sot_question
stringlengths 42
9.8k
| ds_name
stringclasses 8
values | pred_label
int64 0
2
| logits
sequencelengths 3
3
|
|---|---|---|---|
['To test the effect of a standardized red wine polyphenolic extract (RWPE) on the phenotype of human liver myofibroblasts in culture.', 'Human myofibroblasts grown from liver explants were used in this study. Cell proliferation was measured with the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Signaling events were analyzed by western blot with phospho-specific antibodies. Matrix-metalloproteinase activity was measured with gel zymography.', 'We found that cell proliferation was dose-dependently decreased by up to 90% by RWPE while cell viability was not affected. Exposure to RWPE also greatly decreased the phosphorylation of ERK1/ERK2 and Akt in response to stimulation by the mitogenic factor platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB). Finally, RWPE affected extracellular matrix remodeling by decreasing the secretion by myofibroblasts of matrix-metalloproteinase-2 and of tissue inhibitor of matrix-metalloproteinases-1.'] Does a red wine polyphenolic extract reduce the activation phenotype of cultured human liver myofibroblasts? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4848780632019043,
-1.2750446796417236,
2.8431591987609863
] |
['Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is one of the most potent biologic vasoconstrictors. Nevertheless, transgenic mice overexpressing ET-1 exhibit normal blood pressure. We hypothesized that in states of ET-1 overproduction, the lack of counterregulatory mediators such as nitric oxide (NO), produced by the inducible NO synthase (iNOS), may critically impair endothelial function and may result in blood pressure elevation.', 'We generated crossbred animals of ET transgenic mice (ET+/+) and iNOS knockout mice (iNOS-/-) and evaluated blood pressure and endothelial function in these animals. Endothelium-dependent and -independent vascular function was assessed as relaxation/contraction of isolated preconstricted aortic rings to acetylcholine, sodium nitroprusside, and ET-1, alone or in the presence of BQ123 or BQ788.', 'Systolic blood pressure was similar in ET+/+, iNOS-/- and wild-type mice, but was significantly elevated in ET+/+ iNOS-/- crossbred animals versus ET+/+ mice. Maximum endothelium-dependent relaxation was enhanced in ET+/+ mice (95 +/- 5 vs. 78 +/- 5% of preconstriction in wild-type littermates; p < 0.05). Additional knockout of iNOS led to a significant decrease of endothelium-dependent relaxation in combined ET+/+ iNOS-/- animals (75 +/- 6%; p < 0.05 vs. ET+/+ mice). Endothelium-independent relaxation was comparable among all groups. Maximum vascular contraction to ET-1 was reduced in ET+/+ mice (33 +/- 4%), iNOS-/- mice (38 +/- 5%) and ET+/+ iNOS-/- mice (44 +/- 4%) to a similar extent as compared with wild-type littermates (66 +/- 4%; p < 0.05).'] Does lack of iNOS impair endothelial function in endothelin-1 transgenic mice? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9495022296905518,
-1.5146143436431885,
2.4020869731903076
] |
['Pathogen eradication in patients with acute otitis media (AOM) is associated with a reduced risk of clinical failures, but most children in whom middle ear fluid (MEF) culture remains positive show clinical improvement or clinical cure. We investigated the relationship between MEF culture-positivity during treatment in patients with clinical improvement/cure, and the occurrence of subsequent AOM.', 'A total of 673 patients with culture-positive MEF were enrolled in double-tympanocentesis studies and followed for 3 weeks after completion of treatment.', 'On day 4-6, 189/673 (28%) patients had culture-positive MEFs. Patients with clinical improvement/cure on day 11-14 (end of treatment) despite having culture-positive MEF on day 4-6 more often had recurrent AOM episodes (53/151, 35%) than those with culture-negative MEF (114/476, 24%; P = 0.007). 41/53 (77%) culture-positive patients with clinical improvement/cure on day 11-14 underwent tympanocentesis when AOM recurred and 29/41 (71%) were culture-positive. Pulsed field gel electrophoresis identity between pathogens at recurrence and those persisting on day 4-6 was found in 19/29 (66%) compared with 31/86 (36%) of the evaluable patients with recurrence and culture-negative MEF on day 4-6 (P = 0.005).'] Is persistence of pathogens despite clinical improvement in antibiotic-treated acute otitis media associated with clinical and bacteriologic relapse? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9708973169326782,
-1.3128498792648315,
2.3779666423797607
] |
["The functional link between mutations in NOD2 and Crohn's disease (CD) has not been entirely elucidated. The 1007fs mutation results in loss of NF-kappaB activation in response to muramyl dipeptide (MDP) but has also been linked to an increased IL-1beta processing and IL-12 release.", 'We investigated the basal and MDP-triggered mRNA expression and protein release for TNF-alpha, IL-10, IL-1beta, and IL-12p40 in peripheral blood monocytes from 40 CD patients and 15 healthy individuals with different NOD2 genotypes.', 'Monocytes from individuals with 2 mutated NOD2 alleles (homozygous and compound-heterozygous individuals) displayed an impaired release of TNF-alpha and IL-10 but also of IL-1beta and IL-12p40 in response to MDP. In contrast to other NOD2 variants, the presence of at least 1 1007fs allele in double-mutated individuals completely abrogated NOD2 receptor function. Interestingly, monocytes from CD patients with 2 mutated NOD2 alleles displayed significantly higher basal levels of IL-12p40 in cell culture supernatants compared to wildtype CD patients and control individuals (P = 0.002 and P = 0.008, respectively). This was regardless of the IL23R genotype and was not mirrored by increased IL-12p40 plasma levels in these individuals.'] Does nOD2/CARD15 genotype influence MDP-induced cytokine release and basal IL-12p40 levels in primary isolated peripheral blood monocytes? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2200229167938232,
-1.3089145421981812,
2.567413806915283
] |
['Rat coagulating gland epithelial cells export proteins by an apocrine secretion mode within membrane blebs arising from the apical plasma membrane. Using a pan-PMCA antibody, we have recently shown the plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase (PMCA) being part of the apical plasma membrane of epithelial cells and incorporated into the aposomal membrane. The mRNA of PMCA isoforms 1 and 4 respectively, have been detected by RT-PCR in rat coagulating gland.', 'In order to identify which PMCA isoform is integrated into aposomes during apocrine secretion and whether or not PMCA export is influenced by androgens RT-PCR, in situ hybridization, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence experiments were performed.', 'PMCA1b is the isoform which is expressed and located in the apical plasma membrane of coagulating gland epithelial cells and is integrated into the aposomal membrane. In contrast, PMCA4 mRNA and protein are restricted to the stroma. Androgen deprivation by castration within 14 days leads to an accumulation of PMCA1b in coagulating gland epithelium, while aposomes are not detected anymore.'] Is the localization of PMCA1b in epithelial cells and aposomes of the rat coagulating gland influenced by androgens? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4216654300689697,
-1.168736219406128,
2.7102210521698
] |
['Metastin, the final peptide of the KiSS-1 gene, has been proposed to suppress cell motility.', 'This study investigated whether renal cell carcinoma (RCC) tissue expresses metastin or its receptor, and clarified whether metastin can suppress migration and/or invasion and/or proliferation of RCC cells in vitro.', 'Twenty-five RCC samples were submitted. Fresh RCC tissues were prepared for real-time RT-PCR, and formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissues blocks were examined by immunohistochemistry. RCC cell lines Caki-1 and ACHN were supplied for cell migration, invasion, and proliferation assays.', 'Real-time RT-PCR was performed by using Taq Man gene expression system. ENVISION system was used in immunohistochemistry. Wound-healing assay and matrigel assays were used to identify migration and invasion abilities of RCC cell lines. Cell Counting Kit-8 was applied to measure the cell proliferation. Cell morphology was examined under a META system. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS15.0J.'] Does metastin inhibit migration and invasion of renal cell carcinoma with overexpression of metastin receptor? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.345590829849243,
-1.3154160976409912,
2.764133930206299
] |
['Manual assessment of radial arterial pulse character remains an important determinant of physiological status in military and civilian casualties. This study hypothesized that changes in radial pulse character and mental status (presyncopal symptoms) in humans occur only during the later stages of progressive reductions in central blood volume in close association with systolic blood pressure (SBP).', 'Pulse character (i.e., normal, weak, absent), estimated stroke volume (SV), SBP, and diastolic blood pressure were measured continuously during baseline supine rest and during progressive reductions of central blood volume to cardiovascular collapse with application of lower body negative pressure (LBNP) in 19 healthy human volunteer subjects.', 'LBNP resulted in a progressive reduction in SV. At early stages of LBNP, both radial pulse character and SBP were well-maintained. Although both radial pulse character and SBP decreased with subsequent increases in LBNP, these changes occurred only after an approximate 55% reduction in SV and were associated with the onset of presyncopal symptoms. Changes in mental status did not occur until the point of cardiovascular collapse.'] Are changes in pulse character and mental status late responses to central hypovolemia? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5985374450683594,
-0.5413206219673157,
2.2676990032196045
] |
['A minority of bystanders will initiate cardiopulmonary (CPR) when a family member collapses in the home. This study sought to better understand the psychological barriers to family-initiated CPR and to determine whether sociodemographic variables are influential.', 'Twelve hundred and eight people were contacted via telephone and asked about their experience with CPR experiences and attitudes toward initiating CPR on a family member.', 'Seventy-four percent of participants had learnt CPR and 68 percent were confident to initiate CPR on a family member. Men, people who had learnt CPR, and people with more than 11 years of education were the most confident groups. People older than 65 were the group least likely to have learnt CPR and least confident to initiate CPR. Participants confident to initiate CPR expressed concerns about fear of failing (37%) or indicated they had no concerns (30%). In contrast, those not confident were most concerned about performing CPR correctly (55%) and 30% were afraid of failing.'] Do psychological factors inhibit family members ' confidence to initiate CPR? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-0.439795583486557,
1.1457476615905762,
-1.41360604763031
] |
['Cholangiocarcinoma is a devastating tumour with a poor prognosis. An efficient therapy is unavailable in unoperable patients and new drugs are widely sought for and required. Resveratrol (RES) is a natural molecule with a reported anticancer effect, evaluated on different tumour cell lines. We tested the efficacy of RES on a cholangiocarcinoma cell line for the first time.', 'We used the human SK-ChA-1 cell line, cultured in the classical two-dimensional model and in the three-dimensional spheroids. After RES exposure morphology, cell viability (colony-forming assay), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and cancer antigen (CA) 19-9 medium releases, cellular transglutaminase activity, karyotype and cell cycle were evaluated.', 'Resveratrol inhibited cell growth in both the cell culture systems used (from -15 to -80% vs untreated controls) and induced a 40-fold increase of LDH and ALP activities in the culture medium. Also, transglutaminase (TG) activity increased in the cell lysates, together with a cell cycle perturbation characterised by an accumulation in the G(1)/S phase. Karyotype and CA 19-9 expression were not influenced by the treatment.'] Does resveratrol inhibit cell growth in a human cholangiocarcinoma cell line? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4753267765045166,
-1.2902140617370605,
2.874807357788086
] |
['Urinary nerve growth factor (NGF) levels have been shown to be increased in patients with symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB). This study was designed to measure the urinary NGF levels in patients with bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) with or without OAB and to determine whether urinary NGF can serve as a biomarker for OAB.', 'Urinary NGF levels were measured in 38 male control subjects without lower urinary tract symptoms and 153 patients with BOO. The diagnosis of BOO was further classified as BOO/non-OAB (n = 21), BOO/OAB (n = 25), BOO with urodynamically confirmed detrusor overactivity (BOO/DO, n = 47), and BOO/OAB in patients who had received successful medical treatment (n = 60). The urinary NGF levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and compared among the different groups. The total urinary NGF levels were normalized to the concentration of the urinary creatinine (NGF/Cr) level.', 'The urinary NGF/Cr levels were very low in the control group (mean +/- standard error 0.005 +/- 0.003) and in patients with BOO/non-OAB (0.017 +/- 0.009) and significantly greater in patients with BOO/OAB (0.81 +/- 0.31) and BOO/DO (0.80 +/- 0.13). The urinary NGF/Cr levels were not significantly different between the BOO/OAB and BOO/DO groups; however, the urinary NGF/Cr levels returned to normal levels (0.059 +/- 0.021) after successful relief of OAB symptoms with medical treatment.'] Are urinary nerve growth factor levels increased in patients with bladder outlet obstruction with overactive bladder symptoms and reduced after successful medical treatment? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.1750882863998413,
-1.7172272205352783,
1.8579908609390259
] |
['The Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model of supported employment for clients with severe mental illness has been described as a standardization of evidence-based supported employment. Although several reviews on the literature on its effectiveness have been conducted, the completion of several new studies suggests an updated review is warranted.', 'We conducted a comprehensive literature search for randomized controlled trials of IPS, limiting our review to programs with high-fidelity IPS programs, locating 11 studies. We examined the following competitive employment outcomes: employment rates, days to first job, annualized weeks worked, and job tenure in longest job held during the follow-up period.', 'Across the 11 studies, the competitive employment rate was 61% for IPS compared to 23% for controls. About two-thirds of those who obtained competitive employment worked 20 hours or more per week. Among those who obtained a competitive job, IPS participants obtained their first job nearly 10 weeks earlier than did controls. Among IPS participants who obtained competitive work, duration of employment after the start of the first job averaged 24.2 weeks per year, or 47% of the 52-week year.'] Do an update on randomized controlled trials of evidence-based supported employment? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.1556940078735352,
-0.14431700110435486,
0.39967095851898193
] |
['To identify correlates of impaired quality of life (QOL), anxiety, and depression in patients with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD).', 'Surviving patients (n = 610) who received an ICD in our institution since 1989 completed the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Mean age was 62.4 years with 18% females. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, symptomatic heart failure was the most important correlate of impaired QOL (SF-36) across all eight subscales [odds ratios (ORs) ranging from 5.21 to 22.53)], whereas psychotropic medication, age, comorbidity, amiodarone, and ICD shocks all correlated to a lesser extent. Symptomatic heart failure was also the most dominant correlate of anxiety [OR 5.15 (3.08-8.63), P < 0.001] and depression [OR 6.82 (3.77-12.39), P < 0.001]. Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator shocks correlated less yet significantly with anxiety [OR 2.21 (1.32-3.72) P < 0.01] and depression [OR 2.00 (1.06-3.80), P < 0.05].'] Is symptomatic heart failure the most important clinical correlate of impaired quality of life , anxiety , and depression in implantable cardioverter-defibrillator patients : a single-centre , cross-sectional study in 610 patients? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.192009687423706,
-1.128417730331421,
2.4969186782836914
] |
['Cell adhesion molecules have long been implicated in the regulation of axon growth, but the precise cellular roles played by individual cell adhesion molecules and the molecular basis for their action are still not well understood. We have used the sensory system of the Drosophila embryo to shed light on the mechanism by which the L1-type cell adhesion molecule Neuroglian regulates axon growth.', 'We have found a highly penetrant sensory axon stalling phenotype in neuroglian mutant embryos. Axons stalled at a variety of positions along their normal trajectory, but most commonly in the periphery some distance along the peripheral nerve. All lateral and dorsal cluster sensory neurons examined, except for the dorsal cluster neuron dbd, showed stalling. Sensory axons were never seen to project along inappropriate pathways in neuroglian mutants and stalled axons showed normal patterns of fasciculation within nerves. The growth cones of stalled axons possessed a simple morphology, similar to their appearance in wild-type embryos when advancing along nerves. Driving expression of the wild-type form of Neuroglian in sensory neurons alone rescued the neuroglian mutant phenotype of both pioneering and follower neurons. A partial rescue was achieved by expressing the Neuroglian extracellular domain. Over/mis-expression of Neuroglian in all neurons, oenocytes or trachea had no apparent effect on sensory axon growth.'] Is the L1-type cell adhesion molecule Neuroglian necessary for maintenance of sensory axon advance in the Drosophila embryo? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.680795192718506,
-0.6978062987327576,
2.416862964630127
] |
['Earlier publications have suggested a possible role for the efflux transporter breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) in acquired resistance to disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as leflunomide and its metabolite A771726 (teriflunomide). However, there is no direct evidence that BCRP interacts with these drugs.', 'To characterise the interaction between BCRP transporter and leflunomide and its active metabolite A771726, with emphasis on the nature of the interaction (substrate or inhibitor) and the kinetic characterisation of the interactions.', 'Different in vitro membrane-based methods (ATPase and vesicular transport assay) using BCRP-HAM-Sf9 membrane preparations and cellular assays (Hoechst assay and cytotoxicity assay) were performed on PLB985-BCRP and HEK293-BCRP cell lines overexpressing BCRP.', 'In all assays used, an interaction between the investigated drugs and BCRP was detected. In the vesicular transport assay, both leflunomide and its metabolite inhibited BCRP-mediated methotrexate transport. Both compounds are likely substrates of BCRP as shown by the vanadate-sensitive ATPase assay. In line with the membrane assays, leflunomide and A771726 inhibited BCRP-mediated Hoechst efflux from PLB985-BCRP cells. In the cytotoxicity assay, overexpression of BCRP conferred 20.6-fold and 7.5-fold resistance to HEK293 cells against leflunomide and A771726, respectively. The resistance could be reversed by Ko134, a specific inhibitor of BCRP.'] Are leflunomide and its metabolite A771726 high affinity substrates of BCRP : implications for drug resistance? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.383859395980835,
-1.223161220550537,
2.665339708328247
] |
['Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) possess intrinsic features that identify them as useful for treating ischaemic syndromes. Poor in vivo survival/engraftment of MSCs, however, limits their overall effectiveness. In this work, we tested whether genetically engineering MSCs to secrete erythropoietin (Epo) could represent a better therapeutic platform than MSCs in their native form.', 'MSCs from C57Bl/6 mice were retrovirally transduced with either an empty vector or one that causes the production of Epo and were then analysed for the alterations in angiogenic and survival potential. Using a mouse model of myocardial infarction (MI), the regenerative potential of null MSCs and Epo-overexpressing MSCs (Epo+MSCs) was assessed using serial echocardiogram and invasive haemodynamic measurements. Infarct size, capillary density and neutrophil influx were assessed using histologic techniques. Using in vitro assays coupled with an in vivo Matrigel plug assay, we demonstrate that engineering MSCs to express Epo does not alter their immunophenotype or plasticity. However, relative to mock-modified MSCs [wild-type (WT)-MSCs], Epo+MSCs are more resilient to apoptotic stimuli and initiate a more robust host-derived angiogenic response. We also identify and characterize the autocrine loop established on MSCs by having them secrete Epo. Furthermore, in a murine model of MI, animals receiving intracardiac injections of Epo+MSCs exhibited significantly enhanced cardiac function compared with WT-MSCs and saline-injected control animals post-MI, owing to the increased myocardial capillary density and the reduced neutrophilia.'] Does coupling erythropoietin secretion to mesenchymal stromal cells enhance their regenerative properties? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3660390377044678,
-1.3561060428619385,
2.7772397994995117
] |
['Heat shock protein 27 (Hsp27) renders cardioprotection from ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, but little is known about its role in myofilaments. We proposed that increased expression of Hsp27 may improve post-ischaemic contractile dysfunction by preventing I/R-induced cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and troponin T (cTnT) degradation.', 'Adenovirus-mediated Hsp27 overexpression improved contractile function in perfused rat hearts subjected to global no-flow I/R (30-min/30-min). Such improvement was further confirmed in Hsp27-overexpressing cardiomyocytes subjected to simulated I/R (20-min/30-min). Moreover, these cells showed restored myofilament response to Ca(2+) but not intracellular Ca(2+) transients. The protection correlated with attenuation of I/R-induced cTnI and cTnT degradation. Confocal microscopy revealed co-localization of Hsp27 with these proteins. Co-immunoprecipitation and pull-down assays further confirmed that Hsp27 interacted with the COOH-terminus of cTnI and the NH(2)-terminus of cTnT and that Hsp27 overexpression decreased the interaction between mu-calpain (a protease mediating proteolysis of cTnI and cTnT) and cTnI or cTnT under I/R.'] Does overexpression of heat shock protein 27 protect against ischaemia/reperfusion-induced cardiac dysfunction via stabilization of troponin I and T? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.359646797180176,
-1.3818846940994263,
2.780165195465088
] |
['Nationwide interview survey.', 'To determine the 1-month prevalence and impact of back and neck pain among centenarians and to investigate associations between back and neck pain and other health measures such as physical function, depression, comorbidity, and self-rated health.', 'To our knowledge prevalence and impact of back and neck pain has never been studied among the oldest old.', 'Information on the 1-month prevalence of back and neck pain and bothersomeness of back and neck pain was collected using face-to-face interviews in a nationwide survey of Danish centenarians. In addition, information on physical and mental functional abilities, self-rated health, and comorbidities were collected.', 'Two hundred fifty-six persons completed the interview (response rate, 56%). Twenty-nine percent of women and 17% of men had experienced back pain, and 23% of women and 19% of men had experienced neck pain during the past month. This was comparable to another nationwide Danish survey of younger seniors. Twenty-one percent had been bothered by back pain either when moving, resting, or sleeping. Poor overall physical function, bad self-rated health, and higher depression score were associated with higher prevalence of back and neck pain.'] Are pain in the back and neck with us until the end : a nationwide interview-based survey of Danish 100-year-olds? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-1.1237739324569702,
1.8815207481384277,
-1.2677814960479736
] |
['Exhaled nitric oxide is increased in asthma, but the mechanisms controlling its production, including the effects of T-helper type 2 (Th2) cytokines, are poorly understood. In mouse and submerged human epithelial cells, Th2 cytokines inhibit expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Arginases have been proposed to contribute to asthma pathogenesis by limiting the arginine substrate available to NOS enzymes, but expression of any of these enzymes has not been extensively studied in primary human cells.', 'We hypothesized that primary human airway epithelial cells in air-liquid interface (ALI) culture would increase iNOS expression and activity in response to IL-13, while decreasing arginase expression.', 'iNOS and arginase mRNA (real-time PCR) and protein expression (Western blot and immunofluorescence) as well as iNOS activity (nitrite levels) were measured in ALI epithelial cells cultured from bronchial brushings of normal and asthmatic subjects following IL-13 stimulation.', 'IL-13 up-regulated iNOS mRNA primarily at a transcriptional level in epithelial cells. iNOS protein and activity also increased, arginase1 protein expression decreased while arginase 2 expression did not change. The changes in iNOS protein correlated strongly with changes in nitrites, and inclusion of arginase (1 or 2) did not substantially change the relationship. Interestingly, iNOS mRNA and protein were not correlated.'] Are iL-13 induced increases in nitrite levels primarily driven by increases in inducible nitric oxide synthase as compared with effects on arginases in human primary bronchial epithelial cells? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5058979988098145,
-1.114382028579712,
2.653841972351074
] |
['To analyze whether the polymorphisms -22 (G/C) and -348 (C/T) of the BAT1 gene are associated with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA).', 'One hundred fifty-six patients with RA and 154 controls were genotyped for HLA-DRB1 and the polymorphisms -22 and -348 of the BAT1 gene.', 'HLA-DRB1*04 alleles were associated with RA susceptibility (33.9% vs 20.1%; pc = 0.04). Among these, HLA-DRB1*0401 (13.4% vs 5.1%; pc = 0.04) and HLA-DRB1*0404 (5.7% vs 1.2%; pc = 0.2) were increased in patients with RA. Additionally, carriage of BAT1 -348T polymorphism was strongly associated with RA (23.7% vs 12.1%; pc = 0.0002). Significantly, BAT1 -348T was in linkage disequilibrium with HLA-DRB1*0404 and HLA-DRB1*0405. However, BAT1 -348 T was associated independently with HLA-DRB1 shared-epitope alleles (42.6% vs 18.9%; p = 0.001).'] Is bAT1 promoter polymorphism associated with rheumatoid arthritis susceptibility? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.784051775932312,
-1.3084379434585571,
2.138241767883301
] |
['Exogenous subclinical hyperthyroidism is associated with cardiovascular and metabolic changes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of levothyroxine (LT4) suppression on endothelial function and insulin sensitivity in euthyroid nodular goiter patients.', 'Twenty-two euthyroid patients with multinodular goiter (MNG) and 22 matched healthy controls were studied. LT4 was administered in doses ranging from 50 to 150 microg/day to reach target serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels <0.5 mIU/L. Patients were studied before and after 8 weeks after the target TSH level <0.5 mIU/L. The control group was studied twice, 16 weeks apart. Flow mediated vasodilatation (FMD), insulin sensitivity index (ISI), lipid peroxidation, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were the outcome measures.', 'LT4 treatment significantly suppressed TSH levels to 0.2 +/- 0.1 mIU/L (minimum and maximum range was 0.05-0.3 mIU/L). FMD decreased from 10.7 +/- 2.7% to 5.4 +/- 1.7% (p < 0.001) and mean ISI decreased from 2.56 +/- 1.10 to 1.41 +/- 0.50 (p < 0.001) with LT4 treatment in the MNG group. Lipid peroxidation measured as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (Tbars) (p < 0.05), and hsCRP (p < 0.001) levels significantly increased compared to the baseline in the MNG group. FMD measurement inversely correlated with free T4 (p = 0.008) and Tbars (p = 0.004), and positively correlated with ISI (p = 0.004). Serum Tbars and hsCRP were independent predictors of FMD (p = 0.004) in multivariate analysis. All results expressed as mean +/- SD.'] Does exogenous subclinical hyperthyroidism impair endothelial function in nodular goiter patients? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7885719537734985,
-1.625659704208374,
2.3923282623291016
] |
['An assessment of the reproducibility of the acetabular index on the basis of anteroposterior radiographs of the pelvis was performed in order to rule out residual dysplasia of the hip in the second year of life.', "51 consecutive patients (41 girls, 10 boys) with congenital dysplasia of the hip (35 bilateral, 16 unilateral) were included. Approximately at the time children started walking (mean age: 13.9 months; range: 10 - 22 months), digitised anteroposterior radiographs of the pelvis were recorded. Acetabular indices were measured bilaterally and blinded by two observers (O1 and O2), then classified according to the normal values of the hip joint described by Tönnis et al. (normal = lower single standard deviation [s], light dysplasia = above single standard deviation [s - 2 s] and severe dysplasie = above double standard deviation [2 s]). O2 repeated a second set of observations 6 weeks after the first. 306 values of the acetabular index (O1: 102 values; O2: 204 values) were statistically evaluated. Reliability was expressed by Pearson's correlation coefficient (PCC) and 95 % confidence interval. The rater agreement of the classification into normal values of the hip joint was calculated with the kappa coefficient.", 'The PCC for intraobserver/interobserver reliability was 0.928/0.875. The 95 % confidence interval for intraobserver reliability was +/- 3.1 degrees and for interobserver reliability - 3.1 degrees /+ 5.9 degrees . A comparison of the first series of measurements by O1 with the series of measurements by O2 presented congruence in 66 of 102 hip joints classified according to the normal values of the hip joint as described by Tönnis. In 36 hip joints the classification was deviant, in 15 the classification differed between normal and s, in 21 between s and 2 s. The kappa coefficient of 0.51 showed moderate interobserver agreement.'] Do [ Reliability of digital measurement of acetabular index in hip dysplasia to the time children start walking ]? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.530322790145874,
-1.8268940448760986,
1.4083443880081177
] |
['No longitudinal study on sensory processing in children with fragile X syndrome (FXS) exists. This study examined developmental trajectories and correlates of sensory processing from infancy through preschool years in 13 boys with FXS.', 'Participants were assessed using observational and parent-report measures 2-6 times between 9 and 54 months of age.', 'Over time, an increasing proportion of boys displayed sensory processing that differed significantly from test norms. Observational measures were more sensitive than parent-reports early in infancy. Age and developmental quotient significantly predicted levels of hyporesponsiveness; there was a trend for hyperresponsiveness to increase with age. Baseline physiological and biological measures were not predictive.'] Does developmental trajectories and correlate of sensory processing in young boys with fragile X syndrome? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7541354894638062,
0.45916154980659485,
0.4656355381011963
] |
['Sleep disturbance is a reliable marker for differentiating children with bipolar spectrum disorders from those with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Sleep-related items were extracted from the Parent General Behavior Inventory (P-GBI) to determine whether these items, as a scale unto themselves, demonstrate adequate psychometrics to be useful as a possible endophenotypic marker for bipolar spectrum disorders.', 'From July 2003 to July 2007, 625 youths and their parents completed semistructured Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children-Present and Lifetime version interviews. Parents also completed the 73-item P-GBI.', 'Participants with bipolar spectrum disorders (DSM-IV criteria) scored significantly higher than all other participants on all 7 of the sleep variables (p < .005). On receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, the sleep subscale did substantially as well at discriminating participants with bipolar spectrum disorders as did either of the 2 built-in GBI scales, depression and hypomanic/biphasic (area under the ROC curve = 0.74 vs. 0.75 and 0.77, respectively).'] Do a Parent General Behavior Inventory subscale to measure sleep disturbance in pediatric bipolar disorder? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.5988346338272095,
-1.083930253982544,
1.7572557926177979
] |
['Men and women with breast cancer have similar risks of morbidity related to axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). Sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy minimizes this risk. We report results from the largest series of SLN biopsies for male breast cancer and compare this experience with that of female counterparts treated concurrently.', 'The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center SLN biopsy database showed that 7,315 SLN biopsy procedures were performed for primary breast cancer from September 1996 to July 2005. Of these, 78 (1.0%) procedures were performed in men. Followup data were obtained from medical record review.', 'SLN biopsy was successful in 76 of 78 (97%) patients. Negative SLNs were found in 39 of 76 (51%) patients. In 3 (8%) patients with negative SLNs, a positive non-SLN was found, identified by intraoperative palpation. Positive SLNs were found in 37 of 76 (49%) patients. In 22 of 37 (59%), node positivity was determined intraoperatively, prompting immediate ALND. In 15 of 37 (41%) patients with positive SLNs, node positivity was determined postoperatively. Of these 15, 9 (60%) underwent completion ALND. In the 2 of 78 (3%) patients with failed SLN biopsy procedures, ALND was performed and yielded positive nodes. At a median followup of 28 months (range 5 to 96 months), there were no axillary recurrences. Compared with their female counterparts, men with breast cancer had larger tumors and were more likely to have positive nodes.'] Is sentinel lymph node biopsy successful and accurate in male breast carcinoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.490391731262207,
-1.5856249332427979,
1.9403929710388184
] |
['Two decade-old studies of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) patients documented a 25% to 35% incidence of postoperative hyperbilirubinemia, associated with increased in-hospital morbidity and mortality. Longterm consequences of this complication are unknown.', 'Medical records of CPB patients were reviewed. Mortality was ascertained through the National Death Index. Proportional hazards determined important factors in post-CPB survival. Logistic regression delineated predictors of hyperbilirubinemia. Kaplan-Meier and Mantel-Cox log-rank survival analyses compared hyperbilirubinemia groups.', 'Bilirubin levels were followed in 826 (59.7%) patients. Bilirubin was normal in 570 (69.0%) patients (group 1), it was 1.4 to 2.8 mg/dL in 184 (22.3%) patients (group 2), and it exceeded 2.8 mg/dL in 72 (8.7%) patients (group 3). Elevated bilirubin was associated with decreased body mass index, congestive heart failure, heparin before operation, postoperative transfusion requirement, bleeding, and renal failure. In-hospital mortality was 4.3% in group 2 and 25.0% in group 3, compared with 0.9% in group 1 (p<0.001). Two-year crude survival was 95.8% in group 1, 84.8% in group 2, and 62.5% in group 3 (p<0.001). Multivariable predictors of longterm mortality were older age, history of stroke, emergency operation, increased duration of cardiopulmonary bypass, respiratory failure, and elevated bilirubin. Compared with survival in group 1, there was a 1.7-fold decrease in group 2 2-year survival (95% CI 0.9 to 3.0; p=0.09) and a 3.8-fold decrease in group 3 survival (95% CI 2.0 to 7.2; p<0.001).'] Is postoperative hyperbilirubinemia an independent predictor of longterm outcomes after cardiopulmonary bypass? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7889236211776733,
-1.5335156917572021,
2.3163208961486816
] |
['To explore the possible relationship between the polymorphism of CA short tandem repeat in first intron of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) gene and the susceptibility of aplastic anemia.', '54 patients, who were diagnosed as acquired aplastic anemia in West China Hospital of Sichuan University when it was from February 2006 to March 2007, and simultaneously 51 healthy adults were enrolled as normal control for this project. The polymerase chain reaction and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis were used to assay the polymorphism of CA short tandem repeat.', "The frequency of the homozygous for 12-12 (CA) repeats or the single allele 12 (CA) repeats of the patients was 18.52% or 50.92% respectively, which was obviously higher than the control group's frequency which was 2.00% or 26.47% (P = 0.008, P < 0.001 respectively). The frequency of the homozygous for 12 (CA) repeats or the single allele 12 (CA) in acute aplastic anemia group was 12. 00% or 48.00%, while in the chronic aplastic anemia group that frequency was 24.14% or 53.45%, the statistic analysis showed there was no significant difference between those two groups (chi2 = 1.311, P = 0.252, chi2 = 0.319, P = 0.572)."] Is [ The polymorphism of interferon gamma gene CA short tandem repeat associated with aplastic anemia ]? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.054967164993286,
-1.1089880466461182,
2.2497029304504395
] |
['Small RNAs (sRNAs) are widespread among bacteria and have diverse regulatory roles. Most of these sRNAs have been discovered by a combination of computational and experimental methods. In Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a ubiquitous Gram-negative bacterium and opportunistic human pathogen, the GacS/GacA two-component system positively controls the transcription of two sRNAs (RsmY, RsmZ), which are crucial for the expression of genes involved in virulence. In the biocontrol bacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens CHA0, three GacA-controlled sRNAs (RsmX, RsmY, RsmZ) regulate the response to oxidative stress and the expression of extracellular products including biocontrol factors. RsmX, RsmY and RsmZ contain multiple unpaired GGA motifs and control the expression of target mRNAs at the translational level, by sequestration of translational repressor proteins of the RsmA family.', "A combined computational and experimental approach enabled us to identify 14 intergenic regions encoding sRNAs in P. aeruginosa. Eight of these regions encode newly identified sRNAs. The intergenic region 1698 was found to specify a novel GacA-controlled sRNA termed RgsA. GacA regulation appeared to be indirect. In P. fluorescens CHA0, an RgsA homolog was also expressed under positive GacA control. This 120-nt sRNA contained a single GGA motif and, unlike RsmX, RsmY and RsmZ, was unable to derepress translation of the hcnA gene (involved in the biosynthesis of the biocontrol factor hydrogen cyanide), but contributed to the bacterium's resistance to hydrogen peroxide. In both P. aeruginosa and P. fluorescens the stress sigma factor RpoS was essential for RgsA expression."] Does genome-wide search reveal a novel GacA-regulated small RNA in Pseudomonas species? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.238445281982422,
-1.0069047212600708,
2.3293042182922363
] |
['Cellular processes occur within dynamic and multi-molecular compartments whose characterization requires analysis at high spatio-temporal resolution. Notable examples for such complexes are cell-matrix adhesion sites, consisting of numerous cytoskeletal and signaling proteins. These adhesions are highly variable in their morphology, dynamics, and apparent function, yet their molecular diversity is poorly defined.', 'We present here a compositional imaging approach for the analysis and display of multi-component compositions. This methodology is based on microscopy-acquired multicolor data, multi-dimensional clustering of pixels according to their composition similarity and display of the cellular distribution of these composition clusters. We apply this approach for resolving the molecular complexes associated with focal-adhesions, and the time-dependent effects of Rho-kinase inhibition. We show here compositional variations between adhesion sites, as well as ordered variations along the axis of individual focal-adhesions. The multicolor clustering approach also reveals distinct sensitivities of different focal-adhesion-associated complexes to Rho-kinase inhibition.'] Does quantitative multicolor compositional imaging resolve molecular domains in cell-matrix adhesions? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.491285562515259,
-0.6385764479637146,
2.2926878929138184
] |
['Berries are a good natural source of phenolic compounds and many berries or their compounds have been shown to be chemopreventive. White currant is an interesting berry, as it contains low levels of dominant berry phenolics such as ellagic acid, anthocyanins and other flavonoids.', 'To study if white currant is chemopreventive in an experimental model for intestinal tumorigenesis and further study the effects on beta-catenin and NF-kappaB signaling pathways.', 'Multiple intestinal neoplasia (Min) mice were fed an AIN-93G based control diet or a diet containing 10% freeze dried white currant (Ribes x pallidum) for 10 weeks. Cell signaling parameters were analysed from intestinal adenomas and surrounding mucosa by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry.', 'The white currant diet reduced the number of adenomas from 81 (min-max 47-114) to 51 (36-84) in the total small intestine of Min mice (P<0.02). Most of the adenomas develop in the distal part of the small intestine, and in this area white currant reduced the number from 49 to 29.5 (P<0.01) and also the size of the adenomas from 0.88 mm to 0.70 mm (P<0.02). In the colon white currant increased the number of adenomas (0.3+/-0.6 vs. 0.8+/-0.6, mean +/- SD, P<0.05), but did not affect the size. White currant reduced nuclear beta-catenin and NF-kappaB protein levels in the adenomas (P<0.05 and P<0.02, respectively). They were correlated with the size of adenomas (P<0.01).'] Is chemoprevention by white currant mediated by the reduction of nuclear beta-catenin and NF-kappaB levels in Min mice adenomas? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.8678913116455078,
-1.2785300016403198,
2.1644287109375
] |
['The optimal treatment for locally recurrent rectal cancer (LRRC) is still a matter of debate. This study assessed the outcome of LRRC patients treated with multimodality treatment, consisting of neoadjuvant radio (chemo-) therapy, extended resection, and intraoperative radiotherapy.', 'One hundred and forty-seven consecutive patients with LRRC who underwent treatment between 1994 and 2006 were studied. The prognostic values of patient-, tumor- and treatment-related characteristics were tested with uni- and multivariate analysis.', 'Median overall survival was 28 months (range 0-146 months). Five-year overall, disease-free, and metastasis-free survival and local control (OS, DFS, MFS, and LC respectively) were 31.5%, 34.1%, 49.5% and 54.1% respectively. Radical resection (R0) was obtained in 84 patients (57.2%), microscopically irradical resection (R1) in 34 patients (23.1%), and macroscopically irradical resection (R2) in 29 patients (19.7%). For patients with a radical resection median OS was 59 months and the 5-year OS, DFS, MFS, and LC were 48.4%, 52.3%, 65.5% and 68.9%, respectively. Radical resection was significantly correlated with improved OS, DFS, and LC (P < 0.001). Patients who received re-irradiation or full-course radiotherapy survived significantly longer (P = 0.043) and longer without local recurrence (P = 0.038) or metastasis (P < 0.001) compared to patients who were not re-irradiated.'] Is radical resection after IORT-containing multimodality treatment the most important determinant for outcome in patients treated for locally recurrent rectal cancer? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.759620189666748,
-1.5363688468933105,
2.260612964630127
] |
['Antiepiligrin cicatricial pemphigoid is a mucosal-predominant subepidermal blistering disease associated with an increased relative risk of cancer. In contrast to prior reports showing that anti-laminin (L)-332 autoantibodies are a reliable marker for patients with antiepiligrin cicatricial pemphigoid, a recent report suggested that as many as 40% of patients with bullous pemphigoid (BP) have IgG reactive with this laminin isoform.', 'We sought to determine whether patients with BP possess circulating IgG anti-L-332 autoantibodies.', 'Sera from 100 adults with BP were analyzed by indirect immunofluorescence testing of intact skin, immunoblot studies of human keratinocyte (HK) extracts, and a new L-332 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Sera showing reactivity suggestive of anti-L-332 autoantibodies in these assays were further analyzed in immunoblot studies of HK extracellular matrix and immunoprecipitation studies of biosynthetically radiolabeled HK extracts.', 'IgG from all patients with BP bound intact epidermal basement membrane by indirect immunofluorescence microscopy and immunoblotted bullous pemphigoid antigen-1, -2, or both in HK extracts. None of these sera immunoblotted L-332 in HK extracts, although 13 did score above the cut point of a new IgG(4) L-332 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (sensitivity = 0.91, specificity = 0.98, Youden index = 0.89). Further analysis of sera from these 13 patients found: (1) all had IgG that bound the epidermal side of 1 mol/L NaCl split skin by indirect immunofluorescence microscopy; (2) none immunoblotted L-332 purified from HK extracellular matrix; and (3) none immunoprecipitated L-332 from biosynthetically radiolabeled HK extracts.'] Are igG anti-laminin-332 autoantibodies present in a subset of patients with mucous membrane , but not bullous , pemphigoid? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.0980536937713623,
-1.5664509534835815,
2.649838447570801
] |
['The aim of our study was to examine, in a recent cohort of kidney transplant recipients who have received modern immunosuppressive therapy, the respective role of cold ischemia time (CIT) and delayed graft function (DGF) on acute rejection (AR) rates and long-term graft survival.', 'We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 611 renal transplantations between 1996 and 2005. Most patients received a calcineurin inhibitor as maintenance therapy, either cyclosporine (43%) or tacrolimus (52%) and 76% of the patients received an antilymphocyte induction therapy. Study endpoints were DGF, first-year AR, and long-term graft survival. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed to determine factors that may have influenced the study outcomes.', 'DGF was observed in 16.2% of patients. Both older donor age and longer CIT were significant risk factors for DGF. DGF rates were similar whether patients received a calcineurin inhibitor before transplantation or not. AR occurred in 16.5% of grafts during the first year. Independent predictors of AR by multivariate analysis were duration of dialysis, CIT, current panel-reactive lymphocytotoxic antibody more than 5%, and the number of human leukocyte antigen-A, B, and DR mismatches. Each hour of cold ischemia increases the risk of rejection by 4%. With respect to death-censored graft survival, three pretransplant parameters emerged as independent predictors of graft loss: younger recipient age, peak panel-reactive lymphocytotoxic antibody more than 5% and longer CIT. The detrimental effect of CIT on graft survival was entirely because of its propensity to trigger AR. When AR was added to the multivariate Cox model, CIT was no longer significant whereas first-year AR became the most important predictor of graft loss (Hazards ratio, 4.6).'] Is cold ischemia a major determinant of acute rejection and renal graft survival in the modern era of immunosuppression? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2021095752716064,
-1.4522255659103394,
2.6787312030792236
] |
['To examine whether vesicourethral reflux diagnosed by positioned instillation of contrast (PIC-VUR) shows clinical importance by comparing the incidence rates of febrile urinary tract infection (FUTI) before and after treatment of PIC-VUR.', 'Beginning in 2001 we used a multi-institutional registry to prospectively enroll consecutive pediatric patients with a history of FUTI without VUR according to voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) and yet who show PIC-VUR. Treatment of PIC-VUR was with prophylactic antimicrobials or antireflux surgery. The post-treatment occurrence of FUTI was tracked.', 'A total of 14 centers enrolled 118 patients (mean age, 7.2 years; range, 0.5 to 20 years). Parents self-selected the treatment of PIC-VUR as endoscopic injection (104), ureteral reimplantation (3), or antimicrobial prophylaxis (11). Study intervals surveying for FUTI before PIC (mean, 12 months; range, 1 to 17 years) and after PIC treatment (mean, 11 months; range, 0 to 3 years) were not significantly different. Overall the incidence rate for FUTI decreased significantly from 0.16 per patient per month before PIC-VUR treatment to 0.008 per patient per month after treatment (rate ratio 20; 95% confidence interval 11 to 36). The post-treatment rate of FUTI in patients treated with antibiotics versus surgery was not significantly different (rate ratio 2.5; 95% confidence interval 0.33 to 27).'] Does treatment of occult reflux lower the incidence rate of pediatric febrile urinary tract infection? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.278537392616272,
-1.7084842920303345,
1.9872981309890747
] |
['Understanding the role of integrins in the formation of vascular bed is important for designing new therapeutic approaches to ameliorate or inhibit pathological vascularization. Besides regulating cell adhesion and migration, integrins dynamically participate in a network with soluble molecules and their receptors. This study summarizes recent progress in the understanding of the reciprocal interactions between integrins, tyrosine kinase, and semaphorin receptors.', 'During angiogenic remodeling, endothelial cells that line blood vessel walls dynamically modify their integrin-mediated adhesive contacts with the surrounding extracellular matrix. During angiogenesis, opposing autocrine and paracrine loops of growth factors and semaphorins regulate endothelial integrin activation and function through tyrosine kinase receptors and the neuropilin/plexins system. Moreover, proangiogenic and antiangiogenic factors can directly bind integrins and regulate endothelial cell behavior. Studies describing these intense research areas are discussed.'] Do integrins team up with tyrosine kinase receptors and plexins to control angiogenesis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.9561538696289062,
-0.3454922139644623,
2.340630531311035
] |
['Activation of Fas signaling has been associated with the development of cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. In the present study, we investigated the effects of increased expression of c-Flip, a natural modulator of Fas receptor signaling, in a mouse model of cardiac growth response to pressure overload.', 'A transgenic mouse overexpressing c-Flip in the heart was generated in FVB/N strain. Echocardiographic, hemodynamic, histological and molecular analyses were carried out under basal conditions and after transverse aortic constriction (TAC)-induced pressure overload.', 'Overexpression of c-Flip in ventricular heart tissue was functionally silent under basal conditions affecting neither cardiac morphology nor basal cardiac function. Transgenic mice were then subjected to pressure overload by TAC procedure. Under such conditions, c-Flip transgenic mice showed normal left ventricular function with a significantly reduced left ventricular hypertrophy compared with wild-type mice and reduced induction of the cardiac "fetal" gene programme. Further, analysis of intracellular signaling pathways indicated that c-Flip overexpression reduced phosphorylation of both the glycogen synthase kinase 3beta (GSK3 beta) and Akt as compared with controls. Finally, the reduction of the TAC-induced hypertrophy was not accompanied by significant apoptosis increase.'] Does c-Flip overexpression reduce cardiac hypertrophy in response to pressure overload? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5073156356811523,
-1.1603753566741943,
2.685685634613037
] |
['The aim of the present study was to determine whether the central antihypertensive effect of drugs that act via central alpha 2-adrenergic receptors is mediated by the nitric oxide-ergic system.', "The hypotensive effects of dexmedetomidine, a 'pure' alpha2-adrenergic agonist, were compared in endothelial nitric oxide synthase knockout and wild-type control mice.", 'When injected intravenously (5 mug/kg) in wild-type mice, dexmedetomidine elicited a depressor response (60 +/- 4 to 34 +/- 1 mmHg, P < 0.05), but had no hypotensive effect in endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) knockout mice (84 +/- 7 to 84 +/- 7 mmHg, P > 0.05). In the presence of N-omega-nitro-L-arginine, a nonselective nitric oxide synthase (NOS) blocker that does not cross the blood-brain barrier, the hypotensive effect of dexmedetomidine was not abolished (Delta MAP = 21 +/- 2 mmHg vs. Delta MAP = 26 +/- 3 mmHg, P > 0.05).'] Is the central hypotensive effect induced by alpha 2-adrenergic receptor stimulation dependent on endothelial nitric oxide synthase? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2657291889190674,
-1.4301304817199707,
2.7294564247131348
] |
['The aim of this study was to explore the possible pharmacoresistant mechanism by developing a kind of astrocyte model induced by Coriaria lactone (CL).', 'Astrocyte cells from natal Sprague-Dawley rats (within 24 hours of birth) were cultured. Different volumes of CL (1 microL, 3 microL, 9 microL, 15 microL) were added to the cultures for 7, 14, 21 or 28 days. The expression of P-glycoprotein (Pgp), the protein product of multidrug resistance 1 (MDR1), was investigated with immunocytochemistry and image analysis.', 'CL induced the overexpression of Pgp in astrocytes in a time-dependent manner. The up-regulation of Pgp expression was detected to any concentration of CL from day 14 to 28 (P < 0.01). On the day 21, 28, the up-regulation of Pgp expression level was no dose-dependent manner (P > 0.05).'] Does [ Coriaria lactone induce in vitro the overexpression of multidrug resistance P-glycoprotein in astrocyte from rat brain ]? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.304542303085327,
-1.2123756408691406,
2.6097941398620605
] |
['Development of therapies for patients with BRCA1 mutations has been hampered by lack of readily available in vitro and in vivo models. We recently showed that transplantation of transgenic mammary tumors as cell suspensions into naïve recipients generates reproducible tumors with remarkable stability of gene expression profile. We examined the expression profiles of original and serially transplanted mammary tumors from Brca1 deficient mice, and tumor derived cell lines to validate their use for preclinical testing and studies of tumor biology.', 'Original tumors, serially transplanted and multiple cell lines derived from Brca1 mammary tumors were characterized by morphology, gene and protein expression, and cell surface markers.', 'Gene expression among Brca1 tumors showed more heterogeneity than among previously characterized tumors from MMTV-PyMT and -Wnt1 models. Gene expression data segregated Brca1 tumors into 3 distinct types: basal, mixed luminal, and tumors with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Serial transplantation of individual tumors and multiple cell lines derived from the original tumors recapitulated the molecular characteristics of each tumor of origin. One tumor had distinct features of EMT and gave rise to cell lines that contained a distinct CD44+/CD24-/low population that may correlate with human breast cancer stem cells.'] Does molecular analysis reveal heterogeneity of mouse mammary tumors conditionally mutant for Brca1? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.417353630065918,
-1.0878952741622925,
2.6258392333984375
] |
['To determine factors predictive for esophageal varices in severe alcoholic disease (SAD).', 'Abdominal ultrasonography (US) was performed on 444 patients suffering from alcoholism. Forty-four patients found to have splenomegaly and/ or withering of the right liver lobe were defined as those with SAD. SAD patients were examined by upper gastrointestinal (UGI) endoscopy for the presence of esophageal varices. The existence of esophageal varices was then related to clinical variables.', 'Twenty-five patients (56.8%) had esophageal varices. A univariate analysis revealed a significant difference in age and type IV collagen levels between patients with and without esophageal varices. A logistic regression analysis identified type IV collagen as the only independent variable predictive for esophageal varices (P = 0.017). The area under the curve (AUC) for type IV collagen as determined by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) for predicting esophageal varices was 0.78.'] Is serum type IV collagen level predictive for esophageal varices in patients with severe alcoholic disease? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.8533949851989746,
-1.4198887348175049,
2.2975263595581055
] |
['Exercise training restores innate immune system cell function in post-myocardial infarction (post-MI) rats. However, studies of the involvement of lymphocyte (Ly) in the setting of the congestive heart failure (CHF) are few. To address this issue, we investigated the function of Ly obtained from cervical lymph nodes from post-MI CHF rats submitted to treadmill running training.', 'Twenty-five male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to the following groups: rats submitted to ligation of the left coronary artery, which were sedentary (MI-S, N = 7, only limited activity) or trained (MI-T, N = 6, on a treadmill (0% grade at 13-20 m.m) for 60 min.d, 5 d.wk, for 8-10 wk); or sham-operated rats, which were sedentary (sham-S, N = 6) or trained (sham-T, N = 6). The incorporation of [2-C]-thymidine by Ly cultivated in the presence of concanavalin A (Con A) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), cytokine production by Ly cultivated in the presence of phytohemagglutinin (PHA), and plasma concentration of glutamine were assessed in all groups, 48 h after the last exercise session.', 'Proliferative capacity was increased, following incubation with Con-A in the MI groups, when compared with the sham counterparts. When incubated in the presence of PHA, MI-S produced more IL-4 (96%) than sham-S (P < 0.001). The training protocol induced a 2.2-fold increase in the production of interleukin-2 (P < 0.001) of the cells obtained from the cervical lymph nodes of MI-T, compared with MI-S.'] Does endurance training modulate lymphocyte function in rats with post-MI CHF? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1382925510406494,
-1.4775525331497192,
2.631272077560425
] |
['To assess the feasibility of using respiratory frequencies up to 15 Hz during high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFO) of adults with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).', 'Observational study.', 'Medical intensive care unit at a tertiary care university hospital.', 'Thirty adult patients receiving HFO at the discretion of their physicians for management of severe ARDS.', 'Clinical management algorithm for HFO that minimized delivered tidal volumes by encouraging the use of the highest frequency that allowed acceptable clearance of carbon dioxide. This contrasts with the typical use of HFO in adults, in which frequencies generally do not exceed 6 Hz.', 'Patients were 42 +/- 15 yrs old, weighed 83 +/- 25 kg, and had failed conventional lung-protective ventilation due to refractory hypoxia or respiratory acidosis and high plateau airway pressures. During HFO, 25 of 30 patients maintained acceptable gas exchange at frequencies > 6 Hz; 12 reached maximal frequencies of > or = 10 Hz. Among patients whose maximal frequencies exceeded 6 Hz, mean maximal frequency was 9.9 +/- 2.1 Hz, at a mean oscillation pressure amplitude of 81 +/- 11 cm H2O. At those settings, blood gases were pH 7.31 +/- 0.06, PaCO2 was 58 +/- 21 mm Hg, and PaO2 was 82 +/- 33 mm Hg. Survival to hospital discharge among this severely ill cohort was 37%.'] Do feasibility of very high-frequency ventilation in adults with acute respiratory distress syndrome? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.5064576864242554,
-0.8084654211997986,
1.4427653551101685
] |
['Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola, and Tannerella forsythia (previously T. forsythensis), which are regarded as the principal periodontopathogenic bacteria, exist as a consortium in subgingival biofilms. We aimed to examine quantitative relationships between P. gingivalis, T. denticola, and T. forsythia in subgingival biofilms and the relationship between the quantity and prevalence of these three bacteria and site-specific periodontal health.', 'This study was cross-sectional. The study population consisted of 35 adult subjects who visited the Kyushu Dental College Hospital. Plaque samples were collected from 105 periodontal pocket sites. Quantitative analyses of each of the three periodontopathogenic bacteria were performed using real-time polymerase chain reaction with species-specific primers and hybridization probes.', 'The plaque samples were divided into four groups based on the presence or absence of a periodontal pocket (probing depth [PD] > or =4 mm) and bleeding on probing (BOP), regardless of attachment loss. The proportions of all three target bacteria detected in samples from sites of periodontal disease (with PD and BOP) were markedly higher than those in the other sample groups. Cell numbers of P. gingivalis, T. denticola, and T. forsythia in the subgingival plaque of each sampling site were significantly mutually correlated and were increased in the plaque of sites of periodontal disease with PD > or =4 mm and BOP.'] Is site-specific development of periodontal disease associated with increased levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis , Treponema denticola , and Tannerella forsythia in subgingival plaque? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.146402359008789,
-1.231864333152771,
2.454251289367676
] |
['Previous work has demonstrated the potential for peripheral blood (PB) gene expression profiling for the detection of disease or environmental exposures.', 'We have sought to determine the impact of several variables on the PB gene expression profile of an environmental exposure, ionizing radiation, and to determine the specificity of the PB signature of radiation versus other genotoxic stresses. Neither genotype differences nor the time of PB sampling caused any lessening of the accuracy of PB signatures to predict radiation exposure, but sex difference did influence the accuracy of the prediction of radiation exposure at the lowest level (50 cGy). A PB signature of sepsis was also generated and both the PB signature of radiation and the PB signature of sepsis were found to be 100% specific at distinguishing irradiated from septic animals. We also identified human PB signatures of radiation exposure and chemotherapy treatment which distinguished irradiated patients and chemotherapy-treated individuals within a heterogeneous population with accuracies of 90% and 81%, respectively.'] Are gene expression signatures of radiation response specific , durable and accurate in mice and humans? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3323023319244385,
-0.9222840666770935,
2.424696683883667
] |
['To investigate the role of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) and galectin-3 (GAL-3) in the proliferation and infiltration of pancreatic cancer cell line SW1990.', 'Human pancreatic cancer cell line SW1990 and PSCs were cultured in vitro. Supernatant fluid of cultured PSCs and SW1990 cells was collected. Expression of GAL-3 in SW1990 cells and PSCs was detected by ELISA, RT-PCR and Western blotting. Proliferation of cultured PSCs and SW1990 cells was measured by 3-(4, 5-methylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and flow cytometry. Infiltration of SW1990 cells was detected by a cell infiltration kit.', 'SW1990 cells expressed GAL-3 and this was up-regulated by the supernatant fluid of cultured PSCs. PSCs did not express GAL-3. SW1990 cells stimulated proliferation of PSCs via GAL-3. GAL-3 antibody inhibited SW1990 cell proliferation, while the supernatant fluid of PSCs stimulated proliferation of SW1990 cells through interaction with GAL-3 protein. The supernatant fluid of PSCs enhanced the invasiveness of SW1990 cells through interaction with GAL-3.'] Do pancreatic stellate cells promote proliferation and invasiveness of human pancreatic cancer cells via galectin-3? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4076430797576904,
-1.262115478515625,
2.7405238151550293
] |
['The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the safety of an aqueous extract of tansy (Tanacetum vulgare L.) leaves by determining its potential toxicity after acute and chronic administration in rodents.', 'For the acute study, a lyophilized aqueous extract of tansy leaves was administered to mice in single doses of 0-13 g/kg given by gavage as well as intraperitoneal doses of 0-4.5 g/kg. General behavior adverse effects and mortality were determined for up to 14 days. In the chronic dose study, the extract was administered orally at doses of 0, 100, 300 and 600 mg/kg daily for 90 days to rats. Biochemical and hematological parameters were determined after 30 and 60 days, and then at the end of 90 days of daily administration.', 'In the acute study in mice, the crude aqueous extract of tansy leaves caused dose-dependent general behavior adverse effects and mortality. The no-observed adverse effect levels (NOAEL) of the tansy extract were 7.0 g/kg and 1.0 g/kg, and the lowest-observed adverse effect levels (LOAEL) were 9.0 g/kg and 1.5 g/kg, when given by the oral and intraperitoneal routes, respectively. Mortality increased with increasing doses, with LD(50) of 9.9 g/kg and 2.8 g/kg for the oral and intraperitonal modes of administration, respectively. In the chronic study in rats, daily oral administration of the crude aqueous extract of tansy leaves for up to 90 days did not result in death or significant changes in the biological (except for hypoglycemia) and hematological parameters.'] Does acute and chronic toxicity of a lyophilised aqueous extract of Tanacetum vulgare leave in rodents? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.006127119064331,
-1.3654834032058716,
2.460632801055908
] |
['Oct4 is a POU-domain transcriptional factor which is essential for maintaining pluripotency in several mammalian species. The mouse, human, and bovine Oct4 orthologs display a high conservation of nucleotide sequence and genomic organization.', 'Here we report an isolation of a common vole (Microtus rossiaemeridionalis) Oct4 ortholog. Organization and exon-intron structure of vole Oct4 gene are similar to the gene organization in other mammalian species. It consists of five exons and a regulatory region including the minimal promoter, proximal and distal enhancers. Promoter and regulatory regions of the vole Oct4 gene also display a high similarity to the corresponding regions of Oct4 in other mammalian species, and are active during the transient transfection within luciferase reporter constructs into mouse P19 embryonic carcinoma cells and TG-2a embryonic stem cells. The vole Oct4 gene expression is detectable starting from the morula stage and until day 17 of embryonic development.'] Are structure and expression pattern of Oct4 gene conserved in vole Microtus rossiaemeridionalis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3474080562591553,
-1.0409715175628662,
2.450852394104004
] |
['The Mongolian gerbil is one of the main animal species used for the study of global ischemia, due to its specific Circle of Willis. Because of their anatomic variations, a large number of animals is needed. On account of the specific vulnerability of the hippocampus, striatum and neocortex, it is possible to evaluate the severity of the ischemic damage through an analysis of locomotor activity. The tests support the sensitvity of the experimental sample and compensate the interanimal variability.', 'The locomotor pattern of 30 male Mongolian gerbils was recorded before they were subjected to experimental bilateral carotid clippage for 15 minutes followed by reperfusion. A transparent 75x50x90 cm acrylic box was filmed in order to determine the total distance covered by the animals in five minutes, for three consecutive days. The locomotor activity of the animals was also examined in an open field at 24 hours and seven days after ischemia. Serum neurospecific enolase (NSE) was measured in the ischemic group and compared with that of an intact control group.', 'The recording for normal animals was uniformly similar (average 200 squares in periphery), in the first trial of 3 consecutive days (188+/-6.7 S.D.). After ischemia, the numbers increased to 388 (+/- 40 S.D.), indicating that they were sensitive to the ischemic episode. Seven days later they returned to basal values. Serum NSE was high in the ischemic group versus the intact control group (S=<0.001).'] Is locomotor activity a predictive test after global ischemia-reperfusion in Mongolian gerbils? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.4966574907302856,
-1.6848506927490234,
2.135119915008545
] |
['The Theological College is a peculiar setting. This is due to the nature of the job, studies, attitudinal leaning (faith) and influence. There has been no known work to date done on the cardiovascular status in institutions of this nature-both in the country and in the continent of Africa. This formed the basis for evaluating the prevalence of hypertension and its correlates in one of the foremost theological colleges in Africa, the Trinity Theological College, Umuahia.', 'The entire constituent working-student population in the sandwich program of August 2004 at the Trinity Theological College, Umuahia, were recruited in the study. Their biodata, demographic distribution, anthropometry, pulse rate and blood pressure measurements were recorded under standard conditions. Their lifestyle habits were evaluated. Structured questionnaires were used with self administered screening done by medical doctors.', 'Eighty five subjects, with mean age 43.7 (+/- 9.9) years, were screened. The prevalence of hypertension was found to be 28.3%. Only 8 subjects admitted being known hypertensives, out of whom 6 were on treatment. Fifty three percent (45) of them checked their blood pressure irregularly, while 28 (33%) never did. Twenty six respondents (31%) admitted taking extra table salt, while 39 (46%) never engaged in any form of exercise.'] Does the prevalence and correlate of hypertension in a Theological College in Africa? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-0.945378839969635,
0.9667932987213135,
-0.6775299310684204
] |
['Renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is associated with increased mortality and morbidity rates due to acute renal failure (ARF). Oxidative stress induced with renal I/R injury directly affects glomerular and tubular epithelium through reactive oxygen species. Several studies have been directed to the treatment of renal I/R injury. The aim of this study was to test the attenuation with silymarin (SM) treatment of renal I/R injury-induced morphological changes in the rat kidney.', 'A total of 32 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were evaluated in four groups. Group I (sham), Group II (renal I/R), Group III (renal I/R injury + SM 50 mg per kg) and Group IV (renal I/R injury + SM 100 mg per kg) were designed to evaluate the dose-dependent effects of SM on the morphological changes of renal I/R injury. Renal I/R injury were induced with left renal pedicle occlusion for 45 min followed with reperfusion for 6 h under anesthesia. After induction of I/R injury, left nephrectomies were performed for histopathological examinations.', 'After renal I/R injury, significant tubular dilatation, tubular vacuolization, pelvic inflammation, interstitial inflammation, perirenal adipose infiltration, tubular necrosis and glomerular necrosis (cortical necrosis) were observed. However, even with low dose SM in Group III (50 mg per kg SM), histopathological changes due to I/R injury were prevented.'] Does silymarin attenuate the renal ischemia/reperfusion injury-induced morphological changes in the rat kidney? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2615935802459717,
-1.435276746749878,
2.736666679382324
] |
['Through identification of highly expressed proteins from a mixed culture activated sludge system this study provides functional evidence of microbial transformations important for enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR).', 'A laboratory-scale sequencing batch reactor was successfully operated for different levels of EBPR, removing around 25, 40 and 55 mg/l P. The microbial communities were dominated by the uncultured polyphosphate-accumulating organism "Candidatus Accumulibacter phosphatis". When EBPR failed, the sludge was dominated by tetrad-forming alpha-Proteobacteria. Representative and reproducible 2D gel protein separations were obtained for all sludge samples. 638 protein spots were matched across gels generated from the phosphate removing sludges. 111 of these were excised and 46 proteins were identified using recently available sludge metagenomic sequences. Many of these closely match proteins from "Candidatus Accumulibacter phosphatis" and could be directly linked to the EBPR process. They included enzymes involved in energy generation, polyhydroxyalkanoate synthesis, glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, glycogen synthesis, glyoxylate/TCA cycle, fatty acid beta oxidation, fatty acid synthesis and phosphate transport. Several proteins involved in cellular stress response were detected.'] Does metaproteomics provide functional insight into activated sludge wastewater treatment? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5970346927642822,
-0.6700485348701477,
2.4738290309906006
] |
['Mutually exclusive mutations of RET, RAS, or BRAF are present in about 70% of papillary thyroid carcinomas, whereas only the latter two are seen in poorly differentiated and anaplastic cancers. Although the signal output common to these oncoproteins is ERK, a recent report showed that only BRAF mutations consistently predicted responsiveness to MAPK kinase (MEK) inhibitors.', 'Here we investigated whether sensitivity to MEK inhibition was determined by oncogene status in 13 human thyroid cancer cell lines: four with BRAF mutations, four RAS, one RET/PTC1, and four wild type.', 'Growth of BRAF (+) cells was inhibited by the MEK antagonist PD0325901 with an IC(50) of less than 5 nm. By contrast, RAS, RET/PTC1, or wild-type cells had IC(50) of 4 nm to greater than 1000 nm. Sensitivity was not predicted by coexisting mutations in PIK3CA or by PTEN status. Similar effects were obtained with the MEK inhibitor AZD6244. PD0325901 induced a sustained G1/S arrest in BRAF (+) but not BRAF (-) lines. PD0325901 was equipotent at inhibiting pERK1/2 after 2 h, regardless of genetic background, but pERK rebounded at 24 h in most lines. MEK inhibitor resistance was associated with partial refractoriness of pERK to further inhibition by the compounds. AZD6244 was more potent at inhibiting growth of NPA (BRAF +) than Cal62 (KRAS +) xenografts.'] Is bRAFV600E mutation associated with preferential sensitivity to mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase inhibition in thyroid cancer cell lines? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1464245319366455,
-1.4254944324493408,
2.5784811973571777
] |
['Six transmembrane protein of prostate 2 (STAMP2) is a counterregulator of adipose inflammation and insulin resistance in mice. Our hypothesis was that STAMP2 could be involved in human obesity and insulin resistance.', 'The objective of the study was to elucidate the role of adipose STAMP2 expression in human obesity and insulin resistance.', 'The design was to quantify STAMP2 in human abdominal sc and omental white adipose tissue (WAT), isolated adipocytes, and stroma and in vitro differentiated preadipocytes and relate levels of STAMP2 in sc WAT to clinical and adipocyte phenotypes involved in insulin resistance.', 'Nonobese and obese women and men (n = 236) recruited from an obesity clinic or through local advertisement.', 'Clinical measures included body mass index, body fat, total adiponectin, and homeostasis model assessment as measure of overall insulin resistance. In adipocytes we determined cell size, sensitivity of lipolysis and lipogenesis to insulin, adiponectin secretion, and inflammatory gene expression.', 'STAMP2 levels in sc and visceral WAT and adipocytes were increased in obesity (P = 0.0008-0.05) but not influenced by weight loss. Increased WAT STAMP2 levels associated with a high amount of body fat (P = 0.04), high homeostasis model assessment (P = 0.01), and large adipocytes (P = 0.02). Subjects with high STAMP2 levels displayed reduced sensitivity of adipocyte lipogenesis (P = 0.04) and lipolysis (P = 0.03) to insulin but had normal adiponectin levels. WAT STAMP2 levels correlated with expression of the macrophage marker CD68 (P = 0.0006).'] Does expression of six transmembrane protein of prostate 2 in human adipose tissue associate with adiposity and insulin resistance? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.083432912826538,
-1.3411871194839478,
2.475867748260498
] |
['Myofibroblast apoptosis promotes the resolution of liver fibrosis. However, retaining macrophages may enhance reversal. The effects of specifically stimulating myofibroblast apoptosis in vivo were assessed.', 'A single chain antibody (C1-3) to an extracellular domain of a myofibroblast membrane protein was injected as a fluorescent- or gliotoxin conjugate into mice with liver fibrosis.', 'C1-3 specifically targeted alpha-smooth muscle actin positive liver myofibroblasts within scar regions of the liver in vivo and did not co-localise with liver monocytes/macrophages. Injection of free gliotoxin stimulated a 2-fold increase in non-parenchymal cell apoptosis and depleted liver myofibroblasts by 30% and monocytes/macrophages by 50% but had no effect on fibrosis severity in the sustained injury model employed. In contrast, C1-3-targeted gliotoxin stimulated a 5-fold increase in non-parenchymal cell apoptosis, depleted liver myofibroblasts by 60%, did not affect the number of monocytes/macrophages and significantly reduced fibrosis severity. Fibrosis reduction was associated with increased metalloproteinase-13 levels.'] Does antibody-targeted myofibroblast apoptosis reduce fibrosis during sustained liver injury? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3019158840179443,
-1.2484512329101562,
2.6142497062683105
] |
['Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) represents one of the most common genetic causes of epilepsy. TSC gene inactivation leads to hyperactivation of the mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway, raising the intriguing possibility that mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors might be effective in preventing or treating epilepsy in patients with TSC. Mice with conditional inactivation of the Tsc1 gene primarily in glia (Tsc1(GFAP)CKO mice) develop glial proliferation, progressive epilepsy, and premature death. Here, we tested whether rapamycin could prevent or reverse epilepsy, as well as other cellular and molecular brain abnormalities in Tsc1(GFAP)CKO mice.', 'Tsc1(GFAP)CKO mice and littermate control animals were treated with rapamycin or vehicle starting at postnatal day 14 (early treatment) or 6 weeks of age (late treatment), corresponding to times before and after onset of neurological abnormalities in Tsc1(GFAP)CKO mice. Mice were monitored for seizures by serial video-electroencephalogram and for long-term survival. Brains were examined histologically for astrogliosis and neuronal organization. Expression of phospho-S6 and other molecular markers correlating with epileptogenesis was measured by Western blotting.', 'Early treatment with rapamycin prevented the development of epilepsy and premature death observed in vehicle-treated Tsc1(GFAP)CKO mice. Late treatment with rapamycin suppressed seizures and prolonged survival in Tsc1(GFAP)CKO mice that had already developed epilepsy. Correspondingly, rapamycin inhibited the abnormal activation of the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, astrogliosis, and neuronal disorganization, and increased brain size in Tsc1(GFAP)CKO mice.'] Does rapamycin prevent epilepsy in a mouse model of tuberous sclerosis complex? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5021140575408936,
-1.2853224277496338,
2.7829790115356445
] |
['A high risk strategy is one of more strategies in public health. Smoking remains the most important contributor to the burden of disease in developed countries.', 'A population-based multi-factorial intervention study, Inter99 (1999-2006), Copenhagen, Denmark, using a high risk strategy. All 2408 daily smokers were repeatedly offered individual face-to-face lifestyle counselling. Smokers in the high-intensity group were offered participation in smoking cessation groups. We measured point abstinence at 1, 3 and 5-year follow-up and compared with a control group, using adjusted intention-to treat analyses.', 'Compared with the control group it was twice as likely to be self-reported abstinent at 5-year follow-up in the high-intensity intervention group (OR: 2.19; 95%CI: 1.7-2.8; p<0.001). The effect of the intervention was significant, even when comparing validated abstinence in the intervention groups with self-reported abstinence in the control group (OR: 1.38; 95%CI: 1.1-1.8; p=0.014). Male gender, vocational training, higher age at onset of smoking, high knowledge of harm of smoking and lower tobacco consumption predicted abstinence.'] Is high risk strategy in smoking cessation feasible on a population-based level . The Inter99 study? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7390395402908325,
-0.3287484347820282,
1.262538194656372
] |
['To investigate the lytic effects of sodium tetradecyl sulphate (STS) and polidocanol (POL) on erythrocytes, platelets, endothelial cells and platelet-derived microparticle (PDMP) formation in vitro and the potential protective effects of serum albumin and agents such as procaine.', 'The effects of sclerosants were studied in blood samples obtained from normal individuals. Absorbance densitometry was used to assess the lytic effects of sclerosants on blood cells and cultured human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC) in plasma and in saline. PDMP were quantified by flow cytometry.', 'Haemolysis occurred in whole blood at sclerosant concentrations greater than 0.25% for STS and above 0.45% for POL. Similar concentrations of both agents caused platelet and endothelial cell lysis. Both sclerosants released PDMP at low concentrations but destroyed PDMP at higher concentrations. Albumin significantly reduced the lytic effect of both sclerosants on all cells but had a greater inhibitory effect on POL. Protamine at 0.01% had a neutralising effect on STS, whereas procaine and lignocaine showed no such activity.'] Are the lytic effects of detergent sclerosants on erythrocytes , platelets , endothelial cells and microparticles attenuated by albumin and other plasma components in vitro? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4927353858947754,
-1.2616198062896729,
2.8329427242279053
] |
['Testicular torsion/detorsion (T/D) results in enhanced formation of free radical metabolites, which contributes to the pathophysiology of tissue damage. We investigated the protective effects of ethyl pyruvate (EP) against testis tissue damage in an experimental model of testicular torsion.', "Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 5 groups. In those animals that underwent T/D, right testes were rotated 720 degrees for 1 hour. Group 1 control rats underwent sham operation. In group 2, the rats underwent T/D. The EP was prepared and injected in the form of Ringer's ethyl pyruvate solution. The rats in group 3, 4, and 5 received 2 doses of 20, 50, and 100 mg/kg EP (30 minutes before and after detorsion), respectively. The right testes of 6 animals from each group were excised 4 hours after detorsion for the measurement of lipid peroxidation, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and antioxidant enzymes activities. Germ cell apoptosis was determined in right testes of 8 animals per group 24 hours after detorsion. The epididymal sperm concentration and motility were evaluated 1 month after treatments.", 'Germ cell apoptosis indices were significantly higher in group 2 compared with control group. The level of lipid peroxidation and MPO activity increased, whereas antioxidant enzymes activities decreased after T/D. Sperm count and motility were also reduced 1 month after T/D in group 2 rats. However, EP treatment at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg significantly decreased the early apoptotic damage and improved long-term sperm count and motility. In the same dosing groups, we observed normalization of oxidant/antioxidant balance and decrement of MPO activity. However, administration of 20 mg/kg of EP conferred no protective effect.'] Does ethyl pyruvate reduce germ cell-specific apoptosis and oxidative stress in rat model of testicular torsion/detorsion? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.818302035331726,
-1.5736973285675049,
2.2995543479919434
] |
['Mouse fetuses with spontaneous myelomeningocele (MMC) were investigated, determining the various levels of dysraphism in soft tissue, spinal cord, and vertebrae. Morphology was correlated with hind limb function.', 'Viable curly tail/loop tail mouse fetuses underwent qualitative standardized ex utero examination of tail and hind limb sensitivity and motor response. Afterward, they were processed either for histology or skeletal preparation.', 'All animals displayed identical cranial levels of soft tissue and neural defects. The cranial opening of the vertebral defects were invariably located more cranially (range, 0.5-5 vertebrae; mean = 2.25). The caudal opening of soft/neural tissue and bony defects was invariably at the coccygeal base. The comparison of functional with morphological levels demonstrated that, in 52.5%, the level of the soft/neural tissue dysraphism and, in 47.5%, the level of the bony opening correlated with the neurologic deficit.'] Are the dysraphic levels of skin and vertebrae different in mouse fetuses and neonates with myelomeningocele? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.0188486576080322,
-0.9736087918281555,
2.109186887741089
] |
['In the setting of gastroschisis, the clinical significance of prenatal ultrasound findings of secondary changes in bowel appearance remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to correlate prenatal identification of additional gastrointestinal sonographic abnormalities with postnatal clinical outcome.', "A retrospective review was conducted on 64 fetuses with a prenatal diagnosis of gastroschisis treated at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia from 2000 to 2007. Postnatal outcomes were compared between newborns with additional sonographic gastrointestinal abnormalities and those without secondary changes to the bowel appearance.", 'Thirty (47%) patients had at least one gastrointestinal abnormality (eg, bowel dilatation, echogenic bowel, thickened bowel, matted bowel, herniation of the stomach through the abdominal wall defect, or segmental loss of bowel peristalsis) on prenatal ultrasound. There were no significant differences between groups with respect to the time to initial and full enteral nutrition, total hospital stay, requirement for ventilator support, central line infection rates, reoperation rates, or mortality.'] Do prenatal ultrasonographic gastrointestinal abnormalities in fetuses with gastroschisis correlate with postnatal outcomes? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3526909351348877,
-1.1258561611175537,
2.621798276901245
] |
['Several studies have suggested that alcohol drinking is protective for the development and progression of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, a protopathic bias might also explain this apparent association. Our objective was to investigate the association between alcohol consumption and incidence of SLE in a data set that has information on both current and pre-diagnostic alcohol consumption.', 'We performed an Internet-based case-control study of SLE. Cases were diagnosed within 5 years of the study and met > or =4 American College of Rheumatology criteria for SLE. The control participants were tightly matched to cases on demographic and socio-economic characteristics using a propensity score. Participants completed an online exposure assessment. We used conditional logistic regression analyses to test the association of current and pre-diagnostic alcohol consumption with SLE.', 'The sample comprised 114 cases with SLE and 228 matched controls. Current drinking (>2 days per week) was inversely associated with SLE (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.98). Having more than two drinks per day was also inversely associated with SLE (OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.93). However, alcohol consumption before SLE diagnosis was not associated with the risk of SLE (p> or =0.4). Analysis of the change in drinking habits showed that people with lupus were more likely to quit drinking before (OR 2.25, 95% CI 0.96 to 5.28) or after (OR 2.38, 95% CI 0.88 to 6.49) being given the SLE diagnosis.'] Is alcohol consumption protective for systemic lupus erythematosus? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.285497784614563,
-1.2883883714675903,
1.5894010066986084
] |
['To detect the effect of resistin on the transcription of insulin receptor promoter.', 'Luciferase reporter gene was fused downstream of human insulin receptor promoter and the enzymatic activity of luciferase was determined in the presence or absence of resistin. The resistin expressed with plasmid was stained with antibody against Myc tag which was in frame fused with resistin coding sequence, and then imaged with confocal microscopy.', 'The treatment of pIRP-LUC transfected cells with recombinant resistin did not result in significant difference in the enzymatic activity of luciferase compared to the untreated cells. Cell staining showed that green fluorescence could be observed in the cytoplasm, but not in the nucleus.'] Does resistin down-regulate the transcription of insulin receptor promoter? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4860877990722656,
-1.1026188135147095,
2.680074691772461
] |
['To determine whether or not there is an association of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism with disease in cohorts of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and primary closed-angle glaucoma (PCAG) from Pakistan.', 'This was a prospective study consisting of 150 patients (90 POAG and 60 PCAG) and 70 control subjects. Genomic DNA was extracted from leukocytes of the peripheral blood. MTHFR C677T polymorphism analysis was performed by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) technique.', 'The prevalence of the MTHFR C/T genotype was 22.2% in POAG, 13.3% in PACG, and 18.6% in controls whereas the MTHFR T/T genotype was present solely in the PACG group (6.9%). The difference regarding the T/T genotype between PACG and controls was statistically significant (p<0.01).'] Is c677T polymorphism in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene associated with primary closed angle glaucoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.004606008529663,
-1.5122268199920654,
2.5524368286132812
] |
['Body composition and energy homeostasis are thought to affect the appetitive hormones: adiponectin, leptin, insulin, and ghrelin. This study examined whether centrally located fat and/or overall adiposity were related to these appetitive hormones in healthy postmenopausal women.', 'Overall and regional body composition was assessed by dual-energy X ray absorptiometry in relation to plasma adiponectin, serum leptin, serum insulin, and plasma ghrelin in 242 postmenopausal women.', 'Regression analyses revealed that the androidal-to-gynoidal fat mass ratio (18.0%), age (3.2%), and white blood cell count (1.8%) accounted for 28% of the variability in adiponectin (F=22.2; P<0.0001); androidal (waist+hip) fat mass (66.0%), androidal fat mass(2) (6.2%), whole-body lean mass (2.2%), and age (0.8%) accounted for 69% of the variability in leptin (F=102.5; P<0.0001). Regression analyses revealed that sagittal abdominal diameter (8.4%), glucose (5.4%), white blood cell count (2.6%), and dietary omega-3 fatty acids (2.0%) accounted for 32% of the variability in insulin (F=20.8; P<0.0001); waist circumference (12.7%), hip lean mass (2.0%), and white blood cell count (1.9%) accounted for 26% of the variability in ghrelin (F=20.7; P<0.0001). Our results indicated that centralized fat mass was the primary contributor to these appetitive hormones in healthy postmenopausal women.'] Is centrally located body fat related to appetitive hormones in healthy postmenopausal women? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7717443704605103,
-1.3286389112472534,
2.0986623764038086
] |
['21-hydroxylase deficiency (21OHD) is a common genetic disorder caused by mutations in the CYP21A2 gene, which encodes the adrenal 21-hydroxylase, microsomal P450c21. CYP21A2 gene mutations generally correlate well with impaired P450c21 enzymatic activity and the clinical findings in 21OHD, but occasional discrepancies between genotype and phenotype suggest the effects of modifier genes. Mutations in P450 oxidoreductase (POR), the protein that transfers electrons from reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate to all microsomal P450s, can ameliorate the 21OHD phenotype and, therefore, could be a modifier gene.', 'We sought to identify POR variants in patients with 21OHD having discordant phenotype and genotype, and to evaluate their effect on 21-hydroxylase activity.', 'We determined the CYP21A2 genotypes of 313 Brazilian patients with 21OHD and correlated the genotype and phenotype. The POR gene was sequenced in 17 patients with discordant genotype and phenotype. Wild-type and A503V POR, and P450c21 were expressed in bacteria and reconstituted in vitro. Activities were assayed by conversion of [(14)C]progesterone to deoxycorticosterone and [(3)H]17-hydroxyprogesterone to 11-deoxycortisol, and assessed by thin layer chromatography and phosphorimaging.', 'The A503V POR variant was found in 10 of 30 alleles, the same ratio as in the normal population. There were no significant differences in Michaelis constant, maximum velocity and maximum velocity/Michaelis constant of 21-hydroxylase activity supported by wild-type and A503V POR.'] Is the common P450 oxidoreductase variant A503V a modifier gene for 21-hydroxylase deficiency? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2790579795837402,
-1.4115790128707886,
2.7539587020874023
] |
['Predictors of readmission for acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) are not well defined. Identifying modifiable predictors may help reduce the burden of readmissions. This study was done to evaluate the role of serum magnesium in frequent readmissions.', 'One hundred patients admitted with a diagnosis of AECOPD to a tertiary care center from April 2004 to March 2006 were retrospectively followed from the time of index admission until the next admission or death. Number of admissions was calculated for the year after index admission, and frequent readmission was defined as > or =3 per year. Patients with other respiratory diseases, renal failure, and congestive heart failure were excluded. Serum magnesium was assayed at the time of admission by the colorimetric method. Logistic regression analysis was used to find independent risk factors for readmission.', 'The mean age of patients was 71.9 (+/-10.9 standard deviation (SD)) years. Fifty-seven were females. Ninety percent were current or ex-smokers. The median duration of time to next admission was 108 days (range 2-842). A total of 87 patients were readmitted at least once during the first year of follow-up, while 5% died; 23% had frequent readmissions; 85% had received pneumococcal vaccine within 5 years; and 29% received influenza vaccine in the current season. Frequency of readmissions was not influenced by the administration of inhaled or oral steroids, and diuretics at the time of discharge. Vaccination did not protect against frequent readmissions. The sole predictor of frequent readmissions was serum magnesium level (1.77+/-0.19 vs. 1.86+/-0.24mEq/L; adjusted odds ratio 0.003, 95% Confidence intervals <0.001-0.55; p=0.03).'] Is serum magnesium an independent predictor of frequent readmissions due to acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.295070767402649,
-1.5849413871765137,
1.8504667282104492
] |
['The aim of this study was to evaluate the combination of a rapid intravenous infusion of cold saline and endovascular hypothermia in a closed chest pig infarct model.', 'Pigs were randomized to pre-reperfusion hypothermia (n = 7), post-reperfusion hypothermia (n = 7) or normothermia (n = 5). A percutaneous coronary intervention balloon was inflated in the left anterior descending artery for 40 min. Hypothermia was started after 25 min of ischemia or immediately after reperfusion by infusion of 1000 ml of 4 degrees C saline and endovascular hypothermia. Area at risk was evaluated by in vivo SPECT. Infarct size was evaluated by ex vivo MRI.', 'Pre-reperfusion hypothermia reduced infarct size/area at risk by 43% (46 +/- 8%) compared to post-reperfusion hypothermia (80 +/- 6%, p < 0.05) and by 39% compared to normothermia (75 +/- 5%, p < 0.05). Pre-reperfusion hypothermia infarctions were patchier in appearance with scattered islands of viable myocardium. Pre-reperfusion hypothermia abolished (0%, p < 0.001), and post-reperfusion hypothermia significantly reduced microvascular obstruction (10.3 +/- 5%; p < 0.05), compared to normothermia: (30.2 +/- 5%).'] Does rapid short-duration hypothermia with cold saline and endovascular cooling before reperfusion reduce microvascular obstruction and myocardial infarct size? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.79228937625885,
-1.6289892196655273,
2.401923179626465
] |
["At laparoscopic appendicectomy, some surgeons leave a macroscopically normal appendix in situ. To assess if this is safe practice, the authors wanted to identify the correlation between macroscopic findings at appendicectomy and pathologists' assessment with regard to the inflamed and the neoplastic.", 'Operative cases and histological findings over a 3-year period were identified.', 'The authors obtained 876/972 notes (90.1%). There was 100% congruity between surgeons and pathologists when perforation, abscess, or gangrene of the appendix was noted (n = 235). Where inflammation was the sole recorded finding, 8.3% of cases (37/445) were histologically normal; 33.1% (47/139) of appendices perceived to be normal at appendicectomy demonstrated histological signs of inflammation. Of 16 neoplastic lesions only 3 were identified at the time of surgery.'] Are macroscopic findings at appendicectomy unreliable : implications for laparoscopy and malignant conditions of the appendix? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3569796085357666,
-0.855518639087677,
2.2805285453796387
] |
['Aminobiphosphonates, such as zoledronic acid (ZA), exert potent indirect antitumor effects and are currently being tested against human solid tumors. The antitumor actions of aminobiphosphonates, including angiostasis, are relevant to the pathogenesis of malignant pleural effusion (MPE), but no study has addressed the efficacy of these compounds against malignant pleural disease.', 'Here we hypothesized that treatment of immunocompetent mice with ZA would halt tumor progression in a mouse model of adenocarcinoma-induced MPE.', 'To induce MPE in mice, Lewis lung carcinoma cells were delivered directly into the pleural space. Subsequently, animals were treated with ZA in both a prevention and a regression protocol.', 'ZA treatment resulted in significant reductions in pleural fluid accumulation and tumor dissemination, while it significantly prolonged survival. These effects of ZA were linked to enhanced apoptosis of pleural tumor cells, decreased formation of new vessels in pleural tumors, and reduced pleural vascular permeability. In addition, ZA was able to inhibit the recruitment of mononuclear cells to pleural tumors, with concomitant reductions in matrix metalloproteinase-9 release into the pleural space. Finally, ZA limited the expression of proinflammatory and angiogenic mediators, as well as the activity of small GTP proteins Ras and RhoA, in tumor cells in vivo and in vitro.'] Is zoledronic acid effective against experimental malignant pleural effusion? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.462339401245117,
-1.238489031791687,
2.7692434787750244
] |
['Changes in gene expression profile and cell fusion of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and nucleus pulposus cells (NPC) after coculture were analyzed.', 'To investigate the mechanisms of the interaction between NPC and MSC such us differentiation, stimulatory effect, and cell fusion.', 'Introduction of exogenous cells to supplement and replenish intervertebral disc cell population offers a potential approach to treat intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD). Recent evidences showed that intradiscal injection of MSC effectively alter the course of IDD in vivo, and the regenerative potential may result from up-regulated extracellular matrix protein synthesis mediated by MSC and NPC interaction.', 'Using a double labeling cell system and flow activated cell sorting, we quantitatively analyzed changes in the gene expression profile of human male MSC and female NPC after coculture in a 3-dimensional system that allows short distance paracrine interactions typical of the nucleus pulposus. Furthermore, we analyzed for cell fusion in the cell interaction by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for X and Y chromosomes, using a 3-dimensional culture system to allow cell-to-cell interactions conducive to cell fusion.', 'Two weeks of coculture cell interaction in a 3-dimensional environment induces a change in MSCs towards a more chondrogenic gene expression profile indicating MSC differentiation, and NPC gene expression changes in matrix and chondrogenic genes demonstrating only a modest trophic effect of MSC on NPC. Moreover, FISH analysis demonstrated that cell fusion is not responsible for MSC plasticity in the interaction with NPCs.'] Do coculture of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and nucleus pulposus cells modulate gene expression profile without cell fusion? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5680792331695557,
-1.0510528087615967,
2.7284021377563477
] |
['In vivo experiments using a rat model of painful facet joint distraction.', 'To determine whether tension of the facet capsular ligament is requisite for producing pain for joint loading and to define effects on spinal glial activation.', 'Cervical facet joint loading may initiate pain for certain conditions. While facet capsule tension has been proposed as requisite for pain, this hypothesis has not been tested.', 'Using an established rat model of painful C6-C7 distraction, tension was applied after transection of the left facet capsule; the right capsule remained intact. Each rat (n = 8) received the same distraction simultaneously applied across both the intact and cut capsules. Sham procedures were performed on separate rats (n = 4) with no joint distraction. Bilateral forepaw mechanical allodynia was measured as a pain outcome. Cervical spinal cord tissue (C7) was harvested on day 7 to detect glial reactivity using immunohistochemistry.', 'Distraction mechanics were consistent with conditions eliciting persistent behavioral hypersensitivity. Allodynia was produced for an intact capsule and was significantly elevated over both the cut capsule (P < 0.004) and sham (P < 0.002). Transecting the capsule before distraction did not produce elevated allodynia, except on day 7. Spinal astrocytic reactivity paralleled allodynia; glial fibrillary acidic protein expression for an intact capsule was significantly greater than the cut and sham responses (P < 0.04), with no difference observed between the cut and sham spinal astrocytic reactivity. Spinal microglial activation did not differ between groups.'] Does an intact facet capsular ligament modulate behavioral sensitivity and spinal glial activation produced by cervical facet joint tension? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.338472366333008,
-1.3116471767425537,
2.716804027557373
] |
['Neural networks supporting encoding of new information are affected early in the course of Alzheimer disease (AD). Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies in AD have reported decreased medial temporal lobe (MTL) activation when comparing novel versus repeated stimuli. It is, however, unclear whether this finding is related to a failure of normal suppression of MTL activity to repeated stimuli in AD.', 'Twenty-nine healthy older subjects comprising a comparison group (OC) and 15 mild AD patients underwent fMRI during an associative memory paradigm in an academic medical center. The task consisted of blocks of Novel and Repeated face-name pairs and visual Fixation. To reveal neural correlates of processing repeatedly presented stimuli, Repeated blocks were contrasted to Fixation.', 'AD patients demonstrated greater activation during Repeated stimuli in the MTL and in prefrontal and superior parietal cortices, compared with OC. In contrast, OC showed greater parietal task-induced deactivation than AD. Increased MTL activity during Repeated was correlated with more impaired parietal deactivation and poorer performance of the postscan recognition memory test of encoding the face-name pairs.'] Is impaired medial temporal repetition suppression related to failure of parietal deactivation in Alzheimer disease? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.426257371902466,
-1.0765494108200073,
2.529259204864502
] |
['The distinction between central nervous system (CNS) metastases of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and CNS haemangioblastoma still poses a challenge to the pathologist. Since both entities occur in von Hippel-Lindau disease, this aggravates the issue. The antibody renal cell carcinoma marker (RCC-ma) has been suggested to identify primary RCCs specifically, but its value for diagnosing metastases of RCC is controversial. The aim was to assess two distinct clones of the RCC-ma for their potential to: (i) identify primary RCCs and (ii) differentiate between CNS metastases of clear cell RCC and CNS haemangioblastomas.', 'Using tissue microarrays, 77% (n = 363; PN-15) and 66% (n = 355; 66.4C2) of clear cell RCCs, and 93% (PN-15) and 74% (66.4C2) of papillary RCCs (n = 46) were immunopositive for RCC-ma, whereas none of the investigated chromophobe RCCs (n = 22) or any of the oncocytomas (n = 15) showed immunoreactivity. Importantly, 50.9% of CNS metastases of clear cell RCCs (n = 55) exhibited RCC-ma expression, whereas all CNS haemangioblastomas (71) were negative.'] Does renal cell carcinoma marker reliably discriminate central nervous system haemangioblastoma from brain metastases of renal cell carcinoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1217713356018066,
-1.4171674251556396,
2.6121063232421875
] |
['The aims of the present study were to better understand the role of Ku 80, which is involved in double-strand break repair in mammalian cells in the mechanism of radiation resistance and to verify the possibility of increasing cell radiosensitivity by targeted inhibition of Ku autoantigen 80 (Ku 80).', 'Western blot and electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) were performed on the human bladder carcinoma cell line RT112 (radioresistant) and on the human colorectal carcinoma cell line SW48 (radiosensitive) to assess the expression levels of DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) components and the DNA-binding activity of the Ku 70/80 heterodimer after exposure to radiation, respectively. Ku 80 silencing was carried out with the use of small interfering RNA (siRNA).', 'Greater differences in the DNA-binding activity of Ku 70/80 and Ku 80 phosphorylation level were observed in RT112 as compared to SW48 after X-ray treatment. There is no correlation between Ku expression and DNA-binding activity at lower doses. A significant increase in nuclear Ku 80 expression was observed one hour after the exposure, only at the higher doses, while the DNA-PK catalytic subunits (DNA-PKcs) and Ku 70 levels did not change significantly. Inhibition of Ku 80 expression by siRNA induced radiosensitivity in the RT112 cell line.'] Does radioresistance in a tumour cell line correlate with radiation inducible Ku 70/80 end-binding activity? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.36151385307312,
-1.3672075271606445,
2.7690963745117188
] |
['We examined the acute effects of neutral endopeptidase inhibitor on the hemodynamics and electrical properties of dogs subjected to rapid atrial pacing.', 'Ten beagle dogs were used and divided into two groups with and without candoxatril, a neutral endopeptidase inhibitor preadministration. Before and after the 6 hours rapid atrial pacing from the right atrial appendage, the hemodynamics, atrial effective refractory period, and monophasic action potential duration of the right atrial appendage were measured and blood samples were collected. Atrial tissue was also excised after the experiment.', 'Candoxatril significantly increased plasma ANP levels (Control: 88.4 +/- 50.25 vs. Candoxatril: 197.1 +/- 32.09 pg/ml, p = 0.004) and prevented reductions in atrial effective refractory period and monophasic action potential duration. We further demonstrated that the treated animals exhibited significantly higher levels of atrial tissue cyclic GMP (Control: 28.1 +/- 1.60 fmol/mg vs. Candoxatril: 44.5 +/- 12.28 fmol/mg, p = 0.034) as well as that of plasma cyclic GMP (Control: 32 +/- 5.5 vs. Candoxatril: 42 +/- 7.1 pg/ml, p = 0.028).'] Does neutral endopeptidase inhibitor suppress the early phase of atrial electrical remodeling in a canine rapid atrial pacing model? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1526784896850586,
-1.34441077709198,
2.5447745323181152
] |
['To validate the reported association between CC chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) -2518 G single nucleotide polymorphism and systemic sclerosis (SSc) in a much larger cohort of patients. We also performed subgroup analysis to test the hypothesis that CCL2 variants predispose to specific disease phenotypes.', 'Ninety-four Caucasian patients with SSc and 102 matched controls were genotyped by sequence-specific primers-polymerase chain reaction (SSP-PCR) methodology.', 'Six biallelic single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) were investigated (3 in the promoter region, 2 in the exon-coding sequence, and 1 in the 3x untranslated region), in addition to the known functional -2518 (A/G) variant. Six major haplotypes were constructed across all 7 SNP positions. No significant differences in genotype, allele, or haplotype frequency were observed between patients and controls or within disease subgroups.'] Are single-nucleotide polymorphisms in CCL2 gene associated with susceptibility to systemic sclerosis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2755444049835205,
-1.216355800628662,
2.550621509552002
] |
["In the treatment of HIV, the loose active site of the HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT) allows numerous nucleotide analogues to act as proviral DNA 'chain-terminators'. Acyclic nucleotide phosphonate analogues (ANPs) represent a particular class of nucleotide analogue that does not possess a ribose moiety. The structural basis for their substrate efficiency regarding viral DNA polymerases is poorly understood.", 'Pre-steady-state kinetics on HIV-1 RT together with molecular modelling, were used to evaluate the relative characteristics of both the initial binding and incorporation into DNA of three different ANP diphosphates with progressively increasing steric demands on the acyclic linker: adefovir-diphosphate (DP), tenofovir-DP, and cidofovir-DP.', "The increase of steric demand in ANPs induced a proportional loss of the binding affinity to wild-type HIV-1 RT (Kd cidofovir-DP>>Kd tenofovir-DP>Kd adefovir-DP approximately Kd dNTPs), consistent with the lack of HIV-1 inhibitory activity for cidofovir. We show that, starting from adefovir-DP, the steric constraints mainly map to Gln151, as its mutation to alanine provides cidofovir-DP sensitivity. Interactions between the Gln151 residue and the methyl group of tenofovir-DP further increase with the mutation Gln151Met, resulting in a specific discrimination and low-level resistance to tenofovir-DP. This alteration is the result of a dual decrease in the binding affinity (Kd) and the catalytic rate (k(pol)) of incorporation of tenofovir-DP. By contrast, the tenofovir resistance mutation K65R induces a broad 'k(pol)-dependent' nonspecific discrimination towards the three ANPs."] Does gln151 of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase act as a steric gate towards clinically relevant acyclic phosphonate nucleotide analogues? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3096530437469482,
-1.3153430223464966,
2.6778390407562256
] |
['Hantaviruses cause two severe and often fatal human diseases: haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). Presently, there is no effective prevention available for HFRS or HPS. Here, we studied the effect of passive immunization on the course of infection in cynomolgus macaques challenged with wild-type Puumala hantavirus (PUUV-wt).', 'A pool of serum drawn from previously PUUV-wt-infected monkeys was used for immunization; a pool of serum from the same monkeys that was obtained before infection was used as a control. Immunizations were administered 3 days before and 15 days after challenge with PUUV-wt. After challenge, monkeys were sampled once a week and analysed for PUUV-infection markers.', 'All three monkeys treated with non-immune serum became positive for PUUV RNA in plasma and showed PUUV nucleocapsid-specific immunoglobin M (IgM) responses after challenge. In contrast, no PUUV RNA or anti-PUUV-specific IgM response was detected in the three passively immunized monkeys. As seen in PUUV-infected humans, the control monkeys showed a marked decrease in the amount of platelets and increased levels of creatinine, interleukin (1L)-6, IL-10, and tumour necrosis factor (TNF) after inoculation. In contrast, no marked changes in the amount of platelets were observed in the immunized monkeys and they did not show increased levels of creatinine, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF after virus challenge.'] Does passive immunization protect cynomolgus macaques against Puumala hantavirus challenge? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3091471195220947,
-1.289567232131958,
2.6189093589782715
] |
['Significant progress has been made in recent years in the understanding of the mechanisms postulated by the gonadotropin theory of ovarian carcinogenesis. In the present study we compare FSH concentrations between serum and fluid from cysts or the rectouterine pouch of patients with epithelial tumors and non-neoplastic lesions.', 'We enrolled 277 patients. They were divided into five groups: I (n = 44)--ovarian cancer patients, II (n = 16)--borderline tumors, III (n = 40)--benign epithelial cystadenomas, IV (n = 137)--non-neoplastic lesions and V (n = 22)--admitted for "second-look" laparoscopy.', 'There were any significant differences between FSH concentrations in serum and tumor fluid in patients with ovarian cancer (36.46 vs 28.11 mIU/ml) and borderline epithelial tumors (31.5 vs 22.7 mIU/ml). For benign cystadenomas the respective concentrations were 28.96 mIU/ml in serum and 6.93 mIU/ml in tumor fluid in these groups p < 0.0000001. The same highly significant differences were found in non-neoplastic lesions (24.97 vs 4.77 mIU/ml), p < 0.0000001. Patients who underwent "second-look" laparoscopy demonstrated significant differences (p < 0.05) as FSH concentration in serum and peritoneal fluid when neoplastic cells were not disclosed, but the difference was not significant (p = 0.752) when fluid from the rectouterine pouch was positive for carcinoma cells.'] Are concentrations of follicle stimulating hormone increased in ovarian tumor fluid : implications for the management of ovarian cancer? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.68988835811615,
-1.5984035730361938,
2.2380261421203613
] |
['Amiodarone has a high iodine content that can induce persistent iodine excess and may prevent radioiodine (RI) treatment.', 'A 55-year-old obese man had taken amiodarone (200 mg/d) for 3 years and stopped 2 years earlier. He underwent total thyroidectomy for papillary cancer with extrathyroidal extension and a metastatic central lymph node, requiring RI treatment. But iodine overload, with no other documented iodinated drug intake, was found (urinary iodine excretion = 472 microg/24 h; normal < 150 microg/24 h), and persisted 3 months later. Plasma exchanges (PE) were prescribed.', 'Eight PE over 4 weeks were needed to eliminate 39,295 nmol of iodine. Urinary iodine excretion and serum iodine concentrations, before PE and after eight sessions were, respectively: 230 and 84 nmol/mmol of creatinine, and 811 and 71 nmol/L, enabling RI treatment (4 GBq (131)I). Post-therapy whole-body scan revealed cervical uptake (0.48% of the total administered dose) corresponding to usual thyroid remnants. Ablation efficacy was confirmed 6 and 24 months later by cervical ultrasonography combined with an undetectable serum thyroglobulin level after recombinant human thyrotropin stimulation.'] Do plasma exchanges overcome persistent iodine overload to enable 131I ablation of differentiated thyroid carcinoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.158945083618164,
-1.5141034126281738,
2.7431862354278564
] |
['Bilateral oophorectomy (BOE) is often recommended in order to prevent cancer at hysterectomy for non-malignant diseases and when familial risk of ovarian and breast cancer has been identified. Surgical menopause increases the risk of cardiovascular mortality, however, the intervening mechanisms are not clear. We compared the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and Framingham cardiovascular risk scores in women with BOE before 50 years of age to age-matched controls in a population-based study.', '20,765 women aged 40-69 years were invited to a health study (HUNT-2 Norway 1995-97) and 17,650 (85%) attended. We compared 263 women with BOE before 50 years of age [63 with intact uterus (BO1 group), and 200 with hysterectomy also (BO2 group)] with 3 age-matched controls per case (n=789). Data on demographic, somatic, mental, and lifestyle variables, physical measurements and blood tests were obtained.', "The BO1 and BO2 groups did not differ significantly regarding risk variables, and 4% had natural menopause. The combined BOE group had increased prevalence of MetS compared to controls according to the International Diabetes Federation's definition (47% versus 36%; p=.001) and the revised NCEP ATP III definition (35% versus 25%; p=.002), which remained after adjustments (for reproductive, global health, and lifestyle variables). The prevalence of Framingham risk score > or =10% was higher in cases (22%) versus controls (15%) p=.005."] Is bilateral oophorectomy before 50 years of age significantly associated with the metabolic syndrome and Framingham risk score : a controlled , population-based study ( HUNT-2 )? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.5889419317245483,
-1.6724441051483154,
1.2906105518341064
] |
["Parkinson's disease (PD) is one of the most common degenerative diseases of the central nervous system affecting elderly patients with increasing demographic prevalence. The aim of this study was to define the perioperative risk profile in trauma patients suffering from Parkinson's disease in order to improve treatment options in these patients.", "Over a period of 13 years, 16 patients suffering from Parkinson's disease treated in the department of trauma surgery were retrospectively compared using matched-pair analysis with 16 controls not affected by PD. Both groups of patients were assessed regarding morbidity, length of treatment and rehabilitation.", "Trauma patients suffering from Parkinson's disease showed an increase in morbidity risk. Postoperative falls occurred significantly, infections of the urinary tract and pneumonia tendentiously more often in PD patients. Postoperative stay and length of treatment were significantly longer in patients with PD. These patients also tended to stay longer preoperatively and remained longer in intensive care. PD patients required on-ward rehabilitation significantly more often."] Does [ Parkinson 's disease influence the perioperative risk profile in trauma patients ]? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-2.4736030101776123,
1.7495026588439941,
-0.0029316486325114965
] |
['Case controlled study.', 'To explore the relative effects of body mass index (BMI) and the presence or absence of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) on bone mineral density (BMD) as evidenced by Z-scores in adolescents.', 'Prior studies have identified adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis as having "osteoporosis" or "osteopenia," when only a small percentage of subjects in these studies actually had bone density that was clinically abnormal. The terms osteoporosis and osteopenia as used in adults cannot be applied to adolescents and children, as fracture risk has not been well correlated to Z-scores. As we had noted that our scoliosis patients of normal and heavy weight had normal Z-scores, this study was undertaken to explore the relationship of bone mineral density to body mass index in adolescents with and without scoliosis.', 'Dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans of 49 adolescents with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis were compared to 40 normal control adolescents. Z-scores were compared to reduce variability when comparing subjects of varying age and genders. Student t test or simple linear regression was used to explore relationships between Z-scores and clinical and demographic variables.', 'In both groups of subjects, Z-score was most strongly correlated with BMI (P < 0.001). The presence of scoliosis had the effect of lowering the Z-score as if the individual had "lost" 3.4 BMI units.'] Are adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis osteoporotic? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.158789873123169,
-0.8897848725318909,
2.1022024154663086
] |
['It is essential to have the highest level of confidence in axillary staging assessment. Many surgeons and pathologists believe that fewer lymph nodes are present in axillary dissection specimens of women treated by neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Consequently, the purpose of this study was to compare the lymph node counts of axillary dissection specimens from patients having received neoadjuvant chemotherapy with those of patients treated with primary operation.', 'A retrospective analysis of a prospective database from our institution identified 283 women with invasive breast cancer who underwent level I and II axillary lymph node dissections. Women from the neoadjuvant chemotherapy group (n=107) were compared with those from the primary surgery group (n=176). The total number of lymph nodes harvested was considered as a continuous variable, but also dichotomized into two categories (< 10 and >or=10). Its correlation with the different variables was analyzed.', 'The median number of lymph nodes retrieved in the neoadjuvant chemotherapy group was 10.0 (range 0 to 38) compared with 12.5 (range 0 to 30) in the control group (p=0.002). There were also significantly more patients with fewer than 10 lymph nodes recovered in the neoadjuvant group (45 versus 28%, p=0.007). Logistic regression showed that neoadjuvant chemotherapy was the only factor associated with retrieval of fewer than 10 lymph nodes.'] Does neoadjuvant chemotherapy in invasive breast cancer result in a lower axillary lymph node count? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.6638445854187012,
-1.315406084060669,
2.0418953895568848
] |
['To investigate the protective action of Epimedium against chemotherapy-induced damage to rat epididymides.', 'Fifty 60-day-old male rats were divided into a control, a model and a treatment group. Procarbazine was injected into the abdominal cavity of the model rats at the dose of 30 mg/(kg x d). In addition to procarbazine, Epimedium was given intragastrically to the treatment group. The changes in the ultrastructure of the epididymis were observed after 10 and 20 days.', 'Electron microscopy showed that the chemotherapy-induced damages to the epididymal epithelia mainly included cell swelling, local cavitation of mitochondria, tumor-like change in nucleoli, agglutination of marginal translocation of heterochromatin and cell apoptosis. The damage to the epithelial ultrastructure was slight in the treatment group as compared with the model rats. Chemotherapy significantly affected sperm concentration, sperm viability and sialic acid (SA), which were (15.59 +/- 4.01) x 10(6)/ml, (76.71 +/- 10.11)% and (19.38 +/- 9.34) g/mg prot in the model group in comparison with (10.63 +/- 3.82) x 10(6)/ml (P < 0.01), (60.03 +/- 7.54)% (P < 0.01) and (13.62 +/- 7.81) g/g prot (P < 0.05) in the control. Epimedium significantly increased sperm viability in the treatment group (60.03 +/- 7.54)% as compared with the model rats (69.90 +/- 12.58)% (P < 0.05).'] Does [ Epimedium alleviate chemotherapy-induced damage to the ultrastructure and function of rat epididymides ]? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.4565578699111938,
-1.602731466293335,
2.121746301651001
] |
['We sought to determine whether clinical response or tolerance to the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) citalopram is associated with genetic polymorphisms in potentially relevant pharmacokinetic enzymes.', 'We used a two-stage case-control study design in which we split the sample of 1,953 subjects from the Sequenced Treatment Alternatives to Relieve Depression (STAR*D) trial into a discovery (n = 831) and validation set (n = 1,046). Fifteen polymorphisms from five (CYP2D6, ABCB1, CYP2C19, CYP3A4, and CYP3A5) pharmacokinetic genes were genotyped. We examined the associations between these polymorphisms and citalopram response and tolerance. Significant associations were validated in the second stage for those polymorphism found to be statistically significant in the first stage.'] Do pharmacokinetic genes influence response or tolerance to citalopram in the STAR*D sample? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3195860385894775,
-1.2347638607025146,
2.620060443878174
] |
['A functional and biochemical interaction of TIS21(/BTG2/PC3) with Forkhead box M1 (FoxM1), essential transcription factor for hepatocyte regeneration and a master regulator of mitotic gene expression, was explored. Growth of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), developed by a single injection of diethylnitrosamine (DEN), was the same in both the TIS21(+/+) and TIS21(-/-) mice until 6 months, whereas it was significantly higher in the TIS21(-/-) mice at 9 months. Expression of TIS21 was significantly lower in both human and murine HCCs than in the surrounding tissues. Forced expression of TIS21 impaired growth, proliferation, and tumorigenic potential of Huh7 cells. At the mechanistic level, TIS21 inhibited FoxM1 phosphorylation, a required modification for its activation, by reducing cyclin B1-cdk1 activity, examined by in vitro kinase assay and FoxM1 mutant analyses. These observations were further confirmed in vivo by the reciprocal control of TIS21 expression and FoxM1 phosphorylation in the diethylnitrosamine-induced HCCs and TIS21(-/-) mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF), in addition to increased expression of cyclin B1 and cdk1 activity.'] Does tIS21 negatively regulate hepatocarcinogenesis by disruption of cyclin B1-Forkhead box M1 regulation loop? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3526322841644287,
-1.26486074924469,
2.6128482818603516
] |
['Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a major role in wound healing: they can degrade all components of the extracellular matrix. In diabetic foot ulcers there is an excess of MMPs and a decrease of the tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMPs). This imbalance is probably one cause of impaired healing. However, little is known about changes in MMPs during wound healing.', 'Sixteen patients with neuropathic diabetic foot ulcers participated. Wound fluid was collected regularly during the 12-week follow-up period, for measurement of MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-8, MMP-9 and TIMP-1. Results were analysed by the degree of wound healing: good healers (defined by a reduction of at least 82% in initial wound surface at 4 weeks) and poor healers (reduction of less than 82% in wound surface at 4 weeks).', 'In good healers, levels of MMP-8 and -9 secreted by inflammatory cells decreased earlier. The initial levels of MMP-1 were similar in good and poor healers (P = 0.1) but rose significantly at week 2 in good healers (P = 0.039). There was a significant correlation between a high ratio of MMP-1/TIMP-1 and good healing (r = 0.65, P = 0.008). Receiver Operator Curve (ROC) analysis showed that an MMP-1/TIMP-1 ratio of 0.39 best predicted wound healing (sensitivity = 71%, specificity = 87.5%).'] Is matrix metalloproteinases and diabetic foot ulcers : the ratio of MMP-1 to TIMP-1 a predictor of wound healing? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.3186358213424683,
-1.6151695251464844,
2.0278468132019043
] |
['Successful therapy in chronic clinically stable heart failure is reflected by decreasing serum NT-proBNP levels. This study evaluates therapy monitoring by NT-proBNP in comparison to invasively measured hemodynamic parameters in acutely decompensated heart failure patients.', 'In 25 acutely decompensated chronic heart failure patients (NYHA III-IV, Cardiac Index (CI)<or=2.5 l/min/m(2) and a PCWP>or=15 mm Hg) changes in NT-proBNP and invasive hemodynamics were compared. Hemodynamic improvement in the first 24 h (CI>or=30% and PCWP<or=30%, compared to baseline) was associated with decreasing NT-proBNP levels; which was not seen in patients without hemodynamic improvement. To discriminate between responders and non-responders, a decline to <80% of the baseline NT-proBNP in the first 24 h was the best cut-off.'] Is hemodynamic improvement of acutely decompensated heart failure patients associated with decreasing levels of NT-proBNP? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7996395826339722,
-1.4969887733459473,
2.3147776126861572
] |
['This study investigated the nonthermoregulatory control of cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC) and sweating during recovery from exercise-induced hyperthermia as well as possible sex-related differences in these responses. Two hypotheses were tested in this study: 1) active and passive recovery would be more effective in attenuating the fall in mean arterial pressure (MAP) than inactive recovery, but CVC and sweat rate responses would be similar between all recovery modes; and 2) the magnitude of the change in postexercise heat loss and hemodynamic responses between recovery modes would be similar between sexes.', 'Nine males and nine females were rendered hyperthermic (esophageal temperature = 39.5 degrees C) by exercise, followed by 60 min of 1) active, 2) inactive, and 3) passive recovery. CVC, sweat rate, and MAP were recorded at baseline, after 2, 5, 12, and 20 min, and at every 10 min until the end of recovery.', 'MAP was elevated above inactive recovery by 6 +/- 2 and 4 +/- 1 mm Hg for active and passive recovery, respectively (P < 0.001). No differences were observed between modes during the initial 10 min of recovery for CVC and 50 min of recovery for sweat rate. However, relative to inactive recovery CVC and sweat rate were subsequently greater by 16.2 +/- 5.8% of CVCpeak and 0.28 +/- 0.04 mg.min.cm, respectively, during active recovery, and by 11.6 +/- 2.9% of CVCpeak and 0.23 +/- 0.03 mg.min.cm, respectively, during passive recovery.'] Does hyperthermia modify the nonthermal contribution to postexercise heat loss responses? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.24552059173583984,
-1.778249740600586,
1.0194592475891113
] |
['This study examined how a high-protein diet affected nitrogen balance and protein turnover during an exercise-induced energy deficit.', 'Twenty-two men completed a 4-d (D1-4) baseline period (BL) of an energy balance diet while maintaining usual physical activity level, followed by 7 d (D5-11) of 1000 kcal.d increased energy expenditure via exercise (50-65% V O2peak). One group consumed 0.9 g of protein per kilogram per day and maintained energy balance throughout the 11-d intervention (BAL, N = 8). The other two groups consumed their BL energy intake throughout the 11 days, resulting in a 7-d, 1000-kcal.d energy deficit. These groups consumed either 0.9 g of protein per kilogram per day (DEF, N = 7) or 1.8 g of protein per kilogram per day (DEF-HP, N = 7). Mean nitrogen balance (NB), calculated per kilogram of fat-free mass (FFM), was determined for BL, days 5-8 (EX1), and days 9-11 (EX2). Whole-body protein turnover was derived from phenylalanine and tyrosine kinetics assessed while fasting at rest on days 4, 7, and 12, using a priming dose of L-[ring-N]tyrosine and a 4-h, primed, continuous infusion of L-[N]phenylalanine and L-[ring-H4]tyrosine.', 'DEF experienced a decrease in NB from BL to EX 1 that was maintained in EX 2. No changes in NB occurred for BAL or DEF-HP over time. No within- or between-group differences were found over time for Phe flux (Qp), conversion rate of Phe to Tyr (Qpt), or the derived protein synthesis value (Sp).'] Does increased protein maintain nitrogen balance during exercise-induced energy deficit? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.5440524816513062,
-1.3911032676696777,
1.991500973701477
] |
['To investigate the relationships of dry eye symptoms and corneal and conjunctival sensitivity to pneumatic stimulation, tear film stability, and clinical ocular surface characteristics in symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects.', 'Ninety-seven subjects were enrolled and grouped by a questionnaire-based single score for symptoms of ocular dryness (none to trace, non-dry group; mild to severe, symptomatic group); 43 were symptomatic and 54 were non-dry. Corneal (K) and conjunctival (C) sensitivities were measured with a computer-controlled Belmonte pneumatic (room temperature) stimulus. Symptoms were assessed according to the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI). Ocular surface staining with fluorescein (FL) and lissamine green (LG), noninvasive tear film break-up time (NIBUT), and the phenol red thread test (PRT) were assessed.', 'The symptomatic group showed lower K and C thresholds (P < 0.01), greater corneal FL and conjunctival LG staining, and shorter NIBUT than did the non-dry eye group (all others P < 0.05). The OSDI scores were higher in the symptomatic group (P < 0.001). K and C thresholds and NIBUT were inversely correlated with the OSDI and corneal and conjunctival staining (all P < 0.05). The K and C threshold and NIBUT (all P < 0.01) correlated positively. Step-wise multiple regression analysis showed that ocular surface sensitivity and NIBUT were significant predictors of the OSDI.'] Is conjunctival and corneal pneumatic sensitivity associated with signs and symptoms of ocular dryness? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1622474193573,
-1.3940085172653198,
2.6008031368255615
] |
['This study evaluated associations between body mass index (BMI) and psychiatric disorders.', 'Data from 41,654 respondents in the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions were analyzed.', 'After controlling for demographics, the continuous variable of BMI was significantly associated with most mood, anxiety, and personality disorders. When persons were classified into BMI categories of underweight, normal weight, overweight, obese, and extremely obese, both obese categories had significantly increased odds of any mood, anxiety, and alcohol use disorder, as well as any personality disorder, with odds ratios (ORs) ranging from 1.21 to 2.08. Specific Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-revision IV mood and personality disorders associated with obesity included major depression, dysthmia, and manic episode (ORs, 1.45-2.70) and antisocial, avoidant, schizoid, paranoid, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorders (ORs, 1.31-2.55). Compared with normal weight individuals, being moderately overweight was significantly associated with anxiety and some substance use disorders, but not mood or personality disorders. Specific anxiety disorders that occurred at significantly higher rates among all categories of persons exceeding normal weight were generalized anxiety, panic without agoraphobia, and specific phobia (ORs, 1.23-2.60). Being underweight was significantly related to only a few disorders; it was positively related to specific phobia (OR, 1.31) and manic episode (OR, 1.83), and negatively associated with social phobia (OR, 0.60), panic disorder with agoraphobia (OR, 0.40), and avoidant personality disorder (OR, 0.59).'] Are overweight and obesity associated with psychiatric disorders : results from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.314499616622925,
-0.29369059205055237,
1.754767894744873
] |
['To identify predictors of radiographic progression in a 2-year randomised, double-blind, clinical study (CIMESTRA) of patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA).', 'Patients with early RA (n = 130) were treated with methotrexate, intra-articular betamethasone and ciclosporin/placebo-ciclosporin. Baseline magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the wrist (wrist-only group, n = 130) or MRI of wrist and metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints (wrist+MCP group, n = 89) (OMERACT RAMRIS), x-ray examination of hands, wrists and forefeet (Sharp/van der Heijde Score (TSS)), Disease Activity Score (DAS28), anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (anti-CCP), HLA-DRB1-shared epitope (SE) and smoking status were assessed. Multiple regression analysis was performed with delta-TSS (0-2 years) as dependent variable and baseline DAS28, TSS, MRI bone oedema score, MRI synovitis score, MRI erosion score, anti-CCP, smoking, SE, age and gender as explanatory variables.', "Baseline values: median DAS28 5.6 (range 2.4-8.0); anti-CCP positive 61%; radiographic erosions 56%. At 2 years: DAS28 2.0 (0.5-5.7), in DAS remission: 56%, radiographic progression 26% (wrist+MCP group, similar for wrist-only group). MRI bone oedema score was the only independent predictor of delta-TSS (wrist+MCP group: coefficient = 0.75 (95% CI 0.55 to 0.94), p<0.001; wrist-only group: coefficient = 0.59 (95% CI 0.40 to 0.77), p<0.001). Bone oedema score explained 41% of the variation in the progression of TSS (wrist+MCP group), 25% in wrist-only group (Pearson's r = 0.64 and r = 0.50, respectively). Results were confirmed by sensitivity analyses."] Is mRI bone oedema the strongest predictor of subsequent radiographic progression in early rheumatoid arthritis . Results from a 2-year randomised controlled trial ( CIMESTRA )? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.020798444747925,
-1.577755331993103,
2.668043613433838
] |
["Midcarpal degeneration is well documented after radioscapholunate fusion. This study tested the hypothesis that radioscapholunate fusion alters the kinematic behavior of the remaining lunotriquetral and midcarpal joints, with specific focus on the dart-thrower's motion.", "Simulated radioscapholunate fusions were performed on 6 cadaveric wrists in an anatomically neutral posture. Two 0.060-in. carbon fiber pins were placed from proximal to distal across the radiolunate and radioscaphoid joints, respectively. The wrists were passively positioned in a custom jig toward a full range of motion along the orthogonal axes as well as oblique motions, with additional intermediate positions along the dart-thrower's path. Using a computed tomography-based markerless bone registration technique, each carpal bone's three-dimensional rotation was defined as a function of wrist flexion/extension from the pinned neutral position. Kinematic data was analyzed against data collected on the same wrist prior to fixation using hierarchical linear regression analysis and paired Student's t-tests.", "After simulated fusion, wrist motion was restricted to an average flexion-extension arc of 48 degrees , reduced from 77 degrees , and radial-ulnar deviation arc of 19 degrees , reduced from 33 degrees . The remaining motion was maximally preserved along the dart-thrower's path from radial-extension toward ulnar-flexion. The simulated fusion significantly increased rotation through the scaphotrapezial joint, scaphocapitate joint, triquetrohamate joint, and lunotriquetral joint. For example, in the pinned wrist, the rotation of the hamate relative to the triquetrum increased 85%. Therefore, during every 10 degrees of total wrist motion, the hamate rotated an average of nearly 8 degrees relative to the triquetrum after pinning versus 4 degrees in the normal state."] Does simulated radioscapholunate fusion alter carpal kinematics while preserving dart-thrower 's motion? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3104336261749268,
-1.1954786777496338,
2.6003129482269287
] |
['Evidence suggesting a beneficial effect of cardioprotective medications in patients with lower extremity atherosclerosis derives largely from secondary prevention studies of heterogeneous populations. Patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI) have a large atherosclerotic burden with related high mortality. The effect of such therapies in this population is largely inferred and unproven.', 'The Project of Ex-Vivo vein graft Engineering via Transfection III (PREVENT III) cohort comprised 1404 patients with CLI who underwent lower extremity bypass grafting in a multicenter, randomized prospective trial testing the efficacy of edifoligide for the prevention of graft failure. Propensity scores were used to evaluate the influence of statins, beta-blockers, and antiplatelet agents on outcomes while adjusting for demographics, comorbidities, medications, and surgical variables that may influence drug use. Primary outcomes were major adverse cardiovascular events < or =30 days, vein graft patency, and 1-year survival assessed by Kaplan-Meier method. Potential determinants of 1-year survival were modeled using a multivariate Cox regression.', 'In this cohort, 636 patients (45%) were taking statins, 835 (59%) were taking beta-blockers, and 1121 (80%) were taking antiplatelet drugs. Perioperative major adverse cardiovascular events (7.8%) and early mortality (2.7%) were not measurably affected by the use of any drug class. Statin use was associated with a significant survival advantage at 1 year of 86% vs 81% (hazard ratio [HR], 0.71; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.52-0.98; P = .03) by analysis of both unweighted and propensity score-weighted data. Use of beta-blockers and antiplatelet drugs had no appreciable impact on survival. None of the drug classes were associated with graft patency measures at 1 year. Significant predictors of 1-year mortality by Cox regression modeling were statin use (HR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.51-0.90; P = .001), age >75 (HR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.60-2.82; P = .001), coronary artery disease (HR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.15-2.01; P = .001), chronic kidney disease stages 4 (HR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.17-3.55; P = .001) and 5 (HR, 3.4; 95% CI, 2.39-4.73; P < .001), and tissue loss (HR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.23-2.80; P = .003).'] Are statins independently associated with reduced mortality in patients undergoing infrainguinal bypass graft surgery for critical limb ischemia? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.0190348625183105,
-1.5180141925811768,
2.5121870040893555
] |
['Brd2 belongs to the bromodomain-extraterminal domain (BET) family of transcriptional co-regulators, and functions as a pivotal histone-directed recruitment scaffold in chromatin modification complexes affecting signal-dependent transcription. Brd2 facilitates expression of genes promoting proliferation and is implicated in apoptosis and in egg maturation and meiotic competence in mammals; it is also a susceptibility gene for juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) in humans. The brd2 ortholog in Drosophila is a maternal effect, embryonic lethal gene that regulates several homeotic loci, including Ultrabithorax. Despite its importance, there are few systematic studies of Brd2 developmental expression in any organism. To help elucidate both conserved and novel gene functions, we cloned and characterized expression of brd2 cDNAs in zebrafish, a vertebrate system useful for genetic analysis of development and disease, and for study of the evolution of gene families and functional diversity in chordates.', 'We identify cDNAs representing two paralogous brd2 loci in zebrafish, brd2a on chromosome 19 and brd2b on chromosome 16. By sequence similarity, syntenic and phylogenetic analyses, we present evidence for structural divergence of brd2 after gene duplication in fishes. brd2 paralogs show potential for modular domain combinations, and exhibit distinct RNA expression patterns throughout development. RNA in situ hybridizations in oocytes and embryos implicate brd2a and brd2b as maternal effect genes involved in egg polarity and egg to embryo transition, and as zygotic genes important for development of the vertebrate nervous system and for morphogenesis and differentiation of the digestive tract. Patterns of brd2 developmental expression in zebrafish are consistent with its proposed role in Homeobox gene regulation.'] Are zebrafish brd2a and brd2b paralogous members of the bromodomain-ET ( BET ) family of transcriptional coregulators that show structural and expression divergence? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4055445194244385,
-1.008439064025879,
2.484346866607666
] |
['Hyperinflation with a decrease in inspiratory capacity (IC) is a common presentation for both unstable and stable COPD patients. As CPAP can reduce inspiratory load, possibly secondary to a reduction in hyperinflation, this study examined whether CPAP would increase IC in stable COPD patients.', "Twenty-one stable COPD patients (nine emphysema, 12 chronic bronchitis) received a trial of CPAP for 5 min at 4, 7 and 11 cmH(2)O. Fast and slow VC (SVC) were measured before and after each CPAP trial. In patients in whom all three CPAP levels resulted in a decreased IC, an additional trial of CPAP at 2 cmH(2)O was conducted. For each patient, a 'best CPAP' level was defined as the one associated with the greatest IC. This pressure was then applied for an additional 10 min followed by spirometry.", "Following application of the 'best CPAP', the IC and SVC increased in 15 patients (nine emphysema, six chronic bronchitis). The mean change in IC was 159 mL (95% CI: 80-237 mL) and the mean change in SVC was 240 mL (95% CI: 97-386 mL). Among these patients, those with emphysema demonstrated a mean increase in IC of 216 mL (95% CI: 94-337 mL). Six patients (all with chronic bronchitis) did not demonstrate any improvement in IC."] Does continuous positive airway pressure increase inspiratory capacity of COPD patients? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.1671918630599976,
-1.319124460220337,
1.4868638515472412
] |
['COPD is a chronic illness with frequent episodic exacerbations that require admission to hospital. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors (or predictors) for hospital admission in a sample of rural COPD patients.', 'COPD patients from the Goulburn and Crookwell areas of New South Wales, Australia, were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups: those with two or fewer admissions, and those with three or more admissions in the last year. Patient interviews were conducted, and data were collected on demographics, consumption of health resources, COPD severity measures (BODE score) and quality of life.', 'There were 32 patients recruited with a median age of 68 years, and 21 (65.6%) were male. There were no significant differences in risk factors (or predictors) identified between the two groups. A statistical difference was found between the two groups, with patients with three or more hospital admissions having a higher BODE score (P = 0.004), poorer quality-of-life score (P = 0.015) and reduced exercise tolerance (P = 0.001).'] Is bODE score a useful predictor of hospital admission in rural patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-0.25932592153549194,
-0.25434085726737976,
-0.2612561285495758
] |
['An important aspect of furthering our understanding of the central nervous system function after menopause is to examine the cerebral circuitry that appears to be influenced by cholinergic antagonist drugs in the presence and absence of estrogen. This pilot study investigated the effects of two anticholinergic drugs on brain activation and working memory performance in postmenopausal women not taking estrogen. This approach simulates the effects of age- or disease-related neuroreceptor or neuronal loss by temporarily blocking pre- and postsynaptic muscarinic and nicotinic cholinergic receptors.', 'Six healthy postmenopausal women took part in three drug challenges using the antinicotinic drug mecamylamine (MECA, 20 mg, oral), the antimuscarinic drug scopolamine (SCOP, 2.5 microg/kg, i.v.), and placebo during functional magnetic resonance imaging. The cognitive measure was a visually presented verbal N-back test of working memory.', 'Neither MECA nor SCOP significantly impaired performance on the verbal N-back. Functional magnetic resonance imaging results showed greater increases in frontal lobe activation in the placebo condition relative to each drug condition with different specific regional activation for MECA and SCOP.'] Does nicotinic versus muscarinic blockade alter verbal working memory-related brain activity in older women? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5865161418914795,
-1.116575002670288,
2.712249994277954
] |
["Spousal caregivers of Alzheimer's disease patients are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease, possibly via sympathetic response to stressors and subsequent catecholamine surge. Personal mastery (i.e., belief that one can manage life's obstacles) may decrease psychological and physiological response to stressors. This study examines the relationship between mastery and sympathetic arousal in elderly caregivers, as measured by norepinephrine (NE) reactivity to an acute psychological stressor.", 'Cross-sectional.', "Data were collected by a research nurse in each caregiver's home.", 'Sixty-nine elderly spousal Alzheimer caregivers (mean age: 72.8 years) who were not taking beta-blocking medication.', 'After assessment for mastery and objective caregiving stressors, caregivers underwent an experimental speech task designed to induce sympathetic arousal.', "Mastery was assessed using Pearlin's Personal Mastery scale and Alzheimer patient functioning was assessed using the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale, Problem Behaviors Scale, and Activities of Daily Living Scale. Plasma NE assays were conducted using pre- and postspeech blood draws.", 'Multiple regression analyses revealed that mastery was significantly and negatively associated with NE reactivity (B = -9.86, t (61) = -2.03, p = 0.046) independent of factors theoretically and empirically linked to NE reactivity.'] Is personal mastery associated with reduced sympathetic arousal in stressed Alzheimer caregivers? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3550198078155518,
-0.9325929880142212,
2.3971524238586426
] |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.