a series of 78 patients by allelotyping (using polymorphic short tandem repeat markers) as well asKRASand epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation testing.Our data demonstrate a common clonal origin indicative of intrapulmonary metastases in almost two-thirds (∼62%) of the cases, while ∼36% of multifocal NSCLC displayed unique molecular profiles suggesting separate primary tumours. DivergentKRASand/orEGFRmutations were observed in ∼8% of all cases.With the increased availability of EGFR-targeted therapy options, nonresectable, multifocal NSCLC with divergingKRASand/orEGFRmutations are likely to show different treatment responses, underlining the need to separately analyse multifocal tumours. Obviously, this also holds true for further, novel molecular predictors of targeted therapies.
Do adjunct tuberculosis tests, when combined with Xpert MTB/RIF, improve accuracy and the cost of diagnosis in a resource-poor setting?
Authors: Theron Grant , Pooran Anil , Peter Jonny , van Zyl-Smit Richard , Kumar Mishra Hridesh , Meldau Richard , Calligaro Greg , Allwood Brian , Sharma Surendra Kumar , Dawson Rod , Dheda Keertan 
Published: November 2011

Information regarding the utility of adjunct diagnostic tests in combination with Xpert MTB/RIF (Cepheid, Sunnyvale, CA, USA) is limited. We hypothesised adjunct tests could enhance accuracy and/or reduce the cost of tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis prior to MTB/RIF testing, and rule-in or rule-out TB in MTB/RIF-negative individuals.We assessed the accuracy and/or laboratory-associated cost of diagnosis of smear microscopy, chest radiography (CXR) and interferon-γ release assays (IGRAs; T-SPOT-TB (Oxford Immunotec, Oxford, UK) and QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube (Cellestis, Chadstone, Australia)) combined with MTB/RIF for TB in 480 patients in South Africa.When conducted prior to MTB/RIF: 1) smear microscopy followed by MTB/RIF (if smear negative) had the lowest cost of diagnosis of any strategy investigated; 2) a combination of smear microscopy, CXR (if smear negative) and MTB/RIF (if imaging compatible with active TB) did not further reduce the cost per TB case diagnosed; and 3) a normal CXR ruled out TB in 18% of patients (57 out of 324; negative predictive value (NPV) 100%). When downstream adjunct tests were applied to MTB/RIF-negative individuals, radiology ruled out TB in 24% (56 out of 234; NPV 100%), smear microscopy ruled in TB in 21% (seven out of 24) of culture-positive individuals and IGRAs were not useful in either context.In resource-poor settings, smear microscopy combined with MTB/RIF had the highest accuracy and lowest cost of diagnosis compared to either technique alone. In MTB/RIF-negative individuals, CXR has poor rule-in value but can reliably rule out TB in approximately one in four cases. These data inform upon the programmatic utility of MTB/RIF in high-burden settings.
Characterization of the genome of bald cypress
Authors: Liu Wenxuan , Thummasuwan Supaphan , Sehgal Sunish K , Chouvarine Philippe , Peterson Daniel G 
Published: November 2011

Abstract

Background
Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum var. distichum) is a coniferous tree of tremendous ecological and economic importance. It is a member of the family Cupressaceae which also includes cypresses, redwoods, sequoias, thujas, and junipers. While the bald cypress genome is more than three times the size of the human genome, its 1C DNA content is amongst the smallest of any conifer. To learn more about the genome of bald cypress and gain insight into the evolution of Cupressaceae genomes, we performed a Cot analysis and used Cot filtration to study Taxodium DNA. Additionally, we constructed a 6.7 genome-equivalent BAC library that we screened with known Taxodium genes and select repeats.

Results
The bald cypress genome is composed of 90% repetitive DNA with most sequences being found in low to mid copy numbers. The most abundant repeats are found in fewer than 25,000 copies per genome. Approximately 7.4% of the genome is single/low-copy DNA (i.e., sequences found in 1 to 5 copies). Sequencing of highly repetitive Cot clones indicates that most Taxodium repeats are highly diverged from previously characterized plant repeat sequences. The bald cypress BAC library consists of 606,336 clones (average insert size of 113 kb) and collectively provides 6.7-fold genome equivalent coverage of the bald cypress genome. Macroarray screening with known genes produced, on average, about 1.5 positive clones per probe per genome-equivalent. Library screening with Cot-1 DNA revealed that approximately 83% of BAC clones contain repetitive sequences iterated 103 to 104 times per genome.

Conclusions
The BAC library for bald cypress is the first to be generated for a conifer species outside of the family Pinaceae. The Taxodium BAC library was shown to be useful in gene isolation and genome characterization and should be an important tool in gymnosperm comparative genomics, physical mapping, genome sequencing, and gene/polymorphism discovery. The single/low-copy (SL) component of bald cypress is 4.6 times the size of the Arabidopsis genome. As suggested for other gymnosperms, the large amount of SL DNA in Taxodium is likely the result of divergence among ancient repeat copies and gene/pseudogene duplication.
Preventing preterm birth with progesterone: costs and effects of screening low risk women with a singleton pregnancy for short cervical length, the Triple P study
Authors: van Os Melanie A , van der Ven Jeanine A , Kleinrouweler C Emily , Pajkrt Eva , de Miranda Esteriek , van Wassenaer Aleid , Porath Martina , Bossuyt Patrick M , Bloemenkamp Kitty WM , Willekes Christine , Woiski Mallory , Oudijk Martijn A , Bilardo Katia M , Sikkema Marko J , Duvekot Johannes J , Veersema Diederik , Laudy Jacqueline , Kuiper Petra , de Groot Christianne JM , Mol Ben Willem J , Haak Monique C 
Published: November 2011

Abstract

Background
Women with a short cervical length in mid-trimester pregnancy have a higher risk of preterm birth and therefore a higher rate of neonatal mortality and morbidity. Progesterone can potentially decrease the number of preterm births and lower neonatal mortality and morbidity. Previous studies showed good results of progesterone in women with either a history of preterm birth or a short cervix. However, it is unknown whether screening for a short cervix and subsequent treatment in mid trimester pregnancy is effective in low risk women.

Methods/Design
We plan a combined screen and treat study among women with a singleton pregnancy without a previous preterm birth. In these women, we will measure cervical length at the standard anomaly scan performed between 18 and 22 weeks. Women with cervical length ≤ 30 mm at two independent measurements will be randomly allocated to receive either vaginal progesterone tablets or placebo between 22 and 34 weeks. The primary outcome of this trial is adverse neonatal condition, defined as a composite outcome of neonatal mortality and severe morbidity. Secondary outcomes are time to delivery, preterm birth rate before 32, 34 and 37 weeks, days of admission in neonatal intensive care unit, maternal morbidity, maternal admission days for preterm labour and costs. We will assess growth, physical condition and neurodevelopmental outcome of the children at two years of age.

Discussion
This study will provide evidence for the usefulness and cost-effectiveness of screening for short cervical length at the 18-22 weeks and subsequent progesterone treatment among low risk women.

Trial registration
Netherlands Trial Register (NTR): NTR207
Hepatitis B virus core promoter mutations G1613A and C1653T are significantly associated with hepatocellular carcinoma in genotype C HBV-infected patients
Authors: Tatsukawa Masashi , Takaki Akinobu , Shiraha Hidenori , Koike Kazuko , Iwasaki Yoshiaki , Kobashi Haruhiko , Fujioka Shin-Ichi , Sakaguchi Kohsaku , Yamamoto Kazuhide 
Published: November 2011

Abstract

Background
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major cause of hepatocarcinogenesis.
To identify mutations relevant to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development, we compared the full genome sequences of HBV from the sera of patients with and without HCC.

Methods
We compared the full genome sequences of HBV isolates from 37 HCC patients (HCC group 1) and 38 patients without HCC (non-HCC group 1). We also investigated part of the core promoter region sequences from 40 HCC patients (HCC group 2) and 68 patients without HCC. Of the 68 patients who initially did not have HCC, 52 patients remained HCC-free during the follow-up period (non-HCC group 2), and 16 patients eventually developed HCC (pre-HCC group 2). Serum samples collected from patients were subjected to PCR, and the HBV DNA was directly sequenced.

Results
All patients had genotype C. A comparison of the nucleotide sequences of the HBV genome between HCC group 1 and non-HCC group 1 revealed that the prevalence of G1613A and C1653T mutations in the core promoter region was significantly higher in the HCC group. These mutations tended to occur simultaneously in HCC patients. Multivariate analysis with group 2 revealed that the presence of HCC was associated with aging and the double mutation. Future emergence of HCC was associated with aging and the presence of a single G1613A mutation.

Conclusions
G1613A and C1653T double mutations were frequently found in patients with HCC. A single G1613A mutation was associated with future emergence of HCC. These mutations may serve as useful markers in predicting HCC development.
Can the FAST and ROSIER adult stroke recognition tools be applied to confirmed childhood arterial ischemic stroke?
Authors: Yock-Corrales Adriana , Babl Franz E , Mosley Ian T , Mackay Mark T 
Published: November 2011

Abstract

Background
Stroke recognition tools have been shown to improve diagnostic accuracy in adults. Development of a similar tool in children is needed to reduce lag time to diagnosis. A critical first step is to determine whether adult stoke scales can be applied in childhood stroke.
Our objective was to assess the applicability of adult stroke scales in childhood arterial ischemic stroke (AIS)

Methods
Children aged 1 month to < 18 years with radiologically confirmed acute AIS who presented to a tertiary emergency department (ED) (2003 to 2008) were identified retrospectively. Signs, symptoms, risk factors and initial management were extracted. Two adult stroke recognition tools; ROSIER (Recognition of Stroke in the Emergency Room) and FAST (Face Arm Speech Test) scales were applied retrospectively to all patients to determine test sensitivity.

Results
47 children with AIS were identified. 34 had anterior, 12 had posterior and 1 child had anterior and posterior circulation infarcts. Median age was 9 years and 51% were male. Median time from symptom onset to ED presentation was 21 hours but one third of children presented within 6 hours. The most common presenting stroke symptoms were arm (63%), face (62%), leg weakness (57%), speech disturbance (46%) and headache (46%). The most common signs were arm (61%), face (70%) or leg weakness (57%) and dysarthria (34%). 36 (78%) of children had at least one positive variable on FAST and 38 (81%) had a positive score of ≥1 on the ROSIER scale. Positive scores were less likely in children with posterior circulation stroke.

Conclusion
The presenting features of pediatric stroke appear similar to adult strokes. Two adult stroke recognition tools have fair to good sensitivity in radiologically confirmed childhood AIS but require further development and modification. Specificity of the tools also needs to be determined in a prospective cohort of children with stroke and non-stroke brain attacks.
What stops children with a chronic illness accessing health care: a mixed methods study in children with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME)
Authors: Webb Carly M , Collin Simon M , Deave Toity , Haig-Ferguson Andrew , Spatz Amy , Crawley Esther 
Published: November 2011

Abstract
Background
Paediatric Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) is relatively common and disabling with a mean time out of school of more than one academic year. NICE guidelines recommend referral to specialist services immediately if severely affected, within 3 months if moderately affected and within 6 months if mildly affected. However, the median time-to-assessment by a specialist service in the UK is 18 months. This study used a mixed-methods approach to examine factors associated with time taken to access specialist services.

Methods
Time-to-assessment was analysed as a continuous "survival-time" variable in Cox regression models using data from self-completed assessment forms for children attending a regional specialist CFS/ME service between January 2006 and December 2009. Semi-structured interviews about barriers experienced in accessing healthcare for their child were conducted with nine parents of children aged < 17 years (8 individual and one parent couple). Interviews were digitally recorded and analysed using "thematic analysis".

Results
405 children were assessed between 2006 and 2009 and information on school attendance was available on 388. Only 1/125 with severe CFS/ME and 49/263 (19%) with mild to moderate CFS/ME were seen within NICE recommended timeframe. Increased fatigue was associated with shorter time to assessment (HR = 1.15; 95% CI 1.03, 1.29 per unit increase in Chalder fatigue score; P = 0.01). Time-to-assessment was not associated with disability, mood, age or gender. Parents described difficulties accessing specialist services because of their own as well as their GP's and Paediatrician's lack of knowledge. They experienced negative attitudes and beliefs towards the child's condition when they consulted GPs, Paediatricians and Child Psychiatrists. Parents struggled to communicate an invisible illness that their child and not themselves were experiencing.

Conclusions
GPs, Child Psychiatrists and Paediatricians need more knowledge about CFS/ME and the appropriate referral pathways to ensure timeliness in referral to specialist services.
Papillomavirus E5: the smallest oncoprotein with many functions
Authors: Venuti Aldo , Paolini Francesca , Nasir Lubna , Corteggio Annunziata , Roperto Sante , Campo Maria S , Borzacchiello Giuseppe 
Published: November 2011

AbstractPapillomaviruses (PVs) are established agents of human and animal cancers. They infect cutaneous and mucous epithelia. High Risk (HR) Human PVs (HPVs) are consistently associated with cancer of the uterine cervix, but are also involved in the etiopathogenesis of other cancer types. The early oncoproteins of PVs: E5, E6 and E7 are known to contribute to tumour progression. While the oncogenic activities of E6 and E7 are well characterised, the role of E5 is still rather nebulous. The widespread causal association of PVs with cancer makes their study worthwhile not only in humans but also in animal model systems. The Bovine PV (BPV) system has been the most useful animal model in understanding the oncogenic potential of PVs due to the pivotal role of its E5 oncoprotein in cell transformation. This review will highlight the differences between HPV-16 E5 (16E5) and E5 from other PVs, primarily from BPV. It will discuss the targeting of E5 as a possible therapeutic agent.