sot_question
stringlengths 42
9.8k
| ds_name
stringclasses 8
values | pred_label
int64 0
2
| logits
sequencelengths 3
3
|
|---|---|---|---|
['Hurricane Katrina made landfall in August 2005 and destroyed the infrastructure ofNew Orleans. Mass evacuation ensued. The immediate and long-lasting impact of these events on the mental health of children have been reported in survey research. This study was done to describe the nature of mental health need of children during the four years after Hurricane Katrina using clinical data from a comprehensive healthcare program. Medical and mental health services were delivered on mobile clinics that traveled to medically underserved communities on a regular schedule beginning immediately after the hurricane. Patients were self-selected residents of New Orleans. Most had incomes below the federal poverty level and were severely affected by the hurricane.', 'Paper charts of pediatric mental health patients were reviewed for visits beginning with the establishment of the mental health program from 01 July 2007 through 30 June 2009 (n = 296). Demographics, referral sources, presenting problems, diagnoses, and qualitative data describing Katrina-related traumatic exposures were abstracted. Psychosocial data were abstracted from medical charts. Data were coded and processed for demographic, referral, and diagnostic trends.', 'Mental health service needs continued unabated throughout this period (two to nearly four years post-event). In 2008, 29% of pediatric primary care patients presented with mental health or developmental/learning problems, including the need for intensive case management. The typical presentation of pediatric mental health patients was a disruptive behavior disorder with an underlying mood or anxiety disorder. Qualitative descriptive data are presented to illustrate the traumatic post-disaster experience of many children. School referrals for mental health evaluation and services were overwhelmingly made for disruptive behavior disorders. Pediatric referrals were more nuanced, reflecting underlying mood and anxiety disorders. Histories indicated that many missed opportunities for earlier identification and intervention.'] Does persistence of mental health need among children affected by Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-2.23728346824646,
1.0708239078521729,
0.3235400319099426
] |
["To study the brain protection of baicalin on rats with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and its probable mechanism of action.", 'Thirty-six male healthy Wistar rats were randomly divided into the sham-operative group, the AD group, and the baicalin group, twelve in each. beta-amyloid protein 1-40 was injected to the bilateral hippocampus of rats in the AD group and the baicalin group to establish the AD rat model. The sham operation was performed to rats of the sham-operative group in the same way. Equal volume of 0.9% sodium chloride solution was injected to the bilateral hippocampus of rats in the sham-operative group. Baicalin was intraperitoneally injected at the daily dose of 40 mg/kg to rats in the baicalin group before and after operation, once daily for 7 successive days. Equal volume of buffer solution was intraperitoneally injected to rats in the sham-operative group and the AD group in the same procedures at the same time points. The expression of hippocampal cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) was determined by Western blot. The spatial learning memory capacities was observed using T-morris test. Histological changes were observed using hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining.', 'Results of the T-morris test showed the spontaneous alternation selective ratio decreased in the AD group (28.33% +/- 7.50%) and the baicalin group (38.33% +/- 7.50%) (both P < 0.05) when compared with the sham-operative group (61.67% +/- 7.50%). There was significant difference between the AD group and the baicalin group (P < 0.05). Results of HE staining showed degeneration and necrosis of cortical and hippocampal neurons in the AD group and the baicalin group. Changes in the AD group were more obvious. Results of Western blot showed the expression of hippocampal cyclooxygenase (COX-2) obviously increased in the AD group, while it obviously decreased in the baicalin group (P < 0.05).'] Does [ Baicalin suppress beta-amyloid protein induced hippocampal cyclooxygenase-2 expression ]? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.904173731803894,
-1.5424575805664062,
2.4458982944488525
] |
['Based on a report of a marked increase in the erythropoietin concentration ([EPO]) a few hours after the cessation of a single 2-h session of O(2) breathing, short periods of O(2) administration have been advocated as a therapy for anaemia. Accordingly, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate this theory by investigating the effect of 10 daily short-term exposures to normobaric O(2) over a 2-week period on the plasma [EPO] in healthy individuals.', 'Twenty men were assigned to either an experimental (NBO(2)) or to a control (AIR) group. The NBO(2) group breathed 100% normobaric O(2) for 2 h every weekday over a 2-week period. The AIR group breathed air within the same time protocol. Blood samples were collected at the pre-, mid- and post-intervention periods to determine [EPO].', '[EPO] of the NBO(2) group was significantly lower than that of the AIR group during the mid- and post-periods (P < 0·001). [EPO] of the NBO(2) group showed a slight, albeit statistically nonsignificant, decrease during the mid (∼11%)- and post (∼16%)-periods.'] Do long-term intermittent hyperoxic exposures enhance erythropoiesis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.0257341861724854,
-1.375506043434143,
2.448244571685791
] |
['Postconditioning (PostC) inhibits myocardial apoptosis after ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. The JAK2-STAT3 pathway has anti-apoptotic effects and plays an essential role in the late protection of preconditioning. Our aim was to investigate the anti-apoptotic effect of PostC after prolonged reperfusion and the role of the JAK2-STAT3 pathway in the anti-apoptotic effect of PostC.', 'Wistar rats were subjected to 30 minutes ischemia and 2 or 24 hours (h) reperfusion, with or without PostC (three cycles of 10 seconds reperfusion and 10 seconds reocclusion at the onset of reperfusion). Separate groups of rats were treated with a JAK2 inhibitor (AG490) or a PI3K inhibitor (wortmannin) 5 minutes before PostC. Immunohistochemistry was used to analyze Bcl-2 protein levels after reperfusion. mRNA levels of Bcl-2 were detected by qRT-PCR. TTC staining was used to detect myocardial infarction size. Myocardial apoptosis was evaluated by TUNEL staining. Western-blot was used to detect p-STAT3 and p-Akt levels after reperfusion.', 'There was more myocardial apoptosis at 24 h vs 2 h after reperfusion in all groups. PostC significantly reduced myocardial apoptosis and elevated Bcl-2 levels at both 2 and 24 hours after reperfusion. PostC increased p-STAT3 and p-Akt levels after reperfusion. Administration of AG490 reduced p-STAT3 and p-Akt levels and attenuated the anti-apoptotic effect of PostC. Wortmannin also reduced p-Akt levels and attenuated the anti-apoptotic effect of PostC but had no effect on p-STAT3 levels. AG490 abrogated the up-regulation of Bcl-2 by PostC.'] Does postconditioning inhibit myocardial apoptosis during prolonged reperfusion via a JAK2-STAT3-Bcl-2 pathway? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.229079484939575,
-1.4254429340362549,
2.6666200160980225
] |
['With increased access to antiretroviral treatment (ART), immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB)-infected populations remains a clinical challenge. We studied a cross-sectional cohort of HIV-infected subjects in Johannesburg (South Africa) to help define the immune correlates that best distinguish IRIS from ongoing MTB cases.', 'We studied HIV+ subjects developing MTB-related unmasking tuberculosis-related immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (uTB-IRIS) after ART initiation; control groups were subjects with HIV and HIV/tuberculosis-coinfected subjects with comparable ART treatment. Testing was conducted with whole blood-based 4-color flow cytometry and plasma-based Luminex cytokine assessment.', 'Natural killer cell activation, C-reactive protein, and interleukin 8 serum concentration were significantly higher in uTB-IRIS subjects compared with both control groups. In addition, all MTB-coinfected subjects, independent of clinical presentation, had higher neutrophils and T-cell activation, together with lower lymphocytes, CD4⁺ T-cell, and myeloid dendritic cell counts. Using conditional inference tree analysis, we show that elevated natural killer cell activation in combination with lymphocyte count characterizes the immunological profile of uTB-IRIS.'] Does natural killer cell activation distinguish Mycobacterium tuberculosis-mediated immune reconstitution syndrome from chronic HIV and HIV/MTB coinfection? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.466815948486328,
-1.184464693069458,
2.7711668014526367
] |
['Two genome-wide association studies on gastric cancer showed a previously unknown gastric cancer susceptible locus in PLCE1 at 10q23. We hypothesized that the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs2274223 A/G is associated with the survival rate of gastric cancer.', 'We genotyped the above SNP in 940 gastric cancer patients to investigate the association between the polymorphism and gastric cancer survival by the TaqMan method.', 'We found that patients carrying PLCE1 rs2274223 AA genotype survived for a significantly shorter time than those carrying the AG and GG genotypes (log-rank P = 0.046). This significance was enhanced in the dominant model (AA vs. AG/GG, log-rank P = 0.014). Multivariate Cox regression analyses showed that the AG/GG genotypes were associated with a significantly decreased risk of death from gastric cancer [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 0.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.65-0.95]. Most of stratification analysis did not find an enhanced association between the same genotype and prognosis, except for patients with TNM stage III disease (HR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.48-0.83).'] Is genetic variation in PLCE1 associated with gastric cancer survival in a Chinese population? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.5430406332015991,
-1.4614676237106323,
2.0837080478668213
] |
['To identify the genetic risk factors that influence the development of electrocardiographic (ECG) left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), a major risk factor for cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality.', 'We performed a genomewide association study (GWAS) of ECG-LVH, in which the community-based Korea Association REsource (KARE) study (8432 controls and 398 cases) was analysed by Affymetrix SNP array 5.0. The GWAS results were validated in hospital-based samples (597 controls and 207 cases). Fourteen single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in eight genetic loci (5q35.1, 6p22.3-22.1, 8q24.2, 11p15, 11q21-22.1, 14q12, 17q11.2, and 19q13.1) were associated with ECG-LVH in the original GWAS study (P < 1 × 10(-5)). Of these SNPs, 12 were genotyped in the hospital sample. There was consistent association with the 19q13.1 region which contains RYR1 gene. The most significant SNP in the region was rs10500279, which had genomewide significance in the combined GWAS/replication sample [odds ratio = 1.58 (confidence interval: 1.35-1.85), P = 1.0 × 10(-8)]. Mutations in RYR1, which encodes a major Ca(2+) channel in the skeletal muscle, have been reported to correlate with CV diseases.'] Are common variants in RYR1 associated with left ventricular hypertrophy assessed by electrocardiogram? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.010333299636841,
-1.3843417167663574,
2.4337828159332275
] |
['Early detection and following appropriate treatments of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still the gold standard for favored outcome of HCC patients; nevertheless, a small portion of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related small HCC (<5 cm) patients got poor prognosis. Furthermore, the study for small HBV-HCC was limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the potential genetic signature for HBV-related small HCC as novel prognostic factors.', 'We examined expression profiles of HBV-related small HCC using an Affymetrix U133A GeneChip, evaluated differential gene expression by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and finally validated these expression patterns by immunohistochemistry (IHC).', "A total of 57 genes were differentially expressed between tumor and normal parts (n = 20 pairs) using Affymetrix U133A chip, and 16 genes were further evaluated by qRT-PCR. The result was compatible with the finding of oligonucleotide microarray (Pearson's correlation, r = 0.87). Furthermore, the expression pattern in HCC tissue by IHC in another group of small HBV-HCC (n = 100) showed overexpression of either osteopontin (OPN) or glypican 3 (GPC3) is an independent prognostic factor for disease-free survival (DFS) in HBV-positive small HCC (P < 0.01 and 0.03, respectively). Long-term DFS and overall survival (OS) for small HBV-HCC patients with high risk (both elevated GPC3(+)/OPN(+)) were DFS 0%, OS 0%, respectively; on the other hand, DFS and OS in patients with moderate (only 1 gene elevated) or low (OPN(-)/GPC3(-)) risk were 35.0 and 46.5%, respectively."] Are recurrence and poor prognosis following resection of small hepatitis B-related hepatocellular carcinoma lesions associated with aberrant tumor expression profiles of glypican 3 and osteopontin? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.8742622137069702,
-1.6036689281463623,
2.4694576263427734
] |
['Mosaic G-protein alpha-subunit (GNAS)-activating mutations are responsible for the McCune-Albright (MCA) syndrome. This oncogene that activates the adenylate cyclase is also mutated in various tumor types leading to the accumulation of cyclic-AMP. Identification of a hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) in two MCA patients led us to search for GNAS activation in benign and malignant hepatocellular carcinogenesis.', 'GNAS mutations were screened by sequencing 164 HCA, 245 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and 17 fibrolamellar carcinomas. Tumors were characterized by quantitative RT-PCR, gene mutation screening and pathological reviewing. The consequences of wild type and mutant GNAS expression were analyzed in hepatocellular cell lines.', 'A somatic GNAS-activating mutation was identified in 5 benign tumors and in 2 HCC. In benign tumors, GNAS mutations were exclusive from HNF1A, CTNNB1, and IL6ST mutations whereas one HCC demonstrated both CTNNB1 and GNAS mutations. Quantitative RT-PCR showed an activation of the IL-6 and interferon pathways in GNAS-mutated tumor tissues. Accordingly, pathological reviewing identified in GNAS-mutated tumors an inflammatory phenotype characterized by fibrosis and STAT3 activation. We further demonstrated in HCC cell lines that GNAS mutant expression induced inflammatory response and STAT3 activation.'] Do gNAS-activating mutations define a rare subgroup of inflammatory liver tumors characterized by STAT3 activation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.415637493133545,
-1.2517690658569336,
2.736407995223999
] |
['To determine the volume and degree of asymmetry of iliopsoas (IL) and gluteal muscles (GL) in tennis and soccer players.', 'IL and GL volumes were determined using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in male professional tennis (TP) and soccer players (SP), and in non-active control subjects (CG) (n\u200a=\u200a8, 15 and 6, respectively).', 'The dominant and non-dominant IL were hypertrophied in TP (24 and 36%, respectively, P<0.05) and SP (32 and 35%, respectively, P<0.05). In TP the asymmetric hypertrophy of IL (13% greater volume in the non-dominant than in the dominant IL, P<0.01) reversed the side-to-side relationship observed in CG (4% greater volume in the dominant than in the contralateral IL, P<0.01), whilst soccer players had similar volumes in both sides (P\u200a=\u200a0.87). The degree of side-to-side asymmetry decreased linearly from the first lumbar disc to the pubic symphysis in TP (r\u200a=\u200a-0.97, P<0.001), SP (r\u200a=\u200a-0.85, P<0.01) and CG (r\u200a=\u200a-0.76, P<0.05). The slope of the relationship was lower in SP due to a greater hypertrophy of the proximal segments of the dominant IL. Soccer and CG had similar GL volumes in both sides (P\u200a=\u200a0.11 and P\u200a=\u200a0.19, for the dominant and contralateral GL, respectively). GL was asymmetrically hypertrophied in TP. The non-dominant GL volume was 20% greater in TP than in CG (P<0.05), whilst TP and CG had similar dominant GL volumes (P\u200a=\u200a0.14).'] Are iliopsoas and gluteal muscles asymmetric in tennis players but not in soccer players? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.153510570526123,
-1.7297673225402832,
1.8804142475128174
] |
['Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a multipotent cell type that can differentiate into non-hematopoietic cells, such as adipocytes. Adipocyte tissue is central to the regulation of energy balance. Two functionally different types of fat are present in mammals. White adipose tissue is the primary site for triglyceride storage, while brown adipose tissue is specialized in energy expenditure. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1α) controls several aspects of mitochondrial biogenesis. In this study, we hypothesized that PGC-1α plays a role in brown fat differentiation of MSCs.', 'Immortalized human MSCs were infected with adenovirus carrying PGC-1α cDNA to create PGC-1α-expressing MSCs.', 'The genetic profiling of PGC-1α-expressing MSCs shows the significant increase of genes related to mitochondrial functions and lipid metabolism compared to that of MSCs. When expressed in MSCs, PGC-1α activates robust mitochondrial biogenesis and respiration. The increase of oxygen consumption and reactive oxygen species represents a cellular readout of increased activity of the respiratory chain. The expression of thermogenic markers, such as cytochrome C and complex II, was significantly increased in MSCs with treatment of adenovirus expressing PGC-1α. Moreover, PGC-1α markedly inhibited the osteogenesis of MSCs under osteogenic induction. During adipogenesis, PGC-1α-expressing MSCs showed a significant increase in brown fat markers and a decrease in white fat markers. Notably, PGC-1α knockdown inhibited adipocyte differentiation of MSCs.'] Does pGC-1α mediate differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells to brown adipose cells? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.421293020248413,
-1.2185007333755493,
2.6528682708740234
] |
['Despite recent progress, therapy for metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CCRCC) is still inadequate. Dysregulated Notch signaling in CCRCC contributes to tumor growth, but the full spectrum of downstream processes regulated by Notch in this tumor form is unknown.', "We show that inhibition of endogenous Notch signaling modulates TGF-β dependent gene regulation in CCRCC cells. Analysis of gene expression data representing 176 CCRCCs showed that elevated TGF-β pathway activity correlated significantly with shortened disease specific survival (log-rank test, p\u200a=\u200a0.006) and patients with metastatic disease showed a significantly elevated TGF-β signaling activity (two-sided Student's t-test, p\u200a=\u200a0.044). Inhibition of Notch signaling led to attenuation of both basal and TGF-β1 induced TGF-β signaling in CCRCC cells, including an extensive set of genes known to be involved in migration and invasion. Functional analyses revealed that Notch inhibition decreased the migratory and invasive capacity of CCRCC cells."] Do the notch and TGF-β signaling pathways contribute to the aggressiveness of clear cell renal cell carcinoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4226386547088623,
-1.1784825325012207,
2.6421284675598145
] |
["Previous studies have observed decreased serum CRP levels in patients with established Alzheimer's disease (AD) compared to controls or other diagnostic groups of elderly patients with mental illness.", 'We have investigated the relation between CRP level and the severity of AD as assessed by cognitive function, brain imaging and survival time.', 'Patients with AD showed overall lower CRP levels than other patients with mental illness, but elevated CRP levels in these patients were associated with lower cognitive function and shorter survival time.'] Is c-reactive protein level decreased in patients with Alzheimer 's disease and related to cognitive function and survival time? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.662033796310425,
-0.020488426089286804,
1.7891323566436768
] |
['Information on the significance of dental care in older adults is limited. We hypothesized that regular dental visits has an effect on the number of remaining teeth and periodontal conditions in older subjects.', '1020 randomly selected individuals age 60 - 96 from the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care Blekinge received a comprehensive oral health examination.', 'Dentate women and men had, on average 18.4 teeth (SD +7.6,) and 18.9 teeth (SD + 7.5) respectively (NS). In the youngest group (60 and 66 years old) with less than one dental visit per year, 37% had >20 teeth, compared with 73% among those with at least annual visits. Among the old-old, comparable figures were 1.8 % and 37% respectively. Across age groups, bleeding on probing was 23 %.When adjusting for age, and number of teeth GLM univariate analysis failed to demonstrate an effect of dental visit frequency on alveolar bone loss (p = 0.18), the number of periapical lesions (p = 0.65), or the number of endodontically treated teeth ( p = 0.41). Frequent dental visitors had more teeth than infrequent visitors (p = 0.001).'] Does a history of frequent dental care reduce the risk of tooth loss but not periodontitis in older subjects? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.8647110462188721,
-0.17513877153396606,
0.13500827550888062
] |
['The causes for the higher biodiversity in the Neotropics as compared to the Nearctic and the factors promoting species diversification in each region have been much debated. The refuge hypothesis posits that high tropical diversity reflects high speciation rates during the Pleistocene, but this conclusion has been challenged. The present study investigates this matter by examining continental patterns of avian diversification through the analysis of large-scale DNA barcode libraries.', 'Standardized COI datasets from the avifaunas of Argentina, the Nearctic, and the Palearctic were analyzed. Average genetic distances between closest congeners and sister species were higher in Argentina than in North America reflecting a much higher percentage of recently diverged species in the latter region. In the Palearctic genetic distances between closely related species appeared to be more similar to those of the southern Neotropics. Average intraspecific variation was similar in Argentina and North America, while the Palearctic fauna had a higher value due to a higher percentage of variable species. Geographic patterning of intraspecific structure was more complex in the southern Neotropics than in the Nearctic, while the Palearctic showed an intermediate level of complexity.'] Do dNA barcode libraries provide insight into continental patterns of avian diversification? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-2.392878293991089,
1.3810657262802124,
0.23719701170921326
] |
['HIV-1 vertically infected children in the USA are living into adolescence and beyond with the widespread use of antiretroviral drugs. These patients exhibit striking differences in the rate of HIV-1 disease progression which could provide insights into mechanisms of control. We hypothesized that differences in the pattern of immunodomination including breadth, magnitude and polyfunctionality of HIV-1 specific CD8+ T cell response could partially explain differences in progression rate.', 'In this study, we mapped, quantified, and assessed the functionality of these responses against individual HIV-1 Gag peptides in 58 HIV-1 vertically infected adolescents. Subjects were divided into two groups depending upon the rate of disease progression: adolescents with a sustained CD4%≥25 were categorized as having no immune suppression (NS), and those with CD4%≤15 categorized as having severe immune suppression (SS). We observed differences in the area of HIV-1-Gag to which the two groups made responses. In addition, subjects who expressed the HLA- B*57 or B*42 alleles were highly likely to restrict their immunodominant response through these alleles. There was a significantly higher frequency of naïve CD8+ T cells in the NS subjects (p\u200a=\u200a0.0066) compared to the SS subjects. In contrast, there were no statistically significant differences in any other CD8+ T cell subsets. The differentiation profiles and multifunctionality of Gag-specific CD8+ T cells, regardless of immunodominance, also failed to demonstrate meaningful differences between the two groups.'] Does immunodominance of HIV-1 specific CD8+ T-cell responses is relate to disease progression rate in vertically infected adolescents? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.042389392852783,
-1.1991515159606934,
2.307339906692505
] |
['Preconception and pregnancy dietary intakes can influence the health of future generations. In this study we compared the food intakes of reproductive-aged women by pregnancy status, to current Australian recommendations.', "Data are from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health, younger cohort aged 25-30 years in 2003, with self-reported status as pregnant (n = 606), trying to conceive (n = 454), given birth in the last 12 months (n = 829) or other (n = 5597). Diet was assessed using a validated 74-item food frequency questionnaire. Food group servings and nutrient intakes were compared to the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating (AGHE) and Australian Nutrient Reference Values (NRVs).", 'No women met all AGHE food group recommendations. Highest adherence rates [mean (95% CI) servings/day] were for meat [85%, 1.9(1.8-1.9)], fruit [44%, 2.1(2.1-2.2)] and dairy [35%, 1.8(1.8-1.9)], with < 14% meeting remaining recommendations. Women who achieved NRVs (folate, iron, calcium, zinc, fibre) for pregnancy, breastfeeding and adult life stages were 1.5%, 3.3% and 13.7%, respectively. Compared to AGHE, women consumed more servings of fruit (4.9 vs 4.0;P = 0.034) and dairy (3.4 vs 2.0;P = 0.006) to achieve pregnancy NRVs; more dairy (2.9 vs 2.0;P = 0.001), less fruit (3.9 vs 5.0;P < .001) and vegetables (3.4 vs 7.0;P < .001) to achieve breastfeeding NRVs; more fruit (3.6 vs 3.0;P < .001), dairy (2.5 vs 2.0;P < .001), meat (1.8 vs 1.5;P = 0.015), less vegetables (3.6 vs 5.0;P < .001) to achieve adult NRVs.'] Do disparities exist between National food group recommendations and the dietary intakes of women? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 0 | [
0.16830456256866455,
-0.6584616899490356,
-0.4290043115615845
] |
['Streptococcus suis causes invasive infections in pigs and occasionally in humans. The host innate immune system plays a major role in counteracting S. suis infections. The main components of S. suis able to activate the innate immune system likely include cell wall constituents that may be released during growth or after cell wall integrity loss, however characterization of these components is still limited.', '[corrected] A concentrated very potent innate immunity activating supernatant of penicillin-treated S. suis was SDS-PAGE fractionated and tested for porcine peripheral blood mononucleated cell (PBMC) stimulating activity using cytokine gene transcript analysis. More than half of the 24 tested fractions increased IL-1β and IL-8 cytokine gene transcript levels in porcine PBMCs. Mass spectrometry of the active fractions indicated 24 proteins including 9 lipoproteins. Genetic inactivation of a putative prolipoprotein diacylglyceryl transferase (Lgt) gene resulted in deficient lipoprotein synthesis as evidenced by palmitate labeling. The Lgt mutant showed strongly reduced activation of porcine PBMCs, indicating that lipoproteins are dominant porcine PBMC activating molecules of S. suis.'] Is lgt processing an essential step in Streptococcus suis lipoprotein mediated innate immune activation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.445282220840454,
-1.3305901288986206,
2.882769823074341
] |
['To evaluate the effect of low dose methotrexate alone or in combination with glucocorticoid treatment on titanium implant osseointegration.', 'Groups of 6-8 adult New Zealand White rabbits were treated for 18 weeks with saline (control), methotrexate, glucocorticoid, or methotrexate plus glucocorticoid. The animals received a titanium implant in the tibia at week 6. Lumbar spine and tibia bone mineral densities were analyzed before and after treatment. Histomorphometric analysis of bone cortical thickness, total bone area around the implant, and % of bone to implant contact was performed.', 'After 18 weeks, the change in the bone mineral density in the lumbar spines and tibias in the methotrexate group was comparable to the control group (0.035 vs. 0.055 g/cm² and 0.021 vs. 0.041 g/cm², respectively). In contrast, both the glucocorticoid group and glucocorticoid plus methotrexate group had significant reductions at both sites. Histomorphometric analysis of the tibia in the control and methotrexate groups revealed no significant changes in cortical thickness (133 vs. 126 μm), total bone area around the implant (33 vs. 30%), or bone to implant contact (40 vs. 38%). In contrast, glucocorticoid group had significant reductions compared to controls in tibia cortical thickness (99 vs. 133 μm), total bone area around the implant (24 vs. 33%), and bone to implant contact (27 vs. 40%). Similar reductions were observed in the glucocorticoid plus methotrexate group.'] Do no deleterious effect of low dose methotrexate on titanium implant osseointegration in a rabbit model? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.6209548711776733,
-1.5453789234161377,
2.1383016109466553
] |
['Esophageal varices are often seen in cirrhotic patients. Because endoscopic therapy for esophageal varices forces such patients to go on an extended fast until the endoscopic therapy occurs, physical and psychological stresses are induced. The aims of this study were to investigate the effects of a nutritional supplement before endoscopic therapy on such stresses, and on the safety of therapy.', 'Thirty-six cirrhotic patients with esophageal varices were enrolled in this study and classified into two groups. In the fasting group, no energy was supplied to patients prior to endoscopic therapy (n=18). In the supplement group, a supplement of 200kcal was given prior to endoscopic therapy (n=18). The effects of the supplement on the safety of therapy and on stresses were evaluated by the endoscopist and by the self-rating questionnaire.', 'There were no significant differences in age, gender, BMI, or Child-Pugh score between the two groups. There was no interference with endoscopic therapy in the supplement group. Although physical symptoms were not significantly different between the two groups, stress scores for hypodynamia, was significantly lower in the supplement group than in the fasting group.'] Does supplementation before endoscopic therapy for esophageal varices reduce mental stress in patients with liver cirrhosis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1814374923706055,
-0.8212434649467468,
2.0672614574432373
] |
['Current chemotherapeutics for treating locally advanced or metastatic soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are limited. Accordingly, the present in vitro study was conducted to evaluate the effects of treatment of STS cells with tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) applied as a single agent or in combination with a proteasome inhibitor, MG132.', 'Sensitivity to TRAIL and activity of TRAIL-induced apoptotic pathways were analyzed in four STS cell lines: HTB-82 (rhabdomyosarcoma), HT-1080 (fibrosarcoma), HTB-93 (synovial sarcoma), and HTB-94 (chondrosarcoma). Reduction of the dye dimethylthiazolyl 2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) was used to evaluate cytotoxic activity; western blots were used to evaluate TRAIL-induced apoptosis.', 'TRAIL induced apoptosis in HTB-93 cells, but had little effect in HTB-82, HT-1080, or HTB-94 cells. Expression of TRAIL receptor-1 and -2 did not correlate with sensitivity to TRAIL. Co-incubation of cells with TRAIL and a proteasome inhibitor, MG132, augmented the apoptotic effect of TRAIL in both TRAIL-sensitive and TRAIL-resistant cells. This effect was due to up-regulation of TRAIL receptors and members of the pro-apoptotic BCL-2 family by MG132.'] Does up-regulation of the DR5 expression by proteasome inhibitor MG132 augment TRAIL-induced apoptosis in soft tissue sarcoma cell lines? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.467175245285034,
-1.3894567489624023,
2.839104413986206
] |
['We assessed whether major depression (MD) predicts progression of nicotine dependence (ND) as measured by reduction in the time to first cigarette (TTFC) after waking and the roles of the number of cigarettes smoked per day (CPD) and stress as explanatory variables of this association.', 'Ten years of follow-up data from the National Population Health Survey (NPHS) were used. The analyses were based on this nationally representative sample of the Canadian population who were over the age of 12 years in 1996 (n = 13,298). The NPHS included measures of MD and TTFC. Shorter TTFC was defined as TTFC within 5 min of waking. Heavy smoking (HS) was defined by smoking 20 or more CPD. Using proportional hazard models, unadjusted and adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for shorter TTFC were estimated for those with and without MD.', 'The unadjusted HR for shorter TTFC among those with MD versus those without MD was 3.7 (95% CI: 2.6-5.3, p < .001). MD predicted onset of shorter TTFC even after adjustment for HS and tendency to smoke more under stress (HR: 1.7; 95% CI: 1.1-2.5, p = .02). When TTFC was defined using longer cutoffs (30 and 60 min), HS completely accounted for the effect of MD on TTFC onset.'] Is major depression a risk factor for shorter time to first cigarette irrespective of the number of cigarettes smoked per day : evidence from a National Population Health Survey? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.4539819955825806,
-0.3288176655769348,
1.021993637084961
] |
['Chronic renal failure is accompanied by various abnormalities of innate and acquired, cellular and humoral immunity. We aimed to investigate whether positive Candida skin test results, CD4+ and CD8+, before the first dose of vaccination could be a predictor for antibody response to hepatitis B vaccination and the relation of these parameters with hepatitis B antibody levels 1 month after the last dose of vaccination.', 'The present study was carried out in 57 dialysis patients. All patients received recombinant hepatitis B vaccine (40 μg) given intramuscularly in the deltoid muscle in a four-dose schedule at 0, 1, 2, and 6 months. Candida skin test and lymphocyte subsets (CD4+ and CD8+) were determined before the first dose of vaccination and 1 month after the fourth inoculation of hepatitis B vaccine.', 'Ten patients (17.5%) were non-responders (HBsAb < 10 IU/L), while 47 patients (82.5%) were responders (HBsAb ≥ 10 IU/L). However, 29 patients (50.9%) were weak responders (HBsAb:10-100 IU/L), 18 patients (31.6%) good responders (HBsAb > 100 IU/L), which was determined 1 month after the fourth dose of vaccination. Thirty-nine patients (68.4%) and 44 patients (77.2%) were anergic to Candida skin test before the first dose and 1 month after fourth inoculation of hepatitis B vaccine, respectively. There was no relationship between Candida skin test and response to hepatitis B vaccination. Mean age was lower, and CD4+/CD8+ ratio measured both before and after vaccination was higher in good responders compared with that of weak responders and that of non-responders. Females were better responders than males.'] Is good response to HBsAg vaccine in dialysis patients associated with high CD4+/CD8+ ratio? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.0828819274902344,
-1.7135510444641113,
1.8003414869308472
] |
['To evaluate the influence of body mass index (BMI) on postoperative death in patients undergoing surgery for HCC.', 'Three hundred forty-two patients were enrolled, and divided into three groups: Group A, BMI <22.5; Group B, BMI ≥22.5 to <25; Group C, BMI ≥25. Univariate and multivariate analyses of postoperative death were performed to compare BMI with clinical factors. Kaplan-Meier analysis and log rank test were used to compare such outcome in Groups A, B, and C.', 'Kaplan-Meier analysis and log rank test revealed that Group A had a higher rate of postoperative death than Group B or C (P = 0.010). Univariate and multivariate analyses selected being underweight (Group B, C/Group A) (odds ratio, 1.829; 95% C.I., 1.091-3.068; P = 0.022) as one of the factors predictive of postoperative death, together with aspartate aminotransferase level (P = 0.042) and HCC growth pattern (P = 0.032).'] Do underweight patients show an increased rate of postoperative death after surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.328600287437439,
-1.4021666049957275,
1.7025058269500732
] |
['The incidence of melanoma is dramatically increasing worldwide. We hypothesized that the ratio of metastatic to examined lymph node ratio (LNR) would be the most important prognostic factor for stage III patients.', 'We retrospectively reviewed our institutional database of melanoma patients and identified 168 patients who underwent lymph node dissection (LND) for stage III disease between 1993 and 2007. Patients were divided into three groups based on LNR (≤10%, n\u2009=\u200993; 10-≤25%, n\u2009=\u200945; and >25%, n\u2009=\u200930). Univariate and multivariate analysis was performed using Cox proportional hazards model.', 'The median survival time of the entire group of patients was 34 months. The median number of positive nodes was 2 (range\u2009=\u20091, 55), and the median number of examined nodes was 22 (range\u2009=\u20095-123). Tumor characteristics of the primary melanoma (such as thickness, ulceration, and primary site) were not significant predictors of survival in this analysis. By univariate analysis, LNR was an important prognostic factor. Patients with LNR 10-25% and >25% had decreased survival compared to those patients with LNR ≤10% (HR\u2009=\u2009hazard ratio\u2009=\u20092.0 and 3.1, respectively; P\u2009≤\u20090.005). The number of positive lymph nodes also impacted on survival (P\u2009=\u20090.001). In multivariate analysis, LNR of 10-25% and >25% predicted survival (HR\u2009=\u20092.5 and 4.0, respectively).'] Is lymph node ratio an important and independent prognostic factor for patients with stage III melanoma? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.0142899751663208,
-1.8266335725784302,
1.8280009031295776
] |
['To demonstrate the efficacy and noninferiority of loading dose of celecoxib 200\u2003mg compared with 400\u2003mg in pain management after endoscopic nasal surgery.', 'A prospective randomized controlled study.', 'A university hospital.', 'Consecutive 120 patients undergoing endoscopic nasal surgery under general anesthesia were randomly assigned to three groups of 40 patients each, celecoxib 400\u2003mg, celecoxib 200\u2003mg, or a control group with no celecoxib.', 'Patients received different doses of celecoxib as described 1 hour before anesthesia. Two celecoxib groups received celecoxib 200\u2003mg every 12 hours until the fifth day after surgery.', 'Noninferiority could be claimed if the lower limit of the confidence interval (CI) for pain score difference was greater than -0.6. At 0, 6, and 48 hours after surgery, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and thromboxane A2 (TXA2) to prostaglandin I2 (PGI2) ratios were measured from incision drainage and in plasma.', 'Estimated difference between two loading doses for pain scores over 5 days was 0.275 (95%CI -0.255 to 0.805, P\u2003>\u20030.05), indicating the noninferiority of celecoxib 200-400\u2003mg. Local PGE2 at 6 hours and 48 hours positively correlated with pain scores, with correlation coefficients 0.371 (P\u2003=\u20030.005) and 0.288 (P\u2003=\u20030.033). Systemic TXA2 to PGI2 ratios did not differ among groups.'] Is comparison of different loading dose of celecoxib on postoperative anti-inflammation and analgesia in patients undergoing endoscopic nasal surgery-200 mg equivalent to 400 mg? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.0794153213500977,
-1.772611379623413,
1.8672455549240112
] |
['To identify modifiable risk factors for obesity among low socioeconomic status (LSES) children.', 'Cross-sectional data were obtained from 238 4-7-year-old children and 224 mothers from LSES preschools. Anthropometric measurements were obtained; mothers were interviewed about sociodemographic characteristics, health behaviors, perceptions and beliefs.', "The combined prevalence of overweight and obesity (OWOB) among children was 29.8% based on the new World Health Organization (WHO) growth standard. Prevalence of OWOB (body mass index ≥25) among mothers was 51.8%. Mean age, sleeping hours, gender distribution and poverty level were similar between normal and OWOB children. Over 82% of mothers underestimated their child's weight status. Of the 62 OWOB children, 74.2% were perceived by their mothers as having 'normal weight' (NW) and 8% were perceived as 'thin'. Mothers perceived 67 out of 158 NW children (42.4%) as 'thin' (P<0.001). Mediation analysis indicated that 10% of the effect of maternal underestimation on child's OWOB may be mediated through child's daily sedentary hours (P=0.06). In a multivariable logistic-regression analysis controlling for maternal obesity, knowledge regarding breakfast's importance and child's daily sedentary hours, maternal underestimation of the child's weight status (odds ratio=7.33; 95% confidence interval (CI):2.41-22.37; P<0.0001) and parental smoking (odds ratio=3.25; 95% CI: 1.26-8.40; P=0.015) were the only significant factors associated with OWOB in LSES children."] Are maternal weight misperceptions and smoking associated with overweight and obesity in low SES preschoolers? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.9871050119400024,
-1.2162878513336182,
1.2571947574615479
] |
['Consisting of ≈10(14) microbial cells, the intestinal microbiota represents the largest and the most complex microbial community inhabiting the human body. However, the influence of regular diets on the microbiota is widely unknown.', 'We examined faecal samples of vegetarians (n=144), vegans (n=105) and an equal number of control subjects consuming ordinary omnivorous diet who were matched for age and gender. We used classical bacteriological isolation, identification and enumeration of the main anaerobic and aerobic bacterial genera and computed absolute and relative numbers that were compared between groups.', 'Total counts of Bacteroides spp., Bifidobacterium spp., Escherichia coli and Enterobacteriaceae spp. were significantly lower (P=0.001, P=0.002, P=0.006 and P=0.008, respectively) in vegan samples than in controls, whereas others (E. coli biovars, Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp., other Enterobacteriaceae, Enterococcus spp., Lactobacillus spp., Citrobacter spp. and Clostridium spp.) were not. Subjects on a vegetarian diet ranked between vegans and controls. The total microbial count did not differ between the groups. In addition, subjects on a vegan or vegetarian diet showed significantly (P=0.0001) lower stool pH than did controls, and stool pH and counts of E. coli and Enterobacteriaceae were significantly correlated across all subgroups.'] Does a vegan or vegetarian diet substantially alter the human colonic faecal microbiota? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.2804471254348755,
-0.9046149849891663,
1.3083175420761108
] |
['The supercritical CO(2)-decaffeination process causes unroasted coffee beans to turn brown. Therefore, we suspected that the decaffeinated beans contained melanoidins. Decaffeinated unroasted coffee extract absorbed light at 405 nm with a specific extinction coefficient, K(mix 405 nm), of 0.02. Membrane dialysis (molecular weight cut-off, 12 to 14 kDa) increased the K(mix 405 nm) value 15 fold. Gel filtration chromatography showed that the high-MW fraction (MW > 12 kDa) had an elution profile closer to that of melanoidins of medium-roast coffee than to the corresponding fraction of unroasted coffee, indicating the presence of melanoidins in decaffeinated unroasted beans. Using murine myoblast C2C12 cells with a stably transfected nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) luciferase reporter gene, we found that the high-MW fraction of decaffeinated unroasted beans had an NF-κB inhibitory activity of IC(50) = 499 μg/mL, more potent than that of regular-roast coffee (IC(50) = 766 μg/mL). Our results indicate that melanoidins form during the supercritical CO(2)-decaffeination process and possess biological properties distinct from those formed during the regular roasting process.'] Does supercritical CO2 decaffeination of unroasted coffee beans produce melanoidins with distinct NF-κB inhibitory activity? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7050583362579346,
-1.2919094562530518,
2.12451171875
] |
['Aldehydes are ubiquitous natural constituents of foods, water and beverages. Dietary intake represents the greatest source of exposure to acrolein and related aldehydes. Oral acrolein induces dyslipidemia acutely and chronically increases atherosclerosis in mice, yet the mechanisms are unknown. Because lipid synthesis and trafficking are largely under hepatic control, we examined hepatic genes in murine models of acute and chronic oral acrolein exposure.', 'Changes in hepatic gene expression were examined using a Steroltalk microarray. Acute acrolein feeding modified plasma and hepatic proteins and increased plasma triglycerides within 15\u2009 min. By 6 \u2009h, acrolein altered hepatic gene expression including Insig1, Insig2 and Hmgcr genes and stimulated an acute-phase response (APR) with up-regulation of serum amyloid A genes (Saa) and systemic hypoalbuminemia. To test if decreased HMG-CoA reductase activity could modify acrolein-induced dyslipidemia or the APR, mice were pretreated with simvastatin. Statin treatment, however, did not alter acrolein-induced dyslipidemia or hypoalbuminemia associated with an APR. Few hepatic genes were dysregulated by chronic acrolein feeding in apoE-null mice. These studies confirmed that acute acrolein exposure altered expression of hepatic genes involved with lipid synthesis and trafficking and APR, and thus, indicated a hepatic locus of acrolein-induced dyslipidemia and APR that was independent of HMG CoA-reductase.'] Are acrolein-induced dyslipidemia and acute-phase response independent of HMG-CoA reductase? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.436260461807251,
-1.3535051345825195,
2.814016819000244
] |
['The purpose of this study was to investigate associations between the extent of chondrocyte apoptosis and expression of the articular cartilage (AC) extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules, cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) and fibronectin.', 'Cartilage from four sites (when available) on equine left middle carpal joints (n = 12) were used. Expression of COMP and fibronectin was determined using specific polyclonal antibodies and a biotin-streptavidin/peroxidase method. The intensity of staining for matrix molecules was graded (none, mild, moderate, strong) in each cartilage zone. Apoptosis of chondrocytes in AC sections was assessed by their expression of active caspase-3 using immunohistochemistry.', 'The intensity of fibronectin expression varied significantly according to cartilage depth, with greater expression in the deep zone than in either the superficial or middle layers (P < 0.001). A significant positive association was found overall between intensity of fibronectin expression and chondrocyte apoptosis (r = 0.44, P = 0.0187). The data were also significant for superficial and deep zones (r = 0.44, P = 0.0239 and r = 0.42, P = 0.0279 respectively). Conversely, intensity of COMP expression did not show zonal differences and was un-associated with degree of apoptosis. However, COMP expression was significantly more intense in cartilage than fibronectin (P = 0.0007), and the correlation between overall intensity of COMP and fibronectin was statistically significant (r = 0.56, P = 0.0018).'] Does chondrocyte apoptosis determined by caspase-3 expression vary with fibronectin distribution in equine articular cartilage? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.877373218536377,
-1.5332671403884888,
2.3852100372314453
] |
['Island faunas have played central roles in the development of evolutionary biology and ecology. Birds are among the most studied organisms on islands, in part because of their dispersal powers linked to migration. Even so, we lack of information about differences in the movement ecology of island versus mainland populations of birds.', 'Here we present a new general pattern indicating that large birds with deferred sexual maturity are sedentary on islands, and that they become so even when they are migratory on the mainland. Density-dependent variation in the age at first breeding affects the survivorship of insular populations and this, in turn, affects the movement ecology of large birds. Because density-dependent variation in the age of first breeding is critical to the long-term survival of small isolated populations of long-lived species, migratory forms can successfully colonize islands only if they become sedentary once there. Analyses of the movement ecology of continental and insular populations of 314 species of raptors, 113 species of Ciconiiformes and 136 species of passerines, along with individual-based population simulations confirm this prediction.'] Are why birds with deferred sexual maturity sedentary on islands : a systematic review? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-2.5986335277557373,
3.2870609760284424,
-1.1539735794067383
] |
['To determine whether polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes encoding cytokines and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) might play some role in lumbar disc herniation (LDH).', 'Case-control study in which 179 patients were retrospectively reviewed. The case group was made of 50 patients with symptomatic LDH diagnosed by MRI while the control group was made of 129 individuals undergoing routine hip or knee arthroplasty with a lifetime lack of low back pain. SNPs in the cytokine genes of IL-1 [IL-1α (-889 C/T), IL-1β (+3953 T/C)], TNF-α (-308 G/A and -238 G/A) and NOS genes [eNOS (r 27 bp, intron 4 and -786 T/C) and iNOS (22 G/A)].', 'The CC genotype and C allele of the IL-1β (+3953 T/C) SNP were significantly more frequent among LDH patients compared to controls. On the other hand, eNOS (-768 T/C) and iNOS (22 G/A) SNPs were significantly more common in the control group.'] Does the IL-1β ( +3953 T/C ) gene polymorphism associate to symptomatic lumbar disc herniation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1330368518829346,
-1.3822177648544312,
2.5295052528381348
] |
['Vasomotor rhinitis (VMR) is a hypersensitivity syndrome with heightened reactivity to environmental triggers.', 'Twenty-two patients with severe VMR were treated nasally with either normal saline or 0.6% olopatadine and challenged nasally with a hyperosmolar mannitol solution.', 'Treatment with 0.6% olopatadine resulted in an improvement in instantaneous nasal symptom scores at 5 and 30 minutes (p < 0.01) compared with baseline and at 30 minutes after hyperosmolar challenge compared with saline-pretreated individuals (p < 0.01). There was also an improvement in nasal peak inspiratory flow rate at 30 minutes after hyperosmolar challenge compared with saline-pretreated individuals (p < 0.01).'] Does olopatadine 0.6 % nasal spray protect from vasomotor challenge in patients with severe vasomotor rhinitis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.098742961883545,
-1.3740932941436768,
2.48738956451416
] |
['Prenatal cannabis exposure has been linked to addiction vulnerability, but the neurobiology underlying this risk is unknown.', 'Striatal dopamine and opioid-related genes were studied in human fetal subjects exposed to cannabis (as well as cigarettes and alcohol). Cannabis-related gene disturbances observed in the human fetus were subsequently characterized with an animal model of prenatal Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (.15 mg/kg) exposure.', 'Prenatal cannabis exposure decreased dopamine receptor D2 (DRD2) messenger RNA expression in the human ventral striatum (nucleus accumbens [NAc]), a key brain reward region. No significant alterations were observed for the other genes in cannabis-exposed subjects. Maternal cigarette use was associated with reduced NAc prodynorphin messenger RNA expression, and alcohol exposure induced broad alterations primarily in the dorsal striatum of most genes. To explore the mechanisms underlying the cannabis-associated disturbances, we exposed pregnant rats to THC and examined the epigenetic regulation of the NAc Drd2 gene in their offspring at postnatal day 2, comparable to the human fetal period studied, and in adulthood. Chromatin immunoprecipitation of the adult NAc revealed increased 2meH3K9 repressive mark and decreased 3meH3K4 and RNA polymerase II at the Drd2 gene locus in the THC-exposed offspring. Decreased Drd2 expression was accompanied by reduced dopamine D2 receptor (D(2)R) binding sites and increased sensitivity to opiate reward in adulthood.'] Does maternal cannabis use alter ventral striatal dopamine D2 gene regulation in the offspring? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5379178524017334,
-1.188370704650879,
2.7414374351501465
] |
['Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is increasingly diagnosed in young and middle-aged patients. Although arthroscopic procedures are becoming frequently used in the treatment of FAI, there are little data regarding rates of complications or the ability of hip arthroscopy to improve hip function specifically in the adolescent athlete population. Because arthroscopic treatment is being used in the treatment of FAI, it is vital to know what, if any, improvements in hip function can be expected and the potential complications.', 'We asked (1) whether validated measures of hip function improve after arthroscopic treatment of FAI in adolescent athletes, and (2) what complications might be expected during and after arthroscopic treatment of FAI in these patients.', 'We retrospectively reviewed the records of 27 hips in 21 patients 19 years of age or younger who underwent arthroscopic treatment for FAI between 2007 and 2008. From the records we extracted demographic data, operative details, complications, and preoperative and postoperative modified Harris hip scores (HHS) and the Hip Outcome Score (HOS). The minimum followup was 1 year (average, 1.5 years; range, 1-2.5 years).', "Modified HHS improved by an average of 21 points, the activities of daily living subset of the HOS improved by an average of 16 points, and the sports outcome subset of the HOS improved by an average of 32 points. All patients' self-reported ability to engage in their preoperative level of athletic competition improved. In 24 hips that underwent cam decompression, the mean alpha-angle improved from 64° ± 16° to 40° ± 5.3° postoperatively."] Does hip arthroscopy improve symptoms associated with FAI in selected adolescent athletes? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.5224405527114868,
-0.8137497305870056,
1.48343825340271
] |
['PCSK9 (proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9) is a polymorphic gene whose protein product regulates plasma LDL cholesterol (LDLC) concentrations by shuttling liver LDL receptors (LDLRs) for degradation. PCSK9 variants that cause a gain or loss of PCSK9 function are associated with hyper- or hypocholesterolemia, which increases or reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, respectively. We studied the clinical and molecular characteristics of a novel PCSK9 loss-of-function sequence variant in a white French-Canadian family.', 'In vivo plasma and ex vivo secreted PCSK9 concentrations were measured with a commercial ELISA. We sequenced the PCSK9 exons for 15 members of a family, the proband of which exhibited very low plasma PCSK9 and LDLC concentrations. We then conducted a structure/function analysis of the novel PCSK9 variant in cell culture to identify its phenotypic basis.', 'We identified a PCSK9 sequence variant in the French-Canadian family that produced the PCSK9 Q152H substitution. Family members carrying this variant had mean decreases in circulating PCSK9 and LDLC concentrations of 79% and 48%, respectively, compared with unrelated noncarriers (n=210). In cell culture, the proPCSK9-Q152H variant did not undergo efficient autocatalytic cleavage and was not secreted. Cells transiently transfected with PCSK9-Q152H cDNA had LDLR concentrations that were significantly higher than those of cells overproducing wild-type PCSK9 (PCSK9-WT). Cotransfection of PCSK9-Q152H and PCSK9-WT cDNAs produced a 78% decrease in the secreted PCSK9-WT protein compared with control cells.'] Is novel loss-of-function PCSK9 variant associated with low plasma LDL cholesterol in a French-Canadian family and with impaired processing and secretion in cell culture? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2577686309814453,
-1.382059097290039,
2.6355481147766113
] |
['An elevated plasma homocysteine level is an independent risk factor for high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease, and its level is regulated by three vitamins; vitamin B6, B12, and folic acid. Until now, the association between the intake of these vitamins and blood pressure has been examined only in adult populations. We purposed to examine the association between dietary intake of these three vitamins and blood pressure of young children.', 'We conducted a cross-sectional study at Japanese preschools in 2006. Blood pressure was measured among 418 children aged 3-6 years. Diets including vitamins were assessed by a 3-day dietary record. We compared the blood pressure levels among the four groups defined according to quartile of energy-adjusted vitamin intake by using analysis of covariance after controlling for age, sex, and body mass index.', 'The mean systolic blood pressure was 6.6 mm Hg lower and the mean diastolic blood pressure was 5.7 mm Hg lower in the highest quartile than in the lowest quartile of vitamin B12 intake (P for trend was <0.001 and 0.006, respectively). The mean systolic blood pressure was 4.1 mm Hg lower in the highest quartile than in the lowest quartile of folic acid intake (P for trend = 0.004). Vitamin B6 intake was not significantly associated with blood pressure.'] Is dietary intake of vitamin B12 and folic acid associated with lower blood pressure in Japanese preschool children? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.722017765045166,
-0.5269336104393005,
1.290999412536621
] |
['Capitellar hemiarthroplasty is proposed as a reconstructive option for isolated capitellar deficiency, but there is limited data on its effect on elbow biomechanics. This study assessed the effect of capitellar excision with and without replacement on elbow kinematics and stability, and evaluated 2 different implant surface shapes.', 'Ten cadaveric arms were tested with an upper extremity joint simulator. Each arm underwent computer tomography scanning for implant sizing and computer-assisted implantation. Kinematic data were obtained using an electromagnetic tracking system during elbow flexion, with the arm oriented in the valgus, varus, and vertical positions. Implants were placed through an extended lateral epicondylar osteotomy using computer-assisted techniques. A repeated-measures design compared 2 implants (anatomical and spherical) to the native capitellum control and capitellar excision states. Outcomes were maximum varus-valgus laxity and rotation of the ulna with respect to the humerus.', 'Excision of the capitellum increased the varus-valgus laxity up to 3.1° in active elbow flexion, with the forearm in pronation but not in supination. Both capitellar implant designs maintained normal varus-valgus laxity in both active and passive elbow flexion. Excision of the capitellum increased external ulnar rotation during active flexion in the vertical and valgus positions up to 1.5°, while both implants restored normal ulnar rotation. The kinematics and stability of the elbows were similar for both implant designs.'] Does capitellar excision and hemiarthroplasty affect elbow kinematics and stability? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2066025733947754,
-1.3510150909423828,
2.58621883392334
] |
['Patients with complicated intra-abdominal infections are prone to develop multiple organ failure, including myocardial dysfunction. We hypothesized that early dysfunction during sepsis is associated with inflammation, mitochondrial injury, impaired mitochondrial function, and activation of mitochondrial biogenesis.', 'Rats received lipopolysaccharide (LPS, n = 11) intraperitoneally. Healthy rats (n = 6) served as controls. Myocardial function was measured ex vivo in an isolated Langendorff-perfused heart set-up. Myocardial vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) expression was determined by immunofluorescence microscopy. Cytochrome c release and cytochrome c oxidase (COX IV) activity were measured by immunohistochemistry and enzyme histochemistry, respectively. Protein expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), B-cell lymphoma (Bcl)-2, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ cofactor 1α (PGC-1α), and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) were analyzed by Western blot technique. Mitochondria were studied by electron microscopy.', 'Two hours after LPS injection, developed pressure had decreased and after 4 h myocardial contractility (+dP/dt) and relaxation (-dP/dt) also had decreased. TNF-α protein expression was increased after 2 h and returned to normal at 4 h, whereas after 4 h VCAM-1 expression was higher in LPS-treated animals. At 2 h a substrate-dependent increase in COXIV-activity was seen, but no mitochondrial damage occurred as cytochrome c release, COX IV activity and Bcl-2, PGC-1α or TFAM expression were not changed. Electron microscopy did not reveal differences in myocardial mitochondrial characteristics between LPS-treated and control rats.'] Is early myocardial dysfunction caused by mitochondrial abnormalities in a rat model of peritonitis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.348172903060913,
-1.4318692684173584,
2.8163933753967285
] |
['The literature shows conflicting results when high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scores of emphysema were correlated with different indices of airflow obstruction.', 'We correlated HRCT scores of emphysema with different indices of airflow obstruction.', 'We performed HRCT of the chest in 59 patients, all smokers or ex-smokers, with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease of different severity [GOLD stages I-IV; mean age ± SD 67.8 ± 7.3 years; pack/years 51.0 ± 34.6; percent predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV(1)% predicted) 52.3 ± 17.6; post-bronchodilator FEV(1)% predicted 56.5 ± 19.1; FEV(1)/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio 50.8 ± 10.2; post-bronchodilator FEV(1)/FVC ratio 51.6 ± 11.0; percent diffusion lung capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO%) 59.2 ± 21.1; DLCO/percent alveolar volume (VA%) 54.5 ± 18.2; percent residual volume 163.0 ± 35.6; percent total lung capacity (TLC%) 113.2 ± 15; residual volume/TLC 1.44 ± 0.2]. All patients were in stable phase.', 'The mean ± SD visual emphysema score in all patients was 25.6 ± 25.4%. There was a weak but significant correlation between the percentage of pulmonary emphysema and numbers of pack/years (R = +0.31, p = 0.024). The percentage of emphysema was inversely correlated with the FEV(1)/FVC ratio before and after bronchodilator use (R = -0.44, p = 0.002, and R = -0.39, p = 0.005), DLCO% (R = -0.64, p = 0.0003) and DLCO/VA% (R = -0.68, p < 0.0001). A weak positive correlation was also found with TLC% (R = +0.28, p = 0.048). When patients with documented emphysema were considered separately, the best significant correlation observed was between DLCO/VA% and HRCT scan score (p = 0.007).'] Is high-resolution computed tomography quantitation of emphysema correlated with selected lung function values in stable COPD? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.6044641733169556,
-1.9409737586975098,
1.5074427127838135
] |
['Influenza A virus mutates rapidly, rendering antiviral therapies and vaccines directed against virus-encoded targets ineffective. Knowledge of the host factors and molecular pathways exploited by influenza virus will provide further targets for novel antiviral strategies. However, the critical host factors involved in influenza virus infection have not been fully defined.', 'We demonstrated that LAMP3, a member of lysosome-associated membrane glycoprotein (LAMP) family, was significantly induced in human lung epithelial (A549) cells upon influenza A virus infection. Knockdown of LAMP3 expression by RNA interference attenuated production of viral nucleoprotein (NP) as well as virus titers. Confocal microscopy results demonstrated that viral NP is colocalized within LAMP3 positive vesicles at early stages of virus infection. Furthermore, knockdown of LAMP3 expression led to a reduction in nuclear accumulation of viral NP and impeded virus replication.'] Is lysosome-associated membrane glycoprotein 3 involved in influenza A virus replication in human lung epithelial ( A549 ) cells? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5632927417755127,
-0.8111678957939148,
2.509281635284424
] |
['Despite over forty years of investigation on low-level light therapy (LLLT), the fundamental mechanisms underlying photobiomodulation at a cellular level remain unclear.', 'In this study, we isolated murine embryonic fibroblasts (MEF) from transgenic NF-kB luciferase reporter mice and studied their response to 810 nm laser radiation. Significant activation of NF-kB was observed at fluences higher than 0.003 J/cm(2) and was confirmed by Western blot analysis. NF-kB was activated earlier (1 hour) by LLLT compared to conventional lipopolysaccharide treatment. We also observed that LLLT induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production similar to mitochondrial inhibitors, such as antimycin A, rotenone and paraquat. Furthermore, we observed similar NF-kB activation with these mitochondrial inhibitors. These results, together with inhibition of laser induced NF-kB activation by antioxidants, suggests that ROS play an important role in the laser induced NF-kB signaling pathways. However, LLLT, unlike mitochondrial inhibitors, induced increased cellular ATP levels, which indicates that LLLT also upregulates mitochondrial respiration.'] Does low-level laser therapy activate NF-kB via generation of reactive oxygen species in mouse embryonic fibroblasts? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3341128826141357,
-1.3277587890625,
2.690669536590576
] |
['Administration of interferon-α (IFN-α) represents an approved adjuvant therapy as reported for malignancies like melanoma and several viral infections. In malignant diseases, tolerance processes are critically involved in tumor progression. In this study, the effect of IFN-α on tolerance induction by human tolerogenic dendritic cells (DC) was analyzed. We focussed on tolerogenic IL-10-modulated DC (IL-10 DC) that are known to induce anergic regulatory T cells (iTregs).', 'IFN-α promoted an enhanced maturation of IL-10 DC as demonstrated by upregulation of the differentiation marker CD83 as well as costimulatory molecules. IFN-α treatment resulted in an increased capacity of DC to stimulate T cell activation compared to control tolerogenic DC. We observed a strengthened T cell proliferation and increased IFN-γ production of CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells stimulated by IFN-α-DC, demonstrating a restoration of the immunogenic capacity of tolerogenic DC in the presence of IFN-α. Notably, restimulation experiments revealed that IFN-α treatment of tolerogenic DC abolished the induction of T cell anergy and suppressor function of iTregs. In contrast, IFN-α neither affected the priming of iTregs nor converted iTregs into effector T cells.'] Does interferon-α abrogate tolerance induction by human tolerogenic dendritic cells? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4426114559173584,
-1.2529892921447754,
2.7403674125671387
] |
['The orders Ascaridida, Oxyurida, and Spirurida represent major components of zooparasitic nematode diversity, including many species of veterinary and medical importance. Phylum-wide nematode phylogenetic hypotheses have mainly been based on nuclear rDNA sequences, but more recently complete mitochondrial (mtDNA) gene sequences have provided another source of molecular information to evaluate relationships. Although there is much agreement between nuclear rDNA and mtDNA phylogenies, relationships among certain major clades are different. In this study we report that mtDNA sequences do not support the monophyly of Ascaridida, Oxyurida and Spirurida (clade III) in contrast to results for nuclear rDNA. Results from mtDNA genomes show promise as an additional independently evolving genome for developing phylogenetic hypotheses for nematodes, although substantially increased taxon sampling is needed for enhanced comparative value with nuclear rDNA. Ultimately, topological incongruence (and congruence) between nuclear rDNA and mtDNA phylogenetic hypotheses will need to be tested relative to additional independent loci that provide appropriate levels of resolution.', 'For this comparative phylogenetic study, we determined the complete mitochondrial genome sequences of three nematode species, Cucullanus robustus (13,972 bp) representing Ascaridida, Wellcomia siamensis (14,128 bp) representing Oxyurida, and Heliconema longissimum (13,610 bp) representing Spirurida. These new sequences were used along with 33 published nematode mitochondrial genomes to investigate phylogenetic relationships among chromadorean orders. Phylogenetic analyses of both nucleotide and amino acid sequence datasets support the hypothesis that Ascaridida is nested within Rhabditida. The position of Oxyurida within Chromadorea varies among analyses; in most analyses this order is sister to the Ascaridida plus Rhabditida clade, with representative Spirurida forming a distinct clade, however, in one case Oxyurida is sister to Spirurida. Ascaridida, Oxyurida, and Spirurida (the sampled clade III taxa) do not form a monophyletic group based on complete mitochondrial DNA sequences. Tree topology tests revealed that constraining clade III taxa to be monophyletic, given the mtDNA datasets analyzed, was a significantly worse result.'] Is monophyly of clade III nematodes supported by phylogenetic analysis of complete mitochondrial genome sequences? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.759460210800171,
-0.43553152680397034,
1.353966474533081
] |
['To compare the physical activity patterns of a cohort of Mexican children in kindergarten (K), first (1ES) and second grade (2ES) of elementary school.', 'The physical activity of 217 children (123 girls and 94 boys) aged 5-6 years was measured (five full-day triaxial accelerometry) annually.Weekday and weekend moderate/ vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and school and off-school MVPA was calculated. Comparisons between surveys were made using longitudinal multilevel generalized linear models.', 'Weekday MVPA was 22 and 37 min/d lower for 1ES (p=0.06) and 2ES (p<0.01), respectively, compared to K. School MVPA for 1ES and 2ES was 37 (-5.0 min/h) and 40% (-5.5 min/h) (p<0.001) lower, respectively, compared to K. No differences were found between weekend and off-school MVPA among school stages (p>0.5).'] Does the physical activity level of Mexican children decrease upon entry to elementary school? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 0 | [
0.8755227327346802,
-0.27859005331993103,
-1.370381474494934
] |
['Traumatic blunt cerebrovascular injury (BCVI) may portend catastrophic complications if untreated. Who should be screened for BCVI is controversial. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a prediction score (pBCVI) to identify those at sufficient risk to warrant dedicated screening.', 'We conducted a cohort study using data for years 2002-2007 from the National Trauma Data Bank. Blunt trauma patients aged 16 years and older were randomly divided into two groups for score creation and validation. Final prediction model included age, sex, Trauma Mortality Prediction Model p(death), traumatic intracranial hemorrhage, cerebellar/brain stem injury, malar/maxillary fracture, mandible fracture, cervical spine fracture, cervical spinal cord injury, thoracic spinal cord injury, and chest Abbreviated Injury Scale ≥3. pBCVI was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve area and the Hosmer-Lemeshow statistic. The Youden Index estimated an optimal cut-point (J) of the pBCVI.', 'The cohort numbered 1,398,310 patients, including 2,125 with BCVI. The overall incidence of BCVI was 0.15%. Cervical spine fracture had the strongest association with BCVI (odds ratio 4.82, p < 0.001). The receiver operating characteristic curve for pBCVI was 0.93 and the Hosmer-Lemeshow statistic was 206.3, p < 0.01. The optimal cut-point (J) of pBCVI was 0.0013 (sensitivity 0.91, specificity 0.82) and would miss 186 (8.8%) injuries in our cohort. To identify all BCVI using this model, an unrealistic 96% of the cohort would require screening.'] Is blunt cerebrovascular injury poorly predicted by modeling with other injuries : analysis of NTDB data? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.205585241317749,
-1.5665656328201294,
1.834661841392517
] |
['Our goal was to define mechanisms that protect murine pregnancies deficient in spiral arterial remodeling from hypertension, hypoxia, and intrauterine growth restriction.', 'Microultrasound analyses were conducted on virgin, gestation day 2, 4, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, and postpartum BALB/c (wild type) mice and BALB/c-Rag2(-/-)/Il2rg(-/-) mice, an immunodeficient strain lacking spiral arterial remodeling.', 'Rag2(-/-)/Il2rg(-/-) dams had normal spiral arterial flow velocities, greatly elevated uterine artery flow velocities between gestational day 10-16 and smaller areas of placental flow from gestational day 14 to term than controls. Maternal heart weight and output increased transiently. Conceptus alterations included higher flow velocities in the umbilical-placental circulation that became normal before term and bradycardia persistent to term.'] Do alterations in maternal and fetal heart functions accompany failed spiral arterial remodeling in pregnant mice? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.6799662113189697,
-0.8968855738639832,
2.671215295791626
] |
['To assess the usefulness of positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography using (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG PET/CT) for optimizing chemotherapy during neoadjuvant chemotherapy for primary breast cancer.', 'One hundred and eight patients (110 tumors) with breast cancer (≥2 cm, stages II and III) received neoadjuvant chemotherapy consisting of an anthracycline-based regimen and taxane. The maximal value of the baseline standardized uptake value (SUV) and the change in SUV after four cycles of an anthracycline-based regimen relative to baseline SUV were assessed for predicting pathological complete response (pCR) after sequential taxane.', 'Tumors with pCR had significantly higher baseline SUV (9.3 ± 3.7 SD) compared to those with non-pCR (7.2 ± 3.8 SD) (p = 0.02), but there was a considerable overlap between two groups. On PET scan after four cycles of chemotherapy, thirty-three patients (33.7%) with a 72.1% or greater reduction in SUV were considered as responders and the performance in predicting pCR had a sensitivity of 88.9% and specificity of 78.7%.'] Does 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography optimize neoadjuvant chemotherapy for primary breast cancer to achieve pathological complete response? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.8795478343963623,
-1.528491497039795,
2.415632486343384
] |
['Self-rated health has been linked to important health and survival outcomes in individuals with co-morbid depression and cardiovascular disease (CVD). It is not clear how the timing of depression onset relative to CVD onset affects this relationship. We aimed to first identify the prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD) preceding CVD and secondly determine whether sequence of disease onset is associated with mental and physical self-rated health.', 'This study utilised cross-sectional, population-based data from 224 respondents of the 2007 Australian National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing (NSMHWB). Participants were those diagnosed with MDD and reported ever having a heart/circulatory condition over their lifetime. Age of onset was reported for each condition. Logistic regression was used to explore differences in self-rated mental and physical health for those reporting pre-cardiac and post-cardiac depression.', 'The proportion of individuals in whom MDD preceded CVD was 80.36% (CI: 72.57-88.15). One-fifth (19.64%, CI: 11.85-27.42) reported MDD onset at the time of, or following, CVD. After controlling for covariates, the final model demonstrated that those reporting post-cardiac depression were significantly less likely to report poor self-rated mental health (OR:0.36, CI: 0.14-0.93) than those with pre-existing depression. No significant differences were found in self-rated physical health between groups (OR:0.90 CI: 0.38-2.14).'] Is co-morbid cardiovascular disease and depression : sequence of disease onset linked to mental but not physical self-rated health . Results from a cross-sectional , population-based study? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.544204592704773,
-0.870796263217926,
1.5772063732147217
] |
['Infection by Burkholderia cenocepacia in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients is associated with poor clinical prognosis. Previously, we demonstrated that one of the highly transmissible strains, BC7, expresses cable pili and the associated 22 kDa adhesin, both of which contribute to BC7 binding to airway epithelial cells. However, the contribution of these factors to induce inflammation and bacterial persistence in vivo is not known.', 'Wild-type BC7 stimulated higher IL-8 responses than the BC7 cbl and BC7 adhA mutants in both CF and normal bronchial epithelial cells. To determine the role of cable pili and the associated adhesin, we characterized a mouse model of B. cenocepacia, where BC7 are suspended in Pseudomonas aeruginosa alginate. C57BL/6 mice were infected intratracheally with wild-type BC7 suspended in either alginate or PBS and were monitored for lung bacterial load and inflammation. Mice infected with BC7 suspended in PBS completely cleared the bacteria by 3 days and resolved the inflammation. In contrast, mice infected with BC7 suspended in alginate showed persistence of bacteria and moderate lung inflammation up to 5 days post-infection. Using this model, mice infected with the BC7 cbl and BC7 adhA mutants showed lower bacterial loads and mild inflammation compared to mice infected with wild-type BC7. Complementation of the BC7 cblS mutation in trans restored the capacity of this strain to persist in vivo. Immunolocalization of bacteria revealed wild-type BC7 in both airway lumen and alveoli, while the BC7 cbl and BC7 adhA mutants were found mainly in airway lumen and peribronchiolar region.'] Do cable pili and the associated 22 kDa adhesin contribute to Burkholderia cenocepacia persistence in vivo? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.299781084060669,
-1.389780879020691,
2.7060842514038086
] |
['Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is common to insulin-resistant states such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Metformin (MET) is often used to treat PCOS but information is limited as to its effects on liver function.', 'We sought to determine the effects of MET on serum hepatic parameters in PCOS patients.', 'This was a secondary analysis of a randomized, doubled-blind trial from 2002-2004.', 'This multi-center clinical trial was conducted in academic centers.', 'Six hundred twenty-six infertile women with PCOS with serum liver function parameters less than twice the upper limit of normal were included.', 'Clomiphene citrate (n = 209), MET (n = 208), or combined (n = 209) were given for up to 6 months.', 'The percent change from baseline in renal and liver function between- and within-treatment arms was assessed.', 'Renal function improved in all treatment arms with significant decreases in serum blood urea nitrogen levels (range, -14.7 to -21.3%) as well as creatinine (-4.2 to -6.9%). There were similar decreases in liver transaminase levels in the clomiphene citrate and combined arms (-10% in bilirubin, -9 to -11% in transaminases) without significant changes in the MET arm. When categorizing baseline bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase, and alanine aminotransferase into tertiles, there were significant within-treatment arm differences between the tertiles with the highest tertile having the largest decrease from baseline regardless of treatment arm.'] Do metformin and/or clomiphene adversely affect liver or renal function in women with polycystic ovary syndrome? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2880003452301025,
-1.3980293273925781,
2.712259292602539
] |
['Preterm birth is associated with short stature, abdominal adiposity, insulin resistance, and hypertension, resembling effects of increased glucocorticoid bioactivity. Although antenatal glucocorticoid treatment does not substantially contribute to these associations, it is unknown whether genetic variants in the glucocorticoid receptor gene could modulate the effects of antenatal glucocorticoid treatment on the above phenotype.', 'Our objective was to test the effects of the R23K and N363S variants, associated with decreased and increased sensitivity to cortisol, respectively, on the metabolic profile in adults born preterm of whom some had been treated with glucocorticoids antenatally and/or in the early postnatal phase.', 'This was a prospective follow-up study that included 263 19-year-olds born at a gestational age under 32 wk from the Dutch Project on Preterm and Small-for-Gestational-Age Infants cohort.', 'This was a nationwide multicenter follow-up study.', 'Adult height and body composition, fasting serum glucose, insulin and cholesterol levels, and blood pressure were evaluated.', 'At 19 yr of age, waist circumference was 1.67 ± 0.90 sd score in 363S carriers who had been treated antenatally with glucocorticoids (n = 4), which was much higher than that of the other groups (P for interaction = 0.03). A similar association was found for the waist-to-hip ratio sd score (P = 0.03). Similar associations were absent with the R23K polymorphism. There was no interaction between these genotypes and postnatal glucocorticoid treatment on serum levels of glucose, insulin, and cholesterol or blood pressure.'] Is abdominal fat accumulation in adults born preterm exposed antenatally to maternal glucocorticoid treatment dependent on glucocorticoid receptor gene variation? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.176719903945923,
-1.3354873657226562,
2.576935291290283
] |
["The bony articular surface contributes to a joint's congruency, and it might be a determinant of structural change. The aim of this longitudinal study was to determine (i) whether the angle of the trochlear groove is associated with the rate of loss of patella cartilage volume for 2 yr and (ii) whether this association is influenced by particular modifiable and nonmodifiable factors.", 'A total of 297 community-based adults with no history of knee pathologic disease were recruited at baseline (2003-2004), and 271 of these subjects were reexamined at follow-up (2006-2007). Magnetic resonance imaging was performed at baseline and follow-up to determine the change in patella cartilage volume, whereas baseline images were used to assess trochlear groove angles. A baseline questionnaire determined participation in vigorous physical activity.', 'For every 1° increase in the proximal trochlear groove angle at baseline, there was an associated 1.12-mm3 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.00-2.24 mm3) increase in the annual rate of patella cartilage volume loss. There was a trend for this effect to occur for males, as well as people participating in vigorous physical activity (all P ≤ 0.07). Males who exercised vigorously were more adversely affected (5.0 mm3 per annum (95% CI = 0.5-9.4 mm3 per annum)) than males who did not exercise vigorously (0.6 mm3 per annum (95% CI = -2.1 to 3.3 mm3 per annum)).'] Is a flatter proximal trochlear groove associated with patella cartilage loss? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.0678187608718872,
-1.6259589195251465,
1.6988766193389893
] |
['The biological pathways and functional properties by which misexpressed microRNAs (miRNAs) contribute to liver carcinogenesis have been intensively investigated. However, little is known about the upstream mechanisms that deregulate miRNA expressions in this process. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), hepatitis B virus (HBV) X protein (HBx), a transcriptional trans-activator, is frequently expressed in truncated form without carboxyl-terminus but its role in miRNA expression and HCC development is unclear.', 'Human non-tumorigenic hepatocytes were infected with lentivirus-expressing full-length and carboxyl-terminal truncated HBx (Ct-HBx) for cell growth assay and miRNA profiling. Chromatin immunoprecipitation microarray was performed to identify the miRNA promoters directly associated with HBx. Direct transcriptional control was verified by luciferase reporter assay. The differential miRNA expressions were further validated in a cohort of HBV-associated HCC tissues using real-time PCR.', 'Hepatocytes expressing Ct-HBx grew significantly faster than the full-length HBx counterparts. Ct-HBx decreased while full-length HBx increased the expression of a set of miRNAs with growth-suppressive functions. Interestingly, Ct-HBx bound to and inhibited the transcriptional activity of some of these miRNA promoters. Notably, some of the examined repressed-miRNAs (miR-26a, -29c, -146a and -190) were also significantly down-regulated in a subset of HCC tissues with carboxyl-terminal HBx truncation compared to their matching non-tumor tissues, highlighting the clinical relevance of our data.'] Does carboxyl-terminal truncated HBx regulate a distinct microRNA transcription program in hepatocellular carcinoma development? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.37961745262146,
-1.2438136339187622,
2.6499834060668945
] |
['We have demonstrated that growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) enhances activin A-induced inhibin β(B)-subunit mRNA levels in human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells by regulating receptors and key intracellular components of the activin signaling pathway. However, we could not exclude its effects on follistatin (FST) and follistatin-like 3 (FSTL3), well recognized extracellular inhibitors of activin A.', "hGL cells from women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment were cultured with and without siRNA transfection of FST, FSTL3 or GDF9 and then treated with GDF9, activin A, FST, FSTL3 or combinations. FST, FSTL3 and inhibin β(B)-subunit mRNA, and FST, FSTL3 and inhibin B protein levels were assessed with real-time RT-PCR and ELISA, respectively. Data were log transformed before ANOVA followed by Tukey's test.", 'GDF9 suppressed basal FST and FSTL3 mRNA and protein levels in a time- and dose-dependent manner and inhibited activin A-induced FST and FSTL3 mRNA and protein expression, effects attenuated by BMPR2 extracellular domain (BMPR2 ECD), a GDF9 antagonist. After GDF9 siRNA transfection, basal and activin A-induced FST and FSTL3 mRNA and protein levels increased, but changes were reversed by adding GDF9. Reduced endogenous FST or FSTL3 expression with corresponding siRNA transfection augmented activin A-induced inhibin β(B)-subunit mRNA levels as well as inhibin B levels (P values all <0.05). Furthermore, the enhancing effects of GDF9 in activin A-induced inhibin β(B)-subunit mRNA and inhibin B production were attenuated by adding FST.'] Does growth differentiation factor 9 ( GDF9 ) suppress follistatin and follistatin-like 3 production in human granulosa-lutein cells? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.271761417388916,
-1.3700177669525146,
2.6714401245117188
] |
['Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays an important role in the pathogenesis and progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Quantification of messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in urinary sediment is emerging as a noninvasive method of screening DN-associated biomarkers. The aim of our study was to examine whether urinary mRNA profile of EMT-associated genes may provide valuable clinical insight into the different stages of DN.', 'Diabetic nephropathy patients (n = 44) and healthy controls (n = 12) were enrolled in this study. DN patients were divided into three groups according to the levels of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR): Group A (eGFR > 60 ml/min per 1·73 m(2), n = 27), Group B (45 < eGFR < 60 ml/min per 1·73 m(2), n = 9), and Group C (eGFR < 45 ml/min per 1·73 m(2), n = 8). Relative mRNA abundance of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), fibronectin, FSP1 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) were quantified, and correlations between target mRNAs and clinical parameters were examined.', 'The urinary mRNA levels of α-SMA, fibronectin and MMP-9 were significantly higher in the DN group compared with controls (P < 0·05), and mRNA levels increased with DN progression. Urinary mRNA levels of all target genes positively correlated with both urinary albumin excretion (UAE) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Moreover, the expression of α-SMA, fibronectin and MMP-9 mRNA correlated with serum creatinine levels (r = 0·514, r = 0·53 and r = 0·469, all P < 0·001) and GFR levels (r = -0·374, r = -0·392 and r = -0·487, all P < 0·01).'] Do urinary mRNA markers of epithelial-mesenchymal transition correlate with progression of diabetic nephropathy? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.033525228500366,
-1.4829843044281006,
2.4947829246520996
] |
['The aim of this study was to examine the effect of different reference ranges in bone mineral density on the diagnosis of osteoporosis.', 'This cross-sectional study involved 357 men and 870 women aged between 18 and 89 years, who were randomly sampled from various districts within Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. BMD at the femoral neck, lumbar spine and whole body was measured by DXA (Hologic QDR4500). Polynomial regression models and bootstraps method were used to determine peak BMD and standard deviation (SD). Based on the two parameters, we computed T-scores (denoted by TVN) for each individual in the study. A similar diagnosis was also done based on T-scores provided by the densitometer (TDXA), which is based on the US White population (NHANES III). We then compared the concordance between TVN and TDXA in the classification of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis was defined according to the World Health Organization criteria.', 'In post-menopausal women, the prevalence of osteoporosis based on femoral neck TVN was 29%, but when the diagnosis was based on TDXA, the prevalence was 44%. In men aged 50+ years, the TVN-based prevalence of osteoporosis was 10%, which was lower than TDXA-based prevalence (30%). Among 177 women who were diagnosed with osteoporosis by TDXA, 35% were actually osteopenia by TVN. The kappa-statistic was 0.54 for women and 0.41 for men.'] Does reference range for bone mineral density and prevalence of osteoporosis in Vietnamese men and women? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.0053492784500122,
-1.632777214050293,
1.5897420644760132
] |
['The spectrum of cutaneous adverse drug reactions (cADRs) ranges from benign presentations to severe life-threatening forms such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). In TEN, granulysin has been shown to be the key cytotoxic molecule. Still, little is known about the expression of granulysin in other cADRs. As an important source of granulysin, natural killer (NK) cells are of major interest in cADRs. Recently, NKp46 has been identified as the most selective NK-cell marker. However, the role of NKp46(+) cells in cADRs and their contribution to granulysin expression remain to be elucidated.', 'Immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining of tissue sections from multiple cADRs were quantitatively and qualitatively evaluated. Further, in vivo and in vitro drug-stimulation tests were performed.', 'Granulysin is expressed at different levels in multiple cADRs both by NKp46(+) cells and by CD8(+) T cells. Even in mild forms of cADRs, granulysin can be induced in vivo and in vitro in a drug-specific manner. NKp46(+) cells were found to infiltrate the dermal/epidermal junction particularly in TEN.'] Do nKp46+ cells express granulysin in multiple cutaneous adverse drug reactions? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4818947315216064,
-1.1814361810684204,
2.706414222717285
] |
['Most patients after liver transplantation (LT) suffer from intestinal barrier dysfunction. Glycyl-glutamine (Gly-Gln) by parenteral supplementation is hydrolyzed to release glutamine, which improves intestinal barrier function in intestinal injury. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Gly-Gln by enteral supplementation on intestinal barrier function in rats after allogenetic LT under immunosuppressive therapy.', 'Twelve inbred Lewis rats were selected randomly as donors, and 24 inbred Brown Norway (BN) rats as recipients of allogenetic LT. The recipients were divided into a control group (Ala, n=12) and an experimental group (Gly-Gln, n=12). In each group, 6 normal BN rats were sampled for normal parameters on preoperative day 3. The 6 recipients in the control group received alanine (Ala) daily by gastric perfusion for 3 preoperative days and 7 postoperative days, and the 6 recipients in the experimental group were given Gly-Gln in the same manner. The 12 BN recipients underwent orthotopic LT under sterile conditions after a 3-day fast and were given immunosuppressive therapy for 7 days. They were harvested for sampling on postoperative day 8. The following parameters were assessed: intestinal mucosal protein content, mucosal ultrastructure, ileocecal sIgA content, portal plasma levels of endotoxin and TNF-alpha, and bacterial translocation.', 'All recipients were alive after LT. On preoperative day 3, all parameters were similar in the two groups. On postoperative day 8, all parameters in the two groups were remarkably changed from those on preoperative day 3. However, compared to the Ala group, supplementation with Gly-Gln increased the levels of intestinal mucosal protein and ileocecal sIgA, improved mucosal microvilli, and decreased portal plasma levels of endotoxin and TNF-alpha as well as bacterial translocation.'] Does enteral supplementation with glycyl-glutamine improve intestinal barrier function after liver transplantation in rats? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.0635573863983154,
-1.4424899816513062,
2.452176332473755
] |
['Netrins have been extensively studied in the developing central nervous system as pathfinding guidance cues, and more recently in non-neural tissues where they mediate cell adhesion, migration and differentiation. Netrin-4, a distant relative of Netrins 1-3, has been proposed to affect cell fate determination in developing epithelia, though receptors mediating these functions have yet to be identified.', 'Using human embryonic pancreatic cells as a model of developing epithelium, here we report that Netrin-4 is abundantly expressed in vascular endothelial cells and pancreatic ductal cells, and supports epithelial cell adhesion through integrins α2β1 and α3β1. Interestingly, we find that Netrin-4 recognition by embryonic pancreatic cells through integrins α2β1 and α3β1 promotes insulin and glucagon gene expression. In addition, full genome microarray analysis revealed that fetal pancreatic cell adhesion to Netrin-4 causes a prominent down-regulation of cyclins and up-regulation of negative regulators of the cell cycle. Consistent with these results, a number of other genes whose activities have been linked to developmental decisions and/or cellular differentiation are up-regulated.'] Does endothelium-derived Netrin-4 support pancreatic epithelial cell adhesion and differentiation through integrins α2β1 and α3β1? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.502682685852051,
-1.0159910917282104,
2.5368454456329346
] |
['Oncogenic mutations of PIK3CA, RAS (KRAS, NRAS), and BRAF have been identified in various malignancies, and activate the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and RAS/RAF/MEK pathways, respectively. Both pathways are critical drivers of tumorigenesis.', 'Tumor tissues from 504 patients with diverse cancers referred to the Clinical Center for Targeted Therapy at MD Anderson Cancer Center starting in October 2008 were analyzed for PIK3CA, RAS (KRAS, NRAS), and BRAF mutations using polymerase chain reaction-based DNA sequencing.', 'PIK3CA mutations were found in 54 (11%) of 504 patients tested; KRAS in 69 (19%) of 367; NRAS in 19 (8%) of 225; and BRAF in 31 (9%) of 361 patients. PIK3CA mutations were most frequent in squamous cervical (5/14, 36%), uterine (7/28, 25%), breast (6/29, 21%), and colorectal cancers (18/105, 17%); KRAS in pancreatic (5/9, 56%), colorectal (49/97, 51%), and uterine cancers (3/20, 15%); NRAS in melanoma (12/40, 30%), and uterine cancer (2/11, 18%); BRAF in melanoma (23/52, 44%), and colorectal cancer (5/88, 6%). Regardless of histology, KRAS mutations were found in 38% of patients with PIK3CA mutations compared to 16% of patients with wild-type (wt)PIK3CA (p\u200a=\u200a0.001). In total, RAS (KRAS, NRAS) or BRAF mutations were found in 47% of patients with PIK3CA mutations vs. 24% of patients wtPIK3CA (p\u200a=\u200a0.001). PIK3CA mutations were found in 28% of patients with KRAS mutations compared to 10% with wtKRAS (p\u200a=\u200a0.001) and in 20% of patients with RAS (KRAS, NRAS) or BRAF mutations compared to 8% with wtRAS (KRAS, NRAS) or wtBRAF (p\u200a=\u200a0.001).'] Do pIK3CA mutations frequently coexist with RAS and BRAF mutations in patients with advanced cancers? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.0951627492904663,
-1.6475741863250732,
1.6078537702560425
] |
["Several studies have proven an ameliorated prognosis after a neoadjuvant therapy for locally advanced Barrett's carcinoma in case of response. The necessary amount of neoadjuvant chemotherapy within a multimodal therapy concept with following oesophageal resection has never been evaluated so far.", "The clinical course of 122 patients with Barrett's carcinoma, who all underwent a neoadjuvant chemotherapy with cisplatin, five fluorouracil and leucovorin and following oesophagectomy, was reviewed. The pretherapeutic clinical and postoperative histopathological staging, histopathological response, clinical course, recurrence rates and long-term survival were retrospectively analysed and compared to the data of 30 patients, who were included in the same multimodal therapy concept, but who had to cease the chemotherapy early because of toxicity.", 'Postoperative pathological staging showed that the response rate correlates with the N and R status. The responding patients benefit from longer survival. Comparing the two subgroups, we could not find a significant difference in response rate, tumour staging, resection rate, long-term survival or pattern of recurrent disease. However, postoperative morbidity and mortality did not correlate with severe chemotherapy-induced toxicity.'] Does the amount of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for Barrett 's carcinoma correlate with long-term survival? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3782083988189697,
-1.310046672821045,
2.7112648487091064
] |
['Implant stability quotient (ISQ) values have been supposed to predict implant stability. However, the relationship between ISQ values and bone-to-implant contact ratio (BIC%) which is one of the predictors of implant stability is still unclear. The aim of the present study was to evaluate initial ISQ values in relation to BIC% using rabbit model.', 'Four New Zealand white rabbits received a total of 16 implants in their tibia. Immediately after implant placement ISQ values were assessed. The measurements were repeated at the time of sacrifice of the rabbits after 4 weeks. Peri-implant bone regeneration was assessed histomorphometrically by measuring BIC% and bone volume to total volume values (bone volume %). The relationships between ISQ values and the histomorphometric output were assessed, and then, the osseointegration prediction model via the initial ISQ values was processed.', 'Initial ISQ values showed significant correlation with the BIC%. The bone volume % did not show any significant association with the ISQ values.'] Do the relationship between initial implant stability quotient values and bone-to-implant contact ratio in the rabbit tibia? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.183597207069397,
-1.0270520448684692,
1.3920401334762573
] |
['Equilibrative and concentrative nucleoside transporters (ENTs and CNTs) mediate the cellular uptake of anticancer nucleosides and sensitivity to such compounds. We studied the expression of ENTs and CNTs in ovarian carcinoma effusions.', 'ENT1, ENT2, ENT4 and CNT3 expression was analyzed in 66 ovarian carcinoma effusions (61 peritoneal, 5 pleural) from 64 ovarian carcinoma patients by flow cytometry. The majority of patients received platinum-based chemotherapy. Results were analyzed for association with clinicopathologic parameters and survival.', 'With the exception of one ENT2-negative effusion, ENT1, ENT2, ENT4 and CNT3 protein was detected on carcinoma cells in all effusions, with expression observed in 1-95% of tumor cells. Nucleoside transporter expression was comparable between peritoneal and pleural effusions and was unrelated to age, tumor grade, International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage, residual tumor volume after surgery, previous exposure to chemotherapy and response to chemotherapy at diagnosis (P\xa0>\xa00.05). No correlation was found between ENT or CNT expression and overall survival or progression-free survival, although higher ENT2 expression was associated with a trend for longer overall (45 vs. 23\xa0months; P\xa0=\xa00.055) and progression-free (17 vs. 5\xa0months; P\xa0=\xa00.087) survival.'] Are nucleoside transporters widely expressed in ovarian carcinoma effusions? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7377110719680786,
-1.6607526540756226,
2.3107810020446777
] |
['To characterize the interactions of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tumors with the immune system at the level of mRNA and microRNA (miRNA) expression and to define expression signatures that characterize the presence of a malignant tumor versus a nonmalignant nodule.', 'We have examined the changes of both mRNA and miRNA expression levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) between paired samples collected from NSCLC patients before and after tumor removal using Illumina gene expression arrays.', 'We found that malignant tumor removal significantly changes expression of more than 3,000 protein-coding genes, especially genes in pathways associated with suppression of the innate immune response, including natural killer cell signaling and apoptosis-associated ceramide signaling. Binding sites for the ETS domain transcription factors ELK1, ELK4, and SPI1 were enriched in promoter regions of genes upregulated in the presence of a tumor. Additional important regulators included five miRNAs expressed at significantly higher levels before tumor removal. Repressed protein-coding targets of those miRNAs included many transcription factors, several involved in immunologically important pathways. Although there was a significant overlap in the effects of malignant tumors and benign lung nodules on PBMC gene expression, we identified one gene panel which indicates a tumor or nodule presence and a second panel that can distinguish malignant from nonmalignant nodules.'] Does resection of non-small cell lung cancers reverse tumor-induced gene expression changes in the peripheral immune system? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.616126298904419,
-0.7663649320602417,
2.4964404106140137
] |
['A safe efficient care pathway is needed to address the increasing need for arthroplasty surgery in Canada. Our primary objective was to determine whether a fast-track model of care can reduce length of hospital stay following total hip and knee arthroplasty while maintaining patient safety and satisfaction.', 'In this historical cohort study, 100 patients treated in a newly implemented fast-track program for total joint arthroplasty were compared with 100 patients treated before the introduction of the program. The fast-track program emphasizes preoperative patient education, postoperative multimodal analgesia with periarticular injections, early physiotherapy and rehabilitation, and discharge home with an outpatient rehabilitation program. The primary outcome was hospital length of stay. Secondary outcomes were concerned with patient safety and involved evaluating postoperative side effects, transfers to the tertiary care hospital, and emergency department (ED) visits and readmissions to hospital within 30 days of discharge.', "Length of hospital stay adjusted for age, sex, smoking, comorbidities, American Society of Anesthesiologists' physical status classification, body mass index, and surgical procedure was reduced significantly for patients in the fast-track program compared with the standard program (mean 47\xa0hr; 95% confidence interval [CI] 41 to 53 vs mean 116\xa0hr; 95% CI 110 to 122, respectively). Patients in the fast-track program were discharged from hospital 69 hr earlier than patients in the standard program (95% CI -60 to -78). Despite significantly less morphine utilization, pain scores trended lower in the fast-track patients, both at rest and with activity, than in patients in the standard group (median 7.5 vs 35\xa0mg, respectively). There were no significant differences between the two groups in the rate of ED visits or readmissions in the first 30\xa0days."] Does easily adoptable total joint arthroplasty program allow discharge home in two days? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.1428366899490356,
-1.3428385257720947,
1.434783935546875
] |
['There are many immunological changes in preeclampsia. For example, TLR-4 expression is increased in the placenta during preeclampsia. However, data on TLR expression in other tissues during preeclampsia are lacking. This study aimed to determine whether TLR mRNA expression in maternal neutrophils is altered in preeclampsia.', 'A case-control study using standard quantitative real-time PCR techniques was performed to assess TLR-2 and TLR-4 mRNA expression in 12 patients with mild preeclampsia and 18 normal pregnant controls at similar gestational ages.', 'Compared to normal pregnant controls, there was a significant decrease in TLR-2 and TLR-4 expression in women with mild preeclampsia.'] Is maternal neutrophil toll-like receptor mRNA expression down-regulated in preeclampsia? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.2628185749053955,
-0.9620609283447266,
2.3593509197235107
] |
['Local heating increases skin blood flow SkBF (thermal hyperemia). In a previous study, we reported that a first local thermal stimulus could attenuate the hyperemic response to a second one applied later on the same skin spot, a phenomenon that we termed desensitization. However, other studies found no evidence for desensitization in similar conditions. The aim of the present work was to test whether it was related to differences in instrumentation.', 'Twenty-eight healthy young males were studied. Two pairs of heating chambers, one custom-made (our study) and one commercial (other groups), were affixed to forearm skin. SkBF was measured with single-point laser-Doppler flowmetry (LDF) (780nm) in one pair, and laser-Doppler imaging (LDI) (633nm) in the other. A temperature step from 34 to 41°C, was applied for 30minutes and repeated after two hours.', 'During the second thermal challenge, the plateau SkBF was lower than during the first thermal and was observed with each of the four combinations of SkBF measurement techniques and heating equipment (p<0.05 for all conditions, range -9% to -16% of the initial value).'] Is desensitization of thermal hyperemia in the skin reproducible? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.497165322303772,
-1.4784951210021973,
2.059290885925293
] |
['Circulating immune complexes (CIC) containing galactose (Gal)-deficient IgA1 from adults with IgA nephropathy (IgAN) induce proliferation of cultured mesangial cells, but activities of CIC from pediatric patients with the disease have not been studied.', 'CIC of different sizes were isolated from sera of pediatric and adult IgAN patients and their effects on cultured human mesangial cells (MC) were assessed by measuring cellular proliferation, expression of IL-6 and IL-8 and laminin and phosphotyrosine signaling.', 'Large CIC from pediatric IgAN patients (>800 kDa) containing Gal-deficient IgA1 stimulated cellular proliferation, whereas in some patients, smaller CIC were inhibitory. Addition of stimulatory and inhibitory CIC to MC differentially altered phosphorylation patterns of three major tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins of molecular mass 37, 60 and 115 kDa. The stimulatory CIC transiently increased tyrosine-phosphorylation of the 37-kDa protein and decreased phosphorylation of the other two proteins, whereas the inhibitory CIC increased phosphorylation of all three proteins. Furthermore, we investigated the influence of IgA1-containing CIC from sera of children with IgAN with clinically active disease (i.e., abnormal urinalysis and/or serum creatinine concentration) or inactive disease (i.e., normal urinalysis and serum creatinine concentration) on the expression of IL-6 and IL-8 genes by mesangial cells. Real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction results showed that the CIC from a patient with active disease stimulated MC to express the two cytokine genes at higher levels than did the CIC from a patient with inactive disease. Moreover, stimulatory CIC increased production of the extracellular matrix protein laminin.'] Do igA1 immune complexes from pediatric patients with IgA nephropathy activate cultured human mesangial cells? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.427018165588379,
-1.2758349180221558,
2.7698023319244385
] |
['Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic estrogen commonly used in polycarbonate plastic and resin-lined food and beverage containers. Exposure of animal and cell models to doses of BPA below the recommended tolerable daily intake (TDI) of 50 μg/kg/day have been shown to alter specific estrogen-responsive gene expression, but this has not previously been shown in humans.', 'We investigated associations between BPA exposure and in vivo estrogenic gene expression in humans.', 'We studied 96 adult men from the InCHIANTI population study and examined in vivo expression of six estrogen receptor, estrogen-related receptor, and androgen receptor genes in peripheral blood leukocytes.', 'The geometric mean urinary BPA concentration was 3.65 ng/mL [95% confidence interval (CI): 3.13, 4.28], giving an estimated mean excretion of 5.84 μg/day (95% CI: 5.00, 6.85), significantly below the current TDI. In age-adjusted models, there were positive associations between higher BPA concentrations and higher ESR2 [estrogen receptor 2 (ER beta)] expression (unstandardized linear regression coefficient = 0.1804; 95% CI: 0.0388, 0.3221; p = 0.013) and ESRRA (estrogen related receptor alpha) expression (coefficient = 0.1718; 95% CI: 0.0213, 0.3223; p = 0.026): These associations were little changed after adjusting for potential confounders, including obesity, serum lipid concentrations, and white cell subtype percentages. Upper-tertile BPA excretors (urinary BPA > 4.6 ng/mL) had 65% higher mean ESR2 expression than did lower-tertile BPA excretors (0-2.4 ng/mL).'] Is bisphenol A exposure associated with in vivo estrogenic gene expression in adults? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.8686455488204956,
-1.528374195098877,
2.3907628059387207
] |
['Administration of high transfusion ratios in patients not requiring massive transfusion might be harmful. We aimed to determine the effect of high ratios of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and platelets (PLT) to packed red blood cells (PRBC) in nonmassively transfused patients.', 'Records of 1,788 transfused trauma patients who received <10 units of PRBC in 24 hours at 23 United States Level I trauma centers were reviewed. The relationship between ratio category (low and high) and in-hospital mortality was assessed with propensity-adjusted multivariate proportional hazards models.', 'At baseline, patients transfused with a high FFP:PRBC ratio were younger, had a lower Glasgow Coma Scale score, and a higher Injury Severity Score. Those receiving a high PLT:PRBC ratio were older. The risk of in-hospital mortality did not vary significantly with FFP:PRBC ratio category. Intensive care unit (ICU)-free days, hospital-free days, and ventilator-free days did not vary significantly with FFP:PRBC ratio category. ICU-free days and ventilator-free days were significantly decreased among patients in the high (≥1:1) PLT:PRBC category, and hospital-free days did not vary significantly with PLT:PRBC ratio category. The analysis was repeated using 1:2 as the cutoff for high and low ratios. Using this cutoff, there was still no difference in mortality with either FFP:PRBC ratios or platelet:PRBC ratios. However, patients receiving a >1:2 ratio of FFP:PRBCs or a >1:2 ratio PLT:PRBCs had significantly decreased ICU-free days and ventilator-free days.'] Do high ratios of plasma and platelets to packed red blood cells affect mortality in nonmassively transfused patients? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.47648581862449646,
-1.7601804733276367,
1.20402193069458
] |
['The Injury Severity Score (ISS) is widely used as a method for rating severity of injury. The ISS is the sum of the squares of the three worst Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) values from three body regions. Patients with penetrating injuries tend to have higher mortality rates for a given ISS than patients with blunt injuries. This is thought to be secondary to the increased prevalence of multiple severe injuries in the same body region in patients with penetrating injuries, which the ISS does not account for. We hypothesized that the mechanism-based difference in mortality could be attributed to certain ISS ranges and specific AIS values by body region.', 'Outcome and injury scoring data were obtained from transfused patients admitted to 23 Level I trauma centers. ISS values were grouped into categories, and a logistic regression model was created. Mortality for each ISS category was determined and compared with the ISS 1 to 15 group. An interaction term was added to evaluate the effect of mechanism. Additional logistic regression models were created to examine each AIS category individually.', 'There were 2,292 patients in the cohort. An overall interaction between ISS and mechanism was observed (p = 0.049). Mortality rates between blunt and penetrating patients with an ISS between 25 and 40 were significantly different (23.6 vs. 36.1%; p = 0.022). Within this range, the magnitude of the difference in mortality was far higher for penetrating patients with head injuries (75% vs. 37% for blunt) than truncal injuries (26% vs. 17% for blunt). Penetrating trauma patients with an AIS head of 4 or 5, AIS abdomen of 3, or AIS extremity of 3 all had adjusted mortality rates higher than blunt trauma patients with those values.'] Are specific abbreviated injury scale values responsible for the underestimation of mortality in penetrating trauma patients by the injury severity score? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.06074484810233116,
-1.3072922229766846,
0.4080458879470825
] |
['Breast cancer consists of a variety of tumours, which differ by their morphological features, molecular characteristics and outcome. Well-known prognostic factors, e.g. tumour grade and size, Ki-67, hormone receptor status, HER2 expression, lymph node status and patient age have been traditionally related to prognosis. Although the conventional prognostic markers are reliable in general, better markers to predict the outcome of an individual tumour are needed. Matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) expression has been reported to inversely correlate with survival in advanced cancers. In breast cancer MMP-1 is often upregulated, especially in basal-type breast tumours. The purpose of this retrospective study was to analyse MMP-1 expression in breast cancer cells and in cancer associated stromal cells and to correlate the results with traditional prognostic factors including p53 and bcl-2, as well as to patient survival in breast cancer subtypes.', 'Immunohistochemical analysis of MMP-1, ER, PR, Ki-67, HER2, bcl-2, p53 and CK5/6 expression was performed on 125 breast cancers. Statistical analyses were carried out using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney -tests. In pairwise comparison Bonferroni-adjustment was applied. Correlations were calculated using Spearman rank-order correlation coefficients. Kaplan-Meier survival analyses were carried out to compare breast cancer-specific survival curves. Factors significantly associated with disease-specific survival in univariate models were included in multivariate stepwise.', 'Positive correlations were found between tumour grade and MMP-1 expression in tumour cells and in stromal cells. P53 positivity significantly correlated with MMP-1 expression in tumour cells, whereas HER2 expression correlated with MMP-1 both in tumour cells and stromal cells. MMP-1 expression in stromal cells showed a significant association with luminal A and luminal B, HER2 overexpressing and triple-negative breast cancer subtypes.'] Does mMP-1 expression have an independent prognostic value in breast cancer? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.338762044906616,
-1.2245330810546875,
2.642627239227295
] |
['Rett syndrome is a neurodevelopmental and autistic disease caused by mutations of Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) gene. MeCP2 protein is mainly expressed in neurons and binds to methylated gene promoters to suppress their expression, indicating that Rett syndrome is caused by the deregulation of target genes in neurons. However, it is likely that there are more unidentified neuronal MeCP2-targets associated with the neurological features of RTT.', 'Using a genome-microarray approach, we found 22 genomic regions that contain sites potentially regulated by MeCP2 based on the features of MeCP2 binding, DNA methylation, and repressive histone modification in human cell lines. Within these regions, Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analysis revealed that MeCP2 binds to the upstream regions of the protocadherin genes PCDHB1 and PCDH7 in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. PCDHB1 and PCDH7 promoter activities were down-regulated by MeCP2, but not by MBD-deleted MeCP2. These gene expression were up-regulated following MeCP2 reduction with siRNA in SH-SY5Y cells and in the brains of Mecp2-null mice. Furthermore, PCDHB1 was up-regulated in postmortem brains from Rett syndrome patients.'] Are the protocadherins , PCDHB1 and PCDH7 , regulated by MeCP2 in neuronal cells and brain tissues : implication for pathogenesis of Rett syndrome? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.476987600326538,
-1.1585079431533813,
2.7053568363189697
] |
["Microcirculation in the dermis of the skin is important for nutrient delivery to this tissue. In this study, the effects of a micronutrient concentrate (Juice Plus+®; 'active group'), composed primarily of fruit and vegetable juice powder, on skin microcirculation and structure were compared to placebo.", "This 12-week study had a monocentric, double-blind placebo and randomized controlled design with two treatment groups consisting of 26 healthy middle-aged women each. The 'oxygen to see' device was used to evaluate microcirculation. Skin density and thickness were measured using ultrasound. Measurements for skin hydration (Corneometer®), transepidermal water loss and serum analysis for carotenoids and α-tocopherol were also performed.", 'By 12 weeks, microcirculation of the superficial plexus increased by 39%. Furthermore, skin hydration increased by 9% while skin thickness increased by 6% and skin density by 16% in the active group. In the placebo group, microcirculation decreased, and a slight increase in skin density was observed.'] Does an encapsulated fruit and vegetable juice concentrate increase skin microcirculation in healthy women? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3055288791656494,
-1.2427116632461548,
2.5915088653564453
] |
['Impairment of subchondral bone density and quality aggravates cartilage damage in osteoarthritis (OA). Accordingly, we assessed whether improving microstructure and quality at subchondral bone by the bone-forming agent parathyroid hormone (PTH) [1-34] prevent cartilage damage progression in a rabbit model of OA preceded by osteoporosis (OP).', 'OP was induced in 20 female rabbits. At week 7, these rabbits underwent knee surgery to induce OA and, at week 12, they started either saline vehicle (n=10) or PTH (n=10) for 10 weeks. Ten healthy animals were used as controls. At week 22, microstructure was assessed by micro-computed tomography and bone remodelling by protein expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9), osteoprotegerin (OPG) and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) at subchondral bone. Cartilage damage was evaluated using Mankin score.', 'PTH reversed the decrease of bone area/tissue area, trabecular thickness, plate thickness, polar moment of inertia, ALP expression and OPG/RANKL ratio, as well as counteracted the increase of fractal dimension and MMP9 expression at subchondral bone of osteoarthritis preceded by osteoporosis (OPOA) rabbits compared to vehicle administration (P<0.05). Likewise, PTH decreased cartilage damage severity in OPOA rabbits. Good correlations were observed between subchondral bone structure or remodelling parameters, and cartilage Mankin score.'] Does improving subchondral bone integrity reduce progression of cartilage damage in experimental osteoarthritis preceded by osteoporosis? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.119283437728882,
-1.4956188201904297,
2.617180109024048
] |
['Epicardial adipose tissue is associated with coronary artery disease, however the causal relationship between perivascular adipose tissue and local atherogenesis is unclear.', 'Apolipoprotein E deficient (ApoE(-/-)) mice underwent transplantation of visceral or subcutaneous adipose tissue immediately adjacent to the right common carotid artery. Carotid arteries with fat transplants were analyzed for atherosclerosis by surface oil-red-O staining and cross-sectional analysis. Vascular function of the carotid arteries was assessed using pressure myography. Visceral fat transplants were also performed to ApoE(-/-) mice with neutralization of P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (Psgl-1). Atherosclerosis surface area and lesion thickness were greater in mice receiving the perivascular visceral fat compared to the subcutaneous fat. Mice with visceral fat transplants also displayed more complicated atherosclerotic lesions with evidence of atherothrombosis. Serum Mcp-1 was higher in mice receiving visceral fat transplants compared to subcutaneous transplants. Visceral fat transplantation also caused impaired endothelial-dependent relaxation of the carotid artery. Psgl-1 deficiency or neutralization of Psgl-1 with an anti-Psgl-1 antibody was protective against perivascular visceral adipose tissue-induced atherosclerosis and was associated with reduced Mcp-1 levels.'] Does perivascular visceral adipose tissue induce atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E deficient mice? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.4510319232940674,
-1.3627963066101074,
2.8447728157043457
] |
['Epicardial fat volume (EFV) is related to calcified coronary plaques. However, it is unknown whether baseline EFV or changes in EFV affect the progression of coronary artery calcification over time.', 'We identified 375 consecutive asymptomatic subjects with an intermediate risk of developing coronary artery disease, who underwent serial non-contrast CT at least 3-5 years apart. Subjects were divided into tertiles of CCS progression (% increase) between the 2 scans. Subjects from the upper tertile (High Progressors) were matched by age and gender to 81 subjects from the lower tertile (Low Progressors). All subjects underwent serial measurements of CCS and EFV. Relationships between EFV and CCS progression, and change in plaque number were examined.', 'At baseline, there was no difference in EFV, and EFV indexed to body surface area (EFVi) between the groups. At follow-up, EFV, EFVi and percent increase in EFVi-change were higher in High Progressors than Low Progressors (EFV, 102 ± 38 cm(3) vs. 90 ± 35 cm(3), p=0.03; EFVi, 50 ± 16cm(3)/m(2) vs. 46 ± 15 cm(3)/m(2), p=0.03; percent increase in EFVi-change, 15 ± 22% vs. 7 ± 20%, p=0.02). On multivariate analysis, after adjusting for conventional risk factors, EFVi increase ≥15% [odds ratio (OR) 2.3, p<0.05], log (baseline CCS) [OR 0.3, p<0.0001] and scan interval time [p=0.003, OR 1.0] were predictive of being a High Progressor. EFVi increase ≥ 15% (β=3.0, p=0.02) and hypertension (β=3.1, p=0.01) were independent predictors of number of new calcified plaques on follow-up.'] Is increase in epicardial fat volume associated with greater coronary artery calcification progression in subjects at intermediate risk by coronary calcium score : a serial study using non-contrast cardiac CT? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-0.5175696611404419,
-1.8699429035186768,
1.481673002243042
] |
['The HIV-1 accessory protein Nef is an important determinant of lentiviral pathogenicity that contributes to disease progression by enhancing viral replication and other poorly understood mechanisms. Nef mediates diverse functions including downmodulation of cell surface CD4 and MHC Class I, enhancement of viral infectivity, and enhancement of T cell activation. Nef interacts with a multiprotein signaling complex that includes Src family kinases, Vav1, CDC42, and activated PAK2 (p21-activated kinase 2). Although previous studies have attempted to identify a biological role for the Nef-PAK2 signaling complex, the importance of this complex and its constituent proteins in Nef function remains unclear.', 'Here, we show that Nef mutants defective for PAK2-association, but functional for CD4 and MHC Class I downmodulation and infectivity enhancement, are also defective for the ability to enhance viral replication in primary T cells that are infected and subsequently activated by sub-maximal stimuli (1 μg/ml PHA-P). In contrast, these Nef mutants had little or no effect on HIV-1 replication in T cells activated by stronger stimuli (2 μg/ml PHA-P or anti-CD3/CD28-coated beads). Viruses bearing wild-type Nefs, but not Nef mutants defective for PAK2 association, enhanced NFAT and IL2 receptor promoter activity in Jurkat cells. Moreover, expression of wild-type Nefs, but not mutant Nefs defective for PAK2 association, was sufficient to enhance responsiveness of primary CD4 and CD8 T cells to activating stimuli in Nef-expressing and bystander cells. siRNA knockdown of PAK2 in Jurkat cells reduced NFAT activation induced by anti-CD3/CD28 stimulation both in the presence and absence of Nef, and expression of a PAK2 dominant mutant inhibited Nef-mediated enhancement of CD25 expression.'] Is nef-mediated enhancement of cellular activation and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 replication in primary T cells dependent on association with p21-activated kinase 2? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3692667484283447,
-1.1638824939727783,
2.6065258979797363
] |
['Alteration of dopamine neurotransmission in the prefrontal cortex, especially hypofunction of dopamine D1 receptors, contributes to psychotic symptoms and cognitive deficit in schizophrenia. D1 receptors signal through the cAMP/PKA second messenger cascade, which is modulated by phosphodiesterase (PDE) enzymes that hydrolyze and inactivate cyclic nucleotides. Though several PDEs are expressed in cortical neurons, the PDE4 enzyme family (PDE4A-D) has been implicated in the control of cognitive function. The best studied isoform, PDE4B, interacts with a schizophrenia susceptibility factor, disrupted in schizophrenia 1 (DISC1).', 'We explore the control of mouse frontal cortex dopamine D1 receptor signaling and associated behavior by PDE4.', 'Inhibition of PDE4 by rolipram induced activation of cAMP/PKA signaling in cortical slices and in vivo, leading to the phosphorylation of DARPP-32 and other postsynaptic and presynaptic PKA-substrates. Rolipram also enhanced DARPP-32 phosphorylation invoked by D1 receptor activation. Immunohistochemical studies demonstrated PDE4A, PDE4B, and PDE4D expression in DARPP-32-positive neurons in layer VI of frontal cortex, most likely in D1 receptor-positive, glutamatergic corticothalamic pyramidal neurons. Furthermore, the ability of rolipram treatment to improve the performance of mice in a sensorimotor gating test was DARPP-32-dependent.'] Does phosphodiesterase 4 inhibition enhance the dopamine D1 receptor/PKA/DARPP-32 signaling cascade in frontal cortex? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.457493305206299,
-1.2681453227996826,
2.743288516998291
] |
['Repeated activation of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) receptors is associated with increased anxiety and enhanced stress responsivity, which may be mediated via limbic GABAergic and glutamatergic transmission.', 'The present study investigated molecular and functional alterations in GABA(A) receptor (GABA(A)R) and metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) responsivity in transgenic mice that chronically overexpress CRF.', 'CRF(1) receptor, GABA(A)R, and mGluR sensitivity were determined in CRF-overexpressing mice using the stress-induced hyperthermia (SIH) test. In addition, we measured mRNA expression levels of GABA(A)R α subunits and mGluRs in the amygdala and hypothalamus.', "CRF-overexpressing mice were less sensitive to the anxiolytic effects of the CRF(1) receptor antagonists CP154,526 and DMP695, the GABA(A)R α(3)-selective agonist TP003 (0-3 mg/kg) and the mGluR(2/3) agonist LY379268 (0-10 mg/kg) in the SIH test. The hypothermic effect of the non-selective GABA(A)R agonist diazepam (0-4 mg/kg) and the α(1)-subunit-selective GABA(A)R agonist zolpidem (0-10 mg/kg) was reduced in CRF-overexpressing mice. No genotype differences were found using the GABA(A)R α(5)-subunit preferential compound SH-053-2'F-R-CH(3) and mGluR(5) antagonists MPEP and MTEP. CRF-overexpressing mice showed decreased expression levels of GABA(A)R α(2) subunit and mGluR(3) mRNA levels in the amygdala, whereas these expression levels were increased in the hypothalamus. CRF-overexpressing mice also showed increased hypothalamic mRNA levels of α(1) and α(5) GABA(A)R subunits."] Is lifelong CRF overproduction associated with altered gene expression and sensitivity of discrete GABA ( A ) and mGlu receptor subtypes? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.179387092590332,
-1.4352025985717773,
2.5982186794281006
] |
['Recent work has shown that humans are significantly exposed to isocyanic acid/cyanate, which is generated when coal, biomass, or tobacco is burned. In vivo, cyanate is formed by the phagocyte protein myeloperoxidase and by breakdown of urea. Carbamylation of proteins through cyanate has been demonstrated to predict cardiovascular risk and is thought to promote vascular dysfunction; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.', 'Here, we show that cyanate induces intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) expression with subsequently enhanced neutrophil adhesion in human coronary artery endothelial cells. Cyanate triggers ICAM-1 expression through a mechanism depending on activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 and nuclear factor-kappaB. Endothelial ICAM-1 expression was not induced when low-molecular-weight substances were removed from cell culture medium, thus ruling out a role of carbamylated (lipo)proteins in ICAM-1 induction. In mice, oral administration of cyanate induced marked endothelial ICAM-1 expression in the aorta. Moreover, in patients with end-stage renal disease, the extent of plasma protein carbamylation (a marker for cyanate exposure) significantly correlated with plasma levels of soluble ICAM-1.', 'Here, we demonstrate for the first time that cyanate, rather than carbamylated lipoproteins, induces vascular ICAM-1 expression in vivo.'] Is cyanate a novel inducer of endothelial icam-1 expression? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.585653781890869,
-1.0862385034561157,
2.7601022720336914
] |
['To study the influence of antiinflammatory treatments, including methotrexate (MTX) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors, on antibody response following vaccination using a 7-valent conjugate pneumococcal vaccine in adult patients with established arthritis.', 'Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or spondylarthropathy (SpA) (including psoriatic arthritis) were vaccinated (n = 505). All patients were stratified into 6 prespecified groups based on diagnosis and treatment (RA patients receiving MTX, RA patients receiving anti-TNF agents and MTX, RA patients receiving TNF inhibitors as monotherapy, SpA patients receiving anti-TNF agents and MTX, SpA patients receiving TNF inhibitors as monotherapy, and SpA patients receiving nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs [NSAIDs] and/or analgesics). SpA patients receiving only NSAIDs/analgesics served as a control group. All patients received 1 dose (0.5 ml) of vaccine intramuscularly. Levels of IgG antibodies against 23F and 6B serotypes were measured at vaccination and at 4-6 weeks following vaccination, using standardized enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.', 'Positive antibody response was defined as an antibody response ratio (ARR) (i.e., ratio of post- to prevaccination antibody levels) of ≥2. The ARR differed significantly between the groups. A better ARR was seen among patients in the control group compared to those in groups treated with MTX or MTX in combination with TNF inhibitors. Among patients treated with TNF inhibitors as monotherapy, ARRs for both serotypes were lower numerically, but were not significantly different, compared to those in controls. Ongoing MTX treatment was predictive of reduced response (odds ratio 0.41 [95% confidence interval 0.24-0.68], P = 0.001). Higher age was associated with impaired positive antibody response. Concomitant prednisolone treatment elicited better positive antibody response in patients with RA.'] Is antibody response reduced following vaccination with 7-valent conjugate pneumococcal vaccine in adult methotrexate-treated patients with established arthritis , but not those treated with tumor necrosis factor inhibitors? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.1144115924835205,
-1.5375295877456665,
2.689152956008911
] |
["Biceps tendon pathology is common with rotator cuff tears. The mechanisms for biceps changes, and therefore its optimal treatment, are unknown. Our objective was to determine the effect of rotator cuff tears on regional biceps tendon pathology. We hypothesized that histologic and compositional changes would appear before organizational changes, both would appear before mechanical changes, and changes would begin at the tendon's insertion site.", 'Detachment of supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons or sham surgery was done in 65 Sprague-Dawley rats. Rats were euthanized at 1, 4, or 8 weeks for regional measurements of histologic, compositional, organizational (1, 4 and 8 weeks), or mechanical properties (4 and 8 weeks only).', "One week after tendon detachments, decreased organization and more rounded cell shape were found in the intra-articular space of the biceps tendon. Aggrecan expression was increased along the entire length of the tendon, whereas all other compositional changes were only at the tendon's proximal insertion into bone. With time, this disorganization and more rounded cell shape extended the length of the tendon. Organizational and cell shape changes also preceded detrimental mechanical changes: decreased modulus in the intra-articular space was found after 8 weeks."] Do intra-articular changes precede extra-articular changes in the biceps tendon after rotator cuff tears in a rat model? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.58240008354187,
-0.8556279540061951,
2.4808928966522217
] |
['We investigated the determinants of sexual identity in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The\xa0higher fungi are divided into the ascomycetes and the basidiomycetes. Most ascomycetes have two mating types: one (called α in yeasts and MAT1-1 in filamentous fungi) produces a small, unmodified, peptide pheromone, and the other (a in yeasts and MAT1-2 in filamentous fungi) produces a peptide pheromone conjugated to a C-terminal farnesyl group that makes it very hydrophobic. In the basidiomycetes, all pheromones are lipid-modified, and this difference is\xa0a distinguishing feature between the phyla. We asked whether the asymmetry in pheromone modification is required for successful mating in ascomycetes.', 'We cloned receptor and pheromone genes from\xa0a filamentous ascomycete and a basidiomycete and expressed these in the budding yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, to generate novel, alternative mating pairs. We find that two yeast cells can mate even when both cells secrete a-like or α-like peptides. Importantly, this is true regardless of whether the cells express the a- or α-mating-type loci, which control the\xa0expression of other, sex-specific genes, in addition to the pheromones and pheromone receptors.'] Is asymmetry in sexual pheromones required for ascomycete mating? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.5654070377349854,
-0.6336460709571838,
2.217088222503662
] |
['Adolescents often experience different types of victimization across a specified period of time in different situations. These multiple victimization experiences can have a number of deleterious effects on psychosocial well-being. To expand on research gathered primarily from US samples, the current study estimated the prevalence of multiple victimization in a nationally representative sample of Canadian adolescents. We also expanded on past research by adopting an ecological approach to identify correlates of multiple victimization.', 'Cross-sectional data from the 2000-2001 cycle of the National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth (NLSCY) were used to estimate the prevalence of multiple victimization (verbal harassment, threat of and actual physical assault, school social exclusion, discrimination) in 1,036 13-16 year olds. We also examined household (e.g., parental education), family (e.g., parenting practices), and adolescent (e.g., friendship quality) correlates of multiple victimization for the whole sample and separately by sex.', 'Among the 6 in 10 adolescents who reported at least 1 victimization experience, 30.5% reported 2 types of victimization whereas 23.7% reported 3 or more types. There was an increased probability of multiple victimization (2 or more types) in adolescents who reported greater parental rejection, who engaged in more frequent out-of-school activities, and who experienced non-victimization adversity. The probability decreased if adolescents reported greater friendship quality.'] Does prevalence and correlate of multiple victimization in a nation-wide adolescent sample? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-1.3347139358520508,
1.2693638801574707,
-0.5383855104446411
] |
['Percent diameter reduction provides an imperfect assessment of the risk for stroke from carotid atheroembolism. Stroke associated with atherosclerotic carotid stenosis commonly results from plaque disruption brought about by hemodynamic shear stress and Bernoulli forces. The aim of the present study was to predict the effect of incomplete intracranial collateralization through the circle of Willis (COW) on disruptive hemodynamic forces acting on carotid plaques.', 'A simple circuit model of the major pathways and collaterals that form and supply the COW was developed. We modeled the intra- and extracranial arterial circuits from standard anatomic references, and the pressure-flow relationships within these conduits from standard fluid mechanics. The pressure drop caused by (laminar and turbulent) flow along the internal carotid artery path was then computed. Carotid circulation to the brain was classified as being with or without collateral connections through the COW, and the extracranial carotid circuit as being with or without severe stenosis. The pressure drop was computed for each scenario. Finally, a linear circuit model was used to compute brain blood flow in the presence/absence of a disconnected COW.', 'Pressure drop across a carotid artery stenosis increased as the flow rate within the carotid conduit increased. Poststenotic turbulence from a sudden expansion distal to the stenosis resulted in an additional pressure drop. Despite the stenosis, mean brain blood flow was sustained at 4.15 mL/s bilaterally. In the presence of an intact (collateralized) COW, this was achieved by enhanced flow in the contralateral (normal) carotid artery. However, in a disconnected COW, this was achieved by sustained systolic and enhanced diastolic flow through the stenosed artery. For a similar degree of stenosis, flow and velocity across the plaque was much higher when the COW was disconnected compared with an intact COW. Furthermore, the pressure drop across a similar stenosis was significantly higher with a disconnected COW compared with an intact COW.'] Does intracranial collateralization determine hemodynamic forces for carotid plaque disruption? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.430041551589966,
-1.156816005706787,
2.6960649490356445
] |
['The higher prevalence of venous disorders in the left lower limb is currently ascribed to compression of the left common iliac vein (LCIV) by the right common iliac artery (RCIA). This study evaluated the occurrence of LCIV compression by the left common iliac artery (LCIA).', 'The anatomy of iliac vessels was evaluated by computed tomography (CT) in 100 asymptomatic individuals. Traditional axial projections, multiple planar, and curved planar reconstructions were used to investigate LCIV morphology.', 'Compression of the LCIV by the LCIA was found in 20% of participants, whereas compression by the RCIA occurred in 25% and by both iliac arteries in 21%. Axial projections demonstrated a mean reduction in caliber of the LCIV at LCIA crossing of 22.25% (range 0%-90%). Caliber reduction of >20%, 50%, and 70% was observed in 41, 21, and 6 individuals, respectively. The mean LCIV reduction in caliber at RCIA crossing calculated in the axial CT was 24.49% (range, 0%-95%). Caliber reduction of >20%, 50%, and 70%, was observed in 46, 22, and 5 subjects, respectively. Multiple planar reconstructions demonstrated that in contrast to the RCIA, the compressive LCIA determines an eccentric deformation of the vein along its major axis, thus inducing a marked distortion of the lumen that varies from 22 to 37 mm.'] Does the left common iliac artery also compress the left common iliac vein? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.005537271499634,
-1.2085707187652588,
2.361684799194336
] |
['To determine if intraoperative distal graft end-diastolic velocity (EDV) using completion duplex ultrasound (CDU) predicts patency of crural bypass in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI).', 'Records of 116 non-consecutive patients who underwent crural revascularization with vein conduit and CDU between 1998 and 2008 were reviewed. Bypass grafts were performed for rest pain (34%) or tissue loss (66%), while 56% of the reported cases were categorized as "disadvantaged" because of compromised vein quality or diseased arterial outflow. A 10-MHz low-profile transducer was used to image the entire bypass at case completion. Technical adequacy of the grafts was verified by absence of retained valves, arteriovenous fistulas, or localized velocity increases and presence of bypass-dependent distal pulses. Modified Rutherford scores were calculated as surrogate markers of runoff resistance and compared to distal graft EDV. The primary study end point was graft patency during a 1-year posttreatment period. Patency rates were determined using Kaplan-Meier life table methodology and compared using the log-rank test. Predictors of graft patency were determined by Cox proportional hazards.', 'Primary, primary-assisted, and secondary patency for all crural bypasses were 62%, 66%, and 70% at 1 year, respectively. When stratified by tertiles of distal graft EDV (0 - <5 cm/s, 5-15 cm/s, >15 cm/s), 1-year primary patency rates were 32%, 64%, and 84% (P = .001). Low (0 - < 5 cm/s) distal graft EDV (hazard ratio [HR], 3.3 confidence interval [CI], 1.74-6.41; P < .001), poor-quality conduit (HR, 2.5; CI, 1.19-5.21; P = .016), age <70 (HR, 2.08; CI, 1.06-4.00; P = .031), and lack of statin use (HR, 2.04; CI, 1.04-4.00; P = .038) were independent predictors of graft failure. While the modified Rutherford score correlated with distal graft EDV (P = .05), it was not an independent predictor of patency (P = .58). Predictors of low EDV (<5 cm/s) included single-vessel runoff (odds ratio [OR], 3.33; CI, 1.14-9.71; P = .027), poor conduit (OR, 2.94; CI, 1.16-7.41; P = 0.024), and diabetes (OR, 2.86; CI, 1.14-7.21; P = .025).'] Does completion duplex ultrasound predict early graft thrombosis after crural bypass in patients with critical limb ischemia? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7653859853744507,
-1.6576334238052368,
2.4294674396514893
] |
['The inflammatory response is a critical component of ischemic stroke. In addition to its physiological role, the mechanisms behind transendothelial recruitment of immune cells also offer a unique therapeutic opportunity for translational stem cell therapies. Recent reports have demonstrated homing of neural stem cells (NSC) into the injured brain areas after intravascular delivery. However, the mechanisms underlying the process of transendothelial recruitment remain largely unknown. Here we describe the critical role of the chemokine CCL2 and its receptor CCR2 in targeted homing of NSC after ischemia.', 'Twenty-four hours after induction of stroke using the hypoxia-ischemia model in mice CCR2+/+ and CCR2-/- reporter NSC were intra-arterially delivered. Histology and bioluminescence imaging were used to investigate NSC homing to the ischemic brain. Functional outcome was assessed with the horizontal ladder test.', 'Using NSC isolated from CCR2+/+ and CCR2-/- mice, we show that receptor deficiency significantly impaired transendothelial diapedesis specifically in response to CCL2. Accordingly, wild-type NSC injected into CCL2-/- mice exhibited significantly decreased homing. Bioluminescence imaging showed robust recruitment of CCR2+/+ cells within 6 hours after transplantation in contrast to CCR2-/- cells. Mice receiving CCR2+/+ grafts after ischemic injury showed a significantly improved recovery of neurological deficits as compared to animals with transplantation of CCR2-/- NSC.'] Does the CCR2/CCL2 interaction mediate the transendothelial recruitment of intravascularly delivered neural stem cells to the ischemic brain? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.411625623703003,
-1.3258984088897705,
2.7593302726745605
] |
['Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is a rare and devastating complication of carotid revascularization. We sought to determine the prevalence of, type of, and risk factors associated with ICH among recipients of carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and carotid angioplasty and stenting (CAS) within the National Inpatient Sample (NIS).', 'Postoperative cases of ICH after CEA (International Classification of Disease 9th edition [ICD-9]: 38.12) or CAS (ICD-9: 00.63) were retrieved from the 2001 to 2008 NIS. Clinical presentation (asymptomatic versus symptomatic), discharge status, in-hospital mortality, demographics, and hospital characteristics were extracted from NIS data. Charlson indices of comorbidity were determined based on ICD-9 and clinical classification software codes. Multivariate regression was used to determine the impact of revascularization procedure type and symptom status on adverse outcomes, including ICH, in-hospital mortality, and unfavorable discharge status.', 'Among 57,663,486 NIS hospital admissions, 215,012 CEA and 13,884 CAS procedures were performed. Symptomatic presentations represented the minority of CEA (N=10,049; 5%) and CAS cases (N=1251; 10%). ICH occurred significantly more frequently after CAS than CEA in both symptomatic (4.4% versus 0.8%; P<0.0001) and asymptomatic presentations (0.5% versus 0.06%; P<0.0001). Multivariate regression suggested that symptomatic presentations (versus asymptomatic) and CAS procedures (versus CEA) were both independently predictive of 6-fold to 7-fold increases in the frequency of postoperative ICH. ICH was independently predictive in a 30-fold increased risk of mortality before discharge.'] Is intracranial hemorrhage much more common after carotid stenting than after endarterectomy : evidence from the National Inpatient Sample? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.7669259309768677,
-1.5180463790893555,
2.296384334564209
] |
['This study examined prevalence and correlates of mental health service use among adolescents with an autism spectrum disorder.', 'Data from the National Longitudinal Transition Study-2 were used to examine mental health service use among 920 youths with this disorder. Estimates are nationally representative of students enrolled in the special education autism category. Regression models examined the association of predisposing, enabling, and need factors with service use overall and with a focus on receiving these services at school.', 'Overall, 46% (weighted) of the youths had used a mental health service in the past year. Of those who had, 49% (weighted) had received it at school. Need variables were the strongest correlates of service use. African-American youths and youths from lower-income families were more likely to receive school-based services.'] Do mental health service use among adolescents with an autism spectrum disorder? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 1 | [
-1.7272588014602661,
2.4038946628570557,
-1.2368214130401611
] |
['Statin medications have antiinflammatory effects. We sought to determine whether statin use in persons with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) was associated with reduced rates of steroid use or other markers of disease activity.', 'We performed a retrospective cohort study using administrative data. Statin users with IBD were compared to statin-unexposed IBD subjects. The primary outcome was an oral steroid prescription; secondary outcomes included anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) initiation, hospitalization, or abdominal surgery. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) adjusted for potential confounders.', "The study cohort included 1986 statin-exposed and 9871 unexposed subjects. Statin use was associated with an 18% reduction in the rate of steroid initiation (HR 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.71, 0.94). A statistically significant result was seen with atorvastatin only (HR 0.76, 95% CI 0.60, 0.96). Statins were associated with a reduced rate of steroids in ulcerative colitis (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.62, 0.91), but not in Crohn's disease (HR 0.91, 95% CI 0.74, 1.12). Statin use was associated with reduced hazard of anti-TNF use (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.46, 1.11), abdominal surgery (HR 0.80, 95% CI 0.63, 1.02), and hospitalization (HR 0.88, 95% CI 0.74, 1.05), but these results did not reach statistical significance."] Are statins associated with reduced use of steroids in inflammatory bowel disease : a retrospective cohort study? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.9609633684158325,
-1.4522916078567505,
2.4281554222106934
] |
['Resistance vessel remodeling is controlled by myriad of hemodynamic and neurohormonal factors. This study characterized structural and molecular remodeling in mesenteric resistance arteries (MRAs) in diabetic (db/db) and control (Db/db) mice.', 'Structural properties were assessed in isolated MRAs from 12 and 16 wk-old db/db and Db/db mice by pressure myography. Matrix regulatory proteins were measured by Western blot analysis. Mean arterial pressure and superior mesenteric blood flow were measured in 12 wk-old mice by telemetry and a Doppler flow nanoprobe, respectively.', 'Blood pressure was similar between groups. Lumen diameter and medial cross-sectional area were significantly increased in 16 wk-old db/db MRA compared to control, indicating outward hypertrophic remodeling. Moreover, wall stress and cross-sectional compliance were significantly larger in diabetic arteries. These remodeling indices were associated with increased expression of matrix regulatory proteins matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, MMP-12, tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1, TIMP-2, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) in db/db arteries. Finally, superior mesenteric artery blood flow was increased by 46% in 12 wk-old db/db mice, a finding that preceded mesenteric resistance artery remodeling.'] Do mesenteric resistance arteries in type 2 diabetic db/db mice undergo outward remodeling? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.360675811767578,
-1.3692481517791748,
2.762495994567871
] |
['Originally isolated on the basis of its ability to induce p53, serdemetan showed potent activity in various preclinical models, inducing S-phase arrest and apoptosis in TP53 wild-type and mutant tumors. This study evaluated the safety and tolerability of serdemetan, determined the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles, and identified a recommended phase II dose.', 'Patients (71) with refractory solid tumors were allocated to dose-escalating cohorts (3+3 patients each) and received oral serdemetan once daily in 21-day cycles to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and dose-limiting toxicities (DLT). Plasma was collected for pharmacokinetic analyses. Paired baseline and on-treatment skin and tumor biopsies were done; blood samples were collected for pharmacodynamic analyses, including p53 and macrophage inhibitory cytokine-1 induction.', 'The MTD of serdemetan was determined to be 350 mg once daily. During this study, grade 3 QTc prolongation was the most common DLT and nausea (66.2%) was the most frequent treatment-emergent adverse event. Serdemetan was rapidly absorbed after oral administration and exhibited dose-proportional pharmacokinetics. At steady state, mean maximum plasma concentration (C(max)) was 2,330 ng/mL and mean area under plasma concentration curve (AUC(0-24h)) was 43.0 μg.h/mL, with serdemetan 300 mg/d. There was a dose- and exposure-dependent p53 induction. One patient with breast cancer showed a partial response; 22 (38.6%) patients had stable disease.'] Do a phase I first-in-human pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic study of serdemetan in patients with advanced solid tumors? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.071603536605835,
-1.5298435688018799,
2.6301679611206055
] |
['To investigate associations between serum bisphenol A (BPA) concentrations and follicular response to exogenous ovary stimulation.', 'Fasting serum was prospectively collected on the day of oocyte retrieval and assessed for unconjugated BPA using high-performance liquid chromatography with Coularray detection. Multivariable linear regression and negative binomial regression were used to assess associations between concentrations of BPA and outcome measures. Models were adjusted for race/ethnicity, antral follicle count at baseline, and cigarette smoking.', 'A reproductive health center.', 'Forty-four women undergoing IVF.', 'None.', 'Peak E(2) level and the number of oocytes retrieved during IVF.', 'The median unconjugated serum BPA concentration is 2.53 ng/mL (range = 0.3-67.36 ng/mL). Bisphenol A is inversely associated with E(2) (β = -0.16; 95% confidence interval = -0.32, 0.01), as well as with E(2) normalized to the number of mature-sized follicles at the hCG trigger (β = -0.14; 95% confidence interval = -0.24, -0.03). No association is observed for BPA and the number of oocytes retrieved (adjusted risk ratio = 0.95; 95% confidence interval = 0.82, 1.10).'] Does bisphenol A exposure reduce the estradiol response to gonadotropin stimulation during in vitro fertilization? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.007862091064453,
-1.4626437425613403,
2.524451971054077
] |
['A gene polymorphism substituting arginine (R) for histidine (H) at position 131 has been described within the Fcγ receptor IIa (FcγRIIa). The R allele is associated with increased binding of CRP and enhanced activation of monocytes. FcγRIIa is also expressed on endothelial cells, and we hypothesized this polymorphism would be associated with alterations of endothelial function.', 'Genomic DNA was extracted and allele-specific PCR reactions were used to determine the FcγRIIa H131R polymorphism in 78 hypercholesterolaemic subjects. Using strain gauge plethysmography, forearm blood flow (FBF) responses were determined to intra-arterial infusion of acetylcholine (ACH), for endothelium-dependent vasodilatation (EDV), to nitroprusside (NP), for endothelium-independent vasodilatation (EIV), to NG-monomethyl-l-arginine (l-NMMA), for basal NO activity, and to ACH in the presence of l-NMMA, to assess the contribution of NO release to EDV.', 'Homozygous carriers of the H allele (n=30) had significantly better EDV than homozygous carriers of the R allele (n=15), while heterozygotes showed an intermediate phenotype (n=33) (e.g. % increase of FBF to ACH 48μg/min: 527±359% in H/H versus 452±262% in H/R versus 332±413% in R/R, p=0.0012 by 2-way ANOVA). EIV and basal NO activity were not affected by genotype, and co-infusion of l-NMMA abolished the differences in EDV.'] Is the Fcγ receptor IIA R131H gene polymorphism associated with endothelial function in patients with hypercholesterolaemia? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.050032615661621,
-1.5962368249893188,
2.660696029663086
] |
['Pathogen inactivation in blood and blood products is one of the major means to achieve a zero risk blood supply and improve transfusion safety. Riboflavin (vitamin B2) activated by ultraviolet (UV) light, produces active oxygen which damages cell membrane and prevents replication of the carrier of diseases (viruses, bacteria, protozoa) in all blood products. The aim of this study was to establish the influence of the process of pathogens photoinactivation using riboflavin and UV rays on the biochemical and functional characteristics of platelet concentrates prepared from "buffy coat".', 'The examination included 80 platelet concentrates prepared from "buffy coat", which was separated from whole blood donated by voluntary blood donors around 6 hours from the moment of collection. Concentrates were pooled, filtered and separated unton two groups: one consisted of 10 control units and the other of 10 examined units (pooled platelet concentrates). Examined units of the platelets were treated by riboflavin (35 mL) and UV rays (6.24 J/mL, 265-370 nm) on Mirasol aparature (Caridian BCT Biotechnologies, USA) in approximate duration of 6 min. A total of 35 mL of saline solution was added to the control units. The samples for examining were taken from the control and examined units initially (K0, I0), after the addition of saline (K1) and riboflavin (I1), after illumination (I2), first day of storage (K3, I3) and the fifth day of storage (K4, I4). The following parameters were measured: platelet count and platelet yield, residual erythrocyte and leukocyte count, pH, pO2, pCO2 and bacterial contamination.', 'All the measured parameters showed a statistically significant decrease comparing to K0 and I0; all the results of the first day of platelet storage showed statistically significant decrease comparing to K1 and I1, and all the results of the fifth day of platelet storage (K4, I4) showed a statistically significant decrease comparing to K1 and K3 and to I1 and I3. There was no the mentioned difference in the measured parameters between K4 and I4 (the end of storage--the fifth day). All the platelet units were sterile till the seventh day, when the investigation ended.'] Does [ Effects of use of riboflavin and ultraviolet light for pathogen inactivation on quality of platelet concentrate ]? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-1.6200370788574219,
-1.6429932117462158,
2.3022022247314453
] |
['Therapeutic angiogenesis is a promising approach for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial infarction and chronic heart failure. We aimed to improve proangiogenic therapies by identifying novel arteriogenic growth factor combinations, developing injectable delivery systems for spatiotemporally controlled growth factor release, and evaluating functional consequences of targeted intramyocardial growth factor delivery in chronic heart failure.', 'First, we observed that fibroblast growth factor and hepatocyte growth factor synergistically stimulate vascular cell migration and proliferation in vitro. Using 2 in vivo angiogenesis assays (n=5 mice per group), we found that the growth factor combination results in a more potent and durable angiogenic response than either growth factor used alone. Furthermore, we determined that the molecular mechanisms involve potentiation of Akt and mitogen-activated protein kinase signal transduction pathways, as well as upregulation of angiogenic growth factor receptors. Next, we developed crosslinked albumin-alginate microcapsules that sequentially release fibroblast growth factor-2 and hepatocyte growth factor. Finally, in a rat model of chronic heart failure induced by coronary ligation (n=14 to 15 rats per group), we found that intramyocardial slow release of fibroblast growth factor-2 with hepatocyte growth factor potently stimulates angiogenesis and arteriogenesis and prevents cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, as determined by immunohistochemistry, leading to improved cardiac perfusion after 3 months, as shown by magnetic resonance imaging. These multiple beneficial effects resulted in reduced adverse cardiac remodeling and improved left ventricular function, as revealed by echocardiography.'] Does arteriogenic therapy by intramyocardial sustained delivery of a novel growth factor combination prevent chronic heart failure? | qiaojin/PubMedQA | 2 | [
-2.3807590007781982,
-1.353453278541565,
2.7778024673461914
] |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.