bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development of a fluorescence-based method for monitoring glucose catabolism and its potential use in a biomass hydrolysis assay
Authors: Haney Lisa J , Coors James G , Lorenz Aaron J , Raman DRaj , Anex Robert P , Scott MPaul 
Published: November 2008

Abstract

Background
The availability and low cost of lignocellulosic biomass has caused tremendous interest in the bioconversion of this feedstock into liquid fuels. One measure of the economic viability of the bioconversion process is the ease with which a particular feedstock is hydrolyzed and fermented. Because monitoring the analytes in hydrolysis and fermentation experiments is time consuming, the objective of this study was to develop a rapid fluorescence-based method to monitor sugar production during biomass hydrolysis, and to demonstrate its application in monitoring corn stover hydrolysis.

Results
Hydrolytic enzymes were used in conjunction with Escherichia coli strain CA8404 (a hexose and pentose-consuming strain), modified to produce green fluorescent protein (GFP). The combination of hydrolytic enzymes and a sugar-consuming organism minimizes feedback inhibition of the hydrolytic enzymes. We observed that culture growth rate as measured by change in culture turbidity is proportional to GFP fluorescence and total growth and growth rate depends upon how much sugar is present at inoculation. Furthermore, it was possible to monitor the course of enzymatic hydrolysis in near real-time, though there are instrumentation challenges in doing this.

Conclusion
We found that instantaneous fluorescence is proportional to the bacterial growth rate. As growth rate is limited by the availability of sugar, the integral of fluorescence is proportional to the amount of sugar consumed by the microbe. We demonstrate that corn stover varieties can be differentiated based on sugar yields in enzymatic hydrolysis reactions using post-hydrolysis fluorescence measurements. Also, it may be possible to monitor fluorescence in real-time during hydrolysis to compare different hydrolysis protocols.
Salpingitis. A rare cause of acute abdomen in a sexually inactive girl: a case report
Authors: van der Putten Mayke E , Engel Monique , van Well Gijs THJ 
Published: November 2008

Abstract
Salpingitis is an acute inflammation of the fallopian tubes, most commonly caused by sexually transmitted micro-organisms in adolescent and adult women. It is rarely found in sexually inactive girls and generally the result of a blood-borne or genitourinary infection. In young girls without a history of consensual sexual contact, the possibility of sexual abuse should be considered.
Salpingitis usually presents as an acute abdomen. Appendicitis presents with almost the same symptoms as salpingitis. The diagnosis of salpingitis is often delayed until the presumed appendicitis is surgically explored.
We describe an 11-year-old girl with salpingitis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Malignant subdural effusion associated with disseminated adenocarcinoma: a case report
Authors: Mirsadeghi Seyed Mohammad Haji , Habibi Zohreh , Meybodi Keyvan Tayebi , Nejat Farideh , Tabatabai Seyed Ali Fakhr 
Published: November 2008

Abstract

Background
Subdural effusion in the setting of dural metastasis is very rare and may be difficult to be distinguished from chronic subdural hematoma.

Case presentation
A 44-year old woman with gastric adenocarcinoma was presented with headache and a hypodense subdural collection in right fronto-parietal in brain CT. Burr-hole irrigation was performed with the impression of chronic subdural hematoma, but nonhemorrhagic xantochromic fluid was evacuated without malignant cell. Brain CT on the 11th day depicted fluid re-accumulation and noticeable midline shift, necessitating craniotomy and removing the affected dura.

Conclusion
Because the affected dura can be supposed as the main source of subdural effusion, resection of the involved dura is obligatory for the appropriate palliative management of such patients.
1513A&gt;C Polymorphism in the P2X7 Receptor Gene in Patients with Papillary Thyroid Cancer: Correlation with Histological Variants and Clinical Parameters
Authors: Dardano Angela , Falzoni Simonetta , Caraccio Nadia , Polini Antonio , Tognini Sara , Solini Anna , Berti Piero , Virgilio Francesco Di , Monzani Fabio 
Published: November 2008

AbstractIntroduction: The modulation of the purinergic receptor P2X7 may be implicated in human carcinogenesis. The 1513A&gt;C and 489C&gt;T polymorphisms of P2X7R gene induce loss of function and gain of function, respectively.Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the frequency of both 1513A&gt;C and 489C&gt;T polymorphisms in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and to evaluate the possible association with clinical and histological features.Patients and Methods: P2X7R analysis was performed in lymphocytes from 121 PTC patients (100 women, 21 men; aged 43.4 ± 13.6 yr), 100 matched healthy subjects, and 80 patients with nodular goiter.Results: The minor allele frequency for 1513A&gt;C polymorphism in PTC patients with the classical variant was similar to controls (0.21 and 0.20, respectively), whereas it resulted in a significant increase in patients with the follicular variant (0.36; P = 0.01 vs. classical variant, and P = 0.005 vs. controls). In detail, 13.6% of patients with PTC follicular variant were homozygous for the 1513C allele, compared to 2.6% of patients with the classical variant and 2% of controls. Moreover, a positive relationship between 1513A&gt;C polymorphism and either cancer diameter (Rho = 0.22; P = 0.02) or TNM stage (Rho = 0.38; P &lt; 0.001) was found. No significant difference in the genotype frequency of 489C&gt;T polymorphism between PTC patients and healthy controls was observed (0.42 and 0.47, respectively).Conclusions: Our data show, for the first time, a strong association between 1513A&gt;C polymorphism of P2X7R gene and the follicular variant of PTC. Further studies are needed to confirm the possible role of this polymorphism as a novel clinical marker of PTC follicular variant and its usefulness in selecting patients with different clinical outcome.
Accuracy of Combined Protein Gene Product 9.5 and Parafibromin Markers for Immunohistochemical Diagnosis of Parathyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Howell Viive M. , Gill Anthony , Clarkson Adele , Nelson Anne E. , Dunne Robert , Delbridge Leigh W. , Robinson Bruce G. , Teh Bin T. , Gimm Oliver , Marsh Deborah J. 
Published: November 2008

Abstract
Context: Parafibromin, encoded by HRPT2, is the first marker with significant benefit in the diagnosis of parathyroid carcinoma. However, because parafibromin is only involved in up to 70% of parathyroid carcinomas and loss of parafibromin immunoreactivity may not be observed in all cases of HRPT2 mutation, a complementary marker is needed.
Objective: We sought to determine the efficacy of increased expression of protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5), encoded by ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal esterase L1 (UCHL1) as an additional marker to loss of parafibromin immunoreactivity for the diagnosis of parathyroid carcinoma.
Design: In total, 146 parathyroid tumors and nine normal tissues were analyzed for the expression of parafibromin and PGP9.5 by immunohistochemistry and for UCHL1 by quantitative RT-PCR. These samples included six hyperparathyroidism-jaw tumor syndrome-related tumors and 24 sporadic carcinomas.
Results: In tumors with evidence of malignancy, strong staining for PGP9.5 had a sensitivity of 78% for the detection of parathyroid carcinoma and/or HRPT2 mutation and a specificity of 100%. Complete lack of nuclear parafibromin staining had a sensitivity of 67% and a specificity of 100%. PGP9.5 was positive in a tumor with the HRPT2 mutation L64P that expressed parafibromin. Furthermore, UCHL1 was highly expressed in the carcinoma/hyperparathyroidism-jaw tumor syndrome group compared to normal (P &lt; 0.05) and benign specimens (P &lt; 0.001).
Conclusion: These results suggest that positive staining for PGP9.5 has utility as a marker for parathyroid malignancy, with a slightly superior sensitivity (P = 0.03) and similar high specificity to that of parafibromin.
Variabilism
Authors: Cumming Samuel 
Published: November 2008

Variabilism is the view that proper names (like pronouns) are semantically represented as variables. Referential names, like referential pronouns, are assigned their referents by a contextual variable assignment (Kaplan 1989). The reference parameter (like the world of evaluation) may also be shifted by operators in the representation language. Indeed verbs that create hyperintensional contexts, like `think', are treated as operators that simultaneously shift the world and assignment parameters. By contrast, metaphysical modal operators shift the world of assessment only. Names, being variables, refer rigidly in the latter merely intensional contexts, but may vary their reference in hyperintensional contexts. This conforms to the intuition that the content of attitude ascriptions encapsulates referential uncertainty. Furthermore, names in hyperintensional contexts are ambiguous between de re* and de dicto* interpretations. This fact is used to account for asymmetric mistaken identity attributions (for example, Biron thinks Katherine is Rosaline, but he doesn't think Rosaline is Katherine).The variable theory compares favorably with its alternatives, including Millianism and descriptivism. Millians cannot account for the behavior of names in hyperintensional contexts, while descriptivists cannot generate a necessary contrast between intensional and hyperintensional contexts. No other theory can capture the facts pertaining to the existentially bound use of names.
Sex Differences in Blood Pressure Response to Antihypertensive Therapy in Chinese Patients with Hypertension
Authors: Fan XiaoHan , Han Yunfeng , Sun Kai , Wang Yibo , Xin Ying , Bai Yongyi , Li Weiju , Yang Tao , Song Xiaodong , Wang Hu , Fu Chunyan , Chen Jingzhou , Shi Yi , Zhou XianLiang , Wu Haiying , Hui Rutai 
Published: November 2008

Background: Sex-specific responsos to antihypertensive drugs are not very well understood. Objective: To investigate sex-related differences in blood pressure response to antihypertensive drugs in a community-based prospective clinical trial. Methods: We recruited 3535 untreated hypertensive patients (2326 women), aged 40–75 years, from 7 rural communities in China. Subjects were randomized to 1 of 4 drug groups: atenolol, hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), captopril, or sustained-released nifedipine; duration of the study was 8 weeks. Mean blood pressure reduction, blood pressure control rates, and frequency of adverse events were compared between men and women. Results: Women had a better response to HCTZ in relation to diastolic blood pressure (1.8 mm Hg lower) than did men (p <0.05) and were 57% more likely to reach the control goal of diastolic blood pressure than were men (p <0.05). In the atenolol group, mean systolic blood pressure decreased 3.9 mm Hg more in women than in men (p <0.05), and women were 65% more likely to reach the control goal of systolic blood pressure and 57% more likely to reach the control goal of diastolic blood pressure than were men (p <0.05). Significant sex-related differences were also found in drug-related adverse events in the nifedipine group (15.8% in women vs 9.8% in men; p = 0.017) and in the captopril group (14.3% in women vs 8.4% in men; p = 0.005), but no differences were seen with HCTZ or atenolol. Conclusions: Women have better blood pressure responses to HCTZ and atenolol and experience more adverse effects with sustained-release nifedipine and captopril than do men, indicating that sex should be taken into account when selecting antihypertensive drugs.
Cushing's Syndrome Induced by Misuse of Moderate- to High-Potency Topical Corticosteroids
Authors: Coureau Bénédicte , Bussières Jean-François , Tremblay Stéphanie 
Published: November 2008

Objective: To report a case of Cushing's syndrome caused by continuous use of moderate- to high-potency topical corticosteroids over several months. Case Summary: An 11-month-old patient with atopic dermatitis received uninterrupted treatment with moderate- to high-potency topical corticosteroids. He presented with several food allergies and was admitted to the hospital after atopic dermatitis worsened. Signs of growth retardation, which had begun at 6 months of age, were also noted during the child's hospital stay. An endocrinologist concluded that a lower-than-normal bone density scan and growth retardation on both weight and growth curves were due to suppression of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and a multifactorial failure to thrive. Discussion: This is a case of an infant overexposed to topical corticosteroid treatment who developed Cushing's syndrome within a few months. Local treatment of atopic dermatitis is classically based on the use of topical corticosteroids in combination with an emollient or other drugs. To limit local and general damaging effects, the choice of topical corticosteroid must be made in terms of patient age, severity and site of the rash, and the extent of skin involvement. Several factors influence the systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids. While our literature review indicated the possibility of a multifactorial origin of the child's growth retardation, the use of topical corticosteroids was shown to have contributed to suppression of the HPA axis. Application of the Naranjo probability scale indicated a probable relationship between the continuous and sustained administration of topical corticosteroids over several months and suppression of the HPA axis. Although topical corticosteroids are widely used and can be perceived by parents and patients to be safe, daily documentation of agents used and body surfaces exposed should be done during long-term treatment. Conclusions: Continuous use of moderate- to high-potency topical corticosteroids over several months can contribute to Cushing's syndrome. Growth and development as well as cortisol levels should be monitored in children on long-term topical corticosteroid treatment.
Tumor Progression Associated with Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents
Authors: Newland Ashley M , Black Curtis D 
Published: November 2008

Objective: To evaluate, characterize, compare, and critique trials reporting increased tumor progression in patients with cancer who are receiving erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) that led to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) actions for black box warnings and labeling changes. Data Sources: Literature was accessed through MEDLINE (1950–August 2008) and PubMed (1975–August 2008) using the search terms recombinant erythropoietin, darbepoetin, epoetin, anemia, neoplasms, and disease progression. Articles cited in MedWatch alerts, Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee meeting briefs, and bibliographies from identified articles were also reviewed. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All studies published in English with data suggesting increased tumor progression or death due to disease progression in patients receiving ESAs were included. Data Synthesis: ESAs are approved for treatment of anemia in several different disease states, including chemotherapy-induced anemia. Ten trials investigating off-label use of ESAs in patients with cancer have reported an increased risk of tumor progression and/or treatment-associated death. Two of these trials reported worse overall survival with ESA treatment compared with placebo (28% vs 23% and 21.9% vs 16.4%), while another trial reported shorter time to death with treatment (68 vs 131 days; p = 0.04). Many of these studies had important limitations, including imbalanced groups at baseline and poor design. Moreover, none of these trials was designed to detect a statistically worse outcome with ESAs; thus, absolute conclusions regarding tumor progression cannot be drawn. As a result, better designed trials with safety as the primary outcome are ongoing. Conclusions: Additional studies are needed and being undertaken to qualify and quantify the possible risk of tumor progression with use of ESAs. Prudent practice dictates that until results of these trials are available, ESAs should be used in accordance with FDA labeling.
Clinical Application of Voriconazole Concentrations in the Treatment of Invasive Aspergillosis
Authors: Howard Ashley , Hoffman Janet , Sheth Anjly 
Published: November 2008

Objective: To review the current literature to determine the clinical application of therapeutic drug monitoring of voriconazole in the treatment of invasive aspergillosis (IA). Data Sources: A MEDLINE search (1966–June 2008) was performed using the search terms voriconazole, aspergillosis, levels, monitoring, and serum concentration. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All pertinent English-language literature on voriconazole use in adults was included for evaluation. Data Synthesis: IA is a serious fungal infection with a mortality rate of nearly 100% without adequate treatment; current therapeutic options are limited. A clinical trial comparing amphotericin B deoxycholate with voriconazole in treatment of IA found voriconazole to be superior. The use of voriconazole, however, is complicated due to its saturable metabolism, nonlinear kinetic profile, and drug interactions, which result in considerable interpatient variability in concentrations. Therefore, therapeutic monitoring of voriconazole trough concentrations may lead to improved patient outcomes. A recent prospective study on the use of voriconazole for treatment of invasive mycoses demonstrated that 46% of the patients had a lack of response when trough plasma concentrations were less than or equal to 1 μg/mL, compared with 12% of patients with trough concentrations greater than 1 μg/mL (p = 0.02). All patients with low trough concentrations who did not respond to voriconazole improved upon dose escalation. The upper limit of a therapeutic range is based on the presence of adverse events. The most common adverse effects associated with voriconazole are visual disturbances (21%) and elevations in liver transaminase levels (12.4%). Current literature suggests that a greater incidence of adverse effects may be associated with trough concentrations greater than 6 μg/mL. Conclusions: A standardized therapeutic range for voriconazole has not been defined. Most available studies recommend trough concentrations of approximately 1–6 μg/mL. Prospective, randomized trials are needed to confirm the correlation between plasma voriconazole concentrations and clinical outcomes.
Probable Interaction Between Warfarin and Torsemide
Authors: Bird Jennifer , Carmona Carlos 
Published: November 2008

Objective:To report a case in which the anticoagulation effect of warfarin appeared to be potentiated by torsemide, possibly due to an interference of metabolism through competition for the CYP2C9 isoenzyme and protein-binding displacement of warfarin.Case Summary:A 43-year-old Hispanic female with congestive heart failure, hypothyroidism, anemia, atrial fibrillation, and a mitral mechanical valve replacement was effectively anticoagulated with a target international normalized ratio (INR) of 2.5–3.5 on a warfarin regimen of 50–52.5 mg/wk. One week following the initiation of torsemide 40 mg in the morning and 20 mg in the afternoon, a marked increase in the INR occurred (6.2), requiring a warfarin dosage reduction. Subsequent titrations over a 3-week period eventually resulted in the achievement of a therapeutic INR (from 3.3 to 2.9) with a new warfarin regimen of 47.5 mg/wk.Discussion:Both torsemide and warfarin are highly protein-bound to albumin and are major substrates for the CYP2C9 isoenzyme. Competition by multiple drugs for metabolism via CYP2C9 may decrease the clearance of the drugs from systemic circulation. Addition of a drug with high protein binding may result in the displacement of other drugs that circulate highly protein-bound. Therefore, it is possible that the addition of torsemide may potentiate the anticoagulant effect of warfarin by (1) competition for metabolism through CYP2C9, with a decrease in the clearance of warfarin, and (2) protein-binding displacement of warfarin from albumin, transiently potentiating anticoagulant activity. An objective causality assessment revealed that the interaction was probable. Cardiology records confirmed the absence of fluid and heart failure status changes; therefore, these were ruled out as potential etiologies. No levothyroxine dosage changes occurred over the previous 14 months; thus, this also was ruled out as a possible etiology.Conclusions:To our knowledge, an interaction between warfarin and torsemide has not been previously reported. While further research should be done to confirm this interaction, practitioners should be made aware of its possibility.
Recommended Nutritional Supplements for Bariatric Surgery Patients
Authors: Malone Margaret 
Published: November 2008

Objective: To review nutritional supplements commonly required after bariatric surgery to provide a practical guide and reference source for generalist healthcare providers. Data Sources: A PubMed literature search (1968–July 2008) was conducted, using the search term nutritional deficiency after bariatric surgery, and was limited to English-language literature on adult (aged >19 y) human subjects. Additional references from the selected literature were also included. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Data were extracted from large clinical series and practice guidelines whenever possible. Case reports were used only when they were the sole information source. Data Synthesis: Nutritional deficiencies that occur after bariatric surgery depend significantly on the type of surgery performed. Restrictive procedures such as gastric banding are the least likely to cause nutritional deficits, since none of the Intestine is bypassed. Malabsorptive procedures such as biliopancreatic diversion or mixed restrictive/malabsorpive procedures (eg, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass) can result in serious nutritional problems when patients do not take required supplements after surgery. Vitamins and minerals that are commonly deficient in this circumstance include vitamin B12, calcium, vitamin D, thiamine, folic acid, iron, zinc, and magnesium. Rare ocular complications have been reported with hypovitaminosis A. Conclusions: Healthcare professionals, especially those who practice outside large bariatric centers, must be aware of the supplements required by patients who have had bariatric surgery. Many patients fail to follow up with the surgery centers and are managed by their primary care teams and community pharmacists, especially in the selection of multivitamin and nutritional supplements.