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["To assess maternal perceptions of children's current and ideal body sizes, and the meaning of and factors contributing to overweight in infancy and early childhood among Mexican-origin mothers living in Mexico and in California.", 'A quali-quantitative study combining focus groups and a self-administered questionnaire.', 'A purposive sample of 84 low-income, Mexican-origin mothers of 4- to 6-year-old children recruited between March 2006 and January 2008 from rural and urban communities in Mexico and California.', "Bivariate, multivariate, and qualitative analyses of maternal perceptions of children's actual and ideal body size supplemented by qualitative analyses of meaning of and factors contributing to childhood overweight/obesity.", "Ideal child body size was considerably lower among Mexican-origin mothers living in California (3.86+/-0.56) than it was among mothers living in Mexico (4.32+/-0.83), and this difference was significant (P=0.001) after adjusting for sociodemographic covariates. Among mothers of overweight children, 82% of mothers in California were dissatisfied with their child's weight compared with 29% of mothers in Mexico (P=0.003). Focus-group results suggest that these differences in the perception of children's ideal body size can be attributable to differences in body size norms among mothers and awareness of the negative effects of obesity that occur after migration to California."] Do maternal perceptions of early childhood ideal body weight differ among Mexican-origin mothers residing in Mexico compared to California? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-2.2681357860565186,
1.1615842580795288,
0.26207172870635986
] |
['Bifidobacteria are natural inhabitants of the human gastrointestinal tract. In full-term newborns, these bacteria are acquired from the mother during delivery and rapidly become the predominant organisms in the intestinal microbiota. Bifidobacteria contribute to the establishment of healthy intestinal ecology and can confer health benefits to their host. Consequently, there is growing interest in bifidobacteria, and various strains are currently used as probiotic components in functional food products. However, the probiotic effects have been reported to be strain-specific. There is thus a need to better understand the determinants of the observed benefits provided by these probiotics. Our objective was to compare three human B. longum isolates with the sequenced model strain B. longum NCC2705 at the chromosome and proteome levels.', 'Pulsed field electrophoresis genotyping revealed genetic heterogeneity with low intraspecies strain relatedness among the four strains tested. Using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, we analyzed qualitative differences in the cytosolic protein patterns. There were 45 spots that were present in some strains and absent in others. Spots were excised from the gels and subjected to peptide mass fingerprint analysis for identification. The 45 spots represented 37 proteins, most of which were involved in carbohydrate metabolism and cell wall or cell membrane synthesis. Notably, the protein patterns were correlated with differences in cell membrane properties like surface hydrophobicity and cell agglutination.'] Do proteomic comparison of the cytosolic proteins of three Bifidobacterium longum human isolates and B. longum NCC2705? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3039710521698,
-1.0589165687561035,
2.5673983097076416
] |
['Protein tyrosine phosphatases are key regulators of intracellular signaling that contribute to determining cancer cell growth, which thus makes them attractive targets for therapeutic and diagnostic agents. SHP-1 phosphotyrosine phosphatase is rarely expressed in epithelial tumor cells, but expression has been found in several breast cancer cell lines and tumors. To determine the potential significance of SHP-1 as a prognostic marker in the clinical setting, we examined SHP-1 protein expression in breast tumors.', 'We analyzed SHP-1 expression by immunohistochemistry in a breast tissue microarray composed of 2,081 cores, either alone or in combination with known prognostic markers.', 'Our data showed that SHP-1 expression was confined to a well-defined subset of high-grade tumors characterized by unique biological parameters. SHP-1 expression correlated directly with expression of the tyrosine kinase receptor HER-2 and inversely with expression of the estrogen receptor, while it was weakly associated with Bcl-2 expression.'] Does elevated expression of the tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1 define a subset of high-grade breast tumors? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3890535831451416,
-1.0986831188201904,
2.589606285095215
] |
['One of the possible pathomechanisms of sudden death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is a postictal dysregulation of autonomic nervous system. We performed a heart rate variability (HRV) analysis of the periictal state to analyze whether a cardiac autonomic disturbance exists after an epileptic seizure.', 'We included 31 periictal video-EEG-ECG recordings of 31 patients with epilepsy who had consecutively undergone pre-surgical evaluation. Nine generalized tonic-clonic (GTCS), 15 complex partial, and seven simple motor seizures were included. HRV was evaluated by analyzing 5-min-long ECG epochs, sampling from baseline, direct preictal, early-postictal (<15 min after the seizure), and late-postictal (5-6 h after the seizure) periods.', 'The heart rate was elevated immediately after the seizures, but 5-6 h postictally returned to the baseline level. Time-domain components of HRV decreased after the seizure and this decrease lasted for 5-6 h. Low-frequency power decreased in the early-postictal phase and high-frequency power of HRV dropped in the late-postictal phase. GTCS had an impact on short-term but not on long-term postictal HRV decrease.'] Does periictal heart rate variability analysis suggest long-term postictal autonomic disturbance in epilepsy? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3394787311553955,
-1.2419092655181885,
2.6586930751800537
] |
['Most rhythmic motor behaviors in nature are episodic i.e. they alternate between different behavioral states, including quiescence. Electrophysiological studies in invertebrate behavioral switching, maintenance and quiescence have elucidated several neuronal mechanisms that generate a temporal pattern in behavior. However, the genetic bases of these processes are less well studied. We have previously uncovered a novel episodic behavior exhibited by C. elegans in liquid media where they alternate between distinct phases of rhythmic swimming and quiescence. Here, we have investigated the effect of several genes and their site of action on the behavioral quiescence exhibited in liquid by the nematode C. elegans.', 'We have previously reported that high cholinergic signaling promotes quiescence and command interneurons are critical for timing the quiescence bout durations. We have found that in addition to command interneurons, sensory neurons are also critical for quiescence. We show that the protein phosphatase calcineurin homolog tax-6 promotes swimming whereas the protein kinase G homolog egl-4 promotes quiescence. tax-6 expression in the sensory neurons is sufficient to account for its effect. egl-4 also acts in multiple sensory neurons to mediate its effect on quiescence. In addition our data is consistent with regulation of quiescence by egl-4 acting functionally downstream of release of acetylcholine (ACh) by motor neurons.'] Do calcineurin and protein kinase G regulate C. elegans behavioral quiescence during locomotion in liquid? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.7215592861175537,
-0.18705016374588013,
1.9063729047775269
] |
['The increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in diabetes potentiates the vascular effects of phenylephrine through nitric oxide (NO) impairment, facilitating the development of diabetic nephropathy. We propose that the combination of an antioxidant and L-arginine as diet supplements could prevent the increased vascular response to phenylephrine in diabetic animals.', 'Changes in the adrenergic system play an important role in the development of vascular complications in the prediabetic condition. The vasoconstrictor effects of phenylephrine are regulated by NO, and the impairment of endothelium-dependent vasodilation in diabetes is associated with ROS.', 'Diabetes was induced with a low dose (55 mg/kg body weight) of streptozotocin in 7-week-old rats. Diabetic rats were fed with a diet supplement containing a combination of vitamin E, vitamin C, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, and L-arginine, and the effects on phenylephrine-induced renal vascular responses were evaluated.', 'Phenylephrine increased the renal perfusion pressure of isolated perfused kidneys from diabetic rats compared with nondiabetic rats. This effect was associated with reduced nitrite release as well as reduced plasma tetrahydrobiopterin and increased superoxide anions in the renal tissue. Diet supplementation with a combination of L-arginine and vitamins in diabetic rats partially prevented the generation of superoxide associated with recovery of the renal release of NO and decreased phenylephrine-induced vasoconstrictor effects, compared with untreated diabetic rats. However, the administration of L-arginine or vitamins alone did not affect phenylephrine-induced vasoconstriction. Vitamin treatment alone did decrease superoxide generation.'] Does l-arginine and antioxidant diet supplementation partially restore nitric oxide-dependent regulation of phenylephrine renal vasoconstriction in diabetics rats? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.576978921890259,
-1.1710798740386963,
2.74983549118042
] |
['Biological phenotypes are described as "canalized" if they are robust to minor variation of environment and/or genetic background. The existence of a robust phenotype logically implies that some underlying mechanism must be variable, in the sense of "able to vary", in order to compensate for variation in the environment and/or genetic effects. Several lines of evidence lead to the conclusion that deleterious mutations predictably render morphological, developmental, and life-history traits more sensitive to small random environmental perturbations--that is, mutations de-canalize the phenotype.', 'Using conventional dye-swap microarray methodology, we compared transcript abundance in a sample of >7,000 genes between four mutation accumulation (MA) lines of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans and the common (unmutated) ancestor. There was significantly less environmental variance in the MA lines than in the ancestor, both among replicates of the same gene and among genes.'] Do spontaneous mutations decrease sensitivity of gene expression to random environmental variation in Caenorhabditis elegans? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9897533655166626,
-0.6198721528053284,
1.6882696151733398
] |
['The Theta class glutathione transferase GST T1-1 is a ubiquitously occurring detoxication enzyme. The rat and mouse enzymes have high catalytic activities with numerous electrophilic compounds, but the homologous human GST T1-1 has comparatively low activity with the same substrates. A major structural determinant of substrate recognition is the H-site, which binds the electrophile in proximity to the nucleophilic sulfur of the second substrate glutathione. The H-site is formed by several segments of amino acid residues located in separate regions of the primary structure. The C-terminal helix of the protein serves as a lid over the active site, and contributes several residues to the H-site.', 'Site-directed mutagenesis of the H-site in GST T1-1 was used to create the mouse Arg234Trp for comparison with the human Trp234Arg mutant and the wild-type rat, mouse, and human enzymes. The kinetic properties were investigated with an array of alternative electrophilic substrates to establish substrate selectivity profiles for the different GST T1-1 variants.', 'The characteristic activity profile of the rat and mouse enzymes is dependent on Arg in position 234, whereas the human enzyme features Trp. Reciprocal mutations of residue 234 between the rodent and human enzymes transform the substrate-selectivity profiles from one to the other.'] Is residue 234 a master switch of the alternative-substrate activity profile of human and rodent theta class glutathione transferase T1-1? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.620807409286499,
-0.9145153164863586,
2.5471174716949463
] |
['A study of 72 subjects conducted in the European Union and Australia assessed the safety and efficacy of Apligraf (Organogenesis, Inc, Canton, Massachusetts), a bilayered cell therapy composed of living keratinocytes and living fibroblasts in the treatment of non-infected, diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). The design and patient population of this study were similar to a 208-subject United States study (Veves et al., 2001), which led to FDA approval of Apligraf for the treatment of DFU. EU patient outcomes were compared and contrasted to established US-based patient outcome parameters.', 'Subjects with a non-infected neuropathic diabetic foot ulcer present for at least two weeks were enrolled in these prospective, multicenter, randomized, controlled, open-label studies that compared Apligraf used in conjunction with standard therapy (sharp debridement, standard wound care, and off-loading) against standard therapy alone.', "The design, conduct, and patient populations of the EU and US studies were comparable. Pooling of data was able to be performed because of the similarity and consistency of the two studies. Efficacy and safety results remained consistent across studies independent of mean ulcer duration that was significantly longer in the EU study (21 months, compared to 10 months in the US). Reported adverse events through 12 weeks were comparable across treatment groups in the two studies. Multiple efficacy measures consistently demonstrated superiority of Apligraf treatment over control treated groups in both studies. Combining the data from both studies, 55.2% (80/145) of Apligraf subjects had complete would closure by 12 weeks, compared to 34.3% (46/134) of Control subjects (P = 0.0005; Fisher's exact test), and Apligraf subjects had a significantly shorter time to complete wound closure (P = 0.0004; log-rank test)."] Does confirmatory data from EU study support Apligraf for the treatment of neuropathic diabetic foot ulcers? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.6724926233291626,
-1.3567429780960083,
2.028738260269165
] |
['This study sought to determine the association of high ankle brachial index (ABI) measurements with left ventricular (LV) mass, and to compare its strength with that of low ABI with LV mass.', 'Arterial stiffness leads to LV mass through nonatherosclerotic pathways in mice. In humans, a high ABI indicates stiff peripheral arteries and is associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. Whether high ABI is associated with LV mass in humans and whether this might reflect consequences of arterial stiffness, atherosclerosis, or both is unknown.', 'Among 4,972 MESA (Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis) participants without clinical CVD, we used linear regression to evaluate the association of low (<0.90) and high (>1.40 or incompressible) ABI with LV mass by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Intermediate ABIs served as the reference category. To determine the effect of subclinical atherosclerosis, models were adjusted for common and internal carotid intima media thickness (cIMT) and natural log-transformed coronary artery calcification.', 'Compared with subjects with intermediate ABI, LV mass was higher with either low (2.70 g/m(2) higher, 95% confidence interval: 0.65 to 4.75) or high ABI (6.84 g/m(2) higher, 95% confidence interval: 3.2 to 10.47) after adjustment for traditional CVD risk factors, kidney function, and C-reactive protein. However, further adjustment for cIMT and CAC substantially attenuated the association of low ABI with LV mass index (1.24 g/m(2) higher, 95% confidence interval: -0.84 to 3.33), whereas the association of high ABI was minimally altered (6.01 g/m(2) higher, 95% confidence interval: 2.36 to 9.67).'] Is a high ankle brachial index associated with greater left ventricular mass MESA ( Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis )? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.085354804992676,
-1.4511278867721558,
2.6075916290283203
] |
['Angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis are important processes in the progression of malignant tumors. Previous studies have shown that nerve growth factor-beta (NGF-beta) can promote the initiation and progression of many tumors. In addition, vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C) has become recognized as the most important lymphangiogenic factor. In the present study, the expression of NGF-beta in human hilar cholangiocarcinoma and its relationship with lymphangiogenesis, lymph node metastasis, nerve infiltration, and VEGF-C expression was investigated.', 'Nerve growth factor-beta and VEGF-C expression were investigated by immunohistochemistry in samples from 28 cases of hilar cholangiocarcinoma. The lymphatic vessel density (LVD) in the tumor tissue that indicated lymphangiogenesis were calculated by immunostaining with the lymphendothelial-specific antibody D2-40. The relationship between NGF-beta expression and VEGF-C expression, lymphangiogenesis, lymph node metastasis, and nerve infiltration was evaluated.', 'The overexpression of NGF-beta and VEGF-C occurred in 57.1% (16/28) and 46.4% (13/28) of tumor samples, respectively. Nerve growth factor-beta overexpression was highly correlated with VEGF-C overexpression (P = 0.005), LVD (P < 0.001), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.021), nerve infiltration (P = 0.019), and tumor stage (P = 0.040). Furthermore, VEGF-C overexpression was highly correlated with LVD (P < 0.001) and lymph node metastasis (P < 0.001). However, there was no statistic significance in the relation between NGF-beta expression and sex (P = 0.185), age (P = 0.387), maximal tumor size (P = 0.736), Bismuth classification (P = 0.627) as well as histological grade (P = 0.203).'] Is nerve growth factor-beta expression associated with lymph node metastasis and nerve infiltration in human hilar cholangiocarcinoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9768821001052856,
-1.492978811264038,
2.473832607269287
] |
['The identification of early markers of dementia is of increasing clinical importance. Recently, impaired mitochondrial function has emerged as a potential marker for age-related diseases and the maintenance of mtDNA copy number is essential for the preservation of mitochondrial function. We investigated the association between mtDNA copy number and cognitive function in elderly women.', 'A total of 107 apparently healthy elderly women were included. Cognitive abilities were assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). We measured mtDNA copy number in peripheral leukocytes using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods. Additionally, cardiometabolic risk factors and physical function were measured.', 'MMSE scores were negatively correlated with the homeostasis model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) scores and positively correlated with gait speed as well as mtDNA copy number. After adjusting for age and level of education, the mean values of MMSE scores gradually increased with mtDNA copy number when divided into quartiles. Using step-wise multiple regression analysis, gait speed, mtDNA copy number, and age were determined to be the strongest predictors of MMSE score.'] Is mitochondrial DNA copy number in peripheral blood associated with cognitive function in apparently healthy elderly women? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.086866855621338,
-1.1232101917266846,
2.3156983852386475
] |
['The risk and the predictors of liver disease progression in carriers of inactive hepatitis B virus (HBV) are unclear.', 'Participants in the Risk Evaluation of Viral Load Elevation and Associated Liver Disease/Cancer-Hepatitis B Virus (REVEAL-HBV) study who were seronegative for hepatitis B e antigen; had serum levels of HBV DNA <10,000 copies/mL; and did not have cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, or increased serum levels of alanine aminotransferase were classified as carriers of inactive HBV (n = 1932). Study participants who were seronegative for HB surface antigen and antibodies against hepatitis C virus, yet had similar clinical liver features, were the controls (n = 18,137). Liver-related death and new cases of hepatocellular carcinoma were ascertained through computerized data linkage with National Cancer Registry and Death Certification profiles. The disease progression rates were estimated. The multivariate-adjusted hazard ratios for risk predictors were derived from Cox regression models.', 'There were 20,069 participants, contributing a total of 262,122 person-years, with a mean follow-up of 13.1 years. Annual incidence rates of hepatocellular carcinoma and liver-related death were 0.06% and 0.04%, respectively, for inactive HBV carriers; rates were 0.02%, and 0.02% for controls, respectively. The multivariate-adjusted hazard ratios for carriers of inactive HBV, compared to controls, were 4.6 (95% confidence interval: 2.5-8.3) for hepatocellular carcinoma and 2.1 (95% confidence interval: 1.1-4.1) for liver-related death. Older age and alcohol drinking habits were independent predictors of risk for carriers of inactive HBV to develop hepatocellular carcinoma.'] Are carriers of inactive hepatitis B virus still at risk for hepatocellular carcinoma and liver-related death? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.5490821599960327,
-1.5887432098388672,
2.1249427795410156
] |
['Diabetes (D) and heart failure (HF) are associated with abnormal heart rate variability (HRV). It is unclear whether the HRV effect of having both is cumulative.', 'Pretreatment HRV (traditional, nonlinear, and heart rate [HR] turbulence) in 80 D versus 74 non-D (ND) systolic HF patients was compared by New York Heart Association II versus III among patients entered into an HF drug evaluation study.', 'Age-adjusted HR was lower in class II D versus class III and most HRV including HR turbulence was better in class II ND versus all others, with few differences between class II D and class III ND and D patients.'] Does new York Heart Association functional class influence the impact of diabetes on cardiac autonomic function? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2750484943389893,
-0.6841478943824768,
2.050356388092041
] |
['Sudden limb paresis is a common problem in White Leghorn flocks, affecting about 1% of the chicken population before achievement of sexual maturity. Previously, a similar clinical syndrome has been reported as being caused by inflammatory demyelination of peripheral nerve fibres. Here, we investigated in detail the immunopathology of this paretic syndrome and its possible resemblance to human neuropathies.', "Neurologically affected chickens and control animals from one single flock underwent clinical and neuropathological examination. Peripheral nervous system (PNS) alterations were characterised using standard morphological techniques, including nerve fibre teasing and transmission electron microscopy. Infiltrating cells were phenotyped immunohistologically and quantified by flow cytometry. The cytokine expression pattern was assessed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). These investigations were accomplished by MHC genotyping and a PCR screen for Marek's disease virus (MDV).", 'Spontaneous paresis of White Leghorns is caused by cell-mediated, inflammatory demyelination affecting multiple cranial and spinal nerves and nerve roots with a proximodistal tapering. Clinical manifestation coincides with the employment of humoral immune mechanisms, enrolling plasma cell recruitment, deposition of myelin-bound IgG and antibody-dependent macrophageal myelin-stripping. Disease development was significantly linked to a 539 bp microsatellite in MHC locus LEI0258. An aetiological role for MDV was excluded.'] Does acute paretic syndrome in juvenile White Leghorn chickens resemble late stages of acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathies in humans? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4947993755340576,
-1.2636666297912598,
2.8914241790771484
] |
['Dissociation has been recognized as a relevant factor within the context of traumatization. Since childhood maltreatment as well as child birth can be regarded as a potential trauma, this study examined dissociation in a sample of 58 young mothers with a history of abuse in comparison to a control group.', 'All women with newborn children were contacted by mail and presented with the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. Women who reached a cutoff for moderate or severe sexual and/or physical abuse and whose children were term babies with Apgar scores >7 were included in the study to form the index group (n = 58); the control group was formed by matching mothers with no reported experiences of physical and/or sexual abuse (n = 61). Dissociative experiences were assessed by the Scale of Dissociative Experiences (German version of the Dissociative Experiences Scale).', 'The results show that mothers with a history of physical or sexual abuse - matched for infant gender, maternal education, marital status, number of infants and birth weight - had significantly more dissociative experiences.'] Is history of childhood abuse accompanied by increased dissociation in young mothers five months postnatally? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-1.9585851430892944,
0.7970765233039856,
0.31816738843917847
] |
['Delusional misidentification syndrome (DMS) is of considerable interest, but rarely diagnosed clinically. It is supposed to occur relatively frequently in schizophrenia, and to be related to the pathophysiology of face processing. Two antagonistic forms of DMS are the hypoidentification (Capgras) and hyperidentification (Fregoli) syndromes. We aimed to highlight differences between these subtypes using a face recognition memory task.', 'Twenty schizophrenia patients (10 with DMS) and 21 healthy controls memorized the images of unknown neutral faces (targets). After a 10-min interval, accuracy and reaction times were recorded during a recognition task consisting of targets (newly learned faces), as well as familiar and unfamiliar face images. The 10 DMS patients could be further subdivided into 6 patients with Fregoli syndrome and 4 with Capgras syndrome.', 'Patients with DMS had longer reaction times than controls or patients without DMS (p < 0.001). Fregoli patients had longer reaction times (p < 0.001) and lower discrimination accuracy than Capgras patients (p = 0.019). These results were independent of other clinical variables.'] Does performance during face processing differentiate schizophrenia patients with delusional misidentifications? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9566289186477661,
-0.38660213351249695,
1.3104360103607178
] |
['Bacterial metabolites demineralize dental hard tissues, and soluble factors lead to tertiary dentinogenesis in the area of the dentin-pulp complex. However, it is unclear whether the oral bacteria are directly involved in the differentiation of dental pulp cells. In this study, we evaluated the effect of oral bacterial extracts on cellular differentiation in human dental pulp-derived cells (hDPC).', 'The hDPC were obtained from third molar teeth, and the cells were subcultured. The sonicated extracts were obtained from Porphyromonas gingivalis (gram-negative) and Streptococcus mutans (gram-positive). The effect of bacterial extracts on cellular growth and differentiation in hDPC were tested.', 'Alkaline phosphatase activity and bone sialoprotein (BSP) gene expression were increased in hDPC exposed to low concentrations of both sonicated extracts, whereas the activity was decreased upon exposure to high concentrations of sonicated extracts from P. gingivalis.'] Do oral bacterial extracts facilitate early osteogenic/dentinogenic differentiation in human dental pulp-derived cells? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.657583475112915,
-0.833787739276886,
2.607604503631592
] |
['Wavefront-guided ablations are based on wavefront sensing in a pupil dilated under mesopic conditions, or in patients with insufficient natural pupil dilation, after the application of mydriatic eye drops. The aim of this study was to investigate a potential influence of mydriatic eye drops on wavefront-sensing in terms of the predicted phoropter refraction (PPR).', 'In this prospective study 70 myopic eyes were measured in miosis and pharmacologically induced mydriasis with the Zywave aberrometer and automated refraction (Canon R-F10). 52 eyes were dilated with eye drops containing tropicamide 0.5 % and phenylephrine 2.5 %, in the remaining 18 eyes tropicamide 0.5 % was used. The PPR for a pupil diameter of 3.5 mm in miosis and in mydriasis, respectively, were compared and correlated to the corresponding values of the automated refraction.', 'PPR values obtained in mydriasis were less myopic than in miosis. The sphere of PPR differed by an average of + 0.19 +/- 0.3 diopters (range: -1.07 to + 0.37 diopters) when using tropicamide 0.5 % and phenylephrine 2.5 %. With tropicamide 0.5 % eye drops the difference was + 0.25 +/- 0.4 diopters (range: -1.12 diopters to + 0.27 diopters). Cylinder values were not affected. Automated refraction yielded a smaller difference of + 0.16 +/- 0.33 diopters (tropicamide 0.5 % and phenylephrine 2.5 %) and + 0.1 +/- 0.19 diopters (tropicamide 0.5 %). Cylinder values changed significantly.'] Does [ Influence of mydriatic eye drop on the aberrometer predicted phoropter refraction ]? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.4854337275028229,
-1.8434491157531738,
1.329514741897583
] |
['Trichoadenoma is a rare benign follicular tumor first described by Nikolowski 50 years ago. Both trichoadenoma and desmoplastic trichoepithelioma are composed of cords of epithelial cells and cornifying cysts embedded in sclerotic stroma. In trichoadenoma the cystic component predominates, while desmoplastic trichoepithelioma is a mostly solid neoplasm. Therefore trichoadenoma was suggested to represent a cystic variant of desmoplastic trichoepithelioma.', 'The aim of this study was to investigate whether the morphologic overlap between trichoadenoma and desmoplastic trichoepithelioma translates into a similar immunohistochemical profile.', 'We studied 19 trichoadenomas and 21 desmoplastic trichoepitheliomas for cytokeratin 20, Ber-EP4, and androgen receptor expression.', 'Eighteen of 19 trichoadenomas and all desmoplastic trichoepitheliomas demonstrated the presence of Merkel cells as detected by a monoclonal antibody against cytokeratin 20. In contrast, while all desmoplastic trichepitheliomas were positive for Ber-EP4, only 4 of 19 trichoadenomas showed any kind of reactivity for this marker. None of the trichoadenomas or desmoplastic trichoepitheliomas expressed androgen receptor.'] Is trichoadenoma of Nikolowski a distinct neoplasm within the spectrum of follicular tumors? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.235867738723755,
-1.4371089935302734,
2.7629404067993164
] |
['To determine whether packing of the cochleostomy site influences electrically evoked compound action potential (ECAP) thresholds.', 'Prospective nonrandomized control study.', 'Tertiary referral pediatric hospital.', 'Eleven consecutive children who received unilateral or bilateral cochlear implants (16 Nucleus 24RE Freedom precurved advanced off-stylet electrode arrays [Cochlear Corp., Lane Cove, New South Wales, Australia]) between June and September 2008.', 'Electrically evoked compound action potential thresholds were evoked by stimulation of basal (electrode 3), mid (electrode 9), and apical (electrode 20) electrodes during cochlear implant surgery in the operating room. The first recording was completed immediately after insertion of the electrode array before cochleostomy packing, and the same measures were collected immediately after the packing. The time between recordings was 5 minutes.', 'Electrically evoked compound action potential thresholds evoked by the apical electrode did not significantly change from pre- to post-cochleostomy packing, but ECAP thresholds increased significantly after packing when evoked by the mid-array electrode (mean, +10 clinical units; p < 0.001) and decreased significantly when evoked by the basal electrode (mean, -5.6 clinical units; p = 0.023). These changes were unrelated to passive changes occurring over the first 5 minutes after insertion of the electrode array.'] Does packing of the cochleostomy site affect auditory nerve response thresholds in precurved off-stylet cochlear implants? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.319319486618042,
-1.1901631355285645,
2.5882482528686523
] |
['Angiotensin II (Ang II), a potent vasoconstrictor, affects the growth and development of hematopoietic cells. Mixed findings have been reported for the effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors on radiation-induced injury to the hematopoietic system. We investigated the consequences of different regimens of the ACE inhibitor captopril on radiation-induced hematopoietic injury.', 'C57BL/6 mice were either sham-irradiated or exposed to (60)Co total body irradiation (0.6 Gy/min). Captopril was provided in the water for different time periods relative to irradiation.', 'In untreated mice, the survival rate from 7.5 Gy was 50% at 30 days postirradiation. Captopril treatment for 7 days prior to irradiation resulted in radiosensitization with 100% lethality and a rapid decline in mature blood cells. In contrast, captopril treatment beginning 1 hour postirradiation and continuing for 30 days resulted in 100% survival, with improved recovery of mature blood cells and multilineage hematopoietic progenitors. In nonirradiated control mice, captopril biphasically modulated Lin(-) marrow progenitor cell cycling. After 2 days, captopril suppressed G(0)-G(1) transition and a greater number of cells entered a quiescent state. However, after 7 days of captopril treatment Lin(-) progenitor cell cycling increased compared to untreated control mice.'] Does timing of captopril administration determine radiation protection or radiation sensitization in a murine model of total body irradiation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1787893772125244,
-1.4737187623977661,
2.669058084487915
] |
['To study the resuscitative effect of hypertonic electrolyte glucose solution (HEGS) in enteral resuscitation of burn shock.', 'Eighteen Beagle dogs with 35% TBSA full-thickness flame injury were used in this study. They were randomized to a control group (no-fluid resuscitation, N group), a HEGS resuscitation group (H group) or an isotonic electrolyte glucose solution (IEGS) resuscitation group (I group). The solution enterally was given for resuscitation from half an hour after burn. The volumes and rates of fluid infusion in the H group were basically in accordance with 2 ml/(kg x 1%TBSA), those in the I group were basically in accordance with parkland formula [4 ml/(kg x 1%TBSA)]. The haemodynamic parameters, global end-diastolic volume index, plasma volume, osmotic pressure of plasma, intestinal absorptive rates of water and Na(+), and intestine mucosa blood flow were continuously assessed.', 'The cardiac output index, global end-diastolic volume index, plasma volume and intestine blood mucosa flow reduced markedly after burn in the three groups, and then gradually returned from 2 h after burn in two resuscitation groups, which were higher than that in the N group (P < 0.05). The activities of diamine oxidase in plasma in the two resuscitation groups were higher than that in N group (P < 0.05). The intestinal absorption rates of water and Na(+) reduced markedly after burn in two resuscitation groups with the lowest levels, and then returned from 6 h after burn. The rates of water in H group were lower than that in I group (P < 0.05); the rates of Na(+) in H group were higher than in I group (P < 0.05).'] Do [ The curative effect of 1.8 % hypertonic electrolyte glucose solution in enteral resuscitation of burn shock ]? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.777500867843628,
-1.5061628818511963,
2.331164836883545
] |
['The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of vascular morphology, around and within the B-mode region of abnormality, for improving the diagnostic accuracy of two of the most common solid breast pathologies.', 'The B-mode and Doppler images of 117 breast cancers and 366 fibroadenomas and lesions with a fibroadenoma-like appearance were reviewed retrospectively and the morphology of the vascular pattern was evaluated. The ratio of external to internal color Doppler, the external vascular pattern and the connecting vessels to internal vessels were assessed and differentiated into benign and malignant vascular patterns. These patterns were correlated with the histological diagnosis.', 'Vascularity was demonstrated in 95 % of cancers and in 46 % of benign lesions with a trend to increasing vascularity in cancers. This provided poor specificity for excluding cancer in fibroadenomas. Variations in vascular pattern were recorded. The observed benign vascular patterns were avascularity, vascularity in the periphery and peripheral marginal vessels connecting with internal vascularity. The observed malignant vascular patterns were radially aligned external vessels with internal vessels being more numerous than external vessels which connected to radial vessels. (Fisher exact test p < 0.0001). Analysis of the vascular morphology improved the sensitivity for identifying cancers from 97 % (B-mode) to 99 % (B-mode and color Doppler) with a minimal reduction in specificity (93.7 to 92.6 %) or accuracy (94.6 to 94.2 %).'] Does the use of breast ultrasound color Doppler vascular pattern morphology improve diagnostic sensitivity with minimal change in specificity? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.159620523452759,
-1.20071542263031,
2.538607120513916
] |
['Glucocorticoids (GCs), such as prednisolone, are associated with adverse metabolic effects, including glucose intolerance and diabetes. In contrast to the well known GC-induced insulin resistance, the effects of GCs on beta-cell function are less well established. We assessed the acute and short-term effects of prednisolone treatment on beta-cell function in healthy men.', 'A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial consisting of two protocols was conducted. In protocol 1 (n=6), placebo and a single dose of 75 mg of prednisolone were administered. In protocol 2 (n=23), participants received 30 mg of prednisolone daily or placebo for 15 days. Both empirical and model-based parameters of beta-cell function were calculated from glucose, insulin and C-peptide concentrations obtained during standardised meal tests before and during prednisolone treatment (protocols 1 and 2), and 1 day after cessation of treatment (protocol 2).', 'Seventy-five milligrams of prednisolone acutely increased the area under the postprandial glucose curve (AUC(gluc); P=0.005), and inhibited several parameters of beta-cell function, including AUC(c-pep)/AUC(gluc) ratio (P=0.004), insulinogenic index (P=0.007), glucose sensitivity (P=0.02) and potentiation factor ratio (PFR; P=0.04). A 15-day treatment with prednisolone increased AUC(gluc) (P<0.001), despite augmented C-peptide secretion (P=0.05). beta-cell function parameters were impaired, including the fasting insulin secretory tone (P=0.02) and PFR (P=0.007).'] Do acute and 2-week exposure to prednisolone impair different aspects of beta-cell function in healthy men? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.0139572620391846,
-1.5191152095794678,
2.5488312244415283
] |
['Cross-sectional experimental laboratory study.', 'To examine differences in running mechanics between runners who had previously sustained iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) and runners with no knee-related running injuries.', 'ITBS is the second leading cause of knee pain in runners and the most common cause of lateral knee pain. Despite its prevalence, few biomechanical studies have been conducted to better understand its aetiology. Because the iliotibial band has both femoral and tibial attachments, it is possible that atypical hip and foot mechanics could result in the development of ITBS.', 'The running mechanics of 35 females who had previously sustained ITBS were compared to 35 healthy age-matched and running distance-matched healthy females. Comparisons of hip, knee, and ankle 3-dimensional kinematics and internal moments during the stance phase of running gait were measured.', 'The ITBS group exhibited significantly greater peak rearfoot invertor moment, peak knee internal rotation angle, and peak hip adduction angle compared to controls. No significant differences in peak rearfoot eversion angle, peak knee flexion angle, peak knee external rotator moment, or peak hip abductor moments were observed between groups.'] Do competitive female runners with a history of iliotibial band syndrome demonstrate atypical hip and knee kinematics? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.626925230026245,
-0.07313436269760132,
1.7699332237243652
] |
['Vibration analysis is a promising technique in diagnosing metabolic bone diseases such as osteoporosis and monitoring fracture healing. The aim of this study is to observe the structural dynamic property changes of the tibia extracted from the vibration analysis data.', 'In this study, bone mineral density and vibration measurements were made both in in vivo and in vitro conditions. The relationship between structural dynamic properties, obtained and bone mineral densities measured were investigated. Also, the effect of soft tissues on measured structural dynamic properties was analyzed.', 'Natural frequency of the tibia decreased with decreasing bone mineral density that presented a weak correlation with the bone mineral density values measured by dual energy X-ray densitometer of the femur. In the case of in vitro experiments, it was observed that the effect of muscles on measurement results is higher than that of the effect of the skin and the fibula which makes the modal identification procedure difficult. However, having very large percentage changes in the loss factors when mineral content and collagen are reduced is an encouraging result to believe that damping measurements may yield a promising technique in diagnosing progressing osteoporosis and monitoring fracture healing period.'] Do vibration measurements predict the mechanical properties of human tibia? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5623037815093994,
-0.5532458424568176,
2.2727198600769043
] |
["Although it has been accepted that depression and pain are common comorbidities, their interaction is not fully understood. The present study was aimed to investigate the effects of depression on both evoked pain behavior (thermal-induced nociception and hyperalgesia) and spontaneous pain behavior (formalin pain) in rats. An unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) paradigm was employed to develop a classical depression. The emotional behaviors were assessed by sucrose preference test, open field test, and elevated plus-maze test. The results showed that the depressed rats always exhibited stronger tolerance to noxious thermal stimulation under both normal and complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced chronic pain conditions, when compared to nondepressed animals. Interestingly, the spontaneous nociceptive behaviors induced by formalin injection were significantly enhanced in rats exposed to UCMS in comparison to those without UCMS. Systemic administration of antidepressant fluoxetine significantly restored the nociceptive behaviors to normal level in depressed animals. An additional finding was that the inflammatory rats tended to display depressive-like behaviors without being exposed to UCMS. These results demonstrated that depression can have different effects on stimulus-evoked pain and spontaneous pain, with alleviation in the former while aggravation in the latter."] Does depression show divergent effects on evoked and spontaneous pain behaviors in rats? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.6053659915924072,
-0.7835627198219299,
2.405597686767578
] |
['Because of complications and its invasive nature, fundoplication is often a treatment of last resort for children with gastroesophageal reflux. Gastroesophageal reflux testing does not always predict who will benefit from antireflux surgery. Furthermore, there are no studies to determine whether a higher preoperative reflux burden, including acid and nonacid reflux, is associated with an improved postfundoplication outcome. The aim of the study was to determine predictors of fundoplication outcome including acid and nonacid reflux burden.', 'We retrospectively reviewed preoperative pH-multichannel intraluminal impedance tracings and medical records of 34 patients who underwent fundoplication. Patients were categorized as improved or not improved, and the demographic and reflux characteristics were compared between groups. Multivariate analysis was performed to determine predictors of outcome.', 'No single reflux marker, including the number of acid, nonacid, total events, or the percentage of time that reflux was in the esophagus, predicted fundoplication outcome (P > 0.1). Neither a positive symptom index nor a positive symptom sensitivity index predicted postoperative improvement (P > 0.4). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis failed to reveal an ideal value to maximize sensitivity for either the symptom index or the symptom sensitivity index.'] Do reflux events detected by pH-MII determine fundoplication outcome? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3219945430755615,
-1.3425894975662231,
2.7325856685638428
] |
['Survivin is known playing a role in drug resistance. However, its role in bortezomib-mediated inhibition of growth and induction of apoptosis is unclear. There are conflicting reports for the effect of bortezomib on survivin expression, which lacks of a plausible explanation.', 'In this study, we tested cancer cells with both p53 wild type and mutant/null background for the relationship of bortezomib resistance with survivin expression and p53 status using MTT assay, flow cytometry, DNA fragmentation, caspase activation, western blots and RNAi technology.', 'We found that cancer cells with wild type p53 show a low level expression of survivin and are sensitive to treatment with bortezomib, while cancer cells with a mutant or null p53 show a high level expression of survivin and are resistant to bortezomib-mediated apoptosis induction. However, silencing of survivin expression utilizing survivin mRNA-specific siRNA/shRNA in p53 mutant or null cells sensitized cancer cells to bortezomib mediated apoptosis induction, suggesting a role for survivin in bortezomib resistance. We further noted that modulation of survivin expression by bortezomib is dependent on p53 status but independent of cancer cell types. In cancer cells with mutated p53 or p53 null, bortezomib appears to induce survivin expression, while in cancer cells with wild type p53, bortezomib downregulates or shows no significant effect on survivin expression, which is dependent on the drug concentration, cell line and exposure time.'] Is cancer cell sensitivity to bortezomib associated with survivin expression and p53 status but not cancer cell types? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.356800079345703,
-1.191058874130249,
2.599424362182617
] |
['Cognitive deficiency noted post-liver transplantation might be a result of consequential metabolic derangement before liver transplantation. Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), affect the development of the central nervous system and its absorption is influenced by obstructive jaundice.', 'To investigate the possible relationship between the brain content of AA and DHA with the severity of obstructive jaundice using a bile duct ligation rat model.', 'Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: Sham (n = 5): rats received sham operation on P17 (17 days after delivery) and were sacrificed on P31; BDL2w (n = 5): rats received bile duct ligation and were sacrificed on P31; BDL4w (n = 7): rats received bile duct ligation and were sacrificed on P45. Liver function test, histopathology, and fatty acid composition of the brain tissues were analyzed.', 'The Sham group had significantly lowered total/direct bilirubin level (0.6 + 0.1/0.3 + 0.1 mg/dl) as compared to the BDL2w group (3.8 + 1.5/1.6 + 1.0 mg/dl) and the BDL4w group (4.3 + 0.6/3.3 + 0.5 mg/dl) (P = 0.04 and 0.008, respectively). Liver fibrosis and inflammatory changes of hepatocytes increased from the Sham group, the BDL2w group, to the BDL4w group. The Sham group had significantly higher AA and DHA content. The brain content of AA and DHA correlated negatively to the duration of bile duct ligation, the total/direct bilirubin level, and the degree of liver fibrosis.'] Is reduced brain content of arachidonic acid and docosahexaenoic acid related to the severity of liver fibrosis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.934228777885437,
-1.444769024848938,
2.376617908477783
] |
['Infectious agents, such as neurotropic viruses, are proposed to disrupt the enteric neuromuscular system, leading to dysmotility, although the mechanisms are unknown. Our purpose was to assess whether herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1) establishes an enteric-neuronal infection and induces gut dysmotility.', 'Rats were inoculated with HSV-1 intranasally and after 4 weeks intragastrically. After 1-10 weeks, infection was determined by molecular analysis whereas neuromuscular function was evaluated by pharmacologic/electrical stimulation of longitudinal ileal segments and by gastrointestinal transit and by [(3)H]acetylcholine release measurements. Inflammation in the neuromuscular layer was assessed by myeloperoxidase and cytokine levels and by anti-CD3(+) immunohistochemistry.', 'After 1-10 weeks of intragastric inoculation, HSV-1 latency-associated messenger RNA transcripts were detected in the brain and in ileal neurons with no signs of illness or histologic gut abnormalities. By using a recombinant HSV-1 carrying the lacZ gene, HSV-1 virions were localized in myenteric ganglia by in situ X-gal staining. Interleukin-2 and IFN-gamma levels were increased significantly 1 and 6 weeks after inoculation. CD3(+) cells were found around the myenteric ganglia 6 weeks after inoculation. Smooth muscle responses to carbachol, CaCl(2), and gut transit were increased significantly after 1 and 6 weeks, whereas KCl- and electrical field stimulation-mediated contractions were modified significantly only 1-2 weeks after HSV-1 administration. The release of [(3)H]acetylcholine was reduced significantly in ileum segments after 1 and 6 weeks.'] Does herpes simplex virus type 1 infection of the rat enteric nervous system evoke small-bowel neuromuscular abnormalities? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.335615873336792,
-1.3785384893417358,
2.7549471855163574
] |
['According to the somatic mutation theory, monoclonal colorectal lesions arise from sequential mutations in the progeny of a single stem cell. However, studies in a sex chromosome mixoploid mosaic (XO/XY) patient indicated that colorectal adenomas were polyclonal. We assessed adenoma clonality on an individual crypt basis and completed a genetic dependency analysis in carcinomas-in-adenomas to assess mutation order and timing.', 'Polyp samples were analyzed from the XO/XY individual, patients with familial adenomatous polyposis and attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis, patients with small sporadic adenomas, and patients with sporadic carcinoma-in-adenomas. Clonality was analyzed using X/Y chromosome fluorescence in situ hybridization, analysis of 5q loss of heterozygosity in XO/XY tissue, and sequencing of adenomatous polyposis coli. Individual crypts and different phenotypic areas of carcinoma-in-adenoma lesions were analyzed for mutations in adenomatous polyposis coli, p53, and K-RAS; loss of heterozygosity at 5q, 17p, and 18q; and aneuploidy. Phylogenetic trees were constructed.', 'All familial adenomatous polyposis-associated adenomas and some sporadic lesions had polyclonal genetic defects. Some independent clones appeared to be maintained in advanced adenomas. No clear obligate order of genetic events was established. Top-down growth of dysplastic tissue into neighboring crypts was a possible mechanism of clonal competition.'] Does clonality assessment and clonal ordering of individual neoplastic crypts show polyclonality of colorectal adenomas? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.333252429962158,
-1.2959933280944824,
2.7191927433013916
] |
['Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family members (e.g., EGFR, HER2, HER3, and HER4) are commonly overexpressed in pancreatic cancer. We investigated the effects of inhibition of EGFR/HER2 signaling on pancreatic cancer to elucidate the role(s) of EGFR/HER2 in radiosensitization and to provide evidence in support of further clinical investigations.', 'Expression of EGFR family members in pancreatic cancer lines was assessed by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. Cell growth inhibition was determined by MTS assay. The effects of inhibition of EGFR family receptors and downstream signaling pathways on in vitro radiosensitivity were evaluated using clonogenic assays. Growth delay was used to evaluate the effects of nelfinavir on in vivo tumor radiosensitivity.', 'Lapatinib inhibited cell growth in four pancreatic cancer cell lines, but radiosensitized only wild-type K-ras-expressing T3M4 cells. Akt activation was blocked in a wild-type K-ras cell line, whereas constitutive phosphorylation of Akt and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) was seen in lines expressing mutant K-ras. Overexpression of constitutively active K-ras (G12V) abrogated lapatinib-mediated inhibition of both Akt phosphorylation and radiosensitization. Inhibition of MAP/ERK kinase/ERK signaling with U0126 had no effect on radiosensitization, whereas inhibition of activated Akt with LY294002 (enhancement ratio, 1.2-1.8) or nelfinavir (enhancement ratio, 1.2-1.4) radiosensitized cells regardless of K-ras mutation status. Oral nelfinavir administration to mice bearing mutant K-ras-containing Capan-2 xenografts resulted in a greater than additive increase in radiation-mediated tumor growth delay (synergy assessment ratio of 1.5).'] Is radiosensitization of epidermal growth factor receptor/HER2-positive pancreatic cancer mediated by inhibition of Akt independent of ras mutational status? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3329620361328125,
-1.407570481300354,
2.745903253555298
] |
['Risk stratification for Brugada syndrome remains controversial. We investigated the relationships between episodes of ventricular fibrillation (VF) and various clinical, electrocardiographic, electrophysiologic, and genetic parameters both retrospectively and prospectively.', "Fifty-two patients with Brugada syndrome (49 men, average age 42 +/- 3 years) were studied. In the Brugada patients with a VF history, the frequency of a spontaneous Type 1 electrocardiogram (ECG) pattern in lead V2 was significantly higher and the STJ amplitude in the V1 and V2 leads was also higher than in those without a VF history. Multivariate analyses revealed that the spontaneous Type 1 ECG pattern in lead V2 (but not lead V1) was the only independent predictor of a VF history. During a mean follow-up period of 39 +/- 4 months, 38.8% of the patients with a VF history and 2.9% of those without experienced an appropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillation owing to VF. A multivariate analysis using a Cox's proportional hazard model showed that a VF history and spontaneous Type 1 ECG pattern in lead V2 were independent predictors of subsequent VF events."] Is a spontaneous Type 1 electrocardiogram pattern in lead V2 an independent predictor of ventricular fibrillation in Brugada syndrome? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.103219747543335,
-1.4029452800750732,
2.56976318359375
] |
['To examine the relationship between abnormalities in uterine (UtA) and/or umbilical artery (UA) Doppler velocimetry and maternal plasma concentrations of soluble endoglin (sEng) in patients with pre-eclampsia (PE).', 'A cross-sectional study was conducted in 135 normal pregnant women and 69 patients with PE. Patients with PE were subclassified into four groups: those who had Doppler abnormalities in both the UtA and UA, patients who had Doppler abnormalities in the UtA alone, those who had Doppler abnormalities in the UA alone, and patients without Doppler abnormalities in either vessel. Plasma concentrations of sEng were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.', 'Among patients with PE, those with abnormal UtA and UA Doppler velocimetry had the highest median plasma concentration of sEng compared with any other group (P < 0.001, Kruskal-Wallis test). Women with PE with normal Doppler velocimetry in both vessels had the lowest median plasma concentration of sEng. There was a significant relationship between plasma concentrations of sEng and mean UtA resistance index (Spearman Rho = 0.5, P < 0.001) as well as UA pulsatility index (Spearman Rho = 0.4, P = 0.002). Multiple regression analysis suggested that Doppler abnormalities in the UtA and UA as well as gestational age at blood sampling contributed to plasma sEng concentrations (P < 0.001).'] Is plasma soluble endoglin concentration in pre-eclampsia associated with an increased impedance to flow in the maternal and fetal circulations? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9853678941726685,
-1.4224064350128174,
2.4343955516815186
] |
['Whether SYNTAX score should be used as a stand-alone tool or whether its performance may be improved by the parallel use of clinical scores focusing on comorbidities, such as EuroSCORE, is a matter of debate.', 'A combined risk model including both clinical and angiographic information was developed, and its performance tested on a contemporary population of 255 patients with left main disease undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). A global risk classification (GRC) system was created by combination of SYNTAX score and EuroSCORE strata, and new classes of risk were defined.', 'When EuroSCORE was fitted into the SYNTAX score model, c-statistic increased from 0.681 to 0.732 for the prediction of cardiac mortality. The likelihood ratio test for the significance of adding the EuroSCORE term to the model was chi(2) = 4.109 (P = .043) with a net reclassification improvement of 26% (P = .002). GRC showed the best prediction and discriminative ability in terms of two-year cardiac mortality (HR 3.40, 95% CI 1.79-6.43, P < .001; c-statistic 0.756) as compared with SYNTAX score (HR 2.87, 95% CI 1.35-6.10, P = .006; c-statistic 0.747) and EuroSCORE (HR 3.04, 95% CI 1.41-6.57, P = .005; c-statistic 0.708) alone.'] Does euroSCORE refine the predictive ability of SYNTAX score in patients undergoing left main percutaneous coronary intervention? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.8060900568962097,
-1.289656639099121,
1.2157089710235596
] |
['Interferon-alpha (IFNalpha) is a heritable risk factor for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Genetic variation near IRF7 is implicated in SLE susceptibility. SLE-associated autoantibodies can stimulate IFNalpha production through the Toll-like receptor/IRF7 pathway. This study was undertaken to determine whether variants of IRF7 act as risk factors for SLE by increasing IFNalpha production and whether autoantibodies are important to this phenomenon.', 'We studied 492 patients with SLE (236 African American, 162 European American, and 94 Hispanic American subjects). Serum levels of IFNalpha were measured using a reporter cell assay, and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the IRF7/PHRF1 locus were genotyped.', 'In a joint analysis of European American and Hispanic American subjects, the rs702966 C allele was associated with the presence of anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) antibodies (odds ratio [OR] 1.83, P = 0.0069). The rs702966 CC genotype was only associated with higher serum levels of IFNalpha in European American and Hispanic American patients with anti-dsDNA antibodies (joint analysis P = 4.1 x 10(-5) in anti-dsDNA-positive patients and P = 0.99 in anti-dsDNA-negative patients). In African American subjects, anti-Sm antibodies were associated with the rs4963128 SNP near IRF7 (OR 1.95, P = 0.0017). The rs4963128 CT and TT genotypes were associated with higher serum levels of IFNalpha only in African American patients with anti-Sm antibodies (P = 0.0012). In African American patients lacking anti-Sm antibodies, an effect of anti-dsDNA-rs702966 C allele interaction on serum levels of IFNalpha was observed, similar to the other patient groups (overall joint analysis P = 1.0 x 10(-6)). In European American and Hispanic American patients, the IRF5 SLE risk haplotype showed an additive effect with the rs702966 C allele on IFNalpha level in anti-dsDNA-positive patients.'] Is genetic variation at the IRF7/PHRF1 locus associated with autoantibody profile and serum interferon-alpha activity in lupus patients? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.784854531288147,
-1.5734549760818481,
2.3919007778167725
] |
['Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a destructive autoimmune disease characterized by an increased inflammation in the joint. Therapies that activate the apoptotic cascade may have potential for use in RA; however, few therapeutic agents fit this category. The purpose of this study was to examine the potential of Bim, an agent that mimics the action of Bcl-2 homology 3 (BH3) domain-only proteins that have shown success in preclinical studies of cancer, in the treatment of autoimmune disease.', 'Synovial tissues from RA and osteoarthritis patients were analyzed for the expression of Bim and CD68 using immunohistochemistry. Macrophages from Bim(-/-) mice were examined for their response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) using flow cytometry, real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and immunoblotting. Bim(-/-) mice were stimulated with thioglycollate or LPS and examined for macrophage activation and cytokine production. Experimental arthritis was induced using the K/BxN serum-transfer model. A mimetic peptide corresponding to the BH3 domain of Bim (TAT-BH3) was administered as a prophylactic agent and as a therapeutic agent. Edema of the ankles and histopathologic analysis of ankle tissue sections were used to determine the severity of arthritis, its cellular composition, and the degree of apoptosis.', 'The expression of Bim was reduced in RA synovial tissue as compared with controls, particularly in macrophages. Bim(-/-) macrophages displayed elevated expression of markers of inflammation and secreted more interleukin-1beta following stimulation with LPS or thioglycollate. TAT-BH3 ameliorated arthritis development, reduced the number of myeloid cells in the joint, and enhanced apoptosis without inducing cytotoxicity.'] Is bim-Bcl-2 homology 3 mimetic therapy effective at suppressing inflammatory arthritis through the activation of myeloid cell apoptosis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4415955543518066,
-1.3501625061035156,
2.8566675186157227
] |
['Oculomotor abnormality is one of the endophenotypes in schizophrenia. The predictive component of smooth pursuit can be studied by comparing the gain, i.e., the ratio of smooth eye position to target position, during predictable (pure sinusoidal) and unpredictable (pseudorandom) target motions. The aim of this experiment was to study predictive and nonpredictive components of smooth pursuit in two groups of schizophrenia patients compared with control subjects.', 'Fifty-one schizophrenia patients (40 nondeficit and 11 deficit) and 21 control subjects were studied. During a predictable task, subjects were asked to track a sinusoidal target (.4 Hz). For the unpredictable task, the pseudorandom target motion consisted of five superimposed sinusoidal waveforms (.1, .2, .4, .6, and .8 Hz). The smooth eye position (eye position without saccades), gain, and phase were calculated for each frequency in each participant and for both tasks.', 'The mean sinusoidal smooth eye position gain was significantly lower in patients than in control subjects with no significant difference between deficit and nondeficit patients. During the pseudorandom task, all groups had a similar gain at .4 Hz.'] Does impaired smooth pursuit in schizophrenia result from prediction impairment only? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.772515058517456,
-0.9447584748268127,
1.7584881782531738
] |
['Lay and scientific opinion alike hold that physical activity is efficient as both remedy and preventative measure for poor sleep. There is evidence that strenuous exercising of adolescent elite athletes leads to favourable sleep patterns. However, research on this in non-elite athletes is limited. The aim of the present study was to compare sleep-EEG patterns of higher leisure time exercisers and controls.', 'A total 38 adolescents (M = 18.59) took part in the study; 17 were high, and 21 were low exercisers. Mean weekly exercise duration was 8.5 h for high and 2 h for low exercisers. Sleep-EEG recordings were performed following a day without exercise. Participants also completed questionnaires regarding their psychological functioning.', 'Compared to low exercisers, high exercisers had more slow wave sleep, and less light and REM sleep, higher scores for positive coping and curiosity, and lower scores for depressive symptoms and somatosensory amplification. Multiple regression analyses showed that weekly exercise duration predicted shortened SOL, low number of awakenings, and increased slow wave sleep.'] Are exercising , sleep-EEG patterns , and psychological functioning related among adolescents? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.968997836112976,
0.5492956042289734,
0.6851974725723267
] |
['Hepatitis C virus (HCV) core and nonstructural (NS) 3 proteins induce inflammation and immunity through a toll-like receptor (TLR) 2-dependent pathway. Individuals with the R753Q single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the TLR2 gene have increased the risk of allograft failure after liver transplantation for chronic hepatitis C.', 'To test the hypothesis that R753Q SNP impairs TLR2 recognition of HCV proteins, a series of in vitro experiments were performed wherein stable clones of wild-type TLR2-deficient human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells and HEK293 cells transfected with wild-type (HEK293-TLR2) or variant TLR2 genes (HEK293-TLR2-R753Q) were stimulated with HCV core and NS3 proteins. Cellular activation was assessed by nuclear factor-kappa B-driven luciferase activity, cytokine secretion, and gene upregulation.', 'Compared with TLR2-deficient HEK293 cells, HEK293-TLR2 cells had marked nuclear factor-kappa B-driven luciferase activity, had modest to marked upregulation in TLR2 signaling-associated genes, and secreted large quantities of interleukin-8 during exposure to HCV core and NS3 proteins. In contrast, HEK293-TLR2-R753Q cells did not respond to stimulation with HCV and behaved similarly like TLR2-deficient HEK293 cells.'] Does r753Q single-nucleotide polymorphism impair toll-like receptor 2 recognition of hepatitis C virus core and nonstructural 3 proteins? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2390124797821045,
-1.3425872325897217,
2.5622615814208984
] |
['Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) not only initiates invasion and metastasis of tumors, but also induces multidrug resistance in tumor cells. Our experiment analyzed the dependability between breast cancer resistant protein (BCRP) and EMT in breast cancer to explore the effect of EMT on BCRP-mediated multidrug resistance.', 'The expressions of BCRP and transcription inhibitor Snai1 (Snail) in breast cancer were detected by immunohistochemistry. The eukaryotic expression vector pCDNA3.1-Snail was constructed and then transfected into human breast cancer cell line MCF-7. Snail, epithelial marker gene E-cadherin, interstitial marker gene Vimentin, multidrug resistance protein BCRP, and relative drug resistance were measured by immunofluorescence, Western blot, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and MTT assay.', 'Immunohistochemistry showed that Snail was highly correlated with BCRP in breast cancer. Immunofluorescence, Western blot, real-time PCR revealed that compared with parent cell MCF-7, after transfected with Snail, the expression of E-cadherin in MCF-7 decreased, but Snail, Vimentin, and BCRP increased. MTT displayed that the relative drug resistance increased to 9.93.'] Is multidrug resistance in breast cancer cells during epithelial-mesenchymal transition modulated by breast cancer resistant protein? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.306040048599243,
-1.3955646753311157,
2.733859062194824
] |
['The prognostic significance of circulating (CTCs) and disseminated tumor cells in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) is controversial. We performed a meta-analysis of available studies to assess whether the detection of tumor cells in the blood and bone marrow (BM) of patients diagnosed with primary CRC can be used as a prognostic factor.', 'We searched the Medline, Biosis, Science Citation Index, and Embase databases and reference lists of relevant articles (including review articles) for studies that assessed the prognostic relevance of tumor cell detection in the peripheral blood (PB), mesenteric/portal blood (MPB), or BM of patients with CRC. Meta-analyses were performed using a random effects model, with hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) as effect measures.', 'A total of 36 studies, including 3094 patients, were eligible for final analyses. Pooled analyses that combined all sampling sites (PB, MPB, and BM) associated the detection of tumor cells with poor recurrence-free survival (RFS) (HR = 3.24 [95% CI: 2.06-5.10], n = 26, I(2) = 77%) and overall survival (OS) (2.28 [1.55-3.38], n = 21, I(2) = 66%). Stratification by sampling site showed that detection of tumor cells in the PB compartment was a statistically significant prognostic factor (RFS: 3.06 [1.74-5.38], n = 19, I(2) = 78%; OS: 2.70 [1.74-4.20], n = 16, I(2) = 59%) but not in the MPB (RFS: 4.12 [1.01-16.83], n = 8, I(2) = 75%; OS: 4.80 [0.81-28.32], n = 5, I(2) = 82%) or in the BM (RFS: 2.17 [0.94-5.03], n = 4, I(2) = 78%; OS: 1.50 [0.52-4.32], n = 3, I(2) = 84%).'] Does meta-analysis show that detection of circulating tumor cells indicates poor prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.3989925384521484,
-1.6095850467681885,
2.0834600925445557
] |
['Microorganisms capable of surviving within macrophages are rare, but represent very successful pathogens. One of them is Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) whose resistance to early mechanisms of macrophage killing and failure of its phagosomes to fuse with lysosomes causes tuberculosis (TB) disease in humans. Thus, defining the mechanisms of phagosome maturation arrest and identifying mycobacterial factors responsible for it are key to rational design of novel drugs for the treatment of TB. Previous studies have shown that Mtb and the related vaccine strain, M. bovis bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG), disrupt the normal function of host Rab5 and Rab7, two small GTPases that are instrumental in the control of phagosome fusion with early endosomes and late endosomes/lysosomes respectively.', 'Here we show that recombinant Mtb nucleoside diphosphate kinase (Ndk) exhibits GTPase activating protein (GAP) activity towards Rab5 and Rab7. Then, using a model of latex bead phagosomes, we demonstrated that Ndk inhibits phagosome maturation and fusion with lysosomes in murine RAW 264.7 macrophages. Maturation arrest of phagosomes containing Ndk-beads was associated with the inactivation of both Rab5 and Rab7 as evidenced by the lack of recruitment of their respective effectors EEA1 (early endosome antigen 1) and RILP (Rab7-interacting lysosomal protein). Consistent with these findings, macrophage infection with an Ndk knocked-down BCG strain resulted in increased fusion of its phagosome with lysosomes along with decreased survival of the mutant.'] Does mycobacterial nucleoside diphosphate kinase block phagosome maturation in murine RAW 264.7 macrophages? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4728472232818604,
-1.1873061656951904,
2.743041515350342
] |
['Nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) transcription factor regulates several cell signaling pathways, such as differentiation and inflammation, which are both altered in osteoarthritis. Inhibitor kappaB kinase (IKK)alpha and IKKbeta are kinases involved in the activation of the NF-kappaB transcription factor. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of glucosamine (GlcN), which is administered in the treatment of osteoarthritis, and of its 2-(N-Acetyl)-L-phenylalanylamido-2-deoxy-beta-D-glucose (NAPA) derivative on IKK kinases and, consequently, on NF-kappaB activation in human chondrocytes.', 'The human chondrosarcoma cell line HTB-94 and human primary chondrocytes were stimulated with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)alpha after pre-treatment with GlcN or NAPA. Gene mRNA expression level was evaluated by real-time PCR. Inhibitor kappaB protein (IkappaB)alpha phosphorylation and p65 nuclear re-localization were analyzed by Western blotting; IKKalpha nuclear re-localization was also investigated by immunocytochemistry and Western blotting. IKK kinase activity was studied by in vitro kinase assay.', 'After TNFalpha stimulation, the mRNA expression level of some of the genes under NF-kappaB control, such as interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8, increased, while treatment with GlcN and NAPA reverted the effect. We investigated the possibility that GlcN and NAPA inhibit IKK kinase activity and found that NAPA inhibits the IKKalpha kinase activity, whereas GlcN does not. Interestingly, both GlcN and NAPA inhibit IKKalpha nuclear re-localization.'] Does a peptidyl-glucosamine derivative affect IKKalpha kinase activity in human chondrocytes? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4471359252929688,
-1.2350542545318604,
2.7310941219329834
] |
['Quercetin has been shown to enhance tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)-induced apoptosis of prostate cancer cells via mechanisms that include upregulation of death receptor (DR) 5, a protein reported to play an important role in sensitizing cancer cells to apoptosis. We aimed to determine the specific mechanisms underlying quercetin-induced DR5 expression.', 'Human prostate cancer cells were exposed to quercetin and TRAIL. Trypan blue assays and terminal transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assays evaluated changes in TRAIL resistance after quercetin treatment, and flow cytometry examined quercetin-induced death receptor expression in DU-145 cells. Western blotting, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and transiently transfection were utilized to confirm apoptotic patterns of prostate cancer cells.', 'After stimulation with quercetin, DU-145 cells exhibited stronger sensitization to TRAIL. Quercetin treatment enhanced TRAIL-induced activation proteins in the caspase pathway, such as poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), caspase-3, and caspase-9. Quercetin dose-dependently increased DR5 levels in prostate cancer cells, which was mediated by increased transcription and protein stability, but not mRNA stability. Ectopic expression of DR5 dose-dependently increased TRAIL-induced apoptosis.'] Does quercetin enhance TRAIL-induced apoptosis in prostate cancer cells via increased protein stability of death receptor 5? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4753010272979736,
-1.2264058589935303,
2.757612705230713
] |
['FHL2, a member of the four and a half LIM domain (FHL) family of proteins, may play an important role in the circulatory system and in particular atherosclerosis.', 'To investigate the role of FHL2 in atherogenesis, FHL2-null and wild-type control male mice were fed either a normal chow (NC) or a cholesterol-enriched diet (CED).', 'At 3 months post CED, aortic atherosclerotic plaques were observed in both control and FHL2-null mice. Lesions in control mice increased dramatically by 6 months of CED. In contrast, lesion size did not increase during this time in CED-fed FHL2-null mice. Relative to control mice on a normal chow of diet (NCD), control mice on a CED exhibited lower circulating nitric oxide (NO) levels, and decreased expression of connexin37 (Cx37) and Cx40 in aortic endothelium. In contrast, FHL2-null mice on a CED maintained similar levels of circulating NO as FHL2-null mice fed a NCD. Cxs levels in aortic endothelium of FHL2-null mutants on a NCD were lower relative to control mice on a NCD, and did not decrease with CED.'] Does deletion of the FHL2 gene attenuate the formation of atherosclerotic lesions after a cholesterol-enriched diet? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3897364139556885,
-1.0855777263641357,
2.406014919281006
] |
['Glucocorticoids at pharmacological doses have been shown to interfere with fracture repair. The role of endogenous glucocorticoids in fracture healing is not well understood. We examined whether endogenous glucocorticoids affect bone healing in an in vivo model of cortical defect repair.', 'Experiments were performed using a well characterised mouse model in which intracellular glucocorticoid signalling was disrupted in osteoblasts through transgenic overexpression of 11beta-hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase type 2 (11beta-HSD2) under the control of a collagen type I promoter (Col2.3-11beta-HSD2). Unicortical bone defects (ø 0.8mm) were created in the tibiae of 7-week-old male transgenic mice and their wild-type littermates. Repair was assessed via histomorphometry, immunohistochemistry and microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) analysis at 1-3 weeks after defect creation.', 'At week 1, micro-CT images of the defect demonstrated formation of mineralized intramembranous bone which increased in volume and density by week 2. At week 3, healing of the defect was nearly complete in all animals. Analysis by histomorphometry and micro-CT revealed that repair of the bony defect was similar in Col2.3-11beta-HSD2 transgenic animals and their wild-type littermates at all time-points.'] Does osteoblast-targeted disruption of glucocorticoid signalling delay intramembranous bone healing? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.419614553451538,
-1.3823997974395752,
2.8489341735839844
] |
['Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), one of the most important antiinflammatory cytokines, is crucial for homeostasis of the immune system. However, the role of IL-1Ra in aortic valve stenosis (AS) remains poorly understood [corrected].', 'IL-1Ra-deficient (IL-1Ra(-/-)) mice on the BALB/c background showed increased aortic valve leaflet thickness compared to wild-type mice at the age of 12 weeks (P<0.001). We used peripheral T-cell transplantation to examine the role of T cells in the development of AS. T cells from IL-1Ra(-/-) but not from wild-type mice induced increased aortic valve thickness in nu/nu mice. Moreover, IL-1Ra(-/-) T cells produced much higher levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha in culture supernatants after anti-CD3 antibody stimulation compared to wild-type mice (P<0.001). Finally, we studied the role of TNF-alpha in the development of AS in IL-1Ra(-/-) mice by generating double-gene-deficient (TNF-alpha(-/-)/IL-1Ra(-/-)) mice. Interestingly, TNF-alpha(-/-)/IL-1Ra(-/-) mice did not have AS.'] Does deficiency of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist induce aortic valve disease in BALB/c mice? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.369049310684204,
-1.3183619976043701,
2.6862244606018066
] |
['We previously reported that a systemic liver X receptor (LXR) agonist promoted macrophage reverse-cholesterol transport (mRCT) in vivo. Because LXR are expressed in multiple tissues involved in RCT (macrophages, liver, intestine), we analyzed the effect of tissue-specific LXR agonism on mRCT.', 'In initial studies, the systemic LXR agonist GW3965 failed to promote mRCT in a setting in which LXR was expressed in macrophages but not in liver or intestine. To evaluate the effect of LXR activation specifically in small intestine on mRCT, wild-type mice were treated with either intestinal-specific LXR agonist (GW6340) or systemic LXR agonist (GW3965). Both GW3965 and GW6340 significantly promoted excretion of [(3)H]-sterol in feces by 162% and 52%, respectively. To evaluate the requirement for macrophage LXR activation, we assessed the ability of GW3965 to promote mRCT in wild-type mice using primary macrophages deficient in LXR alpha/beta vs wild-type macrophages. Whereas GW3965 treatment promoted fecal excretion compared with vehicle, its overall ability to promote mRCT was significantly attenuated using LXR alpha/beta knockout macrophages.'] Does tissue-specific liver X receptor activation promote macrophage reverse cholesterol transport in vivo? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.271911859512329,
-1.2941410541534424,
2.606374502182007
] |
['The amygdala-kindled rat is a model for human temporal lobe epilepsy and activity-dependent synaptic plasticity. Hippocampal RNA isolated from amygdala-kindled rats at different kindling stages was analyzed to identify kindling-induced genes. Furthermore, effects of the anti-epileptic drug levetiracetam on kindling-induced gene expression were examined.', 'Cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2), Protocadherin-8 (Pcdh8) and TGF-beta-inducible early response gene-1 (TIEG1) were identified and verified as differentially expressed transcripts in the hippocampus of kindled rats by in situ hybridization and quantitative RT-PCR. In addition, we identified a panel of 16 additional transcripts which included Arc, Egr3/Pilot, Homer1a, Ania-3, MMP9, Narp, c-fos, NGF, BDNF, NT-3, Synaptopodin, Pim1 kinase, TNF-alpha, RGS2, Egr2/krox-20 and beta-A activin that were differentially expressed in the hippocampus of amygdala-kindled rats. The list consists of many synaptic plasticity-related immediate early genes (IEGs) as well as some late response genes encoding transcription factors, neurotrophic factors and proteins that are known to regulate synaptic remodelling. In the hippocampus, induction of IEG expression was dependent on the afterdischarge (AD) duration. Levetiracetam, 40 mg/kg, suppressed the development of kindling measured as severity of seizures and AD duration. In addition, single animal profiling also showed that levetiracetam attenuated the observed kindling-induced IEG expression; an effect that paralleled the anti-epileptic effect of the drug on AD duration.'] Does levetiracetam attenuate hippocampal expression of synaptic plasticity-related immediate early and late response genes in amygdala-kindled rats? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.347646951675415,
-1.3616299629211426,
2.723867654800415
] |
['Meconium, the first intestinal discharge of the newborn, contains material accumulated during fetal life. Meconium activates complement and CD14 and may induce a systemic inflammatory response. Toll-like receptors are classical pattern-recognition receptors recognizing both exogenous and host-derived ligands. The cyanobacterial product CyP is a potent LPS antagonist binding to the TLR4/MD-2 complex. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of the CD14/TLR4/MD-2 complex in meconium-induced inflammation.', 'Whole blood from six donors was preincubated with anti-CD14 or CyP. Meconium was added and the samples were incubated for 4h. Twenty-seven inflammatory mediators were measured in a Bioplex Array Reader. Human embryonic kidney cells transfected with plasmids containing NF-kappaB dependent luciferase reporter, human MD-2, TLR4, TLR2 and/or CD14, were incubated with meconium or LPS for 18 h. Luciferase activity in cytoplasmic extracts was measured using a Luciferase Assay System kit.', 'Meconium induced formation of a broad panel of inflammatory mediators. CyP and anti-CD14 significantly (p<0.001) inhibited meconium-induced formation of (a) proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, IL-6, IFN-gamma) by 60-80% and 72-94%, respectively, (b) anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, IL-1Ra) by 58-59% and 50-65%, respectively, (c) chemokines (IL-8, MCP-1, MIP-1alpha, MIP-1beta, eotaxin, IP-10) by 43-77% and 57-87%, respectively, and (d) growth factors (G-CSF, GM-CSF, basic FGF, PDGFbb) by 53-71% and 40-78%, respectively, with no statistical significant difference between Cyp and anti-CD14. The inflammatory response could only partly be explained by LPS, suggesting that endogenous components of meconium contribute to the inflammatory response. Meconium activated NF-kappaB dose-dependently in cells expressing TLR4/MD-2 together with CD14, while no effect was seen in cells expressing TLR4/MD-2 alone or in TLR2/CD14 transfected cells.'] Is meconium-induced release of cytokines mediated by the TRL4/MD-2 complex in a CD14-dependent manner? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2584033012390137,
-1.431366205215454,
2.7333879470825195
] |
['Administration of psychomotor stimulants like amphetamine facilitates behavior in the presence of incentive distal stimuli, which have acquired the motivational properties of primary rewards through associative learning. This facilitation appears to be mediated by the mesolimbic dopamine system, which may also be involved in facilitating behavior in the presence of distal stimuli that have not been previously paired with primary rewards. However, it is unclear whether psychomotor stimulants facilitate behavioral interaction with unconditioned distal stimuli.', 'We found that noncontingent administration of amphetamine into subregions of the rat ventral striatum, particularly in the vicinity of the medial olfactory tubercle, facilitates lever pressing followed by visual signals that had not been paired with primary rewards. Noncontingent administration of amphetamine failed to facilitate lever pressing when it was followed by either tones or delayed presentation or absence of visual signals, suggesting that visual signals are key for enhanced behavioral interaction. Systemic administration of amphetamine markedly increased locomotor activity, but did not necessarily increase lever pressing rewarded by visual signals, suggesting that lever pressing is not a byproduct of heightened locomotor activity. Lever pressing facilitated by amphetamine was reduced by co-administration of the dopamine receptor antagonists SCH 23390 (D1 selective) or sulpiride (D2 selective).'] Does amphetamine administration into the ventral striatum facilitate behavioral interaction with unconditioned visual signals in rats? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.618943452835083,
-0.9047895073890686,
2.5970137119293213
] |
['The apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii can infect and replicate in virtually any nucleated cell in many species of warm-blooded animals; thus, it has evolved the ability to exploit well-conserved biological processes common to its diverse hosts. Here we have investigated whether Toxoplasma modulates the levels of host microRNAs (miRNAs) during infection.', 'Using microarray profiling and a combination of conventional molecular approaches we report that Toxoplasma specifically modulates the expression of important host microRNAs during infection. We show that both the primary transcripts for miR-17 approximately 92 and miR-106b approximately 25 and the pivotal miRNAs that are derived from miR-17 approximately 92 display increased abundance in Toxoplasma-infected primary human cells; a Toxoplasma-dependent up-regulation of the miR-17 approximately 92 promoter is at least partly responsible for this increase. The abundance of mature miR-17 family members, which are derived from these two miRNA clusters, remains unchanged in host cells infected with the closely related apicomplexan Neospora caninum; thus, the Toxoplasma-induced increase in their abundance is a highly directed process rather than a general host response to infection.'] Does toxoplasma gondii infection specifically increase the levels of key host microRNAs? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.7002618312835693,
0.31214043498039246,
1.4375569820404053
] |
["The exosome complex is an essential RNA 3'-end processing and degradation machinery. In archaeal organisms, the exosome consists of a catalytic ring and an RNA-binding ring, both of which were previously reported to assume three-fold symmetry.", 'Here we report an asymmetric 2.9 A Sulfolobus solfataricus archaeal exosome structure in which the three-fold symmetry is broken due to combined rigid body and thermal motions mainly within the RNA-binding ring. Since increased conformational flexibility was also observed in the RNA-binding ring of the related bacterial PNPase, we speculate that this may reflect an evolutionarily conserved mechanism to accommodate diverse RNA substrates for degradation.'] Does crystal structure of the S. solfataricus archaeal exosome reveal conformational flexibility in the RNA-binding ring? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.6093316078186035,
-0.28925687074661255,
1.9557430744171143
] |
['Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has the poorest overall prognosis among gastrointestinal cancers; however, curative resection in early-stage PDAC greatly improves survival rates, indicating the importance of early detection. Because abnormal microRNA production is commonly detected in cancer, we investigated noninvasive precursor pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) lesions for microRNA production as a potential early biomarker of PDAC.', 'Pathologists identified and classified ductal lesions. We extracted total RNA from laser-capture microdissected PanIN tissue samples from a conditional KRAS(G12D) mouse model (n = 29) or of human origin (n = 38) (KRAS is v-Ki-ras2 Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog). MicroRNA production was quantified by quantitative real-time PCR. Internal controls included 5S and U6 RNAs.', 'Production of microRNAs miR-21, miR-205, and miR-200 paralleled PanIN progression in the KRAS(G12D) mouse model, compared with microRNA production in samples of nonpathologic ducts. miR-21 demonstrated the highest relative concentrations in the precursor lesions. Interestingly, miR-205 and miR-21 up-regulation preceded phenotypic changes in the ducts. The production of microRNAs miR-21, miR-221, miR-222, and let-7a increased with human PanIN grade, with peak production occurring in hyperplastic PanIN-2/3 lesions. In situ hybridization analysis indicated miR-21 production to be concentrated in pathologic ductal cells. miR-21 production was regulated by KRAS(G12D) and epidermal growth factor receptor in PDAC-derived cell lines.'] Is microRNA-21 induced early in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma precursor lesions? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.270395517349243,
-1.4362597465515137,
2.733501434326172
] |
['To evaluate the prognostic value of preoperative serum tetranectin (TN) in Danish ovarian cancer (OvCa) patients. Design. Population-based, multidisciplinary Danish case-control study of OvCa.', 'A total of 445 primary OvCa patients diagnosed at one of the gynecological departments in 18 regional hospitals around Denmark during the period 1994-1999.', 'Serum levels of TN were evaluated preoperatively and tested for possible association with prognosis.', 'Disease specific survival.', 'During the observation period (median 45.9 months, range 0.2-121) 278 OvCa-related deaths were seen. Univariate analysis of TN and CA125 demonstrated a significant association with survival using the Cox proportional hazards model, when stratified for adjuvant treatment (TN: p < 0.0001, hazard ratio = 0.44; 95% confidence interval 0.33-0.60 and CA125: p < 0.0001, hazard ratio = 1.19; 95% confidence interval 1.11-1.27). Disease specific survival curves for patients with tumors in the early stages showed no significant association with survival, neither for TN (p = 0.68) nor for CA125 (p = 0.07). For the stage III group, a significant association with survival was found for TN (p = 0.027), but not for CA125 (p = 0.37). Multivariate Cox analysis identified TN, age, residual tumor, International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage and grade but not serum CA125 as independent prognostic variables.'] Is serum tetranectin a significant prognostic marker in ovarian cancer patients? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9018762111663818,
-1.4762790203094482,
2.4481916427612305
] |
['Early life events are studied as potential causes of cancer. The objective here was to study childhood adversities in the etiology of cancer.', 'The material comprised a population based random sample of 25 898 individuals among the Finnish working-aged population. In 1998 they were requested through six questions in a postal questionnaire to recall their childhood adversities. The cases consisted of people with cancer diagnosed 2000-2006 and registered in the Finnish Cancer Registry (n = 384). The rest of the sample consisted of cancer-free controls.', 'The most common adversities were prolonged financial difficulties, serious conflicts in the family and someone in the family having been seriously or chronically ill. The cancer patients reported more prolonged financial difficulties and someone seriously or chronically ill in the family. They reported less parental divorce than the controls. The associations were not statistically significant after adjusting for age, sex, education, and health behaviour. Nor was there a significant difference in the total number of childhood adversities between the study group and the controls.'] Is cancer in working-age associated with childhood adversities? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-0.9713375568389893,
1.5385762453079224,
-1.1652613878250122
] |
['Developmental ethanol (EtOH) exposure damages the hippocampus, causing long-lasting alterations in learning and memory. Alterations in glutamatergic synaptic transmission and plasticity may play a role in the mechanism of action of EtOH. This signaling is fundamental for synaptogenesis, which occurs during the third trimester of human pregnancy (first 12 days of life in rats).', 'Acute coronal brain slices were prepared from 7- to 9-day-old rats. Extracellular and patch-clamp electrophysiological recording techniques were used to characterize the acute effects of EtOH on alpha-amino-3-hydroxyl-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionate receptor (AMPAR)- and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)-mediated responses and long-term potentiation (LTP) in the CA1 hippocampal region.', 'Ethanol (40 and 80 mM) inhibited AMPAR- and NMDAR-mediated field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs). EtOH (80 mM) also reduced AMPAR-mediated fEPSPs in the presence of an inhibitor of Ca2+ permeable AMPARs. The effect of 80 mM EtOH on NMDAR-mediated fEPSPs was significantly greater in the presence of Mg2+. EtOH (80 mM) neither affected the paired-pulse ratio of AMPAR-mediated fEPSPs nor the presynaptic volley. The paired-pulse ratio of AMPAR-mediated excitatory postsynaptic currents was not affected either, and the amplitude of these currents was inhibited to a lesser extent than that of fEPSPs. EtOH (80 mM) inhibited LTP of AMPAR-mediated fEPSPs.'] Does ethanol acutely inhibit ionotropic glutamate receptor-mediated responses and long-term potentiation in the developing CA1 hippocampus? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2427921295166016,
-1.4192904233932495,
2.6454482078552246
] |
['Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is associated with numerous neurobehavioral alterations, as well as disabilities in a number of domains, including a high incidence of depression and anxiety disorders. Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) also alters hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) function, resulting in increased responsiveness to stressors and HPA dysregulation in adulthood. Interestingly, data suggest that pre-existing HPA abnormalities may be a major contributory factor to some forms of depression, particularly when an individual is exposed to stressors later in life. We tested the hypothesis that exposure to stressors in adulthood may unmask an increased vulnerability to depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors in PAE animals.', 'Male and female offspring from prenatal alcohol (PAE), pair-fed (PF), and ad libitum-fed control (C) treatment groups were tested in adulthood. Animals were exposed to 10 consecutive days of chronic mild stress (CMS), and assessed in a battery of well-validated tasks sensitive to differences in depressive- and/or anxiety-like behaviors.', 'We report here that the combination of PAE and CMS in adulthood increases depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors in a sexually dimorphic manner. PAE males showed impaired hedonic responsivity (sucrose contrast test), locomotor hyperactivity (open field), and alterations in affiliative and nonaffiliative social behaviors (social interaction test) compared to control males. By contrast, PAE and, to a lesser extent, PF, females showed greater levels of "behavioral despair" in the forced swim test, and PAE females showed altered behavior in the final 5 minutes of the social interaction test compared to control females.'] Do prenatal alcohol exposure and chronic mild stress differentially alter depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors in male and female offspring? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5398313999176025,
-0.7608867883682251,
2.3328371047973633
] |
['Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behaviour disorder (RBD) is a common sleep disorder that can be associated with a number of neurodegenerative conditions as well as with narcolepsy. Current diagnostic criteria require overnight polysomnography, and there are no other biomarkers available. The control of REM sleep is complex with a putative on/off switch within the brainstem activated, amongst other things, by hypocretinergic pathways from the lateral hypothalamus.', 'Cerebrospinal fluid hypocretin levels were measured in five patients with idiopathic RBD.', 'Hypocretin levels were between 254 and 450 pg/ml and therefore within the normal range of >100 pg/ml.'] Are cerebrospinal fluid hypocretin levels normal in idiopathic REM sleep behaviour disorder? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.366598129272461,
-1.222541332244873,
2.651427745819092
] |
['A prospective study of 91 consecutive traumatic brain injury admissions to rehabilitation over a 2-year period to determine factors impacting on rehabilitation charges.', 'Discharge records of 91 adult traumatic brain injury patients comprising total unsubsidized billings for each completed inpatient rehabilitation episode were used to derive total charges. Co-variates analysed included demographic, acute traumatic brain injury and rehabilitation variables including the Modified Barthel Index score.', 'The total median rehabilitation charge per episode was S$7845.50 (range: S$970.55-$44,817.20) [1 Euro=S$2.10]. The top 3 contributory median total charges/episode included bed, board and nursing (S$5616.00), occupational therapy (S$606.00), and physical therapy (S$526.00). Patients with lower admission Glasgow Coma Scale scores, longer post-traumatic amnesia duration, dysphagia and medical complications during rehabilitation, lower admission Modified Barthel Index scores, longer acute and rehabilitation length of stay had significantly higher rehabilitation charges (p<0.001). Using multiple regression analyses, only rehabilitation length of stay and change in Modified Barthel Index were significantly correlated with total rehabilitation charges (p<0.001).'] Does characteristics and correlate of rehabilitation charges during inpatient traumatic brain injury rehabilitation in Singapore? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.4689444303512573,
-1.1073764562606812,
0.6903426051139832
] |
['The current TNM bladder cancer staging system stratifies bladder muscle invasion into superficial (pT2a) and deep (pT2b). Controversy exists regarding the significance of the extent of muscle invasion on clinical outcome.', 'Our aim was to compare the cancer-specific outcomes of patients with pT2 urothelial carcinoma of the bladder (UCB) at radical cystectomy (RC) in a large international cohort of patients.', 'The records of patients treated with RC for UCB at six centers were reviewed. Of the 2605 reviewed patients, 565 (21.7%) had pT2 disease. None of the patients received preoperative systemic chemotherapy or radiotherapy.', "Patients' characteristics and outcome were evaluated."] Is validation of the AJCC TNM substaging of pT2 bladder cancer : deep muscle invasion associated with significantly worse outcome? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.589045763015747,
-1.066522479057312,
2.7533817291259766
] |
['Cryptocaryon irritans is a parasitic ciliate that causes cryptocaryonosis (white spot disease) in marine fish. Diagnosis of cryptocaryonosis often depends on the appearance of white spots on the surface of the fish, which are usually visible only during later stages of the disease. Identifying suitable biomarkers of this parasite would aid the development of diagnostic tools and control strategies for C. irritans. The C. irritans genome is virtually unexplored; therefore, we generated and analyzed expressed sequence tags (ESTs) of the parasite to identify genes that encode for surface proteins, excretory/secretory proteins and repeat-containing proteins.', 'ESTs were generated from a cDNA library of C. irritans tomonts isolated from infected Asian sea bass, Lates calcarifer. Clustering of the 5356 ESTs produced 2659 unique transcripts (UTs) containing 1989 singletons and 670 consensi. BLAST analysis showed that 74% of the UTs had significant similarity (E-value < 10-5) to sequences that are currently available in the GenBank database, with more than 15% of the significant hits showing unknown function. Forty percent of the UTs had significant similarity to ciliates from the genera Tetrahymena and Paramecium. Comparative gene family analysis with related taxa showed that many protein families are conserved among the protozoans. Based on gene ontology annotation, functional groups were successfully assigned to 790 UTs. Genes encoding excretory/secretory proteins and membrane and membrane-associated proteins were identified because these proteins often function as antigens and are good antibody targets. A total of 481 UTs were classified as encoding membrane proteins, 54 were classified as encoding for membrane-bound proteins, and 155 were found to contain excretory/secretory protein-coding sequences. Amino acid repeat-containing proteins and GPI-anchored proteins were also identified as potential candidates for the development of diagnostic and control strategies for C. irritans.'] Does transcriptome analysis of the Cryptocaryon irritans tomont stage identify potential genes for the detection and control of cryptocaryonosis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.0407488346099854,
-1.302876353263855,
2.4528679847717285
] |
['A retrospective study was performed to determine the prognostic implications of invasion to the splenic vessels in pancreatic body and tail cancer.', 'Involvement of the splenic artery (SA) and vein (SV) is frequently observed in carcinoma of the body and tail of the pancreas, but its correlation with various other clinicopathologic factors and prognosis has not been explored in detail.', 'Fifty-one patients who had undergone distal pancreatectomy for invasive adenocarcinoma of the body and tail of the pancreas were discreetly selected from the prospective data base for analyses. Cases that required extended surgery due to invasion of the major vessels such as the portal vein, common hepatic artery, celiac artery, and superior mesenteric artery were excluded. Correlation between invasion of the splenic vessels and prognosis and other clinicopathologic factors were analyzed.', 'Seventeen patients with invasion of the SA had a significantly inferior prognosis compared with those without the invasion (P = 0.0067), whereas invasion of the SV, observed in 24 patients, did not affect prognosis. Additionally, invasion of the SA significantly correlated with tumor size > or = 2 cm, anterior serosal infiltration, perineural invasion and SV invasion (P = 0.0440, P = 0.0406, P = 0.0460, and P = 0.0173, respectively). In univariate analysis, SA invasion, lymph node metastasis, and anterior serosal infiltration were identified as significant poor prognostic factors. In multivariable analysis, only SA invasion was an independent prognostic factor (odds ratio, 2.611, P = 0.0196).'] Is invasion of the splenic artery a crucial prognostic factor in carcinoma of the body and tail of the pancreas? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.0935208797454834,
-1.440468192100525,
2.6189982891082764
] |
['The aim of this study was to determine whether the risk of systemic disease after esophagectomy could be predicted by angiogenesis-related gene polymorphisms.', 'Systemic tumor recurrence after curative resection continues to impose a significant problem in the management of patients with localized esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA). The identification of molecular markers of prognosis will help to better define tumor stage, indicate disease progression, identify novel therapeutic targets, and monitor response to therapy. Proteinase-activated-receptor 1 (PAR-1) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) have been shown to mediate the regulation of local and early-onset angiogenesis, and in turn may impact the process of tumor growth and disease progression.', "We investigated tissue samples from 239 patients with localized EA treated with surgery alone. DNA was isolated from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded normal esophageal tissue samples and polymorphisms were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism and 5'-end [gamma-P] ATP-labeled polymerase chain reaction methods.", 'PAR-1 -506 ins/del (adjusted P value=0.011) and EGF +61 A>G (adjusted P value=0.035) showed to be adverse prognostic markers, in both univariate and multivariable analyses. In combined analysis, grouping alleles into favorable versus nonfavorable alleles, high expression variants of PAR-1 -506 ins/del (any insertion allele) and EGF +61 A>G (A/A) were associated with a higher likelihood of developing tumor recurrence (adjusted P value<0.001).'] Do genetic variations in angiogenesis pathway genes predict tumor recurrence in localized adenocarcinoma of the esophagus? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1971182823181152,
-1.4898988008499146,
2.721543312072754
] |
['Several second-generation antipsychotics are characterised by a significant antagonistic effect at serotonin 5-HT(2A) receptors (5-HT(2A)R), a feature that has been associated with lower incidence of extra-pyramidal symptoms and a putative amelioration of positive and negative symptoms experienced by schizophrenic patients. However, the neurofunctional substrate of 5-HT(2A) antagonism and its exact contribution to the complex pharmacological profile of these drugs remain to be elucidated.', 'Here, we used pharmacological magnetic resonance imaging to map the modulatory effects of the selective 5-HT(2A)R antagonist Ml00907 on the spatiotemporal patterns of brain activity elicited by acute phencyclidine (PCP) challenge in the rat. PCP is a non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist that induces dysregulation of corticolimbic glutamatergic neurotransmission and produces cognitive impairment and psychotic-like symptoms reminiscent of those observed in schizophrenia.', "Pre-administration of M100907 produced focal and region-dependent attenuation of PCP-induced response in frontoseptohippocampal areas. As early studies highlighted a permissive role of 5-HT(2A)R on frontal dopamine release, the role of post-synaptic dopamine D(1) receptors on PCP-induced response was examined by using the potent antagonist SCH23390. Interestingly, SCH23390 did not affect PCP's response in any of the regions examined. This finding rules out a significant contribution of dopamine in the functional changes mapped and, indirectly, the inhibitory effect of M100907, in favour of a glutamatergic origin."] Does antagonism at serotonin 5-HT ( 2A ) receptors modulate functional activity of frontohippocampal circuit? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4308788776397705,
-1.300374150276184,
2.733938694000244
] |
['To investigate the effect of Astragalus membranaceus (AM) on endothelial-dependent (EDV) and non- dependent (EIV) vascular relaxation in ex vivo thoracic aortic rings of obese rats.', 'Fifteen SD rats were randomized into 3 equal groups, namely the control group fed with normal chow, obese group with high-fat chow, and AM intervention group fed with high-fat chow and daily AM gavage. The rats were sacrificed after 6 weeks of feeding, and the aortic rings were dissected and cut into 3-mm rings. The response to acethylcholine (Ach) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP) were examined in organ bath. In ex vivo study, the aortic rings obtained from the control group and obese group were incubated with AM or vehicle for 3 h in organ bath before testing the EDV and EIV. The body weight and weight of the visceral fat in each group were recorded.', 'The weight of visceral fat was greater in the obese group than in the control group, and a 6-week AM treatment significantly reduced the fat tissue due to high-fat diet. The maximum EDV value was (87.0 - or + 3.5)% in the control group, (54.8 - or + 7.8)% in the obese group, and (69.8 - or + 5.7)% in AM intervention group; the EIV values were comparable between the 3 groups. After incubation with AM, the maximum EDV values of aortic rings obtained from the obese group were significantly increased from (55.6 - or + 8.3)% to (85.1 - or + 4.5)%.'] Does [ Astragalus membranaceus improve endothelial-dependent vasodilator function in obese rats ]? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.3453564643859863,
-1.6443467140197754,
1.9581825733184814
] |
['To determine which risk factors help predict recurrent stone formation. Urinary stone disease is relatively rare in children. At our institution, a full urinary metabolic evaluation is initiated after the first stone episode.', 'A retrospective cohort study was performed to assess urinary metabolic profiles in children with urolithiasis. Twenty-four-hour urine collections were performed and evaluated. Urine chemistries were adjusted for creatinine and weight. Abnormal thresholds were obtained from the available published data. The patients were stratified into solitary or recurrent stone formers by review of the medical record. Multivariate analysis was performed with a logistic regression model to assess for independent risk factors for stone recurrence.', 'A total of 148 samples from 88 patients with solitary stones and 84 samples from 51 patients with recurrent stones were evaluated. Age and gender were well-matched between the 2 groups. Most known stones were calcium oxalate, and there were no radiolucent stones in those with unknown composition. A significantly higher number of patients with recurrent stones had abnormal values for calcium (73% vs 57%) and citrate (30% vs 13%) by univariate analysis. Both calcium (odds ratio, 2.3, P <.01) and citrate (odds ratio, 3.5, P <.001) remained independent risk factors for stone recurrence by multivariate analysis.'] Is the risk of recurrent urolithiasis in children dependent on urinary calcium and citrate? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.643658995628357,
-1.2732889652252197,
1.958493709564209
] |
['Distant metastasis resulting from carcinoma cell detachment from the primary tumor involves modification of adhesion molecules. This study was conducted to examine the correlation of E-cadherin/beta-catenin expression with survival and recurrence in ampullary neoplasms.', 'Patients with diagnoses of ampullary neoplasms were enrolled in the study. Demographics, operative findings, and histopathological data were collected by retrospective chart review. Expression of E-cadherin and beta-catenin were detected by immunohistochemistry.', 'A total of 110 patients were enrolled in the study. Preservation of membranous staining of E-cadherin was noted in 41 (37%) patients, aberrant cytoplasmic staining in 48 (44%) patients, and complete loss in 21 (19%) patients. Loss of E-cadherin was associated with pancreatic invasion, recurrence, and poor prognosis. Membranous staining of beta-catenin was noted in 65 (59%) patients, cytoplasmic or nuclear accumulation in 16 (15%) patients, and complete loss in 29 (26%) patients. Loss of beta-catenin expression was associated with tumor markers, ulcerative type, liver metastases, and poor prognosis. Pancreatic invasion, lymph node involvement, and loss of beta-catenin expression were predictors of disease recurrence.'] Is loss of E-cadherin and beta-catenin correlated with poor prognosis of ampullary neoplasms? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3993117809295654,
-1.28825044631958,
2.725947141647339
] |
['Little is known about the significance of blood transfusion in patients with peripheral arterial disease. We queried the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) database to examine the effect of intraoperative blood transfusion on the morbidity and mortality in patients who underwent lower extremity revascularization.', 'We analyzed data from the participant use data file containing vascular surgical cases submitted to the ACS NSQIP in 2005, 2006, and 2007 by 173 hospitals. Current procedural terminology codes were used to select lower extremity procedures that were grouped into venous graft, prosthetic graft, or thromboendarterectomy. Thirty-day outcomes analyzed were (1) mortality, (2) composite morbidity, (3) graft/prosthesis failure, (4) return to the operating room within 30 days, (5) wound occurrences, (6) sepsis or septic shock, (7) pulmonary occurrences, and (8) renal insufficiency or failure. Intraoperative transfusion of packed red blood cells was categorized as none, 1 to 2 units, and 3 or more units. Outcome rates were compared between the transfused and nontransfused groups using the chi(2) test and multivariable regression adjusting for transfusion propensity, comorbid and procedural risk.', 'A total of 8799 patients underwent lower extremity revascularization between 2005 and 2007. Mean age was 66.8 +/- 12.0 years and 5569 (63.3%) were male. Transfusion rates ranged from 14.5% in thromboendarterectomy patients to 27.1% in prosthetic bypass patients (P < .05). After adjustment for transfusion propensity and patient and procedural risks, transfusion of 1 or 2 units remained significantly predictive of mortality, composite morbidity, sepsis/shock, pulmonary occurrences, and return to the operating room. The adjusted odds ratios for 30-day mortality ranged from 1.92 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.36-2.70) for 1 to 2 units to 2.48 (95% CI 1.55-3.98) for 3 or more units.'] Is blood transfusion associated with increased morbidity and mortality after lower extremity revascularization? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.4342514276504517,
-1.5976636409759521,
1.9717880487442017
] |
['Multiple protein kinases have been implicated in cardiovascular disease; however, little is known about the role of their counterparts: the protein phosphatases.', 'To test the hypothesis that mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase (MKP)-1 is actively involved in atherogenesis.', 'Mice with homozygous deficiency in MKP-1 (MKP-1(-/-)) were bred with apolipoprotein (Apo)E-deficient mice (ApoE(-/-)) and the 3 MKP-1 genotypes (MKP-1(+/+)/ApoE(-/-) ; MKP-1(+/-)/ApoE(-/-) and MKP-1(-/-)/ApoE(-/-)) were maintained on a normal chow diet for 16 weeks. The 3 groups of mice exhibited similar body weight and serum lipid profiles; however, both MKP-1(+/-) and MKP-1(-/-) mice had significantly less aortic root atherosclerotic lesion formation than MKP-1(+/+) mice. Less en face lesion was observed in 8-month-old MKP-1(-/-) mice. The reduction in atherosclerosis was accompanied by decreased plasma levels of interleukin-1alpha and tumor necrosis factor alpha, and preceded by increased antiinflammatory cytokine interleukin-10. In addition, MKP-1-null mice had higher levels of plasma stromal cell-derived factor-1a, which negatively correlated with atherosclerotic lesion size. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that MKP-1 expression was enriched in macrophage-rich areas versus smooth muscle cell regions of the atheroma. Furthermore, macrophages isolated from MKP-1-null mice showed dramatic defects in their spreading/migration and impairment in extracellular signal-regulated kinase, but not c-Jun N-terminal kinase and p38, pathway activation. In line with this, MKP-1-null atheroma exhibited less macrophage content. Finally, transplantation of MKP-1-intact bone marrow into MKP-1-null mice fully rescued the wild-type atherosclerotic phenotype.'] Does lack of mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase-1 protect ApoE-null mice against atherosclerosis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.280228853225708,
-1.3929121494293213,
2.6549527645111084
] |
['Treating patients with malignant cerebral infarctions remains a major unsolved problem in medicine. Decompressive craniectomy (DC) improves the bleak outlook but is suboptimal. Using a rat model of severe ischemia/reperfusion with very high mortality due to malignant cerebral edema, we tested the hypothesis that blocking of sulfonylurea receptor 1-regulated NC(Ca-ATP) channels with glibenclamide would compare favorably to DC when reperfusion and treatment were begun 6 hours after onset of ischemia.', 'Male Wistar rats underwent filament occlusion of the middle cerebral artery to reduce laser Doppler flowmetry perfusion signals by >75%, with filament removal plus treatment 6 hours later. In rats treated with vehicle versus glibenclamide (10 microg/kg IP plus 200 ng/h SC), we compared mortality, neurologic function, and brain swelling at 24 hours. In rats treated with DC versus glibenclamide, we compared neurologic function for 2 weeks and histologic outcomes.', 'Compared with vehicle, glibenclamide treatment reduced 24-hour mortality from 67% to 5% and reduced hemispheric swelling at 24 hours from 21% to 8%. DC eliminated 24-hour mortality, but neurologic function during the next 2 weeks was significantly better with glibenclamide compared with DC. Watershed cortex and deep white matter were significantly better preserved with glibenclamide compared with DC.'] Is glibenclamide superior to decompressive craniectomy in a rat model of malignant stroke? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.140662431716919,
-1.4354251623153687,
2.5672647953033447
] |
['Understanding of secondary metabolic pathway in plant is essential for finding druggable candidate enzymes. However, there are many enzymes whose functions are not yet discovered in organism-specific metabolic pathways. Towards identifying the functions of those enzymes, assignment of EC numbers to the enzymatic reactions they catalyze plays a key role, since EC numbers represent the categorization of enzymes on one hand, and the categorization of enzymatic reactions on the other hand.', "We propose reaction graph kernels for automatically assigning EC numbers to unknown enzymatic reactions in a metabolic network. Reaction graph kernels compute similarity between two chemical reactions considering the similarity of chemical compounds in reaction and their relationships. In computational experiments based on the KEGG/REACTION database, our method successfully predicted the first three digits of the EC number with 83% accuracy. We also exhaustively predicted missing EC numbers in plant's secondary metabolism pathway. The prediction results of reaction graph kernels on 36 unknown enzymatic reactions are compared with an expert's knowledge. Using the same data for evaluation, we compared our method with E-zyme, and showed its ability to assign more number of accurate EC numbers."] Do reaction graph kernels predict EC numbers of unknown enzymatic reactions in plant secondary metabolism? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-1.407314658164978,
0.4884306490421295,
0.09586178511381149
] |
['Patient outcome after lumbar discectomy for radicular low back pain is variable and the benefit is inconsistent. Many patients continue to experience pain 3 months after surgery. Pregabalin, a membrane stabilizer, may decrease perioperative central sensitization and subsequent persistent pain.', 'Forty patients undergoing lumbar discectomy were randomly allocated to receive either pregabalin (300 mg at 90 minutes preoperatively and 150 mg at 12 and 24 hours postoperatively) or placebo at corresponding times in a double-blinded manner. Our primary outcome was the change in the present pain intensity (PPI) (visual analog scale [VAS], 0-100 mm [PPI-VAS, McGill Pain Questionnaire]) from preoperatively to 3 months postoperatively.', 'The decrease in PPI-VAS score at 3 months was greater in patients who received pregabalin (37.6 +/- 19.6 mm) (mean +/- sd) than those who received placebo (25.3 +/- 21.9 mm) (P = 0.08). The Roland Morris disability score at 3 months was less in patients who received pregabalin (2.7 +/- 2.4) than in those who received placebo (5.6 +/- 4.8) (P = 0.032). Pregabalin administration was associated with greater pain tolerance thresholds in both lower limbs compared with placebo at 24 hours postoperatively.'] Does perioperative pregabalin improve pain and functional outcomes 3 months after lumbar discectomy? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.4746979475021362,
-1.3313333988189697,
1.7693794965744019
] |
['PPARgamma (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma) is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors that regulate the expression of genes associated with lipid metabolism. Herein, we show that expression levels of the novel PPARgamma transcript exhibit circadian oscillation. To study the mechanisms controlling PPARgamma expression, a novel PPARgamma gene promoter was cloned and characterized.', 'We analyzed the novel PPARgamma promoter by luciferase reporter assays and gel shift analysis.', 'Surprisingly, it was not an intron but rather the novel first exon of PPARgamma that was found to have functional minimal promoter activity. Luciferase reporter assays and gel shift assays revealed that the novel first exon is essential for novel PPARgamma promoter activation and that DBP (albumin gene D-site binding protein) and E4BP4 (E4 promoter A binding protein 4) bind directly to D-sites in the novel first exon.'] Does a promoter in the novel exon of hPPARgamma direct the circadian expression of PPARgamma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2731215953826904,
-1.0451549291610718,
2.320122241973877
] |
['This study examined the degree to which combat-related guilt mediated the relations between exposure to combat-related abusive violence and both Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in Vietnam Veterans.', 'Secondary analyses were conducted on data collected from 1,323 male Vietnam Veterans as part of a larger, multisite study.', 'Results revealed that combat-related guilt partially mediated the association between exposure to combat-related abusive violence and PTSD, but completely mediated the association with MDD, with overall combat exposure held constant in the model. Follow-up analyses showed that, when comparing those participants who actually participated in combat-related abusive violence with those who only observed it, combat-related guilt completely mediated the association between participation in abusive violence and both PTSD and MDD. Moreover, when comparing those participants who observed combat-related abusive violence with those who had no exposure at all to it, combat-related guilt completely mediated the association between observation of combat-related abusive violence and MDD, but only partially mediated the association with PTSD.'] Does combat-related guilt mediate the relations between exposure to combat-related abusive violence and psychiatric diagnoses? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-1.6557756662368774,
1.5676416158676147,
-0.619330108165741
] |
['Association between genetic variations in alcohol-related enzymes and impaired ethanol biodisposition has not been unambiguously proven, and the effect of many newly described polymorphisms remains to be explored. The aims of this study are to elucidate the influence of genetic factors in alcohol biodisposition and effects. We analyzed alcohol pharmacokinetics and biodisposition after the administration of 0.5 g/kg ethanol; we measured ethanol effects on reaction time and motor time in response to visual and acoustic signals, and we analyzed 13 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) in the genes coding for ADH1B, ADH1C, ALDH2, and CYP2E1 in 250 healthy white individuals. Variability in ethanol pharmacokinetics and biodisposition is related to sex, with women showing a higher area under the curve (AUC) (P = 0.002), maximum concentration (Cmax) (P < 0.001) and metabolic rate (P = 0.001). Four nonsynonymous SNPs are related to decreased alcohol metabolic rates: ADH1B rs6413413 (P = 0.012), ADH1C rs283413 (P < 0.001), rs1693482 (P < 0.001), and rs698 (P < 0.001). Individuals carrying diplotypes combining these mutations display statistically significant decrease in alcohol biodisposition as compared with individuals lacking these mutations. Alcohol effects displayed bimodal distribution independently of sex or pharmacokinetics. Most individuals had significant delays in reaction and motor times at alcohol blood concentrations under 500 mg/L, which are the driving limits for most countries.'] Is variability in ethanol biodisposition in whites modulated by polymorphisms in the ADH1B and ADH1C genes? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.193793535232544,
-1.2799385786056519,
2.4144275188446045
] |
['Friedreich ataxia is a neurodegenerative disease caused by the lack of frataxin, a mitochondrial protein. We previously demonstrated that frataxin interacts with complex II subunits of the electronic transport chain (ETC) and putative electronic transfer flavoproteins, suggesting that frataxin could participate in the oxidative phosphorylation.', 'Here we have investigated the effect of riboflavin and its cofactors flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) and flavin mononucleotide (FMN) in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Caenorhabditis elegans models of frataxin deficiency. We used a S. cerevisiae strain deleted for the yfh1 gene obtained by homologous recombination and we assessed growth in fermentable and non-fermentable cultures supplemented with either riboflavin or its derivates. Experiments with C. elegans were performed in transient knock-down worms (frh-1[RNAi]) generated by microinjection of dsRNA frh-1 into the gonads of young worms. We observed that FAD rescues the phenotype of both defective organisms. We show that cell growth and enzymatic activities of the ETC complexes and ATP production of yfh1Delta cells were improved by FAD supplementation. Moreover, FAD also improved lifespan and other physiological parameters in the C. elegans knock-down model for frataxin.'] Does flavin adenine dinucleotide rescue the phenotype of frataxin deficiency? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5966413021087646,
-1.143622636795044,
2.7682595252990723
] |
['Ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) is common and serious and may be mediated in part by prostanoids. We have demonstrated increased expression of the early growth response-1 (Egr1) gene by injurious ventilation, but whether-or how-such up-regulation contributes to injury is unknown.', 'We sought to define the role of Egr1 in the pathogenesis of VILI.', 'An in vivo murine model of VILI was used, and Egr1(+/+) (wild-type) and Egr1(-/-) mice were studied; the effects of prostaglandin E receptor subtype 1 (EP1) inhibition were assessed.', 'Injurious ventilation caused lung injury in wild-type mice, but less so in Egr1(-/-) mice. The injury was associated with expression of EGR1 protein, which was localized to type II cells and macrophages and was concentrated in nuclear extracts. There was a concomitant increase in expression of phosphorylated p44/p42 mitogen-activated protein kinases. The prostaglandin E synthase (mPGES-1) gene has multiple EGR1 binding sites on its promoter, and induction of mPGES-1 mRNA (as well as the prostanoid product, PGE2) by injurious ventilation was highly dependent on the presence of the Egr1 gene. PGE2 mediates many lung effects via EP1 receptors, and EP1 blockade (with ONO-8713) lessened lung injury.'] Does early growth response-1 worsen ventilator-induced lung injury by up-regulating prostanoid synthesis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4594550132751465,
-1.234910011291504,
2.723414421081543
] |
['The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays a key role in heat acclimation, a process which induces adaptive changes in cardiac function. These changes are mediated in part by reduced thyroid hormone activity and improve myocardial function during and following exposure to various (non-heat) stresses such as ischemia. The aim of this study was to examine the role of RAS in the development of the heat acclimated protected heart.', 'Three treatment groups were used: (1) C, controls; (2) AC, heat acclimated rats (1mo 34 degrees C,); and (3) HAEL, heat acclimated euthyroid rats treated with 3ng/ml of eltroxine. A Langendorff perfusion apparatus was used to measure hemodynamic parameters at baseline and following administration of angiotensin-II, losartan and PD123319 in isolated hearts. Protein and mRNA levels of angiotensin receptors were measured.', 'Both C and HAEL animals showed increased contractility and a drop in coronary flow during angiotensin II exposure whereas AC animals did not have an inotropic response or vasoconstriction. Significantly different patterns of AT1 and AT2 receptor densities (a 50% reduction and a 30% increase in outer cell membrane AT1 and AT2 receptors respectively) were observed in AC animals compared to the other two groups. AT receptor mRNA levels were similar in all treatment groups.'] Is hypothyroid dependent myocardial angiotensin receptor trafficking involved in improved cardiac performance after heat acclimation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.464149236679077,
-1.224544882774353,
2.7479372024536133
] |
['Anamika et al recently published in this journal a sequence alignment analysis of protein kinases encoded by the chimpanzee genome in comparison to those in the human genome. From this analysis they concluded that several chimpanzee kinases have unusual domain arrangements.', "Re-examination of these kinases reveals claimed novel arrangements cannot withstand scrutiny; each is either not novel or represents over-analysis of weakly confident computer generated gene models. Additional sequence evidence available at the time of the paper's submission either directly contradict the gene models or suggest alternate gene models. These alternate models would minimize or eliminate the observed differences between human and chimp kinases."] Does re-examination of chimp protein kinases suggest `` novel architectures '' are gene prediction artifacts? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.6339709758758545,
0.27821284532546997,
1.464028000831604
] |
['Tetranectin (TN) is a plasminogen kringle 4 binding protein and regulates fibrinolysis and proteolytic processes via binding to plasminogen. A previous proteomics study identified TN in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of epileptic patients but not in healthy controls. We determined the concentrations of TN in CSF and serum of epileptic patients to evaluate the changes in TN levels after epileptic attack.', 'We detected TN in the CSF and serum of 64 epileptic patients and 26 healthy subjects using sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.', 'Compared with the control group, CSF-TN levels increased in epileptic patients while serum-TN levels decreased. These differences were statistically significant. The decrease of serum-TN in patients with drug-refractory epilepsy was the most striking.'] Is tetranectin a potential biomarker in cerebrospinal fluid and serum of patients with epilepsy? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.361799955368042,
-1.332409143447876,
2.7666921615600586
] |
['The accumulation of lipids in macrophages contributes to the development of atherosclerosis. Strategies to reduce lipid accumulation in macrophages may have therapeutic potential for preventing and treating atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications. The antidiabetic drug metformin has been reported to reduce lipid accumulation in adipocytes. In this study, we examined the effects of metformin on lipid accumulation in macrophages and investigated the mechanisms involved.', 'We observed that metformin significantly reduced palmitic acid (PA)-induced intracellular lipid accumulation in macrophages. Metformin promoted the expression of carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT-1), while reduced the expression of fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) which was involved in PA-induced lipid accumulation. Quantitative real-time PCR showed that metformin regulates FABP4 expression at the transcriptional level. We identified forkhead transcription factor FOXO1 as a positive regulator of FABP4 expression. Inhibiting FOXO1 expression with FOXO1 siRNA significantly reduced basal and PA-induced FABP4 expression. Overexpression of wild-type FOXO1 and constitutively active FOXO1 significantly increased FABP4 expression, whereas dominant negative FOXO1 dramatically decreased FABP4 expression. Metformin reduced FABP4 expression by promoting FOXO1 nuclear exclusion and subsequently inhibiting its activity.'] Does metformin reduce lipid accumulation in macrophages by inhibiting FOXO1-mediated transcription of fatty acid-binding protein 4? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4887826442718506,
-1.0509049892425537,
2.5675292015075684
] |
['Methods for measurement of local oxygen consumption (VO2) are required to allow development of treatments for kidney disease that target kidney oxygen dysregulation. In anaesthetized rabbits, we determined whether local oxygen disappearance rate (ODR) during complete renal ischaemia reflects tissue VO2 in the kidney and in hindlimb skeletal muscle (biceps femoris).', 'Whole kidney VO2 was determined under conditions employed to alter oxygen consumption. The ureter was ligated to reduce VO2 (n=6) or the mitochondrial uncoupler 2,4-dinitrophenol was administered to increase VO2 (n=6). An additional 10 rabbits were studied which received neither treatment. Immediately following VO2 measurements, oxygen partial pressure (PO2) was measured, over the first 60s after abrupt cardiac arrest, using fluorescence optodes and in a subset of experiments (n=6), Clark electrodes. Parallel experiments were performed in hindlimb skeletal muscle (biceps femoris).', 'ODR in the renal cortex and medulla, and in biceps femoris, was linear during the first approximately 15s after cardiac arrest (r(2) approximately 0.98). Using fluorescence optodes, maximum ODR averaged across all 22 rabbits in which the kidney was studied was -0.75+/-0.09 and -0.60+/-0.06 mm Hg/s respectively in the renal cortex and medulla. Maximum ODR averaged across all 10 rabbits in which the biceps femoris was studied was -0.30+/-0.06 mm Hg/s. ODR increased at greater initial PO2 only in the renal cortex. ODR in neither the renal medulla nor biceps femoris varied with whole organ VO2, although renal cortical ODR normalized for initial PO2 was significantly correlated with whole organ VO2 (r(2)=0.19). Maximum ODR obtained by Clark electrode was approximately four-fold greater than that obtained by fluorescence optode.'] Does local maximum oxygen disappearance rate have limited utility as a measure of local renal tissue oxygen consumption? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.8072459697723389,
-1.7950389385223389,
1.6082830429077148
] |
['Because adipose tissue is highly vascularized, modifying adipose tissue vasculature may provide a novel method for reducing body fat. A peptide sequence that elicits apoptosis of endothelium in white fat potently reduced body weight. We sought to determine how inhibiting adipose tissue vasculature changes key aspects of energy balance regulation and the neuroendocrine system that maintains energy balance.', 'Lean and obese mice or rats were treated with proapoptotic peptide for 4 or 27 days. Daily energy intake and expenditure were measured in mice on a low- (LFD) or high-fat diet (HFD) and in rats on a HFD. A conditioned taste aversion test was performed to assess whether proapoptotic peptide produces visceral illness. Hypothalamic neuropeptide Y, agouti-related peptide, and proopiomelanocoritin (POMC) mRNA expression and plasma leptin levels were evaluated.', 'Proapoptotic peptide completely reversed HFD-induced obesity in mice and reduced body weight in mice and rats on a HFD but not in those on a LFD. Fat loss occurred with no change of energy expenditure but reduced food intake that occurred without signs of illness and despite reduced circulating leptin and reduced hypothalamic POMC gene expression, indicating that the decrease in food intake is independent of the action of leptin.'] Does peptide designed to elicit apoptosis in adipose tissue endothelium reduce food intake and body weight? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.617281913757324,
-1.0311243534088135,
2.7083568572998047
] |
['To identify novel genes involved in osteoarthritis (OA), by means of a genome-wide association study.', 'We tested 500,510 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 1,341 Dutch Caucasian OA cases and 3,496 Dutch Caucasian controls. SNPs associated with at least 2 OA phenotypes were analyzed in 14,938 OA cases and approximately 39,000 controls. Meta-analyses were performed using the program Comprehensive Meta-analysis, with P values <1 x 10(-7) considered genome-wide significant.', 'The C allele of rs3815148 on chromosome 7q22 (minor allele frequency 23%; intron 12 of the COG5 gene) was associated with a 1.14-fold increased risk (95% confidence interval 1.09-1.19) of knee and/or hand OA (P = 8 x 10(-8)) and also with a 30% increased risk of knee OA progression (95% confidence interval 1.03-1.64) (P = 0.03). This SNP is in almost complete linkage disequilibrium with rs3757713 (68 kb upstream of GPR22), which is associated with GPR22 expression levels in lymphoblast cell lines (P = 4 x 10(-12)). Immunohistochemistry experiments revealed that G protein-coupled receptor protein 22 (GPR22) was absent in normal mouse articular cartilage or synovium. However, GPR22-positive chondrocytes were found in the upper layers of the articular cartilage of mouse knee joints that were challenged with in vivo papain treatment or methylated bovine serum albumin treatment. GPR22-positive chondrocyte-like cells were also found in osteophytes in instability-induced OA.'] Does a genome-wide association study identify an osteoarthritis susceptibility locus on chromosome 7q22? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1120030879974365,
-1.4302866458892822,
2.5937700271606445
] |
['Passive leg raising (PLR) is a maneuver performed to test the cardiac Frank-Starling mechanism. We assessed the influence of PLR-induced changes in preload on the performance of PLR-induced change in pulse pressure (Delta(PLR)PP) and cardiac output (Delta(PLR)CO) for fluid responsiveness prediction.', 'Sedated, nonarrhythmic patients with persistent shock were included in this prospective multicenter study. Cardiac output and pulse pressure were measured at baseline (patient supine), during PLR (lower limbs lifted to 45 degrees) and after 500-ml volume expansion. Patients were classified as responders or not.', 'In the whole population (n = 102), the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.76 for Delta(PLR)PP and was higher for Delta(PLR)CO (0.89)(p < 0.05), but likelihood ratios were close to 1. In patients with a PLR-induced increase in central venous pressure (CVP) of at least 2 mmHg (n = 49), Delta(PLR)PP and Delta(PLR)CO disclosed higher AUCs than in the rest of the population (0.91 vs. 0.66 and 0.98 vs. 0.83; p < 0.05); positive/negative likelihood ratios were 9.3/0.14 (8% cutoff level) and 30/0.07 (7% cutoff level), respectively.'] Do central venous pressure measurements improve the accuracy of leg raising-induced change in pulse pressure to predict fluid responsiveness? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7442246675491333,
-1.4384996891021729,
2.2474937438964844
] |
['To investigate the role of interleukin-17A (IL-17A) and Th17 cell in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), we studied the plasma IL-17A and the expression of Th17 cell transcription factor RORgammat in Chinese new-onset SLE patients.', 'Sixty SLE patients aged between 18 and 40 years and 56 age-matched healthy volunteers were involved in the study. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure plasma IL-17A level, and rea1-time fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to measure RORgammat mRNA.', 'The results showed that both IL-17A level and RORgammat mRNA in SLE patients were higher than that of controls. Correlation analysis indicated that plasma IL-17A level was positively correlated with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index, not with RORgammat mRNA.'] Is plasma IL-17A increased in new-onset SLE patients and associated with disease activity? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.242324113845825,
-1.264876127243042,
2.548872470855713
] |
['Intractable constipation in children is an uncommon but debilitating condition. When medical therapy fails, surgery is warranted; but the optimal surgical approach has not been clearly defined. We reviewed our experience with operative management of intractable constipation to identify predictors of success and to compare outcomes after 3 surgical approaches: antegrade continence enema (ACE), enteral diversion, and primary resection.', 'A retrospective review of pediatric patients undergoing ACE, diversion, or resection for intractable, idiopathic constipation from 1994 to 2007 was performed. Satisfactory outcome was defined as minimal fecal soiling and passage of stool at least every other day (ACE, resection) or functional enterostomy without abdominal distension (diversion).', 'Forty-four patients (range = 1-26 years, mean = 9 years) were included. Sixteen patients underwent ACE, 19 underwent primary diversion (5 ileostomy, 14 colostomy), and 9 had primary colonic resections. Satisfactory outcomes were achieved in 63%, 95%, and 22%, respectively. Of the 19 patients diverted, 14 had intestinal continuity reestablished at a mean of 27 months postdiversion, with all of these having a satisfactory outcome at an average follow-up of 56 months. Five patients underwent closure of the enterostomy without resection, whereas the remainder underwent resection of dysmotile colon based on preoperative colonic manometry studies. Of those undergoing ACE procedures, age younger than 12 years was a predictor of success, whereas preoperative colonic manometry was not predictive of outcome. Second manometry 1 year post-ACE showed improvement in all patients tested. On retrospective review, patient noncompliance contributed to ACE failure.'] Are antegrade colonic enemas and intestinal diversion highly effective in the management of children with intractable constipation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9446240663528442,
-1.4258198738098145,
2.361487865447998
] |
['To identify whether cytokines, cytokine-related factors, and chemokines are up-regulated prior to the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).', 'A nested case-control study was performed in 86 individuals who had donated blood samples before experiencing any symptoms of disease (pre-patients) and 256 matched control subjects (1:3 ratio). In 69 of the pre-patients, blood samples were also obtained at the time of the diagnosis of RA. The plasma levels of 30 cytokines, related factors, and chemokines were measured using a multiplex system.', 'The levels of several of the cytokines, cytokine receptors, and chemokines were significantly increased in individuals before disease onset compared with the levels in control subjects; i.e., those representing signs of general immune activation (interleukin-1beta [IL-1beta], IL-2, IL-6, IL-1 receptor antagonist, and tumor necrosis factor), activation of Th1 cells (interferon-gamma, IL-12), Th2 cells (IL-4, eotaxin), Treg cells (IL-10), bone marrow-derived factors (IL-7, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor), as well as chemokines (monocyte chemotactic protein 1 and macrophage inflammatory protein 1alpha). The levels were particularly increased in anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody- and rheumatoid factor-positive individuals, and the concentration of most of these increased further after disease onset. The concentration of IL-17 in individuals before disease onset was significantly higher than that in patients after disease onset. Individuals in whom RA subsequently developed were discriminated from control subjects mainly by the presence of Th1 cells, Th2 cells, and Treg cell-related cytokines, while chemokines, stromal cell-derived cytokines, and angiogenic-related markers separated patients after the development of RA from individuals before the onset of RA.'] Does up-regulation of cytokines and chemokines predate the onset of rheumatoid arthritis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3561394214630127,
-1.3206868171691895,
2.7444825172424316
] |
["The aim of this study was to study the effect of caveolin-1 on the cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) and nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB) in mouse lung alveolar type-1 cells' (AT-1 cells) inflammatory response induced by LPS.", 'Gene clone technique was used to over-express caveolin-1 in AT-1 cells by lentivirus vector. The level of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin 6 (IL-6), cPLA2, p38 MAPK and NF-kappaB was measured by ELISA, western blotting and EMSA.', 'AT-1 cells were treated with LPS.', 'Over-expression of caveolin-1 not only increased the production of pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha and IL-6, but also enhanced the expression of the cPLA2, p38 MAPK, and NF-kappaB.'] Do over-expression of caveolin-1 aggravate LPS-induced inflammatory response in AT-1 cells via up-regulation of cPLA2/p38 MAPK? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4384806156158447,
-1.2718298435211182,
2.7196338176727295
] |
["Population breast cancer screening programs by mammography are offered to women based on age. It has been suggested that a screening program based on genetic risk profile could be more effective by targeting interventions at those at higher genetic risk. This study explores women's attitudes towards genetic testing for breast cancer susceptibility in order to target breast cancer prevention.", 'A qualitative study was conducted using 4 focus groups with 26 women aged 42-73 years. Women were selected irrespective of personal or family history of breast cancer. Discussions were audiotaped and content analyzed.', 'The results show that in general women are positive towards a breast cancer screening program based on genetic risk profile, provided that in the low-risk group, though less frequent, women are still offered mammography screening (i.e. right to screening (a)). Other themes that women addressed were: (b) value of the genetic risk information (e.g. possibilities for cancer prevention at younger ages, less screening burden for low-risk women), (c) personal autonomy (e.g. free choice to undergo testing), (d) dealing with test results (e.g. burden of risk, motivation to reduce the risk), (e) discrimination, and (f) financial aspects and priority (e.g. with respect to other health care programs).'] Is ' A low risk still a risk ' : exploring women 's attitudes towards genetic testing for breast cancer susceptibility in order to target disease prevention? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-3.0489532947540283,
2.111377477645874,
0.155706524848938
] |
['The aging population has resulted in more patients living with cardiovascular disease, such as atrial fibrillation (AF). Recent focus has been placed on understanding the long-term consequences of chronic cardiovascular disease, such as a potential increased risk of dementia.', 'This study sought to determine whether there is an association between AF and dementia and whether their coexistence is an independent marker of risk.', "A total of 37,025 consecutive patients from the large ongoing prospective Intermountain Heart Collaborative Study database were evaluated and followed up for a mean of 5 years for the development of AF and dementia. Dementia was sub-typed into vascular (VD), senile (SD), Alzheimer's (AD), and nonspecified (ND).", 'Of the 37,025 patients with a mean age of 60.6 +/- 17.9 years, 10,161 (27%) developed AF and 1,535 (4.1%) developed dementia (179 VD, 321 SD, 347 AD, 688 ND) during the 5-year follow-up. Patients with dementia were older and had higher rates of hypertension, coronary artery disease, renal failure, heart failure, and prior strokes. In age-based analysis, AF independently was significantly associated with all dementia types. The highest risk was in the younger group (<70). After dementia diagnosis, the presence of AF was associated with a marked increased risk of mortality (VD: hazard ratio [HR] = 1.38, P = .01; SD: HR = 1.41, P = .001; AD: HR = 1.45; ND: HR = 1.38, P <.0001).'] Is atrial fibrillation independently associated with senile , vascular , and Alzheimer 's dementia? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.5498794317245483,
-1.5466113090515137,
1.0184648036956787
] |
['Studying risk-adjusted outcomes in health care relies on statistical approaches to handling missing data. The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) provides risk-adjusted assessments of surgical programs, traditionally imputing certain missing data points using a single round of multivariable imputation. Such imputation assumes that data are missing at random-without systematic bias-and does not incorporate estimation uncertainty. Alternative approaches, including using multiple imputation to incorporate uncertainty or using an indicator of missingness, can enhance robustness of evaluations.', 'One year of de-identified data from the ACS NSQIP, representing 117 institutions and 106,113 patients, was analyzed. Using albumin variables as the missing data modeled, several imputation/adjustment models were compared, including the traditional NSQIP imputation, a new single imputation, a multiple imputation, and use of a missing indicator.', 'Coefficients for albumin values changed under new single imputation and multiple imputation approaches. Multiple imputation resulted in increased standard errors, as expected. An indicator of missingness was highly explanatory, disproving the missing-at-random assumption. The effects of changes in approach differed for different outcomes, such as mortality and morbidity, and effects were greatest in smaller datasets. However, ultimate changes in patient risk assessment and institutional assessment were minimal.'] Are missing data in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program missing at random : implications and potential impact on quality assessments? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.648378610610962,
0.4053501784801483,
1.437652826309204
] |
['To evaluate the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying abnormal glucose tolerance in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).', 'Case-control study.', 'Academic hospital.', 'One hundred twelve patients with PCOS and 86 nonhyperandrogenic control women of similar age and body mass index (BMI).', 'An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) served to explore glucose tolerance and to calculate insulin sensitivity, insulin secretion, and insulin disposition indexes.', 'Frequency of abnormal glucose tolerance, indexes of insulin sensitivity, secretion and disposition, and markers of inflammation, androgen excess, and iron stores.', 'Obesity and age, but not PCOS, were associated with an increased frequency of abnormal glucose tolerance and diabetes. An imbalance between insulin resistance and secretion--translated into decreased insulin disposition index--predicted abnormal glucose tolerance in patients with PCOS and controls, yet these women differed in the factors associated with decreased insulin disposition. In patients with PCOS, hyperandrogenism, chronic inflammation, and family history of diabetes contributed to insulin resistance as the main pathogenetic mechanism. In nonhyperandrogenic women, familial aggregation of defective insulin secretion, adiposity, and increased body iron stores explained most of the decrease in insulin disposition.'] Are the determinants of insulin sensitivity , β-cell function , and glucose tolerance different in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome than in women who do not have hyperandrogenism? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5973756313323975,
-0.9013717174530029,
2.6051645278930664
] |
['The hedgehog (Hh) pathway has been implicated in the pathogenesis of cancer including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Recent studies have suggested that the oncogenic function of Hh in PDAC involves signaling in the stromal cells rather than cell autonomous effects on the tumor cells. However, the origin and nature of the stromal cell type(s) that are responsive to Hh signaling remained unknown. Since Hh signaling plays a crucial role during embryonic and postnatal vasculogenesis, we speculated that Hh ligand may act on tumor vasculature specifically focusing on bone marrow (BM)-derived cells.', 'Cyclopamine was utilized to inhibit the Hh pathway in human PDAC cell lines and their xenografts. BM transplants, co-culture systems of tumor cells and BM-derived pro-angiogenic cells (BMPCs) were employed to assess the role of tumor-derived Hh in regulating the BM compartment and the contribution of BM-derived cells to angiogenesis in PDAC. Cyclopamine administration attenuated Hh signaling in the stroma rather than in the cancer cells as reflected by decreased expression of full length Gli2 protein and Gli1 mRNA specifically in the compartment. Cyclopamine inhibited the growth of PDAC xenografts in association with regression of the tumor vasculature and reduced homing of BM-derived cells to the tumor. Host-derived Ang-1 and IGF-1 mRNA levels were downregulated by cyclopamine in the tumor xenografts. In vitro co-culture and matrigel plug assays demonstrated that PDAC cell-derived Shh induced Ang-1 and IGF-1 production in BMPCs, resulting in their enhanced migration and capillary morphogenesis activity.'] Does hedgehog promote neovascularization in pancreatic cancers by regulating Ang-1 and IGF-1 expression in bone-marrow derived pro-angiogenic cells? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4317662715911865,
-1.2710137367248535,
2.7726683616638184
] |
['The Epithelial Na(+) Channel (ENaC) plays a central role in control of epithelial surface hydration and vascular volume. Similar to other ion channels, ENaC activity is regulated, in part, by cortical cytoskeleton. Besides, the cytoskeleton is an established target for small G proteins signaling. Here we studied whether ENaC activity is modulated by changes in the state of the cytoskeleton and whether cytoskeletal elements are involved in small G protein mediated increase of ENaC activity.', 'First, the functional importance of the cytoskeleton was established with whole-cell patch clamp experiments recording ENaC reconstituted in CHO cells. Pretreatment with Cytochalasin D (CytD; 10 microg/ml; 1-2 h) or colchicine (500 microM; 1-3 h) to disassembly F-actin and destroy microtubules, respectively, significantly decreased amiloride sensitive current. However, acute application of CytD induced rapid increase in macroscopic current. Single channel measurements under cell-attached conditions revealed similar observations. CytD rapidly increased ENaC activity in freshly isolated rat collecting duct, polarized epithelial mouse mpkCCD(c14) cells and HEK293 cells transiently transfected with ENaC subunits. In contrast, colchicine did not have an acute effect on ENaC activity. Small G proteins RhoA, Rac1 and Rab11a markedly increase ENaC activity. 1-2 h treatment with colchicine or CytD abolished effects of these GTPases. Interestingly, when cells were coexpressed with ENaC and RhoA, short-term treatment with CytD decreased ENaC activity.'] Is intact cytoskeleton required for small G protein dependent activation of the epithelial Na+ channel? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4385931491851807,
-1.3450355529785156,
2.8669514656066895
] |
['Leptospirosis is a zoonosis of worldwide distribution caused by infection with pathogenic serovars of Leptospira spp. The most common species, L. interrogans, can survive in the environment for lengthy periods of time in between infection of mammalian hosts. Transmission of pathogenic Leptospira to humans mostly occurs through abraded skin or mucosal surfaces after direct or indirect contact with infected animals or contaminated soil or water. The spirochete then spreads hematogenously, resulting in multi-organ failure and death in severe cases. Previous DNA microarray studies have identified differentially expressed genes required for adaptation to temperature and osmolarity conditions inside the host compared to those of the environment.', 'In order to identify genes involved in survival in the early spirochetemic phase of infection, we performed a transcriptional analysis of L. interrogans serovar Copenhageni upon exposure to serum in comparison with EMJH medium. One hundred and sixty-eight genes were found to be differentially expressed, of which 55 were up-regulated and 113 were down-regulated. Genes of known or predicted function accounted for 54.5 and 45.1% of up- and down-regulated genes, respectively. Most of the differentially expressed genes were predicted to be involved in transcriptional regulation, translational process, two-component signal transduction systems, cell or membrane biogenesis, and metabolic pathways.'] Do global transcriptomic response of Leptospira interrogans serovar Copenhageni upon exposure to serum? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4999024868011475,
-1.0657403469085693,
2.74767804145813
] |
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