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['CD133 is a marker that identifies/enriches cancer stem cell implicated in tumor initiation. We hypothesize that changes in the CD133 mRNA expression levels and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) may correlate tumor response in GIST.', 'After informed consent, we obtained peripheral blood samples from 24 evaluable patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). There were 7 -paired samples before and after treatment, We measured CD133 mRNA levels by real time RT-PCR method and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels by ELISA. All measurements were done in duplicates in two separate experiments. The treatment resulted in significant reduction of CD133 mRNA expression (p\u200a=\u200a0.048) as well as the level of VEGF (p\u200a=\u200a0.003). The mean CD133 mRNA levels for GIST patients was 615. We found no correlation between the CD133 mRNA levels and VEGF levels. (p\u200a=\u200a0.826). Logistic regression analysis suggested a relationship between elevated CD133 mRNA levels and fitted probability of eventual progressive disease (PD) and mixed response at 37% for CD133 mRNA of 2.25, and the probability of eventual PD/MR is 84% for a CD133 of 2072 (p\u200a=\u200a0.08).'] Does peripheral blood mononuclear CD133 mRNA levels correlate with response to treatment in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9802660942077637,
-1.4339029788970947,
2.4755563735961914
] |
['One approach for restoring vision in end-stage hereditary retinal diseases is implantation of a subretinal microphotodiode array. We analyzed retinal fluorescein angiography findings of the implant area.', 'In this pilot study, patients (n = 11; 10 men, one woman; ages 45.2 ± 8.7 years), with visual acuity of light perception or worse resulting from a hereditary retinal degenerative disease, received active electronic subretinal visual implants. Implants were removed after 4 weeks (n = 7 subjects) or 4 months (n = 4 subjects). Following implantation, regular fluorescein angiography was performed. Regions of retinal capillary loss, microaneurysms, capillary alterations, neovascularization and leakage over the implant were scored at time points T1 (days 1-14), T2 (days 15-28) and T3 (months 3-4). Occurrence and changes of fluorescein angiographic phenomena are reported.', 'In terms of the number of patients in whom retinal alterations were observed (compared to available images) the occurences of the angiographic phenomena (for time points T1, T2 and T3, respectively) were as follows: regions of capillary loss (five of seven, 10 of 11 and five of five patients), microaneurysms (0 of seven, two of 11 and three of five patients), calibre alterations of the capillaries (three of seven, eight of 11 and five of five patients), retinal neovascularization (one of seven, one of 11 and 0 of five) and leakage (three of seven, seven of 11 and four of five). The Friedman test revealed no significant changes in capillary loss, calibre alteration of the capillaries, neovascularization or leakage. Microaneurysms increased significantly (p = 0.037).'] Do fluorescein angiographic findings in eyes of patients with a subretinal electronic implant? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1147959232330322,
-1.4274966716766357,
2.622180223464966
] |
['The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is increasing in western countries. Despite its low sensitivity, the diagnosis of HCC still depends on detection of α-fetoprotein (AFP). Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the combined analysis of AFP and des-γ-carboxy prothrombin (DCP) in a European cohort.', 'We performed a single-center study (164 HCC/422 controls), in which the serum concentrations of AFP and DCP were determined.', 'AFP and DCP were elevated in HCC patients compared to controls (p < 0.0001). By combination of AFP and DCP, the sensitivity was improved from 28.7% for AFP (cutoff 400 ng/ml; AFP at cutoff 10 ng/ml: 54.9%) to 78.0% using cutoffs of 10 ng/ml for AFP and 5 ng/ml for DCP (DCP alone, cutoff 5 ng/ml: 63.4%). Among early-stage patients, the sensitivity increased from 20% for AFP (cutoff 400 ng/ml; AFP at cutoff 10 ng/ml: 38%) to 55% in combination (DCP alone, cutoff 5 ng/ml: 47%). The area under the curve (AUC) for AFP and DCP was similar (AFP: 0.88; DCP: 0.87; combined: 0.91). Among non-cirrhotic patients, DCP (AUC: 0.93) showed a better performance than AFP (AUC: 0.84). Especially patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis had a high percentage of DCP-positive tumors.'] Is a combination of α-fetoprotein and des-γ-carboxy prothrombin superior in detection of hepatocellular carcinoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.3233035802841187,
-1.7688753604888916,
2.025089979171753
] |
['Low gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) level was shown to be an independent predictor of a sustained virological response (SVR) in chronic hepatitis C. We aimed to determine factors associated with high GGT level, and to evaluate whether low GGT level is an independent predictor of a SVR in chronic hepatitis C genotype 1.', 'We retrospectively reviewed our data of patients with chronic hepatitis C genotype 1 treated with pegylated interferon-α and ribavirin. Baseline features were compared between patients with normal and high GGT levels. Factors associated with high GGT level and those associated with a SVR were determined by univariate and multivariate analysis.', 'This study included 57 patients. Mean age was 52.28±9.35 years. GGT levels was elevated in 27 patients (47.4%). GGT levels were normal in 63.3% of the patients who achieved a SVR and in 40.7% of those who did not achieve a SVR (p>0.05). By multivariate logistic regression analysis, the presence of cirrhosis (odds ratio [OR], 9.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08 to 102.61) and female gender (OR, 6.77; 95% CI, 1.23 to 37.20) were significantly associated with high GGT level, and only rapid virological response was associated with a SVR (OR, 8.369; 95% CI, 1.82 to 38.48).'] Does a lower serum gamma-glutamyltransferase level predict a sustained virological response in patients with chronic hepatitis C genotype 1? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.5428941249847412,
-1.5782486200332642,
2.1286768913269043
] |
['Rearing rats in isolation from weaning is an established preclinical neurodevelopmental model which induces behavioural deficits with apparent translational relevance to some core symptoms of schizophrenia.', 'This study evaluated the ability of the atypical antipsychotic risperidone to reverse behavioural deficits induced by post-weaning social isolation of rat pups and to further characterise the predictive validity of this model.', 'Forty-five male Lister hooded rats were housed in groups of 3-4 (n\u2009=\u200916) or singly (n\u2009=\u200929) for 4 weeks immediately after weaning on postnatal day (PND) 22-24. On PND 51, novel cage-induced locomotor activity (LMA) was assessed to subdivide rats into groups balanced for behavioural response. On PNDs 58, 59, 65 and 72, rats received either vehicle (1 ml/kg; i.p.) or risperidone (0.2 or 0.5 mg/kg; i.p.) 30 min prior to testing in LMA, novel object discrimination (NOD), prepulse inhibition (PPI) of acoustic startle and conditioned emotional response (CER) learning paradigms, respectively.', 'Isolation rearing had no effect on PPI, but produced LMA hyperactivity and impaired NOD and CER compared to group-housed controls. Risperidone caused a dose-dependent reduction in LMA, irrespective of rearing condition, but selectively reversed the NOD deficit in isolation-reared rats. Risperidone did not reverse the isolation rearing-induced CER deficit.'] Does the atypical antipsychotic risperidone reverse the recognition memory deficits induced by post-weaning social isolation in rats? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2464025020599365,
-1.3131911754608154,
2.573593854904175
] |
['To determine whether lung retrieval from traumatic donors performed within 24 h of brain death has a negative impact on early graft function and survival after lung transplantation (LT), when compared with those retrieved after 24 h.', 'Review of lung transplants performed from traumatic donors over a 17-year period. Recipients were distributed into two groups: transplants from traumatic donor lungs retrieved within 24 h of brain death (Group A), and transplants from traumatic donor lungs retrieved after 24 h of brain death (Group B). Demographic data of donors and recipients, early graft function, perioperative complications and mortality were compared between both groups.', 'Among 356 lung transplants performed at our institution, 132 were from traumatic donors (70% male, 30% female). Group A: 73 (55%); Group B: 59 (45%). There were 53 single, 77 double, and 2 combined LT. Indications were emphysema in 41 (31%), pulmonary fibrosis in 31 (23%), cystic fibrosis in 38 (29%), bronchiectasis in 9 (7%) and other indications in 13 patients (10%). Donor and recipient demographic data, need or cardiopulmonary bypass, postoperative complications and Intensive Care Unit and hospital stay did not differ between groups. Primary graft dysfunction (A vs B): 9 (16%) vs 13 (26%) P = 0.17. PaO2/FiO2 24 h post-transplant (A vs B): 303 mmHg vs 288 mmHg (P = 0.57). Number of acute rejection episodes (A vs B): 0.93 vs 1.49 (P = 0.01). Postoperative intubation time (A vs B): 99 vs 100 h (P = 0.99). 30-day mortality (A vs B): 7 (10%) vs 2 (3.5%) (P = 0.13). Freedom from bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (A vs B): 82, 72, 37, 22 vs 78, 68, 42, 15%, at 3, 5, 10 and 15 years, respectively (P = 0.889). Survival (A vs B): 65, 54, 46, 42 and 27 vs 60, 50, 45, 43 and 29% at 3, 5, 7, 10 and 15 years, respectively (P = 0.937).'] Does early lung retrieval from traumatic brain-dead donors compromise outcomes following lung transplantation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.5433156490325928,
-1.7892873287200928,
1.2575677633285522
] |
['Pregnant women consume caffeine daily. The aim of this study was to examine the association between maternal caffeine intake from different sources and (a) gestational length, particularly the risk for spontaneous preterm delivery (PTD), and (b) birth weight (BW) and the baby being small for gestational age (SGA).', 'This study is based on the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study conducted by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health. A total of 59,123 women with uncomplicated pregnancies giving birth to a live singleton were identified. Caffeine intake from different sources was self-reported at gestational weeks 17, 22 and 30. Spontaneous PTD was defined as spontaneous onset of delivery between 22+0 and 36+6 weeks (n = 1,451). As there is no consensus, SGA was defined according to ultrasound-based (Marsal, n = 856), population-based (Skjaerven, n = 4,503) and customized (Gardosi, n = 4,733) growth curves.', 'The main caffeine source was coffee, but tea and chocolate were the main sources in women with low caffeine intake. Median pre-pregnancy caffeine intake was 126 mg/day (IQR 40 to 254), 44 mg/day (13 to 104) at gestational week 17 and 62 mg/day (21 to 130) at gestational week 30. Coffee caffeine, but not caffeine from other sources, was associated with prolonged gestation (8 h/100 mg/day, P <10-7). Neither total nor coffee caffeine was associated with spontaneous PTD risk. Caffeine intake from different sources, measured repeatedly during pregnancy, was associated with lower BW (Marsal-28 g, Skjaerven-25 g, Gardosi-21 g per 100 mg/day additional total caffeine for a baby with expected BW 3,600 g, P <10-25). Caffeine intake of 200 to 300 mg/day increased the odds for SGA (OR Marsal 1.62, Skjaerven 1.44, Gardosi 1.27, P <0.05), compared to 0 to 50 mg/day.'] Is maternal caffeine intake during pregnancy associated with birth weight but not with gestational length : results from a large prospective observational cohort study? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
0.3616301119327545,
-1.6706597805023193,
0.393365740776062
] |
['Mutations in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor-3 (VEGFR3 or FLT4) cause Milroy disease, an autosomal dominant condition that presents with congenital lymphedema. Mutations in VEGFR3 are identified in only 70% of patients with classic Milroy disease, suggesting genetic heterogeneity.', 'To investigate the underlying cause in patients with clinical signs resembling Milroy disease in whom sequencing of the coding region of VEGFR3 did not reveal any pathogenic variation.', 'Exome sequencing of 5 such patients was performed, and a novel frameshift variant, c.571_572insTT in VEGFC, a ligand for VEGFR3, was identified in 1 proband. The variant cosegregated with the affected status in the family. An assay to assess the biological function of VEGFC activity in vivo, by expressing human VEGFC in the zebrafish floorplate was established. Forced expression of wild-type human VEGFC in the floorplate of zebrafish embryos leads to excessive sprouting in neighboring vessels. However, when overexpressing the human c.571_572insTT variant in the floorplate, no sprouting of vessels was observed, indicating that the base changes have a marked effect on the activity of VEGFC.'] Is mutation in vascular endothelial growth factor-C , a ligand for vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-3 , associated with autosomal dominant milroy-like primary lymphedema? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.457449197769165,
-1.2446556091308594,
2.792820930480957
] |
['This study sought to identify the clinical and metabolic determinants of bioprosthetic valve degeneration.', 'Structural valve degeneration (SVD) is the major cause of bioprosthetic valve failure. Recent retrospective studies have reported an association between atherosclerotic risk factors and development of SVD.', 'A total of 203 consecutive patients with aortic bioprosthetic valves were recruited. Doppler echocardiography and multidetector computed tomography (CT) examinations were performed for assessment of bioprosthesis calcification and abdominal adiposity. A cardiometabolic risk profile was also obtained. SVD was defined as an increase in mean transprosthetic gradient of ≥ 10 mm Hg and/or a worsening of transprosthetic regurgitation ≥ 1/3 class between 1-year post-operative echo and last follow-up echo (mean follow-up time was 8 ± 3 years).', 'Forty-two patients (20%) were identified as developing SVD. Patients with SVD had significantly higher plasma total-cholesterol (4.6 ± 1.1 mmol/l vs. 4.1 ± 0.9 mmol/l, p = 0.05), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (2.5 ± 1.0 mmol/l vs. 2.2 ± 0.7 mmol/l, p = 0.02), and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) levels (0.71 ± 0.22 g/l vs. 0.64 ± 0.17 g/l, p = 0.02) and higher ApoB/ApoA-I ratios (0.48 ± 0.17 vs. 0.41 ± 0.11, p = 0.004) than those with no SVD. Multivariate analysis revealed that increased ApoB/ApoA-I ratio (odds ratio [OR]: 1.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.10 to 1.82 per 0.1 increment; p = 0.007) and the use of bisphosphonates (OR: 3.57, 95% CI: 1.14 to 10.80 p = 0.02) were the strongest independent predictors of SVD.'] Is apoB/ApoA-I ratio associated with increased risk of bioprosthetic valve degeneration? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7179540395736694,
-1.6751728057861328,
2.3887791633605957
] |
['To determine whether subgroups of type 1 diabetic patients with different glucose variability indices respond differently to continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) in terms of reduced hypoglycemic events.', 'We studied 50 adults with long-standing type 1 diabetes switched to CSII because of persistently high A1C or frequent hypoglycemia despite well-managed intensive basal-bolus therapy. We compared A1C, hypoglycemic events, and glucose variability from self-monitoring of blood glucose profiles at baseline and after 6 months of CSII. Regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of response.', 'In multivariate analysis, baseline low blood glucose index (LBGI) was the best independent predictor of hypoglycemia outcome on CSII (R(2) = 0.195, P = 0.0013). An ROC curve analysis demonstrated a sensitivity of 70.8% (95% CI 48.9-87.4) and specificity of 73.1% (52.2-88.4) by using the LBGI cutoff of 3.34 as predictor of reduction of hypoglycemia on CSII. By grouping patients by LBGI tertiles, we found a 23.3% reduction in hypoglycemic events (<60 mg/dL [3.3 mmol/L]) in the third tertile (range 4.18-9.34) without change in A1C (P < 0.05). Conversely, the first tertile (range 0.62-2.05) demonstrated the greatest A1C reduction, -0.99% (P = 0.00001), but with increasing hypoglycemia.'] Is glucose variability assessed by low blood glucose index predictive of hypoglycemic events in patients with type 1 diabetes switched to pump therapy? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.0692908763885498,
-1.6928892135620117,
1.7250628471374512
] |
['The aim of the study was to characterize the expression of TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 in PMNs of patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) and to elucidate the role of these receptors in GPA with respect to neutrophil activation.', 'The expression of TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 was determined on ex vivo PMNs in whole blood samples of GPA patients (n = 35) and healthy controls (HCs) (n = 24). Isolated PMNs were stimulated in vitro with TLR agonists and assessed for degranulation, membrane proteinase 3 (mPR3) expression, soluble l-selectin shedding and cytokine production (IL-8) in five GPA patients and five HCs. The priming effects of TLR2 and TLR9 ligation were assessed by measurement of serine protease activity after stimulation with PR3-ANCA.', 'There were no significant differences in the ex vivo expression of TLRs on PMNs in HCs and GPA patients. Stimulation of TLR4 and TLR9 induced MPO release, stimulation with TLR2, TLR4 and TLR9 ligands elicited IL-8 production and stimulation of TLR2 and TLR9 led to an upregulation in mPR3 expression on PMNs with no significant differences between GPA and HC after 1 or 24 h stimulation. Priming of PMNs with TLR2 and TLR9 ligands induced degranulation after subsequent stimulation with PR3-ANCA, which was comparable to priming with TNF-α.'] Does toll-like receptor TLR2 and TLR9 ligation trigger neutrophil activation in granulomatosis with polyangiitis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.289642572402954,
-1.3198999166488647,
2.6132445335388184
] |
['To evaluate the effects of iterative reconstruction (IR) on reconstruction time and speed in two commonly encountered acquisition protocols in an emergency setting: pulmonary CT angiography (CTA) and total body trauma CT.', 'Twenty-five patients underwent a pulmonary CTA for evaluation of pulmonary embolisms and 15 patients underwent a total body CT after a traumatic event on a 256-slice CT. Images were reconstructed with filtered back-projection (FBP) and two IR levels. Reconstruction time and speed were quantified using custom written software.', 'Mean reconstruction time delays for pulmonary CTAs were 10\u2009±\u200910\xa0s and 12\u2009±\u200912\xa0s for IR levels 2 and 4, respectively, and 44\u2009±\u20098\xa0s and 45\u2009±\u20097\xa0s for total body trauma CTs for IR levels 1 and 6, respectively. Mean reconstruction times and speeds for pulmonary CTAs were 26\u2009±\u20097\xa0s, 36\u2009±\u20099\xa0s and 38\u2009±\u200912\xa0s, and 26.7\u2009±\u20095.6 slices/s, 18.7\u2009±\u20092.3 slices/s and 18.0\u2009±\u20092.8 slices/s for FBP, IR levels 2 and 4, respectively. For total body trauma CTs these values were 87\u2009±\u200915\xa0s, 132\u2009±\u200917\xa0s and 132\u2009±\u200918\xa0s, and 20.1\u2009±\u20091.6 slices/s, 13.2\u2009±\u20090.8 slices/s and 13.2\u2009±\u20090.6 slices/s for FBP, IR levels 1 and 6, respectively.'] Does iterative reconstruction substantially delay CT imaging in an emergency setting? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.20788678526878357,
-1.9262263774871826,
1.1574275493621826
] |
['Being overweight or obese increases the risk of elevated blood pressure. However differences of their effects on blood pressure in different age groups are not clear.', 'The aim of the present study was to evaluate differences of the effects of adiposity on the odds of having hypertension in different age groups.', 'Three thousand fifty-six subjects (1,532 women and 1,524 men) consist of the drug naïve subjects from the SardiNIA study. Logistic regression models with backward elimination were used to determine and compare the association between categories of obesity on hypertension within young (≤ 39), middle aged (40-59), and older (60+) subjects. Additional terms controlled for in the model were smoking and alcohol intake status.', 'The relationship of body mass index (BMI) on hypertension differed by age, as indicated by the significant interaction term of age with BMI (P <0.01). Older subjects had higher odds of having hypertension than younger subjects but these odds were lower for obese than for lean subjects (OR 10.45, 95% CIs 4.58-23.85 in obese versus OR 33.89, 95% CIs 17.94-64.02 in lean subjects). A similar trend was also observed in middle aged subjects.'] Is the burden of obesity on blood pressure reduced in older persons : the SardiNIA study? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9254481792449951,
0.4137572944164276,
0.8247448801994324
] |
['Monocyte differentiation into dendritic cells or macrophages and recruitment to peripheral organs in chronic inflammatory diseases are directed by allergen challenge via FcεRI as well as the nature of soluble factors in the microenvironment. High-affinity receptor for IgE stimulation of effector cells results in the release of histamine, which acts on various histamine receptors (HR) 1-4, expressed by immune cells.', 'We examined the effect of FcεRI stimulation of human monocytes on H1R expression and function of differentiating cells. The mRNA levels of H1R, H2R and histidine decarboxylase of differentiating cells were detected by quantitative real-time PCR. Expression of CD1c, CD11c, CD68 and CD163 was detected by flow cytometry. Amount of histamine, IL-6 and IL-12p70 in the cell culture was measured with the help of cytometric bead arrays or ELISA assays. Numbers of H1R-expressing macrophages were evaluated by immunofluorescence double staining of CD68 and H1R on human skin sections.', 'We demonstrated that FcεRI stimulation promotes the generation of H1R-expressing macrophage-like cells with enhanced histamine biosynthesis and H1R-mediated proinflammatory properties. Supporting our in vitro findings, high numbers of H1R-expressing CD68(pos) macrophages were detected in the dermis of atopic dermatitis (AD) skin lesions.'] Does fcεRI stimulation promote the differentiation of histamine receptor 1-expressing inflammatory macrophages? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.409085512161255,
-1.325084924697876,
2.7971718311309814
] |
['Bacterial sepsis induced immunsuppression via antigen hyporesponsibility increases the risk of nosokomial infections and mortality. Pattern recognition receptors (PRR) might have a central role in the pathophysiology of hyporesponsibility.', "In this study we evaluated in a human E. coli sepsis cohort, the role of PRR including TLR's and Trem-1. Expression of Trem-1, TLR2, TLR4, CD14 and HLA-DR on blood monozytes and neutrophils were examined using flow cytometry from 22 patients with E. coli sepsis and 6 healthy controls. LPS and LTA stimulated TNF alpha, IL-10, IL-8 and IL-6 production was studied in a 24 h whole blood assay. Free cytokine serum concentration of TNF alpha, PCT and IP-10 were evaluated.", 'We found a significant higher expression of Trem-1 and TLR-2 on monocytes and neutrophils in patients compared to healthy volunteers. TLR2 expression (p\u2009<\u20090.05) was higher and HLA-DR lower (p\u2009<\u20090.05) on monocytes of patients with severe sepsis compared to patients with simple sepsis. Trem-1 expression was tendentially higher (p\u2009=\u20090,07) on monocytes and lower on neutrophils of patients with severe sepsis. Trem-1 expression on neutrophils was associated with the IL-10 (LPS: r\u2009=\u20090,61, p\u2009<\u20090.02) and TNF-α inducibility (LPS: r\u2009=\u20090,78, p\u2009<\u20090,002). In addition Trem-1 expression on neutrophils shows a negative correlation to the serum levels of TNF alpha (r\u2009=\u2009-0,63; p\u2009<\u20090,005), IP-10 (r\u2009=\u2009-0,5; p\u2009<\u20090,035) and procalcitonin (r\u2009=\u2009-0,59; p\u2009<\u20090,007).'] Is triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 ( Trem-1 ) on blood neutrophils associated with cytokine inducibility in human E. coli sepsis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9676744937896729,
-1.5182205438613892,
2.464411735534668
] |
['To assess, and identify predictors of 2-year adverse outcomes of surgical high-risk patients after successful MitraClip therapy (MC), differentiated by the aetiology of mitral regurgitation (MR).', 'Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to assess survival free from death, heart failure rehospitalization, and reintervention up to 2 years in 202 successfully treated patients [74 ± 9 years, 132 men (65%); secondary MR aetiology in 140 patients, primary MR in 62]. Predictors for study endpoints were determined using Cox regression analyses. Mortality was 20% at 1 year and 33% at 2 years in both primary and secondary MR patients; independent predictors of death were reduced forward stroke volume, impaired LV function, and renal failure in primary MR, yet only an increased logistic EuroSCORE in functional MR patients. The rate of rehospitalizations was not different between the patient subgroups for 6 months, but then diverged significantly in favour of primary MR patients (estimated 2-year incidence, primary MR 40% vs. secondary MR 66%). No predictor was found for primary MR patients, but increased LV end-diastolic volume significantly increased the risk of rehospitalization in functional MR patients. Reinterventions were overall rare (7.4% at 1 year, 9.7% at 2 years); primary MR patients required all except one reintervention within 2 months of MC, with again no predictors found, whereas secondary MR patients (all except one with discharge MR of 2+) exhibited a steadily declining freedom from reintervention curve throughout follow-up.'] Does aetiology of mitral regurgitation differentially affect 2-year adverse outcomes after MitraClip therapy in high-risk patients? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9478799104690552,
-1.3290162086486816,
2.3420393466949463
] |
['Previous studies have demonstrated elevated levels of excitatory amino acids (EAA) glutamate (Glu) and aspartate (Asp) in the synovial fluid (SF) of patients with active arthritis. The source of SF EAA concentrations are thought in large part to be secondary to passive diffusion from the plasma across synovial membranes and less so, reflective of local synovial pathology.', 'This descriptive report assesses the hypothesis that the SF EAA levels reflect inflammatory processes of the joint and are not dependent on plasma levels.', 'Simultaneously drawn plasma and SF samples were obtained from 14 recently deceased cadavers and 10 patients with active arthritis. Plasma and SF EAA and other amino acid (AA) levels were determined by HPLC. SF: Plasma compartment concentration ratios were calculated to assess if SF EAA levels were similar to plasma levels.', 'In the cadavers with no antemortem arthritis, the mean SF: Plasma ratios for Glu and Asp were 4-5-fold lower than the mean ratios seen for 9 other AAs, showing specific discrepancies of EAA levels between plasma and synovial fluid. In 9 patients with active arthritis, the SF: Plasma concentration ratios were higher in samples derived from inflammatory arthropathies.'] Do excitatory amino acids display compartmental disparity between plasma and synovial fluid in clinical arthropathies? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.20276141166687,
-1.1493971347808838,
2.342517614364624
] |
['The effects of low maternal hemoglobin levels on the immunological and nutritional components of breast milk at different maturation stages were investigated.', 'Colostrum, transitional and mature milk were collected from 25 mothers with normal hemoglobin levels (control group) and 18 mothers with hemoglobin levels below 11 g/dL (anemia group). Total protein, antibodies, complement proteins, fat and calorie, lipase, iron, transferrin levels, total iron-binding capacity, latent iron-binding capacity (LIBC) and transferrin saturation index (TSI) were determined.', 'In contrast to the control group, anemic mothers had higher total protein levels in milk, lower IgA and IgG levels in colostrum, lower C3 protein levels in milk, lower C4 protein levels in colostrum and transitional milk, higher fat in the colostrum and lower calorie content in mature milk. In both groups, lipase was lower in mature milk and iron concentration was similar. Transitional and mature milk from anemic mothers had higher LIBC and lower TSI values.'] Does maternal anemia induce changes in immunological and nutritional components of breast milk? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5245518684387207,
-0.7831975221633911,
2.404683828353882
] |
["The Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) assesses the added benefit of new drugs by means of company dossiers. The pharmaceutical company performs the information retrieval, which is then assessed by IQWiG. Our aim was to determine whether PubMed's Related Citations (RelCits) and/or a simple-structured Boolean search (SSBS) are efficient and reliable search techniques to assess the completeness of an evidence base consisting of published randomized controlled trials (RCTs).", 'Retrospective analysis of citations included as relevant in systematic reviews (SRs) of drugs. The proportion of relevant citations identified by the above-mentioned search techniques was determined. Relative sensitivity, precision, and the number needed to read (NNR) were then calculated.', 'A total of 19 SRs included 330 relevant PubMed citations. The single techniques yielded either insufficient completeness, reliability, or efficiency. The first 20 RelCits plus SSBS achieved high completeness and reliability (sensitivity: 98.1%, range: 80-100%) and sufficient efficiency (precision: 5.0%, NNR: 25). The first 50 RelCit plus SSBS achieved slightly better completeness and reliability, but slightly worse efficiency.'] Are simple search techniques in PubMed potentially suitable for evaluating the completeness of systematic reviews? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.8012818098068237,
-0.9535506367683411,
0.8033835887908936
] |
['Liver X receptors (LXRs) are transcriptional regulators of cholesterol metabolism, controlling cholesterol flow into cells, catabolism, and efflux. Cholesterol controls cell proliferation; disruptions in cholesterol metabolism have been associated with the development of colon cancer. We investigated whether expression of activated LXR protects against intestinal tumorigenesis in mice.', 'We analyzed the development of colon cancer in mice that express a constitutive active form of LXRα only in the intestinal epithelium, under the control of villin promoter (iVP16LXRα). These mice were crossed with adenomatous polyposis coli (Apc)(min/+) mice, or given azoxymethane followed by dextran sodium sulfate, to assess intestinal tumor formation. We also assessed proliferation and apoptosis of a human colorectal cancer cell line (HT29) transfected with an adenoviral vector that expressed Ad VP16hLXRα, compared with cells expressing AdVP16 (control), and their ability to form xenograft tumors in mice. HT29 cells also were incubated with the LXR ligand GW3965.', 'In human colorectal cancer cells, ligand-induced activation of LXR or transfection with Ad VP16hLXRα blocked the G1 phase, increased caspase-dependent apoptosis, and slowed growth of xenograft tumors in mice. iVP16LXRα mice formed fewer, smaller tumors than VP16 (control) mice after administration of azoxymethane and dextran sodium sulfate. APC(min/+)/iVP16LXRα mice also developed fewer, smaller intestinal tumors than APC(min/+)/iVP16 mice. Gene expression analysis indicated that activation of LXRα affected lipid metabolic networks and increased cholesterol efflux in the intestine.'] Do liver X receptors inhibit proliferation of human colorectal cancer cells and growth of intestinal tumors in mice? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3665058612823486,
-1.3084405660629272,
2.6638660430908203
] |
["In Vietnam, the Mycobacterium tuberculosis Beijing genotype is associated with multi-drug resistance and is emerging. A possible explanation for this genotype's success is an increased rate of relapse.", 'In a prospective cohort study, isolates from patients with smear-positive tuberculosis were subjected to drug susceptibility testing and to spoligotyping and variable number of tandem repeats typing before treatment and after recurrence of tuberculosis.', 'Among 1068 patients who were actively followed up over 18 months for recurrence, 23 relapse cases occurred (1.39 cases/100 person-years). After adjustment for genotype, tuberculosis treatment history, and drug resistance, relapse was significantly associated with the Beijing genotype (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 5.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.06-14.55) and isoniazid resistance (aHR, 5.91; 95% CI, 2.16-16.16).'] Is tuberculosis relapse in Vietnam significantly associated with Mycobacterium tuberculosis Beijing genotype infections? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.025174140930176,
-0.9605812430381775,
2.0657129287719727
] |
['Previous studies have suggested a positive association between dyslipidemia and chronic kidney disease, but sparse data are available on the relation of lipids and urinary albumin excretion rate (UAE) in normoalbuminuric patients with normal renal function.', 'The aim of this study was to evaluate the associations of serum lipids, including total, LDL, HDL, HDL2, HDL3 cholesterol, and triglyceride levels with UAE in normoalbuminuric Type 1 diabetic (T1D) patients.', 'Study included 313 normoalbuminuric T1D patients with normal renal function and before any interventions with statins, ACE inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers. Subjects were classified as low-normoalbuminuric (UAE<11.0 mg/24h) or high-normoalbuminuric (UAE≥11.0 mg/24h) based on median UAE of at least two 24- h urine collections. Correlations and multiple linear regressions analysis were performed to identify relationships between serum lipids and UAE in normoalbuminuric subjects.', 'Total HDL (p=0.02) and HDL3 cholesterol (p=0.01) levels were higher in low-normoalbuminuric subjects compared to high-normoalbuminuric subjects. In logistic regression analysis, after adjustment for age, sex, BMI, duration of diabetes and HbA1c, lower total HDL and HDL3 cholesterol levels were significantly associated with risk of higher UAE in our normoalbuminuric subjects (p≤0.01), with odds ratios of 0.34 to 0.43.'] Are lower levels of total HDL and HDL3 cholesterol associated with albuminuria in normoalbuminuric Type 1 diabetic patients? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.020624876022339,
-1.464348554611206,
2.447718858718872
] |
['Equilibrium-perturbing forces associated with a voluntary upper-limb movement can be strong enough to displace the whole-body centre of mass. In this condition, anticipatory postural adjustments (APAs), developing in muscles other than the prime mover, are essential in maintaining the whole-body balance. Here, we test the hypothesis that APAs preceding an upper-limb target-reaching movement could play a role also in controlling the movement accuracy.', 'Standing subjects (10) were asked to flex the right shoulder and touch with the index fingertip the centre of a target positioned in front of them. The reaching task was also performed while wearing and after doffing prismatic lenses (shifting the eye field rightward). EMGs from different upper- and lower-limb muscles and the mechanical actions to the ground were recorded.', '(i) Before wearing prisms, subjects were very accurate in hitting the target, and the pointing movements were accompanied by APAs in quadriceps (Q) and tibialis anterior (TA) of both sides, and in right hamstrings (H) and soleus (SOL). (ii) After donning prisms, rightward pointing errors occurred, associated with a significant APA increase in right Q and TA, but without changes in the recruitment of right anterior deltoid (prime mover) and biceps brachii. (iii) These pointing errors were progressively compensated in about 10 trials, indicating a sensorimotor adaptation, and APAs returned to values recorded before wearing prisms. (iv) After doffing prisms, pointing errors occurred in the opposite direction but changes in APAs did not reach significance.'] Does accuracy of pointing movements rely upon a specific tuning between anticipatory postural adjustments and prime mover activation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4748473167419434,
-0.8467645645141602,
2.4010732173919678
] |
['Human miR-34c has been reported to be associated with various human malignancies; however, it remains unknown whether miR-34c is involved in chemoresistance in gastric cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of miR-34c in gastric cancer.', 'The adenosine triphosphate-based tumor chemosensitivity assay was used to measure drug sensitivity in gastric cancer samples. The expression levels of miRNA were determined by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and those of protein were by Western blot analysis. Luciferase activity assay was used to verify the target genes of miRNAs. MTT assay was used to test the drug-resistant phenotype changes in cancer cells via overregulation of miRNAs. The methylation status of neighboring CpG islands of miR-34c-5p was analyzed by Bisulfite Sequencing PCR and methylation-specific PCR.', "Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction demonstrated that expression of miR-34c-5p was downregulated in paclitaxel-resistant gastric cancer samples (p < 0.01). Cells derived from gastric cancer tissues with low miR-34c-5p expression and high microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) protein expression tended to have increased chemoresistance to paclitaxel in vitro. Luciferase activity assay confirmed that the 3'-UTR of MAPT mRNA contains a functional miR-34c-5p binding site. Overexpression of miR-34c-5p significantly downregulated MAPT protein expression and increased the chemosensitivity of paclitaxel-resistant gastric cancer cells. Further investigation demonstrated that differential methylation of CpG islands neighboring the miR-34c promoter regulated the expression of miR-34c-5p in gastric cancer cell lines."] Does regulation of microtubule-associated protein tau ( MAPT ) by miR-34c-5p determine the chemosensitivity of gastric cancer to paclitaxel? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.257852554321289,
-1.2643516063690186,
2.5379042625427246
] |
['Exposure to arsenic via drinking water is a significant environmental issue affecting millions of people around the world. Exposure to arsenic during foetal development has been shown to impair somatic growth and increase the risk of developing chronic respiratory diseases. The aim of this study was to determine if in utero exposure to low dose arsenic via drinking water is capable of altering lung growth and postnatal lung mechanics.', 'Pregnant C57BL/6 mice were given drinking water containing 0, 10 (current World Health Organisation (WHO) maximum contaminant level) or 100 μg/L arsenic from gestational day 8 to birth. Birth outcomes and somatic growth were monitored. Plethysmography and the forced oscillation technique were used to collect measurements of lung volume, lung mechanics, pressure-volume curves and the volume dependence of lung mechanics in male and female offspring at two, four, six and eight weeks of age.', 'In utero exposure to low dose arsenic via drinking water resulted in low birth weight and impaired parenchymal lung mechanics during infancy. Male offspring were more susceptible to the effects of arsenic on growth and lung mechanics than females. All alterations to lung mechanics following in utero arsenic exposure were recovered by adulthood.'] Does in utero exposure to low dose arsenic via drinking water impair early life lung mechanics in mice? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.575754404067993,
-0.3926757276058197,
2.030517578125
] |
['Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients frequently suffer from chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The extent to which alterations in sinonasal innate immunity contribute to this disease process is unknown. Activation of sinonasal epithelial cell (SNEC) Toll-like receptors (TLRs), an important component of the innate immune system, may be associated with the hyperinflammatory state observed in sinonasal mucosa of CF patients with CRS. This study compares expression of Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9), in SNRCs collected from CF subjects with CRS to that of normal control subjects.', 'This was a prospective study measuring TLR9 on SNECs collected via endoscopic-guided middle meatal brushings from 8 adult controls and 14 adult subjects with CF-associated CRS.', 'TLR9 expression was significantly elevated in CF subjects at 91% ± 6% when compared with 76% ± 10% in normal controls (p = 0.001).'] Is sinonasal epithelial cell expression of Toll-like receptor 9 elevated in cystic fibrosis-associated chronic rhinosinusitis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.206874132156372,
-1.2892022132873535,
2.5632381439208984
] |
['A relevant relationship exists between the upper and lower airway, indicating the concept of a unified airway. This study aimed to evaluate whether rhinitis has an association with asthma in children.', 'A cross-sectional nationwide survey was performed among children 6-7, 13-14, and 16-17 years old, using the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Children (ISAAC) questionnaire in Japan. According to the responses to the ISAAC core questions, a child who had experienced nasal symptoms in the past 12 months in the absence of a cold was defined as having current rhinitis.', 'After excluding 11,475 children because of incomplete data, 136,506 children were analyzed. Even after adjusting for demographics, sex, and obesity, children with current rhinitis were more likely to have asthma (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 3.10 [95% CI, 2.92-3.30] in children aged 6-7 years; OR, 3.76 [95% CI, 3.45-4.10] in children aged 13-14 years; and OR, 3.59 [95% CI, 3.33-3.88] in children aged 16-17 years). Children whose daily activities were more impaired by rhinitis symptoms had a significantly higher prevalence of severe asthma. The adjusted ORs for severe asthma among asthmatic children whose daily activities were severely impaired by rhinitis symptoms were 3.66 (95% CI, 2.29-5.85) in children aged 6-7 years, 2.55 (95% CI, 1.64-3.96) in children aged 13-14 years, and 1.87 (95% CI, 1.24-2.82) in children aged 16-17 years compared with asthmatic children whose daily activities were not impaired at all.'] Does rhinitis have an association with asthma in school children? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-0.8847918510437012,
0.28147101402282715,
-0.24155668914318085
] |
['To determine speech-perception-in-noise (with speech and noise spatially distinct and coincident) and bilateral spatial benefits of head-shadow effect, summation, squelch and spatial release of masking in adults with delayed sequential cochlear implants.', "A cross-sectional one group post-test-only exploratory design was employed. Eleven adults (mean age 47 years; range 21-69 years) of the Pretoria Cochlear Implant Programme (PCIP) in South Africa with a bilateral severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss were recruited. Prerecorded Everyday Speech Sentences of The Central Institute for the Deaf (CID) were used to evaluate participants' speech-in-noise perception at sentence level. An adaptive procedure was used to determine the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR, in dB) at which the participant's speech reception threshold (SRT) was achieved. Specific calculations were used to estimate bilateral spatial benefit effects.", 'A minimal bilateral benefit for speech-in-noise perception was observed with noise directed to the first implant (CI 1) (1.69 dB) and in the speech and noise spatial listening condition (0.78 dB), but was not statistically significant. The head-shadow effect at 180 degrees was the most robust bilateral spatial benefit. An improvement in speech perception in spatially distinct speech and noise indicates the contribution of the second implant (CI 2) is greater than that of the first implant (CI 1) for bilateral spatial benefit.'] Do speech-perception-in-noise and bilateral spatial abilities in adults with delayed sequential cochlear implant? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.323479413986206,
-1.1918143033981323,
2.6368298530578613
] |
['Two missense polymorphisms of WNT16 were associated with hip bone mineral density (BMD), the buckling ratio of the femoral neck, calcaneal ultrasound and hip fractures in individuals under 80 years of age. These results confirm the association of the WNT16 gene with bone mass and osteoporotic fractures.', 'Osteoporosis has a strong genetic component. Wnt ligands stimulate the differentiation of osteoblast precursors and play a major role in skeletal homeostasis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the association of allelic variants of the WNT16 gene with BMD, other structural parameters of bone and osteoporotic hip fractures.', 'Six single nucleotide polymorphisms were analysed in 1,083 Caucasian individuals over 49 years of age.', 'Two missense polymorphisms (rs2908004 and rs2707466) were associated with femoral neck BMD, with average differences across genotypes of 35 mg/cm(2) (p\u2009=\u20090.00037 and 0.0015, respectively). Likewise, the polymorphisms were associated with calcaneal quantitative ultrasound parameters (p\u2009=\u20090.00004 and 0.0014, respectively) and the buckling ratio, an index of cortical instability of the femoral neck (p\u2009=\u20090.0007 and 0.0029, respectively). Although there were no significant differences in the genotype frequency distributions between 294 patients with hip fractures and 670 controls, among the subgroup under 80 years of age, TT genotypes were underrepresented in patients with fractures (odds ratio 0.50; CI 0.27-0.94).'] Are missense polymorphisms of the WNT16 gene associated with bone mass , hip geometry and fractures? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.702092170715332,
-1.531290888786316,
2.2421934604644775
] |
['Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an aggressive neoplasm with few treatment options. Reliable tumour cell lines for mesothelioma research are rare. Claudins seem to be attractive targets for cancer therapy.', 'To establish a claudin-based MPM phenotype and to verify whether it is preserved in vitro and in vivo.', 'Claudin-3 and -4 expression was examined by immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting in MPM (n=15) and lung adenocarcinoma (n=5) specimens. Claudin-3, -4 and -15 expression was also assessed in MPM versus adenocarcinoma cell lines and in MPM versus adenocarcinoma-derived tumour xenografts mouse models.', 'A defined MPM phenotype was established: M14K and M38K cell lines highly express Claudin-15 and calretinin but not claudin-3 nor claudin-4. Similar results were obtained in xenograft mouse models.'] Do m14K and M38K malignant pleural mesothelioma cell lines preserve the same claudin-based phenotype in vivo? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3028247356414795,
-1.3317325115203857,
2.691534996032715
] |
['Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injury among US older adults. Guidelines recommend screening patients for fall risk, and providing exercise for patients with gait and balance problems. We redesigned an electronic clinical reminder to improve identification and management of Veterans at high risk for falls, and piloted the reminder in 3 Veterans Health Administration community-based outpatient clinics.', 'This project had 5 key elements: (1) case finding, (2) efficient collection of condition-specific clinical data, (3) clinical reminders to prompt appropriate care, (4) patient and family education materials, and (5) primary care provider (PCP) decision support/PCP and staff education. We reviewed clinical reminder reports, interviewed nurses and PCPs, directly observed clinic operations, and watched nurses and PCPs use the clinical reminder with a dummy patient record to determine areas in need of improvement.', 'Over a 1-year period, 2943 Veterans aged 75 years and older visited the 3 clinics, with 2264 screened for fall risk by the intake nurse, yielding 472 positive screens. PCPs completed gait, balance, and strength evaluations on 231 screen-positive Veterans. Among the 162 Veterans who had a gait, balance, or strength problem on evaluation and were free of advanced dementia or poor prognosis, 39 were offered physical therapy or exercise. PCPs and nurses held divergent opinions about the clinical reminder and the project, with PCPs more negative and nurses more positive.'] Does redesign of an electronic clinical reminder to prevent fall in older adults? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.991777777671814,
0.20934095978736877,
0.9956892728805542
] |
['Interleukin 1 (IL-1) is potentially important in the pathogenesis of intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration; increasing production of matrix degradation enzymes and inhibiting matrix synthesis. Although IL-1 polymorphisms have been linked to increased risk of IVD degeneration, it is still unclear whether IL-1 drives IVD degeneration in vivo or is a secondary feature of degeneration. Here, we investigated whether IVD degeneration could be induced spontaneously by the removal of the natural inhibitor of IL-1 (IL-1 receptor antagonist) in mice that lack a functional IL-1rn gene.', 'Histological staining and immunohistochemistry was performed on BALB/c IL-1rn(+/+) and IL-1rn(-/-) mice to examine degeneration and to localise and detect IL-1, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)3, MMP7, a disintigrin and MMP with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS)4 protein production. In addition, IVD cells were isolated using collagenase and proliferation potential determined.', 'IL-1rn(-/-) knockout mice displayed typical features of human disc degeneration: loss of proteoglycan and normal collagen structure and increased expression of matrix degrading enzymes: MMP3; MMP7 and ADAMTS4. Histological grade of degeneration increased in IL-1rn(-/-) mice which was more evident within older mice. In addition IVD cells isolated from IL-1rn(-/-) mice displayed reduced proliferation potential.'] Do interleukin-1 receptor antagonist deficient mice provide insights into pathogenesis of human intervertebral disc degeneration? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.413700819015503,
-1.3623411655426025,
2.788036584854126
] |
['To evaluate the significance of osteopontin (OPN) genotypes in the susceptibility to gastric cancer.', 'The expression of OPN has been correlated with development, invasiveness, metastasis, and survival of gastric cancer, but the role of polymorphisms in the OPN promoter has not been investigated.', 'We enrolled 146 gastric cancer patients and 128 controls. DNA was extracted from peripheral blood leucocytes. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the OPN promoter (-66, -156, -443, -616, -1748, and -1776) were analyzed by pyrosequencing and direct sequencing methods. Logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the associations between SNPs and development of gastric cancer.', 'SNP -443 C/C and -616 T/T of the OPN promoter were significantly associated with gastric cancer [odds ratio (OR)=2.88; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.16-7.12 and OR=1.95; 95% CI, 1.35-2.82, respectively]. Analysis of the combined effect of OPN promoter SNPs revealed that the combination of SNP -443 (T/C or C/C) and SNP -616 (T/T or T/G) had the most significant association with gastric cancer (OR=3.95; 95% CI, 1.58-9.90).'] Are osteopontin promoter polymorphisms associated with susceptibility to gastric cancer? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.5601693391799927,
-1.519273281097412,
2.0610032081604004
] |
['We proposed that metabolic remodeling in the form of increased uptake of the myocardial glucose analog (18)F-FDG precedes and triggers the onset of severe contractile dysfunction in pressure-overload left ventricular hypertrophy in vivo. To test this hypothesis, we used a mouse model of transverse aortic constriction (TAC) together with PET and assessed serial changes in cardiac metabolism and function over 7 d.', 'Scans of 16 C57BL/6 male mice were obtained using a small-animal PET device under sevoflurane anesthesia. A 10-min transmission scan was followed by a 60-min dynamic (18)F-FDG PET scan with cardiac and respiratory gating. Blood glucose levels were measured before and after the emission scan. TAC and sham surgeries were performed after baseline imaging. Osmotic mini pumps containing either propranolol (5 mg/kg/d) or vehicle alone were implanted subcutaneously at the end of surgery. Subsequent scans were taken at days 1 and 7 after surgery. A compartment model, in which the blood input function with spillover and partial-volume corrections and the metabolic rate constants in a 3-compartment model are simultaneously estimated, was used to determine the net myocardial (18)F-FDG influx constant, Ki. The rate of myocardial glucose utilization, rMGU, was also computed. Estimations of the ejection fractions were based on the high-resolution gated PET images.', 'Mice undergoing TAC surgery exhibited an increase in the Ki (580%) and glucose utilization the day after surgery, indicating early adaptive response. On day 7, the ejection fraction had decreased by 24%, indicating a maladaptive response. Average Ki increases were not linearly associated with increases in rMGU. Ki exceeded rMGU by 29% in the TAC mice. TAC mice treated with propranolol attenuated the rate of (18)F-FDG uptake, diminished mismatch between Ki and rMGU (9%), and rescued cardiac function.'] Does quantitative PET imaging detect early metabolic remodeling in a mouse model of pressure-overload left ventricular hypertrophy in vivo? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.165668249130249,
-1.4530237913131714,
2.6344728469848633
] |
['Glioblastoma (GBM) shows downregulated expression of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I, thereby escaping from cytotoxic T cells and limiting the efficacy of immunotherapy. Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of HLA class I (6p21) and/or β-2 microglobulin (B2m) (15q21) regions represents irreversible downregulation. In this study, we examined the prevalence of these LOH events and their relations with overall survival in GBM.', 'In a cross-sectional analysis on 60 adult patients with GBM, DNA from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded specimens were evaluated for 10 microsatellite regions of HLA class I, B2m, HLA class II, HLA class III, and 6q by PCR as well as immunohistochemical evaluation of HLA class I expression and CD8(+) T-cell infiltration.', 'LOH in HLA class I, B2m, HLA class II, HLA class III, and 6q regions was present in 41.4%, 18.2%, 9.4%, 77.8%, and 36.0% of informative cases, respectively. LOH of HLA class I was associated with shorter overall survival (HR = 4.89, P = 0.0078). HLA class I was downregulated in 22% to 43% of cases based on immunohistochemistry. Cases that displayed negative staining were significantly younger. HLA class I expression correlated with intratumoral CD8(+) T-cell infiltration.'] Is lOH in the HLA class I region at 6p21 associated with shorter survival in newly diagnosed adult glioblastoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.005559206008911,
-1.5528268814086914,
2.5892910957336426
] |
["Ubiquilin-1 acts as an adaptor protein that mediates the translocation of polyubiquitinated proteins to the proteasome for degradation. Although previous studies suggested a key role of ubiquilin-1 in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), a direct relationship between ubiquilin-1 and Hirano bodies in AD brains remains unknown.", 'By immunohistochemistry, we studied ubiquilin-1 and ubiquilin-2 expression in the frontal cortex and the hippocampus of six AD and 13 control cases.', 'Numerous Hirano bodies, accumulated in the hippocampal CA1 region of AD brains, expressed intense immunoreactivity for ubiquilin-1. They were much less frequently found in control brains. However, Hirano bodies did not express a panel of markers for proteasome, autophagosome or pathogenic proteins, such as ubiquilin-2, ubiquitin, p62, LC3, beclin-1, HDAC6, paired helical filament (PHF)-tau, protein-disulphide isomerase (PDI) and phosphorylated TDP-43, but some of them expressed C9orf72. Ubiquilin-1-immunoreactive deposits were classified into four distinct morphologies, such as rod-shaped structures characteristic of Hirano bodies, dystrophic neurites contacting senile plaques, fragmented structures accumulated in the lesions affected with severe neuronal loss, and thread-shaped structures located mainly in the molecular layer of the hippocampus.'] Is ubiquilin-1 immunoreactivity concentrated on Hirano bodies and dystrophic neurites in Alzheimer 's disease brains? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.522634744644165,
-1.2564256191253662,
2.8413944244384766
] |
["Crohn's disease prevalence increases with increasing latitude. Because most vitamin D comes from sunlight exposure and murine models of intestinal inflammation have demonstrated beneficial effects of 1,25-(OH)2 vitamin D treatment, we hypothesised that Crohn's disease activity is associated with low vitamin D levels.", "In a cross-sectional study of 182 CD patients and 62 healthy controls, we measured serum 25-OH vitamin D. Stratified analysis was used to compare 25-OH vitamin D levels with Crohn's disease activity index, C-reactive protein, smoking status, intake of oral vitamin D supplements and seasonal variation in CD patients and healthy controls.", "Serum 25-OH vitamin D was inversely associated with disease activity: Median 25-OH vitamin D levels of Crohn's disease in remission, mildly, and moderately active diseases evaluated by Crohn's disease activity index were 64, 49, and 21 nmol/l (p<0.01) and by CRP 68, 76, and 35 nmol/l (p<0.05), respectively. Patients who took oral vitamin D supplementation had lower Crohn's disease activity index (p<0.05) and C-reactive protein (p=0.07) than non-users. Crohn's disease patients who smoked had lower vitamin D levels (51 nmol/l) than patients who did not smoke (76 nmol/l), p<0.01. Overall, Crohn's disease patients did not differ from healthy controls regarding 25-OH vitamin D levels."] Is active Crohn 's disease associated with low vitamin D levels? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.4873204231262207,
-1.1596179008483887,
1.647843360900879
] |
['Gender-specific differences in incidence of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and its outcome have previously been reported. We used age as a surrogate to test whether this might be hormone-related in a large international RCC cohort.', 'This study included patients treated by nephrectomy at 10 international academic centers. Clinicopathologic features were assessed using chi-square and the Student t-tests. Kaplan-Meier survival estimates and Cox proportional hazards models addressed the effect of gender and age on disease-specific survival.', 'Of the 5,654 patients, 3,777 (67%) were men and 1,877 (33%) were women. Generally, women presented at lower T stages (P<0.001), had fewer metastases (P<0.001), and had lower-grade tumors (P<0.001). Women more frequently had clear-cell (87% vs. 82%) and less frequently had papillary RCC (7% vs. 12%) than men (P<0.001). Women had a 19% reduced risk of death from RCC than men (hazard ratio 0.81, 95% confidence interval 0.73-0.90, P<0.001). The survival advantage for women was present to the greatest degree in the age group<42 years (P = 0.0136) and in women aged 42 to 58 years (P<0.001), but was not apparent in patients aged 59 years and older (P = 0.248). Age was an independent predictor of disease-specific survival in women (hazard ratio 1.011, 95% confidence interval 1.004-1.019, P = 0.004), but not in men.'] Is the effect of gender and age on kidney cancer survival : younger age an independent prognostic factor in women with renal cell carcinoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.608324408531189,
-1.3866890668869019,
2.04461669921875
] |
['We aimed to measure the fractal dimension on x-ray images and ultrasonographic parameters of the os calcis of bone from 4 districts in osteoporotic patients and in control subjects, in order to test the hypothesis that ultrasonographic parameters correlate to the fractal dimension obtained on x-ray images.', 'Fractal analysis on radiological images from 4 bone districts (proximal femur, calcaneus, metacarpus and 3rd phalanx) was performed in a study comparing ultrasonographic evaluation of the os calcis in severe osteoporotic patients and in control cases. We studied 86 x-ray-views from patients with severe reduction of ultrasound Stiffness Index and in healthy women. Ultrasound measurements of left os calcis were performed using the Lunar Achilles-Plus instrument. Fractal analysis was performed using the box-counting method.', 'In healthy subjects, fractal dimension, D, measure of structural complexity, resulted close to the topological dimension (no fractal structure), TD, in femur (1.99±0.03)and phalanx (1.96±0.03), D differed significantly from TD in calcaneus (D=1.90±0.02; p<0.001) and metacarpus (D=1.89±0.03, p<0.001). In osteoporotic subjects, in calcaneus and metacarpus, D was higher (1.94±0.03, 1.93±0.03, respectively) than in healthy subjects (1.90±0.02, 1.89±0.02, respectively, p<0.01). In all the subjects, fractal dimension and ultrasound broadband attenuation T-score correlated significantly in calcaneus and metacarpus (p<0.03 and p<0.02, respectively).'] Does fractal dimension of bone texture in radiographs correlate to ultrasound broadband attenuation T-score? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.1725634336471558,
-1.6690623760223389,
1.8441115617752075
] |
['in the last few years, a lot of importance has been given to natural predators against Aedes aegypti. Several organisms have been studied both in lab and in the field so as to find out their capacity to devour mosquito larvae. High densities of Macrobrachium tenellum are found in natural conditions, it is not aggressive and may stand wide ranges of temperature, rates of salinity and oxygen concentrations.', 'to evaluate the predatory capacity of Macrobrachium tenellum on Aedes aegypti larvae in lab conditions.', 'very young Macrobrachium tenellum prawns measuring A(3.0-3.5cm) and B (4.5-5 cm) were used. The mosquito larvae were obtained after hatching of egss from adult females kept in entomological cages. Five, ten, fifteen and twenty Aedes aegypti larvae were placed per treatment per rank, whereas the second bioassays adjusted the number of larvae to 30, 40, 50 and 80 larvae per treatment per rank.', 'Macrobrachium tenellum showed high rate of larval consumption for the two ranks and treatments. In the highest density (80 larvae), the consumption was 95% of larvae at 24 hours for rank A and 100% for rank B.'] Do [ Predatory capacity of Macrobrachium tenellum on Aedes aegypti larvae in lab conditions ]? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-1.1954067945480347,
1.1835525035858154,
-0.7531827688217163
] |
['We sought to explore associations between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease [NAFLD] in an integrated healthcare delivery system in the U.S.', 'Six hundred and seven NAFLD cases were randomly matched 1:1 with controls for age, sex, race and season of measurement. Conditional logistic regression was used to evaluate if serum 25(OH)D levels were associated with increased odds of NAFLD (diagnosed by ultrasound) after adjusting for body mass index and history of diabetes, renal, peripheral vascular and liver diseases (model 1) and also for hypertension (model 2). Mean (SD) serum 25(OH)D level was significantly lower in the group with NAFLD as compared with that in the matched control group (75 ± 17 vs. 85 ± 20 nmol/L [30 ± 7 vs. 34 ± 8 ng/mL], P<0.001). Inadequate 25(OH)D status progressively increased the odds of NAFLD when classified categorically as sufficient (25(OH)D 75 nmol/L [>30 ng/mL], reference group), insufficient (37-75 nmol/L [15-30 ng/mL]; adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 2.40, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.90-6.34) or deficient (<37 nmol/L [<15 ng/mL]; adjusted OR: 2.56, 95% CI: 1.27-5.19). When modeled as a continuous variable, increased log10 25(OH)D was inversely associated with the risk of prevalent NAFLD (adjusted OR: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.064-0.96, P=0.02).'] Is low 25-hydroxyvitamin D level independently associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.36662808060646057,
-1.9438998699188232,
1.359255313873291
] |
['Plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) is a key factor in trauma- and sepsis-induced coagulopathy. We examined how trauma-hemorrhage (TH) modulates PAI-1 responses in subsequent cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis, and the association of PAI-1 with septic outcomes.', 'Mice underwent TH and CLP 48 h later in three separate experiments. In experiment 1, mice were sacrificed pre- and post-CLP to characterize the trajectory of PAI-1 in plasma (protein) and tissues (mRNA). Post-CLP dynamics in TH-CLP (this study) and CLP-Only mice (prior study) were then compared for modulatory effects of TH. In experiment 2, to relate PAI-1 changes to outcome, mice underwent TH-CLP and were sampled daily and followed for 14 days to compare non-survivors (DEAD) and survivors (SUR). In experiment 3, plasma and tissue PAI-1 expression were compared between mice predicted to die (P-DIE) and to live (P-LIVE).', 'In experiment 1, an early post-TH rise of circulating PAI-1 was contrasted by a delayed (post-TH) decrease of PAI-1 mRNA in organs. In the post-CLP phase, profiles of circulating PAI-1 were similar between TH-CLP and CLP-Only mice. Conversely, PAI-1 mRNA declined in the liver and heart of TH-CLP mice versus CLP-Only. In experiment 2, there were no DEAD/SUR differences in circulating PAI-1 prior to CLP. Post-CLP, circulating PAI-1 in DEAD was 2-4-fold higher than in SUR. PAI-1 increase heralded septic deaths up to 48 h prior but DEAD/SUR thrombomodulin (endothelial injury marker) levels were identical. In experiment 3, levels of circulating PAI-1 and its hepatic gene expression were higher in P-DIE versus P-LIVE mice and those increases closely correlated with liver dysfunction.'] Does a non-lethal traumatic/hemorrhagic insult strongly modulate the compartment-specific PAI-1 response in the subsequent polymicrobial sepsis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.0940332412719727,
-1.3980928659439087,
2.459183692932129
] |
['Mast cells (MC) are main effector cells of allergic and other inflammatory reactions; however, only a few anti-MC agents are available for therapy. It has been reported that cinnamon extract (CE) attenuates allergic symptoms by affecting immune cells; however, its influence on MC was not studied so far. Here, we analyzed the effects of CE on human and rodent MC in vitro and in vivo.', 'Expression of MC-specific proteases was examined in vivo in duodenum of mice following oral administration of CE. Release of mediators and phosphorylation of signaling molecules were analyzed in vitro in human MC isolated from intestinal tissue (hiMC) or RBL-2H3 cells challenged with CE prior to stimulation by FcεRI cross-linking.', 'Following oral treatment with CE, expression of the mast cell proteases MCP6 and MC-CPA was significantly decreased in mice. In hiMC, CE also caused a reduced expression of tryptase. Moreover, in hiMC stimulated by IgE cross-linking, the release of β-hexosaminidase was reduced to about 20% by CE. The de novo synthesis of cysteinyl leukotrienes, TNFα, CXCL8, CCL2, CCL3, and CCL4, was almost completely inhibited by CE. The attenuation of mast cell mediators by CE seems to be related to particular signaling pathways, because we found that activation of the MAP kinases ERK, JNK, and p38 as well as of Akt was strongly reduced by CE.'] Does cinnamon extract inhibit degranulation and de novo synthesis of inflammatory mediators in mast cells? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5180156230926514,
-1.1027567386627197,
2.6368961334228516
] |
['Heart attacks and strokes, leading causes of deaths globally, arise from thrombotic occlusion of ruptured vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques characterized by abundant apoptosis, large necrotic cores derived from inefficient apoptotic cell clearance, thin fibrous caps, and focal inflammation. The genesis of apoptosis and necrotic cores in these vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques remains unknown. Cytotoxic CD8(+) T lymphocytes represent up to 50% of leukocytes in advanced human plaques and dominate early immune responses in mouse lesions, yet their role in atherosclerosis also remains unresolved.', 'CD8(+) T-lymphocyte depletion by CD8α or CD8β monoclonal antibody in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice fed a high-fat diet ameliorated atherosclerosis by reducing lipid and macrophage accumulation, apoptosis, necrotic cores, and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, interleukin 1β, interferon γ, and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1. Transfer of CD8(+) T cells into lymphocyte-deficient, apolipoprotein E-deficient mice partially reconstituted CD8(+) T cells in lymphoid compartments and was associated with CD8(+) T-cell infiltration in lesions, increased lipid and macrophage accumulation, apoptotic cells, necrotic cores, and interleukin 1β in atherosclerotic lesions. Transfer of CD8(+) T cells deficient in perforin, granzyme B, or tumor necrosis factor α but not interferon γ failed to increase atherosclerotic lesions despite partial reconstitution in the lymphoid system and the presence in atherosclerotic lesions. Macrophages, smooth muscle cells, and endothelial cells were identified as apoptotic targets.'] Do cytotoxic and proinflammatory CD8+ T lymphocytes promote development of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques in apoE-deficient mice? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.432431697845459,
-1.3634145259857178,
2.8414740562438965
] |
['Stimulant medications do not improve the academic achievement of ADHD diagnosed undergraduates. One reason may be that stimulant-induced sympathetic arousal might impair memory.', 'To test this hypothesis, we conducted a study between September 2011 and March 2012, to compare medicated (n=12) and non-medicated (n=11) ADHD diagnosed undergraduates, with non-ADHD students (n=12). All participants were presented with an audiovisual narrative that included an emotional segment, and answered questions about the story one week later.', 'All groups remembered the emotional segment significantly better than the neutral segments. Non-medicated ADHD students recalled less of both segments than the medicated ADHD or non-ADHD groups, which did not differ from each other.'] Do stimulant medications for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD ) improve memory of emotional stimuli in ADHD-diagnosed college students? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-2.0916969776153564,
1.142225742340088,
0.07520151883363724
] |
['To examine involvement of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis and vascular complications of diabetes.', 'This cross sectional study was conducted at the Joint Laboratory Office (JLO), Dokkyo Medical University Koshigaya Hospital, Koshigaya, Japan from April 2010 to December 2011. Fasting glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), serum lipids, urinary albumin excretion (UAE), ankle brachial index and pulse wave velocity were measured in 51 patients with type 2 diabetes and 20 healthy controls. The fundus oculi and Achilles` tendon reflex were also examined in the patients. Oxidative stress was measured by a reactive oxygen metabolites (ROM) test and antioxidant potency was evaluated by a biological antioxidant potential (BAP) test in the Free Radical Analytical System (FRAS)-4. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was assayed using electron spin resonance (ESR).', 'Diabetic patients tended to have increased ROM compared with healthy subjects, and ROM showed a marked increase with progression of diabetic retinopathy. A significant reduction of BAP was found in patients who were smokers, and BAP was significantly negatively correlated with UAE (p=0.029). Serum SOD activity significantly decreased with progression of diabetic retinopathy (p=0.017).'] Are oxidative stress and antioxidative potency closely associated with diabetic retinopathy and nephropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5984702110290527,
-1.1125380992889404,
2.7448606491088867
] |
['Subjects with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) have a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Low serum potassium concentration or low dietary potassium intake can result in metabolic disorders.', 'Our objective was to evaluate the association between low serum potassium level and prevalence of NAFLD in a Chinese population.', 'A population-based cross-sectional study.', 'We conducted a community-based study in 8592 subjects to investigate the association of serum potassium with the risk of prevalent NAFLD. NAFLD was diagnosed by hepatic ultrasonography.', 'The prevalence rate of NAFLD was 30·3% in this population and gradually decreased across serum potassium quartiles. With the reduction in serum potassium level, participants have larger waist circumference (WC) and more severe insulin resistance. The correlations hold also in multivariate linear regression analysis. In logistic regression analysis, compared with subjects in the highest quartile of serum potassium level, the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) in the lowest quartile was 1·33 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1·11-1·60] for NAFLD, 1·81 (95% CI, 1·49-2·19) for insulin resistance and 1·58 (95% CI, 1·30-1·93) for central obesity. In subgroup analysis after multiple adjustments, significant relation between serum potassium level and prevalent NAFLD was detected in women, younger subjects, those with insulin resistance and those with central obesity, respectively.'] Is low serum potassium level associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and its related metabolic disorders? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.71601402759552,
-1.2262321710586548,
1.9849447011947632
] |
['Post-resuscitation myocardial dysfunction has been implicated as a major cause of fatal outcome in patients who survive initially successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). In our previous study, we found that impaired myocardial β-adrenergic receptor (AR) signaling is a key mechanism in post-resuscitation myocardial dysfunction and Shen-Fu injection (SFI) can attenuate post-resuscitation myocardial dysfunction. However, whether SFI can prevent impaired post-resuscitation myocardial β-AR signaling is not yet known. In this study, we investigated the effect of SFI on impaired myocardial β-AR signaling occurring post-resuscitation in a porcine model of cardiac arrest.', 'Ventricular fibrillation was induced electrically in anesthetized male landrace domestic pigs. After 4 minutes of untreated ventricular fibrillation, cardiopulmonary resuscitation was initiated. Sixteen successfully resuscitated pigs were randomized to receive a continuous infusion of either SFI (0.5 ml/min; n = 8) or saline (placebo; n = 8) for 6 hours, beginning 15 minutes after the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). Hemodynamic and echocardiographic data were recorded. β-AR signaling was assessed at 6 hours after the intervention by measuring myocardial adenylate cyclase activity, β-AR density and β-AR kinase expression.', 'Treatment with SFI produced better maximum rate of left ventricular pressure increase (dp/dt(max)) and maximum rate of left ventricular pressure decline (-dp/dt(max)), cardiac output, and ejection fraction after ROSC. SFI treatment was also associated with lower myocardial β-adrenergic receptor kinase expression, whereas basal and isoproterenol-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity and the total β-AR density were significantly increased in the SFI group when compared with the placebo group.'] Does shen-Fu injection reduce impaired myocardial β-adrenergic receptor signaling after cardiopulmonary resuscitation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.348991632461548,
-1.438652515411377,
2.7825510501861572
] |
['Tendon adhesion is one of the most common causes of disability following tendon surgery. Therefore, prevention of peritendinous adhesion after surgical repair of tendon is a major challenge. The aim of this study was to explore the possible application of a collagen membrane for the prevention or attenuation of peritendinous adhesions.', "Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat Achilles tendon was cut and sutured by a modified Kessler's technique with or without the collagen membrane wrapped. Macroscopic, morphological and biomechanical evaluations were applied to examine the recovery of the injured tendon at 4 and 8 weeks after surgery.", 'The surgery group wrapped by collagen membranes had a better outcome than the group with surgery repair only. In the collagen membrane-treated group, less adhesion appeared, stronger tensile strength was detected, and more tendon fibers and collagen I expression were observed morphologically.'] Does collagen membrane alleviate peritendinous adhesion in the rat Achilles tendon injury model? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.6728904247283936,
-0.8781323432922363,
2.6895713806152344
] |
['Retinoic acid (RA) is a potent signaling molecule that plays pleiotropic roles in patterning, morphogenesis, and organogenesis during embryonic development. The synthesis from retinol (vitamin A) to retinoic acid requires two sequential oxidative steps. The first step involves the oxidation of retinol to retinal through the action of retinol dehydrogenases. Retinol dehydrogenases1l (RDH1l) is a novel zebrafish retinol dehydrogenase. Herein we investigated the role of zebrafish RDH1l in heart development and cardiac performance in detail.', 'RDH1l specific morpholino was used to reduce the function of RDH1l in zebrafish. The gene expressions were observed by using whole mount in situ hybridization. Heart rates were observed and recorded under the microscope from 24 to 72 hours post fertilization (hpf). The cardiac performance was analyzed by measuring ventricular shortening fraction (VSF).', 'The knock-down of RDH1l led to abnormal neural crest cells migration and reduced numbers of neural crest cells in RDH1l morphant embryos. The reduced numbers of cardiac neural crest cells also can be seen in RDH1l morphant embryos. Furthermore, the morpholino-mediated knock-down of RDH1l resulted in the abnormal heart loop. The left-right determining genes expression pattern was altered in RDH1l morphant embryos. The impaired cardiac performance was observed in RDH1l morphant embryos. Taken together, these data demonstrate that RDH1l is essential for the heart development and cardiac performance in zebrafish.'] Is retinol dehydrogenase , RDH1l , essential for the heart development and cardiac performance in zebrafish? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3897249698638916,
-1.2598025798797607,
2.6794986724853516
] |
['The expression of secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) in skeletal muscle decreases with age. Here, we examined the role of SPARC in skeletal muscle by reducing its expression.', 'SPARC expression was suppressed by introducing short interfering RNA (siRNA) into mouse tibialis anterior muscle. Myofiber diameter, atrogin1, and muscle RING-finger protein 1 (MuRF1) expression, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) and transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) signaling were then analyzed.', 'Reduced SPARC expression caused decreases in the diameter of myofibers, especially fast-type ones, accompanied by upregulation of atrogin1, but not MuRF1, at 10 days after siRNA transfection. The expression of TNFα and TGFβ and the phosphorylation status of p38 were not affected by SPARC knockdown, whereas Smad3 phosphorylation was increased at 2 days after siRNA transfection.'] Does loss of SPARC in mouse skeletal muscle cause myofiber atrophy? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.533949613571167,
-0.862781822681427,
2.4362974166870117
] |
['Patients with alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) have antibodies directed to alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), anti-ADH titers being associated with disease severity and active alcohol consumption. ADH-specific T-cell responses have not been characterized. We aimed to define anti-ADH cellular immune responses and their association with active alcohol consumption and disease severity. Using cultures of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 25 patients with alcohol-related cirrhosis (ARC; 12 were actively drinking or abstinent for <6 months, and 13 were abstinent for >6 months) and hepatic mononuclear cells (HMCs) from 14 patients with ARC who were undergoing transplantation, we investigated T-cell reactivity to 25 overlapping peptides representing the full human ADH protein (beta 1 subunit). ADH-specific peripheral T-cell responses were assessed by the quantification of T-cell proliferation and cytokine production and were correlated with the clinical course. In active alcohol consumers, proliferative T-cell responses targeted ADH31-95 and other discontinuous sequences in the ADH peptide, whereas only one sequence was targeted in abstinents. ADH peptides induced the production of interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin-4 (IL-4), and IL-17. IL-4 production was lower in active drinkers versus abstinents, and IL-17 production was higher. Peptides inducing IFN-γ production outnumbered those inducing T-cell proliferation. The intensity of the predominantly T helper 1 (Th 1) responses directly correlated with disease severity. Similar to PBMCs in abstinents, ADH peptides induced weak T-cell proliferation and a similar level of IL-4 production in HMCs but less vigorous Th 1 and T helper 17 responses.'] Are alcohol dehydrogenase-specific T-cell responses associated with alcohol consumption in patients with alcohol-related cirrhosis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3766109943389893,
-1.3367059230804443,
2.7312002182006836
] |
['We have previously reported that intravenous injection of high-density lipoproteins (HDLs) was neuroprotective in an embolic stroke model. We hypothesized that HDL vasculoprotective actions on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) may decrease hemorrhagic transformation-associated with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) administration in acute stroke.', 'We used tPA alone or in combination with HDLs in vivo in 2 models of focal middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) (embolic and 4-hour monofilament MCAO) and in vitro in a model of BBB. Sprague-Dawley rats were submitted to MCAO, n=12 per group. The rats were then randomly injected with tPA (10 mg/kg) or saline with or without human plasma purified-HDL (10 mg/kg). The therapeutic effects of HDL and BBB integrity were assessed blindly 24 hours later. The integrity of the BBB was also tested using an in vitro model of human cerebral endothelial cells under oxygen-glucose deprivation.', 'tPA-treated groups had significantly higher mortality and rate of hemorrhagic transformation at 24 hours in both MCAO models. Cotreatment with HDL significantly reduced stroke-induced mortality versus tPA alone (by 42% in filament MCAO, P=0.009; by 73% in embolic MCAO, P=0.05) and tPA-induced intracerebral parenchymal hematoma (by 92% in filament MCAO, by 100% in embolic MCAO; P<0.0001). This was consistent with an improved BBB integrity. In vitro, HDLs decreased oxygen-glucose deprivation-induced BBB permeability (P<0.05) and vascular endothelial cadherin disorganization.'] Does high-density lipoprotein-based therapy reduce the hemorrhagic complications associated with tissue plasminogen activator treatment in experimental stroke? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.096709728240967,
-1.5597763061523438,
2.6369552612304688
] |
['Exercise training (ET) and physical activity (PA) offer obvious health benefits in regular participants. In pre-clinical animal models, treadmills and running wheels are the models of choice for intervention studies using ET and PA. However, the frequency and duration necessary for positive effects on health are not completely understood. We investigated the impact of short duration voluntary wheel running on body composition in FVB × C57BL/6\u2009F1 hybrid mice over 22 weeks. Mice were randomized and given access to voluntary wheel running (N = 6) or locked wheels (N = 5) for 1 hour per night during the dark cycle, 5 days per week.', 'Average weekly running distance was generally cyclic in nature over the 22 weeks but did not change significantly from week to week, except for a difference between week 3 and week 9 (P = 0.05). Daily running distances ranged from 0.78 km to 1.45 km. Compared with non-runners, runners demonstrated significantly lower relative fat mass (9.98 ± 0.56% vs. 14.91 ± 1.47%, P = 0.0067) and significantly higher relative lean mass (79.18 ± 0.65% vs. 75.41 ± 1.28%, P = 0.019). No differences were observed with respect to glucose metabolism.'] Does a novel long term short interval physical activity regime improve body composition in mice? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.3746891021728516,
-0.8841176629066467,
1.326653003692627
] |
['Asthma has increased in various regions of the world. The factors associated with the growth in prevalence are still to be determined.', 'To evaluate the degree of association of the prevalence of asthma with passive smoking and obesity in school-children in western Mexico.', 'A population-based cross-section analytic study. A stratified random sample of 740 primary school pupils of between 6 and 12 years of age was chosen. Asthma, passive smoking and a background of allergic diseases were identified by means of a standardized questionnaire filled out by the parents of the participants. Obesity was identified by means of the body mass index. Proportional sections of population were estimated and the degree of association between asthma (dependent variable) and the independent variables was evaluated by means of multivariate logistic regression.', 'THE FOLLOWING FACTORS OF PREVALENCE WERE FOUND: asthma 8.1%; obesity 19.9%; background of smoking in the father 6.7% and in the mother 13.3%. There was no significant association to be found with asthma in either passive smoking where one of the parents smoked (p = 0.39) or in obesity (p = 0.09). On the other hand, the background of allergic diseases in the mother showed statistically significant association with asthma in the boys (odds ratio = 3.5, 95% confidence interval 1.4 to 8.59), but not in the girls.'] Is asthma in Mexican school-age children associated with passive smoking or obesity? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.782441258430481,
-0.1152951791882515,
1.059800386428833
] |
['The effects of LLLT were studied during muscle regeneration through gene expression.', 'It was evaluated 10 and 50J/cm(2) doses during 7, 14 and 21days post cryoinjury, through histopathological analysis and mRNA MyoD, Myogenin, Vegf and Cox-2 expression.', 'Irradiated groups presented less inflammatory process than control group after 14 and 21days. Cox-2 levels were downregulated in all irradiated groups after 7, 14 and 21days. On day 7, both treated groups had a downregulation of Vegf levels, and an upregulation after 14 and 21days, mainly with 50J/cm(2). The MyoD levels were upregulated with high dose in all periods and with low dose after 21days. Myogenin expression was downregulated in both treated groups after 7days, and was upregulated with 10J/cm(2) after 21days.'] Does low-level laser therapy ( LLLT ) ( 660nm ) alter gene expression during muscle healing in rats? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.103017568588257,
-1.2535605430603027,
2.4045324325561523
] |
['Despite intensive investigation the mechanism by which HIV-1 reaches the host cell nucleus is unknown. TNPO3, a karyopherin mediating nuclear entry of SR-proteins, was shown to be required for HIV-1 infectivity. Some investigators have reported that TNPO3 promotes HIV-1 nuclear import, as would be expected for a karyopherin. Yet, an equal number of investigators have failed to obtain evidence that supports this model. Here, a series of experiments were performed to better elucidate the mechanism by which TNPO3 promotes HIV-1 infectivity.', 'To examine the role of TNPO3 in HIV-1 replication, the 2-LTR circles that are commonly used as a marker for HIV-1 nuclear entry were cloned after infection of TNPO3 knockdown cells. Potential explanation for the discrepancy in the literature concerning the effect of TNPO3 was provided by sequencing hundreds of these clones: a significant fraction resulted from autointegration into sites near the LTRs and therefore were not bona fide 2-LTR circles. In response to this finding, new techniques were developed to monitor HIV-1 cDNA, including qPCR reactions that distinguish 2-LTR circles from autointegrants, as well as massive parallel sequencing of HIV-1 cDNA. With these assays, TNPO3 knockdown was found to reduce the levels of 2-LTR circles. This finding was puzzling, though, since previous work has shown that the HIV-1 determinant for TNPO3-dependence is capsid (CA), an HIV-1 protein that forms a mega-dalton protein lattice in the cytoplasm. TNPO3 imports cellular splicing factors via their SR-domain. Attention was therefore directed towards CPSF6, an SR-protein that binds HIV-1 CA and inhibits HIV-1 nuclear import when the C-terminal SR-domain is deleted. The effect of 27 HIV-1 capsid mutants on sensitivity to TNPO3 knockdown was then found to correlate strongly with sensitivity to inhibition by a C-terminal deletion mutant of CPSF6 (R2\u2009=\u20090.883, p\u2009<\u20090.0001). TNPO3 knockdown was then shown to cause CPSF6 to accumulate in the cytoplasm. Mislocalization of CPSF6 to the cytoplasm, whether by TNPO3 knockdown, deletion of the CPSF6 nuclear localization signal, or by fusion of CPSF6 to a nuclear export signal, resulted in inhibition of HIV-1 replication. Additionally, targeting CPSF6 to the nucleus by fusion to a heterologous nuclear localization signal rescued HIV-1 from the inhibitory effects of TNPO3 knockdown. Finally, mislocalization of CPSF6 to the cytoplasm was associated with abnormal stabilization of the HIV-1 CA core.'] Does tNPO3 protect HIV-1 replication from CPSF6-mediated capsid stabilization in the host cell cytoplasm? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.243415355682373,
-1.1290481090545654,
2.3594629764556885
] |
['To demonstrate the feasibility of doing a reliable rhythm analysis in the chest compression pauses (e.g. pauses for two ventilations) during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).', 'We extracted 110 shockable and 466 nonshockable segments from 235 out-of-hospital cardiac arrest episodes. Pauses in chest compressions were already annotated in the episodes. We classified pauses as ventilation or non-ventilation pause using the transthoracic impedance. A high-temporal resolution shock advice algorithm (SAA) that gives a shock/no-shock decision in 3s was launched once for every pause longer than 3s. The sensitivity and specificity of the SAA for the analyses during the pauses were computed.', 'We identified 4476 pauses, 3263 were ventilation pauses and 2183 had two ventilations. The median of the mean duration per segment of all pauses and of pauses with two ventilations were 6.1s (4.9-7.5s) and 5.1s (4.2-6.4s), respectively. A total of 91.8% of the pauses and 95.3% of the pauses with two ventilations were long enough to launch the SAA. The overall sensitivity and specificity were 95.8% (90% low one-sided CI, 94.3%) and 96.8% (CI, 96.2%), respectively. There were no significant differences between the sensitivities (P=0.84) and the specificities (P=0.18) for the ventilation and the non-ventilation pauses.'] Does feasibility of automated rhythm assessment in chest compression pause during cardiopulmonary resuscitation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.3290036916732788,
-1.2027161121368408,
1.7622523307800293
] |
['We sought to characterize persons who requested to opt out of an exception from informed consent (EFIC) cardiac arrest trial and their reasons for opting out.', 'At one site of a multi-site, out-of-hospital, cardiac arrest EFIC trial (September 2007 - June 2009), persons who did not want to participate in the study could request an opt-out "NO STUDY" bracelet to prevent trial enrollment. We surveyed all persons who requested a bracelet by phone interview, web or mail. Opt-out bracelets were advertised in all public communication about the study, including community consultation and public disclosure efforts. Survey questions included demographics, Likert scale items about attitudes toward the trial and research in general, plus open-ended questions. We used descriptive statistics for standardized questions and qualitative analysis to identify common themes from open-ended questions.', 'Sixty bracelets were requested by 50 individuals. Surveys were completed by 46 persons (92% response rate). Seventy percent of respondents agreed emergency research is important, but 87% objected to any research without consent. In the qualitative analysis, 5 overlapping themes emerged: questioning the ethics of EFIC research; concerns about how the study would impact end-of-life preferences; subjective emotions including sarcasm, anger, and allusions to past unethical research; negative reference to unrelated public health controversies; and objections to the study protocol based on misinformation.'] Do why persons choose to opt out of an exception from informed consent cardiac arrest trial? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-2.8011910915374756,
1.526336669921875,
0.3989739418029785
] |
['Few studies have reported the association between lifestyle factors and prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and among these, the effects of habitual areca nut chewing have never been examined.', 'Data from 718 pathology-proven ESCC patients recruited in a multicenter hospital-based case-control study between 2000 and 2008 in Taiwan were analyzed. Clinical and lifestyle information were obtained by chart review and questionnaire survey. Death was confirmed using the National Death Index. The mean age at diagnosis was 59.8 years and 506 (70.5%) patients presented with stage III or IV diseases. The overall 1- and 5-year survival rates were 41.8% and 9.75% respectively. In addition to clinical stage, habitual alcohol drinking was found to be the strongest predictor for ESCC survival, followed by areca chewing and smoking. Compared with non-users, patients who regularly used all three substances (alcohol, areca nut, and cigarette) had 1.52 times the risk of early death (adjusted hazard ratio\u200a=\u200a1.52, 95% CI\u200a=\u200a1.02-2.27, p\u200a=\u200a0.04). In addition, the more the number of substances used, the worse the prognosis of ESCC (adjusted p for trend\u200a=\u200a0.01).'] Is substance use ( alcohol , areca nut and cigarette ) associated with poor prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.1797653436660767,
-1.361797571182251,
1.5686569213867188
] |
['There is a poor understanding of the interplay between cognitive and physiological functions in leading to falls. We hypothesized that poorer physiological function would modify the effect of poorer cognitive function on increased risk of falling in older people.', 'A range of cognitive (executive function/attention, memory, processing speed, and visuospatial ability) and physiological functions (vision, proprioception, sway, leg strength, reaction time) were measured using standardized tests in 386 randomly selected adults aged 60-86. Incident falls were recorded over 12 months. Log-multinomial regression was used to model the relationships and test for interactions between cognition and physiological function in explaining the risk of single or multiple falls.', 'Overall, 94 people (24.4%) had a single fall, and 78 (20.2%) had multiple falls. No significant associations were observed between cognitive function and the risk of single falls. The risk of multiple falls was increased with poorer function in Stroop dot time (RR = 1.03, 95% CI [1.01, 1.05], p = .002) and Stroop word time (RR = 1.02 [1.01, 1.03], p = .001) and reduced with better function in Category Fluency (RR = 0.94 [0.91, 0.98], p = .001) and visuospatial function (RR = 0.95 [0.92, 0.98], p < .001). These associations were amplified by the presence of greater body sway, less ambulatory physical activity, slower reaction time and gait speed, weaker muscle strength, and poorer visual contrast (p for interactions <.05).'] Does cognitive function modify the effect of physiological function on the risk of multiple falls -- a population-based study? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.050956964492798,
-0.9327011704444885,
2.039154529571533
] |
['The neurotransmitter dopamine plays a key role in cognitive functions that are associated with fronto-striatal circuitry and has been implicated in many neuropsychiatric disorders. However, there is a large variability in the direction and extent of dopaminergic drug effects across individuals.', 'We investigated whether individual differences in dopaminergic drug effects on human fronto-striatal functioning are associated with individual differences in white matter tracts.', 'The effects of the dopamine receptor agonist bromocriptine were assessed using functional magnetic resonance imaging in 22 healthy volunteers in a placebo-controlled, double-blind, within-subject design. Human psychopharmacology and functional neuroimaging were combined with functional connectivity analyses and structural connectivity analyses to establish a link between dopaminergic drug effects on fronto-striatal function and fronto-striatal anatomy.', "We demonstrate that bromocriptine alters functional signals associated with attention switching in the basal ganglia. Crucially, individual differences in the drug's effect on these signals could be predicted from individual differences in fronto-striato-thalamic white matter tracts, as indexed by diffusion tensor imaging. Anatomical fronto-striatal connectivity also predicted drug effects on switch-related functional connectivity between the basal ganglia and the prefrontal cortex."] Does anatomical connection strength predict dopaminergic drug effects on fronto-striatal function? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.700058698654175,
-0.9388860464096069,
2.6806278228759766
] |
['We studied whether the severity of GH deficiency (GHD) defined as i) GH-peak on stimulation tests (insulin tolerance test (ITT), arginine, and glucagon), ii) number of additional pituitary deficits, or iii) baseline IGF1 SDS could impact the response to GH treatment. We further explored whether iv) IGF1 SDS after 24 months of GH replacement or v) ΔIGF1 SDS from baseline to 24 months was related to the phenotypic response to GH treatment. DESIGN, PATIENTS, AND MEASUREMENTS: The patient cohort (n=1752; 50% women) was obtained from KIMS (Pfizer International Metabolic Database). The patients were divided into three groups of approximately equal size (tertiles) according to the stimulated GH-peak values and baseline IGF1 SDS and were studied at baseline, 12, and 24 months of GH therapy.', 'Lower baseline IGF1 SDS predicted better response in weight, BMI, total cholesterol, and triglycerides, while IGF1 SDS after 24 months was associated with reduction in waist/hip ratio, total cholesterol, and improved quality of life (QoL). Age-correlated negatively with the response in body weight, BMI, waist, IGF1 SDS, and total and LDL-cholesterol. Response in weight and BMI was greater in men than in women, whereas women showed greater improvement in QoL than men. Patients with more severe GHD as assessed by lower GH-peaks and more pituitary hormone deficiencies had a greater increase in IGF1 SDS. The increase in IGF1 SDS was associated with a reduction in waist/hip ratio and an increase in weight, BMI, and triglycerides. There was no correlation with other lipids, blood pressure, or glucose.'] Is response to GH treatment in adult GH deficiency predicted by gender , age , and IGF1 SDS but not by stimulated GH-peak? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9765211343765259,
-1.3877923488616943,
2.365224599838257
] |
['It is unclear whether late THA dislocations are related to mechanical impingement or to a biological mechanism that decreases the stability provided by the capsule (eg, inflammation secondary to osteolysis). It is also unknown if alumina-on-alumina bearing couples decrease the risk of late dislocation as a result of the absence of wear and osteolysis.', 'We asked (1) whether the cumulative number of dislocations differed with alumina-on-alumina (AL/AL) or alumina-on-polyethylene bearings (AL/PE); (2) whether patient factors (age, sex, and diseases) affect risk of late dislocation; (3) whether mechanical factors (component malposition, penetration resulting from creep and wear) or (4) biologic hip factors at revision (thickness of the capsule, volume of joint fluid removed at surgery, histology) differed with the two bearing couples.', 'One hundred twenty-six patients (252 hips) with bilateral THA (one AL/AL and the contralateral AL/PE) received the same cemented implants except for the cup PE cup or an AL cup. The cumulative risk of dislocation (first-time and recurrent dislocation) was calculated at a minimum of 27 years. We measured cup position, creep and wear, and capsular thickness in the hips that had revision.', 'AL/PE and AL/AL hips differed by the cumulative number of dislocation (31 with AL/PE versus four with AL/AL) and by the number of late dislocations (none with AL/AL, 28 with AL/PE). Cause of osteonecrosis, age, and sex affected the number of dislocations. The frequency of component malposition did not differ between the two bearing couples. The risk of late dislocation appeared less in AL/AL hips with increased capsular thickness (mean, 4.5 mm; range, 3-7 mm) compared with the thinnest (mean, 1.2 mm; range, 0.2-2 mm) capsule of AL/PE hips.'] Does ceramic-on-ceramic bearing decrease the cumulative long-term risk of dislocation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.0255826711654663,
-1.532165288925171,
1.6770755052566528
] |
['Infection about a megaprosthesis is a dreaded complication. Treatment options vary from débridement alone to staged revisions, arthrodesis, and amputation. Indications for how to treat this complication are unclear.', 'We therefore determined (1) the incidence of perimegaprosthetic infections, (2) the methods of treatment, (3) the number of patients who failed their original treatment plan, and (4) the characteristics of the infection.', 'We retrospectively identified 291 patients who had megaprostheses implanted between 2001 and 2011 and identified all those surgically treated for a perimegaprosthetic infection during that time. We defined a treatment failure as any unplanned reoperation or death due to uncontrolled infection. All patients with failure had a minimum followup of 1 year (mean, 3.3 years; range, 1-8 years).', 'Of the 291 patients, 31 (11%) had subsequent infections. Surgical management varied among irrigation and débridement (n=15), single-stage revisions (n=11), two-stage revisions (n=4), and amputations (n=1). Sixteen patients failed their original treatment plan: 13 required additional surgery and three died. Infections were mostly chronic and single organism with five being methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.'] Are treatment solutions unclear for perimegaprosthetic infections? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1614997386932373,
-0.5210707783699036,
1.7480121850967407
] |
['Management of large and deep heel ulcers (LDHUs) is a challenge in patients with diabetic foot lesions. We assessed outcomes of a treatment protocol to save feet with LDHUs from amputation.', 'We managed LDHUs (larger than 3 cm(2)) in diabetic feet using a multidisciplinary approach consisting of medical and surgical management, including revascularization and amputation, if necessary. For deep heel infection and/or gangrene, we frequently debrided and drained the deep spaces of the heel, as needed. In patients with non-ischemic feet, we made a flap from the heel pad with a broad pedicle. When satisfactory granulation tissue covered the base of the heel and the inner surface of the flap, we sutured the heel flap to its base.', 'We managed 37 feet with LDHUs among 384 patients. Twenty-nine patients (78.4%) had neuropathy, 6 (16.2%) had ischemic diabetic feet, and 2 (5.4%) had both neuropathy and ischemia. Twelve (32.4%) had septic diabetic feet. We performed two femoropopliteal bypasses, 2 infrapopliteal bypasses, and 1 distal bypass (crural) for ischemic heel ulcers. Thirty-three of the 37 feet with heel lesions (89.2%) were salvaged using this multidisciplinary approach. These 33 LDHUs healed after 4 to 7 months (median, 6 months). Transtibial amputation was performed for 4 feet (10.8%; 2 ischemic and 2 neuropathic cases).'] Need large and deep diabetic heel ulcers lead to amputation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7288196086883545,
-1.4664227962493896,
2.144695520401001
] |
['The adverse renal effects of lithium have long been known, but glomerular insufficiency had been considered an unlikely event until recently, when new studies have raised concern regarding very long-term treatment. In this cross-sectional study, we examined glomerular function in a cohort of patients treated with lithium for up to 33 years and a control group of lithium-naïve patients treated with other mood-stabilizers.', 'Patients with a diagnosis of recurrent or persistent affective disorders, examined between 1 October 2007 and 31 December 2009, were screened. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from clinical charts regarding two study groups: one for patients treated with lithium for at least 12 months and the other for patients never exposed to lithium. Multivariate regression analysis was applied: the dependent variable was the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) calculated from the last available serum creatinine value using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study Group equation; the following independent variables, potentially associated with renal dysfunction, were included: gender, current age, duration of lithium treatment, cigarette smoking, hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidemia.', "eGFRs lower than 60 ml/min were significantly more frequent in the group treated with lithium (38/139 = 27.3%) compared to lithium-naïve patients (4/70 = 5.7%) (P = 0.0002; Fisher's test). Regression analysis showed a significant effect on eGFR of age, gender and duration of lithium treatment but no effect of cigarette smoking, hypertension, diabetes or dyslipidemia. eGFR was estimated to decrease by 0.64 ml/min (95% confidence interval = 0.38 to 0.90; P = 0.00) for each year of lithium treatment."] Is duration of lithium treatment a risk factor for reduced glomerular function : a cross-sectional study? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7738105058670044,
-1.4686628580093384,
2.1981959342956543
] |
['To assess and compare the predictive value of physical function measurements (PFMs) for all-cause mortality in older men and to evaluate the Timed Up and Go test (TUG) as a predictor in subjects with underlying comorbidity.', 'Observational study of a population-based sample of 352 ambulatory older men aged 71-86 at study baseline. The Rapid disability rating scale-2, 36-Item short form health survey, Grip strength, Five times sit-to-stand test, Standing balance, and TUG were determined at baseline. Associations with all-cause mortality were assessed using Cox proportional hazard analyses. Age, Body mass index (BMI), smoking status, education, physical activity and cognitive status were included as confounders. Follow-up exceeded 15 years. Comorbidity status was categorized into cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes mellitus.', 'All examined PFMs were associated with all-cause mortality. TUG was the best predictor (adjusted HR per SD increase = 1·58, 95% CI = 1·40-1·79, P < 0·001) for global mortality and continued to be predictive in subjects with cardiovascular disease (adjusted HR per SD increase = 1·80, 95% CI = 1·40-2·33, P < 0·001).'] Do physical function measurements predict mortality in ambulatory older men? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.152154564857483,
-1.3046542406082153,
1.548426628112793
] |
['To analyze the effects of IL-10 on the HLA-G expression and the apoptosis of trophoblasts infected with Toxoplasma gondii.', 'T. gondii-infected or uninfected human trophoblasts and immortalized human placental BeWo cells were cultured with or without human IL-10. Uninfected and infected cells without IL-10 cells served as controls. HLA-G expression was measured by real-time PCR and flow cytometry, respectively. Cells apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometry. Apoptosis associated moleculars were measured by real-time PCR and Western bolt.', 'HLA-G expression was increased in the infected trophoblasts and BeWo cells compared to uninfected cells. Treatment of infected cells with IL-10 decreased HLA-G expression compared to infected cells while no change in treatment of uninfected cells compared with uninfected cells. Levels of apoptosis and apoptosis associated caspase-3 and caspase-8 decreased and c-FLIP levels increased in treated infected cells with IL-10 compared to infected cells and no difference in IL-10 treated uninfected cells compared to uninfected cells.'] Does iL-10 reduce levels of apoptosis in Toxoplasma gondii-infected trophoblasts? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3873507976531982,
-0.8223550915718079,
2.140456199645996
] |
['Astroglial cells are frequently involved in malignant transformation. Besides apoptosis, necroptosis, a different form of regulated cell death, seems to be related with glioblastoma genesis, proliferation, angiogenesis and invasion. In the present work we elucidated mechanisms of necroptosis in cultured astrocytes, and compared them with apoptosis, caused by staurosporine.', 'Cultured rat cortical astrocytes were used for a cell death studies. Cell death was induced by different concentrations of staurosporine, and modified by inhibitors of apoptosis (z-vad-fmk) and necroptosis (nec-1). Different forms of a cell death were detected using flow cytometry.', 'We showed that staurosporine, depending on concentration, induces both, apoptosis as well as necroptosis. Treatment with 10(-7) M staurosporine increased apoptosis of astrocytes after the regeneration in a staurosporine free medium. When caspases were inhibited, apoptosis was attenuated, while necroptosis was slightly increased. Treatment with 10(-6) M staurosporine induced necroptosis that occurred after the regeneration of astrocytes in a staurosporine free medium, as well as without regeneration period. Necroptosis was significantly attenuated by nec-1 which inhibits RIP1 kinase. On the other hand, the inhibition of caspases had no effect on necroptosis. Furthermore, staurosporine activated RIP1 kinase increased the production of reactive oxygen species, while an antioxidant BHA significantly attenuated necroptosis.'] Does staurosporine induce different cell death forms in cultured rat astrocytes? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4556047916412354,
-1.1206586360931396,
2.5969343185424805
] |
['The anti-infammatory and cardioprotective effect of acetylcholine (ACh) has been reported; nevertheless, whether and how ACh exhibits an antioxidant property against ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced oxidative stress remains obscure.', 'In the present study, H9c2 rat cardiomyocytes were exposed to hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) to mimic I/R injury. We estimated intracellular different sources of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by measuring mitochondrial ROS (mtROS), mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number, xanthine oxidase (XO) and NADPH oxidase (NOX) activity and expression of rac 1. Cell injury was determined by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release and cleaved caspase-3 expression. The siRNA transfection was performed to knockdown of M2 acetylcholine receptor (M2 AChR) expression.', '12-h hypoxia followed by 2-h reoxygenation resulted in an abrupt burst of ROS in H9c2 cells. Administration of ACh reduced the levels of ROS in a concentration-dependent manner. Compared to the H/R group, ACh decreased mtROS, recovered mtDNA copy number, diminished XO and NOX activity, rac 1 expression as well as cell injury. Co- treatment with atropine rather than hexamethonium abolished the antioxidant and cardioprotective effect of ACh. Moreover, knockdown of M2 AChR by siRNA showed the similar trends as atropine co-treatment group.'] Does acetylcholine attenuate hypoxia/ reoxygenation-induced mitochondrial and cytosolic ROS formation in H9c2 cells via M2 acetylcholine receptor? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3560378551483154,
-1.4305458068847656,
2.818624496459961
] |
['Flexion and extension radiographs are often used in the setting of trauma to clear a cervical spine injury. The utility of such tests, however, remains to be determined. We hypothesized that in patients who underwent a negative computed tomography (CT) cervical spine scan, flexion and extension radiographs did not yield useful additional information.', 'We conducted a retrospective chart review of all patients admitted to a Level I trauma center who had a negative CT scan of the cervical spine and a subsequent cervical flexion-extension study for evaluation of potential cervical spine injury. All flexion-extension films were independently reviewed to determine adequacy as defined by C7/T1 visualization and 30° of change in the angle from flexion to extension. The independent reviews were compared to formal radiology readings and the influence of the flexion-extension studies on clinical decision making was also reviewed.', 'One thousand patients met inclusion criteria for the study. Review of the flexion-extension radiographs revealed that 80% of the films either did not adequately demonstrate the C7/T1 junction or had less than 30° range of motion. There was one missed injury that was also missed on magnetic resonance imaging. Results of the flexion-extension views had minimal effects on clinical decision making.'] Does flexion and extension radiographic evaluation for the clearance of potential cervical spine injure in trauma patients? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.275834798812866,
-1.011142373085022,
2.471574068069458
] |
['Epigenetic modifications may have a role in asthma susceptibility.', 'To investigate whether epigenetic modification at birth of a CpG site necessary for the regulation of IL-2 transcription (IL-2 Site1) is associated with the development of asthma during childhood.', "Methylation of IL-2 Site1 was assessed in cord blood from 303 children (225 with atopic mothers); as controls, we measured methylation of a site not important in the transcription of IL-2 (IL-2 Site7) and methylation of the LINE-1 repetitive element. Children were followed to the age of 8 years. Information on severe asthma exacerbations and hospital admissions was collected from child's primary care medical record. To account for potential confounding by bronchiolitis, we used exacerbations/hospitalizations after age 1 year as primary outcomes.", 'There were 49 severe exacerbations amongst 33 children, and 22 hospital admissions amongst 11 children. The risk of asthma exacerbation increased 1.07-fold (95% CI 1.01-1.14, P = 0.03) and the risk of hospital admission increased 1.12-fold (95% CI 1.04-1.20, P = 0.002) for each one per cent increase in IL-2 Site1 methylation. Children who were admitted to hospital at any time-point had significantly higher IL-2 Site1 methylation than children not admitted to hospital (P = 0.007). There was a significant interaction between age at exacerbation (P = 0.03) or hospital admission (P = 0.02) and methylation, with the effect of methylation increasing with increasing age. Methylation of the control IL-2 Site7 or LINE-1 was not a significant predictor of asthma exacerbations/hospital admission, and we found no association between IL-2 Site1 methylation and hospital admissions for other reasons (0.99 [0.92-1.06]). Cord blood mononuclear cell phytohemagglutinin-stimulated lymphoproliferative responses decreased significantly with increasing IL-2 Site1 methylation (P < 0.001).'] Does methylation of IL-2 promoter at birth alter the risk of asthma exacerbations during childhood? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.8969860076904297,
-1.43764066696167,
2.313894510269165
] |
['Blockade of the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) improves surrogate cardiovascular outcomes, such as left ventricular mass. Animal models of renal disease support a pathological role of mineralocorticoids, in the context of a high sodium intake. We aimed to assess the regulation of mineralocorticoid biosynthesis in patients with CKD.', 'Seventy patients with CKD stages 3/4 and 30 patients with essential hypertension (EH) were recruited. Patients underwent detailed clinical phenotyping, drug history and biochemical assessment. Patients completed a 24-h urine collection for measurement of urinary tetrahydroaldosterone (THALDO) and tetrahydrocorticosterone (THDOC) excretion rates (measured using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) and urinary electrolytes. The factors which correlated significantly with THALDO and THDOC excretion were entered into linear regression models.', 'Patients with EH and CKD were well matched with no significant differences in gender, age or weight. The mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in CKD patients was 38.6/min/1.73 m(2). The mean urinary excretion rates of THALDO, THDOC and 24-h urinary sodium (24-h USod) were not significantly different between CKD and EH patients. The level of renal function did not correlate with THALDO or THDOC excretion. In patients with CKD, 24-h USodium (r = 0.614, P < 0.001) and 24-h UPotassium (r = 0.538, P < 0.001) were positively correlated with THALDO excretion. On multivariate linear regression analysis, 24-h USod was the strongest independent predictor (P = 0.004) of THALDO and THDOC excretion in CKD. In patients with EH, no relationship was seen between mineralocorticoid excretion and 24-h urinary sodium excretion.'] Is urinary sodium excretion the main determinant of mineralocorticoid excretion rates in patients with chronic kidney disease? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.075023889541626,
-1.5159854888916016,
2.572767496109009
] |
['Although the importance of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-3 has been demonstrated in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the role of VEGFR-3 in functioning natural killer (NK) cells remains largely unexplored. NK cells can destroy cancer cells by releasing the cytokine interferon (IFN)-γ, but NK cells in AML patients (AML NK cells) have low cytolytic activity. In the present study, we investigated whether lymphatic markers including VEGFR-3 are expressed on low-functioning AML NK cells and VEGFR-3 antagonist can restore expression of IFN-γ in NK cells.', 'Samples from 67 de novo AML patients and 34 healthy donors were analyzed for lymphatic markers expression using RT-PCR, flow cytometry, and immunostaining. For the cytotoxicity assays, K562 cells and AML NK cells were used as target and effector cells, respectively. To block VEGFR-3, MAZ51 was added to NK cells, which were then subjected to FACS analysis.', 'Compared with NK cells from healthy donors (healthy NK cells), AML NK cells exhibited higher levels of VEGFR-3 and lower expression of IFN-γ. VEGFR-3-expressing AML NK cells were less potent than healthy NK cells in terms of killing K562 cells. The level of IFN-γ in AML NK cells was increased by VEGFR-3 antagonist treatment, indicating the functional relevance of VEGFR-3 in IFN-γ-secreting NK cells.'] Does a VEGFR-3 antagonist increase IFN-γ expression on low functioning NK cells in acute myeloid leukemia? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2547526359558105,
-1.285672903060913,
2.5602142810821533
] |
['The inflammatory response after cardiac surgery is characterized by a profound release of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Recent data suggest that the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines is of greater importance than the absolute levels. Retransfusion of unwashed cardiotomy suction blood contributes to the inflammatory response, but the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in cardiotomy suction blood and whether cell salvage before retransfusion influences the systemic balance have not been investigated previously.', 'Twenty-five coronary artery bypass grafting patients were randomized to either cell salvage of cardiotomy suction blood or no cell salvage before retransfusion. Plasma levels of three anti-inflammatory cytokines [interleukin (IL)-1 receptor antagonist, IL-4 and IL-10] and two proinflammatory cytokines (tumour necrosis factor-alpha and IL-6), and the IL-6-to-IL-10 ratio was measured in cardiotomy suction blood before and after cell salvage, and in the systemic circulation before, during and after surgery.', 'Plasma levels of all cytokines except IL-4 and IL-10 were significantly higher in cardiotomy suction blood than in the systemic circulation. The IL-6-to-IL-10 ratio was 6-fold higher in cardiotomy suction blood than in the systemic circulation [median 10.2 (range 1.1-75) vs 1.7 (0.2-24), P < 0.001]. Cell salvage reduced plasma levels of cytokines in cardiotomy suction blood and improved the systemic IL-6-to-IL-10 ratio 24 h after surgery [median 5.2 (3.6-17) vs 12.4 (4.9-31)] compared with no cell salvage (P = 0.032).'] Does cell salvage of cardiotomy suction blood improve the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines after cardiac surgery? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7914940118789673,
-1.5747092962265015,
2.3411927223205566
] |
['Surgical site infection (SSI) can be a problematic complication of Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). Previous reports have cited nasal Staphylococcus aureus (S.\u2009aureus) carriage as a risk factor for SSI, but none thus far in dermatologic surgery.', 'The aim was to determine the difference in infection rates between nasal carriers of S.\u2009aureus and non-carriers, and whether decolonisation with intranasal mupirocin ointment and chlorhexidine wash would reduce the infection rate in nasal carriers.', 'In all, 738 patients presenting for MMS at the Oxford Day Surgery and Dermatology underwent a nasal swab to determine their S.\u2009aureus carriage status. S.\u2009aureus carriers were randomised for decolonisation with intranasal mupirocin ointment and chlorhexidine body wash. Non-carriers were untreated. All patients were followed up for SSI.', 'The rate of SSI was 11 per cent in untreated S.\u2009aureus carriers, 4 per cent in treated carriers, and 3 per cent in non-carriers. The difference in infection rate between carriers and non-carriers was significant (P\u2009<\u20090.001). The difference between treated and untreated carriers was also significant (P\u2009=\u20090.05).'] Is nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus in patients undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery an important risk factor for postoperative surgical site infection : a prospective randomised study? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.988957166671753,
-1.381993293762207,
2.4979376792907715
] |
['Autoimmune gastritis (AIG), an organ-specific autoimmune disease, is accompanied by achlorhydria, pernicious anemia, gastric carcinoid tumors, and gastric cancer. Patients with AIG initially respond to corticosteroids but have a great potential to relapse after treatment is withdrawn. This study examines the roles of cytokines in order to identify potential therapeutic options for AIG patients.', 'Using a mouse model of AIG, we monitored disease progression and administered antibodies in vivo to block cytokines.', 'We developed a mouse model of AIG with early onset and rapid progression in which neonatal thymectomy (NTx) was performed on programmed cell death 1-deficient (PD-1(-/-) ) mice on the BALB/c background. Using NTx-PD-1(-/-) mice, we found that in AIG lesions, interferon-γ, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α together with interleukin-21 (IL-21) were highly expressed in the inflamed gastric mucosa. In addition, as with the injection of dexamethasone, in vivo administration of either anti-TNF-α or anti-IL-21 suppressed the development of AIG in NTx-PD-1(-/-) mice.'] Are interleukin-21 and tumor necrosis factor-α critical for the development of autoimmune gastritis in mice? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.458501100540161,
-1.3116440773010254,
2.8214709758758545
] |
['Paradoxical embolization through the patent foramen ovale (PFO) is the major cause of most cryptogenic stroke cases. However, the presence of PFO may simply be an incidental finding in these patients, and endothelial dysfunction may be the underlying reason of ischemic stroke. The aim of this study was to compare the endothelial function of cryptogenic stroke patients according to the presence of PFO.', 'Sixty consecutive patients with cryptogenic stroke referred for transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and 39 consecutive nonstroke patients referred for TEE examination because of suspected PFO were included in the study. Endothelial functions were assessed by brachial artery ultrasonography. PFO was diagnosed by the presence of right-to-left passage of contrast bubbles during TEE. Stroke and nonstroke patients were further subdivided into two groups according to the presence of PFO.', 'Stroke patients had significantly lower flow-mediated dilation (FMD) values than nonstroke patients (8.36\u2009±\u20094.38\u2009% vs. 12.57\u2009±\u20094.90\u2009%, p\u2009<\u20090.001). The stroke patients with PFO had significantly lower FMD measures than nonstroke patients with PFO (6.60\u2009±\u20093.98\u2009% vs. 10.84\u2009±\u20094.40\u2009%, p\u2009=\u20090.001). Similarly, cryptogenic stroke patients without PFO had significantly lower FMD measures than nonstroke patients without PFO (9.90\u2009±\u20094.18\u2009% vs. 14.22\u2009±\u20094.88, p\u2009=\u20090.002). Logistic regression analysis showed FMD as an independent predictor of cryptogenic stroke when adjusted by age, sex, and presence of PFO (odds ratio: 0.809, 95\u2009% confidence interval: 0.719-0.911, p\u2009<\u20090.001). An FMD value of \u200911.30\u2009% or lower predicted cryptogenic stroke with a sensitivity of 78.3\u2009%, a specificity of 66.7\u2009%, and positive and negative predictive values of 78.3 and 66.7\u2009%, respectively.'] Is endothelial dysfunction an independent risk factor for stroke patients irrespective of the presence of patent foramen ovale? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.3186043500900269,
-1.7490531206130981,
1.984952688217163
] |
['The aim of this study was to gain insight in the inflammatory response in acute heart failure (AHF) by assessing (1) plasma cytokine profiles and (2) prognostic value of circulating cytokines in AHF patients.', "Plasma levels of 26 cytokines were quantified by multiplex protein arrays in 36 patients with congestive AHF, characterized by echocardiographic, radiologic, and clinical examinations on admission, during hospitalization and at discharge. Recurrent AHF leading to death or readmission constituted the combined end point, and all patients were followed for 120 days after discharge. Levels of 15 of the measured cytokines were higher in AHF than in healthy subjects (n=22) on admission. Low levels of MCP-1, IL-1β and a low IL-1β/IL-1ra ratio predicted fatal and non-fatal AHF within 120 days. Patients with low circulating levels of IL-1β had lower left ventricular ejection fraction and higher levels of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, while patients with low levels of MCP-1 had higher E/E' and inferior caval vein diameter, than patients with high levels."] Does lack of pro-inflammatory cytokine mobilization predict poor prognosis in patients with acute heart failure? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3382842540740967,
-1.2884609699249268,
2.6792216300964355
] |
['This in vitro study aimed to compare the antibacterial effect of a new irrigant, QMiX, with that of conventional irrigation solutions in the presence or absence of dentin powder.', 'Dentin powder was prepared from bovine incisors and sterilized. The following irrigants were tested against Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212): 6% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), 1% NaOCl, QMiX, 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX), and 17% EDTA. Sterilized saline solution was used as negative control. Survival of bacteria exposed to the irrigants in the presence or absence of dentin was monitored under planktonic conditions. Colony-forming units were counted, and log-transformed numbers were analyzed by using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests. P values less than .05 were considered significant.', 'In the absence of dentin, after 10 seconds of contact with the bacterial suspension, 6% NaOCl showed the lowest bacterial count; the difference to the negative control was significant. After 30 seconds, 6% NaOCl displayed 0 colony-forming units per milliliter, whereas 1% NaOCl and QMiX showed reduced number of colonies in comparison with the negative control. After 1 minute, both concentrations of NaOCl presented no bacterial growth and QMiX reduced the number of colonies, but EDTA and CHX had bacterial counts similar to the negative control. Dentin had a significant inhibitory effect on 6% NaOCl (10 seconds), 1% NaOCl (10 seconds and 1 minute), and QMiX (10 seconds and 1 minute). After 6 hours, both concentrations of NaOCl, QMiX, and CHX killed all bacteria, regardless of the presence of dentin.'] Does dentin inhibit the antibacterial effect of new and conventional endodontic irrigants? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.719183087348938,
-1.5147247314453125,
2.2544105052948
] |
["There is growing evidence that training on virtual reality simulators leads to improved performance in the animate and human operating room. However, they are expensive, have a limited availability, and involve complex systems. Portable simulators are significantly cheaper, more user-friendly, and are flexible systems that are more suited to a surgical trainee's busy schedule. The use of portable surgical simulators to train skills and reduce errors has never been evaluated in prospective, randomized clinical settings. The objective of this study was to determine if training on the portable Integrated Laparoscopic Simulator leads to improved performance of core laparoscopic skills.", 'Core laparoscopic skills were identified by five experienced laparoscopic surgeons and modeled into two exercises and three basic tasks. Twenty surgically naive medical students had baseline laparoscopic skills assessed on a fixed simulator. Participants were randomized to either 14 h training on a portable laparoscopic simulator over a 3 week period, or control with no training. At 3 weeks two expert laparoscopic surgeons blinded to the allocation of participants assessed their pre- and post-intervention performances recorded on a CD-ROM. The outcome measures included time to complete and global rating scores of clipping and dissection tasks.', 'No differences were observed in baseline skills level between the two groups. The intervention group had better quality of scissors dissection (p = 0.0038) and improved clipping skills (p = 0.0051), and they took less time to accomplish the tasks (p = 0.0099) in comparison to control.'] Are laparoscopic surgical skills significantly improved by the use of a portable laparoscopic simulator : results of a randomized controlled trial? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.358656167984009,
-0.28337693214416504,
1.6939973831176758
] |
['To identify how services provided by child development teams (CDTs) have changed over 20 years. To what extent have major government initiatives aiming to improve the lives of children with disability and their families been implemented by teams?', 'Survey sent to every UK CDT in 2009/2010; comparison with data gathered in 1988 and 1999.', 'Ninety-four per cent (225/240) of CDTs responded; data on 242 teams were available from 1999 and 125 teams from 1988. Despite policy recommendations advocating the value of interdisciplinary team working, there was a decline in numbers of professionals working within the CDT multidisciplinary team. One-third of all teams reported a reduction in their funding over the last 5 years. However, specialist clinics provided increased. Teams reported patchy adoption of national initiatives designed to improve provision. Transition services were underdeveloped.'] Does twenty years of research show UK child development team provision still varies widely for children with disability? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-0.12041831761598587,
1.6869032382965088,
-1.9444444179534912
] |
['It is well accepted that mold exposure is a major contributor to the development of asthma, and beta-glucans are often used as a surrogate for mold exposure in the environment. Beta-glucans are an important component of mold spores and are recognized by the immune system by their receptor, Dectin-1. Cladosporium cladosporioides spores have a high beta-glucan content, but the beta-glucans are not available on the surface of live spores.', 'We sought to determine whether altering the exposure of beta-glucans in C cladosporioides through heat killing could alter the immune response through binding to Dectin-1.', 'In a murine model of mold-induced asthma, mice were repeatedly exposed to either live or heat-killed C cladosporioides and the phenotype was determined by the measurement of airway hyperresponsiveness, airway inflammation, and cytokine production. Pro-inflammatory cytokines from dendritic cells were measured by using quantitative PCR and ELISA.', 'Live C cladosporioides induced robust airway hyperresponsiveness, eosinophilia, and a predominately TH2 response, while heat-killed C cladosporioides induced a strong TH17 response and neutrophilic inflammation, but very mild airway hyperresponsiveness. Heat killing of C cladosporioides spores effectively exposed beta-glucans on the surface of the spores and increased binding to Dectin-1. In the absence of Dectin-1, heat-killed spores induced a predominantly TH2 response analogous to live spores. Furthermore, the production of TH17-skewing IL-6, IL-23, and TNF-α by dendritic cells in response to heat-killed C cladosporioides was dependent on Dectin-1.'] Is surface availability of beta-glucans critical determinant of host immune response to Cladosporium cladosporioides? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.702302932739258,
-0.8722749948501587,
2.665264129638672
] |
['An inflammatory response leading to organ dysfunction and failure continues to be a major problem after injury in many clinical conditions such as sepsis, severe burns, and trauma. It is increasingly recognized that atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) possesses a broad range of biological activities, including effects on endothelial function and inflammation. A recent study has revealed that ANP exerts anti-inflammatory effects. In this study we tested the effects of human ANP (hANP) on lung injury in a model of oleic acid (OA)-induced acute lung injury (ALI) in rats.', 'Rats were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 6 in each group). Rats in the control group received a 0.9% solution of NaCl (1 ml × kg(-1) × h(-1)) by continuous intravenous infusion, after 30 minutes a 0.9% solution of NaCl (1 ml/kg) was injected intravenously, and then the 0.9% NaCl infusion was restarted. Rats in the ALI group received a 0.9% NaCl solution (1 ml × kg(-1) × h(-1)) intravenous infusion, after 30 minutes OA was injected intravenously (0.1 ml/kg), and then the 0.9% NaCl infusion was restarted. Rats in the hANP-treated ALI group received a hANP (0.1 µg × kg(-1) × min(-1)) infusion, after 30 minutes OA was injected intravenously (0.1 ml/kg), and then the hANP infusion was restarted. The anti-inflammation effects of hANP were evaluated by histological examination and determination of serum cytokine levels.', 'Serum interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α were increased in the ALI group at six hours. The levels of all factors were significantly lower in the hANP treated rats (P < 0.005). Similarly, levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α were higher in the lung tissue in the ALI group at six hours. hANP treatment significantly reduced the levels of these factors in the lungs (P < 0.005). Histological examination revealed marked reduction in interstitial congestion, edema, and inflammation.'] Does atrial natriuretic peptide attenuate inflammatory responses on oleic acid-induced acute lung injury model in rats? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.862059235572815,
-1.5806219577789307,
2.4375157356262207
] |
['Overt hypothyroidism in pregnant women is associated with poorer neurodevelopment in their children. Findings from studies investigating the effect of less severe impairments in the maternal thyroid function on cognitive functioning in offspring are difficult to interpret for a number of reasons, including lack of objective cognitive tests, preschool age at assessment, and small sample sizes.', "We aimed to assess the effect of the maternal thyroid status in early pregnancy on their offspring's cognitive performance at 5 to 6 years of age.", 'This was a prospective study that included the data of 1765 healthy 5- to 6-year-old children from the Amsterdam Born Children and their Development study. Maternal serum free T4 and TSH were obtained at a median gestational age of 90 (interquartile range, 83 to 100) days.', 'Cognitive performance was tested using a computerized assessment program that measured response speed, response speed stability, visuomotor skills, response selection, and response inhibition.', 'Maternal hypothyroxinemia (ie, maternal free T4 in the lowest 10% of distribution) was associated with a 41.3 (95% confidence interval, 20.3-62.4) ms slower response speed in a simple reaction time task. In this test, it was also associated with a decreased stability in response speed. The relations found persisted after adjustment for family background and perinatal conditions. The effect of hypothyroxinemia on these outcomes was dependent on its interaction with TSH level.'] Does maternal hypothyroxinemia in early pregnancy predict reduced performance in reaction time tests in 5- to 6-year-old offspring? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4429500102996826,
-0.6528491377830505,
2.2127487659454346
] |
['Previous studies have suggested that antimüllerian hormone (AMH) levels are positively associated with in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome through their relationship with oocyte yield and not by reflecting oocyte or embryo quality.', 'The aim was to investigate whether AMH levels are associated with pregnancy and live-birth rates and whether the results may also reflect qualitative aspects of oocytes and embryos.', 'The study was a prospective cohort study between April 2008 and June 2011.', 'The study was done at a university-affiliated private infertility center.', 'The study cohort consisted of 892 consecutive women undergoing 1230 IVF-intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles.', 'AMH levels, analyzed using the DSL ELISA kit, were statistically adjusted for repeated treatments and age and analyzed for associations with treatment outcome.', 'Pregnancy rates, live-birth rates, and stimulation outcome parameters were measured.', 'AMH was log-normally distributed with a mean (SD) of 2.3 (2.5) ng/mL. Live-birth rates per started cycle (mean [95% confidence interval]) increased log-linearly from 10.7% [7.2-14.1] for AMH < 0.84 ng/mL (25th percentile) to 30.8% [25.7-36.0] for AMH > 2.94 ng/mL (75th percentile), Ptrend < .0001, being superior in women with polycystic ovaries. These findings were significant also after adjustments were made for age and oocyte yield. AMH was also associated with ovarian response variables and embryo scores.'] Are antimüllerian hormone levels strongly associated with live-birth rates after assisted reproduction? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.604993462562561,
-1.4929479360580444,
2.0938243865966797
] |
['Voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) in rat neurohypophysial terminals exhibit molecular tolerance to alcohol, including desensitization to the drug and increased current density, after 3\xa0weeks of alcohol drinking. Moreover, after this time, terminals from drinking rats exhibit diminished alcohol inhibition of vasopressin (AVP) release.', 'We took advantage of organotypic cultures (explants) of the hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system (HNS) to extend our analysis of molecular tolerance to 2 classes of the VGCC. The isolated HNS explant allows much finer temporal resolution of molecular tolerance than do voluntary drinking paradigms. After exposure of the HNS explant to alcohol, terminals are isolated by mechanical treatment and plated in a dish. Patch clamp recording techniques are used to obtain VGCC currents, and immunohistochemistry is used to determine VGCC distribution. A release assay is used to provide functional readout of AVP release.', 'We show that even a brief, 1-hour exposure to a clinically relevant concentration of alcohol is sufficient to evoke similar changes to those observed after several weeks of exposure. Acute ethanol (EtOH) exposure inhibits high K(+) -induced AVP release from naïve terminals. However, terminals pre-exposed to 20\xa0mM EtOH for 1\xa0hour become tolerant to EtOH, and subsequent exposure has significantly less effect on high K(+) -induced AVP release. Electrophysiological recordings indicate that among different types of VGCCs present in the neuronal terminal, the L-type is the most affected by alcohol. The current density of L-type current is significantly increased (approximately 50%), while its responsiveness to alcohol is significantly diminished (approximately 50%), after brief alcohol exposure. Fluorescent imaging results were consistent with the electrophysiology and suggest that the increased current density of VGCCs after brief exposure is attributable to combined synthesis of 1.2 and 1.3 subtypes of the L-type VGCC and redistribution of channel protein into terminal plasma membrane.'] Is molecular tolerance of voltage-gated calcium channels evident after short exposures to alcohol in vasopressin-releasing nerve terminals? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4045674800872803,
-1.3596382141113281,
2.825626850128174
] |
['The aim of this study was to characterize the permeability kinetics of salbutamol sulfate, a commonly used β2-agonist in the treatment of asthma exacerbation, across Calu-3 respiratory epithelial cell monolayers in the presence of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as they have been implicated to be able to modulate organic cation transporters (OCTs).', 'Calu-3 cell monolayers were grown in a liquid covered culture (LCC) configuration on 0.33 cm(2) Transwell polyester cell culture supports. Monolayers, cultured between 11 and 14 days were evaluated for epithelial resistance, tight junction integrity, and expression of OCT using Western blot analysis. The transport of salbutamol across the monolayer was studied as a function of concentration. Directional transport was investigated by assessing apical-basal (a-b) and basal-apical (b-a) directions. The influence of a non-specific OCT inhibitor (tetraethylammonium, TEA) and three NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, and indomethacin) on the uptake of salbutamol was studied.', 'The flux of salbutamol sulfate increased with increasing concentration before reaching a plateau, suggesting the involvement of a transport-mediated uptake mechanism. Western blot analysis detected the presence of OCT1-3 and N1 and N2 sub-types, suggesting the presence of functioning transporters. The apparent permeability (P(app)) of 0.1 mM salbutamol across the epithelial monolayer displayed directional transport in the a-b direction which was inhibited by ˜70% in the presence of TEA, suggesting OCT-mediated uptake. Likewise, the uptake of 0.1 mM salbutamol was decreased in the presence of all the three NSAIDs, supporting a mechanism whereby NSAIDs inhibit absorption of salbutamol across the bronchial epithelium via effects on the OCT transporters.'] Is salbutamol sulfate absorption across Calu-3 bronchial epithelia cell monolayer inhibited in the presence of common anionic NSAIDs? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3812854290008545,
-1.4052050113677979,
2.8274528980255127
] |
["Knowledge concerning the neurobiological importance of platelets in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is sparse. P-selectin, which is located together with β-amyloid precursor proteins in platelet α-granules, is also found in endothelial cells. Upon activation, P-selectin is relocated to cell surfaces where it acts as a receptor. Subsequently, the protein is cleaved from the membrane, to then be circulated. We investigated P-selectin behavior in AD dementia.", 'We recruited 23 persons diagnosed moderate AD and 17 healthy elders without obvious memory problems. Circulating P-selectin was analyzed using an ELISA technique and flow cytometry was used to measure surface-bound P-selectin. The latter measure was carried out without provocation (platelet activity) and after in vitro agonist stimulation (platelet reactivity). A thrombin-receptor activating peptide (TRAP-6) (74 μmol/L)) was used as a platelet agonist.', 'Soluble P-selectin was augmented in AD (p = 0.019) but platelet membrane-attached P-selectin did not differ from controls. AD diagnosis was associated with less surface-bound P-selectin after provocation. Significant results were obtained when 74 μmol/L TRAP-6 was used as a platelet agonist (p = 0.0008).'] Is p-selectin paradox and dementia of the Alzheimer type : circulating P-selectin increased but platelet-bound P-selectin after agonist provocation is compromised? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2072370052337646,
-1.4724900722503662,
2.672367572784424
] |
['In myeloid cells the inflammasome plays a crucial role in innate immune defenses against pathogen- and danger-associated patterns such as crystalline silica. Respirable mineral particles impinge upon the lung epithelium causing irreversible damage, sustained inflammation and silicosis. In this study we investigated lung epithelial cells as a target for silica-induced inflammasome activation.', 'A human bronchial epithelial cell line (BEAS-2B) and primary normal human bronchial epithelial cells (NHBE) were exposed to toxic but nonlethal doses of crystalline silica over time to perform functional characterization of NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-1β, bFGF and HMGB1. Quantitative RT-PCR, caspase-1 enzyme activity assay, Western blot techniques, cytokine-specific ELISA and fibroblast (MRC-5 cells) proliferation assays were performed.', 'We were able to show transcriptional and translational upregulation of the components of the NLRP3 intracellular platform, as well as activation of caspase-1. NLRP3 activation led to maturation of pro-IL-1β to secreted IL-1β, and a significant increase in the unconventional release of the alarmins bFGF and HMGB1. Moreover, release of bFGF and HMGB1 was shown to be dependent on particle uptake. Small interfering RNA experiments using siNLRP3 revealed the pivotal role of the inflammasome in diminished release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, danger molecules and growth factors, and fibroblast proliferation.'] Does silica induce NLRP3 inflammasome activation in human lung epithelial cells? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5123376846313477,
-1.2103102207183838,
2.7656426429748535
] |
['The aim of this study was to examine the prospective relationship between a history of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) assessed in mid-adolescence and the onset of major depressive disorder (MDD) through early adulthood in a large school-based sample. A secondary aim was to examine whether this relationship was robust after accounting for comorbid psychopathology and psychosocial impairment.', 'One thousand five hundred seven participants from the Oregon Adolescent Depression Project completed rating scales in adolescence and structured diagnostic interviews up to four times from adolescence to age 30.', 'Adolescents with a lifetime history of ADHD were at significantly higher risk of MDD through early adulthood relative to those with no history of ADHD. ADHD remained a significant predictor of MDD after controlling for gender, lifetime history of other psychiatric disorders in adolescence, social and academic impairment in adolescence, stress and coping in adolescence, and new onset of other psychiatric disorders through early adulthood (hazard ratio, 1.81; 95% confidence interval, 1.04, 3.06). Additional significant, robust predictors of MDD included female gender, a lifetime history of an anxiety disorder, and poor coping skills in mid-adolescence, as well as the onset of anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, and substance-use disorder after mid-adolescence.'] Does attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in adolescence predict onset of major depressive disorder through early adulthood? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1357219219207764,
0.24671262502670288,
1.1215003728866577
] |
["Integrating interactive three-dimensional post-processing software into undergraduate radiology teaching might be a promising approach to synergistically improve both visual-spatial ability and radiological skills, thereby reducing students' deficiencies in image interpretation. The purpose of this study was to test our hypothesis that a hands-on radiology course for medical students using interactive three-dimensional image post-processing software improves radiological knowledge, diagnostic skills and visual-spatial ability.", 'A hands-on radiology course was developed using interactive three-dimensional image post-processing software. The course consisted of seven seminars held on a weekly basis. The 25 participating fourth- and fifth-year medical students learnt to systematically analyse cross-sectional imaging data and correlated the two-dimensional images with three-dimensional reconstructions. They were instructed by experienced radiologists and collegiate tutors. The improvement in radiological knowledge, diagnostic skills and visual-spatial ability was assessed immediately before and after the course by multiple-choice tests comprising 64 questions each. Wilcoxon signed rank test for paired samples was applied.', 'The total number of correctly answered questions improved from 36.9±4.8 to 49.5±5.4 (p<0.001) which corresponded to a mean improvement of 12.6 (95% confidence interval 9.9-15.3) or 19.8%. Radiological knowledge improved by 36.0% (p<0.001), diagnostic skills for cross-sectional imaging by 38.7% (p<0.001), diagnostic skills for other imaging modalities - which were not included in the course - by 14.0% (p=0.001), and visual-spatial ability by 11.3% (p<0.001).'] Does integration of interactive three-dimensional image post-processing software into undergraduate radiology education effectively improve diagnostic skills and visual-spatial ability? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.4958060085773468,
-1.028721809387207,
0.5752905011177063
] |
['Today industrialized countries face a burgeoning aged population. Thus, there is increasing attention on the functioning and disabilities of aged adults as potential determinants of autonomy and independent living. However, there are few representative findings on the prevalence and determinants of disability in aged persons in the German population.The objective of our study is to examine the frequency, distribution and determinants of functioning and disability in aged persons and to assess the contribution of diseases to the prevalence of disability.', 'Data originate from the MONICA/KORA study, a population-based epidemiological cohort. Survivors of the original cohorts who were 65 and older were examined by telephone interview in 2009. Disability was assessed with the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI). Minimal disability was defined as HAQ-DI > 0. Logistic regression was used to adjust for potential confounders and additive regression to estimate the contribution of diseases to disability prevalence.', 'We analyzed a total of 4117 persons (51.2% female) with a mean age of 73.6 years (SD = 6.1). Minimal disability was present in 44.7% of all participants. Adjusted for age and diseases, disability was positively associated with female sex, BMI, low income, marital status, physical inactivity and poor nutritional status, but not with smoking and education. Problems with joint functions and eye diseases contributed most to disability prevalence in all age groups.'] Does distribution and determinants of functioning and disability in aged adults -- result from the German KORA-Age study? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9331344366073608,
0.6001439690589905,
0.6455981731414795
] |
['To evaluate the validity of, characterize the usage of, and propose potential research applications for International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) tobacco codes in clinical populations.', "Using data on cancer cases and cancer-free controls from Vanderbilt's biorepository, BioVU, we evaluated the utility of ICD-9 tobacco use codes to identify ever-smokers in general and high smoking prevalence (lung cancer) clinic populations. We assessed potential biases in documentation, and performed temporal analysis relating transitions between smoking codes to smoking cessation attempts. We also examined the suitability of these codes for use in genetic association analyses.", "ICD-9 tobacco use codes can identify smokers in a general clinic population (specificity of 1, sensitivity of 0.32), and there is little evidence of documentation bias. Frequency of code transitions between 'current' and 'former' tobacco use was significantly correlated with initial success at smoking cessation (p<0.0001). Finally, code-based smoking status assignment is a comparable covariate to text-based smoking status for genetic association studies."] Are iCD-9 tobacco use codes effective identifiers of smoking status? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5871331691741943,
-0.45097649097442627,
2.1691677570343018
] |
['The aim of the present study was to highlight the sonographic and clinical characteristics of large (≥30\xa0mm in diameter) scar endometriomas near Pfannenstiel incisions, assuming that large size is a marker of delayed diagnosis.', 'We compared clinical, ultrasound (US) and color Doppler findings in 13 patients (mean age 31.3 years) with 13 large scar endometriomas (L-SEs) (mean lesion diameter 41.8\xa0mm; range 30-60\xa0mm) and 17 women (mean age 30.7 years) with 19 small scar endometriomas (S-SEs) (mean lesion size 18.3\xa0mm; range 7-26\xa0mm).', 'Compared with the S-SE group, the L-SE group had a significantly longer mean interval between the last cesarean section and hospital admission (5.5 vs. 3.3 years; p\xa0<\xa00.01) and longer mean duration of symptoms before admission (43 vs. 17.4 months; p\xa0<\xa00.01). The L-SE group also had a significantly higher percentage of patients who had undergone at least one inconclusive diagnostic examination (Computed Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, fine needle biopsy, or laparoscopy) (39% vs. 0%; p\xa0<\xa00.05). As for US findings, L-SEs more frequently displayed cystic regions and fistulous tracts (p\xa0<\xa00.05), loss of round/oval shape (p\xa0<\xa00.05), and increased vascularity (p\xa0<\xa00.05).'] Is delayed diagnosis associated with changes in the clinical and ultrasound features of subcutaneous endometriosis near cesarean section scars? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.8505367040634155,
-1.539268136024475,
2.5058958530426025
] |
['Effective adjuvant chemotherapy (Adj.C) for completely resected non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) was recently established. However, there may be some unresolved adverse effects, as have been observed in early stage populations or long-term survivors after other types of Adj.C. The substantial risk in such patients was examined by a mathematical method.', 'Variables X and Y were defined by two outcomes of Adj.C: X = the ability to eliminate micro-metastasis and Y = the development of effects that threaten life. Then, the following formula was generated: Survival benefit = (death rate) X - (death rate) X Y - (survival rate) Y. We then solved for X and Y and verified our findings using reported data from clinical trials.', 'By solving two simultaneous equations for the formula applied to the data for stage (1) IA and (2) IIIA in the LACE study (J Clin Oncol 26:5043-5051, 2008), X and Y were 2.6 and 1.9, respectively. When these values were applied in the formula for stage IB patients in the same study, the theoretical (-2.3 %) and reported values (2.5 %) were close. When these were applied for stage IB-IIIA patients in the IALT study (N Engl J Med 350:351-360, 2004), the theoretical (5.0 %) and reported values (4.1 %) were also similar.'] Does substantial risk affect the stage-dependent outcomes of cisplatin-based adjuvant chemotherapy for completely resected non-small cell lung cancer? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9557446241378784,
-1.309114694595337,
2.3628101348876953
] |
['The intestinal mucus layer protects the epithelium from noxious agents, viruses, and pathogenic bacteria present in the gastrointestinal tract. It is composed of mucins, predominantly mucin (Muc) 2, secreted by goblet cells of the intestine. Experimental alcoholic liver disease requires translocation of bacterial products across the intestinal barrier into the systemic circulation, which induces an inflammatory response in the liver and contributes to steatohepatitis. We investigated the roles of the intestinal mucus layer, and in particular Muc2, in development of experimental alcohol-associated liver disease in mice. We studied experimental alcohol-induced liver disease, induced by the Tsukamoto-French method (which involves continuous intragastric feeding of an isocaloric diet or alcohol) in wild-type and Muc2(-/-) mice. Muc2(-/-) mice showed less alcohol-induced liver injury and steatosis than developed in wild-type mice. Most notably, Muc2(-/-) mice had significantly lower plasma levels of lipopolysaccharide than wild-type mice after alcohol feeding. In contrast to wild-type mice, Muc2(-/-) mice were protected from alcohol-associated microbiome changes that are dependent on intestinal mucins. The antimicrobial proteins regenerating islet-derived 3 beta and gamma were expressed at significantly higher levels in the jejunum of Muc2(-/-) mice fed the isocaloric diet or alcohol compared with wild-type mice. Consequently, Muc2(-/-) mice showed increased killing of commensal bacteria and prevented intestinal bacterial overgrowth.'] Does deficiency of intestinal mucin-2 ameliorate experimental alcoholic liver disease in mice? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4942593574523926,
-1.183070421218872,
2.6173160076141357
] |
['To investigate whether poststroke dementia (PSD) diagnosed after ischaemic stroke predicts recurrent ischaemic stroke in long-term follow-up.', 'We included 486 consecutive patients with ischaemic stroke (388 with first-ever stroke) admitted to Helsinki University Central Hospital who were followed-up for 12 years. Dementia was diagnosed in 115 patients using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 3rd edition (DSM-III) criteria. The effects of risk factors and \xa0PSD on survival free of recurrent stroke were estimated using Kaplan-Meier log-rank analyses, and the HRs for stroke recurrence were calculated using Cox proportional hazards models.', 'In the entire cohort, patients with PSD had a shorter mean time to recurrent stroke (7.13 years, 95% CI 6.20 to 8.06) than patients without dementia (9.41 years, 8.89 to 9.92; log rank p<0.001). This finding was replicated in patients with first-ever stroke (6.89 years, 5.85 to 7.93 vs 9.68 years, 9.12 to 10.24; p<0.001). In Cox univariate analysis, PSD was associated with increased risk for recurrent stroke both in the entire cohort (HR 2.02; 95% CI 1.47 to 2.77) and in those with first-ever stroke (2.40; 1.68 to 3.42). After adjustment for the significant covariates of age, atrial fibrillation, peripheral arterial disease and hypertension, PSD was associated with increased risk for recurrent stroke both in the entire cohort (1.84; 1.34 to 2.54) and in those with first-ever stroke (2.16; 1.51 to 3.10).'] Is poststroke dementia associated with recurrent ischaemic stroke? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.8844743967056274,
-1.3522673845291138,
2.2390689849853516
] |
['White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) are associated with vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) but fail to correlate with neuropsychological measures. As proton MR spectroscopy ((1)H-MRS) can identify ischaemic tissue, we hypothesised that MRS detectable brain metabolites would be superior to WMHs in predicting performance on neuropsychological tests.', '60 patients with suspected VCI underwent clinical, neuropsychological, MRI and CSF studies. They were diagnosed as having subcortical ischaemic vascular disease (SIVD), multiple infarcts, mixed dementia and leukoaraiosis. We measured brain metabolites in a white matter region above the lateral ventricles with (1)H-MRS and WMH volume in this region and throughout the brain.', 'We found a significant correlation between both total creatine (Cr) and N-acetylaspartyl compounds (NAA) and standardised neuropsychological test scores. Cr levels in white matter correlated significantly with executive function (p=0.001), attention (p=0.03) and overall T score (p=0.007). When lesion volume was added as a covariate, NAA also showed a significant correlation with executive function (p=0.003) and overall T score (p=0.015). Furthermore, while metabolite levels also correlated with total white matter lesion volume, adjusting the Cr levels for lesion volume did not diminish the strength of the association between Cr levels and neuropsychological scores. The lowest metabolite levels and neuropsychological scores were found in the SIVD group. Finally, lesion volume alone did not correlate significantly with any neuropsychological test score.'] Do 1H-MR spectroscopy metabolite levels correlate with executive function in vascular cognitive impairment? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.146226167678833,
-1.3900477886199951,
2.547473430633545
] |
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