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['Concurrent chemoradiation therapy (CCRT) for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) increases local tumor control but at the expense of increased toxicity. We recently showed that several clinical/pretreatment factors were associated with the occurrence of severe late toxicity. This study evaluated the potential relationship between radiation dose delivered to the pharyngeal wall and toxicity.', 'This was an analysis of long-term survivors from 3 previously reported Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) trials of CCRT for locally advanced SCCHN (RTOG trials 91-11, 97-03, and 99-14). Severe late toxicity was defined in this secondary analysis as chronic grade 3-4 pharyngeal/laryngeal toxicity and/or requirement for a feeding tube≥2 years after registration and/or potential treatment-related death (eg, pneumonia) within 3 years. Radiation dosimetry (2-dimensional) analysis was performed centrally at RTOG headquarters to estimate doses to 4 regions of interest along the pharyngeal wall (superior oropharynx, inferior oropharynx, superior hypopharynx, and inferior hypopharynx). Case-control analysis was performed with a multivariate logistic regression model that included pretreatment and treatment potential factors.', 'A total of 154 patients were evaluable for this analysis, 71 cases (patients with severe late toxicities) and 83 controls; thus, 46% of evaluable patients had a severe late toxicity. On multivariate analysis, significant variables correlated with the development of severe late toxicity, including older age (odds ratio, 1.062 per year; P=.0021) and radiation dose received by the inferior hypopharynx (odds ratio, 1.023 per Gy; P=.016). The subgroup of patients receiving ≤60 Gy to the inferior hypopharynx had a 40% rate of severe late toxicity compared with 56% for patients receiving >60 Gy. Oropharyngeal dose was not associated with this outcome.'] Is hypopharyngeal dose associated with severe late toxicity in locally advanced head-and-neck cancer : an RTOG analysis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9573813676834106,
-1.5104515552520752,
2.4958152770996094
] |
['Patients with chronic liver disease had lower serum concentrations 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD). Glycine, a nonessential amino acid, exerts anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, and immunomodulatory properties. This study aimed to establish a tandem mass spectrometry assay to measure 25OHD in guinea pigs serum and to investigate the effects of glycine against the liver damage induced by bile duct ligation (BDL).', 'BDL was performed on male guinea pigs. Glycine, alanine, serine or tyrosine was given by intraperitoneal injection. The animals were sacrificed and examined at 7 and 14 days after BDL. Serum concentrations of total bilirubin and aminotransferase were measured. Serum concentrations of 25OHD2 and 25OHD3 were measured by API 5000 mass spectrometer. In addition, oxidative stress was assessed by serum ischemia-modified albumin (IMA) and hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), and apoptosis by hepatic caspase 3 activities.', 'Serum 25OHD concentrations were decreased around 50% in the BDL group at days 7 and 14 post ligation, compared to sham (mean 65.3 ng/ml, p<0.005). Glycine but not other amino acid treatment blunted the reduced serum 25OHD (52.6 ng/ml, p<0.05) resulting from BDL. The concentrations of 25OHD were negatively associated with concentrations of IMA (r=-0.305, p<0.05) and caspase 3 (r=-0.562, p<0.0001). At day-14 post ligation, glycine treatment also ameliorated liver damage indicated by serum AST (p<0.005), ALT (p<0.05) and hepatic caspase 3 activities (p<0.05) and oxidative stress.'] Does glycine ameliorate liver injury and vitamin D deficiency induced by bile duct ligation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.947205662727356,
-1.5794425010681152,
2.5379319190979004
] |
['We evaluated changes in liver function parameters and risk factors for the deterioration of liver function 12 months after percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).', 'The subjects in this retrospective study comprised 102 patients with HCC who had undergone RFA therapy and exhibited no recurrence of HCC 12 months thereafter. Serial changes in serum total bilirubin and albumin, prothrombin time, and Child-Pugh score were evaluated before RFA and 3, 6, 9, and 12 months thereafter. Deterioration of liver function was defined when the Child-Pugh score increased by at least 2 at 12 months after RFA therapy. We determined the factors related to aggravation of liver function after RFA therapy.', 'Liver function had deteriorated 12 months after RFA in 29 patients (28.4%). Serum albumin levels decreased significantly from before (3.7±0.1 g/dL, mean±SD) to 12 months after RFA therapy (3.3±0.1 g/dL, P=0.002). The Child-Pugh score increased significantly during the same time period (from 6.1±0.2 to 7.2±0.3, P<0.001). Pre-RFA thrombocytopenia (≤100,000/mm(3)) was revealed as a significant risk factor for the deterioration of liver function after RFA. However, no patients had episodes of bleeding as a complication of RFA.'] Does thrombocytopenia represent a risk for deterioration of liver function after radiofrequency ablation in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.902173399925232,
-1.4881287813186646,
2.427259922027588
] |
['Following repair of congenital heart disease (CHD), adult patients are at risk for reduced exercise capacity. Restrictive lung disease (RLD) may contribute to reduced exercise capacity in this population. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of RLD and its impact on exercise tolerance in the adult with CHD.', 'One hundred consecutive adult patients with CHD, who underwent routine cardiopulmonary exercise testing with spirometry, were evaluated. Clinical data were obtained by retrospective chart review.', 'Patients from 10 major diagnostic groups were identified. The median age for the cohort was 31 years (range 18-63) and included 43 males and 57 females. Most patients, 79%, had at least one previous surgical procedure. Based on spirometry and flow/volume loops, 50 patients were classified as normal pulmonary function, 44 patients had patterns suggestive of RLD, 4 suggestive of mixed (obstructive and restrictive), and 2 indeterminate. Risk factors associated with RLD include history of multiple thoracotomies (odds ratio = 9.01, P =.05) and history of atrial arrhythmias (odd ratio = 4.25, P =.05). Overall, 56% of the patients had abnormal exercise capacity. Spirometry suggestive of RLD was a significant risk factor for decreased exercise capacity (odds ratio = 3.65, P =.03). Patients with spirometry suggesting RLD also had lower exercise duration (P =.004) and a higher New York Heart Association Functional Class (P =.02). History of previous surgery and decreased heart rate reserve were also significant risk factors for decreased exercise capacity.'] Is restrictive lung disease an independent predictor of exercise intolerance in the adult with congenital heart disease? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.0506505966186523,
-1.2835655212402344,
2.3655295372009277
] |
['Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory condition and increased blood levels of inflammatory biomarkers have been observed in acute coronary syndromes. In addition, high expression of inflammatory markers is associated with worse prognosis of coronary artery disease. The presence and extent of inducible ischemia in patients with stable angina has previously been shown to have strong prognostic value. We hypothesized that evidence of inducible myocardial ischemia by local lesions, as measured by fractional flow reserve (FFR), is associated with increased levels of blood based inflammatory biomarkers.', 'Whole blood samples of 89 patients with stable angina pectoris and 16 healthy controls were analyzed. The patients with stable angina pectoris underwent coronary angiography and FFR of all coronary lesions. We analyzed plasma levels of cytokines IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α and membrane expression of Toll-like receptor 2 and 4, CD11b, CD62L and CD14 on monocytes and granulocytes as markers of inflammation. Furthermore, we quantified the severity of hemodynamically significant coronary artery disease by calculating Functional Syntax Score (FSS), an extension of the Syntax Score.', 'For the majority of biomarkers, we observed lower levels in the healthy control group compared with patients with stable angina who underwent coronary catheterization. We found no difference for any of the selected biomarkers between patients with a positive FFR (≤ 0.75) and negative FFR (>0.80). We observed no relationship between the investigated biomarkers and FSS.'] Is fractional flow reserve associated with inflammatory markers in patients with stable coronary artery disease? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1408567428588867,
-1.4081275463104248,
2.598361015319824
] |
['Patients with cervical dystonia (CD) present with an impaired performance of voluntary neck movements, which are usually slow and limited. We hypothesized that such abnormality could involve defective preparation for task execution. Therefore, we examined motor preparation in CD patients using the StartReact method. In this test, a startling auditory stimulus (SAS) is delivered unexpectedly at the time of the imperative signal (IS) in a reaction time task to cause a faster execution of the prepared motor programme. We expected that CD patients would show an abnormal StartReact phenomenon.', 'Fifteen CD patients and 15 age matched control subjects (CS) were asked to perform a rotational movement (RM) to either side as quick as possible immediately after IS perception (a low intensity electrical stimulus to the II finger). In randomly interspersed test trials (25%) a 130 dB SAS was delivered simultaneously with the IS. We recorded RMs in the horizontal plane with a high speed video camera (2.38 ms per frame) in synchronization with the IS. The RM kinematic-parameters (latency, velocity, duration and amplitude) were analyzed using video-editing software and screen protractor. Patients were asked to rate the difficulty of their RMs in a numerical rating scale.', 'In control trials, CD patients executed slower RMs (repeated measures ANOVA, p<0.10(-5)), and reached a smaller final head position angle relative to the midline (p<0.05), than CS. In test trials, SAS improved all RMs in both groups (p<0.10(-14)). In addition, patients were more likely to reach beyond their baseline RM than CS (χ(2), p<0.001) and rated their performance better than in control trials (t-test, p<0.01).'] Does a loud auditory stimulus overcome voluntary movement limitation in cervical dystonia? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.6076278686523438,
-1.540665626525879,
2.118821144104004
] |
['Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is a common clinical condition in industrialized countries and often causes occupational diseases. Animal model of contact sensitivity (CS) is commonly used to study ACD in mice and can be induced by skin application of haptens. It has been previously shown that CS is mediated by CD4(+) or CD(8+) T effector cells. More recently it was found that also liver NK cells can play a role of CS effector cells in mice.', 'The aim of the present study was to test whether skin-induced suppression could inhibit CS response in vivo.', 'Here we show that EC immunization of normal mice with hapten conjugated protein antigen prior to hapten sensitization suppresses Th1, Tc1 and NK mediated CS responses.'] Does epicutaneous immunization with hapten-conjugated protein antigen alleviate contact sensitivity mediated by three different types of effector cells? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.587233066558838,
-1.0051369667053223,
2.7081384658813477
] |
['The risk of different cancers seems to be associated with obesity. Moreover, low ghrelin levels observed in obese people may be implicated in cancer development and progression. The aim of this study was to examine the direct effects of both forms of ghrelin (acylated and unacylated) and ghrelin receptor type 1a antagonist (D-Lys-GHRP-6) on the growth of murine colon cancer MC38 and human prostate cancer DU145 cell lines in vitro.', 'The cells were cultured for 72 h in the presence of rat or human acylated ghrelin (rG, hG), human unacylated ghrelin (hUAG), D-Lys-GHRP-6 (GHS-RA) applied either alone or jointly. The cell line growth was assessed by the colorimetric Mosmann method.', 'hUAG (10(-6), 10(-7) and 10(-10) M) inhibited MC38 cancer cell growth and, at some concentrations (10(-8), 10(-9), 10(-10) M), enhanced the antineoplastic effect of GHS-RA(10(-4) M). In turn, GHS-RA evoked a biphasic effect on MC38 cancer growth: inhibitory at 10(-4) M and stimulatory at 10(-5) and 10(-6) M. Moreover, GHS-RA at the highest examined concentration (10(-4) M) enhanced the cytostatic effect of FU. Human acylated and unacylated ghrelin and GHS-RA inhibited DU145 cancer growth with moderate and different potencies. A dose-response effect was observed for the inhibitory action of hG together with the synergistic effect of hUAG and GHS-RA.'] Does modulation of ghrelin axis influence the growth of colonic and prostatic cancer cells in vitro? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.241905927658081,
-1.3518812656402588,
2.6323564052581787
] |
['This study was performed to investigate expression and distribution of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) in the rat adrenal cortex, acute effect of ethanol on its expression and possible role of endogenous nitric oxide (NO) in this phenomenon.', 'Adult female Wistar rats showing diestrus day 1 were treated with: a) ethanol (2 or 4 g/kg body weight (b.w.), ip), b) N(ω)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), well-known competitive inhibitor of all isoforms of NO synthase (NOS), (30 mg/kg b.w., sc) followed by ethanol (4 g/kg, ip) 3 h later and c) L-NAME (30 mg/kg b.w., sc) followed by saline (ip) 3 h later. Untreated rats were used as controls. Adrenocortical expression of GR was estimated by immunohistochemistry.', 'Strong nuclear GR staining was observed throughout the cortex of control rats. Acute ethanol treatment significantly decreased the expression of GR in the zona fasciculata and zona reticularis. Blockade of NO formation had no influence on this effect of ethanol, whereas L-NAME itself induced significant decline in GR immunoreactivity.'] Do ethanol and nitric oxide modulate expression of glucocorticoid receptor in the rat adrenal cortex? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4532628059387207,
-1.3087444305419922,
2.7857346534729004
] |
['Inhibiting the action of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) on the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) has emerged as a novel therapeutic target for hypercholesterolemia. Here we investigated the effect of berberine, natural plant extracts, on PCSK9-LDLR pathway in C57BL/6 mice with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced inflammation.', 'Forty female mice were divided into four groups (n =10): control, LPS (5 mg/kg), LPS + berberine 10 (5 mg/kg LPS plus 10 mg/kg berberine), and LPS + berberine 30 (5 mg/kg LPS plus 30 mg/kg berberine). Changes in the levels of blood lipids [total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C)]; pro-inflammatory cytokines [interferon-γ (IFNγ), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), and interleukin-1α (IL-1α)], 8-isoprostane, hepatic expressions of PCSK9 and LDLR were determined.', 'Berberine pretreatment reduced the expression of hepatic PCSK9, decreased the plasma TC, TG, LDL-C, IFNγ, TNFα, IL-1α, and 8-isoprostane concentrations; increased HDL-C level and LDLR expression in mice.'] Does berberine inhibit dyslipidemia in C57BL/6 mice with lipopolysaccharide induced inflammation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3145253658294678,
-1.399479866027832,
2.735776901245117
] |
['The aim of the study was to evaluate the prognostic value of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) response to neoadjuvant androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) prior to dose-escalated radiation therapy (RT) and long-term ADT in high-risk prostate cancer.', 'We reviewed the charts of all patients diagnosed with high-risk prostate cancer and treated with a combination of long-term ADT (median, 24 months) and dose-escalated (median, 75.6 Gy) RT between 1990 and 2007. The associations among patient, tumor, and treatment characteristics with biochemical response to neoadjuvant ADT and their effects on failure-free survival (FFS), time to distant metastasis (TDM), prostate cancer-specific mortality (PCSM) and overall survival (OS) were examined.', 'A total of 196 patients met criteria for inclusion. Median follow-up time for patients alive at last contact was 7.0 years (range, 0.5-18.1 years). Multivariate analysis identified the pre-RT PSA concentration (<0.5 vs ≥0.5 ng/mL) as a significant independent predictor of FFS (P=.021), TDM (P=.009), PCSM (P=.039), and OS (P=.037). On multivariate analysis, pretreatment PSA (iPSA) and African-American race were significantly associated with failure to achieve a pre-RT PSA of <0.5 ng/mL.'] Is pSA response to neoadjuvant androgen deprivation therapy a strong independent predictor of survival in high-risk prostate cancer in the dose-escalated radiation therapy era? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.0526468753814697,
-1.4974980354309082,
2.566852331161499
] |
['Longitudinal strain (LS) imaging is an important tool for the quantification of left ventricular function and deformation, but its assessment is challenging in the presence of echocardiographic contrast agents (CAs). The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that destruction of microbubbles using high mechanical index (MI) could allow the measurement of LS.', 'LS was measured using speckle strain (speckle-tracking LS [STLS]) and Velocity Vector Imaging (VVI) before and after CA administration in 30 consecutive patients. Low MI was used for left ventricular opacification and three-dimensional high MI for microbubble destruction. Four different settings were tested over 60 sec: (1) baseline LS without contrast, (2) LS after CA administration with low MI (0.3), (3) LS after CA administration with high MI (0.9), and (4) LS after microbubble destruction with high MI and three-dimensional imaging.', 'Baseline feasibility of LS assessment (99.3% and 98.2% with STLS and VVI, respectively) was reduced after CA administration using STLS at low (69%, P < .0001) and high (95.4%, P\xa0= .0002) MI as well as with VVI (93.8%, P\xa0= .004, and 84.7%, P < .0001, respectively). STLS assessment was feasible with high MI after microbubble destruction (1.7% of uninterpretable segments vs 0.7%, P\xa0= .26) but not using VVI (7.2% vs 1.8%, P < .001). Regardless of which microbubbles or image settings were used, VVI was associated with significant variability and overestimation of global LS (for low MI,\xa0+4.7%, P < .01; for high MI,\xa0+3.3%, P < .001; for high MI after microbubble destruction,\xa0+1.3%, P\xa0= .04).'] Is two-dimensional longitudinal strain assessment in the presence of myocardial contrast agents only feasible with speckle-tracking after microbubble destruction? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.6550006866455078,
-1.9076272249221802,
1.5805096626281738
] |
['A viral origin of biliary atresia (BA) is discussed, and several studies have demonstrated different viral strains in liver biopsies of patients undergoing Kasai portoenterostomy. We hypothesized that the presence of hepatotropic viruses in patients undergoing portoenterostomy contributes to the progression of the disease and negatively affect the outcome.', 'Liver biopsies were prospectively taken from 70 patients undergoing portoenterostomy in our department from April 1996 to April 2004. Samples were screened by polymerase chain reaction for all common hepatic viruses. Primary outcome parameter was survival with the native liver. Secondary parameters were postoperative serum activity of liver enzymes and serum bilirubin levels at different time points. Patients underwent regular follow-up until October 2008.', 'Twenty-eight patients (40%) were positive for 1 or more hepatotropic viruses. Four patients were lost to follow-up. In the remaining 66 patients, there was no significant difference in survival with their native liver between virus-positive and virus-negative patients. After a mean follow-up of 7.7 years (range, 4.6-16.1 years), 15 (23%) of 66 patients still lived with their native liver. There was no difference in liver enzymes, C-reactive protein, or bilirubin at any time point between both groups.'] Does detection of hepatotropic viruses have no impact on the prognosis after Kasai procedure? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1792166233062744,
-1.154285192489624,
2.387587785720825
] |
['Developmental defects of the enteric nervous system lead to a variety of disorders including Hirschprung disease. We have previously shown that heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF) exerts neuroprotective effects on injured neurons. The goals of this study were to assess the role of HB-EGF in enteric nervous system development and to evaluate the effect of HB-EGF on enteric neural crest-derived cell (ENCC) migration in the developing gastrointestinal tract of mice.', 'HB-EGF immunohistochemistry was used to examine HB-EGF protein expression in the hindgut of embryonic mice. Gut specimens were stained for PGP9.5 (a neuronal cell marker) to examine the extent of ENCC migration in the intestine at different embryonic stages in HB-EGF knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice. Embryonic gut organ cultures were established to examine the effect of HB-EGF on ENCC migration.', 'The expression of HB-EGF was limited to the endodermal epithelium of the hindgut in early gestation, but rapidly involved the hindgut mesenchyme after ENCC migrated into this region. ENCC migration was significantly delayed in HB-EGF KO compared with WT embryos, leading to defects in neural colonization of the distal gut in postnatal HB-EGF KO mice. Addition of HB-EGF to WT embryonic intestine significantly promoted ENCC migration, as demonstrated by a significant increase in the ratio of ENCC migration distance toward the distal hindgut/total colon length (78% ± 4% vs 53% ± 2%, P = .001).'] Does heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor promote murine enteric nervous system development and enteric neural crest cell migration? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2303130626678467,
-1.3351190090179443,
2.59928560256958
] |
['Hirschsprung disease (HSCR; megacolon, congenital aganglionosis) is a congenital disorder characterized by the absence of ganglion cells along variable segments of the gut. Both rare (RV) and common variants of the RET gene are associated with HSCR. The aim of this study is to assess, for the first time, the variation in the RET gene of Vietnamese HSCR patients.', 'We used Sanger sequencing to screen the coding sequence of the RET gene of 97 Vietnamese HSCR patients of Southern Chinese ancestry. The healthy population consisted of 250 Southern Chinese individuals with no diagnosis of HSCR.', 'We detected 8 heterozygous RVs distributed among 13 patients (13.40%) and that were not present in healthy individuals. Among those variants, there were 2 novel and deleterious (R133C [c.397 C>T]; R144C [c.430 C>T]) missense amino acid substitutions, 2 novel silent variants (P667P [c.2001 A>T]; Y809Y [c.2427 C>T]), and 4 previously described missense substitutions (R114H [c.341 G>A]; V292M [c.874 G>A]; G533S [c.1597 G>A]; R982C [c.2944 C>T]). As expected, the common RET coding sequence variants rs1800858 (A45A [c.135 G>A]) and rs1800861 (L769L [c.2307 T>G]) were highly associated with the disease.'] Does screening of the RET gene of Vietnamese Hirschsprung patients identify 2 novel missense mutations? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.5478688478469849,
-1.4978300333023071,
2.044689416885376
] |
['Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major health problem in Morocco. Characterization of circulating Mycobacterium tuberculosis genotypic lineages, important to understand the dynamic of the disease, was hereby addressed for the first time at a national level.', 'Spoligotyping was performed on a panel of 592 M. tuberculosis complex strains covering a 2-year period (2004-2006). It identified 129 patterns: 105 (n = 568 strains) corresponded to a SIT number in the SITVIT2 database, while 24 patterns were labeled as orphan. A total of 523 (88.3%) strains were clustered vs. 69 or 11.7% unclustered. Classification of strains within 3 large phylogenetical groups was as follows: group 1- ancestral/TbD1+/PGG1 (EAI, Bovis, Africanum), group 2- modern/TbD1-/PGG1 group (Beijing, CAS), group 3- evolutionary recent/TbD1-/PGG2/3 (Haarlem, X, S, T, LAM; alternatively designated as the Euro-American lineage). As opposed to group 3 strains (namely LAM, Haarlem, and T) that predominated (86.5% of all isolates), 6 strains belonged to group 2 (Beijing n = 5, CAS n = 1), and 3 strains (BOV_1 n = 2, BOV_4-CAPRAE) belonged to ancestral group 1 (EAI and AFRI lineage strains were absent). 12-loci MIRU-VNTR typing of the Casablanca subgroup (n = 114 strains) identified 71 patterns: 48 MITs and 23 orphan patterns; it allowed to reduce the clustering rate from 72.8% to 29.8% and the recent transmission rate from 64% to 20.2%.'] Does the genotypic population structure of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex from Moroccan patients reveal a predominance of Euro-American lineages? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.3053381443023682,
-1.3325870037078857,
1.787856101989746
] |
['The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of metformin on insulin signaling in ischemic cardiac tissue in a swine model of metabolic syndrome.', 'Ossabaw miniswine were fed either a regular diet (Ossabaw control [OC]) or a hypercaloric diet (Ossabaw high cholesterol [OHC], Ossabaw high cholesterol with metformin [OHCM]). After 9 weeks, all animals underwent placement of an ameroid constrictor to the left circumflex artery to induce chronic ischemia. OHC animals were continued on a hypercaloric diet\xa0alone; the OHCM group was supplemented with metformin in addition to the hypercaloric diet. Seven weeks after ameroid placement, myocardial perfusion was measured and ischemic cardiac tissue was harvested for protein expression and histologic analysis.', 'The OHC and OHCM groups had significantly higher body mass indices and serum insulin levels compared with the OC group. There were no differences in myocardial perfusion in the chronically ischemic territories. In the OHC group, there was upregulation of both an activator of insulin signaling insulin receptor substrate 1, and an inhibitor of insulin signaling phosphorylated insulin receptor substrate 2. In the OHCM group, there was upregulation of activators of insulin signaling including phosphorylated adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase α, protein kinase B, phosphorylated protein kinase B, mammalian target of rapamycin, phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin, and phosphoinostitide 3-kinase, and upregulation of inhibitors including phosphorylated insulin receptor substrate 1, phosphorylated insulin receptor substrate 2, and retinol binding protein 4. Histologic analysis demonstrated increased expression of glucose transporter 1 at the plasma membrane in the OHCM group, but there was no difference in cardiomyocyte glycogen stores among groups.'] Does metformin alter the insulin signaling pathway in ischemic cardiac tissue in a swine model of metabolic syndrome? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3948566913604736,
-1.328803539276123,
2.789393663406372
] |
['To examine the relationship between early renal duplex sonography (RDS) and restenosis after primary renal artery percutaneous angioplasty and stenting (RA-PTAS).', 'Consecutive patients undergoing RA-PTAS for hemodynamically significant atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis with hypertension and/or ischemic nephropathy between September 2003 and July 2010 were identified from a prospective registry. Patients had renal RDS pre-RA-PTAS, within 1 week of RA-PTAS and follow-up RDS examinations after the first postoperative week for surveillance of restenosis. Restenosis was defined as a renal artery peak systolic velocity (PSV) ≥ 180 cm/s on follow-up RDS. Associations between RDS and restenosis were examined using proportional hazards regression.', 'Eighty-three patients (59% female; 12% nonwhite; mean age, 70 ± 10 years; mean pre-RA-PTAS PSV, 276 ± 107 cm/s) undergoing 91 RA-PTAS procedures comprised the sample for this study. All procedures included a completion arteriogram demonstrating no significant residual stenosis. Mean follow-up time was 14.9 ± 10.8 months. Thirty-four renal arteries (RAs) demonstrated restenosis on follow-up with a median time to restenosis of 8.7 months. There was no significant difference in the mean PSV pre-RA-PTAS in those with and without restenosis (287 ± 96 cm/s vs 269 ± 113 cm/s; P = .455), and PSV pre-RA-PTAS was not predictive of restenosis. Within 1 week of RA-PTAS, mean renal artery PSV differed significantly for renal arteries with and without restenosis (112 ± 27 cm/s vs 91 ± 34 cm/s; P = .003). Proportional hazards regression analysis demonstrated increased PSV on first post-RA-PTAS RDS was significantly and independently associated with subsequent restenosis during follow-up (hazard ratio for 30 cm/s increase, 1.81; 95% confidence interval, 1.32-2.49; P = .0003). There was no difference in pre- minus postprocedural PSV in those with and without restenosis on follow-up (175 ± 104 cm/s vs 179 ± 124 cm/s; P = .88), nor was this associated with time to restenosis. Best subsets model selection identified first postprocedural RDS as the only factor predictive of follow-up restenosis. A receiver-operating characteristic curve was examined to assess the first week PSV post-RA-PTAS most predictive of restenosis during follow-up. The ideal cut point for RA-PSV was 87 cm/s or greater. This value was associated with a sensitivity of 82.4%, specificity of 52.6%, and area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve of 69.3%. Increased first postprocedural RA-PSV was predictive of lower estimated glomerular filtration rate in the first 2 years after the procedure (-1.6 ± 0.7 mL/min/1.73 m(2) lower estimated glomerular filtration rate per 10 cm/s increase in RA-PSV; P = .010).'] Does early duplex predict restenosis after renal artery angioplasty and stenting? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.5604923963546753,
-1.710062861442566,
2.2428410053253174
] |
['According to the National Health survey only 3% of the population has controlled hypertension. This study was designed to elucidate the knowledge about hypertension in hypertensive patients at three tertiary care centers in Karachi. Secondly we sought to compare the knowledge of those with uncontrolled hypertension and controlled hypertension.', 'It was a cross-sectional study conducted at The Aga Khan University hospital (AKUH), Ziauddin Hospital (ZH) and Civil hospital, Karachi (CHK. All diagnosed Hypertensive patients (both inpatients and outpatients) coming to a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan aged > 18 years were included. Patients were categorized into 2 groups: controlled and uncontrolled hypertension based on their initial BP readings on presentation Uncontrolled Hypertension was defined as average BP ≥ 140/90 mm Hg in patients on treatment. Controlled Hypertension (HTN) was defined as average BP <140/90 mm Hg in patients on treatment. Standardized methods were used to record BP in the sitting position. Knowledge was recorded as a15 item question. Primary outcome was knowledge about hypertension.', 'A total of 650 participants were approached and consented 447 were found eligible. 284(63.5%) were from Aga Khan University, 101(22.6) from Dow University of health sciences and 62(13.9) were from Ziauddin University. Mean (SD) age of participants was 57.7(12) years, 50.1(224) were men. Controlled hypertension was present in 323(72.3) and uncontrolled hypertension was present in 124(27.4). The total mean (SD) Knowledge score was 20.97(4.93) out of a maximum score of 38. On comparison of questions related to knowledge between uncontrolled and controlled hypertension, there was statistically significant different in; meaning of hypertension (p <0.001), target SBP(p0.001), target DBP(p 0.001), importance of SBP versus DBP, improvement of health with lowering of blood pressure (p 0.002), high blood pressure being asymptomatic (p <0.001), changing lifestyle improves blood pressure(p 0.003),hypertension being a lifelong disease (<0.001), lifelong treatment with antihypertensives(<0.001) and high blood pressure being part of aging(<0.001). On comparison of knowledge as a composite score between uncontrolled and controlled hypertensive; Mean (SD) score was 21.85(4.74) v18.67 (4.70) (p value: < 0.001). On multivariate analysis; gender β (95% CI) 1.67(0.75, 2.59) p <0.001, uncontrolled blood pressure; -2.70(-3.76,-1.67) p <0.001, Sindhi ethnicity; -1.79(-3.25,-3.27) p 0.01 and pukhtoon ethnicity; -2.72(-4.13,-1.32) p <0.001 were significantly associated with knowledge score.'] Is good knowledge about hypertension linked to better control of hypertension ; a multicentre cross sectional study in Karachi , Pakistan? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 0 | [
0.403253972530365,
-1.3438390493392944,
0.05263202637434006
] |
['To establish the mechanism responsible for the stimulation of glucose uptake by Astragalus polysaccharide (APS), extracted from Astragalus membranaceus Bunge, in L6 myotubes in vitro.', 'APS-stimulated glucose uptake in L6 myotubes was measured using the 2-deoxy-[(3)H]-D-glucose method. The adenine nucleotide contents in the cells were measured by HPLC. The phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and Akt substrate of 160 kDa (AS160) was examined using Western blot analysis. The cells transfected with 4P mutant AS160 (AS160-4P) were constructed using gene transfer approach.', 'Treatment of L6 myotubes with APS (100-1600 μg/mL) significantly increased glucose uptake in time- and concentration-dependent manners. The maximal glucose uptake was reached in the cells treated with APS (400 μg/mL) for 36 h. The APS-stimulated glucose uptake was significantly attenuated by pretreatment with Compound C, a selective AMPK inhibitor or in the cells overexpressing AS160-4P. Treatment of L6 myotubes with APS strongly promoted the activation of AMPK. We further demonstrated that either Ca(2+)/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase β (CaMKKβ) or liver kinase B1 (LKB1) mediated APS-induced activation of AMPK in L6 myotubes, and the increased cellular AMP: ATP ratio was also involved. Treatment of L6 myotubes with APS robustly enhanced the phosphorylation of AS160, which was significantly attenuated by pretreatment with Compound C.'] Does astragalus polysaccharide stimulate glucose uptake in L6 myotubes through AMPK activation and AS160/TBC1D4 phosphorylation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4032299518585205,
-1.2775368690490723,
2.7004666328430176
] |
['Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a member of the carbohydrate-binding protein family that contributes to neoplastic transformation, tumor survival, angiogenesis, and metastasis. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of Gal-3 in human tongue cancer progression.', 'Human tongue cancer cell lines (SCC-4 and CAL27) were transfected with a small-interfering RNA against Gal-3 (Gal-3-siRNA). The migration and invasion of the cells were examined using a scratch assay and BD BioCoat Matrigel Invasion Chamber, respectively. The mRNA and protein levels of β-catenin, Akt/pAkt, GSK-3β/pGSK-3β, MMP-9 in the cells were measured using RT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively.', 'Transient silencing of Gal-3 gene for 48 h significantly suppressed the migration and invasion of both SCC-4 and CAL27 cells. Silencing of Gal-3 gene significantly decreased the protein level of β-catenin, leaving the mRNA level of β-catenin unaffected. Furthermore, silencing Gal-3 gene significantly decreased the levels of phosphorylated Akt and GSK-3β, and suppressed the mRNA and protein levels of MMP-9 in the cells.'] Does galectin-3 gene silencing inhibit migration and invasion of human tongue cancer cells in vitro via downregulating β-catenin? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.434062957763672,
-1.2652161121368408,
2.701359748840332
] |
['Hyperoncotic albumin may be a therapeutic option to improve tissue perfusion and organ injury in sepsis. To clarify the hypothesis and its mechanism, hyperoncotic albumin was administered to the rats in a polymicrobial sepsis-peritonitis model.', 'Peritonitis was induced by a surgery of cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) in 27 male Wistar rats. For control purposes, sham operations without ligating and puncturing the cecum were performed in 20 rats. Three hours later, rats were randomized to receive intravenously 3 mL/kg of 5% albumin, 25% albumin, or normal saline. All the hemodynamic and biochemical parameters were measured during the 18-h observation.', 'In septic rats, 25% albumin attenuated hypotension, vascular hyporeactivity to norepinephrine, and the elevated serum levels of lactate dehydrogenase and blood urea nitrogen. However, these improvements were not noted in CLP rats after 5% albumin treatment. In addition, 25% albumin decreased metabolic acidosis and improved the CLP-induced hypoperfusion in the intestine and kidney. Superoxide levels in the aorta and lung and the protein expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase in the lung were also attenuated by 25% albumin in CLP rats. Microscopic findings confirmed that 25% albumin attenuated the substantial swelling and cell infiltration in the intestine and lung caused by\xa0CLP.'] Does hyperoncotic albumin attenuate lung and intestine injuries caused by peritonitis-induced sepsis in rats? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.352637529373169,
-1.4100977182388306,
2.782860517501831
] |
['Benign familial infantile epilepsy (BFIE) is an autosomal dominant epilepsy syndrome characterized by afebrile seizures beginning at about 6 months of age. Mutations in PRRT2, encoding the proline-rich transmembrane protein 2 gene, have recently been identified in the majority of families with BFIE and the associated syndrome of infantile convulsions and choreoathetosis (ICCA). We asked whether the phenotypic spectrum of PRRT2 was broader than initially recognized by studying patients with sporadic benign infantile seizures and non-BFIE familial infantile seizures for PRRT2 mutations.', 'Forty-four probands with infantile-onset seizures, infantile convulsions with mild gastroenteritis, and benign neonatal seizures underwent detailed phenotyping and PRRT2 sequencing. The familial segregation of mutations identified in probands was studied.', 'The PRRT2 mutation c.649-650insC (p.R217fsX224) was identified in 11 probands. Nine probands had a family history of BFIE or ICCA. Two probands had no family history of infantile seizures or paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia and had de novo PRRT2 mutations. Febrile seizures with or without afebrile seizures were observed in 2 families with PRRT2 mutations.'] Does pRRT2 phenotypic spectrum include sporadic and fever-related infantile seizures? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2559382915496826,
-1.3045742511749268,
2.5891246795654297
] |
['Biomarkers as indicators for the progression of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) remain still elusive. We performed a cross-sectional study to analyze the correlation between cognitive impairment, abnormalities in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) markers of neurodegeneration in HIV-infected patients.', 'We enrolled 94 patients (82 men and 12 women; mean age 45\xa0±\xa010\xa0years) with HIV infection, but without opportunistic infections of the CNS. All patients underwent MRI and CSF analysis. The global pattern of white matter signal intensity abnormalities, the index of atrophy, the severity of periventricular white matter abnormalities, and the severity of basal ganglia signal changes were analyzed. We measured CSF markers of neurodegeneration (total tau, phospho-tau, beta-amyloid). The findings of this evaluation were correlated with demographic and infection parameters of the patients in blood and CSF.', 'We found a highly significant correlation between the severity of global brain atrophy, basal ganglia signal changes, and cognitive impairment in HIV-infected patients. Furthermore, cognitive impairment was significantly correlated with total tau, but not with phospho-tau or A-beta-amyloid in CSF analysis.'] Is cognitive impairment in HIV infection associated with MRI and CSF pattern of neurodegeneration? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3119699954986572,
-1.2216806411743164,
2.627542495727539
] |
['In castrate resistant prostate cancer cells we investigated the cytotoxic effect of simvastatin and the mechanism involved.', 'After treating PC3 and DU-145 cells with simvastatin, cell viability and apoptosis were determined using tetrazolium salt based colorimetric assay and annexin-V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide double staining assay, respectively. To determine whether simvastatin affects the nuclear factor-κB pathway, we assessed IκBα and phosphorylated IκBα expression, and p65 and phosphorylated p65 subcellular localization by Western blot analysis. Also, changes in nuclear factor-κB transcriptional activity were assessed using a luciferase reporter assay.', 'After treating PC3 and DU-145 cells with 0, 20 or 40 μM simvastatin for 24, 48 or 72 hours, the proportion of viable cells decreased and the proportion of apoptotic cells increased in a dose and time dependent manner. Western blot analysis showed that simvastatin inhibited IκBα phosphorylation and degradation. It also demonstrated that simvastatin increased p65 protein levels in cytoplasmic fractions and decreased phosphorylated p65 protein levels in nuclear fractions but did not change p65 protein levels in cytoplasm. Luciferase reporter assay showed that simvastatin dose dependently reduced nuclear factor-κB activity. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot revealed that simvastatin inhibited nuclear factor-κB regulated cIAP-1 and 2, cFLIP-S and XIAP expression in dose and time dependent fashion.'] Does simvastatin induce apoptosis in castrate resistant prostate cancer cells by deregulating nuclear factor-κB pathway? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3283581733703613,
-1.3981802463531494,
2.785862922668457
] |
['To compare 2 composite indices of sleep apnea disease burden with the commonly used apnea-hypopnea index with regard to baseline measurement of subjective and objective disease burden.', 'Cross-sectional study.', 'Tertiary academic medical center sleep laboratory.', 'Patients with suspected diagnosis of sleep apnea undergoing first diagnostic polysomnography. Subjective data were collected via validated questionnaires; objective data were obtained by standardized physical examination, chart extraction, and polysomnography. Four subjective (patient-reported) disease burden measures and 3 objective (anatomic and physiologic) disease burden measures were used for validation. Associations between composite indices or apnea-hypopnea index and these 7 construct validation measures were compared using bootstrapped correlation coefficients.', 'Two hundred sixteen subjects were included in the final analysis. Both composite disease burden indices showed clinically important or nearly important associations with 3 of 4 subjective validation measures and all 3 objective validation measures, whereas the apnea-hypopnea index was associated only with the objective validation measures.'] Do composite severity indices reflect sleep apnea disease burden more comprehensively than the apnea-hypopnea index? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.9918515682220459,
-0.9934749007225037,
1.0695945024490356
] |
['Catheter ablation of typical atrial flutter (AFl) is succesful if double electrograms on the ablation line are widely separated. Nevertheless, a small interval may also be compatible with complete isthmus block. Predicting such a situation may avoid useless additionnal radiofrequency (RF) applications. We postulated that measuring the extra-isthmus activation time (EIAT) on the counterclockwise (CCW) flutter wave is correlated with the extra-isthmus conduction time after a proven block.', 'Files of 76 patients (71 males, 71\u2009±\u200912 years) ablated for typical CCW AFl were reviewed. Ten had 2/1 conduction prohibiting reliable measurement. Three patients with proven crista terminalis shunt were also excluded. In the remaining 63 patients, EIAT was measured on the surface ECG before the first RF pulse from the beginning of the negative deflection of the F wave in lead III to the end of the positive deflection (or beginning of the plateau). After successful ablation and completion of block, right atrial (RA) CCW (during low septal pacing), and clockwise (CW) (during low lateral pacing) activation times were measured.', 'Flutter cycle length was 247\u2009±\u200934 ms and EIAT was 142\u2009±\u200925 ms. A bidirectionnal isthmus block was obtained in all patients after an RF delivery time of 623\u2009±\u2009546 s. At a pacing cycle length of 681\u2009±\u200971 ms, RA CCW and CW activation times were 147\u2009±\u200923 and 139\u2009±\u200926 ms, respectively. There was a good correlation between EIA, RA CCW (r\u2009=\u20090.75, p\u2009<\u20090.0001), and CW (r\u2009=\u20090.69, p\u2009=\u20090.0002) activation times.'] Is new insights into typical atrial flutter ablation : extra-isthmus activation time on the flutter wave predictive of extra-isthmus conduction time after isthmus block? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.4253708124160767,
-1.730114459991455,
2.1805155277252197
] |
['Alignment of the glenoid component with the scapula during total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) is challenging due to glenoid erosion and lack of both bone stock and guiding landmarks. We determined the extent to which the implant position is governed by the preoperative erosion of the glenoid. Also, we investigated whether excessive erosion of the glenoid is associated with perforation of the glenoid vault.', 'We used preoperative and postoperative CT scans of 29 TSAs to assess version, inclination, rotation, and offset of the glenoid relative to the scapula plane. The position of the implant keel within the glenoid vault was classified into three types: centrally positioned, component touching vault cortex, and perforation of the cortex.', 'Preoperative glenoid erosion was statistically significantly linked to the postoperative placement of the implant regarding all position parameters. Retroversion of the eroded glenoid was on average 10° (SD10) and retroversion of the implant after surgery was 7° (SD11). The implant keel was centered within the vault in 7 of 29 patients and the glenoid vault was perforated in 5 patients. Anterior cortex perforation was most frequent and was associated with severe preoperative posterior erosion, causing implant retroversion.'] Does total shoulder arthroplasty correct the orientation of the eroded glenoid? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.290138006210327,
-1.0129598379135132,
2.3711695671081543
] |
['Macroscopic hematuria (MH) may cause acute kidney injury (AKI) in IgA nephropathy. Up to 25% of patients with MH-associated AKI do not recover baseline renal function. Our objective was to identify subjects at high risk for an adverse renal function.', 'We examined macrophages, oxidative stress markers (NADPH-p22 and HO-1) and the hemoglobin scavenger receptor (CD163) in renal biopsy specimens from 33 MH-AKI patients with complete recovery (CR, n = 17) or incomplete recovery (IR, n = 16) of renal function after 6.72 (range 0.5-21.5) years of follow-up.', 'CD163-expressing macrophages, HO-1 and NADPH-p22 expression were located in areas surrounding tubules with iron deposits and filled with erythrocyte casts. CD163-positive macrophages score and HO-1- and p22-positive staining correlated positively with percentage of tubules with erythrocyte casts and tubular necrosis. Macrophage infiltration, CD163-positive macrophage score, NADPH-p22- and HO-1-positive staining areas were significantly greater in IR patients when compared with CR patients. The CD163-positive macrophage score and oxidative stress markers (p22 and HO-1) were negatively correlated with renal function outcome, as determined by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and proteinuria, at the end of the follow-up period. In multivariate analysis, the CD163-positive macrophage score remained significantly associated with final eGFR and proteinuria after adjustment by age, gender, duration of MH, initial eGFR and proteinuria.'] Are oxidative stress , macrophage infiltration and CD163 expression determinants of long-term renal outcome in macrohematuria-induced acute kidney injury of IgA nephropathy? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2602579593658447,
-1.4170669317245483,
2.7235617637634277
] |
['While higher blood pressure is known to increase proteinuria, whether increased dietary sodium as estimated from 24-hour urinary excretion correlates with increased proteinuria in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is not well studied.', 'We measured 24-hour urinary sodium, potassium and protein excretion in 3,680 participants in the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort study, to determine the relationship between urinary sodium and potassium and urinary protein excretion in patients with CKD. We stratified our data based on the presence or absence of diabetes given the absence of any data on this relationship and evidence that diabetics had greater urinary protein excretion at nearly every level of urinary sodium excretion. Multiple linear regressions were used with a stepwise inclusion of covariates such as systolic blood pressure, demographics, hemoglobin A1c and type of antihypertensive medications to evaluate the relationship between urinary electrolyte excretion and proteinuria.', 'Our data demonstrated that urinary sodium (+1 SD above the mean), as a univariate variable, explained 12% of the variation in proteinuria (β = 0.29, p < 0.0001), with rising urinary sodium excretion associated with increasing proteinuria. The significance of that relationship was only partially attenuated with adjustment for demographic and clinical factors and the addition of 24-hour urinary potassium to the model (β = 0.13, R(2) = 0.35, p < 0.0001).'] Is urinary sodium a potent correlate of proteinuria : lessons from the chronic renal insufficiency cohort study? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7697902917861938,
-1.4890356063842773,
2.2607288360595703
] |
['Toxicity from neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (NT) increases morbidity and limits therapeutic efficacy in patients with rectal cancer. The objective of this study was to determine whether specific polymorphisms in genes associated with rectal cancer response to NT were correlated with NT-related toxicity.', 'One hundred thirty-two patients with locally advanced rectal cancer received NT followed by surgery. All patients received 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and radiation (RT), and 80 patients also received modified infusional 5-FU, folinic acid, and oxaliplatin chemotherapy (mFOLFOX-6). Grade ≥3 adverse events (AEs) that occurred during 5-FU/RT and during combined 5-FU/RT + mFOLFOX-6 were recorded. Pretreatment biopsy specimens and normal rectal tissues were collected from all patients. DNA was extracted and screened for 22 polymorphisms in 17 genes that have been associated with response to NT. Polymorphisms were correlated with treatment-related grade ≥3 AEs.', 'Overall, 27 of 132 patients (20%) had grade ≥3 AEs; 18 patients had a complication associated only with 5-FU/RT, 3 patients experienced toxicity only during mFOLFOX-6, and 6 patients had grade ≥3 AEs associated with both treatments before surgery. Polymorphisms in the genes x-ray repair complementing defective repair in Chinese hamster cells 1 (XRCC1), xeroderma pigmentosum group D (XPD), and tumor protein 53 (TP53) were associated with grade ≥3 AEs during NT (P < .05). Specifically, 2 polymorphisms-an arginine-to-glutamine substitution at codon 399 (Q399R) in XRCC1 and a lysine-to-glutamine substitution at codon 751 (K751Q) in XPD-were associated with increased toxicity to 5-FU/RT (P < .05), and an arginine-to-proline substitution at codon 72 (R72P) in TP53 was associated with increased toxicity to mFOLFOX-6 (P = .008).'] Do gene polymorphisms predict toxicity to neoadjuvant therapy in patients with rectal cancer? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.234224319458008,
-1.4834436178207397,
2.7369699478149414
] |
['Lactose from cheese whey permeate (WP) was efficiently isomerised to lactulose using egg shell, a food-grade catalyst, and the subsequent transgalactosylation reaction of this mixture with β-galactosidase from Bacillus circulans gave rise to a wide array of prebiotic carbohydrates derived from lactose and lactulose.', 'Lactulose obtained by efficient isomerisation of WP (16.1% by weight with respect to the initial amount of lactose) showed great resistance to the hydrolytic action of β-galactosidase from B. circulans, which preferentially hydrolysed lactose, acting as a galactosyl donor and acceptor. Lactulose had capacity as an acceptor, leading to the formation of lactulose-derived oligosaccharides. The enzymatic synthesis was optimised by studying reaction conditions such as pH, temperature, time, enzyme concentration and carbohydrate concentration. The maximum formation of galactooligosaccharides with degrees of polymerisation from 2 to 4 was achieved after 5 h of reaction at pH 6.5 and 50 °C with 300 g kg(-1) carbohydrates and 3 U mL(-1) β-galactosidase.'] Do synthesis of prebiotic carbohydrates derived from cheese whey permeate by a combined process of isomerisation and transgalactosylation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.383342981338501,
-0.8373984694480896,
2.3526623249053955
] |
['To investigate the possible relationship between mitral annular calcification (MAC) and arterial stiffness.', 'Forty-two patients (mean age 68 ± 6 years) with MAC and an age-matched control group of 41 individuals (mean age 66 ± 6 years) were studied. Arterial stiffness and wave reflections of the study population were evaluated by using applanation tonometry (SphygmoCor). Aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) was measured as an index of aortic stiffness. The heart rate-corrected augmentation index (AIx@75) was estimated as a composite marker of wave reflections and arterial stiffness.', 'Aortic PWV was significantly higher in patients with MAC (12.2 ± 2.3 m/s) than in controls (10.1 ± 1.3 m/s, p = 0.0001). However, AIx@75 was similar between the groups (28 ± 10 vs. 29 ± 10%, p = 0.59). Multivariate analysis involving the whole population revealed that brachial diastolic blood pressure (β = 1.87, p = 0.04) and MAC (β = 0.41, p = 0.0001) were independent determinants of aortic PWV.'] Is mitral annular calcification associated with pulse wave velocity but not with augmentation index? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.6206785440444946,
-1.6653177738189697,
2.3177871704101562
] |
['Cancer initiation and progression might be driven by small populations of cells endowed with stem cell-like properties. Here we comparatively addressed the expression of genes encoding putative stemness regulators including c-Myc, Klf4, Nanog, Oct4A and Sox2 genes in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer (PCA).', 'Fifty-eight PCA and thirty-nine BPH tissues samples were used for gene expression analysis, as evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The expression of specific Klf4 isoforms was tested by conventional PCR. Klf4 specific antibodies were used for protein detection in a tissue microarray including 404 prostate samples.', 'Nanog, Oct4A and Sox2 genes were comparably expressed in BPH and PCA samples, whereas c-Myc and Klf4 genes were expressed to significantly higher extents in PCA than in BPH specimens. Immunohistochemical studies revealed that Klf4 protein is detectable in a large majority of epithelial prostatic cells, irrespective of malignant transformation. However, in PCA, a predominantly cytoplasmic location was observed, consistent with the expression of a differentially spliced Klf4α isoform.'] Is klf4 transcription factor expressed in the cytoplasm of prostate cancer cells? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2282702922821045,
-1.3397977352142334,
2.658050298690796
] |
['Heart failure (HF) is defined as the incapability of the heart to serve the tissues adequately with blood. This includes changes in microvascular perfusion. A mechanism aggravating perfusion disturbances in HF is endothelial dysfunction by reduced bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO). A mechanism possibly contributing to low NO bioavailability is the upregulation of arginase. Therefore, we investigated circulating arginase levels in patients with HF and its consequences for microvascular perfusion.', 'A first group consisted of eighty patients with chronic HF. Patients were characterized by echocardiography and laboratory values. Arginase 1 levels were determined using a commercially available ELISA. A second experimental group included eight patients with severe heart failure. Using sidestream darkfield intravital microscopy sublingual microcirculation was quantified before and after the topical incubation of nor-NOHA as arginase inhibitor and L-NMMA as NO synthase inhibitor.', 'Circulating arginase-1 levels were significantly higher in patients with heart failure compared to controls (p < 0.001). Patients with severe heart failure (NYHA III/IV) had significantly higher arginase-1 levels compared to patients with mild heart failure (p < 0.01, NYHA I/II). Sublingual perfused capillary density increased significantly (p < 0.01) following incubation with nor-NOHA. However, this effect was abolished when nor-NOHA was co-incubated with L-NMMA.'] Do increased arginase levels in heart failure represent a therapeutic target to rescue microvascular perfusion? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.285291910171509,
-1.3928169012069702,
2.722956418991089
] |
['Role of nitric oxide (NO) in reversing morphine anti-nociception has been shown. However, the interaction between NO and naloxone-induced pain in the hippocampus is unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the involvement of molecule NO in naloxone-induced pain and its possible interaction with naloxone into cortical area 1 (CA1) of hippocampus.', "Male Wistar rats (250-350 g), provided by Pasteur Institute of Iran, were housed two per cage with food and water ad libitum. The animals' skulls were cannulated bilaterally at coordinates adjusted for CA1 of hippocampus (AP: -3.8; L: ±1.8- 2.2: V: 3) by using stereotaxic apparatus. Each experimental group included 6-8 rats. To induce inflammation pain, the rats received subcutaneous (s.c.) injections of formalin (50 μL at 2.5%) once prior to testing. To evaluate the nociceptive effect of naloxone, the main narcotic antagonist of morphine (0.1-0.4 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) 10 min before injection of formalin. Injections of L-arginine, a precursor of NO, and N(G)-Nitro-L-arginine Methyl Ester (L-NAME), an inhibitor of NO synthase (NOS), intra-CA1, were conducted orderly prior to the administration of naloxone. The pain induction was analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA).", 'Naloxone at the lower doses caused a significant (P<0.01) pain in the naloxone-treated animals. However, pre-administration (1-2 min) of L-arginine (0.04, 0.08, 0.15, 0.3, 1.0, and 3.0 μg/rat, intra-CA1) reversed the response to naloxone. But, the response to L-arginine was blocked by pre-microinjection (1-2 min) of L-NAME (0.15, 0.3, 1.0, and 3.0 μg/rat), whilst, L-arginine or L-NAME alone did not induce pain behavior.'] Does nitric oxide in the hippocampal cortical area interact with naloxone in inducing pain? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1723196506500244,
-1.4382660388946533,
2.6649580001831055
] |
['Respiratory distress syndrome in preterm babies is caused by a pulmonary surfactant deficiency, but also by its inactivation due to various conditions, including plasma protein leakage. Surfactant replacement therapy is well established, but clinical observations and in vitro experiments suggested that its efficacy may be impaired by inactivation. A new synthetic surfactant (CHF 5633), containing synthetic surfactant protein B and C analogs, has shown comparable effects on oxygenation in ventilated preterm rabbits versus Poractant alfa, but superior resistance against inactivation in vitro. We hypothesized that CHF 5633 is also resistant to inactivation by serum albumin in vivo.', 'Nineteen preterm lambs of 127 days gestational age (term = 150 days) received CHF 5633 or Poractant alfa and were ventilated for 48 hours. Ninety minutes after birth, the animals received albumin with CHF 5633 or Poractant alfa. Animals received additional surfactant if P(a)O(2) dropped below 100 mmHg. A pressure volume curve was done post mortem and markers of pulmonary inflammation, surfactant content and biophysiology, and lung histology were assessed. CHF 5633 treatment resulted in improved arterial pH, oxygenation and ventilation efficiency index. The survival rate was significantly higher after CHF 5633 treatment (5/7) than after Poractant alfa (1/8) after 48 hours of ventilation. Biophysical examination of the surfactant recovered from bronchoalveolar lavages revealed that films formed by CHF 5633-treated animals reached low surface tensions in a wider range of compression rates than films from Poractant alfa-treated animals.'] Does new surfactant with SP-B and C analogs give survival benefit after inactivation in preterm lambs? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.208470106124878,
-1.4632489681243896,
2.6746978759765625
] |
['It has been well established that tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play a tumor promoting role in endometrial endometrioid adenocarcinoma (EEC). But the association with TAMs and sex hormone receptor expression, and progression of precancerous endometrial lesions in EEC has been little reported.', 'We used immunohistochemistry to examine the expression of CD68, CD34, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) in 95 cases of EEC, as well as 35 cases of endometrial hyperplasia (including 15 atypical hyperplasia, 10 complex hyperplasia and 10 simple hyperplasia). We also correlated TAMs count with various clinicopathological factors, sex hormone receptor, and prognostic value in patients with EEC.', 'We identified that TAMs count increased linearly with disease progression (mean count per case at × 200 magnification: simple hyperplasia, 6.30; complex hyperplasia, 11.20; atypical hyperplasia, 29.40; EEC 55.81, respectively; P < 0.001), that microvascular density (MVD) also increased accordingly (27.50, 30.20, 50.13 and 59.94, respectively; P < 0.001). The expression of progesterone receptor, not of estrogen receptor, significantly decreased with disease progression (P < 0.05). Moreover, histopathologic grades, International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage (2009), depth of myometrial invasion, pelvic lymph node metastasis, lymphovascular space invasion, and expression of PR and VEGF were associated with TAMs count (P = 0.0001, P = 0.004, P = 0.0001, P = 0.04, P = 0.0001, P = 0.0001, P = 0.0001, respectively). Progesterone receptor expression was also associated with histopathologic grades, lymphovascular space invasion, VEGF and high TAMs (P = 0.035, P = 0.022, P = 0.014, P = 0.001, respectively). The estimated 5-year survival rate of patients with low TAMs was significantly higher than those with high TAMs (96.4% vs 69.8%, P = 0.002).'] Do tumor-associated macrophages correlate with progesterone receptor loss in endometrial endometrioid adenocarcinoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2199318408966064,
-1.4572336673736572,
2.708930492401123
] |
['To assess the caries risk profiles in 2- to 6-year-old Greek children using a computer-based program and to evaluate the contribution of various risk factors.', 'The study group consisted of 814 preschool children. A questionnaire on family, demographic and socioeconomic factors, general health, oral hygiene and dietary behavior was completed by the parents. Children were examined for cavitated and white-spot lesions (WSL). Salivary mutans streptococci (MS) and buffer capacity were estimated. Caries risk profiles were assessed with Cariogram.', 'Cavitated lesions were found in 30% of the children; WSL were found in 26% of those included. MS and low buffer capacity were detected in 28% and 26% of the children, respectively. The majority (70%) displayed neglected oral hygiene. Based on the questionnaires, 83% of the children had a cariogenic diet, and 17% did not use any form of fluoride. The Cariogram revealed that 26% of the children had high caries risk, while only 9% exhibited low caries risk. The most significant caries risk variables, determined by regression analysis (R(2)=0.88), were insufficient fluoride exposure (ß=0.160) and the presence of WSL (ß= 0.159).'] Do caries risk profiles in 2- to 6-year-old Greek children using the Cariogram? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.9538010358810425,
-0.7504098415374756,
0.871951162815094
] |
['Closed suction drains are used in a variety of surgical procedures as a means of preventing hematoma formation or other fluid accumulation. The literature shows that they may be linked to postoperative infection. The aim of this study was to determine the timing of biofilm formation on drains, the route of colonization, and whether simple measures to increase sterility made any difference in biofilm formation.', 'A group of 12 patients, undergoing a variety of procedures, had drains removed at intervals between 2 and 42 hours. Cross-sections of these drains were sampled at three different sites: where the drain entered the skin, the middle of the drain, and the tip of the drain. The samples were sectioned longitudinally to view the lumen and outer wall. Specimens were viewed under scanning electron microscopy to compare the extent of biofilm formation in the drains on the left side with those on the right side. The drains on the left side were placed with increased attention to sterility.', 'Biofilm formation was evident on drains removed from as early as 2 hours after insertion. Statistical conclusions could not be drawn about route of colonization or enhanced sterility measures taken. From subjective analysis alone, route of colonization seemed to be a combination of on-table contamination and contamination from breast tissue. No difference in the amount of biofilm formation was found between normally inserted drains and those inserted with increased attention to sterility.'] Does pilot study of timing of biofilm formation on closed suction wound drain? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4470927715301514,
-0.9918369650840759,
2.6497511863708496
] |
['Open pyeloplasty has been historically described as the gold standard for the surgical treatment of ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO), even if new techniques have recently gained a prominent role in this field. Laparoscopic pyeloplasty (LP) is not widely prevelant because of the technically challenging nature and it represents the gold standard for UPJO only in expert hands. To overcome some difficulties and technical challenges encountered during pure laparoscopic pyeloplasty, we designed a set of new instruments and assessed them using porcine model.', 'According to the ideas from the surgeons, our medical engineer designed three new instruments, including the right angle laparoscopy scissors, the petal-shape ureter dilator and the guide tube. Four experienced laparoscopic experts were involved in a no survival porcine study to assess the help of these new instruments. Four experiments were conducted on live pigs that weighed 22 to 25 kg at the same time. After general anesthesia was administered, transperitoneal ureteroureterostomy was performed using standard laparoscopic instruments, including placing the double J stent anterograde. Then, the opposite lateral was done by the same surgeon plus these new devices for side-by-side comparative analysis. All experts were interviewed to assess these new instruments by the questionnaire based on the visual analog scale (VAS) from 1 (none) to 10 (very much).', 'The procedures were all technically successful. The right angle laparoscopy scissors and the guide tube were accepted by all participants and the Help Score were 6.75 and 4.25 respectively, at the same time the New Difficulty Score 1.25 and 1.75. However, the petal-shape ureter dilator got 1.5 Help Score and 6.5 New Difficulty Score. These surgeons made a negative comment and one of surgeons recommended the stone basket was more suitable.'] Do a novel set of surgical instruments facilitate the procedure of laparoscopic pyeloplasty? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.3856652975082397,
-1.5240014791488647,
1.927103877067566
] |
['Not only clinical factors, including the CHADS(2) score, but also echocardiographic findings have been reported to be useful for predicting the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). However, it remains to be determined which of these factors might be more relevant for evaluation of the risk of stroke in each patient.', 'In 490 patients with NVAF who underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), we examined the long-term incidence of ischemic stroke events (mean follow-up time, 5.7±3.3 years). For each patient, the predictive values of gender, the CHADS(2) risk factors (congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥75 years, diabetes mellitus, history of cerebral ischemia), the CHADS(2) score, and the findings on echocardiography, including TEE risk markers, were assessed.', 'The ischemic stroke rate was significantly correlated with the CHADS(2) score (p<0.05). According to the results of univariate analyses, age ≥75 years, history of cerebral ischemia, CHADS(2) score ≥2, and presence of TEE risk were significantly correlated with the incidence of ischemic stroke. Cox proportional hazards regression analyses identified age ≥75 years and presence of TEE risk as significant predictors of subsequent ischemic stroke events in patients with NVAF. As compared with that in persons below 75 years of age without TEE risk, the ischemic stroke rate was significantly higher in persons who were ≥75 years of age with TEE risk (4.3 vs. 0.56%/year, adjusted hazard ratio=8.94, p<0.001).'] Are transesophageal echocardiographic findings independent and relevant predictors of ischemic stroke in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.5783511400222778,
-1.51206374168396,
2.0514678955078125
] |
['The Interferon Regulatory Factors (IRFs) are transcription factors involved in immune responses and oncogenesis and most of them are classified as tumour suppressors. The expression and activation of IRF(s) are stimulated by several cytokines and by DNA damage. Here we examine the role of the IRF-1 in the response of ovarian cancer cells to the front-line chemotherapeutic drug cisplatin (CDDP).', 'We evaluated the transcriptional response of three ovarian cancer cell lines to CDDP both under control conditions and after IRF-1 silencing using expression microarrays. The role played by IRF-1 in the response of these cells to CDDP was evaluated after silencing and overexpressing IRF-1. We studied cell cycle progression, colony forming ability in monolayer culture and semisolid medium, and apoptosis in the response to the drug.', 'The treatment of ovarian cancer cells with CDDP boosted the expression and the nuclear translocation of IRF-1, which in turn modulated the expression of putative IRF-1 target genes. Accordingly, IRF-1 silencing re-orchestrated the expression profiles of CDDP-treated cells. In agreement with its role as a tumour suppressor, overexpressing IRF-1 suppressed the transformed phenotype of ovarian cancer cells. Nevertheless, IRF-1 silencing sensitized cells to the apoptotic death induced by CDDP. Over-expression was associated with cell G1 arrest and p21 induction irrespective of p53 proficiency, while IRF-1 silencing reduced the induction of p21 by CDDP.'] Is iRF-1 expression induced by cisplatin in ovarian cancer cells and limits drug effectiveness? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.469712018966675,
-1.1864962577819824,
2.7041072845458984
] |
['The electronic nose (e nose) provides distinctive breath fingerprints for selected respiratory diseases. Both reproducibility and respiratory function correlates of breath fingerprint are poorly known.', 'To measure reproducibility of breath fingerprints and to assess their correlates among respiratory function indexes in elderly healthy and COPD subjects.', "25 subjects (5 COPD patients for each GOLD stage and 5 healthy controls) over 65 years underwent e-nose study through a seven sensor system and respiratory function tests at times 0, 7, and 15 days. Reproducibility of the e nose pattern was computed. The correlation between volatile organic compound (VOC) pattern and respiratory function/clinical parameters was assessed by the Spearman's rho.", "VOC patterns were highly reproducible within healthy and GOLD 4 COPD subjects, less among GOLD 1-3 patients.VOC patterns significantly correlated with expiratory flows (Spearman's rho ranging from 0.36 for MEF25% and sensor Co-Buti-TPP, to 0.81 for FEV1% and sensor Cu-Buti-TPP p<0.001)), but not with residual volume and total lung capacity."] Does reproducibility and respiratory function correlate of exhaled breath fingerprint in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.8061739206314087,
-1.3325307369232178,
2.2230300903320312
] |
['Estimations of the risk of bisphosphonate associated atypical femoral fractures vary between different population-based studies, from considerable to neglectable. A possible explanation for these discrepancies could be different definitions of atypical fractures. We aimed to identify specific radiographic fracture characteristics associated with bisphosphonate use.', 'In a previous nationwide study, 59 atypical and 218 ordinary fractures were diagnosed. The atypical fractures were defined by their stress-type fracture pattern. All fractures were now re-assessed by a physician in training, without information about bisphosphonate use. The fracture angle (0-180°) was measured. Presence of local lateral cortical thickening (a callus reaction), more than 2 fragments, or a medial spike was noted. The reader then made a judgment whether the fracture appeared as an atypical fracture based on the ASBMR criteria.', 'Frequency distribution analysis of the fracture angle showed a distinct subgroup, comprising 25% of all 277 fractures, with a mean of 89 and SD of 10°. Forty-two of 57 patients in this subgroup used bisphosphonates, whereas only 27 of 213 others did (specificity 0.93; 95% CI 0.88-0.96). Presence of a callus reaction had also a high specificity for bisphosphonate use (0.96; 95% CI 0.92-0.98). The ASBMR criteria had a lower specificity, increasing the number of atypical fractures without bisphosphonate use from 13 to 31. This led to a decrease in age-adjusted relative risk associated with bisphosphonate use from 47 (95% CI 26-87) to 19 (95% CI 12-29).'] Are atypical femoral fractures a separate entity , characterized by highly specific radiographic features . A comparison of 59 cases and 218 controls? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.294627070426941,
-1.6111602783203125,
1.9258846044540405
] |
['Bariatric surgery effectively induces weight loss and resolves cardiovascular comorbidities in obese patients. We investigated cardiovascular and all-cause mortality in patients who underwent gastrectomies for early gastric cancer (EGC) and analyzed the changes in metabolic parameters after surgery.', 'A total of 2,477 patients who underwent gastrectomies for EGC between 1995 and 2004 were enrolled in the study and followed for mortality through 2007. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) were calculated using sex- and age-matched mortality in the general Korean population in 2005. Effects of gastrectomy on changes in body weight and metabolic parameters were investigated in 51 of the patients before and after surgery.', 'During the 15,096.4 person-years of follow-up, 244 deaths were recorded. The all-cause mortality was not significantly different from that of the general population (SMR [95\xa0% confidence interval (CI)]\xa0=\xa01.01 [0.89\xa0-\xa01.14]); however, cardiovascular mortality was significantly lower (SMR\xa0=\xa00.35 [0.22\xa0-\xa00.53]). In the 51 patients included in the second part of the study, significant reductions in body weight and visceral fat areas occurred after surgery, regardless of whether the patients were previously obese. Triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 levels were significantly decreased, whereas HDL-cholesterol and adiponectin levels were increased. Carotid intima-media thickness also was significantly decreased in previously obese and nonobese patients.'] Is gastrectomy for early gastric cancer associated with decreased cardiovascular mortality in association with postsurgical metabolic changes? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7420307397842407,
-1.3816380500793457,
2.005915880203247
] |
['Flap loss due to postoperative flap edema and thrombosis of the anastomosis remains the predominant concern of reconstructive microsurgeons. Due to the lack of scientific evidence, there is no unanimous opinion on when to mobilize a reconstructed lower extremity, reflecting the uncertainty of plastic surgeons regarding the effect of the dangling procedure on flap microcirculation.', 'In this randomized controlled clinical trial, we included 31 patients undergoing free flap transfer to the lower extremity.The patients were randomly divided into two groups. Cohort I consisted of 15 patients starting the dangling procedure at day 7, and cohort II consisted of 16 patients in which an early aggressive postoperative dependency started at day 3.Wrapping and dangling of the flap was performed primarily with a duration of 5 minutes three times a day and increased daily by doubling the duration over a period of 4 days, reaching 60 minutes at day 5.Before and immediately after each dangling procedure the flaps were clinically monitored under direct observation for color, capillary refill, venous congestion, flap turgor, and flap temperature.', 'In all cases the postoperative course was uneventful, resulting in a success rate of 100%. No adverse effects or flap compromise were seen due to the combined dangling/wrapping procedure.'] Does early start of the dangling procedure in lower extremity free flap reconstruction affect the clinical outcome? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4642012119293213,
-1.0593364238739014,
2.59700345993042
] |
['Decreased activity of forkhead transcription factor class O (FoxO)3A, a negative regulator of NF-κB-mediated chemokine expression, is implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Previously, we showed that quercetin reduces lung inflammation in a murine model of COPD. Here, we examined the mechanisms underlying decreased FoxO3A activation and its modulation by quercetin in COPD human airway epithelial cells and in a COPD mouse model.', 'Primary COPD and normal human airway epithelial cells were treated with quercetin, LY294002 or erlotinib for 2 weeks. IL-8 was measured by ELISA. FoxO3A, Akt, and epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR) phosphorylation and nuclear FoxO3A levels were determined by Western blot analysis. Effects of quercetin on lung chemokine expression, nuclear FoxO3A levels and phosphorylation of EGFR and Akt were determined in COPD mouse model.', 'Compared with normal, COPD cells showed significantly increased IL-8, which negatively correlated with nuclear FoxO3A levels. COPD bronchial biopsies also showed reduced nuclear FoxO3A. Decreased FoxO3A in COPD cells was associated with increased phosphorylation of EGFR, Akt and FoxO3A and treatment with quercetin, LY294002 or erlotinib increased nuclear FoxO3A and decreased IL-8 and phosphorylation of Akt, EGFR and FoxO3A, Compared with control, elastase/LPS-exposed mice showed decreased nuclear FoxO3A, increased chemokines and phosphorylation of EGFR and Akt. Treatment with quercetin partially reversed these changes.'] Does aberrantly activated EGFR contribute to enhanced IL-8 expression in COPD airways epithelial cells via regulation of nuclear FoxO3A? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3710691928863525,
-1.3787761926651,
2.7451553344726562
] |
['There is increasing evidence that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) may be involved in the regulation of angiogenesis. In this study, we examined whether rosiglitazone, a PPARγ agonist, can restore angiogenesis in a rat hindlimb ischemia model of diabetes.', 'Male wistar rats were divided into four groups (n=6 each): control, diabetic and control and diabetic rats who received rosiglitazone (8 mg/kg/day). Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin (55 mg/kg; ip). After 21 days, serum concentrations of nitric oxide (NO), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and soluble VEGF receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) were measured and neovascularization in ischemic legs was evaluated by immunohistochemistry.', 'Capillary density and capillary/fiber ratio in hindlimb ischemia of diabetic animals were significantly lower than the control group (P<0.05). Rosiglitazone significantly restored neovascularization in diabetic animals (P<0.05).'] Does rosiglitazone enhance neovascularization in diabetic rat ischemic hindlimb model? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.197739839553833,
-1.3964897394180298,
2.583099603652954
] |
['Medical emergency teams (MET) are implemented to ensure prompt clinical review of patients with deteriorating physiology with the intention of averting further deterioration, cardiac arrest and death. We sought to determine if MET implementation has led to reductions in hospital mortality across a large metropolitan health network utilising routine administrative data submitted by hospitals to the Department of Health Victoria.', 'The Victorian admissions episodes data set (VAED) contains data on all individual hospital separations in the State of Victoria, Australia. After gaining institutional ethics approval, we extracted data on all acute admissions to metropolitan hospitals for which we had information on the presence and timing of a MET system. Using logistic regression we determined whether there was an effect of MET implementation on mortality controlling for age, gender, Charlson comorbidity diagnostic groupings, emergency admission, same day admission, ICU admission, mechanical ventilation, year, indigenous ethnicity, liaison nurse service and hospital designation.', '5911533 individual admissions and 73,599 associated deaths from July 1999 to June 2010 were included in the analysis. 52.2% were male and median age was 57(42-72 IQR). Mortality rates for MET and non-MET periods were 3.92 (3.88-3.95 95%CI) and 4.56 (4.51-4.61 95%CI) deaths per 1000 patient days with a rate ratio after adjustment for year of 0.88 (0.86-0.89 95%CI) P < 0.001. In a multivariable logistic regression, mortality was associated with a MET team being active in the hospital for more than 2 years. The odds ratio for mortality in hospitals where a MET system had been in place for greater than 4 years duration was 0.90 (0.88-0.92). Mortality during the first 2 years of a MET system being in place was not statistically different from pre-MET periods.'] Are medical emergency teams associated with reduced mortality across a major metropolitan health network after two years service : a retrospective study using government administrative data? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.0868958234786987,
-0.6972538828849792,
0.8589553833007812
] |
['Nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) is considered to play an important role in the response to ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in flap surgery. To inhibit NF-κB, synthetic double-stranded oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) was used as a decoy. The present study aimed to evaluate the suppressive effects of NF-κB against I/R injury of experimental rat flap model.', 'An extended epigastric island flap was raised and ischemia was induced for 3\u2009h. NF-κB decoy ODN (group D) or single-strand ODN (control; group S) was injected via the contralateral artery when the pedicle was clamped. Transfection efficiency was evaluated with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled ODN. The effects of NF-κB decoy ODN were analyzed in groups D and S, and an untreated group (group N).', 'FITC-labeled ODN was distributed over the entire flap. Mean survival rate of the flap was significantly higher in group D than in the other groups (group D: 57.9%; group S: 31.1%; group N 31.7%; p\u2009<\u20090.005). Injured muscle fibers, neutrophils and the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase were significantly lower in group D. A real-time polymerase chain reaction also demonstrated a tendency for suppression of tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6.'] Does transfection of nuclear factor-kappaB decoy oligodeoxynucleotide protect against ischemia/reperfusion injury in a rat epigastric flap model? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2353999614715576,
-1.5470869541168213,
2.772573947906494
] |
['Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common systemic complication of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Iron-deficiency anemia recurs frequently and rapidly after iron-replacement therapy in patients with IBD. We performed a randomized, placebo-controlled trial to determine if administration of ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) prevents anemia in patients with IBD and low levels of serum ferritin.', 'We performed a single-blind, multicenter study of nonanemic patients who had completed the FERGIcor study. Serum levels of ferritin were assessed every second month, and patients were given FCM (total iron dose, 1181 ± 662 mg; n = 105) or placebo (n = 99) when levels decreased to less than 100 μg/L. The primary end point was time to recurrence of anemia within 8 months. Secondary end points included changes of quality of life, disease activity, results from laboratory tests, and adverse events.', 'Anemia recurred in 26.7% of subjects given FCM and in 39.4% given placebo. The time to anemia recurrence was longer in the FCM group (hazard ratio, 0.62; 95% confidence interval, 0.38-1.00; P = .049). Markers of body levels of iron increased or remained at normal levels in subjects given FCM (ferritin increased by 30.3 μg/L, transferrin saturation increased by 0.6%) but decreased in the group given placebo (ferritin decreased by 36.1 μg/L, transferrin saturation decreased by 4.0%). Changes in quality of life and disease activity were comparable between groups. Adverse events were reported in 59.0% of the FCM group and 50.5% of the placebo group, and serious adverse events were reported in 6.7% and 8.1%, respectively.'] Does ferric carboxymaltose prevent recurrence of anemia in patients with inflammatory bowel disease? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.5961130857467651,
-1.5715205669403076,
2.134349822998047
] |
['The gel from the leaves of Bulbine natalensis (BN) and Bulbine frutescens (BF) is commonly used as a traditional medicine in South Africa for the treatment of skin wounds and burns. Treatment with both leaf gel extracts has previously been demonstrated to increase tensile strength and protein and DNA content in pig dermal wounds. This study examined the effect of the leaf gel extracts in vivo on histology of wound healing in pigs to elucidate the mechanism of increased tensile strength.', "Mirror imaged wounds on the dorsum of 12 post weaning female pigs were treated with either BN or BF, biopsied at days 2, 4, 7, 10 and 16 post-wounding and fixed. Sections of wound tissue were then stained with haematoxylin and eosin and Mallory's stain to analyse the general morphology and collagen arrangement; and smooth muscle actin, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) receptors were immunolocalised.", 'Histological analysis of the wound tissue in the study indicated earlier wound contraction and collagen deposition in both treatment groups with re-organisation of the collagen (indicating collagen maturation) evident as early as at day 10.'] Do bulbine natalensis and Bulbine frutescens promote cutaneous wound healing? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.529474973678589,
-1.206575632095337,
2.8304762840270996
] |
['Patient reporting of symptom events during ambulatory reflux monitoring is commonly performed with little data regarding its accuracy. We employed a novel time-synchronized ambulatory audio recording of symptom events simultaneously with prolonged pH/impedance monitoring to assess temporal accuracy of patient-reported symptoms.', 'An acoustic monitoring system was employed to detect cough events via tracheal and chest wall sounds and it was temporally synchronized with an ambulatory impedance/pH monitoring system. Patients were instructed to record their symptoms in the usual manner. Six separate observers independently listened to the 24-h audio recordings and logged the exact timing of each cough event. Patients were blinded to study design and the audio reviewers were blinded to their own reports and those of patients and other reviewers. Concurrence of audio recordings and patient-reported symptoms were tested for three separate time thresholds: 1, 2, and 5 min.', 'The median (interquartile range (IQR)) number of cough events by audio detection was significantly (P<0.001) higher than those reported by patients: 216 (90-275) and 34 (22-60), respectively. There was significantly (P<0.001) higher agreement among the audio recording listeners (substantial to almost perfect agreement; kappa=0.77-0.82) than between the audio recording and patient-reported symptoms (slight to fair agreement; kappa=0.13-0.27). Patients did not report 91, 82, and 71% of audible cough events based on 1-, 2-, and 5-min concordance time windows, respectively.'] Are symptom reports reliable during ambulatory reflux monitoring? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.8055020570755005,
-1.546823501586914,
1.4262526035308838
] |
['To compare the time required to obtain a continuous audible heart rate signal from an electrocardiogram (ECG) monitor and pulse oximeter (PO) in infants requiring resuscitation.', 'Infants who had both ECG and PO placed during resuscitation were analyzed using video and analog recordings. The median times from arrival until the ECG electrodes and PO sensor were placed, and the time to achieve audible tones from the devices, were compared.', 'Forty-six infants had ECG and PO data. Thirty infants were very low birth weight (23-30 weeks). There was a difference in the median total time to place either device (26 vs 38 seconds; P = .04), and a difference (P < .001) in the time to achieve an audible heart rate signal after ECG lead (2 seconds) versus PO probe (24 seconds) placement. In infants weighing >1500 g (n = 16), the median time (interquartile range) to place the ECG was 20 seconds (14-43) whereas the time to place the PO was 36 seconds (28-56) (P = .74). The median times (interquartile range) to acquire a signal from the ECG and PO were 4 seconds (1-6) and 32 seconds (15-40, P = .001), respectively. During the first minutes of resuscitation, 93% of infants had an ECG heart rate compared with only 56% for PO.'] Does electrocardiogram provide a continuous heart rate faster than oximetry during neonatal resuscitation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.396521657705307,
-1.124551773071289,
0.5865858793258667
] |
['To evaluate a common genetic variant, sulfotransferase 4A1 haplotype 1 (SULT4A1-1), as a predictor of hospitalization events due to the exacerbation of schizophrenia for patients treated with antipsychotic medications. Haplotypes were determined using single nucleotide polymorphism data.', 'The study included 417 white subjects from the Clinical Antipsychotic Trials of Intervention Effectiveness (CATIE) study with a DSM-IV diagnosis of schizophrenia. Patients were assigned to 1 of 4 atypical antipsychotics (olanzapine, quetiapine, risperidone, or ziprasidone) or to the first-generation antipsychotic perphenazine. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to measure if haplotype status impacted hospitalization events for these 5 treatments. Haplotype status was evaluated for its relationship to hospitalization events regardless of treatment and for the individual treatments, with or without previous exacerbation. Data for the CATIE study were collected from January 2001 to December 2004. The current post hoc analysis was performed between May 2011 and August 2011.', 'In phase 1 of the trial, considering only the first hospitalization events, the haplotype had a significant impact on hospitalization events, with a hazard ratio for SULT4A1-1(-) versus SULT4A1-1(+) of 2.54 (P = .048). When prior exacerbation was included in the model for phase 1, the hazard ratio was 2.34 (P = .072) considering only the first hospitalization event and 2.71 (P = .039) considering all hospitalization events in the phase. When data for all phases were evaluated, SULT4A1-1(-) status was associated with increased hospitalization risk for subjects treated with olanzapine, with a hazard ratio of 8.26 (P = .041), and possibly for subjects treated with quetiapine, with a hazard ratio of 6.80 (P = .070).'] Does sulfotransferase 4A1 Haplotype 1 ( SULT4A1-1 ) be Associated With Decreased Hospitalization Events in Antipsychotic-Treated Patients With Schizophrenia? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7857178449630737,
-1.48851478099823,
2.241480588912964
] |
['Elevated high-sensitive C-reactive protein is a powerful independent predictor of cardiovascular events. However, there are scant data on its impact on midterm or long-term outcomes of coronary artery bypass grafting.', 'We analyzed data of 2863 patients who underwent coronary artery bypass in 2006-2007. Early endpoints were hospital mortality and major morbidity. Midterm endpoints were overall mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events, and heart failure.', 'During hospital stay, 26 patients died and 288 suffered major morbidity. After 3.6 years of follow-up, 56 patients had died, 105 had major adverse cardiovascular events, and 70 developed heart failure. Multivariate analysis revealed every 1 mg·L(-1) increase of high-sensitive C-reactive protein was associated with increased odds ratio for early mortality (odds ratio = 2.50, p = 0.002), major morbidity (odds ratio = 1.38, p = 0.02), and hazard ratio for midterm mortality (hazard ratio = 1.68, p = 0.03), major adverse cardiovascular events (hazard ratio = 1.48, p = 0.04), and heart failure (hazard ratio = 1.88, p = 0.01). Preoperative high-sensitive C-reactive protein>2.5 mg·L(-1) predicted higher risks of early (hazard ratio = 2.69, p = 0.02) and midterm mortality (hazard ratio = 1.92, p = 0.02), major morbidity (hazard ratio = 1.46, p = 0.004), major adverse cardiovascular events (hazard ratio = 2.06, p<0.001), and heart failure (hazard ratio = 1.71, p = 0.03).'] Does high-sensitive C-reactive protein predict outcome after coronary artery bypass? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.1456128358840942,
-1.3771227598190308,
1.5570368766784668
] |
['Usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP), is a necessary feature pathologically or radiologically for the diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The predictive value of transbronchial biopsy (TBB) in identifying UIP is currently unknown. The objective of this study is to assess the accuracy with which histopathologic criteria of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) can be identified in transbronchial biopsy (TBB) and to assess the usefulness of TBBx in predicting a the diagnosis of UIP pattern. We conducted a retrospective blinded and controlled analysis of TBB specimens from 40 established cases of UIP and 24 non-UIP interstitial lung diseases.', 'Adequate TBB specimens were available in 34 UIP cases (85% of all UIP cases). TBB contained histopathologic criteria to suggest a UIP pattern (ie. at least one of three pathologic features of UIP present; patchy interstitial fibrosis, fibroblast foci, honeycomb changes) in 12 cases (30% of all UIP cases). Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for the two pathologists were 30% (12/40), 100% (24/24), 100% (12/12), 46% (24/52) and 30% (12/40), 92% (22/24), 86% (12/14), 55% (22/40) respectively. Kappa coefficient of agreement between pathologists was good (0.61, 95% CI 0.31-0.91). The likelihood of identifying UIP on TBB increased with the number and size of the TBB specimens.'] Is transbronchial biopsy useful in predicting UIP pattern? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.1827892065048218,
-1.7738603353500366,
1.947427749633789
] |
['Catheter hub decontamination requires a thorough scrub and compliance varies. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a disinfection cap with 70% alcohol in preventing contamination/infection.', 'A 3-phased, multifacility, quasi-experimental study of adult patients with central lines divided into P1 (baseline), when the standard scrub was used; P2, when the cap was used on all central lines; and P3, when standard disinfection was reinstituted. House-wide central-line associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) rates are reported with catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) as\xa0a control measure. Adults with peripherally inserted central catheters inserted during hospitalization having 5+ consecutive line-days gave consent and were enrolled, and 1.5 mL of blood was withdrawn from each lumen not in use and quantitatively cultured.', 'Contamination was 12.7% (32/252) during P1; 5.5% (20/364) in P2 (P\xa0=\xa0.002), and 12.0% (22/183; P\xa0=\xa00.88 vs P1 and P\xa0=\xa0.01 vs P2) in P3 (P\xa0=\xa0.001 vs P2). The median colony-forming units per milliliter was 4 for P1, 1 for P2 (P\xa0=\xa0.009), and 2 for P3 (P\xa0=\xa0.05 vs P2). CLABSI rates declined from 1.43 per 1,000 line-days (16/11,154) to 0.69 (13/18,972) in P2 (P\xa0=\xa0.04) and increased to 1.31 (7/5,354) in P3. CAUTI rates remained stable between P1 and P2 (1.42 and 1.41, respectively, P\xa0=\xa0.90) but declined in P3 (1.04, P\xa0=\xa0.03 vs P1 and P2).'] Does continuous passive disinfection of catheter hubs prevent contamination and bloodstream infection? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.6159029006958008,
-1.9398512840270996,
1.6016970872879028
] |
["Food allergy is a common problem in France involving 4%-6% of toddlers. As opposed to IgE-mediated cow's milk allergy (CMA), delayed-onset CMA, mostly, non-IgE-mediated, remains difficult to diagnose in toddlers. Our study assessed the diagnostic performances of intestinal permeability and of fecal markers, in comparison with the standard allergic work-up in children referred for CMA diagnosis.", "Twenty-five consecutive children, mean age (standard deviation) 6.3 months (4.8) with digestive and/or extra-digestive manifestations suggesting CMA, were prospectively studied based on a standardized allergic work-up (specific cow's protein IgE and IgG, skin prick test, atopy patch test and oral open cow's milk challenge) and digestive work-up including fecal microbiota analysis, intestinal permeability determination (urinary lactitol/mannitol ratio) and fecal markers measurement, i.e., α(1)-antitrypsin, tumor necrosis factor-α, calprotectin, β-defensin2, secretory IgA and eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were calculated for all markers in order to define cut-off levels.", "The cow's milk challenge was positive in 11 children and negative in 14. The global test performances, i.e., the number of true positive+negative cases/the total number of cases, were 76% for intestinal permeability; 72% for fecal EDN; contrasting with atopy patch test, 68%; IgE, 60%; skin prick test, 55% and IgG, 52%."] Are intestinal permeability and fecal eosinophil-derived neurotoxin the best diagnosis tools for digestive non-IgE-mediated cow 's milk allergy in toddlers? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.920055866241455,
-1.5037379264831543,
2.490990161895752
] |
['In patients receiving an infusion of norepinephrine, the relationship between the amplitude of the oximeter plethysmographic waveform and stroke volume may be variable and quality of the waveform might be reduced, compared with patients not receiving norepinephrine. We assessed the reliability of the pleth variability index (PVI), an automatic measurement of the respiratory variation of the plethysmographic waveform, for predicting fluid responsiveness in patients receiving norepinephrine infusions.', 'We measured the response of cardiac index (transpulmonary thermodilution) to i.v. fluid administration in 42 critically ill patients receiving norepinephrine. Patients with arrhythmias, spontaneous breathing, tidal volume <8 ml kg(-1), and respiratory system compliance <30 ml cm H(2)O(-1) were excluded. Before fluid administration, we recorded the arterial pulse pressure variation (PPV) and pulse contour analysis-derived stroke volume variation (SVV, PiCCO2) and PVI (Masimo Radical-7).', "In seven patients, the plethysmographic signal could not be obtained. Among the 35 remaining patients [mean SAPS II score=77 (sd=17)], i.v. fluid increased cardiac index ≥15% in 15 'responders'. A baseline PVI ≥16% predicted fluid responsiveness with a sensitivity of 47 (inter-quartile range=21-73)% and a specificity of 90 (68-99)%. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was significantly lower for PVI [0.68 (0.09)] than for PPV and SVV [0.93 (0.06) and 0.89 (0.07), respectively]. Considering all pairs of measurements, PVI was correlated with PPV (r(2)=0.27). The fluid-induced changes in PVI and PPV were not significantly correlated."] Is pleth variability index a weak predictor of fluid responsiveness in patients receiving norepinephrine? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.2963913679122925,
-1.7796319723129272,
2.066016674041748
] |
['To investigate the role of connexin 43-formed hemichannels in cell volume regulation induced by simulated ischemia/reperfusion (SI/R).', 'Mouse cardiomyocytes isolated on a Langendorff apparatus with enzyme solution were aliquoted into control, SI/R and SI/R +octanol groups. Calcein-AM was used to stain the cells and the cell volume was measured with confocal microscope by stack scanning. Trypan blue was used to measure the cell viability after the treatments.', 'Calcein-AM staining and cofocal microscopy yielded stable and reproducible results for cell volume measurement. Mouse cardiomyocytes subjected to simulated SI/R showed obvious cell swelling as compared with the control cells [(126∓6)% vs 100%, P<0.05], and octanol preconditioning significantly attenuated the cell swelling [(113∓6)%, P<0.05]. SI/R caused a significant reduction of the cell viability compared to the control cells [(19∓2)% vs (45∓3)%, P<0.01], and octanol preconditioning obviously reduced the viability of the cells with SI/R challenge [(31∓2)%, P<0.01].'] Does [ Octanol preconditioning alleviate mouse cardiomyocyte swelling induced by simulated ischemia/reperfusion challenge in vitro ]? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.177126169204712,
-1.404463291168213,
2.704237937927246
] |
['To evaluate the inhibitory effect of deuterium-depleted water (DDW) on the proliferation of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cells in vitro and explore the possible mechanism.', 'The growth inhibition of NPC cells and preosteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells following DDW treatment was measured by MTT assay and plate colony formation assay. The changes in migration and invasion of NPC cells were evaluated using Transwell and boyden chamber assays. The protein expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) was determined using Western blotting. Flow cytometry was employed to evaluate the changes in cell cycle distribution after DDW treatment.', 'DDW with deuterium concentrations of 100, 75 and 50 ppm significantly suppressed the cell proliferation (P<0.05) and lowered colony formation capacity and invasiveness of the NPC cells (P<0.01). Western blotting demonstrated a down-regulated expression of PCNA in the cells by DDW. DDW also caused obvious cell cycle arrest in the NPC cells with reduced cells in S phase and significantly increased cells in G(1) phase (P<0.05). Rather than causing growth inhibition, DDW promoted the growth of normal control MC3T3-E1 cells.'] Does [ Deuterium-depleted water selectively inhibit nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell proliferation in vitro ]? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4325509071350098,
-1.2172636985778809,
2.7356035709381104
] |
['This review presents current knowledge regarding the rationale and efficacy of nutrition as an ergogenic aid to enhance the effects of exercise and training in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).', 'Altered body composition and skeletal muscle dysfunction in COPD suggest that exercise capacity can be targeted via several metabolic routes. Muscle metabolic alterations in COPD include a reduced oxidative metabolism and enhanced susceptibility for oxidative stress. Muscle wasting may be associated with deficiencies of vitamin D and low branched-chain amino acid levels. Exercise training is of established benefit in COPD but clear-cut clinical trial evidence to support the performance enhancing effect of nutritional intervention is lacking. One randomized controlled trial suggested that augmentation of training with polyunsaturated fatty acids may improve exercise capacity. Conflicting results are reported on dietary creatine supplementation in patients with COPD receiving pulmonary rehabilitation and results from acute intervention studies do not directly imply long-term effects of glutamate or glutamine supplementation as an ergogenic aid in COPD. Recent data indicate that not only muscle but also visceral fat may be an important additional target for combined nutrition and exercise intervention in COPD to improve physical performance and decrease cardiometabolic risk.'] Does nutritional target to enhance exercise performance in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.769679069519043,
-0.8075314164161682,
2.732468605041504
] |
['We examined that (a) how the endotoxic stress affects peroxisomal function and autophagic degradation of peroxisomes-pexophagy, (b) how a superimposed dysfunction of lysosomes and pexophagy modifies responses to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and (c) the mechanisms of peroxisomal contribution to renal injury. To accomplish this, we used lysosome-defective Lyst-mice in vivo and primary endothelial cells in vitro, and compared the responses with wild-type (WT) littermates.', 'LPS induced pexophagic degradation, followed by proliferation of peroxisomes in WT mice, which was abolished in Lyst-mice. Lyst-mice exhibited impaired activation of catalase, which together with preserved hydrogen peroxide-generating β-oxidation resulted in redox disequilibrium. LPS treatment induced a heightened inflammatory response, increased oxidative damage, and aggravated renal injury in Lyst-mice. Similarly, as in vivo, LPS-activated lysosomal (LYS) pexophagy and transiently repressed peroxisomes in vitro, supported by reduced peroxisomal density in the vicinity of lysosomes. Peroxisomal dynamics was also abolished in lysosome-defective cells, which accumulated peroxisomes with compromised functions and intraorganellar redox imbalance.', 'We demonstrated that pexophagy is a default response to endotoxic injury. However, when LYS dysfunction (a frequent companion of chronic diseases) is superimposed, recycling and functioning of peroxisomes are impaired, and an imbalance between hydrogen peroxide-generating β-oxidation and hydrogen peroxide-detoxifying catalase ensues, which ultimately results in peroxisomal burnout.'] Does endothelial peroxisomal dysfunction and impaired pexophagy promote oxidative damage in lipopolysaccharide-induced acute kidney injury? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.6462275981903076,
-1.0801877975463867,
2.799070358276367
] |
['Functional outcomes are generally poor following peripheral nerve injury (PNI). The reason is multifactorial but includes the misdirection of regenerating axons to inappropriate end organs. It has been shown that brief electrical stimulation (Estim) of nerves has the potential to improve the accuracy and rate of peripheral axon regeneration.', 'The present study explores a novel percutaneous transvertebral approach to Estim, which was tested in the mouse femoral nerve model.', 'Inspired by the protocol of Gordon and colleagues (ie, 20 Hz, for 1 hour), we applied Estim to the cervicothoracic spinal cord (SC-Estim) to remotely activate lumbar motor neurons following transection and repair of the femoral nerve. Fluorescent dyes were applied to the distal nerve to label reinnervating cells. Sections of nerve were taken to quantify the numbers of reinnervating axons as well as to stain for a known femoral axon guidance molecule-polysialylated neural cell adhesion molecule (PSA-NCAM).', 'In comparison to sham treatment, SC-Estim led to significantly greater expression of PSA-NCAM as well as improved the specificity of motor reinnervation. Interestingly, although SC-Estim did not alter the number of early reinnervating (ie, pioneer) axons, there was a reduction in the number of retrogradely labeled neurons at 2 weeks postrepair. However, by 6 weeks postrepair, there was no difference in the number of neurons that had reinnervated the femoral nerve.'] Does brief transvertebral electrical stimulation of the spinal cord improve the specificity of femoral nerve reinnervation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.296797275543213,
-1.3409136533737183,
2.6499874591827393
] |
['To investigate whether the keratinized portions of the upper and lower eyelid margins make complete contact during deliberate blinking.', 'Ten asymptomatic subjects (21.7 ± 1.5 years) with healthy eyelids were enrolled. A 0.1-μL drop of unpreserved 2% fluorescein placed in the temporal (T) third of the keratinized lower lid margin was observed for 10 deliberate blinks, under 16× magnification. If 10 complete blinks did not alter the drop, the subject squeezed their lids shut. The number of lid squeezes to alter the drop appearance was recorded and repeated for the central (C) and nasal (N) sections. Meibomian gland (MG) functionality was assessed with standardized diagnostic expression. Liquid fluorescein was used to assess the proximity of the line of Marx (LOM) to the lower lid MG orifices.', 'In all cases, 10 complete deliberate blinks did not alter the drop. The mean numbers of lid squeezes to alter the drop was: T = 1.5 ± 1.3, C = 1.9 ± 1.8, and N = 1.2 ± 0.8. The mean number of functional MGs per lid section was as follows: T = 0.8 ± 2.2, C = 4.3 ± 2.3, and N = 4.4 ± 0.8. The LOM relative to the MG orifices was as follows-T: LOM in 30% of eyes was posterior to the MG orifices and in 70% of eyes was mixed (a combination of the LOM posterior, touching, bisecting, or anterior to the MG orifices); C: 70% posterior, 30% mixed; and N: 90% posterior, 10% mixed.'] Do evidence suggesting that the keratinized portions of the upper and lower lid margins make complete contact during deliberate blinking? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.4922553598880768,
-1.8775782585144043,
1.4169079065322876
] |
['Conventional culture-based drug susceptibility testing (DST) for the second-line antituberculosis drugs is slow, leading to diagnostic delay with associated exacerbation of transmission, amplification of resistance, and increased mortality.', 'To assess the diagnostic performance of the GenoType MTBDRsl line probe assay (LPA) for the rapid detection of mutations conferring resistance to ofloxacin (OFX), amikacin (AMK), and ethambutol and to determine the impact of implementation on the turnaround time in a high-throughput diagnostic laboratory.', 'Six hundred and fifty-seven direct patient acid-fast bacilli smear-positive specimens resistant to isoniazid, rifampin, or both according to the GenoType MTBDRplus assay were consecutively tested, using the GenoType MTBDRsl LPA. The diagnostic performance was assessed relative to the "gold standard" culture-based method, and the laboratory turnaround times for both methods were determined.', 'A total of 516 of 657 patient specimens had valid results for both tests. The sensitivity for detecting OFX, AMK, and extensive drug resistance, using the GenoType MTBDRsl LPA, was 90.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 80.1-96.0%), 100% (95% CI, 91.8-100%), and 92.3% (95% CI, 75.9-97.9%), respectively, and the specificity for detection was 98.1% (95% CI, 96.3-99.0%), 99.4% (95% CI, 98.2-99.8%), and 99.6% (95% CI, 98.5-99.9%), respectively. Implementation of this test significantly reduced the turnaround time by 93.3% (P < 0.001), calculated from the date that the specimen was received at the laboratory to reporting second-line results. In addition, a significant increase in diagnostic yield of 20.1% and 19.3% (P < 0.001) for OFX and AMK resistance, respectively, was obtained for isolates that were either contaminated or had lost viability.'] Does genotype MTBDRsl line probe assay shorten time to diagnosis of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis in a high-throughput diagnostic laboratory? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7449418306350708,
-1.5660115480422974,
2.3576552867889404
] |
['Whether idiopathic, familial, or secondary to another disease, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by increased vascular tone, neointimal hyperplasia, medial hypertrophy, and adventitial fibrosis. Imatinib, a potent receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, reverses pulmonary remodeling in animal models of PAH and improves hemodynamics and exercise capacity in selected patients with PAH.', 'Here we use both imatinib and knockout animals to determine the relationship between platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) and serotonin signaling and investigate the PAH pathologies each mediates.', 'We investigated the effects of imatinib (100 mg/kg) on hemodynamics, vascular remodeling, and downstream molecular signatures in the chronic hypoxia/SU5416 murine model of PAH.', 'Treatment with imatinib reduced all measures of PAH pathology observed in hypoxia/SU5416 mice. In addition, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (Tph1) expression were reduced compared with the normoxia/SU5416 control group. Imatinib attenuated hypoxia-induced increases in Tph1 expression in pulmonary endothelial cells in vitro via inhibition of the PDGFR-β pathway. To better understand the consequences of this novel mode of action for imatinib, we examined the development of PAH after hypoxic/SU5416 exposure in Tph1-deficient mice (Tph1(-/-)). The extensive changes in pulmonary vascular remodeling and hemodynamics in response to hypoxia/SU5416 were attenuated in Tph1(-/-) mice and further decreased after imatinib treatment. However, imatinib did not significantly further impact collagen deposition and collagen 3a1 expression in hypoxic Tph1(-/-) mice. Post hoc subgroup analysis suggests that patients with PAH with greater hemodynamic impairment showed significantly reduced 5-HT plasma levels after imatinib treatment compared with placebo.'] Does imatinib attenuate hypoxia-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension pathology via reduction in 5-hydroxytryptamine through inhibition of tryptophan hydroxylase 1 expression? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4396655559539795,
-1.3231887817382812,
2.802480697631836
] |
['Mammalian genomes are repositories of repetitive DNA sequences derived from transposable elements (TEs). Typically, TEs generate multiple, mostly inactive copies of themselves, commonly known as repetitive families or families of repeats. Recently, we proposed that families of TEs originate in small populations by genetic drift and that the origin of small subpopulations from larger populations can be fueled by biological innovations.', 'We report three distinct groups of repetitive families preserved in the human genome that expanded and declined during the three previously described periods of regulatory innovations in vertebrate genomes. The first group originated prior to the evolutionary separation of the mammalian and bird lineages and the second one during subsequent diversification of the mammalian lineages prior to the origin of eutherian lineages. The third group of families is primate-specific.'] Do distinct groups of repetitive families preserved in mammals correspond to different periods of regulatory innovations in vertebrates? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-1.9758241176605225,
2.458092451095581,
-1.066319465637207
] |
['Increased neonatal weight gain has been suggested as risk factor for later overweight. Offspring of diabetic mothers (ODM) have a long-term increased overweight risk. However, the role of early postnatal weight gain for later overweight has not been addressed so far in ODM. We investigated whether increased weight gain during the first 4 months is related to later overweight in ODM.', 'Determinants of childhood overweight and neonatal weight gain were analyzed in 152 ODM from the Kaulsdorf Cohort Study by MANOVA and regression analyses.', 'Independent of birth weight, weight gain during the first 4 months was positively related to childhood relative body weight (P=0.001). Each 100 g-increase in weight during this period increased overweight risk by 65% (95%CI: 10-247%). ODM with rapid early weight gain had a more than six-fold increased risk of later overweight (OR: 6.77; 95%CI: 1.36-33.6). Early neonatal intake of breast milk from metabolically healthy mothers protected from rapid early weight gain (P=0.03).'] Does rapid neonatal weight gain increase risk of childhood overweight in offspring of diabetic mothers? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.2113667726516724,
-0.08062120527029037,
0.4255562126636505
] |
['The D553N mutation located in the C-linker of the cardiac pacemaker channel HCN4 is thought to cause sino-atrial dysfunction via a pronounced dominant-negative trafficking defect. Since HCN4 mutations usually have a minor defect in channel gating, it was our aim to further characterize the disease causing mechanism of D553N.', 'Fluorescence microscopy, FACS, TEVC and patch-clamp recordings were performed to characterize D553N.', 'Surprisingly, we found that D553N channels reach the plasma membrane and have no apparent trafficking defect. Co-expression of D553N with HCN4 also revealed no dominant-negative effect on wild-type channels. Consistent with the normal cell surface expression of D553N, it was possible to extensively characterize D553N mutants in Xenopus oocytes and mammalian cells. D553N channels generate currents with reduced amplitude, while the kinetics of activation and deactivation are not altered. While the regulation of D553N by tyrosine kinases is normal, we observed a change in the cAMP regulation which however cannot account for the strong loss-of-function of the mutant.'] Does the HCN4 channel mutation D553N associated with bradycardia have a C-linker mediated gating defect? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.445465564727783,
-1.0985486507415771,
2.5925517082214355
] |
['Individualized risk assessment in patients with UICC stage II colon cancer based on a panel of molecular genetic alterations.', 'Risk assessment in patients with colon cancer and localized disease (UICC stage II) is not sufficiently reliable. Development of metachronous metastasis is assumed to be governed largely by individual tumor genetics.', 'Fresh frozen tissue from 232 patients (T3-4, N0, M0) with complete tumor resection and a median follow-up of 97 months was analyzed for microsatellite stability, KRAS exon 2, and BRAF exon 15 mutations. Gene expression of the WNT-pathway surrogate marker osteopontin and the metastasis-associated genes SASH1 and MACC1 was determined for 179 patients. The results were correlated with metachronous distant metastasis risk (n = 22 patients).', 'Mutations of KRAS were detected in 30% patients, mutations of BRAF in 15% patients, and microsatellite instability in 26% patients. Risk of recurrence was associated with KRAS mutation (P = 0.033), microsatellite stable tumors (P = 0.015), decreased expression of SASH1 (P = 0.049), and increased expression of MACC1 (P < 0.001). MACC1 was the only independent parameter for recurrence prediction (hazard ratio: 6.2; 95% confidence interval: 2.4-16; P < 0.001). Integrative 2-step cluster analysis allocated patients into 4 groups, according to their tumor genetics. KRAS mutation, BRAF wild type, microsatellite stability, and high MACC1 expression defined the group with the highest risk of recurrence (16%, 7 of 43), whereas BRAF wild type, microsatellite instability, and low MACC1 expression defined the group with the lowest risk (4%, 1 of 26).'] Does integrative marker analysis allow risk assessment for metastasis in stage II colon cancer? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.867287516593933,
-1.5012861490249634,
2.3834447860717773
] |
['To evaluate tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitor (AI) initiation over time and by patient characteristics among women diagnosed with breast cancer in a community setting.', 'We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 1,501 women age ≥ 18 years diagnosed with stages I to II invasive, hormone receptor-positive breast cancer from 2001 to 2008 in an integrated delivery system. Using automated pharmacy dispensings, we determined endocrine therapy receipt within 12 months of diagnosis. We used generalized linear models to estimate adjusted relative risks (RRs) with 95% CIs for any endocrine therapy use (v none), tamoxifen use (v none), AI use (v none), and AIs first (v tamoxifen). Each model adjusted for age, stage, body mass index, tumor size, lymph node status, comorbidities, other treatment, and diagnosis year.', 'Tamoxifen use was at its highest (56.9%) in 2001 and then decreased; AI use was lowest in 2001 (5.5%) and then peaked in 2005 (36.8%). In multivariate models, women age ≥ 65 years were less likely to use any endocrine therapy compared with women age 55 to 64 years (age 65 to 74 years: RR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.78 to 0.96; age ≥ 75 years: RR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.61 to 0.81). Women age ≥ 75 years were significantly less likely to begin AIs versus no treatment (RR, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.32 to 0.64) and versus tamoxifen (RR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.46 to 0.97). Women with tumor sizes 1.0 to 1.9 cm and ≥ 2.0 cm were significantly more likely to use any endocrine therapy compared with women with tumor sizes < 1.0 cm (RR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.23 to 1.61 and RR, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.27 to 2.81, respectively).'] Does endocrine therapy initiation from 2001 to 2008 vary by age at breast cancer diagnosis and tumor size? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.302202820777893,
-1.5909816026687622,
1.8572914600372314
] |
['Differences among cancer cells within a tumor are important in tumorigenesis and treatment resistance, yet no measure of intratumor heterogeneity is suitable for routine application. We developed a quantitative measure of intratumor genetic heterogeneity, based on differences among mutated loci in the mutant-allele fractions determined by next-generation sequencing (NGS) of tumor DNA. We then evaluated the application of this measure to head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).', 'We analyzed published electronically available NGS results for 74 HNSCC. For each tumor we calculated mutant-allele tumor heterogeneity (MATH) as the ratio of the width to the center of its distribution of mutant-allele fractions among tumor-specific mutated loci.', 'Intratumor heterogeneity assessed by MATH was higher in three poor-outcome classes of HNSCC: tumors with disruptive mutations in the TP53 gene (versus wild-type TP53 or non-disruptive mutations), tumors negative versus positive for human papillomavirus (even when restricted to tumors having wild-type TP53), and HPV-negative tumors from smokers with more pack-years of cigarette exposure (with TP53 status taken into account).'] Is mATH , a novel measure of intratumor genetic heterogeneity , high in poor-outcome classes of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.0353705883026123,
-1.286547303199768,
2.4184672832489014
] |
['Although thrombocytosis has been reported in patients with various cancers including the colorectal one, the impact of elevated platelet counts on the response to chemoradiotherapy (CRT) for rectal cancer has not been fully investigated. We investigated the clinical significance of pre- and post-CRT platelet counts in patients with rectal cancer.', 'The medical records of 101 patients with rectal cancer, who had received CRT followed by surgical resection, were retrospectively reviewed. The correlations between the clinicopathological variables and the pre- or post-CRT platelet counts were analyzed. The correlations between tumor regression rate induced by CRT, as evaluated by barium enema and pathological examination, and the pre- or post-CRT platelet counts were also evaluated. Finally, the impact of pre-CRT thrombocytosis on the prognosis of these patients was assessed.', 'The pre-CRT platelet count correlated with venous invasion and tumor size, and it strongly correlated with the response rate evaluated by barium enema and the grade of pathological tumor regression. Furthermore, patients with pre-CRT thrombocytosis had significantly shorter local recurrence-free survival.'] Does thrombocytosis before pre-operative chemoradiotherapy predict poor response and shorter local recurrence-free survival in rectal cancer? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.429657220840454,
-0.966732919216156,
2.4350781440734863
] |
['Human aging is associated with heightened risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Increased fat mass may contribute to age-related diseases by harboring inflammatory macrophages that produce metabolically important proteins such as plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1). Elevated PAI-1 concentrations have been implicated in the pathogenesis of such aging-related conditions as insulin resistance, obesity, and atherosclerosis. We have previously reported that increased plasma free fatty acid (FFA) concentrations augment both circulating PAI-1 concentrations and PAI-1 production by adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs).', 'Because increasing age is associated with increased infiltration and reactivity of adipose macrophages, we performed euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp studies and adipose tissue biopsies with and without elevated FFA concentrations in 31 nondiabetic participants stratified by age, to determine whether middle-aged individuals manifest heightened insulin resistance and PAI-1 production by ATMs in response to elevated nutrient signals relative to their young adult peers.', 'We observed that elevating FFA concentrations under euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp conditions induced the same degree of insulin resistance in both middle-aged and younger body mass index-matched adults, whereas systemic PAI-1 concentrations were significantly increased in the middle-aged group. Likewise, elevated FFA and insulin concentrations induced larger increases in PAI-1 gene expression in the whole fat and ATMs of middle-aged compared with younger adult participants.'] Is fatty acid-induced production of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 by adipose macrophages greater in middle-aged versus younger adult participants? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.40747332572937,
-1.030941128730774,
2.4643290042877197
] |
['Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer (PCa) is associated with weakness, fatigue, sarcopenia, and reduced quality of life (QoL). Black men have a higher incidence and mortality from PCa than Caucasians. We hypothesized that despite ADT, strength training (ST) would increase muscle power and size, thereby improving body composition, physical function, fatigue levels, and QoL in older black men with PCa.', 'Muscle mass, power, strength, endurance, physical function, fatigue perception, and QoL were measured in 17 black men with PCa on ADT before and after 12 weeks of ST. Within-group differences were determined using t tests and regression models.', 'ST significantly increased total body muscle mass (2.7%), thigh muscle volume (6.4%), power (17%), and strength (28%). There were significant increases in functional performance (20%), muscle endurance (110%), and QoL scores (7%) and decreases in fatigue perception (38%). Improved muscle function was associated with higher functional performance (R (2) = 0.54) and lower fatigue perception (R (2) = 0.37), and both were associated with improved QoL (R (2) = 0.45), whereas fatigue perception tended to be associated with muscle endurance (R (2) = 0.37).'] Does strength training induce muscle hypertrophy and functional gains in black prostate cancer patients despite androgen deprivation therapy? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.376631736755371,
-0.6466439366340637,
2.0039985179901123
] |
['The loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength during aging, sarcopenia, increases the risk for falls and dependency. Resistance exercise (RE) training is effective at improving muscle mass and strength in older adults; however, aging is associated with reduced training-induced hypertrophy. Recent research has illustrated an impaired muscle protein synthetic response following an acute bout of RE in older adults but much less is known regarding the effect of acute RE on muscle protein breakdown (MPB). We hypothesize that the ubiquitin proteasome system and the autophagosomal-lysosomal system may regulate the overall rate of MPB during postexercise recovery.', 'Muscle biopsies of the vastus lateralis were sampled from 16 older (age = 70±2 years) and 16 younger (age = 27±2 years) participants at baseline and at 3, 6, and 24 hours following an acute bout of RE. In conjunction with stable isotopic techniques to measure MPB, we utilized immunoblotting and RT-PCR to examine protein and mRNA expression for key signaling molecules in both the ubiquitin proteasome system and the autophagosomal-lysosomal system.', 'MuRF1 mRNA expression increased, whereas GABARAP mRNA decreased after RE in both younger and older adults (p < .05). The LC3B-II/LC3B-I protein ratio decreased in both groups after RE (p < .05), but MPB was not different 24 hour post-RE in either group (p > .05).'] Are skeletal muscle autophagy and protein breakdown following resistance exercise similar in younger and older adults? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2030279636383057,
-1.3418419361114502,
2.628786325454712
] |
['We investigated the wound healing effect of retinyl palmitate eyedrops following a corneal alkali burn in rats.', 'A total of 160 Sprague-Dawley male rats were divided into two groups and central corneas were injured by contacting eyes with filter paper saturated with 0.01\u2003m NaOH for 45\u2003seconds. Vitamin A group was treated with retinyl palmitate and antibiotic (Cravit(®) : 0.5% levofloxacin) eye drops four times daily for 3\u2003days and the control group with vehicle and antibiotic eye drops. Corneal wound healing by fluorescein staining and impression cytologic analysis were conducted at 0, 24, 48 and 72\u2003hr after injury. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), thrombospondin 2, matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP 9) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) were measured in corneas by ELISA, immunofluorescent staining and real-time PCR.', 'Corneal wound healing was better in the vitamin A group than in the control group. Early sprouting of new vessel was observed in the control group at 72\u2003hr, but not in the vitamin A group. Corneal thrombospondin 2 proteins in ELISA were higher in the vitamin A group, but VEGF-A, MMP 9 and TGF-β proteins were higher in the control group (p\u2003<\u20030.05). Similarly, thrombospondin 2 immunofluorescent staining was stronger, whereas VEGF-A, MMP 9 and TGF-β staining were weaker in the vitamin A group (p\u2003<\u20030.05). In addition, thrombospondin 2 mRNA levels were higher, whereas VEGF-A, MMP 9 and TGF-β mRNA levels were lower in the vitamin A group (p\u2003<\u20030.05).'] Does the wound healing effects of vitamin A eye drop after a corneal alkali burn in rats? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2018415927886963,
-1.4579718112945557,
2.675462007522583
] |
['Diagnostic value of available tumor markers, such as cancer antigen CA 15-3 and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) in breast cancer is limited. There is an ongoing search for additional, potentially better diagnostic blood markers with improved clinical utility. The aim of this study is to evaluate performance of the approach based on routine blood tests accompanied by a statistical learning tool to the diagnosis of breast cancer.', 'Blood was collected from total of 104 subjects which were divided into two groups: breast cancer patients and a control group that consisted of asymptomatic volunteers and patients who had benign breast lesions at the time of blood collection. Random forest statistical learning method and the external method validation have been applied to evaluate diagnostic performance of 31 routine blood tests.', 'The applied statistical learning approach assigned the highest diagnostic importance to the anemia panel among all analyzed blood tests that also included CA 15-3. External validation has shown utility of selected statistical approach - we were able to select tests that provide a diagnostic accuracy comparable to some diagnostic tools described in literature and based on more demanding laboratory techniques, such as gene expression microarrays.'] Does statistical learning confirm the diagnostic significance of the anemia panel in breast cancer? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4975171089172363,
-0.7373636364936829,
2.433903694152832
] |
['Stress is a precipitating factor for both binge eating and bulimia nervosa (BN); however, the biological mechanisms through which it may trigger binge eating are poorly understood. There is evidence that the adrenal hormone cortisol and the gastric peptide ghrelin might be involved in stress-induced food ingestion. We hypothesized that symptomatic patients with BN might disclose deranged responses of ghrelin and/or cortisol to stressors and that this could be related to their binge-eating behaviour.', 'Here we investigated salivary cortisol and ghrelin responses to the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST) in 10 women with acute BN and 10 age-matched healthy females. Eating-related psychopathology and behaviours were assessed by self-report measures.', 'No significant differences emerged between bulimic patients and healthy controls in the pre-stress salivary levels of both cortisol and ghrelin. The BN patients displayed normal cortisol but enhanced ghrelin responses to TSST. No significant correlations emerged between stress-induced salivary hormone changes and self-report measures of binge eating.'] Is the acute salivary ghrelin response to a psychosocial stress enhanced in symptomatic patients with bulimia nervosa : a pilot study? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.6740195751190186,
-0.7028997540473938,
2.4515748023986816
] |
['To estimate the contribution of HIV-1 sero-conversions among stable HIV sero-discordant couples (SDCs) to total HIV population-level incidence in sub-Saharan Africa.', 'We constructed a mathematical model, grounded in nationally representative demographic and epidemiological data, that estimates the annual number of HIV-1 transmissions from the infected partners to the uninfected partners among established SDCs, and compares its value to an estimate for the overall HIV population-level incidence in 20 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. We defined identifiable HIV-1 transmissions among SDCs as those that a hypothetical screening and intervention program would have the potential to avert. Uncertainty and sensitivity analyses were incorporated to assess the robustness of the findings.', 'Across the 20 countries, an average of 29% (range: 10-52%) of new HIV-1 infections occurred in which one partner in an identifiable SDC infected the other. The percentage of total HIV new infections in a country that occurred within such identifiable SDCs tended to be lower in countries with larger general population HIV epidemics. For most countries, HIV-1 incidence among SDCs is unlikely to exceed 50% of new HIV infections in the whole population.'] Do only a fraction of new HIV infections occur within identifiable stable discordant couples in sub-Saharan Africa? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
0.44861727952957153,
0.4550314247608185,
-1.4823799133300781
] |
['Blockade of costimulation signaling required for immune response, such as CD40/CD40L and CD28/B7, is a reasonable strategy to prevent rejection and in defined combinations may allow donor specific tolerance. Indeed, in rodents, costimulation blockade with CD28/B7 antagonists or with CD40Ig was able to induce regulatory T cells and transplant tolerance whereas in primates, anti-CD40 antibodies, anti-CD40L antibodies or CTLA4Ig, used as monotherapy, significantly delayed graft rejection.', 'Using an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector mediated gene transfer of a human CD40Ig fusion protein (hCD40Ig) in primates, we evaluated the capacity of this costimulation blockade molecule interfering with CD40/CD40L signaling in prolonging kidney transplants in cynomolgus monkeys.', 'This gene transfer strategy allowed for maintaining a plateau of hCD40Ig production within two months and avoided a high-scale production phase of this molecule. Although the hCD40Ig was able to bind efficiently to human and macaque CD40L and high (>200 μg/ml) transgene expression was obtained, no effect on graft survival was observed. In addition, there was no inhibition of humoral response to vaccination. In vitro, hCD40Ig strongly increased mixed lymphocyte reaction, and when compared to the anti-CD40L antibody h5C8, was not as potent to induce complement-dependent cytotoxicity.'] Does gene transfer of human CD40Ig prevent rejection in a non-human primate kidney allotransplantation model? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3967010974884033,
-1.314682960510254,
2.7480874061584473
] |
['Polypyrimidine tract-binding protein 1 (PTBP1) promotes stability and translation of mRNAs coding for insulin secretion granule proteins and thereby plays a role in β-cells function. We studied whether common genetic variations within the PTBP1 locus influence insulin secretion, and/or proinsulin conversion.', 'We genotyped 1,502 healthy German subjects for four tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the PTBP1 locus (rs351974, rs11085226, rs736926, and rs123698) covering 100% of genetic variation with an r(2)≥0.8. The subjects were metabolically characterized by an oral glucose tolerance test with insulin, proinsulin, and C-peptide measurements. A subgroup of 320 subjects also underwent an IVGTT.', 'PTBP1 SNP rs11085226 was nominally associated with lower insulinogenic index and lower cleared insulin response in the OGTT (p≤0.04). The other tested SNPs did not show any association with the analyzed OGTT-derived secretion parameters. In the IVGTT subgroup, SNP rs11085226 was accordingly associated with lower insulin levels within the first ten minutes following glucose injection (p = 0.0103). Furthermore, SNP rs351974 was associated with insulin levels in the IVGTT (p = 0.0108). Upon interrogation of MAGIC HOMA-B data, our rs11085226 result was replicated (MAGIC p = 0.018), but the rs351974 was not.'] Does polymorphism rs11085226 in the gene encoding polypyrimidine tract-binding protein 1 negatively affect glucose-stimulated insulin secretion? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7924729585647583,
-1.496489405632019,
2.3222761154174805
] |
['Compelling evidence suggests that SIRT1, NAD(+)-dependent class III protein deacetylase, plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis by counteracting inflammation. Cluster of differentiation 40 (CD40), as a pro-inflammatory cytokine, has been shown to participate in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. The relationship between SIRT1 and CD40, however, remained elusive. The present study was thus designed to explore the potential effect of SIRT1 on CD40 expression induced by tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and to disclose the underlying mechanism in CRL-1730 endothelial cells.', 'mRNA and protein expressions were identified by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot respectively. Subcellular localization of SIRT1 was detected by immunofluorescence analysis. SIRT1 small-interfering RNA (siRNA) was carried out for mechanism study.', 'TNF-α reduced SIRT1 expression and induced CD40 expression in CRL-1730 endothelial cells in a time- and concentration- dependent manner. Pretreatment with resveratrol (a potent SIRT1 activator) inhibited TNF-α-induced CD40 expression, while pretreatment with nicotinamide (class b HDACs inhibitor nicotinamide) or sirtinol (a known SIRT1 inhibitor), especially SIRT1 siRNA significantly augmented TNF-α-induced CD40 expression. The frther sudy idicated that PDTC (NF-ĸB inhibitor) pretreatment attenuated TNF-α-induced CD40 expression, and SIRT1 siRNA significantly augmented TNF-α-induced acetylated-NF-ĸB p65 (Lys310) expression.'] Does sIRT1 regulate CD40 expression induced by TNF-α via NF-ĸB pathway in endothelial cells? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4215219020843506,
-1.372819423675537,
2.8315300941467285
] |
['There are no approved pharmacotherapies for d-methamphetamine (METH) addiction and existing therapies have limited efficacy. Advances in using immunotherapeutic approaches for cocaine and nicotine addiction have stimulated interest in creating a similar approach for METH addiction. This study investigated whether active vaccination against METH could potentially attenuate responses to METH in vivo.', 'Male Sprague Dawley rats (n = 32) received a four-boost series with one of three candidate anti-METH vaccines (MH2[R], MH6, and MH7) or a control keyhole limpet hemocyanin conjugate vaccine. Effects of METH on rectal temperature and wheel activity at 27°C ambient temperature were determined. The most efficacious vaccine, MH6, was then contrasted with keyhole limpet hemocyanin conjugate vaccine in a subsequent experiment (n = 16), wherein radiotelemetry determined home cage locomotor activity and body temperature at 23°C ambient temperature.', 'The MH6 vaccine produced high antibody titers with nanomolar affinity for METH and sequestered METH in the periphery of rats. In experiment 1, the thermoregulatory and psychomotor responses produced by METH at 27°C were blocked in the MH6 group. In experiment 2, METH-induced decreases in body temperature and locomotor activity at 23°C were also attenuated in the MH6 group. A pharmacokinetic study in experiment 2 showed that MH6-vaccinated rats had higher METH serum concentrations, yet lower brain METH concentrations, than control rats, and METH concentrations correlated with individual antibody titer.'] Does a methamphetamine vaccine attenuate methamphetamine-induced disruptions in thermoregulation and activity in rats? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2695837020874023,
-1.282571792602539,
2.56477689743042
] |
['We investigated whether haemolysis in red cells suspended in plasma was affected by the lipid content and/or methylene blue (MB) treatment of fresh-frozen plasma (FFP). We also investigated whether haemolysis was affected by the conditions under which lipaemic plasma was stored.', 'Study 1: Visibly lipaemic (n = 22) or nonlipaemic FFP (n = 24) units were thawed, pooled and split into identical pairs, one of which was MB treated. These units were used to resuspend red cell concentrates (RCC) and tested for haemolysis immediately and after 24 and 48 h of storage at 2-6°C. Study 2: Fresh plasma was aliquoted into 15-ml tubes and stored in one of four ways as follows: room temperature; 2-6°C; frozen and thawed; or twice frozen and thawed. A sample of RCC was resuspended in each of these plasmas and haemolysis measured after 2 h. Study 3: Plasma was divided into 15-ml tubes and stored as in study 2 followed by storage left standing upright in a refrigerator (2-6°C) for 24 h (with the exception of the room temperature sample). Plasma was separated into top, middle and bottom fractions and used to resuspend RCC that were assessed for haemolysis after 2 h.', 'The levels of haemolysis in RCC were immediately greater when suspended in lipaemic plasma (0·70 ± 0·53% v 0·05 ± 0·06% for nonlipaemic plasma), which increased further on subsequent storage for 48 h (1·22 ± 0·40% v 0·15 ± 0·14% for nonlipaemic plasma). This was irrespective of whether plasma was MB treated. Lipaemic plasma stored frozen and then thawed resulted in the greatest haemolysis. In lipaemic plasma stored at 2-6°C, the chylomicron-rich top fraction caused the highest level of haemolysis.'] Does lipaemic plasma induce haemolysis in resuspended red cell concentrate? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.7418543100357056,
-1.4263126850128174,
1.2194762229919434
] |
['The frequency of HLA markers associated with rapid progression to AIDS was evaluated in Brazilian patients with AIDS exhibiting or not toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis (TRC).', '98 AIDS patients (25 with TRC, 43 with anti-T. gondii antibodies but without TCR, and 30 without anti-T. gondii antibodies and without TCR) were studied.', 'The HLA-B35 was significantly increased in TRC group (p=0.0038).'] Is susceptibility to toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis associated with HLA alleles reported to be implicated with rapid progression to AIDS? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9670990705490112,
-1.3379428386688232,
2.353801965713501
] |
['Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a high incidence and mortality. Radiotherapy and sorafenib have proven effective for HCC. Here, we investigated whether sorafenib modulated the response of HCC cells to irradiation in vitro, effect of timing of sorafenib, and the underlying mechanisms.', 'Cell viability of the HCC cell lines, SMMC-7721 and Bel-7402, was examined by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2(4-sulfophenyl)-2\u2009H-terazolium (MTT) assays. Clonogenic growth assays of SMMC-7721 and Bel-7402 were determined by colony formation assays. DNA damage was assessed by monitoring γ-HAX foci in irradiated cells with immunofluorescence microscopy, and cell cycle distribution changes were examined by flow cytometry. Effects of sorafenib (15\u2009μM) added 30\u2009min prior to radiation (pre-irradiation sorafenib) of SMMC-7721 and BEL-7402 or 24\u2009h post-irradiation (post-irradiation sorafenib) on irradiated SMMC-7721 and BEL-7402 cells were compared to those of radiation alone or no treatment.', 'The effect of sorafenib was dependent on its time of addition in relationship to irradiation of cells. Pre-irradiation sorafenib did not significantly affect the viability of SMMC-7221 and BEL-7402 cells compared with irradiation treatment alone. In contrast, post-irradiation sorafenib increased the sensitivity of irradiated SMMC-7221 and BEL-7402 cells significantly in a time-dependent manner. Pre-irradiation sorafenib significantly increased the surviving fraction of SMMC-7221 and BEL-7402 cells in clonogenic assays whereas post-irradiation sorafenib significantly reduced the surviving fractions of SMMC-7221 and BEL-7402 cells. SMMC-7721 cells treated with sorafenib 30\u2009min before irradiation had significantly fewer cells with γ-H2AX foci (23.8\u2009±\u20092.9%) than SMMC-7721 cells receiving radiation alone (59.9\u2009±\u20092.4; P\u2009<\u20090.001). Similarly, BEL-7402 cells receiving sorafenib prior to irradiation had significantly fewer cells with γ-H2AX foci (46.4\u2009±\u20093.8%) than those receiving radiation alone (25.0\u2009±\u20093.0%; P\u2009<\u20090.001). In addition, irradiation (6\u2009Gy) caused a significant increase in the percentage of both SMMC-7721 and BEL-7402 cells in G2/M at 12 to 16\u2009h post irradiation, which was markedly delayed by pre-irradiation sorafenib.'] Does sorafenib modulate the radio sensitivity of hepatocellular carcinoma cells in vitro in a schedule-dependent manner? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1115012168884277,
-1.4845985174179077,
2.6305246353149414
] |
['The contribution of multiple retained nonfunctional arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) to the burden of chronic inflammation in chronic hemodialysis patients has not been well studied. Here, we sought to evaluate the association between plasma levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and albumin and the number of retained nonfunctional AVGs.', 'This cross-sectional study enrolled 91 prevalent patients undergoing in-center hemodialysis without evidence of infection or inflammation. A baseline blood sample was obtained at study enrollment. A general linear model (GLM) was used to compare levels of biomarkers of systemic inflammation across groups defined by the number of retained, nonfunctional AVGs.', 'A total of 43 patients had one or more retained thrombosed AVG and had significantly greater plasma log-CRP levels compared with patients without a previous AVG (P= 0.036), regardless of the current AV access type. Using a GLM, we found that for every additional retained thrombosed AVG, plasma log-CRP, log-IL-6 and TNF-alpha concentrations increased significantly by 0.30 mg/L (P= 0.011), 0.18 pg/mL (P= 0.046) and 0.72 pg/mL (P= 0.046), respectively, following adjustment.'] Does accumulation of retained nonfunctional arteriovenous grafts correlate with severity of inflammation in asymptomatic ESRD patients? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.072036027908325,
-1.487001657485962,
2.6064236164093018
] |
['Interleukin 18 (IL-18) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that mediates fibrotic renal injury during obstruction. Macrophages are a well-known source of IL-18; however, renal tubular epithelial cells are also a potential source of this cytokine. We hypothesized that IL-18 is predominantly a renal tubular cell product and is produced during renal obstruction independent of macrophage infiltration.', 'To study this, male C57BL6 mice were subjected to unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) vs. sham operation in the presence or absence of macrophage depletion (liposomal clodronate (1 ml/100 g body weight i.v.)). The animals were sacrificed 1 week after surgery and renal cortical tissue harvested. Tissue levels of active IL-18 (ELISA), IL-18 receptor mRNA expression (real time PCR), and active caspase-1 expression (western blot) were measured. The cellular localization of IL-18 and IL-18R was assessed using dual labeling immunofluorescent staining (IFS).', 'Immunohistochemical staining of renal tissue sections confirmed macrophage depletion by liposomal clodronate. IL-18 production, IL-18R expression, and active caspase 1 expression were elevated in response to renal obstruction and did not decline to a significant degree in the presence of macrophage depletion. Obstruction-induced IL-18 and IL-18R production localized predominantly to tubular epithelial cells (TEC) during obstruction despite macrophage depletion.'] Is renal IL-18 production macrophage independent during obstructive injury? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.386359930038452,
-1.4039506912231445,
2.8938379287719727
] |
['The purpose of this study was to analyse the relationship between sodium and potassium intake and vascular structure and function and to ascertain whether said relationship follows the pattern of a J-shaped curve.', 'A cross-sectional study was carried out in a primary care setting. Three hundred fifty-one subjects from the Vasorisk study were included and ranged in age from 30 to 80 years (mean 54.8, SD 11.7); 219 (62.4%) were females. Sodium and potassium intake were evaluated by means of a food frequency questionnaire. Arterial stiffness was assessed according to pulse wave velocity (PWV), ambulatory arterial stiffness index (AASI, AASI_BPVR), and central and peripheral augmentation index (AIx). Carotid intima-media thickness (C-IMT) was evaluated by ultrasonography.', 'Age was lower in the quartiles with the highest sodium intake (p < 0.05), and no difference was observed between the sexes. Mean C-IMT, CAIx, AASI and AASI_BPVR were higher in the quartiles with higher sodium intake (p < 0.05 for both AASI and AASI_BPVR). Sodium intake was negatively correlated with C-IMT (r = -0.121, p < 0.05), PWV (r = -0.114, p < 0.05), AASI and AASI_BPVR (r = -0.155, p < 0.01). Potassium intake was positively correlated with Cornell VDP (r = 0.119, p < 0.05), CAIx (r = 0.178, p < 0.01) and PAIx (r = 0.202, p < 0.01). After adjustment, the morphology of the relationship between arterial stiffness parameters and C-IMT with quartiles of sodium intake resembles a J-shaped curve. The relationship between central and peripheral AIx and C-IMT and potassium intake resembles a J-shaped curve.'] Do sodium and potassium intake present a J-shaped relationship with arterial stiffness and carotid intima-media thickness? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.5141081809997559,
-1.616899847984314,
2.101034164428711
] |
['The contribution of obesity to hypoxemia has not been reported in a community-based study. Our hypothesis was that increasing obesity would be independently associated with lower SpO2 in an ambulatory elderly population.', 'The Cardiovascular Health Study ascertained resting SpO2 in 2,252 subjects over age 64. We used multiple linear regression to estimate the association of body mass index (BMI) with SpO2 and to adjust for potentially confounding factors. Covariates including age, sex, race, smoking, airway obstruction (based on spirometry), self reported diagnosis of emphysema, asthma, heart failure, and left ventricular function (by echocardiography) were evaluated.', 'Among 2,252 subjects the mean and median SpO2 were 97.6% and 98.0% respectively; 5% of subjects had SpO2 values below 95%. BMI was negatively correlated with SpO2 (Spearman R = -0.27, P < .001). The mean difference in SpO2 between the lowest and highest BMI categories (< 25 kg/m(2) and ≥ 35 kg/m(2)) was 1.33% (95% CI 0.89-1.78%). In multivariable linear regression analysis, SpO2 was significantly inversely associated with BMI (1.4% per 10 units of BMI, 95% CI 1.2-1.6, for whites/others, and 0.87% per 10 units of BMI, 95% CI 0.47-1.27, for African Americans).'] Is obesity associated with a lower resting oxygen saturation in the ambulatory elderly : results from the cardiovascular health study? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.9433060884475708,
-1.4259440898895264,
1.3739895820617676
] |
['This study was carried out to examine P53-induced Ring-h2 protein (Pirh2) expression and investigate its clinical and prognostic significance in patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC).', 'Pirh2 mRNA and protein expressions were detected by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (Q-RT PCR) and Western blotting in 35 frozen renal cancer tissue specimens and 35 adjacent normal renal tissue specimens of the same patients. Pirh2 protein expression was assessed by immunohistochemical analysis in 92 paraffin-embedded specimens of human ccRCC and 30 specimens of adjacent normal renal tissue. Correlations between Pirh2 and clinicopathologic features and prognosis were analyzed statistically.', 'Pirh2 mRNA and protein levels in ccRCC samples were increased significantly as compared with the adjacent normal renal tissues (P < 0.001). Pirh2 mRNA overexpression correlated with high stage and grade of the renal cancer (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001 respectively). Pirh2 protein expression was negative in most normal renal tissue specimens (23/30) but positive in 52.2% (48/92) of ccRCC specimens (P = 0.006). Pirh2 protein expression correlated with tumor grade and stage (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001 respectively). The median follow-up interval was 42.0 months. Overexpression of Pirh2 protein in ccRCC was significantly associated with shorter overall survival and recurrence-free survival (P = 0.001 and P = 0.003, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that Pirh2 expression was an independent prognostic factor for ccRCC patients (P = 0.037).'] Is high expression of P53-induced Ring-h2 protein associated with poor prognosis in clear cell renal cell carcinoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.883322834968567,
-1.5628712177276611,
2.453320026397705
] |
['Antibodies to oxidized low-density lipoproteins (oxLDLAbs) are detectable in the serum of patients with and without atherosclerosis, but it is unclear if they play a pathogenic or a protective role in atherogenesis or if they are simply a marker of atherosclerosis. Therefore, in a prospective cohort study we investigated if oxLDLAbs titer predicts cardiovascular (CV) events in high-risk coronary artery disease patients.', 'The titer of IgG antibodies to malondialdehyde modified oxidized low-density lipoproteins was measured in 748 randomly selected patients of the GENICA study who underwent coronary angiography and assessment of incident CV events at follow-up. Patients were classified by oxLDLAbs into a low and a high titer group, corresponding to the first three and the last quartile, respectively. Cardiovascular event-free survival was compared between oxLDLAbs groups by Kaplan-Meier and multivariate technique including propensity score matching analysis. During long-term follow-up (median 7.2 years) CV deaths were observed in 65 patients (11.6%), more commonly in the high than in the low oxLDLAbs group (patients free from CV death 83.1% vs. 89% respectively, p=0.025). The incidence of CV events was also higher in the former than in latter (event-free survival 69.2% vs. 77.7% respectively, p=0.030).'] Do antibodies to malondialdehyde oxidized low-density lipoproteins predict long term cardiovascular mortality in high risk patients? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.898823857307434,
-1.4926968812942505,
2.398855686187744
] |
['It is a well-accepted fact that angiotensin II (Ang II) contributes to increased vascular tone in cirrhotic livers. However, aliskiren attenuates the effect of Ang II through direct renin inhibition. Our study aimed to evaluate the effects of aliskiren on portal pressure and intrahepatic resistance in bile duct ligated (BDL) rats.', 'The effects of acute intravenous infusion (1\xa0mg or 3\xa0mg) or a course of 2-day oral administration of aliskiren (20\xa0mg/kg/day) on blood pressure and portal pressure were evaluated in BDL and sham rats. Intrahepatic resistance was evaluated by a liver perfusion study isolated in situ. Ang II efflux was measured by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The hepatic gene expression of angiotensinogen, renin, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), Ang II type 1 receptor (AT(1)R) was analyzed with quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.', 'Aliskiren infusion intravenously reduced portal pressure with a minimal effect on blood pressure in BDL rats. Direct infusion of aliskiren in an isolated cirrhotic liver caused greater vasorelaxation and decreased hepatic production of Ang II. Two days of aliskiren treatment reduced portal pressure and hepatic ACE mRNA; in addition, it improved the vasodilator response to acetylcholine in the cirrhotic livers and decreased Ang II efflux.'] Does aliskiren reduce portal pressure and intrahepatic resistance in biliary cirrhotic rats? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.388009548187256,
-1.4039206504821777,
2.8324217796325684
] |
['Peginterferon and ribavirin treatment is less effective for hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 infections in African Americans (AA) compared with Caucasian Americans (CA). Host genetic variability near the interleukin-28B (IL28B) gene locus is partly responsible. We investigated the relationship between ribavirin drug exposure and week 24 and 72 (sustained virologic response, SVR) responses (undetected serum HCV RNA) in 71 AA and 74 CA with HCV genotype 1 who received >90% of the prescribed peginterferon and weight-based ribavirin (1,000 or 1,200\u2009mg per day) from week 1 to 24.', 'Ribavirin plasma levels were measured at weeks 1, 2, 4, 8, 12 and 24; ribavirin area under the concentration vs. time curve (AUC) was calculated using the linear trapezoidal rule.', 'Compared with CA, AA had lower week 24 (WK24VR) (57.8 vs. 78.1; P<0.05) and week 72 (SVR) (36.6% vs 54.8%; P<0.05) response rates. AA also had significantly lower ribavirin exposure (AUC) from week 1 to 12 (P<0.05). Ribavirin exposures ≥4,065 and ≥4,480\u2009ng/ml/day in the first week (AUC(0-7)) were thresholds for WK24VR and SVR in receiver-operating characteristic curve analyses. AA were less likely to have a threshold ribavirin AUC(0-7) level than CA (P<0.05). There were no significant racial differences in WK24VR (AA: 77 vs. CA: 84%) and SVR (AA: 52 vs. CA: 60%) rates in patients who met the ribavirin AUC(0-7) thresholds. Ribavirin AUC(0-7) predicted WK24VR and SVR independently of IL28B single-nucleotide polymorphism rs12979860 genotype. Yet, achieving threshold AUC(0-7) levels increased response rates primarily in AA with the less favorable non-C/C genotypes.'] Does optimum ribavirin exposure overcome racial disparity in efficacy of peginterferon and ribavirin treatment for hepatitis C genotype 1? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.5675851106643677,
-1.6648921966552734,
2.2584304809570312
] |
['To evaluate the influence, on early postoperative outcomes, of temperature during hypothermic circulatory arrest in emergent surgery for acute type A aortic dissection.', 'Hypothermic circulatory arrest (HCA) with antegrade cerebral perfusion was performed in 63 patients who underwent emergent surgery for acute type A aortic dissection between 2000 and 2009. Patients were retrospectively separated in two groups: ( 1 ) deep HCA, lowest nasopharyngeal temperature < 17 °C (n = 29; 46%) and ( 2 ) moderate HCA, lowest nasopharyngeal temperature ≥ 17 °C (n = 34; 54%).', 'Hospital mortality reached 27%. The nasopharyngeal temperature did not influence postoperative mortality or neurological outcome. Patients with deep HCA had significantly lower rate of infection (33% vs. 69%; p = 0.009) and shorter median intensive care unit length of stay (4 days ( 17 ) vs. 15.5 days ( 26 ) p = 0.017). Multiple regression analysis revealed that the lowest nasopharyngeal temperature was the only significant variable associated with intensive care unit length of stay (p = 0.005).'] Is colder better during hypothermic circulatory arrest for acute type A aortic dissection? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.87601637840271,
-1.4248062372207642,
2.279099941253662
] |
['Early-life immune deviation is suspected in the inception of atopic disease.', 'To investigate the association between cord blood chemokines and the subsequent development of atopic biomarkers and clinical end-points during the first 6\xa0years of life.', 'The Th1-associated chemokines CXCL10 and CXCL11 and the Th2-associated chemokines CCL17 and CCL22 were assessed in cord blood of asymptomatic at-risk newborn children from the Copenhagen Prospective Study on Asthma in Childhood (COPSAC(2000) ) birth cohort and associated with the longitudinal development of biomarkers and clinical end-points of asthma, eczema, and allergic rhinitis during the first 6\xa0years of life.', 'Cord blood CCL22 levels were significantly associated to total-IgE levels measured at four time-points during the first 6\xa0years of life; overall odds ratio, 1.54 [CI, 1.25-1.89; P\xa0<\xa00.0001]. CXCL10 and CXCL11 were not associated with development of any atopic disorders or biomarkers.'] Do cord blood Th2-related chemokine CCL22 levels associate with elevated total-IgE during preschool age? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2117528915405273,
-1.054772138595581,
2.279785394668579
] |
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