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Κυριακή 4 Ιουνίου 2017

The Plight of Veterans

As I listen to the sounds of the VA emergency department I realize the plight of many veterans is

tragic and some have lived through hard times not commonly recognized. There are so many headlines about veteran suicides, homelessness, post-traumatic stress disorder and injuries from explosive devices.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.



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Early ovariectomy reveals the germline encoding of natural anti-A- and Tn-cross-reactive immunoglobulin M (IgM) arising from developmental O-GalNAc glycosylations. (Germline-encoded natural anti-A/Tn cross-reactive IgM)

Abstract

While native blood group A-like glycans have not been demonstrated in prokaryotic microorganisms as a source of human "natural" anti-A isoagglutinin production, and metazoan eukaryotic N-acetylgalactosamine O-glycosylation of serine or threonine residues (O-GalNAc-Ser/Thr-R) does not occur in bacteria, the O-GalNAc glycan-bearing ovarian glycolipids, discovered in C57BL/10 mice, are complementary to the syngeneic anti-A-reactive immunoglobulin M (IgM), which is not present in animals that have undergone ovariectomy prior to the onset of puberty. These mammalian ovarian glycolipids are complementary also to the anti-A/Tn cross-reactive Helix pomatia agglutinin (HPA), a molluscan defense protein, emerging from the coat proteins of fertilized eggs and reflecting the snail-intrinsic, reversible O-GalNAc glycosylations. The hexameric structure of this primitive invertebrate defense protein gives rise to speculation regarding an evolutionary relationship to the mammalian nonimmune, anti-A-reactive immunoglobulin M (IgM) molecule. Hypothetically, this molecule obtains its complementarity from the first step of protein glycosylations, initiated by GalNAc via reversible O-linkages to peptides displaying Ser/Thr motifs, whereas the subsequent transferase depletion completes germ cell maturation and cell renewal, associated with loss of glycosidic bonds and release of O-glycan-depleted proteins, such as complementary IgM revealing the structure of the volatilely expressed "lost" glycan carrier through germline Ser residues. Consequently, the evolutionary/developmental first glycosylations of proteins appear metabolically related or identical to that of the mucin-type, potentially "aberrant" monosaccharide GalNAcα1-O-Ser/Thr-R, also referred to as the Tn (T "nouvelle") antigen, and explain the anti-Tn cross-reactivity of human innate or "natural" anti-A-specific isoagglutinin and the pronounced occurrence of cross-reactive anti-Tn antibody in plasma from humans with histo-blood group O. In fact, A-allelic, phenotype-specific GalNAc glycosylation of plasma proteins does not occur in human blood group O, affecting anti-Tn antibody levels, which may function as a growth regulator that contributes to a potential survival advantage of this group in the overall risk of developing cancer when compared with non-O blood groups.

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In mouse and man, the complementarity of the nonimmune anti-A/Tn cross-reactive IgM most likely occurs in a process of rapid glycosylations/deglycosylations, called "single cycle event", which causes the release of an antibody molecule that displays a predetermined breaking point through the hydroxyl (–OH) functional group of terminal serine/threonine residues. The germline encoded anti-Tn cross-reactivity of the anti-A-specific isoagglutinin and the pronounced occurrence of anti-Tn reactivity in plasma from humans with histo (blood) group O(H), could contribute to the potential, currently discussed survival advantage of this group in the overall risk of developing cancer when compared with non-O blood groups.



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Cervical cancer screening in a low-resource setting: a pilot study on an HPV-based screen-and-treat approach

Abstract

Cervical cancer (CC) is the leading cause of cancer-related death among women in sub-Saharan Africa, primarily because of limited access to effective screening and preventive treatment. Our aim was to assess the feasibility of a human papillomavirus (HPV)-based CC screen-and-treat approach in a low-resource context. We recruited 1012 women aged 30–49 years through a CC screening campaign conducted in the District Hospital of Dschang, Cameroon. Participants performed HPV self-sampling, which was tested for high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) DNA using the point-of-care Xpert HPV assay. All HPV-positive women were invited for visual inspection with acetic acid and Lugol's iodine (VIA/VILI) to exclude CC or enable triage. A cervical sample for histological analysis was also collected. Women positive for HPV 16/18/45 and for other HR-HPV with pathological VIA/VILI were selected to undergo treatment with thermocoagulation. The HPV prevalence in the study population was 18.5% (n = 187); of these cases, 20 (10.6%), 42 (22.3%) and 140 (74.9%) were positive for HPV16, HPV18/45 and other HR-HPV types, respectively. Overall, 107/185 (57.8%) VIA/VILI examinations were classified as pathological and 78 (42.2%) as normal. Women positive for HPV16/18/45 were 4.2 times more likely to harbor cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse (CIN2+) than those with other HPV types. The specificity of HPV 16/18/45 genotypes for detection of high-grade lesions among HR-HPV positive women was higher than that of VIA/VILI in all age groups. The sensitivity and specificity of VIA/VILI in detecting CIN2+ among HPV positive women were 80% and 44%, respectively. Overall, 110/121 screen-positive women (90.9%) were eligible for, and were treated with, thermocoagulation. An HPV-based screen-and-treat approach is feasible in a low-resource context and may contribute to improving the effectiveness of CC prevention programs. Immediate thermocoagulation treatment for women who are HPV16- and/or HPV18/45-positive is a practical approach for the treatment of CIN2+. The combination of HPV-testing and VIA/VILI for CC screening might reduce overtreatment.

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This study assesses the feasibility of a cervical cancer (CC) screen-and-treat 1-day approach including vaginal self-sampling and point-of-care HPV testing in a developing country. This approach may contribute to improving the effectiveness of CC prevention programs and decrease CC mortality in low-resource countries.



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B lymphocytes repress hepatic tumorigenesis but not development in Hras12V transgenic mice

Abstract

Increasing reports show non-inflammation underlying HCC, challenging our understanding of the roles of the immune system in hepatocarcinogenesis. By exploring a mouse model of hepatic tumor induced by hepatocyte-specific expression of the Hras12V oncogene without obvious inflammation, we found that the proportion of B cells, but not T cells, progressively and significantly decreased in 3, 5-month-old transgenic mice (Tg) compared with non-transgenic mice. Notably, the proportions of total and activated B and T cells all significantly decreased in 9-month-old Tg with multiple massive hepatic tumors. Together with the decreased B cell proportion, serum IgG1/2 also significantly decreased in 5, 9-month-old Tg. Interestingly, homozygous Tg showed significantly higher B cell proportion and IgG2 levels, accompanied by significantly lower incidences of liver nodules but not adenomas and carcinomas compared with heterozygous Tg. Treatment of Tg with PCI-32765, a potent Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor for suppressing B cell proliferation and activation, significantly decreased the B cell proportion and IgG2 levels, accompanied by a significantly higher incidence of liver nodules, but had no effects on adenoma and carcinoma. Treatment of Tg with insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF-1) significantly increased the B cell proportion and IgG2 levels, accompanied by a significantly lower incidence of liver nodules and carcinoma, but had no effects on adenoma. Conclusively, B cells and IgG2 may play important roles in suppressing hepatic tumorigenesis, but not development. In addition, hepatocyte-specific expression of the ras oncogene may play roles in suppressing B cells, while developed hepatic tumors suppress both B and T cells. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.



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A classifier integrating plasma biomarkers and radiological characteristics for distinguishing malignant from benign pulmonary nodules

Abstract

Lung cancer is primarily caused by cigarette smoking and the leading cancer killer in the USA and across the world. Early detection of lung cancer by low-dose CT (LDCT) can reduce the mortality. However, LDCT dramatically increases the number of indeterminate pulmonary nodules (PNs), leading to overdiagnosis. Having a definitive preoperative diagnosis of malignant PNs is clinically important. Using microarray and droplet digital PCR to directly profile plasma miRNA expressions of 135 patients with PNs, we identified 11 plasma miRNAs that displayed a significant difference between patients with malignant versus benign PNs. Using multivariate logistic regression analysis of the molecular results and clinical/radiological characteristics, we developed an integrated classifier comprising two miRNA biomarkers and one radiological characteristic for distinguishing malignant from benign PNs. The classifier had 89.9% sensitivity and 90.9% specificity, being significantly higher compared with the biomarkers or clinical/radiological characteristics alone (All P <0.05). The classifier was validated in two independent sets of patients. We have for the first time shown that the integration of plasma biomarkers and radiological characteristics could more accurately identify lung cancer among indeterminate PNs. Future use of the classifier could spare individuals with benign growths from the harmful diagnostic procedures, while allowing effective treatments to be immediately initiated for lung cancer, thereby reduces the mortality and cost. Nevertheless, further prospective validation of this classifier is warranted. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.



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Fatal and non-fatal drowning in rivers



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Predispositions to Leukemia in Down Syndrome and Other Hereditary Disorders

Opinion statement

Leukemia is the most common pediatric cancer and accounts for approximately one third of childhood malignancies. There are germline genetic alterations that significantly increase the risk of developing hematopoietic malignancies in childhood. In this review, we describe a number of these hereditary disorders and their clinical features. These predispositions to cancer syndromes can be attributed to DNA repair/genetic instability, RAS pathway dysfunction, bone marrow failure, telomeropathies, immunodeficiencies, transcription factor abnormalities, pure familial leukemia, and aneuploidy. We focus especially on acute myeloid leukemia associated with Down syndrome, but also include other hereditary syndromes in this review. Recent advances in high-throughput genotyping technology have identified new genetic variations prone to human leukemia. Understanding of the mechanism of leukemia development in these hereditary syndromes allows us to gain insight into leukemogenesis in general and suggests therapeutic strategies based on these findings.



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Fluoxetine and Raynaud's phenomenon: friend or foe?



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Impact of Different Levels of iPTH on All-Cause Mortality in Dialysis Patients with Secondary Hyperparathyroidism after Parathyroidectomy

Background. Secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) usually required parathyroidectomy (PTX) when drugs treatment is invalid. Analysis was done on the impact of different intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) after the PTX on all-cause mortality. Methods. An open, retrospective, multicenter cohort design was conducted. The sample included 525 dialysis patients with SHPT who had undergone PTX. Results. 404 patients conformed to the standard, with 36 (8.91%) deaths during the 11 years of follow-up. One week postoperatively, different levels of serum iPTH were divided into four groups: A: ≤20 pg/mL; B: 21–150 pg/mL; C: 151–600 pg/mL; and D: >600 pg/mL. All-cause mortality in groups with different iPTH levels appeared as follows: A (8.29%), B (3.54%), C (10.91%), and D (29.03%). The all-cause mortality of B was the lowest, with D the highest. We used group A as reference (hazard ratio (HR) = 1) compared with the other groups, and HRs on groups B, C, and D appeared as 0.57, 1.43, and 3.45, respectively. Conclusion. The all-cause mortality was associated with different levels of iPTH after the PTX. We found that iPTH > 600 pg/mL appeared as a factor which increased the risk of all-cause mortality. When iPTH levels were positively and effectively reducing, the risk of all-cause mortality also decreased. The most appropriate level of postoperative iPTH seemed to be 21–150 pg/mL.

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Efficacy and Safety of Cerebrolysin for Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Cerebrolysin was reported to be effective in the neurological improvement of patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in experimental models, while data from clinical trials were inconsistent. We performed a meta-analysis to explore the efficacy and safety of cerebrolysin for AIS. PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials, which intervened within 72 hours after the stroke onset. We investigated the efficacy and safety outcomes, respectively. Risk ratios and mean differences were pooled with fixed-effects model or random-effects model. Seven studies were identified, involving 1779 patients with AIS. The summary results failed to demonstrate significant superiority of cerebrolysin in the assessment of efficacy outcomes of mRS and BI. Similarly, administration of cerebrolysin had neutral effects on safety outcomes compared with placebo, including mortality and SAE. However, the number of included studies was small, especially in the analysis of efficacy outcomes, which might cause publication bias and inaccurate between-studies variance in the meta-analysis. Conclusively, although it seemed to be safe, routine use of cerebrolysin to improve the long-term rehabilitation after stroke could not be supported by available evidence.

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Experimental Verification of the Bernstein Effect “Repetition without Repetition”

The necessity of studying the Bernstein effect "repetition without repetition" is dictated by the absence of quantitative description of this effect and models that could describe such unique phenomena as repeated limb movements in a person in various mental states. In 30 nominally healthy volunteers (15 men, 15 women aged 24-25 years), tappingrams and tremorograms were recorded using an eddy current sensor with an oscillatory circuit (1 MHz) and an amplifier with recording frequency 0-1000 Hz and minimum amplitude of 0.01 mm. The results were recorded as files, processed as matrices of paired comparisons of samples, the number of matching sample pairs was determined (significance level p>0.05), and phase trajectories of finger movement were plotted. The effect was observed for both tapping and tremor and it is advisable to calculate the parameters of quasi-attractors that changed upon shifts in homeostasis.



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Effects of Polyelectrolyte Microcapsules with Different Surface Charge on Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate

Relationship between changes in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate in rats and concentration and charge of polyelectrolyte microcapsules was studied by the Panchenkov method. Positively charged microcapsules reduced erythrocyte sedimentation rate in a concentrationdependent manner. This effect was related to a decrease in the content of high-molecularweight proteins in the plasma due to their adsorption in positively charged microcapsules with polyacrylamide surface layer.



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Olaparib for Metastatic Breast Cancer in Patients with a Germline BRCA Mutation

Approximately 5% of unselected patients with breast cancer carry a germline BRCA mutation. Such mutations are more likely to be present in patients who have a strong family history of breast cancer, younger patients, patients who have triple-negative (i.e. human epidermal growth factor receptor…

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Effects of Combined Transplantation of Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal and Hemopoietic Stem Cells on Regeneration of the Hemopoietic Tissue

The effect of allogenic combined transplantation of placental multipotent mesenchymal stromal and hemopoietic stem cells on regeneration of the myeloid tissue and spleen after acute blood loss was studied in laboratory mice. Combined transplantation of these cells did not change the content of cytogenetically modified cells in the bone marrow under normal conditions, but reduced their levels after acute blood loss. Combined transplantation of multipotent mesenchymal stromal and hemopoietic stem cells promoted activation of erythropoiesis and granulocytopoiesis. The major morphometric and cytological parameters of the white pulp of the spleen decreased, presumably due to immunosuppressive effect of multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells.



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Effects of Nitrosyl Iron Complexes with Thiocarbamide and Its Aliphatic Derivatives on Activities of Ca 2+ -ATPase of Sarcoplasmic Reticulum and cGMP Phosphodiesterase

We studied the effects of water-soluble cationic dinitrosyl iron complexes with thiocarbamide and its aliphatic derivatives, new synthetic analogs of natural NO donors, active centers of nitrosyl [1Fe-2S]proteins, on activities of Ca2+-ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum and cGMP phosphodiesterase. Nitrosyl iron complexes [Fe(C3N2H8S)Cl(NO)2]0[Fe(NO)2(C3N2H8S)2]+Cl(I), [Fe(SC(N(CH3)2)2(NO)2]Cl (II), [Fe(SC(NH2)2)2(NO)2Cl×H2O (III), and [Fe(SC(NH2)2)2(NO)2]2SO4×H2O (IV) in a concentration of 10—4 M completely inhibited the transporting and hydrolytic functions of Ca2+-ATPase. In a concentration of 10—5 M, they inhibited active Ca2+ transport by 57±6, 75±8, 80±8, and 85±9% and ATP hydrolysis by 0, 40±4, 48±5, and 38±4%, respectively. Complex II reversibly and noncompetitively inhibited the hydrolytic function of Ca2+-ATPase (Ki=1.7×10—6 M). All the studied iron—sulphur complexes in a concentration of 10—4 M inhibited cGMP phosphodiesterase function. These data suggest that the studied complexes can exhibit antimetastatic, antiaggregation, vasodilatatory, and antihypertensive activities.



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Antiangiogenic Effects of Nerve Growth Factor Loop 4 Monomeric Dipeptide Mimetic

The effects of GK-1, a monomeric dipeptide mimetic of nerve growth factor (NGF) loop 4, on angiogenesis were studied in vitro and in vivo. Experiments on human umbilical vein endothelial cells HUVEC showed that the test compound did not affect tubulogenesis (initial stage of angiogenesis) and prevented realization of the angiogenic effect of NGF and its dimeric dipeptide mimetic GK-2. Experiments on rat hind limb ischemia model demonstrated that GK-1 (1 mg/kg/day intraperitoneally over 14 days) significantly reduced the density of the capillary network in ischemic tissue and increased the number and area of Zenker necrosis in comparison with the control. These data suggest that GK-1 exhibits a pronounced antiangiogenic activity.



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Enzyme Immunoassay of Antibodies to Endogenous Bioregulators for Evaluating the Risk of Heart Disease

The levels of natural antibodies to β-endorphin, bradykinin, histamine, dopamine, and serotonin were measured in 271 cardiological patients in order to evaluate the severity of their clinical status. The patients were distributed into groups differing by the course of the pathological process. The levels of natural antibodies to all antigens were maximum in patients with cardiosclerosis: the content of antibodies to β-endorphin surpassed the control by 46%, to histamine by 62%, to bradykinin by 36%, to dopamine by 49%, and to serotonin by 65%.



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The Role of Free Radical Oxidation in the Development of Experimental Urate Nephropathy

We studied the dynamics of activity of antioxidant enzymes under conditions of experimental urate kidney damage in rats. Combined administration of uric (0.145 g) and oxonium (0.3 g) acids to laboratory animals modulated free radical oxidation in the kidneys, and especially, in the blood. During the week 1, activity of free radical processes decreased, which was probably determined by the antioxidant effect of increasing blood concentration of uric acid. After 2-3 weeks of experimental pathology, the development of oxidative stress was observed, probably due to predominance of prooxidant activity of uric acid.



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Psychopharmacological Effects of JNK Inhibitor in Posthypoxic Encephalopathy and Mechanisms of Their Development

Psychopharmacological effects of JNK inhibitor were studied using a mouse model of posthypoxic encephalopathy. The preparation exhibited a pronounced cerebroprotective effect manifested in normalization of orientation and exploratory behavior and conditioned responses in posthypoxic mice. These effects were accompanied by marked elevation of neural stem cell content in the paraventricular region of the brain.



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Regulation of Primary Polymerization of Fibrin by Blood Anticoagulant System Components

Experimental data on the involvement of the blood anticoagulant system components (heparin complex compounds, short regulatory peptides) in fibrin formation processes are presented. Inhibition of thrombin activity and interactions of short glyproline peptides and their heparin complexes with fibrin monomer molecules are demonstrated. Peptides and their heparin complexes prevent the formation of primary polymeric fibrin and exhibit fibrin-depolymerizing activity on the formed polymeric fibrin. The mechanisms underlying the effects of heparin complexes on degradation of fibrin not stabilized with factor XIIIa is discussed on the basis of the results of spectral analysis and coagulation tests.



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Abiraterone plus Prednisone in Metastatic, Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer

Metastatic, castration-sensitive prostate cancer accounts for approximately 3% of all new prostate-cancer diagnoses in the United States. Historically, androgen-deprivation therapy consisting of bilateral orchiectomy or luteinizing hormone–releasing hormone analogues, with or without…

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Greetings from the new Editor-in-Chief of Digestive Endoscopy



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Metabolomic analysis with 1H-NMR for non-invasive diagnosis of hepatic fibrosis degree in patients with chronic hepatitis C

The assessment of fibrosis degree in liver diseases is based on several non-invasive techniques, but none has been accurate.

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Alice in Bundleland

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Alice in Bundleland

EMCrit by Paul Marik.



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CD5-negative mantle cell lymphoma shows a less aggressive outcome and variable SOX11 staining

Abstract

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an uncommon B-cell lymphoma that prototypically expresses CD5, but a small subset is CD5 negative. The clinical significance of CD5 negativity is not yet well-elucidated. This case series aims to contribute to the understanding of CD5-negative MCL by looking at specific markers and outcome in our cases with long-term follow-up. Eight cases of CD5-negative MCL were identified in the case files at the Massachusetts General Hospital from 1978 to 2016. Clinicopathological characteristics were evaluated, including immunohistochemical stains for cyclin D1, SOX11, Ki67, and p53. Patients initially presented with involvement of lymph nodes and spleen (n = 4), sinonasal or oral mucosa (n = 2), orbital soft tissue (n = 1), and salivary gland (n = 1). On histology, the cases all showed classic MCL morphology, with a monotonous population of medium-sized cells with irregular nuclear contours. The cases were positive by immunohistochemistry for cyclinD1 (8/8 cases), essentially negative for p53 staining (8/8 cases), and mostly positive for SOX11 (5/8 cases). All cases had a low Ki67 proliferation rate (<5%). Long-term clinical follow-up on five cases showed that four patients had a clinical course complicated by multiple relapses to the skin, soft tissue, liver, and bone marrow. Seven cases with available follow-up showed an average survival of 121 months (SD 86 months), with no detectable survival difference between the SOX11 positive and negative cases. CD5-negative MCL is an uncommon subtype of MCL that overall appears to have a better prognosis and longer overall survival than classic MCL, despite SOX11 expression. The cases also show little p53 expression and a low Ki67 proliferation index.



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Intranasal Delivery of Therapeutic Stem Cells to Glioblastoma in a Mouse Model

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Stem cells are promising therapeutic carriers to treat brain tumors due to their intrinsic tumor tropism. Non-invasive intranasal stem cell delivery bypasses the blood brain barrier and demonstrates strong potential for clinical translation. This article summarizes the basic principles of intranasal stem cell delivery in a mouse model of glioma.

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Murine Short Axis Ventricular Heart Slices for Electrophysiological Studies

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Here, we describe the preparation of viable ventricular slices from adult mice and their use for sharp electrode action potential recordings. These multicellular preparations provide a preserved in vivo like tissue structure, which makes them a valuable model for electrophysiological and pharmacological studies in vitro.

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Basic Guide to Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

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Cinzia Pickett Description An illustrated guide to oral and maxillofacial surgery, written by dental nurses for dental nurses Basic Guide to Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery will help you understand the... Read more »

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Supra-Gingival Minimally Invasive Dentistry : A Healthier Approach to Esthetic Restorations

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Jose Luis Ruiz Description Supra-Gingival Minimally Invasive Dentistry: A Healthier Approach to Esthetic Restorations provides a real-world approach to healthier supra-gingival minimally invasive restorations, as an alternative to more invasive... Read more »

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A Component-resolved Diagnostic Approach for a Study on Grass Pollen Allergens in Chinese Southerners with Allergic Rhinitis and/or Asthma

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This work describes a protocol that uses a component-resolved approach to study sensitization to grass pollen allergens in a cohort of patients from southern China with allergic rhinitis and/or asthma.

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Unusual presentation of right coronary artery fistula

Ahmed MSEK Abdelaty<br />May 12, 2017; 2017:bcr-2017-220424-bcr-2017-220424<br />other

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Anisakiasis: a growing cause of abdominal pain!

Joana Carmo<br />May 11, 2017; 2017:bcr2016218857-bcr2016218857<br />case-report

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Long-term stabilisation of myeloma with curcumin

Abbas Zaidi<br />Apr 16, 2017; 2017:bcr2016218148-bcr2016218148<br />case-report

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Kinesiology taping as an adjunct for pain management in cancer?

Gourav Banerjee<br />Jul 14, 2016; 2016:bcr2016216439-bcr2016216439<br />case-report

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Locally advanced adenocarcinoma of the rectum presenting with necrotising fasciitis of the perineum: successful management with early aggressive surgery and multimodal therapy

Luís Ferreira
Dec 16, 2015; 2015:bcr2015213245-bcr2015213245
case-report

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Surviving stroke in an Ebola Treatment Centre

Paul Dhillon<br />Oct 29, 2015; 2015:bcr2015211062-bcr2015211062<br />case-report

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Open removal of a retained retrohepatic inferior vena cava filter with a residual primary neuroectodermal renal tumoral thrombus

Carlos A Hinojosa<br />Oct 29, 2015; 2015:bcr2015212190-bcr2015212190<br />case-report

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Freeman-Sheldon syndrome in a 29-year-old woman presenting with rare and previously undescribed features

Robert L Chamberlain<br />Oct 22, 2015; 2015:bcr2015212607-bcr2015212607<br />case-report

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Serotonin syndrome in a breast-fed neonate

Rachel Morris<br />May 6, 2015; 2015:bcr2015209418-bcr2015209418<br />case-report

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Takotsubo cardiomyopathy case series: typical, atypical and recurrence

Jakub Lagan<br />Mar 5, 2015; 2015:bcr2014208741-bcr2014208741<br />case-report

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Three-dimensional spectral domain optical coherence tomography in vitreomacular traction

Sandeep Saxena<br />Jun 17, 2014; 2014:bcr2013202065-bcr2013202065<br />case-report

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Primary gut aspergillosis in a patient with acute myeloid leukaemia: the importance of early suspicion and definitive treatment

Elizabeth Li<br />Mar 18, 2014; 2014:bcr2013202316-bcr2013202316<br />case-report

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Two rare manifestations of Q fever: splenic and hepatic abscesses and cerebral venous thrombosis, with literature review ma non troppo

Manuel Mendes Gomes<br />Feb 5, 2014; 2014:bcr2013202843-bcr2013202843<br />case-report

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Lemierre syndrome: more than just a sore throat

Christine Azzopardi<br />Nov 28, 2013; 2013:bcr2013201868-bcr2013201868<br />case-report

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Postcaesarean open-heart surgery for Streptococcus sanguinis infective endocarditis

Kiattisak Kongwattanakul<br />Nov 14, 2013; 2013:bcr2013010103-bcr2013010103<br />case-report

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Partial priapism

Peter Hoyerup<br />Aug 9, 2013; 2013:bcr2013200031-bcr2013200031<br />case-report

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Complication of etanercept treatment for rheumatoid arthritis - purulent pericarditis caused by a commensal organism

Gemma K Taylor<br />May 8, 2012; 2012:bcr0120125644-bcr0120125644<br />case-report

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Antihepatocarcinoma Effect of Portulaca oleracea L. in Mice by PI3K/Akt/mTOR and Nrf2/HO-1/NF-κB Pathway

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the pharmacological effects of Portulaca oleracea L. (Purslane) (PL) on N-nitrosodiethylamine- (NDEA-) induced hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) and explore its potential mechanism. Mice were randomly assigned to four groups: control group, NDEA group, NDEA + Purslane (100 mg/kg) group, and NDEA + Purslane (200 mg/kg) group. The animal of each group was given NDEA (100 ppm) in drinking water. 1 h later, Purslane dissolved in PBS was intragastrically administered for continuous seven days. The results showed that Purslane reduced the activities of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in liver and serum. Purslane also reduced the contents of interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and methane dicarboxylic aldehyde (MDA) and restored the activity of superoxygen dehydrogenises (SOD) in serum. Purslane could obviously attenuate the hepatic pathological alteration. Furthermore, treatment with Purslane effectively inhibited the phosphorylations of phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K), protein kinase B (Akt), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), and inhibitor of NF-κBα (IκBα) and upregulated the expressions of NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase- (HO-) 1. In conclusion, our research suggested that Purslane exhibited protective effects on NDEA-induced hepatocellular carcinomas by anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and Nrf2/HO-1/NF-κB pathway.

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How to Use CA-125 More Effectively in the Diagnosis of Deep Endometriosis

Deep infiltrative endometriosis (DIE) is a severe form of the disease. The median time interval from the onset of symptoms to diagnosis of endometriosis is around 8 years. In this prospective study patients were divided into two groups: cases (34 DIE patients) and control (20 tubal ligation patients). The main objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of CA-125 measurement in the menstrual and midcycle phases of the cycle, as well as the difference in its levels between the two phases, for the early diagnosis of DIE. Area Under the Curve (AUC) of CA-125 in menstrual phase and of the difference between menstrual and midcycle phases had the best performance (both with AUC = 0.96), followed by CA-125 in the midcycle (AUC = 0.89). The ratio between menstrual and midcycle phases had the worst performance. CA-125 may be useful for the diagnosis of deep endometriosis, especially when both are collected during menstruation and in midcycle. These may help to decrease the long interval until the definitive diagnosis of DIE. Multicentric studies with larger samples should be performed to better evaluate the cost-effectiveness of measuring CA-125 in two different phases of the menstrual cycle.

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Anatomical Footprint of the Tibialis Anterior Tendon: Surgical Implications for Foot and Ankle Reconstructions

This study aimed to analyze precisely the dimensions, shapes, and variations of the insertional footprints of the tibialis anterior tendon (TAT) at the medial cuneiform (MC) and first metatarsal (MT1) base. Forty-one formalin-fixed human cadaveric specimens were dissected. After preparation of the TAT footprint, standardized photographs were made and the following parameters were evaluated: the footprint length, width, area of insertion, dorsoplantar location, shape, and additional tendon slips. Twenty feet (48.8%) showed an equal insertion at the MC and MT1, another 20 feet (48.8%) had a wide insertion at the MC and a narrow insertion at the MT1, and 1 foot (2.4%) demonstrated a narrow insertion at the MC and a wide insertion at the MT1. Additional tendon slips inserting at the metatarsal shaft were found in two feet (4.8%). Regarding the dorsoplantar orientation, the footprints were located medial in 29 feet (70.7%) and medioplantar in 12 feet (29.3%). The most common shape at the MT1 base was the crescent type (75.6%) and the oval type at the MC (58.5%). The present study provided more detailed data on the dimensions and morphologic types of the tibialis anterior tendon footprint. The established anatomical data may allow for a safer surgical preparation and a more anatomical reconstruction.

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Abiraterone for Prostate Cancer Not Previously Treated with Hormone Therapy

New England Journal of Medicine, Ahead of Print.


http://ift.tt/2sDfa14

Abiraterone for Prostate Cancer Not Previously Treated with Hormone Therapy

New England Journal of Medicine, Ahead of Print.


http://ift.tt/2sDfa14

Expression and Clinical Significance of Cancer Stem Cell Markers CD24, CD44, and CD133 in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma and Chronic Pancreatitis

Cancer stem cells (CSC) play an important role in pancreatic carcinogenesis and prognosis. The study aimed at examining the expression of CD24, CD44, and CD133 in human PDAC and CP in order to evaluate its clinicopathological correlations and the clinical significance. Surgical specimens from 23 patients with PDAC and 15 patients with chronic pancreatitis after pancreatic resection were stained with CD24, CD44, and CD133 antibodies. The intensity of staining was scored from 0 (negative) to 3 (strongly positive). Results. Mean CD24 staining score in PDAC was 1.38 ± 0.76 and was significantly higher than that in CP: 0.70 ± 0.53 (); CD44 score in PDAC was 2.23 ± 0.42 and was significantly higher than that in CP: 1.87 ± 0.55 (); CD133 score 0.93 ± 0.58 was not different from CP: 0.71 ± 0.43 (). CD44 immunoreactivity was significantly higher () in pT1 and pT2 patients together as regards pT3: 2.45 ± 0.37 versus 2.06 ± 0.38 as well as in N0 patients compared to N1 patients: 2.5 ± 0.38 versus 2.04 ± 0.34. Conclusions. CD24 and CD44 are upregulated in human pancreatic cancer compared to chronic pancreatitis. CD44 immunoreactivity decreases with the tumor advancement and may represent the negative PDAC prognostic factor. Each CSC marker was differently related to PDAC advancement. CD133 may lack clinical significance in PDAC.

http://ift.tt/2rF7sGa

Type II Endometrial Cancer Overexpresses NILCO: A Preliminary Evaluation

Objective. The expression of NILCO molecules (Notch, IL-1, and leptin crosstalk outcome) and the association with obesity were investigated in types I and II endometrial cancer (EmCa). Additionally, the involvement of NILCO in leptin-induced invasiveness of EmCa cells was investigated. Methods. The expression of NILCO mRNAs and proteins were analyzed in EmCa from African-American and Chinese patients (tissue array, cases). The role of NILCO in leptin-induced invasion of Ishikawa and An3ca EmCa cells was investigated using Notch, IL-1, and leptin signaling inhibitors. Results. NILCO molecules were expressed higher in type II EmCa, regardless of ethnic background or obesity status of patients. NILCO proteins were mainly localized in the cellular membrane and cytoplasm of type II EmCa. Additionally, EmCa from obese African-American patients showed higher levels of NILCO molecules than EmCa from lean patients. Notably, leptin-induced EmCa cell invasion was abrogated by NILCO inhibitors. Conclusion. Type II EmCa expressed higher NILCO molecules, which may suggest it is involved in the progression of the more aggressive EmCa phenotype. Obesity was associated with higher expression of NILCO molecules in EmCa. Leptin-induced cell invasion was dependent on NILCO. Hence, NILCO might be involved in tumor progression and could represent a new target/biomarker for type II EmCa.

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Serum Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase and Ferritin Synergistically Associated with the Rate of Chronic Kidney Disease

The present study investigated the effects of GGT and SF on the risk of CKD. 1024 participants (436 men and 588 women) were divided into three groups according to GGT and SF levels: group 1 (both GGT and SF not in the fourth quartile), group 2 (only GGT or SF in the fourth quartile), and group 3 (both GGT and SF in the fourth quartile). The risks of CKD in different levels of GGT and SF and in groups 2-3 compared with group 1 were analyzed by multiple logistic regression. GGT or SF in the highest quartile was associated with increased risk of CKD. Such associations attenuated after adjustment for confounding factors. The incidences of CKD, especially albuminuria, increased across the three groups. Correspondingly, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels gradually increased from group 1 to group 3. The risks of CKD were higher in groups 2 and 3 than that in group 1. In group 3, the increased rate was independent of age, BMI, alcohol drinking, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, and metabolic syndrome (odds ratios from 1.887 to 2.293, ). In summary, this study suggested that GGT and SF synergistically influence the rate of CKD.

http://ift.tt/2rELmnh

Intravenous Thrombolysis in Acute Ischemic Stroke with Active Cancer

Ischemic stroke patients with active cancer are known to have poor clinical outcomes. However, the efficacy and safety of intravenous alteplase (IV t-PA) in this group are still unclear. In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether stroke patients with cancer had poor clinical outcomes after use of IV t-PA. We reviewed ischemic stroke patients with active cancer treated with isolated IV t-PA between April 2010 and March 2015 at three national university hospitals from the registry for ischemic stroke in Korea. The clinical outcomes of early neurological deterioration (END), hemorrhagic transformation, in-hospital mortality, 3-month modified Rankin scale (mRS), the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) discharge score, and duration of hospitalization were compared. We enrolled a total of 12 patients, and the cohort showed poor outcomes including 4 (33%) END events, 7 (58%) hemorrhagic transformations, 3 (25%) in-hospital mortality cases, and 7 (58%) poor mRS (3–6) scores. Additionally, the cryptogenic stroke group ( = 6) more frequently had high mRS scores (P = 0.043) as well as tendencies for frequent END events, hemorrhagic transformations, in-hospital mortality cases, and higher discharge NIHSS scores without statistical significance. In conclusion, ischemic stroke patients with active cancer, especially those with a cryptogenic mechanism, showed poor clinical outcomes after use of IV t-PA.

http://ift.tt/2sD66sK