bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex drug resistance pattern and identification of species causing tuberculosis in the West and Centre regions of Cameroon
Authors: Assam-Assam Jean-Paul , Penlap Veronique B , Cho-Ngwa Fidelis , Tedom Jean-Claude , Ane-Anyangwe Irene , Titanji Vincent P 
Published: April 2011

Abstract

Background
Data on the levels of resistance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) strains to first line anti-tuberculosis drugs in Cameroon, and on the species of MTBC circulating in the country are obsolete. The picture about 10 years after the last studies, and 6 years after the re-organisation of the National Tuberculosis (TB) Control Programme (NTBCP) is not known.

Methods
The study was conducted from February to July 2009 in the West and Centre regions of Cameroon. A total of 756 suspected patients were studied. MTBC species were detected by the standard Ziehl-Neelsen staining method. Bacterial susceptibility to the first line drugs [isoniazid (INH), rifampicin (RIF), ethambutol (EMB) and streptomycin (SM)] were performed on cultures using the indirect proportion method. MTBC species were identified by standard biochemical and culture methods.

Results
Of the 756 suspected patients, 154 (20.37%) were positive by smear microscopy. Of these, 20.77% were HIV patients. The growth of Mycobacterium was observed with the sputa from 149 (96.75%) subjects. All the isolates were identified as either M. tuberculosis or M. africanum. Among these, 16 (10.73%) were resistant to at least one drug (13.3% for the West region and 8.1% for the Centre). The initial resistance rates were 7.35% for the Centre region and 11.29% for the West region, while the acquired resistance rates were 16.66% (1/6) for the Centre region and 23.07% (3/13) for the West. Within the two regions, the highest total resistance to one drug was obtained with INH and SM (2.68% each). Multidrug-resistance (MDR) was observed only in the West region at a rate of 6.67%. No resistance was recorded for EMB.

Conclusions

M. tuberculosis and M. africanum remain the MTBC species causing pulmonary TB in the West and Centre regions of Cameroon. Following the re-organisation of the NTBCP, resistance to all first line anti-TB drugs has declined significantly (p < 0.05 for West; and p < 0.01 for Centre) in comparison to previous studies. However, the general rates of anti-TB drug resistance remain high in the country, underscoring the need for greater enforcement of control strategies.
Piper sarmentosum inhibits ICAM-1 and Nox4 gene expression in oxidative stress-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Ugusman Azizah , Zakaria Zaiton , Hui Chua Kien , Megat Mohd Nordin Nor Anita 
Published: April 2011

Abstract

Background
Aqueous extract of Piper sarmentosum (AEPS) is known to possess antioxidant and anti-atherosclerotic activities but the mechanism responsible for it remains unclear. In early part of atherosclerosis, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) induces the expression of cellular adhesion molecules such as vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and E-selectin. NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4) is the predominant source of superoxide in the endothelial cells whereas superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) are the antioxidant enzymes responsible for inactivating reactive oxygen species. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of AEPS on the gene expression of NF-κB, VCAM-1, ICAM-1, E-selectin, Nox4, SOD1, CAT and GPx in cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs).

Methods
HUVECs were divided into four groups:- control; treatment with 180 μM hydrogen peroxide (H2O2); treatment with 150 μg/mL AEPS and concomitant treatment with AEPS and H2O2 for 24 hours. Total RNA was extracted from all the groups of HUVEC using TRI reagent. Subsequently, qPCR was carried out to determine the mRNA expression of NF-κB, VCAM-1, ICAM-1, E-selectin, Nox4, SOD1, CAT and GPx. The specificity of the reactions was verified using melting curve analysis and agarose gel electrophoresis.

Results
When stimulated with H2O2, HUVECs expressed higher level of ICAM-1 (1.3-fold) and Nox4 (1.2-fold) mRNA expression. However, AEPS treatment led to a reduction in the mRNA expression of ICAM-1 (p < 0.01) and Nox4 (p < 0.05) in the H2O2-induced HUVECs. AEPS also upregulated the mRNA expression of SOD1 (p < 0.05), CAT (p < 0.01) and GPx (p < 0.05) in oxidative stress-induced HUVECs. There was no significant change in the mRNA expression of VCAM-1 and E-selectin.

Conclusion
The expressional suppression of ICAM-1 and Nox4 and induction of antioxidant enzymes might be an important component of the vascular protective effect of AEPS.
Malignant mesenchymal tumor with leiomyosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, and osteosarcoma differentiation: case report and literature review
Authors: Li Yao-Feng , Yu Cheng-Ping , Wu Seng-Tang , Dai Ming-Shen , Lee Herng-Sheng 
Published: April 2011

Abstract
A case of malignant mesenchymoma of the bladder containing leiomyosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, osteosarcoma, and myxomatous components is described. The primary pedunculated tumor measuring 14 × 13 × 7 cm and weighing 343 g arose from the left trigone of the bladder and was treated by total cystectomy. The histogenesis of malignant mesenchymomas and their optimal management strategy and prognosis remain uncertain. Herein, we present the fifth case of malignant mesenchymoma of the urinary bladder to be reported in the literature, which presented five unrelated differentiated tissues more than did previously reported cases.

Virtual Slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1964291058509642.
Mannan Binding Lectin (MBL) genotypes coding for high MBL serum levels are associated with rheumatoid factor negative rheumatoid arthritis in never smokers
Authors: Saevarsdottir Saedis , Ding Bo , Steinsson Kristjan , Grondal Gerdur , Valdimarsson Helgi , Alfredsson Lars , Klareskog Lars , Padyukov Leonid 
Published: April 2011

Abstract
Introduction
Previous studies have provided inconsistent results on whether variants in the MBL2 gene, coding for the complement-activating mannan-binding lectin (MBL) protein, associate with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We re-evaluated this in context of the main environmental and genetic risk factors (smoking, HLA-DRB1 'shared epitope' (SE), PTPN22*620W), which predispose to rheumatoid factor (RF) and/or anti-citrullinated-protein antibody (ACPA)-positive RA.

Methods
In this population-based EIRA study, rheumatoid factor (RF), ACPA, smoking, SE and PTPN22*620W status was determined in incident RA cases and matched controls. MBL-high (n = 1330) and MBL-low (n = 1257) genotypes predicting MBL levels were constructed from four promoter and exon-1 polymorphisms in the MBL2 gene. Odds ratios with 95% confidence interval (OR, 95% CI) were calculated by logistic regression. In extended families (n = 316), previously reported data were re-analyzed, considering RF and smoking.

Results
MBL-high genotypes tended to be associated with RF-negative (OR = 1.20, 95% CI 0.96-1.51) but not RF-positive (OR = 1.00, 95% CI 0.83-1.20) RA. Results divided by ACPA status did not differ. When stratified for smoking, MBL-high genotype was strongly associated with RF-negative RA in never smokers (OR = 1.82, 95% CI 1.24-2.69) but not in ever smokers (OR = 0.96, 95% CI 0.73-1.30). In never smokers, the association was observed in both the RF-negative/ACPA-negative (OR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.10-2.55) and RF-negative/ACPA-positive subgroups (OR = 3.07, 95% CI 1.37-6.89), and remained on an SE/PTPN22*620W negative background. In the extended families, the reported association between high MBL and RA was in fact confined to never smokers.

Conclusions
High MBL may predispose to RF-negative RA but only in individuals who have never smoked. This illustrates the importance of phenotypic subgrouping in genetic studies.
Childhood sexual abuse and psychosis: data from a
cross-sectional national psychiatric survey in England
Authors: Bebbington Paul , Jonas Sarah , Kuipers Elizabeth , King Michael , Cooper Claudia , Brugha Traolach , Meltzer Howard , McManus Sally , Jenkins Rachel 
Published: April 2011

BackgroundA number of studies in a range of samples attest a link between childhood
sexual abuse and psychosis.AimsTo use data from a large representative general population sample (Adult
Psychiatric Morbidity Survey 2007) to test hypotheses that childhood
sexual abuse is linked to psychosis, and that the relationship is
consistent with mediation by revictimisation experiences, heavy cannabis
use, anxiety and depression.MethodThe prevalence of psychosis was established operationally in a
representative cross-sectional survey of the adult household population
of England (n = 7353). Using computer-assisted
self-interview, a history of various forms of sexual abuse was
established, along with the date of first abuse.ResultsSexual abuse before the age of 16 was strongly associated with psychosis,
particularly if it involved non-consensual sexual intercourse (odds ratio
(OR) = 10.14, 95% CI 4.8–21.3, population attributable risk fraction
14%). There was evidence of partial mediation by anxiety and depression,
but not by heavy cannabis use nor revictimisation in adulthood.ConclusionsThe association between childhood sexual abuse and psychosis was large,
and may be causal. These results have important implications for the
nature and aetiology of psychosis, for its treatment and for primary
prevention.
Body Fluid Expansion in Acromegaly Is Related to Enhanced Epithelial Sodium Channel (ENaC) Activity
Authors: Kamenicky Peter , Blanchard Anne , Frank Michael , Salenave Sylvie , Letierce Alexia , Azizi Michel , Lombès Marc , Chanson Philippe 
Published: April 2011

Abstract

Background:
Soft-tissue swelling and increased extracellular volume, two features of acromegaly, are related to the antinatriuretic effects of excess GH/IGF-I, but the precise pathophysiological mechanism is unclear.

Objective:
Our objective was to determine the effect of the GH excess on renal and extrarenal epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) activity.

Design and Setting:
We conducted a prospective randomized open-label blinded-endpoint (PROBE) crossover study (www.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00531908) at a tertiary referral medical center and clinical investigation center.

Intervention:
Sixteen patients (five females, 11 males) with acromegaly were randomly assigned to receive 20 mg amiloride (an ENaC blocker) and 25 mg furosemide (a Na-K-2Cl cotransporter blocker) under a high-sodium diet to suppress endogenous renin and aldosterone.

Measurements:
Diuretic-induced changes in the urinary Na/K ratio (reflecting coupling between ENaC-mediated Na reabsorption and distal K secretion) and the intranasal amiloride-sensitive potential (reflecting extrarenal ENaC activity) were measured before and 6 months after (range, 1–12 months) treatment of acromegaly.

Results:
Serum IGF-I concentrations normalized in all the patients after treatment of acromegaly. Baseline plasma renin and aldosterone concentrations remained unchanged after treatment. Active acromegaly, compared with controlled disease, was associated with an enhanced response [median (interquartile range)] to amiloride [urinary Na/K, 13.9 (9.8–19.5) vs. 6.3 (4.3–8.4) mmol/mmol, P = 0.0003], a reduced response to furosemide [urinary Na/K, 5.2 (4.6–7.2) vs. 7.1 (5.4–8.8) mmol/mmol, P =0.0151], and an increased intranasal amiloride-sensitive potential [5.8 (11.9–3.8) vs. 4.2 (6.4–2.1) mV, P = 0.031], respectively.

Conclusion:
GH/IGF-I excess in humans is associated with enhanced renal and extrarenal ENaC activity that may contribute to soft-tissue swelling and volume expansion in acromegaly.
Oxidative C–H/C–H Coupling of Azine and Indole/Pyrrole Nuclei: Palladium Catalysis and Synthesis of Eudistomin U
Authors: Yamaguchi Atsushi D , Mandal Debashis , Yamaguchi Junichiro , Itami Kenichiro 
Published: April 2011

Abstract
We have developed a palladium-catalyzed C–H/C–H coupling reaction of indoles or pyrroles with azine N-oxides. The reaction proceeds selectively at the C3 position of indoles/pyrroles and the C2 position of azine N-oxides. Furthermore, we have accomplished the synthesis of marine indole alkaloid eudistomin U by utilizing this newly developed C–H/C–H coupling reaction.
CT urography in the urinary bladder: To compare excretory phase images using a low noise index and a high noise index with adaptive noise reduction filter
Authors: Takeyama Nobuyuki , Ohgiya Yoshimitsu , Hayashi Takaki , Takahashi Toshiyuki , Yoshiaki Suzuki , Takasu Daisuke , Nakashima Junya , Kato Kyoichi , Kinebuchi Yuko , Hashimoto Toshi , Gokan Takehiko 
Published: April 2011

Background Although CT urography (CTU) is widely used for the evaluation of the entire urinary tract, the most important drawback is the radiation exposure. Purpose To evaluate the effect of a noise reduction filter (NRF) using a phantom and to quantitatively and qualitatively compare excretory phase (EP) images using a low noise index (NI) with those using a high NI and postprocessing NRF (pNRF). Material and Methods Each NI value was defined for a slice thickness of 5 mm, and reconstructed images with a slice thickness of 1.25 mm were assessed. Sixty patients who were at high risk of developing bladder tumors (BT) were divided into two groups according to whether their EP images were obtained using an NI of 9.88 (29 patients; group A) or an NI of 20 and pNRF (31 patients; group B). The CT dose index volume (CTDIvol) and the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the bladder with respect to the anterior pelvic fat were compared in both groups. Qualitative assessment of the urinary bladder for image noise, sharpness, streak artifacts, homogeneity, and the conspicuity of polypoid or sessile-shaped BTs with a short-axis diameter greater than 10 mm was performed using a 3-point scale. Results The phantom study showed noise reduction of approximately 40% and 76% dose reduction between group A and group B. CTDIvol demonstrated a 73% reduction in group B (4.6 ± 1.1 mGy) compared with group A (16.9 ± 3.4 mGy). The CNR value was not significantly different ( P = 0.60) between group A (16.1 ± 5.1) and group B (16.6 ± 7.6). Although group A was superior ( P < 0.01) to group B with regard to image noise, other qualitative analyses did not show significant differences. Conclusion EP images using a high NI and pNRF were quantitatively and qualitatively comparable to those using a low NI, except with regard to image noise.
Reproducibility of phantom-based quality assurance parameters in real-time ultrasound imaging
Authors: Sipilä Outi , Blomqvist Päivi , Jauhiainen Mervi , Kilpeläinen Tiina , Malaska Paula , Mannila Vilma , Vinnurva-Jussila Tuula , Virsula Sari 
Published: April 2011

Background In a large radiological center, the ultrasound (US) quality assurance (QA) program involves several professionals. Although the operator and the parameters utilized can contribute to the results, the selected QA parameters should still reflect the quality of the US scanner, not the measuring process. Purpose To evaluate the reproducibility of recommended phantom-based US QA parameters in a realistic environment. Material and Methods Six sonographers measured six high-end US scanners with 20 transducers using a general purpose phantom. Every transducer was measured altogether seven times, using one frequency per transducer. The QA parameters studied were homogeneity, visualization depth, vertical and horizontal distance measurements, axial and lateral resolution, and the correct visibility of anechoic and high-contrast masses. The evaluation of the homogeneity was based on visual observations. Inter-observer interquartile ranges were computed for the grading of the masses. For the other QA parameters, the mean inter- and intra-observer coefficients of variation (CoV) were calculated. In addition, the symmetry of the reverberations when imaging air with a clean transducer was checked. Results The mean inter-observer CoVs were: visualization depth 11 ± 4%, vertical distance 1.7 ± 0.4%, horizontal distance 1.4 ± 0.6%, axial resolution 22 ± 7%, and lateral resolution 16 ± 8%. The mean intra-observer values were about half of these values with similar standard deviations. The visual evaluation of the homogeneity and the symmetry of the reverberations produced false-positive findings in 5% of the cases, but were found useful in detecting a defective transducer. The grading of the masses had mean interquartile ranges of 20–30% of the grading scale. Conclusion The inter-observer variability in measuring phantom-based QA parameters can be relatively high. This should be considered when implementing a phantom-based QA protocol and evaluating the results.
Normal values for renal parenchymal volume and kidney length as measured by non-enhanced multidetector spiral computed tomography
Authors: Gao Fei , Yang Mei , Luo Chun Li , Pang Hua , Wu Xiao Hou 
Published: April 2011

Background Renal parenchymal volume (RPV) is considered an important index for clinical decisions. However, normal values have not been established, which hinders the clinical application of RPV. Purpose To test the accuracy and reproducibility of RPV and to investigate the normal values of RPV and kidney length as measured by non-enhanced multidetector computed tomography (CT). Material and Methods An animal model study was performed to test the accuracy and repeatability of RPV measured by CT. RPV of porcine kidneys was measured by water displacement (actual values) and non-enhanced multidetector CT. Individual RPV and kidney length were measured by non-enhanced CT in patients with no clinical history of renal disease ( n = 722). Patient height, age, weight, body surface area (BSA), and body mass index (BMI) were assessed before each patient's CT examination was performed. Results RPV obtained by the CT method was within 2% of the RPV determined by the water displacement method. The normal values of RPV (M ± 1.96 standard deviation [SD]) were 145.72 ± 54.37 mL for men and 132.46 ± 41.94 mL for women. The normal values of kidney length (M ± 1.96 SD) were 10.27 ± 1.98 cm for men and 9.93 ± 1.58 cm for women. RPV did not significantly correlate with BSA or weight in women, but correlated significantly with height and age in both men and women. Of the assessed factors age, weight, height, BSA, and BMI, age, and height were the independent factors that best reflected RPV, in both men and women. Conclusion The present animal study results showed that non-enhanced multidetector CT findings accurately reflect the RPV. The subsequent study performed in humans showed that the RPV of the presently sampled Chinese population was lower than the commonly quoted reference values obtained from Western populations.
Measurement of tumor volume by PET to evaluate prognosis in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer treated by non-surgical therapy
Authors: Yan Hongjiang , Wang Renben , Zhao Fen , Zhu Kunli , Jiang Shumei , Zhao Wei , Feng Rui 
Published: April 2011

Background Patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) seem to have disparity in prognosis. Accurate prediction of prognosis could be useful in the future to predict individual risk and to develop more aggressive or alternative treatment strategies. Purpose To evaluate the prognostic value of metabolic tumor volume (MTV) measured by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET) in patients with NSCLC. Material and Methods We retrospectively reviewed 120 patients with pathologically proven NSCLC (61 squamous cell carcinomas and 59 adenocarcinomas) who underwent pretreatment 18F-FDG PET. MTV and maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) for the primary tumors were measured by 18F-FDG PET. Pretreatment variables (age, sex, American Joint Committee on Cancer [AJCC] stage, histological type, SUVmax, and MTV) were analyzed to identify their correlation with two-year survival. To further evaluate and compare the predictive value of PET parameters, MTV, and SUVmax, time-dependent receiver-operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was used. Results In the univariate analysis, AJCC stage, histological type, MTV, and SUVmax of primary tumor were significant predictors of survival. On multivariate analysis, independent prognostic factors associated with decreased two-year survival were AJCC stage (hazard ratio [HR] 2.236, P = 0.003), histological type (HR 2.038, P = 0. 004), and MTV (HR 1.016, P = 0.001). SUVmax was not a significant factor (HR 0.96, P = 0.490). On time-dependent ROC analysis, MTV showed good predictive performance for two-year survival consistently better than SUVmax. Conclusion MTV, a volumetric parameter of 18F-FDG PET, is an important independent prognostic factor for survival and a better predictor of survival than SUVmax for the primary tumor in patients with advanced NSCLC.
Trochanteric osteotomy in total hip replacement for congenital hip disease
Authors: Hartofilakidis G. , Babis G. C. , Georgiades G. , Kourlaba G. 
Published: April 2011

We studied the effect of trochanteric osteotomy in 192 total hip replacements in 140 patients with congenital hip disease. There was bony union in 158 hips (82%), fibrous union in 29 (15%) and nonunion in five (3%). The rate of union had a statistically significant relationship with the position of reattachment of the trochanter, which depended greatly on the pre-operative diagnosis. The pre-operative Trendelenburg gait substantially improved in all three disease types (dysplasia, low and high dislocation) and all four categories of reattachment position. A persistent Trendelenburg gait post-operatively was noticed mostly in patients with defective union (fibrous or nonunion). Acetabular and femoral loosening had a statistically significant relationship with defective union and the position of reattachment of the trochanter. These results suggest that the complications of trochanteric osteotomy in total hip replacement for patients with congenital hip disease are less important than the benefits of this surgical approach.
The effect of percutaneous pin fixation in the treatment of distal femoral physeal fractures
Authors: Garrett B. R. , Hoffman E. B. , Carrara H. 
Published: April 2011

Distal femoral physeal fractures in children have a high incidence of physeal arrest, occurring in a mean of 40% of cases. The underlying nature of the distal femoral physis may be the primary cause, but other factors have been postulated to contribute to the formation of a physeal bar. The purpose of this study was to assess the significance of contributing factors to physeal bar formation, in particular the use of percutaneous pins across the physis. We reviewed 55 patients with a median age of ten years (3 to 13), who had sustained displaced distal femoral physeal fractures. Most (40 of 55) were treated with percutaneous pinning after reduction, four were treated with screws and 11 with plaster. A total of 40 patients were assessed clinically and radiologically after skeletal maturity or at the time of formation of a bar. The remaining 15 were followed up for a minimum of two years. Formation of a physeal bar occurred in 12 (21.8%) patients, with the rate rising to 30.6% in patients with high-energy injuries compared with 5.3% in those with low-energy injuries. There was a significant trend for physeal arrest according to increasing severity using the Salter-Harris classification. Percutaneous smooth pins across the physis were not statistically associated with growth arrest.